The night was always the Green Paladin's day. She thrived in the dark, and was sluggish when sunlight landed on her skin. Maybe that was why Pidge had always wanted to go to space- to be completely surrounded by the night, she was a powerhouse of energy. Until now.
Currently, Pidge was shoving through the refrigerator, looking for anything to get her energy surging again. Surely there were a few alien energy drinks left from the space mall. Not finding anything and guessing that Hunk had hidden her drinks once again, Pidge decided that she should probably sleep. It was a big day for everyone tomorrow, anyways. But then, on her way back, she couldn't help but hear Allura and Coran talking.
Pidge never means to eavesdrop.
Okay, that was a lie, but Pidge was curious, though she thought she already knew what they would be talking about. It had been the most talked about and avoided subject in the castle: the marriage of Allura and Lotor.
"Coran, I don't know if I can do it- My father only ever wanted me to marry for love. I know he helped us win the war, I know, but whenever I look at him, all I can see is Zarkon and my people dying.."
"Allura-"
Pidge didn't want to listen anymore.
It was three weeks ago that the war ended. In that time, political conferences were held, Pidge turned nineteen, and Matt went off on another rescue mission. Hunk and Lance finally stopped pining and got together. Shiro started sleeping regularly, and Keith let his sword out of his sight for the most part. Everything was going to be okay.
Until they got the message from a reluctant Lotor. It wasn't his fault, not really.
The leaders of the planets in the immediate and surrounding provinces had decided that they wanted to start off the Peace with an alliance between Voltron and the Galra. Of course, they wanted a marriage to bind the two together. Immediately, the most popular were the princess and Lotor.
After all, who didn't love a wedding?
Allura was devastated. The proposal was set to be a public spectacle, to happen at a banquet- and the party was the next day. But was there anything that Pidge could do?
Of their own accord, Pidge's feet went the opposite way of the hangar where Green was waiting. Instead, they took her to the room Lotor was currently inhabiting. Pidge hasn't actually spoke to the Galran prince before, not one word. But now was a good time to start, she supposed. She didn't even know what she was doing there in the first place, but a plan was forming in her mind, and she knocked on the door.
Once, twice.
She held her breath until the door opened, a disgruntled and tired looking Galran prince appearing in front of her. Lotor looked puzzled to see the green paladin, but he quietly invited her in nonetheless. He offered her some tea and she accepted, the room quiet as he bustled around and set a mug into her hands.
Finally, he broke the silence. "What is it that I can help you with, Miss Katherine?"
Pidge drummed her fingers on her mug. Index-Middle-Ring-Pinky. Over and over. How was she supposed to word this?
"It's about tomorrow's proposal," Lotor nodded and Pidge felt a bubble of confidence in her as she continued. "Does it have to be with Allura? Would anyone closely related to Voltron work?"
Lotor thought for a few moments. "It doesn't have to be with Allura, no. What are you thinking of?"
Pidge couldn't stop the words from rushing out of her. "So it would work if you were to marry me instead?"
Lotor paused, his entire body ceasing movement. It was if he had forgotten how to function. Finally, he said, "And why would you want that?"
Pidge bit her lip and took a drink of the tea. It was bitter and cold, though she could have sworn it had been scalding just a few moments ago. "I overheard Allura talking about how unhappy the situation is making her. How she's expected to follow through because she's a princess even though her father wanted her to marry for love," Pidge looked at him. "She's already been through a lot. I want her to be happy."
"But will this make you happy?" Lotor's voice was surprisingly soft, and it startled Pidge so much that she forgot how to form words for a few moments. Would this make her happy? No. But when she thought about how miserable Allura was and how she could stop it, and decided.
"If Allura gets to fulfill her father's dream, then I will be," And surprisingly, Pidge believed herself.
"Then I accept your proposal," Gently, Lotor took the tea mug from Pidge. "But you should get some sleep now. From what I heard from the other paladins, you don't get enough anyways."
Pidge got up and followed Lotor out of his room and down the hallway. The walk was surprisingly comfortable, even with the conversation they'd had just minutes prior. When they were outside Pidge's door, Lotor took her hand and kissed her calloused and greased knuckles before disappearing back down the hall. Pidge didn't bother changing into her bed clothes as she slipped underneath the covers, her stomach twisted in a tight knot.
xx
The next morning, Pidge could barely drag herself out of bed. She'd tossed and turned all night, plagued by thoughts of the next day. The kitchen was full to the brim with people when she finally entered. This was especially because of Lotor and his generals. Everyone was buzzing around, getting ready for the day's big event. Allura was nowhere to be seen.
Lotor said nothing to Pidge as she walked in, but she could see the acknowledgement in his eyes. The green paladin averted her gaze and sat down next to Lance, who was sighing dreamily.
"What's your problem?" She asked as Hunk put a plate down in front of her, making sure to kiss his boyfriend before dancing away. Hunk was always graceful in the kitchen.
"It's just my boyfriend, Pidge. He's so dreamy."
Pidge snorted and began eating, though her insides lurched with every glance at the Galran prince. Allura finally appeared in the doorway, her hair pinned up in curlers. She didn't acknowledge Lotor at all, which made his friends glare.
"Paladins! I completely forgot to tell you, but you should wear your paladin armor to the banquet tonight. No need to find any fancy clothing. I'll see you all in a few vargas," She then made a hasty exit.
"Doesn't she mean like a couple vargas? The banquet starts in three," Hunk asked, but everyone shrugged.
Suddenly, Pidge didn't feel like she could eat anymore. Lance didn't even notice when she left. Pidge retreated back into her room, but was too worried to even focus on her robots. Was she supposed to tell everyone before the banquet, or wait so they can to nothing to stop her? The first would make her a good friend, but she couldn't let them stop her. This was something she had to do. For Allura.
She was pacing around when her brother entered, without knocking, of course. Pidge stopped immediately.
But Matt was always able to see straight through her. "What's wrong?"
Pidge avoided answering. "I didn't know you were back. When did you get here?"
"I got back literally just now, but-"
"How did your mission go?"
"It was good, we got everyone and there were no casualties. Katie-"
"And what was the planet like?"
"Katie, come on. I know there's something wrong with you. Just spit it out." Pidge sighed inwardly.
"I'm just worried about Allura and the banquet tonight," She couldn't lie to her brother- he would know immediately if she did, but half truths never seemed to occur to him.
Matt pulled her down to sit on her bed, taking her hands gently in his. "Katie, everything is going to be fine. As a princess, it's Allura's duty to ensure alliances in this manner."
"That doesn't make it right though," Pidge grumbled, finally looking up at him.
"I know," Matt hugged her to him tightly, and she relished in the warmth, pretending for just a moment that it was going to turn out okay. "But we can't change anything."
No, she thought, you're the one who can't change anything.
The Holt's sat like that for some time, until they were ushered to change for the banquet.
xx
Pidge was uncomfortable to say the least.
The banquet hall was massive. Everything was white with blue accents- The tablecloths, the flowers, even the napkins. Leaders from every planet in the province were gathered around and mingling. They especially wanted an audience with the five paladins of Voltron. Pidge tried her hardest to be polite, but her smile kept slipping into a grimace.
Allura hadn't been late, and she was as beautiful as ever. She was wearing a pink and blue Altean style dress, her white hair in loose curls that cascaded thickly down her back. She kept her head high with a pleasant smile on her lips. She never looked uncomfortable, but Pidge could see the indents of where her nails had dug into the skin of her palms.
Pidge's heart was pounding as Lotor stepped onto a raised floor in the center of the room, looking calm and collected as ever. His voice echoed around the room, but Pidge couldn't see any microphone device. Nevertheless, the room was quiet- he had their attention.
"Good evening, everyone. This banquet marks the first step towards the New Peace! I am honored to be before you as a part of it. I have many plans for our bright future, to cast the darkness that my parents created away from us," There was a cheer, and Lotor waited for it to die down before continuing. "Now, to make a great alliance, a wedding must be had to bond everyone together," Pidge heard Allura take a quick breath. "And if she would, would Miss Katherine Holt please join me?"
There was a collective gasp, and Allura looked over at the small paladin sharply. Pidge averted her gaze and made her way over to the raised platform, keeping her head high as she imagined the princess would do. Lotor waited until she stood beside him before speaking again, letting a bit of warmth trickle into his words, or was she imagining it?
"Miss Katherine has offered her hand in marriage, and I have accepted. Together, she and I will work together to restore peace and goodwill among the galaxy," Lotor briefly looked down at her. "You all will be getting invitations soon. Thank you very much- We hope for many happy years to come!"
And with that, Lotor was finished. He looked down at her and whispered quickly, before the mob was upon them. "You are very brave, Miss Katherine. Would you do me the honor of wearing my ring?"
Pidge nodded numbly and felt a cool piece of metal slide onto her finger. Looking down, she could see clearly that the jewelry was a work of art. It looked as if it were meant for a man, but Lotor's fingers were slender like hers, so it fit nicely. It was a simple silver band, tinged green with leaves engraved into it. In the middle stood a single, brilliant lilac colored stone.
"It's beautiful," Pidge said, and was startled when Lotor chuckled.
"It was my grandfathers. He didn't want my future spouse to wear something that my parents may have picked out," He laughed. "He said they had bad taste." Lotor leaned back then, putting a careful hand on the small of her back. They stayed like that for the rest of the banquet as leaders tried to smother them with their congratulations. When Allura and the other four Paladins came up to them, they were cordial, but the looks in their eyes said that they were going to have a talk later.
Right after the banquet finally ended, Pidge had several small presents that, from the looks of them, had definitely been for Allura. Lotor walked Pidge back to Alfor's castle. "Tomorrow, we will be leaving for another quadrant to announce the news there. Please be ready after your breakfast." Nodding to himself, Lotor turned back at the doors, leaving Pidge to go in alone. Now that they were on a Galran planet, Lotor didn't have to stay in their castle anymore. Pidge took a deep breath and opened the door, and wasn't surprised to see everyone standing in the foyer. No one said a word, but she got the message and followed them into the kitchen anyways. Allura started when everyone had sat with a mug in their hands.
"When did you decide to do this, Katherine?" The use of her full name made Pidge flinch.
"Last night."
"Why?"
"So you could be happy and do what your father wished," The words left her quickly, but she didn't meet anyone's gaze.
"How is that supposed to make me feel? Surely you don't want this? It is my duty as princess of the Altean court to assure alliances like this." Allura's voice was sharp, almost shrill.
"Pidge," It was Shiro now. "You're just a child."
Pidge fixed her gaze on him. "I'm nineteen Takashi. An adult. You're not my father."
Shiro's look was level, his eyes hard. "You're father told me to take care of you."
"When I was younger, yes, but it doesn't matter anymore-"
There was an outcry now. Everyone was yelling at her except Lance, who sat looking at the tabletop. Soon, Pidge had had enough.
"Shut up! I'm doing what I think is right, and you guys not being supportive is making it worse. There's no turning back," The room was quiet now. "I'm leaving with Lotor in the morning." And with that, she left the room.
Pidge went straight to her lion and sat by her paw, feeling a pressure lift off of her immediately. Green surged understanding and acceptance through Pidge's entire body, and she sighed in relief. Opening her eyes, Pidge noticed Lance standing silently in front of her.
"Look, I don't feel like arguing anymore-" But instead of saying anything, Lance only sat by her and hugged her small body to him.
Almost immediately, she started to cry.
Lance rubbed soothing circles into her back, cooing something in his native language. It helped calm her down as she listened to the beautiful sounds, and soon enough she would only occasionally sniffle. She didn't move, but asked, "Why haven't you said anything?" Lance carded his fingers through her hair for a moment before saying anything.
"Because you're already stressed from the situation, and saying anything will just make it worse."
"What do you think about it though?" She couldn't help but ask, but was almost afraid of his answer.
"I think if you think what you're doing is the right thing to do, then I'm going to support you."
Pidge's fingers tightened on the fabric of his shirt. "Thank you."
"No problem, Pidgeon. Now let's go get you packed, yeah?" His nickname for her made her smile.
Back in her room, she realized that she had tools and projects- too many to take with her. Lance seemed to notice her dilemma immediately.
"I'll give you my duffle bags, and I'm sure Hunk wouldn't mind giving you his either."
"Thank you for everything, Lance," Pidge's voice was uncharacteristically small, but Lance didn't say anything about it.
Pidge was packing what little clothes she owned when Lance returned, followed by the other paladins and Allura. All of their eyes were red and puffy, signs of crying. Before Pidge could say anything, the princess held her hand up in a surrendering gesture. "We're not here to say anything. We're here to help you pack."
Pidge nodded, tears of gratitude flooding her eyes. God, she really needed to stop crying. "Thank you guys."
Everyone set to work immediately, having brought their own bags with them. Shiro worked on getting Pidge's books together while Hunk and Matt carefully picked up her projects. Keith was folding up her blankets. Lance and Allura had decided to continue on with her clothes.
"You don't really have much clothing, do you?" The princess said, eyeing the almost bare closet.
"I've only ever had about a weeks worth," Pidge shrugged.
"I'll be back," Allura suddenly said, leaving the room. Lance glanced at Pidge and then back at the closet.
"What happened to your jacket?"
"It was shredded in a mission a few months ago," Pidge said. "I haven't really had the time to get another one," Lance was already pulling his own jacket off. "What're you-"
He held it out to her. "Have mine."
"No, Lance, I can't- You got that from your mother."
"And she would beat me to a pulp if she knew I let a friend go somewhere without a jacket. Pidge, please. To remember me."
"I don't need a stupid piece of clothing to remember my best friend," Pidge said, but she took the garment nonetheless and slipped it on over her armor, still warm from the heat of Lance's body. "Thank you."
"Anytime." Lance was back to folding her clothes like nothing had happened. Every so often, Pidge could see her friends glancing at the ring on her finger, but she didn't say anything. Instead, Pidge grabbed things out of her drawer, putting them in the bag of clothes. When everything was in, it was still barely half full, though now she had five other bags full of scraps and tools.
"Well now we see where your priorities lie." Keith said, a grin on his face. Pidge managed a smile. It was then that Allura returned, carrying a bundle of bright and elaborate clothing.
"I remembered," She said, "that I had some clothing from when I was younger. It should fit you, and it's the perfect style for a future queen."
Pidge's eyes widened. She'd forgotten all about that. "What am I going to do? I don't have any training in this-" Pidge could feel herself panicking until Allura put a gently hand on her shoulder.
"No ruler does, not really. I'm sure Lotor will answer any questions you may have, and so will I."
Allura dropped the clothes when Pidge jumped up and hugged her tightly. "Thank you so much." Soon, Pidge was being smothered in a groups of her friends. It reminded her of when Keith had been trying to leave for the Blade of Marmora, but they convinced him not to. It was then that she remembered something.
"What's going to happen to Green?"
"Well," Allura said once everyone pulled back, "I hadn't thought about it. I think-"
"No, it's okay. There isn't anyone to fight anymore anyways," How many times had she cried in the last day? Too many- she needs to get her act together. "It's fine."
"That's probably for the best," Shiro said quietly. "Even with the alliance, we can't afford to divide the lions again."
"But Pidge," Allura interjected, "Please keep the armor. Who knows if you'll need it? Your bond with your lion is one of the strongest I've ever seen. She won't let you get hurt, no matter how far away you are."
"But it's getting late, and you need to sleep," Hunk said.
Everyone went to turn, "Will you all stay with me? Please- just for tonight."
Everyone smiled, and before she knew it, everyone was dressed and there were several mattresses on the floor, covered in blankets and pillows. Matt laid on her left and Lance was on her right. It took a while before the lights were out and everyone calmed down.
"Pidge?" Matt whispered, hic voice amplified by the silence. "Are you scared?" It was as if everyone was holding their breath, waiting for her to answer.
"Yes," She said it under her breath, but everyone heard.
She stayed huddled against everyone for the rest of the night. One by one they all fell asleep until Pidge was the only one left. She spent the rest of the night listening to her friends deep breathing and wishing to remember that moment for the rest of her life.
xx
In the morning, Pidge was gently shaken awake. Everyone was gone but Allura, who looked down at her kindly.
"They're making breakfast," The princess explained. "I'm going to help you get ready. The first thing about being a queen is presentation. You're already lovely, Pidge, so all we have to do is enhance that."
Pidge nodded blearily and got up, inspecting a few outfits laid out on the floor. Allura continued, "I took the liberty of, uh, messaging- is that what it's called? Well, I asked him what you could be expecting today, and he said that you would be going into the next part of the galaxy to be featured in a broadcast of your engagement. He planned that out so you wouldn't have to meet a lot of new people."
"I'll have to thank him later." Pidge murmured.
"So, which do you like best? The faster you pick, the more food you get to eat."
Pidge deflated when she noticed that they were all dresses, though she had to admit- they were very beautiful. Quickly, she chose the dark green dress, embroidered with gold thread. The color made her feel closer to her lion.
Pidge had a hard time figuring out how to put the dress on but was able to get it on with some help from Allura. After repacking everything, they made their way into the dining room. When Pidge walked in, several whistles sounded, and she flushed.
"Oh my god I can say I'm related to royalty," Matt said, a glint in his eyes.
Pidge didn't hesitate. "Shut the hell up, just keep using your 'I came back from the dead' line."
"Pidge," Hunk interjected before things could become heated, "come eat." When Pidge got a plate, she saw that everything on the table was her favorite foods. There was even a few that she remembered from their garrison days. She pointed at them.
"At least we know what it's made of." Everyone but Allura barked out a laugh.
"Garrison joke," Shiro explained, and then they dug in.
Pidge enjoyed her food until a bell sounded, sending her heart flying. She'd almost forgotten.
"I didn't know the castle had an alarm," Lance said, his head cocked to the side.
"I installed it with Coran last week," Pidge said distractedly. Just like that, her worries were back.
"I'll get it," Shiro said, but it didn't matter; Pidge was already out the door.
"It would be rude of me to not be there." Was her only explanation.
Lotor was standing there, hands behind her back. His blue eyes widened when he saw Pidge, and she blushed.
"Miss Katherine, may I be so bold to tell you- You look absolutely divine," Pidge thought she could see his own cheeks darken when he noticed that she wasn't the only one there. He coughed. "Are you ready? I have a few people with me that will grab your things."
"Yes, I-" Her eyes widened, "Excuse me, I actually have one more thing I have to do first," And with that she tore down the hall, kicking off the flats Allura had given her.
Within a few minutes she was standing in front of her lion. Green had been patiently waiting. Pidge stood in front of her, placing a hand on her metal paw. She could swear that she felt a dull thrum underneath her fingertips.
"Well, girl," She said, her voice cracking. "Looks like the end of the line," She had to take another moment. "I'm going to miss you."
Pidge didn't know how long she stood there until someone cleared their throat behind her. It was Lotor, and he looked slightly uncomfortable.
"I'm terribly sorry miss Katherine, but we really must be leaving," He held up her shoes. "I grabbed these for you." Pidge took one last look at her lion before turning and joining Lotor at the door.
"Sorry. I'd forgotten to say goodbye."
"I completely understand. I'm sorry you have to leave her." Lotor did seem like he genuinely did feel bad.
"It's alright," Pidge took her shoes from him and put them on. "We should get going though."
"Right," Lotor held the door open for her as they left. Pidge didn't look back.
The goodbye she said to her friends and brother were harder. Everyone took a turn to hug her tightly, and before everything was said, she was on Lotor's ship and flying away. She looked at the castle until she couldn't see it anymore. Immediately after, she was whisked away from the window and taken on a tour of the ship, courtesy of on of Lotor's generals, whose name she found out to be Acxa.
Axca was curt and to the point as she talked, and Pidge thought it'd be best if she kept her mouth shut. It didn't take long for the Galra general to deposit Pidge into her room. She was told to wait there until Lotor came to 'collect' her. Pidge didn't appreciate how it was worded, but she bit her tongue and waited. She felt more like an object than a person already.
The room was rather large- more like a small apartment, really. Her bags were in a pile in the corner, and Pidge figured that she would be staying there for a while. It was only a few moments of quiet until someone knocked on her door. Pidge looked up and called for them to come in. It was Lotor, of course, and Pidge stood up immediately- She'd been fiddling with a peculiar looking plant in the corner. He didn't say anything about it.
"Miss Katherine, we're going to be arriving at the news studio in just a few dobashes. I'm sure princess Allura has already informed you?"
"Oh! Yeah. Thank you, by the way."
"It's not a problem. I figured it would be better," Lotor said. "Anyways, I have a few questions to ask you, if I may come in?"
Pidge's eyes widened when she realized he was still standing in the doorway. "Of course- I'm used to people just coming in when they wanted."
"I see," Was the only thing Lotor said as he entered, stopping just a few feet away from where Pidge was standing. She could feel the awkward tension in the air. "There are a few matters that need to be discussed before we're filmed."
"Shoot." Lotor blinked.
"Shoot what?" For once, Pidge could feel a small smile slipping onto her face.
"On Earth, it's just a way to say 'go ahead'."
"Why don't you just say that then?" Lotor asked, but then shook his head. "Never mind that. What day to you want the wedding to be?"
Pidge's heart fluttered. Of course it had to be talked about- she couldn't avoid it forever.
"How about April twenty-second?" Pidge say more confusion on Lotor's face and rushed to continue. "It's in seven quintents. A week."
"Are you sure?"
"I'm not going to put it off forever. We have to start sooner or later."
"You're very smart. I already have someone panning it, unless you want to? I'm told that Earth women usually want an elaborate wedding planned by themselves-"
"Oh god, please don't."
"No? Is my information inaccurate?"
"For me, yes. Women usually want big weddings, but I'd rather just have a small amount of people that I know. Does it have to be a big celebration? Do you want a big wedding?"
"It always has been in the past," Pidge deflated, "but I suppose it's not tradition, and I'm not a big fan of big gatherings either. It will be a small ceremony then. And you'll want all your friends there as well I assume?"
"Yes, and your's too."
"I'm afraid that I don't have any friends, " Lotor said it in such a way that Pidge's heart twanged.
"What about Axca, Zethrid and Ezor?"
"They are my comrades."
"So are my friends."
"If it makes you happy, I'll invite them when I talk to the wedding planner."
"Thank you. Also," Pidge averted her eyes. "I'll be your friend." Looking up, Pidge saw the makings of a smile on the Galran's face.
"I appreciate that," There was a pause. "Also, during the broadcast, I'll do most of the talking. No offense intended, but you haven't had the necessary training for speaking in front of an audience."
"No, I completely understand."
There was a call over an intercom system, and Lotor looked over at her, offering his arm, "Ready?"
Pidge gently put her arm in his and took a deep breath, "Yes."
The planet they had landed on reminded pidge of New York- not that she'd ever been there. She'd only seen pictures, brought home by her mother's sister. Everywhere, different races milled around, most with video recorders and other kinds of camera equipment, hoping to get the next big hit.
Lotor led her down a few blocks, keeping his head low, but people still noticed. Some people screamed his name, and then he was hurrying Pidge along, the generals keeping the mob at bay.
"I knew we should have landed closer," Lotor muttered as they ducked into a random building to their right. It looked to be a hotel, the only person inside being an elderly alien behind the counter. He didn't look up when they came in. "We still have a few blocks to go. That landing place was the closest one," He finally met her gaze. "I'm terribly sorry about this."
"It's alright. I'm sure if anyone tried to do anything we could take them. And I'm used to it anyways- I'm a paladin, remember?"
Lotor's lip curled in a wry smile. "It's hard to forget. The bad thing about being royal is that we aren't supposed to fend off any attackers. It's seen as undignified."
Pidge arched a brow. "It that tradition?"
The Galran prince chuckled. "Well, no. I wasn't going to follow that anyways. But we can't hardly be violent with fans. It's just a hassle trying to get away from their cameras."
"I understand," Pidge thought for a moment. "Why don't we just run?"
"Run? I had thought of that, but my legs are a lot longer than yours."
"I've been running every day for the past four years. Bring it on," She leaned down and removed her shoes. "I'm ready now."
Lotor eyed her feet. "Without your shoes?"
"They'll just slow me down." was all the explanation she gave. Lotor seemed to realize this and held out a hand.
"Then let's run, shall we?"
Pidge laced her fingers through his, and they exploded back into the street. The mob was being held back by Zethrid, Axca and Ezor. They looked back when they heard the door open.
"Your Highness!" Zethrid shouted, but Lotor was already cutting through the crowd, pulling Pidge along with him. She brushed by people, but her footing was always sure, so she didn't stumble. Lotor didn't let go of her hand when they were free from the crowd. Instead, he looked back at her and laughed. Pidge marveled at the sight, telling herself that her heart was only pounding from adrenaline.
"I'm surprised you didn't fall!" He shouted. Pidge pumped her legs faster until they were right beside each other, no one taking the lead.
"I told you- I'm a paladin!"
"The building is just up here to the right."
They slowed then and entered. No one from the original mob was behind them- they'd been going too fast. Lotor wasn't even breathing heavy, so Pidge didn't allow herself to either.
Suddenly, Lotor turned to her, his eyes sparkling, "Would you mind joining me for dinner after this?"
Pidge breathed out a "Yes." and then someone was calling Lotor's attention.
"Your Highnesses, you made it just in time. I am Neba, and I'm going to lead yo to your prep rooms, okay?"
Lotor nodded and the doors burst open behind him.
"Lotor, a little warning please."
"Maybe next time," They were following Neba, and Pidge could hear the generals whispering.
"Was that a joke?"
"They're holding hands-"
"I though yesterday was the first time they'd ever spoken?"
Pidge's cheeks burned when she realized that they were, in fact, still holding hands. Neba led them down a series of hallways before finally stopping.
"I made sure your rooms were right next to each other," He said, "There's about fifteen minutes before call, so you may freshen up if you wish." It was if he was looking directly at Pidge, who was looking down at her scratched feet, clearly visible underneath the hem of her dress.
Their hands finally slid apart when they entered their respective rooms. The first thing Pidge did was sit and grab her phone from a convenient pocket in her dress and called Lance. He answered almost immediately.
"Hey hunny-bunny. What's up?"
"I'm about to do the news things, but I'm freshening up first or whatever," She rolled her eyes. "I just miss everyone."
"We miss yo too. Also, I saw a video where you and Lotor were holding hands and running. What do you have to say about that?"
"That already in the- Whatever. Anyways, I just wanted to check in. How is everything going?"
Lance took a moment to answer. "Everyone's just upset that you're gone. Allura most of all I think."
"Allura?"
"Yeah. She's blaming herself because you took her place, and we know you're unhappy. Matt told us about your dream wedding from when you were kids and it kind of got to us."
Pidge thought about earlier. "That's just the thing. I'm not sure I'm going to be completely unhappy. I'm sure I'll be able to have some fun sometimes."
"Really?"
"Yeah, like he's taking my feelings into account when making decisions," Pidge told him about the conversation they'd had earlier about weddings. "When he found out I wasn't comfortable with that, he immediately changed everything."
"That's really awesome actually. Whenever he was here, he seemed standoffish."
"I know. I think we just made each other uncomfortable? But he asked me to dinner, and I'm kind of freaking out about it. Like, I spent most of my teen years looking for my dad and brother, and fighting a fucking war!" Pidge ran a hand through her hair. "I've never been on a date before. Does it even matter if we're getting married anyways?"
"Pidge, just be yourself. I'm sure he'll love you just like everyone else." Pidge's heart gave a particularly loud thud.
"I don't know Lance. I think I'd rather be fighting a giant monster right now."
"You'll be fine," The door to her room opened, and Neba peered in.
"Miss Holt? It's time."
"Look," She said to Lance, "I've got to go. Love you."
"Love you too! You'll do great!" Pidge ended the call and got up, slipping her phone back into her pocket. Slipping on her shoes, she left the room and once again met Lotor.
"Ready?" He asked, and Pidge grimaced.
"Ready as I'll ever be, I guess," She put her shoes back on when they started walking. Pidge noticed Lotor's dress change and asked, "Was I supposed to change too?"
Lotor shook his head. "I only changed to match you more."
Pidge was spared from saying anything else- at that moment, Neba turned around.
"Here's the stage. Now, the feed is going to be live, but there isn't going to be an audience. All we're going to do is ask you both question about the wedding and any upcoming plans for the New Peace. Does that sound okay?"
Lotor nodded, then looked down at Pidge. "How does that sound to you?"
"It sounds fine." She said, but she knew from firsthand experience how news broadcasts actually work- they'd said her brother and father were dead, even when she gave them evidence of it being false. Obviously, she'd been right.
The stage looked like any normal living room: Plush couches, a coffee table. The only thing was missing was two entire walls. A woman got up from her chair when they entered, a pretty pink skinned girl with curly blonde hair. She shook both of their hands with a bright smile before speaking.
"Thank you both so much for coming. It's an honor- I'm Simone."
"Thank you for having us," After exchanging pleasantries about their trip and such, they got to sit down on the loveseat with mugs of warm tea.
"So, can I ask you guys a few warm up questions before we start rolling?" When given the go ahead, Simone straightened in her seat. "You two got engaged yesterday. How much do you know about each other?"
"Admittedly not a lot, but we're working on it." Lotor said, looking over at Pidge. She decided that the loveseat was a little small.
"And Katherine- can I call you Katie?"
"I'd actually prefer if you didn't." Pidge said, hoping she didn't sound rude, but Simone only made a little note and continued.
"No problem. You've been fighting the war since you were fourteen. What did you think when you became a paladin of Voltron?"
"It was amazing! The tech alone was gorgeous."
There was a pause. Pidge's heart was pounding in her chest- she hoped that Lotor couldn't hear it.
"Alright your Highnesses, we're going to begin in three, two, one..."
Simone looked to the cameras. "Hello everyone! I'm currently with the most talked about couple across the galaxy- Prince Lotor and Paladin Katherine Holt! We're going to be talking some about the New Peace and the couple's upcoming wedding," She turned back to face them. "So, about the wedding first. What are you guys thinking of doing with it?"
"Well," Lotor said, "we're going to go against tradition and have a small wedding, with only immediate family and friends. We'll have a gathering later for a big celebration after Katherine and I have settled in, but that's still way in the future."
"And what day?"
"Seven quintents from today."
"Katherine," Pidge's heart leapt painfully, "what kind of theme are you thinking of?"
"Something to do with nature and a lot of sun." She said, trying to keep the waver out of her voice. She thought she did pretty well, and made sure not to look at the cameras.
"That sounds absolutely lovely! And I see you already have a ring? Lotor, is there anything you want to tell us about it?"
"Oh, it's just a family heirloom," He said, shrugging with an easy smile. Pidge wondered if she'd been the only one he told.
"It's just beautiful," Simone gushed. "Katherine, a little birdie told me that you're originally from Earth, in a country called Italy? Would you mind telling us about it?"
"Well, it's settled around a fault line, so there's a lot of earthquakes, but then it's also by a few volcanoes, which have erupted three times in the last hundred years. It's very beautiful." To be truthful, Pidge hadn't thought about Italy itself since she'd been gone.
"But why would humans live there if it's so dangerous?"
"I don't think that there's another place any Italians would rather be."
"I guess that's understandable then," Simone laughed. "Now, about the New Peace," Pidge thought she felt Lotor's arm twitch where it pressed against hers. "What are some things you have planned for that?"
"Well, for starters, we're going to oversee special cleanups of every planet and plant new vegetation. Then we're going to take care of things from the palace on Galra, and help any way we can. That's the only information I can give you."
"Will Katherine be helping with this?"
"Of course, she is to be queen. Why would she not?"
"Well, since Katherine is a paladin of Voltron, rumors have been going around that she would mainly be spending time with her lion and the others as she has done for the past four years. Anything to say about that?"
Pidge couldn't help but speak up. "I still and always will be a Voltron paladin," She took a deep breath. "but as of now I've stepped aside to fulfil my duties as queen and help Lotor help the galaxy and our people." Pidge kept her eyes on Simone, but she could feel Lotor's gaze on her face.
The broadcast didn't last much longer after that. Simone thanked them again and curtsied before leaving. Neba reappeared.
"That was wonderful. Thank you both very much for this opportunity."
"It was our pleasure. Where is the rest of our party?" Lotor was as calm and collected as ever; Pidge envied him.
"They were asked to stay in the lobby. They were assured that you were most protected."
"That's not enough," Lotor muttered, and when they entered the lobby, it was obvious that he was right. Immediately when the doors opened, three heads turned and his generals immediately leapt to their feet.
"Your Highness!" Zethrid shouted when they drew nearer. "They wouldn't let us through."
"It's alright, Zethrid. I am able to take care of myself you know."
"Well yeah," Ezor said, in a 'duh' sort of way. "but we were still worried."
Lotor looked taken aback, but was kept from saying anything when Axca spoke up, "Where are we going next?"
"To the ship, and then I'll give you orders from there."
They bid goodbye to Neba and left then, the return trip surprisingly easier, since the locals knew the ferocity of Lotor's companions. Zethrid's glare was particularly deadly.
Pidge noticed Lotor looking at her from time to time as they walked. After a few minutes of this, she finally asked him what he was doing.
"I was just thinking," He said, "that even though you don't have any training, you have a talent for keeping your emotions in check while on camera. You did very well. You handled that last comment nicely."
"Well thank you," Pidge said, blushing. She hoped that it was too dark for him to see it. "Though I would be way better if you gave me some tips."
"I'd be happy to." When they got back to the ship, Lotor escorted her to her room and went to turn around before Pidge's voice stopped him.
"How much time am I going to be spending in this room?"
"Well, we will be using this vessel for some time, but you are not confined to that specific area, of course."
"Axca made it pretty clear that she didn't want me wandering around."
Lotor sighed. "Axca is jealous, but she doesn't have any authority over you. You are of higher rank. You're free to move as you please- you areImy fiancé after all, so you have clearance to everything," He raised an eyebrow, and she felt stupid. "I will see you in two hours, miss Katherine." Lotor walked away then, Pidge stuck in place for nearly a minute.
Where were they going to eat? Should she dress up more, dress down or keep what she has on? Never in her life had Pidge thought so much about her looks.
Going into her room, she decided to forget about it and unpack. Her books went o the shelf and all of her clothes in the dresser. All the furniture was nailed to the ground in case of turbulence or an attack. She decided to try and keep her projects in a somewhat organized manner, but she ended up just dumping them in the corner.
She fiddled with a few wires that had sprouted from a piece of torn metal. What was she supposed to do for two hours? Lotor had said that she could go where she wanted, but she wasn't entirely comfortable with that idea yet- especially not without Lance or Hunk. Suddenly, she felt alone.
She was- She'd left all of her friends and got onto a ship that was god-knows how far away. It had been less than a day, but she already felt a hole inside her.
Determined to get out of her slump, Pidge sat down by her hunk of scraps and began toying with them, surrounding herself with tools. She bit her lip, deciding if she had enough scraps to make what she had in mind.
"Where are the goddamn wall outlets?"