Space Rocks (Klance)

Spaced Out

The planet's name was Rusterio. Simple enough, as it seemed. Able to sustain life, pleasant scenery, and the most welcoming to nomads and travelers. The skies, in particular, were kind to the eye, with the luminous pinks and greens that stretched out far across the horizon. Another thing that Rusterio was well known for, all across the galaxy, was it's fair trade. The paladins, alongside Allura and Coran, had found this planet as a possible source of use, as in Rusterio, anything was fair game. They could get some really high-quality tech, and maybe even a bit of magic, along with their visit. 

Keith wasn't opposed to the idea, but he had been a bit more shut-away than usual. His training had subsided in favor of exercise in his room or reading the few books he had on board. In particular, Shiro had noticed his absence and questioned the other team members about it. 

"I haven't noticed him acting too unusual, no. He's always been kind of withdrawn, but if you think something's wrong, you should definitely go talk to him." Hunk responded, drawing his brows together in a serious frown. Shiro let out a small sigh, his shoulders slumping.

"I'm just worried he's falling into something similar that I did a few years ago," Shiro confessed, running a hand through his hair. 

"What do you- Ooh. Oh, that thing." Hunk nodded in understanding. Shiro had struggled with the fact he liked guys before but had come to embrace it, and the entire team had their suspicions about the idea of Keith being the same way. Other than Lance, of course, who was clueless, and Pidge probably knew but didn't really care. "Well, if you need anything else, don't be afraid to ask!" Hunk smiled cheerily, clapping Shiro on the shoulder, "I'm gonna go see what Pidge is up to before we land on that new planet. Later." 

"Bye, Hunk." Shiro gave him a smile and a wave, and Hunk was gone. Shiro took a deep breath and turned back towards his room to go prepare for their mini-mission they'd be going on shortly. 

Once the entire team was prepared and out with Allura, the tense aura became even thicker between Keith and the others. He was stuck, with nobody he felt comfortable with talking to, in the middle of space. Everyone was dressed casually, as the planet was comfortable enough to not be on their guard at all times, so at least Keith could be angsty enough in his dark clothing. 

"This planet is nice. I'm sure it's nothing to be worried about." Coran assured Allura, who still seemed on-edge from their previous mission, which hadn't gone quite as planned.

"I agree. The air is fresh and skies clear. This feels like it'll be a good day, don't you agree, Keith?" Allura cooed gently to the taller figure, who was slouched over on the outside of the group.

"Yeah. Sure." He agreed nonchalantly, letting out a soft sigh and letting his eyes wander elsewhere. Despite his silent protest, he followed along with the group, who interacted with the life that inhabited the world. Allura seemed enchanted with a small group of travelers that were also there, and Coran followed her as she was whisked away by the friendly creatures. The five paladins stuck together at first, continuing on into the village with mixed emotions. 

Hunk was drawn to anything with a shine or positive aroma. Keith preferred the weapons, and Lance to the clothes. Shiro seemed more interested in the people, the travelers, and Pidge tried to reign all the boys in.

"Lance, come check these out!" Hunk called from the opposite end of the row, where a multitude of booths and miniature shops were hooked up. Lance raised his head, abandoning Keith temporarily to shuffle over to Hunk, who was standing over a glass case. Lance cocked a brow curiously, his eyes trailing over the row of gemstones and rocks. Hunk pointed down to a row of regular looking pebbles.

"I've only ever heard about these! They're so cute!" Hunk purred happily.

"They're rocks. What's so cute about 'em?" Keith drawled, showing up on the opposite side of Lance, who was drawing his fingertips over the glass.