After they located Keith, the group had celebrated for what seemed like days, but Shiro knew it had only been a few hours until gradually exhaustion struck them all. Allura and Coran had been the first, then came Hunk, then Pidge, and then it ended with Lance and Keith leaving Shiro the last standing.

Keith and Lance seemed reluctant to head to bed while Shiro was awake, but he insisted.

"I'll be there shortly," he promised as he patted both of their shoulders. "Just got to take care of a few things first."

Lance and Keith exchanged inquiring looks, but whatever questions they had, both of them simply nodded and went to find their beds to crash in.

Shiro then quietly made his way to the Black Lion's hangar. He gave a half smile as he climbed inside his lion and sat in the seat of the cockpit.

Had fun did you? Black's voice asked in his head.

Shiro chuckled. "Yeah, but boy I feel old." He rotated his shoulders. "I don't know where they all find that energy."

That is the benefit of youth Black commented warmly.

"There is that," he said. "I'm just relieved that we found Keith safe and sound."

Yes, and as is Red. She's been complaining about her sore joints nonstop. However, that is not what you wish to discuss.

Shiro sighed and nodded. "No, it's not."

Black gave a gentle growl as Shiro felt the warmth of her presence wrap around him like a blanket.

Speak your mind, my paladin, Black encouraged. Although, I sense I know what concerns you. It is the Galran that rescued Keith?

"Yes," Shiro replied as he ran a hand through his hair. "I just..can't help but think there had to have been an hidden motive."

I too was concerned, Black replied, but Red seemed certained the Galran wished no harm to befall the red paladin. If she says so, than that is good enough for me.

Shiro raised an eyebrow. "How does she know? Some sort of mystic lion method to read minds?"

No, Black said flatly. She is simply a good judge of character and she is very protective of her paladin. She would have shot the Galran if he had so much looked at him funny.

"Ah," Shiro said softly and folded his hands into his lap. "Okay, so maybe the guy was telling the truth..but still, I have trouble wrapping my head around there being a Galra resistance."

It is not impossible, Black continued, but with you it is understandable. If an animal's only experience with a person is to be hunted, captured and injured, they are naturally wary of anyone else no matter the intention.

"Yeah," Shiro said, "but, questions is, what do I do about it?"

Do you wish to join forces with them? Black asked.

Shiro chewed his bottom lip. "No, not until we know more about them. Just because they're fighting Zarkon doesn't mean we have the same goals. I've read about too many rebellions that only result in the rebels being the new rulers and nothing changes."

His fists tightened. "Plus, I just got my team back, I don't want to risk putting them in danger until we have more information."

That is wise, Black agreed. Although, I may suggest you try to keep an open mind, Shiro. At this point, they very well could be our enemy, but they could also prove to be great allies.

Shiro sighed and nodded. "Yeah, you're right." He wrapped his hand over his prosthetic arm. "But I..just don't think I can deal with having an 'open mind' right now."

Then don't, Black replied gently. Do so when you are ready. I trust your judgement and for now take joy that we found everyone safe and sound.

Shiro nodded in agreement. "I'll do that."

Now then, off to bed, young man. It is far past your bedtime, Black teased.

Shiro laughed, feeling better than he had before. He ran his fingers over the control panel. Things were going to get better from here. He could feel it in his bones.

Author's Note: So, this story is now complete and I hope you all enjoyed this. Believe it or not, I do have part 2 of the Thace and Keith storyline finished and should be able to start posting it next week. (I managed to write it within a month, I still can't believe it).

Thanks to all who read this fill in, and please keep an eye out for "Where No One Goes" for the next story. Thanks to all for reading!