#(been a while since I've done an open starter

[urielscorruption]

Lights Out - Uriel & Open

Location: The Clinic

The fallen angel heaved a sigh as he leaned against the spear that he had formed from his Rod of Punishment.  Given the nature of everything that was happening, Uriel had decided to forgo his usual linen clothing for his heavenly raiment, armor, wings and all.  Thankfully he didn't need to sleep or he would be exhausted.  He let his gaze drift over all of the people that were sheltering in the clinic, idly wondering what was going to happen next.  Of course, that's when the power went out in the clinic.  "Oh are you fucking kidding me," he growled.  Straightening up with another sigh, Uriel focused his ability to create light on the tip of his spear, allowing it to glow softly.  "At least we have some light," he commented offhandedly to the person next to him.

@the-institute-starters

[cardsknight]

I'm more nervous than a fly dodging spiders on Halloween.

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[goldenbeastkeeper]

Valor didn't like going into town. He'd avoided it whenever possible, but unfortunately he was the only one available to go out today, and they needed the ingredients to make some healing potions tonight for someone who was to pick them up tomorrow.

So he'd donned his fire bee mask and his cloak to conceal his identity and flew out to Bonesborough.

He naturally gravitated towards the least crowded areas of the marketplace, where there'd be less of a likelihood of getting accidentally brushed by strangers just trying to get passed. And there he cast his gaze around the place. Now, where was the shop . . . ?

But rather than the shop, it was something else that caught his attention.

[onbronzesails]

//Shore Leave--Open RP Starter

//The Pirate Crew of The Spectre are on leave for the day as the ship is docked at a port that happily looks the other way from Pirates when good coin is involved. The crew are off to do their tasks, whatever those may be.//

Logan scanned the horizon as the ship docked in place. He had anchored a ship hundreds of times before that it was as easy as breathing now. The metal of the airship moaned as it settled and the engines turned off, resting on the landing pad for any repairs. 

Soon everything was set and he was able to leave his post. Two days they were to be docked here for fuel and some much needed rest. He loved his life on the ship, up in the skies with the wind in his face, but it was nice to be on solid ground every once in a while. The Royal Air Force’s reach didn’t extend this far North, and thus the crew could roam relatively freely. There were still soldiers here and there, but nothing they couldn’t avoid. 

Once everything was order, Logan stepped off the ship and into the warm sun of the day. He had a small to-do list, including a few trinkets from raids to sell, and a contact to meet, but mostly he just wanted a nice walk around the town and something to eat.  

[petermorwood]

More on pre-electricity lighting.

Interesting to see this one pop up again after nearly two years - courtesy of @dduane, too! :->

*****

After experiencing a couple more storm-related power cuts since my original post, as well as a couple of after-dark garden BBQs, I've come to the conclusion that C.J. Cherryh puts far too much emphasis on "how dark things were pre-electric light".

For one thing eyes adjust, dilating in dim light to gather whatever illumination is available. Okay, if there's none, there's none - but if there's some, human eyes can make use of it, some better or just faster than others. They're the ones with "good night vision".

Think, for instance, of how little you can see of your unlit bedroom just after you've turned off the lights, and how much more of it you can see if you wake up a couple of hours later.

There's also that business of feeling your way around, risking breaking your neck etc. People get used to their surroundings and, after a while, can feel their way around a familiar location even in total darkness with a fair amount of confidence.

Problems arise when Things Aren't Where They Should Be (or when New Things Arrive) and is when most trips, stumbles, hacked shins and stubbed toes happen, but usually - Lego bricks and upturned UK plugs aside - non-light domestic navigation is incident-free.

*****

Here are a couple of pics from one of those BBQs: one candle and a firepit early on, then the candle, firepit and an oil lamp much later, all much more obvious than DD's iPad screen.

Though I remain surprised at how well my phonecam was handling this low light, my own unassisted eyes were doing far better. For instance, that area between the table and the firepit wasn't such an impenetrable pool of darkness as it appears in the photo.

I see (hah!) no reason why those same Accustomed Eyes would have any more difficulty with candles or oil lamps as interior lighting, even without the mirrors or reflectors in my previous post.

With those, and with white interior walls, things would be even brighter. There's a reason why so many reconstructed period buildings in Folk Museums etc. are (authentically) whitewashed not just outside but inside as well. It was cheap, had disinfectant qualities, and was a reflective surface. Win, win and win.

*****

All right, there were no switches to turn on a light. But there was no need for what C.J. describes as stumbling about to reach the fire, because there were tinderboxes and, for many centuries before them, flint and steel. Since "firesteels" have been heraldic charges since the 1100s, the actual tool must have been in use for even longer.

Tinderboxes were fire-starter sets with flint, steel and "tinder" all packed into (surprise!) a box. The tinder was easily lit ignition material, often "charcloth", fabric baked in an airtight jar or tin which would now start to glow just from a spark.

They're mentioned in both "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings". Oddly enough, "Hobbit" mentions matches in a couple of places, but I suspect that's a carry-over from when it was just a children's story, not part of the main Legendarium.

Tinderboxes could be simple, just a basic flint-and-steel kit with some tinder for the sparks to fall on...

...or elaborate like this one, with a fancy striker, charcloth, kindling material and even wooden "spills" (long splinters) to transfer flame to a candle or the kindling...

This tinderbox even doubles as a candlestick, complete with a snuffer which would have been inside along with everything else.

Here's a close-up of the striker box with its inner and outer lids open:

What looks like a short pencil with an eraser is actually the striker. A bit of tinder or charcloth would have been pulled through that small hole in the outer lid, which was then closed.

There was a rough steel surface on the lid, and the striker was scraped along it, like so:

This was done for a TV show or film, so the tinder was probably made more flammable with, possibly, lighter fuel. That would be thoroughly appropriate, since a Zippo or similar lighter works on exactly the same principle.

A real-life version of any tinderbox would usually just produce glowing embers needing blown on to make a flame, which is shown sometimes in movies - especially as a will-it-light-or-won't-it? tension build - but is usually a bit slow and non-visual for screen work.

*****

There were even flintlock tinderboxes which worked with the same mechanism as those on firearms. Here's a pocket version:

Here are a couple of bedside versions, once again complete with a candlestick:

And here are three (for home defence?) with a spotlight candle lantern on one side and a double-trigger pistol on the other.

Pull one trigger to light the candle, pull the other trigger to fire the gun.

What could possibly go wrong? :-P

*****

Those pistol lanterns, magnified by lenses, weren't just to let their owner see what they were shooting at: they would also have dazzled whatever miscreant was sneaking around in the dark, irises dilated to make best use of available glimmer.

Swordsmen both good and bad knew this trick too, and various fight manuals taught how to manage a thumb-shuttered lamp encountered suddenly in a dark alley.

There's a sword-and-lantern combat in the 1973 "Three Musketeers" between Michael York (D'Artagnan) and Christopher Lee (Rochefort), which was a great idea.

Unfortunately it failed in execution because the "Hollywood Darkness" which let viewers see the action, wasn't dark enough to emphasise the hazards / advantages of snapping the lamps open and shut.

This TV screencap (can't get a better one, the DVD won't run in a computer drive) shows what I mean.

In fact, like the photos of the BBQ, this image - and entire fight - looks even brighter through "real eyes" than with the phonecam. Just as there can be too much dark in a night scene, there can also be too much light.

*****

One last thing I found when assembling pics for the post were Folding Candle-lanterns.

They were used from about the mid-1700s to the later 20th century (Swiss Army ca. 1978) as travel accessories and emergency equipment, and IMO - I've Made A Note - they'd fit right into a fantasy world whose tech level was able to make them.

The first and last are reproductions: this one is real, from about 1830.

The clear part was mica - a transparent mineral which can be split into thin flexible sheets - while others use horn / parchment, though both of these are translucent rather than transparent. Regardless, all were far less likely to break than glass.

One or two inner surfaces were usually tin, giving the lantern its own built-in reflector, and tech-level-wise, tin as a shiny or decorative finish has been used since Roman times.

I'm pretty sure that top-of-the-line models could also have been finished with their own matching, maybe even built-in, tinderboxes.

And if real ones didn't, fictional ones certainly could. :->

*****

Yet more period lighting stuff here, including flintlock alarm clocks (!)

[edenmemes]

arcane (s2) sentence starters

ep1 - 8. warning for spoilers !

❝ everybody wants to be my enemy. ❞ ❝ you’re our leader. they follow you. i follow you. ❞ ❝ i've seen miracles spring from the hands of mages many times, but so often, they turned to horrors. ❞ ❝ why does anyone commit acts others deem unspeakable? for love. ❞ ❝ in my experience, no one in power is innocent. ❞ ❝ i don't wanna hear another word out of your mouth. ❞ ❝ i keep telling myself that you're different. but you're not. ❞ ❝ i haven't insulted your intelligence. do not insult mine. ❞ ❝ if you see the opening...take the shot. ❞ ❝ it's me. your vile villainess. the author of your nightmares. ❞ ❝ you have no inkling what family is to me. ❞ ❝ our paths diverged long ago. it was affection that held us together. ❞ ❝ i'm done blaming myself for your mistakes. ❞ ❝ there's one thing i know in my bones. there is no force in this world that can control you. ❞ ❝ your talents can be used to build, instead of destroy. ❞ ❝ no beast is more savage than man. ❞ ❝ i am the dirt under your nails. nothing's gonna clean me out. ❞ ❝ the dirt was on both our hands. ❞ ❝ stick your head in the dirt if you want, but this fantasy you've been living out here, it's not gonna last forever. ❞ ❝ now people avert their gaze when i roll by. ❞ ❝ still giving me the silent treatment, huh? ❞ ❝ you think it's so easy? to turn your back while your city looks to you for salvation? ❞ ❝ playing coy doesn't suit you, love. ❞ ❝ is it bad that i'm making friends with my demons? ❞ ❝ can i do the right thing for the wrong reason? ❞ ❝ ever since you dropped into my life, it's like i put on glasses. ❞ ❝ jeez, lady, you crazy? talking to dead people. ❞ ❝ sometimes taking a leap forward means leaving a few things behind. ❞ ❝ that's a past life, kid. and it was about as sweet as last year's milk. ❞ ❝ why is peace always the justification for violence? ❞ ❝ haven't i done you enough favors? ❞ ❝ i must say goodbye to this place now. to you. ❞ ❝ you got that look in your eye again. what are you planning? ❞ ❝ people have lost their heads for less. ❞ ❝ everyone in my life has changed. promise me you won't change. ❞ ❝ wrath must be met with wrath. ❞ ❝ what you've stolen…is more precious than any gold. ❞ ❝ i apologize for the intrusion. i was attempting to sneak in. ❞ ❝ address me with respect, or keep your mouth shut. ❞ ❝ this is what you asked for. heavy is the crown. ❞ ❝ and then what? you take what you need, hang me out to dry? ❞ ❝ do you realize how easy it was for me to track you down here? ❞ ❝ awful, isn't it? losing a loved one. ❞ ❝ i'm sorry. i’m not comfortable trusting our fates to chance. ❞ ❝ you think it's so easy? to turn your back while your city looks to you for salvation? ❞ ❝ whether i'm pulling the pin or not, everyone who gets close to me dies. ❞ ❝ you walk along the edge of danger and it will change you. ❞ ❝ your youth betrays you. patience is a product of age. both of which i possess in abundance. ❞ ❝ we gotta choose right now whether we're gonna throw in the towel or make a stand together. ❞ ❝ i had a different name back then, you know. ❞ ❝ when will you admit that this is just one of your fantasies? ❞ ❝ my arrogance led me to take on more than i could handle. ❞ ❝ such force must be a final resort. ❞ ❝ in my experience, only guilty men answer accusations with silence. ❞ ❝ every time it seems like we might catch a break. ❞ ❝ you're a monster. why? why do all this? ❞ ❝ i must ask you to surrender your weapons. this is a place of peace. ❞ ❝ i still think it's a dumb idea. but i guess you won, and a deal's a deal. ❞ ❝ it’s nice to know there are still good ones left. ❞ ❝ i promise, it's the last offer you're gonna get. ❞ ❝ no matter what i do, i just can’t seem to die. ❞ ❝ maybe i underestimated you. maybe you have the strength i do not. ❞ ❝ you don't actually need my help. you haven't for a long time. ❞ ❝ like it or not, we're in this mess together. ❞ ❝ compassion. hate. two sides of the same coin. ❞ ❝ i have a plan. you’re not gonna like it. ❞ ❝ come closer, will you, babe? ❞ ❝ i'd feared i wouldn't have the chance to speak with you again. ❞

❝ you here to finish me off? ❞ ❝ i thought you were on our side. ❞ ❝ what is up with you? you've been out of it all day. ❞ ❝ as good as it feels to pour everyone's drink, you need to fill your own cup every now and again. ❞ ❝ you must destroy it. it corrupts. consumes. ❞ ❝ sometimes taking a leap forward means leaving a few things behind. ❞ ❝ we do not lament a warrior's death. we avenge it. ❞ ❝ for the gifted, arrogance is the ultimate threat. ❞ ❝ why do you persist? after everything i've done? ❞ ❝ you're not alone. look at my shadow right behind you like a ghost. ❞ ❝ there is nothing to gain from this senseless bloodshed. ❞ ❝ i choose wrong every time. and because of it, i've lost everyone. ❞ ❝ go. before i do something i regret. ❞ ❝ i don't wanna lose what makes me "me" chasing some wild dream. ❞ ❝ i'm gonna find a way back, with or without you. ❞ ❝ i'm sorry. i've been an idiot. and an ass. you're hurting too. ❞ ❝ one's thoughts are more easily gathered in isolation. ❞ ❝ all right, out with it. what do you want from me? ❞ ❝ hey, in case i don't remember to tell you tomorrow, you've always meant the world to me. ❞ ❝ you ever wish you could just stay in one moment? ❞ ❝ if you're here to kill me, make sure to finish the job. ❞ ❝ i think beneath that mask you're scared. ❞ ❝ i must say that since i've met you, i've truly lived. ❞ ❝ never seen you give up on anything. ❞ ❝ i have the feeling that you'll be running this place soon. ❞ ❝ i think beneath that mask you're scared. ❞ ❝ i'm choosing to fight. and i pray that you will join me. ❞ ❝ this place will grow on you. you'll see. ❞ ❝ you're never gonna give up on me, are you? ❞ ❝ i think the cycle only ends when you find the will to walk away. ❞ ❝ hating you…i've hated myself. i just don't have the energy for it any longer. ❞ ❝ greatest thing we can do in life is find the power to forgive. ❞ ❝ oh, don't get all mushy on me now. ❞ ❝ i'm always with you. even when we're worlds apart. ❞ ❝ just 'cause you're having a bad day, don't take it out on me. ❞ ❝ look at the price of your ambition. you've sacrificed everything. ❞ ❝ you taught me the best lies come wrapped in truth. ❞ ❝ i feel like i woke up in the wrong universe. ❞ ❝ oh, spare the sympathy. ❞ ❝ uh, you do realize code phrases don't work when you make them up on the spot? ❞ ❝ desperation is the doorway to oblivion. ❞ ❝ it was a mistake to come here. ❞ ❝ this will have consequences. ❞ ❝ i know it's my fault that i'm here all alone. ❞ ❝ if you choose to flee, don't stop running. ❞ ❝ go and make some mistakes. you live and you learn. ❞ ❝ let me guess. you think i'm holding myself back. ❞ ❝ i have people back home who need me. ❞ ❝ i’m sorry i haven’t been around. ❞

[moongothic]

So for a while I had wanted to make a knitted sweater or a cardigan with thick, vertical stripes. Needless to say though I was having a hard time brainstorming HOW to make that such a thing. Colorwork would be doable if I wanted to do thin stripes, but I wanted the stripes to be like a good 5-8 cm wide. That would result in a lot of extremely long floats, which would make knitting it a pain in the ass and far beyond my skill level (if not straight up impossible?), but also it'd be such a waste of yarn. But, I figured... people make granny square sweaters and cardigans where they sew the individual pieces together. Hell, knitters make sweaters and cardigans in pieces too. So, if I wanted to knit something with vertical stripes, what'd stop me from knitting each stripe as an individual piece and then sewing them together?

Now, a lot of this project was me figuring things out as I went along (partially because for a while I wasn't sure if this project would work out, and if I'd be able to make a cardigan at all or if I'd have to make a sweater instead), knitting pieces and sewing them together as I went instead of making all the pieces first and then putting them all together in a grand finale. So I don't have photos of the individual stripes I knit up pre-sewing. Each stripe ended up being about 7 cm wide but their lenghts vary depending on where they're placed (sides are shorter to make room for the arms etc), and two stripes on the front I knit into a sharp point to shape the neck opening. In total I knit 13 pieces to make the body of the cardigan

Now I did originally intend to just sew the pieces together using mattress stitch, but as I was sewing, I just... Did not like how it was turning out. It wasn't quite as seamless as I had hoped it would be, but more importantly, if you pulled on the sewn pieces at all you'd end up with a gaping hole between the pieces (not pictured) that just felt really unsecure. So I tried just crocheting the pieces and, honestly, I did prefer it quite a bit. It felt stronger than the mattress stitch and it blended into the knit way better, so that's what I ended up going with

I did however mattress stitch the tops together (I don't understand why it felt better/stronger up there than on the sides but whatever, if it works it works)

I did originally make arm holes waaay too big by accident. Fortunately it was easy to fix though, since I had made sure all the pieces were attached the same way- starting row at the bottom edge and bind-off at the top. I just had to undo the bind off on the side pieces of the cardigan and knit a few more rows before binding off again (and crocheting the extended sections together), aka I didn't have to rip the cardigan apart or anything to redo these sections (Yellow stripe on the left has already been extended (black marker shows where I picked up from), about to start knitting the black stripe on the right)

With all of that done, the body of the cardigan was mostly done! I was maybe a liiittle bit concerned about the fit, but I knew I wanted the ribbing to be as wide as the stripes were, so the ribbing was going to "complete" the fit; I had taken that into considderation when I was originally mathing out the size of the cardigan (how many stripes I'd have to make and how wide they'd have to be etc (though I did have to adjust that math a few times during the process lmao)) (Also; the reason I wanted to make a cardigan instead of a sweater is because I prefer clothes I can wear open. Like I don't really like hoodies without zippers because I can't open them, where as hoodies that do have zippers I wear all the time and I pretty much always leave them open. So even if this cardigan had turned out a little snug, it'd be fine, because I know I wouldn't button it up anyways lmao)

I figured doing the ribbing in crochet would be easier, but man. It took me fucking forever to figure out how to do the ribbing. For starters, the yellow yarn I've been using I've actually been holding double this whole time (while knitting), and so I was unsure if I wanted to hold it double for the ribbing as well or hold it single. I was also unsure if I wanted to do the ribbing in slip stitch, single crochet or double, not to mention figuring out the right hook size. I really did try like 5-10 different combinations before I landed on doing double crochet ribbing with the yarn held single. Like I had wanted to try other methods because I feel like double crochet is too hole-y and loose, but all the other methods made a really thick fabric, much thicker than the knit. And I just didn't like that. The double crochet/held single was the only way to get a fabric that was the same thickness as the knit, so that's what I ended up going with. On the plus side, it was also faster to work up lmao

Once I figured out what technique I wanted to use I just had to crochet the damn thing. Which was fine, though I felt like the ribbing was making the cardigan flare out weirdly (in hindsight I think I was just slightly loosing it at this point lmao I can't see what was wrong with the ribbing looking at that photo again fjdghksdf), so I also did a round around the edge of the ribbing to help secure it into a tighter shape. Once the front of the ribbing was done, I did the bottom ribbing and cleaned that edge up too

And then I ran out of yarn

More specifically, I had been using scrap black yarn I already had in my stash. And after I started knitting the sleeves with the remaining balls, having successfully turned the vest into a button-up t-shirt, yeah, ran out of black. So I had to go and order some more black yarn, one or two balls would probably be enough, just need some cheap wool But I don't want to pay 5 bucks in shipping for 5 bucks of wool, man. If I'm gonna order something I might as well make it worth the shipping (or even better, get the free shipping). Now the plot twist is that I originally began working on this cardigan back in September, and when I ran out of yarn it was October. And I knew in a few weeks I'd be going to a Spooky Convention, and I wanted to wear something Halloween-y to said Spooky Convention. So I put this cardigan on hold for like three weeks (in total) so I could crochet a Spooky Cardigan for the convention.

So yeah this cardigan I did start before I made that other one. Lmao.

Anyway, once that other project was done I finally got back to working on This Fucking Thing and finishing it with the yarn I had gotten. Hilariously the yarn I had bought was actually too thin so I had to hold it double to finish the sleeves, but it's fiiine, I've used all sorts of scrap black yarns for this project and could not tell the difference on what yarn has been used where, it's all wool (or wool alpaca mix) And once the knitting was done, I crochet'd some simple cuffs on the sleeves so it'd match the ribbing. I blocked the cardigan, weaved in all the bajillion ends and sewed on some buttons.

I'm deeply upset blocking ruined the shaping of the collar/ribbing. Like I should've seen it coming, I know crochet is stiff innitially but becomes loose and wavey when blocked. But I somehow forgot, and now the collar looks dumb as hell. Also, because the ribbing is quite thin, it can't actually support the buttons I had picked out for the cardigan, so they just kinda. Flop around and sit there, looking sad and flaccid. Of course, the buttons would be very easy to switch out (esp since I haven't weaved them in yet) but there's a part of me that feels like I should undo the whole ribbing and redo it to fix the collar. But. I've already weaved in everything. Undoing the weaving would be a massive pain in the ass, there's so many yarn ends in there... And I'm not sure I care enough to put in that effort into this.

Another minor thing is that I feel like the neck opening is a bit too open for my personal taste- like the cardigan fits on me perfectly, I did my math just fine on that front, but I prefer something that hugs my neck more and this is really open (especially after blocking ruined my perfect, fitted collar). So I should've left the front black stripes normal instead of doing the shaping on them, or something like that

All of that aside though, I am happy with how this cardigan turned out (especially it's technically my first one, even if I didn't finish it first), it fits perfectly and I'll absolutely wear it around home, it's nice and comfy and warm and that's all I wanted and needed

[inspirationalucky]

EPIC: THE ITHACA SAGA PROMPTS & STARTERS.

of course, go ahead and change names/pronouns/words/etc as necessary to fit your muse or the situation! please do not add more lines/prompts to this post!

The Challenge

"I'm supposed to choose a suitor."

"They don't know that every night I unthread all the work I've done."

"I'd rather lie than allow them to think they've won."

"I never thought that I'd resort to this."

"I don't know much longer I'll last"

"Could it be some kind of sign that my world is all about to change?"

"Is it finally time for the challenge I arranged?"

"Though I never thought that it would come to this, just know I'll be here buying you time."

"Time is fleeting, it's running out."

"Time to be the man of the house."

"Let the arrow fly once you know that your aim is true."

"I'd rather die than grow old without the best of you."

"Though I never thought that this would be the lengths we go for love, I would not have it any other way."

"Though I never thought that it would end like this, just know I'll be here waiting."

Hold Them Down

"Screw this competition. We've been here for hours."

"No more delays."

"Can't you guys see we're being played?"

"This is how they hold us down while we slowly age."

"Where in the hell is our pride and our rage?"

"Here and now there's a chance for action."

"We can take control."

"Burn it down to ashes!"

"Channel the fire inside your soul!"

"Haven't you noticed who's missing?"

"I heard today he comes back to town."

"I say we wait 'till he arrives."

"When he docks his ship we can breach it."

"Let us leave now, today we can strike"

"Hold him down while I slowly break his pride, his trust, his faith, and his bones."

"Cut him down into tiny pieces."

"When the crown wonders where the prince is, only the ocean and I will know."

Odysseus

"For twenty years I've suffered every punishment and pain."

"I come back and find my palace desecrated, sacked like Troy!"

"I... have had... enough."

"Somewhere in the shadows lurks an agile, deadly foe"

"We have the advantage! We've the numbers and the might."

"You don't understand it, this man plans for every fight!"

"Keep your head down! He's aiming for the torches!"

"Our weapons... they're missing!"

"He's using the darkness to hide his approaches."

"We're empty-handed, up against an archer."

"Our only chance is to strike him in the darkness."

"We know these halls! The odds can be tilted!"

"You think I don't know my own palace? I built it!"

"You've destroyed the serpent's head. Now the rest of us are no longer a threat!"

"Forgive us instead so that no more blood is shed."

"Let's have open arms instead!"

"Damn, he's more cunning than I assumed."

"While we were busy plotting, he hid our weapons inside this room."

"I find it hard to believe that the sharpest of kings left his armory unlocked."

"Now that we have armed ourselves, let's make the bastard rot."

"Throw down those weapons and I ensure you'll be spared."

"After seeing what the King will do to us? We wouldn't dare."

"I don't want to hurt you, but trust me, I've come prepared."

"Your very presence has doomed the king, young prince. We don't fight fair."

"We've got company, and he's made a grave mistake!"

"There's a chance for us to win."

"We can still defeat the King if we all attack the Prince!"

"Capture him! He's our greatest chance."

"Make the King obey our command, and if he won't I'll break the kid's hands."

"Mercy? Mercy!?"

"My mercy has long since drowned. It died to bring me home."

"As long as you're around, my family's fate is left unknown."

"You plotted to kill my son!"

"All of you are going to die!"

"You have filled my heart with hate."

"All of you who have done me wrong? This will be your fate!"

I Can't Help But Wonder

"All my life, I'd have died to meet you."

"I thought about your name so much it hurts."

"For twenty years, I dreamt of how I'd greet you."

"Now you're here, and I can't find the words."

"All my life, I'd have died to know you."

"I never could outgrow you."

"I can't help but wonder what your world must be."

"All this time I've wondered if you'd embrace me as your own."

"For so long I've felt alone."

"Look how much you've grown!"

"Oh, my boy, sweetest joy I've known"

"Twenty years ago, I held you in my arms."

"Oh, how time has flown."

"I used to say I'd capture wind and sky for you."

"I held you in my arms, prepared to die for you."

"I can only wonder what your world has been."

"All I've ever wanted was to reunite with my own."

"For twenty years we've wandered, but today you're not alone."

"I'm finally home!"

"You were never one for hellos."

"I can't help but wonder what this world could be if we all held each other with a bit more empathy."

"I can't help but feel like I led you astray."

"What if there's a world where we don't have to live this way?"

"If that world exists it's far away from here. It's one I'll have to miss."

"I've got one endeavor: there's a girl I have to see"

Would You Fall in Love with Me Again?

"Is it you? Have my prayers been answered?"

"Is it really you standing there, or am I dreaming once more?"

"You look different... your eyes look tired."

"Your frame is lighter, and your smile torn."

"Is it really you, my love?"

"I am not the man you fell in love with."

"I am not your kind and gentle husband, and I am not the love you knew before."

"Would you fall in love with me again if you knew all I've done?"

"Would you love me all the same?"

"I know that you've been waiting for love."

"What kind of things did you do?"

"I hurt more lives than I can count on my hands, but all of that was to bring me back to you."

"I had built that wedding bed with my blood and sweat."

"Do you realize what you have asked me?"

"Only my husband knew that, so I guess that makes him you!"

"I will fall in love with you over and over again."

"I don't care how, where, or when. No matter how long it's been, you're mine."

"Don't tell me you're not the same person!"

"You're always my husband, and I've been waiting for you."

[msftsnmemes]

EPIC: THE ITHACA SAGA STARTERS.

the challenge

"i'm supposed to choose a suitor to wear the crown."

"cause i would rather lie than allow them to think they've won."

"though i never thought i'd resort to this."

"but i don't know how much longer i'll last."

"just know i'll be here buying you time."

"cause i would rather die than grow old without the best of you."

"i would not have it any other way." "

hold them down

"where is he?"

"screw this competition, we've been here for hours"

"can't you guys see we're being played?"

"this is how they hold us down while we slowly age."

"where in the hell is our pride and our rage?"

"here and now there's a chance for action"

"here and now burn it down to ashes."

"only the ocean and i will know."

"i will not let any part go to waste."

odysseus

"i've suffered every punishment and pain."

"i have had enough."

"he's using the darkness to hide his approaches."

"our only chance is to strike him in the darkness."

"you don't think i know my own palace? i built it."

"you've destroyed the serpents head."

"let's have open arms instead." "let's make the bastard rot."

"we don't fight fair."

"there's a chance for us to win."

"mercy? mercy? my mercy has long since drowned."

"it died to bring me home."

"you've filled my heart with hate."

i can't help but wonder

"all my life i'd have died to meet you."

"thought about your name so much it hurts."

"and now you're here, i can't find the words."

"all this time i've wondered if you'd embrace me as your own."

"for so long, i've felt alone."

"oh my child, look how much you've grown."

"oh my child, the sweetest joy i've ever known."

"used to say i'd make the storm clouds cry for you."

"used to say i'd capture wind and sky for you."

"held you in my arms, prepared to die for you."

"i can only wonder what your world has been."

"things you've had to suffer, and the strength you hold within."

"all i've ever wanted was to reunite with my own."

"you were never one for hello's."

"i can't help but wonder what this world would be if we all held each other with a bit more empathy."

"i can't help but feel like i've led you astray."

"what if there's a world where we don't have to live this way?"

"if that world exists it's far away from here, it's one i'll have to miss."

would you fall in love with me again?

"is it you? have my prayers been answered?"

"is it really you standing there?"

"you look different."

"your eyes look tired."

"your frame looks lighter."

"your smile is torn."

"is it really you, my love?"

"i am not the person you fell in love with."

"i am not the person you once adored."

"i am not your kind and gentle partner."

"and i am not the love you knew before."

"would you fall in love with me again if you knew all i've done?"

"the things i cannot change, would you love me all the same?"

"i know that you've been waiting for love."

"what kind of things did you do?"

"hurt more lives than i can count in my hands."

"all of it was to bring me back to you."

"do you realize what you have asked me?"

"only my love knew that, so i guess that makes them you!"

"i will fall in love with you, over and over again."

"i don't care how, where or when."

"no matter how long it's been you're mine."

"don't tell me you're not the same person."

"i love you."

[saturninemartial]

So I've been cooking a Shuggy-centric modern AU and I'd like to share it with the class.

Shanks owns a landscaping company (the rest of the Red Hair Pirates are the employees); he no longer does much of the hands-on work since, well, he's down to one hand as of an accident a few years ago. Luffy, 15, is the kid who's always hung around begging to work with him and is finally old enough for a summer job. Beckman is Shanks' right-hand man and secures a lot of their clients for them.

One day, Beckman drives Shanks and Luffy over to a brand-new client he'd found for them, for a bit of a consult as the new client is wealthy and has a lot of work that needs done on their new home; Luffy is there to mow the lawn for starters. When they get there, the door is answered by the client's assistant (Mohji). When the client finally comes out onto the porch (the landscapers are "too dirty" to go inside even though they haven't even done any work yet that day), everyone is really taken aback when Shanks and the client—Buggy—recognize each other.

Shanks and Buggy both grew up in foster care from when they were practically babies; they landed in the same congregate care home (group home) as preteens, having both been troublemakers in every foster home placement they'd been in previously, and became inseparable. (I'm imagining Roger as, like, a counselor here or something.) They were best friends for a few years while living here, the first real friend the other had, until Buggy was sent to live elsewhere in a home with more focused mental health care because of his anger problems. They lost touch after that, and Shanks aged out of the foster system, getting into petty crime but eventually starting up the landscaping business.

And Buggy, in the meantime, well...several years after they lost touch, Buggy suddenly pops up as a fucking fashion model. It's hard to mistake the bright blue hair—grown out long—and the pout, plastered on ads. Shanks has been following his career this whole time as soon as he found out his old friend became a model (or, well....collecting pictures because Bug's gotten even prettier somehow). But Shanks had no idea that Buggy was moving back "home," and now here they are, seeing each other for the first time in, fuck, like 20 years?

They end up reconnecting (then really connecting lmao). Bug doesn't really open up about the times in between his relocation to another facility, and him aging out, and him hitting it big as a model, but Something (bad) Definitely Happened. But now they're together again and Shanks can be gross and embarrassing.

Luffy does not like this weird guy and calls him Bussy, Booby, Booty, etc.

Bonus details on the Straw Hat teens: Luffy is in foster care under Dadan and has been with her for several years; Nami was adopted by her foster mom Belle-mère, her bio parents having died when she was a kid; Zoro has recently been placed with crochawk after bouncing around a lot; Sanji is a runaway and has been hiding out with Zeff, who is pretty horrified that the kid was never reported missing; and Yasopp is physically present but not emotionally present, so Usopp spends a lot of his time at other people's houses.

(Some of these details are not set in stone but this is the basic concept. And I'm probably gonna write a little about it. Mostly bc i need Buggy's bussy destroyed.)

[ririchanva]

╰※╮▫◕‖ Previous ‖ ∴❃∴ ‖ AO3 ‖ ∴❃∴ ‖ Next ‖ ◕▫╰※╮

Summary: Shiro, in the last moments of dying, was sent back to the past to rewrite events that will change for the better. Once he started to change one thing, a lot of other things also went into a butterfly effect. Will he be able to prevent a disastrous future this time around?

A/n: It's...been seven months. SEVEN since I've uploaded this thing. And so, to maybe gift ya'll for the end of 2024...I present to you the second chapter xD And yeah, okay, I should be more active (hopefully) besides doing the MHA and Miraculous stuff. If I get more comments, likes and asks for this story, then I might consider continuing. Anyways, on with the chapter~!

Chapter Warning: Mentions of war, violence, blood and major character death(s) mentioned. It is also a Fix-It sort of fic about also an AU crossover that's different from canon events.

Chapter Two: The Return of Voltron (Part 2)

“Alright…I’ll come clean. Let’s…sit down somewhere so I can explain everything.”

Before Shiro could explain anymore, the last pod opened to reveal an older man ginger hair and moustache, having the same pointy ears and eye markings as Allura, except his marks were more on the teal side. He looked around for a moment, until he gasped and stuttered out, going from shock to rage.

“E-Enemy Combatants!”

The man lunged to the closest person to him, which happened to be Keith, who grabbed the man’s wrist twisting it behind his back before sending the man to his knees. Allura growled, almost going over to pull Keith off of the man before Shiro stepped up.

“Keith! Don’t hurt Coran!”

Keith blinked while the man, Coran, gasped.

“H-How did you know my name?” Coran choked out, while Keith released him, and the man soon turned to Allura, “Princess?! Who are these people!? How long have we—?”

“More and more, I’m curious on how much you know about all this, Shiro…” Ben murmured with arms folded, making Shiro give a small apologetic smile. 

“I will explain. Seriously, I promise.”

Coran huffed, "Quiznak! You're lucky I have a case of the old Sleep Chamber Knees. Otherwise, I'd grab your head like this, wrap you up like so and—One, two, three—" 

He then grinned evilly after a few hand gestures while he spoke, snapping his fingers then winking.

"—Sleepy time!"

Keith wasn’t impressed, thus looking back at Shiro all the while ignoring Coran.

“Can you please start talking before I kill this old man?”

Conan let out a dramatic gasp and started yelling at him indignantly, which both Keith and Shiro ignored.

“For starters, you said it’s been ten thousand years…” Allura pointed out, but she blinked in confusion when Shiro raised a hand as if stopping her in her tracks.  

“Let’s go somewhere we can all sit down first. It’s going to be a lot to take in and I need you guys seated…”

Shiro, surprisingly, led them all in what seems to be a Lounge room and everyone was seated on what seems to be a couch circle. Keith even gave a side eyed look towards his brother figure at how Shiro knew his way around the Castle well enough, but Shiro kept quiet for now.

Once everyone was comfortable, Shiro looked to Allura first.

“Planet Altea and all of the planets in your solar system have been destroyed. Your father sacrificed himself to buy time when he placed you and Coran in the sleeping chambers, then scattering the Lions,” Shiro closed his eyes and then breathed out a sigh, “I…know this because I’ve had visions about this.”

Everyone gasped at this. Except for Ben and Keith, both were looking at each other warily. Shiro continued to explain, leaving out a few details here and there and once he was done, Ben was leaning back against his seat, then closed his eyes.

“So…all in all, you are supposed to defeat Zarkon and the Galra in two or so years time, and had vision after vision of how to save the lives that perished and wished to change the future, am I getting it so far?”

Shiro nodded, “Actually, Zarkon is gonna be here in Arus in a year—er, I suppose it would be deca-phoeb?” 

“…Considering you are using terminology that Earthlings are not using, then what your saying checks out,” Allura said slowly, her arms folded and back straightened, “So…Zarkon is still alive…”

“Yes. He’s still looking for Voltron after all this time, and we need to find the other lions before he does,” Shiro said as he then glanced at Keith, “We found Blue earlier than expected, and Keith happens to be her Paladin. And I know where all the other lions are.”

“You do?” Allura questioned with suspicion, and Shiro tapped the side of his head, “Right. Your…visions.”

Shiro had a feeling even Allura wouldn’t believing his lies. In fairness, they weren’t lies, per se. He was just bending the truths slightly. If he told everyone that he actually came from the future where he died but some weird guy threw him back in time, it would’ve been too crazy. Not that it wasn’t crazy now, but he didn’t want to overwhelm everyone with what he knew.

“Remember, Takashi Shirogane. Once you make ONE change, everything else will be different than what you remember…”

That was another thing to consider. 

Shiro didn’t know if the future he experienced already will ever happen in this reality now. After all, Shiro didn’t go to Kerberos this time around. Meaning, Shiro’s going to have to adapt and be quick on his feet for any changes. For example, Lance wasn’t exactly how Shiro had remembered him. Quite different than the Lance he knew. Not to mention, Hunk and Pidge weren’t here either. Speaking of…

“We need Green and Yellow’s Paladins. Allura, perhaps you can sense who would be piloting them in this room?”

Allura raised brow,  “I can…but there is a problem.”

Shiro wasn’t liking the sound of that. “What is it?”

“Every one of these people have a mix of being a Paladin for all the Lions,” Allura pointed to the strangers that came from the pods and even the ones that came with Shiro, “So it is sort of confusing to pinpoint a true Paladin for the Lions…because it’s not one person. Their auras are mixed colours…”

Hiro hummed, “Meaning to say, I could probably this Paladin you speak of and…fly a Lion? Is that right?”

Shiro looked thoughtful about this. Is that why Blue willing let Keith fly her instead of Lance?

“Still in the dark of all this,” Artemis raised her hands to gesture everything, “Voltron? Paladins? Zarkon? Galra? These things don’t make sense to some of us, and frankly? I don’t care. I just want a way for me and Wonder Girl to get back home.”

Shiro frowned, “The thing is, I don’t even know how to get you guys…home. Wherever your home is.”

“I could talk to someone about that?” Ben spoke up this time, leaning back and folding his arms, “I know someone that is a Time and Dimension expert, not to mention I’ve had my own experience going into different realities. So finding where you are from should be easy~”

Some of them looked hopeful about this, except for one person…

“Gambit is not sure he wants to go back home.”

Wonder Girl looked surprised at this, “W-what? Why not? What about your life back home? Or the people that you care about? Don’t you wanna see them again? Or that they’ll be sad you’re not there? Family? Friends? Someone you love?”

The Cajun snorted.

“The woman I love happened to have a thing for an older man that was considered my enemy once, and I don’t have much family to speak of…by blood. But I am sure the X-men aren’t going to miss me much either. Maybe Jubilee and Logan…”

He paused for a moment, but then shook his head.

“Point is, last thing I remember is being blasted by Super Sentinel and if I do go back…does this mean I’ll be dead yet again?”

Hiro looked thoughtful at Gambit’s words.

“That’s something to consider. What if I to get back there and suddenly I am burnt to a crisp from the explosion that happened before I entered this reality? Scientifically, if we are thrown back to our worlds, does time pass or do we go back into the time we were taken from? I don’t wanna experience dying as soon as I’m back home. There’s no telling…”

Ben frowned. “Well I don’t think that will happen?”

“How can you guarantee that? Do you have proof and swear we will not be sent back with a sudden death flag over our heads? Because hearing from Gambit’s story and knowing mine, the track record of going back home alive and well doesn’t sound plausible.” Hiro argued and Ben was stumped on what to say next, “Looking at your face, you’re not too sure yourself…”

With Ben quiet, Hiro had a chance to turn to Shiro this time and ask his questions.

“And, how does your visions work? Can you look into the future willingly or is it random? How long have you had this ability? Is it a genetic mutation like Gambit’s? Because I will not believe in magic crap. Is there any chance to make changes on what you see in your future? Like is it subjective?”

Shiro…wasn’t sure how to answer, and he could tell from Hiro’s expectant stare that this young man wasn’t going to let this go too easily.

“W-well…”

Ben saw how uncomfortable the other looked and sighed, looking to Allura and spoke in a friendly tone, “I can't believe your civilization created such advanced technology ten thousand years ago. It must have been an incredible place~”

Shiro felt his heart leap at Ben changing the subject and smiled softly, although Ben didn’t look his way and focused more on the Altean Princess.

Allura sadly looked down, her lips pursed, "Yes, it was...but now it is gone…a-and we're the last Alteans alive."

Lance softened for a moment, almost wanting to say some words of comfort but then blinked as he heard squeaking noises. He looked around inquisitively, wondering what was making those sounds. Curious, he followed the sounds and looked into one of the pods, the pod that Princess Allura came out of. There, he saw four different coloured mice and smiled softly.

“Awww, where did you little ones come from?” 

Lance held his hands out as the four little critters sniffed his hands, before climbing up and suddenly rushing to his shoulders and sat there, the very small blue one nuzzling into his cheek affectionately.

Allura looked up, her ears twitching at the sounds and looked at Lance, gasping when seeing the mice and her smile soften, "Looks like we're not the last, after all."

Shiro stared incredulously at the sight of Lance having the Space Mice cozying up to him, and it surprised him. It’s like the mice are comfortable with Lance already even though they have just met today…

“So, about these Lions?” Hiro interrupted as he looked to Allura, “How do we go about looking for them?”

“Wait, we’re actually going to? I still want a way to get home, please?” Artemis argued before she looked too Ben, “You! You said you had a friend that knew how to get us home? Then let’s go.”

Ben nodded, looking to his watch on his wrist and pressed on it, “I’ll call Professor Paradox right away.”

Shiro sighed, knowing that not everyone wants to be here. Although he did feel a hand on his shoulder and turned to surprisingly see Gambit grinning at him.

“Don’t be frownin’, mon ami~! Gambit is ready to help.”

“…Just like that?”

Gambit shrugged, “It’s not like I will be welcomed back. And I do think that I’m meant to be here. So, I shall make this world my new home.”

Shiro wanted to ask, but decided not to push it.

“I shall also help you, Friend Shiro.” Starfire flew next to him, softening with a smile, “Because you have told us your story, it is only right we fight this battle together and save the universes…save our homes.”

Shiro was wondering why she was quiet through all this, but he was glad he had her support. It seemed he also had Keith’s, who was looking at him with a nod and a determined look, the same went for Lance. At least he could count on those two.

Ben suddenly spoke up, “Artemis, Wondergirl—“

“Y-You can call me Cassie, or Cass, but Cassie is fine. It’s better that way,” The blonde heroine chirped sheepishly, as Ben smiled, although Hiro made a face for some reason. 

“Cassie. You and your friend here can go home now. Paradox is gonna open a portal for us as soon as I scan your signatures and open up to your universe,” He explained, and Artemis looked relieved, “I’ll be travelling with you just to make sure you guys get to the right world and safely arrive home.”

“Thanks…” Artemis smiled a little and Shiro looked at them with a strange look.

“Ben…”

Ben looked back at Shiro and smiled, “I’ll come back soon. Promise.”

With that, the Omnitrix wielder used his watch to scan the two, and waited. A voice robotically chirped from his watch, stating that universe was detected, and suddenly a bright looking portal opened for them.

Ben looked to Hiro, tilting his head, “You want me to get you home too?”

Hiro shook his head, “I’m with Gambit on this one. I…something is telling me to stay…”

The brunet nodded, “Alright, if you change your mind…?”

“I’ll let you know.”

Ben smiled, then turned to lead the two blonde ladies to the portal and said portal vanished as soon as they stepped through. Shiro was still staring at the space they were just at, before Allura coughed and clapped her hands together. 

“Alright, well, since that’s that…let us find the Lions as quickly as possible. By the time they get here, we will have reformed Voltron, and together, we will destroy Zarkon's empire!”

The Princess then lead everyone to the Castle Bridge, where the room had a huge crystal hanging above the middle, and Allura was stepping up to a podium and placed her hands on top of it.

"King Alfor connected the Lions to Allura's life force. She alone is the key to the Lions' whereabouts." Shiro explained before Coran could open his mouth, and the Black Paladin smiled apologetic to him, “Sorry, Coran.”

“You speak the truth,” Allura smiled as she felt a light surround her, and a blast of light filled the room.

Everyone asides from Shiro was in awe, seeing how there were stars and planets around them…it was almost like a planetarium of sorts. Terra reached out to touch some of the stars, almost bumping into Lance as she walked backwards to take everything in. The two looked at each other for a moment, then laughed and apologised to one another, awkwardly smiling. Keith looked at the two of them, and narrowed his eyes for a moment before Allura spoke up again.

"As you have found, the Lions choose their pilots. It is a mystical bond and cannot be forced. The Quintessence of the pilot is mirrored in his Lion. Together, they form something greater than science can explain."

Keith blinked, “…Like how Blue chose me?”

Allura gave a kind smile, “Indeed. The Blue Lion nurtures potential, and helps her Paladin realise their true worth. The Paladin must improvise, following their heart more than anyone and is a bit of a free-spirit. Keith, this is why you are the Blue Paladin to pilot this particular Lion.”

Keith placed his hand over his heart, as his face flush for a moment before looking away, “True worth…?”

Shiro smiled at this. He had always wondered what was Blue’s purpose.  But in his first life, Lance interrupted before they could ever find out. At least he knows now, and it made sense for Lance too. If only I got to know him better before, but now I’ve been give a second chance, I can do so properly.

Hiro tilted his head, “Hold on, you said everyone had a potential to fly any Lion. Why is Keith special to be with that specific Lion?”

Allure chuckled, “It’s not for me to decide, but I have a feeling Blue will be especially bonded with Keith since he was the first to find her. Or in the case of what Shiro told us, she allowed him because she trusts him.”

Keith couldn’t help but smile at this, bashfully rubbing the side of his neck as Shiro smiled in pride.

“Hang on,” Terra pointed out, looking to the hologram of the Black Lion, “According to this, it seems this Lion is next to Blue?”

A chuckle escaped the Princess, "Very observant. That's because the Black Lion is in the Castle."

"To keep the Black Lion out of Zarkon's hands, King Alfor locked it in the Castle. It can only be freed if the other four Lions are present." Coran explained.

“Oh…” Terra hummed and Allura nodded. 

“To answer Hiro’s question, there seems to be some exceptions, considering the auras you all have. The Lions seems to think you all have the potential to pilot any of them.”

Allura tilted her head as she looked at Shiro and surprisingly Lance for a moment, then moved the hologram of Black towards them.

“The Black Lion is the decisive head of Voltron. It will take a pilot who is a born leader and in control at all times, someone whose men will follow without hesitation. That is why, Shiro, Black has chosen you…but somehow sees potential in Lance as well,“

Lance squeaked as he pointed at himself, “M-Me?”

“But I’m afraid you are not completely ready yet. But in due time, you will be.”

Shiro saw a glint in Allura’s eyes, and he could’ve sworn there was a fond look on her face. He raised a brow, but shook his head once Allura was focused once more and pointing to the Green Lion now. Maybe it was my imagination.

"The Green Lion has an inquisitive personality and needs a pilot of intellect and daring,” She moved the hologram of Green towards Hiro, who stared in surprise, “Young Hiro, you will pilot the Green Lion.”

Hiro’s eyes sparkled at this moment as he soon reached out to wave a hand over Green and chuckled, “Cool.”

Allura looked amused before switching to face the hologram of Yellow.

"The Yellow Lion is caring and kind. It’s pilot is one who puts the needs of others above their own. Their heart must be mighty.”

Terra blinked when the hologram of Yellow flew towards her, squeaking and shivered when it circled around her, almost as if it wanted to nuzzle her. Allura chuckled, tilting her head with a smile.

“As the leg of Voltron, you will lift the team up and hold them together."

“…T-This must be some mistake,” Terra breathed out as she shook her head, waving her hands in front of her, “That doesn’t sound like me at all.”

“Couldn’t agree more,” Keith murmured bitterly and Lance looked over at him with a frown.

“…What’s wrong with you?” He whispered to the other, concern and confusion in his eyes, “Why are you so mean to her?”

“…You wouldn’t get it.”

Allura looked to Terra with understanding eyes, “You are humble. I can also tell that you felt like you’ve made mistakes in your life. But Yellow is a good balance for you to rise above your past and look into the future.”

Terra still didn’t look sure. 

Shiro walked over and patted her shoulder.

“I believe in you, even if you don’t believe in yourself now. If the Yellow Lion thinks you are worthy, then you are. Just give it some time…”

The blonde girl brushed some hair behind her ear, smiling a little, “…Thanks.”

"The Red Lion is temperamental and the most difficult to master. It's faster and more agile than the others, but also more unstable. Its pilot needs to be someone who relies more on instincts than skill alone—hm?” She paused for a moment, before she tilted her head, “…Oh dear…”

“What’s wrong?” Shiro looked alarmed for a moment, wondering why Allura suddenly looked at the Hologram of Red in her hands and staring with a frown, “What is it?”

“………..The Red Lion is flying here.”

Everyone looked surprised.

Allura snapped her head toward Lance, her eyes wide, “…Oh!”

“W-what? Why are you looking at me like that again?” Lance squeaked as he was patting himself and looking down to see if there was something on him before Allura laughed.

“Lance, it seems the Red Lion felt your presence and is now flying towards Arus right now.” 

It was then a second later, The Castleship alarms started blaring loudly, the room now filled in red lights. The holographic map around them changed as suddenly a hologram of a Galran warship appears before them.

Coran gasped in horror, “A Galra battleship has set its tracker to us!"

"How did they find us?!" Allura questioned in shock, before Shiro gulped.

‘They aren’t supposed to be able to find us until a year later. But it’s possible if Red wasn’t captured yet…oh no…’

“It’s Red…because she’s moving, they must’ve sensed she was on the go and now is following her!” He looked to Coran, “Coran! How long before they arrive?”

The ginger haired man hummed while counting his fingers, "At their speed? Oh, well, uh, carry the two... I'd say probably a couple of days?"

“Then we must find Yellow and Green, now.” Allura hurriedly said before looking at everyone, “Keith, you take Terra to get the Yellow Lion.”

Keith groaned but nodded begrudgingly, while Terra looked nervous. 

Allura continued.

“Shiro, you must go with Hiro and collect the Green Lion. Coran will ready a pod and load in the coordinates so that the two of you can reach her in time. Lance, you will stay here until Red arrives so you can pilot her. In the meantime, I'll get this Castle's defenses ready. They'll be sorely needed.”

“Gambit can assist you if you allow it, Ma princesse~” Gambit saddled up next to her with a grin, and Allura looked flustered as she brush a strand of hair behind her pointed ear.

Soon, everyone was getting ready and heading into their stations, Lance watching them and bidding them good luck. Lance and Keith shared a look for a moment, the Cuban giving a small smile as a sign of asking the other to be careful, and Keith gave a look back in respect before making his way to Blue, Terra following behind him.

Once they were in their respective rides, Coran spoke to them through the comms.

"We can only keep the Wormholes that lead to the other Lions open for two of your Earth hours, so you'll have to be quick about your work. The good news is that according to my readings, both planets are relatively peaceful. SoOoo……….if you do get stuck, they could be relaxing places to live out the rest of your lives. Enjoy the trip~~!”

Shiro shook his head in amusement as Hiro looked panicked, and both Keith and Terra were yelling through their side of the comms. Before anymore arguments could be made, the wormholes opened before them, sparkling blue and bright and soon both the pod and the Blue Lion vanished through them in a snap.

Lance watched them through the screens in the Castle of Lions, before looking to Coran, “…You’re just messing with them, aren’t you?”

Coran just gave a cheeky smile before whistling and walking away to work on the Castle.

Arriving into the greenery like planet, Shiro made sure Hiro was okay. He even patted the boy’s back once he got him out and helped him get his footing. Soon, the two started walking and exploring the densely-forested green planet, Hiro using an Altean compass in his hand to find the Lion. It took half an hour, but the two stopped as they reached what seemed to be a riverbank, and Hiro pointed towards a canoe with a lion carved as its bowsprit.

“Looks like we gotta ride it…” Hiro trailed off as he noticed Shiro looking behind him with a smile as if amused, which made Hiro raise a brow, “Shiro?”

The young man turned around, then yelped when suddenly a sloth-like alien appears beside them, causing Hiro to jump into the Black Paladin’s arms and Shiro easily catching him. 

“It’s okay. It’s going to guide us to the Green Lion,” Shiro assured Hiro, and was proven right when the alien walked over to the canoe, getting on and holding an oar to row with, then making a ‘come here’ gesture with it’s paws.

“…?”

Shiro saw the look of suspicion on the boy’s face, chuckling, “Unless you rather we just follow Coran’s warning and live in this planet for the rest of our lives~”

“Nope! No no no no, let’s go!”

And with that, the two were peacefully riding the canoe, looking around in awe as the sloth-like alien paddles them towards where the Green Lion was. Hiro was fascinated with the nature around him, then looked towards the sounds of squeaks from the inhabitants of the forest, even seeing how some little creatures were staring at them.

As they were heading under a bridge like cavern, which held the symbol of a Lion like the cave back on Earth, Hiro decided to lean back into his seat and feeling himself relax.

“I wonder if Keith and Terra are having a good time as us…?”

“UGH! STOP FLYING LIKE A MADMAN!”

“DO YOU WANT TO GET SHOT? BE MY GUEST!”

Keith and Terra were not having a good time. If anything, Keith was doing his best to fly faster with Blue spinning mid-flight while being chased by Galra fighter jets and coming under heavy fire. Both of them screamed for dear life, mostly Terra, among the blaring alarms. After a minute, one of the Galra fighter jets hit the Blue Lion with missiles, knocking them out of the sky shakily. 

"I thought Coran said these planets were peaceful!" Terra screamed out while holding at the headrest of Keith’s pilot chair, as said pilot was trying to pull Blue back up in the air.

"Maybe peaceful means something else in Altean!” Keith argued, managing to get the Blue Lion from crashing and flies towards a Galra mine, where they were also being shot at.

 Keith had to pull out the holo-screen before him and spoke hurriedly, "According to the coordinates, we're right on top of the Yellow Lion. It's below there, where they're mining for the ore. So, Terra, be ready to drop.”

Terra balked at him, "Me? Down there? No. Nonono—!”

Keith growled, “Oh yes you will! I'll cover you!"

He pivoted the Blue Lion, diving down to the surface and rushed fast toward the mine under laser fire. As he was readying the hatch to be open so Terra could jump out, the blonde herself was feeling herself sweat. 

‘He knows about my powers, and while I have them under control now…’

Flashes of a young Keith’s face morphed into betrayal and shock came into her mind, but she soon shooed the thoughts away and spoke up shakily.

“N-No! What if the Yellow Lion doesn't work? Wh-What if I—What if I can't get in the mine? What if—?! “

“You are getting that Lion or I swear to Quiznack, I’ll freakin’ punch you.”

“I don’t think you’re using that word right!?!?”

Keith rolled his eyes, raising a fingerless gloved hand on the dashboard and clicked some buttons, smirking as he heard Terra scream when the hatch opened below her, dropping her down from the Blue Lion. Immediately, Terra’s eyes glowed yellow as she used her powers of Earth to make a giant slide, rolling her down to the ground safely and landing herself inside of the cave. Keith flew himself high, the fighter jets still chasing after him.

Terra groaned as she got up, rushing towards what seems to be a mine lift and right to where the control box was. She opened the lid and pulled some wires, hot-wiring them to start as she murmured under her breath as if cursing a storm on Keith.

“Stupid Keith. Dropping me off in a freakin’ ass alien planet. That's cool, dude, we meet each other again after a few years and I get kidnapped into space, going to a life threatening planet occupied by grizzled purple aliens that want to kill us, but whatever. Just ignore them and go connect with a big, yellow, mechanical cat. Easy-peasy. Yeah. That all makes a ton of sense to me."

Getting the lift to work, she felt herself being moved down to the mines further, narrowing her eyes as she took a deep breath. She was about to close her eyes when she suddenly felt a warm sensation hit her. Looking around the walls of the cave, she saw glowing yellow markings appear before her, just like the ones on Earth.

“…Guess she’s close.”

The lift suddenly stopped at the very bottom of the cave, ending her journey as she jumped out and looked around. She groaned when she felt the earth shake, and almost had a panic attack before calming down. This isn’t me. I didn’t cause that shake. Focus. Look around for Yellow and we can get out of here…

A glow caught her attention as she then spotted a carving of the Yellow Lion beginning to brighten in a magical light, causing the carvings around her to glow even more and show a path towards where the mechanical cat was located. Terra frowned as she saw a massive glowing circle appears in front of her.

“…”

Terra smirked, already feeling her own eyes glow as she raised her hands up, the rocks around here shaking and floating in the air.

‘Too easy. I’m coming Yellow~’

Meanwhile, Keith looked up at the screen, targeting his sights on the jets above him then narrowing his eyes. He lets the giant metal feline make a running jump before going high in the skies again, struggling a bit while he flies Blue into the sky to draw the attacks. He can’t let the jets shoot at the cave no matter what. Blue even takes one of the jets into her maw and smashes it into pieces before two more came at their six. 

Keith then spotted those jets flying towards the cave Terra was in and his eyes widen.

“No…NO!”

A young Keith stood outside of the building that was on fire, his eyes wide as he spotted a young Terra crawling out of the fire escape, covered in soot.

“Terra?”

Terra’s eyes were full of tears, as she coughed and looked…so scared. 

“I’m sorry…I’m so so sorry!”

“Terra…w-where’s my Dad? Is he still in there?”

However, she looked spooked and started to flee. Keith making a move to chase after her, but the building suddenly exploded and Keith’s violet eyes turned back to see that it was collapsing in on itself with the flames. He felt his whole world crash around him, falling on his knees and screamed out.

“DAAAAAD!!!”

Keith snapped out of his memories, hearing the explosions as the cave was shot at, the boulders soon covering the entrance and collapsing in on itself.

“NO NO NO—TERRA!!”

Shiro raised a brow as he watched Hiro going a mile a minute in his rant for a while now, looking up at the alien sloth looking back at him with a confused look. Shiro had to shrug with a small awkward smile. Even he didn’t know why Hiro was a nervous wreck right about now. 

“—I know the Princess said that this is supposed to be my Lion, but what if she's wrong? I mean, she's probably not wrong. She's a princess, and royalty is never wrong, right? But I'm not a pilot, even though I’ve played games and simulations with my brother, Tadashi. Who you kind of remind me of, by the way, really! It’s uncanny! Anyway, I read all the fighter manuals, but never got to fly a real one, how could I? I’m only fourteen! I don’t think I even hit puberty yet! What if I get in there and The Lion doesn't respond? What if I get in there and it's too big and my feet don't touch the pedals? WHAT IF THERE AREN’T EVEN PEDALS?!"

‘How…is he so like Pidge yet not really?’ Shiro smiled a little as he watched the boy, almost being reminded of a smaller Keith as well. 

“Hiro, Hiro….breathe.”

Hiro stopped his rambling as he then calmed own, looking down at his knees before Shiro spoke up again.

“Listen…I know this is a lot. A-and I feel that you are pressured into something bigger than you are used to,” He paused for a moment, before softening, “Patience yields focus. It’s something I always live by. And I know that while you’ll have a shaky start, I know that you can do great things. Amazing things. I believe in you, Hiro. You were meant for something even more and meant to help people. Save them.”

Hiro groaned, as he placed his hands over his eyes, “You even sound like him…”

“Your brother, Tadashi?”

Hiro nodded, “He…is a huge nerd. And…he was trying to get me into his nerd school and I totally did…”

Shiro softened, as he hummed, “Until you were brought here.”

“As much as I want to go back…I know my kind hearted and brave brother would’ve stayed and help as many people as he can. It’s always his thing. Helping people,” He spoke softly, Hiro soon pulling out what seems to be a photo of him and an older boy, “It’s why he made Baymax, a medical robot, because he wants to save lives so that way…children don’t end up orphans like we did…”

Shiro didn’t know what to say to that, but before he could say anything anymore, he and Hiro noticed they have arrived at their destination. The canoe stops at the edge of the riverbed, and the two humans stared at a root-covered stone temple with bewilderment. They approach the steps; the lion carvings glowing in Hiro’s presence and leading them up to some stairs. Hiro paused for a moment, looking back at Shiro, who smiled.

“Don’t give up on yourself, Hiro. Be amazing.“

“I’m not giving up on you!”

Hiro blinked as he thought he saw Tadashi instead of Shiro, but smiled back before turning to rush up the steps of the temple. As he reached the summit, Hiro was confused as he saw nothing is found at the top. He almost lost hope, but then looked down at the vines below him, hearing a growl and green light glows beneath him. Smirking, he jumps inside of the temple and a burst of light came out from the temple. A whooping sound was heard from Hiro, and with a shake and a roar, the Green Lion finally broke free from her tomb.

Shiro stared as the wind blew around him, closing his eyes and let out an exhale. You did good, Hiro. Your brother will be so proud of you, wherever he is…

Back with Keith and the Blue Lion, they were stillfighting the Galra jets on the planetoid, dodging the attacks while also trying to take each one down. Keith cursed under his breath as he was hit, looking at the screens before tapping onto his dashboard.

“C’mon Terra…”

Keith let out a yell when he felt a hit, looking at the screen once more to see that one of the fighter jets made the hit on the Blue Lion with a blast onto it’s hind leg, sending them spiralling out of the sky and down into the canyons. Another blast hit once, twice, and soon Keith saw red lights warning around him as they spun out of control.

“Shit! Fuck! Going down! We're going down!"

Blue crash landed down onto the desert ground, Keith urging the lion to stand but it seems she was struggling. He snapped his gaze up to see the jets locked on and fire their missiles at them, speeding fast. Keith felt hope die slowly, and closed his eyes as he braced for impact. However, he heard a loud roar and looked up to see the Yellow Lion appearing before them from under the ground, blocking the incoming missiles. The larger mechanical lion flattening the figher jets with its own body, one even stuck under it’s jaw.

“Keith! Come in, Keith! You okay?”

“Terra!”

Keith felt his heart slowed in relief, closing his eyes for a moment before he smirked a little, “Darn. I thought you wouldn’t have survived~”

Terra rolled her eyes as her screen popped up in front of him, narrowing her eyes, “Can it, Kogane. Just so you know, a little rockslide and cave in isn’t going to keep this girl down!”

“Anyways, should I say thanks that you saved my ass? Even though I could’ve taken them on myself,” Keith said with a raised brow and slight cocky grin, making the blonde scoff. 

“Please. You would’ve been alien chow if I didn’t come in and save your sorry butt. Thankfully, what this thing lacks in speed, it more than makes up for in armour. Man, can it take a beating!” Terra then looked back up as she saw more jets coming at them, narrowing her eyes, "We've got incoming!"

Suddenly, both their screens lit up as Allura’s face popped in, frowning.

"Paladins, please hurry back! I can't hold the Wormhole much longer!"

The two Paladins raised a brow to each other through their screens, nodding then soon were flying off, seeing the wormhole Allura mentioned. The two managed to evade the shots from the jets as they went through the wormhole, the portal closing behind the lions as they managed to escape.

Arriving in the Castle, both Keith and Terra entered the Bridge of the Castle of Lions, where everyone was apparently waiting for them. Shiro turned to face the duo, a congratulation on finding the Yellow Lion was already on the tip of his tongue, although his facial expression turned into one of confusion as he saw that Keith and Terra also weren’t alone. 

The same way as how Shiro and Hiro didn’t come with just the Green Lion.

Shiro waited until Hiro landed the Green Lion so that they could get out of here, smiling in pride. He saw the giant cat like machine land, bowing down until it’s jaws graced the ground and opened it’s mouth. Hiro stepped out of it, looking a little frazzled rather than excited as Shiro expected.

“What’s wrong?”

Hiro looked like he swallowed a lemon with his eyes darting around for a moment, before landing on Shiro and whispered in a choked voice, “…There’s a body inside.”

Alarmed, Shiro rushed past Hiro to check it out, walking into the pilot helm before blinking when he saw there was indeed a body laying unconscious at the side off the pilot’s chair. The person was a pale looking young man with blond hair in what seems to be Galra prisoner’s uniform. Shiro rushed over, checking the man’s pulse and sighed in relief as he seems to be alive. 

The Black Paladin felt Hiro appear next to him, and Shiro looked up at him, “It looks like Green came with a surprise of her own. Question is…who is this young man?”

Suddenly, the blond haired man’s eyes opened and scrambled away from both of them before clutching to the dashboard, bluish green eyes wide with fear. 

Shiro raised his hands up, showing he doesn’t mean any harm, “Sorry! Er, we mean you no harm. Can you…understand us?”

The young man slowly nodded.

Shiro hummed, “Can you….speak English?”

The blond looked troubled for a second, before he then lifted a hand up and tapped over his covered neck, his eyes saddening.

“…It looks like he cannot speak.” Hiro pointed out, then sighed at seeing Shiro’s bewildered expression, “Well, at least he doesn’t seem to be deaf. So he’s probably selectively mute.”

Shiro frowned, staring at the pitiful looking strange. “What’s your name?”

The stranger soon started to sign, and Hiro immediately spoke.

“He says his name is Jericho.”

Back in reality, Shiro looked to Jericho, who had a change of clothes thanks to Coran finding some extra Altean garbs for men to wear. He stood in the corner of the room, looking around warily at the people while Hiro was silently signing to him what was going on, considering Hiro was apparently sufficient in sign language.

“So…who is this you brought with you?”

The stranger with Keith and Terra was a young woman that wore a snarl on her face and…she looks human, like Jericho. She had long black hair, although there were some faded coloured highlights in her bangs, and it almost covered her eyes if she did not just push them back. Her dark jaded greyish eyes looked around warily, almost as if expecting someone to come at her as if she was some wild animal…and might fight back.

Terra spoke up with a shrug, “I found her as Yellow let me in, and she was unconscious at the time. But when Keith and I escaped from the planet we were on, she woke up and almost attacked me.”

“Where am I?” The woman spoke this time, as she stepped up and narrowed her eyes, raising a fist as suddenly two silver knuckle claws appeared and raised it to show them, “I want answers now before I start to really lose it.”

“…Them claws look like Wolverine’s,” Gambit pointed out quietly, which made the girl snap her attention towards him, who raised his hands up, “A-attendez! Facile là-bas, mon cher—“

“How do you know that name?” The woman sneered before Gambit was quick to lifting up what seems to be a playing card between his index and middle finger, the Queen of Hearts suddenly glowing, “You’re—?”

“Wait. Where’s Lance?” Keith spoke up as he looked around, not seeing the Cuban male in sight.

“There's a bit of good news and bad news,” Coran interrupted as he looked sheepish, “The good news is, Lance decided to fly ahead in one of our pods and meet Red halfway. He has just gotten her and is returning to us right now. The bad news is, it seems that a Galra fleet almost caught him and gave chase. But wait, good news again! He miraculously dodged all of them at top speed and managed to escape!”

Keith and Shiro both looked surprised.

“Why, if I didn’t know any better, he flew even better than King Alfor in his prime~”

Allura nodded in agreement. “Indeed. Lance was a spectacle to watch. I’ve managed to record it through the the pod he used!”

She pressed something in the air as a screen popped up in front of them, and it showed the Red Lion zooming around while skilfully flying away from the lasers from the Galra ship. Shiro was blown away at the sight, almost feeling his heart swell in satisfaction and amazement at how Lance almost flew like the Lance he knew. He glanced at Keith, and had to smile smugly at the way Keith’s eyes sparkled and mouth slightly parted. To Shiro, Keith looked like he was absolutely speechless at Lance flying like a pro.

Once the clip was over after Lance had flown into the Wormhole and the pod tied and following behind the Red Lion, Allura clasped her hands together with a squeal of hope and delight.

“With this, we can hope that Voltron will be formed easily and as soon as possible so that we can fight Zarkon and the Galra, ending the many centuries of tyranny and free the universe!”

“Let’s not celebrate just yet,” Shiro warned softly as he raised a hand up, “There are still some other things to worry about—”

“Er, hey guys?” 

Lance’s voiced around the Castle, alerting everyone as they looked at a holoscreen popping up and showing Lance…who wasn’t alone. Standing next to Lance, was a girl his age with strawberry blonde hair, amethyst blue eyes and wearing normal street clothes.

“I, ah…sorta have a stow-away inside Red. And check it, she’s from Earth!”

“So even Lance has a stranger inside of the Lion. Also from our planet,” Hiro frowned as he looked at Shiro, “And this wasn’t part of your visions?”

Shiro shook his head. ‘Why do the Lions already have people inside them? And not Alteans, but Earthlings. What exactly is going on?’

“We’re here.”

Ben, Artemis and Cassie stepped out from the portal while looking around…although it was not what any of them expected.

“Where…?”

The North Magnetic Pole. They were supposed to be surrounded in ice. It shouldlook ike the very same place that the speedster trio were to stop the chrysalis and…and…

“Why does it look like a desert now?”

Artemis turned to Ben, who shrugged and was just as confused while Cassie just stood there. The land was now barren, the sky red and fire was falling from the dark skies. The place almost looked like Hell. 

“I thought you are taking us home?!”

“I am. And I did,” Ben looked down at his watch and tapped on it, “The coordinates from my Omnitrix locked on to this universe. So I’m not sure why—”

“It is because this world already perished, Benjamin.”

Ben blinked as he looked to the side, “P-Professor Paradox?”

There stood an old man with fair skin, grey eyes, and black hair dressed in a lab coat, leaning against his cane and smiling tiredly. Ben walked over to greet the man like an old friend, while both Artemis and Cassie side eyed each other with wary looks.

“What brings you here?”

Paradox’s eyes saddened now, sighing while pinching the bridge of his nose, “You should not have brought Miss Crock and Miss Sandsmark back here, Benjamin.”

“You know them?”

“You know us?” Both Artemis and Cassie asked, and the Professor nodded.

“I’m afraid so. The being that pulled these two out from this universe had someone after them. And so, in retaliation and anger, that other being destroyed this world and everyone in it…leaving this Earth a wasteland with no life left…”

“Who are the beings?” Ben asked as Artemis fell on her knees, Cassie rushing to check on her as they both seemed in shock (Artemis being the most), “What could’ve caused all this? Someone like Eon? Maltruant?”

“I believe it is far worse,” Professor Paradox said solemnly, watching how Cassie was now hugging a crying Artemis, “And for the pettiest of reasons too. Think…think of the beings inside Alien X, for example…”

“Serena and Bellicus?” Ben questioned before gasping, “So was it a Celestialsapien?!”

“Somewhat. They are beings that are very different from them, but the same premise. They look more human…or at least, they used to be humans before science once again decided to play Gods.”

Ben frowned, and the Time Traveller rested his other hand onto his cane now, leaning over it with a slightly worried look.

“So…does this mean those beings are still on the loose?” Ben asked.

“Indeed. And they might be destroying other realities in their chase as we speak.”

Ben had his hands on his hips and sighed, “So this is a dead end, huh…? But what if I could go back in time—?”

This caught Artemis’ attention.

Proffesor Paradox shook his head, “Time has been tampered with so many times in this world, Ben. I’m afraid that it’s impossible and might make this world collapse in on itself. Or worse, it will alert other Time Lords that might try and stop you from meddling and try to erase you permanently. So I suggest you take the girls back to the world you came from and—“

“Wait!” Artemis stood up shakily as she rushed towards Professor Paradox, who calmly let himself be pulled by his lab coat as the blonde archer shook him, “W-what if Ben took us to a reality like this one? Considering that he’s able to travel worlds and you talked about time travel? Maybe if we found—?”

“I’m going to stop you right there, Miss Crock,” Paradox gently took her hands into his and looked at her in sympathy, “I understand that you are in mourning. Confused and feeling like you’ve lost everything. But I’m afraid that we cannot let you go into a similar Earth like this one…”

“Why not?!” The archer argued, “You said that someone threw me and Cassie in that world. Why can’t we just find a world that might be like home?”

“It’s just not that simple, I’m afraid. You see, The Universes have certain balances to maintain, and not every world is going to be welcoming to random anomalies transmigrating into their territory. For example, if we suddenly threw you and Miss Sandsmark in a world that is similar to yours; with the same environment and same people…and it just so happens that there are already versions of you two existing in that world, it would create…”

Paradox gestured himself with a chuckle of irony.

“Okay fine,” Artemis looked like she didn’t want to give up on this issue, “What about if we find a world like ours that doesn’t have me or Cassie in it?” 

“You could…but that universe will find a way to fix itself in it’s right state. Think of a reality like the human body,” The time traveler started to explain, “If there was an unknown virus that suddenly entered it’s system, the antibodies will try to get rid of that particular entity entirely. Meaning to say, the people in that world will just see you as something abnormal. That you shouldn’t even be there.”

Artemis dropped her hold on the Professor as the man looked at her once more in pity.

“I do not want you to experience seeing who you think are your loved ones, deluding that you can go back to the way things are and continue your relationships with them. Only for them to be looking at you like you are monsters. Not knowing why in their inner souls that they hate you, and wish to kill you. Believe me, I’ve seen too many people that die in their original world, get sent into another and suddenly that world will do everything and anything to get rid of that said soul and cease to exist…”

“So…Isekai?” Ben pointed out while Paradox made an exasperated sound.

“I swear, Benjamin, I do not always get your modern lingo sometimes…but yes.”

“So…there’s no way I could see my M-Mom again? O-Or Diana and Donna? O-Or Tim, or my Team…” Cassie whispered finally as it started to sink in, tears welling in her eyes, “Everyone we know…gone.”

“And I am indeed sorry for your loss,” Paradox said as he placed a hand over his heart, “Truly. I would never wish this sort of thing on anyone.”

“What if we find the asshole that pulled me and Cassie out of our world in the first place?” Artemis hissed angrily now, her eyes hardened in determination as if she has a plan, “What if they can fix this?”

“Easier said than done, Miss Crock. However, it is hard to find that being—oh!” 

“Prof?” Ben questioned as the time traveller suddenly stilled, “What’cha see?”

“The being that pulled these girls from their world is apparently in the world you came from, Benjamin. And he’s with your group at the Castle of Lions right now.”

“Then we should head back so I can kick his ass and get him to fix this!” Artemis stomped to Ben and punched Ben’s arm, ignoring the yelp of pain from him, “Let’s get going, right now!”

“Okay, okay! Don’t hit me again!” Ben was tapping onto his watch frantically, wincing when Artemis was raising her fist again, “Seriously! Have some patience, woman!”

“Oh, no need to do that, Benjamin! I can do that for you all~”

With a click of his fingers and a tap of his cane on the ground, a portal appeared below them which caused all of them to fall in, the portal closing behind them.

A portal appeared out of nowhere, and honestly, Shiro thought that he was going to face more trouble as he looked to everyone in the room, “Be ready!”

He almost had to raise an arm up but remembered he didn’t have his metal arm anymore and felt embarrassed. Meanwhile, Keith pulled out his dagger from his belt while Terra’s eyes began to glow, fists at the ready. The rest of the room either panicked or followed Shiro’s lead in preparing a fight…until they saw Ben, Artemis and Cassie falling out of the portal with screams and fell on the floor with thuds.

Professor Paradox calmly stepped out with a smile, giving a salute, “Hello all~”

Shiro raised a brow, but Ben was the first to get up and waved his hands in front of him.

“It’s okay! He’s a friend!” He assured them, giving a sheepish grin.

“What are you doing back? I thought you brought Artemis and Cassie back home?” Shiro questioned slowly, and Ben sighed, “Something happened?”

“Long story,” Ben noticed the new faces and gasped, “Oh! But there is something important we need to figure out. Apparently there is someone in here that’s the culprit who brought all those people from different worlds here in ours!”

Shiro whirled around for a moment to look at everyone for a moment, then back at Ben, “Really? Who?”

“Will find out right now. Starting with you—“ Artemis was quick to grab the closest person to her, who happened to be Gambit, “Did you bring all of us here?!”

“Êtes-vous fou? Gambit doesn’t have that power!” The Cajun huffed with narrowed eyes, pushing the archer away, “How dare you insult Gambit like this?!”

“Stow it, both of you!” Shiro stepped up between them and looked to Artemis with a glare, “Let’s not jump at anyone’s throat and start blaming the wrong people!”

The sliding doors behind them opened as Lance stepped in with a girl hiding behind him, and the Cuban male looked confused. Before he could question anything, however, Artemis was quick to turn and grab the girl behind him, pulling that person towards her.

“What about this one?! Who is she? And why is she here?!”

“Hey! Take it easy! You’re scaring here!” Lance came in the strange girl’s defense against the angry Artemis, pulling the girl back to him protectively, “Wendy doesn’t have any idea how she came here! She’s an Earthling, like us!”

“Ha! She tell ya that?” Artemis sneered as Lance stood tall as if ready if she threw a punch, but she soon turned her attention to Jericho, “What about him? Or that scary looking goth girl next to him?”

“My name’s Laura, you crazy psycho,” The woman that came with Keith and Terra growled, already bringing out her claws, “And step towards me, and I’ll rip your pretty blonde hair out, Barbie—“ 

"Guys, stop!” Shiro interrupted with a yell, silencing everyone.

He looked to Allura, who looked sort of at a loss. He remembered the moment where he asked her what they should do now, and she felt herself doubting on her leadership. Smiling a little, he walked over to her, placing a hand on her shoulder and getting her attention.

“Maybe we can talk to your Dad?”

Allura looked both confused and somewhat angry at the mention of her dead father, “What? What do you mean?”

Coran seemed to understand, his facial features softening, “Shiro is correct. Perhaps your father can help.”

Soon, everyone was walking somewhere deep in the Castle but they remained outside the hallway as Coran, Allura and Shiro walked into a dark looking room. Shiro remembered this place being a Memory Chamber, the place Allura goes to before the Castle was destroyed in his old timeline.

"Coran, what is this?" Allura asked as the older man stood behind her and she walked further in towards a console.

"King Alfor knew there was a chance he might never see you again. So, his memories, his very being, were stored in this computer for you."

Allura soon stepped in front of the controls, seeing a floating orb there. She reached out slowly, and a burst of light changes the dark Chamber to a vision of Altea, a mountainous area with a field full of Juniberry flowers…reminding Shiro of Lance’s field of Juniberry flowers in his farm, dedicating it all to Allura.

A holographic image of a tall, older Altean man with brown skin, white hair, and a white full beard appears from the console, standing regal and strong. Although in Shiro’s eyes, he could see the tired wisdom behind them, and he understood very clearly.

"Father! Father, it is so good to see you."

King Alfor smiled warmly down at Allura, "Allura, my only child, how I've missed your face."

Shiro took this moment to step out, leaving the two to reconnect after ten thousand years. Once he was out in the hallways once more, he saw Ben walking towards him while everyone else was talking among themselves.

“So…?”

Shiro pursed his lips as Ben stared up at him, letting out a tired breath, “So…”

“I feel like you’re not telling the entire truth, and I know you won’t be able to anytime soon,” Ben rubbed the side of his neck and hummed, “But I trust you. You know that, right?”

Shiro smiled softly, “I do. And…I do appreciate that you trust me—”

“But,” The brunet held his finger up, narrowing his eyes, “If I sense that the danger is bigger than any of us, I’m going to use all of my power to prevent anymore lives being taken. Got me? That also means if there’s something big that’s going to be happening, you have to let me know.”

“Okay, got you,” Shiro nodded, wanting to reach out to Ben once more but then blinked when Keith appeared between them, “Keith?”

“So, er, we got the four lions. Shouldn’t we be able to get yours?” Keith questioned.

Ben gasped and clicked his fingers, “Oh yeah! Professor Paradox said that there was someone here that is the very person that brought Hiro, Gambit, Artemis, Cassie, Jericho, Wendy and Laura from their worlds. Apparently, if Jericho, Wendy and Laura came from the Lions we found…there might be a person inside Black. So we should check on Black right now,”

“Right. I know where Black is.” 

Shiro led everyone to the giant doors where the Black Lion was, and even though Shiro knew that the doors were going to open for him anyways, he still felt…nervous. Maybe it was because it has been a long time since he saw Black, even before the Lions returned back to Space in the first timeline. In a way, he felt guilty and not worthy of being in Black’s presence right now. Or anytime in this life time. 

He then felt Ben’s hand graze against his and looked to the side, seeing the brunet giving a reassuring smile.

This filled Shiro with confidence once more.

Closing his eyes, he let the other four lions stand behind him, their eyes lighting up one by one. The door also gave out a florescent blue glow, the V on the door shining brightly. Once the doors opened up, Shiro smiled as he saw Black lighting up in all her glory. Tears welled up in his eyes as she roared, her pride roaring back in welcome.

“It’s good to see you again, girl…” Shiro breathed out as he approached, almost choking up in a sob as he touched her giant paw, “I…I’m so sorry. I will never part from you ever again…”

‘My Paladin. Together again.’

Shiro felt her spirit in his heart, smiling as he soon watched her crouch down and open her mouth for him to enter. He quickly rushed into the pilot’s helm, then skidded to a halt when someone was already there standing expectantly, as if waiting for him. 

“…Caspian?”

A chuckle escaped the young man, arms folded and titled his head, “Hello, Shiro. About time…”

“So you’re the asshole that stole me and Cassie from our world and caused it’s destruction!”

Caspian sighed as he easily dodged Artemis’s hits, even blocking with his hand as she was grabbing her bow and trying to swing at him. Shiro and Ben had to hold the blonde back as she kicked and screamed profanities at him, which Caspian ignored while looking at everyone in the room.

“First of all, I am truly sorry that I did pull you from your homes and in turn, it did cause some worlds to be destroyed because of someone I know chasing after me,” Caspian explained, placing a hand over his heart and bowed his head, “But please know, that I only chose a few to save from the worlds for a greater purpose. It is bigger than some of the wars and battles from your worlds,”

“I get that…it’s just…” Hiro folded his arms and stared at Caspian up and down, scoffing, “From what that time travelling science teacher told us, you’re supposed to be an equivalent of a God or something? You just look like some college kid…?”

Caspian looked at Professor Paradox standing to the side, who was smiling knowingly.

“Comparing me to a God, hm? That’s a new one to me…”

“It’s the closest thing to describe you, Young Caspian. Unless you wish to be a Pantheon, instead?”

Caspian winced at the word, then shook his head, “Please, don’t. I didn’t choose to have this…ability.”

“So who’s the person chasing after you? Another God?” Terra asked, hands on her hips, “And you said that this other being destroys the worlds you visit, is that right?”

“Yes. I believe she’s…pissed that I got in the way of her plans.”

“And what are her plans, exactly?” Lance was the one asking this time, and Caspian was rubbing his temple.

“Me and this person…we go way back. In our world, we used to be ordinary teenagers. Well, my upbringing was complicated. But Maddie—”

“Maddie? Is that the name of the other being?” Hiro questioned warily, raising a brow, “For a Pantheon, her name is…too ordinary.”

“Maddie Kim. She’s a daughter of a brilliant computer programmer and engineer from Logorhythms, a company studying on a theory of placing a person forever on the internet,” Caspian hummed as he closed his eyes, “Maddie was as brilliant as her Dad, but…after finding out what that company did to her father, who died from a terminal illness and had his consciousness uploaded—“

“Consciousness uploaded?” Hiro was quick to put the pieces together as he gasped, “Does this mean your world has cracked the theory of UIs?”

Caspian paled, “Does your world…?”

“Er, not that far into it yet. I’ve heard rumours of Oscorp trying, but it never got into the experimental phase. Scientists chalked it up to just another fantasy like Frankenstein. Although I only know that Tony Stark made an AI named Ultron once…didn’t end too well.” Hiro shrugged but then breathed out, “So it’s possible to upload humans into things like Cloud—“

“But it shouldn’t be. Things got way out of hand and…well, it caused humanity to collapse in on itself,” Caspian was rubbing the side of his neck, “And I’m afraid to say, that a part of me was the cause of this—“

“Damn right!” Artemis growled as she pushed Shiro and Ben away, stomping towards him, “Who gives you the right to pull innocent people from their lives and—“

“But it was necessary!” Caspian interrupted while standing tall in front of her, “Because I’m trying to fix up the balance that was broken the first time because of Maddie’s selfishness. And the choices she made after…”

Everyone was quiet at that moment, and Shiro gulped for a moment. So this is why he sent me back at this time.

“So, wait, if you’re trying to fix her mess…why were you inside the Black Lion?” Hiro asked as he looked back at the larger Lion resting, “Are all our worlds destroyed completely once you took us out?”

“I was…sort of resting,” Caspian replied with a sheepish look, “Going around universes sorta makes a guy tired.”

“Indeed. Which is why I must take my leave,” Professor Paradox interrupted before making a portal next to him and making his way to step inside.

“W-wait! What if we wanna check on our worlds? Can you take us and we can come back?” Hiro asked.

Caspian raised a brow, then looked towards the time traveller, “Did you nottell them?”

“I’ve already told Benjamin, Miss Crock and Miss Sandsmark. You can have the privilege to explain it to the rest~” Professor Paradox smiled as he gave a wave, and soon left as the portal vanished along with him.

Cassie then looked at Hiro, “I thought you didn’t want to go back home?”

“Not when I’m told that there is a maniac God that might’ve destroyed my home,” Hiro argued angrily now, as Caspian came in between them.

“Actually, your world is fine, Hiro. But you just can’t go back home yet,”

“Why not?”

Caspian pursed his lips, “Maddie will notice you’ve returned in your world and will try to kill you.”

“She doesn’t know me.  Why would she want to kill me, I have nothing to do with her?” Hiro questioned as he narrowed his eyes.

“But you’re involved with me now. And she will sense my signature energy on you guys and try to make sure you are disposed off in case you side with me,” Caspian rubbed his temple once more, feeling a migraine coming on, “Which, again, I had no choice considering that most of you are the only options I’m stuck with…”

“So? She hates you, not us. Unless she’s that petty…?” Hiro saw Caspian’s wry smile and then rolled his eyes upwards, “For fuck’s sake. I’m sorry I asked now.”

“Listen. My goal is simple. If you guys help fix this world, there’s a chance I can take you guys back to where you belong. And things will be as it should…”

“But my world was destroyed! Me and Cassie just came back from it and that Professor guy said that there is no way we can go back!” Artemis pointed out, as Caspian sighed.

“Right now, my abilities diminished a bit since I was using most of it to bring you all here. But if we manage to save this universe, I can get a bit of my powers back slowly and restore your realities in a way that everyone will be happy.”

“So, beat the bad guys in this Universe, and we get to go home?” Cassie asked as Caspian nodded.

“That’s the gist of it. As if all this never happened,”

Shiro froze before he stepped forward, “Wait, does this mean that me changing the course of the future—?”

“What I mean is, this world will move forward without anymore interference once Zarkon and the Galra are defeated. Meaning this world will move on in it’s cycle and be at peace. Then everyone that helped will go back to their worlds none the wiser.”

So many questions were racing in Shiro’s head, but he sighed before folding his arms and nodded, “…Okay.”

“Okay?” Artemis growled as she stared up at him, “That’s it?”

“I think we should give Friend Caspian a chance and fight the evil Zarkon and his army,” Starfire chirped as she also came to her side, smiling, “It is no different from your own world, yes? Saving it and the innocent people that live in it?“

Artemis brushed her off, and started walking away to clear her head.

“…Give her some time. It’s a lot to take in,” Caspian breathed out in sympathy before looking to Ben, who remained quiet the whole time, “Did you not want to ask me anything?”

“Nah, this sort of thing is another Tuesday for me,” Ben shrugged as he gave an understanding smile, “Saving universes is just daily for me. So this isn’t a big deal…I mean, I know it’s a big deal to some…”

Suddenly, the doors slid opened and everyone turned to see Allura stepping in, looking determined. Her hair was tied in a high bun now instead of loose, wearing a white bodysuit with black areas on her midsection and thighs. The suit comes with a tapered blue belt, shoes, and clunky wrist guards. Pink accents are located on the collar, above her ribs, separating the white and black on her thighs, and under her kneepads. She has a pink "V" shape on her chest, just like the symbols around the Castle.

Soon, she spoke up, strong and clear.

"You all were brought here for a reason. The Voltron Lions are meant to be piloted by their chosen Paladins and I am sure those here are also have a great purpose. We must fight and keep fighting until we defeat Zarkon. It is our destiny. Voltron is the universe's only hope. We are the universe's only hope."

“Couldn’t agree more,” Caspian sighed in relief, and smiled when Allura looked at him inquisitively, “Caspian Keyes. Nice to finally meet you, Princess Allura~”

"We're with you, Princess." Shiro said with a smile, and Allura smiled back.

The Princess then led them to what seems to be another chamber room, only it held pods that had different coloured armoured suits inside once the lights came on. Shiro, Keith, Lance, Terra and Hiro stepped forward to look over at them, and Hiro was the one that spoke up.

“Are we supposed to wear these? Like is it mandatory?” Hiro asked warily, before Allura nodded with a chuckle.

“Yes. And don’t worry, the suits will fit to your body type automatically once you place them on.”

"Princess, are you sure about this?” Coran whispered from beside the Altean royal, frowning in concern, “They aren't exactly the best and brightest the universe has to offer."

“I think you should have a bit more faith in them.”

Both Allura and Coran looked over at Caspian, who shrugged.

“Sometimes it’s always the underdogs that rise up to the occasions. They just need a little training and teamwork.”

“Caspian is right,” Allura looked towards the rest of the people and smiled, “While the Paladins fly Voltron, there are many things to do in the Castle, like assisting Coran and also assisting myself when it comes to strategising against the Galra.”

“If it’s assistance you want~ Gambit can happily stand by you, Princess~” The man winked as he took her hand gently and kissed the back of it, giving a suave, charming smile while Allura coughed and looked away blushing.

“You might require someone that is familiar with the solar system now since it has changed through the thousand years you have been asleep. Allow me to also assist in any way,” Starfire stepped up as well with a kind gaze, and Allura appreciated it.

“Ditto here! I mean, I’m pretty much friendly with a lot of planets,” Ben pointed to himself with confidence, “You’ll need the great Ben 10 on your side~”

“I-I’m pretty strong!” Cassie chirped as she showed her muscles, smiling big, “So I can help with carrying things, lifting things…kicking butt. You name it! I swear on Themyscira that I will do my best to help!”

Jericho seemed to sign something as he smiled and saluted, and Hiro spoke up from afar.

“He said he’ll do his best.”

The only one that didn’t want to say anything was Laura, who looked pretty bored. 

Wendy, the girl that came with Lance, was rubbing her arm shyly before she opened her mouth, a quiet Australian accent coming out from her, “Er, um…dunno what’s goin’ on but…I’ll…help. Somehow?”

Allura felt touched, looking around the room with misty eyes, “Thank you. All of you.”

“Your father would be so proud, Princess,” Shiro stood next to her, now adorned in his Black Paladin armour, giving a warm fond smile, “We will stop Zarkon. And make sure that Altea will have it’s justice!”

“Hm?” Caspian looked around, quirking a brow before tapping his foot, “Someone is missing…”

“Eh?” Ben looked over at Caspian, “Who are we missing?”

“Artemis should be back by now…” Cassie looked to the door, worried. 

“No, not her.”

“Then who?” Ben asked as Caspian blinked slowly. 

“Didn’t Charmcaster come with you guys?”

Ben looked surprised at that, before he grinned cheekily.

“Oh yeah, she was here…I have a feeling she’ll be back because—“

“TENNYSON!”

“…I have her magic bag~”

Caspian just watched in amazement and surprise when Charmcaster poofed back into existence in between him and Ben, the sorceress whirling around to the smiling Omnitrix wielder.

“Ben Tennyson! You are the bane of my existence!” The magic user yelled as she started banging her fist onto his chest, and even got angrier when Ben kept on laughing, “Stop laughing! Urgh, give me back my magic bag!”

“Charmcaster.”

The witch froze at the voice and narrowed her eyes dangerously as she slowly turned to Caspian, who just waved calmly.

“…Caspian Keyes.”

“So you do know him,” Ben tilted his head as he looked at Charmcaster, but pouted as he was ignored.

“Yes. It’s been a while.”

“Great. Juuuuuust great. As if I don’t have enough to deal with. First the Tennyson’s, and now you.” Charmcaster threw her arms in the air, then pointed a finger at Caspian’s chest, “Don’t think I didn’t forget how you broke into Ledgerdomain and tried to pick a fight with me!”

“Technically, I was trying to rescue you from someone that actually wantedto fight you,” Caspian explained as he shrugged, “But you also perceived me as an enemy.”

“And with very good reason!” Charmcaster growled, her eyes magically glowing, “Your overpowered reality bending gifts are far too great. Almost a threat level that any sane person should be wary of!”

This caught some people’s attention as Caspian sighed.

“I wish you don’t phrase how I do things as overpowered. When, honestly, I’m not all that powerful.”

“Because you’re a fake.”

Shiro and Ben looked at Charmcaster in confusion.

“Fake?” 

Charmcaster scoffed at Shiro sounding dumbfounded, as she folded her arms, “Yeah, fake. Meaning, he’s just a construct of a real person and was given powers that he didn’t deserve to have. Reminds me too much fo Gwendolyn, that brat—”

“Would you please let that go? It’s starting to get old,” Ben drawled before looking at Caspian’s withdrawn expression and patted his back, “Well, you don’t seem fake to me, bud.”

“She’s actually telling the truth,” Caspian smiled wryly, “I’m actually a genetic template of a man named Stephen Holstrom, who died from cancer. He wanted to find a way to live longer, and gathered a few scientists and friends to fund his project. He is the Founder of Logorhythms, the very person working on UIs and succeeded in me. His life’s work of making a body, me, to grow and use when I turned eighteen…”

It was like one could drop a pin the room was that silent after that, and Allura was the first to speak.

“I…that is horrible!”

“That is messed up,” Lance finally spoke as he stared at Caspian, “It reminds me of that one movie about a guy’s girlfriend’s family taking over people’s bodies by brain switching or some hypno-therapy shit!”

“That’s…just a work of fiction,” Caspian said deadpanned, but continued, “What Holstrom worked on was more…complicated and took years to even get it off the ground. It was worked on even when he died…”

“And his conscious was uploaded to preserve until you were ready and thus his memories and everything would be transferred into you…meaning you would cease to exist and he’d take over. At least, that is the theory,” Hiro stated and looked sick as he stared at the other with a gulp, “Lance’s right. That’s fucked.”

“Language,” Shiro said unconsciously, and blinked when Hiro was holding up what seems to be a dollar in hand, “Er…?”

“…Oh! Sorry, habit. Tadashi tended to have a swear jar on him to make me drop money inside with each swear I say,” Hiro hummed and placed his money away.

Allura coughed, already walking towards a table that was in the room, waving her hand as the glass over it vanished magically in sparks of light. In front of her were strange looking devices that almost looked like a game console to most. 

"The Bayard is the traditional weapon of the Paladins of Voltron. It takes a distinct shape for each Paladin."

Once Allura was done with her explanation, the Bayards suddenly floated in the air and went to their prospective Paladin. Lance was the first to grab the red Bayard and blinked when it transformed into a broad sword.

“Er…I thought I’d be more of a gunslinger or something?” Lance hummed as he looked at the sword, but then squeaked when it transformed into a sniper rifle, and grinned, “Ha! That’s more like it!”

Both Shiro and Allura stared at Lance in awe for a minute, both of them having the same thought. 

‘He really is special…’

Keith smirked as he had his own sword and his armour activated a shield on his other hand, “Sweet.”

Hiro looked at his Bayard for a moment before he saw it turned into an elegant looking katana, swinging it around for a moment and raised a brow, “I mean, I know I took Kendo when I was younger, but ah well…”

“Ohhh! I like my one!” Terra yelled as she looked down at the her Bayard turning into what seems to be gauntlets around both her wrists, clicking them and suddenly raised her arms to shoot to the ceiling as well.

“Amazing! They almost work like Dual Ranged Shot Gauntlets,” Hiro observed, tilting his head as Terra was bouncing in excitement.

Allura then softened as she looked to Shiro in sympathy, and Shiro knew what was coming next.

"Shiro, I'm afraid your Bayard was lost with its Paladin.”

“It’s…okay. I think I’ll just maybe use my fists?” Shiro raised said fists with a sheepish smile.

“Shiro, you suck at fist fighting?” Keith spoke up dryly, and Shiro felt himself wither a bit.

That was right. If Shiro was in his peak self with his metal arm and his time being the Champion, maybe he would be able to keep up with combats. 

“…Then we better get started on training then,” Shiro finally said, looking over at Allura, who excitedly nodded.

“Shiro is right! We’re going to have to toughen you all up and whip you into shape! Starting tomorrow, we’re going to have to do some combat training and some team bonding so that you’ll be able to transform the Lions into Voltron easily~”

“Meanwhile, I suppose while they are training, we should think about making even more protection and defenses around the Castle. Not to mention we should check up around the area of Arus, see if there’s any life around here?”

Shiro remembered the Arusians and was about to tell Ben about it when suddenly Gambit screamed up a storm.

“Oh mon Dieu! WHAT IN THE—Es-tu fou?”

Coran looked a bit shocked as he stood with a floating plate of…green go beside him then felt insulted, “Hey, now! The Food Goo in the Castle is supposed to be nutritious and last for generations~”

“Mwen pa konprann—This isn’t REAL food! Gambit rather eat Jean’s nasty Christmas dinner than this, and that says something!” Gambit shuddered before shaking his head, “Non! Non! This won’t do! The first thing that should be done, is to get proper food stock!”

“…I agree.” Shiro winced at remembering the many years of having food goo on board in his first life, and was relieved someone finally said it.

“There’s gotta be a planet that probably has like a grocery store, right?” Cassie suggested as she pointed a finger up, “Unless we just…go hunting around the planet?”

“Thus, the idea of exploring Arus is a good idea,” Ben repeated once more and Shiro soon stood by his side, “What’s up, Shiro?”

“There is a village close by outside of the Castle…”

“There is?” Both Coran and Allura chirped in surprise, and Shiro nodded.

“Lemme guess…another vision?” Ben asked sarcastically as Shiro looked hurt at the suspicious look on his face, and Ben softened with a sigh, “I’m sorry. I know you said that you can see future stuff but…it’s just hard to believe…”

“I-I understand…” Shiro nodded, turning his head away, “I know that I’m not exactly trustworthy at the moment considering our tracked history.”

Ben felt his gut twist, taking Shiro’s hand, “No! That’s not—“

“So what should we do now if training is tomorrow,” Lance interrupted as he raised a hand, “Can we take the Lions for a spin?”

“Oh! Oh! Let’s have a race!” Terra exclaimed as she jumped by Lance’s side, taking his arm and pulling at it, “I wanna test how fast Yellow can go, even if she’s a big girl~”

Coran was twirling his moustache with a hum, nodding his head, “Good, good! It would be a great opportunity to get to know your Lions more. Together, your bond will grow even stronger and you’ll be able to be Voltron in no time. It's not going to be easy being the Defenders of the Universe."

Everyone was quiet for a moment with that line, and Shiro softened at remembering the exact words he said.

"Defenders of the Universe, huh? That's got a nice ring to it."

“I thought I’d find you here.”

Artemis raised a brow as she looked over to see Shiro peeking from the edge of the window sill she was sitting on, being near the highest window in the room.

“This place is also where I go whenever I need time to think…er, a-at least according to my visions, heh.”

Indeed, it was one of the rooms that Shiro had discovered one night when he couldn’t sleep. Apparently, according to Allura, it was a room that was similar to the Memory Chamber, but it mapped out all the stars and planets in the solar system they were currently in. In a way, it was indeed like an Altean planetarium.

“…Just leave me alone.”

“I managed to find where Laura was too, and she’s joining the others to explore Arus, did you maybe want to come with?” Shiro offered, even softening when she shook her head, curling in on herself, “Artemis…”

“You don’t get it,” Artemis sniffled, burying her face into her knees, hugging them, “You have no idea what it’s like to be taken from your home, forced into being surrounded by complete strangers and fight some war that has nothing to do with you! I just…I just want to go home!”

Shiro hoisted himself up to sit next to her, waiting in case she pushed him away. When she didn’t, he scooted closer, as he looked out the window and hummed.

“Actually, I know exactly how you feel.”

Artemis snorted, “Yeah, right. You look like you haven’t fought a day in your life.”

Shiro chuckled awkwardly, “You have no idea…”

Artemis raised a brow at him, and Shiro sighed.

“Believe me, I understand what you’re going through. You feel like that you were dragged into something and it’s not fair. That you wish to go and be with your loved ones and run away…”

“Hey! Don’t twist this in me being a coward—“

“I wasn’t.” Shiro murmured as he looked off in the distance, “I…I knew someone that was captured by some bad guys. That he was tortured over and over, his mind breaking each day. He hated the world, hated everything…including himself. He hated how destiny trapped him in a cycle of being forced to fight over and over everyday, and be punished when he loses…all because he knew that if didn’t fight, the people he cared about would be hurt.”

The archer was quiet as he talked, and Shiro took this time to pat her hand gently, making her look up at him.

“You seem like a fighter. And…it seems time was not kind to you in your world. But if you help, if you fight alongside us and save this universe? We’ll see in trying to get you home, to get back to your family…”

“…” Artemis sighed as she looked tired, “The last thing I remember before I was brought into this world…was getting news that the love of my life was gone.”

Shiro almost thought of his past self when losing Adam, “I’m so sorry….”

“Wally…Wally just wanted to be away from the hero life, you know? Finish college, graduate…maybe…maybe even settle down…?” Artemis shrugged, “I dunno. I thought that after our own battle in our world to defeat the Reach and save Earth, we had our whole lives ahead of us to think of what to do next…maybe it was my fault that I was itching to be a hero again and it costed me the best thing that’s ever happened to me…”

Shiro watched her face crumble, the strong facade she was holding onto just cracked as she started crying, and Shiro opened his arms out easily as he let her fall into him while she sobbed her heart out. 

It was like looking in a mirror, the nights of him crying into a friend’s arms after a nightmare occurs, nightmares of his time in captive with the Galra, the episodes of being tortured every time…

The only ones that knew of his breakdowns were Keith and even Lance. But for Lance, it was mostly after defeating Hornerva and a year after Allura’s death. Lance was his rock at that time, and Shiro appreciated it. Keith did try his best to be there for Shiro, but Shiro knew that Keith was growing independent and was doing so much for the Blade of Marmora, Shiro didn’t have the heart to burden him with his problems.

‘This time, even if if this family is a little different…I’ll do whatever it takes to protect everyone. Whatever it takes.’

After a few minutes, Artemis pushed Shiro away gently and started wiping her eyes. Shiro offered a tissue to her, and she raised a hand up, shaking her head.

“Er, t-thanks. And…sorry for going all mushy on you…” She sniffled, her eyes puffy from crying along with the tear tracks down her cheeks, and Shiro smiled softly.

“You’re welcome…and hey, if you feel like, you know…being mushy again? Don’t hesitate to come to me. I’m willing to be a shoulder to cry on and listen.”

Artemis took a breath, shrugging, “It’s…gonna take time. I mean, I’m still wrapping my head around the fact my universe is gone.”

“Well, Caspian said he will find a way to restore it and get you and Cassie home so…at least there’s hope?”

Shiro honestly hoped to Bob that Caspian was telling the truth.

A cough sounded and the two looked down from their place to see Ben was staring up at them with his hands on his hips.

“Hey guys, some of the others went out to explore Arus for a bit for bonding time, but it’s mostly Keith, Lance and Terra racing with their lions and the others watching. Wanna go and catch up with them?”

“Er, you go on ahead Ben. Me and Artemis are…” Shiro glanced over at the blonde, who was rubbing her face frantically to hide she was crying just a minute ago, “Just having a talk.”

Ben stared at them for a moment longer before shrugging, “Okay~ Anyways, me and Star are gonna be talking with Allura about training tomorrow so, if you two are done talking by then, you can join us in the Lounge.”

And with that, Ben walked out.

“You didn’t have to stay with me, ya know?”

Shiro glanced back at Artemis and smiled.

“Nah, I felt like staying with you. Besides, since we’re stuck together for now, I thought this could be our own bonding moment.”

He then laughed for and Artemis looked at him weirdly before Shiro waved a hand, chuckling softly.

“Oh, um, I thought of something funny, like, something like this happened to a couple of friends of mine. Apparently one forgot their bonding moment together.”

“Oh, that’s...it sounds like a lot of romantic tension between them,”

“There were so much tension, it was hard to not to tell them to kiss already.” Artemis laughed a little and rolled her eyes upwards, “I know that feeling. Connor and M’gann were the same back when we started as a team it drove me crazy—“

Shiro smiled as he listened to Artemis’ tale about her team, her family, and couldn’t help but miss the dynamic back in his old life. He just hoped he made the right decision. 

“Where are Friend Shiro and Friend Artemis?”

Ben looked up to see Starfire floating towards him, looking slightly worried, and smiled reassuringly to her.

“They’re having a talk. I think Artemis was overwhelmed with the whole thing and Shiro is just being a good leader and comforting her.”

“I don’t blame the poor girl. I, too, am still reeling at the fact that we have to prepare for a battle against Zarkon,” Allura spoke up as she was followed by Gambit and Caspian behind her, “Not only that…but to lose the only home you know? I feel her pain.”

Gambit placed a comforting hand on the Princess’ shoulder, “Well, she’s surrounded among good people now. Those that understand and now can be there for her.”

“You’re very quick to adapt, Gambit. I’m impressed,” Caspian pointed out as the Cajun shrugged.

“Eh, when you’ve lived in the bayou of Louisiana for as long as I have along with living with the X-men, survival comes easy to you,” He then paused before smiling, “Also, since we are all mon amis here, you may call me Remy.”

“In that case, I wish for you to all address me as Kori’ander…or Kori, is fine as well,” Starfire placed a hand over her heart and nodded her head, as Ben smiled, “Although Starfire or Star is also the option.”

“I already call you Star. And…I’m just Ben.”

Caspian quirked a smile before he asked while walking them back to the Bridge of the Castle, “So, what’s the strat for tomorrow?”

“Train the Paladins first. You lot can assist me with that since I believe some of you are combat ready…I believe you said you saved the world a few times, Ben?” Allura inquired, and Ben nodded.

“Ever since I was ten.”

“Oh my, you started so late in fighting?” Allura gasped while Ben looked at her strangely, “Why have you been held back?”

“Er, cuz…I’m not a child soldier, Allura—do the people in your homeward train children to fight in wars at a young age?” 

“The earliest I’ve trained with my Mother in Military Combat and Battle Strategies was when I was just in the age of four deca-pheabs.” Allura stated confidently, but noticed the stares she was getting and looked puzzled, “Er, is that…not normal, on Earth?”

“Yeah well, Child Labor Laws will say otherwise…” Ben said slowly before noticing Coran was looking at something on the monitors of the Bridge, “Coran? You okay?”

“There’s an intruder lurking outside the Castle doors.” The man pointed to the screen and everyone looked up to see a shadow-y figure lurking near the Entrance of the Castle of Lions, but it was too dark to see who it was.

“How long have they been lurking there?” Ben questioned as Coran tried to lighten the video feed.

“For about five minutes, after the rest of the Team left…” The ginger Altean answered as he then gasped, “What if it’s a Galra?”

“Or maybe a being living on this planet?” Starfire pointed out, before looking to Ben, “Perhaps we should check?”

“Oh for the love of—Here! Why don’t I just bring them in here?”

Ben forgot that Charmcaster was there and before he could warn her, the witch waved her hand and suddenly a burly and hairy looking man growling at them. Gambit’s eyes widened as he almost recognized the person before him and stepped forward.

“Wolverine…?”

An angry battle cry sounded from the man as suddenly familiar silver claws appeared between his knuckles and before the beast like person could jump on them, Starfire quickly used a Star Bolt at him, blasting him away.

“ENEMY COMBATANT! HYA HYA!” Coran was quick to jump and tackle the man, pulling out what seemed to be Altean handcuffs and cuffing the man’s hands behind his back, “WE’VE GOT YOU NOW!”

“Coran, wait—!”

Gambit didn’t have a chance to finish his sentence before the animalistic man began to buck wildly from under Coran, throwing the Altean off before breaking the cuffs apart and pinned Coran down, one claw under the ginger’s neck.

“Where is this place, bub? Ya better start talking!”

“Logan! Logan! Stop!” Gambit skidded next to the man as he tried to pull him away from Coran, “It’s me! Gambit! Snap out of it, couillon!”

Logan was panting before he then snapped his head towards Gambit, and he blinked slowly, “…Gambit?”

A sigh of relief sounded from the Cajun, who smiled weakly, “Oui, it’s Gambit…”

Logan kicked Coran away from him before wrapping his strong arms around the red head, squeezing him tightly with a grunt, “Damn it, you swamp rat! I thought you were—?”

“Dead? Heh, hardly. As if you could get rid of the charmin’ Remy LeBeau~” Gambit joked before he choked when the shorter man started holding him even tighter, “Ack! L-Logan! T-Too tight!”

“You got a lot of explaining to do, asshole. Otherwise I’m going to break you in two…like a twig.” Logan growled with narrowed eyes, and Coran had to step in.

“Alright! That’s enough there—“ The Altean man was worried this man was going to hurt Gambit, but then blinked when Logan snapped his head towards him and snarled, and Coran raised his hands up in surrender, “Er, m-my what…what lovely teeth you’re showing—“

“What’s going on?” Shiro’s voice sounded as he and Artemis was stepping in the room, looking at the newcomer then at Ben, “Who’s this?”

“Long story. Apparently he’s Gambit’s friend.”

“Er, m-more like workmate,” Gambit joked before he tried to calmed Logan down, “Question is, I wonder if he was brought here like Gambit?”

Everyone looked to Caspian this time, and the man shook his head, his expression equally surprised.

“…This isn’t my doing.”

Shiro frowned, “Then who?”

Matt Holt felt furious. 

Don’t get him wrong, he knew that Shiro was having a…hard time, before the Kerberos Launch. But the fact that his best friend went AWOL on him and has kidnapped two cadets that included Keith…honestly, Matt almost thought that Shiro was going through some mental meltdown, thanks to his disease.  

Even Sam Holt was confused on how this all happened.

“It was the strangest thing, honey!” Matt heard his dad talking to his mom as soon as they arrived home and Sam had to explain what was going on, “Shiro just…left. And now he’s reported missing and wanted for insubordination and kidnapping! It’s honestly a disaster…”

Matt stomped his way up the stairs, not wanting to hear anymore, and went to his room. He paused for a moment as he saw his sister’s door, and almost wanted to burst in and rant to her on what happened. But considering he and his Dad came in late and surprised Mom, he thought maybe he should reserve that for tomorrow morning.

Opening the door into his room, Matt was about to flop himself onto the bed but let out a silent scream when he saw a hooded stranger on his bed.

“Relax, Matt, it’s me.”

Matt blinked as the hooded figure brought their hood down, and he sighed in relief, “Raven. It’s you.”

The mistress of magic crossed her leg over her knee, leaning back on her hands resting behind her as she sat on his bed, “I heard you didn’t go through with the Kerberos mission after all,”

“Yeah, no thanks to Shiro!” Matt closed the door behind him, plopping himself next to the former Titan, and let out a long whiny sound, “I’m telling you, Rae! It was like he went crazy! Not to mention he ran off with cadets with Ben—”

“Ben Tennyson was there?” Raven questioned with a frown.

Matt nodded in confirmation, “I know that Ben wanted to say goodbye and say his final words before Shiro left, but I didn’t think Shiro would just do a one eighty and chase after him. It almost seemed like yesterday Shiro couldn’t wait to leave Earth and be away from him, and honestly, I thought that was his whole purpose of going to Kerberos. But to see Shiro clinging to Ben and crying, I was so shocked—“

Raven listened carefully as Matt continued his rant, a thoughtful expression on her face.

‘Does this have to do with Starfire suddenly leaving the Tower too? Because she suddenly went missing as well.’

She knew Nightwing’s death was a heavy one, especially with how he died. Apparently, he was on a mission with Batman in Gotham as a favour to his former mentor, the mission being to take down some of Arkham’s inmates breaking out. It was then that Nightwing was suddenly hit by one of the guards, resulting the hero to fall and break his neck, instantly killing him.

‘A sad way to go, and none of us got over it…’ Raven thought to herself before looking up at Matt, who was still chatting away, and suddenly spoke, “Matt, do you have any idea where Shiro went?“

“Hell if I know?!” Matt groaned as he placed his hands over his face, taking a deep breath before he stared up at the ceiling angrily, “I’ve tried calling that man and it always goes to voice mail! I swear to God, if I ever see him again—”

“Maybe we could track him.”

Matt froze and snapped his head towards Raven, “Huh?”

Raven grabbed his hand as a dark shadow of a bird appeared behind them, ignoring Matt’s scared squeaks as it was wrapping it’s wings around them then vanished into thin air along with them. 

“Matt? You in here?” 

Katie Holt opened the door and peeked inside, blinking as her brother’s room was empty. Huh, she could’ve sworn she just heard him hollering and yapping just a moment ago? 

Sighing, she stepped into the room to see if maybe Matt was hiding and readying to jump scare her, when all of a sudden, a bright gold light appeared before her. Shielding her eyes, Katie raised her arms up in defense and once the light was gone, she slowly lowered her arms and blinked seeing two strange boys in front of her.

“Wha—?! Who are you guys?!” She demanded as she grabbed the nearest object close to her, which happened to be a lampshade, and raised it as a weapon, “Don’t make me hurt you!”

“Wait, wait, wait! Cálmate! We don’t mean any harm,” The first boy, who looked to be a slight tan skinned boy with dark frizzy hair and dark eyes, his accent almost sounding Argentinian.

“Yeah! What he said! We’re looking for a Matt Holt!” The other boy, a red haired Caucasian in what seems to be a one-fitted tight suit in yellow and red…although what caught Katie’s attention was the symbol on his chest.

“…Kid Flash?” She murmured before the young man nodded.

“Yeah! Kid Flash II, you can just call me Bart—“

“Oi!” The first boy turned to Bart and hissed at him, “Why you got to reveal your secret identity?!”

“She’s Matt Holt’s sister right? We can trust her, Ed,” Bart patted his shoulder before looking at Katie, “Now, your brother? He here?”

“That’s the thing. I thought I heard him talking in here and…he’s suddenly gone.” Katie answered slowly, looking at the two warily.

Bart cursed as he was tapping his chin with his index finger and tapping his foot on the ground at the same time, looking troubled.

“Believe me, I was confused too when he suddenly appeared to me and dragged me around to different universes,” Ed told Katie before looked to his partner, “Bart, maybe we are in the wrong universe? Why are we looking for some guy named Matt Holt, anyways?”

Katie whistled to call their attention once more, and the two boys looked to her.

“How about explaining more things to me first? Starting off with, why do you look different than the Kid Flash I know and you said universes? And who’s sidekick is this guy?” She asked this as she pointed to Ed.

Bart sighed, “Okay, okay…we’ll explain everything—“

“And I am no one’s sidekick. I’m just Eduardo Dorado, or just Ed,” Ed pointed to himself then jerked his thumb towards Bart, who smiled, “And this jackass is here is trying to prevent the worlds from ending.”

Katie blinked, then sat herself onto her brother’s bed, “…Okay. Proceed.”

End of Transmission

[hellohopesims]

so, i've been working on a save file since march of this year and while i'm not even close to being done i still wanted to put just a little taste of it out into the world! so here is version 1 of my save file!

i've decided to just put out willow creek and magnolia promenade in this version and wait for the new pack the sims 4 for rent to put out oasis springs and newcrest simply bc i have "fake" apartments in them and thought it'd be best to wait for the new EP so that then they will be real apartments! :)

here you'll find 39 new townies (not including pets!) 25 new lots which includes 10 households, 10 community lots and 5 empty houses! willow creeks park got a BIG renovation! it now has blooming flowers and a nice wedding spot! underneath it you'll find everything you need for a wedding party!

for the community you'll find a gym, nightclub, library and a mall with little park area. all the empty homes are literally empty for more realism but there are 2 cute furnished starter homes aswell :)

in magnolia promenade you'll find a lovely bakery owned by the little family in wc. a cafe, a restaurant (owned by a family coming soon!) and a karaoke bar which is also a bowling alley (named after my bestie who loves a good bowling alley)

DISCLAIMER MY SAVE USES MOST IF NOT ALL PACKS i apologize for this but i didn't wanna limit myself while making this. i do one day want to make a base game save aswell

download (simfileshare)

how to install: open your downloads folder unzip my save then go to Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 4\saves and plop the save file right in! remember to back up your saves just incase. when you open your game you should see a save like this!

then all you need to do is enjoy a new fresh willow creek and magnolia promenade :)

[slaymitchabernathy]

Written in the Stars

"Coryo we shouldn't be here," she giggles, letting him tug her along in the darkened hallway. He wants her to see the Academy rooftop, how you can see the Capitol skyline from up there, how you can feel like the only two people in the world up there.

Coriolanus flashes her that famous Snow smile and pulls her into his arms, resting his chin on her shoulder, "But don't you want to see where I'm taking you?" He asks, his voice feigning innocence which makes her laugh, "For all I know you could be taking me to some dark room from which I will never return," she replies rather dramatically.

Coriolanus rolls his eyes, "Please, I've had you alone in a dark room one too many times for you to think of me that way." He knows she's blushing even though he can't see her face. Finally, she caves, "Alright," she mumbles, allowing him to lead her to a rickety-looking ladder. "Is that thing safe?"

Coriolanus grabs a hold of one of the rungs, "Perfectly safe," he assures her, even though he's not so sure himself. He's only come up here a handful of times since discovering this secret spot. He begins to climb and looks over his shoulder to see Soarynn following him, her red ribbon shining in her blonde hair. He smiles because he likes the ribbon, likes her hair, likes how she manages to look good in the Academy uniform, with a simple string of pearls around her neck showing off her class and wealth.

He also likes how she's a powerful politician's daughter.

Much better than some runt girl from District Twelve he decides while pushing open the rooftop hatch. It groans as he opens it and he's hit with the cool evening air. Coriolanus pulls himself onto the rooftop and turns to help Soarynn climb out. He ends up grabbing under her arms and simply pulling her right out, earning him a squeal, "Oh, you're so strong," she gasps, placing a hand on his arm. Coriolanus shrugs, not one to boast even though she's right. His Peacekeeping side quest led him to develop muscles he'd never seen before.

Besides, Soarynn's on the smaller side, he could throw her off the roof if he wanted to. But he won't. Because he likes her.

Soarynn looks up into the sky and her eyes widen, "Oh look at all the stars Coryo." He looks up too, remembering how many more stars you can see in District Twelve since there's less light pollution. But that place is downright filthy in other ways. His eyes scan the skyline of the city, looking at all those tiny apartment lights that represent the lives of Capitol citizens. "I can see the President's Mansion," he nods in its direction. He'll live there one day, President Coriolanus Snow.

Soarynn barely gives it a glance. It's not important to her, not a lifeline like it is to him. When he was stuck in Twelve he'd often lay in his bunk picturing himself in the Mansion, servants at his beck and call, expensive clothes, extravagant parties. President Coriolanus Snow. And Soarynn would be by his side, his first lady. She didn't know that of course, they were just starting out in the grand scheme of things but he'd done exceptionally well these past three months in securing a permanent spot in her life.

For starters, he took her virginity. Such an easy thing to secure. She'd been so willing yet so nervous and hesitant. But Coriolanus was endlessly patient with her and whispered reassurances throughout the entire thing. He wouldn't always be this way, kind and caring. Once they were married he could be rougher, meaner, himself.

He spoiled her with gifts and praises. He proudly paraded her through the streets with her on his arm, her rightful place.

He hadn't uttered those three words yet. He couldn't. Not after Lucy Gray, the wretched, deadly girl. What had she sung that night to him right before it all came tumbling down?

"It's why I love you You're as pure as the driven snow"

Then she nearly killed him with that snake, left him in that sad-looking shack in those godforsaken woods with his own devices. One of them just so happened to be a gun. And for what? To dig up some Katniss? Or was it swamp potato? It didn't matter, he'd left that all behind along with her dead body at the bottom of the lake.

"Coryo?"

Soarynn's question pulls him from his unsettling thoughts and he feigns a smile, "Yes darling?" Soarynn nervously shifts on her feet, her shiny black heels giving her a small boost of height. She's still much shorter than him, and he likes that too, how small she is compared to him. He loves it the most when he's inside her but now isn't the time for nasty thoughts. "I um...I was wondering if I scared you off the other night once we finished..." she mumbles, looking down at the pavement they're standing on.

Coriolanus remembers the other night far too well. They'd had sex, wonderful, passionate sex that ended in several orgasms. She lay on his chest while he dragged his fingertips up and down her back, leaving a trail of goosebumps in their wake. He thought she'd drifted off to sleep but Soarynn had propped her chin up on his chest, her gray-blue eyes looking into his piercing blue ones. "Coryo?" She'd asked, sleepiness in her tone. Coriolanus had tilted his head, admiring her freckles, "Hmm?" Soarynn had bit her lip for a moment, debating on what she'd say next. That's another thing he liked about her, she thought before she spoke. Sejanus or Lucy Gray certainly couldn't say the same.

"I know we haven't been together for long, but you've taken such good care of me and I just wanted to say...I love you."

Coriolanus had mastered the face of indifference but he wasn't able to hide the look of surprise from washing over his face when hearing those words. He often wondered if he was even capable of love and here Soarynn was, giving it to him so freely. He hadn't known how to respond, not when he didn't feel that way towards her yet. He'd cleared his throat and given her a tight-lipped smile, "Thank you for telling me that Soarynn."

And right now on the Academy rooftop, he could see how much it had been eating away at her. It probably didn't help that he'd made a rather brisk exit once she told him those three words. And he knew Soarynn well enough to know that she wanted so badly to be in love, to be loved. She was a typical Capitol girl who was predestined to be married off to some rich man and give him children.

To her, love was the only thing to live for.

He gently takes her small hands in his, squeezing them gently, "You didn't scare me off Soarynn, I...I was just surprised is all. But I want you to know how deeply I care for you, how much I think of you. My darling I'm sure we're meant for each other."

He could see how much those words meant to Soarynn, how they calmed her and her doubts, how she clung to them like a lifeline. He almost pitied her. He'd been like her once, clinging onto old phrases whispered before going to face one's death. He remembered thinking of Lucy Gray, watching the arena for her, wondering if she was thinking of him too. He couldn't afford that again, to fall in love.

Coriolanus takes it a step further and pulls her into his arms and presses a passionate kiss onto her lips, one which she eagerly returns. She lets out a satisfied hum once he pulls away and wraps her arms around his broad torso, resting her head on his chest while they both look up at the stars.

"You're mine and I'm yours," she whispers with a smile.

Coriolanus shivers and it wasn't from the cold air. Months ago another girl had said those exact words to him and he was determined for this to have a different ending. He presses a kiss to her forehead before whispering back words he remembered so clearly that they would be ingrained into his being until the day he died.

"It's written in the stars."

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

[whiplashprompts]

EPIC THE MUSICAL BASED SENTENCE STARTERS (WISDOM SAGA) PART II

~ PART I ~

~ Feel free to make minor changes to the sentence to better suit your ask ~ OP: @whiplashprompts ( x )

~ Love in Paradise ~

"It's been ten years since I last saw you." "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer." "One wrong move and you're done for." "We won't take more suffering from you." "Drown in your sorrow and fears." "Morning, sleepyhead. You've been resting for a while." "I swore that you were dead." "Did you know you talk in your sleep?" "Anyways, I've got all you could want here." "I'm not your man." "From here on out, you're mine, all mine." "Hell no, I could kill you where you stand." "But last I checked, goddesses can't die." "You're adorable." "Bow down now to the immortal _______, here to entertain." "But fear not, I bring no pain." "Under my spell, we're stuck in paradise." "I don't belong here." "There's something wrong here." "I won't be drawn to love in paradise." "You're mine, all mine." "Seven years, she's kept you trapped, out of your control." "Time can take a heavy toll." "All I hear are screams." "You don't know what I've gone through." "You don't know what I've sacrificed." "Every comrade I long knew... Every friend, I saw them die." "It will be fine, dear." "Come back inside, dear." "Let me close my eyes." "I know your life's been hard." "I'll stay inside your heart." "I love you, my dear." "I love our time here." "Life would be so much worse." "Please stay from away from harm." "Stay in my open arms." "How much longer 'til we all fall down?" “He needs my help…”

~ God Games ~

"Rarely do I ask for favors." "Now, I'm knocking on your door with hopes to save a friendship." "Divine intervention, is that what you seek?" "You are playing with thunder for a man full of shame." "But if he's worth the risk of going under, why not make it a game?" "Who's them?" "You all know I'm a fan of catchy songs." "They were trying to do him worse." "Now they'll tread with caution first." "To live another day and sing another verse." "Trust is not given, it's forged." "Why should I give him my support?" "He sacrificed his own cohort." "Did you forget they failed to listen?" "He was betrayed and then imprisoned." "He can still build a future with those who miss him." "He claims to love his mother but let her die of a broken heart." "He was busy fighting." "Let him feel the pain that his mother felt and rot." "Really _______? These old tricks?" "What kind of sick coward holds back his power while his friends get devoured?" "He didn't even fight ______, didn't even try to kill her." "He never handles things upfront." "Pathetic and weak like his son." "Hold your tongue now!" "His son's my friend." "And tell your lover that a broken heart can mend." "You want more bloodshed?" "So many heroes." "So many tales." "Give me one good reason why yours should prevail." "He’s got the mind of a genius." "He’s pretty skilled with words." "You can do better than that!" "He’s kind of funny?" "Never once has he cheated on his wife." "I've played your game and won!" "You dare to defy me?!" To make me feel shame?!" "No one beats me, NO ONE WINS MY GAME!" “Let him go, please…”

[shadowmaat]

The Jedi Order: a different view

From what I can tell the overwhelming majority of fannish content regarding the Jedi, their Order, and their Temple, relies solely on content from the now-discontinued Legends.

I understand the urge since it gives fans a veritable feast of trauma and whump for Obi-Wan and can help underscore the belief that Anakin was a misunderstood, maligned pariah who was never good enough for anyone in the Order.

However. It does get a little... tiresome after a while. Oh, people do some incredible and cool things to try and "fix" the Order, but they still start with the belief that the Order needs fixing. I wanted to ignore all that and start fresh.

Right! So! I'll focus on the Jedi on Coruscant, since they're the most relevant to the picture. I'll also start with the Temple itself, since it IS where everyone lives.

THE TEMPLE

The Temple was founded millennia ago and has been building on ever since in an effort to keep up with the growth of the city around them. I'd be tempted to base that at ground level, or the nearest equivalent. Given how high up Coruscant has now become, that implies layers upon layers upon layers, and of course they aren't going to add one level at a time, it'll be multiples.

I would absolutely love to see some archaeology-focused stuff. Jedi explorers delving deeper and deeper into the Temple's depths, discovering lost and forgotten histories, artifacts, art, books, etc. And also notes from previous Jedi archaeologists who also delved down.

With that in mind I've decided that the "Room of a Thousand Fountains" is a vast misnomer. The Temple Gardens extend downward, encompassing previous Gardens and lovingly maintained not only by the Agricorp (who aren't limited to just crops), but also bunches of Jedi, outside gardeners, and of course specialists for the different regions/biomes. There are plants in the Temple that have gone extinct everywhere else in the universe (credit to RoosjeM's Temporary Temple Guards for making me think of this possibility).

The point is, the Gardens are ENORMOUS. There are fixes and workarounds for the issues of sunlight, and I imagine there's a water reclamation/sanitation/whatever system in place to make sure everything (and everyone) stays as hydrated as necessary. I betcha there are secret depths to the Archives, too. Maybe museums full of ancient starships that regrettably had to be walled up whenever the surrounding city got too tall.

Jedi come from nearly every sapient species imaginable, and some of them have specific environmental needs. I know I've seen plenty of fics where Plo Koon's quarters are specially sealed so he can breathe his homeworld's atmosphere and not need to worry about goggles and an anti-ox mask. I think it'd be more interesting if there were entire sections dedicated to (or easily converted to) different atmospheres. This is easier and a lot more convenient when, say, there are multiples of a species in the Temple. Sure, individual room conversions can be done, too, but having a whole mini "neighborhood" of your fellow [species] can be nice as well. Walk freely. Chat with neighbors unencumbered. Enjoy meals together. Communal stuff like that.

I also love the idea of water-filled corridors for the aquatic types. Like that one comic panel that showed naked Kit Fisto happily swimming by on his way to somewhere else. Maybe an underwater training salle so the aquatics can learn how to fight/use their sabers in those conditions.

Dining areas would also be spread throughout the Temple, with some being "generic" fare to feed a wide variety of the most common species and others having a more specific focus, both in terms of species and cuisine types. Open-access kitchen areas for those who want to cook their own food, but not in their own kitchen (MUCH better ventilation in the public spaces, for starters). Also vending machines and automats for those on the go. (This shows up in K_R_Closson's All the Roads We Walk Are Winding and was goddamn genius.)

THE JEDI

In my version of things, the Jedi are much more considerate than fandom generally depicts.

A Jedi can never "age out." While allowances can be made if someone with basic control skills wants to leave, or if they want to find their own path when they reach their species level of majority, no one is ever forced onto the streets or "dumped" into a place not of their own choosing.

When an Initiate enters the Temple the biggest themes they are taught are "Community" and "Choice." Community means that they will always have a home in the Temple, no matter what. They can leave and come back if they choose. There are no legitimate mistakes that can get you thrown out. Failing a class, or multiple classes, doesn't mean you don't belong, it means that you need a more tailored learning experience to help you reach your goals.

Starting at an early age, crèche clans are taken on a "tour" of the various service branches; each one maintains a presence within the Temple itself, not only to maintain connections with the Jedi as a whole, but also to make communicating their needs (to the Jedi, to the Senate, to various interests) easier. And there is always at least one person available to chat about what it is their branch does. I did a whole separate post exploring how varied the Service Corps could be.

As the initiates grow older, they're encouraged to do a work/study thing that matches with their interests and gives them a better taste for what a particular field is like. This can, and usually is, done many times so an Initiate can find the best fit. And if they can't find a good fit, that's fine, too; there's no time limit on choosing a career. In fact it isn't uncommon for a Jedi to switch paths, either within an individual branch (Consular to Sentinel) or an entirely different discipline (Seeker in ExplorCorp to Crèche Master in the Educorp).

The point is, there are always choices available. It isn't shameful to not be a Knight. In fact it's expected that most will choose paths that don't involve a lot of political juggling and aggressive negotiations (although politics do creep into every field).

The whole mess with the Jedi being beholden to the Galactic Senate is a bucket of eels I'm not willing to handle at the moment, but I figure this is a good start to pinning down my ideas and I may venture back if I think of anything else.

[dayseedrawz2]

Someone gave me the prompt of Caine and Pomni Ice skating on the digital lake. I'm not exactly sure how to go with this one, but it's worth a shot!

Skating - Showtime (C×P) One-shot!

Requested by: @marvosa-yroz

[ASKS/REQUESTS: OPEN]

☆Caine☆

♧Pomni♧

Tha day started off normal. Caine rallied up all the players for the adventure

☆Good morning, superstars! Who's ready for today's show?!☆

His enthusiastic tone was followed by awkward silence

☆Wonderful!! Let's take a look at the agenda for today!!☆

Snap! Caine teleported everyone out to the lake

☆Since this so-called "winter" is coming to a close, I thought I'd make today's adventure just for the occasion!☆

With another snap, the lake was frozen over and surrounded by railings and a gate in front, and the cast was all given ice skates

☆Today's adventure is ice skating!! The rules are simple! Get into pairs, and have a blast! But watch out for thin spots! Bubble and I will be here to supervise! Have fun!☆

Then off Caine went. Outside of bounds, leaving the others to their own devices.

Most of the cast found partners to skate woth. Gangle with Zooble, Ragatha was with Jax (unfortunately), and Kinger brought a picture of... someone from his room leaving Pomni by herself.

She didn't mind. At least - not that much... I mean, what else was she gonna do? Partner up with kinger? He seemed content with his current "partner." She didn't really have a choice other than to lean on the rail and watch the others. Better than making a fool of herself! Still... she couldn't help but feel lonely...

Caine was on the other side of the lake watching the others from outside the arena. But he couldn't help but glance over at Pomni. One of his members was partner-less?? Now, we can't have that!! So he hesitantly took initiative

☆Hiya Pomni!!☆

The Jester was caught off guard

♧GAH!!! oh... It's you...♧

☆...Pomni, why aren't you with the others?☆

♧Well, for starters, I don't have anyone to skate with... not that I wanted to anyway.♧

☆Oh, come on now, who doesn't like to skate? I hear it's a very popular activity for humans around this season! Besides, I've been working very endlessly on getting the physics to be just right!☆

♧How would you know? It's not like I'd remember how to skate, let alone I'd I ever did. Whatever... it's fine. I'll just stay here.♧

The Ringmaster could tell something was definitely wrong. Not like he'd know exactly what or how to fix it. But may as well do what he could!

☆...Well, I suppose this is a first for the both of us!☆

With a snap of his fingers, he acquired a pair of skates of his own

♧Wh-what are you do-WOAH-♧

Caine took her by the hand and dragged her towards the center of the lake.

☆I don't usually do this, but I couldn't stand to see you miss out on this adventure! Consider this a small prize for your participation! Or... lack thereof...☆

Pomni continued the conversation while still trying to maintain her balance

♧ I can certainly tell... W-well, thanks, I guess...♧

They continued to skate together for the rest of the adventure. Not very well, but hey, they only fell like once... maybe twice.

Maybe this place wasn't so lonely after all...

OH MY WORD FINALY IM DONE IM SORRY THIS TOOK FOREVER I WAS HAVING TROUBLE BRAINSTORMING-

Thanks again for the request!!