Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Meta, are you happy?”

It’s such a simple question, one Kirby has asked countless times to many of his friends, but it’s Meta who has to pause before answering. So many emotions flicker through his eyes, lighting up his eyes in a variety of colors before settling on his usual yellow. The only person Kirby has met to not be unreadable with a mask on.

“..I am content.”

Kirby let out a huge sigh and fell on his back. The grass barely cushioned his fall and his hair fell in his face making him blow out a puff upwards, with little to no help clearing his eyesight. This was so frustrating! Popstar was once again filled with the peace he, and many have come to adore, so why was Meta still so gloomy? Even when he offered to spar with him he got rejected. Meta never rejects an opportunity to fight!

Glaring daggers at the Halberd, Kirby finally felt the fight leave him and his hands unclenched the grass he gripped at. Compared to himself, Meta had a short list of what he enjoyed. Sweets, fighting, fixing up the Halberd, and that was the gist of it. He’s known Meta for years and yet here he was struggling to find something that would shake him from his gloomy state.

The idea of leaving him alone isn’t an option. Maybe he shouldn’t meddle in Meta’s personal life, but what kind of friend would he be to leave someone so close to him to suffer? Nope, that’s not happening!

He’ll just have to dig deeper, see what makes Meta happy and find a way to bring that happiness back to him! That is his new goal and he won’t stop until it’s fulfilled!

“There he is– hey Kirby!”

Kirby perks up at the familiar tone and pushes himself up, eyes lighting up when he sees Blade and Sword approach him. Giving a friendly wave, Kirby sits cross legged on the ground and slightly sways side to side as his friends approach. This is perfect! Who better to ask than two of the closest people to Meta? Surely they’ll know how to help him!

“Sir Meta said you just paid a short visit, you should’ve said hi to us!” Blade exclaims, putting his hands on his hips in mock anger. Kirby grins and then laughs when Sword walks over and ruffles his hair. “We were just on our way to run an errand, do you want to join us?”

Usually Kirby would go without a second thought if it meant spending time with those he cares for, but right now he had a mission to focus on. Can’t get distracted.. This is for Meta!

“I’d love to, but..” Kirby trails off and sighs, propping a hand up under his chin and looks up at the knights with worry in his eyes. “Do you guys know if there’s anything wrong with Meta Knight? He keeps refusing to spar with me and when I brought him some of his favorite sweets he didn’t seem all too excited.”

Sword and Blade exchange looks, and Kirby doesn’t feel the comfort he was hoping for when the glances they share are the same concern he holds.

“We’re not exactly sure,” Blade starts, rubbing the back of his head. “Meta’s been pretty distant ever since he came back from his last sparring match in space.”

The only reason Meta ever leaves Popstar is to challenge the greatest warrior in the galaxy. Kirby’s only heard mentions of it, but Meta would never go into detail around him, only worn out anytime he’d catch him flying back down to the Halberd.

“Which is odd because anytime he’d come back he was always in a good mood,” Sword continues. “He would actually smile! Maybe it’s just me but I think something was going on–”

“Sword!”

“What? Am I wrong?” He raises an eyebrow, a hand on his hip. “He kept saying over and over how exhilarating it was to be around him!”

“Even so..” Blade shakes his head and sighs. “Nearly a month ago he came back in a somber mood and wouldn’t say what was wrong. Approaching the subject would only result in a stern gaze and an order that would have us leaving him to his own devices.”

That sounded very peculiar. But.. If he enjoyed all the time spent with the warrior why would he not see him again? Kirby’s heart dropped and his eyes glazed over with tears threatening to spill. Was Meta’s friend–

“Hey now, quit making that kicked puppy face,” Sword ruffles his hair and keeps his hand on his head as Kirby looks up to him. “It’s nothing like that. We thought the same and after Meta felt suspicious of us being, well, decent around him he told us nothing of the sort occurred.”

“Nothing like that can ever happen anyways,” Blade pipes up. “Nova always seals the warrior away before their fights have a chance of turning fatal, and it’s not like Meta would ever have a fight to the death unless it was absolutely necessary.”

Sword heaves a sigh, and rolls his shoulders. “It’s a shame considering Meta really seemed to like the guy, but there isn’t really anything we can do about it. It’s best to leave him alone unless you wanna provoke him.”

“I.. see.” Kirby deflates and has to stop himself from falling back down against the grass. That at least answered his question as to why Meta seems more reclusive than usual, but that only raised more questions. “You think he misses him?”

A quick, “Who knows?” and “Don’t worry about it.” is all Kirby receives. It has him puff up his cheeks, pouting and with newfound determination he moves his legs and jumps up off the ground. He’ll get Meta’s friend back no matter what! If Nova brought him into this world, then surely someone like him can do the same!

Plus.. He still had a free wish to use up. Before he had thought that maybe one day he’d go up and ask for an infinite amount of food but never did anything about it. It’s not like he ever went hungry in Dreamland, so why should he waste his wish on something that could be seen as selfish?

Now he can help Meta! He can get back his sparring partner and they can be happy down on Popstar with everyone! It’s such a foolproof plan and it has a happy ending, exactly what Meta needs!

“Thanks guys!” Kirby exclaims, rushing off in the opposite direction, twirling around to wave his arms at them. “I know exactly what I’m going to do now!”

Sword and Blade don’t have a chance to run after him to question his sudden optimism when his warp star is summoned and his destination is above the clouds and within the stars. The dark aura the Halberd leaves is left behind, in hopes it will become more of a home than a battleship.

It turns out this time finding Nova isn’t as complicated as his first time seeking out the wish maker.

It’s a bit jarring to Kirby when he hovers through space and almost runs face first into a gear. Startled and backtracking his warp star, Kirby grips it tightly and stares up at the emotionless, cat face of the mechanical comet. One eye remains closed and the other stares almost menacingly down at him, a part of the comet is missing from the last time he had battled it for the sake of Popstar, but it seemed Meta fixed it up enough to properly function. As amazing as Nova is, the power it is able to grant, the mechanical comet was all too eerie.

However, in the presence of the celestial Kirby did not feel fear.

This time no one would steal his wish.

“Ready. I will grant you one wish…”

“My wish is for Meta to be together with the strongest warrior in the galaxy! So that they can live in peace and be happy on Popstar– or they can travel together! As long as Galacta never leaves Meta’s side!”

“Ok. 3… 2… 1… Go!” Nova closes its eye and Kirby waits a beat. Then, suddenly in a flash both of Nova’s eyes flicker open and Kirby has to shield his face from the blinding light that emerges from the mechanical comet. Unlike the last time Kirby encountered Nova, he didn’t find himself drifting through space.

Instead, when his arms were lowered he found himself back down on the grassy, sunshine filled Dreamland. Confused, Kirby searched the area, a frown tugging on his lips as he saw nothing out of the ordinary.

Did it not work..? Nova couldn’t have malfunctioned, could it? Meta had used it countless times to summon his friend so maybe it was only accustomed to the one wish? That couldn’t be right.

The idea of leaving once again to find Nova is Kirby’s next course of action, however there’s no need for it. Not when a pink crystal appeared before him, out of the air, as if teleported to him, revealing a person trapped inside of it.

Slowly it begins to crack, working its way up until there is nothing left of the crystal except a bunch of shards that burst away from the warrior. Kirby doesn’t have to evade the crystals when they become nothing but pink glitter harmlessly falling to the ground around them. His blue eyes widen and watch in awe at the beautiful angel wings that curl around his figure and fluff up, spreading out and sending forth a powerful aura around him.

The warrior touches the ground and moves his head around, his mask making him impossible to read. Like Meta, his eyes are the only thing Kirby is able to see; the bright brilliant ruby red eyes taking in the new area around them.

Kirby is ready to introduce himself, sporting a smile and wanting to welcome his new friend with open arms and lead the way to the Halberd, so that Meta can reunite with his friend again. However the warrior suddenly goes stiff, his posture tense and the hand holding his lance grips tightly around the handle. And then, as if he were going through an inner turmoil the warrior shakes his head, holding a hand to it with eyes that burn so fiercely now.

“Is something wrong?” Kirby pipes up, finally breaking the silence and snaps the warrior’s attention to him. “If you’re confused I can explain everything to you–”

“Child,” The man speaks, voice pained and bitter. “What have you done?”

With red eyes now narrowed at him this was the opposite of what Kirby wanted. He by no means wants to fight, nor does it seem the warrior was ready to strike him, but what was with that tone? Maybe Nova filled him in on his new life?

But..

If they liked each other so much then shouldn't he be happy to be here?

Chapter Text

“Great warrior.. Your life is now linked to the knight who has freed you countless times thanks to this child’s wish. The seal that traps you shall be broken, but in return you cannot stray far from the soul you are bound to or else you shall perish. Welcome to your new life, warrior.”

Galacta felt numb. Nova’s booming voice echoed throughout his head, shaking him to his very core where he stood. He would have collapsed then and there from the weight of Nova’s words if the child wasn’t looking at him with so much concern. Logically he attempted to process the situation, to comprehend why his fate is now tied with the one he now despises.

Tied by a red string of fate he finds himself strangled by it.

When he hears himself talk, the pure resentment in his tone, he does not wait for an answer. There is no logical reason as to why he should be here, why a child would waste a wish on something so meaningless. The innocence of the child’s eyes widens when his wings extend and he runs. He runs, and runs until the ground under him is no more and the air flows freely through his hair.

Ironic, he thinks, considering he felt no freedom.

The faint voice of the child is left behind and he soars upwards, searching and striving, needing to leave this planet. But he doesn’t even get the chance to pierce through the clouds when his limbs jolt and his entire body is hit with a shock wave. Crying out in pain Galacta falls, closer and closer to the ground that he loathes, until he’s able to take control of his wings again, flapping furiously in an attempt to land gracefully.

“Are you okay?” The pink haired boy rushes to him in an instant, but Galacta halts him with a hand held out, slowly catching his breath. “Your entire body glowed pink before you went down..”

Never in his life had he felt such an intense burst of magic, but of course Nova was a being made by the ancients, there’s no limit to the power they used to possess. The same power he was granted only for him to become imprisoned.

“Why would you unseal me for something so utterly ridiculous?” Galacta snaps, tone filled with venom. “A child should not be able to make a wish upon Nova, you are too young to comprehend the consequences of your actions.”

“I did what was right!” The boy puffed up his chest, a pout on his lips before huffing out a sigh and crossed his arms. “You don’t deserve to be sealed away!”

“I don’t deserve it?” His eyes narrow and he takes only a step forward, looming over the child who didn’t look as fearful as he should be. “I was sealed away out of fear. Those who called me a hero turned their backs on me over the possible destruction I could bring forth to them. I was cast away, to be sealed away for eternity. There is no reason I should be here, especially with him.”

“Everyone deserves a second chance,” The boy spoke softly, arms uncrossed so that he could hold a hand over his heart. “Many of my friends used to be my enemies, but now we’re closer than ever! I may not know why you and Meta Knight are upset but he’s still my friend and you make him happy!”

Without an ounce of fear, the child took a step forward, eyes burning fiercely with determination. Galacta could feel himself waver, the memory of Meta giving him those same eyes one too many times before. Who is this child?

“You’re going to be living with him, so can’t you guys at least talk?”

Why should he have to be with someone who continuously unsealed him to fight? The only person he began to grow close to through their sparring, only for..

“Live together? I refuse to be in the same proximity as him,” Galacta scoffs. “I almost pity you for wasting a wish on something so meaningless.”

“Please, you have to talk to him!” To his surprise the child rushed over, practically clinging to his arm and was actually able to move him in his attempt to drag him. Blinking, Galacta straightened his posture and kept his stance firm. “He really needs you! And I’m not leaving you alone until you guys talk this thing out!”

What a stubborn little..

Galacta couldn’t even finish the thought with Kirby’s insistent pulling. His shoulders sagged and his wings folded up behind him, a heavy sigh leaving his lips. Time to weigh his options. He could either stay here all day with the boy attempting to move him, try to search around the foreign planet he ended up on, or the last option being that the boy would drag Meta to him.

Either way all options had a little mess of pink hair following him around leaving out the option of attempting to isolate himself.

“Fine,” He hissed out in defeat, gritting his teeth and folded his arms while looking away from the jump and cheer the boy let out. “I will follow you and.. Attempt to talk to him.”

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” The boy suddenly hugged him, resulting in Galacta raising his arms and his posture stiffening by the sudden contact. It wasn’t every day– well, in his past life that someone would hug him, though maybe he wouldn’t have to get used to it. “I’m Kirby by the way!”

Kirby let go of him and twirled around, almost breaking out into a sprint. Galacta shook his head at how energetic he was, but could not stop the small smile that remained hidden behind his mask as he caught up to his lively acquaintance.

“You may call me Galacta.”

The closer they got to Meta’s home the more dread started to fill in.

Like something bubbling inside of him, on a low simmer, it began to boil the closer and closer they got until a large battleship came into view. It looked menacing, docked near the beach surrounded by palm trees and an orange ocean reflected by the sunset. Galacta wrinkled his nose at the salty breeze, although he could have laughed at the gigantic mask on the battleship.

He could have, if Meta wasn’t resting on the shore looking completely out of place.

His breath caught in his throat and his eyes burned holes into the long familiar cape. Galacta stood in the grass and Kirby rushed forward, drawing Meta’s attention away from the orange and pink colored sky. The peace would have remained if Meta didn’t turn around and their eyes locked.

He should have expected a sword would be drawn the moment they had their bitter reunion.

“You,” Meta breathed out, boots stomping against the soft sand and stopping mere feet away from him. The light shined off his spotless golden sword and yet even as his life was threatened, he did not raise his lance. Only for Kirby’s sake did he promise not to engage in combat. “When did you– how did you get freed?”

Kirby was quick to intervene, running between the two of them and held his arms out in front of him to defend him. Yet again was Kirby surprising him, throwing his life on the line when he barely knew anything about him. “No fighting! You’re not allowed to hurt my new friend!”

Meta stared at him, eyes flickering between green and orange. There was so much emotion held in his eyes it only made his stomach turn, the sheer memory of those same, colorful eyes looking at him being part of the last memory he held of Meta.

Finally, Meta lowered his sword and his eyes returned yellow.

“I’m the one who freed Galacta,” Kirby begins, snapping Meta’s attention back to him. “I went to Nova itself and wished for you and him to be reunited. Now you can be happy together again!”

“My soul is now bound to yours,” Galacta explained, furthering Meta’s bewilderment. “I have already attempted to leave this planet only to be forced back down. There is a limit to where I can be.”

It’s intentional he leaves out the part of perishing if he got too far away from Meta. The last thing he needs is for the knight to hang that over his head, a constant reminder that his life will drain and be cut short.

“Kirby,” Yellow eyes glowed intensely at the boy, yet never turned red. There was a moment of hesitation before he spoke, and finally Meta rested a hand upon Kirby’s shoulder, as if the fight were leaving him. “Your heart may have been in the right place, but–”

“Don’t you want to be happy with Galacta again?” Kirby asks, voice small and eyes wide, even Galacta could not look away from how bright the blue of them shined. “Isn’t he what you wanted?”

Meta stares and shifts, looks anywhere except at him. Even Kirby, as energetic and slightly impatient as he may be, was waiting to hear his response. Slowly, his hand left him and the yellow of Meta’s eyes stared at him so intensely his own narrowed in response.

Just staring at him made every part of him burn.

“I will take him off your hands,” In one swift motion Meta turns from them, cape swaying from around his shoulders and moving freely as he walks towards the battleship. “If you are to live on the Halberd there will be rules.”

“You must be jesting,” Galacta sneers and takes satisfaction in making the knight turn to him once more. Good, he will not follow orders from the likes of someone like him. “I’d rather live alone.”

Meta bites back, tone just as sharp and posture as tense as his was. “Don’t be a fool–”

“I will live in a tree and be struck down by the lightning attracted to my armor then spend the rest of my life with you.”

Anything Meta has to say to him is of no importance as he takes his leave without wasting his breath another moment. He doesn’t care to see the flicker of colors dance through his eyes and will take this new fate into his own hands. He will test his limits and see how far off he can live without being near the knight.

“Galacta, wait!” Kirby calls for him, rushing to him in an attempt to keep his pace. Neither one acknowledges the flap of Meta’s wings or the faint sound of his boots stomping on the metal stairs of the Halberd.

“You don’t have anywhere to go!” Kirby exclaims and runs in front of him. He isn’t quite the roadblock he thinks he is, or that’s what Galacta thinks as he attempts to maneuver around him. “And all of this is my fault–” He can certainly agree on that. “–so please live with me until things are sorted out!”

Now that is enough to make Galacta stop in his tracks. Although the day felt all too short to him, to someone who has lived where time flew by in an instant, he felt all too worn out from the circumstance he was thrust into.

Again, he would rather live alone.

But perhaps this was a good idea, even if it was temporary. He knew nothing of this planet nor the people or possible monsters that resided on it. It’d be a chance to learn, so that he may adapt to his new life. Kirby could tell him more about the planet he’s trapped on.

It’s still up for debate if this was better or worse than being trapped in the crystal where time stands still.

Hope filled eyes are locked with his own contemplative ones and he has to yet again wonder what makes this child so special that Nova would appear before him and grant him a wish.

“Very well, lead the way.”

Chapter Text

Having a new house guest had to be one of the best things that ever happened to Kirby.

Sure, he would have preferred if Galacta could have lived with Meta.. But for the time being he gets to have a bunch of sleepovers with his new friend! And while it was hard to read Galacta he at least agreed to stay with him.

He’ll consider this a win! For now anyways, until the two could cool down enough to talk things through.

It was concerning to him how Galacta suddenly fell from the sky, as if he was struck by some unknown force and he made sure to keep an eye on him as they made the small journey back to his little cottage. Wonder what that was about? He hardly knew Galacta, but he’s going to do his best to take care of him!

Which is why he decided to take the first step and welcome Galacta with a homemade meal.

“The ramen is all done now!” Kirby yelled over his shoulder. Galacta watched him from his place at his small table, a hand under his chin. Carefully he made his way over to the table, two big bowls balanced in either hand and placed them on the table before Galacta could get up to help him. Galacta settled back down in his chair as Kirby plopped down in his, happily swinging his legs from where they didn’t quite reach the ground and began to dig in.

However, just as he began to eat he stopped when he noticed Galacta staring down at his bowl.

“Aren’t you going to take your mask off?” Kirby asks with a mouthful of noodles. Swallowing, he continued, “Go ahead and eat up! It’s really yummy!”

Hesitating, Galacta reached a hand behind his head and unstrapped his mask, allowing it to fall in the hand in front of his face. He blinked, adjusting to the dim light that hit his features and Kirby stared in awe. His red eyes shone even brighter than they did behind his mask, looking a lot less intense and more soft.

“Wow..” Kirby says aloud, leaning up on the table and reaches a hand out to his face. Galacta nearly jolts back, but relaxes when Kirby gently pokes his cheek. “You don’t have a single scar on you!”

“Years of training, young one,” Galacta smiles; small, but soft and Kirby finds that he likes this look a lot more than his intimidating mask. “I’m afraid the only wounds I bear are where eyes cannot see.”

It only furthers Kirby’s confusion when Galacta places a hand over his heart before he grabs his utensils and slowly begins to eat. Kirby settles back down in his chair and studies his features, finding a large amount of joy at the way his red eyes light up by the burst of flavors he tends to give every one of his dishes.

“You know, Meta doesn’t have any scars either,” And then pausing he adds, “His counterpart does though!”

“..Counterpart?”

Maybe that was a lot to unpack since Galacta just got here. There’s a whole history to Popstar he might be unaware of, coming from space and all. It made him wonder what Galacta’s old home used to be, before he got sealed away. Bringing up Dark and Shadow could come another day, he thinks.

“Ah well, not important.” As simple as that Kirby shrugs it off and gives his food the attention it deserves. No sense in letting it go to waste! Which really is never a problem for him.

“Your cooking is rather good for someone your age,” Is that a compliment? He knew Galacta was a good person! “Did your parents teach you?”

Kirby blinks, furrows his brows and pauses before he takes another big bite out of his noodles. His parents..?

“I learned a thing or two from many of the people on Popstar,” Kirby hums. “Meta says I came here in a starship, but that’s okay! I may not have parents but everyone on Popstar is like family to me!”

Galacta only stares at him and– why is he frowning? Even the flicker of emotions in his eyes was hard to read.. Well that’s no good! Kirby pouted, shifting under his gaze and a sudden idea came to mind.

“Do you know how to cook?”

Whatever was running through Galacta’s mind seemed to stop, snapping him from his thoughts and his posture straightened, less tense and the frown was no longer there. Progress!

“My meals are edible.”

“That’s great!” Kirby exclaims, too eager for his own good. “You can teach Meta how to cook then! He’s terrible at it, but he knows how to bake a little! He somehow always manages to burn anything if anyone gives him a frying pan to work with.”

To Kirby’s delight Galacta actually laughs at his statement. What a nice sound! He hopes he can hear more of it, if it means Galacta is starting to get comfortable in his home– their home. It has Kirby swaying his legs again and a grin blooms on his face.

“I suppose the greatest of warriors have their own flaws,” As if shaking away the thought, Galacta points a chopstick at him and gestures to his bowl. “You better eat before your dinner grows cold.”

Goodness, he’s starting to sound like Meta when he wants to have small chats during their get-togethers. With Meta he usually just wanted to avoid certain conversations by stuffing his face, but at least Galacta genuinely seems like he’s hungry.

“A young warrior needs their strength.” Meta once told him, sacrificing his cake so that he could dig into it. Now that he thinks about it he can't even recall what it was that he asked Meta..

He will not allow food to distract him again! In this case anyways, so that he can mend the bridge between the two stubborn knights!

When both of their bowls are empty from the drinking race they decide to have near the end of dinner, Galacta was the one to shoo him away so that he could clean the dishes, mumbling about how he shouldn’t overwork himself for his sake.

In the meantime Kirby grabbed a pillow off his bed and an extra blanket he had in his closet and messily threw them on his couch, deciding he’d sleep there until further notice. Fluffing his pillow, Kirby looked down proudly at his work and was ready to jump down on the couch until he felt a hand grip the back of his short sleeved hoodie.

“Oh no you don’t,” Galacta clicks his tongue and gently tugs him backwards. “I’ll take the couch, there is no reason you should give up your living space.”

“But–!”

“If you don’t comply I’ll just have to fly you over and drop you down on your bed,” Galacta threatens him, no bite to it, though the idea did sound tempting.. But he won’t annoy Galacta. It was only fair that he let him relax after a long, confusing day. He sure knows he’s beat! “Get you some rest and I’ll help you in the morning with breakfast, okay?”

“Well when you put it like that!” At the promise of food Kirby’s eyes nearly sparkle and he grins, quickly bringing Galacta into a hug before he rushes off, climbing up the ladder to his bed and jumps down on it, messing up his blanket, plushies and pillows in the process.

Peeking down at Galacta who was busy taking off his armor, Kirby added, “Let’s make pancakes!”

Galacta looked up to him, huffing out a quiet laugh with a nod and that’s the last thing Kirby saw before he fell back down on his bed, tightly hugging his star plushie. Sleep came quickly to him; the excitement of the day having drained him and without having a single nap throughout the entire day he was already dozing off in the comfort of his bed, a single thought in mind as he nuzzled his head against his star.

It turns out having a roommate.. Is actually a lot of fun.





When the sun rose and the birds were already chirping outside his window Kirby slowly blinked the sleep out of his eyes. He stretched his arms up, noting sleepily that his blanket was neatly tucked around him and his star plushie was resting beside his head.

It was certainly a nice way to wake up, if waking up with his blanket kicked off the bed was any way to start his day. It was also comfortably warm in his home, the fireplace seemingly already lit and when he stole a glance down at the living room his houseguest was missing.

Wait, missing?

Kirby quickly scrambled off his bed, sliding down his ladder and ran over to the couch, puffing his cheeks up when there was nothing but a neatly folded blanket and pillow resting on it. His heart dropped when he eyed the connected kitchen, looking around as if Galacta would suddenly appear before him like he did yesterday.

His lance was still in his house, so where did he disappear to? He wouldn’t just leave, right..?

“–If you have no business here then leave.”

A nearly muffled voice had Kirby’s ears perking up, along with his mood and he rushed over to his window, pushing back the curtain so he could see what the commotion was outside. His heart swelled and he had trouble fighting back a smile when he saw Meta and Galacta standing outside together.

They’re actually talking! Did Meta know Galacta was staying with him? Why else would he visit him? Hopefully not to give him a lecture..

This is a good thing though! He can endure the lecture if it means they get to work things through, be happy and then they can all live peacefully on Popstar–

This happy, innocent thought is quick to leave as soon as it begins when Galacta flexes his wings and Meta’s eyes flicker red, a hand flying down to rest on the handle of his sword. No, no, no! Why are they so angry?

Galacta raises his arm, drawing forth a blinding blue and white light and Kirby can only watch in horror.

Oh no.

Chapter Text

Finding Galacta was both a blessing and a curse.

On one hand it saved Meta from having to go search Popstar for the stubborn knight, but for him to be living with Kirby.. Why did that concern him more than it should? Trust was a fragile thing, something that Kirby would merely throw out the window when it came to meeting anyone who appeared to be even remotely friendly.

Yet Galacta was far from it and he already earned the trust of the star warrior.

On the short trip over he mentally went through the talk he was going to have with Kirby, as to why it was a mistake for him to free Galacta when he should have been one to do so. Perhaps it was the universe’s way of telling him his time was up, that he waited too long to see Galacta and so the warrior was brought to him instead.

Unfortunately not under the best terms.

His crew was wise not to disturb him for the remainder of the day and the following morning, lest they wanted to be given extra work to avoid any sort of conversation directed at his mood. Sword and Blade, as loud as they can be compared to his entire crew, even steered clear from the wrath he could barely tame.

Seeing Galacta open the door to Kirby’s home is not what he expected. Surprised isn’t even close to what he felt, although the feeling didn’t last long. A rare wave of anxiety pulled him in, so close to drowning him as it did yesterday when he saw Galacta in the flesh.

Deep breaths, calm posture and steady eyes. He does not need for Galacta to see him when he is weak, when vulnerability decides to strike when he never asked for it to appear its ugly self in the first place.

With his own mask on Galacta’s eyes burned with an intensity only he could ignite in the scorched warrior. Meta leveled him with what he hoped to be the bright yellows that nobody could read through his mask.

“Why are you here?” He really shouldn’t ask questions he knows the answers to. If Kirby is involved it’s far too obvious. Still, someone needed to watch out for him, he was far too young and naive to truly grasp the cruelty of the world.

“This is my.. Home until further notice,” Galacta states firmly, arms crossed. “Not that you should know, it’s not as if I expect or want any visitors.”

“Kirby may be strong but he is only a child,” Meta begins. “I know that it was his doing that you were brought here and while I understand his intentions were pure of heart, he should not be the one to shoulder this burden when it doesn't even concern him.”

It was meant to be a calm, serious discussion between two adults and yet it suddenly took the wrong turn. His words were not wrong, but his tone was too harsh, too strict for Galacta to take rationally. The fight left him the last time he was with Galacta, and now it had returned, full force and burning their desire to clash weapons again.

“Oh? We’re going to be rational now, are we?” Galacta’s eyes narrowed, spewing venom as he took a step forward. “You are right, Kirby is just a child, but he is more mature than you are. Are you worried that a ruthless warrior is living with him? I’d be more worried if he lived with you, since you’re so quick to fly off the handle.”

Meta sharply inhaled and took a step forward, never to be intimidated by a foe. Behind his mask his teeth grit, his entire being flaring just by the mere jab sent his way and sending forth bitter memories. How is he supposed to have a decent, normal conversation with this irrational imbecile–

“If you have no business here then leave.”

He half expected Galacta to storm off, to slam the door in his face and exclaim how his presence disgusted him, how he loathed him, not to extend his wings and throw a hand up in the air. The light blue and white attack had his eyes widen, his hand flying down to the handle of his sword on instinct. He knew this attack quite well, but it could be hard to dodge if he wasn’t careful or fast enough.

Never had he seen it without Galacta’s lance pointing up into the galaxy in a beautiful display of destruction.

“Stop!”

A cry and a plea, booming like thunder and striking them like lightning, both knights were halted in their battle positions. In a flash, Kirby appeared with a messy bedhead and ruffled pajamas, throwing his arms between them and puffed his cheeks out. A habit Meta noticed that he’d only do if he were worried, upset or on rare occasions annoyed.

Galacta is even taken aback and steps down, lowering his hand and evaporating the dangerous magic he nearly brought onto Popstar. There was no need for senseless destruction when all he came there was to have a simple conversation.

Although it was meant to be with Kirby, he wasn’t prepared to face Galacta so soon..

“You two seriously need to calm down!” Kirby huffs out, attempting to give them both a stern look but it falls flat. One could say it was more cute than harsh. “I know you two love to spar but this is a little too much!”

Loved to spar anyways.

“You guys need some more peaceful bonding times together..” And just like a light going off, Kirby immediately perked up and clapped his hands. “Let’s all go out for a picnic!”

A horrible, terrible idea.

Galacta sneered, crossing his arms and looked away from their small group. “If we do that I don’t think I’d be able to stomach my food.”

Meta rolled his eyes and glowered at Galacta. Seriously? Why did this man have to be so difficult? Yes, he agreed that the idea wasn’t appealing, but to voice such thoughts was just down right childish.

He can’t believe Kirby is the most mature one right now between the three of them.

As if deflating by his idea getting shot down, or maybe not being able to enjoy a meal with his friends, Kirby sighed and shook his head offering up another suggestion. “How about I referee a sparring match? You guys could use wooden weapons and that way I can be there to make sure you don’t–”

“Actually a picnic sounds nice.” To Meta the words didn’t sound like his own, maybe a little too quick to agree to something when he always took time to calculate, to debate what the perfect move would be. Only Kirby could waver his flawless thinking pattern.

“Seriously?!” Kirby gasped and rushed in front of him, close enough to hug him yet the young warrior held back. His blue eyes sparkled with hope, life and joy; what Meta rarely felt and found himself the tiniest bit envious of how easy such emotions could come to Kirby. “We haven’t had a picnic together in months!”

Mostly due to the weather, he knows how much Kirby prefers spring over winter. He was more of an autumn person himself.

“Then I better have Sailor prepare us a good breakfast.” Now was the perfect opportunity to leave. Strangely, Galacta had been quiet through their small chat, not even voicing anymore complaints towards the wholesome idea.

“It’ll have to be lunch instead,” Spoke too soon it seems. Galacta shifted and folded his wings, placing a hand on Kirby’s shoulder and tapped his fingers lightly against him. “I have a prior engagement to attend to.”

Is this a poor excuse to buy more time from seeing him again? Meta could have scoffed. He just got here, what could he possibly be busy with?

“Oh, right!” Kirby suddenly exclaimed and beamed, grinning from ear to ear. “We’re making pancakes! Do you wanna join us, Meta? You love sweets too, right?”

His posture stiffened and he quickly looked away, avoiding the innocence of Kirby’s eyes and the amusement most likely hidden behind Galacta’s mask.

“They’re okay, I guess.” A nonchalant response, he can feel warmth starting to crawl up his neck and slowly burn at his face. A secret shame that he wasn’t too eager to voice, let alone be said by one of the most energetic and honest kids on Popstar. “I’ll see you soon.”

With that, Meta took his leave much quicker than he’d have liked, ignoring how Kirby practically clung to Galacta when they returned back into his cottage.

Chapter Text

"Hold on sir. You mean to tell us you're going on a picnic?"

If Meta knew anything about his crew it was that they couldn’t for the life of them ignore him when he did anything that would be considered normal. Sailor was the only one who didn’t seem to question it, instead instantly gaining a good mood when he asked if he could help prepare some sandwiches for the picnic.

“Is that so unusual?” Suppressing a sigh is hard, but he manages. “The weather has been more pleasant and Kirby wanted to enjoy an afternoon together.”

There’s no need to mention Galacta being there, or Galacta in general. That’d give his crew more cause for concern. How should he even explain that his sparring partner got wished into Popstar and can’t leave? Simple, he just won’t.

It’s none of their business anyways.

“It is unusual when you’ve been acting like a total Kracko for the past month!” Sword exclaims. “Seriously, we thought you’d start shooting lightning at us if we didn’t leave you alone. And last night you were especially acting like the living definition of doom and gloom!”

“Please Sword, I’d love for you to give me your complete honest input, thank you for holding back.” Meta remarks sarcastically, leaning back against the counter and holding a hand to his mask. His patience was already running thin again and it didn't help matters that he had to encounter Galacta so early in the morning.

“Come on guys I think it’s sweet of Sir Meta,” Sailor pipes up, neatly wrapping up perfectly sliced sandwiches. Good, the sooner they’re done the quicker he can leave. “We shouldn’t question why he’s in a good mood, but be happy for him instead.”

“I mean.. As long as he’s not doing anything bad,” Blade mumbles, unfortunately not out of Meta’s hearing range. “You sure you didn’t meet someone new, sir?”

Gods above not this talk again.

“I’ll be off now, keep watch of the Halberd as usual and notify me if my presence is needed.” Meta pushes himself off the counter, taking the bag of food Sailor holds out to him and his young crew mate gives him a salute with a nod. “Please try your best and refrain from jumping all over me when I return.”

Meta doesn’t waste another minute nor his breath and immediately takes his leave. Perfect really, considering he caught the beginning of their gossip centered around him possibly having a midlife crisis when he isn’t even thirty.

You would think a picnic should soothe over the annoyance building in him, yet it does nothing to stop the growing anxiety of seeing Galacta again. In battle he was never nervous around the other, with the lingering guilt he felt nothing could put him at ease.

Awkward didn’t even begin to describe what was meant to be a peaceful afternoon under the sun.

It wasn’t as if it was dull, with Kirby there his monotone world always held color with the energetic warrior around. Never an awkward beat, only the sound of them chewing the lunch Sailor had kindly helped him make.

It was the fact that he and Galacta were without their masks, sitting so close to each other and doing something so domestic despite the tension between them that left him in a turmoil.

Kirby was seated in between them on the pink checkered blanket, eating more than the two of them combined, talking through a mouthful of food that Meta had to remind him more than once not to do. Such a bad habit, he hopes Kirby will one day grow out of it.

Galacta on the other hand hardly spoke a word.

He half expected an insult here and there just to get it out of the way, yet he got nothing. Really he should be grateful since he wasn’t exactly getting the cold shoulder, just radio silence from the angel.

So why was that slowly driving him crazy?

Maybe it’s his lack of mask that made him jittery. He’s aware his mask does nothing to hide the emotions that flicker through his eyes and his silver hues were at least unreadable to most people. Again, he shouldn’t be nervous. This isn’t the first time he or Galacta have seen each other without their mask on.

Meta absentmindedly bit into another cookie sandwich Kirby brought along, letting himself get lost in the overly sugary treat. He wasn’t aware eyes were on him until a heavy sigh had him jerking his head up in Galacta’s direction.

“Here,” Galacta shoved half his sandwich in front of him, nearly bumping him against his chest. “You’ve done nothing but eat sweets since we got here, at least eat actual food.” 

Surprised, Meta hesitated before slowly taking the sandwich from his gloved fingers, unsure what to do nor say. This was the first hint of kindness Galacta has shown him, of course he wouldn’t know what to do with himself.

“That’s nothing unusual! Meta always eats like that,” Kirby giggles, taking another big bite from his sandwich. “We always trade food whenever we eat together!”

With two sets of eyes on him Meta decidedly turns his head away, trying to keep the rush of warmth from crawling up his neck and blooming into ugly red splotches on his face. Could Kirby go one week without mentioning his secret shame to everyone?

“I understand that sweets are enjoyable but you need to take better care of yourself,” Galacta points out, what Meta would assume is the beginning of a lecture if Galacta’s voice wasn’t so soft. “You won’t get all the nutrients you need.”

Meta doesn’t bother replying, due to lack of finding a response and stuffs his face with the sandwich Galacta gave him, feeling relief wash over him when Galacta returns to his lunch. Kirby on the other hand didn’t reach for another sandwich, instead looking between the two of them with a rare unreadable expression.

Which, in his experience, has never been a good thing to witness.

“Oh! I think I forgot something back home,” Kirby jumps up, hands behind his back and a grin spreading on his lips. “You two enjoy yourselves, I'll be back!”

As if out of reflex, Galacta attempts to grab Kirby’s arm before he leaves, only to grasp the air in his failed attempt. Meta, for the life of him, didn’t even bother and let Kirby off with his poor excuse. This wasn’t a matter that concerned him, and he can’t outright tell Kirby not everyone can get along because knowing him he’d try his hardest for everyone to mend.

It’s the knowledge Kirby lacked of why their relationship took a turn that it’s so hard for them to make up.

“Who exactly is that child?” Galacta asks suddenly, yet again surprising Meta who assumed there would be nothing but awkward silence.

Sword is right, Kirby really is, to quote, “the life of the party.”

“Kirby is a mystery, some even say a blessing,” Meta begins. “He fell from the stars and made a home for himself here. He’s a warrior who’s defeated countless monsters and Dark Gods, protecting Popstar and many planets in the process. The only person I’ve met to best me in a battle, weapon or no weapon.”

“No wonder he was able to summon Nova..” Galacta mumbles, leaning back with his hands behind him. “He truly is a remarkable one, isn’t he?”

“In every sense of the word,” Meta offers a rare smile, going missed by Galacta who doesn’t bat an eye his way. “One could say he’s too nice for his own good.”

Galacta acknowledges his response with a hum and silence soon sets in. Fortunately not awkward and more peaceful, Meta can finally feel himself relax for the first time since he arrived. Galacta looked as if he was the very definition of serenity; face relaxed and his eyes just as soft, Meta wonders what’s running through his mind for him to achieve such tranquility.

“I never thought I’d get to admire nature’s beauty again.”

Meta follows Galacta’s gaze and it rests on the field of flowers below them where they rest on a small hill. A variety of light pinks, blues and yellows decorate around them, their eyes follow an orange butterfly that drifts through the air and flutters away from them. A small purple wildflower resides next to their picnic blanket and Galacta smooths a thumb across one of the petals, captivated by the smallest things in life.

As nice as this was, with peace finally between them, there was still a voice in Meta’s head nagging him to speak, to talk about the rift between them, wanting or needing to fix things. He should follow the old advice of, “things are better left unsaid”, but how else would everything be resolved if he didn’t explain himself?

How was he supposed to explain himself?

“Galacta,” Meta calls for him softly, unwavering under his curious red eyes. “We really need to talk.”

And just like that the peace they built around each other began to shatter. In a split second Galacta’s eyes were no longer soft, piercing him with uncontained bitterness.

“I believe you’re the one who needs to speak their mind. If I recall, and I do so very clearly, I am not the one in the wrong here.”

“Perhaps I do deserve that,” Meta winces, shifting his gaze away from Galacta. He definitely deserves it. It takes every ounce of courage in him to meet his eyes again, regret meeting resentful. “I cannot explain my actions, or express why I did them. I do, however, feel remorse for it.”

“Then why didn’t you return?” Galacta balls his hands up into fists, shaking so much with anger, he stands, spreading his wings and grits his teeth by how furious he is. “Why was it that a child, who I never met, nor heard of before wished for me to be here? To make this peaceful planet a prison for me? Why should I be stuck here with you?”

There’s a shine to Galacta’s eyes and his wings fall down, as if slumping, as if taken aback from the anger in his tone he turns from Meta and speaks over his shoulder. “If you cannot tell me why you betrayed me like all of my people once did, nor had the courage to return.. Then that makes you no better than the ancients who sealed me away.”

Meta feels frozen in place, words failing and every limb in his body, he can barely process the raw emotions Galacta presented to him. He can only watch Galacta leave, conflicted between running after him and staying where he is, there isn’t anything he can truly say at the moment to extinguish his anger.

Kirby appears from the small woods with a bundle of apples in his arms, looking between the forest and Meta with furrowed eyebrows. He tilts his head, getting bangs in his eyes and stares at Meta with a small frown. “Where’s Galacta going? What happened?”

“Oh, nothing,” Meta let out a deep breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “I just messed up, again.”

Chapter Text

There’s a reason why Meta never went back to Galacta and after last week’s event it was as clear as day why he never had the courage to do so.

Being a coward is something he loathed, unintentionally becoming just because he didn’t know how to properly deal with his own emotions. Or, you know, how to properly communicate. It’s what got him into this whole mess anyways.

So once again he was right back to square one, pacing around the Halberd, upgrading his beloved battleship to the newest tech out there. It kept him preoccupied and if it would keep his mind from straying to.. Certain people then it was a bonus. From dawn to dusk he’d work, ignoring the worried look his crew would give him when he’d come up for dinner, washing off the grease on him before joining them.

It didn’t help that his mind would repeatedly continue to drill emotional holes into him, a quiet voice in the back of his head telling him he should see this as a second chance and not screw it up.

It only took a little over a week for him to admit defeat. The mind can be both your greatest friend and your worst enemy.

His boots clicked against the steel floor of the Halberd as he made his way down towards their small kitchen where dinner was currently being made. The aroma of what smelled of the beginning of stew was heavenly and he slowed his pace, peeking inside of the kitchen.

Blade was carefully chopping up a carrot into neat thin slices and Sword was at the stove, slowly stirring the stew with Sailor adding in spices as he did so. The three looked so happy and peaceful sometimes it was easy to forget they all lived on a well functioning battleship.

“Giving these two a cooking lesson, Sailor?” Meta pipes up, leaning against the doorframe and the three immediately stand at attention. “Ease down, I only came to take a break. Do you need a hand?”

All three stole a glance and shook their heads. The slight panic on their faces after he kindly offered his assistance didn’t go unnoticed but he chose to let it go, lest he wanted to hear how terrible he apparently is at cooking.

He was superior with the sword, why should he conquer cooking too?

“They’re getting really good at cooking actually,” Sailor pipes up after Meta takes his seat. The genuine compliment earns a bashful smile from Blade and proud grin from Sword. “They’ll be chefs in no time!”

Although they kept it on the down low, Meta was aware that cooking was also a passion of theirs. He saw nothing wrong with it, he recalls many knights also having a good ability in cooking. Unfortunately not a skill he could get to stick, however he made up in other fields.

“So, what brings you here sir?” Blade asks, curiosity finally getting the best of him. “You usually aren’t one to take breaks. Did you finish early?”

“I’ve done everything I possibly can for the Halberd.” Which is technically true. After spending a week working on the battleship he had it ready to go into battle had Popstar needed the protection. Hesitating, he added, “I came to ask a hypothetical question actually.”

Blade and Sword exchanged looks before hurrying with their cooking. Blade nearly threw the carrots into the boiling pot and Sword almost dropped the spoon in the pot before handing it to Sailor who shooed them away from the small area. Sword plopped down into a seat next to Meta and Blade sat across from him, both eyes eagerly and curiously watching him.

Meta heaves a sigh. Well, at least he had their undivided attention.

“What if you two had a fight,” Again, he hesitates, carefully collecting his thoughts. Make it as vague as possible. “What would you do to make up?”

“That depends on what we would be fighting over sir,” Blade rubs the back of his neck. “If it’s something small, like eating my leftovers he’d make it up by getting more of the food.”

“Blade that was one time, I apologized a hundred times–”

“–Anyways,” Blade interrupts, getting back on topic. “I guess if it were something big.. We always realize we were both in the wrong and end up hugging after giving each other a heartfelt apology. Sincerity never hurts.”

Well, half of that wouldn’t do considering Galacta didn’t do anything wrong. It was all on him to make things right, even if he didn’t know the best way to go at it.

“Honesty is the best policy, you’ve told us that one too many times to count,” Sword grins and then leans back in his chair. “I always end up begging for Blade’s forgiveness. He can’t resist my puppy dog eyes.”

Blade huffs out a laugh, leans over and shoves Sword against his shoulder. “What puppy dog eyes? Only Kirby has those, and Sailor.”

“Sir Meta,” Sailor Dee turns to them, face as soft as his tone. “Did you wrong someone?”

Suddenly Sword and Blade’s banter went quiet. All eyes were on him and this time he didn’t waver under their stares. He looked Sailor right in the face as he answered, baring a part of his soul to his crew. “I have.”

The entire room goes silent, the only noise being the stew boiling. Meta can practically hear the gears in their head work, all three of them staring holes into him; all calculating and careful, reading his hardened expression–

“Is this about your galaxy boyfriend?”

Like a sledgehammer being thrown against thin ice, Sword shatters the quietness of the room.

“No, it’s not,” Meta hisses out, silver hues narrowed at the young knight. “I don’t have a–” Sword throws his hands up in surrender and Meta pinches the bridge of his nose. “Anyways, this is about a former friend.”

“Well.. If you’re feeling guilty about whatever you did wrong to them doesn’t that mean you want to make up?” Sailor points out. “Have you talked to them lately, Sir Meta?”

“I.. Attempted to, but my words came out unpleasant.” Meta mentally winces at the memory, brushing it aside. There was also a lack of words. “The rift is getting wider and I have only succeeded in making things worse.”

“How about giving them an apology gift?” Sword pipes up. “Oh, don’t give me that look when you didn’t even give it a chance yet!”

“A simple gift cannot make up for wrongful actions,” Meta scoffs. “I don’t even know what they would enjoy anyways.”

“If it’s a meaningful gift it might make some impact,” Blade comes to Sword’s side, nodding with his fellow knight. “Think about it, has your friend expressed any interests?”

Anything crystal related was definitely off limits, Gods know he didn’t need to further Galacta’s anger and make things worse than they already are. Star accessories seemed off limits for now anyways, he’s sure as much as he and Galacta admired the stars, and as a popular accessory in Popstar, Galacta wouldn’t need the reminder right now.

So Meta recalls last week, before the peace was broken and what Galacta was focusing on. He likes Kirby.. But everyone likes Kirby, and..

“I never thought I’d get to admire nature’s beauty again.”

“They like flowers.” Meta states, although it’s the only information he can grasp right now. Back when they still sparred in the stars Galacta had mentioned wanting to see what became of the world while he was trapped. “..Or so I think. They were admiring flowers last time we were out.”

“That’s perfect, Sir Meta!” Sailor clapped his hands together, bright eyed and smiling; the embodiment of cheerfulness. “You should pick out their favorite flower! Or if they don’t have one or you don't know it, then you should get them some gerbera daisies.”

Knowing anyone’s favorite flower in general is knowledge Meta lacked and while he would have gone with something as simple as roses he’s well aware of the meaning they hold. Yeah, like that wouldn’t be taken wrong.

“I’ll take your suggestion into consideration,” Meta pauses, curiosity  beginning to eat at him. “But why those particular flowers?”

“Don't you know, sir Meta? They represent hope.”

Chapter Text

Living on Popstar is both a blessing and a curse.

On one hand Galacta finds the land is a lot more peaceful than he’d ever imagine any world would ever be back in his time. Kirby filled the silence with tales of Popstar, an eagerness to him only an innocent child would be able to have in his intimidating presence. There’s a lot he missed out on, Kirby’s aware of this by now, so he doesn’t reject him anytime he offers to tell another story about the planet he now resides on.

How Popstar can bounce back from constant chaos and destruction is beyond him.

From enemies becoming his friends, to the terrifying monstrous Gods he looked upon without fear to days spent in Dreamland helping the residents out or a simple tale about his cake getting stolen, Galacta was intrigued with it all.

Perhaps it’s Kirby’s infectious behavior that he finds himself genuinely.. happy to hear stories revolving around this timeline.

The blaring downside to it all is how restricted he feels.

A part of him deep down knows that if he pushes past his limits, to go beyond what Nova has set for him, that he’ll ultimately meet his end. It’s unsettling to think about Meta being far away from him despite him not wanting to be anywhere near the knight right now.

Oh, the irony.

It’s not something so simple he can put into words, to only ask that he refrains from leaving the galaxy lest he wants to concern Kirby with a sight he wouldn’t want a child to witness.

There is another option, but it requires asking for Meta’s help and he laughs bitterly at the idea. Yeah, like he’d go to him for anything.

Every little step he takes away from Kirby’s cottage fills him with dread, threatening him that one idiotic move will leave him a withering mess. Perhaps he is only limited to the sky, where he should feel free, out of the shackles that keep him placed on this planet.

Kirby is able to keep him grounded, keeping him from his own thoughts when they’re together, which doesn’t bother him as much. He enjoys the company and Kirby seems overjoyed that he has his own roommate. A part of him feels saddened that a child would live alone, but fortunately it seems nothing can keep Kirby down.

Kirby tells him about all of his many friends. He has mixed feelings about the king he knows, unsure how to deal with those who once fought with Kirby and are now close with him, yet that was his own judgement and experiences nagging at him. If there was nothing wrong with his friends now then he’ll leave it be.

Galacta decides he likes Rick. A long time friend of Kirby’s, he and his two roommates welcomed them with open arms, as if they weren’t fazed by another knight being on Popstar now. Rick’s friendly and able to keep up with how energetic Kirby is, it’s almost comical to see the differences between him and the other two he lives with. Kine is laid back, calm for the most part and Coo could match Meta with how much of an introvert he appeared to be.

They have an amusing, chaotic lifestyle yet blend together perfectly. He can see why Kirby cherishes them so much.

It’s a lazy afternoon in Kirby’s home when there’s a knock on their door.

Galacta is busy cooking up a new, easy dish Kirby taught him, so simple but so delicious he wonders how many recipes he’s missed since he’s been sealed away. He doesn’t quite get what’s so addicting about mac and cheese but Kirby claims it’s a classic and that they have to at least eat it once a week.

Well, who is he to argue with the one giving him somewhere to call home?

“I’ll get it!” Kirby exclaims, already rushing to the door with his own star patterned apron on. He does a little twirl before he answers the door that gets a quiet chuckle out of Galacta, returning to stirring the pasta. “Hi–! Oh, Meta! What brings you here?”

Galacta pauses, but doesn’t turn. His eyes stare holes into the boiling water, trying to concentrate on anything besides the knight that invaded his peace once again. And here he thought the day would be pleasurable.

The awkward shuffling is what makes Galacta turn away, if only to see what’s making him hesitate for an unreasonable amount of time. He’s surprised Kirby is just standing there so patiently, waiting for him to speak.

It’s the flower pot cradled in one arm that has Galacta’s frown fading and a questionable expression taking its place.

“A gift,” Meta finally says, struggling to get the words out and stiffly holds out the flower pot filled with unknown white flowers. “For Galacta.”

“A present! How sweet!” Kirby exclaims, far too happily and snags the flower pot out of Meta’s hands. The knight looks down at him, almost worried he’s going to drop the flowers and Galacta almost wants to laugh. Their eyes meet and the laughter bubbling in him fades. “Since you’re here do you want to join us for lunch?”

Meta can’t seem to look away from him as their eyes remain locked, but the yellows that were once there flicker between green and orange. It makes him wonder what’s going on in his head for a flood of emotions to suddenly take over.

He despises those colors that dance in his eyes.

“I must reject your offer,” Meta turns from them, a bit dramatically he thinks, his actions and words both rushed. “I have urgent business to attend to.”

Kirby holds the flower pot against his chest and tilts his head, watching Meta take his leave. Like a well oiled machine, he focuses on his task and leaves them speechless in both entirely different ways. Galacta returns to his task at hand, giving no mind to Kirby who scatters around the room, attempting to find the perfect place for the flower to set.

Galacta glances at the flower without a single thought.

His “gift” is menacing.

The flowers were sitting harmlessly on a small end table near the couch and Galacta has never felt so frustrated with a plant in all of his life. Doing chores around the house did not provide a distraction away from them and his eyes lingered anytime they’d fall on the harmless plant.

Nova, he’s losing his sanity.

It’s just a gift, logically he should just accept it. The fact that it’s from someone he can’t be in the same proximity with? That is what bothers him the most.

It was out of character for Meta to just drop off something so simple for him. Then again it was the first gift he ever received from the knight, but did he think he could bring peace back between them with a flower? A stupid, mocking plant that did nothing but get on his nerves anytime he got near it–

He wants to smash it.

He’ll smash it and leave, see how far away he can get away and hide on this planet. He doesn’t need Meta, he doesn’t need anyone in Popstar, he doesn’t need Kirby–

Galacta set down his hand vacuum and marched over to the flower. He loomed over it with a dark piercing stare and picked it up. His hands gripped the plain flower plot, threatening to break it with his own hands. The need for destruction was coursing through his veins, ready to burst like the magic he easily summoned in battle.

All he has to do is break it and he can calm down, think rationally and go back to cleaning. He just needed an outlet, something to calm the storm within him, dampening him with a downpour of rain and lightning ready to be released.

The flower pot was above his head, his hands shaking and his teeth grit. Do it, do it, do it. His mind chanted at him, going far too long without sparring and needing his thirst to be quenched. His arms lowered and he stared at the flower feeling himself waver.

Stars above, he must look insane right now.

This plant didn’t do anything to him except exist and give him oxygen. It’s nature, it deserves love and to be nurtured. So why would this be given to a person like him? The supposed deadly warrior who could destroy planets if he so wanted to.

“I’m back!” The door suddenly swung open with the bright presence of Kirby. This would have been fine if he hadn’t stopped in his tracks and Galacta froze in place, face blank. The flowers were mere inches from his face, as if he was smelling them. “I see you’re enjoying your gift!”

“..Yes,” Galacta lets out a small sigh, gently setting the flower back down in its rightful place. His wings droop and his eyes flicker down, like a child who had just got caught doing something they shouldn’t. “How was your friend?”

“Dyna Blade is great!” Kirby exclaims, falling down on the couch without an ounce of grace and hugs one of the few pillows. “Her babies are so cute, she even let me fly on her back while we went on a stroll through the sky!”

Galacta listens quietly with a small smile, already imagining the scene in his head. He’s never seen the legendary bird in person but Kirby describes the legendary bird as, “A flying metal rainbow.” Now that sounds like a sight to see.

“I wish you went with me,” Kirby sighs loudly, propping his hands up on the couch so he can sit up. “You’ll come with me next time, won’t you?”

Galacta hesitates. It’s not as if he’d decline a day to spend with Kirby, it’s the fear he has about being in the sky again. How he doesn’t want a repeat of falling from the sky in pure agony, how restricted he begins to feel if he starts to get too far away from the red string that yanks at him, pulling him to Meta like a magnet.

“Perhaps,” Galacta finally answers and takes a seat next to Kirby when he makes space for him. “Most of your friends are pleasant, I’m sure she, and her children are as well.”

Kirby is unusually quiet and when Galacta looks at the young warrior he’s met with squinted eyes, a tongue out as if in concentration, arms crossed and cheeks that eventually puff up.

“You’re acting odd,” Kirby points out, letting out a huff of air. He pokes a finger against his chest and looks up at him with unreadable eyes. Certainly unusual for the open book child. “Are you maybe thinking about a certain someone again?”

Galacta scoffs and rolls his eyes. How presumptuous of him, although it bothers him that he hit the nail on the head. Perhaps he wasn’t too hard to read as he thought he was, or maybe Kirby was just getting better at figuring him out.

That might be problematic.

“You know, in Popstar it’s a sign of friendship when you get a gift,” Kirby states and then jumps up, making a quick slide and stands in front of him. “It’s a sign of strong bonds when you return the gesture with a gift of your own!”

This is definitely problematic.

Kirby is grabbing at his arm, tugging him up from the couch with abnormal strength. Galacta almost stumbles by the force of the tug, blinking in surprise. Sometimes he forgets Kirby isn’t the average warrior, wasn’t the average child.

“The gerbera daisies are so pretty, I’m not sure if Meta likes flowers too..” Kirby mumbles, looking thoughtful. As if a light bulb went off his face lit up, he jumped excitedly, still tugging at his arm as he walked backwards. “Meta loves sweets though! We’ll make him some cookies in return!”

Galacta wants to not exist. Cooking and baking is something he has no problem with, but making something for someone he despises? That’s the last thing he wants to do today, let alone have to see him as well.

When he looks down, a rejection on the tip of his tongue, he's met with Kirby’s big, hopeful eyes. The blue hues shine so brilliantly he struggles to voice the no, so close to saying it, so simple yet the crestfallen expression Kirby rarely wears is not one he’d like to see.

Nor is it one that he wants to be the cause of.

Annoyance running through him at how weak he’s apparently become, Galacta can only let out the dreaded sigh of defeat. “Just cookies,” He warns before Kirby goes overboard. “They’re easy enough to bake anyways.”

Kirby cheers and Galacta sighs. He will comply only once, if it means Kirby will leave him alone and he can be done with this chore as soon as possible.

A stroll to the Halberd shouldn’t be as nerve wrecking as it is.

Yet Galacta could feel his heart tighten and his pace slow the closer he got to the beach home to the battleship. The entire ship was a sight within the peaceful planet, but even he could silently agree it was good to have a mass weapon ready if they needed it.

Unsightly to the residents, Nova knows not everyone wants a knight to protect them, be it if they ask for one or not.

From afar he can see Meta resting on the outside of the ship, his arms down on either side of him as he stares up at the evening sky. Painted with orange and pink hues threatening to fade in a blink of an eye, faint stars can begin to be seen that aren’t hidden behind the clouds, even the crescent moon begins to take its place in the stars so that the sun can rest.

From where Galacta hovered above the ground with his wings gently flapping he began to ascend so that he could reach the knight. A small fear bit at him, warning him not to go too far lest he make a fool of himself and fall down from the sky in front of Meta.

Keeping that in mind, his wings that flapped violently began to slow and Meta’s head jerked when one of his plumes fell near him. Meta nearly reached to grab it, but ultimately decided against it, getting up instead. Galacta looked at the wood beneath him and slowly lowered himself until his boots made contact with the floorboard.

The flash of green in his eyes is all Galacta needed to know about how he felt towards his presence.

“Galacta,” Meta speaks, almost breathlessly. “Why are you here?”

Galacta nearly grumbles, somehow finding it in him to suppress any words threatening to spill out and pushes the cookie tin out towards Meta. The gesture is automatic and his words are almost emotionless as he speaks. “At Kirby’s insistence I’m delivering you homemade cookies to return the gesture of gift giving.”

It took all of his will power not to pour pepper into the cookie batter, but even he knows better not to be wasteful. He’s not that petty.

Although some of the cookies are slightly burnt from where he was distracted by his and Kirby’s mini left over batter war, he doesn’t bring it up. Meta hesitantly takes the tin and opens it up, eyes lighting up in a lovely shade of light blue. Galacta feels his heart stutter. How long had it been since he last saw that color in his eyes?

“Thank you,” Meta steadies his voice and closes the tin. “I’ll be sure to share these with my crew later.”

This is the point where he should leave, Galacta tells himself, yet he doesn’t dare make a move. It only adds to the awkward atmosphere, Meta no help with how he shifts on his feet, looking at anything but him. How odd, is he going to let him go without a fight?

That’s not the knight he knows.

Galacta turns and walks, knows he can just go back to Kirby and leave things at that. The gift doesn’t mean anything, it’s just a polite gesture on Popstar. He can leave, he can go, he’s not shackled to Meta.

He can be the one to leave and not come back.

Fuck.

Galacta turns back around, notes how Meta’s head snaps back up to his face, mask to mask he wants to grab him by his cape and yank him forward.

But he doesn’t. He’s tired of whatever.. This is. Meta’s had so much time to think about his actions, he wants answers.

“Why didn’t you come back?” His voice is so small Galacta hardly recognizes it. He swallows the lump in his throat and stares at the green and orange eyes. Those damn colors, he wishes to never see them again on Meta.

“I.. Truly don’t know,” Meta sounds almost as defeated as he looks, hesitant as he carefully thinks his words over. “I failed to register my own emotions. I thought if I came back, I wouldn’t be able to explain myself since I truly don’t understand myself. I wanted to give you a proper reason, but it seems I failed to do so.”

This was certainly what he wasn’t expecting. Galacta is caught off guard by the raw honesty he’s at a loss of words. His eyes are still orange and he’s not sure why, after resenting him from day one on Popstar that he wants to reach out, to confront the conflict that drowns the man in front of him.

“Was I never summoned.. Because you don’t know why you kissed me after our last battle?”

Chapter Text

“My one wish is to become stronger... So I wish to fight...the greatest warrior in the galaxy!”

Getting awakened in the middle of the galaxy is not how Galacta thought he’d be freed.

Then again he had no time to process the thought of being released, in an endless prison where time stood still as if he was in an endless slumber. Galacta looks up, the voice of Nova booming over him. Ah, of course a creation of the ancients could only free him.

How long has it been since he could stretch his wings and fly? He silently wonders as he extends his wings, breaking out into a blinding light that fades around him and he’s met with an unfamiliar masked face. Who is this man, who would foolishly free him only for a fight?

Certainly not someone sane if he wished for him.

Perhaps this would be his chance to escape, soar through the galaxy and gather information. Yet, he was freed to fight, and he knows the warrior won’t simply let him walk away. Finding Nova is a rare occurrence, only those worthy can summon him and grant one wish, so he’ll humor him, see where this goes and find out just how strong this person truly is.

Galacta wordlessly points his lance towards the masked man and flies away, down to a battlefield within the stars, perfect for them to go all out. There appears to be no life on whatever planet they land on, perfect for a being of destruction. The flap of wings follows him and he prepares himself for whatever awaits him from the warrior.

The moment he’s freed he's dragged into a fight, perhaps peace was never meant for him.

Panic and distress, it’s the same feeling Galacta remembers having the first time he was sealed into his crystal prison.

It’s the same feeling that hits him like a tidal wave when he’s released for the second time.

Confusion takes its place before he can lash out and see the reason why he was freed once more. The familiar masked man answers every question he has, staring at him with an intense yellow glow that intrigues him as to how his eyes dance with colors. He recalls seeing orange once during their fight, but he brushed it off when the yellow of his eyes appeared again.

“Foolish knight, do you understand the consequences of summoning me again?” Galacta states, lance pointed downwards. It’s time for a little chat with his ‘visitor.’ “Nova gave you a warning, why do you not heed it?”

“You’re highly confident for someone who lost our last battle,” The man scoffs, but remains to keep his sword unsheathed. “I wish to fight you again, do you decline my request?”

Tsk. As if he has a choice in the matter. Gods only know what Nova would do to him if he denied him a fight, despite thinking he could run away the last time. Getting sealed away brought a weight of seriousness to the situation he was in, and to fight against the power of the ancients, Nova included, would be dire.

“You got your fight, so why are you here again?” Galacta asks, irritation starting to grow. Bitterly, he adds, “Do you think the last fight went unfairly for you?”

Hesitating, the man shifts on his wings, gaze flickering to the stars around him. Finally, his eyes land on him shining with a brilliant light blue. Galacta wonders once more what it means. “Battling with you.. Is thrilling.”

“That is the only reason?” Galacta scoffs. “I was sealed away out of fear, yet you find happiness in letting me free.. How ridiculous.” This man is definitely not one right in the head. No sane person would come back here to deliberately set him free for a fight. Only a blood thirsty knight would do such a thing–

Ah, so that’s his deal. Never one to be able to leave the battlefield, he can relate to such a thing.

“Tell me, what is your name?”

The man raises his sword and gives it a slight swing, Galacta almost wants to roll his eyes by how dramatic he appeared to be, but awaits anyway, curious about this unhinged masked man. Go figure, the one person he takes interest in turns out to be someone abnormal.

“Meta Knight,” He states proudly, eyes glowing in pride, even his posture was big for someone floating in space. “And yours?”

“Galacta Knight.”

Galacta lifts his lance, copying Meta almost in a mocking manner and soars through the stars. His wings flap around the endless galaxy, leading him back down to the battlefield that barely recovered from their last encounter.

He flies knowing Meta is right behind him.

When he’s awakened again Galacta feels annoyance course through him.

He is once again met mask to mask with the idiotic knight who insists on freeing him whenever he pleases. How long has it been this time since they last fought? Time is no concept to him, but judging by the seemingly endless rumble on the battlefield below them he’d say it hasn’t even been a week.

Galacta snaps with the most proper greeting that comes to mind first. “Do you get off on fighting me?” Really? Of all people to summon him.. “I was not aware I’d constantly be fighting someone with that sort of–”

“That’s not it,” Meta quickly interrupts, this time his eyes turning light pink. Even then, with their masks both on, he refuses to meet his eyes as he speaks once more, “I enjoy your company is all.”

Why does he feel so flattered and insulted at the same time?

“So I’m only free to be your plaything?” Galacta asks, exasperation dripping from his tone. Whether this is worse than being sealed away is beyond him, he has no proper judgement towards Meta, the knight who holds so many mysteries. “I am not some training dummy you can just summon because you feel like it.”

But it’s Meta who found Nova, so he cannot control his wish. He can only judge him for why he is brought here, nothing more in the matter. Nova itself can strike him down for all he cares if it means he has to go through a cycle of being summoned for someone’s amusement.

“If it’s unfair to you, then how about we take a break between sparring?” Meta offers. “There’s probably a lot you want to know and.. I would be glad to help, if it means you’ll be more open to spar with me.”

Information for a battle? Yes, this knight is truly out of his mind. He does however like how fearless he is in his presence, not like the ancients, who looked at him not as their savior, but as a living curse amongst them.

As if one day he would snap and destroy them all. What a favor it was to repay him by sealing away Void Termina only to be sealed away himself. His life is cruelly ironic.

Galacta sighs and complies, knowing if he attempts to fly away he’ll only be chased. He gestures to the battlefield below them and flies down, noting that Meta’s eyes turn light blue as he follows him down to their now training ground.

What an odd knight.

Being released from his crystal isn’t as bad as he thought it’d be.

By the fourth time he gave Meta no words and began the fight, eventually stabbing his lance into the ground and leaving it when he felt the need to take a break, to recover from fight after fight. Honestly, how much stamina does this man have?

He’s no better, but he’s not the one summoning a forgotten hero every time he wants to get a thrill.

Meta can’t fool him either, judging by how heavy he breathes behind his mask as they sit together, their hands brushing together by how close they are. It’s so stuffy and warm in a place so cold he can barely stand it and immediately unstraps his mask, letting it fall to his lap and releases a heavy sigh of relief.

Meta looks almost startled to see his face. He’s starting to get a good reading of his masked expressions, slowly learning what each color means even if Meta won’t explain them to him. How many times is this man going to make him feel so insulted?

“Is my face that unsightly?” Galacta asks, though with no bitterness and more in a joking manner. He’s not really sure why that is, or why he’s starting to feel comfortable with Meta. “I can put it back on if it makes you uncomfortable.”

“Far from that,” Meta’s answer is immediate, something he’s realized he does a lot when there’s a misunderstanding. “Your features are a lot softer than I thought they’d be.”

He’s thought of me in such a way? Galacta feels his lips quirk up despite himself, wanting to tease the knight with his thoughts, but chokes on his words when Meta brings a gloved hand to his face. Caressing his cheek, it’s as if he’s mesmerized by his face.

Its been so long since he took off his mask, the last ones to have seen it were his allies, the other Aeon Heroes. His heart drops and his gaze lowers, a dark cloud looming over him. If he were sealed away did that mean the other heroes met the same fate? How can the strongest warrior be summoned but not the ones who fought by his side?

Where are the only people he can call his friends?

Suddenly the hand on his face is gone in an instant, Meta pulls it away as if he was burned. Galacta ignores the lump in his throat, decides now isn’t the time to ponder on it when Meta is looking away, eyes green this time.

Green means he’s contemplating. He’s seen it so much during their battle, only that and yellow are the only colors he sees when their weapons clash, it can only be related to seriousness with how the gears in his head turn before taking action. One color can mean different emotions, he’s learned.

Galacta can read him, but he can never truly understand what runs through his mind.

So he decides he’ll be the one to knock away whatever thoughts trouble him. It’s sort of funny, he thinks, how he suffers alone with the thought of his loved ones that he is the one who wants to comfort Meta.

Wonder why that is..

“Are you going to take your mask off as well?” Galacta suddenly asks, nudging his elbow against his side. Meta’s eyes flash orange and he still can’t understand what the color means. Surprise? He isn’t certain. “It’s only fair, isn’t it?”

He faintly hears Meta mumble something like, “I didn’t ask for you to take yours off,” but he moves his hands up behind his mask anyway, hesitating before the strap is loosened and falls down onto his hand. Meta blinks, adjusting his eyes (Gods know how long he keeps his mask on) before he finds the courage in him to meet his own red hues.

Silver eyes isn’t what Galacta was expecting and here he is feeling pleasantly surprised by it.

They’re like the knight himself; not dull, but different. With their own shine and a mystery to them, he’s pretty captivated by how stunning they are. Silver is a rare eye color, back in his time anyways, so seeing it again in person is certainly breathtaking.

“You’re pretty cute yourself.” Galacta finds himself saying before thinking, rare on his part, yet he doesn’t feel the need to take back his words. He only states the truth in his eyes and has no problem leaving behind a flustered Meta, who’s face heats up into a lovely rosy blush.

He goes after his lance while strapping his mask on, knowing that anywhere he goes Meta will follow.

He really likes this knight.

“Do you want to come back to Popstar with me?”

It’s a question Galacta never expects to hear, but is surprised by it. He’s heard a few stories of Meta’s home, how he has a battleship that he lives on with his crew. How nice it is to see how happy Meta is to speak about his crew, never going into detail about the world or its people. 

“They’re too lazy for their own good,” Meta grumbled. “If it weren’t for the warrior of the planet things would be different down there.”

“If they’re carefree doesn’t that mean that the planet is well protected?” Galacta countered. “Don’t take peace for granted, o` blood thirsty knight.”

A tranquil planet that is currently under no threat, why does that make him feel so anxious?

Perhaps it’s because he isn’t used to civilization, how would he behave in a new, foreign land? How would he adjust to it? What would happen if someone recognized him as a being of destruction? That’s what he is anyways, in the eyes of many.

“Maybe one day,” Galacta finally answers after a beat of silence. “However, today is not that day.”

Who would want him around? They have Meta Knight to protect them, a knight who has defeated him countless times. His presence would strike fear in those who reside on the planet and he would only be an outcast, a living curse in the tranquil little land.

Why must his throat feel so tight now? Why does he feel so vulnerable even with his mask on?

He’s torn from his thoughts when he feels Meta’s hand rest upon his, giving it a firm squeeze. When his hand got there it was beyond him, but the contact was welcomed. A comfort after so many years of his anger growing.

“When you’re ready,” Meta begins slowly. “I won’t force you, but until then you’ll have to endure our battles in the stars. Nobody in Popstar will shun you. If they have accepted someone like me, and so many others then they will welcome you with open arms. I will make sure of this.”

Galacta is stunned. That’s the only way to put it, he’s speechless, touched and can’t help the smile that blooms on his face and hides behind his mask. Meta’s eyes are burning so fiercely, the dark yellow he’s learned that means Meta’s determined. It’s as if Meta is protecting him, letting him know that no matter how untamed he can get, he can always count on him to keep him in line if anything ever happens.

That is what the ancients feared, and it is Meta who shows him that there is nothing in him to fear.

“Are you my knight now?” Galacta asks jokingly, tone somehow light. Meta always knows how to make him feel better, despite how crazy he thinks he is, there’s still a heart under all that armor. “It almost sounded like you were proposing it.”

Meta’s eyes flicker light pink and Galacta’s grin grows. It’s so easy to fluster him, he wonders why he wears a mask that hardly does its job. Dare he say Meta is just too shy to reveal his face? Perhaps one day he’ll let him borrow his mask.

Right now he’s content, dancing through the stars and staying in the galaxy with Meta. He’ll reach for the stars and think of a future that is to come, when his heart is set on going down to a place Meta calls home. He can’t explain it, but he feels his own certain peace when it’s Meta who always greets him, is the one to break him from the crystal that traps him.

He must be just as insane as Meta is to actually enjoy their sparring sessions now.

He thinks he might actually love his knight.

Heavy breaths that fall into a rhythm is the only sound in the cold, quiet galaxy. With Meta by his side it isn’t eerie, more like Galacta finds the silence comforting. A difference from the cries of horror he remembers when the ancients were about to seal him away.

He’s sitting nearly shoulder to shoulder with Meta, enjoying one of their many breaks that happen far too often in their battles. One break became two, two became three. By now he’s lost count of how many they take, only to talk about whatever comes to mind.

Their masks are both off, something not as uncommon as it used to be and it’s a small, simple accomplishment that Meta feels comfortable enough to show his face to him, even if it does feel rare.

“The stars are beautiful,” Meta says once their breathing becomes even. “I never tire of seeing them.”

Even close up there’s a certain charm to them, is what Galacta wants to say, but Meta speaks with his eyes on him. The flutter in his chest is almost unbearable, he doesn’t know how to contain it.

Maybe he doesn’t want this warm feeling to stop.

“I didn’t used to like them,” Galacta smiles, just as warm as he feels with a little breathless laugh leaving him. “But they began to grow on me. No matter how much I didn’t want to see them, I grew to like them, to see them as something more.”

Meta shares his smile. It’s soft and unfitting for someone with a hard exterior like him, but he likes it. It’s a good look on him, one he has the joy of seeing often. Meta’s eyes flicker down to his lips and then to his eyes, it once again has Galacta wondering what he’s thinking of.

He finds out when lips meet his own.

The gap between them no longer exists and Galacta almost immediately allows his eyes to fall shut. It’s short, soft and sweet, the small peck doesn’t last as long as Galacta would have liked. But then Meta’s lips are chasing him, almost desperately, moving slowly, and then quickly against him he has to keep his hands on the ground from falling back. One kiss turns into two, two turn into three and Galacta can feel Meta melt against him, even as he climbs on top of him.

Overwhelming warmth, rapid heart beat, he truly is in love. There’s a little nibble against his bottom lip and Galacta gently gasps, sighing and throwing caution to the wind. He’s sure his lips will be as red as the color of his eyes, but there’s nothing wrong with that. He’s enjoying himself, moving his lips in sync with Meta’s, only the knight can bring back so many emotions that were once lost to him.

Galacta’s eyes are half lidded when he pulls back, only so that can breathe and Meta’s slowly blink open. He meets him again for a kiss, something more than a peck he feels like there’s more to it that Meta is trying to convey. Meta speaks through actions when words fail him and Galacta is slowly beginning to understand every inch of the man he’s enamored with.

Then, abruptly Meta’s lips are off of his.

The panic on Meta’s face makes his blood run cold.

Galacta reaches out to comfort him, wondering why he’s stumbling back and fumbling with his mask. Galacta’s heart squeezes painfully in his chest and he chases after him, grabbing his own mask to hide the distress written on his face.

“Meta, where are you going?” Galacta calls to him, knowing his words fall on deaf ears. He runs, and runs, until his wings flap harshly and he ascends into the galaxy, to follow Meta no matter where he may go. Why was he like this so suddenly? Did he do something wrong?

Meta looks at him over his shoulder and he sees a rare flicker of orange and green in his eyes. Is he surprised? If his eyes are green then why would someone level headed be panicking?

Orange is also fear, he realizes a little too late. The fear the ancients had for him, that his own people who praised him, eventually fell to the panic that his presence would destroy them.

And now he sees that same fear in the person he loves.

Meta’s wings flap aggressively and in an attempt to shake him off he slashes his sword rapidly back at him, not looking as multiple sword beams are sent his way. The orange and yellow glow of it makes him halt, a reminder of his eyes, how awful they look with unknown fear in them.

He blames himself for the hit that nearly destroys him, how if it wasn’t for his heart he would have been able to focus and get Meta, ask him why he’s acting so rashly–

He doesn’t get to.

Magic surrounds him, threatening to rip him to shreds. Crystals begin to circle him, immobilizing him and leaving him behind in the dark, cold galaxy. Nova looms over him like a dark cloud, trapping him and sealing him away for however long it’ll take for Meta to release him again.

Nova is no comfort, a clock that never ticks but is able to decide when his time is up.

Once again Galacta is left alone.

Chapter Text

“Was I never summoned.. Because you don’t know why you kissed me after our last battle?”

Meta hates this feeling. This overwhelming, tortuous feeling that threatens to drown him by a simple question. It’s suffocating, everything in his mind isn’t exactly set right for him to be properly sane anymore.

Sword will say he’s grumpy, Blade will call him moody and Sailor will try his best to make his life easier.

He’s overall complicated, as much as he hates to admit it. What an ignorant thought. Kissing someone, Galacta without thinking only goes to the pile of his many mistakes. He should regret it, yet he doesn’t.

He regrets leaving how he did, like a coward would, unable to properly face Galacta. There’s also attacking him only as a means of shaking him away so he can make a quick retreat.

So much for coming back to him with a proper response.

He fears losing Galacta. Anyone he ever cared for, even if he gave an ounce of a damn, they always met a terrible fate. It’s a given that Sword, Blade, Sailor, Vul– all of his crew are still standing by him to this day.

Maybe it’s luck, but logically he thinks it’s Kirby that keeps everyone safe. Does he still deserve the title of knight if Kirby has become the peacekeeper? For a child to do what he failed to do, he’s not sure what to make of that.

What he does know for certain is that he does not deserve Galacta, maybe not even forgiveness for his actions.

The thing about Galacta is that he can hold up on his own and to be living with Kirby means that the young warrior is a secure way of knowing that he’ll always be safe. When Galacta had first rejected his offer to stay with him he was angry about his stubbornness, but Kirby will be a good influence for the forgotten hero.

Kirby always brings out the best in people, he only brings out the worst.

He by no means should be concerned about Galacta, if anything bad happened he would be sealed away and then he can just wish for him back. Now that Galacta’s living in Popstar, unable to leave it makes him wonder what will become of him. Will he still be sealed away?

He fears getting too close to people, in a cruel twist that one day they will perish. He cares too much about Galacta to see anything happen to him. How can he protect someone he’s already hurt?

He refuses to acknowledge that he kissed him out of love. The feeling is too foreign to him now, he cares, but he will never be able to love someone again. His crew is just his crew, they aren’t his family, only soldiers that he will train.

His last family is gone, and nothing can bring them back.

Galacta deserves a better fate than to be tied to him.

Meta wraps his cape around him, and gives only a nod. Galacta is unreadable, staring at his mask and he hates to wonder what emotions flickered across his eyes.

“I regret what I’ve done to you,” Meta starts, gripping tightly to the cookie tin under his cape. “What I did to you. However I do not regret meeting you, you.. Are one of the few joys in life I had.”

Galacta was looking so radiant that day in the stars. His horns so golden, feathers fluffy and bright, his eyes with stars in them rivaling the beauty of the galaxy. All the times he thought about reaching out to him, to hold his hand or to kiss him, he finally did it.

Of course he had to screw it all up for a simple act of affection overflowing him and causing him to act rash.

What an awful feeling.

“I’ll keep my distance if it’s easier on you,” Meta speaks quietly. It’s the least he can do since Galacta is connected to him until he’s able to find a way to break the tie that binds them together. “You came to Popstar not on your own accord and I will take responsibility for it. Tell me to stay away, and I shall keep that promise.”

“You’re such a foolish man,” Galacta sighs, arms crossed. He takes a step forward and Meta takes one back. “I must admit it does hurt to recall the.. Unfortunate incident, but Kirby has taught me something about you.”

That worries Meta. There’s a lot Kirby could have said or done, and it’s thanks to the warrior that they’re even on speaking terms right now.

“When left to our own thoughts we suffer,” Galacta pauses. “We think irrationally. I almost gave in to the temptation of destruction, but if I had done so the ancients would have been right about me being unhinged.”

That is very particular and concerning. He can’t imagine what Galacta does anymore, knowing he only hangs out with Kirby but what he does with his life now is a mystery. He doesn’t even know what Galacta used to be like back in his time, only hearing stories of him training with the other Aeon Heroes before they fought and sealed away Void Termina.

“Do not push me away anymore,” Galacta speaks as if it's a warning. Meta doesn’t understand why his lips quirk up at that. “This time, if you want to make things right you will be there for me. That is not too much to ask, is it?”

Communication is key, he sees no problem with that. It’s a simple enough request, and it blooms something warm within his chest that Galacta still wants to see him. Whether it’s because of the bond or not he won’t push it.

“If that is your wish, then I’ll abide by it.” Meta gives a slight bow, and while he feels a weight lifted off of him the guilt still remains. Unbearable and clawing at the corners of his mind, he doesn’t think he should be forgiven so easily.

Maybe he hasn’t. This is just the beginning, a way to prove that he won’t hurt Galacta again.

He really needs to keep his lips to himself. Another reason to keep wearing his mask around him.

“Hey Meta,” Galacta calls out, stopping Meta mid turn and he tilts his head to him. “Before you replied to me your eyes were dark gray. What does that mean?”

His heart squeezes and he has to keep his back to Galacta lest he wants to see the color again. Memories of those lost, but not forgotten remain in his head, spiraling his thoughts and tearing at his heart. Galacta does not need to know, he has never told him what any of the other colors mean and he won’t begin to tell him now.

“It’s nothing important.”

Meta rushes back into the Halberd without another word.

Chapter Text

Galacta is acting weird.

That’s what Kirby thinks anyways, having spent nearly a month with Galacta he’s finally learned how to read him. It’s not as if Galacta is hard to read, but when he’s got a lot on his mind he becomes so mindless Kirby worries he’s turned into a zombie.

Prime examples? Cleaning dishes that are already spotless, letting water boil over the pot and at one point even getting their small hand vacuum caught on the curtains one too many times. Okay well, he’s done that a lot too but he doesn’t walk over there like he’s about to hit the window!

So it’s up to him to play detective and find out what’s wrong! He’s made it known various times that he’ll always be there for Galacta, wanting to be a shoulder he can lean on if he ever needs someone to hear him out. The whole flower and cookie gift exchange worked out well so he thinks he can handle anything that comes his way!

Currently Galacta is resting in the living room with his head resting on the back of the couch. It took him forever to keep him down on the couch after telling him that, yes, the house is clean enough and he doesn’t have to overwork himself.

So Kirby does what any good house guest would do and makes Galacta a cup of hot chocolate.

He already has the pot in the water, letting it soak and knowing Galacta will get to it before he has a chance to. It’s not that he hates getting his chores done by someone (who would?) but he still thinks it should be shared between them. Just doing dishes together, whether he’s the one to scrub or dry the plates fills him with joy.

“Alright mister angel,” Kirby speaks up and nudges the mug against Galacta’s hands. “What’s wrong?”

Galacta takes the mug and mutters a quiet thank you, slowly taking a sip of the sweet drink. He’s quiet for a moment and by the time he speaks his mug is already halfway empty. It only made Kirby feel awkward standing there with his hands on his hips, not wanting to budge until Galacta would make the first move.

“Knowing you a simple, ‘it’s nothing’ won’t be enough to suffice,” Galacta breathes out a sigh. “I.. I think I want to get closer to Meta.”

“What!?” Kirby exclaims, stars in his eyes and can’t stop the grin that blooms on his face. He’s so excited he jumps on Galacta’s lap, not caring how the angel’s eyes widen and his mug is suddenly held up and away from them. “Seriously? You really wanna be friends with him?”

“It wouldn’t hurt to try,” Galacta looks away and when he looks back Kirby is nose to nose with him. “I’m unsure if he’ll reciprocate, but you’ve taught me that one can always bounce back no matter what they’ve been through.”

By now Kirby is grinning so much his face is starting to hurt. Galacta huffs out a laugh and pushes a hand against his face earning a giggle from Kirby who falls back against the couch. He rolls off the couch and lands on his feet, springing up with newfound energy.

“When you’re done with your drink I’m taking you to the Halberd!” Kirby nods to himself, already forming a plan. “Maybe we can meet Meta’s family while we’re there too!”

Kirby rushes off to the kitchen, tearing through cabinets to look for the biggest basket he can find. When he looks back to steal a glance at Galacta he catches sight of a small smile that soon gets hidden behind his mug.

Progress!

Kirby is bouncing on the entire trip to the Halberd. He feels as warm as the sun that shines down on the lonely beach and the basket he carries swings carelessly as he moves. Galacta is following close behind, careful not to get hit and has his hands behind his head, unusual for him, but Kirby likes the careless look.

About time Galacta lets loose!

Climbing the stairs is a bit tedious with how much he shakes from excitement and Galacta has to steady him countless times from not tripping and falling face first into metal. He’s sure security cameras already alerted them to his presence, but Kirby makes it known by over eagerly knocking on the door until his fist hovers over Blade.

“Hey there Kirby! Good to see you!” Blade greets him, his eyes flickering from the basket and then to Galacta who stands awkwardly behind him. “Who’s this?”

“This is Galacta, Meta’s friend!” Kirby moves to the side and ushers Galacta forward. “They battled a lot in space!”

“Oh, so you’re the guy!” Blade breaks out into his own grin. “Sword! Sailor! Get in here!”

It’s probably the loudest he’s heard Blade be in such a long time, he’s happy that he’s not the only one eager to be friends with Galacta!

Sword and Sailor rush into the hall, Sword hitting the wall as they hastily make their way over. The panic on their faces are evident but soon turn into confusion noticing how unusually cheerful Blade is.

“This is Galacta,” Blade says slowly, gesturing to the angel. “Meta’s friend. From space.”

Sword and Sailor exchange looks before their mouths open in small circles, forming into little grins and its Sword who suddenly clasps both of his hands onto Galacta’s right hand. Sailor piles his hand on top of Sword’s and they shake him eagerly.

“You all are a lot.. Friendlier that I thought you’d be,” Galacta speaks up, humor in his tone and he slowly pulls his hand away. “It’s nice to make your acquaintance–”

“Your friends now,” Kirby huffs. No one he comes across will be anything less! “Sword, Blade and Sailor are all really fun! Is Vul and the others here?”

“Meta’s got them running errands today,” Sword says, shrugging it off and pulling his attention back to their new friend. “So Galacta, what’s it like being Meta’s galaxy–”

“Friend.”

All five of them turn to see Meta standing behind Blade, his arms crossed and voice dangerous. Even behind the mask his yellow eyes glow intensely and he sends the look right to Sword who holds his hands up to his chest in surrender.

It still doesn’t stop him from grinning though.

The glowing of his usually masked eyes fade and for a split second Kirby sees a light pink dance in his eyes. He tilts his head at the color, fascinated by how rare it is to see. Maybe he can ask Blade later what that color means..

“So,” Meta begins awkwardly, arms falling to his side. “What brings you two here?”

Kirby’s smile falls right back into place and he thrusts the basket forward towards Meta, rocking back and forth on his heels. “We’re taking you to Green Greens to go apple picking with us!”

There’s a beat of silence where all eyes are on Meta but he simply stands there, even his eyes are dull and not flickering with any emotions. Kirby waits five more seconds before he decides to take matters into his own hands (literally) by grabbing Meta’s arm and gently pulls on it.

“We need you to come with us,” Kirby puffs his cheeks up, giving another tug. “Please Meta, it’ll be loads of fun! And then when we’re done we can make all sorts of yummy foods out of the apples!”

Meta sighs heavily and looks away from Kirby’s pleading eyes. He can hear Galacta laugh softly from behind him, masking it as a fake cough and he feels a fluffy wing wrap around his shoulders attempting to pull him back.

“If Meta does not wish to go then we shouldn’t force him,” Galacta folds his wing back, resting a hand on Kirby’s head. “We should have asked before we barged in.”

Kirby pouts and his head drops, staring down at his shoes. The defeat doesn’t last long when his head jerks back up at the sigh he hears from Meta and sees the knight walk out of the Halberd, arm still in Kirby’s hold.

“I need to patrol the area anyways,” Meta pointedly looks away from Kirby, ignoring the small excited gasp. “If you insist then I’ll follow along.”

Well, he doesn’t need to hear anymore if Meta has already accepted his offer! Kirby keeps his arm wrapped around Meta, practically dragging him along and leaves the trio of his crew standing at the door, each with their own matching grins.

Picking apples has never been more fun for Kirby.

He’s usually by himself whenever he goes unless Bandana Dee comes with him, helping him climb trees and throws the apples down in the basket. While that is fun it can be exhausting going from tree to tree, looking for any apples that haven’t gone bad or bitten into already.

This time it’s different.

Now he has not one, but two friends with him that can fly! It makes it so much easier on him and even Galacta gives him a lift into the trees, hovering close by whenever he’s ready to get down. He’s perfectly fine with just jumping out of the tree but if Galacta is gonna scold him for it he’d rather not upset him.

Meta is, unsurprisingly, unreadable with his task. He’s focused, but there’s a lack of effort when he takes the back of his sword handle and slams it against a tree causing various apples to rain down on him. Galacta flies over and uses his shield to cover Meta from above while Kirby is busy swinging his legs in the tree, munching on an apple as he watches the small exchange.

“Are you ready to get down?” Galacta flies over to him, fluttering his wings and Kirby has to stop himself from reaching out to touch the fluffy feathers. “The basket seems pretty full now.”

“Already?” Kirby frowns and squints down at the ground, noting that unfortunately it is full. He should have brought another basket to make their time together last longer.. “Can’t we stay a little longer?”

Galacta doesn’t say anything, instead puts his hands under his forearms and lifts him up from the tree, carefully flying down until Kirby’s feet touch the ground. Galacta lands beside him, tucking his wings back and before Kirby can grab the basket handle Galacta grabs his hand.

Galacta brings a finger up to his lips and lets go of Kirby’s hand, eyes scrunching up from what Kirby can see in his mask. He reaches for an apple on the ground and lightly tosses it up in the air, catching it again with his hand. Kirby follows his gaze and sees Meta’s back turned to them, checking the quality of an apple he knocked down.

Galacta throws the apple at Meta’s back and he yelps.

Meta swiftly turns to them, dropping the apple in his hand and marches over. Kirby holds his hands over his mouth while Galacta hides his hands behind his back, looking away and attempting to act innocent.

“Childish,” Meta clicks his tongue. “Very well, have your fun then.”

Kirby tilts his head and even Galacta is a bit confused when Meta walks away and crouches down, only to turn around and hurl an apple towards Galacta’s chest. Kirby jumps to the side and Galacta takes the hit, unable to contain a laugh at the sudden strike.

Kirby looks to Galacta with a growing grin and they both look towards Meta in a silent understanding. Oh, it’s on now.

“Now!”

Galacta tosses an apple over to Kirby and throws an apple at Meta. This time Meta is prepared, jumping back and bending his knees only so that he can pick up two fallen apples and throw them back at Galacta. Galacta ducks under the first apple and uses his shield to bounce back the second apple before he picks up the bruised fruit and sends it back to Meta.

“Do you think an apple is enough to take down a mighty knight?” Kirby can practically hear the smile in Galacta’s voice and giggles, gently tossing an apple back at Meta who manages to catch it. What great reflexes!

Meta scoffs but it’s clear to Kirby he’s enjoying their little fruit war. His eyes are shining pink and the way he and Galacta toss apples at each other are relentless. Kirby notices Meta never sends an apple his way, making Galacta his prime target despite it being two against one.

When Kirby looks at Galacta he can see the shine of apple juice sticking to his armor, and while he thought Galacta would be bothered by it, he’s too engrossed in throwing and dodging apples to make anything of it. It’s the first time he’s seen Galacta genuinely enjoy himself without being polite.

His heart swells and his eyes shine, he’s never been more proud of his friend than in this moment.

Kirby is ready to aim another apple at Meta but a gust of wind hits his back, not enough to hurt him but the pressure is enough to make him stumble. Galacta holds down his apple and looks to Kirby, eyes widening behind his mask. Kirby turns around and follows Galacta’s gaze seeing that Whispy Woods decided to pay them a visit.

“Sorry Whispy Woods!” Kirby holds his hands together and bows, lifting his head up and smiles sheepishly at the tree. “I guess we got a little carried away with our apple picking..”

Whispy Woods huffs out another puff of air, but it’s more gentle than his previous one, making Kirby’s hair ruffle in the process. Galacta is still staring at awe and Meta grabs the basket, giving Whispy Woods a bow with a silent apology and rushes out of the woods. Kirby has to tug Galacta along and can’t find it in him to hide his smile as they all three run out and away from the deep woods.

“What in the name of the galaxy was that thing?” Galacta speaks up when they’re a good distance away, walking along the long path between the trees where light attempts to break through the shade the leaves provide. The early spring weather feels good against his skin and Kirby can feel himself swaying between the two knights.

“The guardian of the forest,” Meta answers for him. “It used to be very agitated whenever anyone would enter the woods, but has become a lot tamer. Friendlier you could say.”

Kirby nods and hums, blinking when his bangs fall in his face. He stops for a moment to fix his star hairpin that got loose during their apple fight. Meta used to always tell him not to be wasteful with food, and now he never imagined Meta would actually join them.

Galacta and Meta stopped in their tracks, noticing Kirby wasn’t with them and Kirby rushed forward, falling back into their pace. There’s something warm and welcoming having both the knights wait for him, even Galacta placed a hand on his shoulder and gave it a little shake. 

Kirby smiles and twirls in front of Meta, jumping back as he walks in front of him. “When we get back let’s make a pie and share it with your family, Meta!”

For some reason Meta pauses in his steps and Kirby then freezes in place as well. Oh, does he not know how to make apple pie..? Well, he can teach him! It’s not as hard as people make it out to be and with years of practice he knows the recipe by heart.

“Very well,” Meta speaks before he can reassure him. A flicker of blue runs across his eyes and if Kirby had blinked he’s sure he would have missed it. “I suppose it does make a nice reward for our work today.”

Kirby nods with a smile and even Galacta seems pleased by the idea if the wing that hooks around him is anything to go by. Meta catches up with them and the edge of Galacta’s wing brushes against him, this time they take their time leaving the forest and enjoy the serenity Popstar has fallen into once again.

Both his knight friends are happy and Kirby feels as if he’s about to burst from the joy that courses through him.

Chapter Text

Adapting to normality is much easier than Galacta thought it would be.

Magic still flows through him, never wavering with its strength and the lack of use of it does tend to get to him every now and then. But he’s learned how to control it. To keep it down inside, not allowing it to burst and ruin everything he’s built up ever since coming to Popstar.

Maybe it’s mostly spite that keeps him from going unhinged. Showing the ancients he can live a normal life with peaceful citizens and doesn’t always need to draw his lance at the drop of a hat. Perhaps he’s just petty and spiteful.

It’s better than being made out as some destructive, blood hungry knight.

Kirby is a prime example of those who can control their own power.

He hasn’t seen the young warrior in action, but all those he comes across have told their tales about how Kirby has saved Popstar again and again. Kirby asks nothing in return either, just goes back to his life before chaos erupted and surrounds himself in tranquility.

“Higher, Galacta!” Kirby calls to him, somewhat up in the air where he’s been pushing him on a wooden swing outside his house. Kirby expressed interest in one last time he and Bandana Dee were talking, so he took it himself to gather the supplies and create one for him.

The joy Kirby emitted from seeing the safe, plain looking swing was worth the effort.

Galacta pushes at Kirby’s back once more, enough to get him higher into the air and steps to the side of the swing to avoid getting hit. Kirby kicks his legs up in the air, letting them dangle as he goes up and down on the swing.

“Last week was pleasant, wasn’t it?” Galacta suddenly brings up, masked face turning every time Kirby flies right by him. “Does Meta tend to keep himself sheltered inside of his battleship?”

“Mostly,” Kirby says, going up, and then down again. “If he doesn’t leave on his own it's usually me or his crew that gets him outside.”

Galacta frowns. As much as Meta made a trip into the stars to see him, he'd rather stay inside when it comes to this beautiful planet? He can’t imagine there’s a lot to do inside of the battleship when no threats are near, so what would be the point of keeping himself isolated?

Last week though, when the three of them were having a nice time picking apples and then hurling them, he noticed it was the first time since he’s been on this planet that Meta decided to actually let loose. It made him think of old times spent in space together, dancing in the stars and clashing weapons to get any frustrations out.

How he both loves and loathes those memories now.

Perhaps he will do just as Kirby had done last week and have Meta leave with them again. If only to let the ice crack around his heart and allow him to enjoy his life, rather than live in a bird cage only he locks himself in.

How one wouldn’t enjoy their right to freedom is beyond him, and all the more reason to get Meta to go with them. “Kirby, do you have any plans for today?”

“Nope!”

Perfect.

“How about we go see your friend Dyna Blade today?” Galacta casually brings up and is a bit startled when Kirby jumps off the swing in the air. His wings quickly extend and he pushes them forward, jumping off the ground and flapping rather aggressively so that he can catch Kirby in his arms.

How reckless, but Kirby is just a child and might not know any better. Still, it brings cause for concern and he’d rather not have the young one’s legs be hurt from such a high fall. Until Galacta’s feet touch the ground, he lets go of Kirby who has a short fall to the ground and looks up to him as if nothing happened.

“You really wanna meet her?” Kirby sways, a growing smile on his face. “You’re gonna love her and her babies! Soon you’ll meet all of my friends! One day I wanna take you to Patch Land and meet a best friend of mine!”

Galacta smiles behind his mask, letting Kirby begin his excited ramble as he takes his arm and starts leading him away from his cottage. Hopefully Patch Land isn’t far from Popstar, or else it may cause problems..

“Do you think we could invite Meta to come with us today?” Galacta innocently asks, or attempts to but Kirby falls for it. “He enjoys flights too, doesn’t he?”

“Great idea!” Kirby cheers and lets go of his hand, positively thrilled by the thought. “Gold star for you, Mr. Angel!”

Kirby races off before Galacta can get another word in. Galacta has to break out into a sprint to keep up with Kirby, not wanting the mess of pink hair to get out of his sight, already knowing the path to the Halberd by heart.

Before, he didn’t want to see Dyna Blade out of fear of falling from the sky, but if Meta’s there then he can finally see this rainbow mechanical bird. It sounds like something out of one of the many story books Kirby keeps around his home and he’s intrigued to see her in person.

If it’s also an excuse to see Meta again by having him tag along then he won’t confirm nor deny it.

Galacta is actually genuinely surprised to see that Meta is outside when they get to the Halberd.

Maybe he’s not as sheltered as he thought, and he would keep that thought in mind if Sailor wasn’t standing beside him, going over a list with him. Whether Sailor was the one to get him outside is up for debate, but Galacta likes to believe for amusement’s sake the young crew mate was able to do the seemingly impossible.

“Hey Sailor! Hey Meta!” Kirby greets them, bouncing in his steps before he comes to a full stop in front of Sailor. “Whatcha up to?”

“Sir Meta gave me a list of parts to put in an order for while I go into town,” Sailor replies. Ah, so Meta isn’t busy then. “How about you two?”

“We were gonna go see Dyna Blade,” Kirby pauses and then jumps, completely shifting his body so he can face Meta, a little over eager but that’s nothing to be surprised about. “And we were wanting Meta to come with us!”

For some odd reason Meta shifts uncomfortably under Kirby’s happy, warm gaze. Galacta watches his eyes flicker green and straightens his posture. Galacta’s arms cross, growing more impatient by the awkward silence he gives them.

“Sir I’m sure she’s probably forgiven you by now after the incident.” Sailor suddenly pipes up, patting Meta’s arm in a reassuring manner. Galacta furrows his brows, eyes squinted and tilts his head at the duo in question.

“What incident?”

“Oh, Meta’s crew shot her out of the sky a few years ago,” Kirby says before Meta can explain and the knight in question quickly looks away from them. “That’s okay though, he’s done the same to me too but I’m not angry about it!”

This newfound information is a lot to take in. One, Meta has shot a giant mechanical bird from the sky, two, Meta has shot Kirby out of the sky as well. This was only a few years ago and yet they were on great terms now? What in the name of the galaxy would provoke him to fire at a child?

Galacta stares at Meta for just a beat longer before breaking out into a laugh of disbelief. He puts a hand up to his mask and shakes his head, trying to wrap his head around the mystery that is Meta. “I had no idea attacking your friends is just how you are, blood knight.”

Meta swirls his head back towards him and his mask, for once, is unreadable. How long has it been since he uttered the nickname towards the knight? Far too long, but now he can say it with humor finally in his tone.

Sailor gives Meta a little push to his side, gaining his attention and salutes. “I’ll take care of everything you need done today! You should enjoy your stroll through the sky, especially with no clouds out today. It has been awhile since you went for a flight, hasn’t it sir?”

Meta lowers his shoulders in defeat, a small sigh heard behind his mask with those unreadable yellows. He spares them a glance and begins to walk before he replies, “Fine. Only to go make amends with the bird.”

Kirby eagerly follows along and Galacta accepts this is just Meta’s stubborn way of getting him to go out with them.

Dyna Blade is certainly a sight to behold.

Her rainbow wings leaves Galacta speechless, even the blue of her eyes could rival Kirby in their stunning color. They lack the excited innocence Kirby’s holds, but Galacta is captivated nonetheless. He has to stop himself from reaching out, curious to the feel of her wings under his gloved fingers – he keeps his composer if only to make a good first impression.

Meta on the other hand is a statue under her gaze.

Dyna Blade has not stopped eyeing the knight since they arrived, sparring him a glance when Kirby introduced him and with a loud chirp she resumed the staring contest with Meta. The hatchlings of Dyna Blade’s all surrounded Kirby, having yet to stop chirping at his friendly presence.

“Nooo,” Kirby giggled, pulling his short hoodie away from the birds. “I can’t give you guys any starbit candy! Coo says it’s not good for you!”

Meta shifts, the background noise of the birds and Kirby doing nothing to ease the growing tension. It’s as if he anticipates her making the first move and he’ll be ready to dodge if needed. How typical of him, to expect every past enemy of his to suddenly hold a sword to his throat.

He can empathize with Dyna Blade.

Kirby, finally having sensed Meta’s frozen state and Galacta’s awkward standing, approaches Dyna Blade – getting in between the two currently giving each other wary looks.

“Don’t worry, Meta won’t attack us again,” Kirby reassures and then puts his hands on his hips. “Meta’s learned not to be a big dummy again when it comes to Popstar! Right, Meta?”

“..Those are not the words I would choose to use,” Meta’s eyes squint and then look back to the two. “But yes, I won’t repeat the past. I apologize for that day as hurting those only wanting to protect the peace did nothing but make me out to be a villain and greatly harm you two in the process.”

Dyna Blade’s triplets curiously walk over to Meta and begin pecking him, not hard enough to hurt, but one does tug at his cape, pulling and pulling until Meta’s wings suddenly appear, extending and startling the birds who begin chirping louder.

Dyna Blade approaches, lowering her head when Kirby opens his arms and gently nuzzles the side of his face. Kirby wraps his small arms around her head, bringing her into a warm hug that has the bird closing her eyes. With the beginning of the sunset appearing behind them; painting the sky in orange and pink hues, leaving only a hint of blue behind, he thinks the scene overall has a soft aura to it.

Then, Dyna Blade walks to Meta and he can see how his mask becomes dark, closing his eyes to await what possible wrath she might bring upon him. It turns out there is no bitterness harboring the mother bird when she leans down and pecks once at Meta’s mask and pulls back.

Seemingly smug about the confusion she’s given Meta, Dyna Blade lifts her head and spreads her wings out with a mighty screech.

“Pardon me, divine bird,” Galacta speaks up, waving slightly. “Kirby has a request for you.”

“Right!” Kirby jumps forward, eager as always. “Can we all go on a flight together?”

Dyna Blade flaps her wings, sending forth a gust of wind before she lowers herself, allowing Kirby to climb on her back. Kirby doesn’t waste another second, jumping up on her and holds onto the edge of the red metal vest around her.

Galacta has to shield his mask when Dyna Blade’s wings begin to move more rapidly, nearly creating a whirlwind when she flew off the edge, her chicks following her descent before appearing up in the cloudless sky, becoming nothing but multi colors in the sky as the fly away from the two knights left to themselves.

Galacta nudges his head towards the edge and breaks out into a sprint, not looking back when his wings extend and he jumps into the sky; arms open and a smile breaks out under his mask. It seems things haven’t changed when Meta is once again following him, this time through the sky instead of stars.

Soaring through the sky is a lot different than space. For one, no stars to avoid and two, the breeze is a lot more pleasant against his wings than the cold, lifeless galaxy.

His feathers fluff out in the breeze, a few plumes falling when he jerks them up, ascending up into the air and he chases after Kirby, not wanting to stray from the young warrior. Meta flies above him before shifting to his side and makes sure to keep a good distance between him. Their wings flap in sync and when Galacta circles around Meta he can see the color blue dance in his eyes.

This begins something, the start of a rhythm when Meta begins circling around him. Galacta flies upwards and flutters his wings, watching Meta meet him, standing in the air together with only their wings keeping them up. Galacta’s eyes scrunch up in happiness, knowing they’ll be visible to Meta, his little tell that he’s enjoying their little moment together. Meta inches closer, enough that their wings briefly brush together. Galacta looks down at the hesitant hand Meta can’t seem to make his mind up about.

Galacta reaches out and his fingertips are so, so close to his hand–

A sudden sun shower begins to pour down on them and Galacta barks out a laugh of surprise.

Rain soaks his ponytail and drenches his clothes under his armor, Galacta ducks his head knowing he cannot shield himself properly now. Quickly, he flexes his wings out to avoid them getting too wet and can feel how heavy they’ve become on his back.

Through the sunny rain, he feels Meta grabs his wrist and begins to lead him back to Dyna Blade’s nest; the grip of his wrist is firm as if he’s afraid he’ll fall from the sky. Galacta watches silently, expression softening and keeping his gaze on the back of Meta’s soaked dark blue hair.

Galacta doesn’t pull his arm away on the entire trip back, not even when Dyna Blade flies over them with a curious eyed warrior on her back.

Chapter Text

Meta is beginning to notice a pattern.

His week will go as it always does: do routine checkups on the Halberd, give his crew daily tasks, spar with one of his crewmates and on the rare occasion, when he isn’t making himself busy with something of importance, he’ll indulge himself with a small treat for all of his hard work, alone where nobody can see his secret shame.

An error has occurred in his system in the blinding color of pink.

Kirby’s visits with him have become more frequent, which wouldn’t be concerning if Galacta didn’t come with him on most of those visits. The angel doesn’t appear to hold any hostility towards him, and while he is relieved by that, getting close again isn’t what he had in mind.

Maintaining a.. Friendship? Is that what they are now? Friends? Anyways, it would be preferable if they kept their visits to a minimum number.

That’s what Meta thinks right now, with Kirby standing outside of the Halberd, innocently rocking back and forth on his heels.

Meta stands at the door with a towel draped over his shoulders, having just washed off after sparring with Mace Knight and his mask was left behind in his room. While he would prefer to wear it at all times in the presence of company, when told by Sailor that Kirby was wanting to see him he decided it wasn’t necessary to wear it around the young warrior.

For the amount of times Kirby’s seen him maskless it wouldn’t even faze him.

“Sailor says you wanted a word with me?” Meta quirks a brow, bringing his towel up to ruffle the side of his damp hair. The noticeable lack of presence of a certain angel does raise Meta’s curiosity, so he asks, “Galacta is not joining you today?”

“Coo dropped him off some old books about the ancients since he likes to visit the library on the weekends,” Kirby stops his rocking. “I can’t believe Galacta can understand the language! It just looks like a bunch of scribbles to me..”

Suddenly, Kirby shakes his head, crossing his arms and pouts. “Galacta wanted to be alone for a while,” Then, he beams. “So I thought I’d come see if you were free to go to the bakery with me!”

Meta, by no means, should not be worried hearing this. It’s just Galacta doing his research on the ancients. There’s been many stories Galacta told him about them before, how brilliant and powerful their magic is, but that’s not what concerns him. It’s the idea that Galacta may be wanting to learn about what happened to his people, the other Aeon Heroes– his friends. 

And what he may find might not be very pleasant.

“I will accompany you,” Meta quickly says, giving his hair one final ruffle. “My crew has been working extra hard and deserves some type of reward.”

“Really?” Kirby practically lights up by his offer, with stars in his eyes and breaks into a grin. His arm is pulled at and Meta stumbles forward, reluctant to leave the Halberd. “Let’s go! You can never go wrong with sweets!”

To go out in only some plain dark shirt, sweats and socks isn’t what he intends for anyone on Popstar to see.

“Kirby,” Meta sighs, though gets Kirby to stop pulling on his arm. “Give me a moment to dress properly.”

“Oh, right,” Kirby lets go of him and smiles sheepishly. “I’ll go ask everyone what they want from the bakery then!”

Meta watches Kirby rush past him, shoes hitting against the metal floors and echoing around him, disappearing around the corner. Meta shakes his head, closing the door and quickly makes his way back to his bedroom.

He idly wonders what information Galacta is learning about now.

Wearing armor isn’t something you’d normally wear to a bakery but to be without it Meta would feel too exposed. 

Kirby didn’t bat an eye at him, knowing his mask, dark blue tunic, spotless armor, pants and dark purple boots is just how he usually dressed. He doesn’t care what his crew thinks, he believes the look fits for him.

Going inside a very bright and pastel colored bakery makes him stand out even more than he already feels living on Popstar. 

Kirby pushes against the door and chimes above them greet them, though not loud enough to cancel out Kirby’s cheerful humming. A giant red bow pops up from the counter and Ribbon stretches, eyes lighting up when she sees who her customers are.

“Kirby!” Ribbon greets him, her enthusiasm being only one of the few who could rival Kirby’s own. “I see you brought another new guest along with you.”

Meta shifts and only bows his head ever so slightly, tugging his cape closer around him. When it comes to anyone cheerful he only knows how to communicate with Kirby and Sailor, anyone else.. Well, awkwardness would only follow from lack of words.

For him he’s only ever seen Ribbon a few times, not wanting to be caught in the bakery he usually sent out one or more of his crew to pick up some sweets for the Halberd. By now he’s sure half of their funds go to the bakery Adeleine and Ribbon opened up together last year. The duo are hardly ever seen without each other and he isn’t against their small business if it brings a source of happiness to the population.

..Not that he’s happy about sweets, he just admires their hard work is all.

“Hi Ribbon!” Kirby gives a small wave. It’s almost funny how barely either one of them can see over the counter. In fact Ribbon is only a few inches short of Kirby, thanks to being part fairy. “Adeleine isn’t here today?”

“She’s out doing a recent art commission so I’m in charge of the bakery today,” Ribbon states proudly, fluttering upwards so she can lean her hands on the counter. “Where’s your angel friend at?”

“He’s at home with his nose in a bunch of books,” Kirby says, unknowing to what is contained in those old, ancient books. “But Meta decided to come with me today instead so I’m not alone!”

Ribbon looks between them and Meta shifts under her gaze. It’s like she’s silently studying them, as if she knows something they don’t. She may be almost as cheerful as Kirby, but she’s got a sharp eye to her.

“I see,” Then, she gives them a warm, genuine smile and moves along the counter. “What can I get you two today?”

“Meta’s crew wants these!” Kirby holds out a list to Ribbon filled with nothing but scribbles and doodles of sweets. How she can make it out is beyond him, but she flutters around the small bakery, putting donuts and cookies into a cake box for them. If anyone can understand Kirby’s drawings it’d be her.

“Kirby, do you have a favorite sweet?” Meta asks quietly, although the question is sudden Kirby is taken aback by it. In fact he looks pleased by it.

“I really love cake!” Kirby says eagerly. “But I love all kinds of sweets! It’s hard to pick just one!”

Being the ever-cunning one, Meta oh so innocently asks, “Does Galacta perhaps have a favorite as well?”

“Galacta is really fond of strawberry shortcake,” Kirby hums. “Your favorites are parfait and affogato, right?”

Ribbon spares them a glance from where she’s getting donuts out of the glass case and Meta looks away, coughing and mumbles something that almost sounds like he’s agreeing. When Kirby got so observant was beyond him, unless one of his crewmates had told him.

“I’ll take the strawberry shortcake you have ready then,” Meta gestures to the cake stand and he swears he can see stars in Kirby’s eyes. “Surely you would not object to me treating you today, would you?”

“You’re the best!” Kirby exclaims and brings Meta into a hug. He blinks, surprised by the affection and gently pats Kirby’s head, unsure what to do with his hands. Kirby squeezes him before letting go and happily helps Ribbon with getting the cake and putting it in a cake box for them.

Meta lingers where he stands, putting down the amount Ribbon rings him up for. He puts extra money in the tip jar and carries the cakebox while Kirby takes care of the smaller treats for his crew. Kirby waves to his friend, opening the door on the way out.

Before they leave Ribbon shouts to them, “Come again! You two are my most paying customers so you’re always welcomed here!”

Meta feels warmth rush to his face and leaves the bakery without looking back to see Ribbon’s cheerful smile.

Before they go back to Kirby’s cottage they make a quick detour back to the Halberd, only so Kirby can rush up to the door and deliver the sweets to his crew. He decides to wait for Kirby on the outside, knowing full well Kirby will just repeat everything that happened at the bakery and stars above he does not want to deal with their cheeky smiles and teasing tones.

You would think as their leader they’d have more respect for him, though apparently that only applies when they’re fighting against a force threatening Popstar.

Kirby fills the silence on the way back to his cottage, recalling every little event that happened over the week. He hears about how Kirby almost got lost chasing an orange butterfly and Galacta was worried about him, and then the mini race Kirby had with Rick. What catches his attention is the short story of how Galacta started giving Bandana Dee training lessons with his spear.

Bursting through the door seems to be Kirby’s way of entering anywhere he goes, even his own home apparently. You would think Galacta would be the least bit startled by it, but he doesn’t spare them a single glance when Kirby walks in, greeting him loudly.

Galacta sits on the couch, clutching a book in one hand while another hand rests under his chin, his eyes burning so fiercely as if threatening to set the book on fire with a look alone. Without the mask he seems vulnerable, a storm of emotions coursing through him by whatever he’s able to decipher in the ancient books.

“You’re still reading?” Kirby asks, astounded. “You need a break, and Meta got you the perfect present to relax with!”

Galacta suddenly lifts his head and their eyes lock. Unlike the bakery, he doesn’t feel as awkward standing in Kirby’s home despite rarely coming in. Unsure what to say, Meta holds out the cakebox and can feel his expression soften towards Galacta’s visible confusion. “As Kirby stated, you can never go wrong with sweets.”

“I see your wisdom reaches far and wide around Popstar,” Galacta laughs softly, setting the book aside so he can go ruffle Kirby’s hair. “You went to the bakery with the young one?”

“He came to the Halberd wanting someone to accompany him,” Meta quickly clears up. “I happened to be at the door so I complied.”

“Ribbon seemed happy to see him,” Kirby pipes up, taking the cake box and sets it on his tiny round dining table. “Next time we should all go together that way we can get three cakes!”

“A cake for each person? What childish logic,” Galacta shakes his head and joins Kirby in their small kitchen. “You just want an excuse to get more cake, don’t you?”

Kirby ducks his head and mumbles out a quiet maybe that has Galacta hitting his wing out against him. Kirby giggles and avoids the flap of his wing from getting a face full of feathers and helps Galacta get plates out from the kitchen cabinet.

The atmosphere is domestic, something that reminds him how Blade and Sword goof around in the kitchen when they think no one else is up or around. He’s not sure how to feel when he catches himself smiling, making it disappear as quickly as it came.

It’s time he should go.

“I’ll leave you two so you can enjoy your cake,” Meta shifts in place, avoiding their gazes. “Have a pleasant evening–”

“And where do you think you’re running off to?” Galacta asks, a hand on his hip, the other holding a stack of three plates. Kirby held three cups in his arms and tilted his head at Meta. “You paid for the cake, didn’t you? At least have a slice before you disappear.”

Kirby quickly dumps the cups onto the table, having one fall over but he cares not when he races towards Meta and throws himself at his cape. Meta tenses up and he looks down to those blue, pleading eyes that could stop any enemy in their tracks. With a sigh he looks over to Galacta who doesn’t bother masking his smile and quirks a brow up at him.

“Just one slice,” Meta states firmly. “Then I must take my leave.”

One slice turns to two, but nobody says anything about it as the cottage is filled with Kirby’s eager talking, small chit chat from Galacta and Meta’s own input between bites.

The weird, foreign feeling of belonging there lingers with him, even as he flies off into the night, back to the battleship that’s supposed to be the only place that feels like home to him.

Chapter Text

Meta is by no means a homebody.

His previous adventures would say otherwise, along with the evening flights he’d take every now and then. However recently if he’s been reluctant to leave the Halberd then he faults himself, and the angel that is making him not want to leave.

It’s not as if Galacta has done anything wrong to him, not now nor ever, it’s just with the feeling of fondness beginning to grow he wants nothing more than to crush that feeling. There’s nothing wrong with giving himself the luxury of enjoying the simpler things of life, he just doesn’t know what to do with this bundle of emotions.

Logically he can talk about it, but the thought turns his stomach, induces unusually anxiety and yeah, he’s not going to do what any sane or normal person would do.

Not that he’s insane, he would rather be labeled a loner than try to express whatever the hell is going on inside of him right now.

All he wants to do is enjoy his afternoon cup of coffee, for once not think about anything in particular and perhaps take up Javelin Knight’s offer on sparring..

“Meta?” Sword peeks into the kitchen, odd for him not to just walk in normally, but he has Meta’s full attention anyways. “What are you doing here?”

“Shouldn’t it be obvious?” Meta raises a brow, holding his coffee cup up. He can hear Vul laugh under his breath where he sits across from him looking over new blueprints for the Halberd. “Shall I inquire why you would want to be in the kitchen too or shall we play the guessing game?”

Sword flushes, although rolls his eyes. Oddly he looks sheepish. “I meant, aren’t you going to go out and join Kirby and Galacta?”

They’re here again? If they were at the door he would have known, banging on it with Kirby insisting he come with them to Nova knows where, and frankly he’d like to have some alone time now. Er, minus Vul’s presence. He doesn’t mind the captain’s considering small talk isn’t his forte either.

“I don’t always have to be with them,” Meta takes a long sip, gathering his thoughts. “They can exist without me looming over them.”

“Well.. Alright then,” Sword frowns, only coming into the kitchen to grab a few bottled waters for him and he assumes Blade. “But they’re down playing on the beach if you want to get out of the shadows for once.”

Meta waits until Sword leaves before he lets out a heavy sigh. All of his crew has been persistent about him spending more time with Galacta and Kirby, he just doesn’t see why he should . Other than the obvious hints they’ve been dropping, he doesn’t need them all to act as if they’re his wingmen when it comes to Galacta.

Not that he needs them to do such a ridiculous act nor does he want them to.

Perhaps Sailor is right. He really should get more sleep.

“You know, it is a nice day out,” Vul speaks quietly, unfortunately loud enough for him to hear. “It’s okay to enjoy yourself once in a while.”

Of all his crewmates he least expected Vul to try and nudge him out the door, the one who has seen them interact the least. What have the others been telling him?

“There’s nothing I will be able to contribute by being there,” Meta says, automatically and stiffly. A line he’s repeated one too many times to his crew. An excuse that they all knew was bullshit but listened to him anyways. Although in this case it’s not an excuse, he sees no real reason to be there. “I want to continue upgrading the Halberd in case of another attack on Popstar.”

Vul sighs, setting the blueprints down and reclines back in his chair with crossed arms. Here we go. “Haven’t you been doing that for a month now?” Stating the obvious, Vul leans forward. “I’d say it sounds like you’re avoiding something, hm?”

Meta scoffs, rolls his eyes and crosses his arms. No, he’s not being defensive. “I care about the safety and well being of the citizens of Popstar,” Which isn’t a lie exactly. “And if it aids Kirby in his off and on quest of restoring peace, then it is worth all of the labor we put into our battleship.”

“You certainly have a heart of gold under all of that dark garb!” Vul gives a hearty laugh, sits back and idly taps the table. “But since you’re so kind hearted, just makin` yourself look out for others, I think you should give yourself a break from all of this work.”

Apparently his crew just loves pushing his buttons, even Vul who tends to stay out of his personal life. Sword must have finally gotten to him if he’s going to bother him about something so tedious..

“Given that we won’t be getting any work done with this meaningless chatter I’ll take my leave,” Scowling, Meta finishes the rest of his coffee and sets it back down on the table with unnecessary force. “When you’re finished with those blueprints–”

“Get outta here already!” Vul shoos him. “They aren’t going anywhere, but you should.”

Irritated as he is, Meta snatches his mask and hastily straps it on, taking his leave. His own crew betraying him by not allowing him to do as he pleases. He is the one in charge here, not them! For what all they’ve been through together, years spent off and on the battlefield, he understands where their concerns lie.

It’s kind that they care so deeply for him, but recently it's been down right smothering.

As lively as the Halberd can be, walking along the halls with only the sound of his boots hitting against the metal reminds him of how quickly it can become quiet in the battleship. This is what he’s been craving, just alone time, and while the idea of just flying away for the rest of the day is now appealing to him, he knows his crew will complain about leaving behind Galacta and Kirby.

So instead he heads to the deck of the Halberd, it’s a compromise, he thinks, if it means he’s technically outside, trying to calm himself from how irritable he’s been. He keeps himself close to the door in case a hasty retreat is needed, mulling over any new ideas he may have for weapons on the deck.

Maybe another combo cannon would do..

A fluffy presence catches Meta’s eyes and it appears peace won’t be with him today. It’s as if Galacta sensed his presence, twirling in the air and his head tilted up, waving at him from where he flew upside down. A few plumes fell when Galacta did another twirl, descending onto the deck until his shoes clicked against the hard wooden floor. It’s then that it hits Meta there’s a very big noticeable difference about him today.

He’s without his armor.

No armor or boots, even his pants legs and sleeves were rolled up. It’s the first time he’s seen Galacta dress differently, even if it’s the same outfit, his stomach flipped by the sight. No, now isn’t the time to decipher this unusual feeling. Nova knows his eyes are the mirror of his soul and he doesn’t want Galacta to start questioning him.

“I was just about to come get you,” Galacta offers a smile, not as rare as they used to be. “Trident Knight informed me you were taking a break. Him and Axe Knight are down playing volleyball with Kirby.”

That traitor. You don’t give away classified information to the person he’s attempting to avoid! Tomorrow he’s changing the sparring schedule from Blade to Trident and he will know exactly why.

“How very considerate of you all,” Meta mumbles. “But I’m perfectly fine where I am now.”

Galacta stares, looking unconvinced. “You don’t look so hot there,” He quirks a brow and continues forward anyways. “Well, perhaps you do,” That momentarily throws Meta, along with the light laughter that follows. “Come on now, do you want to come cool off?”

For it being spring the sun is blaring down a bit harshly on his mask. Even behind it he can feel sweat on his forehead, sticking his bangs against his head. Feeling sticky and somewhat gross, Meta holds his ground, continuing to sit under the sun with his mind set.

“I’m fine.”

Not the response Galacta wanted to hear judging by the eye roll. Galacta decides to take matters into his own hands, literally so when he gets closer and grabs his wrist. Meta is reluctant, though his legs give away as Galacta jerks him up and forward, crashing their bodies together.

Meta blinks, mind blank and suddenly a wave of anxiety rushes through him. He is far too close to Galacta for his liking and he thanks the stars above that he has his mask on. Galacta looks a bit lost himself and Meta takes the chance to break free of his grasp, stumbling back.

Silently cursing to himself, Meta brushes past Galacta and hurries away. His cape gives away so that his wings can break free, allowing them to feel the wind that rushes to him as he sprints and jumps off the Halberd. Galacta follows along, as if racing him down towards the beach and well, Meta was never one to decline a challenge.

Flights with another shouldn’t be considered fun, but just this once he’ll allow himself to enjoy the pleasure of it. 

Chapter Text

Galacta feels emotionally exhausted.

That’s the best way to phrase it, in his opinion anyways, never having to deal with the catastrophe that is emotions. Yes, he is, and forever will be bitter at the ancients for sealing him away, but he has never had to deal with someone as.. Complicated as Meta is.

Stubborn is what he is. As if he has to make himself distance on purpose, whether it’s to keep his image of a knight of the shadows, or perhaps he still had to mull things over in his head as Galacta has learned. Only Nova knows how long it would have taken him to come back to apologize if Kirby didn’t wish him back into existence.

What an awful, terrible feeling, wanting to be near Meta when the other always seems to be busy or is apparently nowhere to be found whenever he and Kirby come to visit. Not that Meta’s aware but with the bond he can feel how close he is. He by no means wants to spew venom to Meta’s crew when they make up an excuse for him, and knowing Meta he most likely ordered them to do so.

If only he could tug the string and bring Meta closer, only so that he can know why he’s being this way.

Although he is aware Meta is busy and he respects the work he puts into both his battleship and crew, it doesn’t stop the ping of disappointment he feels when the workaholic is off doing Nova knows what. It wouldn’t have bothered him as much assuming Meta constantly has his hands full, but even his crew expressed that it was unusual of him to be overworking himself this much.

“Why are you so pouty?” Kirby asks, briefly startling him from where he pops up behind the couch. “Did you not get enough to eat? We should make something then! Or better yet we can have dessert!”

Kirby is already jumping over the couch, a grin on his face and Galacta pulls at the back of his hood, making the young warrior fall back down on the couch with a small oof. He shakes his head, letting go of his clothes and frowns.

“I know you sneaked in some cookies after we got done doing dishes,” Galacta gives him a pointed look. “And it’s after eleven, shouldn’t you be in bed?”

Kirby glances away, looks up and then smiles sheepishly. “I was waiting so I could grab a midnight snack.”

“Stars above..” Galacta sighs, though can’t help but smile. Ah, what is he going to do with this warrior? “If you’re still hungry I’ll make you something light before bed then.”

“Great!” Kirby exclaims, grabbing his arm. “But first you need to tell me what’s wrong!”

Knowing he won’t be going anywhere with Kirby’s strong grip and that pretending to sleep would be futile, Galacta settles back against the couch with him and stares up at the ceiling. Talking his feelings out isn’t what he had in mind tonight, but he knows Kirby always means well and for that he’s thankful.

However when most, if not all, of their emotional talks revolve around Meta the feeling of embarrassment always tends to linger in him before each talk.

“I believe I’m right back to where I started with Meta,” Galacta closes his eyes, voice solemn. “You’ve known him longer than I have, does he always tend to push others away?”

“Meta likes having a lot of alone time,” Kirby lets go of his arm, swinging his legs against the couch. “That’s just how he is, but Sword tells me I’m allowed to bug him anytime I want to!”

Galacta manages a smile, opening his eyes and looks down at Kirby. The smile he offers in return eases his nerves and if Kirby knows how to do one thing perfectly it’s bringing up the atmosphere.

“Meta may not be like most of the people on Popstar, but I like him just the way he is!” Kirby exclaims proudly, a little sparkle in his eyes. The same look he always gets when he starts talking about one of his many friends. “He’s the coolest knight I know!”

Galacta shakes his head fondly. The talk may not resolve his issues with Meta, the longing to want to see him, but he will respect Meta’s wishes and give him the space he so desires. Meta’s crew has been encouraging him to make frequent visits, however Kirby knows him best, and he’ll only give Meta the push he needs if his crew shows more concern for him.

There’s so many places in Popstar he has yet to see, and he wants Meta by his side to see them, bonded to him or not.

And Kirby too of course, he could never leave out the excitable warrior.

“Are you saying that I’m not the ‘coolest knight’ you know?” Galacta raises a brow, tone playful as he wraps an arm around Kirby and pulls him into a headlock. “I’m wounded.”

Kirby giggles and breaks out into a burst of laughter when Galacta’s free hand finds its way to his side, attacking him with one of Kirby’s few weaknesses: tickles. Kirby squirms against him, nearly sliding his body off the couch in an attempt to break free.

“Y-You’re the–the fluffiest knight I know!” Kirby says in between puffs of laughter, breathless and face red, Galacta finds himself laughing along. Not the answer he was looking for, maybe one he should have expected, but alright, he shall yield.

Showing Kirby mercy, Galacta lets go of him, catching him before he falls to the floor and easily hoists him back onto the couch. Galacta stands and maneuvers around Kirby so that he can lay him down, allowing the warrior to catch his breath.

Galacta heads to the kitchen, thinking tonight he’ll just have to make some improvised snack when Kirby calls out to him. His hand remains frozen on a cabinet door knob, head slowly processing his words.

“Let’s invite Meta over for dinner one night!” Galacta doesn’t need to turn back around to know Kirby’s already breaking out into a smile. “We’ll make a bunch of yummy sweet foods for him!”

He’ll have to think that one over, if it means they can get the supposed loner knight out from his battleship, then.. perhaps he’ll agree to it.

Chapter Text

There’s nothing Meta hates more than his crew pointing out the obvious.

That is, of course, if he has been ignoring the obvious to maintain his own sanity and straying from any unpleasant thoughts.

“You seem happy.”

Stars above, being around Galacta does make him feel this way. It’s mixed with anxiety and a feeling he would more than love to forget, but he feels disgusted with himself after saying he’d get rid of these feelings.

Keeping his distance has ultimately backfired on him.

Distance makes the heart grow fonder, he’s only ever heard this a few times in his life and Nova help him it’s true. The fondness he feels seeing Galacta smile, enjoying his life with Kirby makes his heart squeeze in two different ways.

His crew stopped trying to push him out the door when the pink duo would visit, allowing him to finally have the peace he’s craved. Ironic considering he’s always looking for a duel to keep things lively.

And now his mind has turned against him, leaving him with the memories of Galacta throughout the day.

He doesn’t have feelings for Galacta, he’s fine on his own with his crew just how it should be–

“Sir?”

Meta jerks his head up, alerted by Sailor’s soft tone. Around the table Sailor, Vul and Blade all give him looks of concern, leaving their paperwork spread across the table. He sighs, setting his own pen down. Spacing out in the middle of work, fantastic.

“Yes, Sailor?”

“I asked if we could change the placement of the next combo cannon.” Sailor shifts in his chair, adjusting his hat. A nervous tick he has. “Are you feeling well? I repeated that question three times already.”

“Why don’t we take a break?” Blade suggests. “We have been going at this for over an hour now.”

Meta sighs but complies, leaning back in his chair feeling undignified. He’s not sure what he’ll do if they decide now is the best time to pull him into a serious topic he has no interest in. The air is different around them, an unusual tension that Meta isn’t going to do anything about knowing already what’s on the tip of their tongues.

“How about I make you a fresh cup of coffee?” Sailor says, rather than asks, jumping out of his chair before Meta can respond. “Just the way you like!”

He gives a small salute and rushes off to the kitchen, catching his hat before it falls off his head. While he is gone from the table he’s still in earshot, distancing himself from whatever glance he shared with Vul.

This isn’t going to be good.

“You made more than a few errors on our last blueprints,” Vul pipes up, eyebrow raised.  “You keep livin` in that head of yours and we can all hear you thinking from here.”

“Pray tell what do you mean exactly?” Meta frowns, daring him to speak up. His gaze is sharp, eyes dark and he keeps up his intimidation even without his mask. A warning sign they should back off before they get ahead of themselves.

But like most of his warnings, his crew throws caution to the wind.

“You have your head in the clouds,” Blade speaks, then coughs and continues by mumbling out his words. “Thinking about a certain someone. Probably.”

“Yeah your boyfriend and that kid of his!” Vul has the gall to laugh. “You should be on sick leave cause you definitely caught somethin`.”

“It’s okay if you want to spend time with your family,” Sailor adds in, gently setting his cup down. The aroma of the coffee doesn’t bring him any happiness as it usually does and his stomach twists at the smell. “You have every right to be happy, Sir!”

“You should hear how Kirby talks about you guys,” Blade bites back a grin, resting an arm on the table. “He always talks our ears off, saying how thrilled he is to spend more time with you.”

“You’re still young and shouldn’t live with regrets,” Vul hums. “Why not go visit them while it’s still light out–”

“Enough!” Meta seethes, slamming his hands down on the table. “Do you all not have anything better to talk about? Why must you always bombard me about my non-existent love life?” Exasperated as he is, he continues, “There will be no more discussions about this or there will be consequences. I’m leaving for the remainder of the day and when I return I expect you all to leave me alone.”

With that said Meta stands up, leaving behind his crew. His cape flies behind him by how fast he begins to walk, allowing it to leave him in favor of his wings to spread out. Flights have been rare nowadays but now? Now he truly feels as if he needs one, to get away from everyone and their never ending questions.

Sailor stands by the table, staring down at Meta’s full cup of coffee and sighs quietly to himself. “Do you think we went too far?”

“Nah,” Vul answers. “I think he needed the push.”

“Just let him blow off some steam,” Blade stands, rubbing Sailor’s back and offers a smile. “We’ll just put work on hold and do some comfort cooking together. How does that sound?”

Sailor glances to the hall, letting his shoulders slump and manages a smile.

There’s nothing like a flight to Float Islands to ease Meta’s nerves.

The islands are so broken up it’d be difficult to find him among them all, and if any enemies attempted to seek him out he’d gladly welcome them with the pointy end of his sword. Unfortunately none have appeared, nor bothered him, so he settles under the comfort of a palm tree, watching the ending of a sunset.

Normally he would be opposed about leaving the Halberd and his crew for too long, but with the cellphones Kirby gifted them back when he fought his Mirror World self they at least had a way to contact him if it was an absolute emergency.

Knowing Popstar anything can appear at any given time.

But now wasn’t the time to think about that, he had a lot to contemplate concerning two frequently occurring presences in his life.

It’s not as if he holds a grudge against Kirby anymore, strangely their relationship went from rivals to enemies to friends somehow. Kirby is the most forgiving soul in Popstar, hell the galaxy so he’s not entirely shocked Kirby would welcome him with open arms. Even if his goal was to demolish Dreamland’s lazy nature and then in a twist of irony ended up adapting to it.

Is this how Galacta feels? The whiplash of going from a soldier on the battlefield to doing something the average person would do?

Perhaps, although Galacta seems to enjoy the peace.

And there’s nothing wrong with that. Galacta may have a lot of magic in him, abnormal strength like Kirby’s, but he hasn’t unleashed any of it after being summoned again. Not something he would do with that power– Nova help him he’s just as Galacta said, he truly is a blood knight.

There’s nothing wrong with wanting competition and sparring in his life, is there?

Something he’d love nothing more to share with Galacta, but forcing him into a fight isn’t what he has in mind. By now he’s aware Galacta has forgiven him, or at least he thinks he has? There’s no bitterness to his words nor actions and if his eyes aren’t deceiving him he’d say he genuinely enjoys being with him.

That’s what terrifies him the most.

Meta has been alone for as long as he can remember. He only formed the Meta-Knights before Nightmare was unleashed, when Dedede had entrusted him with a broken piece of the star rod to keep their mutual enemy from trying to take control of Dreamland.

They had nothing to worry about with Kirby in the picture, even if the pink warrior was the one to accidentally release Nightmare, only to defeat him shortly after. Their permanent crescent moon is proof of his actions.

Nightmare is cruel and unjust. He has lost crewmates, he has been reluctant to gain anymore, but the resolve to keep Dreamland’s former biggest threat away is what made him recruit Mace, Axe, Trident, Javelin, Sailor, Vul and then eventually Sword and Blade.

When he attempted to take over Dreamland his crew’s undying loyalty both filled him with pride and guilt. They all went down on the Halberd, only Vul leaving before the ship had crashed into the ocean, and while he was still recovering from his wounds and the sting of his pride, knowing his crewmates can’t swim pushed him to fly towards the ship wreck.

He hadn't been as terrified for his crew before until he saw Sailor floating facedown in the water.

Getting them all back to land was his top priority. He feels no bitterness towards Kirby anymore towards what he did, he only played the part of the hero and took care of the enemy that dared to threaten peace. He’s learned a lot from Kirby, and now knows better than to act foolishly just because his views and ideals are different from others.

He doesn’t want to lose another crew. He wants to keep Popstar safe, and continue to live his life with his crew no matter what comes their way; dull or not.

So he can’t imagine how worse it’d be to feel loss towards someone you may love. To be closer to someone, to.. Have stronger feelings for that someone, like Galacta, he wouldn’t be able to take it if something happened to him as well, or eventually happened.

This is for the best, he tells himself, alone with his thoughts. Galacta can find happiness without him and he’ll keep to the sidelines, only making himself appear when Popstar may need his help.

Meta exhales, leaning back against the palm tree. Solitude isn’t so bad when you grow accustomed to it. He won’t lie to himself though, that he has enjoyed the adventures Kirby has brought him and other friends on. Maybe Kirby will bring Galacta along if another threat appears..

The ringing of his phone catches Meta’s attention and he quickly takes it out, staring at the old device and feeling a sense of dread run through him. His crew is calling him on a phone only meant for emergencies.

If it’s nothing important they know the consequences, but they never use it.

“Meta Knight,” Sword’s voice comes through, panicked and out of breath. “Please hurry back– something horrible happened!”

Meta quickly stands, breaking out into a sprint and getting airborne before Sword was done speaking. Adrenaline rushes through him, unknown to the situation and yet he will do anything in his power to lend his crew his strength.

“Stay with me Sword, I’m on my way.”

Chapter Text

Quiet days on Popstar aren’t so bad.

In the beginning Galacta would have been paranoid, just waiting for something disastrous to happen, but now he’s grown used to it.

Today he’s spending what’s left of the afternoon with Kirby, Rick, Kine and Coo. It always seems to be lively in Popstar no matter where Kirby goes and the picnic his friends invited him to is overly domestic. Again, not that he minds, it’s more than welcomed with his free schedule.

Kine was sprawled out on the picnic blanket, dozing off the minute they got done eating. Kirby was out in the grass playing frisbee with Rick while staying in Galacta’s sight, and Coo was settled against the picnic blanket with him, engrossed in a book he brought along.

Spring is such a lovely season, while the off and on rain does tend to dampen his mood a bit, it’s nice to be able to enjoy it for once. Seasons are rare when you’ve spent most of your life in the stars.

If only a certain gloomy knight could be out here enjoying this weather too.

“You’re awfully quiet,” Coo pipes up, although keeps his eyes on his book. “Anything you want to talk about?”

Ah, nothing ever seems to get past him.

“Just thinking about a friend is all,” Galacta says, stretching his wings out. “They don’t know what it means to enjoy their self or nice weather like this.”

“Just invite them next time, not many can say no to a picnic.” Coo nods to himself, smiling as he turns the page on his book. Galacta nods with him and rests his hands behind him down on the soft blanket.

Well.. The last picnic they brought Meta on he didn’t reject it, although they were on different terms and it had ended bitterly. A redo would be in order, just so they can both enjoy themselves without any tension or awkwardness hanging in the air.

The idea sounds really appealing to him actually.

Galacta watches Rick throw the frisbee over to Kirby who jumps up in the air and catches it in his mouth. He looks as if he spits it out, waving it around proudly and Rick shakes his head while laughing.

“What are you, part dog now?”

Kirby responds by sticking his tongue out and instead of tossing the frisbee back he breaks out into a sprint, laughing as he tackle hugs Rick. Rick stumbles back but catches Kirby, twirling him around with his feet hanging off the ground. Galacta waves his wings a little by the scene; fluttering them happily although keeping the force of them low so as to not turn pages on Coo’s book.

“Do you want to go on a flight together?” Coo asks, misunderstanding his actions.

A flight does sound nice, but.. There was only so far he could go, and to alarm Kirby again is not what he intended to do had magic decided to stop him from going any further from Meta. It’s a blessing he was able to make it away from the cottage without anything activating the bond.

“I think I shall stick to the ground for today,” Galacta politely declines after his moment of hesitation. “Perhaps another time.”

“The laziness is starting to spread, isn’t it?” Coo jokes, playfully elbowing and gestures to Kine. Galacta forces a small laugh, averting his gaze. Oh, how he has no idea of his limits.. “By the way, how were those books I lent you?”

“Ah, that..” Galacta sighs, rubbing a hand behind his neck. His gaze hardens before he can allow the lingering sadness to take over him, steadying himself to watch Kirby and Rick instead. “Unfortunately I only learned a little, nothing on what I’ve been seeking.”

Only about the weapons the ancients created for better or for worse. An entire book dedicated to the Star Rod and how it was created. Or another based around the development of a ship that can travel through the cosmos.

Nothing useful to him.

“It saddens me that I learned nothing about the other Aeon Heroes, not even a hint of their existence in the books about the Ancients and their civilization,” Galacta continues, lowering his gaze. His tone goes quiet and he speaks more to himself than Coo. “If only I knew where they were..”

“I’ll try to find more books for you,” Coo speaks up, offering him a smile when he spares him a glance. Any help was needed and he appreciated the knowledge Coo offered to share with him. “Is it inconsiderate to ask what your friends were like?”

Galacta laughs softly and shakes his head. “Kirby had asked the same question before, so it troubles me not,” One of the many questions Kirby asked him when he first got the books from Coo, his excitement outweighed any bittersweet feeling Galacta had bringing them up. In fact, he felt a weight lifted off of him just being able to keep the memory of them alive. “Let’s see..”

“One of them was very outgoing, with a heart of gold and had physical strength that could overcome my own, although he wasn’t exactly.. The brightest there was, his heart was always in the right place.” Galacta smiles fondly, then continues, “The other two were like night and day. One was outgoing, cheerful and excelled in magic, and the other was the very definition of a snob. Although he wasn’t as friendly as the other two, he showed he cared for our small group in his own way, always watching out for us even if he wasn’t the best fighter of the four of us. Though the two tended to bicker a lot, sometimes it could be amusing to watch. Despite our differences we all managed to prevail in any mission sent our way.”

Fondness; so much of the feeling overflowed within him, unable to contain it he found himself smiling. If he were sealed by the ancients then perhaps the others were still out there. One day he would like to search the galaxy just to reunite with them.

Maybe one day that might be a possibility..

“They sound like a fun, energetic group,” Coo hums, then side eyes Kine. “Unlike some lazy people.” Shaking his head with the same fondness Galacta felt, Coo extends his leg and nudges his foot against Kine’s shoulder. “Come on Kine, it’s time to wake up so we can all go home.”

Kine stirred and mumbled something unintelligible, snoring softly and forcing Coo to get up and start shaking his shoulders.

When Galacta looked up the blue clouded sky was no more, instead replaced with the sunset and the sky painted in orange and pink. They blended together perfectly, sending a wave of serenity over Popstar before the starry night sky took their place.

Galacta stands up, extends his wings and stretches his arms ignoring the tired, sleepy protests from Kine who wanted Coo to carry him back home. He bit back a laugh and fluffed his wings out, mulling over the idea to carry him himself, only knowing Coo will give him a quick rejection.

Galacta took a step forward and suddenly his warm, peaceful world was gone.

A burst of overwhelming magical energy surrounded him, squeezing at every fiber of his being and knocked the breath out of him. Collapsing to the ground, his wings and limbs twitched, flashing in an overwhelming dark pink color– the same damned shade as his crystal prison,  consuming his energy and draining him of life.

His vision began to blur and he could only catch a glimpse of Kirby running to him, worry written on his face. Galacta couldn’t even allow himself to panic, only hearing the muffled voices around him, grasping at the blanket under him for dear life.

He is not going to go like this. He is not going to die in front of Kirby and his friends.

“Bring me Meta,” Galacta gasped, voice pained and struggling through the magic threatening to kill him. “Now.”

Chapter Text

Every worst possible scenario kept running through Meta’s head.

He’s never flown as fast as he did tonight; picking up the pace when Sword said Galacta was the one who had gotten majorly hurt.

The door to the Halberd slammed open and Meta rushed down the metal halls of the battleship. His boots left a loud echo, hurrying and hurrying, he needs to see what condition he is in. Calmly evaluate, seek out exactly who or what hurt Galacta and give payback where it’s due.

“Sir Meta!” Sailor rushed to him, out of breath, although kept up Meta’s unwavering quick pace. “We don’t–”

“Where is he?” Meta interrupts, swallowing his fear and hardens himself.

“Galacta is in your room, sir,” Sailor replies. “Rick, Kine and Coo all helped Kirby carry him there. He quit lighting up just a moment ago, but the pain was so overwhelming it knocked him out.”

“Lighting up?”

“The others will have to explain it to you, I don’t quite understand it either.. He was all pink, like he got hit with an intense magic attack..” Sailor mumbles. “They said he was calling out your name before he passed out.”

Meta stilled in his pace, but pushed forward ignoring Sailor’s worried expression. If Meta’s heart wasn’t a mess before it certainly was now. Of all the people.. Not Kirby, not the friends Galacta had made, no– it was him, the one who has been avoiding him that he called for, seeking his help.

And he wasn’t there for him in his time of need.

Fuck.

By far the biggest fuck up he’s made, close to matching the one where he attempted to take over Dreamland. And that says a lot really.

Outside on either side of his door stands Trident and Javelin, as if keeping watch over the room to protect Galacta from any further harm. A ping of fondness briefly runs through, but it’s gone as fast as it came when he enters the room.

The most packed his room has ever been, he sees Kine, Rick and Coo standing at the end of the bed. Blade and Sword are near Galacta, unsure what to do and send him silent pleas when he enters the room. What stands out the most is Kirby, who is on his knees with his head in his arms on the bed, body shaking.

In all the years he’s known Kirby he’s not once seen the warrior tremble.

Galacta looked too pale for Meta’s liking, not a scratch on him and his breaths coming out slowly, but he was breathing and still alive. That’s what counts. That’s all that matters right now.

“Galacta passed out before you got here,” Blade is the first to speak, rubbing a comforting hand on Kirby’s back, attempting to calm him. “His pulse has returned to normal, but we’re unsure of what the cause is..”

When Kirby looks up at Meta he’s met with his tear stained face and a part of him aches. Kirby runs to him, bumping his body against his and hugs him tightly. Meta keeps his stance firm, not wanting to stumble and rests a hand behind Kirby’s head, gently patting him.

“Sailor says there was something amiss of Galacta,” Meta states firmly, slowly. “He was entrapped with magical energy? Was he attacked?”

“There weren't any monsters around where we had our picnic at,” Coo speaks up, arms crossed and eyebrows furrowed. “Galacta stood up, stretched his wings and then he just collapsed.”

That didn’t make any sense. It could have been an unknown force, but then why would Galacta be the target? If anyone had a grudge it’d be with Kirby, and well, Kirby may know mercy but he is always quick to hit right back at the enemy.

“I-It happened the first time he tried to leave Popstar too,” Kirby sniffles and pulls back from Meta, still keeping his arms wrapped around him. Taking his gloved thumb, he wipes away the tears that roll down Kirby’s face. “But he wasn’t trying to leave this time so I don’t get why he was hurt..”

There’s a missing piece here. Maybe Galacta wasn’t attacked then, and maybe there was more to the story than what Galacta told him before. That he’s trapped in Popstar, but then why would he be limited to where he can be?

It didn’t make sense.

“When Galacta awakes I’m sure he will have all the answers we seek,” If anyone knew about powerful magic it would be Galacta. If anyone knew what Nova told him, again, it would certainly be Galacta. “I’ll keep watch over him tonight.”

“Let’s give Galacta some rest, okay kiddo?” Rick says softly, ushering for Kirby to come over to him. Kirby lets go of Meta and gets in between Rick and Coo, tightly holding onto both of their arms. “Then we can all come visit him in the morning.”

Although it’s quiet, perhaps the most he’s ever heard Kirby keep his volume so soft, it’s still audible and twists his gut.

“I don’t want to be alone..”

“Then we’ll have a sleepover at our place,” Rick runs a hand through Kirby’s hair, slightly ruffling it. “And we’ll all make a get well soon card for Galacta.”

Even Kirby, the brightest of them all, is unable to manage a smile but still nods towards Rick’s words. He begins to follow the trio out of the room, but stops in his tracks, as if reluctant to leave. Suddenly he turns, running back over to the bed to give Galacta one last hug before he runs out of the room, wiping away his tears as he does.

“Poor guy..” Sword mumbles, frowning and turns to him. “Do you need us to pick up any medicine for Galacta?”

“We still have plenty of supplies in the infirmary if needed,” Fortunately Sailor already gave him the rundown of their supplies two days ago. Everything they needed was here, at home. “You two are dismissed, but if you could bring me my mask in case any more visitors decide to pop in..”

“Will do,” Sword salutes and Blade grabs him by the wrist, practically dragging him from the room. “If you need anything we’ll be here for you, Sir Meta.”

The rare use of his title from Sword is enough to make Meta nearly smile. Exhaustion is already settling in, and although he’d be anxious about other people seeing him without his mask, he knows there’s far more important matters to tend to now.

If he wants to hide behind his mask in front of others, to put one on for the sake of being the calm and collected leader, then he shall.

The door to his room gently closes and it's then that Meta drags his desk chair over to his bed and collapses into it. He rubs the heels of his hands against his eyes, resting his elbows on the bed and holds his head.

History is repeating again and he failed to protect Galacta. The person he thought he could protect from a distance and yet was proven wrong. Was he to hover around him, watch from the shadows and make sure he lives peacefully? Is there anything he can actually do right to keep Galacta safe?

His head aches as much as his heart does, and the sigh he lets out is as heavy as his thoughts are.

Galacta, you must wake up. Please.

Chapter Text

Darkness is what Galacta feels he fell into, but when he wakes up it is the same darkness that greets him.

Every inch of him ached. His wings felt far too heavy for his back; like a burden on his shoulders he kept himself in place, slowly blinking away the sleep from his eyes. He’s not sure where he is, but there’s no windows to tell what time of day it is. His eyes squint until they adjust and there’s one notable thing that startles both him and his heart.

Meta is with him.

Galacta sighs in relief, allowing his eyes to close and rests his head against the headboard. Thank the stars, so he wasn’t dead. Kirby and the trio must have gotten him to the Halberd then if it meant Meta was by his side. How long was he out for?

His memory is too hazy for him to recall the events, but what was clear in his head was the image of Kirby kneeling over him, blue eyes wide with fear and calling his name as he grabbed a hold of him. Guilt immediately ran through him and a frown tugged at his lips.

How could he let the young one witness something so terrible? It’s not as if he intended for this to happen, and if Meta was the one who decided to leave then he can’t fault him for it. After all, he still doesn’t know.

Should he know?

He’s sure the questions will come the moment everyone arrives and Meta is no fool. He can’t make up an excuse as to why he would suddenly collapse from magic that would have potentially killed him. Everyone has their secrets, maybe this one shouldn’t be hidden.

Unless he wants to go through that agony again, or put Kirby and his friends through witnessing it, then if asked he shall confess.

Moving his arm up is almost a challenge, but after resting it for a moment and gathering himself he ever so slowly lifts it up and moves it over to brush his hand against Meta’s hair. How someone so stern, stubborn and hardened could look so gentle when they sleep is beyond him.

Dare he say he even looks cute when he’s peaceful?

Meta stirs, eyebrows pinched together and his eyes slowly blink open. His arms stretch over his head, one hand holding his mask and he nearly drops it when his eyes land on Galacta’s soft, smiling face.

Galacta can practically see the relief washing over his face and Meta immediately stands, hovering over him before ultimately deciding to sit down after a moment of hesitating and fretting. Galacta would laugh if it didn’t feel like it’d hurt to do so.

“Galacta,” Meta speaks; voice soft, surprised with a hint of excitement. “You’ve awakened– you’re alright?”

“For the most part.” Galacta winces at his own tone; rough and sore, he coughs into his arm until Meta holds out a glass of water for him. He downs it one go, not giving himself a chance to breathe until it’s empty. Sighing, he silently thanks him. “I have been in worse pain in the past, and I shall recover just the same.”

“That’s not necessarily the most reassuring thing,” Meta mumbles. His silver hues meet his tired reds and he already knows what’s to come next with the fire burning so brightly in his eyes. “What happened to you?”

Just as he anticipated. There’s no loophole nor excuse, so honesty shall have to take its place. It is the best policy anyways. Or that’s what Kirby has told him before.

“An overwhelming energy took over me,” Galacta hesitates. Why was this much harder to admit aloud? “It’s not the first time this has happened.”

“Things like this don’t just happen, Galacta.” Meta says sternly, teeth grit. His anger set him on edge, but this time it didn’t ignite the same fight within him. He’s too tired. His life was just on the line. “I will ask once more, what happened to you?”

If Meta doesn’t find out now it will only lead to more tension until Galacta would have to reveal his secret to him. Well, now or never.

“When Kirby wished for me to exist in Popstar there was one condition from Nova,” Slowly inhale. Exhale. Better yet, don’t even look at Meta. “My seal is broken, so I shall no longer be trapped inside of a crystal prison. However, if I stray too far from you – the soul I’m bound to, then I will perish.”

Of all the reactions Galacta thought he’d see, anticipated, Meta laughing is not one of them. Not the same laughter as Kirby’s though, no. Bitter and hollow, Meta’s eyes were so huge he looked almost on the verge of a panic attack.

“You– You could have died,” Meta says in disbelief, now up from his chair and pacing the room. “I could have unintentionally killed you! Are you a fool? Did you intend for me to never find this out?”

“If I had told you earlier, when our emotions were.. Out of sorts, would you have treated me differently?” Galacta asks. “Would you have tried to keep me on your battleship, keeping watch because the very idea that my very being could die without you? Considering how I felt towards you during the time I saw no need to bring it up.”

“No need?” Meta repeats, exasperated. The look on his face is wild; his head is slightly shaking, mouth barely open and his eyes looking so lost, so raw it takes Galacta aback. “You withheld life threatening information that involved both of us and you thought that wouldn’t have been important to bring up until you nearly died?”

He has no good excuse for his actions, only validating himself by his former overwhelming bitterness towards the man he previously loathed to be around. Galacta tries to gather his thoughts, find a way to calm Meta down and talk things out rationally.

“What if I left Popstar?” Meta speaks again, voice broken. Like a stab in the heart, Galacta wants to reach out, to comfort the one who hardly ever asks for it, yet needs it the most. So many sides of him he’s seen today and none he wishes to see again. The knight’s armor is cracking and Galacta wants to be here to rebuild it. “And if there was no possible way my crew could get a hold of me– or I arrived too late, is that worth risking your life over?”

Galacta frowns and shakes his head, swallowing thickly. A tear falls from his eye, rolling down his face and he can only stare at Meta. It’s starting to settle in, how much his life has meaning, if it shows the impact it left on Meta. The strongest, most emotionally reserved person he’s ever met.

Even the strong have their breaking point, and Galacta has once again reached his own.

“By how you’ve been acting lately, would it have mattered?” He dares to ask. It’s obvious now, judging by Meta’s reactions that he does actually give a damn about him. Maybe more than he’s aware of, but he will continue to push and push, until this man has the courage to bare his soul to him. Just how he intends to do with him in return.

“How could you say that?” Meta’s outrage continues to grow. In a blink he’s right back at Galacta’s side, grasping the front of his shirt with trembling hands. “Why would you even ask that? If I didn’t care for you I wouldn’t be here right now–”

“Then why have you been so distant lately?” Galacta interrupts, and stars above he cannot stop the tears that continue to fall from his face. He blinks them away, not daring to move under Meta’s intense gaze. “Don’t you realize the distance you put between yourself and others only hurts everyone around you? If I acted like you do, wouldn’t you be confused if I actually care for you?”

Meta’s anger simmers down until the flame is no longer lit, replaced by the crestfallen expression he struggles to hide. Tears begin rolling down his face and he places a hand up, lightly touching his now damp cheek, as if shocked by the action. He can’t stand the sight. Not only has he hurt Kirby, but now the other most important person in his life is reduced to tears.

Struggling to stand, Galacta stretches his legs, moving them slowly up and down until he feels the numbness go away. His wings barely flutter and moving makes a sharp pain run through him, but he marches on. He will push through for Meta’s sake.

Galacta reaches up to his face, waiting until Meta isn’t furiously wiping at his eyes with his gloved hands in an attempt to make the tears stop. A struggle to do once it begins and only the stars know when the last time Meta actually cried.

When he’s finally able to cup his face with both hands Meta struggles to look him in the eyes. His face is puffy where he’s been crying, eyes red and face tear stained. Meta’s hands remain flat against his chest, as if he’s going to push him away but they don’t. There’s a whirlwind going on inside of his head, a mess of emotions that only Galacta can have a mutual understanding and he remains standing, waiting for Meta to react.

He waits and waits, wiping away anymore tears that threaten to fall. His own have stopped and he’s sure his face is just as messy as Meta’s, yet compared to Meta’s heartbroken eyes his are soft and full of fondness for the blood knight. His blood knight.

“I’m here, and I am alive,” Galacta says, voice almost a whisper. “If you want me to stay, just tell me, and I will. If not, I will take my leave.”

One, two, three.. He counts the seconds until it turns into a minute and that’s when he decides now will be the best time to go. Meta has yet to move, nor has he spoken. Frozen, like him, or both of them, would break.

Galacta turns, ignoring the protest of his limbs. He will go seek out Kirby, and reassure him that he’s fine. He will give Meta the space he may need, if only to gather his thoughts and return tomorrow to thoroughly talk things through when neither are raw with emotions.

It’s an ideal plan, or it would have been if Meta didn’t reach out and grab his wrist.

Surprised, his exhausted red eyes are met with Meta’s concerned silver hues. Meta softly inhales and exhales, looking away until he’s able to speak. The grasp on his wrist never wavers and Galacta doesn’t dare pull it away.

In fact, he plans to stay right where he is. Meta speaks through actions, so he shall do the same; with his wings spread out and slowly curling around Meta protectively. A silent way of saying he’s not going anywhere, that he will remain by his side no matter what.

“Galacta.. I never stopped caring for you.”

Chapter Text

Galacta awakens and for the first time in months he feels genuinely refreshed.

As if a weight was lifted from him, his eyes slowly blink open and revealed the same cold, dark room that he was only briefly conscious in. Except this time, instead of withering in the aftermath of the magic that attempted to consume him, his wings didn’t ache as bad as they had, and there was a small lamp on.

..And a certain knight who was sprawled out on a desk.

Galacta huffed out a breath of disbelief. This man.. Still working after their heart to heart, he shouldn’t expect any less from him.

Galacta adjusts himself so that he’s sitting up, not yet wanting to leave, but at the very least stretches his wings out, gently flexing them so they won’t be stiff throughout the day. He winces a little and decides to fold them back, silently cursing at the damage fallen on him from Nova’s magic.

Technically the ancient’s magic. Even if they aren’t here anymore they still have to find a way to stick it to him.

Oh, the irony that the very same magic allowed him to be free and living his own life now.

Small footsteps have his ears perk up and he thinks nothing of it until the door to Meta’s room slams open and there appears the very life changer himself. In what appeared to be some overly big rock band t-shirt with the, “Deedly Dees” on it and purple pajama pants.

“Galacta!”

Kirby’s eyes glisten over and his small smile turns into a huge, blinding grin when Galacta raises a hand and gives him a slight wave. In front of him he barely notices that Meta got startled awake and hastily put his mask on, lazily fixing his hair and smoothing a hand down the back of his head.

Kirby runs over to the bed and jumps on it, kicking at the blankets and crawling his way up to Galacta, trapping him in a crushing, loving hug. A warm smile blooms on his lips and he nestles his chin against Kirby’s shoulder, hugging him just as tightly.

“I’m sorry I worried you,” Galacta speaks softly, running a hand through Kirby’s hair. “You can rest assured it won’t be happening again.”

Anytime soon anyways, as far as he knows Meta isn’t going to wander off without him knowing that they only have a certain amount of distance between them. For Kirby’s sake he won’t wander off either.

“You’re right about that because I’m going to take care of you!” Kirby pulls back, still keeping his hands on him, but his cheeks puff up and he nods; determined and set on his newfound goal. “Sailor said he’s going to give me a medkit to take home today for you!”

“Give Galacta some time to rest before he can get out of bed,” Meta speaks from the side of the bed, arms crossed and eyes green. Ah, so he’s still worried. How sweet. “Magical injuries take more time to heal than physical ones.”

Kirby huffs and sits down next to Galacta, practically glued to his side but mumbles back to Meta in his own little agreement. Galacta ruffles his hair, knowing it won’t hurt him any with the bed head he sports. “We’ll go on a stroll together once I’m feeling better.”

Kirby immediately perks up and nods, linking arms with him and falls against him. A group of hurried footsteps echoes the halls of the Halberd where Kirby left the door open and soon Galacta is met with the animal trio peeking into the room. Galacta raises a brow and bites back a smile when Rick leans on Coo too much and the three of them stumble into the room.

“You’re awake!” Rick exclaims, brushing off their brief embarrassment and claps his hands together. “You gave us quite a scare yesterday, are you feeling better?”

“As long as I still draw breath then I shall be fine,” Galacta smiles, feeling Kirby squeeze his arm. “Sorry to have caused such a scene yesterday.”

“You weren’t attacked, were you?” Coo asks. Galacta shakes his head and he can see the relief instantly wash over him. “That’s something at the very least..”

“Hey chin up,” Rick bumps his shoulder against Coo and casually hooks an arm around him. In his hand Galacta can’t make out the writing or drawing, but the glitter is highly visible from where he sits. “He’s doing okay now!”

“Ack–! Rick you’re getting glitter all over me again!” Coo clicks his tongue and hits his arm away. Blue glitter falls on him and he flicks it back at Rick who laughs, holding the card up and away from Coo. “Just– give that to Galacta already!”

Kine decides to play peacekeeper between the two of them, squeezing in between them and grabs the card from Rick’s hand who noticeably pouts at him. Kirby giggles from beside him and scoots forward, eagerly reaching for the glittery card.

“What’s this?” Galacta stares down at the card, amusement coursing through him at the familiar scribbles and drawing style. There’s a small light pink figure holding hands with a taller dark pink figure, along with a dark blue figure holding the other hand. What appears to be a group of orange, purple, blue, green, and dark purple figures stand to the left of the pink figure holding what he assumed to be flowers. On the opposite side stood another orange figure, brown, red, white with a helmet and two purple figures with flowers as well. Actually, from what he could see through the glitter there appeared to be a bunch of flowers scribbled on the paper along with a messily written, “Get well soon!” on it.

“It’s us!” Kirby grins and points to the card, not caring of the glitter that gets on his fingertip. “That’s you, me, Meta and our friends and family!”

“Family?” Galacta quirks a brow. “Who’s?”

“Meta’s family of course!” They both look to Meta who turns from them, his eyes light pink at the easy exclamation. Meta excuses himself from the room and makes a retreat, to nobody’s surprise. Is it not true though? From the way they act it could be easy to mistake them as such. “And Rick, Coo and Kine are like family to me too!”

Galacta’s face softens and he runs a thumb through the card, unconcerned about the glitter. He smiles warmly down at Kirby and then to his small group of friends that are still bickering over some small thing while Kine stands behind them yawning. A dysfunctional family, but a family nonetheless. That was one of the things he missed out on in his life, although the other heroes made life more tolerable.

And so does his newfound family.

A small knock on the door alerts them and Sailor shyly walks in, bowing his head and gives a sheepish smile. “Sorry to interrupt, but would you like to join us for breakfast? Sword and Blade were on kitchen duty this morning and accidentally made too much.”

Rick, Kine and Coo all debate it, looking between Galacta and Sailor, the gears in their heads slowly turning. He can feel their concern and sighs aloud, shaking his head with a fond smile. These three..

“Don’t let it go to waste,” Galacta shoos them. “I’m not going anywhere, I’ll be fine.”

Coo looks skeptical, but ultimately is dragged out of the room by Rick with Kine trailing behind them. Surprisingly Kirby doesn’t jump up at the offer of food, instead keeping to his side. The sunshine optimist that never declined an offer towards food.

Highly unusual indeed.

Galacta knows most there is to Kirby, though Meta knows him better given their history and he knows that no matter the obstacle Kirby always bounces back from whatever troubles him. Has he never experienced loss before?

Hopefully not, and won’t have to. Permanent heartbreak can weigh heavy on the soul, and Kirby’s shoulders are far too small to carry something so crushing.

Meta enters the room so quietly Galacta jumps slightly by his presence, settling himself down by the confused look Kirby sends him. Carrying a plate of star shaped fruit, he sets it down on Kirby’s lap and takes a seat on the edge of the bed, half facing them.

“Rick said you rushed out of bed and all the way to the Halberd,” Meta addresses Kirby and gestures to the plate. “Eat.”

Kirby happily hums and digs in, giving him a look that appears to say, “you don’t have to tell me twice” popping a slice of apple in his mouth. Kirby holds out a slice for Meta, despite being masked who shakes his head and Galacta takes the offered fruit in his place. The fresh taste and juice has him sighing, having him steal another from the plate.

Meta clears his throat and looks away from them, awkwardly moving his hands until they’re resting down on the bed. “Were you able to sleep well last night?”

Galacta was ready to answer, but when he looked at Meta and noticed his gaze on Kirby he bit back a smile. His eyes glowed yellow leaving him unreadable, but unaware of how Kirby reacted towards his sudden fainting it was easy to tell how concerned Meta was.

What a lovely side of him to see.

“Rick and Coo let me sleep in their bed last night,” Kirby says through a mouthful of fruit, swallowing and breaks into a grin. “When we were making a card for Galacta, Rick threw glitter at Coo and Coo flapped his wings and then it got everywhere!” Kirby giggles and shakes his head, idly running his fingers through his bangs. “I think I still have some in my hair.”

“Experience says it’ll be on you for weeks..” Meta mumbles with a hint of humor in his tone. Meta and glitter? How in the world did Kirby manage to rope Meta into arts and crafts? Assuming it’s Kirby, Nova knows no one else would be able to do the impossible. “Come on, let’s allow Galacta some time to rest.”

Kirby puffs his cheeks out and jumps up anyways. Instead of walking out with Meta, he grabs his arm and drags him back to the bed, pushing him down and Galacta takes his cue, grabbing his arm and gently pulls him, nudging his head at the bed. Kirby jumps back on the bed and sits in the middle, linking arms with both Galacta and Meta once he’s settled back against the headboard.

Meta shifts awkwardly and when he pulls at his arm Kirby tightens his hold and sighs. “Stay!” He says, cheeks still puffed out. “You aren’t allowed to go anywhere, right, Mr. Angel?”

“Sorry,” Galacta says, not at all remorseful. “It appears you’re stuck with us now.”

Chapter Text

Getting back to Kirby’s cottage– home, isn’t as peaceful as Galacta thought it would be.

He has mixed feelings towards leaving the Halberd. On one hand it’s nice to actually have a window in his room/living room, on the other hand he finds that he misses Meta’s crew and their unhinged daily behavior. Even Meta seemed reluctant to let him go, however life has taught the knight not to go head to head with Kirby.

Having dinner with the crew was at first awkward, then he fell into it once Sword and Blade took jabs at Meta’s cooking, Vul would eventually tell them all to settle down and eat their dinner, then Sailor would happily sit next to him and let him try out new dishes he was working on. Meta usually ate quickly just so he could escape their curious looks and silent questions between the two of them.

He recalls Sword and Meta’s brief encounter when he first met the younger knight, finding amusement and confusion in the conversation.

“So Galacta, what’s it like being Meta’s galaxy–”

“Friend.”

Yes, they certainly were friends now. Perhaps it was both odd and exciting that Meta’s crew witnessed Meta being social with someone who didn’t live in the Halberd, and someone that wasn’t Kirby. It doesn’t explain why Sword and Blade were making kissing sounds at Meta the night before he left, scolding them quickly after he left the room.

And now here he was, back where he started in Kirby’s home. With the amount of flowers that now decorated the cottage it could be mistaken for a greenhouse. He’s not sure what to do with all the flower vases, instead leaving them where Kirby or his wings won’t knock them over; some of the flowers from Kirby’s close friends, the rest of them from Meta and his crew.

When Kirby said that he would be the one taking care of him he underestimated what that would entail.

Only two days have passed since he’s gotten home and the only dishes on the menu that Kirby would make and keep him settled on the couch is soup. Soup for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Was this Popstar’s culture of thinking soup could fix any injury?

But Kirby always serves it to him, saying he made it with all the love and care in the world– how in the stars would anyone reject that? So he endures another breakfast of vegetable soup, idly stirring around the messily cut vegetables within his bowl. He had offered to make breakfast but Kirby insisted that he was the one to cook until he got better.

Such stubbornness.. He certainly gets that from Meta.

A knock on the door brings Galacta out from his blank state and he rushes away from the table, ignoring Kirby’s protests, yet goes back to his bowl of cereal while staring curiously at the door.

Galacta grabs the doorknob and feels a sudden warmth run through him when Meta stands on the other side, shifting in place with bright yellow eyes looking back at him. An easy smile finds its way on his face and he holds the door. “Meta Knight? To what do we owe the pleasure?”

“..Just wanted to visit and check up on your condition,” Meta clears his throat, giving Kirby an awkward wave who waves back with a spoon in his hand. “I thought if you were feeling well all three of us could go out on a stroll together.” Meta pauses, then adds, “Like Kirby wanted to.”

Having overheard the conversation, Kirby switches from eating his cereal with a spoon to downing it with his hands on the bowl. Galacta looks back and raises a brow, hearing Meta sigh, followed by, “Slow do before you choke yourself–”

“Some fresh air certainly sounds nice,” Galacta smiles, looking over his shoulder to see Kirby throwing his empty bowl into the sink, hastily putting away his half full bowl of soup into the fridge. “Kirby was reluctant to leave unless we had another friend accompany us.”

Kirby jumps over the couch, bouncing in his steps and squeezes between them, rocking back and forth on his heels with unconstrained excitement. His smile is almost as blinding as the sun and his eagerness for adventure is constantly infectious.

“And I know just the perfect place we can go!”

Standing outside of the bakery isn’t surprising to Galacta or Meta in the slightest.

Kirby apparently wanted to make their short journey a one of suspense; leading them around the long way to the town square and taking the more scenic route instead of the short dirt path. It’s not as if he didn’t enjoy the walk, in fact brushing hands with Meta while Kirby rushed ahead of them was nice, domestic even.

Popstar is full of beautiful, unique places and he intends to see them all one day. If a certain knight would do him the honor of accompanying him, only for the fact that he needs his presence so he doesn’t die.

Yes, that’s certainly all there is to it.

“Tada!” Kirby gestures to the building, clapping his hands together and inches towards the door. “We’re here!”

Galacta puts in the effort to look surprised, giving a tiny gasp and offers Kirby a smile that widens at his act. Well, not entirely an act, getting sweets was one of the simple things in life he’s come to enjoy.

As for performances, Meta on the other hand..

“If you just wanted sweets you should have said so,” Meta crosses his arms and tugs his cape closer around him. “Why did you make us walk through a flower field?”

“Because they’re pretty and I wanted to,” Kirby puffs his cheeks out, sighing and sticks his tongue out at Meta. Then, Kirby being the only person to ever have the courage to do so, pokes his index finger against Meta’s chest. “Don’t act like you aren’t excited either, I saw your eyes flicker blue!”

Meta sighs, holding his hands up in defeat. Taking delight in his victory Kirby grabs a hold of Meta’s hand and drags him to the door, Galacta following behind the stumbling knight. The door chimes and they’re greeted to the sight of Ribbon putting in more cookies into the display case. Her eyes flicker up at the sound of the bell and she immediately smiles, waving enthusiastically at Kirby who returns the gesture.

“There’s my favorite customer!” Ribbon grins and moves so that she’s leaning on the counter. “I see you brought both of your knight friends today!”

“Meta stopped by so I thought I’d surprise them both with a trip to the best bakery in Popstar,” Kirby leans against the counter as well, stumbling back when Ribbon grabs his cheek and pinches it affectionately. He swats her hand away and rubs his face, looking around the small shop. “Where’s Adeleine? Is she painting again?”

“Nope, not today,” Ribbon hums and then twirls a piece of hair between her fingers. “She’s using her creativity for something else..” She gestures for Kirby to come forward, and then pushes her hands down on the counter and exclaims, “Like a wedding cake!”

“A giant cake,” Kirby says in awe, his mouth waters and Galacta laughs softly at the bit of drool he sees, stopping himself from wiping it off when Kirby quickly does so. “I didn’t know you guys made wedding cakes.”

From the corner of his eye he can see Meta looking over a selection of decorated cookies, glancing over at them as if faking interest in the conversation. Not as sneaky as he thought he’d be, Galacta muses.

“Well, it’s not everyday someone gets married in Popstar,” Ribbon flutters her wings, her cheerful smile turns to a sly one. “After all, we'll have to make one for you in the future with that prince of yours!”

In a beat the entire shop is quiet, even Kirby, the most talkative of them all, stands speechless, mouth clamped shut and his ears begin to turn red. Meta stands up straight, looking as stiff as a board and Galacta can only stand there mulling over her words.

“What prince?”

“No one, he’s nobody!” Kirby panics, waving his arms and then awkwardly gestures to the cookie display case. “Ribbon can we just get a bunch of different cookies–”

Not yet done with the conversation, Ribbon places her hands on her hips, holding in a laugh as she teasingly asks, “Don’t you want to get married one day, bubblegum?”

Kirby sheepishly rubs the back of his head and looks away from Ribbon, face still tinted rosy red and his ears not yet cooling. “Well yeah– but we’ve only held hands and danced together..”

Meta’s eyes flicker between red and orange, causing Galacta to take a look around their surroundings. No enemy is around, so then why is he alarmed and angered? The young ones are only having a normal, marriage conversation. Is it that upsetting for him?

“And the only people who get married have to have kissed already!” Kirby says, matter-of-factly. “Right, Meta?”

Galacta freezes in place, training himself that his face is blank and hoping his briefly wide eyes don’t give himself away. Fortunately Ribbon is distracted, filling up a box with cookies and hums towards his words. Meta’s eyes flash light pink and he clears his throat looking away from the trio.

“In some cases yes,” Meta’s eyes return to normal, although his yellow hues glow intensely. “However you are far too young to be thinking about that sort of thing.”

Kirby blinks, unfazed. “Kissing or marriage?”

“Both,” Meta grits his teeth. “When you meet the right person, and when you’re older– much older then you’ll know when you want to get married.”

“I think he has met the right person,” Ribbon laughs and Meta shoots her a look. Along with Kirby, she too isn't bothered by his looks and sets the cookie box down on the counter. “Have your knight friends met him yet? He’s quite charming.”

“Meta has,” Kirby flushes and quickly grabs the box. What’s funnier to Galacta is the fact that Meta is just as quick with the payment, handing Ribbon the money and insisting she keep the change. “See you around Ribbon!”

Kirby sprints towards the door, box close to his chest and before he makes impact with the door Ribbon calls out, “Tell Fluff I said hi!”

Kirby bumps his head against the glass door, groaning and makes a quick escape, giving Ribbon a pout before he leaves. Huh. That was new, Kirby is constantly optimistic and stubborn, but never has he seen the warrior be flustered before. Maybe he’ll have to meet this Fluff one day.

Galacta follows Meta out the door and while he is still amused by the interaction one thing stood out for him– besides the marriage conversation of course. Meta has encountered his special friend before, so maybe he could express why Kirby getting flustered over the prince was a problem to him.

If Kirby and Ribbon adored him then he couldn’t be that bad, right?

“Is it true that you’ve met the prince before?” Galacta quirks a brow. “You seem conflicted when his name is brought up.”

“When Patchland and Dreamland were under attack I got caught in the crossfires which resulted in me becoming possessed due to the wizard’s magic casted on a sword forced upon me,” Meta sighs. “It was Kirby and the prince who freed me from the magic.

Galacta rubs Meta’s forearm in an offer of comfort. While he’s never been possessed, nor wishes to experience it, he can’t even imagine what hardships Meta and Kirby have been through together. It’s still a mystery as to how Kirby is always able to be upbeat no matter what comes his way.

“Are you uneasy because he had to battle you?” Galacta asks, only coming to that conclusion. “Because there is no other logical reason why you wouldn’t like him, unless he has expressed dislike towards you or wronged you in some sort of way.”

Meta scoffs, squinting his eyes at him through his mask. “I hold no grudge towards Kirby or his.. Friend. I simply do not care for how they behave around each other.”

Galacta rolls his eyes. Seriously? That’s why he’s upset with him? Surely those two aren’t as bad as Meta’s crew, and judging by how they behave Meta doesn’t seem to have any issues with their PDA. Not even Sailor bats an eye whenever Sword and Blade are feeding each other or linking arms together in the hallways of the Halberd.

Dropping the subject with Meta, Galacta decides to take a different approach, and that would be getting more ‘information’ from Kirby if possible. He hurries to catch up with Kirby, eyeing him curiously and then, when his guard is down asks, “So, who’s this prince Ribbon was speaking of?”

Kirby trips over his feet, bounces up and practically jumps away from him, tightly gripping the box of cookies. “A special friend and that’s all you need to know!”

Galacta laughs, watching Kirby run towards the direction of the Halberd with Meta following along, a sigh leaving his lips and grumbling to himself. Now he realizes why Ribbon likes to tease Kirby so much, even if the poor warrior gets easily flustered by simply mentioning the name of a royal.

Chapter Text

Kirby’s always been protective.

When it comes to himself he runs head first into danger, but if it involves friends then he’ll do anything in his power to make sure they stay safe! The only problem he has this time is not knowing how to protect Galacta..

Kirby huffs and idly smacks one of his plush dolls off his bed in frustration. Why is he keeping it a secret? If something is wrong with him then he’ll find a way to fix it! 

He even bought a bunch of band aids for Galacta only to be told, “No amount of bandages can stop fate. Don’t worry young one, I will handle this problem delicately.”

It didn’t stop him from putting a star themed band aid on Galacta's face after he went to sleep though. 

So he had another amazing plan! Ask the Meta Knights! Surely they would know a lot about what happened! Meta Knight was visiting more and Galacta seemed really happy about it, so who better to ask than him?

His plan involves one he’d never do: waking up early. It’s a hard task, but is manageable if he keeps his phone alarm under his pillow to muffle the noise from Galacta hearing it. Waking up not caring about his bed head, moreso mourning the loss of breakfast, Kirby quietly climbs down his ladder, wincing when his foot touches a creaking floorboard.

Kirby holds his breath and watches Galacta, looking like the spitting image of a deer in the headlights. When Galacta doesn’t move from the couch, he suppresses a sigh and continues his stealthy path to the door. He can hear his heartbeat in his ears, not knowing the last time he had to sneak through somewhere.

Why be stealthy when he can charge into an area full force?

Kirby glances at Galacta’s sleeping form one last time before he closes the door, thanking every star in the galaxy he made it out. Step one complete! It may mean he’s still in his pajamas but hardly anyone bats an eye at his outfits anymore.

As soon as Kirby’s at least twenty feet from the cottage he breaks out into a sprint. The morning spring breeze is a bit chilly for him, but he ignores the shiver that runs through him in favor of focusing on his excitement to see Meta and his family.

Without his star pin, his bangs fall into his face and Kirby bumps into something solid, stumbling back and his wrist is caught before he can fall backwards. Kirby shakes his head like a dog getting water off its fur, he’s met with Meta’s glowing yellows.

“Meta!” Kirby exclaims, steadying his feet back on the ground and pulls him into a quick hug. “You’re just the person I was wanting to see!”

“Is that so?” Meta asks, tone curious. He lets go of Kirby’s wrist and fixes his cape. “What are you doing out so early?”

“I was wanting to see you!” Kirby nods to himself, and because he doesn’t want to waste anymore time, he finally asks, “How did Galacta get hurt?”

Kirby watches Meta carefully, notes how his eyes briefly flash green and he takes a moment to answer. Impatiently tapping his foot, Kirby frowns. Why did everyone keep hesitating? All he wants to do is know so he can help protect him!

“Magic is hard to explain if someone wasn’t directly attacking Galacta with it,” Meta begins slowly. “..We have found out that as long as I stay near Galacta he’ll be safe from the.. Unknown magic.”

“So you’re like his shield?” Kirby tilts his head. “Won’t it be hard for you to work while still being with him?”

Meta hesitates, cape going around him tighter. “Work can wait–”

“Even if you need to be around him, do you want to be around him?” Kirby inquires. Experience told him to spend time with those who actually want him around, so if Meta wasn’t going to be honest and treated Galacta like an obligation what fun would that be?

“Of course I do,” Meta speaks softly and gently ruffles his bedhead. “When did you grow up so fast?”

“Forever ago!” Kirby grins and bats his hand away, then stands on the tip of his toes. “I’m still short though..”

“Too tall if you ask me,” Meta shakes his head. “Almost as tall as Sailor..”

Why were his eyes gray? Wonder what that means..

“So this is where you ran off to.”

Galacta’s voice has Kirby jumping in place, startling him enough to run and hide behind Meta. He grabs onto Meta’s cape and slowly peeks his head out. He wasn’t supposed to catch him in the act! He’ll have to improvise, think of some good enough excuse to get Galacta off his back–

“I thought you might have run off to go see your special friend,” Galacta’s tone is teasing and his eyes flicker up to Meta. “But it appears you’ve found a blood knight instead.”

“You’re no better than me!” Kirby squints up at Galacta, coming out from hiding and ignores the warmth on his face. “Sword said you and Meta are special friends!”

Galacta’s eyebrows shoot up and Meta visibly fumes. His masked eyes dance from red to light pink, fist clenching from where he grips at his cape, threatening to tear it. Which is really confusing to Kirby, isn’t being special friends a good thing?

“Why would Sword say something like that to you of all people?” Meta scoffs. While he’s busy being mad (for reasons still unknown to Kirby), Galacta shifts in place. His mouth opened and closed, eyes glancing away and his wings suddenly puffed out.

“Why would I say what?” Sword asks, appearing with Blade practically glued to his hip. “Oh hey the whole family is out this morning!”

Meta swiftly turns to them with red glowing eyes and the duo knights take two steps back from the dirt path they stand on. Blade’s mouth is clamped shut and Sword looks just as confused as Kirby feels. Oh! Maybe they know what special friends mean!

“We were talking about how you said Meta and Galacta are special friends,” Kirby pipes up. “What does that mean?”

“Er,” Blade pauses and rubs the back of his neck. “Well, what do you think it means?”

Kirby pauses to debate it, a hand under his chin. Being special friends means you’re different from regular friends.. And since that’s what he and Fluff are, that would mean it’s people who are very friendly with each other, right? He’s friendly with everyone but the friendliest with Fluff!

“Friends who hold hands and play together,” Kirby hums, confident of his answer. “Like you’re their super best friend!”

Blade softly aww’s and Sword snorts, raising a brow to Meta. “Why sir Meta, I had no idea you have a bestie.”

Meta’s eyes narrow and his tone dips dangerously. “Don’t you two have parts to go pick up?”

“We were, but Axe split orange juice on the list you wrote out so we were wanting to get a run down from you,” Sword says, looking at the dried up stained list. “It’s too wrecked to read.”

“I’ll assist you, only if it’s so you two will leave Kirby alone,” Meta grumbles and walks ahead of them. He pauses beside Galacta and gives him a slight bow. “Galacta, I’ll see you around.”

Kirby watches Meta tightly grip Sword’s arm and practically drags the other with him causing Blade to stumble due to Sword not wanting to let go of him. It’s a disastrous sight, yet Kirby can’t help but giggle watching them stumble behind Meta, attempting to keep up with his quick pace.

“Sword and Blade aren’t in trouble, are they?” Before Kirby can begin to feel guilty his stomach growls– or roars from how loud it is to him. He doubles over and the tips of his ears become pink. This is what he gets for skipping out on a meal..

“That’s.. Debatable, but we’ll make it up to them,” Galacta pats his back and flexes his wings out. “For now let’s head back home and I’ll make you some breakfast before your stomach gets too angry.”

Kirby nods and shares a smile with Galacta. As he walks beside him he feels Galacta’s wing surround him, protecting him from the morning breeze and Kirby nuzzles his head against the soft, fluffy feathers. All that talk about special friends has him missing Fluff again, but it also makes him think how Galacta and Meta haven’t had anything fun to do lately other than running errands with him..

“Hey Mr. Angel, can we go on a picnic with Meta soon?”

Galacta looks down at him fondly, eyes just as soft and he flutters his wings with barely contained excitement. “I don’t see why not.”

Chapter Text

Third time’s the charm, or that’s what Galacta hopes is true anyways.

His track record with picnics so far in Popstar haven’t exactly been the best, but redemption has arrived with a picnic basket and a dark knight that looks far too out of place holding it. The old him would have laughed seeing Meta attempt to gain his trust once more, and with the absence of Kirby he wouldn’t even be here.

Speaking of the puffball..

“It’s up to you two to have a great picnic!” Kirby exclaimed, practically shoving Galacta out the door with a basket in hand. “Go have fun with Meta, Mr. Angel!”

“And you won’t be joining us because..?”

Kirby shifted, eyes averted and face becoming dusted with a light pink blush. Suddenly, his attention turned back to them as if a light bulb went off, giving them the worst excuse in the book. “I’ll be busy today! Now shoo!”

That sounded way too suspicious for Galacta’s liking, but this is Kirby he’s talking about here. The worst he could do is raid the snack drawer and that’s nothing a trip to the town square can’t fix. Perhaps he’ll find out when he gets home later, for now he’ll attempt to enjoy the day, hoping this picnic doesn’t result in any overwhelming feelings of bitterness or him passing out from almost dying.

Meta glances at him, panicking when their eyes lock and stuffs a sandwich slice into his mouth, averting his gaze.

So far so good.

“You seem to have more free time,” Galacta brings up, ever so casually and notes how Meta chokes on his food, quickly taking a swing from his water bottle. “Did you get caught up in your work?”

“..Yes,” Meta answers after a beat, eyes still unable to find him. “I gave my crew the weekend off since I’ve overworked them, or that’s what I heard Sword complain about anyways,” Rolling his eyes, Meta’s face softened, a smile tugging at his lips. “Sailor seemed excited about the idea, I believe him and Axe were going apple picking today.”

Galacta rests his chin on the palm of his hand, idly nibbling on his sandwich while listening to Meta speak fondly of his crew. The bunch seemed.. Fairly quirky for him, even more odd for Meta to be leading them, although with his blood knight status it seemed suitable he was their leader.

“Your crew is strangely wholesome,” Galacta huffs out a laugh. “I suppose every member of your crew has a soft heart like you.”

To his surprise and humor, Meta doesn’t choke on his food, no, instead he blinks like an owl would (or rather, how he’s seen Coo do many times), with warmth rushing to his face. If he wore his mask, Galacta predicts his eyes would be a pretty light pink. He looks better without the mask anyways.

“My crew has grown rather.. Fond of you,” Meta speaks up, eyes cast down on the small box of cookies Kirby had made for them. “Sailor has expressed missing you since you’ve left.”

Galacta raises his brows, but bites down a smile, tilting his head and listens intently. “Is that so?”

Meta nods, finally finding the courage to look back up at him, expression like a poker face; however the warmth still remains and fools no one. “It would do no harm to visit everyone when you have the time, right?”

Galacta leans forward, breath ghosting over Meta’s face and Galacta brings a hand up, brushing the hair out of Meta’s face. Softly he speaks, “I would love to.”

And just like that Galacta moves away, only reaching over for the cookie box and opens it with ease, holding it out for Meta to take one. Speechlessly, Meta takes one, only able to mutter out a small token of appreciation and goes back to eating his food.

“Only if you don’t want me there for the sake of our bond,” Galacta speaks once more, and while it isn’t the most pleasant lunch conversation he wants to clear the air as quickly as he can. The fear he saw in Meta’s eyes that night refuses to leave his mind; the memory burned into him. “Then I shall visit.”

There’s a mix of emotions within those silver eyes; at first wide then cast downward and finally oddly soft when they look back up. He’s strangely shy today, perhaps because they are alone this time; no Kirby, no crew, nobody. Just how it was when they fought in the stars together. Meta speaks softly, placing a hand over his on the ground and gives it a gentle squeeze. “I want you there, Galacta.”

A smile blooms on Galacta’s face and his heart squeezes at the honesty in his eyes. Meta mirrors his expression, giving one of those rare, beautiful smiles that Galacta grew to love in their time above the clouds.

As if realizing where his hand is, Meta freezes and suddenly jerks his hand away as if burned. He brings the hand up to rub at the back of his neck sheepishly and hurries to finish his cookie. Galacta shakes his head with quiet laughter, taking a bit from his own sweet with the silence taking over.

Today felt like a small win for him, perhaps he had nothing to worry about with picnics.

When evening began to arrive Meta and Galacta were already walking back to Kirby’s cottage, comfortably exchanging small talk between them. He listened as Meta told him a story about how he had left Vul in charge of his crew while he was gone on an adventure with Kirby and his friends, helping a cat-eared boy, only to return home to find the Halberd a wreck.

“There was an increasing amount of junk food and posters all over the halls,” Meta sighed, holding a hand to his mask. “I told my crew to keep their decorations to their own rooms. A battleship must be intimidating in case of intruders..”

Galacta laughs, but another laugh overpowers him and he pauses along with Meta, exchanging a look and stopping in their tracks. Kirby’s laughter echoed again, the pink warrior jumping onto a blue haired boy’s back, twirling around with him and a very shiny, small crown on the ground next to them.

The blue haired boy shook his head and Kirby leaned down to grab his crown, getting far too close to put it back on his head and taking his time to adjust it. Kirby’s eyes practically had stars in them, a different fondness in them from how he looks at him, Meta or any of his other friends.

Galacta’s eyes light up and his wings flutter slightly. Ah, this has to be Kirby’s special friend. He’s never felt excited to meet someone in his life, only if it were for teasing reasons. His eyes looked over to Meta and..

His masked eyes glowed red.

“Kirby!” Galacta loudly calls to him, alerting the duo and has to bite his lip from laughter escaping by how quickly they jump apart. “Who might this be?”

The boy in blue looks positively ecstatic to meet him. His brown eyes shine just as bright as his smile, his outfit is quickly brushed off and he claps his hands together, eyebrows raising up at him.

“Those fluffy wings and white armor, you must be Galacta Knight!” He exclaims, putting a hand to his heart and gives him a bow. “I am Prince Fluff of Patchland! I’m delighted to finally meet both of Kirby’s parents together.”

Now Galacta is the one raising his eyebrows and can’t stop his wings from fluffing out. He– Surely he doesn’t seem like a parent.. Not one of the greatest warriors feared by his own people. During his time as a hero he never had to be around children, only training to make sure he was in top shape when the day would come that he fought Void Termina.

Beside him he misses the way Meta’s eyes flash from pink to green, finally settling back to the intense yellows he always has around others. Ah, it seems he will have to be the one to defuse this awkward situation.

“It.. It is a pleasure to meet you, prince, however..” Stars above, he feels awkward. “I– we aren’t Kirby’s parents.”

Fluff’s face was crestfallen. And then at full force came panic within his expression. He looked between them, mouth opening and closing before he grabbed Kirby by the arm and moved slightly away, still unfortunately in earshot.

Not that Kirby really seemed to care about the atmosphere anyways.

“I thought– didn’t you say you had two dads?” Fluff stresses. “And that they are your dads?”

“I said they’re like my dads!” Kirby giggles, patting Fluff’s head. “I don’t have actual parents, silly! Popstar is my family!”

Fluff looked like he was ready to combust or crumble, Galacta couldn’t really tell by how red his face and the way his hands shook. Fluff turns to them, eyes wide and a nervous smile on his lips, a mess of apologies tumbling out of his mouth. Kirby pats Fluff’s back and gasps, quickly grabbing his hand.

“Since you’re here Fluff we should have a sleepover!” Kirby excitedly says, bouncing on his heels. His eyes were alight with enthusiasm, and a grin appeared. “Meta you’re invited too so you can keep Galacta company!”

As if a whirlwind went by, Meta and Galacta can only stand there, speechless at the idea. Sharing the same space to sleep in would be new to them– (without Galacta’s life in danger anyways), and even his own thoughts are halted at the idea. How was he supposed to feel about it? All he knew was that his heart pounded a little too fast and his wings wouldn’t stop fluttering to the beat of his heart.

Meta narrowed his eyes at Fluff, looking away from the trio and sighed a little too loudly. “..If you insist.”

Chapter Text

In all of Meta’s life he’s never been to a sleepover.

Sharing a room in general was off the table for him, but when it involved someone he had.. Someone who is.. When it involved Galacta, it was a little nerve wrecking to say the very least. When Galacta was on the verge of death, resting in his bed it was the only time he ever shared a room with anyone. After that Galacta was staying in the infirmary until it was time for him to return home to Kirby.

He feels vulnerable sitting on the living room couch without his armor or mask. Instead, he wears a rock band shirt Kirby had borrowed of Rick’s and in comfortable dark blue pajama pants that Galacta allowed him to have after Coo and Rick gave him some to be more comfy when arriving at Popstar.

He feels vulnerable without it, without his cape to shield himself and mask to hide the way his mouth twists downwards. His hair hangs loosely in his face, watching Fluff and Kirby make cookie dough in the kitchen together, Galacta helping cut shapes for them.

He seems so happy, well who wouldn’t be living with Kirby and his infectious optimism? Would Galacta still be bitter at him if he agreed to stay with him when he first came to Popstar? Perhaps.. It’s most likely thanks to Kirby that Galacta doesn’t have a bitter bone in his body towards him anymore.

What exactly has he done for Galacta?

“Are you awake in there or are you going to keep frowning at the prince?” Galacta surprises him, especially with a box of juice pressed against his face. Meta recoils, scooting over until he hits the arm rest and takes the drink a little too delicately. Again, his mask could have avoided this. “I thought you’d be more excited than Kirby about the cookies.”

Meta flushes, avoiding Galacta’s amused gaze and busies himself by poking the straw in his juice box and idly sips. His fingers curl around the hem of his shirt, tightening around it as if he needs to keep himself grounded. “I am.. Delighted by the sugary treats. However, I apologize if my presence made dinner awkward for you all.”

Galacta laughs, bright and beautiful Meta has trouble keeping the odd anxious feeling out of his chest. Ugh. “You’ve had dinner with us before, this was nothing new. Kirby’s always excited to have more guests, though I would tone it down with the little daggers you’ve been throwing his crush– I mean, special friend.”

Meta is not an ounce amused at this, huffing as he squeezes at his juice box until it’s nothing but crumbled plastic. He sighs, looking up and sees Kirby dabbing a finger of frosting against Fluff’s cheek who nearly jumps away from him by the sticky sweet. Kirby opens his mouth wanting a taste and Fluff smiles warmly, bringing the pink frosting up to his lips.

Watching this, Meta feels like dying.

“They seem so natural, I almost envy the easy going relationship they have,” Galacta suddenly says, not loud enough for the two younger ones to hear but it causes him to go more quiet than he already is. “What an unbreakable bond they have..”

Meta follows Galacta’s gaze seeing Kirby now sitting on the counter, idly swinging his legs as they wait for the oven timer to go off. Fluff is rambling about an event in Patchland, nervously dancing around the topic to ask Kirby to come with him, but it’s Kirby who sneakily lays his hand on top of Fluff’s and looks at him as if he hung the stars in the sky.

“You want the sort of.. Friendship that involves domesticity?” Meta quirks a brow and looks between them again. His stomach twists and he has to tame his anger at the shameless flirting that’s happening right in front of him. Fluff would dare do something so bold in Kirby’s own home?

“Something like that,” Galacta huffs out a laugh, holding a hand under his chin. “Someone who I can be free with.. Where nothing matters except the two of us. It’s only natural to want something like that, isn’t it?”

Yes, for you. Is what Meta thinks. In regards to himself? He doesn’t deserve something like that. He doesn’t need to put his partner on the line, doesn’t deserve to be happy after everything he’s done in life. The only reason Popstar would accept him now is because of Kirby. He can’t imagine spending his life anywhere else, this place has become special for him..

But what Galacta wants, he doesn’t think he should be able to indulge himself in something so sacred.

The timer goes off and Meta suddenly straightens up, attempting to mask his expression into a neutral one. Galacta is already off the couch, going to help the other two and Meta can’t for the life of him understand why he reaches out. His hand hangs awkwardly until it lamely falls back to his side, and to his horror Fluff is looking at him with an unreadable expression, head tilted at him.

Meta narrows his eyes and Fluff quickly looks away.

Nova, he does not need to have an awkward conversation with the prince. That’s the last thing he wants on his plate, especially if Fluff would try to provide not so helpful advice for his inner conflict.

“Remind me why we made cookies for a movie and not popcorn?” Galacta asks, gently fluttering his wings at the cookie tray in an attempt to cool them down faster. “You know sweets before bed aren't ideal for a young warrior.”

“I’ve had plenty of late night sweets and it turned out just fine!” Kirby sticks his tongue out, reaching for a cookie and hands it over to Fluff. “Meta knows what I mean!”

All pairs of eyes are on him and Meta stiffens. He does know what Kirby means, but he doesn’t have to acknowledge it. The very least he can do is take his side anyways. “There’s nothing wrong with indulging yourself with sweets for a special occasion.”

Kirby practically cheers at his statement, biting a chunk out of his cookie in victory. Fluff’s already making work of putting frosting on them all, narrowly avoiding Kirby with wide eyes when he attempts to rub more frosting on him. Fluff ducks for cover behind Galacta, who uses his wings to shield Kirby from causing and creating a mini frosting war. Instead he gets back at him by sliding his finger over one of the frosted cookies and bops him on the nose.

Meta watches softly and unfortunately he doesn’t go unnoticed. It’s suspicious when Galacta crouches to Kirby, whispering in his ear and hands him a cookie. Kirby comes rushing over and oh, he is not going to fall victim to this game.

Meta jumps off the couch, biting back a grin and uses it as his shield, hesitating on where he runs by how Kirby attempts to chase after him. Quickly, Kirby jumps on the couch and attempts to jump on him, to which Meta jumps back, wings spread out in caution.

What he doesn’t anticipate is Galacta hugging him from behind and trapping him in place. Meta is frozen where he stands, the warmth of Galacta’s breath against his face making his thoughts go blank and his emotions run wild.

“Now’s your chance,” He grins, keeping his chin on Meta’s shoulder. “Attack!”

Kirby runs over and successfully swipes frosting across his cheek, laughing in victory from their game of frosting tag. Fluff manages to get some of his wrist, nervously and slowly doing so while a tumble of apologizes follow, “Sorry, sorry, sorry– please don’t kill me, sorry–”

“We won, Fluff!” Kirby jumps up and down, running into Fluff’s arms and hoists him up in the air. Fluff is sputtering, nervously squirming in the hug with a warm face and begins laughing along with Kirby. “Victory for team pink!”

“B-But I’m blue, Kirby..”

Kirby gently sets Fluff down and keeps him at arm's length, quietly examining him. A grin slowly blooms on his face and, “Well, your face is really pink right now though.”

It’s easy for Meta to tune out Fluff’s sputtering, maybe only so because Galacta is just in his space, now only leaning against him. A finger comes up to his face and swipes a bit of icing off and Galacta hums while tasting it. “Might wanna get that cleaned off now.”

Well if that’s any excuse to leave the scene then Meta isn’t going to waste his opportunity. He misses the way Galacta chuckles when he ducks away from him, hurrying towards the bathroom, shutting the door a little too hard in his hasty retreat.

His hands grip the sink counter and when he looks up into the mirror his bangs are slightly fallen in his face, cheeks pink and decorated messily with frosting. Stars above, what’s wrong with him? Can he not even be around Galacta anymore without getting awkward?

The worst thing about this situation is that he can actually relate to Fluff– of all people it has to be him.

Splashing water to his face, wiping down the sugary evidence on his face and then washing his hands Meta leaves the bathroom and braces himself for whatever is to come next. He can feel himself sighing in relief seeing Kirby laying on the floor, munching away on a cookie while Fluff laid beside him. Galacta noticed him and his wings fluffed out from where he sat, casually patting the seat next to him on the couch.

Because he has to treat a sleepover delicately, Meta cautiously walks over, narrowing his eyes as Fluff fed Kirby a cookie. Kirby in return sighed happily, scooting closer to Fluff and slowly swung his legs, excited when the movie began.

Meta grabbed a cookie from the side table and sat down beside Galacta keeping his expression collected in an attempt to get in the movie. He could feel Galacta’s wings brush against him and without his armor the softness of his plumes could finally be felt by his exposed arms.

Ignore it, he internally scorns himself, shifting in his seat and stares at the tv. What were they even watching again? Nova, it was too late to ask and the beginning was already flying by. A fish person? At least the animation was appealing to the eyes, but he could barely focus.

Relaxing with television wasn’t exactly something he did anymore, instead walking by their single tv and seeing consoles hooked up to it. Being the workaholic that he is, he had to stick with his own packed schedule. His free time would be to indulge in his guilty pleasure of sweets and to see.. Galacta.

Kirby and Fluff giggle, knocking him from his thoughts and he snaps his attention back to the tv. If he wasn’t lost before he surely is now.

“This reminds me of when I was with the other heroes,” Galacta speaks quietly, looking over to him as he speaks. “We didn’t have time for television, or rather the Ancients didn’t want anything to interfere with training and mission. One of the heroes would always sneak in board games or cards since he wanted us to, “have some fun in our lives.”

Meta listened to Galacta speak fondly of his friends, his own mouth sporting a fond smile by the light that shone in Galacta’s eyes about speaking positively of his past life. The Ancients played the biggest part of pain in his life, it’s only fair that he had friends in the past to keep close to his heart.

He’s sure without his crew he’d feel lost.

“Do you know how to play chess?” Meta asks quietly, genuinely curious.

“I never had a chance to learn,” Galacta sighs, fortunately following with soft laughter. “There was a time when my other friend brought in a chess board, but.. Let’s just say the majority of the pieces ended up around the room.”

Meta snorts and shakes his head, not wanting to know what chaos ensued to result in that. “I once tried to teach Sword, Blade and Sailor but they didn’t have the best time,” Really, it was easier to teach Sword and Blade how to wield a sword then discuss how chess could be used as a way of war tactics. Sailor was at least eager, but.. Well, confusing pieces wasn’t too much of a problem. He’d teach him again when he’s older. “..I could teach you sometime, if you wanted.”

Excited about the proposal, Galacta breaks out into a grin and nods, resting a hand over his and has trouble keeping his wings still. “I would love that.”

Meta flushes and tries not to jerk his head away too fast in favor of pretending to watch their movie. Instead, he steals another cookie, biting off half of the star and leans back against the couch in an attempt to look comfortable. He is however highly aware of the hand on top of his, but he makes no move to pull away.

This is okay, he tells himself, staring blankly in front of him.

His eyes flicker down to the two on the floor when he hears soft snoring. Kirby is practically glued to Fluff’s side, trapping the poor prince in a crushing hug, as if he were mistaken for one of his many plushies. Equally drained, Fluff is nearly cuddling Kirby the way he’s curled up next to him.

At least it saved him and Galacta the hassle of having to carry them upstairs when a makeshift bed was on the floor, or rather a bunch of blankets and pillows that Kirby thought was suitable enough to sleep on.

He’s envious of them, how easy sleep came to them when the movie wasn’t even over yet. The smallest sounds could alert him awake, it was always hard to sleep. He’d rather work until he was tired to the bone, allow himself to collapse onto his bed and not lay in bed while overthinking every little thing.

A bundle of soft, messy hair hits against his shoulder and brushes against his cheek and Meta nearly jolts. Galacta is sleeping so peacefully he isn’t sure what to do– stars above he’s stuck here now, isn’t he? Galacta nuzzles against his shoulder and yep, he is very much sentenced to a night of sitting there with him and his thoughts.

Hesitantly Meta brushes a hand through Galacta’s hair and his lips twitch up at the incomprehensible mumbling he says in his sleep. So exhausted already, perhaps being around Kirby all the time does drain your energy with how hyper he can be, not that that’s a bad thing of course.

Meta closes his eyes and rests his head against Galacta’s sighing softly. He’ll allow himself to enjoy this, just this once.

Chapter Text

Returning to the Halberd after a night to leave his crew unsupervised was in retrospect definitely a poor decision.

Meta learned this the hard way, returning home early in the morning to Sword and Axe wrestling over a gameboy, resulting in the perish of one of their poor potted plants that Sailor took such gentle care of. With a heavy sigh and trying to keep Sailor from bursting into tears he shoved a broom into Sword’s hands and left with their youngest member with the promise of a new plant.

Going to the flower shop wasn’t how he intended to spend his day after slacking off last night, but he guesses this is the most peaceful option he’ll have during the day.

“So, sir,” Sailor pipes up on their stroll and Meta is silently thankful the tears in his eyes have left. “How did your sleepover go last night?”

Ah, the inevitable question. He knew it was coming sooner or later, although this talk will be far easier since Sailor doesn’t try to rile him up like his other crew mates do.

“It was nice, I suppose. The kids had fun.” Meta pauses, kicking a pebble out of his way. He wouldn’t say he didn’t have fun, although all his thoughts were cluttered with the fresh memories of Galacta.

Galacta having a small heart to heart with him. Galacta hugging him. Galacta wiping frosting from his face and tasting it. Galacta holding his hand. Galacta falling asleep against him.

“And.. Galacta had a nice time as well.”

Sailor furrows his eyebrows but says no more. Wanting to be one step ahead Meta takes it in himself to avoid any further questions about the sleepover. Always good to be one step ahead of everyone, experience has told him.

“Kirby had awakened us rather rudely,” Despite the grumpiness he felt in the morning he couldn't help but chuckle. “Kirby wanted to engage in an early morning pillow fight, and even his friend had no desire to engage. ” Friend, just friend, not a special friend because Fluff was nothing more to Kirby. Meta won’t hear anymore of this. “Galacta hit Kirby in the face with his wings and that was that.”

It was a rather bland story to be told than being there. Kirby let out a warrior cry as he slammed two pillows down against Galacta and Meta on the floor, Fluff roused from his sleep with his hair sticking up in several different places and Galacta arose like a dead man before springing his wings out when Kirby came near.

“Sounds like Kirby,” Sailor giggled. “Bandana has told me many stories about him, is it true that he started an apple juice fight in the Lor Starcutter and you guys had to stop on your adventure for repairs?”

“Bandana and Kirby started it and tried to get Magolor to join them,” Meta sighs, shaking his head affectionately. “It wasn’t anything I couldn’t handle though.”

More excited than usual, Sailor’s eyes light up when the flower shop comes into view. “Comosum Shop” sign comes into view and despite his excitement Sailor stops only to hold the door open for Meta. He’s so mannered, it makes Meta wonder how he fits into his misfit of a crew.

“Welcome!” Taranza spins around, all grins with an apron tied around his waist. It is relieving to see the spider in a more upbeat mood, he knows how troubled he can often become and Meta feels himself sigh knowing most who come to Dreamland all have a story of their own.

Why does he feel so compelled to protect them from any further harm?

Or perhaps Galacta is right and he is just a blood knight, wanting to fight rather than let the younger ones engage in an unnecessary war.

“Anything in particular you’re looking for?” Taranza asks, a toothy grin still there while wiping his hands on his apron. “Tulips have been very popular this season, can I offer you guys some?”

“They have pink and purple ones in!” Sailor bounces on his feet, already holding a small pot of tulips against his chest. He doesn’t ask, always hesitant, but the wide eyes filled with hope already have Meta crossing his arms..

And giving a small nod.

..He’s growing rather weak as he grows in age it seems.

“We also need another peperomia.”

“Again?” Taranza frowns, concern in his tone. “Did Mace damage another one? Plants aren’t supposed to be for target practice!”

Sailor nods, holding the tulips protectively against him. “That’s what I said!”

Meta sighs. It’s almost embarrassing how many plants they’ve had to replace. In fact, it should start coming out of his crew’s pay and not his by now. “It was an accident this time by Sword and Axe.”

Taranza nods in silent understanding and Meta has to suppress the urge to shake his head. Sword and Mace are typically the ones to damage the plants (nearly all the time by accident), Taranza probably fears for his plants anytime Sword or Mace (or stars forbid both of them) walks into his store.

“I’m almost tempted to just buy rubber plants for the halls, just so there won’t be anymore broken glass and plants.” Meta says, light with humor although the idea has passed through his head one too many times. Glass should not be the biggest occurring hazard in a battleship.

“Why would you do that?” Taranza tilts his head. “Not that I’m trying to sound like a businessman-” Gods, he’s far from that. “-isn’t the point of taking care of plants is to enjoy them while they’re here?”

“I.. Guess?” Although Meta doesn’t have a green thumb, he can appreciate the beauty of them and the joy they give to others. “You want more plants to fall into the hands of my crew?”

“Despite any uh, casualties that occur you guys should cherish them.” Taranza picks up a spray bottle, gentle with watering a lily. “I love taking care of them, each and every one of them are so beautiful,” He hums, running a thumb over a petal. “It’s good to cherish any time you can with them, you never know when they might begin to wilt.. Or suddenly be gone.”

Meta feels his heart drop, an indescribable pain coursing through him. It makes him think of his former crew mates, how they’d always spend each and every day together before it came to an abrupt end.

It makes him think of Galacta as well, and how he’d still be trapped in a crystal again if it weren’t for Kirby wishing for his existence in Dreamland. How Galacta could have died merely weeks ago.

He’s thankful Sailor is in the back, enjoying the visit as tears begin to fall from Taranza’s eyes. Meta gently pats the top of his head, causing Taranza to blink the tears out and quickly rub his eyes while Meta moves his hand back and forth on his head.

He feels rather awkward standing there with Taranza nearly leaning on him, but he lets him get it out as he quietly tells Taranza everything will be okay.

Eventually, anyway.

These kids.. They shouldn’t have to go through the agony he’s experienced and would never wish it upon them.