When Commander Keith informed me he instructed all of you to compose a last will of sorts, it occurred to me that I ought to have one as well. I may not have many possessions, but there are a few things that should be said, some of them to all of you, and some to myself.

By the time you read this, I hope that we have been victorious over Zarkon’s Empire. Perhaps this is a bold sentiment to have, but I sincerely believe we will eventually triumph over the evil that has plagued our galaxy for so long. We’ve suffered so much already; I can’t see that we would fail in our quest to live as free people. In fact, if you are reading my words, I hope that it is a direct result of my efforts to assist in this mission of peace. I can think of no more honorable death than that met with eyes open and a strong heart, knowing that I did what I could to achieve our goal of ultimate peace.

With this in mind, I must begin by addressing my dear Princess Allura. I can’t imagine what you must be feeling right now. You’ve simply had so much loss in your short lifetime that I worry about any more you may have to experience in the future. This concerns me more than you might imagine, and so I must beg you not to grieve over me for any length of time. For the fact is, I am an old man even now - an old man who has had a very trying, yet very fulfilling life. My wife and son have already gone, and although I have loved those still with me, I feel the void they’ve left in my heart like a chronic pain. So, my darling Princess, please keep your mourning in perspective, for it won’t be sorrow for me, but merely yourself.

When Leida and the baby passed, I felt like my world ended. I was ready to die on the spot; God needn’t even ask. But then, tragedy hit again when your father was killed. In an odd way, his passing saved my life. For when your father left you in my care, I had a reason to live again. You, Allura, have been my reason for living. I know I could never be considered your father, but in every way, I’ve always thought of you as my daughter. I can’t imagine loving anyone more than I love you, and I could never leave this world without telling you that.

You and I have shared so much - the times when there was nothing to eat but stale crackers and beech nuts…the hours spent hiding in complete silence from Zarkon’s troops under the floorboards of the ballroom…the day we met a group of five strangers who said they had come to save us. Even those harsher times, although difficult to think about now, are never to be forgotten, for it makes us who we are - survivors. Take this to heart when you need it, and keep being that survivor I know you are, Allura. No matter what happens. And remember that you have friends who care about you, and a Nanny who loves you (in an overbearing, yet unconditional way). And always remember that I’ll be there for you when you need me. That is, until you don’t need me anymore.

Commander Keith, I have left you a separate note enclosed in this envelope - security codes and such for the castle and Voltron. You have these already, but as a fellow stickler of detail, I’m sure you can understand that I wanted them readily available to you in my absence. Please make reading it a priority, as I’ve included some additional information of which you should be aware.

I’ve pondered long the words in which to thank you and your team for all you have done for Arus, the Princess Allura, and our cause. I have tried, but all of my words have come across trite and lacking proper sentiment. I simply hope that you understand how I feel about you and your team.

One of the most amazing aspects of the Voltron Force (in my opinion) is how well you all seem to operate as individuals, as well as in the larger group.

Pidge, I will miss your quick wit and the energy you bring to our lives. What is most amazing to me is that one minute, you’re building mouse-planes, and the next, you’re designing planetary shields. I hope you will always keep some of that little boy within you; the world needs more of what you have.

Hunk - I will miss the much needed down-to-earth warmth and friendliness that adds so much to your team. I have always thought of you as the level-headed one, the one who creates the least amount of discordance. You are their rock. Thank heaven for people like you. Be good to yourself, and please, never change the way you are.

Lance - You are one of the finest officers and human beings I have ever known. I think that few see beyond the hard, sarcastic facade you portray, but over the years, I’ve come to appreciate what your way of thinking has meant to your team and this planet. You are many things to many people, but I won’t embarrass you by enumerating them. Just realize that you will eventually need to bring that wall down, because none of us really buy into it anyway. And thanks for leaving me the coffee everyday - it really helps with those long night shifts at Control.

Allura - What can I say? You are indeed a fine pilot. You were right; I was wrong. Who could’ve known? (Happy now?)

Captain Keith - Your sacrifices have been many, and I’m sure, not without significant pain and personal suffering. I won’t even try to express my gratitude, but know that Arus would have surely fallen long ago without your efforts…and Allura would now be in the hands of the enemy. You are a fierce soldier and a formidable gentleman; I am sure your parents would have been proud.

And I guess this takes me to my dear Marthy. Nanny, I’m not sure how you’ll be able to survive in the midst of these…sprightly youngsters, but know that you have my sympathies. Nanny, you and I are the same in many ways, so I’ll spare you the lengthy commentary of our past together. It would be like the Oak telling the Maple what it is like to have leaves. Just know that your friendship has filled my heart with happiness, and my head with sanity for all these years. I hope you find all the peace and happiness in life that you deserve. And one more thing, sweet Marthy, for as much as I don’t want to admit it, she doesn’t need us anymore. She is wiser than the both of us put together.

Kiss the Princess Romelle’s baby for me, and send the others my love.

Forever Arus,
Coran, Royal Chancellor and Keeper of the Lions

To read Coran’s note to Keith, click here.

Dalanar was nice enough to lend me her original name for Nanny, ‘Marthy.’ Thanks, Dala.