Title: Mardi Gras - Arus Style

"You just had to tell Allura about Mardi Gras, didn't you Hunk?" Lance groaned as he put down his book. He was leaned up against Keith on the couch who was also trying to relax and read a book.

Hunk shrugged helplessly, Pidge and Sven standing behind him. "Not my fault she happened to walk in while Sven, Pidge, and I were talking about the fun we had in New Orleans. Now she wants a masquerade party."

"At least with a masquerade party it'll be easier to hid from her. She can't pull a line about how I am suppose to escort her to these kind of things." Keith commented without looking up from his book.

Lance snorted. "She is going to try though. I'd be surprised if she didn't."

"But I can get out of it because of the masks. Nobody is suppose to know who is who." Keith said.

"So she'll try to peak behind every mask until she finds you." Pidge said.

"She most certainly will. And then this party will be like all the others." Lance rolled his eyes, before mumbling quietly to himself. "I probably better not even bother coming."

"And faking sick don't work on her." Keith sighed.

"Yeah you fake sick and she shows up with chicken noodle soup for you. Any of the rest of us could be dying from the plague and she wouldn't even care." Pidge said.

Sven chuckled softly. "And remember the time you twisted your ankle." Keith turned bright red, causing the others to burst out laughing. Lance just growled, sticking his nose in his book as he tried to practically bury himself between Keith and the couch.

"I still refuse to talk about that." Keith said.

"No need to since everyone already knows!" Lance mumbled, cursing under his breath. "Got to give her credit...she is persistent! And denser than..." He left it unfinished.

Hunk shook his head. "Well, the idea is to wear masks and elaborate costumes. They can be anything from historical characters to whatever you dream up! It actually sounds like fun!"

Pidge nodded in agreement. "It could be lots of fun. Not quite Mardi Gras but fun none the less."

"My idea of fun would be not having to be there." Keith said.

"Well, the party is going to be mandatory...especially since the public is invited too." Sven sighed. "So all of us have to be there for security purposes. Tough luck Keith."

"Oh joy." Keith said, his voice full of sarcasm. "I hate parties. Especially the big ones Allura always throws."

"Oh? Do you mean the party, or the fact she attaches herself to you?" Pidge snickered. Lance, somehow, managed to bury himself even deeper into the couch.

"Both." Keith replied. "I don't like parties, at least with a batch of people I don't even know. Small parties with just my friends is my idea of a good party."

"Well, this time you can let go a little." Hunk grinned before smirking at Sven. "Since no one is suppose to know who is who, there are no expectations to uphold. It'll be nice to unwind for a change and not have to worry about getting into trouble!"

"Now I really don't want to go to this party." Keith sighed exhaustedly.

Sven coughed, though his cheeks were slightly red. "Well, there seems to be no way out of it. And no one is allowed to know the other's costume. Adds some mystery to the ball as Allura put it."

"I'll be there but only because I have to be." Keith said.

"Great!" Pidge grinned. Then he glanced at Lance. "You have to be there too, you know."

"That's right Lancey boy. If I have to suffer through it, everyone else has to too." Keith said with a grin.

Lance growled from inside his book. "I'll be there."

Hunk nodded. "Well, now that that is settled I need to go figure out what I'm going to wear. And remember guys, don't show anyone your costume."

"Right, right, right." Lance mumbled. "Now get out of here."

"Yes sir!" Pidge laughed, saluting before sprinting out of the room. Hunk and Sven calmly followed him.

"I think they deliberately let her overhear them talking to get this party." Keith said.

"I think so too." Lance sighed, putting down his book again. "I bet Pidge planned it all too. He has wanted to get back at you for beating him in chess. I think Sven and Hunk are still mad about getting in trouble over the closet incident."

"So I have to start thinking of a way to pay them back for this party… since Pidge is a sore loser and Sven and Hunk are hedonists." Keith said.

Lance laughed softly, casually resting his head on Keith's shoulder. "Definitely! That party is going to be hell!"

"At least I won't be suffering alone, so once it's over I'll have help seeking revenge." Keith smiled.

"You got that right!" Lance smiled before sighing. "I wonder how long it will take for her to find you this time?"

Keith frowned. "Hopefully never. I plan on making sure she doesn't find me. Maybe I should go as the invisible man."

"Now that would be interesting. Though I wouldn't be able to find you either." Lance chuckled softly. "Might be better that I don't. When she can't find you, she will definitely look for me to see if I know where you are!"

"So use the same disguise, that way we can both hide." Keith said.

Lance shook his head in amusement. "Unfortunately, invisibility is not quite possible yet."

"Sure it is." Keith said seriously. "We don't show up to the party and then say what we were there. That'd make us invisible." He chuckled.

"Sounds like a good plan." Lance laughed. "But I'm sure she would still find you. She is like a fricking magnet when it comes to you! Not that I blame her..."

"Oh gee thanks. Just what I needed to hear...that she has reason to cling. She is worse then a leech."

Lance smirked. "I'm just saying that she has very good taste!"

Keith blushed darkly. "You mean better me then you."

"That too." Lance laughed, coughing slightly. "But she knows a good thing when she sees it. You would be a great catch for anyone."

Keith chuckled. "But this fish won't be caught by any fisherman that it'll ever stay with."

"Going to be a bachelor for life, huh?" Lance shook his head, picking up his book. "Don't worry Keith. Allura may not be your type, but there are other girls out there who would love to be with you."

"And none I want to be with." Keith said as he stood up. "Well I'm going to see what I can find to wear to this party so I'll talk to you later." Keith said as he headed for the door carrying his book.

"Okay. Good luck finding something to escape Allura!" Lance smiled, waving at his best friend. "You're going to need it!"

"I'll need more then luck." Keith said before exiting the room.

Sighing, Lance turned back to his book. He mumbled quietly. "Damn, I wish I didn't have to go! Mainly because I can't stand seeing her with you, buddy!"

########################################################################

The day of the Arus Mardi Gras party arrived quickly and the grand ballroom was transformed with a look that could rival any of the fanciest New Orleans parties. Shimmering balls and stars of many colors hung down from the rafters. Colored lights shimmered and flashed. In the center of the ballroom hung one of the largest disco balls ever seen. The whole room was alive with color.

And of course, Mardi Gras just isn't Mardi Gras without the liquor and tasty food. There was a full bar where a guest could order any drink imaginable. Delicious entrees, delectable deserts, and scrumptious finger foods covered several tables. The Princess of Arus spared no expense.

Allura was the first to arrive at her party. She had a pair of iridescent butterfly wings on the back of her shimmering pearl pink dress. Her mask was made to look like a pink and silver butterfly. Her hair was piled on the top of her head with the long lock curled slightly and cascading down around her face. She smiled happily as she looked around at the party preparations, knowing the guests would soon begin to arrive. She doubted that she would have any trouble finding Keith and having him as her dance partner for the whole night.

It wasn't long before people began to pour into the room. Everyone was dress in costume. Some were as Arusian heroes, while others as their foes. Many were dressed based on Arusian myths and legends. And then there were those who just made up their costume. However, everyone had a mask of some sort; some were elaborate feather masks, while others were decorated clay masks. Every mask hid a person's true face, allowing that person to be his or her true self, or whatever he or she dreamed of being.

A man dressed all in black, with a long flowing coat made his way smoothly through the crowds. His crow mask fit his face like a second skin, painted white with short vertical lines from the center of black ringed eyes, his lips black with short horizontal lines going out from the edges of his mouth. He practically slid up behind a larger man who was standing by the food table.

The larger man was wearing brown slacks and a long sleeved velvet brown shirt. The eyes behind the brown cat mask were hungrily eyeing all the wonderful food on the table. This kitty almost hit the roof when someone wrapped his or her arms around his waist! Turning quickly, he relaxed seeing familiar eyes behind the crow. "Damnit Sven!" Hunk whispered quietly. "You nearly scared off all my nine lives!"

"So for once a bird got the jump on a cat." Sven grinned.

"Well, the bird can jump on this cat anytime." Hunk smirked as he pulled Sven closer. "Love your costume."

"Thanks love. Your costume is purr-fect." Sven said his hand stroking Hunk's back.

Hunk opened his mouth to reply, but was interrupted by a 'Hi Hunk, Hi Sven' from behind them. Sven and Hunk turned to see a smaller man grinning up at them. He was wearing green slacks and an emerald green silk shirt. His mask was covered with fake leaves of various colors. The Green Man smirked at them. "It is always easy to find you two."

"Well you are always easy to find yourself, pipsqueak." Sven said.

Pidge snorted. "Not my fault children are not allowed to these parties. It would be easier for me to hide!"

"You'd still stand out." Sven said. "The only two of us that don't stand out is Keith and Lance."

"Since you two are always together, anyone could find you!" Pidge chuckled. "But I haven't found Keith or Lance yet. I wonder if they chickened out and decided not to come."

"That's probably the case. Especially considering how much Keith was dreading this party." Sven said.

Hunk rolled his eyes. "Well, can you blame Keith? Allura is already searching the crowds for him! Not sure why Lance didn't want to come though..."

"Who knows with that fly boy." Sven said.

"So..." Pidge rocked on his heels. "Anyone want to make a bet on who finds Lance or Keith first?"

"If they are even here… I'd say Allura would find Keith first." Sven said.

Pidge snorted. "No contest there! I don't know how she does it! So, who is for finding fly boy first?"

"Probably you since we'll be too busy to worry about finding him." Sven said.

Even through his mask, everyone could see Hunk blushing. Pidge rolled his eyes. "Whatever. Just try not to get too crazy tonight. After all, we are supposed to be the security."

"Don't worry, we'll save most of the partying for after this is over." Sven grinned.

Pidge shook his head as Hunk pulled the crow closer to him. Before things could go any further though, a frustrated butterfly interrupted them. Allura glanced at the three of them before gritting her teeth. "Damn! None of you are Keith! Have you seen him?"

"No. But he has to be here somewhere." Sven said.

"Argh!" Allura growled before storming off. Hunk blinked, his mouth wide opened. "Um...maybe Allura won't find Keith this time. It is taking her longer than usual."

"If she can't find him, he isn't here. I wouldn't be to surprised if Keith skipped out on us." Sven said.

Pidge shrugged. "Maybe. I'm going to try to find Lance. He might know whether or not Keith bailed."

"Good luck." Sven said.

Pidge waved before disappearing into the crowd. Hunk grinned as he leaned down and whispered in Sven's ear. "So...where were we?"

"Some where about here…" Sven said wrapping himself around Hunk.

Again they were interrupted as several people came over to the table looking for refreshments. A man that was dressed completely in black - black jeans, a black turtle neck, a soft black suede jacket - wearing a raven mask with up-spread wings, and his long black hair sleeked back and pulled into a tight ponytail, bumped into the cozy couple. "Sorry about that." The man apologized in a slightly deep voice. "Crowded place, but you gotta love these parties."

"Yeah, but I can't wait until it's over." Hunk sighed. "Right now I would prefer some privacy!"

"Oh." The man said. "Well good luck finding it. And sorry again about bumping into you like that." He said as poured himself a glass of punch.

Sven chuckled softly. "It's okay. Kitty is just horny and wants some sympathy. But he knows he is getting nothing until after the party."

"So why don't you skip the party and go get it on."

Hunk sighed melodramatically. "Duty calls. We are just a couple of workaholics."

"Oh. So you work here. You both guards or something?"

Hunk grunted when Sven elbowed him hard in the gut. Sven shook his head. "Can't tell you. It would ruin the mystery of the party."

"That's cool anyways. Well it's been nice talking to you both but I'm gonna go enjoy this party while it lasts." The man walked back out onto the dance floor, dancing to the steady rhythm of the music with the first person he could find to dance with.

Hunk watched the man leave before glancing down at Sven. "You know him?"

"Nope. Probably just someone here from one of the villages looking to have a good time." Sven said.

"Probably." Hunk watched the guy for a moment longer. "Friendly guy though."

"Yup. But right now I'd rather be friendly with you." Sven said.

Hunk grinned wickedly. "Well, I know where there is a nice dark, secluded corner where we can get pretty friendly."

"Lead the way, pussycat." Sven said.

##########

Near one of the ballroom windows, a lanky young man was leaned up against one of the walls watching the party. His black slacks fit loosely around his legs, matching the baggy midnight blue poet shirt. Even the cross-laced neck was lazily tied. His face was covered with a soft, blue feathered mask. His image was very pleasant and attractive...several guests would pause and eye him over. But he was too bored to notice. Yawning, Lance mumbled to himself. "Why am I putting myself through this again?"

The man dressed as a raven stepped over in front of the young man. "You are aware this is a party, aren't you?"

Lance shrugged. "Yeah. Guess I'm not in much of a partying mood right now."

"Maybe you would be in more of a party mood if you danced at least once."

"Maybe." Lance smiled slightly. "But I'm not much of a dancer either."

"I'm sure you are a fine dancer." He quickly grabbed Lance's hand and pulled him onto the dance floor.

"Hey!" Lance yelped, stumbling after the stranger. He would have landed flat on his face if the raven hadn't caught him! Lance blushed slightly when he looked up and saw how close they were. "Uh...you were saying?"

"That was my fault." The raven said, giving Lance an apologetic grin as they began to dance. "See you're a fine dancer."

Smiling, Lance shook his head as he moved to the fast music. "I guess. But you just have to keep up with the beat for this...and anything goes. Slow music is what kills me!"

"If you can't lead, follow. That way you don't have to worry about anything, just let your partner guide you." The raven said, and even though it was a fast song, he pulled Lance into a position for slow songs.

"Uh..." Lance stared wide-eyed at the stranger. "Um...this isn't a slow song."

"Not going to wait for a slow song to be able to dance with you like this." The raven said, guiding Lance across the floor in a gracefully slow dance, moving to a slower rhythm that only he could hear.

"Uh...okay." Deciding to just go with the flow, Lance relaxed and let the raven lead him in the dance. And people thought he was a flirt!

"See, there's nothing hard about slow dancing when you have the right partner."

"I guess so, though it would help if I could hear the same music." Lance laughed. This guy seemed so familiar! Resting his head on the man's shoulder, he couldn't help but notice that the scent was familiar. But from where? Whoever this raven was, he was definitely a good dancer.

"Maybe we'll get lucky and there will actually be a slow song played tonight." The raven said. "As long as you think dancing is more fun then being a wallflower, we will keep dancing."

Laughing, Lance lifted his head up and smiled at the man. "Alright, alright. I'll admit it. This is more fun than watching!"

"So then we dance my beautiful stranger."

"You sir, are nothing but a flatterer." Lance shook his head in amusement. "I'm not beautiful. The mask just does well in covering that up."

"From what I can see you are beautiful." The raven said, tracing one finger along Lance's jaw and briefly over Lance's lips. "And you have one hell of a great body." He slid his other hand down Lance's side and briefly over Lance's butt before wrapping his arms around Lance.

Lance was shocked speechless! Who was this guy? Lance was never this direct in his flirting! Was he? Before Lance could say anything, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned his head and came face to face with an angry pink butterfly. "Ally?"

"Where is he?" Allura demanded.

Lance blinked. "Where is who?"

"Keith." Allura said, her hands on her hips. She was tapping her foot impatiently as she waited for an answer.

"Who's that?" The raven asked, but Allura dismissed the villager's question with an annoyed look.

"Why are you asking me that?" Lance rolled his eyes. "How am I supposed to know where he is? This is a masquerade, remember. I'm not supposed to recognize anybody!"

"Because you always seem to know where he is." Allura said angrily.

"Nobody is supposed to know who anyone else is so how is he suppose to know where this guy is." The raven said calmly. "And honey if you can't find him maybe he don't want to be found."

Lance bit his lip to keep from laughing out loud at Allura's shocked face. Oh how many times had he wanted to say that? Lance lost count. He shook his head. "Ally, I honestly don't know where Keith is. You can't expect him to be with you for every party. Give the guy a break."

"He should be with me. He should be the one coming to me." Allura stormed off angrily.

"She's a bitch. I can see why… what's his name is hiding from her."

"Actually, Ally is not that bad...most of the time. When it comes to Keith though, she has a one track mind." Lance chuckled slightly. "I can't blame Keith for hiding. At least at this party he has a chance to spend time with other people."

"Are they married or something?"

"Hell no!" Shocked, Lance pulled back slightly. "Keith's not into Allura that way. And if he ever did think about it, the others and I would definitely knock some sense back into him!"

"Sorry. It's just the way she talked it was like the two of them are married. You and what others? If everyone you know is as… interesting as her you must lead one hell of a life."

"I guess you could say that." Lance chuckled, unconsciously dancing in step to an actual slow song as the raven lead him around the dance floor. "My life's interesting...to say the least."

"Well life is anything but dull around here. All those attacks by Doom really keep life from being too boring."

"I know. I wish we could do more for all of you." Lance said quietly.

The raven was quiet for a moment. "So… you're one of the pilots?"

"Huh?" Lance jerked out of whatever world he fell into. He chuckled softly. "You know I'm not suppose to answer that."

"Can't blame a guy for trying." The raven grinned.

"Watch it buddy." Lance smirked. "Or else I'll start paying attention to my dancing. You will end up with sore feet for sure!"

"Well, I am wearing steel-toed boots so I won't feel a thing if you step on them." The raven grinned. "Though I'd love to have you on me."

Lance's hazel eyes widened. What was this guy on? "Uh...maybe some other time."

The raven chuckled. "It only sounds dirty if your mind wants to take it that way."

"Good point." Lance was beet red, even with the mask he was sure his dance partner could see it! "Oh boy...I'm on a roll tonight. Probably should have stayed as a wallflower."

"Okay now that one is just too easy so I won't even comment."

Lance somehow managed to turn redder, stumbling slightly in his dancing. "Thanks. I think I will just keep my mouth shut for now on!"

"Tell you what, I will cut you a break, temporarily, and get us something to drink." The raven laughed.

"Sounds great. Thanks." Lance let out a sigh of relief. "Though something tells me it won't help me get my foot out of my mouth!"

"I won't comment on that one either." The raven laughed before stepping away to get them both a glass of punch.

Lance shook his head as he watched the raven weave through the crowd. Nice man, but he could never be.... Lance shook his head, pushing the thought back. It was never going to happen, no matter how much he would want it to.

A few minutes later a slightly more subdued Raven stepped back over and handed Lance one of the glasses of punch. "I had to guess what kind you'd like. Hope you don't mind the tropical punch kind."

"Thanks. It will be just fine." Lance grinned as he took a sip. His friend seemed distracted for some reason. "Is something wrong?"

"Nah, it's nothing." The raven said as he sipped his punch.

"Okay." Lance was quiet for a moment. "So, is it safe to ask why you decided to come to this party?"

"It's party, so my reason is as simple as that."

Lance couldn't help but laugh. "Ask a silly question, get a silly answer. I really stepped into that one!" Before anything else could be said loud alarms echoed through the room.

"Figures." Lance grumbled before smiling at the Raven. "It is probably a false alarm. I'll go check."

The raven nodded and watched as Lance ran out of the room after the two men he had talked...actually bumped...into earlier that night and a very small person. Several other guests, including the raven, mingled after the four men to see if they could do anything to help.

Allura was pacing the control room glaring at Lance who was the last to enter the room. Lance stopped short at Allura's pissed expression, not to mention the pissed expressions of Sven, Hunk, and Pidge. "What? I didn't set off the alarm!"

"WHERE THE HELL IS KEITH!" Allura yelled. She was so mad that if she were a cartoon smoke would be rolling off from the top of her head.

Blinking, Lance just stared open mouthed at Allura. Then the proverbial light bulb went off. Lance growled at Allura. "Tell me you fucking didn't do what I think you did!"

Allura just glared at Lance. "Keith should've came here when the alarm was sounded so WHERE IS HE?"

"Of all the idiotic..." Lance got right in Allura's face. The others just watched from a distance...they were all pissed at Allura's stunt, but they were not brave enough to confront her about it. Or crazy enough... Lance growled. "What the fucking hell were you thinking? Set off an alarm, scare the guests, create a disturbance...all for what? TO FIND KEITH!"

"He should be here. It could've been a real alarm. So where is he? He skipped the party." Allura pouted looking like she was going to cry.

Lance looked like he was about to explode. "Oh, I am sure he is at the party. How much are you willing to bet that he somehow found out about your little stunt? I'm sure he is really impressed with you, Allura!"

"He'd be here if he was at the party, but he wasn't and that's why I can't find him. So we are all going to go look for him." Allura said.

"No, we are fucking not!" Lance yelled. "You just can't stand the thought that he doesn't want to be with you!"

"YES WE ARE!" Allura yelled. "If you don't, I will see to it that you NEVER fly again. The lions are mine and I can keep you grounded permanently."

"Oh really?" Flames were practically dancing in Lance's eyes, his voice a deadly calm. "There is more than one way to fly. I will be more than happy to show you!"

"If you touch me I will have you imprisoned for the rest of your life." Allura said.

"Imprisonment would be better than letting some idiotic, dimwitted princess mess with my best friend's privacy!" Lance yelled. "Why can't you leave the poor guy alone?"

Sven stepped over and placed a hand on Lance's shoulder. "Drop it before you get yourself into even more trouble. You really do need some fresh air. So we all will go and see if we can find Keith."

Lance shrugged Sven's hand off. "Fine! I'll go look for him. But I'm sure not going to tell Princess Bratty if I do! She needs her ass kicked!"

"We're all going to look for him." Sven said.

Pidge snorted. "And where would we look? When Keith doesn't want to be found, he is not going to be found!"

"If we can't find him after an hour we stop looking and wait until morning. He'll show up by then no doubt." Sven said.

"Alright." Lance growled before glaring at Allura again. "If you ever, EVER pull this stunt again, I swear you will not be able to hide behind your stupid title or guards!"

"Give it up Lance." Sven said as he ushered Lance towards the door.

Allura went out first telling the guests that things were okay and there was no need for alarm. Sven and Hunk paired off for the search, Pidge left with a newfound friend, and Allura ordered two guards to assist her. As the guests began to go back towards the ballroom, one off them stepped over to Lance.

"What seems to be the trouble?" The raven asked.

Lance growled. "The bitch is overstepping her rank! And just asking for discipline! Oh how I would love to put her through boot camp!"

The raven chuckled. "So what was the none emergency alarm all about? Do you need any help with anything?"

"She can't find Keith, so she decided to set off the alarm to get him to come out!" Lance said through gritted teeth. "So now we are suppose to find him! Ha! Even if I did find him, I sure the hell wouldn't tell her! Threaten me will she..." Fortunately, the rest of his rant was too quiet for anyone to hear.

"So, she's just a little obsessed I take it."

"That's an understatement." Lance snorted. "I'm going to have so much fun getting back at her!"

"Oh. Well if you want help looking for your friend I can help you look, unless of course it's only her that wants to find him and not you." The raven said.

"Oh, I would like to find him too...just to check up on him. He usually gives me some clue to what he is doing. But I don't want to invade on his privacy. This is his one chance to get away from Allura, and I don't want to accidentally lead Allura to him." Lance smiled. "You don't have to help me though. You came here to party, not play hide-and-go-seek."

"Hide-and-seek can be a very fun game." The raven grinned.

"Okay." Lance laughed. "You can help. I'm supposed to go look out by the lake. The others are searching the castle, the party, or the grounds. Though I seriously doubt the other guys are searching very hard."

"Means you don't have to look very hard either. Besides you wanted an excuse to escape the party." The raven grabbed Lance's hand and pulled him out the nearest exit.

"Hey!" Lance laughed, stumbling after the man.

##########

It didn't take very long to reach the lake. The sun was just setting, casting a beautiful assortment of colors against the clouds that also reflected off of the lake surface. A gentle and soothing breeze blew through the surrounding forest. Everything was so peaceful and calm

Lance smiled as he took in the scenery. "Well, I don't see Keith, but I wish he was here. He would love this! It's so beautiful!"

"I could see why. Anyone would enjoy a beautiful sunset like this."

"Yeah." Lance chuckled softly. "Well, anyone but Allura that is. There is not enough pink in the sky!"

"You really don't care much for her, do you? Or is all this anger something more akin to love, and you're jealous that she wants your friend and not you?"

"WHAT?" Lance stared at the raven like he had three heads or something. "Me and Allura? Now that's just gross! She is only a sister to me...an annoying one, but a sister none the less."

"Well they say about how those who fight the way you two seem to can become lovers." The raven said and chuckled.

"Well it is never going to happen." Lance snorted as he stared out across the lake. "I could never love someone who would even threaten to take away my flying!"

"Flying must be very important to you." The raven said.

"It is." Lance smiled as his gaze shifted to the clouds. "Being able to soar among the stars...there is just nothing like it."

"Better then sex, right?"

Lance quickly jerked out of his daydream. He looked at the raven and laughed slightly. "That, I'm afraid, I couldn't tell you."

"I find it a little surprising that someone like you hasn't been with anyone, let alone be unhooked by now."

"Yeah, well..." Lance coughed slightly. "I don't just take any bait that is thrown my way. Not that anyone has ever tried..."

"You look too fine for nobody to have ever tried to make you the catch of the day."

What was the deal with fishing? Shrugging, Lance walked over to sit on a large rock near the lake. "I don't do one night stands. And that is all that has ever been thrown my way."

"Oh." The raven said casually as he started to walk along the boulders that lined the edge of the lake. "Do you even want to be caught or is your spirit too wild to ever be tamed?"

"Both. I would like to be caught someday, but I don't want him to try and tame me. I won't be caged." Lance laughed softly. "But I wouldn't mind a leash too much."

"So you already got a guy picked out or is it just an in general 'him'?"

"What is this? Twenty questions?" Lance shook his head in amusement. "I don't even know you and here I am telling you all this stuff."

"Then no more questions. We can stay in silence and enjoy the sunset, or I could leave you here to find peace."

"Take it easy there, buddy." Lance laughed. "I'm not mad about the questions. It is just funny that I am telling a complete stranger these things!"

"I won't ask you anymore questions. You are right, I am stranger and such things are none of my business."

Lance rolled his eyes. "You don't listen very well. I said I don't mind." He pulled his legs up to his chest, wrapping his arms round them as he rested in chin on his knees. "There is a guy I really like, but he is not interested in guys or girls."

"How could he not be interested in any of the above? Everyone swings one way or another… unless they are very strange and swing in a totally different direction that I don't even want to know what way to call it." The raven laughed.

Lance laughed. "Well, his work is important to him. It's a dream come true. He doesn't have time for any relationships." He rubbed his face behind his mask. "Look. This thing is driving me nuts, so I'm going to take it off. You are under no obligation to take yours off. You've probably figured out who I am anyway."

"I prefer to leave mine on." The raven said. "This party is about anonymity of one's identity."

"No problem. The party is just over for me." Mask gone, Lance sighed as the breeze gently blew across his face, brushing his hair back. "It was getting hot. Don't get me wrong, I loved dancing with you. But I think I'll stay out here rather than go back inside. I seriously doubt Allura has found Keith, and I know my temper will get me in big trouble if I see her."

"It's nice outside so I'll keep you company a little longer if you don't mind."

"Not at all." Lance smiled. "But don't feel that you have to."

"If I didn't want to I wouldn't have offered to help you search for your friend in the first place. I'd been gone long ago."

Lance laughed, absently brushing some hair behind his ear. "Good point."

The raven bent down and picked up a smooth stone skipping it across the surface of the water. "Do you like it here? On Arus I mean."

"Yes. It is very beautiful here." Lance stared out over the water. "It has both magic and science...very few planets still have both."

"True." The raven said, looking for another stone to skip across the water but none seemed to be smooth enough to skip properly.

"That, and I get to fly a lot." Lance laughed.

The raven gave up trying to find a stone and stared across the water. "It's good that you like it despite everything."

"Despite everything? What do you mean?"

"The war. Constant battles… both on and off the battlefield."

"Well, I've always been accused of being an annoying optimist." Lance chuckled softly. "I can usually find something good out of everything...even if no one else gets it!"

The raven laughed. "That's good that you're able to remain an optimist."

"Annoys the hell out of the others!" Lance grinned cheekily. "That and when I do my own thing. Personally, I'm not sure which annoys the guys more..."

"What else do you think annoys them?"

"Hmm...probably my temper. The way I speak my mind and my lack of respect for authority...especially with royalty." Lance shrugged. "Don't get me wrong...Allura is a good kid. But she has more growing up to do before she gets my respect."

"Sounds like you think your life is perfect just the way it is." The raven said.

Lance laughed. "Oh, I wouldn't say that. No one's life is perfect. And I always love a challenge."

"I never said you were perfect. I just meant you sound like you like your life just the way it is."

"It's life. I just take life one day at a time. I think that annoys the others the most." Lance sighed as he rested his chin on his knees again. "But with all that is going on with Doom, that is all I really have. Thinking about the future scares me...especially when I don't really know how much time I have left."

"Living life by each day is the best you can do, no matter what your life is like. Nobody ever knows how much time they have left." The raven said.

"Glad to see that someone at least slightly agrees with me!" Lance laughed. "So, what about you? You now know too much about me. Frankly, I'm surprised you haven't split yet! I know you can't tell me your name, but you could tell me a little about yourself."

"There's not much to tell. But pick a topic and I'll answer your questions."

Lance thought for a moment. "Well, why aren't you hooked yet? You are a great dancer, and definitely a charmer. So why aren't you married yet?"

"Because those three little words always spell doom for any relationship I have ever thought to be true… which is all of them. So now I am not sure if I even want to take the chance. Not when those three words cost so much."

"Hey, don't give up just because you had some bad ones." Lance frowned. "Sometimes it takes many bad ones before you find the right one. But once you do, it will make you appreciate it more and less likely to take it for granted." He blinked for a moment before bursting out laughing. "Hell! I just sounded like my father! Scary!"

The raven chuckled. "Unfortunately the only person I could say them to would cost too much if I was wrong."

"Why do you say that? Have you ever tried?"

"If I had I wouldn't be here tonight. I'd be with him or… suffering the consequences."

Lance smiled. "So, why are you afraid? I seriously doubt that whoever it is would kill you."

"No, he wouldn't but telling him would ruin my life…and his. There's too many factors to consider to just tell him." The raven said.

"I'm afraid I don't understand. How would asking ruin his life? It might make things uncomfortable if he didn't return your feelings, especially if you two work together. But even that would probably go away with time. It wouldn't ruin his life...or yours. At least you would know and would be able to move on."

"It's just better if I don't. I have a bad track record when it comes to relationships and even if he does return the feelings, I could easily mess things up and end up hurting him."

Lance snorted. "Sounds like you need a confident boost! It takes two to mess up a relationship...just as it takes two to keep it going. I have had some bad ones too, but they were the fault of both my partner and me."

"I have plenty of confidence… except when it comes to relationships."

"Then let me rephrase it...you need a relationship confidence boost!" Lance shook his head. "I may not be with anyone right now, but I haven't given up on love. I won't deny that any relationship with me is not easy. I can be very emotional and unpredictable at times. I know that bothers a lot of people. But that is me, and I can't do anything about it. I'm willing to try and tame it, but my partner needs to be willing to put up with it when it comes out."

"Well that's good for you and I hope you find your perfect partner, but I am not willing to take a chance. I'd rather die alone then to have a failed relationship with him or have him laugh in my face." The raven said.

"I'm sorry if I upset you. I know what works for me doesn't work for others, but as I said I speak my mind. It gets me in trouble...a lot!" Lance laughed slightly. "Since I don't know what type of relationships you have had, I have no right offering suggestions. However, I do sincerely hope that you find the one for you someday. And I wish you the best of luck."

"Look maybe it would be for the best if I left you here alone."

"Maybe...especially since I've upset you." Lance smiled. "But seriously, I had a great time. And I really appreciate you talking with me. It has been a long time since I have talked to anyone about these things. Sorry if I bored you."

"You didn't upset me, just made me see coming to this party was a mistake. And you are anything but boring."

Lance laughed. "I am not sure if I should take that as a complement or not. But before you go, tell me...why was coming to this party a mistake? I didn't mean to ruin your party mood."

The raven chuckled. "It's rather complicated and takes too much explaining of things I don't want to tell."

"I understand that. I didn't tell you everything either." Lance grinned. "Well, I'm going to stay here. I think Allura may still be pissed at me, and I don't want to do anything that might put me in prison."

"Some things are better left unsaid." The raven said as he took a few steps away. "Don't stay out here too late. It gets cold at night and you don't want to get sick or anything."

Lance laughed. "You sound like Keith! Don't worry, I'll be fine. You better get back to the party. And thanks for a fun time. You kept it from getting boring."

The raven chuckled. "I'm not going back to the party. Won't be much fun without my dance partner."

"A charmer like you? You will easily find another dance partner." Lance grinned. "Probably one that is more fun and not as moody as me!"

"Don't want a new dancer partner. Dancing with you was definitely the high point of this evening. Thank you for the dances." The raven said.

"You're welcome. Sorry it couldn't be more. But my pointless crush on one of my friends kinda puts a damper on any possible relationships right now." Lance smiled slightly before gazing up at the sky. The sun had fully set a while ago, and now the stars were starting to appear. "You better get going. I know this area, but you probably don't. I wouldn't want you getting lost."

"No worries about that." The raven said, stepping further into the shadows. "'Til next time…" He removed his mask and tossed it to Lance before turning to leave. "Keep that as a reminder."

Smiling, Lance got up and stepped over to pick it up. "Thanks. Not that I need a reminder. Take care."

The raven said nothing further as he vanished into the shadows.

Lance smiled sadly at the direction his friend had gone before staring back up into the night sky. "I'm sorry." He mumbled quietly. "But I'm in love with someone else. Even if he doesn't return it."

##########

The raven stood in the shadows watching Lance. "I'm sorry Lance…I just can't bring myself to take the chance of telling you that I love you." Keith sighed. He now wished he hadn't tried so hard to hide his identity from everyone and just suffered through dancing with Allura for the night. He pushed the neck of his turtleneck down and undid a small strap at the back of his neck. He removed the voice synthesizer that he'd used to disguise his voice and stuff it into the pocket of his jacket.

##########

Lance sighed as he laid down on the ground to stare up at the sky. It was so beautiful. As much as he wanted to just soar among them and leave his problems behind, he knew he couldn't. They would just follow him and be a hundred times worse. 'Why can't I just get over him! I've flirted with him...I've left lots of hints. What more can I do? I can't do anymore without embarrassing him.' Lance sighed as he blinked back the tears. 'Face it Lancer. Keith is not interested or else he would have said something. He is not stupid or blind. He just doesn't want to embarrass or hurt you.'

There was no telling how long Lance stayed out there, thinking and trying to get lost in the stars. He would have stayed out all night, but his thin shirt was not providing enough warmth. He had forgotten how cold the nights could be. Shivering, Lance finally got up and headed back for the castle. The last thing he needed was the guys lecturing him about staying out all night without a coat and getting sick.

##########

As Lance came along the path, Keith took a step back deeper into the shadows. He groaned mentally as he stepped on a stick that snapped loudly under his weight.

"Who's there?" Lance immediately fell into a defensive stance, his senses on alert. 'Duh! Like the enemy would answer me...'

"Relax Lance, it's just me." Keith said but he stayed in the shadows.

Lance sighed in relief, relaxing his posture. "Keith? For Pete's sake, don't do that! You nearly gave me a heart attack!"

"Yeah well what can I say. The stick must have jumped under my foot."

"Cute. Real cute, skipper." Lance chuckled. "What are you doing out here? I'm sure Allura has given up searching for you...maybe...if you are lucky...really lucky."

"Considering she hasn't found me yet I'd say I'm quite lucky." Keith said. "Or just know how to hide."

"Well, you did a great job! Even I couldn't find you!" Lance shook his head before shivering again. "So...you going to stay out here all night?"

"Maybe. I haven't decided yet. You're probably quite cold considering you aren't wearing a jacket so go ahead and go inside without me." Keith said.

"I'm sure the party is over by now, so it should be safe." Lance chuckled. "I'm fine. You want some company?"

"Now's not really a good time." Keith said. It wouldn't take a genius to tell Keith had been the raven based on the clothes he was wearing.

Lance frowned, worried. "Okay. Is everything okay?"

"Everything's fine, don't worry."

"If you say so...if you want to talk later, just let me know." Knowing Keith only talked when he was ready, Lance started to walk away, but he stopped and turned back to where the voice came from. "You promise to come in soon?"

"Yeah, I promise." Keith said. "And Lance…"

"Yeah?"

"Don't take it personally that I don't want to talk with you right now…I don't want to talk to anyone right now. Just have a lot of things on my mind that I have to figure out before facing anyone." Keith said.

Lance smiled, though Keith probably couldn't see it. "I understand. No problem. Night buddy!" Waving, Lance quickly walked back to the castle.

"Goodnight Lance." Keith said as he watched Lance walk back towards the castle.

##########

Almost half an hour past before Keith headed towards the castle, staying within the shadows at all times until he slipped quietly into his room unnoticed.

"Hey." A familiar voice in the pitch darkness stopped Keith in his tracks, just as he was about to turn on the lights. "You okay skipper?"

"Wh-what are you doing in here?" Keith asked, his voice sounded nervous like a child caught with their hand in the cookie jar.

Lance laughed softly in the darkness. "Take it easy. You seemed upset so I just wanted to see if everything was okay. That and I wanted to make sure that you got in before morning. After all, we have lion practice in the morning...though I'm not sure everyone will be in top shape!"

"Like I said, I just had some things that I had to figure out." Keith said, still not turning on the light, or making any move to throw the switch to bring light to the room.

"Any thing you would like to talk about? If not now, then later?"

"No. It's one of things that are better to just deal with alone." Keith said.

"At least for now." Lance said before yawning and getting up from a chair. He knew Keith well enough to know that to force him to talk would only clam him up further...not to mention get him pissed! Lance walked over and gently squeezed Keith's shoulder. "Well, if you need any help, just let me know. Get some rest skipper."

Keith sighed. "I didn't plan on things turning out like this…never planned on having to face my actions come tomorrow's light…"

Lance's hand squeezed Keith's shoulder tighter. "What are you talking about?"

Reluctantly Keith turned on the lights.

"Why did you do that for?" Lance mumbled, stepping back slightly and rubbing his eyes. When he was finally able to open his eyes, his jaw almost went through the floor! "He...was...you! What's going on?"

"For just one night I wanted to be able to let lose and not have to face things in the morning because nobody would ever know it was me. I really made sure that nobody could tell…" Keith pulled the voice synthesizer out of his pocket and showed it to Lance.

Lance's eyes were wide as he looked back and forth at Keith and the synthesizer. Then he grinned, chuckling softly. "Well, you certainly did a great job! Had me completely fooled! Allura too!" Shaking his head, he lightly patted Keith on the back. "Don't be upset about it. Everyone needs to let lose once in a while. Including you!"

"That's not really the problem…not anymore…not after…"

"What are you talking about?" Lance smiled reassuringly. "Granted, some of the stuff you did I never expected from you, but it clearly fooled everyone. Gave you some peace. I'm just glad you still wanted to spend a little time with me even when you could have done whatever you wanted in that disguise."

"I'm talking about our conversation by the lake." Keith said.

"Oh that!" Lance chuckled. "I probably would have spilled it to you eventually. And I promise not to tell anyone what you told me. I'm glad you opened up to me, though this was the most elaborate and indirect way I have ever seen!"

Keith rubbed the bridge of his nose with his thumb and his forefinger. "Okay…if you want to pretend nothing was ever said…I guess it solves things the easy way with an easy out."

"Why would I want to do that?" Lance asked, confused. "Are you upset that I told a complete 'stranger' those things?" He glanced down at his feet. "I...I would've have told you. For some reason...I don't know why...I just felt like talking about it right then."

"I'm not talking about things you said, I am talking about what I said. I should've just left it all unsaid." Keith said. He gently squeezed Lance's shoulder. "I'm not upset at you. I am upset with myself."

"Hey...don't be upset. I'm glad you told me." Lance smiled sincerely. "I'm sorry you had such a rough time with relationships. I can see why you are distant at times. And as I said, the stuff you asked me, I would have told you anyway, even if you asked me as Keith."

Keith smiled and caressed Lance's cheek for a moment. "You do realize if we continue this conversation things may get very complicated?"

"What are you talking about? I don't under..." Lance's eyes widened as something finally hit him. "Did...did you mean it...when you said I was...was...beautiful?"

"Of course I meant it. I have never lied to you." Keith said.

"Then it wasn't all an act?" Lance blinked. Could Keith really act like that? "Why didn't you ever tell me before?"

"Too afraid to...in fact right now I am beyond terrified telling you it now." Keith said.

Lance smiled brightly as he reached up and cupped his hand over Keith's cheek. "I guess my hints and flirting were not elaborate enough. Must be losing my touch."

"I guess we're both a little slow because…I never caught on to you and you never caught on to me." Keith smiled slightly. "I guess the only question left now is what do we do about it?"

"As I've already told you, I like challenges." Lance's thumb tenderly traced under Keith's eye. "I would like to give it a shot, but only if you wanted to. And I don't mind waiting if you are not ready to try. Just knowing you are interested in me is more than I ever dreamed would happen."

"Every relationship I have ever been in has ended in failure…I don't know if I could handle losing you." Keith said quietly.

Lance shrugged slightly as he lowered his hand. "I can't promise our relationship won't fail. But I can promise that you will never lose my friendship. Just think about it. That's all I ask."

"I just…I want to be with you but I'm afraid what will happen the day you get bored and move on."

"I don't think so." Lance grinned. "You are anything but boring! I have known you for who knows how many years now. You have never bored me, and I seriously doubt you ever will."

Keith leaned his head forward and rested it against Lance's shoulder. He slid his arms around Lance's waist. "Everyone always leaves." He whispered.

Lance wrapped his own arms around Keith, pulling him closer. "I won't. I'll only leave if you ask me to or when my time is up."

Keith was quiet for a moment. "For now just stay with me….Please?"

"Of course. As long as you want me to." Lance whispered before letting out a loud sneeze. Chuckling, he raised one hand to wipe his nose. "Though you may get sick if I stay tonight."

"I don't care." Keith said, raising his head and looking at Lance. "You probably should take a hot shower and get warmed up before you really do get sick."

"I'll be fine." Lance smiled as he hugged Keith tightly. "You're warming me up just fine. And I am not ready to let go yet...afraid I'll wake up."

"If this is a dream I never want to wake up." Keith said. "I know it's asking for a lot but… can we just try this for now? I am not ready to say those words…I guess it's like the old saying, once bitten twice shy…"

"You don't have to explain anything. I understand." Lance whispered softly. "I don't want you to do or say anything you don't truly mean."

"Thank you for understanding." Keith smiled.

"No problem." Lance chuckled then sneezed again. "Um...you wouldn't happen to have a blanket, would you?"

Keith guided Lance over to the bed and pushed the covers back. "Get in."

"Is that an order sir?" Lance teased.

"Yes it is. Now get in." Keith said.

"I can't believe I am actually obeying orders for once." Lance chuckled as he kicked off his boots. "You coming?"

"You better believe it." Keith said as he took off his boots and jeans. He stepped around to the other side of the bed, taking off his jacket and climbing into the bed wearing nothing more then a pair of boxers and the turtleneck. Keith wrapped his arms around Lance and pulled him close. "Comfy?"

"Uh-huh." Lance mumbled as he snuggled even closer. He laughed softly when he sneezed again. "Sorry if I get you sick."

"Don't worry about. I don't catch colds very easily." Keith said.

"Good." Lance whispered as he rested his head on Keith's chest. "I guess tomorrow I better thank Allura for having this party."

Keith chuckled. "That will really get her going if you do that."

"You have to admit, it would be very entertaining. And I still owe her for her smart mouth." Lance laugh-yawned.

"She's just full of hot air. She can't keep you from flying. It is not her decision to make. She just likes thinking that she has some kind of control over Voltron."

"I know, but that doesn't mean I can't pay her back...discreetly of course." Tightening his arms around Keith, Lance breathed in deeply, taking in the other's soothing scent. "Pleasant dreams Keith."

"Sweet dreams Lance." Keith said he hugged Lance tight for a moment, before relaxing and closing his eyes.

"Oh, great costume by the way." Lance mumbled as he moved even closer before finally drifting off into sleep.

Keith laid awake for a few moments listening to Lance's rhythmic breathing before finally drifting off to sleep himself.

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owari ^_~