Chapter 23-Threads of Connection

[Author's Note:

Hey Anjels in the area!

Welcome to Chapter 23! This chapter is a bit longer than usual, as it delves into the intricate butterfly effect of our characters' choices and the profound impact of Luan's presence. We'll explore more about Altean culture and physiology, enriching your understanding of this vibrant world.

I assure you that while this chapter takes its time to develop these themes, the upcoming chapters will be packed with action and excitement!

I would also love to hear your thoughts! Constructive comments and critiques fuel my creativity and help me improve, so please don't hesitate to share your insights.

If you enjoy my writing and want to support my creative journey, please consider visiting my Patreon. Your support helps me continue crafting this story and brings us closer to the thrilling adventures that lie ahead in my novel.

Thank you for your continued encouragement and enthusiasm!

Happy reading!

---000---000

"Finding the Lions will take some time," Allura announced at the end of the tour, which hadn't been as long as everyone expected. While the castle was undoubtedly enormous, even for her, who had grown up there, it had only thirty floors in total, which surprised everyone—especially Lance, who had estimated something around eighty. The tour concluded at the paladins' quarters on the second floor, just below the main control room. "In the meantime, please prepare yourselves. I hope the planets where the Lions are buried will be relatively peaceful, but it's always better to be ready, just in case."

Everyone nodded, taking her advice to heart.

Lance yawned almost immediately, a sudden wave of exhaustion hitting him as he stretched his back to the fullest, his spine cracking in multiple spots. Allura and Coran winced in alarm, while Luan watched his brother with a slightly raised eyebrow, recognizing that Lance was allowing himself a moment of relaxation but understanding that he had earned it.

"Well, I guess fighting off a bunch of Garrison employees—" "—that was mostly Keith—" "—finding the Blue Lion—" "—also mostly Keith—" "—flying with said Lion—" "—hardly—" "Shut up, Pidge— and then going through a wormhole and exploring a giant castle is enough for me." Lance stretched his arms with a big yawn, tilting his neck to the side until it cracked a few more times. "I'm getting some sleep."

Lance stretched with another big yawn and then tilted his neck to the side until a series of cracks echoed through the room. Allura and Coran, who had been watching him intently, seemed to be in immediate shock. "What... in Alfor's name... was that?" Coran finally whispered, his tone filled with disbelief.

Luan, who was nearby, couldn't help but observe with fascination. His keen, analytical mind registered every detail of what was unfolding before his eyes. The Alteans' skin began to lose its natural glow, and almost instantly, a veil of pale opacity covered their faces. Color drained from their features in seconds, and Luan noticed how micro-veins that had previously appeared to have a faint golden hue turned gray and lifeless. It was as if the circulation of some vital energy had been abruptly cut off, resulting in an almost supernatural transformation that, to Luan, seemed a fascinating phenomenon.

While Shirou also noticed the change, he couldn't catch all the subtle details that Luan was absorbing. To him, the Alteans just appeared paler, like someone who had just received shocking news. But Luan saw the subtle variation in their iris tones, the slight tremor of muscles that shouldn't move, and even the sweat forming on Coran's temples—something seemingly impossible on the seemingly flawless skin of the Alteans.

"Interesting," Luan thought, observing how their bodies seemed to struggle against this state of shock. The way their pigments changed wasn't just an emotional reaction—it seemed to be something far more complex, perhaps even related to how their biology responded to external stimuli, as if the cracking had triggered some kind of defense mechanism.

"You're talking about how Lance...?" Pidge interrupted, frowning, clearly ignoring the state of shock the Alteans were in. Without further ado, she arched her back and cracked her own spine, sighing in relief. "Did that?"

Hunk struggled not to laugh as the two Alteans continued reacting, even more horrified, their faces now almost completely white as if all the color had been drained from them. "Or maybe... like this?" Pidge then cracked her knuckles, a clear, sharp sound that made the Alteans shudder once more.

"And maybe... like this?" Pidge tilted her neck to the side, cracking it multiple times. "This?"

Coran mumbled something unintelligible as the color seemed to drain even more from his face, almost as if he was turning to stone. Allura, in turn, brought a hand to her mouth, her lips almost colorless, and her eyes wide, as if witnessing some kind of forbidden ritual.

Luan watched the scene with a mixture of admiration and curiosity. It wasn't just the sound that unsettled them; it was the fact that human behavior was so different and unusual that their bodies were reacting so visibly and intensely. He mentally recorded the nuances of expression, the twitch of Coran's eyebrows, and the nearly imperceptible retraction of Allura's facial muscles. "Interesting," Luan murmured softly to himself, thinking about how fascinating it would be to study this biological reaction in the Alteans further—undoubtedly a visible expression of how their emotions influenced their physiology.

"Oh, gods, no more!" Allura finally clarified, her voice trembling. "I-It's simply not normal! It must be terrible for your bones!"

Unbeknownst to Luan, Shirou had been watching him closely. The enthusiastic spark that appeared in the young medic's eyes was unmistakable—a reflection of the scientific curiosity pulsing in his mind. Shirou felt a chill run down his spine as he recognized that look; it mirrored the same gleam he used to see in his ex-fiancé's eyes, a gaze that combined fascination and an intense need to understand the world around him. That memory, though distant, was still so vivid that for a brief moment, Shirou had to take a deep breath to shake off the weight of nostalgia and the wave of emotions threatening to surface.

Blinking away the whirlwind of emotions that had momentarily clouded his gaze, Shirou watched as Luan recomposed himself. The medic let out a small amused snort, as if preparing to explain a simple magic trick to fascinated children. Despite his relaxed posture, there was a subtle gleam of satisfaction in his eyes, as if he relished the opportunity to share his knowledge.

Luan straightened up against the wall, mirroring the same relaxed expression as Shirou, but with a hint of seriousness that characterized him. He let out a light sigh before joining the conversation, and his firm yet polite voice resonated throughout the room. "Actually," he began, the professionalism evident in his tone, "it's not as harmful as it seems. The sound you heard is simply the result of gases being released from the joints."

Allura blinked, clearly confused, and Luan continued, this time adding a touch of provocation. "Synovial fluid—which, by the way, is a kind of natural lubricant in human joints—contains gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. When you stretch or bend your joints, the pressure inside the joint capsules changes, and these gases are released, creating the cracking sound. It's not the sound of bones breaking, if that's what you're thinking." Luan paused, noticing Allura and Coran were about to say something, but he stopped them with a firm look.

"In fact, many people think they've broken something when they crack their joints," Luan continued, now playing along with the humor but keeping his serious demeanor. "And contrary to what some popular beliefs say, it doesn't cause arthritis or permanent damage. Unless, of course, you're reckless or try to crack a joint forcefully. Then, yes, there's a risk of muscle or ligament injuries." Luan shot a glance at Lance, who returned it with a smile, acknowledging that his sister was, once again, turning a simple joke into an anatomy lesson.

Coran finally found his voice to protest, "But... what if this permanently damaged your joints? How could you continue fighting?!"

Luan leaned forward slightly, considering Coran's genuine concern. She maintained her calm, professional gaze. "Only if we do it recklessly," she replied. "But, as I said, it's simply the partial collapse of a cavity. In about twenty minutes, the process regenerates. And honestly, there are far more worrying things in a paladin's life than a little joint popping. Honestly? If it were that dangerous, we'd have been out of action a long time ago," she added, a rare playful glimmer flashing in her eyes. "Besides, considering what we've faced so far, a few joint pops are the least of our problems."

Shiro watched the scene with an amused smile. Although he was used to Luan's serious and almost clinical demeanor, he appreciated the fact that she was, in a way, participating in the group's banter. "You got all this from a doctor's consultation, didn't you?" he teased, shaking his head slightly.

"You mean... you do this for fun?" Allura asked, still bewildered. Coran seemed to be absorbing the information, frowning and muttering something about "earthling complexity."

Luan smiled, letting a hint of humor slip into her voice. "Welcome to the club. You still have a lot to learn about us." She paused, noticing Allura's curious gaze, then continued, "Yes, we do it, most of the time, to relieve joint pressure or simply to relax. It's something we do when we're bored, need to unwind, or, in Lance's case, to seem more 'cool'." Luan shot a teasing glance at her brother, who responded with a smug smile.

Lance, seizing the moment, flashed a wide grin and purposefully cracked his knuckles. "See? I'm the perfect example of health and style," he joked, cracking his neck just to further unsettle the Alteans.

"Anyway!" Hunk cut in without remorse, "I'm raiding the kitchen—and nothing you say can stop me. I threw up earlier, so my stomach is dangerously empty, and that's a big no."

"Oh!" Pidge smiled, raising her hand like a child answering a question in class. "I want to check out the engine room! The technology on this ship is on a completely different level, and I need some answers!"

"Ah!" Coran exclaimed, color returning to his face. "I'll accompany you, number five—I've ranked all of you by height... I need to see if everything is in working order!" With that, Pidge jumped off, Hunk following behind, humming a tune under his breath. They watched as the three entered an elevator, the doors closing while Pidge rocked on her heels and Hunk and Coran animatedly discussed—something; they couldn't hear from where they stood.

"What about you, Luan? What are you going to do?" Lance asked, knowing his sister's careful and responsible nature.

"I'll check the medical equipment and make sure everything is in order," Luan replied, her tone carrying the typical professionalism of someone in the medical field. She brought a hand to her chin, assuming a thoughtful expression as her eyes quickly scanned the faces of her companions. It was an unconscious gesture she made when pondering her next steps.

Distracted, Luan spoke to her twin, "And you, go rest. I'll handle any emergencies, as always."

As she spoke, Luan activated her small portable device and made a quick mental note to check the differences between the medical systems she knew and the advanced Altean technology. Lápis, help me compare basic healing procedures; maybe we can adapt something, she thought, making a slight head movement. She needed to stay updated with all the information the Blue Lion could provide.

Allura, who had been watching the paladins' interaction intently, smiled with a touch of admiration and curiosity. "You seem very comfortable dealing with the technology of our castle," she commented, stepping closer to Luan. "I imagine it's not easy to understand all this, especially when it's so different from what you're used to."

Luan tilted her head slightly toward Allura, a gentle smile forming on her lips. "Let's just say I'm a lifelong student," she replied. "I believe knowledge is never enough, and with Lápis's help, I'm trying to understand and compare the technologies I know with the ones here." She raised the device for Allura to see, as if wanting to share a bit of her methodology.

Allura nodded, clearly intrigued by the idea. "Fascinating... Human technology may not be as advanced as ours, but it has its own charm, a ingenuity that we Alteans might have stopped appreciating over time," she commented thoughtfully. "If you need any help with anything, I'll be around."

"Thank you, princess," Luan replied, grateful for the offer. "By the way, if you have some time later, I would like to discuss some of the properties of the Altean healing liquid. I want to see if we can apply it more efficiently in our procedures."

Allura smiled, tilting her head slightly. "You can call me Allura, please," she said, a friendly sparkle in her eyes. "It would be my pleasure," she added with a nod. "Now, perhaps I should guide the paladins to their respective destinations before they get lost in our vast ship." With that, she looked at the others. "Please follow me. There are many areas you still don't know."

As Allura began leading the paladins through the castle corridors, Shiro watched the group with a hint of concern, thinking about the tasks ahead. "I hope everyone can adapt well. This place can be a bit overwhelming at first," he commented, casting an encouraging glance at Keith, who walked beside him.

Keith merely gave a distracted nod, his eyes still fixed on the ground, but a look of determination began to form on his face. "I'll do my best," he murmured, glancing briefly at the elevator Allura had pointed out. He knew there was much to learn about this new technology and that he would need to put in the effort.

"Hey, don't worry," Lance, his twin, interjected with a wide, playful grin. "If I can do it, you can too!" He snapped his fingers dramatically, striking an exaggerated pose. "And who knows, maybe we'll find something fun to do while we're here! Look, I might even help with Luan's medical equipment!" He winked at his sister, fully aware that it was more likely he'd end up getting into trouble than actually helping.

Allura smiled at the interaction between the twins. "Absolutely, Lance. But I just hope you don't break anything," she teased, leading the group forward.

As the paladins followed Allura through the corridors, the princess paused for a moment and tapped the bracelet on her wrist, activating the castle's command interface. A glowing blue hologram appeared in the air, projecting a three-dimensional map of the castle. The paladins gathered around, watching the complex structure unfold before them. "This is the Castle of Lions," Allura explained. "A structure that blends Altean technology and alchemy. As you can see, it's very easy to get lost here, so I want you to memorize the key points."

Luan observed intently, her mind already trying to comprehend the vast network of corridors, rooms, and systems that made up the ship-castle. It was an impressive map, detailed on every floor and compartment. Allura gestured, and the hologram zoomed in on the fourth floor, highlighting a series of areas of interest: the training room, the pool, the recreation rooms, and finally, the medical wing.

"Here is your destination, Luan," Allura said, pointing to the medical sector highlighted in green. "The castle has the capability to connect to your devices if you allow it." Luan nodded and activated her own portable device, the NOVA—the medical version of the Galactic Garrison that she had carried since her training days. It was an indispensable tool, equipped with advanced medical knowledge and diagnostics tailored for humans.

At the moment the NOVA was activated, it connected to the castle's system. Luan felt a slight vibration in the device, which now displayed the same holographic map projected by Allura but in a more detailed way, focusing on the medical areas. "Interesting," she murmured. "This really makes my job easier."

"There are several systems that need repairs and adjustments," Allura commented, looking at Luan with a serious but welcoming expression. "I hope you can adapt quickly, and if you need help, don't hesitate to ask." Luan nodded, grateful for Allura's understanding.

"Thank you, Allura. I'll make sure everything is in order," Luan replied, her voice calm but filled with determination. Thanking her for the help felt almost like a formality. After all, the system had already outlined an optimized path to the medical wing. From the holographic map, she realized that there were more areas in the medical center than she had initially thought.

"I'll need your guidance, NOVA," Luan murmured quietly, aware of the princess's potentially enhanced hearing, maintaining an indifferent expression. The device in her hand projected a series of holographic directions, indicating the path to the medical wing. As she followed the instructions, Luan made sure to keep her gaze fixed on the device, avoiding any indication that she could see the discreet screen in the corner of her eye—a minimap that her own system silently provided. This way, she maintained the illusion that she was entirely reliant on NOVA, concealing the true extent of her abilities.

As Luan followed the indicated path, she noticed that instead of merely sensing the cold, precise calculations of an artificial intelligence, there was something different. The castle seemed to pulse around her, as if it possessed a consciousness of its own. A subtle magical energy intertwined with the technological systems, making the experience of walking through it almost mystical. Perhaps there is more here than just circuits and metal, she thought, recalling Allura's words about the balance between magic and technology.

Finally, Luan arrived at the medical wing. The doors slid open, and she was greeted by an environment that perfectly combined medical science with a touch of magic. It was a spacious and well-lit area, with equipment that floated slightly and holographic monitors displaying information in unknown languages. NOVA immediately began translating the data, but at the same time, she felt the castle's energy guiding her, as if it were offering its own arcane knowledge.

"NOVA, perform a complete scan of the equipment and provide me with a list of areas that need repairs or maintenance," Luan instructed. The response came quickly, precise and concise as always: "There are two life support areas with anomalies and three healing chambers that require recalibration."

The sensation of an arcane spirit assisting her was different, almost comforting, as if a presence were watching over her and the paladins. "Understood," Luan replied as she began to work on one of the life support systems. "I need to recalibrate the pressure sensors and check if the oxygenation systems are operating at adequate levels for humans." As she spoke, NOVA provided detailed instructions on the differences between the physiological needs of humans and Alteans.

With her eyes fixed on the device's screen, Luan analyzed the data with the precision of a surgeon, deciphering the complex Altean codes with ease. As her fingers deftly moved across the panels, she realized how much more sophisticated and even elegant the Altean equipment was in its design. The tools were adaptive and adjusted to her touch, as if they were alive. "Fascinating," she murmured, adjusting the settings of one of the healing chambers to better accommodate human paladins.

Luan then turned to the portable device and typed some notes. "NOVA, record the repair protocol. We need to ensure that the systems are compatible with our physiology to avoid any future complications." NOVA blinked in response, storing the information for future reference.

As Luan finished her work, a hologram of NOVA flickered again, projecting an alert. "Warrant Officer Macclan, the life support system in isolation chamber 4 is experiencing a power drop," informed the AI's neutral voice, direct and emotionless. But before Luan could act, she felt the same arcane whisper in her mind, guiding her to the solution. As if instinctively aware of what was needed, her fingers glided over the control panels, correcting the issue before the failure became critical.

She paused for a moment, trying to understand the strange connection between the castle and her device. "So, this is how you work," she murmured. "Not just science, but something more... something beyond what we know."

Luan took a step back and breathed deeply, feeling the air in the medical wing vibrate gently around her. "Alright, NOVA," she spoke softly, now with a satisfied smile. "It seems we have a lot of work ahead. But with Lápis and this castle's help, I have no doubt we'll succeed."

Luan watched the group move away, with Allura leading the paladins through the castle's corridors, introducing them to the main areas and functionalities of the vast ship. At the same time, she felt a mix of responsibility and determination settle in her chest. They are doing what they need to do; now it's my turn to do the same, she thought, turning her attention back to the medical wing.

The path to the medical center was not as straightforward as she had expected. As she moved through the glowing corridors, Luan realized that each step took her deeper into a technology completely different from anything she had studied at the Garrison. This castle, with its 30 floors, was a labyrinth of holographic interfaces, patterns of light pulsing on the walls, and doors that seemed to respond to her touch, sliding open effortlessly. It felt as if the castle itself were alive, she thought, slightly impressed.

Upon entering the medical wing, the first thing she noticed was the size of the space: a spacious and well-lit environment, with perfectly aligned beds that seemed to float a few centimeters above the ground. Around her, control consoles emitted a soft bluish light, forming holographic panels filled with information in a language she still couldn't fully decipher. This place makes the Garrison look like an improvised field hospital, she reflected, unable to hide her astonishment.

"NOVA, begin the analysis of the life support systems," Luan murmured, activating the portable device she kept in her pocket. It was an extension of the Blue Lion's artificial intelligence, adapted to be her personal assistant for medical tasks. If there's anything I need to understand here, it's how this technology works.

As she waited for the analysis, she approached one of the healing chambers, studying its structure. "Interesting," she commented to herself, observing how the transparent surface of the chamber transformed into a screen displaying vital signs in real time. It was something that blended medical science with magic in a surprising way, as if Altean technology surpassed her understanding of science.

"The healing fluid is processed and applied directly to the wounded area," NOVA informed her in a clear and objective tone. "Upon detecting injuries, it reorganizes the cells at the molecular level, accelerating the regeneration process without causing side effects."

"Impressive," Luan murmured, awestruck. "If we had this on Earth, medicine would be revolutionized." But she didn't let herself get carried away completely. She had seen enough to know that while something might seem miraculous, it also had its limitations and risks. She needed to understand all the details before using that technology on her companions.

Walking toward the monitoring area, Luan noticed a holographic panel that appeared to display the vital parameters of the paladins. When she touched it, a three-dimensional map of the human body emerged before her, showing each system in impressive detail. "So, this is how you do it," she said, more to herself than to anyone else. "You analyze not just the body but also the energy that keeps it functioning."

The panel reacted to her touch, revealing more information. The words appeared in Altean, but thanks to Lápis, Luan could understand enough to notice that there were significant differences between the human physiological system and that of the Alteans. "Without a doubt, Alteans have a structure that allows for greater resilience to injuries," she reflected. "That must facilitate recovery in combat. But on the other hand, perhaps they are more susceptible to certain types of toxins." She made mental notes, already thinking about how she could adapt the treatment protocols for her team.

She paused for a moment, trying to comprehend the strange connection between the castle and her device. "So, this is how you operate," she murmured. "Not just science, but something more... something that goes beyond what we know."

Luan stepped back and took a deep breath, feeling the air in the medical wing vibrate slightly around her. "Alright, NOVA," she said softly, now with a satisfied smile. "It seems we have a lot of work ahead of us. But with the help of Lápis and this castle, I have no doubt we can do it."

As Luan watched the group move away, with Allura leading the paladins through the castle corridors and introducing them to the main areas and functionalities of the vast ship, she felt a mix of responsibility and determination settle in her chest. They are doing what they need to do; now it's my turn to do the same, she thought, redirecting her focus to the medical wing.

The path to the medical center was not as straightforward as she had anticipated. As she navigated the bright corridors, Luan realized that each step took her deeper into technology completely different from anything she had studied at the Garrison. This castle, with its 30 floors, was a labyrinth of holographic interfaces, pulsating light patterns on the walls, and doors that seemed to respond to touch, gliding open effortlessly. It's as if the castle itself were alive, she mused, slightly impressed.

Upon entering the medical wing, the first thing she noticed was the sheer size of the space: a vast, well-lit environment with perfectly aligned beds that appeared to float a few inches above the ground. Around her were control consoles emitting a soft bluish light, forming holographic panels filled with information in a language she still couldn't fully decipher. This place makes the Garrison look like an improvised field hospital, she reflected, unable to hide her awe.

"NOVA, begin the analysis of the life support systems," Luan murmured, activating the portable device she kept in her pocket. It was an extension of the Blue Lion's artificial intelligence, adapted to serve as her personal assistant in medical tasks. If there's anything I need to understand here, it's how this technology works.

While she awaited the analysis, she approached one of the healing chambers, studying its structure. "Interesting," she remarked to herself, watching how the transparent surface of the chamber transformed into a screen displaying real-time vital signs. It was something that blended medical science with magic in a surprisingly seamless way, as if Altean technology surpassed the concept of what she understood as science.

"The healing fluid is processed and applied directly to the injured area," NOVA reported in a clear, objective tone. "Upon detecting injuries, it reorganizes cells at the molecular level, accelerating the regeneration process without causing side effects."

"Impressive," Luan murmured, astonished. "If we had this on Earth, medicine would be revolutionized." But she didn't let herself get carried away. She had seen enough to know that while something might seem miraculous, it also had its limitations and risks. She needed to understand all the details before using that technology on her companions.

Walking toward the monitoring area, Luan noticed a holographic panel displaying the vital parameters of the paladins. When she touched it, a three-dimensional map of the human body sprang to life before her, showcasing each system in stunning detail. "So, this is how you do it," she said, more to herself than to anyone else. "You analyze not just the body, but also the energy that keeps it functioning."

The panel responded to her touch, revealing more information. The words appeared in Altean, but thanks to Lápis, Luan could understand enough to realize that there were significant differences between the human physiological system and that of the Alteans. "Undoubtedly, the Alteans possess a structure that allows for greater resistance to injuries," she reflected. "That must facilitate recovery in combat. But conversely, they might be more susceptible to certain types of toxins." She made mental notes, already thinking about how she could adapt treatment protocols for her team.

As she continued exploring the medical wing, Luan came across an area that seemed to be a supply depot. There were small translucent vials containing a glowing liquid, which she assumed to be the famous Altean healing fluid. Picking one up, she examined it against the light, watching how the contents pulsed as if alive. "Efficient, but it must have limitations," she murmured. "We need to understand the possible side effects before using it on anyone."

In that moment, Luan recalled Allura's words about the difference between the technologies of the two worlds. There was a certain humility in how the Alteans had acknowledged human ingenuity, even though their own technology was centuries ahead. Luan couldn't help but smile at that. "Perhaps simplicity is our strength," she thought.

Her attention was suddenly drawn by an alert on her portable device. "Problem Detected: Minor failures in two life support systems," NOVA announced in a clear voice. Luan frowned and approached the devices, analyzing what had caused the issue. "Nothing serious," she concluded, feeling relieved. "But it definitely needs to be resolved before someone has to use them."

Quickly, she pulled a small tool from her belt and got to work, adjusting the internal components. "Back at the Garrison, I would have had to wait for the technician," she thought with a hint of humor. "Here, I'm the technician."

As she worked, Luan's mind drifted to her old life, back when she was just Diana, a medical student with a desire to save lives. Now, as Luan, she had found a new way to fulfill that goal, even if it was in a completely different world. "The essence is the same," she whispered, closing the lid on the repaired device. "After all, what matters is helping those in need."

When she stood up, she took one last look at the medical wing. "This is my space now," she murmured. "And I will ensure it's ready for anything that comes." With that, she activated the control panel and began configuring the diagnostic systems to accommodate both humans and Alteans.

She knew she was far from understanding everything, but she also knew she had taken the first step. The important thing is that I'm learning. And just like the rest of the team, I will adapt. A faint smile appeared on her lips as she felt the sense of connecting, even if just a little, with her surroundings.

While Luan adjusted the sensors on the life support equipment, her thoughts wandered for a moment. She looked at her hands and noticed they were trembling, not from fear, but from the weight of responsibility pressing down on her shoulders. The castle, the paladins, the war against the Galra – everything felt incredibly real now. Luan couldn't help but compare her current situation to a childhood animated show she had watched in her past life, when she was still Diana.

How did everything become so serious? she reflected, adjusting a parameter that had gone out of alignment. In the original show, Voltron was a fun adventure, with well-timed jokes, exaggerated characters, and situations that always resolved heroically. In that universe, the consequences seemed less severe; the dangers were thrilling, not frightening, and the fights always ended happily. But here, in this world, the reality was brutal and relentless.

The soft sound of NOVA alerting her to an anomaly brought her back to the present. "Correcting oxygenation system failure," she murmured, her fingers flying over the panel. As she corrected the problem, her thoughts drifted again. Was I the one responsible for turning all of this into something so serious?

She thought about how the paladins had reacted since arriving at the castle. Hunk, trying to keep the mood light, but clearly shaken by the vomiting and the gravity of the situation. Lance, her brother, still trying to be the clown of the group, but with an edge of tension and exhaustion that had never existed in the character she had known in the animation. And Keith, who seemed always on alert, as if expecting something bad to happen at any moment. In the original show, they hadn't been this tense, this aware of the real danger they faced.

Perhaps her presence here, with her memories and knowledge of a story that should have been just an animation, had distorted the narrative somehow. Did I bring a darker, more adult perception to this world? she wondered. It felt strange to think that she, a girl who used to watch that series carefree, now found herself in the center of it, trying to figure out ways to protect her friends and teammates from a fate that felt far more threatening.

"This is no longer a kids' show," she murmured to herself, feeling the weight of truth in her words. The Castle of the Lions was not just a high-tech playground; it was a war headquarters. The stakes were not merely a 22-minute plotline that ended with guaranteed victory – they were real, tangible, and could cost someone their life if she didn't do her job correctly.

A specific memory flashed in her mind: a scene from the original show where Lance, Hunk, and Pidge joked around during a mission, behaving almost irresponsibly as they faced the Galra. Back then, Luan, still Diana, had laughed along with the characters, enjoying the comic relief. Now, however, she couldn't imagine that happening in the real world they inhabited. They didn't have the luxury of being reckless here, she thought sadly.

As she finished repairing one of the healing chambers, Luan realized that, on some level, she had brought with her a sense of responsibility and seriousness that she had never seen in the characters from the old animated show. They had been carefree youths on a fun adventure, but now the reality was different. "Maybe that's why everything feels more dangerous," she whispered, her fingers hesitating momentarily over the panel. "Because I see the consequences, the terrible possibilities that could happen if things went wrong."

The medical device, NOVA, emitted a soft alert, indicating that the chamber was fully operational. Luan let out a sigh of relief, but the reflection lingered with her. Perhaps it wasn't just her presence that was altering the world around her, but the perspective she carried—the awareness that life was much more complex and cruel than the simple animated show she once knew. "Maybe I brought reality with me," she murmured, as if confessing to the emptiness of the room.

At the same time, she understood that this new reality wasn't necessarily a bad thing. Yes, it was harsher, scarier, and required everyone to be better, stronger, and more prepared than the characters she had known on screen. But it also meant they could grow, evolve, and make choices that mattered. Maybe that's why I'm here, Luan concluded. To ensure that even if the world is darker, we can still find a way to win.

If she was responsible for making the world more serious, then she would also be responsible for ensuring their survival within it. This was no longer just a simple cartoon. This is our reality. And she promised herself she would do everything to ensure they had a happy ending.

Suddenly, a new idea sparked in her mind. What if she could use her medical knowledge to develop a treatment that increased the paladins' resistance to Galra attacks? Perhaps then, they could face the war with a significant advantage. Luan saved the idea in the NOVA device for later, planning to conduct detailed research as soon as she had the time.

With a new goal in mind, Luan turned to her workbench, ready to begin her next task. The medical wing was under her care, and she would do her utmost to ensure her comrades had the best chance of success. This is my new world, she thought. And I will fight for it.

---

PVO_KEITH

Keith followed Allura to the fourth floor of the castle, where the training deck, pool, and recreation rooms were located. "This is it," Allura said, gesturing to a door. Keith looked at her with a mix of anticipation and caution. Ever since they arrived at the castle, he had felt a strange agitation in his chest, as if something was trying to emerge from within him.

The door slid open smoothly, so quickly that it seemed to almost disappear, and Keith paused for a moment, admiring the efficiency of that alien technology. This is madness, he thought, but before he could get lost in his own doubts, Allura, noticing his daze, gently placed a hand on his shoulder to bring him back to reality.

"This is where I and many other Altean warriors trained our quintessence manipulation," Allura explained, her calm tone tinged with an emotion that Keith couldn't immediately identify. It might have been nostalgia, pride, or even a hint of sadness as she spoke of a time long gone.

A shiver ran down Keith's spine. "Quintessence manipulation?" he repeated, the term sounding both strange and familiar, an odd shift in the atmosphere of the room. Now that he was paying attention, he could feel small waves of energy around him—subtle but present. It's not the same energy as Blue or Black, but there's definitely something here, he thought. It felt as if quintessence, this strange and mysterious force, was permeating the environment in an almost imperceptible way.

"Yes," Allura replied. "Few Alteans are born with the ability to feel or manipulate quintessence. Even among us, only about one in ten possesses this sensitivity. And even fewer achieve the skill to manipulate it deftly." She paused, observing Keith intently. "In my father's time, only three great masters were recognized for their abilities: King Alfor, the alchemist Horneva, and an Altean whose identity remains unknown."

Keith furrowed his brow, trying to understand what she was saying. "And humans? Can we learn this?" The question escaped before he could think.

Allura smiled slightly, though there was a hint of uncertainty in her eyes. "Until now, we believed that only Alteans could manipulate quintessence at such a deep level. However, your connection with the Red Lion and Luan with the Azu-Lapiz suggests that there may be more to you paladins than we ever imagined." She took a deep breath before continuing. "I will manipulate the quintessence now and concentrate it in one point. All you need to do is find it."

Keith nodded, focusing himself. This seems simple enough, like a test of instinct or perception, he thought, feeling the heat swirling inside him. This is new... I've never felt anything like this before. At the same time, it felt as though something within him was awakening, a flame that had always been there, waiting to be ignited. It was instinctive, natural, and when Allura closed her eyes to begin the exercise, Keith felt he could keep pace with her.

Allura smiled. "Great. Let's begin." She closed her eyes and extended her hands, concentrating. Blue particles began to form around her palms and floated in the air, as a gentle energy rippled through the room. Keith could feel the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. The energy was palpable, though invisible.

The room seemed to warm up, as if a wave of heat had swept through it. Keith stood still, trying to pinpoint the source of the energy Allura was manipulating. With every passing second, the heat intensified, becoming more defined, and he realized he could feel it moving, as if it were an extension of himself.

When Allura finally opened her eyes and signaled for him to begin, Keith moved without hesitation. He turned to the right and walked straight toward the point where the energy was strongest. The world around him seemed to pulse in sync with the quintessence, and the flame burning inside him blazed brighter, guiding him to the right spot. He stopped exactly where Allura had concentrated the energy, his whole body vibrating in response to that force.

Allura froze for a moment, surprised by the precision and speed with which Keith found the energy. He had located the spot effortlessly. His sensitivity is much higher than I expected. For someone who doesn't even know how to manipulate quintessence, he feels it instinctively, she thought. "On a scale of one to ten, how difficult was it for you to locate it? One being the hardest and ten being the easiest," she asked, trying to comprehend what she had just witnessed.

Keith pursed his lips thoughtfully. "Well, assuming 'easy as pie' is your version of 'easy as pie,' I'd say ten," he replied with a touch of sarcasm, but also with honesty. For him, it had felt almost natural. "It was like feeling the heat of a flame. I didn't have to think; I just... followed the heat."

Allura's fascination was evident, but she kept her expression controlled. "Very interesting..." she murmured, more to herself than to him. She had no idea what he meant by "easy as pie," but she supposed it was their equivalent of her own saying. What was incredible, though, was that it wasn't every day you found someone whose sensitivity to quintessence surpassed her own. This isn't something we see every day— not even among the Alteans.

Allura smiled to herself. He really has potential, she thought, while Keith waited for the next task. "Let me ask; can you differentiate between the different classes of quintessence?"

"It depends." He furrowed his brow, his hand reaching to his lip. "I know that your quintessence is similar to Coran's and the Lions we encountered, but it's also different. I know that Luan's and Lance's quintessences are almost identical to Lapiz's, and Shiro's is to Black's, but there are some differences..." Almost hesitantly, he looked at Allura. "What exactly is quintessence?"

"I'm glad you asked." She interlaced her fingers as she spoke, excited beyond reason. She had always loved the science behind everything. "Quintessence is, in essence, a person's life force. Inanimate objects do not have quintessence, as they are hand-forged and not alive. However, anything with quintessence is a living being or has consciousness. The Lions are the last of their kind. Though they were created by Alteans and Galra, they were infused with raw quintessence, granting them consciousness. That's why they have genders and personalities."

Keith nodded, carefully absorbing the information. Back on Earth, concepts like quintessence were often dismissed by scientists, who generally avoided the inexplicable. It wasn't widely known as quintessence; instead, it was referred to as dark or black matter. Some would call it the fifth element, an attempt to explain what couldn't be explained.

As Keith completed the task with unwavering confidence, Shirou watched from a distance, leaning against the opposite wall with his arms crossed and a growing look of curiosity on his face. At that moment, Shirou, who had been silent until then, observing everything closely, stepped forward. "Keith, are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern but also curiosity.

Keith smiled faintly, feeling more confident than ever. "I'm good, Shiro. In fact, I've never felt so... alive." There was something different in his gaze, as if a flame had truly been ignited within him.

"Is this normal?" Shirou asked, turning to Allura as she approached, still glowing with satisfaction from Keith's demonstration. "I mean, were the paladins of your time this... receptive to quintessence?"

Allura furrowed her brows slightly, visibly pondering the question. "No," she replied, a hint of surprise in her voice. "In fact, most paladins in my time had a limited connection to quintessence. Only the most advanced, those who trained for years, could develop a sensitivity like what Keith just displayed." She cast a thoughtful glance at Keith, who continued to explore the surroundings, trying to better understand the energy around him. "His sensitivity seems... natural, almost as if he's been attuned to quintessence from the very start."

Shirou shook his head in understanding, but something still intrigued him. "Does that mean he's more advanced than the paladins before? Or is it something else?" The curiosity in his voice was evident, mixed with a hint of concern.

"I wouldn't say he's more advanced," Allura said carefully. "It's as if quintessence is searching for him, as if it's been waiting for him." She paused, her eyes never leaving Keith. "Perhaps he has a bigger role to play than any of us can comprehend. Or maybe... the universe is changing with your presence."

Shirou let out a soft sigh, still processing the information. "You Alteans have a very mystical way of seeing things," he commented, a faint smile beginning to form on his lips.

Allura returned the smile. "Perhaps," she said gently. "But in a universe filled with uncertainties, it's the only way to find meaning in things."

"To understand quintessence better, think of it like a fingerprint," Allura continued, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Every living being has a unique signature. That's why you can feel the difference between my quintessence and Lance's. It's like comparing a Xylosian to an Aeriona; both are flowers, but they have distinct characteristics. The Xylosian, with its violet glow and delicate petals, thrives in mountainous regions, while the Aeriona floats freely in the skies, absorbing the sun's energy. Just like a flower can change over time, the quintessence of a being can also evolve."

She paused, observing Keith intently. "And that's why your ability is so intriguing. You seem to have a deeper connection to quintessence than most. It's as if you can sense the nuances, the subtleties that escape others."

Shirou felt a bit uncomfortable with all this attention. He scratched the back of his neck and said, "Maybe I'm just very sensitive to these things."

Allura smiled. "Perhaps. But I think there's something more there. Something we don't fully understand yet." She stepped closer to him, her voice lowering now. "Do you believe in destiny, Shiro?"

The question took Shirou by surprise. He had never thought much about destiny before. "I don't know," he admitted. "I always thought our lives were shaped by our choices."

Here's the translated passage in English, crafted to engage readers and seamlessly integrate with the previous text:

---

Keith nodded, carefully absorbing the information. On Earth, concepts like quintessence were often dismissed by scientists who shied away from the inexplicable. It wasn't widely recognized as quintessence; it was known as dark matter or dark energy—the fifth element, some would call it—to explain the unexplainable.

As Keith completed his task with unwavering confidence, Shirou watched from a distance, leaning against the opposite wall, arms crossed, his curiosity growing. At that moment, Shirou, who had remained silent until now, observing intently, stepped forward. "Keith, are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with both concern and curiosity.

A small smile spread across Keith's face as he felt more confident than ever. "I'm fine, Shiro. In fact, I've never felt so… alive." There was something different in his gaze, as if a fire had truly ignited within him.

"Is that normal?" Shirou asked, turning to Allura as she approached, still sparkling with satisfaction after witnessing Keith's demonstration. "I mean, were the paladins of your time so... receptive to quintessence?"

Allura frowned slightly, visibly pondering the question. "No," she replied, a touch of surprise in her voice. "In fact, most paladins from my time had a limited connection to quintessence. Only the most advanced, those who trained for years, could develop the sensitivity Keith just displayed." She cast a thoughtful glance at Keith, who continued to explore the surroundings, trying to understand the energy around him. "His sensitivity seems... natural, almost as if he's been attuned to quintessence from the very beginning."

Shirou nodded in understanding, but something still intrigued him. "Does that mean he's more advanced than the paladins of old? Or is it something else?" The curiosity in his voice was evident, mixed with a hint of concern.

"I wouldn't say he's more advanced," Allura said carefully. "It's as if quintessence is seeking him, waiting for him." She paused, her eyes never leaving Keith. "Perhaps he has a greater role to play than any of us can comprehend. Or maybe... the universe is changing with your presence."

Shirou let out a soft sigh, still processing the information. "You Alteans have a very mystical way of viewing things," he remarked, a slight smile forming on his lips.

Allura returned the smile. "Perhaps," she said gently. "But in a universe full of uncertainties, it's the only way to find meaning in things."

"To understand quintessence is like grasping a fingerprint," Allura continued, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Every living being has a unique signature. That's why you can feel the difference between my quintessence and Lance's. It's like comparing a Xylosian to an Aeriona; both are flowers, yet they have distinct characteristics. The Xylosian, with its violet glow and delicate petals, blooms in mountainous regions, while the Aeriona floats freely in the skies, absorbing sunlight's energy. Just as a flower can change over time, a being's quintessence can evolve as well."

She paused, observing Keith intently. "That's why your ability is so intriguing. You seem to have a deeper connection to quintessence than most. It's as if you can sense the nuances, the subtleties that elude others."

Shirou felt a bit uncomfortable with all the attention. He scratched the back of his neck and said, "Maybe I'm just very sensitive to these things."

Allura smiled. "Maybe. But I think there's something more there—something we don't fully understand yet." She stepped closer to him, her voice lowering. "Do you believe in fate, Shiro?"

The question caught Shirou off guard. He had never thought much about fate before. "I don't know," he admitted. "I always thought our lives were shaped by our choices."

"And maybe they are," Allura agreed. "But what if the choices we make are guided by something greater? Something we can't see or fully comprehend?"

Shirou fell silent, reflecting on Allura's words. He understood she was talking about something profound, something that transcended science and logic. For the first time, he allowed himself to consider the possibility that there was more to the universe than he had ever imagined.

Allura stepped forward, her eyes never leaving Keith. "I believe there's something unique about the paladins of this generation," she said, her voice almost a whisper. "Something even we Alteans couldn't foresee. Quintessence doesn't choose its masters by chance. There's a reason for it."

Shiro nodded, seeming to contemplate her words. But before he could respond, Keith sensed something—a presence, distant yet undeniably different and surprisingly familiar. It felt like a thread of energy connecting him, something cold and soft, contrasting with the warmth he felt. Luan, he realized, surprised. But there was something more—a subtle feeling, a softness that didn't match his expectations.

Keith furrowed his brow, a disconcerting sensation washing over him. Why does it feel... feminine? It was a question that haunted him. He couldn't understand how he knew this, but the energy emanating from Luan was undeniably feminine. There was a delicacy and gentleness surrounding his essence, something that starkly contrasted with what Keith expected from a male presence.

This doesn't make sense, he thought, growing increasingly confused and frustrated. How can I tell the difference? How can I feel something like this? Keith fought against the sensation, trying to rationalize it, but Luan's presence was clear, distinct, and unmistakable. It felt almost as if he—or rather, she—was pouring a new reality into that space, something that didn't entirely belong to that universe. A touch from another world.

The sensation was so vivid that Keith nearly recoiled, his heart racing. It wasn't just a vague intuition; it felt like he was on the verge of uncovering a secret, a truth that was hidden yet right there, for which he lacked the tools to fully unravel. Why does Luan have this... duality? A chill ran down his spine at the thought, making him question everything he thought he knew about connection to quintessence and the paladins themselves.

Before he could lose himself further in his thoughts, Shiro touched his shoulder, grounding him back in reality. "Good job, Keith," he said with a reassuring smile. "You did great."

Keith nodded automatically, but his mind continued to whirl around the sensation, that mysterious bond between him, Luan, and quintessence. If only the Alteans could feel this... then why can we? And more importantly, why does Luan's presence feel so... feminine? What does that mean?

As Shiro and Allura continued discussing what had happened, Keith couldn't help but cast one last glance in the direction where he felt Luan's presence. Something within him told him there was much more behind that energy, something still waiting to be unveiled. And somehow, he felt that understanding Luan would be key to comprehending not only quintessence but also his own role as a paladin.

"Anyway, we should keep moving," Allura interrupted his thoughts. "This time, I'll talk to you during the exercise. The goal is to distract you." Keith nodded, focusing back on the task at hand. Allura took a deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment before speaking, her voice trembling slightly. "So, Keith." He looked at her, feeling the hairs on his arms stand on end once more. "I'm curious. Why do they say something is 'easy as pie'? Isn't pie something difficult to bake?"

Keith nearly let a flood of information escape but held back, maintaining his composure. "Actually, it's because of a country called Australia. They had an expression, 'pie at' or 'pie on,' meaning to be very good at something. 'Pie' came from a Maori word, 'dad,' which means 'good.' The rest of the world ended up adopting the phrase 'easy as pie' to say something is simple or easy," he explained, a slight hint of pride in his tone.

"Impressive," Allura murmured, letting out a deep sigh. "I apologize; it's difficult to focus on speaking and manipulating the quintessence at the same time." She clasped her hands at her waist and regarded Keith, who appeared eager to continue. "Are you ready? Go ahead."

Keith paused for just a moment before moving again, stepping directly toward the point where Allura had concentrated the energy. The Altean was prepared for this, yet it was still fascinating to observe how effortlessly Keith located the small sphere of quintessence. So, this is the prowess of a Terran blessed with the ability to sense quintessence, she thought in awe.

"Keith, forgive my question, but why are you so good at this? It seems like you've practiced," Allura inquired, her curiosity genuine.

Keith hesitated, unsure of how to respond. Should he reveal the whole truth or just part of it? "I—" But before he could finish, he felt it. He felt the energy. The richness of the grass beneath him, the coolness of the wind gently brushing against his skin.

"...Keith? Do you feel like a Lion?" Allura asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

He nodded slowly. "Yes... It's as if I'm in the middle of an open field... It's a... pleasant sensation."

"Oh! It must be the Green!" Allura exclaimed, her excitement growing. Hearing about Keith's sensitivity to the Lions was one thing, but witnessing it in action was something entirely different. He was sensing a Lion trapped, held somewhere, and they hadn't even landed on a planet yet. It's truly incredible, she thought, feeling the scientist within her barely able to contain herself. "Come! We need to alert Pidge and the others immediately!"

She dashed down the corridor, enthusiasm evident in every movement, and Keith hurried after her, feeling the same urgency and excitement. As they navigated through the Castle, Keith cast one last glance toward the direction where he had sensed Luan's presence. The question continued to pulse in his mind: What does this connection mean?

And deep in his heart, a burning flame whispered: Perhaps, to learn more about the Lions and the quintessence, I first need to unravel the mystery of Luan.

---////◆♤♧♡◆\\\\\-----

Profile of Luan Carlos Mcclan (Diana Kairyū)

Level: 18

EXP: 604,750 EXP / 6,553,600 EXP

Age: 17 years (previously 39 years)

Title: The Player / Emerging Illustrator

Race: Human/Legacy

Statistics

HP: 110 / 450,560

CP: 70 / 286,720

STR: 19

INT: 32

DEX: 25

VIT: 20

CAR: 20

WIS: 26

LUK: 29 (fixed)

Skills

Observation Level 5 (150/800): Allows understanding and observing hidden facts about an object or person.

Persuasion Skill Level 6 (78/1600): Enables persuading someone to do something for you.

Basic Quintessence Manipulation Level 4 (30/400): Allows momentarily enhancing your advantages or performing acts beyond comprehension.

Apprentice Alchemy (Unlocked): Now available with Level 5 Basic Quintessence Manipulation.

Chakra Conversion (Unlocked): Ability to convert a small portion of quintessence into Chakra (requires Level 3 Basic Quintessence Manipulation).

Climbing (Passive) Level 4 (102/400): Ability to ascend previously inaccessible locations.

Jump (Passive) Level 4 (209/400): Allows surpassing objects and reaching great heights (maximum height variant of STR + VIT/2).

Skill Dance: Ballet (locked): Requires 35 DEX.

Beginner Designer Level 2 (32/100): Beginner Designer is the evolution of the Child Designer skill. Now, your drawings are no longer just scribbles worthy of a training artist. With this skill, your sketches gain new life, with details that make your works easily identifiable—even if the idea of a 'duck' still looks a bit more like a 'creation from another world.' + (click here for more)

Siren Song Level 3 (109/200): Enchanting voice that allows capturing attention and expressing emotions with increased power (power of 10%). + Description:

Your enchanting voice has evolved to a sophisticated level, allowing you to use Siren Song with impressive effectiveness. Now, your ability to influence and captivate listeners has reached a point where your emotions and intentions are expressed in a striking and powerful manner. + (click for more)

(+Effects and Abilities:

Increased Enchantment: Your voice now has substantial range and impact, capable of capturing and holding the attention of everyone around you with ease. The enchanting effect of your voice can influence even the most distracted listeners, with an effectiveness of 75%.

Deep Emotional Expression: Your ability to convey emotions through singing is extremely refined, allowing you to express complex and subtle feelings with clarity and depth. The emotional intensity conveyed is enough to cause lasting effects on those around you.

Influence and Persuasion: Singing can now directly alter the behavior and decisions of listeners, providing a significant advantage in social interactions and negotiations. Your persuasion ability through singing is now so effective that you can substantially influence actions and thoughts.

Mystical Effect: In combination with other skills or auras, such as the angel aura or small healer, your singing can create additional effects, such as calming the mind, inspiring courage, or even creating a protective aura. The total potency of these effects can reach up to 50% under ideal conditions.

Current Progress:

150/300 XP: Your singing and enchanting ability has evolved to a level where your voice has a significant impact, powerfully shaping emotions and actions. The transformation of your ability reflects an advanced and refined mastery of Siren Song.

Requirements for Advancement:

To further enhance your skill and unlock new potentials, continue accumulating experience and refine your abilities to reach the next level.)

Perks

Gamer Mind (On/Off): Allows clear and calm thinking, maintaining focus on your objectives.

Mental Barrier Bonus Level 2 (26/100): Protects against mental attacks/control (WIS + INT / 2).

Meditation Level 3 (56/200): Improves physical/mental/spiritual balance, increases quintessence manipulation capacity, control, regeneration, and sensitivity (based on HP + CP + Quintessence / 3).

Quintessence Sensor Bonus (Unlocked): Requires Level 5 in Meditation.

Mystic Camouflage (Unlocked): Requires Level 10 in Basic Quintessence Manipulation or unlocking Chakra Conversion.

Ninja Art: Tree Walking (Locked): Requires unlocking Chakra Conversion.

Gamer Body (On/Off): Allows instant HP and CP regeneration (when sleeping) or slow (in battle).

Pain Resistance Bonus Level 2 (52/100): Allows continuing to achieve goals despite injuries (STR + DEX + VIT / 3).

Running Blessing Level 2 (26/100): Allows rapid movement (speed variant of VIT + DEX / 2).

Run Barry, Run (Passive) Level 3 (12/200): Increases maximum speed for a short period (maximum time: 30s).

Susanoo (Locked): Click for more details.

One with Water Level 3 (158/200): Natural affinity with water (+3x DEX, +3x STR, +3x VIT when in contact with water).

Child of the Seas Level 4 (25/400): Great advantage at sea, skills to breathe and increase regeneration within bodies of water.

Winter Fury Level 2 (3/100): Wide-range cryogenic attack technique, freezing everything within the attack zone (maximum range 4 meters).

[Due to meeting all requirements, the Field Healer perk has evolved into Star Healer]

Star Healer Level 1 (0/200): It is an advanced evolution of medical skills, allowing the performance of complex medical procedures in various environments, including space. This skill provides a significant improvement in the ability to treat critical injuries, stabilize patients in severe conditions, and coordinate medical operations under extreme pressure. Medical competence is elevated, and performance in critical situations is optimized. + (click here to learn more)

Requirements:

Complete Little Healer (Max) and Field Healer (Max).

Demonstrate competence in emergencies.

Be promoted to Sub-Lieutenant in the medical corps.

Little Grasshopper Level 2 (37/100): Ease in performing Martial Arts, with potential for developing a personal style.

Huntress Mirin Level 2 (24/100): Ability to seek and find targets.

Hiding (Passive) Level 2 (15/100): Allows hiding from opponents for a longer period (maximum time: 4 min).

Loyalty (Max): Ability to gain and give loyalty to associates, unlocking the privilege of romance upon reaching 100%.

Curses

Golden Silencer Curse (Max): Prohibits transmitting important information, causing extreme pain when trying to reveal what must not be.

---

Reputation Bar

Varadero: 16,640 / 50,000 - Neutral

Mcclan Clan:

Helena Mcclan (Grandmother): 2,160 / 2,200 - Honored

Laura Mcclan (Mother): 2,200 / 2,200 - Honored

Raphael Mcclan (Father): 2,196 / 2,200 - Honored

Luis Mcclan (Older Brother): 2,040 / 3,400 - Honored

Veronica Mcclan (Older Sister): 2,200 / 2,200 - Honored

Marco Mcclan (Older Brother): 2,000 / 2,200 - Well Regarded

Rachel Mcclan (Older Sister): 2,060 / 2,200 - Honored

Lance Mcclan (Twin Brother): 2,200 / 2,200 - Honored

Paladins: 12,000 / 40,000 - A Bit Friendly

Shirou: 4,500 / 10,000 - A Bit Friendly

Keith: 2,800 / 10,000 - A Bit Friendly

Pidge: 1,500 / 10,000 - A Bit Friendly

Hunk: 3,200 / 10,000 - A Bit Friendly

Galra Empire: -5,000 / 10,000 - Enemy (Capture the Sight)

Alteans:

Coran: 4,000 / 10,000 - Friendly

Allura: 4,000 / 10,000 - Friendly

Altean (???): ??? / ??? - ???