POV Lance
Inside the Blue Lion's cabin — or Lapiz, as Lance liked to call it — his hands gripped the controls harder than necessary. The tension was nearly suffocating. The mission depended on many variables outside his control, and that was exactly the kind of thing that pushed him to the brink of an internal breakdown. But he couldn't show it. Not with Hunk by his side.
Shiro's image had disappeared from the screen five minutes ago, right after confirming Luan's initial signal. Since then, it had been silent, except for the rhythmic hum of the Blue Lion's systems and the occasional sensor readings. Lance had no idea how Luan was handling the distraction, and that was eating him up inside. He knew she was capable, but the communication blackout was a brutal reminder of how vulnerable she was.
"Of course, she does this alone," Lance thought, frustrated. "Stubborn as ever. Always carrying the weight, like she's the only one who can save the universe."
He sighed, eyes fixed on the display ahead. Hunk was beside him, nervous as usual but focused on adjusting the radar readings. The planet was in view, a brown-yellow sphere surrounded by a thin, hazy atmosphere. It looked barren and inhospitable, and the readings confirmed that. But somewhere in that hostile desert was the Yellow Lion.
"We're reaching the descent point," Lance said, forcing his voice to sound steadier than he felt. "Hunk, everything ready on your end?"
"Yeah... sort of?" Hunk replied, quickly adjusting the monitoring controls. "I mean, we're ready, but... I still think this is a terrible idea."
Lance let out a small laugh, even though he knew Hunk was right. Everything about this felt like a bad idea. But they had no choice.
"Relax, Hunk. We'll go in, grab the Yellow Lion, and be out before any Galra even know we're here," Lance said, more to himself than to his friend.
"Yeah, because everything always goes exactly as planned," Hunk murmured, but adjusted his position in the seat, preparing for whatever was coming.
---
Meanwhile, far away...
Luan dove toward one of the bot soldiers, knocking another down. She had no way of knowing if the team had reached the planet yet, but she had to trust that her distraction was working. There was no room for error.
---
Back in the Blue Lion, Lance tilted the Lion into a smooth dive, cutting through the planet's upper atmosphere. Gusts of wind slammed against the Lion's shields, but the vibration under his hands was steady, almost reassuring. It felt like Lapiz was guiding him, helping him stay focused, even as his mind raced with concerns. It was a connection he couldn't explain, but one that felt unbreakable when he needed it most.
"Hunk, the Yellow Lion is buried somewhere in these mines. Sorry, buddy, but I think we're going to have to go in," Lance said, his eyes locked on the barren land ahead.
"Wait, what? Go in there?!" Hunk exclaimed, turning to face him, eyes wide with disbelief. "We can't just use the Lion to dig? Or, I don't know, do this without going into a Galra-filled mine? This sounds like a terrible idea!"
"We don't have time for that, Hunk. If Luan loses control of the distraction, reinforcements could arrive, and then we'll be screwed," Lance replied, adjusting the controls to slow the Blue Lion. He kept his voice steady, but the weight of responsibility was palpable in every word.
Hunk hesitated, his eyes scanning.
"Noted," Lance said in a dry tone, though a mischievous smile almost slipped out. He initiated the Blue Lion's landing, adjusting the controls as the massive machine descended smoothly onto the arid ground near the mine entrance. The familiar vibration under his hands was almost comforting, but it wasn't enough to shake off the weight on his chest.
Once the engines slowed, Lance leaned forward to open a hidden compartment next to his seat. He retrieved a small metal box that Luan had given him before the mission. The object felt heavier than it should, as if it contained more than just its physical contents. For a brief moment, Lance hesitated before opening it, feeling a stab of nervousness.
"And what's this? Some kind of Altean snack?" Hunk joked, relieving the tension as he watched Lance inspect the box.
"Not exactly," Lance murmured, opening it carefully.
Inside, there was a compact blaster and a mysterious metal handle, simple at first glance, but with a design that exuded intricate engineering. Lance picked up the blaster first, testing its familiar weight in his hand. The ornate details looked almost like jewelry, an Altean precision craft that blended beauty and lethality.
But it was the metal handle that really caught his attention. He held it carefully, examining the smooth edges and intricate details. Pressing a discreet button in the middle, he heard a click, followed by the characteristic sound of something powering on.
A light blue blade emerged with a cold, serene glow, illuminating the cabin with its ghostly light. It was a lightsaber—or something very close to it. Compact, with a 20-centimeter blade, and 30 with the handle, the weapon seemed straight out of a science fiction movie.
"You're kidding me," Lance murmured, almost breathless. He spun the device in his hand, fascinated and frightened at the same time. Luan, you wonderful genius nerd, what did you do?!
He quickly deactivated the blade, hearing the soft sound of it retracting into the handle. Upon closer inspection, he noticed a magnetic clip that allowed the saber to be securely fastened to his belt, making it easy to access. It was a simple, efficient design, and of course, incredibly ingenious. Of course, she thought of everything, he thought, torn between admiration and slight desperation.
"Of course, she thought of everything," he thought, both impressed and scared.
Hunk, who had been watching the whole scene with a growing expression of disbelief, finally broke the silence, eyes fixed on the light blue blade illuminating the cabin. "Please, don't tell me that's what I think it is..."
Lance gave a nervous smile, shaking his head. "Yeah, it's exactly what you think it is. And, no matter how much you deny it, Luan is just as much of a nerd as you guys."
Hunk placed one hand on his forehead, as if trying to process what he had just seen. "This is... this is way too much Star Wars for me. Please, tell me this thing at least doesn't cut through steel doors."
"Well, I haven't tested that yet," Lance replied, trying to sound casual but clearly impressed with the weapon. "But come on, admit it: it's awesome, right? Looks like it came straight out of a game or movie."
"Or you're gonna cut yourself on the first use," Hunk muttered, crossing his arms and giving him a skeptical look.
"I know," Lance replied, shaking his head with a short, nervous laugh. "I don't even know what's more impressive: the fact that this thing works or the fact that she knew exactly what I wanted before I even knew."
Hunk gave him an even more incredulous look. "Well, I hope it works, because 'half-baked Jedi' isn't exactly a character class I trust to get me out of a jam."
"Relax," said Lance, strapping the blaster to his holster and testing the fit of the saber on the magnetic clip. "I'm one of the best shooters in the garrison, remember? And, besides, blue belt. I know what I'm doing."
Hunk huffed, adjusting his backpack. "Right, but if this goes wrong, I just want you to know that I'm gonna say 'I told you so' all the way back to the castle."
"Noted," Lance replied dryly, with a mischievous grin. He twirled the blaster in his fingers one last time before holstering it. "Now, let's go. The longer we stay here, the more likely someone will notice we're infiltrating."
"Relax," Lance continued, still smiling while adjusting the blaster in his holster on his left leg. "I'm the best shot in the garrison. And hey, blue belt in mixed martial arts, remember? No way this goes wrong."
"Ah, sure, because 'blue belt' is totally the magic solution for a mine full of Galra," Hunk replied, but the sarcasm in his voice was now mixed with an amused smile.
Lance shrugged and picked up the blaster again, spinning it confidently in his fingers. "Maybe it's not magic, but it's enough to keep us alive. Now let's go before something even stranger happens."
"Noted," Lance responded dryly with a mischievous grin, spinning the blaster one last time before securing it in the holster on his left leg. He adjusted the position of the weapon with a quick motion and added, still smiling, "Now, let's move. The longer we stay here, the higher the chance someone will realize we're infiltrating."
He gave the holster a light tap as if sealing his confidence and threw a carefree glance at Hunk. "Relax," Lance continued with that smile, which was meant both to reassure his friend and hide his own tension. "I'm the best shot in the garrison. And hey, blue belt in mixed martial arts, remember? No way this goes wrong."
The heat inside the Blue Lion's cabin seemed to follow them as they stepped into the stifling air of the mine's entrance. The clothes they wore—worn jeans and simple T-shirts—were already dirty and starting to cling to their skin from sweat. The lack of armor left them exposed, and Lance knew that made things riskier. However, bringing bulky gear would have been unthinkable; they couldn't risk drawing unnecessary attention, especially in enemy territory. It was a calculated sacrifice, but that didn't make the discomfort any easier to ignore.
They descended the side of the Blue Lion, the metal still hot under their palms. The landing had been smooth, but each step they took felt heavy with tension, as if the very ground beneath them could betray them. The hot, thick air of the planet combined with the metallic scent of the mine ahead, creating an almost suffocating atmosphere. Lance took one last glance behind him at the Blue Lion, hidden among the rocky formations. "Be good and stay quiet, Lapiz," he murmured, as if the Lion could hear him.
"Do you always talk to it?" Hunk asked, adjusting the tool-filled backpack on his back while looking at Lance with a mix of curiosity and nervousness.
"Of course," Lance replied with a smile, trying to lighten the mood. "It's kind of a tradition. Besides, I'm pretty sure she hears me."
Hunk shook his head, letting out a sigh as he looked at the dark opening of the mine. "Okay, but I think it would be better if she could come in with us..."
"I agree," Lance said, lightly tapping the blaster on his holster and the lightsaber on the magnetic clip at his waist. "But, unfortunately, it's just the two of us today. So, we better get moving before I change my mind."
They moved toward the mine, their steps softly echoing on the rocky ground. Lance looked ahead at the tunnel, feeling the weight of the silence around them. He took a deep breath, trying to ignore the tightness in his chest. There was no turning back now; the success of the mission depended on them.
"I can't believe we're doing this unarmed," Hunk murmured, adjusting the heavy backpack on his back. He cast nervous glances at the dark corners of the mine, as if expecting something to jump out at any moment. "If anyone had told me I'd be exploring a mine full of Galra in jeans and sneakers, I would've stayed on Earth."
"Relax, Hunk," Lance replied, trying to sound more relaxed than he really felt. He pulled the blaster from his left leg holster and twirled it in his fingers, as if testing the weight. "I'll cover you. You know I'm the best shot on the team."
Hunk raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "You think you're the best shooter on the team. That doesn't mean you'll be useful when a bunch of Galra soldiers are shooting back."
"Hey, you just have to trust me," Lance said, ignoring the comment. "I'll take care of the Galra, you take care of the Yellow Lion. It's a perfect team." He quickly holstered the blaster and adjusted the lightsaber on the magnetic clip attached to his pants, on the right side. "Besides," he added with a grin, "I'm a blue belt in mixed martial arts. I know how to handle myself."
Hunk let out a short laugh but still looked nervous. "Great. Let's just hope your flying kicks are useful against plasma rifles."
As they moved through the dark tunnel, the air grew heavier. Every step reverberated off the stone and metal walls, creating echoes that seemed to give away their position with every move. The lanterns on their backpacks only illuminated a few meters ahead, casting shadows that danced with each movement, as if something was always lurking.
"Are you sure the Yellow Lion is down here?" Lance asked quietly, his fingers gripping the blaster as his eyes scanned the surroundings.
"Yeah... I think so," Hunk replied hesitantly, furrowing his brow as he checked the portable scanner. "The signal is stronger here, but these walls are interfering with the sensors. It might take a while to find the exact spot."
"Great," Lance muttered, sarcasm masking the concern in his voice. He didn't want Hunk to realize how tense he was. "Because time is exactly what we have plenty of."
Before Hunk could respond, a metallic sound echoed down the tunnel. Both froze. Lance raised his hand, a clear gesture for Hunk to remain still. The sound returned, this time closer. Footsteps. Rhythmic and heavy.
"Galra," Lance whispered, his heart racing. He quickly spotted a rock formation to the left. "There, on the wall. Now."
Hunk obeyed without question, running silently for cover. Lance, meanwhile, positioned himself behind another rock formation, the Galra rifle he had grabbed already in hand. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his heart, which felt like it was pounding in his ears.
The silhouettes of two Galra soldiers emerged from the shadows, advancing with heavy rifles in hand. Lance planted his feet firmly on the ground, his knees slightly bent, waiting for the right moment. When the first Galra came within range, he fired. The blue burst hit the soldier's neck with precision, knocking him to the ground before he could react.
The second soldier turned to retaliate, but Lance was already on the move. He rolled to the side, out of the enemy's line of sight, then quickly sprang to his feet and fired again. The shot hit the Galra's rifle, disarming him. Lance didn't hesitate. He advanced, drawing the lightsaber with a fluid motion. The blue-blade activated with a cold hum, illuminating the tunnel with ghostly flashes.
The Galra attempted to retaliate with a direct strike, but Lance was faster. He landed a spinning kick to the soldier's leg, knocking him to the ground. The plasma blade's tip stopped just inches from the fallen enemy's neck.
"Don't even try it," Lance said, his voice firm, though his heart was still racing.
Hunk slowly emerged from behind the crates, wide-eyed. "Okay, that was... impressive. But do you always make it look so easy?"
Lance deactivated the lightsaber and clipped it back to his belt, forcing a smile. "Of course. What can I say? I'm a genius at improvising."
Despite his casual tone, Lance felt the tension still pulsing in every muscle. He knew any mistake could be fatal. He looked at the two fallen Galra soldiers and started searching their pockets, pulling out devices and communicators.
"You've got to be kidding me," Hunk murmured, watching as Lance pulled out a small glowing access card.
"Playing real-life RPG," Lance replied with a mischievous smile. "Every player knows you've got to loot the bodies. Who knows what they've got? Maybe a legendary item."
"This isn't a game, Lance," Hunk shot back, crossing his arms.
"Maybe not, but look: now we've got a communicator and an access key. Looks like a game to me," Lance said, holding up the items before tucking them into his pocket.
As they went deeper into the mine, Lance felt the tension build. He knew there were more Galra ahead, but he needed to keep Hunk calm. Doing his best to hide his own fear, he kept his tone light, even as he gripped the rifle more tightly.
"Hold on, Yellow Lion," Hunk thought. "We're getting there."
The tunnels grew narrower as Lance and Hunk descended, the darkness becoming more oppressive. The distant metallic sound of machinery echoed through the hallways, blending with muffled voices that seemed to come from every direction. Lance walked ahead, his eyes sharp for every shadow, his fingers tight on the blaster's grip.
Suddenly, he stopped, raising his hand to signal Hunk to stay quiet. Leaning forward, Lance peeked around a bend in the tunnel and held his breath. Three Galra soldiers stood ahead, talking in their guttural language. Among them were two miners—humans, or at least something similar—wearing dirty uniforms and chained at the wrists.
Hunk stepped toward Lance to look, but before he could see, Lance shoved him back with surprising force, making him almost stumble. "Stay down!" Lance whispered urgently.
"What's going on?!" Hunk muttered, adjusting his backpack as he tried to regain his balance.
"There are three soldiers and some miners. I don't know what they're doing, but we can't just pop out and expect the best," Lance said, looking back with a serious expression. "We need a plan."
"A plan? The plan was to find the control panel and lower the elevator to the Yellow Lion," Hunk replied, his tone louder than it should have been.
"Shhh!" Lance gestured for him to lower his voice. "Yes, but the panel is beyond them. And unless you want to run out screaming, we need to be smart."
Hunk took a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves. "Okay, okay. What do you suggest, Mr. Improviser?"
Lance flashed a quick smile, the kind of smile Hunk hated because it always meant Lance was about to suggest something dangerous. He peeked around the corner of the tunnel, analyzing the situation. The soldiers were distracted, seeming to argue into their communicators. The miners were chained to a metal structure, visibly tired. In the distance, Lance spotted the control panel Hunk needed to reach.
"Alright, here's the plan," Lance said, pulling Hunk back further from the soldiers' line of sight. "I'll create a distraction. I'll position myself on the other side of the tunnel and draw their attention. Meanwhile, you sneak up to the panel."
"A distraction? Like, are you going to shout that you're a paladin and hope they come after you?"
"No, of course not," Lance replied, offended. He tapped the lightsaber on his belt and then grabbed the blaster. "I'm going to be... creative."
Hunk hesitated, glancing at the distant panel and then back at Lance. "And what if it goes wrong?"
"It won't," Lance assured, though his confidence was a little forced. He placed his hand on Hunk's shoulder and gave it a firm squeeze. "Trust me. Just focus on your part. I'll handle the rest."
Hunk let out a long sigh, adjusting his backpack strap. "Fine. But if you screw up, I'm not taking the blame, okay?"
"Relax, Hunk. Blue belt, remember?" Lance winked before silently moving to the other side of the tunnel.
Hunk stayed low, watching as Lance positioned himself. His friend moved like a shadow, quick and agile, using the rock formations to hide while getting into a strategic position. When Lance was at a safe distance, he raised his blaster and fired at a pile of metal crates near the soldiers.
The sound echoed through the tunnels, and the soldiers immediately turned toward the noise. Lance kept firing, hitting the crates and sending sparks flying, while his voice rang out through the tunnel. "Hey, you two-meter bullies! Come take someone your size!"
The Galra grunted something and started moving toward Lance, leaving the miners behind. Lance, in turn, fired one more shot before ducking behind a pile of rocks, activating the lightsaber, and holding the blaster in his other hand.
As the soldiers pursued Lance, Hunk took advantage of the distraction to move. He swallowed hard, his heart pounding as he advanced toward the control panel. His steps were quick, but he did his best to stay silent, staying crouched the entire time.
Finally, he reached the panel. His hands trembled slightly as he pulled out the tools from his backpack. Okay, Hunk, focus, he thought to himself. You can do this. It's just a Galra panel. No big deal. Just another machine to fix.
While Hunk worked, Lance kept distracting the soldiers. He fired precise shots, keeping the Galra on the move, but not giving them time to organize. The sound of gunfire echoed through the tunnel, and Lance couldn't help but grin.
"You're too slow!" he yelled, dodging a shot that passed inches from his head. "Is this the best you've got? I thought the Galra were supposed to be a little more... threatening!"
The soldiers responded with irritated grunts, charging forward with increased intensity. Lance knew he couldn't keep them distracted forever, but he just needed enough time for Hunk to do his part.
"Hunk, how are we doing?" Lance shouted, firing another burst from the blaster to keep one of the Galra soldiers at bay. He moved quickly, seeking cover behind a pile of rocks as the shots ricocheted off the tunnel walls.
"Almost there!" Hunk replied, his voice tense and focused. His fingers were flying over the panel, entering the final commands with precision. "Just a few more seconds!"
"Great," Lance murmured, retreating to another rock formation as the Galra kept chasing him with determination. He took a deep breath, a nervous grin forming on his lips. "No rush, huh? It's only my life on the line here."
Finally, the control panel flashed green, and Hunk let out a sigh of relief. He pressed the final button, and a mechanical sound reverberated through the tunnels as the elevator system was activated. The gears creaked and cables moved, indicating the elevator was descending.
"I did it!" Hunk exclaimed, turning to Lance with a triumphant smile.
"Perfect!" Lance shouted back, firing one last precise shot before sprinting toward the panel. "Now let's get out of here before these guys figure out we made them look like fools!"
While the soldiers tried to reorganize, Hunk grabbed the portable scanner, his eyes tracking the readings on the screen. The light flickered, and the arrow on the display pointed directly toward a tunnel to the left. He paused for a moment, trying to steady his rapid breathing. "The signal's stronger... It must be there," he murmured to himself, though the insecurity in his voice was clear.
Lance, beside him, shot a quick glance at the scanner and then at the dark tunnel ahead. "Alright, Hunk. You know what to do. Trust your instincts. I'll keep these big guys occupied while you get to the Lion."
Hunk nodded, pressing the scanner to his chest as if it could give him courage. With one last look at Lance, he took a deep breath and started down the tunnel, his steps silent and cautious as he disappeared into the darkness.
"It'll be fine," Lance murmured to himself, before turning to face the Galra again. "I mean, probably..."
Hunk's hands trembled as he looked at the portable scanner he was holding. The light flickered on the screen, and the arrow pointed directly to the tunnel on the left. He swallowed hard, trying to control his breathing as he analyzed the path he needed to take. "The signal's stronger... It must be there," he murmured, though his voice betrayed his lack of confidence.
"Come on, Hunk, focus. You're the brilliant engineer here. If anyone can handle this, it's you," he said to himself, even though it was hard to believe his own words. He knew the Yellow Lion was somewhere ahead, buried under tons of rock and possibly being watched by more Galra soldiers. He just hoped Lance could keep them distracted long enough.
He took a hesitant step into the tunnel, holding the scanner tightly while the lantern lights behind him illuminated the path ahead. With each step, Hunk felt the ground under his feet become more unstable, as if the entire mine could collapse at any moment. The air was thick and filled with dust, making each breath feel like an effort. He tried to ignore the distant sound of gunfire and Lance's muffled shouts, but it was impossible not to feel the weight of the situation.
Hunk began muttering to himself as he moved forward. "Oh, sure, let's send the unarmed engineer down a dark tunnel full of hostile aliens. This makes perfect sense. It's like one of those games where the solo player always gets the most dangerous mission. Perfect. Fantastic."
The scanner blinked again, confirming that he was getting closer to his destination. He looked around, the walls of the tunnel starting to reflect a faint golden glow that seemed almost magical. It was different from anything he'd ever seen before, and for a moment, he stood still, admiring the unexpected beauty in the midst of all the chaos.
But the golden glow also brought another concern. The tunnel was opening into a larger chamber now, and the vibration from heavy machinery was noticeable. "They're mining down here..." Hunk murmured, his heart racing. "They must be close to the Lion. Or... or maybe they already know it's here."
He took a deep breath, trying to push the panic away. "Okay, Hunk. You've faced worse things. I mean, probably. I think. Maybe not." He took a step forward, his eyes fixed on the scanner. "But Lance is out there risking his life to buy me time, so I better make this count."
________________________________________
Meanwhile, in the upper tunnels, Lance was moving like a shadow, always one step ahead of the Galra soldiers chasing him. He used the environment to his advantage, jumping over rock formations and hiding behind metal pillars. The blaster fired with precision, keeping the soldiers at bay and disorienting them.
"Come on, you big clumsy oafs!" Lance shouted, shooting at a pile of crates to cause a small explosion that forced them to retreat. "I expected more from you guys! I thought Galra were a bit more... competent!"
The soldiers growled something in their guttural language, clearly frustrated, and redoubled their efforts to capture him. But Lance was in his element. Despite the danger, he felt his heart race with a mix of adrenaline and excitement. He knew he had to keep this up for as long as possible to give Hunk a chance.
"Just a few more minutes, Hunk," he muttered to himself, adjusting the blaster as he prepared to shoot again. He knew he was running out of time and that every second counted, potentially enough to turn the mission in his favor.
________________________________________
Back in the tunnel, Hunk was now inside the main chamber. He saw mining equipment scattered around, along with more metal structures that seemed to be part of a larger operation. The golden glow around him intensified, illuminating what appeared to be the tip of something familiar: the hull of the Yellow Lion.
Hunk felt his breath catch for a moment. "It's him... I found the Lion!" He rushed closer, the scanner confirming the signal was coming from that exact direction. But as he got closer, he noticed something that made his stomach churn: there were more Galra soldiers in the area, along with chained miners who seemed to be extracting the ore around the Lion.
He crouched behind a pile of rocks, pulling out the communicator. "Lance, I found him. The Yellow Lion is here, but there are Galra all over the place. I need more time to reach him and secure the area."
On the other end, Lance's voice came through, crackling but still full of energy. "Don't worry, Hunk. Stay hidden. I'll figure out a way to buy you all the time you need. Just stay down and don't do anything stupid."
Hunk nodded, though Lance couldn't see him. He looked back at the Yellow Lion, feeling a wave of determination. "Alright. Just... just try not to get hurt, okay?"
Hunk crouched behind a pile of rocks, his heart still pounding in his chest as he tried to assess the situation around him. The dim lights and the echoes of Galra footsteps felt like the calm before the storm.
The increasing sounds of urgency heightened the sense of pressure, but he knew he couldn't afford to act without thinking.
Hunk knew time was running out. Every second spent in that dimly lit cave was a countdown to when he would have to act. The Galra soldiers were getting closer, and Lance was holding the front line with precise shots, but Hunk knew the only way to save the Yellow Lion was to deactivate the energy barrier keeping it inactive.
The main chamber was massive, and the Yellow Lion was there, motionless, surrounded by a shimmering energy barrier that pulsed softly, as if it were breathing. Hunk hid behind a large rock block, observing the cables and circuits that spread across the area. He could see the energy points feeding the barrier, and his engineer's mind immediately went to work.
"Okay, Hunk. Focus. This is just another puzzle," he murmured to himself, his face set with determination. He wasn't setting up bombs or disarming mines, but this wasn't that different from a maintenance operation.
Taking a deep breath, he allowed his eyes to scan the chamber for something useful. That's when he saw it: exposed power cables running along the walls and floor, connected to rusty mining equipment. There were toolboxes and some devices scattered near a metal structure in the corner of the chamber.
"Okay, Hunk," he whispered to himself, his brain working quickly. "You're an engineer. This is just another technical problem... with deadly soldiers and a giant lion in the middle." He let out a nervous chuckle, but the idea started to form in his mind. It was risky, but it could work.
He pulled out the communicator, still crouching, and whispered, "Lance, I need more time to get to him and clear the area."
"More time? Hunk, I'm literally out here dancing in the line of fire to hold these guys off!" Lance replied, his voice filled with tension and sarcasm.
"I know, I know! Just listen, okay? I've got a plan," Hunk said, his eyes fixed on the cables as he began to connect the points. He could use the mining equipment to create an electrical overload or distract the Galra, but he would need Lance's help to buy enough time.
"Alright, big brain, what's the plan?" Lance asked between shots.
"There are power cables everywhere here, connected to mining equipment. I can cause a controlled explosion or temporarily disable their system. But for that, you're going to need to keep distracting the Galra out here and maybe... lead a few of them away."
"Lead a few away? How, exactly? You want me to dress up and do the Hula dance?" Lance retorted, but the slight hesitation in his voice indicated he was considering the idea.
"Lance, please, no references, okay... so... just trust me, alright? Just do what you do best: be impossible to ignore," Hunk said, already moving toward the cables. He picked up some tools scattered on the floor and began working quickly, connecting wires and adjusting settings on the control terminals.
Lance let out a long sigh over the communicator. "Alright, Hunk. But if I end up kicking more than I can chew, you owe me dinner when we get back to the castle."
"Deal. Now go!" Hunk replied, determination in his voice stronger than the nervousness. He knew he needed to finish setting everything up before Lance got into even more trouble out there. His fingers worked with precision, dismantling one of the power panels and redirecting the charge to one of the larger pieces of equipment.
If this works, he thought as he connected the last wire, the Galra will be busy enough to give me the opening I need.
The sound of gunfire and explosions echoed through the tunnel, and Hunk knew Lance was doing his part. He finished the adjustments and stepped back, hiding behind another pile of rocks while waiting for the right moment to activate his makeshift solution.
Hunk clenched his teeth, sweat running down his forehead as he finished the final adjustments on the makeshift panel. The tension in the air was almost tangible, but he had no time to hesitate. The explosions echoed through the tunnel, each one louder and closer than the last. Lance was out there, being exactly what Hunk needed him to be: impossible to ignore.
With a heavy sigh, he connected the final wire, his fingers working with the precision of an engineer under pressure. He looked at the makeshift panel and, for a moment, hesitated. What if it doesn't work? What if this just draws even more attention? But he knew there was no other choice. Taking a deep breath, he murmured to himself, "Showtime, Hunk."
He activated the sequence he had programmed. An electric surge shot through the cables, running like a glowing snake toward the mining equipment and circuits he had overloaded. The sound of sparks and metallic crackling filled the air, followed by a smaller explosion that sent smoke and debris scattering through the tunnel.
The Galra reacted immediately, their confused growls echoing through the cave. They turned toward the explosion point, their weapons raised, momentarily leaving the center of the room unguarded.
Now or never. Hunk swallowed hard, taking advantage of the distraction to move silently through the shadows. He kept his body close to the ground, using the debris and rock formations for cover as he approached the Yellow Lion.
When he finally reached the central chamber, Hunk paused for a moment to take in the scene. The Yellow Lion was there, majestic and still, surrounded by the energy barrier that pulsed softly, as if it were breathing. His throat went dry as he looked at the grandeur of the creature, even in its dormant state. There was no doubt about it: this was more than just a machine. It was something alive, something powerful.
"Okay, Hunk. One step at a time," he murmured, gathering his courage to move closer. Looking around, he made sure none of the Galra had noticed his presence before taking the final steps toward the barrier.
He slowly extended his hand, palm facing forward. The light from the barrier reflected off his skin, and he hesitated for a fraction of a second. But then, with one last deep breath, Hunk touched the barrier with his right hand, his body tense, almost fearful of what might happen.
As soon as his fingers made contact, a wave of energy surged up his arm, radiating throughout his body. He gasped, feeling almost paralyzed as a vision invaded his mind. It wasn't just an ordinary vision. It was profound, intimate, as if he were being sucked into another plane of existence.
He felt the presence of the Yellow Lion, powerful and imposing, yet at the same time gentle and welcoming. It was as if the Lion were looking directly into his soul, searching every part of who he was. Hunk felt as though he were being stripped of all his masks, his insecurities and fears exposed. But instead of judgment, there was acceptance. The Lion saw his goodness, his hidden courage, and the immense heart he tried to hide under his nervousness and jokes.
Hunk froze, his eyes wide as involuntary tears streamed down his cheeks. He had never felt something so deep, so overwhelming. It was as if the Lion was saying: I see you. I trust you. And you are enough.
Suddenly, the barrier pulsed with intensity and dissolved, vanishing in the blink of an eye. A deafening roar echoed through the cave, shaking the ground beneath Hunk's feet. The sound was primal, almost celestial, carrying with it a power that made every fiber of Hunk's body vibrate.
The golden light emanating from the Lion filled the entire chamber, driving away the shadows and causing the Galra soldiers to freeze in place, terrified. Hunk looked at the Lion, his heart racing, as the giant metal figure rose, its eyes glowing with an intensity that seemed to pierce through worlds.
The Yellow Lion tilted its head slightly, its jaw slowly opening as if to offer a silent invitation. Hunk hesitated for only a second before he began to walk. "Okay... okay. This is it," he murmured, more to himself than anything else.
He stepped into the Lion's mouth, feeling a mix of reverence and dread. The interior was more vast than he had imagined, filled with glowing panels and an energy that seemed to pulse in sync with his own. As he approached the central seat, a sense of peace washed over him. He knew he was exactly where he needed to be.
The controls lit up beneath his fingers, and he felt the Lion connect with him almost instantly. It was as though they were two parts of the same whole. "Alright, partner," Hunk said, his voice now full of confidence. "Let's make an exit in style."
With a roar that echoed like thunder, the Yellow Lion began to move. The cave trembled as it advanced, and the Galra soldiers scattered in panic, unable to …stop the colossal force before them. Hunk guided the Lion carefully but with determination, feeling the synchronization between them grow stronger with every passing second.
As they reached the exit, the Yellow Lion let out one final roar, bringing down the cave walls behind them, sealing any chance of pursuit. Hunk smiled, a mix of relief and pride filling his heart. He had finally found his place.
---
Meanwhile, outside the tunnels, Lance was running through open ground, dodging the shots from the Galra soldiers still chasing him. With his lightsaber in one hand and his blaster in the other, he alternated between dodging and firing, each move a perfect balance of skill and survival. "You guys really don't give up, do you?" he muttered, rolling to the side to avoid a shot that exploded the ground next to him.
The heat of the battle and the adrenaline were almost suffocating, but then, a violent tremor shook the ground. Lance stopped for a moment, his eyes widening as he felt the earth beneath his feet begin to vibrate. Cracks opened in the ground, and he had to leap to avoid being swallowed by one that appeared unexpectedly in front of him. "What the...?" He barely had time to finish the thought before a deafening roar echoed through the air, followed by a golden glow that seemed to light up the entire landscape.
Lance turned, his heart racing, and saw the Yellow Lion emerging from the wreckage like a colossal force. The Galra soldiers, who had been relentlessly pursuing him, stumbled, losing their balance as the ground trembled even more. Many of them fell, disoriented by the overwhelming presence of the Lion, which seemed to claim the battlefield as its own.
Without hesitation, Lance picked up the pace. He knew he needed to get out of the unstable zone before it was too late. With one final burst of effort, he shot away from the tunnel area, crossing the uneven terrain until he reached a more stable elevation. He stopped, panting, and turned to watch the spectacle unfolding behind him. That's when he heard a familiar sound—the unmistakable roar of Lapiz's engines cutting through the air.
He lifted his eyes and saw Lapiz diving from the sky, its imposing form glowing under the Yellow Lion's golden light.
"Ah, finally!" Lance exclaimed, raising his arms as if greeting an old friend. Lapiz landed gently beside him, its mouth opening, ready to pick him up. "You always know how to make an entrance, huh?" he murmured with a relieved smile as he nimbly boarded.
Inside the cabin, the familiar atmosphere of Lapiz enveloped him like a comforting embrace. Lance cast one last glance at the battlefield, where the Yellow Lion stood firm, radiating power and security. He knew Hunk had everything under control.
"Time to get out of here," he said, taking the controls of Lapiz and lifting off.
The Yellow Lion roared again, its sound reverberating through the air like thunder. The energy radiating from it seemed to dominate the surroundings. With one last powerful move, the Yellow Lion brought down the remaining tunnel walls, sealing any possibility of a Galra pursuit. Dust rose in a thick cloud, but the golden glow of the Lion was still visible, like a flame that couldn't be extinguished.
Lance let out a nervous laugh, the adrenaline finally giving way to a tired sense of relief. He looked at the Yellow Lion, its monumental silhouette standing out against the sky. "I knew you could do it, Hunk," he said aloud, even though he knew he was alone. A genuine smile spread across his face as he lowered the lightsaber and blaster. "You did it."
The Yellow Lion moved gracefully, its enormous head tilting as if greeting Lance from afar. That moment of connection felt deeper than words could express, and Lance felt a wave of pride for Hunk. He knew his friend had found his place.
Without wasting any time, Lance activated the internal communication of the Blue Lion. Lapiz responded with a soft vibration in its controls, as if awaiting an order. Lance smiled, feeling the familiar bond with his battle companion.
"Good job, Hunk," Lance said, his voice carrying a tone of camaraderie. "Mission complete. Everything's taken care of here. Let's go up and meet the rest of the team."
Lapiz rose into the air, and Lance felt the acceleration as they both moved out of the planet's atmosphere. The Yellow Lion continued its graceful dance in the sky, remaining steady beside them, its golden glow like a beacon of success.
Without wasting time, Lance activated the internal communication with Lapiz. "Lion Castle, do you copy?" he spoke, his voice clear and confident. The connection was quickly established, and the reply came shortly after.
"We hear you, Lance. Good mission," Allura said, her voice soft and relieved. "We've got the Yellow Lion, we're ready to leave. A portal will be opened for you."
Lance smiled at Lapiz, the trust between them unwavering. "We're ready, Allura. We'll enter the portal."
With Allura's confirmation, the vortex appeared ahead, lighting up the sky. The lions began their ascent toward the portal, ready to cross.
"It's time to go home," Lance said with a determined smile as the two Lions entered the portal and disappeared into space, successfully completing the mission.