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The atmosphere of the Castle of Lions was heavy with both relief and tiredness. Shiro, Pidge, Hunk, Coran, and Lance felt a deep sense of gratitude for having survived after their recent brush with danger when the white lion caused a complete shutdown of the Castle of Lions and its lions, leaving them scrambling to get everything working again before their air supply ran out.
Just in time, Lotor and Allura came back to the Castle, finding the group moments away from passing out because of lack of air.
They all came together on the bridge to go over what happened and share their thoughts.
After going over everything, Coran's mustache quivered as he decided. "I think it's about time we did a complete check-up on the castle. What we just went through was no small thing."
Shiro moved closer, placing his hand on Coran's shoulder. "Do you need help with that? I'm looking for something to keep my mind off things right now."
Coran was thrilled. "Absolutely! And I can regale you with the tale of the first time I ran a diagnostic on the castle. It was quite the journey!"
The two exited together, Shiro listening as Coran began his story, “Well it all started when I was just a child-”
As they left, Pidge stretched tall. "Time to see how the lions are doing. They've been through a lot." She went after them, with space mice quickly following, leaving a much quieter bridge behind.
Lotor walked up to Allura, looking at her kindly. Taking her hand, he kissed her hand lightly. "Allura, I am so proud of you. Your bravery and wisdom have revealed mysteries that I could have never even imagined. I can’t wait to see what you'll do next."
Allura's cheeks turned pink with the kiss and what he said, smiling back at him. "I couldn't have done it without your help. Thank you, Lotor"
Lotor looked at her proudly. "It's nothing, you have a special power, Allura. The secrets of Oriande are now yours to keep."
Near them, Lance couldn't help but roll his eyes at Lotor's words, hiding his feelings with a quick smirk as he suggested to Hunk, "Hey, why don't we go to the kitchen? I'm kinda hungry."
Hunk agreed right away. "Sure, let's do it. I bet I can make something tasty in no time." As they left, Lance looked back at Allura and Lotor, his feelings of jealousy hidden away.
While waiting for the elevator, Hunk talked happily about experimenting with new dishes. "I want to mix up some Altean recipes by adding spices from Earth for a unique taste. Sounds good, Lance?"
Lance tried to listen, but his thoughts stuck on the bridge. He kept seeing Lotor kissing Allura's hand over and over. He made fists, mixed with upset and sadness. "Yeah, sounds great, Hunk," he said, but he didn't sound excited.
Hunk noticed Lance wasn't fully paying attention but kept speaking, hoping to cheer him up. "I read about this dish that's filling and comforting. It's just right for today. I think I'll try it."
Lance managed a smile, listening to Hunk. "That sounds great, Hunk. You're always good at making something special."
As they entered the elevator, Allura turned to Lotor. "Could you help me with the secrets I learned from Oriande? Your expertise would be really helpful."
Lotor gave a warm smile. "Of course, Allura. I'd be glad to."
Allura's eyes lit up with appreciation. "You've been a big help and shown you're trustworthy. Together, we'll figure out everything these secrets offer. Let's head to the lounge."
They went into the elevator together; the doors closing as they started their adventure to find out the secrets of old magic.
The quiet sound of the elevator wrapped them up, making it feel like they were in a private part of the universe only for the two of them.
Allura looked at him. "I've always thought that knowing and understanding things was important. The mysteries of Oriande seem like they're a part of me now, ready to be understood. With you by my side, I feel like we can do this."
Lotor agreed, "Alchemy is complex, but together, we can master it. Our teamwork and the knowledge of our past will help us."
Then, the elevator door opened. They walked down the hall to the lounge. Walking together, Allura felt a strong connection and shared goal. They were both focused on solving old mysteries that could alter the universe's future, feeling closer with every step.