Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Oort Cloud- mindscape

Black Market

The Black Market was a place that Celestials could meet between systems, to purchase items otherwise illegal. During the early days of the Universe, they ran rampant, selling pieces of planets, debris of Stars, and more. But as the Universe calmed, potential commodities changed, and as Life entered into the Milky Way, pieces of Earth was the rarest. Any piece. Whether it was a stone, one of his microbes, or water. But as Life spread through, it lost its value and became nothing more than a common purchase. Nobody was interested in Life.

The Queen Sagittarius refused to allow the Black Markets to flourish. She had passed a law that any black market discovered would be dismantled by her own hands, the occupants executed as traitors, and more. Which is why it was unheard of to see a former member of her Council seeking refuge among those they once considered the lowest of class.

Escaping the cells was one plan that took her many hours of strategy. It sickened her when she managed to get out into the crowds and saw the balcony holding the Queen and her mixed blood offspring there, waving high as he greeted the others. It boiled her Core as she saw the Queen giving her offspring the time. And it angered her more when they chanted for Prince Aries. Sagittarius had declared her son to have been the one to deliver the blow to Entropy. Her son... that mixed blood runt had defeated Entropy. Had maimed him.

Her eyes had scanned the Queen, noting a lack of presence by her side. The lack of a taller Star, the man who was proclaimed King. She had noted the lack of S2, and as the crowds cheered, she saw Sagittarius look downwards, sadness gripping her form. The Queen looked devastated, and what sickened the Star most was... how she placed a careful hand on her stomach. The Queen was with child again. Another Unnatural Brat that would grace the Universe. But this one... She sensed something different about it. S2’s seed must be strong as the child was once again a Star. A difference to the brother, who seemed to have qualities more of the supermassive black hole that birthed him.

But what was most curious to her was... that the child was a Red Dwarf. It couldn’t be possible. Unnaturals never had a place, and suddenly this child was designated a Red Dwarf?! S21 could barely believe it, all the texts about Unnaturals stated...

Any text about Unnaturals always indicated that, while planets, moons, and such can have children... Stars and above could not. The reason for this was that a place could always be found for the children of planets, they could always be interacted with, always hold firm in the System they were born in. Once a form was found by the Star, or created, they usually occupied. If no place was found, the parents would swap between the mindscapes, the children were never truly alone. And could venture out into the cosmos and find a place. Planets were replaceable.

Stars weren’t. The limited space of Stars meant they were special, rare. While some systems had two and sometimes three Stars, the gaps between systems was so great that it was near impossible for them to interact without a Galaxy-wide scape. Any Star who sired or carried a child could leave but... their infant was left stranded in the mindscape. Only beings greater than a Star could live in a scape without utilising their energy. It was probably why Sagittarius, she realised distastefully, was able to birth her son without any issues. Helios would have drifted in and out the mindscape, tending to the Queen, who had greater power than him.

Stars born didn’t have a Halo. They would need to acquire one from the Nebulas, but by the time they reached them... they would have died. But S21 remembered how the mixed blood runt flared her, how did he survive so long in the cosmos without a place to ground? She would often tire and rest in her inanimate form, orbiting Sagittarius’ own. His mother’s blood must have been so strong that he could live for longer periods. Black Holes were... mysterious. Even Sagittarius was still relatively unreadable. That did not explain why Aries was so much like a Star: his father’s seed was probably strong enough, but Sagittarius’ helped with her own genetics. Supermassive Black Holes were entities revered as Gods, could it be that his blood was blessed heavily by the Forces as his mother was? But that angered S21: why did the Forces give their time and energy to a damn Unnatural?!

He didn’t have a Halo when she met him! And yet... something was strange about the baby that was growing within Sagittarius. Why... did this one the Queen was carrying... have a Red Dwarf presence?

S21 paused. It couldn’t be... could it? Out of all the children born in her Nebulas, she had monitored them, and wondered. Which of the Red Dwarf’s would it be. That the texts stated.

The Last would be Red and Small. And Chaos would meet his Equal.

She had heard rumours of the potential Last Star. One that would be born and live to the end of time, before the darkness reigned. That the Star would be a Red Dwarf. Stars would be born after, why was this child any different to them? Why did it have to be an UNNATURAL of all things?!

It made her nauseous. A cruel joke by the Universe.

Her eyes looked at the Queen, how she stood silently. With a small smile at her son as the crowd chanted for Sagittarius. The Queen stepped forward to join her son, waving with him. Many calling her the Liberator. Others calling her son the Slayer of Chaos. How it sickened her they were so ready to bow to an Unnatural scum and his mother.

Her eyes found the Halo by Aries’ head. She recognised the glow, the appearance being so bright, a radiance unlike anything else. The other S-Cluster Stars never had a Halo as magnificent as S2. The Star gave his place to the boy. Sacrificed his immortality to the son he never cared for until recently. She was so disappointed in her mentor being so ready to act caring and compassionate to the boy. He may have sired him, but she expected her mentor to have held fast against the Queen and deny the young man she called his son. S2 was a stickler for rules and regulations. He was a King in all but name.

Which was why she supported him for so long.

“Long live the Queen!”

The sentiment was shared. The crowd roared louder.

“Long live Prince Aries!”

No, she told herself bitterly. But the cheers disrupted her thoughts, and she felt a sense of disgust as she heard the calls. The two raised their hands and waved again, and she was aware that the traitor, Lord S6, was there too. Standing behind the Queen and her mixed blood offspring. Wearing the mantel of the High Lord, the Head of the Council of Stars. It made her bitter, angry, how quickly they forgot S2. The damned black hole must have seduced him again, they were fickle creatures. They were master manipulators.

She turned and pushed through the crowd, and had left. Using the gateway to venture on a daily basis, trying to seek out news. Her Master couldn’t have left them behind. Entropy couldn’t have died. She would not believe it until she saw it with her own eyes.

So, S21 travelled. And picked up some news about disturbances in the Orion’s Arm. With a familiar Star and system. Something about a Gas Giant being banished. That had to be the sign she was looking for... that had to be where Entropy was! So she did the next good thing, and took the gateway to the Solar System. If Helios had exiled his Gas Giant, then that must mean that Entropy was disrupting the system. He did have a back up plan: if all else failed, to destroy the First.

S21 was not present when the visions occurred from Sagittarius. But she had been summoned urgently back to the Core, and was shocked that the High and Low Council of Stars were all summoned. There, S2 had announced to them all that Sagittarius had a vision of a world obtaining Life. A world called Earth, orbiting a G-Type Yellow Dwarf star in the Arms of Orion. However, the issue was finding said Star, to help advise them. S21 knew the majority of the stars born in nebulas, and could fetch the documents of those which the Old Lady had dispersed to the Arms. She was relieved when the invitations for a Gathering was sent, but noted the hesitation from S2 when she said this. However, nothing had unsettled her as of yet.

Due to her occupying herself with the Nebulas she rarely saw her fellow Stars and the Queen. She was the bottom of the High Council, a glorified babysitter, Entropy had called her. But she held importance in that time, had sat with the Queen and S2, pouring over the documents, going through every potential Star. Every Yellow Dwarf that was in the Arms of Orion at the time. She had located young and old Stars, and found close and distant to the Core. Her eyes noted the different names, which she gave to the Queen and Lord S2. After that, neither interacted with her much, so she left for the Nebulas and monitored the baby Stars. They all called her Mother. She loved that...

Then Sagittarius brought in a Planet, young and fresh. With blue skin, hair, and wonderful azure eyes. His hair was patched with orange, showing a changing landmass. S21 had sensed the Life on the world. He was accompanied by a much larger Planet with feline qualities, a long sweeping tail, and wearing a gold chain. All the young Stars were there instantly, crowding them, wondering what they were. The larger one greeted her pleasantly and tilted his head in respect, while the smaller one allowed the others to play with his hair and look at his gemstones. She allowed the larger to read a story to her children.

Then her eyes spotted Sagittarius just off from them, speaking to a familiar Star. She recognised the blended Halo, the reddish centre and the yellow outer. As well as his beautiful golden and orange hair, and blue eyes. Young Helios. She had wondered what happened to him, having been fearful he had disappeared as a child. Her eyes watched as the Queen spoke quietly to Helios, who tilted his head, before she said something else. The Star frowned, but then gave a nod of apparent understanding, before the Queen walked off. The Star turned to face his two planets, giving a small smile as he sat with the baby Stars too.

S21 never saw them after that.

“You are out of place here, Star.”

Her attention was drawn to the male who sat down at the table. His skin was a deep rich blue, with wolf ears poking out his hair. The eyes were red, piercing, and his rough clothing indicated he was a nomadic planet. Or was. She knew who this was.

“And you seem to have succeeded in your revenge. Now it makes my job easier.”

“Easier, yes. I can confirm that He is in the Solar System. Once I have succeeded in my other chores, He will have a new body to possess.”

“Why? Once you exiled Jupiter, what purpose could you have to continue to betray your Star?”

“Simple,” The Planet retorted. “I may have exiled Jupiter, but I still have Saturn and by extension... the Sun. The Sun left me out there. He believed his loyalist worlds instantly. I was worth nothing more than a passing thought.”

“And the rest?” S21 queried him. “You seek revenge on planets born after the incident?”

“Just as you do.” His wolf tail flicked, as he leaned in his chair, resting an arm over the back. Muscles flexed. “They all sided with Jupiter and his lies. It is only natural that they pay. I may have one of them, though, under my thumb. The Ice Giant, Uranus. But the others will be difficult. Either way, you should be thanking me, Lady S21. With luck, the message to the Core will be received soon.”

“Our Lord and Master will have his new body soon,” S21 said firmly. “Plus his own revenge. And the First?”

“Sun and Saturn have decided to keep him away from me. I do not think Venus and Mars will tolerate my closeness to the Boy. His Brother will be even more attentive now.”

S21 cursed. But then she smiled.

“It will not matter. Once we have the Prince here, Entropy will be able to exact his revenge. On Helios, on Earth, on Aries... and on Sagittarius. Prince Aries is our key to success, as much as I hate that mixed blood offspring. His power is growing by the day, according to my spies. Soon he will surpass his mother, if our Master is correct.”

She had heard tell from those in the Core that Aries was already using the Forces. Developing quickly. It was as though he was a fast learner. Even Sagittarius did not possess such a swiftness in her own skills. Entropy wanted the Prince to suffer before his death, but the sooner they brought the Prince to them, the better. Sagittarius would not harm her own child.

Not so soon after losing her so-called husband, S2. The Queen was vulnerable, easy to subdue. Easy to succumb to anything whilst in the midst of her grief.

“I have heard tales that Sagittarius has not attended public events for weeks now. Which means she is easy to conquer. And once Entropy has taken Aries’ form, he will be able to dispose of her... and take the Throne. But the issue of Earth remains: as long as he is standing, Aries will be too. The First and his Star must be dealt with.”

“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about them, even with Helios incapable of doing much bar sleeping,” A fanged smile came to the Planet. “I have received word that nothing will stop us now. Word about one of Earth’s precious mentors on his surface, which Earth will be notified soon about I imagine. He will be easy to deal with, and Prince Aries will come for him should any harm arise. They are best friends, ya know.”

“Devious,” S21 felt her own fanged smile rise. “Who has he lost?”

Planet X gave a flick of his wolf tail, his smile growing all the more. S21 saw his right paw flex, the slight shine of red on the edge of the claws.

“Mr Rotsar... is no more.”

Chapter Text

His alarm blared into life, just in time for the usual morning knock and greeting. But he was already wide awake, his hand pressing into the buttons to silence it, before feeling the weight shift on the base of his bed. His golden retriever raised her head, staring with bleak eyes, before lying it back down with a content sigh. A thump of the tail. He carefully reached out, pressing a gentle hand on her belly and stroking it, making the retriever roll onto her back to enjoy the normal routine of belly rubs.

At least something of home he could enjoy still.

Even now, many weeks later, Aries – formerly known as Viktor Romanoff – was still getting use to his new life. A life he never had on Earth, and a life he lost.

Stretching, he winced as he remembered his tail, glancing at it as the panther-like tail curled around his front. His hair was still long, dual coloured with golden at the top and black waves and curls that he hated brushing but dared not cut. His eyes, burning as bright as a Star, was already adjusting to the darkness of the room as the door gently creaked open.

“Rise and shine, my Prince. It is the 23rd December, by human standards.”

Aries felt a tug of a smile. He was thankful that his designated staff had elected to learn human mannerisms to keep him comfortable. He made the effort to always try to adopt the Core attitudes, but it remained somewhat difficult. At times he would forget himself, forget a head tilt in respect, or get a name wrong, or forget how to appear in an unhurried manner. And other things. But he was glad for the patience of them all. Glad that they realised he had over 3.5 billion years to catch up on.

Stars, he wondered how it all worked. He felt like a 17-year-old human. A lot younger than his human life.

He still missed his human life. Enjoying the odd cup of coffee, the feel of a good book, the rising sun’s rays and the gentle sound of the waves on the island. And of course he missed Earth and Luna. Their last meeting had been at the funeral of the fallen Rotsar soldiers many months prior. He did his best to try and get snippets of information about the Solar System, but being so far away prevented them from getting that information quickly.

“My Prince?”

“Yes, I am up,” Aries swung his legs out, stretching his back and his arms. The Retriever leaped down and padded to the door, slinking out and into the corridor. He was glad he convinced Mr Rotsar to let him have some things from Earth. His alarm clock, some books he enjoyed, some gadgets, and, most importantly... his new companion.

It was strange, he noticed, bringing an Earthling creature back. And very dangerous, as Laika was unwell from the get go. Thankfully, Lady S8 was on hand to help him. Now Laika was prowling around, happy and content, and everyone got use to her. Making sure they did not step on her. However, Laika kept close to Aries more, and would only separate when there were baby Stars around.

Aries stood up, walking to the bathroom to wash and dress himself. Fortunately, he had already pre planned his clothing, as he had been so used to living how he did on Earth. It often annoyed his staff, but they understood he needed to continue his own routine.

Turning the handle to start the wash, Aries glanced at the garments. He had laid out his new clothing, which he had requested. His eyes welled with tears as he stared at the style, tracing his hands over the collar. The jacket was similar to his father’s own, monotone with black and white, but the sleeves were shorter to his elbows and black. His shirt also had the same buttons at the collar as his father. It... still hurt...

“You look like your father.”

Aries stepped before the mirror, a lump rising in his throat as he looked at his reflection. He didn’t have the shaved hair of his father, but he had his bearing. His golden locks, his facial qualities.

The diamond.

Hands touched his arms, and his mother rested her cheek against his arm. Her smile was pained, tears flowing down her cheeks. Her hair was lined with grey.

He felt his own tears falling. Their halos were the only source of light, well, his was. A reminder of the sacrifice his father made for him to have a place in the Cosmic Landscape.

Aries slammed his fists against the tiled wall, pressing his forehead against them. Tears fell as the streams thundered on his back, his tail flicking angrily as he allowed his emotions to gain traction. The anger over what had happened, the sadness, the absolute FURY that remained. He should have acted faster, to save his father. His death was his fault.

Aries should have burned Entropy to the ground. He had already stolen his entire childhood, and now one of his parents. Leaving his mother a widow, and his future sibling without a father. And him without someone he could rely on, gain support from.

S2 had promised they would talk. Now they never would.

He winced at his right hand, looking at the side by the pinky. Slightly cut, but already the surface was shifting over. Healing. Not in the same manner as his mother, but like a Star. His surface constantly moving and covering over any cuts or abrasions he had.

Finishing showering, he dressed, pulling the black trousers on and then the boots he had chosen. He had a cloak, with his mother’s seal on a broach. Aries held it, looking at the bow and arrow, before fastening it on his collar. He hated the cloak anyways.

His tail moved, and he managed to pull the golden band over it. Now settled, Aries pulled his long hair into a quick tie of black ribbon, knowing the staff would tighten it, before leaving. Laika was already sitting waiting outside, panting happily, her tail wagging. Feeling a gentle smile, Aries reached down and placed an affectionate hand on the top of her head, rubbing, before vacating the rooms.

The Palace was already in full action. Repairs were still being done, almost completed, the cracks being sealed and the gemstone gardens being replanted. Aries could see the Gateways under heavy guards, deactivated as per his mother’s instructions. Before she removed herself from public view, she had commanded the Gateways be sealed to the Core. Nobody – not even the S-Stars – were allowed to venture without her approval. After the funeral, after Aries got his clothing and tutorials, and more sorted... she disappeared. From sight. He did visit her, but their conversations were brief. She was wasting away.

Barely eating.

Barely doing anything.

Sagittarius spent all of her days sitting in the rooms belonging to her, crying. Holding the cloak they received at the funeral.

“Young Prince.”

Aries felt his ears twitch, before turning and tipping his head. Laika paused to sniff at a statue, uninterested in the discussion that would follow – before a baby Comet rushed to her to see her.

The Star approaching was dressed in elaborate garments, middle aged in his appearance, with shoulder length white hair. His skin was heavily tanned, eyes white at the irises, and bearing the cloak of the High Lord. The Star known as S6. Once his father’s rival, now he was one of Aries’ closest confidant.

“Lord S6. I was just heading for the meeting this morning.”

“I shall accompany you, as is customary,” S6 stepped by him. Aries realised that he had gained his father’s genetics in height, as he stood a little taller than S6. But he still didn’t have the height of his father. “Will your mother be joining us today?”

Aries glanced at him. The Star was looking worried, his eyes on Aries as he waited for an answer. But the truth was that Aries didn’t know. His mother not attending to duties was becoming more noticeable.

“I do not think she will,” Aries said, softly. He tilted his head down, tail lower. “She is still grieving Dad – I mean, His Majesty -.”

“You can call him your father when it is just us two, my Prince,” S6 interjected. The pair continued for a moment in silence. “Your mother, while I do not know her too well, is grieving the man she loves. Aside from being our undisputed Queen, she is also a woman who was deeply in love with your father, and had married, maybe found the dream they had both chased for so longer... and he was so violently snatched away from you both.”

Aries looked at S6 again. He did have a point, but... did that mean his own grief was not as important?

“You are both grieving,” S6 reminded him. “You, forgive me, have only known your father for a few days. Promises were made, a belonging for you. A chance to possibly talk to each other and be the father and son you should have from the start. But your mother has known your father for twice the time you have been alive.”

“Wait...” Aries said softly. He paused, looking at S6 straight on. A realisation dawned on him. “You mean...?”

“Your mother is 9 billion years old, your father is 8 billion years old,” S6 had a patient tone to his voice. “Your mother was alone before he arrived, Stars would barely have interacted with her. S2, your father, was the first Star who ever gave her any love and affection. They became fast friends. Then lovers.

“Your mother and father were by each other for 8 billion years. He ruled in her absence, and she encouraged him when he doubted. While they reconnected after so long, the heartbreak she is feeling is something indescribable. And with a new Prince or Princess in her womb, she is feeling that hurt all the more. Her dream of having you, her child, and S2 with her as a family - something she desired for so long - has been destroyed. And Sagittarius feels responsible for it.”

The words had a deeper hit than Aries realised. He tilted his head down, chewing his bottom lip as a frown came to his features. He saw a look of nostalgia on S6’s features, and he knew he looked like his father with the expression. They said the same when he raised a brow.

But at the last sentence, Aries turned to face the High Lord. A sudden weight pressed into his shoulders.

“It wasn’t Mom’s fault,” He knew he broke formality. In public and to others he should always address his mother as the Queen, and only called her ‘Mom’ in private. “It’s never was her fault. It was mine.” His voice trembled. “I should have acted faster. Done more. I...” He felt tears started to fall down his cheeks.

“If I had known about the baby I should have done more. It should have been me that died, not Dad. I am replaceable, I...”

S6, suddenly, grabbed his shoulders. Aries found himself turned to face the wise Star, seeing the fire in the eyes. Others had scarpered from the corridor, leaving the two alone. It was clear from the atmosphere that nobody else was welcomed that moment in time.

“No, Prince. You do not say that. You are not responsible for the death of S2, nor should you wish you died in his place. He would not want that.” S6 was furious as he glared into Aries’ eyes. “If you died, your mother would be burying you both. If you died and your father lived, they would be mourning you right now. And the pain of losing a child... is unimaginable as it is to lose a soul mate.”

The Star sobered, releasing the Prince.

“All we can do at present... is show your mother we are there for her. As we are here for you. You need each other during this time, and know that you have us too if you require our aid.”

Aries swallowed a lump that had grown in his throat. His cheeks felt wet, when did he start crying? He turned away, raising a hand to push the wet streaks back, desperate to hide his weakness. Especially in front of S6. He didn’t want any weakness to be shown to someone who could use it against him – and his mother. Especially when she was at her weakest moment.

“You are upset, and angry at something that had been robbed,” S6 said, comfortingly. “But do not be angry at yourself or your mother. Be angry at Entropy, the real reason why your father is gone. He alone caused this. Entropy has destroyed your entire family over the last 3.5 billion years.”

Their talk had finally brought them to the door where the Council Chambers were held. The large ornate doors were guarded by several individuals, all Core related Stars. They tilted their heads in respect, before reaching out to open the doors that revealed a large chamber of marble, bearing tapestries of black and purple with a golden bow and arrow. The table was long, polished, with chairs lining the sides and the edges. The windows were wide to allow the Cosmos light in, the table illuminating the entire Milky Way, with trillions of Stars being shown as blinking lights of varying colours with yellow, orange, red and white. The Centre of the Milky Way held a large black circle, with purple mist around the border.

In the chairs were the dwindling numbers of the S-Cluster Stars. Of the original twenty members of the High Council, only fifteen remained, and not all were present. Those who betrayed Sagittarius were either in the cells or barred from access to the mindscape permanently. To drift around the Supermassive Black Hole alone, with no interaction. It would have been a fate for his father, had his mother never forgiven him.

Aries stepped ahead as S6 rounded the Prince, the remaining eight S-Cluster Stars standing and tilting their heads in respect. Aries noted they were looking expectantly at the high backed chair where his mother would have sat, but he didn’t know why they continued to wait. She would not come.

So he stepped to the vacant seat by the chair’s left, getting into position as S6 went to the other side of the table to take his place as the Head of the Council. He swept his cloak around, ensuring it would not catch, before looking at Aries expectantly. Aries nodded, the others sitting at his insisting. The Stars shared a glance between them, the middle aged female known as S8 looking at the chair that Sagittarius should be sitting in.

“Friends of old, and those of new,” S6 greeted. The eyes of the Stars turned to him. “Welcome. This is a proposed quick meeting to determine the remaining requirements for rebuilding and what to do with the Stars who have followed Entropy. And where we stand with the hunting for said-Force. At present, we have not seen or heard of anything to do with Entropy, and the vast scale of our Galaxy prevents us from tailing him fully. Have we any reports from the Arms and Spirals?”

“Nay,” A stoic S12 said, his jaw rigid. The short Star with the Red Halo leaned into his elbows. A Red Dwarf, Aries realised. “No sign from the Northern Arms and Spirals. All Stars have reported their systems are quiet and secure. Wherever he is, he is not on the North.”

“Nor the West: I have received word from the Stars there that no sign of Entropy has been seen,” S1 stated. She gave a twirl of her blonde lock, looking at Aries with a smile. Aries felt a touch of blush to his cheeks but swiftly looked back at S6, who decided to divert the conversation quickly.

“So the East and South?”

“Neither have responded as of yet, my Lord,” S12 said with a hiss. “Our messages have been sent, but with the Gateways closed we cannot check the systems ourselves.”

“What about S21?” Aries asked od them. “She had escaped, probably during the presentation. Which Gateway did she utilise? That may give us some indication.”

“Sadly, Prince, it won’t,” S13 stated. S12 touched her hand, letting her gain some comfort. “I hope we find out soon where she is hiding, after how she had killed S14. The skies are dark without her, and whilst I have agreed to take her sole world, they mourn her daily. They have lost the will to keep going: only yesterday did one of my worlds find them trying to breach the Roche Limit of my Gas Giant.”

Aries winced. A suicidal planet... S14’s death was tragic. They had found the Star, deceased, in the libraries after the fighting had ended. Her world was a child, one that called her Mommy. Now, that child had been taken to another Star close, but was failing to adjust to the system. S12 and S13 were close to S14. Aries had never met her, but the image of the pair clasping one another over the deceased Star was an all too familiar image.

“My Queen...” Aries saw S6 approach his mother cautiously. Sagittarius continued to weep on S2’s chest, his body now cold. The glow leaving his skin. S6 pressed a gentle hand on the Queen’s shoulder.

“I am so sorry.”

“He promised me...” Sagittarius sobbed. Aries held her as she fell into him, his mother sobbing into him now. “Oh, Aries... I’m so sorry... I am so, so, so, sorry!”

Aries just held his mother, as S6 indicated to the others. Three male Stars approached, all with their faces calm but eyes full of great sadness. Aries just held his mother as one knelt by S2, pressing a gentle hand onto the Star by the neck, before giving a bow of the head. They turned their eyes back to S6, giving them a clear nod.

“He has passed from this Plain, my Lord S6. And onto the Lands.”

Aries didn’t look at his father as S6 and the three others knelt by him. He knew he would only see the large gaping hole, empty, back to front. The Stars covered the wound, before gently swaddling S2 into their cloaks, lifting him to their arms. Aries kept his mother in his arms, trying to soothe her sobbing.

Trying to soothe her broken heart.

“My Prince?!”

Aries broke from his thoughts, the glass that had been levitating before him now clattering onto the table and smashing. He cursed, the sound causing the others to jump in surprise. Aries reached out to try and collect the pieces, but a Comet was already starting to approach with a cloth.

“My Prince...?” S29, a female Star with rosettes like a leopard, stood. “Are you alright?”

“I... am fine,” Aries stated, but inside he was cursing himself. He glanced apologetically at S6. “Please, continue.”

“My Prince...” S6 stammered, unsure what to say. Or do. “This is more important. When did you start using the Forces?”

Using the Forces? Aries always assumed it was natural, as his father had said that Stars could use the Forces to some degree. His mother had complete mastery over them. She had to, as the Supermassive Black Hole.

“My father... His Majesty...” Aries kept his voice steady. “Said that Stars can use the Forces. Just not to the degree of my mother, the Queen.”

“That... is not entirely true,” S27 stated, his deep voice echoed around the chamber. “While we can use the Forces, not to the same scale as your father, any Star not considered an S-Cluster Star cannot use the Forces. Your father was an exception due to his proximity to Sagittarius herself, as out of all of us, he orbits the closest to her. It was inevitable he would have mastery over Gravity and Electromagnetism. But this... no, this is above your father’s power. It is to be expected, as you are half-Supermassive Black Hole. How long have you been practicing?”

“I... don’t...” Aries admitted. He didn’t like the looks passed between each other, the concern. The worry. “After the funeral, when I am reflecting... when I remember... That day. They sort of... happen? Like levitating, which I assumed is Gravity, or I make something out of another object or cause a charge. It is unintentional. Should... I be concerned?”

“It is possible... that you are still feeling negativity from your father’s death. Which is what is concerning us with events that has occurred since S2’s death, such as your mother hiding away all day and every day.” The statement from S8 broke the conversation, and caused warning glances to be shot at her. “What? I am saying what we are all thinking.”

S6 gave a very annoyed glance at her. A very obvious warning. Aries could feel a frown appear on his features.

“Is there something more you wish to say, Lady S8?” Aries asked, noting her features becoming sour. His hands tightened on the table. The others were avoiding his eyes, even S1... she was avoiding him...

“I am sorry for your loss.”

He turned to face her, the youngest of the S-Cluster Stars. Her bright eyes were saddened as he watched her approaching, before he fell into her. Crying.

“It has been twelve weeks,” S8 pointed out. She leaned onto her elbows, hands clenched together. “Since the funeral. Eleven since your presentation and announcement as Heir Apparent. Your mother has since been inside her chambers, refusing food, refusing anything and everything, neglecting her duties and causing you, an untrained boy to take the helm of an entire Galaxy who, at this moment in time... is going to notice your mother isn’t attending to her duties.”

“She is mourning a man she loved more than herself,” S13 argued but S8 cut across her colleague.

“I get it. I do. But we have trillions upon trillions of Stars looking at us all the time. May I remind you, my Lady S13, that all of us have been tortured and imprisoned for siding with our Queen. And now she is hiding away in her chambers, refusing to see anybody. Her absence IS being noticed. And her suitability to rule is being called into question, as is that of Prince Aries’ being able to take over should Sagittarius fail to recover her wits. We will end up having an uprising on our hands.”

Aries winced. He remembered the Northern Sector when they rebelled, how they harmed his father, killed a Red Dwarf and their system. But the words from S8 caused a deep seeded anger to rise within his Core.

“I think we should allow ourselves to calm down,” S6 finally stated, his voice commanding. “The matter of our Queen is delicate. She is with Child again, as we all know...”

“Whether she is with child again or not isn’t important to the fact that Sagittarius is neglecting her duties as a Queen – and mother to Prince Aries, who is unlocking his own abilities with the Fundamental Forces,” S8 chimed. “He needs her guidance. A guidance only she can give. Sagittarius taught us all how to use the Forces, why isn’t she focusing on her offspring?”

“Don’t,” Aries growled. He stood, facing S8. He was angry. His Core was pounding in his chest, his halo now burning brighter with his anger. “You do not know the pain my mother is in. She wishes SHE died instead of my father! He died SAVING her from Entropy, saving you ALL. She feels guilty about losing my father... we both do, and I won’t let you slander my mother in such a manner when she has been through enough!”

“Everyone...” S12 started, standing as S8 too came to her feet. “Let us all calm down...”

“Your mother may feel guilty, but she is squandering and destroying this second chance she received from the man she loves by going down this path,” S8 snapped at him. Aries felt his fists tighten on the table. “She needs the reality to hit her. We need her, now more than ever, because right at this very moment her Throne is being seen as weak and incapable.”

Aries felt his jaw ache from the tension he felt at that moment in time. His eyes narrowed as he looked at S8, hands curling into even tighter fists. But her words rang truth, because he clearly shared her sentiment. His mother was grieving, yes, but his father would want her to keep going.

“We only want what is best for you,” The soft voice of S1 broke the awkward silence. “We have to call each other out for their failings, so we can all learn from each other to improve. I have seen Sagittarius call out S2 many times, as he has done the same for her. That way we can reach a compromise for the betterment of the Galaxy.”

“You talk of that,” Aries snapped. He didn’t mean to. “But have any of you actually spoke to my mother since the funeral? Because I know none of you have approached her. Given her any sort of compassion. You just ask and ask, expect my mother to give more. You argue this is a team, but you leave her in the dark as quickly as possible. I know the looks she gets, and the same for me. I know the whispers. I’m a half-breed, an Unnatural. And my mother has faced discrimination because of her nature. You all talk about how my mother is failing her duties, well, she should be allowed to grieve.”

“In a healthy manner that doesn’t go into destruction of herself and the rest of us,” S8 said, coldly. “You may be our Prince, but you are still relatively unknown to us all. You have not been raised in the Core, so you expect everything to be sunshine and gemstones, when it is darker. And you will be seen with discontent, and distrust. They may cheer for you, but they do so out of respect for your mother. A respect that is dwindling by the week as she sits and broods in her chambers!”

“Enough,” S6’s tone was enough to silence Aries before he could respond. “This meeting is concluded until cooler heads prevail. Leave, all of you, except for Prince Aries.”

S8 threw a distasteful look at Aries before following her colleagues. S1 gave a questioning look, but Aries didn’t look in her direction. He couldn’t...

“How are you doing?”

“Somewhat better,” Aries admitted. The pair were walking through the gemstone gardens, watching the repair work. “I am just concerned for my Mom.”

S1 rested her head on his arm, eyes saddened.

“She just needs time.”

“What is it, S6,” Aries was not in the mood to talk to the Star. He glanced at them, noting their look of disapproval.

“I understand that you are upset, angry, but you do not ever speak to another member of this Council in such a manner. I will deal with S8 personally, as per my duties, but you have placed me in a difficult position,” S6 said firmly. “You are new, I will let it slide. This once. But no more after this. Your outburst will have weakened your position, and that of your mother’s own, showing weakness in your persona. I would advise you to speak to your mother, and see if you can reach an understanding and do what you should have done, as your father once said to you when you confided in me.”

“And that is?”

“Talk,” S6’s tone hardened at the disrespect Aries gave him. “The two of you need to talk.” His expression sobered. “If anybody can get through to your mother, YOU can. I am expecting you to approach her in an appropriate manner: she needs reality to hit her. I cannot rule this entire Galaxy with a divided Council, a Prince who is untrained, and a Queen who has locked herself in her rooms for days. Sagittarius’ position is now very delicate, as is yours through her. One day, if Sagittarius passes before her time is due, you will be King. And you need to begin whatever training your mother has to offer... and listen to the Council we give you.”

A thoughtful expression came to S6.

“I actually may have an idea... but at present I will not venture down that route. Meanwhile, go speak to your mother. Take that animal with you. And once you leave that room...”

 His expression hardened.

“You will either leave as a Prince... or a King.”

Chapter Text

She lay there, weakened. Battered. Her hand clutched her face, where the crack was spreading across her beautiful features. Her eyes watched, as she lay helpless, as Entropy raised a hand to the statue of Electromagnetism. The only statue left. Once gone, she would be dead.

Her Core was slowing. She was tiring. Dying. Her form sank into the stonework, as Entropy’s hand started to slowly close into a fist.

“SAGITTARIUS!”

He was there. She could see him through the haze of her darkening vision. Her handsome husband as he barrelled into Entropy, breaking his concentration. S2 was beating at him, throwing his fists, before the Core flashed and a huge, powerful Flare erupted from his armoured hand.

A laugh.

That horrific laugh. As Entropy turned to S2.

The same laugh as his hand ripped out the Core.

S2’s face. His pained expression, his reaching hand to her as he was thrown to the side. His body broken.

The shattering pieces of the Core.

She screamed awake.

Sagittarius screamed as she sat up, frantically trying to get away from the image before falling out of bed. She clattered to the ground, wincing as she lay there, winded and bruised. Her tail panged with pain, reminding her of the break that has not quite fully healed. But she didn’t care. Sagittarius did not care at all about how she felt or what she looked like anymore.

She dragged herself up, looking at the golden cloak she had kept tightly wrapped and neat. Her hands trembled as she gathered it to her, pressing it to her chest over her beating Core. Desperate to cling onto what was left of her husband.

She began to weep.

Curling into a corner and sliding down, Sagittarius sank to the floor, her halo – as black as space – shimmering with her distress. Distorting. A reminder of her turbulent emotions, and how absolutely core-broken she was over everything.

When S2 was killed, she had not stopped crying. She couldn’t. As the Stars took him out, Sagittarius clung to her son, wailing. Unable to stand as her legs were numb. Aries had to get the aid of another Star to help her stand, before the pair half-walked, half-carried her out. Sagittarius wanted to die there and then from how much pain she felt. How much... it tore her.

Her hands had clung to Aries as they took her to her chambers, Sagittarius crying so much she had to throw up. Her chest was in agony, her body was numb, as though she could barely escape the sheer pain of the loss. They wouldn’t let her see S2 until he was more presentable, and Sagittarius refused to leave his side. Just crying into his chest, before begging him. Begging him to wake up, her hands cupping his face, pressing kisses on his lids and cheeks, whispering she had his child in her again. That he promised her. Promised they would be a family.

Sagittarius had only got him back. Only for him to be ripped away. She should have made Entropy suffer more. Sagittarius should have tortured him, until he died. For taking S2 away from her.

The Comets expressed their worries and concerns that her grief was becoming so great she would lose her child. So much they ended up sedated her with medication, taking her away from S2. Aries was there with her when she woke, and held her again. Whispering to her that they had to be strong, that she needed to be strong. Otherwise she would lose the baby.

It was then she realised how much Aries looked like his father. In that one moment. S2 had left her two parting gifts: their son, and now their future child. But... he left her alone. All alone again.

Forever.

And then Sagittarius lost S2 all over again. Permanently. No body to visit, to pay respects to, because she had to honour the culture of Stars. When a Star died, their atoms became part of the cosmos, but what was unusual was that S2 had given his space to Aries. This meant his Star was rejuvenated, the chance of him becoming a Red Giant slim, and he was a young Star now. Burning S2 was the only way for his atoms to reach the cosmos to birth new Stars. Not doing so meant that he may be stuck in Limbo, until his body returned to dust. Which could be... never.

She had said Aries and her would find a way, but they couldn’t. Afterwards, she had Aries presented as her son and Heir, sired by S2, to the Galaxy. But after that, the pain got too much. Not having S2 by her side in the first public appearance of their child was far too difficult for her to cope with.

So Sagittarius hid. Her mental health spiralled, and she started to ignore the hunger, everything else. Sagittarius had prayed to the Singularity to bring S2 back, only to wake and not see him. She stopped eating. Stopped bathing. Her Comets left her be, because their pleas fell on deaf ears.

They whispered that she would die if nothing changed soon. But Sagittarius welcomed death. At least she would be reunited with S2.

Her tail curled around her ankles as she huddled there, holding the cloak in her arms. Her chest was hurting. Worse than ever.

The door opened, and she winced at the sudden light. Her eyes focused on the figure in the doorway, and Sagittarius almost hissed until she saw who it was. For a moment, she saw his father, not her son. His expression was saddened, his tail flicking as he stared at her with eyes so much like her own, before walking to where she sat huddled on the ground. She didn’t know where he got the strength, but Aries scooped her up, taking her out her darkened prison for the first time in... weeks, she realised. Maybe months.

“Mom...” He whispered. His voice was gentle, as he carried her to the couch. Aries, with gentleness, rested Sagittarius down on the cushions, brushing back the now ruined black-grey hair. Her once beautiful hair was unwashed, no longer styled as she usually did. “Mom, please. We need to talk.”

Sagittarius curled into herself, ignoring her pounding core. Just holding S2’s old cloak, tears falling as she buried her face in it. She felt Aries grab her wrists, and she resisted – but with her dwindling strength she was forced to release it. Aries placed the cloak on the coffee table before her, and took her hands before she reached for it, trying to turn her focus back to him. Sagittarius rested her eyes on it instead, and then she felt his hand on her cheek, smoothing a thumb to wipe away her fresh tears.

“Mom, look at me.”

She couldn’t. Sagittarius would be reminded of her failure to ensure that Aries still had his father. At least if she died, Aries would be King, with his father guiding him. Fatherhood came so naturally to S2, what chance did she have?

“Mom,” His voice was firmer. Sagittarius winced. “Look. At. Me.”

She refused.

Aries gave a growl, so much like hers when she was annoyed. Her eyes, finally, turned to him. Her son was showing sadness, tears in his own eyes, as he looked at his mother with despair. She couldn’t help but lean into his hand as his thumb stroked more tears away.

“Mom... Dad, he wouldn’t want this.” She knew Aries was trying. He was always trying to speak to her. Every day he tried. “He would not want you to destroy yourself.”

Back to this... she heard it all before.

“I know you said I would not know what he wanted, but I know what he would say,” Aries gave a sniff. He was crying again. “He would want you to keep going. He told me to look after you, and I’m...” He was sobbing now. “I am failing you.”

This was new.

“No...” Her voice was hoarse after not speaking for so long. Sagittarius reached out and touched his cheek – the first time she willingly touched anybody else. Aries leaned into her hand, before coming closer to hols her. Sagittarius allowed it, her hands clenching his jacket.

“No, you never failed. I failed you. I failed to save your father, and left you without one. Both you and your sibling, and... and... I hate myself for it.”

“Mom,” Aries whispered, but she started shaking. A sob wracked her chest, increasing the pain all the more. Her body was going to fail, she could feel it.

“I failed you all, all three of you, and I am sorry,” Sagittarius sobbed. “I miss him so much. So much it hurts me. I am in pain all the time. I want him back, Aries... I want him back!”

Aries held her as she started wailing again. His hand soothed her back, his Core humming in her ears as her form shook in his arms. Her tail curled around her again, and she was aware that Aries’ own was curled too. Her son just held her for a few minutes, before finally pulling away to place his hands on her cheeks.

“Mom... remember what Dad... said...” He swallowed. “That day. Don’t blame yourself. He meant it for both of us. He does not want us to blame ourselves because we are not the ones responsible for his death. Entropy is.”

Sagittarius felt a deep anger rise, almost overrunning her own grief. Her tears slowed as anger gripped her features, her lip curling into a hiss. She was distinctly aware of another presence, a familiar shape pressing their head into her lap. Sagittarius placed a hand on it, just smoothing her thumb over the fur of Laika.

“He said you are stronger than you think, Mom,” Aries said softly. Her son was still crying. “And he is right. Because you have done things no other would ever survive. And I... I know you will get through this. We both will, if we do what he promised us both. That when this whole thing was over, we would talk. So, I am here. Keeping my side of the promise... and I need you to keep yours.”

Sagittarius raised her arm, wiping her sleeve over her eyes. She felt disgusting, but she still was in no mood for a wash. She just wanted to sleep, and hopefully, not wake up.

“Mom,” A pained expression came to Aries. It was as though he heard her thoughts. “I am not ready to be King.”

Her eyes looked at Aries, blinking.

“The way you are going, you are gonna die,” Aries continued. He looked at her halo, which was still distorting. “Your halo is changing. You are at a crossroads where one side is you coming back to me, doing what Dad requested. Not just surviving, but living. There is going to be difficult times, yes, but we will get through it together. We finally catch up, I finally get a Mom. And a little sibling.” His eyes returned to her. “Yes, I won’t have Dad, but I know he would be proud of us. Of you. Because you are living, and while it will hurt, you will remember him for how he was. How much you love each other, and cared so deeply for one another that you see only all the good times you had – even before the end.

“The other road...” His expression became saddened. “You continue this path. And lose not just Dad, but me too. The baby will die with you, and Dad’s sacrifice will be for nothing. I will be left with not just grieving Dad, but grieving you and my little sibling. And... I will be called King and... I am not ready for that! I don’t think I can survive that! I’ve already buried one parent and...” He was starting to shake. His Halo was shimmering, and Sagittarius clutched his hand. “I can’t bury you and my sibling too. I have no idea what I am doing! I am barely getting by myself, and I am struggling with my new powers and...”

“New powers?” That got Sagittarius’ attention. As well as the rest of it. But... powers? Did he not mean the Flares?

“I...” Aries swallowed. He looked at his lap. “I smashed a glass after levitating it. During the meeting. It was an accident, but... it isn’t the first time.”

Laika turned her head to Aries, licking his hands and pushing her nose into his palm. Aries scratched her ears, the Retriever leaning against his leg for the affectionate scratching he was giving her. Sagittarius looked at the Earthling, her mind and core racing. Her eyes soon focused back onto the cloak, before a sense of nostalgia came to her. She gave a light puff of air through her lips.

“I gave him that cloak.”

Aries’ ears, which had slumped, perked up.

“He had been elected, and I wove that cloak,” Sagittarius whispered. She took it, pressing a hand into the fabric. Still smooth, still soft. Even after her tears and everything else. “I wanted it to be a surprise, and when I decided it was time, I publicly dressed him with it. He thanked me so much in private, saying he felt as though he was appreciated. Respected. I already respected him, but the others... seeing that, they knew it was real, I guess?”

“What was he like, when he was younger?” Aries asked of her. A small smile touched Sagittarius’ lips, becoming fondness.

“Like you are now. We were both your age when it all started with the Council, and while the other S-Cluster Stars had not woken yet, we still had some Stars. Your father greeted them all, and they respected him because he respected them. It was not easy, the first few years, but it got better. I just never... pictured a life without having him here.”

“I know,” Aries whispered. Sagittarius rested her head against his shoulder, her hands just gentle against the cloak. “I remember you said it was then you fell in love. I could see why: he was a handsome man. Strong. Patient. And more... He held me when my Nuclear Fusion started, and for the first time ever in my life I felt... safe.”

Sagittarius felt a tender smile on her features. She could see why Aries was approaching this subject now. A sense of shame was within her, as though she realised just how little she had paid attention to her son since S2 died. How little she interacted with him, yet here he was every day for the last... few months... trying to help her. She had found him first, but he was the one saving her. From herself.

“And when he held us both, I think he knew... but he wanted us to know he would always be here, always making sure we are safe. Dad wanted us to live,” Aries covered his face. “Sometimes I wish it was me who died.”

Sagittarius started, and instantly grasped his hands, holding them in her own. Her thumbs smoothed the skin, before she whispered.

“No, you do not say that. Ever. Your father and I... we wanted you alive. And safe. You mean the world to us.”

“But I mean nothing to you,” Aries sobbed. Sagittarius recoiled at his words, as they struck a cord. “I know we should mourn Dad... but do you think he would want you sitting here, wasting away, or to keep fighting? What would he say to you, this very moment in time?”

Sagittarius chewed her lip. S2 would, probably, tell her off. Shake her into reality. He would give her his famous frown, and give her a harsh reality. Tough love. Tell her to keep going, to not give up. She has to care for their children.

Children...

Her hand touched her lower stomach, and for a moment she felt... a ghostly hand on her shoulder. A strength. A very familiar strength that she missed dearly.

“You mean the absolute Universe to me,” Sagittarius whispered.

“Then why are you not fighting?” Aries asked of her. His anger was starting to seep through. “I really needed you, Mom. Really needed you these last few months. I started doing these... things. I used gravity earlier in the chambers, and they asked if you were teaching me and I said no.”

“Aries...” Sagittarius cut in before he could finish. Her son paused, his eyes full of angry tears. “I am sorry I haven’t been here. You...” She took a deep breath. “You are right. I have clearly been so deep in my own self-loathing and pity that I haven’t managed to be a proper mother to you. And for that... I am so sorry.”

Her son looked away, but Sagittarius leaned forwards to press a hand on his own. Laika had turned to lie on the floor, her head on her paws, watching them intently.

“I just feel so much guilt, and anger, to myself,” Sagittarius continued. She could see Aries’ ears perk slightly but he didn’t look at her. “I wasted these last 3.5 billion years, a time I could have had you AND your father by me. Maybe more children. I spent so long wishing things were different.”

She stood, stepping around and sitting on the coffee table. To try and get her son to look at her. She needed to see his face, pressing her hands into his cheeks so that his eyes – so much like her own – gazed back. Almost like she was looking into her own being.

“Aries, I have failed you these last few months, and you are right. I have dishonoured your father’s final wish. He would want me to keep living, to raise you and your baby sibling, to create a new life with you both. And I know he would be proud of you today, for doing what I have failed to do, or should have done since day one of his passing. Be a Queen... and a mother.”

Aries pressed his forehead to hers, and Sagittarius embraced her son. Caressing his hair as he rested his head against her collar. How much he had grown since she first held him as a baby... so small in her arms. So perfect.

“Can you forgive me, Aries?”

He hesitated. But then he gave a nod against her collar, his hands clinging to her. Sagittarius soothed him with a hum, resting her cheek against his golden and black locks. Her boy was perfect, and she was failing him.

A gentle touch on her shoulder again. A warmth that was comforting.

Look at what we made together, S2.

“I think... there is a meeting in a few hours,” Sagittarius whispered. “I better eat and get dressed.”

Aries looked at her, surprised. She knew he was used to seeing how she was currently, and felt guilty for being how she was. Sagittarius should never have placed him in that situation because of how she was. He was still a child, and should not be forced to grow up. He needed to learn, to be taught by her. While the Stars would help, nobody but she could prepare him to encounter his other half.

“Do you...”

“I will bathe myself, if you ask them to get me sustenance. Ask them to get the high energy, so I can start sustaining myself and my inanimate form.”

Aries nodded, and Sagittarius walked slowly away, heading back to her bedroom. She stepped forth, opening her curtains to allow the cosmic glow in, before turning to face herself in the mirror. Yes... she was horrific. Her hair was matted, and needed a good wash, and her skin was awful. While she remained beautiful, she was not as she was.

Not yet.

Sagittarius turned to her bathroom. She had a lot of work to do. And after what seemed to be an hour, she emerged with a towel wrapped around her form to see two Comets waiting, holding... a familiar garment.

With her hair brushed through, they set to work. Sagittarius allowed them to dry her hair into the familiar locks and curls, pulling her fringe back to the style she was always known for. They placed her details on, carefully using the tribal ink notoriously used for black holes on her face, adding the spots and more, making her eyes glow all the brighter. Her wrap followed, and finally... the golden band for her tail. Sagittarius looked at it, a sad smile on her expression, before nodding. It clicked into place in its usual spot.

And she spotted Aries, holding it in his hands. Gentle.

Her hands reached out to the golden leaves, tracing to the front where the seal lay. A bow and arrow. Her private seal. How she had missed it these weeks.

“I feel like... I have stepped out from a nightmare.”

“And into something better?” Aries asked of her.

“Something better,” Sagittarius took the crown, lifting it up and onto her head once again. It seemed to warm with her touch, and she sighed in content as the familiarity of her appearance returned. Granted she was skinnier in the face, but she would regain her figure in time. Right now, she had more urgent matters to attend to. But first...

Sagittarius turned to her two female Comets. They had tears in their eyes. How worried must they have been, seeing her go down this path of destruction. So keen to end herself, and they wondered whether they would arrive to find her dead or alive.

She approached them both, and raised her arms, pulling the two into her embrace. The Comets started – the Queen never hugged her subjects- before returning it. They were crying openly now, apologising over and over again, that they should have done more. But Sagittarius told them they had done above and beyond what was expected. And she would ensure they were rewarded.

Laika stepped to Aries, and Sagittarius smiled as she reached down to stroke the Earthling as she wagged her tail happily.

“I am going to move my belongings here,” Aries whispered. “We are too far away from one another. We can be a proper family if I stay here... if you are okay with that?”

“My son... I would love it,” Sagittarius whispered. She took his arm, sweeping her navy wrap around to prevent her feet catching in the jewels and gemstones. “Now, let us have some sustenance and attend to the Council Meeting. Unless... you are content with me eating there?”

“I will ask them to place a plate out at the Meeting,” Aries then chuckled. “They will be confused but I imagine Lord S6 will understand instantly. Come on, Mom. Let’s make Dad proud.”

Sagittarius smiled sadly, pressing her head into his arm, relieved she at least had her child here. Aries hugged his mother, his chin on her head, before leading his mother to the door. Sagittarius paused, suddenly afraid, but at the comforting smile of her son, she found the strength needed.

Sagittarius glanced back as the Comets busied themselves, sorting the apartments. Making it more presentable for her when she would return. Her tail flicking, Sagittarius turned and stepped out, holding onto her son’s arm as she made her appearance into the corridor. She noted the glanced and whispers of those who passed, eyes wide and awed as they questioned each other whether that truly was Sagittarius walking among them. Or was it an imposter. Sagittarius did wince at some looks, which were unpleasant, and heard someone mutter “she finally shows herself”.

She paused when Aries took her to the Council Chambers, her bright eyes watching the ornate doors. Sagittarius could hear confusion wondering why food was out at the Queen’s chair.

Aries glanced at her, one questioning look in his expression. But Sagittarius was ready, giving a nod and turning her eyes to the doors as he stepped forth to open them. Her son’s tall form kept her hidden as the S-Cluster Stars, which had convened, stood instantly to welcome him. Before Aries side stepped to reveal Sagittarius behind him.

Shock drifted to the features. S6 had a wide smile, and looked unbothered. But the others instantly bowed their heads before coming to Sagittarius, desperate to ask her questions. If she was alright, if they could help, anything. Sagittarius did her best to reassure them, and noted her son was giving her a gentle smile, before walking to the chair that was her own, eyeing the food that had been placed out. A good meal for a Supermassive Black Hole, to help sustain them without consuming nearby Stars and Gases. She could recover with this.

“My Queen!” One of her Stars exclaimed. “You’re... back...”

“Back as can be, yes,” Sagittarius eyed the Councillors, noting Aries was walking to his seat to stand, waiting for her go ahead. All of them were looking at her, waiting for the go ahead to sit so their meeting could begin.

Sagittarius sat down, pulling her wrap out to ensure she would not get it caught. Her tail flicked by her side as she leaned forwards to begin taking pieces of her food. The taste was amazing, and she started to eat a bit quicker. Her Core ached, her Halo distorting before solidifying as the sustenance began its work to rebuild her strength. The taste and feeling was... incredible.

“What updates do you have over the hunt for Entropy?” Sagittarius turned her voice to one of business. Commanding. “And the traitors. There are two S-Cluster Stars in the cells below, two banished, and one has escaped. Which one has fled like a coward?”

“S21 has fled, My Queen,” S27 stated. “She escaped during the presentation, after which the Gateways were closed. We have received messages from the Northern and Western Spirals and Arms that there is no sign of Entropy in their sectors. However...” They hesitated. “The Southern and Eastern sides have not responded.”

“The Southern and Eastern sides are usually slower with responses due to the population of Stars,” Sagittarius stated. “I can send out Pulses to hurry them up, but I cannot do that all the time in case it disrupts the orbits of the Northern and Western Sectors. I want them pushed, Councillors. I want that information.”

S8 gave a frown, but Sagittarius ignored her. She turned her eyes to S12 and S13, aware of everything the pair had been going through. Ever since S14 had passed away, the pair had been struggling, and S14’s sole planet was having issues adjusting to their new norm.

“And you two? How are you feeling?”

“Coping, my Queen. It will take a while...” S12 started but then S8 stood. The Star burned with an anger in her expression as she regarded the Queen. Sagittarius frowned, leaning back in her chair as her hands paused in splitting the ornate biscuits.

“How dare you...” S8 snapped. “How dare you waltz back into these chambers after months of seclusion, and think you can dictate us? Demand answers, demand us to act when we have not had any leadership from you... OUR QUEEN... for months!”

Aries made to stand, but Sagittarius raised a hand, telling him to silently sit down. Aries slid back down, his eyes on his mother, as Sagittarius stood herself to face S8.

“Whatever grievance you have, S8, voice it. Now.”

“You ABANDONED us!” S8 said, her voice shaking. “You hid away in your chambers, and left us to try and manage YOUR Galaxy! We are about to enter an Uprising due to YOUR actions, and you think waltzing back into these chambers is going to sort these issues out?!”

“S8...” S6 started, but Sagittarius gave him a look that quietened her Head of the Council. The Queen turned her eyes back to S8, a sadness coming to her.

“For that, I am sorry,” Sagittarius said softly. “I was lost these last few months. Very lost. But my son, Prince Aries...” She looked at him with a smile. “He brought me back out the darkness and into the light. He reminded me of my purpose, which I had lost. And it is because of him I still stand before you today. I wanted to end it all, and I would have done, had Aries not made me see the light.”

Her hand found her son’s own, and she gave an affectionate smile to him. Her eyes returned back to S8, noting the tears falling from the Star’s eyes. Sagittarius felt sorry that she did not do what was even the basic duties belonging to her.

“The hunt for Entropy has begun, but it is time to step it up,” Sagittarius turned back to the other Stars as she sat back down. She returned to her meal. “I want each system who has had interactions with the traitorous S-Cluster Stars named and their Stars questioned. Any found to have information will give it.

“As for the Gateways, they will remain closed until further notice and will only be opened by myself or Lord S6. His supporters will have been given another mission to conduct as he recovers. We need to locate Entropy and his supporters before they act on whatever this plan is.”

“Revenge is a good motivator,” S13 growled. “They may target you if they rebuild their armies, and will try assassination attempts against you and Prince Aries.”

Target... Sagittarius felt a frown. It was becoming clear now. S21 had left to find Entropy, had probably jumped several systems. She could be anywhere, but if Sagittarius knew one thing for sure, S21 would be seeking out Entropy. And fortunately, there was a way to tag her.

“What news from the Shadows?”

The Stars looked uncomfortable at her statement. Sagittarius inhaled, her jaw setting, and her tail flicking at the end with her displeasure.

“After all this time, with me as your Queen, you still see my kind as lesser beings... Very well, I will speak to the Shadow Council and see what they say...”

“I can do that,” Aries interjected. Sagittarius glanced at him, unsure. While Aries was a half-supermassive black hole, he was still part-Star. And Stars and Black Holes remained very much hateful of each other. They may not give Aries any time if they only saw his Halo.

“Prince Aries, they may not be accepting of you,” S1 said softly. Sagittarius noted a look between them. Interesting... “While you are only half-star, they may not acknowledge you. You have a Star Halo, a Star appearance, to them you may be a Star. But...” She sighed. “I may have a contact which can help get you in touch with the Shadow council.”

“They are of a Hive Mind with me,” Sagittarius stated. “But after the Predator invaded, they may have been driven underground. If you wish to go to them, you will need schooled on their culture and ideas, and you need to prove you are my son... I will teach you the Forces after this meeting.”

Aries brightened, but Sagittarius raised a hand.

“Provided you understand that using them will be a last resort. The more you use them, the higher chance you will be discovered by Entropy. They are for yours and S1’s defence only. I do not want you using them for any other purpose.”

“I understand Mo- My Queen,” Aries swiftly corrected himself.

“And with luck, we might get information about where S21 is heading,” S1 said happily. “But while we are away we might not be in contact with you... how will we know any important updates?”

“You will need a base of operations,” S12 said softly. “A system to call home while you conduct your research. If I may, my Queen, while you were... in isolation... I received word from Saturn of the Orion’s Arm, sharing concern about Lord Helios since the attempt on his life. Querying about supplies to heal the Star. This presents an opportunity, as if Entropy turns his focus back to the First, we at least have the Prince and S1 present. If not, they may act as a deterrent, should S21 decide to handle the matter herself.”

“I do not think Entropy would...” S22 started but S19 interrupted.

“I believe he would. The First’s System has a weakened Star, which means he is ripe for the taking. Having Prince Aries and S1 there may provide much needed backing. And if Entropy arrives, we would supply aid.” Their dark eyes looked to Sagittarius. “The Planet Saturn has requested these supplies twice, and it seems Lord Helios’ strength is taking too long to rebuild. We have requested Proxima, Rigil, and Tolimon to be a jumping point, which they accepted. Proxima stated she may accompany the Prince and S1 to the Solar System to help with any boosted defences.”

“Proxima cannot leave her System for prolonged periods,” Sagittarius said firmly. “She is aware she will have a time limit to her attendance in the System?”

“She is aware of the risks of Gravity Quakes, the destruction of the Planets, and herself being consumed, yes,” S19 said softly. “She will not stay longer than the required time of three days, per their World of Life.”

Sagittarius wondered how Earth was getting on. Since he found his place as a Healer, rather than a Warrior, a part of her hoped he wasn’t expending so much energy healing Helios. She had a fondness for the planet.

“Perfect. Then we have a plan in motion,” S6 said, entering the discussion. “My Queen we also have other matters to attend to between us, concerning the Core and rebuilding. But this can be discussed at a later date, as this was more important.”

“Extremely,” Sagittarius corrected. “S8, you are able to manage the Gateway for the Orion’s Arm this time around?”

The Star was surprised, but a proud smile came to her features.

“I am, My Queen. Thank you.”

“Good. I also need you to question the two Traitors downstairs. We need more information,” Sagittarius stood, her plate now empty. And she felt fuller. Positive. “Use your... imagination. Aries, S1, please stay behind. The rest of you... dismissed.”

The other Stars stood, bowing their heads, before vacating slowly. Sagittarius waited for them to go, before seating herself down, waving a hand at the chair to her right for S1 to join her. The young Star hesitated but eventually approached, sitting down opposite Aries, keeping her eyes on the Queen.

“You know the Shadow Council,” Sagittarius said to her. “You know their customs and ideas... but what you DON’T know is that they have a new leader. I want you to pass another message to her for me.”

“My Queen?” S1 asked, her eyes widening.

“Gaia is a very particular individual, but I am aiming for them to have a representation in my Council,” Sagittarius placed her palm flat on the table. “I want this... disunity between Stars and Black Holes to end: one cannot exist without the other, and neither should be better or worse. While it is an Absolute for a Supermassive Black Hole to rule the Galaxy, I cannot ignore the actions towards others of my kind. Nor can I ignore the actions towards Stars from black holes. I want Gaia to be here by the Year End, to discuss with me and S6, over them formally becoming recognised individuals in my Galaxy. I want you to ensure that Gaia is aware of this.”

“I will, my Queen,” S1 stated.

“You will also need to prepare Aries in the customs,” Sagittarius looked at her son. “I have not met with Gaia for many years, and I do not want Aries to meet her unprepared. School him.”

S1 gave a tilt of her head, before standing. Sagittarius saw a shadow of a smile as the Star looked at Aries, before she exited the chambers to prepare the reading material. Sagittarius tilted her brow at Aries, a half-smile appearing.

“So... how long?”

“Mom!” Aries stammered, shaking his head quickly. “It’s not... like that... at least, I don’t think so? I mean...”

“I am not angry,” Sagittarius admitted. Slightly saddened, I am a new widow, and my son has found love. “Why did you not tell me...?”

She knew the answer before it was said, and held a hand to stop Aries speaking. Sagittarius felt saddened that Aries had to, once again, put his life on hold to tend to hide grief stricken mother. To prevent Sagittarius feeling worse... that her son found someone he cared for deeply.

“You are of the same age, it will come easily,” Sagittarius said, smiling at her blushing son. “But Aries, while you are on this mission, the two of you MUST keep any feelings at bay. In this mission, you are Prince and Lady of the Council. While S1 is a formidable Star, if these enemies sniff a possible weakness they will use it against you.” Like your father for me. “You need to keep your wits about you. Do you understand me?”

“Yes, I do,” Aries said softly. “Thank you, mother.”

“Always,” Sagittarius said. She leaned back, placing a goblet before Aries. “Now, I believe it is time. What can you tell me of the Fundamental Forces?”

Chapter Text

The Solar System was quiet. Too quiet. And he hated it. He hated all of this. He hated that he did nothing to protect himself.

The Sun’s back was to them all, but Saturn was aware of the smallest of shaking. The Sun had been quiet since Jupiter left and had refused to watch him go. After barking, they were to get to orbit, but the Sun had turned around and refused to look at any of them. The betrayal from perhaps his oldest friend was too great for the Star to comprehend. And what was worse, Saturn allowed Jupiter to take full responsibility. Jupiter was determined to protect Saturn even then, much like he had protected the entirety of the Solar System.

Saturn looked at the new occupant in Jupiter’s orbit. Planet X was relaxing, a smirk on his face as he sat in the Protector’s orbit. Jupiter’s moons were getting used to the new planet, and Saturn had heard snippets about his moons from them that some were struggling to adapt to the new planet. They were so used to Jupiter and his presence that this one was far too strange. Most of Jupiter’s moons had ventured closer to Saturn for some comfort or familiarity. Especially the little ones.

Saturn glanced back at the Sun. He had skipped another healing session, and Saturn was getting too concerned. He managed to corner a Comet and ask for them to send a message to the Core for supplies to heal a Star. The injuries were horrific, and the encounter with an Alien Black Hole had dampened the Star further. So, Saturn hoped that the Core would send further aid.

“Saturn?”

He snapped out of his anxiety-induced thoughts, turning to look at his many moons. Enceladus had come forth, the usually frosty moon holding concern as the others all turned to face Saturn with worry. His largest moon, Titan, had left to go and visit Luna, leaving only Saturn to deal with things. And he was scared he would frighten off his moons again.

When he returned from the events on Earth’s surface, Saturn scrambled to find and locate all his moons. They were hiding in the Belt, with the younger ones crying because they said that Saturn had started to drift outwards. They were scared. And worse, Uranus was heading to Saturn, causing the moons of Uranus to also panic. The Sun had been convulsing, and Jupiter was starting to pull the Belt towards him. They thought they were going to die. Saturn thought he was going to die. He had clung to Jupiter so tightly as he held Earth, the Sun wrapping his protective embrace around them as the shadows readied to engulf them and the remaining humans.

Only for it to... stop. The shadows died.

And their orbits stabilised. Saturn wanted to hug all his moons to him, seeing them all crying and so upset. The Ringed Planet saw Jupiter was doing the same, but Saturn noted the Sun was in pain in his orbit. The huge Celestial was drifting between consciousness and sleep, and Saturn was instantly going to him. It took all his – and Jupiter’s – effort to convince Sun to sleep. The Star rarely slept. He has been a constant watch over his worlds.

So, when the Star finally fell to sleep, Saturn relaxed. Jupiter was worried as he and Saturn returned home to their orbits, relieved when they saw the Rocky Planets waking up themselves. Saturn, once past the belt, made his way to the Ice Giants next. Uranus and Neptune were together, Neptune sleeping on his tilt, a deep scar in his surface. Angry and purple. Uranus was in no better state. His upper half had a long gash. Their moons were panicking, wondering what had happened. Titania, who was studying healing herself, was trying to calm her fellow moons down. Triton was on guard by Neptune, keeping an eye on the younger moons.

Uranus was glad Saturn was there, but stated they were fine. They needed rest. Saturn swore to visit them again to check their healing progress. Fortunately, the gashes had left them. But Saturn didn’t know how they would cope mentally.

So, he started his arduous task of mending the Star. While in his Planetary Form, the Sun could rest and recuperate, but he still needed tending to. Saturn had entered his Star’s mindscape many times to heal him, but it was slow progress. And it was tiring Saturn, causing him to snap at others. But what he was relieved about was the presence of his newest student.

Earth.

When Earth unlocked his healing abilities, Saturn saw his interest increase. Earth had originally scoffed at the idea of him learning to heal, but now he had found something he was good at, something that nobody made him aware of weakness... he was thriving. While he did learn combat, he now preferred to read the books relating to healing. Saturn was proud of the progress made by Earth in the last few weeks. He had healed Venus’ face, soothed Mercury’s wings, and had helped give some cooling salves to Jupiter after his encounter with the black hole.

Things had been going so well. Until... that day...

Now he has lost him. He lost Jupiter. His best friend... and more.

“Saturn?”

He turned his eyes back to his moon, giving a comforting smile. Enceladus was looking worried, as were Rhea and Dione, as they approached. Tears threatened to escape from Saturn, but he turned away, not wanting his moons to see them. He had to be strong for the little ones. Jupiter would want that.

“Saturn...?” Rhea asked of him. “It is okay to cry. We are here for you. Let us help you.”

“Thank you, my lovely moons,” Saturn whispered. “But it will take me time. To come to terms with things. Having you all here is comfort enough. I care so deeply for you all... I do not know where I would be without you.”

“Oh, Saturn...” Tethys said sadly. His moons gave comforting smiles, coming closer but not too close. Their presence was a comfort to him. Had he been in his humanoid form, he would have hugged them all. “You know we are here. I know it's been a long journey, but... we are better for it.”

“Sorry to intrude,” Saturn felt a touch of care rise as he recognised the voice. “Saturn, you have a visitor.”

Saturn turned his eyes to Titan, his largest moon. Titan had a smaller moon by his side, patched grey and dark, with craters. He recognised them as Luna, Earth’s moon. Why was he so far away from his host planet, his brother? Had something happened?

“Luna? You are far from home, my little friend!”

“I am sorry,” Luna said, his nasally voice full of apology. He tilted in respect. “I was asked to come see you by Earth.”

Oh? Was Earth hurt? Or did something else happen? Saturn felt a fond memory rise as he remembered that Earth bore the Rope, before all the fighting and death. Earth was the Custodian of the Inner System now, and Saturn supposed he had to act like one now that Jupiter was gone. Saturn had always assumed he would take the role as the next biggest planet, and the second oldest. Sun never corrected him otherwise.

“Is anything the matter, my friend?”

“No, just that... Sun spoke to Earth and has requested a healing session,” Luna said softly. “With you and Earth. If that is... okay?”

“Absolutely, but I am still waiting for resources from the Core,” Saturn glanced into the darkness of Space. He had sent a message to the Core a few days ago, and now he was waiting for news. He had to treat the Sun with what he had, it seemed. “But if Sun feels he can manage a basic healing, then I do not mind trying. Earth will have better luck than I will anyway.”

He turned to face the Inner System, eyeing the Star. Sun was looking somewhat uncomfortable, so it was clear he needed something done to ease his discomfort. Saturn didn’t know what other options he and Earth had, since the Star was reliant on them. So, he had no choice but to act.

“I will go speak to Sun during our scheduled Custodian meeting, see what needs to be done before our healing session. I’ll collect Earth as I pass, provided we don’t go too far out of his orbit: I don’t want his precious little Earthlings to be incinerated by getting too close. Lead me on, Luna.”

His moons moved out of his way to allow the Ringed Giant to head slowly inside the System. Saturn felt his anxiety creep upwards as he approached Jupiter’s - he corrected himself to X at that – orbit, noting the dark blue Ice Giant turned at the ripples on his orbit. Saturn felt himself hurry further, almost swallowing Luna, had the moon not moved rapidly to escape him, desperate to keep as far away from X as possible. The Ice Giant gained a sneer, but Saturn was already through into the asteroid belt before any words were spoken. But Saturn knew there would be a talk at some point between the pair of them. He knew that Planet X would not be willing to let Saturn go freely, and Saturn knew his days would be numbered. He was at the mercy of Planet X, and his willing to let him stay. But X knew now that Saturn would keep quiet and do what he was told; otherwise, X would reveal more to the Sun.

And Saturn knew Helios could not bear any more heartbreak after Jupiter.

Mars was quiet in his orbit, only sparing him a glance before turning back to staring at nothing. Saturn didn’t need to ask what was going through that little Red Planet’s mind, because it was clear that Mars was still feeling betrayed that the one planet he looked up at was responsible for so much destruction. The death of his fellow Rocky Planets. Even Saturn was looked at differently by everyone, as he was Jupiter’s closest friend... and more. They wondered how much he knew. But then they may see him as absent-minded Saturn, who forgot the names of his moons and the details of the others.

Mars moved away rapidly, and Saturn would wince if he wasn’t already uptight. Yes, it was very much fractured, it seemed. Any relationship they would have had between the Rockies and Giants was destroyed thanks to Planet X. It would take a miracle to fix, and time they did not have. But as he found himself entering Earth’s orbit, Saturn saw Luna slow as he approached the Living World with eagerness. Saturn felt himself somewhat relaxed at seeing Earth smile at him and felt the comforting pulse from the Living World. Despite everything that had happened in the last eight months, Earth was still somewhat positive. Saturn wished he had that positivity. He wished for a lot of things.

“Hello, Saturn!” Earth greeted the Ringed Giant. “How are you? The sun wants to meet us. It is my first Custodian meeting, and I have no idea what to expect! But I think he wants to...”

“Take a breath, Earth,” Luna said, a smile appearing on the moon’s face. The moon turned to look at Saturn, and again the Ringed Planet was aware of his size and strength in that moment. “He has been stressing for a while about this. Do I need to come along?”

“I do not see why not, my monochromatic friend,” Saturn said gently. “You ARE his moon and vital to his tilt and more. Plus, having you might be beneficial to us both, dear Luna. You are a strong speaker for the moons, and you being there at the meeting will help fix some mistakes that have been made.”

“I wish I could fix... all of them,” Luna said sadly. He tilted downwards, and Earth gave him a saddened look. Saturn could feel a gentle hum from Earth’s Core, a soothing presence. So much... like her own. His best student.

‘He takes after Theia. More these days. Ever since he learned to heal, he seemed to have... found his place in the Universe, even if he loses his Life, he will always have that talent.’

Jupiter’s words rumbled in his mind, and Saturn was forced to push them back. He could not afford to be upset anymore. He had to be strong for everyone. He was the biggest planet now; he had to safeguard the little ones.

“We have a meeting, my little pebbles,” Saturn said gently. “Come, follow. Earth, you will be fine. I and your moon will be by your side. Do not let the Sun push you around, Earth. Besides, he owes you his life for healing him. I do not think he will dismiss anything you have to say.”

Saturn gently guided Earth and Luna towards the Sun, but no further than the edge of the Goldilocks Zone. He knew it would be difficult for Earth to attend meetings, but the Sun had to save what energy it had and not expend it for mindscapes. Helios needed every drop of his energy to recover, and Saturn could not exert his influence on the Star. Helios was much stronger and harder to accommodate. Planets could only accommodate those of similar size and below, but Stars had much higher energy and strength to accommodate their system. Unless a Galaxy-scape was open, they had to rely on Helios for a System-scape.

Helios turned his burning eyes to the pair, noting Luna by Earth’s side. The Star still looked somewhat uncomfortable, and Saturn could see the rippling surface, more turbulent than usual. He did not need to guess why: he could see it. Saturn could trace the deep red gashes on the Sun’s form, transferred from his humanoid appearance. The wounds would not fully heal, Saturn feared, and even less so if the Sun continued to refuse healing. Saturn hoped he would snap out of it, but Jupiter’s actions had cut very deep. Yet Saturn knew that if Jupiter were here, Helios would most definitely be more willing to listen and allow healing. As his eyes scanned the gashes, Saturn tried to think of further treatments when Helios finally spoke.

“Welcome, my Custodians. I am hoping we address some important matters today concerning an urgent message I received from the Core. You see...”

“Before we begin, Sun,” A sudden deep voice sounded from behind Saturn. Saturn felt his Core freeze as he turned around to face the owner. “I have to inquire why Saturn and the Earth’s moon are in attendance at this meeting.”

“X!” Helios said, a hiss escaping the Star. Saturn could see the Star convulse slightly, concern rising more for Helios than for himself. Sun was in no fit state to handle confrontation otherwise... why would X be here? “This is a private discussion between me and the Custodians. Luna is present as a representative chosen by the Moon Club to voice grievances and improvements and is here at my request.”

“Yes, this is a meeting for the Custodians... which is why I am asking why Saturn is present at this meeting?” X shot a cold look at Saturn. Saturn flinched under the gaze, a coldness spreading up his Core as he recoiled from the gaze of the Dark Blue Ice Giant. He had remembered how kind and gentle X was before... that day. Now this was a vengeful planet that deemed revenge as his only course.

And again, Saturn was at his mercy.

“Saturn is the Custodian of the Mid and Outer System,” Helios said with a bite to his voice. “He is here representing you and the other worlds...”

“Is he now? I never knew this,” X drawled. His eyes scanned Luna and Earth, the moon wasting no time in coming before his brother to shield from the gaze. “Which is why I am confused. You see, my Star, I was given Jupiter’s orbit, moons and responsibilities. You said so yourself when he was banished. So, my Star, why is Saturn here if I am the Custodian?”

Earth looked increasingly uncomfortable at the discussion, Luna sparing a glance between his world and that of the Star. Saturn felt his anxiety peak, and he averted his eyes, looking away from X and the others. He truly did not know what to do, what he could do. X brought up a very valid point, and Saturn always assumed... but the Sun never corrected him. Never said otherwise or confirmed whether Saturn was or was not the Custodian.

X got closer, looking at Saturn over his rings. The proximity caused his gravity to shudder with warning, Saturn taking a move back to prevent any possible hits or attacks. He had no intention of fighting X, not now. And he needed to remain in the System to help Sun, because if he lashed out before the Star... that was exactly what would happen. His Star would banish him with Jupiter.

“S-Sun?” Saturn glanced at the Star. “If... if this is true, I can step down. Planet X is right: if he has taken Jupiter’s responsibilities, it is only natural for him to be the Custodian too. I... I am sorry if I assumed otherwise.”

“Saturn...” Earth started, with distress on his features. He didn’t want the Ringed Giant to leave, Saturn could tell. He was already nervous, and Planet X could overshadow everything he could say. “Please... Sun, he has to stay!”

“No, he doesn’t,” X chided. “This is a Custodian meeting, and he is not a Custodian. I am happy to allow your moon in as he was requested by the Sun to be part of the discussion as the moon representative, but I will not tolerate another planet that is not invited or a Custodian to be allowed in either.”

“B-But...”

“X is right, Earth,” Saturn could hear the tiredness in the voice of the Star. X looked smug, his dark eyes turning to the Star as Sun addressed them all. Saturn could finally see how worn down the Star was, how tired he was becoming. “While Saturn is the eldest planet and the largest in the System at this moment, Jupiter made it clear before he left that X would take his orbit, moons and responsibilities. I cannot argue with that, as you know. You were an elected Custodian by your fellow Rocky Planets, and Jupiter elected X to take over your role.”

The Star looked at Saturn with an apology in his eyes, but Saturn did not blame the Star for the impossible situation he had been placed in. X was charming and malicious and had the upper hand in the discussions. Nothing Saturn could say or do would change the outcome, and Sun would have a full revolution if others disagreed with his decision to ignore X. Sun was still too weak to handle basic duties, let alone that.

“We got too close to lose him, Saturn,” Jupiter said tiredly. They have moved Sun to a private room and have eased the Star onto a table with pillows and blankets to keep him as comfortable as possible. “We must protect him. Especially as he recovers.”

“I know, Jupes,” Saturn pressed the taping for a bandage down on Helios’ hand. He had broken down one arm, and while Earth had healed the worst of his injuries, others remained. “But... I do not know what strength I have. I am not like you. You always were stronger of the two of us, a Protector.”

He felt Jupiter’s hands on his shoulders, and Saturn hugged him instantly. Saturn always felt safe with Jupiter, always knew he could rely on him for anything and everything. Jupiter never let anybody down since... that...

“You are stronger than you think, Saturn. Have faith in yourself.”

“No,” Saturn said softly. “I understand. This is not your fault, Sun: you do not write the rules. But... Planet X is right: I have no authority here, as Jupiter gave his title to him. It is only fitting I do as you command.”

“Saturn...” Earth sounded small. The Ringed Giant looked at him sadly, giving him a gentle smile as he sent a comforting nudge to the living world. “Don’t go...”

“I am sorry, Earth. I cannot be here,” Saturn eyed Luna, hoping the moon got his message he was sending him. Luna inhaled before giving a gentle nod himself to let Saturn know he would be here. “I have other duties to attend to. And to prepare for the mindscape.” Saturn turned his eyes to the Sun. “I will see you when you are ready, Sun.”

“Saturn...” The Sun started, but he had already moved away. Saturn didn’t look at X as he left, because he knew he would only see one expression, and that was smugness. His anxiety started to diminish as he got further away from the large Ice Giant, and he ignored Mars as suspicion came his way again. He knew Mars had an inkling of what happened, if his comment about Jupiter not being the only one was any indication. Mars was smart; he never missed things. He worshipped Jupiter, and that trust was now badly damaged.

Now settling back to his orbit, Saturn allowed himself to relax. His moons began positioning themselves around his form, his shepherd moons beginning their work in maintaining his rings. He could see the worry of his major moons as they looked over at him, but Saturn did not want to speak or mention any further issues he was having. Instead, he manifested his notepad and began rehearsing the names again, but this time had noted down additional facts, so he knew more about them. He felt a niggling feeling in his Core, and struggled to resist the urge to sleep, closing his eyes as he tried to think over the facts of his Major Moons...

Only to wake suddenly, feeling restricted to a spine and legs, falling onto the pathway of the System mindscape. He winced at his feathered tail, checking the golden fur before his feline eyes twitched as the gravel crunched. Saturn turned his golden eyes to see one of the Comets approaching, wearing a seal on his collar that bore the Bow and Arrow of their Queen. No wonder he was able to be pulled into the mindscape.

“Saturn?” The Comet asked, the Ringed giving a tilt of his head to acknowledge the request for identification. “I bring news from the Core, the High Council, to be exact. I believe you requested supplies for your Star, and I have arrived to inform you that Lord S6 has accepted the request. And...” They reached into their pocket, pulling out an envelope that bore slanted writing. And sealed by the familiar print.

“Many thanks, when will said supplies arrive?” Saturn asked of them. His eyes scrutinised the letter and writing, trying to identify it. But his mind came up blank, which was making his already frayed nerves worse.

“In twenty-four to thirty-six hours, as per your World of Life. I also must inform you that it will be accompanied by three others. Two of them will be joining from the Core itself, and another from the Proxima Centauri System: Proxima herself will be accompanying the pair from the Core with Lords Rigil and Tolimon managing in her absence.”

Saturn winced. Having a Star enter the System would be problematic, especially a Red Dwarf. S2’s arrival had caused a quake, but he was not as violent as Red Dwarves with his flares. And they had the luxury of Sagittarius being forced to expand her influence to allow the Stars to venture. Plus, the power of an S-Cluster Star was great and could be a barrier. They were relatively unknown in their powers.

“I will alert Helios, so he is prepared. And who are the two coming from the Core?”

“I cannot say.”

The Comet was unwilling to tell him? Very well. Saturn would not press him. But their eyes darted at the letter, and Saturn knew the answers would be within. Whoever was coming could not be revealed loudly in case of prying eyes and ears. Which made Saturn wonder if they were of high authority. Perhaps another S-Cluster?

“Please pass my gratitude to the Core. I will alert Helios: should he view this letter?”

“It is addressed to you, Jupiter, and Lord Helios, and is for your eyes only,” The Comet tilted their head, and Saturn replicated the action. “Long live the Queen.”

“May she live long,” Saturn watched them go before carefully breaking the seal. His golden eyes scanned the words eagerly, causing a jolt in his Core as he did so.

Lords Helios, Jupiter, and Saturn,

I hope this letter finds you all well. I have requested that this be delivered to you in secrecy, for fear of who may be watching.

By the time this letter is read, the ambassadors from the Core will have crossed into the Arms of Orion with the supplies that have been requested. To ensure little attention, they will be disguised and travel as wandering exoplanets. Their mission is important to the survival of the Milky Way, as they continue the hunt for the enemy. They will explain the details of this in person to yourselves. To give added protection, Proxima Centauri will also be accompanying them. We will require one of your worlds to greet them and escort them into the System.

One of the Stars will be S1, our Junior member of the Council, who has a talent in Star Healing and will be there to aid you in Lord Helios. The other... will be of high value, and his identity must be kept secret until he is secured in your compound.

Saturn felt his Core race at the possible third. He knew instantly. No wonder the comet wanted to deliver this personally, and to him only.

As you know, the Ram has an interest in one of your worlds that he calls his friend. I trust you will protect him; otherwise, I am sure the Queen will not hesitate to be hungry for once.

By the Singularity,

High Lord S6.

Chapter Text

Earth watched from where he hovered, shaking slightly. The golden-white form of Saturn with his magnificent rings began to shrink as he moved away, heading back to the asteroid belt and beyond. Earth wanted to call out to him, to get the Gas Giant to stay, that he wanted him there. He needed him here. For his first Custodian meeting, he wanted Saturn to be there. Jupiter wasn’t...

It was not fair.

Earth turned his eyes to Luna, who gave him an equally worried gaze. His moon came closer to give further protection as the dark blue Ice Giant came closer, coming beside Earth and almost shadowing the Living World in the darkness he sent. Earth gazed up at Planet X as the Ice Giant gave a comforting smile as he gazed down at Earth, and Luna gave a curl of his mouth as he came before Earth. Shielding him.

“Relax,” The deep voice was soothing compared to the previous experience. “I am just curious over the Earthlings. I see in the darkness there seems to be... stars of some kind?”

“They’re cities,” Earth said, keeping his voice level. X seemed to tilt in curiosity, peering closer at the surface and causing Earth’s gravity proximity to shake in warning. He was sure his Earthlings were panicking upon seeing a large Ice Giant in the skies, and he didn’t feel comfortable as his tides seem to struggle against the onslaught. “Can you back up, please?”

Planet X gave a roll of his eyes before pulling away, turning his sights back onto the Sun. The Star seemed to be contemplating something, his eyes following Saturn as the Gas Giant left them Whatever the Star was thinking though wasn’t important, as he turned his attention back to the two planets and moon that was before him. Earth could sense the Sun was tiring: ever since he unlocked his healing talent, Earth was noticing more and more a lot of things he didn’t. Saturn had stated he would feel conditions, pulses, and he was right. Earth could feel the energy, the life force, of others. He never noticed until now.

“Very well. It is time we begin,” Sun turned his eyes back to Luna. “Dear Luna, do you have anything to report from the moons? Last I spoke to Titan, the moons were making slow but positive progress.”

Luna moved from between X and Earth, his eyes turning upwards so he could address Sun better. The Star angled himself downwards so that Luna was within his sights, hoping his sheer size would not intimidate the moon. But Earth knew that Luna would not feel intimidated at all by the Star. Luna was stronger than him. He was not a weak moon. His brother was better than he was.

“Yes, Sun! Progress remains slow with the Ice Giant moons,” Luna tilted slightly to the right. Earth could see a thoughtful look on his features. “Neptune has made efforts with his own moons but his major moon and him have issues. Triton has always been a fiercely independent moon though, and he does leave on occasion to hang around with the Dwarf Planets. Proteus is often left to care for the other moonlets, because of Neptune disappearing. They are concerned his orbit is becoming more volatile: they are left pretty much by themselves.”

Earth contemplated this. The Ice Giants were aloof, pretty solitary. Whenever Venus or Mars spoke about meetings with Jupiter, the Gas Giant always listened to their concerns about how distant the Ice Giants were becoming. Neptune had issues with his memory and more, and Uranus was clearly lonely and desperate for help. Earth had spoken to Mars in preparation for this meeting, and was warned uncomfortable truths are usually spoken.

“Titania has also voiced her concerns about Uranus,” Luna was saying. “She says that Uranus is very much separate from them now, and they are worried in the Uranian System that the joke Uranus had poorly stated has caused irreparable damage to their bond with him. Titania said it is very difficult to speak with Uranus.”

“I see,” Sun paused, his features searching.

“Maybe it would be an idea to help integrate the Ice Giants better into Solar System activities,” X drawled. Earth felt out of place, unsure what to say or do. “They are very much out the way. Had I been in my old orbit, Uranus would be in Neptune’s spot and Neptune pass the Kuiper Belt. They are rarely noticed by the Inner System and the Mid System.” His eyes looked at Earth distastefully. “Which is problematic as they are left to survive whereas the Inner and Mid Systems continue to be held the priority.”

“The Ice Giants cannot venture too close due to their composition,” Sun stated. “Neptune and Uranus have nearly melted several times in the Sun Trophy awards, and finding an appropriate distance has been difficult. What else does Titania say, Luna?”

“That she and the other Major Moons of Uranus are...”

“Why do we seek to please the major moons when my fellow Ice Giants are allowed to suffer?” X boomed, cutting across Luna. The smaller Celestial looked angry at the interruption, especially as the Sun addressed him and not X.

“It is difficult, as the Sun said, due to their composition,” Earth said, deciding to intervene before his moon and X came to blows. Luna hated being interrupted. He had done that before and Luna made it very clear he was not tolerating a repeat. “However, Uranus and Neptune are freely allowed to venture provided their orbits are returned to, as per the Sun’s approval. Orbits are very fickle, and we are at the mercy of Physics.”

“Big words for such a dense world,” X said, shooting a smirk at Earth. “But you are correct. Laws of Physics cannot be argued, but can be swayed for brief periods. Nothing was stopping the Gas Giants and Rocky Planets inviting them over once in a while.”

Earth did not know how to respond. But X did bring a valid point, by not inviting Uranus and Neptune they were condemning them to their isolation. Earth knew Saturn use to hang with Uranus a lot in the past, but now he spent a lot of time with Jupiter... or did. He was lonely. And the Ice Giants were now being noticed a bit more by X. Why did it take another planet not part of the Solar System to recognise their failings?

“Moving on...” Sun had decided to push ahead. His eyes focused back on to Luna, wanting to complete the task of speaking with the moon. “And the moons of the Gas Giants?”

“The reintroduction of Ganymede and Europa will take time,” Luna stated. The grey moon moved a bit closer to Earth to give him some added support. “But they have returned back to the moon club and the orbit of... X.” He glanced at the Ice Giant. “I believe they are behaving if Callisto and Io are anything to go by. However...”

He took a breath.

“Titan has stated the smaller, more minor moons are struggling with the transition.”

“I have heard none of this,” X rumbled. “The minor moons have not voice to me about any issues they have.”

“That is because they are keeping separate: they are young and are struggling with the transition between Jupiter and X... but with time, Callisto believes they will be alright,” Luna didn’t want a fight, and Earth was grateful for that. He was not sure if he could back up Luna. “The Saturnian Moons have concerns about Saturn, but he is making progress to improving his relationship with his major and minor moons. Especially now he has close to three hundred. Most of his new moons have not woken up yet, but he is making progress.”

“Saturn not knowing the names of his moons is unusual,” Earth stated. He had to agree that the moons of Saturn had a right to be frustrated, with Saturn knowing them for several billions of years. Granted he didn’t even know his moon by his own name until many months ago. “Granted he has more moons than the rest of us combined. But he is making progress.”

“Debatable,” X muttered but Earth ignored him. He did not want to cause a fight in his first Custodian meeting because he did not want to cause more damage to anything else.

“He has made progress and his major moons are helping him. Fortunately some of his new moons have not woken up. This gives him more time to learn the names and facts.”

“Anything further to add about the mid and outer system, X?” Sun asked of the deep blue Ice Giant. X did not respond, giving a shake. “Good, now we can move to the Inner System planets and moons. Earth, how goes the recovery of your fellow Rocky Planets?”

Earth knew he was approaching a very tender point. His fellow Rocky Planets were still wounded, and still required more time to heal. He could hear Luna catching X up, being brief and short in his statements. Not that Earth cared.

“Mars has lost his mindscape form, and requires more assistance to replace it... but he is still sore from losing his friend,” Earth knew his uncle was stewing about another matter, but he did not want to voice that in front of X. “Venus has recovered physically from his injuries and is scarring, I imagine his facial wounds will completely heal over in the coming months.”

“Hold on, Earth,” Luna chided. “You forgot Deimos and Phobos?”

“Oh! I’m sorry,” Earth winced. How could he forget the two Moons of Mars? When he returned, the moons were still crying looking at Mars as his uncle was hanging in orbit, wounded and distressed. Crying. About losing Agent T, and was unable to help the others. “Please go ahead, Luna.”

“No, Earth should finish,” X rumbled, disapprovingly. His eyes scanned Luna. “His moon is not the Custodian of the Inner System, and therefore should not be speaking until Earth is finished. Interrupting is rude, Luna. Please, let your planet finish.”

Luna glared, but Earth turned back to face Sun. The Star was looking exhausted, already finished with the entire situation. Earth had to agree, but he also had to step up and try and keep peace. Especially in this meeting.

“Let us all calm down,” Earth said softly. “Please? X, Luna was right to remind me. I should have mentioned Phobos and Deimos. Luna, please, I will address the moons shortly.”

His Brother gave him a look, one he knew well. Narrowed eyes, pursing of his mouth, a clear disgruntled expression where Earth had said or done something “stupid” as Luna called it. Earth would need to speak to him after and figure out what was going on.

“Proceed, Earth.”

“Mercury is pretty much recovered,” Earth finished. “His wings have some missing feathers, and burns, but they are not as bad as they were when he received them. All in all, the Rocky Planets are relatively okay, and all recovering well. Mars had to calm Phobos and Deimos down when he returned, as the pair were inconsolable when they saw Mars distressed.”

“Poor things,” X muttered, and Earth wasn’t sure if he was being genuine or not. However at his expression there was a clear softness. Earth knew X had a soft side towards Proteus, and he wondered if that was extended to the rest of the smaller moons. “Maybe they should talk to the other moons, get some advice? I am sure they would be helpful.”

“We have tried,” Luna stated. “Deimos and Phobos are hesitant about leaving Mars alone even to attend the Moon Club. Only if Mars reassures them. We are the only moons of the Rocky Planets, compared to the Gas and Ice Giants. Granted it is to do with gravity and such, but the Rocky Planet Moons have been through a lot recently. Mostly at the hands of the Gas and Ice Giant Moons. But that does not mean we won’t work together to improve things.”

“Thank you, Luna,” Sun rumbled, looking more tired. Earth was tempted to tell the Star it was time to rest, but he knew Sun would refuse to do so. “I am happy with the feedback so far for the moons, and I hope X and Earth can also feed back to the Planets. While progress is happening, it is slow and we need the change to move a bit faster. X, I trust you will speak to the Giants about improving their relationships a bit more with their moons. Now, onto the other topic about the planet relationships.”

Earth saw a curl of X’s lip. But decided to just let the Ice Giant speak.

“No issues. Aside from between me and Saturn for obvious reasons. He is a companion to the planet who exiled me.”

“The perpetrator has been banished,” Sun held a bite to his tone. “No more hatred will be shared between you and Saturn, X. You as Custodian must be impartial and remove personal feelings.”

“Of course, my Star,” X sounded humbled looking downwards in submission to the Star and his words. “I apologise.”

“Good, because I... Saturn, what is the matter?” Earth started at the Sun as he felt the familiar pulse of Saturn. He turned rapidly, Luna approaching his side, eyes watching as the Ringed Planet approached in a hurry. Saturn trembled again at seeing X, before turning his focus back to the Sun.

“I-I am sorry for intruding, Sun, but I received an urgent message from the Core!” Saturn took a deep breath, the Sun frowning instantly as he keyed in on Saturn’s words. “From High Lord S6. I had requested more supplies for healing, and it appears we are about to have further visitors! Three to be exact: Proxima Centauri, one of the S-Cluster Stars and... Ram.”

Earth felt his Core skip a beat, and Luna perked up in excitement. He knew that code word. His humans used Constellations, and named them. Ram was a Constellation that also had another name...

“Aries!”

 X looked more disgruntled by the interruption than Sun did, thankfully. Earth turned to face Sun, sensing that Luna was just as if not more excited to know that Aries was coming. It was obvious from the name: that was probably why he had chosen it.

“And how is this important to our current predicament?" X asked coldly of Saturn. “The arrival of a nobody to the system isn’t cause for all this.”

“On the contrary, X,” Sun’s tone had shifted to one of hardness. A lack of tolerance for the blatant disrespect that X had just shown to not just a friend of theirs, but the undisputed Prince of the Milky Way. The Heir Apparent to be exact. The reason for his visit though peaked Earth’s curiosity. Why was Aries coming? He had mentioned he may never see them again. Aries had said he had to help his mother – Queen Sagittarius – rebuild the Core.

“The visitor coming is of one of the highest of nobility,” Sun turned his eyes to Earth. “I trust that you will be able to host him on that small Island of yours?”

“Of course! It would save me having to go in and out the mindscape if Aries and the others are on my surface. And allow energy conservation.”

“Good, I trust you are strong enough to allow projection without assistance?” Sun asked of Earth.

“Sun, your presence was requested in the letter that was delivered,” Saturn interrupted. X was clearly forgotten, the Ice Giant watching them all closely as he observed them. Earth did not want to know what was going on in that planet’s core, nor did he care. “They are disguising as exoplanets, and the letter was very clearly addressed to you, me, and... Jupiter...”

The mention of the banished Gas Giant caused the mood to quickly sour. Sun turned his face away, not interested in entertaining any further discussion where Jupiter was mentioned. Earth could understand why: Jupiter had severely damaged the Star’s trust not just in the Gas Giant, but everyone else. After all, what other secrets could be hidden by his planets that would one day be forced to light?

“Was this the message you received from the Core?” Luna asked Helios. “You mentioned it earlier.”

“No, no, the message I received was about a debrief concerning the Predator,” Helios stated. Earth saw X give a confused look, and lowered his voice to address the dark blue Ice Giant.

“A rogue black hole. From out with the Galaxy.”

“Goodness,” X drawled, turning his eyes back to Sun. Earth could tell he was looking at the red gashes on the Sun, almost like claw marks. “Uncivilised creatures, black holes. Especially the ones outside the Milky Way.”

“We have met one... and a half,” Earth stated, making his tone firmer. “Queen Sagittarius herself, and her son, Prince Aries. And both were kind and gentle to us.”

“Black holes are predatory by nature, even our Queen. I guarantee she has consumed stars, planets... moons,” X looked at Luna who shrunk back. “And she has a son...? Half Star I believe, as well as Black Hole? An Unnatural.”

“Hey!”

“I am merely stating the term that has been used since the Universe began. It is not an insult but a badge to wear and use as armour,” X said, soothingly. His eyes turned to Sun and Saturn, who were still discussing. “I would even state that the current generation of Stars all come from the Unnaturals. Their bodies are still cosmic dust, and may have formed the Nebulas. In short, all Stars have come from an Unnatural in some form.”

His eyes returned to Earth.

“I would be eager to meet him. A half Star, half black hole hybrid is very very rare. Neither group like each other, but our Queen having a child with a Star shows how much further relationships have become between Stars and Black Holes. If only the majority of them see the same. They tolerate Sagittarius because she is our Queen, much as they may tolerate Aries as he is her son. I assume Aries would fare better being treated by his fellow Stars now he has assumed to be a Star?”

“How did you...” Luna stammered.

“The announcement was heard even in my dark corner. You hear everything.” X turned his attention back to the Star and Saturn. “Sun, when do these individuals arrive?”

“The Comet mentioned twenty-four hours,” Saturn stated. “But I gather if it is Aries he will be here sooner. I’m wondering if we should head in to the Galaxy-scape right now, and make sure they are not waiting.”

“A fabulous idea,” Sun said softly. He turned an eye to X and Earth, before noting Luna was there. The Star sighed, turning fully to assess the moon. “Luna, I wish you to return to your orbit with Earth to keep him stabilise. It will be dangerous for you to attend the black market.”

“And it won’t be for Earth?” Luna asked. Earth could feel his brother becoming more frustrated, and tried to send a comforting pulse. But Luna... rejected it. Giving him a firm look. “Earth...”

“Luna... I cannot contest against our Star,” Earth said shakily. “Please, let us head back.”

“But... Earth... fine,” Luna turned his face away, and Earth watched him start to move away to head back to their stable orbit. Earth saw Saturn rush back to his own orbit, followed by X. Earth noted Venus was snoozing in his orbit, and Mars was speaking to his two small moons, who were both squeaking in excitement.

As Earth came back to his orbit, he promptly approached Luna. His moon still had his back to him, and Earth did not need to use his presence to learn that Luna was angry with him. He inhaled before approaching his moon, concern reaching out... but again blocked by his moon.

“Luna...?”

His moon ignored him. So Earth gave him a nudge with the gravity, trying to get his brother to talk to him again.

“Luna, talk to me. What is the matter?”

“Everything,” Luna turned to face Earth, anger on his features. Earth cowered slightly at Luna, not sure where this anger was coming from. His brother rarely got angry with him since Area 51, but now something was clearly disturbing him so much that Earth was facing the brunt of the rage Luna felt.

“You said I would help you out with your duties as Custodian, but you allowed them to talk over me. This was my one chance to help improve relationships more with the moons and I was... you never even stuck up for me!” Luna shook himself. “We are supposed to work together.”

“I am sorry, Luna,” Earth started but his brother cut across.

“I promised to help you out with your duties but if you won’t let me help you, I cannot support you. I am sorry, Earth.”

Earth winced, and came closer. He sent ripples out to try and soothe his brother, who turned away in anger. He did not want to diminish his brother's feelings, but Earth barely had time to spend with himself than others. He hadn’t even played asteroid dodgeball with Mars for days!

“Luna, I am so, so, so sorry,” Earth said, but his brother did not look at him. So he approached, trying to give comfort. “You are right, I really failed you badly as your brother and custodian. Truth is, I have no idea what I am doing but... you being there is important to me. I would not have lasted so long without you, my perfect moon.”

Luna’s eyes watered with tears, but he did not look at Earth. Earth did not know what else to say, or do. But there was one thing he DID know. And he would see if Luna could...

“Hey, once I get back... why don’t we have a game of cards? You mentioned wanting to join us, so why don’t we...”

“REALLY?!” Luna turned, eyes wide and full of excitement. His moon was beaming, and it made happiness rise within Earth. He was more positive than before when Luna was unhappy. “Thank you! So much!”

Earth made to respond, when the Sun’s shrill voice echoed throughout the solar system. Earth turned to face the Star, Luna settled in by Earth’s side. Tending to his axis and securing the tides.

“Earth, Saturn, X! Are you ready to engage in the Galaxy-scape?”

They all chorused an agreement. Earth looked at Luna, who gave a saddened look, and went to the distance that was required so that Earth was able to orbit safely in the usual proximity and manner. Earth shared one last glance at his brother, before closing his eyes at the pull to the Core.

He felt himself falling to his Core, seeing the molten layers... and deep within he could see his humanoid form for the mindscape. Curled in the foetal position, with rich blue hair dipped with white and covered with green landmass. His northern hemisphere had white where the snow had begun to fall and he could see his skin around his cheeks was dusted with white. Earth allowed his consciousness, his life energy, everything about him to fill the humanoid form. He felt the love he held for his father figure, uncle, his best friend... his brother. The betrayal of Jupiter, the struggles of everything after the fighting on his Island. He saw his damaged left arm, scars now purple, and the rest of his gemstones...

And then he woke. Lying on the gravel pathway with his legs hanging in the bushes he had planted many months ago. He saw a feline step over him, with golden-white hair, ornate white tunic and a sweeping long tail that reminded him of a lion. They smiled, a ring of dust around their head that sparkled like diamonds, before reaching out to help Earth out the bush.

“That was a very bumpy landing. Are you alright, my little friend?”

“Yes, thank you, Saturn,” Earth shook his limbs before attempting to stand. He was wearing his black tee and dark denim trousers, but also the golden rope on his shoulder and the healer sash around his waist. Dusting himself down, he saw that Sun was coming towards him, his reddish-yellow Halo glowing brightly behind his head, and wearing his black ornate clothing adorned with jewellery. Earth noted his skin remained duller than usual, indicating his healing form.

Behind him was the dark blue humanoid form of X. Earth had never been in a mindscape with X before, but it unnerved him. He was very much... like a wolf. Long pointed ears, bushy tail, and elongated canines. He was wearing more run-down clothing, obviously not quite ready to change into the usual garments of the Solar System. His eyes were a deep red. Almost like... blood. And his nails were uncut, more like claws than the groomed paws of Jupiter and Saturn.

It unnerved Earth.

Once Helios checked Earth over, he saw X approach, eyes on the Star’s back. He held a sack, reaching in... and grabbing a shawl, stepping to Earth and Helios who were both confused.

“You two are easy to recognise,” He drawled. He shoved one shawl into Saturn’s arms, rather violently and almost causing the Ringed Planet to stumble. “You too. Put these on, and Sun, remove that armour. Where we are going... you will be noticed and we clearly do not need that.”

Earth pulled the shawl over his shoulders, grasping his hair and tucking it down as X threw a cloak over him next. Helios eyed X with wariness, and curiosity, but the Ice Giant ignored him as he helped Earth with his cloak and pulling the shawl tightly around his head. Earth winced, before giving a soft thank you as X turned to help Sun, before a question broke out.

“How did you...?”

“I know the Kuiper Markets well, and trust me, it is NOT a nice place. You lot walk in looking like you do and people will know who you are. Sun- stop struggling and let me put this on you!”

Helios grumbled as his Halo was swallowed by the cloak, his armour thrown into the bushes nearby. His icy blue eyes scanned the others, noting Saturn had swapped out his ornate clothing to more rundown ones too, his ring hidden underneath a hat.

“A bit too... clean...” X grabbed some dust from underneath the nearest bush – and threw it on Saturn’s face. The Ringed Planet squeaked and coughed, trying to wave away the dust but X grabbed his tail, throwing the dirt on it. “You go there all clean and proper, you won’t walk out alive.”

“How do you know so much?” Earth asked.

“Because in my banishment, I ventured among the markets of the Oort and Kuiper Belt. Getting supplies... and news of the System,” His red eyes scanned Earth, before doing the same to him as he did to Saturn. “And they do not allow or tolerate planets and Stars who look nice and proper. Probably why your visitors are disguised. Sun? Your turn.”

“X, this is unnecessary,” The Star was cut off as X threw some dirt on him. The Star’s eyes flashed with warning as he scrubbed at his cheek, causing the dirt to spread in his effort to remove it. “How dare...”

“I dare because I know these people, Sun,” X drawled. He turned and started walking away. “Better than you do. And let me just say... you are NOT their favourite topic of discussion.” He then paused, glancing back.

“And ditch your names. You utter them, they will know. And do not remove your hoods or cloaks for anybody except our visitors. Anything... is a commodity. Whether it is a Gas Giant, an Ice Giant...” His eyes trailed over Earth. “A world of life with trillions upon trillions... or a wounded star. And believe me, Sun... a wounded Star is almost as rare as they can be. Only your Prince, S-Cluster Stars, and the Queen is higher. Stars are avoided otherwise, so keep your temper close.”

His mouth slowly split into a smirk, before he started leading them onwards. Earth glanced at Sun and Saturn, the former looking disgruntled at having dirt thrown on him. The latter was more nervous as they made their way down the gravel pathway, which became more rundown. The bushes was gone, and Earth could see the market ahead, between asteroids. His eyes widened as they stepped into the edge, Helios lowering his eyes so that the shadows of the cloak covered the glow of his skin.

“Welcome to one of the markets of the Kuiper Belt,” X had a wide grin. “Now, let us hope your friends are here. Because this is one of thirty others in the Kuiper Belt.”

“Thirty?!” Saturn sounded exasperated. “And... how many in the Oort Cloud?”

“Two hundred. So start asking questions. But not too many: the mess takes ages to clean up.”

“I do not think we will be looking for them in over two hundred and thirty markets,” Helios rumbled. “Because I can sense Ram... he is ensuring that. Where in the market I am unsure, but I imagine it will not take long. Even though the letter says it will take them a rotation of Earth, I imagine they would be quicker than expected. Do we... spread out?”

“Saturn and I can split and search,” X said before Saturn could speak. The Ringed Planet shuddered. “You should stay close with Earth.” His red eyes found Earth, who was staring in curiosity at a stall nearby that held a wide range of clothing. He wondered what he could bring back for Luna. “It would be best... and Earth, you do not touch anything. Or speak to anyone. If you do wish to purchase, follow Helios’ lead. These folk like stories as a currency, and travel. You are well known here as the First, and may find... some familiar trinkets.”

Familiar trinkets? Did X mean... did they STEAL from his surface? Earth felt violated, wincing as the Ice Giant turned to start walking through the crowd. Saturn looked at Helios, who nodded and indicated for him to go. Earth looked up at Helios, his azure eyes scanning the Star as Helios started to slowly walk forwards. Did Helios know that these people stole from his own worlds? From the anger, he clearly did not.

“Wait,” Earth grabbed his star by the cloak, tugging back. Helios looked back, surprised at Earth. “If we are together we need different names. What do I call you, Sun?”

“I am unsure. My other names are known. But yours... Terra is too familiar, but your other name is not. Tellus will be best for you.”

“Well, I suppose we can use another name similar to a Star? What about... Leo? Leo is a lion, and a lion is the symbol of royalty.”

“Hn, very well,” Sun tilted his head. “Leo. I hope the Stars of the constellation do not find it insulting for me using their host name. No matter. Shall we?”

“Yes, Leo,” Earth spoke up. His eyes noted the stalls, the streets becoming more busy than usual. He felt Helios step by his side, walking ahead and causing Earth to stride to catch up with his Star. Hopefully, they would find their visitors.

High above their heads, on one of the rooftops of the downtrodden houses, a figure watched them. Flanking him was several shadowy figures, with glowing red eyes, glancing at each other before looking at the figure who stood before him. The figure raised a finger, curving it over a burn he has received when he stood in the grass of the world of life. He had to flee that day. He would have been annihilated. He had to phase out. 

The young Star had power, more power than expected for a Yellow Dwarf. As his burning eyes watched the pair, as they moved through the crowd, the figure curled his lip into a predatory smile. He was so hungry. And he was promised a vengeful meal. Once he had helped out in capturing the Prince... but then again, he was starving.

“Move into the crowds. We will isolate them. It will not matter where the Prince is if he has no host Star to cling to. I will feast tonight, and it will be a meal I will enjoy.”

The shadows left him, and he crouched low, hands clenching the ends of the stone. His eyes stared straight at the Star as he led his world through the crowd, pausing occasionally to ask a question. He was not as weak as he was when they first met, but neither did he have his full strength, nor the presence of the S-Cluster Stars. Which meant this would be much easier to feast.

And with his world of life present the Star would be torn between protecting himself and his planet. Easy pickings.

Predator leaped down, landing in the alleyway, hiding in the shadows. Only his glowing eyes showed in the darkness as he waited.

To stalk his prey as all black holes did.

Chapter Text

Earth craned his neck as he looked over the different stalls, his azure eyes widening by the second as he noted different items, clothing, rocks... and more. He paused on the occasion to look at something, before hearing Helios call for him by his Roman name, quickening his stride to catch up with his Star. Helios was looking more disgruntled whenever Earth stepped away or disappeared, but then he saw the childlike wonder in his youngest planet’s eyes and softened. The Star turned his eyes forwards, and Earth could see he was scanning around for any indication of their visitors, whether it was Aries or another. At least they would recognise Aries even in disguise, but Earth was not sure if they would recognise S1, or even Proxima. He faintly recalled meeting Proxima when he was much younger during the Gathering, but it was a faint memory that he could barely recall at times.

“Leo?” He tugged at Helios’ sleeve, causing his Star to look back at him. “I was hoping... can we get something for back home? For Selene?”

Selene was the other name his humans gave for Luna, and whilst it caused a brief flash of confusion, his Star noted the meaning and gave a gentle smile. He nodded, before indicating the stalls, which made Earth smile widely and go to the nearest one. The first stall had an asteroid humanoid, with a missing eye, but a kind smile as they showed the trinkets before them. Earth scanned them, sensing Helios step behind him and peer himself at them.

“Anything take your fancy, my dears?” Her voice was old, and she tightened her shawl to hide her missing eyes. “I accept stories. All homemade by myself from left over gems from areas of darkness. This one...” She held up a bracelet. “Is from a White Dwarf.”

Earth winced, stepping back into Helios. A deceased Star... he could feel his own tense behind him, a look of mild disgust appearing. Earth quickly grabbed his Star by the hand, trying to placate him and not make a scene. Fortunately, Helios seemed to realise this before plastering a smile on his features.

“We will pass, thank you. Until next time, fair lady.”

“Until next time. Be careful my dears, there are strange folk abroad.”

Earth felt his ears perk at that, glancing at the aged woman with mild interest. He hoped she would see it as childlike curiosity rather than anything else, as he could not afford to drop their disguises before they barely begun.

“Strange folk, my lady?” Earth asked of her.

“Exo planets, and shadowy figures. They arrived not too long ago and patrol at night, those awful shadows,” She seemed uninterested in them now. It was clear if they were not buying, they served no further use to her. Her lone eye turned to a new customer that had approached her stall, blanking them both.

“Exo planets...” Helios whispered. They began moving off, his hand keeping a very firm grip of Earth’s own to ensure his planet did not disappear again. “I wonder...”

“Do you think it is Ram and the other two?” Earth asked of Helios, distastefully looking at his Star as he continued to keep a tight hold of his hand. “I am not a child, Leo. Please can you let me go?”

“Compared to me, you ARE a child,” Helios rumbled. His grip tightened on Earth’s own, keeping him close and secure. He lowered his voice so only Earth can hear it. “We are not alone. Five metres behind. Do you see?”

Earth felt a sense of wariness. He tilted his head, trying to not alert whoever it was that Helios was making him cautious about. His eyes picked up a female, shorter than Helios by about a head, mulling around the stalls but occasionally glancing at them. Her hair was falling under her hood, but Earth could see red and black locks, alongside orange skin on her chin.

But the eyes drew Earth. They glowed like embers in a dying fire.

“What do we do?” He hissed to his Star. Helios had his eyes straight ahead, a light crease on his brow. His Star did not answer him, instead weaving through the crowd with Earth hanging on his hand, moving for a more secluded area. Earth held his breath, his Core beating slightly faster as the anticipation rose. His Star was going to act, he could sense it. He was like a coiled spring, ready to be released.

Helios led the pair down between two stalls, stepping into the alleyway before forcing Earth down behind some stonework. The Star watched as the female followed, her eyes glowing red in the darkness, before she stepped by their hiding area.

Helios acted before Earth could register what happened.

His hand came out, the female by the arm and pushing her against the wall, bracing his other more injured arm on her neck. She winced, before raising her free hand to shove at the elbow, causing Helios to wince as he was forced to step back, releasing her neck but not her arm. She twisted her captured arm, turning so she could step behind Helios.

Earth jumped up, running to the woman and grabbing her from behind. The heat then HIT him, burning hot. And he was forced fo release her to preserve his lifeforms and himself. Seeing this, Helios instantly released the woman’s arm, grasping her hood –

And revealing a dim red halo.

A Star!

“Damn it, Helios!” The woman hissed, pulling it back up. “You trying to get me killed?!”

“It was not my intention,” Helios rumbled, a smile crawling on his features. He noted Earth’s expression, but the Star elected to not vocalise anything in this public space. “It is good to see you again, Lady Proxima.”

Proxima... THE Proxima Centauri?! The Red Dwarf of the Centauri System, with three host Stars?

“And you, Helios,” She grasped his arm, giving an affectionate smile. “I never thought you would be here. How are you recovering?”

“Slowly,” Helios gave an indication to Earth, causing Proxima to start and turn to face Earth with an apologetic smile. Her hands, now soothing, touched Earth’s blue, checking them over for any damage.

“I do apologise. It is a safety method of mine to ensure that I cannot be touched by an enemy,” Her eyes found Helios. “Something you and my companion Stars seem to forget to do.”

“How are Cunt one and Cunt two?”

“Usual cunty selves. I told them to keep an eye on Centi, my planet, and they grudgingly agreed. Not that they had any choice in the matter.” Her red eyes found Earth, full of affection, almost motherly. “She does ask after you from time to time. I’ll let her know after this mess you’re okay.”

Earth felt a purple tinge to his cheeks, but did not comment. He remembered the planet that accompanied Proxima to the Gathering, a young female world who he played with. But he never gave her another thought because he never expected to see her ever again. Their Star never usually allowed them into other systems, even less opportunity when Earth got life.

“Now are we content to discuss sensitive matters here in public or will we head to where we are planning to meet Aries and S1?” Proxima asked of them both. “Is it just you two?”

“I have two other planets. They are separated though... what meeting area are the pair in and we can catch you?”

“The Bar known as Star Cavern. It has live music,” Proxima stated. “I can find one and you find the other for quickness. What are the two planets you have with you? And which one do you wish for me to grab?”

As Helios began describing Saturn and X, Earth turned his eyes back to the stalls that were back in the streets. A part of him wondered if he could find Jupiter, or see him. He missed the gentle giant... but was he gentle? Jupiter did kill so many of his predecessors, did he feel any regret to what he did? Earth was not sure. But he did miss him.

He missed his big brother.

Glancing at the two Stars chatting away about who to go for, Earth felt his ears twitch as he wondered about the people around them. He remembered what X said about Helios not being favoured. Was there a reason why? While the Star was very anger prone at times, very explosive, he never exacted unfair judgement... except on Ganymede and Europa. Earth bit back the thought to try and keep himself calm. The recent argument with Luna, while sorted, still caused some turbulence. His eyes noted the crowd was becoming more stressed, some pushing back. Without hesitation, Earth poked Helios in the arm, causing the Star to pause in his discussion to look at him. Earth indicated the crowd, which was pushing back against the walls, stressed.

“Where is the Star?!” A rough voice sounded.

Helios pulled his hood a bit better over his head, Proxima doing exactly the same. Helios grasped Earth’s hand, pulling him close to his form, before they decided to blend into the crowd. They stepped in the very back row, Earth trying to keep himself low profile, tilting his head downwards.

“Goons,” Proxima seethed. Her red eyes found Helios. “I guess even here they run the show.”

“Unless Queen Sagittarius is here personally they will always be around,” Helios murmured, his hand tightening on Earth’s own. “You cannot remove crime indefinitely.”

“But it can be minimised... and what is worse, you aren’t even able to step against them as this system’s star. It is easier in the Centauri System because it is three, but in single Star systems you can’t even do much... numbers can overwhelm a solo Star.”

Earth was suddenly fearful in remembering the mortality of his Star. They always assumed that Helios was unbeatable, that nothing could harm their Star. How wrong they were that day they brought Helios onto the house, wounded and near death. It reminded of Earth about mortality, and how vulnerable they all truly were. How much they relied on Sun to keep them safe and secure.

“A Star?” A male sounded from opposite. “There is no Star here. We would have sensed them. We would have seen their pretentiousness through their halos.”

“On the contrary,” Earth saw Helios stiffen, his hand almost crushing his own. His own eyes widen, and he bowed his head quickly to prevent being recognised.

The individual was tall as Helios, with matted black hair, dark brown skin and bright eyes. His canines were longer, overlapping the lip, but the rest of his teeth was sharp. The halo by his head was jet black, and he sported a horrific wound where Earth remembered the flare from Helios had struck several months ago. Three deep scars were on his cheek where Jupiter had slashed him.

“We have to go,” Proxima said hastily. Her hand grabbed Helios on the other side, and Earth could see it shaking. He started to try and pull Helios away too, desperate to get his still recovering Star away from the area. If the Predator saw them, he would go for them straight away.

“Helios, we have to leave,” Proxima said, more urgently. But her next few words were silenced as the Predator stepped into the street.

“There is a wounded Star here, this System’s Star to be exact. He is accompanied by three planets, one being an Ice Giant... which we have...” He snapped his fingers, two of the shadowy men throwing a figure on the pathway. Earth sucked in a breath at seeing how beaten X looked. “The other is hiding, trying to return to his Star. Whoever helps us find this Star will be awarded... not to mention his world of life is also present. Whoever finds them both and brings them to me will have dibs on the world of life. To do whatever they want. You can even sell whatever pieces they have left at the end of it.”

His eyes scanned the crowd, and Earth wanted to run out to Planet X. The wolf like humanoid coughed out some molten liquid, managing to get to his knees. His tail looked skewed. He had to go and heal him, it was now his nature.

“Helios, we have to go...” Proxima repeated, more desperate, but Earth found his hand clutching air. His Star pushed forwards, hood falling as his face contorted into fury at how his planet was degraded. Proxima cursed loudly and ran out, her own hood falling as her hands flashed and a red flare erupted at the nearest shadow. Earth sighed, shoulders slumping, before he threw back his own hood and ran out – aiming a well placed right hook into the face of another.

“X!” Earth yelled. The wolfish humanoid looked up, his lip still blooded, and an angry purple bruise appearing on his features. Earth heard the crowd fleeing to escape the coming fight, and he saw the Predator step towards Helios, his hands curled into claws as the black hole looked at the Star.

Fury burned Helios’ eyes from blue to red, his halo now on fire with his anger, and his patched skin now glowing brightly. Helios braced himself into a defensive position as Proxima ran to a wall, pushing off with her feet and using her left leg to strike another shadow across the face. Earth turned his attention to another goon that was coming to engage with him, gritting his teeth before hissing, his smaller ears lower. The goon hissed back, tail flicking, before leaping at him.

Meanwhile, Saturn was running. He skidded over a stall, pulling the fabric down to block the path of one shadow that was tailing him, three others running around and gaining. His ears flicked through his hair, before he grabbed another object from a stall and throwing it into the face of another shadow – breaking their nose and causing them to stop. Saturn felt pride in his Core, before skidding around a corner to a stop, his right arm coming around in a bar to strike the neck, but they skidded under and brought their fist to his back.

Saturn roared, swiping with his pawed hand, claws already unsheathed as they slashed the face. The shadow hissed before grabbing his tail, yanking hard and pulling Saturn back onto the ground – and snapping it.

Saturn howled in pain, before rolling away. His tail was in utter agony, but he could not allow himself to falter to the pain. He brought his other paw around, grabbing their other arm and yanking to dislocate it. The Gas Giant stood, stumbling as he grasped his tail, looking at the break. Yes, completely snapped. He could barely keep his balance with a tail like this.

He was so focused he forgot the other, who sent their fist into his spine. Saturn gaped, falling face down, the shadow reaching down to grab at his hair yanking them away to try and drag Saturn back down the pathway. He struggled, his unsheathed claws scratching the ground and becoming dull as he desperately tried to stop them. But the shadow just smirked at him, before turning their sights back ahead.

And then froze, dropping Saturn. For a moment, Saturn wondered why, whether they took mercy on him, or changed their mind... then he felt it. Two presences unlike anything he had ever sense. One was familiar but... greater. The other was...

An S-Cluster Star.

Saturn turned his golden eyes around, before seeing the shadow freeze and get pulled back to the female and male. The smaller – a female - had a white gold halo and wearing rundown clothing, but it did nothing to diminish their power and strength. She was orange on her skin, with beautiful rosettes adorning her cheeks, long blonde hair and gentle glowing eyes.

The other was male, and taller. With dual coloured hair of gold and black, piercing glowing irises on black sclera, rich orange skin and a long, black tail... and a diamond on his forehead. Their hand was raised, the shadow begging them loudly, tears falling down their cheeks...

A Flare erupted from the female. Obliterating the shadow.

“Saturn!” The male wasted no time in rushing to him. Saturn recognised him better now, and relaxed, taking the offered hand. “Are you... your tail!”

“I am okay, I’m more worried about my Star than...” Saturn froze, before jumping up. “My Star and Earth! Those fiends will be after them... we have to get to them!”

“Helios came personally?!” The female stammered. She sounded as young as Aries. “But he is injured... damn it! We need to help him!”

“S1, go to the club and get the supplies, we might need some to heal Helios if this goes south,” Aries instructed. “I will go with Saturn and aid the others.”

“Yes, my Prince,” S1 wasted no time in running pass Saturn. The Gas Giant watched them go, before noting that Aries was already making his way down the pathway he just rushed down. Without hesitation, Saturn followed at a run, trying to keep up with the stride, stumbling as he tried to keep his tail stable and his balance.

But as Saturn and Aries approached, Saturn was aware of the flashing lights. Red and orange. He frowned: the Sun NEVER used red flares, and was only orange because he was half way through his life cycle. So what was going on? Was it a rogue Star or...?

“Proxima!” Aries shouted, now running ahead. The shout of the Prince of the Galaxy caused others to glance, and some of the shadows panicked. Aries raised his own hand, a Flare erupting out in a white-gold light that would have blinded Saturn had he looked directly at it... but as he searched the conflict he saw Earth was throwing objects at shadows intending to try grab him, unaware that other Celestial bodies were heading to him. After all, a world of life was rare, and as X once said, anything was a commodity.

“Earth!” Saturn rushed forwards to tackle one of the Celestials, to push them out the way of grabbing Earth. The blue humanoid glanced over briefly before ducking a blow, shoving his shoulder into the chest and pushing them down. “Where is Sun?!”

“The same Black Hole from the Island!” Earth called back. “They beat up X... I have to get to him!”

“No,” The strong voice of Aries sounded over the fighting. Everyone seemed to stop, the shadows freezing at seeing the Prince of the Milky Way. Saturn watched one scramble to run, but Aries raised a hand, familiar black mist erupting forth and grasping the fleeing shadow. Saturn watched in amazement as the shadow convulsed before disappearing into dust.

“Flee! He can use the Forces!” One of the shadows shouted. “We have to get the Black Hole!”

“Leave him! We can’t fight against the damn Prince if he has the Forces!”

Proxima narrowed her eyes, the shadow she was grappling with trying desperately to release her. She grabbed them, bringing her foot into their knee, causing them to fall to their owns. Her hands flashed into angry red energy, her attention turning to the Prince as Aries scanned them. A brief exchange of words, and she hauled them up, Earth running to X.

“Where is Helios?!” Saturn sounded panicked. He spun around, trying to find the Star. Earth seemed to remember the severity of the situation, and looked around desperately to locate the star. But there was no sign of Helios.

“I... saw him... chase the Black Hole...” X barely managed to say. Earth was at his side, checking him over, so natural in his healing duties that Saturn wondered why it took him so long. “They ran...”

Saturn and Aries wasted no time. They both ran in the direction that X pointed in, while Proxima stayed behind to keep an eye on the two others and the prisoner she had secured.

As Helios chased the Predator, he was distinctly aware that the carnivore was leading him away from the others. Not that he cared, this creature did not belong in the Galaxy, did not belong anywhere. He was stronger than the last time the Beast had faced him, and while not at full strength he was definitely more capable now.

He skidded to a stop, his cloak flailing as he paused in a square. With a desolate fountain, boarded up windows, and run down buildings. Helios braced himself, bearing his canines as he allowed his senses to take control. Allowed his hearing and others to expand, his feeble use of Gravity compared to the others setting a perimeter to prevent the Predator from sneaking in.

“In the beginning, there was nothing but darkness.”

Helios turned, his ears twitching for the location of the voice. He could hear a throaty growl, a reminder that this black hole was one that would consume Stars readily. And he was aiming for Helios to be the next meal.

“The Age of Stars will end. And darkness will return. Nothing. Nothing but dust. It is inevitable, why don’t you just submit, Star, and you would not have to face the End?”

“Because there will always be light in the darkness,” Helios retorted. He heard a noise, a pot falling, and a Flare erupted. Burning the spot it touched, causing a fire to erupt on the fabrics that remained. Helios cursed, feeling his Core ache: he cannot keep firing off Flares in this form. It would be too tiring for him.

“You are a Yellow Dwarf, a Star so small and insignificant that you are not worth a passing thought. And yet... you did something. Created a world with life. The Forces mock the rest by flaunting your success.”

“And what do you know of the Forces, cannibal?” Helios seethed. His temper was flaring up, the heat rising again for another Flare. “You are nothing but a Dead Star. Insignificant in the grand plan of Them. And with Prince Aries here, you will be punished accordingly.”

“Princes, Princesses, Lords and Ladies, Queens and Kings, they do not matter to a roamer like me,” The voice sounded closer. Helios felt his Core erupt and he spun, ducking the clawed hand and jumping back to put distance between him and Predator. Their eyes glowed and Helios was forced to duck again, the claws ripping his cloak as he spun to give him space.

Now several metres were before them. Helios turned his hand up, the other braced before his chest to help protect him. The black hole was unafraid though, staring at him with a hungry expression.

“And you know what is worse... is they all lied to you,” Predator said with a soft voice. “Every single Star and black hole have lied. Yes, Sagittarius was born from the First Ones, the first Stars... but she was not the only one. Whilst supermassive black holes have collided, the rest of us were stunted. I would have been bigger... had it not been for that Unnatural’s father. Thank the Forces he is now dead.”

“You disrespect the former King Consort,” Helios seethed. “Then you deserve being casted out.”

“Perhaps. I was so desperate to feed, so desperate... I lost everything,” Predator tilted his head, eyes scanning every inch of Helios to find a weakness. His mouth curled slightly at various points, and Helios angled his body so his weakened arm was not on full view. “My origins forgotten. I deserved to be recognised. It is not my fault to be true to my nature. I am only doing what I am meant to. What my duty demands of me.”

“Who are you?” Helios found himself asking. The way this monster was talking... it was as if he was there since... but that was impossible. A Black Hole his size would never have been... They were all in Galaxies, merged as one. “You cannot be. You... cannot be...”

“Say my name, boy,” Predator’s eyes flashed. The darkness had spread even further. Helios felt tears rise within his eyes, his hand falling as he stared at the beast before him. “Remind me. So that I remember what I have lost.”

“You... you can’t be him!” Helios was shaking, the noise drowning out. His emotions were running rampant. The shock of what he had just learned now finally hitting him. “You were one of the oldest Stars! You... saw the beginning of it all... you should be a Galaxy!”

“Fate is not kind to us all, Helios,” Predator seethed, clearly angry at the reminder. Helios knew he had overstepped. But... how did one of the most ancient Stars who were riding the waves of the Big Bang become this, a small shadow? He should have been a Galaxy! He should be... ruling. Did Sagittarius exile him and prevent him gaining enough mass or did something else happen? He mentioned the First Stars, how...

There wasn't any way...

Could it? Truly, could it be him?

Helios was shaking. A Star he had revered for so long, for many billions of years was standing before him. One of the first and mightiest of Stars, who helped drive the Universe. Helios' halo was distorting with his turbulent emotions, his Core was burning. He had heard heroic tales of the First Stars, and this one was always his favourite. But something happened, and when he heard about the first Galaxies... he had hoped he was one. But now they were all gone, he was told this as a child!

All the First Stars were gone! Even if they became black holes, they would have died out. No, no, this monster was lying. There was no way such an old and mighty Star would become this.

“It cannot be you. You are not that Star. You are LYING!” Helios seethed. The Predator had a grin appearing on his features, eyes flashing dangerously. “Liar!”

“Believe what you will, Helios. Or is it Sol? Ra? Sun? Apollo? Inti?” Predator rolled his eyes. “If you are going for a name, at least choose one. I at least had a name. Now I am Predator as I roam. I lost my Galaxy, so why should the rest keep theirs?”

The clawed hand came out, and Helios almost made the mistake of not evading so quickly. The claws tore his cloak, before it grabbed a fist full of the fabric. His emotions was turbulent, and he was unable to bring himself to focus to Flare them. His good hand focused into a punch at the Predator’s face, causing it to release him before stumbling. Helios raised his hand, ready to Flare this liar, this deceitful –

The Predator’s hand came around, a brick in it. Clattering right against Helios’ skull, sending the Star falling to the ground. Helios felt his skin crack, shifting to start healing, but his head... it really... it really hurt...

His Flare ignited, missing the black hole by a wide margin. Helios stumbled, unable to keep himself upright as Predator brought his fist around into his face, cracking his nose. A hand grasped his tunic, and he felt the claws flash upwards, sending deep angry wounds into his face.

“Say my name... and I stop.”

Helios tried to shake his head, and Predator seemed to realise his answer. He threw Helios across the ground, sending him crashing through the wall. Helios stumbled up, bruised, too turbulent as he tried to throw rocks at the Predator in desperation to stop him. To push him away. But the Predator was lazily stepping aside each blow, eyes focused on the Star.

Everything was spinning. He did not know which way was up, or down, and as Predator grabbed his throat, Helios was pushed against the wall nearest. His feet was in the air, until Predator slammed him down on the ground. Helios just lay there, unable to do anything. Unable to speak or fight back.

Predator stepped over him, before squatting down, grabbing his hair so he could focus on the black hole’s face. They came closer, lowering their mouth to his ear so his next words were a whisper.

“Say my name...”

“H... HD... HD1...” Helios rasped. His eyes filled with tears, falling down his cheeks. “You are HD1. The first Galaxy. The first Star... the first of them all...”

“Good boy,” The Predator said solemnly. “For 13.5 billion years I have roamed as a black hole without a home. So it is only fitting I tear the rest of them down... Star by Star. And what better than to consume the Star who is home to the First of this Galaxy? Do not worry, Helios... it will not hurt. If you just accept it. Many Stars fight and it becomes too messy.”

His hand ripped the tunic, exposing Helios’ chest. He felt a finger over his beating Core. Helios could feel his energy start to move, the streams heading to the hand as Predator began absorbing his life force. He raised a feeble hand, pressing it into Predator’s face to try and push but the black hole wasted no time in grasping it – and snapping his arm. Pain wracked him, and Helios roared in pain as Predator grabbed his head... and slammed it back on the ground. Paralysing him, leaving him nearly unconscious. Incapacitated.

His thoughts turned to his planets. And... Jupiter. At least he would be safe, wherever he was. Helios missed him. But Jupiter had betrayed him, killed so many, and Helios was not sure if he could forgive him. That now gentle giant.

Yet he wished... he saw him again... before it ended.

His Life Force was leaving him. He felt himself grow colder...

“NO!”

The Predator was suddenly thrown away. A roar of anger above Helios, as his vision started to blur. He was aware of another figure at his side, with a bright white halo, and two others. One blue and the other yellow.

“BLOOD TRAITOR!” He heard Predator roar. He could see flashing, feel heat. But then something was pushed into his skin and his body was filled suddenly with heat and light. He felt his Core fire back into life, the momentary halt in his Fusion now rectified. His Halo was solidifying again, and the glow was strengthening.

“Leave, Predator! Leave my mother’s Galaxy and never set foot again!”

A red glow and another was above him. He felt hands on him, helping him up as the one with white glow moved away, going to help whoever was battling Predator. Flashes of white, roars of agony, and the crumbling of stonework... then everything was still.

And when he woke, Helios was aware of the dull sound of music in the background. His chest was heavy, and when he glanced down he was aware of a head of blue, green, and white hair resting on it, the owner shaking. Affection came to him, and he placed a gentle hand on it, causing Earth to start and look at him with concern.

“You’re awake! Sun, are you... okay?!”

“I...” Helios sat up – why was he able to sit up so easily – his blue eyes scanning the area. He was in some office, lying on a couch, with boxes open and revealing glowing liquid inside jars, strange bandaged and more. Saturn rushed to his side from where he stood, X bringing up the rear, and behind him –

“YOU ABSOLUTE FOOL!”

A slap.

Helios winced at his cheek but Proxima did not stop. She began slapping his arms, body, anything within reach. Helios swatted her back, trying to stop the Red Dwarf taking any opportunity to exact punishment.

“You are taught from day one to NEVER engage one of those things alone! EVER! You absolute fool...”

“My education was lacking, if you remember,” Helios said smartly. “Can you stop- hitting – me...”

“Proxima, stop it. That is enough.”

The voice was male and not as deep as his father’s but held the same authority. Helios saw Earth beam and rush to the male, who grinned and hugged him back. Helios recognised him immediately as he was at the presentation with the billions of others. Where he was given the title of ‘Lord’. He was amazed at how much like his father Aries had become, but in different lights he looked like his mother. He even had her TAIL sweeping behind him, just without the golden band that Sagittarius had her own. His hair had grown much more, cascading black locks down his back, except for the golden locks that were at the top of his head.

His diamond had changed. Was more pointed at the compass areas. And his eyes... they continued to unnerve Helios, reminding him of his mother. He could not believe the baby he had seen, freshly born and squealing, was now grown in front of him.

“My Prince,” Helios braced himself for the scolding. But Aries gave him a kind smile, releasing Earth before stepping forward, his eyes scrutinising everything on Helios.

“You were saved in the nick of time.” An Earthling phrase, Helios realised. “One more second and you would have been beyond our aid. Too deep in the absorption we could not bring you back.”

“And I thank you,” Helios tilted his head. Earth looked at him, a bit frightened but not as much. Helios, realising he had scared his world, placed a placating hand on his shoulder. The Earth sighed, soothed, but did not speak whatever was on his mind. “And the other Star?”

“Interviewing our prisoner,” Proxima supplied. X was looking at Aries, curiosity on his features. The wolfish humanoid stepped to the Prince, analysing him, causing Aries to look at him with side eyes. And a warning in his features, telling X to give him space. “And why these goons were here. It seems that their Master is around in your system, Helios.”

Tension followed the statement. Earth could sense it. He felt as though a darkness was crawling over him, and he stepped closer to Helios to get his light and heat. Saturn noted, and approached Earth to give him support, clasping his shoulder and placing an arm around him. To soothe him. X, also sensing this, came to the Rocky and Ringed Giant, placing his own hand on Earth’s shoulders.

“You saved me. Healed me. I am forever in your debt, Earth,” His red eyes focused on Saturn, who recoiled slightly. “You taught him well. Though how much is you and not talent is not easy to see.”

“Is... that a compliment?” Saturn asked, cautiously.

“It is whatever you make of it. Only I know if it is or not,” X growled. The feline by Earth relaxed but barely enough to stop him feeling his shoulders being squeezed.

“Is that why you are here?” Helios asked of Aries. But before the Prince could respond the door opened, a female Star stepping in with the music volume increasing only slightly until she shut the door again.

“Why we are here should be discussed at your compound, not in a place where we can be eavesdropped on,” Aries responded. He tilted his head to the female Star. “This is Lady S1 of the High Council. And is accompanying me on this mission my mother, the Queen, has tasked me with.”

“My Lady,” Helios tilted his head down for respect, and the female Star responded in kind. She approached, tutting at the bruising and abrasions that Helios had, before turning to face the Prince.

“You told me this system is reckless, but I did not realise HOW reckless.”

“I was raised here,” Aries snarked. He shook his head. “I am aware of this system more than you realise. But as I said, we cannot discuss here the mission we have been tasked with. All you need to know is that we are here for additional protection, and once this mission is completed, we will be out your heads.”

Earth winced. Aries had definitely changed since they had last met. The Prince was still grieving his father, it seemed. He seemed much more strict, more secluded. A part of Earth hoped that Sagittarius was managing alright, but something told him she wasn’t. He really should speak to Aries alone and hope that his friend would be open.

“If you are ready for travel,” Proxima said softly, after a moment of the silence that fell. “We can start...”

“Not yet,” Helios said. A distress came to his features, the Star turning his eyes to S1. Her own eyes narrowed at his visible emotion before his planets, but then she seemed to realise something devastating had happened. “The Black Hole... Predator... he has a name. He...”

Earth saw tears starting to fall. He grasped his Star by the hand, trying to give comfort and saw Proxima approach. Her hand touched over his Core, clearly sending soothing waves to calm the Yellow Dwarf.

“Speak, Helios,” Aries said shortly.

“He has a name. I did not want to believe it but he was so powerful. He held back both times against me and...” Helios looked them, square in the eyes. “His name is HD1.”

Silence came to the group. Confused expressions came to the planets, but the Stars all had darkened features. S1 curled her lip, ears lowered as she said sharply.

“Are you sure, Lord Helios?”

“He said so himself. I did not believe it at first but now... I do.”

“Who is HD1?” X asked. A question Earth wanted to ask but was not brave enough to do so. “Someone bad?”

“Worse,” Aries said. “From my human education, we found HD1 through thousands of attempts to determine the origins of Stars and more. HD1 was a Galaxy over 13 Billion light years away, and with the distance the light travels, that means we viewed the Galaxy as it was over 13 Billion years ago. When I started my education in the Core... HD1 had disappeared.”

“He was one of the first Stars,” Proxima whispered. “Very first. But also one of the first to die... and form the first Galaxy. He is a First One.”

First One? Earth looked at Helios desperately, wanting more information. But it was X who answered with a darkened tone.

“If Entropy has a First Star in his arsenal, how bad are we talking?” X once again voiced Earth’s thoughts.

From the looks shared between the Stars... and when Proxima spoke, Earth felt a chill in his spine 

"It is as bad as it can be. We will talk more about HD1 later. For now... we need to get the fuck out of here before they all come."

Chapter Text

Earth was gone for the day. Which meant Luna had free time. And fortunately the mindscape being opened allowed Luna to go and engage with his friends without worrying about his proximity and how he affected Earth’s tilt.

When he and Earth returned from the Island, and Earth started his healer duties and lessons, they were moved from their home to a brand-new location by Helios. Luna loved having a bigger area, a new room from the old one that felt more like a box. He could stretch out, decorate how he wanted, pulling posters of known Earth bands onto his walls and would ask Jupiter about books he could use in his rooms. But since Jupiter was banished, Luna did not know where else to put them.

He did not know if Jupiter’s library was still open. Luna had never tried to venture out to the area owned by Jupiter, to see his library until now. And when he did, Luna felt sorry at seeing the state of the area of Jupiter’s.

The trees that Jupiter had planted, ordained with fruit, were now barren. The fruit that had fallen were now rotting, poisoning the ground further and therefore the trees. The immaculate gardens that Jupiter had tended to so well were now barren, covered in ice and snow from X. Granted, the Ice Sculptures were beautiful, but they did not belong in an orbit that Luna had grown so familiar with to belong to Jupiter.

‘I sense dramaaaaaa...’

Luna rolled his eyes, turning his focus back to the housing that belonged to Jupiter and his moons. Due to the scale and numbers of the moons of the Gas Giants, there were more housing around. The Major Moons were usually close to Jupiter with the Minors, due to the youthfulness, and Jupiter would always read bedtime stories to his Minor Moons.

‘Are you seriously awake NOW? Where were you months ago when all the action was occurring?’

‘I had a nice long sleep, and now I am wide awake and ready to see the action! What happened to Jupiter’s gardens and compound?’

‘It is a long story.’

‘We have time.’

Luna sighed. He moved the books better in his arms as he raised a cautious hand to take the handle leading to one of Jupiter’s separate buildings. The one that contained the library and more. Aside from combat training, Jupiter did teach the moons and others when they first formed, going through the history of the Solar System, talking about science. Luna had always wondered why he never spoke about matters relating to times before he and Earth woke. There had to be some reason why... was Planet X it?

He paused as he entered the hallway, saddened at seeing the first layers of dust starting to appear. Even in the dim light, he could see the tiny particles floating around, and Luna wondered if the moons of Jupiter... no, X, would mind if he took a duster. Earth was sometimes messy, but he never allowed dirt or dust to take control.

Straightening an ornament, Luna swatted some webbing away before making his way down the corridor. He could feel Dark nipping at him, wanting information, but Luna did not feel ready to supply it. He paused as he stared into one of the rooms, remembering a time where Jupiter had finished teaching and Luna had approached, asking for more. He wanted to know more about the Comets and Meteorites. Jupiter had kindly supplied him the information, telling him why they looked magical... before lending him one of his old books. Luna had shakily taken it, honoured that Jupiter was accepting of giving such an important book to him, a moon.

When he came back after, Jupiter asked him questions and Luna was happily to supply them. He spoke for an hour of everything he learned, seeing the proud smile on the Gas Giant. Luna remembered playing with Jupiter’s tail as he spoke, but the humongous feline did not bother. Luna thanked him, and Jupiter said if he ever wanted to borrow a text, to come to his library as he spent most of his time in there.

Luna closed the door – then heard a clatter up ahead. His ears perked straight up, before he turned to face the direction of the sound. Followed by the sarcastic voice of Dark as Luna started walking towards it.

‘What a fabulous idea – let us head to the sound and investigate instead of running the fuck out like a normal person!’

“Shut up,” Luna snarked to himself. He stepped up the stairs and onto the second floor, where the sound had come from, bracing the books in a way he could use them as weapons. It saddened him to think that, using Jupiter’s books as barriers but they were the best he had at present. His combat training had stalled, and he had spent the rest of his time helping Earth with his healer role... not that Earth cared anyways.

Ever since Earth got the custodian role, and his new healer training, he had barely spent time with Luna. He was so occupied with things that Luna would barely interact with him, aside from the briefest of hellos and goodbyes. Sometimes they did talk and spent time, but it was becoming fewer. Luna was feeling angrier that Earth never gave him more than five minutes of his time, and he had intended to speak to him... when Earth asked him to come along to his first Custodian meeting. Luna had stumbled, and listened when Earth said that Sun wanted to get updates, and Earth had suggested that Luna come along. Earth had stated that none of this was possible without Luna, that he would have burned at the first hurdle if he did not have Luna there. And he wanted him at the meeting because he knew Luna carried weight.

His words mattered to Earth, and he wanted the Sun to see that his moon – his brother – was just as capable of being in the same role as Earth was. Luna had felt tears of pride: everything he had done and helped Earth with had not been for nothing. He wasn’t being intentionally ignored, it was just that Earth had been battling for the moons to join him. While Titan had attended the last Custodian meeting with Jupiter and Venus, he had basically been silent the entire time, unable to voice as he was terrified of the Star.

But Luna wasn’t. Earth said Sun would listen. And he did! The Star listened!

Then X... And Earth did nothing to support him.

‘Maybe he couldn’t have supported because it was his first meeting and did not want to overstep?’

‘It isn’t like you to defend Earth,’ Luna said, amused. ‘Last time you said we should crash into him.’

‘You need a sense of humour. That would have obliterated me. We are tied together, unfortunately.’

Luna rolled his eyes, before stepping around the corner. And froze at the scene before him.

There were several celestials – moons by their pins – at a large set of double ornate doors engraved with the entire Solar System. Luna could see the fiery appearance of Sun at the top, followed by the four Rocky Planets and their moons, and the asteroid belt. And then the Giants with their moons. Jupiter’s engraved form was slashed deeply and Luna did not need to guess who did that.

His eyes scanned the figure before them. He recognised the feline appearances of the Gas Giants; Titan, with his blue and yellow tail flicking as he squatted before the doors, trying and failing to undo the lock: Callisto with her purple fur; Io with his mustard yellow hair and tail; Ganymede and Europa standing over Titan, moving the handles; and Triton, the odd ball of the Neptunian Moons. While the rest resembled Neptune, Triton had fur and a bushy tail like a fox, his sunglasses perched on his nose under fox ears adorned with rings, his left cheek covered in beige fur to break his white and grey.

Deimos and Phobos were easy to recognise with their ears bearing a similarity to Mars’, with pinkish and slightly off-white orange skin. Their hair was cut and spiked up, and they were almost swarmed by the larger moons – but they continued to egg on Titan as the Saturnian moon tried... and failed... to unlock the door.

“What in the actual...?”

The moons spun around, Titan falling at his rapidness, before relaxing with a smile at seeing Luna. He stood, Ganymede and Europa looking like they would rather be elsewhere, before Io came forwards with excitement as he beamed at Luna.

“H-Hey t-there old fr-friend!”

“Hey, Io,” Luna greeted with a smile, clasping his arm. He tilted his head as the others started coming towards him, before addressing the elephant in the room. “Hello, Ganymede and Europa.”

The two felines gave a nod, but neither gave him a direct look. Luna could see why: his cheek still hurt from time to time. Even after having the gemstones replaced. He knew their time was limited by whenever Earth and the others would reveal to the Sun about Ganymede and Europa’s actions on Area 51, but it did not matter now. Sun knew, and still allowed them back after everything.

“What brings you to our neck of the woods?” Callisto drawled, Triton joining her side. Luna eyed them both with a smile, before deciding to address his reasons.

“I came with the hopes of returning these books, but as I see... the doors are locked.”

“For now,” Triton growled. He turned to face the two doors, joining Titan as the both started to force at the lock again. “We have been trying to open these for the past hour. No luck.”

‘I have a feeling we should join in.’

“Is there a reason why Jupiter’s library has been locked?” Luna asked of them. He watched Ganymede join Triton and Titan, yanking at the locks too. “I thought X would keep them open...?”

“First thing he did was lock them up,” Europa answered. She watched her fellow Moons try to force the lock off the door. “He said that the education is false because Jupiter is a liar and maybe falsified the majority of the books he wrote in here. But...” She sighed. “The little ones haven’t slept since he left. And there are age-appropriate books for the Minor Moons. We have asked X if we can get access but he says he will have to check with Sun first. That was two weeks ago.”

‘What an absolute dickhead...’

“Why don’t you guys save your hands,” Luna gently handed the books to Europa, stepping up to the door. He saw Titan and the other two pause, looking at him in surprise as Luna began checking his pockets on his dungarees. He usually had odd things... and he watched many a film with Earth on the Island since the house was built. About how they managed to escape cells and bypass locks. “Let me have a look.”

“If we cannot get it off as the Galilean Moons, what makes you think YOU can?” Ganymede gruffed, more curious than annoyed. He peered over as Luna pulled out a small tool, the smaller moon glancing at the doorknobs and their connections.

‘Let me out to rip them off, damn it!’

‘No. We settle this without pissing off X. We don’t need Earth having to fight an Ice Giant.’

‘You are no fun.’

Luna squatted down, looking over the doorknob. He frowned as he spotted the screwing, scanning the lock as he noted the inside mechanism. Yes, dismantling was the only way. The card trick, or hairpin would not work. So, he set to work, using the tool to loosen the screws on the knob.

“How are you guys getting on with X?” He asked. “X crashed Earth’s first meeting and caused Saturn to get kicked out. He left a poor first impression on us both.”

“Well, I think the proper question to ask is how is Saturn doing,” Callisto drawled, looking at Titan. The Saturnian moon looked saddened at the statement, and decided to sigh. Luna wondered what his friend was hiding, but did not have to wait long it seemed.

“Jupiter and Saturn married. Before he was exiled.”

“Wait, really?!” Luna felt his ears perk up. He jumped around, almost clattering against the door, wincing delicately. “Ow...”

‘I smell dramaaaaaa...’

“Most of the older moons attended the ceremony,” Callisto drawled. “It was pretty much secret. Since that Queen married that Star, and announced marriage could be legalised, they both clearly though why not. Jupiter asked Sun for permission, Sun accepted.”

“Can’t believe the power-hungry dictator allowed that but okay,” Ganymede grunted. Europa was quiet, slightly upset. Luna wondered if she would have loved the ceremony. He knew Jupiter always asked her to plait his hair to his signature braid. “And then... we obviously happened.”

“Literally hours later,” Titan stated. He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I guess we all forgot about it with the drama that occurred. Jupiter and Saturn literally said their vows and were torn apart.”

“I can’t believe it...” Luna murmured. “I never even knew they were... seeing each other.”

“Secretly yes.”

Luna returned to the lock, popping one screw out. Three to go...

“Sun spoke to Saturn after, or rather interrogated,” Titan continued. He leaned on the wall, watching as Luna continued to unscrew the next one. Slow progress but faster than trying to rip a lock out. “Saturn tried to defend Jupiter but Sun was not having it. Sun warned Saturn that if anything came to light about him too, Saturn would be out. Since then, Saturn has kept quiet in his orbit but we – the moons – hear him crying sometimes. I think if push comes to shove, Saturn... might leave to find Jupiter. And go elsewhere.”

“He can’t,” Io stammered. “I-if Sa-Saturn leaves... what happens to t-the S-Solar System?”

“Chaos,” Triton growled. He folded his arms. Another screw popped out into Luna’s hand, and the doorknob was looser. Not long to go, maybe one more? Nah, Luna should remove the rest. He had to hear this.

‘And you say I am a gossip hoarder.’

“I don’t think Saturn will leave. Apparently, they had a conversation on Earth’s surface while Sun was hurt,” Titan tilted his head. “Saturn said to me that we have to protect Sun. He said that during an anxiety moment. Said that ‘we promised’.”

“Sun is hurt?” Ganymede sounded intrigued. “Do tell.”

‘This I have to hear.’

‘Our Star almost died. You wonder where we get our recklessness from, look no further than him.’

‘Like, erm... father? Like son?’

‘That is so wrong,’ Luna winced visibly. ‘Don’t say that.’

“- Yeah, he got thrown off the balcony at his home! Fell like hundreds of metres or something, smashed himself up! Back broken, you name it! That Star wasn’t nice but... apparently Mars knew his son,” Deimos was squeaking. “His scars look so cool but Mars tells us not to stare.”

“Yeah! It is so cool, like a monster!” Phobos said.

“I mean, it wasn’t cool seeing him how he was,” Luna snarked. He fiddled more with the lock. “He was dying on the table. Bleeding out, with Core damaged. I still get nightmares seeing that. We were all freezing over.”

“It couldn’t have been... that bad... surely?” Europa said. Ganymede was looking more thoughtful.

“The Gravity Quakes said otherwise,” Callisto said in her bored tone. She folded her arms, standing beside Triton. “And once our planets started drifting, it became terror. We thought we were gonna die.”

Another screw popped out. Luna jiggled the knob but while loose it wasn’t able to give way. He sighed, before deciding to tackle the last screw, but his tool was now blunt. There was no way he was going to remove that last screw, but it should be weak enough now to be pulled off.

“Sounds like you had been through a tough time,” Europa drawled. Her pinkish eyes looked at Ganymede, seeing him bite his bottom lip. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, babe, just thinking,” He turned to face Luna, noting the lock. “Wait, you actually did it?”

“Not fully,” Luna said, glaring at the final screw. His tool was snapped, which meant he could do nothing else to remove the lock. “But I think whoever is strongest can finish the job. Ganymede, are you able to?”

A smirk, and Ganymede cracked his knuckles before stepping up. Luna moved away, straightening as he moved beside Titan, the other moon watching Ganymede warily as the biggest moon pressed his hands onto the lock. It was weak, ready to come off... it just needed a good...

Ganymede pulled back, and the lock shattered. The doorknob clattered to the ground, scratching it and itself, and the locking mechanism slid out. The door that had the locking mechanism slowly opened, and Deimos and Phobos gave a cheer as Ganymede pushed the door forwards.

And promptly stopped.

Luna peered around, as did the others, and Luna almost dropped his books at the sight.

‘Damn... that... even I am shocked.’

The library, once the pride of Jupiter, the biggest collection of books and more in the entirety of the Solar System... was in disarray. The tables were moved against the wall, chairs stacked up against each other. Some had fallen and even broke. Their cushions were filthy, covered in grime that Luna knew would take a miracle to remove. The lights were thickened with dust, and clearly had not been switched on for a long time. Over the back of an armchair that sat in the corner nearby, where Jupiter obviously read to his moons at times, was a long scarf with golden stars on a burgundy background.

Seeing Ganymede walk to it, his face forlorn, Luna turned to the bookshelves. A wince came at the statement of them, how each book had lost their colour from the dust, the pages starting to yellow. He bundled his books closer to his chest, refusing to let them go. To not get in the same state.

Some books had fallen, obviously when shelves had been pushed. Pages were dislodged and all over the ground, the writing now smudged. Luna, carefully, picked one page up to see which unfortunate book had faced such a fate.

“Charlotte’s Web. I never knew he had Earth books here?”

“They have the best stories for the little ones,” Europa said, almost too quietly. Triton had stepped in, lowering his sunglasses as he took in the sight, his hand finding Callisto’s. The usually emotionless moon was dismayed at what she was seeing, her purple eyes scanning while her ears were flat on her head.

“Why did it get this bad?” Deimos and Phobos were unusually quiet. “I mean, granted, we ran around the shelves but this... it is so...”

“It’s like a tomb in a way,” Io managed to speak carefully. Controlling his stammer. Tears fell, and the moons grasped his hair with both hands. “Oh, Jupiter...”

Luna saw Ganymede pause, and approached. On a cushion, near the ornate chair, was a pair of half-moon glasses. Luna knew they belonged to Jupiter, maybe he had left them before the banishment. With an intention of finishing whatever book he had started with the little ones. A promise to never be kept.

“Why don’t we ask if we can open the library?” Luna asked cautiously. All eyes bar Ganymede’s turned to him, and a spark of nervousness came to Luna. “I mean you are his Major Moons, the Galileans... surely you can manage the library in his absence?”

“That depends if both X and the Sun agree,” Europa snarked. “And I guarantee X won’t.” Her pink eyes found Ganymede, who was still staring at the glasses. “Ganymede?”

“Nothing,” He said with a growl. Ganymede turned away, his eyes scanning the shelves, but Luna could see tears had formed in his eyes. Luna remembered what Ganymede had said at the Trials: he was the biggest moon, orbiting the biggest planet, and he wanted to be like Jupiter. So much. A role model to the younger ones. To be a Protector to the smaller ones unable to protect themselves.

“Let us find a damn book and get out of here.”

“Ganymede...” Europa said, placing a hand in his own. “It is okay.”

Ganymede’s tears finally started to fall. He gave a roar that caused Luna’s hair to stick up, swiping at the table and sending the glasses flying – and breaking – on the ground.

“No! It is NOT okay!” Ganymede snarled. “I... How can... He do this?! I looked up to him and he MURDERED OTHER PLANETS, expelled X and for what?! He lived his life without a care and...”

“How do you know?” The words came from Luna before he could stop them. He winced as the much larger and stronger moon slowly turned to him, his stance threatening. But Luna held his ground.

‘Nice knowing you. Can I have your body when you die?’

“Nobody was around 4.5 billion years ago, nobody witnessed it. Whatever happened between Jupiter and X is only being told one sided by X, who could have twisted the narrative,” Luna did not back down when Ganymede took a step forward. “Look, Area 51 aside and all that, Ganymede, you show you are worth it by what you accomplished with Europa in the trials. But you can’t allow your emotion to determine the truth of this situation.”

“Jupiter did not deny it, Luna!” Ganymede seethed.

“Maybe he didn’t, maybe he would have, either way, Jupiter knew he could not keep what happened secret for much longer,” Callisto came to Luna’s defence, and he was grateful for it. He was aware of Dark and his growing anger, ready to take control to counter Ganymede. Never again, Luna had argued with himself. Not after Titan.

‘Fine. Ignore me. I couldn’t care less.’

‘I just don’t want to have a mess in Jupiter’s library.’

‘Spoil sport. The mess is the best part!’

‘Too many Celestials have died recently. When will the killing stop if we continue it?’

‘Did you forget this moron helped to rip half our face?’ Dark argued, his anger increasing by the second. ‘Did you forget he is the reason why Earth is handicapped? Did you forget he almost killed trillions upon trillions of Earthlings just to get revenge against you?’

‘I-I.’

‘Exactly. That dude and his chick were so willing to kill our planet for revenge alongside everyone on his surface to get back at you. Ganymede said it wasn’t over and he was right. Even Europa caused you two unnecessary pain... I don’t give a shit if she changed her mind, she was willing to go all the way, Luna. These two idiots should not speak to you after all this. They should have been banished still. You killed that human without hesitation as he tried to kill Earth... what is to stop you doing the same to them?’

Luna felt anger and shame rise. He had killed the Human out of necessity. He had run into the hangar to see Earth struggling to stop the knife, a knife so close to his Core it would have killed him had it penetrated his chest. Nothing else matter to Luna in that moment... nothing. Only saving Earth. He had regretted it, had wished for another way.

It still burdened him to this day.

‘Remember what happened with Aries?!’ Luna watched the others move away, Ganymede taking his silence as a clear triumph against the smaller moon. Titan glanced at him in worry before following, going to look at the books to read to the Minor Moons. ‘His father was twisted to hate Queen Sagittarius, so much she had to hide away and give birth to Aries in secret before sending him away. She was so scared Aries would get hurt by his own father. Hatred caused that poor Star to go mad and kill many innocent Stars and their satellites. When will it stop, Dark?’

A silence. Luna continued to mull around the bookcases, his grey eyes scanning each spine. The other moons had left him completely alone... so he did what he felt best. Luna stepped by the now broken glasses of Jupiter, lifting them up carefully. One of the lenses were cracked. An arm was bent out of shape.

Slowly, he folded them back and placed them on the table by the ornate chair.

‘... You are right.’

Luna gave a small smile, but it was not a happy one. Just pained. He turned and placed the books he had borrowed by the glasses, resting a hand on the top of them.

‘You are right. When will it stop... when will they stop hurting us? If they won’t stop, we have to make it stop ourselves.’

‘Not by violence. By talking, like Titan had once said.’

Another brief silence. Luna turned to see that Io had found a book, and was calling for the others. Callisto approached, giving a small and rare smile as she stared at the cover.

“I remember that book. He read it to us once we woke up. Us four,” She drawled. “I am sure we can read it to the little ones. But I don’t know who can replicate Jupiter’s docile tones.”

“I am sure you would succeed,” Triton stated. He had a book in hand. “Okay if I take this myself? The little ones might like to hear a story tonight: Neptune is due to disappear again by this time.”

“Knock yourself out,” Ganymede grunted. He barged pass Triton, his tail flicking as he head back towards the door. “I want out of here, so let’s go!”

Luna inhaled. One of us has to bow...

“Ganymede? Europa?” He called. The two mentioned moons turned to face him, Europa curious but Ganymede with his signature scowl. “Listen... I can ask Earth if we can open the library up. I’ll ask him to speak to the Sun, and see if you four can manage it.”

Their ears perked straight up, and a look was shared. Luna took this as a sign to press on.

“Earth is the Custodian of the Inner System, and I am sure if we speak to him and form a cohesive argument the Sun will open it up regardless of what X says. This is a place of learning, both past, present, and in preparation for the future. Whatever mistakes happened helped to shape who we are now...” Luna looked at Europa. “You are a voice for the little moons, you speak out for them even when the bigger ones forget they exist. You helped save Earth and me from Area 51, and together with Ganymede, you are the reason I was able to speak to Sun and help fight our case during Earth’s first Custodian meeting. And...” He turned to Ganymede. “You gave me the drive I needed to better myself. Improve so I can be better, more independent. You helped me find my voice. So... so let me help you back. I’ll speak to Earth and petition for the library to be reopened.”

“Luna... I...” Europa sighed. A rare smile came to her, one not twisted how it was before. “Thank you. I suppose we could open the library again for the Solar System. It’s... we need it open. And if you think Earth can help then I don’t see why not.”

“Earth is a Healer though,” Ganymede grunted. “And he is a fifth of the size of X. X won’t like this, I guarantee.”

“I think if Sun is involved, he won’t have a choice,” Triton pointed out. Luna watched as the Twins approached him, holding their own books close to Core. It made Luna wonder when Mars had last read to them both... when Earth had last read alongside Luna that was not Healing books. “But I am sure if we can speak to the other planets, he won’t have a choice either. This is a place of knowledge or whatever... it shouldn’t be closed off.”

“I don’t know, X can be very persuasive,” Titan argued. “He convinced Sun to push Saturn out the meeting. But if we can get Earth and the Rocky Planets to side, surely, we would have some backup?”

“Mars, Mercury, and my Dad are playing a game just now,” Luna still felt it strange calling Venus, the resident grumpy rock, his Dad. But if Venus was willing to call Luna his son, what was to stop Luna calling the huge Rocky his Dad? Earth did it a lot. It would take time though for Luna to do the same. “We could talk to them?”

“Which is which again?” Triton asked abruptly. “So I don’t call one by the wrong name.”

“Mars is small and red, Venus is red with a bad attitude, Mercury is small and pinkish with wings,” Ganymede grunted. “Why the heck Earth sees Venus as a Dad, I don’t know.”

“Well, Venus helped raise Earth and I from day one,” Luna said softly. “And... I guess he is close. Like you guys and Jupiter were.”

They stepped out the library, Luna watching Io – sheepishly – close the doors as best he could. Luna knew this was going to be a topic of conversation soon, but he may as well speak to Earth with the others before X found out personally. Luna did not want to get on the Ice Giant’s bad side.

Chapter Text

Luna did not bank on the others following his idea of speaking to the other Rocky Planets, but as they kept behind him, dogging his steps, Luna felt a brief panic rise within him. Out of all the moons following him, he was one of the smaller ones. Why was he leading these almost planet-sized rocks through the undergrowth that had sprouted when Earth got life?

‘You opened your big fat mouth, that’s why. What are we going to do if Earth says no?’

‘He won’t. Earth needs access to these books too for his Healing Duties. Restricting him prevents those tasks from being met. Plus... I am sure others would want access. If we get more planets and moons, we get more support.’

‘This is going to blow up in your face.’

Luna resisted fighting back against Dark, hearing the briefest of complaints from Europa as her hair got caught. He glanced back at his fellow Rocky Moons, seeing Deimos and Phobos jumping on the vines crossing the play with jubilation. Completely at ease.

“You should tell Earth to cut his damn vines,” Ganymede grunted, his foot crunching one. “Why are these growing here anyways?”

“We planted them,” Luna retorted. “This is Earth’s section of the Rocky Planets. Mars is over the southwest when we use the Sun as the North. Everyone will be in Venus’ compound, and you will hate that without any doubt.”

“Better than having thorns in my hair,” Europa snarked. Callisto watched her sister-moon, narrowing her eyes.

“Your appearance is not important right now. Stop complaining. We should be nearly out of this place.”

“I hope so,” Triton grunted. He swatted a leaf that came too close, the leaf curling away and promptly leaving him alone. “Why are they looking at me? These flowers?”

“They are conscious,” Luna said, rolling his eyes. “They are seeking light, that is all. Don’t take it personally. Anything that reflects light will attract them.”

“If you say so.”

They continued the stomping, Luna watching the path to make sure they did not deviate more. He could hear running water, pausing only briefly to glance through the branches at the small shed that he and Earth had made up a long time ago, to tend to the jungle. Unfortunately, with Earth’s new duties, it was difficult to find time to tend to the space they called their own in the mindscape.

Luna was relieved when they vacated the jungle area, his eyes noting one of the usual meeting points that the Rocky Planets used. Whenever in their mindscape forms, the four would chill in the communal area just between Earth and Venus’ sections and play their card games or more. The Rocky Moons tended to care for themselves during those times. Luna wanted to join them and often hung around nearby but never got a second glance.

“I sacrifice three moons to summon... Neptune!”

The Moons shared bemused expressions, but Luna knew what it was they were playing. After burning the poker cards, the Sun introduced them to a brand-new game called Solarcards. Venus and Mercury were used as guinea pigs, and Mercury beat Venus. Granted the end of the Space Poker Saga was tragic, but this new one was better and more inclusive, with no arguments over who was cheating and not. Everyone knew the rules.

“What in the Universe...” Titan murmured.

“Well played, Venus!” Mars’ familiar docile tones sounded. Luna felt a small smile appear. When Mars lost his mindscape form, it took effort for him to make a new form, but now it was completed. He had, of course, used the same blueprint, but added features that took after the... former leader of the planets. Everyone knew Mars looked up to Jupiter and had taken his betrayal very hard. But his form was set now, and there was no changing, so Mars decided to own it.

The Kirin-like tail flicked as Mars shifted in his seat. Luna wondered if he and Earth could get tails in these forms. If Mars were truly their uncle, as he said. But sadly, it seemed not possible.

“Mercury, your turn!” Mars told the smaller of the three. Pinkish with feathery wings tucked behind him, and bird-like hair stuck up in random spots, Mercury chewed his lip as he frowned, staring at the table before his hand. The smallish planet took a card and placed it down.

“I play the anomaly, Planets and Moons. Since I have Europa on the field...” Luna heard a gasp from the real-life moon by his side. “I summon... Jupiter!”

“Cheater!” Venus growled. His hair was cut shorter, now up in a half-bun, with the rest falling to his shoulders. Steam rose from the Volcanic Planet’s head.

“Am not!”

“Are too!”

“You are just a sore loser!”

Luna indicated to the others, approaching with Deimos and Phobos running ahead to greet their planet. Mars’ ears twitched, and he turned his orange eyes, grinning at his two moonlets with happiness. He moved to the side and stood, allowing them to hug him in jubilation, before turning his orange eyes back to Luna as he approached with the other moons... ignoring Venus and Mercury as they continued to bicker.

“Hello, Luna! What brings you to our neighbourhood? And you have some friends?”

“Wouldn’t call us friends but...” Ganymede winced as an elbow came to his chest.

“I hope that’s okay. How are you, Mars?” Luna noted the new tail moving behind the Red Planet. “Getting used to the tail yet?”

“Eh, somewhat. Feels strange as it moves independently, but I will get used to it at some point. Helios had to expend some of his recovering energy for this to happen, and I can’t exactly ask him to change it now... especially...” Mars shook his head before looking at the other Moons. Behind him, Deimos and Phobos had jumped on the table, wrestling with each other and causing Mercury to shout in dismay as his cards were mixed up with Venus and Mars' decks, and Venus to holler insults. The Volcanic Planet grabbed the pair and yanked them off the table, throwing them – physically – at Mars, who caught them effortlessly.

“Hey Mercury,” Luna greeted, the smaller Planet giving a welcoming smile. Luna turned to face the other Planet, warmth in his core. “Hey, Dad.”

“Dad...?” Titan whispered to the others, but Luna ignored him as Venus approached, giving a clasp on the shoulder of Luna. Luna felt the twinge of happiness as Venus did the action, placing his hand over the Volcanic world’s hand to squeeze, before looking towards Mars as the Red began telling Phobos and Deimos to behave themselves. Their eyes were more focused on the tail behind Mars, and his words seemed to be falling on deaf ears.

“Bit weird for a planet to adopt two other Celestials,” Europa snarked, but Callisto turned her eyes to Europa.

“We all see our planets as parents. It is not unusual to form bonds with others that are like parental ones. And Luna and Earth are younger than you and Ganymede, so it is natural.”

“Shut up, Callisto.”

“Make me, Europa.”

“G-Guys, come o-on!” Io stammered, sounding annoyed as the Rocky Planets turned their full attention to the moons. The mustard-coloured feline shook his head before turning to Venus as the Volcanic turned his eyes back to them. From the look on Venus’ face, he did not want to entertain Ganymede and Europa, at least. But Luna caused a small smile to appear as he ruffled the moon’s hair, before grunting.

“What can we do for ya all?”

“We want to talk to you. About the library,” Luna said. Mercury indicated the stone benches, silently asking the moons to sit down. “You and Mars were the two precious Custodians, and Mercury serves as a bridge to the Sun. We are hoping to ask him if we can reopen the library so the Major and Minor Moons can access the materials. Jupiter’s - I mean, X’s Minor Moons have been upset since the library had been closed because he refused to read them books.”

“I mean, are the books really that important?” Mercury asked. He then saw the looks in his direction and blushed. “What I mean is that the transition from Jupiter to X is the root of the issue. They are used to Jupiter and his presence, his routine, and X is completely different to Jupiter in that regard. The dude has been in exile for so long and is still getting used to the workings of the Solar System. Remember, he has been in isolation for billions of years, longer than Neptune’s orbit. With no other Celestial Body to speak to or visit.”

“I suppose the question being asked is whether it was appropriate to close the library anyway,” Mars interjected. His tail flicked, Deimos and Phobos trying to grab it eagerly. “I understand there may be problems about how honest the books are, but many of those books in the library are from historical events spanning from the start of the Universe to now. It is the biggest possible collection of texts in the Sector.”

“X believes Jupiter fabricated the majority of the books,” Ganymede growled. He held his tail, giving a warning look at Mars’ moonlets not to play with his tail. Europa pulled her tail close, but Io started laughing as Deimos tried to swat at his own. Callisto seemed, as usual, unbothered, and Titan was quietly asking Phobos not to touch his own. Triton held his tail close to his body.

“That is news to me,” Mars stated. “Because most of the books, the oldest ones, are from Helios’ collection. I imagine X means the ones right at the back?”

Luna saw the Galilean Moons share a glance. He tilted his head, wondering whether they had truly grasped the extremes that X had gone to in sealing off the library. He felt the nip of Dark, a frown crossing his forehead.

‘Seems our Star has some tomes in there too that he wanted locked away.’

‘Of course. Those books would be more complex and relevant to him, and without someone responsible like Jupiter, he does not want them accessed.’

“I never realised. We were always told by Jupiter to never go to that collection,” Europa said, her ears flattening. “I guess our Star is still as pretentious as ever.”

“It brings a fair point,” Callisto drawled. “Those books are ancient and detail a lot of information that shouldn’t be accessed so easily. So, when Jupiter got banished, our Star HAD to close the library... and with no responsible individual, it seems the library will remain closed.”

“You want to open the library, you find someone who can,” Venus grunted. He leaned back into the bench, resting his ankle on his knee and his elbows on the stonework. “One of us or the Gas Giants. Out of all of us, who do you reckon would be the best option?”

Luna was silent, as were the other moons. He gave a glance at Titan, who shook his head at his silent question. No, Saturn would not be a good replacement, not with his healer duties. He would not be able to manage the library AND those responsibilities, not when he can be called on by the Sun at any moment. Uranus was a good option, but the Ice Giants were aloof and very awkward, not easy to approach. He saw Triton give a shake of his head when Luna contemplated Neptune, who was even worse in his attendance than the rest of them. Neptune was not a fan of books, and while he had some moments, such as Maths during the orbit swaps, he was maybe not as eager to manage an entire library.

“What about Uranus?” Luna asked. But the looks shared between Triton and Titan were not missed by anybody. “Or not?”

“Uranus worships the space that X orbits; he would sooner support X in closing the library than reopen it. He is desperate for friends, feels ignored by the other Giants, and Neptune's disappearance regularly impacts him, too. I think he would hamper our efforts,” Triton said softly. “It is uncomfortable to watch at times.”

“And Saturn being desperate for company means Uranus is shining,” Titan swatted Phobos’ hand as he reached for the tail. “Please, don’t tug my tail. Anyways, Saturn being forced into the background and Uranus being raised by X means he would support X more. Titania said to me recently that she thinks Uranus is being manipulated.”

“Do you think that?” Mars sounded worried.

“I mean, when did you last speak to Uranus, aside from the orbital swap?” Callisto said in her monotonous way. “No offence. The Ice Giants are left pretty much alone. There has been a rising tension that X is taking advantage of. Uranus is a no-go.”

Which left the Rocky Planets. Luna could see the distasteful realisation on Venus’ features, knowing that the Volcanic world would do anything to avoid tending to books. Plus, he was more likely to set them on fire than anything else.

His eyes found Mercury and Mars. Mercury did not seem enthusiastic, too but Mars... Mars had lengthy custodian experience, had guided the Inner System for billions of years. While he was desperate to resign, Luna wondered if he was bored now of having little to no responsibility. But then he saw, out of the corner of his eyes, the disgruntled expression of Ganymede and the resting bitch face of Europa.

“Would it not... make sense...”

 ‘Don’t do it...’

“Why should it be a planet?!” Europa sneered. “YOU said the Galilean Moons would be the best option! We know Jupiter’s routine in that library better than anybody else!”

“He isn’t saying that”, Mars pointed out. “He is not dismissing you. The information about the Sun’s private collection calls into question whether this should be a joint venture. We need a responsible planet to monitor that section, and the rest can be divided up between you four. If you want to convince Sun to reopen, you need to go at him with as much in your arsenal as possible.”

“Why can’t a moon handle that section again?” Titan asked, more for clarification. “Does it have to be a planet?”

“It has to be a responsible individual,” Venus placed more strength behind his words. “And no offence, but you two.” He indicated Ganymede and Europa. “Are anything BUT responsible. Considering the mess made.”

‘Yay! Fight!’

“Now hold on here, let’s not start with the blame game,” Mars said hastily, stopping Ganymede from opening his mouth. “Look, we all agree the library needs to be opened back up, yes?”

Nods.

 “We agree that the Galilean Moons should handle it, yes?”

Nods.

“So... why don’t we divide up the library into four? And the Sun can choose who he wants to keep an eye on his section.” Mars noted that Ganymede opened his mouth. No doubt to argue. “Look, the Sun will not trust anybody lightly to handle perhaps the oldest books this System has within its shelves. He will choose who monitors it, and we must accept it.”

Luna bit his lip, watching the exchange. He was so glad that Mars was the most dependable of the Rockies in these kinds of arguments. Venus, bless him, always was hot-headed, and Mercury too shy. Earth was no better. His words kicked off the Revolution, and while he had grown up since then, he still had a long way to go. They both still had to grow up.

‘Speak for yourself.’

“So, we have no ace,” Triton said, his nasally voice full of bitterness. “Nothing to show, we can’t have the library open if we cannot have someone keep an eye on that section. What is to stop X using the lack of confidence against us?”

“Earth can vouch for the library opening,” Luna reminded him. “He needs access to the healing section, so I think he will back up our cause. But again, we do not have anybody considered by the Sun a responsible individual to keep an eye on things... we are left with Mars or Uranus. And with Uranus’ desperation to be friends with X, he may grant access. Which means...” He looked at the Red. “Would you...?”

“I can certainly try. It won’t be easy, but I can learn from the Galilean Moons. If they are willing to teach me,” Mars glanced at the four.

“W-we would b-be delighted!” Io said, happiness in his form. He poked at Deimos, who had grabbed his tail, the moon laughing. “If w-we have o-our group we c-can go t-to the Sun now?”

“No can do: the Sun isn’t here,” Mercury finally spoke. Luna turned his eyes to his friend, curiosity on his features. He knew that Earth and Saturn had left earlier to attend to some matters, alongside X, but he did not see the Star leave with them. The Star may have left another way to prevent anybody from spying on the wounded Celestial. “They had some sort of message from the Core, and that’s why we are in the mindscape. The Core expanded it so that the visitor to the system can access ours without any issue. Once they are safely here and on Earth’s surface, from what I gathered from the Sun, the mindscape will close again until otherwise asked to be opened.”

“A visi-visitor?” Io asked of the small Rocky Planet. “O-Oh, do we kn-know who it is?”

“Hopefully someone better than the one we had three months ago,” Callisto drawled. “That one was a dickhead.”

“What happened?” Ganymede asked, turning his eyes to his fellow Moons.

“Some high-ranking Star, it’s a long story,” Luna did not want them to badmouth S2. The Star, despite the poor introduction, had redeemed himself. While what he did to the Sun was deplorable and should be unforgivable, he had saved the Galaxy. He had saved everybody. But the consequences of his death were… severe to those who cared deeply for him. Luna had not heard from Aries since he left for the Core, and he gathered Earth hadn’t either. He had tried to get snippets about Aries from the passing Comets, but nothing aside from his public presentation and other matters, like an occasional appearance. Never anything important. “Did they say who the visitor was?”

“Unfortunately, no, but considering Sun went, it must be someone high-ranking,” Mercury tilted his head, a thoughtful expression appearing on his features. “Another reason the library should be reopened, I believe. If these high-ranking individual needs access to literature, they need to have it granted.”

“You reckon it’s a Star? Another S-Cluster coming?” Triton asked. “I swear, even that one I met with the rest of you set me for life. I cannot meet another blue blood who thinks they are worth more than they are.”

“I think… we should be careful how we speak of Him,” Mars said cautiously. “Considering that very Star saved the Queen and everyone else. He should be remembered for that heroic action, and nothing more. I think our friend, should he ever return to us, would be very unhappy to hear us talking ill about his father.”

Silence came to the rest of them. Luna saw Venus tapping his fingers impatiently against the stonework, his fiery eyes looking at nothing, whereas Mars was glancing between him and the moons. Luna knew there were going to be issues remaining between Venus and the Galilean Moons; he was not stupid. Venus was a Celestial who relied heavily on trust and honesty, and anybody who broke that tended to face his Wrath.

‘He is a pain in the ass, I don’t know what you and Earth see in him.’

‘Can you STOP? Venus has done a lot for Earth and us; he cares a lot. He just shows it in his way.’

‘He never cared for me. And he used to treat you like shit in the past. What changed?’

‘No idea. But I prefer this new Venus to the old one.’

‘The old one was more amusing and easier to wind up.’

“Hey, Luna?” He felt his ear twitch, and looking around to see a Celestial that had approached the group. Luna tilted his head, wondering who they were from their markings, but then he recognised the heart on the cheek, a contrast to the rich brown skin he had in this form. Only one Celestial possessed such a marking on its surface.

“Pluto!” Luna jumped up, giving a greeting to the Dwarf Planet. The others gave polite nods and hellos, but nothing more, as the Dwarf walked towards the moon with an uncomfortable smile. “What brings you here?

“Well, myself and other Dwarf Planets were at the market in the Kuiper Belt – the nicer one, not the Black Market – and we saw Helios approaching us with other Celestials. Earth was among them. And some Celestials that I am not familiar with…” Pluto seemed awkward amongst them, and Luna did not want him to get even more uncomfortable. “Helios asked me to go ahead to collect everyone in Uranus’ orbit. But he said it was important to grab you and the other Rocky Planets. Someone… wants to meet you.”

Luna wasted no time. He left the others at a run, Venus calling for him to slow down, but he ignored him. He wasn’t as fast as the others, so when Titan appeared, he ignored him, keeping his strides as he ran southwest first to reach Mars’ zone. It would take him at least thirty minutes at a run. Pluto must have run from the Kuiper Belt to give the message. He had to thank him later.  

‘Can you slow down? If you fall, you will break something and then Earth must deal with your ass when he gets back.’

‘Shut up, Dark!’

After thirty minutes of stop-start running, he could see the Ice Giants ahead and their moons. Slowing his pace, Luna checked his watch. Right on time, and as he peered out, he could see the faint glow of Helios leading the group. He could see Earth with Saturn, X behind them, looking slightly worse for wear and sporting some bruises. But Luna didn’t care, running to his planet, right past – and almost stepping on his tail – Uranus and to his brother. Earth gave a wide smile, before it became tired. Luna hugged him, glad to hear that heartbeat in his ear once again, before noticing how dishevelled Earth was. Saturn was also looking a bit worse for wear, with a bandage around his tail alongside a slight wince that betrayed his pain. X had angry red marks, which had been covered in salve, and he looked in a worse mood than before.

Helios looked exhausted, and his arm was in a sling. The Star kept his head high, ignoring the glances. Luna winced as the Star passed, the heat hitting him for a moment, before looking at the newcomers. One was a female Star, with a bright red halo and deep red skin, wearing garments that showed she was not part of their system. The other female Star had a white-gold Halo reminiscent of S2, and her robes were ornate. She was young but was an S-Cluster Star. The female was carrying a backpack and another bag that hung on her shoulder.

And behind her –

“ARIES!”

Luna broke from Earth and ran to the Prince. Aries gave him a brief smile and accepted the hug with a gentle pat on the back, before breaking it within seconds. Luna scanned him, noting his clothing and how ornate it was. His tail was better controlled than before, resting gently, and his longer strands of black hair were pulled back to prevent them from coming forth and getting in the way. His halo burned brightly, almost overrunning the other Stars. Luna could barely recognise him... Aries looked different, less friendly, and more...

Damaged.

“Hello, my lovely moon.” Even his voice lost its spark. Luna felt his smile fall, concern rising as he looked up into Aries’ bright eyes. “How are you?”

“I’m well! What about you and your mom?” Luna saw the S-Cluster give a disapproving look at Luna’s reference to the Queen, but Aries ignored their expression.

“She... has seen better days,” He sighed. “My Mother, the Queen, is back home, rebuilding the Core. It is almost complete, but still requires some work. Now, before we get left behind. Come along.”

Luna watched as Aries strode away, giving a distressed look to Earth. His brother approached, placing an arm on his shoulders, guiding Luna back to the others who had appeared. Luna could see the awe in the moons as they stared at Aries, some realising that this was the Prince of the Milky Way. Right here. In their system. But Luna had his eyes on his brother, noting Earth was looking a bit tired.

“Earth?”

“I am alright. Just tired from the journey and the events that followed,” His azure eyes noted Ganymede and the others as the Moons approached. Luna winced, hoping they were not going to jump in and ask Earth right now. His brother needed to rest. “Hello?”

“Hello, Earth,” Titan greeted. The other Saturnian Moons had gone to their planet to give comfort. Rhea had inspected Saturn’s tail, tutting. “How was the trip? Saturn sounded concerned when he mentioned it earlier.”

“Eventful, as you can see.”

“Earth, we need to talk,” Ganymede grunted. Luna tensed up, stepping before his tired brother as he watched the larger moon. He could see the other Rockies had arrived and went to greet Aries. “About something important that we need your support for.”

‘He doesn’t read the room, does he?’

“Can it wait?” Titan said, a touch of firmness to his voice. “Ganymede, they just got back and are tired! They need to be back in their orbits.”

“It’s about the library,” Ganymede powered on. Luna set his jaw, curling his lip. He felt Earth’s hand on his shoulder, telling him it was okay, but Luna did not back down. “We are hoping to reopen it. But we need your help to do so... ya see...”

“Ganymede, this is not the time or place,” Europa hissed. Her ears were up, her eyes staring as X walked towards them. “It can be addressed later.”

“Is this because of the library closing?” Earth asked the largest moon. “I was hoping to ask X later, after a rest, to get access for some healing books. But... I didn’t realise it was closed?”

“Yeah! It was locked tight, we had to break it,” Deimos squeaked, joining the group with Phobos. “Luna managed to get the screws out. And we went in and it was all dusty and messy and-.”

“Is this about that damned library?” X’s deep voice sounded. The Ice Giant stepped behind his moons, casting a shadow over them. Earth’s hand tightened more on Luna’s shoulder, and Luna wasted no time in coming closer to his brother. The entire atmosphere was now colder, as though a sudden frost had descended on a meadow. “You BROKE INTO my library?”

“It isn’t your library!” Luna couldn’t help himself. The red eyes of the Ice Giant turned to him, and had Luna any sense, he would have submitted. But he had landed himself in it now.

‘Let me out. I will deal with him.’

“Last I checked, little moon,” X’s tone became Ice. His red eyes gleamed dangerously as he stared down at Luna, a curl of his lip. The discussion had caused conversations to pause, the Rockies turning their eyes to them alongside the four Stars. Luna could see Aries staring at them, his bright eyes narrowing as he slowly approached. “I have been given the responsibilities and possessions that belonged to Jupiter. And until I deem it safe and secure of Jupiter’s lies, that library remains closed.”

“It does not belong to you.”

Luna turned rapidly to his brother. Earth’s chipper voice was hard, and his eyes narrowed as he regarded the taller and stronger Ice Giant. Earth, the usually gentler of the Rockies, was... standing up to X?

“The library was opened up for the entirety of the Solar System, and is the largest collection of literature spanning billions of years. As part of my duties, I require access. Which you have denied me and Saturn. Regardless of what crimes Jupiter has done in the past, those books hold stories that originated from the start of the Universe.”

“Which are not accessible to anything beneath a Star,” X growled. His wolf ears tensed, and his eyes glowed more dangerously. “Our Star has access to that material. The rest-.”

“Should be accessed by anybody and anyone who wishes to learn.”

Aries had approached, standing over them all. Luna winced, realising that Aries had probably grown slightly since he last saw him. And the way Aries tilted a brow reminded Luna of how S2 addressed them, with thinly disguised annoyance concerning the situation. Luna knew Aries was different now. He was moving away from being a friend to being a Prince.

“Back on Earth and the Core, libraries are the sanctuaries of knowledge and learning. Closing that robs a generation and more of the lessons they can learn from history and more. Regardless of the source. So that the mistakes of the past are not repeated,” Aries eyed Helios as the Star approached. “As I will require access to the library, it should be opened... whilst I am here. Lady S1 and I seek knowledge within for our mission.”

“We will give you, and anyone who requires it, full access to the library,” Helios said. “But... I do not have a keeper...”

“We can do it,” Ganymede said proudly. “The Galilean Moons. We were Jupiter’s and now X’s moons, and if X is okay with it... We can run it. We know the library best! We can divide up the sections and each take one. The only issue is your... personal collection...”

“I can care for it, if you wish for it,” Mars interjected. He stepped up, Helios and Aries towering over him. The Prince glanced at Helios, who looked on the spot. Luna watched X give a narrow of his eyes, his lip curling all the more as he stepped forth once again. And Aries tensed as the step had brought him too close to the Prince’s boundaries.

“You said when Jupiter was exiled, I would have control of his assets. This includes his library. If our Prince and visitors wish access, then I will not deny them that. But Jupiter has already twisted minds and thoughts concerning my banishment, and giving them access means he wins, Sun!” He curled his hands into fists as he glanced at Earth. “If Earth wants access for his Healing duties, he needs only ask. Not start these theatrics.”

“Theatrics...?” Earth repeated. Luna felt a sense of doom rising within his Core, sensing this was a losing battle. There was no way the library would be getting opened...

Helios sighed. He looked between them all, the female Red Dwarf approaching to see what the delay was. Her eyes scanned Helios, ears perked as she listened to the conversation, before her expression became one of disinterest. Her eyes turned to Helios, and she said softly.

“Can this not wait? We have bigger matters to deal with, such as, I don’t know, a First One running around?”

A First... What? Luna blinked at her before turning his eyes to Earth, looking for clarification. His Brother shook his head, telling Luna to be quiet and to keep in the background. Like a Moon. Luna was getting sick of it. He shrugged Earth’s hand off his shoulder, looking back at the Red Dwarf. The Red Dwarf was bickering with Helios now, her eyes glowing alongside Helios’ own, their Halos more vibrant with their emotions. She was wandering around, her eyes darting at X, then the others, such as the Moons.

“What an interesting development,” The other female Star mentioned. She stepped by Aries, her head tilted slightly, a brow raised as she also took in the drama. But Luna could see the incoming anger from Aries, as his shoulders tensed. The tail was flicking at the end, faster as his anger started to take shape, and his expression was becoming stormier. Luna could see and feel the air crackle, his hair starting to stick on end as he realised that Aries was not exerting his pressure. The female S-Cluster Star was tensing too. Luna shrank back, stepping behind Earth as the Prince strode towards Helios and the Red Dwarf without hesitation.

“Enough.”

The Red Dwarf female and Helios paused in their discussion, turning their eyes to Aries. Luna watched the Prince fold his arms, tail now moving more in agitation and anger at the situation. His eyes indicated the gathered Planets and Moons, his lip curling as he addressed them all.

“We will discuss the library situation later. In the meantime, we have urgent matters to attend to. Lord Helios, you will continue to lead us to your compound, and there we will discuss our mission with you. I would also request that Earth and Luna attend, as I will require access to Earth’s surface.”

Luna gazed at Earth, seeing his planet’s confusion, but then he nodded and stepped forth to follow Aries. X gave Luna a cold look, one that sent even more chills up Luna’s spine and into his Core. Turning his grey eyes onto Earth as he stepped around to Aries, Luna followed, grumpy.

‘You say I am the one with the attitude. Why are you grumpy?’

‘We should have fought harder! All of us! I feel like we let everyone down.’

‘We got a half-victory: the library will be open while Aries is here. So that means we have full access. I would take that because we might not be allowed after.’

Luna felt Earth’s arm around his shoulders again, concern on his brother’s face. Luna plastered a smile on, trying not to let Earth worry, but those azure eyes did not stop Luna from hiding. At least his brother helped this time. But as he walked down the path, following Helios with Earth, Luna spared a glance back at X. The Ice Giant had a growing smirk on his lips, only on one corner, before it disappeared, and he turned to address the moons. To tell them off, probably. Luna gave a worried glance to Io and Callisto, but Io grinned and gave a thumbs up. To let him know that they would be okay.

As they finally approached Helios’ compound, Luna eyed the Star’s residence. It was ornate compared to the rest of theirs, with many rooms, and Luna felt a pang of sympathy for the Star. They had each other, and the moons and planets could interact with one another with little issue. Who did the Star have to speak to and be friends with? There was no other Star, maybe the Red Dwarf was to join their system? But then that would impact Earth and his life... one Star was best, they always said. Yellow or Orange. Not too big.

Luna felt his mouth drop open as he stepped in, looking around the hallway, seeing the state of the compound. Doors were blocked off, and it only supported his opinion that Helios... was lonely. Rooms that would be used by more than one Star. Granted, there was an office open, a large meeting area, dining, everything... but even the dining table only had one spot.

His Star was lonely. It probably explained his... issues as Mercury called. The Star is being clingy and desperate for companionship. And hated being by himself. Luna turned his eyes to Helios, who kept his eyes straight as he took them all into the meeting area. His Star was not looking at any of them as he went to go and get some refreshments. Luna always thought a Star would have aid in living, but... Helios didn’t. His Comets were all gone, either died in their planetary forms or migrated away.

Luna took one of the large chairs, feeling small. He glanced upwards at it, staring at the symbol to see who it was... and winced. Jupiter’s chair.

Earth walked to his chair, a circle with a cross inside, taking it. Luna wasted no time in coming to his side, feeling unable to sit in Jupiter's chair, instead going to Mars’ own. A bit more comfortable and didn’t make him look ridiculous at least. The S-Cluster Star took Jupiter’s chair, and when Helios returned, he took Saturn’s. Aries took Helios’ chair, wincing as he repositioned his tail so it fell a bit better down his side. The Red Dwarf took Venus’, scanning Earth curiously.

“We are all here, my Prince,” The S-Cluster said softly. Luna turned his eyes back to Aries, noting he was resting back on the chair, before leaning forward as he turned his eyes to address Helios.

“Introductions,” He indicated the S-Cluster Star. “This is Lady S1 of the High Council, one of our skilled healers. She is here at my request, to help heal Lord Helios... but also for another matter that needs to be addressed.” His eyes also found the Red Dwarf. “This is Proxima Centauri, a member of the Alpha Centauri System. Her presence is only temporary and will be aiding Lord Helios as he recovers.”

His eyes turned to Earth and Luna, expectantly. Realising he was waiting for an introduction, Earth had a purple tinge on his cheeks as he stammered.

“I am the Earth, and this is my Moon, Luna. I orbit Helios in my planetary form, in his habitat zone. Luna is my only satellite, and helps me with my tides and tilt, giving me seasons and tidal networks.”

Luna felt a spark of pride at this. But it did not last as Aries spoke again.

“Onto the... issue. We have found that the traitor, S21, of the Council had escaped and is trying to find her Master. We believe she has narrowed down Entropy’s location to somewhere in the Solar System. Unfortunately, as we have encountered in the Oort Market, he had grown an army. They are seeking to locate Entropy and return him to power.”

“We seek to use the Solar System as a Base while we hunt S21 and Entropy while he is weakened,” S1 said, her tone musical and soft. Luna was reminded of Spring when she spoke, and it filled him with hope. “However, we require assistance from another group of individuals who have access to the secret networks.”

“Don’t tell me... You mean the Shadow Council?” Helios said. Luna noticed his Star was looking tired but did not want to embarrass him. But Luna turned his attention to what Helios had said. The Shadow Council? Who were they? “They’re led by Gaia One and Gaia Two. Twin sisters. Their brother, Gaia BH3, rarely attends as he sleeps most of the time. I usually have one of them nearby the System, but only to harvest on occasion.”

“You know of the Gaia Triplets?” Proxima repeated.

“I know mostly about Gaia BH1. Herself, Cygnus and Monocerotis like to roam about one thousand five hundred light years from here. I do not mind their proximity; I do feel them sometimes. They pop over now and then to feed,” Helios said softly. “Gaia has a sister whom she leads in the Council. They are due to have a meeting on the 25^th of Earth’s current month. It would give Aries and S1 plenty of time to prepare accordingly.”

“How much do you know of the Shadow Council?” Earth couldn’t help but ask his Star. Luna gave a sharp look at his brother, hoping he wouldn’t stick his foot in it as per usual.

“I know OF them. As I said, Gaia BH1 and BH2 are twin sisters, and have a brother who cares more about sleeping. Gaia BH1 is part of a Star System and is one of the few who does so. Gaia BH2 is also in a binary system with a star, but she is stated to be a bit more… dismissive.”

Luna didn’t know what to say. To find out there was a whole Council of Black Holes, hidden deep underground and out of sight, whereas the Queen herself – and by extension, Aries – were black holes themselves. Granted, Aries was half, but Luna did not understand why Sagittarius did not allow Black Holes to be more in the public domain. It confused Luna.

‘Just because the Queen and Prince are nice, doesn’t mean the rest are.’

Luna turned his eyes to Earth, wondering if he could ask a question, but Earth shook his head. Feeling annoyed at being brushed again, Luna slouched in the chair, turning his eyes back to the stars. Their attention was back on each other, Aries’ bright eyes watching Luna and Earth closely, before S1 said softly.

“We have two days to prepare for the Shadow Council. Now, the space-elephant in the room… The First One.”

“What is a First One?” Luna asked, almost too quietly. All eyes turned to him, and Luna winced at the sudden attention he gained from the Stars around him. He wondered if he felt stupid for asking it, like he should have known, but when S1 sighed and gave a gentle smile, he was soothed in his worries. She was nicer than the other S-Cluster Star… No, he shouldn’t do that. S2 was nice… towards the end. When everything was better.

“They are a First Star, the first one to be ignited. They were prototype stars but did not live long… they helped form the first Galaxies. The Predator, who had been on Earth’s surface before when Entropy sent his men to kill Helios, is one of those stars. He is known as HD1 and formed one of the first Galaxies in the Universe.”

“So, he is an ancient star who wants… to kill other stars?” Earth shook his head. “What happened for him to go from that to what he is presently?”

“I am unsure, but there has to be a way for him to be defeated,” Aries said bitterly. He placed his hands together, fingers interlocked, frowning at nothing. Luna felt saddened that his friend was truly changed, that everything… had finally just got to him. The loss of his father had caused a lot to be on his shoulders, and there was no respite. Especially with his grieving mother, and now this mission.

“He mentioned S2,” Helios said softly. “Our King. He encountered him… He must have.”

“Did he say he met my father?” Aries repeated. A frown knotted on his brow. “Hm. I think I need to discuss with my mother, the Queen. Once this meeting has concluded, lord Helios, I require access to a quiet area. I can converse with my mother through our inanimate forms. In the meantime, with the library accessible, I would conduct research into HD1. He has marked you for death, he will try again, and you MUST be ready.”

He turned his eyes to Earth and Luna.

“Once I am done discussing with the Queen, I will head down to the surface with S1 to prepare for meeting the Shadow Council. I would like yourselves, Venus, Mars, and Saturn, to accompany me until the area is secure. I want to be ready for anything. The Island could be a good place to start, and we will drift between there and the mindscape to get access to the library and any information. S1 will also schedule healing sessions with Lord Helios, and please, this time… don’t undo her work. We have had too many individuals playing heroes in recent months.”

Chapter Text

The sanctuary in the compound was smaller than the one he had back in the Core, but suitable. It was dark, cool, and had the meditation pad in the centre. Aries remembered his had more back home, with flowery and bushes, and more. But Helios’ did not possess or require such splendour. And Aries was not willing to scolding Helios for that. Not with what Aries intended to use it for.

He removed his cloak and shoes, before stepping into the middle of the mat. Aries reached forward, pressing his palms into the darkened floor. Exerting his influence, he felt the swirling maelstrom of the mindscape erupt around his form, encasing him in the familiar claustrophobia that Aries hated. In the times he had done this, albeit briefly, he was reminded of how free this form was.

And how restricted his inanimate form had become. How his father lasted in it, for nearly eight billion years, Aries did not know. But now he was chained to it.

He felt his form get enclosed further, the darkness choking him. Aries inhaled, bringing his hands further to his Core as he allowed his body to relax, his consciousness ripping out of his being. His Core gripped with sudden agony, before soothing as he felt the Gravity intensify. Aries felt a distinct lack of limbs, of torso...

He opened his eyes to find him in the darkness of space. Surrounded by trillions of Stars, orbiting slowly. With the familiar lights of the S-Cluster Stars within his proximity. Taking a moment to recover, he felt his surface ripple delicately, and Aries wasted no time in releasing a Flare out into the depths of Space. It’s radiation expanded out as a wave, soon swallowed into the darkness the further it went. His Core churned and finally settled, fuelling him. Turning its new hydrogen supply into helium. His father would have been closed to going Red Giant before he died, but when Aries took charge, it became a new Star. A Star reflecting his age of only 3.5 billion.

He felt the tug of his lone planet, not yet reaching consciousness. Aries smiled at it, relieved that it still orbited close to him. One day it would waken, and he would have someone to help care for. His father apparently had a planet. But had lost it.

This one was female. So he named her Cadoz. He touched her gravity and found her beating Core. Yes, still developing. She would not wake for another million years at least.

Turning his attention back to the darkness, Aries brought himself in. He sent out a pulse of gravity, reaching out to try and touch the boundary of her. It would be difficult to see her without some effort. If his mother wanted updated, she needed to respond.

Another gravity pulse and nothing. Annoyance came to Aries, his eyes scanning for any sign of her. Any bending of light, any strange pulses...

And then he felt it.

The Gravity proximity rumbled around him. Aries felt the power, how it reached out and touched his own. It was enormous, it was mighty. It almost made Aries shudder as he ensured his planet remained a safe distance away from the gravity. It would be a losing battle if she got caught within his mother’s influence. As he peered into the darkness, Aries wondered how his father managed to interact with his mother. He could barely see a single thing. Just Stars. And Nebulas. Bending.

Wait... bending.

“Mother?” He called.

A Comet zipped pass him, and suddenly was caught. Not in his Gravity, or his planet’s, but another. It stretched and shattered, it’s particles slowly moving towards a darkened spot before... being ignited into fire. It curved and swelled, and now he could see her. The Stars began to bend as she moved, the nebulas warped. Aries felt insignificant. Like a knight facing a dragon much too large and fierce to conquer.

And then her eyes opened. Fiery eyes that stared deep within his being. But they were not full of anger but affection. Love for him. A motherly love. The comet debris made a cloud of fire around her form, being engulfed within the event horizon and drowning. The dust joined it, and now Aries could see his mother’s true form. He could see Sagittarius as she truly was.

This was the supermassive black hole his father saw. Now older, larger... and mightier than before. While she could sit comfortably in the orbit of Mercury, that did not mean she was weak. She was powerful, gargantuan. His mother the Queen.

“Mom,” Aries whispered. He would cry if he could, hug her... but not here. If he broke the border he would be consumed and unable to escape. Maybe once he returned in his humanoid form he could.

And when she spoke, Aries knew he was speaking to a literal Goddess of the Universe. Her voice held the musical tone she had in her humanoid form, but here? He heard the echoes of many Stars and black holes long gone. Aries could hear male, female, and children. It made him wonder how many died for his mother to be birthed. Black Holes merged with others, becoming bigger and more powerful. The more gas, the bigger they became. Aries knew of the potential theories concerning his mother back on Earth, about how she formed – and how she would end. It was a hanging sombre moment between the two of them, knowing how Sagittarius would die. His – no, former – home believed she would live forever. Merged with Messier. If only that were true.

Aries vowed he would not submit to Messier. If he survived the merger.

“Hello, my sweet. How are you? Did you arrive safely?”

It was strange hearing such affection and love from a being considered so ancient and powerful it would be revered as a god back home. Aries wondered what Stephen Hawking would have thought if he could have spoke with Sagittarius. In fact, he wondered if all the founding fathers and mothers of the theoretical approach of black holes would have loved to speak to his mother. She would probably find them intriguing or find it embarrassing. It was something Aries would wish to have witnessed, and it would give his mother a boost to her currently shattered mood.

“Aries?”

He winced. Too long to answer.

“I am safe, Mom,” He said softly. “I arrived in the Solar System but there was a skirmish. Some of Entropy’s men ambushed us. Or rather, ambushed Helios and his companions.”

“Helios came personally?” Sagittarius warped the light around her. He saw her eyes narrowing in annoyance. “That Star...”

“It got worse, mother. This is why i wanted to speak with you. And quickly. We encountered not just Entropy’s men, but another being. Does the name of HD1 mean anything to you?”

Silence. The dust warped around her in a violent manner, and he felt the rumbling of Sagittarius’ gravity as she moved her eyes to him. Aries felt fear grip his core, wondering if he had overstepped by mentioning a banned name. His mother was staring intently at him, the accretion disc rumbling as the gravity started to rumble around him with such intensity he thought he was going to be pulled in.

“So, he rears his head again in my Galaxy...” She had a snarl. Her voice was deeper, more aggressive than ever. Only time Aries heard her speak in such a manner was when she was fighting Entropy. “What happened?”

“He tried to consume Helios. I stopped him, and he ran off. From what I know from my human time, I know HD1 was one of the first Galaxies in the Universe. Her was a black hole when I encountered him but... he was different. I could sense he was strong but not as strong as you. What happened to him?”

“I do not know his story but I know him as he tried to assassinate me,” Sagittarius stated, a coldness to her voice. The implications of her statement hit Aries like he was a human struck by a truck of bricks. HD1 had tried to assassinate his mother? Why did she never mention this?

“It was shortly before I found out I was pregnant with you. Looking back, I think he may have sensed you growing within my womb, a half-star, half-black hole child. That would be something worth consuming, I believe, to him... HD1 came from a time where Unnaturals were plentiful. I met him when he requested a meeting with me,” The Stars shifted as Sagittarius moved. “During the meeting, he asked if he could become part of the Galaxy. He was roaming outside and between others, and me being young and foolish, I believed him. He was homeless, left to journey to find his place, unable to form his own Galaxy of such complexity compared to what he had before. HD1 was one of the first Stars who went Supernova. And became a Black Hole. He did not have the same strength as modern black holes did to become Galaxies. While I was formed from those ancient black holes merging constantly, I gained enough power and traction to become the centre of the Milky Way. I stated that he could join provided he follows my Laws. HD1 argued that black holes should be seen as the highest in the hierarchy, considering that black holes rule the Galaxy. I argued back, saying that a ruler can only be as good as their Council, and if he was not happy with the Law I have given concerning black holes consumption of others... then he could leave. HD1 accepted, grudgingly, but looking back he had an alternative motive.

“That night, he broke into my compound and into my chambers. I was sleeping,” Sagittarius rumbled above him. Aries felt his breath catch in himself. “He evaded all my guards, and entered my chambers and waited for my guard to be down. I woke to him and tried to fight back, but he had caught me unaware. He tried to consume me, and I thought this was it. I could do nothing.”

Aries was stunned. Was this one of Entropy’s attempts to kill his mother... and him, before he could be born? Did Entropy visualise what Aries would do to his plans, and decided to handle two birds with one stone.

“As my strength fell, I heard the door open. And then a Flare. Your father,” Her voice trembled. “He pulled HD1 off me, and... I could only see some of it, but he fought him. Stars have always been told to never fight a black hole alone, as if the black hole got too close you could be consumed. Unless you are skilled with Gravity to bypass them. Your father was a young Star, but I had never seen him be so...” She paused, searching for the word. “Defensive of me. He was able to evade every attack, using gravity to stop the black hole from grabbing him. HD1 was getting frustrated, and even though he could use the Four, even he was unable to fight your father. So he tried to use me as leverage, try to use me to get S2 to back down. But I was recovering, and able to move... and he got distracted by that for S2 to Flare him. The Flare landed on his torso, in the side, and HD1 was thrown into the wall by S2 after that. It was enough.”

“So Dad used gravity to counter the black hole... I thought a black hole cannot be beaten?” Aries asked of his mother.

“Not while in these forms. In our inanimate forms, yes, not even light can evade. Which is why your father was able to best him... and maybe how Helios can defeat HD1,” A frown came to Sagittarius as she tilted her facial features. “Humanoid works much differently. I do not know where his true form is hiding, perhaps on the fringes of the Milky Way... but I think once this humanoid form is defeated, that will fade away.”

“I understand,” Aries felt a Flare incoming, but resisted. He could not Flare during such an important discussion. “So he can be defeated. But... Helios is a Dwarf Star. His gravity will be different to Dad’s own. How is Helios suppose to beat HD1?”

“While Helios is going to be considered weaker than S2, he has something else and that is in Proxima. And you, and S1. He should be fine.”

“It’s his temper I am worried about,” Aries admitted. He felt his planet nudge in his gravity. “HD1 lured him through attacking his planet. He may do the same again to lure Helios back to him alone, now that he knows Helios is willing to defend his planets at risk to himself.”

A rumble came from his mother. He saw the Stars move again as Sagittarius tilted back into her 180, her eyes softening as she looked at Aries. It was oddly humbling, such a creature looking at someone with affection. Motherly love. Aries wondered what others would think seeing such a Celestial Body acting in such a manner. Aries felt blessed. The accretion disc continued to race around her, and Aries could see it starting to approach her event horizon – they were running out of time.

“Mom... are you doing a lot better?”

Sagittarius seemed to be stunned to silence at the question. Aries wondered if he had overstepped, but then he saw a gentle smile appear on her dark form.

“I have my moments. But I am keeping myself busy, and Lord S6 is making sure I am not alone for long periods. But the rebuilding is taking up a lot of my time, and while the majority is nearly complete, the Hall of Pillars is taking the most time due to accessibility issues. But once I recover, I have no doubt it would improve.”

Aries knew the Pillars would take more time for rebuilding, with how delicate they all had to be with the statues. He remembered how his mother was affected by the destruction and now she had a lack of allies to trust to build them back up. So she probably had to do it all herself, with no aid. He should be back home with his mother, helping her. But he had to do this... he could not stop until his father’s death was avenged.

The accretion disc was diminishing, and Aries knew his mother would soon be invisible. He would struggle to see her, and hear her, bar sensing her gravity. His eyes scanned his mother’s true form, the sheer magnificence and beauty it was. Was this what his father had witnessed when he first opened his eyes? Did he see her as a star? Or did he realise he was seeing a black hole, possibly feeding for the first time? Aries was in awe at his mother’s true form, but at the back of his mind – his new senses due to being a Star – was cautious. Like he knew if he got too close, he would be pulled in and consumed. Dangerous. But Aries decided to push those thoughts back to settle on what was required of him.

“Continue the plan. Guide Helios to what he requires, but remember you are young. And do not hesitate to ask for advice if you need it: that is what a good ruler is. You are not alone in this, Aries,” He saw the glowing start to decrease. “Remember if you need me...”

“I have to do this, Mom,” Aries said softly. “Much like we cannot always save Helios, we should give him the tools needed to survive and manage his system. And the same with me, I cannot always rely on you to come and rescue me. One day... one day it will just be me. And I have to stand on my own two feet.”

A gentle smile. He saw tears in his mother’s darkening eyes as Sagittarius closed them.

“You have grown up again. And I have once again missed it, so deep in my own selfishness that I failed to see it. I am so proud of you, Aries. And I know your father would be too.”

“Of us both, mother,” Aries felt his own tears. He smiled as the last glow of the accretion disc started to fade. Yes, not much time left. “It is not selfish to grieve, it just shows... how much you love someone.”

“My love for your father and you will never die,” Sagittarius was now quieter. He could see the last light start to leave. Her mighty voice was becoming softer, and soon only the Stars gave an indication of where she was. They truly were silent predators, Aries realised. He could see why the Stars disliked the black holes but tolerated his mother as their Queen. What would they think of him one day? No, he should not think that. His mother still had billions of years, and he wanted her to stay on the Throne for that time.

He was never meant to be King. Aries would not tolerate it. All the backstabbing and politics. No, he will enjoy his time as his mother’s son, help with his sibling... and be a kid again, he hoped. Live and keep living, as his father wanted.

“Mother... I love you, don’t forget that,” Aries called to her, as the last light started to fade. Her smile was the last he saw, before the last of the accretion glow disappeared, leaving nothing but darkness. Aries felt the small tug of his planet, glancing around to see them make a pass near him, and tightened his gravity to prevent them from venturing too close to his mother’s form. He drew himself back to his Core, latching onto the tendrils that would enable him to return back to the mindscape, picturing his form. In the room where Helios had left him, in the meditation room that was part of the compound for Helios. He saw his form lying on the ground, on his side, curled almost painfully.

And then he opened his eyes, wincing at his shoulder. He pushed himself up slowly, the tightness finally hitting him in the shoulder before he rolled it to try loosen. The Prince stood, letting his body get his bearings, before walking to the door to open and leave the meditation chamber, already aware of the presence of S1 and the others waiting for him downstairs. His bright eyes noted the cosmic landscape outside the window, but he pressed onwards as he made his way down to the rest of the group. His eyes noted Helios, sitting in his chair at the head of the table, the Star watching him as the Prince entered.

“I have updated the Queen and she has advised on our next course of action,” Aries looked at Helios intently. “To your predicament, I would start training in the Fundamental Force of Gravity. I would go to the library and start looking at what is available. You already have the basics, and once you are healed, S1 and I can start mentoring you properly. HD1 will come back to try again, and you must be ready. Until then, Proxima will handle your system for the next three of Earth’s rotations. You have till then, Helios.”

“Three days is not enough for anybody,” Proxima stated. "Are you sure it is wise to rush?”

“You cannot be here after three days without causing issues to the Solar System, and I do not think Earth would appreciate his Life being affected by Gravity Quakes and turbulence,” S1 was sarcastic as she spoke to her fellow Star. “Nor anybody. In the meantime, my Prince and I will collect information from the library concerning the Shadow Council.”

Aries checked his watch, tailored to his larger wrist. How it worked even now, he did not know. It was still the 23rd of December, but it was starting to get a bit too late for his liking.

“Earth, you and Luna go collect the planets I have requested,” Aries turned his eyes to his former home, the world of life and the moon. “Proxima will stay here with Helios and begin their plans, and S1 will schedule meetings once she and I return from the library. Do you have the key for your personal collection, Helios?”

“I always carry them with me,” Helios reached to his wrist, undoing a bracelet which held a small talisman in the shape of a Star seal. Aries held his hand out, which prompted Helios to place it within his palm. “I can lead you to the library.”

“Please do. Earth, Luna, I will see you back at this room in three hours, with the requested planets. Proxima, I would start introducing yourself to the planets of this system so you are familiar with them and their mannerisms. You have to work closely with them.”

“Yes, my Prince,” Proxima stood, giving a bow, before leaving to begin her tasks. Aries watched her go, before turning to S1 and Helios.

“I believe it is time...”

“Wait,” Luna had spoken up. The moon stood up, Earth watching Luna intently and not sure why his moon was so keen to speak up. “Aries... can we... talk to you first? Me and Earth? Privately?”

Aries felt a sense of anxiety hit him but squashed it down. He had a distinct impression he knew what was going to be discussed but he did not want to venture down that route. He had far too much to deal with at the present moment of time, and he really needed to get started on the tasks at hand. Speaking to Luna and Earth was wasting valuable time he would not have. But then... this was Earth and Luna.

He had been harboured on Earth for five thousand years, growing on his surface. And Earth never treated him any differently even when he found his true identify. And Luna never felt any differently either. They still saw him as a friend. Much like he did to them but... that was then. He had changed much since then, and was almost unrecognisable. Aries wished he could go back to his carefree time, could go back to the island and spend his days watching and marvelling at Earth as he commanded nature. As his previous form, as Viktor Romanoff. The human who marvelled at the Celestials in Area 51, who joined Rotsar and lived on the island as he studied. Able to be free from the prison, able to do what he wished. Practice what he loved.

Before...

But that was gone now. Aries had lost his father, grieved him, and a life he now lost. And would never regain. He was blessed he still had his mother, and a new sibling that would soon walk the Celestial Landscape. But he would... not have his father. S2 had promised him so much, and gave his life at the end to protect them both. And now, Aries was picking up the pieces of his death.

What would his father do in this situation, he always asked himself? Perhaps listen. Advise. Act depending on the information.

“Very well,” Aries nodded at S1 and Helios. He saw Helios give a firm look at his two Celestials, no doubt telling them to be careful with whatever this was. Aries sat himself down in the now vacant chair belonging to Helios, his bright eyes watching the Stars leave before turning them onto the two. Now he had a chance to properly look at them both.

Earth had not got taller but had changed. His features were more grown up, still retaining some youth here and there. Still considered young compared to the other planets and even moons. His hair remained long, and feathered, but not fluffy as it used to be. Luna was slightly taller, his hair spiked up and his eyes... his dark eyes were more iridescent than before. His voice was still somewhat the same but gentler. He had some muscle appearing, and Earth too had some evidence of his fitness. His left arm was mostly healed, but Aries could still see a lingering scar or two.

None of them spoke, Luna perhaps didn’t think that Aries would accept. But then he finally sighed and whispered.

“Are you okay?”

What sort of question was that? Of course he wasn’t okay. He had not been okay since... Aries pushed it all away. He was a Prince, not anything more or less. So he decided to be diplomatic, but honest.

“I have had better days, Luna. Or years. This year just hasn’t been a good one for me, or anybody else. And judging from the lack of Jupiter’s presence, it has not been a good year either for the System. What happened?”

“The Grand Tact,” Earth whispered. “He destroyed several Rocky Planets through an orbital change. He wanted to be closer to Saturn. X witnessed it, and Jupiter expelled him to prevent the truth being told. Sun found out a couple of weeks back and well... the rest is history.”

So while he had been struggling in the Core...

“So he was banished,” Aries said softly to confirm his suspicion. “The Grand Tact is a well known theory back on your surface, and explains why we have a lack of large rocky planets. Amongst other things. And from what I see, this X has caused a lot of issues for you all in the system. Closing the library for starters.”

I loved books. I wish I could get my hands on the one I was trying to finish before this mess.

“Yeah, I was there with the other moons you saw,” Luna said, scratching the back of his head. “The library was destroyed. Or near enough.”

“It will be open while I am here as I require access to material that is important. You should have time to utilise it,” Aries tilted his head, seeing the shared look. “Is something else concerning you both?”

Earth turned his beautiful azure eyes to Aries, sadness in them. No, he doesn’t want pity, Aries told himself firmly. He refused to have pity. He needed to be tall and proud, like his father. S2 would want him to be like him. He had to be strength when his mother could not.

“We are worried about you,” Luna said softly. “Aries... you’re... different. You’re not the same person we met, before all this, before you left for the Core. Is everything alright between you and your Mom? Are YOU alright?”

Aries felt his hand clench into a fist. He turned his head to look away from them, his jaw setting. Why should he... explain himself? Why did he have to explain himself to anybody?

“That is not any of your...”

“It is,” Earth interrupted. “Aries, you always have a place with us. You lived with me for thousands of years, and I see you as one of my own Earthlings. Always. And even I was concerned when I saw you at the marketplace. You... are becoming like how your Dad was, before he... when he was more cold. We are just concerned that you aren’t okay, and I know what it is like to not be okay.”

Aries winced. Yes, he remembered the panic as the Earth headed to the Sun, mysteriously. He never found out why, but now that he knew that Earth was sentient, and probably felt the pain and anguish of what humanity was doing to him... alongside other matters. Aries had tried to figure out why the Earth did what he did, but none of his calculations made sense. He could not get any answers when called, and when the Earth was returned to his orbit, there was no further need. Of course there were other situations such as the asteroid belt and more, but Aries was never called upon after the Sun incident.

“I appreciate the sentiment, but I am doing okay,” Aries softened. His hands shook though, and he saw Earth and Luna lean over together and press their hands on his. Aries felt his shaking increase, and couldn’t stop this time.

“Aries, it is okay,” Luna said softly. “You’re our friend! Let us help you. How can we help you?”

Aries pulled his hands away from them, feeling anger rise. Bitterness appeared in his Core, as he turned his eyes away from the pair, tail flicking dangerously. His Core pulsed with his rage, and his halo became brighter.

“Help me? You want to help me? You say to me I am your friend but none of you wrote to me,” His eyes burned. “I was left pretty much by myself these last three months, forced to learn things quickly while my mother went downhill. I was pretty much a King in all but name, as my mother starved and entered depression. Where were you all then, when I needed you the most? Jupiter was exiled two weeks ago, where were you both for ten of those weeks?!”

“Aries, we...” Earth stammered, looking as though he had been hit by Chicixulub for the second time. Angry tears fell from Aries’ eyes, and he could do nothing to stop them.

“So when my father died, I had my presentation. I was introduced to the entire Galaxy, with no friends around me. And then that was when I was by myself. My mother locked herself away to grieve, and I was forced to learn by myself how to do things. The proper honorifics, everything. You never WROTE to me!”

“You never wrote to us! If you were struggling, why did you not shout for us? We live far away!” Luna argued. Earth placed a warning hand on his moon, eyes narrowed.

“Luna... that is not fair. We can’t just make assumptions about people’s mental health, we have to be open and honest with each other. Like we vowed to each other.”

“Stop it.” Aries stood up, his anger starting to emerge. He was not going to allow the pair to speak to him about being open, about things that they never had an idea about. How much danger they all remained in, and he was being forced to do this because there was nobody else. Ever since he met Earth in Area 51, his life had been turned upside down. Ever since he joined Rotsar. And Aries hated it. He missed his old, carefree life. He missed being human. He wished he could have went back.

“You do not tell me what I can and cannot feel. You have no fucking CLUE what I have dealt with these last three months. Don’t you both dare pretend to care about me now!” He slammed his fists on the table, causing them both to jump. Cracks emerged underneath. “Because if you had cared, you would have made the effort to visit or anything. But neither of you DID! I was ALONE in the Core for three months and nobody...” His tears fell, this time in sadness. “Nobody... nobody cared what I wanted. I wanted a family. My Mom, my Dad... and I was forced to watch as they burned my father. I don’t even have a body to visit. I can never speak to him ever again, I can never hear his voice again... or feel his presence... I will never know what he wanted to tell me. He vowed to talk to me and... he broke his word.”

He slumped back into the chair.

“I am alone.”

Silence came to the room. Aries felt his tears run fast down his cheeks, shaking as he sat in the chair. Now exhausted. Now feeling too drained to stand at present. His Core burned with shame at releasing his anger at the two who had been so close to him.

Then he felt hands on him. He felt his head rest on Earth’s chest, and Luna nuzzle into his arms. Aries felt safe, perhaps for the first time in three months, in someone’s arms who actually cared for him. He relaxed in Earth’s arms, feeling the beating of his Core in his ear, and found himself sobbing. Luna hugged him, and Earth tightened his own grip.

“Aries... we are sorry we were not there for you when you needed us,” Earth said softly. He stepped away, Aries noting his own tears had fallen. “We are here now. What can we do to help you now?”

“Nothing,” Aries shook his head. Pulling away from the pair, he showed the chair out and stood, wanting space. “Nothing you do can bring my Dad back, erase the pain, and turn back time. Nothing. Now, I have things to do. Please, make this easier and do the tasks I have assigned you.”

“Aries...” Luna started, but he turned and walked away. He could feel the atmosphere in the room had become colder and more depressed, but Aries did not care as he left the pair behind. As he stepped into the corridor, he leaned on the wall, taking some steady breaths to calm his pounding Core. He pressed a hand against his chest, feeling that emptiness within him, before adopting the mask of the Prince of the Milky Way once again. His ears picked up no chatter, so he decided to go and find S1 and Helios.

Leaving the compound, Aries made his way down the winding path that would separate to the different planets at their key points. He could see the moons mulling around, some playing tag, others hide and seek. He felt jealous at their childhood, feeling robbed of his own. Would things have been different had he been raised in the Core?

He ventured pass the area belonging to Mars, and into what would be the Belt in the Landscape. Fortunately he had a path he could follow, he –

A rock struck his temple. Wincing, Aries raised a hand to it and turned to see a small giggling Celestial with a wide smile. Looking like a Serval back on Earth. His eyes narrowed before he saw the Celestial burst into fits of giggles, feeling his own smile approach on his features. This must be the lonely Dwarf Planet, Ceres, but why was he here? Was he not usually hanging around with the other Dwarf Planets? He supposed with the mindscape it made it easier to move between the zones.

“Hello, Ceres,” Aries said kindly. He reached down and flicked another stone at the planet, making them laugh louder. The Dwarf Planet popped himself down, playing with the stone before flicking it back with his paws. Aries wished he had time to play, but he didn’t. “I am sorry my friend, but I can’t – hey!”

The Planet moved too fast. Aries felt the bracelet he had been given by Helios get snatched out and the Dwarf rushed off, laughing. Aries sighed, before giving chase, glad of his longer legs giving an advantage. But while he had his size and bearing, Ceres had agility on his side, evading his attempts to grab him. Plus he knew the terrain, and Aries didn’t. So he reached out with Gravity, using the Force to pull at Ceres and slow him down – before a branch struck his face. Wincing, Aries allowed himself to get his bearings, looking to see Ceres had paused – concerned. This was a game, Aries realised. Ceres did not know any better.

Once the stars disappeared, Aries grinned and raced after Ceres again. The Planet laughed happily, jumping up onto a rock, but this was a mistake. Aries was taller, and able to reach out and grasp Ceres by his arm, pulling him down. Grabbing the bracelet, Aries shook his head as a smile appeared on his face, before releasing the Dwarf Planet.

“You are a little trickster, aren’t you? Now that I have won your game, can you take me back to the path?”

“Oh, he wouldn’t be doing that. Just yet.”

The voice was familiar, female, but Aries could not quite place it. He spun around, keeping Ceres behind him, his eyes scanning as a figure appeared from behind the rocks at least five metres away. His eyes scanned the clothing, how run down they had become, but also the halo... a familiar halo now blackened by darkness. He felt hatred rise within his Core at seeing the female, remembering her violent words.

“S21.”

“My Prince,” She had a mocking tone as she tilted her head. Ceres giggled and rushed out, disappearing up onto a dead tree, watching them. “My, my, you have grown up. But the stench remains. You look like him. So much like...”

A Flare erupted from Aries but she lazily side stepped his attempt. He ran at her, and S21 stepped aside again, evading him easily, before driving her fist into his stomach. Winding him and causing him to stagger back. S21 leaped forwards, reaching out but Aries pushed himself back, dodging her attempt. But missed her Flare as it almost scorched his side.

“You have been learning, I see. But you are only three months in, not good enough,” S21 mocked him. Her eyes watched Aries as he panted, trying to keep himself settled. “Your anger and grief is unbalanced. A pity. I would have enjoyed killing you but I have been ordered otherwise. I am only here with an offer, Aries. My Master is a kind man after all.”

“Your Master murdered my father,” Aries said, trying to control his breathing. “You side with him... you side with a man who ruined S2. Who brutally killed him!”

“A necessary sacrifice for the Greater Good. The things he have seen, Unnatural... the things that Entropy has envisioned. The End is coming, closer than ever.”

“Is that all my father and S14 were to you?! Necessary sacrifices?!” Aries felt anger rise. Even Ceres had stopped his giggles as the Prince started to rage before them. He could feel the Forces tremble, a crack appearing in the ground nearest him. “Just tools?! You feel no remorse for any of it?!”

“Why should I?”

Aries roared. He released another Flare, but it was off target, burning a searing hole in the nearest rock to S21. She looked at it lazily, before turning her eyes back with disappointment in her expression.

“So disappointing. Why does Entropy want you, I wonder... oh yes, you impaled him. You prevented him killing Sagittarius. You did something that nobody else would have: harm a Fundamental Force of nature. I want to know how you did it.”

“What is it to you,” Aries snarled. He could hear Ceres start to giggle, repeating the word of Entropy over and over again. S21 eyed Aries in curiosity, before she shook her head.

“No matter. The truth will be revealed in time. Either way, I have a message for you from Him.” Aries felt his Core freeze at those words. She found him... “Submit to him. Or he will destroy everything you care for. Simple, cliché, but to the point. He wants you, Aries. You ruined his plans, you maimed him, he wants you to come to him. If not, well...”

“Tell your Master he can fuck off and go die in a black hole,” Aries snarled. “His words are empty. He is weakened. What can he do to me?”

“Anything he wants. Just because he is at a fraction of his old strength does not mean he is not dangerous. He knew you would refuse... so it will only be natural now that he tears down everything you care for , so you beg him for the end yourself.”

She stepped back, but Aries was not allowing her to escape. Not this time. He lunged but then... he felt a rock hit him. He sprawled and landed on the ground, Ceres laughing and giggling above him with a rock held in both hands. S21 approached, squatting down as Aries groaned, trying to push himself up.

“How did you do it... When you can barely defend yourself?” S21 shook her head. “No matter. I gave you his message. And next time we meet, you will be in chains and begging him for mercy.”

She straightened, her eyes on Aries as he continued to struggle to push himself up. She turned to Ceres, who continued to giggle, before giving a sweet smile.

“Little one. Take him back to the path and leave him there. He got our message. Then return to your friends. There is a good little planet.”

Ceres dropped the rock, giggling. He grabbed Aries by the arm, pulling him along the ground as the Prince tried to recover his own wits. He could see S21 standing there, a cruel smile on her face as she turned and walked back to the shadows.

When he next blinked, he was back on the path. Sitting against a tree. He winced, looking up at Ceres as the Dwarf Planet giggled, before running off amongst the rocks, leaving Aries sitting there. Feeling like a fool.

Chapter Text

The library was being cleaned by the moons of X, tables being polished and chairs rightened by them. The armchair that once belonged to Jupiter was still in its corner, his glasses and book still on the table before all this mess occurred. His blue eyes scrutinised them, the worn cushion that Jupiter liked to use for his back, the many comfortable pillows for his once minor moons on the blankets and rugs before the ornate chair. Helios stared at the space for a moment, before he was forced to turn away and move on.

When Jupiter had asked for a library, Helios had been sceptical about it. Jupiter had never shown any interest in books before then, seeking trouble and bringing it onto his system. Helios had lost count how many times he had shouted at Jupiter for something, whether it was endangering the other planets or more. Helios had been keen to open a library but close to his compound, as he did not trust Jupiter at the time to be responsible around texts so old and irreplaceable.

But then, Jupiter sobered. He was not as rebellious, and more inclined to be responsible. He had approached Helios and asked if he could open the library instead. Jupiter said he had to be responsible, that he wanted to be better. Better than whatever he was becoming. Helios had realised that was shortly after X had been expelled. Jupiter wanted to make amends and said he could be responsible, a planet to be reliant on. Helios had wondered why he had changed but now... was it guilt? Was it desperation to hide his crimes? Or was it more manipulation on his part? Helios did not know.

His eyes watched the female S-Cluster Star as she stepped to the nearest bookshelves, her eyes scanning the texts before reaching up and taking one on her hand. Helios, feeling curious, approached her, his eyes scrutinising her. He had met three S-Cluster Stars, and while they all possessed similar Halos he had noticed individual differences and traits shared. For starters, their skin was darker coloured than the other Stars, and their sclera was black. Their eyes ranged from different colours, and their hair always seemed to be varying shades of gold. S2 had gold hair, the other two he met had orange and white. This female had light blonde.

Her skin was more elaborate with her patterns than his own. S2 had his famed diamond, and black markings over his eyes, alongside orange tints but this one had rosettes or flowers on her cheeks, making her look graceful and elegant. She was a lot younger too, of similar age to Aries. Her face held youth that was lacking.

“Can I help you, Helios?” She had noticed his staring and Helios shook himself mentally.

“I am sorry, my Lady. I have only met three S-Cluster Stars and the variation between you all... is incredible.”

S1 tilted her head, closing the book as she gave a gentle smile. She was definitely younger than Helios, but she seemed to be wise beyond her years.

“I gather you met King S2, Lord S6 and Lord S13. Yes, there is variation between us all. We have to be easily recognised amongst the many trillions of Stars in the Galaxy. Let me give you a crash course: we are darker in complexion than the rest because of Sagittarius and our proximity to her. We tend to have adopted her traits,” S1 shrugged. “While we range from Dwarf Stars to Giants, we all share the same Halo colouration. The older more stronger Stars, like S2, have brighter Halos. As he was the strongest of us all, S2 had a much brighter and more elaborate Halo. Mine is...” She winced. “Feeble due to my age.”

Helios noted her white-gold Halo. It wasn’t as large as S2’s was, and not even his own. But it did not diminish the glow.

“So, who are Dwarves and who are Giants? You are all much taller and stronger than me,” Helios asked of her. He helped her lift a book down. “I would imagine some are Yellow, others are Red, or Orange?”

“You would be correct,” S1 placed another book down on the small pile she was making. “Our Halos are not going to reflect that. Myself, personally, I am a Yellow Dwarf Star.” She noted Helios’ shocked expression and smiled. “Yep. I’m one of you, Helios. I believe S6 is an Orange Dwarf, but nobody knows what King S2 was. That is a very close guarded secret since he was so close to our Queen in his orbit. I theorised he was a Yellow or Orange Dwarf himself, considering his age was around eight billion years old.”

“I would never... he is so much taller and stronger, and we are the same type of Star...” Helios felt his shoulder pained and paused, causing S1 to look at him in concern. He forced a smile and turned to see some of the Moons were now working on rectifying the children section. He had a fond memory of Jupiter reading to a young Earth and Luna, but forced ir down.

“He would be because of how close his orbit is to Sagittarius. He had to master Gravity and Electromagnetism to repel her strength – and fast,” S1 stated. “Our sizes relate to our strengths too. S2 was the strongest of us, so he would be taller. But then he is also descended from the First Ones, he will share some traits.”

Helios felt books clatter as he dropped them, eyes wide as he turned to S1. She seemed to realise what she said, and winced.

“S2 was descended from the First Ones?! But that means... Aries...”

“I shouldn’t have said... S6 always said my big fat mouth would land me in trouble.” S1 shrugged again. “I mean, we are all from the First Ones. That’s just an open secret. Just some of us are more like them. Traits appear now and then.”

Helios fell silent, turning his blue eyes to the books she had collected. All healing books, relevant to a range of injuries, from basic to complex. Another book appeared concerning Gas Regeneration and more, making him wince. This was not going to be a pleasant experience for him.

“Have you heard from your siblings?”

Helios glanced at S1, noting her bright eyes were fixed squarely on him. Helios did not recall siblings, but then he was thrown out the Nebula very quickly after his birth. However, Stars all had a parent-nebula, and could consider their fellows as their brother or sister. He never knew his own, if he had any. The Milky Way only produced one Star a year currently, but back then... Star Factories would have ran rampant. Was he formed with the groups or by himself? He could not remember.

“I do not recall much after the Old Lady went Supernova,” He commented. “I do remember being born in a Nebula, and I always assumed others were too that day. As I said to Proxima, my education is lacking somewhat.”

“I know of some of them,” S1 commented. “Some brothers and sisters that have their own systems. I was just curious...”

“I never speak to other Stars aside from these meetings,” Helios felt his mood deplete instantly. He curled his lip and looked away from S1, glaring at the table under his hands. “I am pretty much alone in this area. The nearest Star is Proxima and even then I cannot see her. Her two fellow Stars are awful beings and I want nothing to do with them.”

“Many Stars got affected that day,” S1 said gently.

“And what about you?” Helios shot back, glaring at the S-Cluster Star. “You are younger than me, but there was a previous S1 before you. You were born in a Nebula like the rest of us, so what makes YOU special?”

He stuck his foot in it. He could see from the stormy expression on the S-Cluster Star. Helios felt the temperature increase significantly in his proximity, and a flash of fear erupted in his Core. Why did his temper always get the better of him... was this why Jupiter never told him what he did? Did he scare them all?

“You do not become an S-Cluster Star for no reason: you are born this way,” S1 snapped. She turned away, her anger getting the better of her. “I never had a choice, Helios. I was born in the nebula, same as you. And when they realised as I drifted to orbit Sagittarius, they knew I was one of them. I was blessed by Sagittarius when I was a child, I had no choice in the matter. You? You get planets and moons. I don’t. When my predecessor died, I got his name. I was not even awake when they allocated it to me. At least you got a proper name.”

A name... of course. The S-Cluster Stars never had names. Just a number and a letter. It never seemed to bother them, it made it easier to remember, but... then Helios realised that, despite all their power, the S-Cluster Stars were tied to Sagittarius. By the Singularity, even Sagittarius never had a choice of what name she wanted. It made Helios think of Uranus, how much he was mocked and ridiculed for his name. The Universe seemed to have a sick sense of humour.

“What name would you like?” The question came out before he had a chance to think. He saw S1 paused as she made to lift the books to her bag, her bright eyes turning to meet his own. Again, Helios wondered if he had overstepped. “Did you have one you wanted before they allocated? What about now?”

“My name...?” She repeated. S1 seemed to soften. “I would not know if I had one chosen at the beginning. I have never known any other name bar this one I was allocated. But if I had a choice now, I would like to be Ca-.”

The door opened before she could finish, and S1 turned her eyes to them. Helios saw shock and worry, concern, and turned his eyes to meet the new individual that causes her such worry. His own eyes widened at seeing Aries, the Prince stumbling in and leaning against the wall. He looked disorientated, pale, and his eyes full of distress. S1 wasted no time in running to the Prince, helping to stabilise him against the wall, the Prince shaking violently against her.

“Aries, what happened?” S1 whispered. Her hands steadied him, Aries grasping one tightly. As though frightened.

“I... I encountered... S21...”

“Ganymede, Europa, Jupiter’s chair,” Helios barked at the moons. They jumped, eyes turning to him, but Helios was in no mood to repeat himself. He marched over and pulled the ornate chair out of the corner, as S21 tried to calm the Prince. His shoulder now in agony, Helios pulled the chair close and then went to Aries and S1 to get the pair moving. He laced his arm around Aries’ waist, helping to support him as he took Aries to the high backed chair. S1 helped, moving Aries’ tail to try and ensure he did not collapse on it and possibly break it. Helios guided Aries down, before barking at the moons to leave the library and give privacy. He did not want them eyeing Aries and making the Prince more nervous than he was already.

“S21? She is here?” S1 repeated. “Where?!”

“I met her at the asteroid belt: she has found Entropy,” Aries stammered. Helios felt his Core freeze slightly, realising that S21 had succeeded in finding her Master. But... why was Entropy not reigning hellfire on them all? Something was missing... did he need something more to return to full strength? “She told me that I should surrender to him. I refused... and now he is planning to punish me more. We need to find him, and we are running out of time. Before he regains that strength or whatever he is seeking.”

“Time is definitely not on our side,” Helios agreed. His brow furrowed, his eyes turning to look at the back of the library where his personal collection was lying. “We need the Shadow Council and their aid. Aries, did S21 take the key?”

“I still have it,” Aries shakily held out the Star pendant, and Helios took it into his hand. Helios scrutinised it, making sure it was not damaged from the clear assault from S21 on the Prince. S1 was already starting to check the Prince over, her eyes narrowing at the back of the head where a rock had impacted on it. Helios had a sneaking suspicion who was the culprit but did not want to do anything about him at present. Ceres was a difficult planet to snag, and he could be out in the Kuiper Belt now. Ceres would not have realised what he did was perhaps wrong, and Helios would not press him.

Walking to the back of the library, Helios pressed the pendant into the lock, hearing the click. He twisted it, the locking mechanism clicking as the sliding bars pulled back for the large door, before Helios pushed it open. He took a deep breath and stepped into the room.

Helios saw the dimmed lights, the many books gathering dust and turning yellow from the age. There was a table in the centre of the ancient texts, with worn chairs and barely any light. At the back, on the stand, was a large book that Helios had never opened. Ever. A copy of the original that was in the Core, detailing everything. From the Beginning. He had never tried to sneak a peak at the pages, and he hoped never to do so.

His eyes located one section, and Helios approached it. His fingers trailed over the spines, narrowing his eyes as he tried to read the faded writing. But he knew the symbols, and pulled the book out and onto the table. Helios recognised from the cover it was everything to do with the black holes of the Milky Way, the black leather cover betraying further hints to its content. His eyes looked back to see where Aries and S1 was, and felt relieved when he saw the pair already walking towards the door. Relaxing, Helios waited patiently, his blue eyes monitoring Aries as he walked. Fortunately, more colour was appearing in his features, and his walking wasn’t a stumble.

“I’m sorry for my break in decorum,” Aries said. Helios felt saddened the younger man had to apologise: it should have been him. “I am ready. What book is that...?”

“Information about the Council of Shadows,” Helios said softly. He turned the book, presenting it to Aries. “Unfortunately, black holes tend to be secluded, so information... is lacking. This is all we have in my library, but it may hold crucial information that would be beneficial. As you know, they are led by the Gaia Triplets, but... well, you best read this.”

Aries sat down in one of the chairs, winced as it creaked, then stood back up. Deciding to stand. Helios watched him carefully reach out, turning the cover and exposing the pages and the lettering. S1 joined his side, eyes scrutinising them too, and Helios raised a brow at the closeness. Granted, both had to be so close to read the pages but... they were too comfortable with each other. He needed to speak to Aries after. Especially if S21 could follow through with her threat.

“Trials...” Aries turned his eyes to Helios. “Three Trials? They will test us I gather?”

“Something we are similar with: strength is imperative,” Helios commented. “While some of the black holes will be happy to meet you, others will not. Remember that Stars are held under great scrutiny. That is all I can give you.”

“You know more than you said earlier,” Aries sounded annoyed. “Why did you not say in the meeting?”

“As I said, Gaia orbits close to my system, as does two others. I hear snippets from time to time,” Helios gave a casual shrug. “When she was still alive, Shoemaker would speak to me about them. Stars pride on strength, I imagine black holes would be the same. Tread very carefully.” His eyes drifted to S1. “Extremely carefully.”

“What are you insinuating, Helios?” Aries asked, a narrowing of his eyes betraying what Helios had feared. The pair being so close to each other was too dangerous on a mission such as this, as if S21 or even Entropy found out the pair had a closeness to be exploited, then dangerous times were ahead.

“Just... be careful,” Helios said, firmly. He took one last look around, his eyes scanning the ancient books before turning to depart. “I will be back at the compound. When ready, please lock up after. I do not want anyone else accessing this area.”

As Helios left, Aries was struck into silence. He felt S1 move beside him, turning his bright eyes to her as she walked to the bookcases with the worn backbone and papers. Her hands, delicately, moved over, and Aries swiftly looked back down at the pages before him. His finger scanned one paragraph, noting the same word over and over again. Trials. He did not know what this meant, but if Helios’ statement was anything to indicate, then the Shadow Council would test them. They would probably not give the information willingly without something in return. He would need to prove himself... especially if all they saw were his Star appearance. Which was why his mother made sure he started practicing the Fundamental Forces.

Aries turned to look at S1 as she placed more books down, the female Star pulling out a chair and sitting precariously on the edge. He could not help but watch her as she worked, feeling a smile start to crawl on his features. She was his best friend, the first Star of the S-Clusters to be open after the mess, and always helped him when he battled with his grief over his father. She comforted him, helped him when he struggled to adjust at times, even went through customs! But now, he was seeing her... differently. Aries swiftly turned away. Too dangerous of a thought. He could not allow himself to get distracted. He promised his Mom.

“Are you alright?” S1 turned her eyes back to him. Aries gave a small smile, before turning back to the book.

“Yeah, I am. Just... thinking. About something.”

“Something important?” S1 pressed. Aries almost winced as she came closer, pressing a hand on his own. Aries felt his cheeks heat up, turning away as he continued to repeat the same words in his head: too dangerous. “Aries, you’re heating up. What is going on?”

“I-I.” He moved his hand away from S1, causing her shoulders to slump as she looked at him sadly. Aries wanted to tell her a lot of things, but he could not put her in that situation. “It is not important. I was thinking about something my Mom had said. She told me to use the Four... I guess the Shadow Council utilise the Four?”

“Yes,” S1 turned her attention back to the book he had before him. Her finger pressed into the page, her eyes scanning it as she tried to find the words. “Like Helios said, you will be Tried. They will be expecting you to use the Forces... both of us. They will judge us as soon as they see us, and you need to show them there and then that we are envoys of Her Majesty. What else did Sagittarius state?”

“She wanted an offer to he presented to the Council, about having Black Holes be more publicly accepted. And to have one on her Council,” Aries saw S1’s eyes widen, and inwardly winced. “She is hoping they would accept but we seem to have no idea whether they would. The hatred between Stars and Black Holes seem to be a constant issue plagued in the Galaxy... in all Galaxies.”

“It is understandable,” S1 opened a book, pressing it forward. Aries looked at the writing. His eyes scanned the words: how the original black holes went unmatched and unrivalled, consuming constantly and robbing the Universe of vital resources to develop. Then... the First Ones. Their atoms made the gemstones. They were born from the Universe, and the black holes had no choice but to remain hidden in the shadows. “It was a time of massacre before the First Stars appeared. Even then, the First Stars began in a violent manner. But gave elements to the Universe for more complex Stars.”

“Us,” Aries confirmed. “Or rather you.”

“New Stars have higher metals in them than the First Stars, but all of them can be traced back. Every Star. Some of us develop traits similar to them, but...” S1 shrugged, an odd look in her eyes as she gazed at Aries. “Sometimes it is stronger. I’m a new Star, so I have a much higher metal concentration compared to others. But also... you may only be half-star, but you possess the same components.”

“I wish,” Aries said sadly. He scanned the book she indicated. “So, once the First Stars appeared, that is when the first Galaxies. HD1 for starters.”

“I imagine so. These Stars would try to get Planets but be unsuccessful due to their length of life. HD1 was one of these Stars, and may have been trying very hard... only to succumb to his nature. The first Galaxies gained black holes, and well... I don’t know when it ended, but with the scale of Stars being produced to Black Holes, I imagine they were overrun. Black Holes have to have specific criteria for their formation, so smaller and newer Stars will never form a black hole.”

“That still doesn’t excuse why HD1 is trying to kill his descendent Star,” Aries grunted. He closed the book. “I imagine the others would disagree. So, Gaia Triplets... I imagine the one who would cause the most issues would be BH2.”

“I would imagine so,” S1 said glumly. “Which is why we have to be absolutely prepared as we can be. She will push and test us, do everything to make the others punish us for crimes we did not commit.”

“All the more reason to prove who I am instantly rather than let them get a chance,” Aries shook himself. His eyes found another book at the back, curious. “S1... what is that? Will that book be of assistance?”

Her eyes followed his and a look of awe appeared. She stood, and Aries joined her, following to the book at the back. It was larger and seemed older, its pages yellow and disturbed at some spots. S1 pressed her hands on the cover, a solemn smile appearing.

“Every Star System has one. It is a copy of the original back in the Core... your Mom will have it hidden,” She looked at Aries. “It is the book of Stars. Detailing everything. Secrets concerning the big bang and more. Granted some pages will be missing but...” She sighed, tracing her hands down. “By the Forces... I wish I can read it. But to do so would be an insult to every Star, past, present, and future.”

Aries eyed it. He wished they could take it, it might have information they needed. But... he sighed. It was Helios’ book, and to gaze in it before Helios did would be a great insult. He reached out, pressing a hand on the book cover, and turned a gentler gaze to S1.

“Maybe one day, we can look at the original. For now...”

“Out of the two of us... only you and your mother will have that privilege,” S1 said, sadness in her voice. “I am a junior in the High Council. I will never be allowed. Nobody will bar the ruler of the Galaxy.”

“You are more than just a junior in the High Council,” Aries couldn’t stop himself. “You are more to me.”

Her eyes widened as she looked up at him, before rolling them. A curl came to her lip, as she made to move her hand away.

“You are teasing me.”

“I am not,” Aries said, determined. His hand took hers before it left the cover. “You are better than me in every way, S1. You picked me up out of my worst moment, gave me strength when I couldn’t... you are more than just a junior.” He saw her expression soften. “You’re my best friend, my fellow... my equal. And I care deeply for you. More than you know.”

“Smooth,” She laughed. Aries found a smile come to his face too. “But you don’t have to spare my feelings. Aries, I care for you, but I know... it cannot be between us. Look at what happened with your mother and father. They accepted you, but us? Would they accept us?”

Aries fell silent. He turned his head away, tail flicking at the tip as he contemplated the words she had spoken. Yes, people accepted him and his parents relationship, marriage and more, and even his unborn sibling. But... that did not mean it would extend to him. The rest of the Galaxy would see him siring an Unnatural as problematic, and will want to bend the rules for themselves. Aries knew love could not be prevented, but he also knew they could not have Unnaturals running around. It would be chaos.

His silence was taken to heart, as S1’s shoulders lowered and her gaze went down to the book. Her hands left the book, as she turned her face away from him, but before she could move he grabbed her hand. Aries felt conflicted, but what he did know was that he cared deeply for S1. Aries watched her head to the books collected about the Council, but he wasn’t done. He was not going to let her go with her thoughts drowning in sorrow and despair. He knew his mother would be disappointed in him in this exact moment, but he was not going to allow the woman he liked punish herself for having feelings and doubts of herself. Aries wanted to push her up, to help strengthen her, not bring her down. What sort of man would do that?

He walked to her, and S1 turned to face him. Aries looked into her bright eyes, marvelled at them. His hand found her cheek, and his thumb stroked her skin. S1’s eyes widened, her mouth opening to speak to him but... Aries leaned to her and whispered.

“You are stronger than you believe,” He saw tears fill her eyes. “And whoever sees you as weak and feeble, or incapable are stupid and ignorant scumbags who are not worth the time and effort. You... I would not have survived so long without your support, S1. Your strength. I would have fallen at the first hurdle. And I...” He could feel her breath on his lips. “I care for you deeply. And whatever comes our way, we will work through it. Together.”

S1 pressed her hands into his chest, over his beating Core. Aries pressed his other hand over one of hers, squeezing it as she moved into his body, staring up at his eyes. Aries tilted her head back, his breathing now catching as he felt his lips touch hers. Aries cherished the kiss, closing his eyes as S1 leaned into him, her arms moving to his shoulders and holding him close.

His Core swelled with positivity, and he broke the kiss to look into her eyes as she opened her own eyes to gaze up at him. Aries pressed his forehead into hers, his body relaxing for the first time since... he was Awakened. He felt exhausted for the first time in his life, as though everything had finally started to let go. That he felt he was finally free from everything and everyone who ever hurt him. S1 rested her head against his chest, and he held her, tightly. Aries stroked the back of her head, her arms coming around him as she rested against his torso.

The library door opened and they separated instantly. Aries was saddened that they had to, his eyes turning to see the Ice Giant from earlier step in, his red eyes scanning what state the library was in. S1 turned and grabbed the books concerning the black hole, pulling them into her bag, while Aries took the pendant so that they were ready to leave. His Core was hammering, his mother’s warning now in his head again. It made him nervous again. S1 gave a nod, indicating she was ready to go, and Aries stepped aside so she could leave before closing the door behind them both, locking with the pendant. The Ice Giant paused, seeing them, before giving a pleasant smile.

“My Prince. My Lady. I did not see you there,” His deep voice was curious. “I do apologise. I trust you managed to find what you seek?”

Aries did not like his question but he knew he was being overdramatic. He gave a pleasant smile, S1 giving a respective tilt of her head to the Ice Giant, before striding pass the planet.

“We did. Thank you for allowing us access,” Aries tilted his head in respect, keeping his emotions down and deep in his Core. His tail moved slightly though, and he tried to force himself to keep his cool. “I will leave you and your moons to continue cleaning up. I will still require access for the next few days. I look forward to seeing the changes you have done to the library.”

“I will make sure you have a tour before you leave,” X eyed him as he started to move away. Aries gave another tilt of his head before closing the door, hiding X from his view. S1 was waiting, taking a steady breath as she looked at Aries, before a smile came to her features. Aries smiled back, his hand caressing hers when she took it, before whispering in her ear that they needed to head back to Helios’ compound. S1 gave a nod, releasing his hand and making Aries wonder over whether he did something wrong, but her smile comforted him. Tail now flicking more excitedly, Aries followed, tying the pendant around his wrist as he followed S1. The S-Cluster Star waited to walk alongside him, a smile coming to her features, and Aries could not help but reciprocate the smile.

S1 stepped to him, but Aries pressed his hands to hers, apologetic in his features.

“We have to be careful. I don’t want S21 seeing this and... hurting you...” He whispered. Her eyes saddened before she nodded, taking a step back.

“I guess it was too much for us to break the secrecy,” she murmured. Aries felt his Core skip a beat at her growing annoyance. “We shouldn’t have to hide, Aries! Have you not learned that hiding does more damage than good?”

Aries winced. She was referring to his parents, and how they kept themselves secret. Hiding their romance, which caused their breakup, and then... his mother hiding her pregnancy. And giving him away. 3.5 billion years of secrets that almost fractured the Galaxy, almost destroyed so much. Killed many people. And trillions of organisms.

“I want us to be public, I do, but with Entropy threatening to harm anybody I care about, I don’t want him harming you,” Aries placed his hands on her shoulders, smoothing his thumbs over her clothing before lowering them down to take her hands. He could hear nobody else around. “I don’t want you hurt because of me, S1. I won’t be able to live with myself if you get hurt.”

“You big softie,” She glanced around, before going on her toes to gently kiss his lips. Aries relaxed at her touch, but broke the kiss after a couple of seconds.

“I would love to keep that going, but... we are expected,” He said, sounding saddened. “Come on, we need to speak to Helios and Proxima before we meet with the planets. Once we are on Earth’s surface, we can be as we want while we prepare for the Shadow Council.”

“Spoil sport,” S1 teased. She poked his nose before turning to keep going down the pathway, her Halo brighter than it was before. Aries scratched the back of his head, glancing at his tail with a frown as he noted it was moving more energetically with his emotions.

“Keep it together,” he growled playfully, taking the panther tail to his hands. “You’re embarrassing me.”

He released it, allowing his tail to move more calmly now. Aries started down the pathway, his eyes noting the moons had already started moving back inside the building to begin the work again in redoing the library. Aries had remembered reading about the Galilean Moons, but seeing them personally in Area 51 and now was different. He was smaller and more vulnerable when he met them at Area 51, but now he was taller and stronger. Yet, Aries felt humbled that such an ancient scientist had named these four moons. He wondered what Galileo himself would be thinking if he could meet these moons.

Meanwhile, Helios had returned home, tired from the walk back. He felt his limbs ache, his steps slowing and almost dragging before he finally opened the door. Leaning against the wall, Helios breathed deeply before he looked towards the rest of his residence. With the locked doors and lack of presence of other Stars. The words stung about his siblings, but they never made any effort to see him when the mindscape was open, why should he do the same?

Helios pressed a hand on one closed door, his nails sinking and almost causing a groove. He would have wished for another Star foe company, but it would have cost him a world of life. One Star was better... two was not. Three was a disaster. But still, having a fellow Star giving him advice and companionship would have helped him be a better Star for the System than he was now. Good enough that he would have acted more appropriately against Jupiter. Was his jealousy and more so great that he had to lie?

He remembered saying he could have been a Star. But something stunted Jupiter’s growth. Helios wondered if Jupiter felt that jealousy about never being more than what many considered as a failed Star. Helios felt responsible for Jupiter’s actions, allowing himself to be so blinded by affection to his First Born that he missed the reality of his Grand Tact.

Helios turned his eyes back to the front door as it opened, lowering his hand. The faint red glow of Proxima filled the room as she stepped in, laughing alongside a familiar Gas Giant that walked with her. Helios recognised Saturn from his golden fur and clean appearance, as Saturn always liked being neat and tidy. It was good to see Saturn laughing after Jupiter was exiled. But Helios had a suspicion Saturn knew more about Jupiter’s actions than was revealed.

Helios lowered his hand from the door, and the two paused at hearing the sound of his nails. He winced, looking at his fingertips in the hopes he had not just splintered or more.

“Helios!” Proxima walked to him, her eyes full of concern. “What happened? Are you alright? Did you walk back alone?”

“The Prince and the Lady S1 were still searching the library when I went away: I just got tired at the last few metres,” He commented. His eyes found Saturn, noting his healing bag was with him. “Are we due for a session, Saturn?”

“Yes, Sun. Just minor as I know Lady S1 is going to be tending to you,” Saturn indicated up the stairs. Helios sighed, his shoulder starting to ache again, relieved he could at least lie down. “I am wanting to do work on your back this time, if that is alright? Earth healed your worst of injuries but the other ones remain. If that is alright?”

“I have no choice in the matter. If I am marked for death by Black Hole, I need to be fighting fit. Let’s go, Saturn.”

Saturn gave a nervous nod, before Helios stepped down the corridor towards his personal chambers. Proxima seemed to follow, but when Helios gave her a look that silently told her to back off because he would not tolerate another Star or anybody being in his personal chambers. While he had another meditation chamber, his rooms held personal items that he wanted kept secret for himself.

Opening the door for Saturn, Helios walked to his couch and sat down, letting the Ringed Planet set up his equipment. Helios winced as he carefully pulled off his black tee shirt, leaning onto his elbows. The Star gave a shaky sigh as Saturn began applying a salve on his wounds that just would not fully heal. His surface ached as the cool salve began to interact with his warmer skin, steam rising from the wounds. Helios hissed as he arched, pain starting to erupt.

“I don’t get why it didn’t work...” Saturn sounded like he was crying. Helios wished he could comfort him, but the salve was irritating him. He stood and frantically tried to grab a cloth, desperate to remove the salve. Helios grabbed the nearest blanket, frantically rubbing the salve off. Saturn stepped back as the steam continued to build, Helios feeling relief as the salve came off and yet... his skin was now very itchy.

“What are you DOING? Stop that!”

He felt the blanket get ripped out his grip, and turned to face the person who did so. Helios winced when he saw it was Proxima, grabbing his shirt to stop her from seeing his torso. She glared at Saturn, who backed off, before hissing at the salve.

“That is far too cool, heat it up! No wonder he is itching like a damn asteroid with mites! You need this to match his own temperature, because what is cool for you planets is freezing and can hurt US!”

“I am sorry...” Saturn stammered. “I have never healed a Star before and... and...”

“Proxima, he means no harm,” Helios said firmly. He took the tub with the salve that Saturn had made. “It was my fault for not saying to heat it up. Bring your temper down.”

Proxima looked at Helios, breathing heavily before she closed her eyes, counting silently to ten. She then opened her eyes, and looked at Saturn who was stepped back towards the door, his hands wringing nervously. His tail was curled around the left leg, his eyes down as he shook. Proxima seemed to have realised her words and outrage had impacted negatively, because she sobered and walked to him.

“I am sorry, Saturn. I was just worried. We have to be extremely careful with what we do over the next three days, because once I am gone your Star is on his own against an enemy that will not hesitate if he is injured or not.”

“I didn’t...” Saturn swallowed, shaking viciously. “I’m so sorry, Sun. I did not want to hurt you further.”

“Saturn, do not feel guilty or upset about this,” Helios said, trying to be gentle. But his voice was a hiss as his wounds started to itch again. “You are trying to help. Have tried to help me these last three months. And I am indebt to you for trying.”

“I... I am sorry...” Saturn was starting to sob. His hands pressed into his face, and Helios wondered why Saturn was crumbling before him. He knew Saturn was doing his best, why was he crying?

“Saturn...? Is there something else bothering you?” Proxima asked, her hands gentle as she took the Ringed Giant by his own hands. Helios frowned, approaching the pair, wondering what Saturn was hiding. Was this another secret that was about to come to the surface? “Talk to us. Saturn?”

“I-I...” The Ringed Planet made to answer when the front door to the compound opened. Helios winced as he heard the voices of S1 and Aries, pulling his shirt back over his shoulders to hide his wounds and keep his decency. He pushed Proxima – at her protest – and Saturn to get them both out, stepping out after them to eye the two as S1 placed the books down. Her eyes found the three of them, and frowned, nudging Aries as his hand went to touch hers. The Prince pulled his hand away, and Helios narrowed his eyes.

He had a feeling he needed to speak to Aries.

“What happened here?” S1 approached, her eyes narrowing as she looked them over, before seeing the salve in the hand of Helios. “Oh! We have a healing appointment scheduled. Saturn, do you want to-.”

“I have to go,” Saturn said shakily, frantically moving his head to decline. He grabbed his healing bag, pulling it on shakily and rushing to the door. Helios made to call, but Saturn left the compound before a word crossed his lips. Helios turned his burning eyes to Proxima, a curl coming to his lips.

“You overreacted.”

“I know! I will go apologise to him,” Proxima said softly. She was wringing her hands, looking after Saturn. “I need to, especially if I am going to stay here for a few days while you recover.”

Helios watched as Proxima left, his eyes now turning to S1 as the S-Cluster Star moved to enter into Helios’ chambers. Before Aries could make a move, Helios pressed his arm out, blocking the Prince from moving to follow her, his eyes now icy. Aries looked confused, his bright eyes turning to look Helios in the face as the other Star cleared his throat.

“Aries, you cannot keep this going. This closeness between you and S1. This is dangerous territory.”

“I do not know what...” Aries started but Helios cut across him.

“Aries, I was there at your birth,” Helios said with a rough tone. He did not move his arm, stopping Aries from walking after S1. “I saw what Entropy did to your parents first hand. He used the love they shared for one another against them, turning them both to hate... while they came back, through you and themselves, the damage caused was tremendous. Do not make the same mistake as they did.”

His expression softened at seeing Aries look away. He wanted nothing more than for Aries to find his happiness. He needed it after everything he had been dealt with.

“Entropy turned your father on your mother by plaguing on his insecurities. He will attempt to do the same with you,” Helios lowered his arm, placing a hand on his shoulder instead, trying to be comforting. “He will use S1 as a tool against you. Please, be very careful how you tread. I do not think your mother will have the strength to bury her son, so soon after her husband.”

“We are careful,” Aries hit back. He shrugged the hand off, Helios feeling... saddened in his Core. He did not know why. “Entropy won’t find out. You are making assumptions about me and my capabilities.”

“Aries, I just do not want you to get hurt,” Helios said gently. “Or S1. Many people will be hurt by this. I am just looking out for you. I vowed to protect you when you drew breath.”

“And I am grateful for everything you did,” Aries was gentle in his response, but Helios could see the anger in his eyes. “But do not dictate to me, Helios. You aren’t my parent.”

Helios did not know why, but that hit him like a supernova. He sighed, turning his eyes to see that S1 was coming to the doorway, wondering what was going on. He plastered a small smile on his features, before looking at Aries sideways, a saddened look on his features.

“Nobody will stop you both... all we ask is caution. Keep this romance private until your mission is complete, so that neither of you are used as tools against the other. Do not become what your father became, Aries. But know that, this time, you will have us all helping you both.”

Neither of them said anything, but Helios saw the gratitude on their faces over his offer to support them should they require it. Helios strode to his chambers, but paused and looked at them both over this shoulder.

“While S1 is healing me, please prepare, Aries. Your requested planets will be arriving soon. And again, heed my advice: keep your romance on the low until after your mission. Do not give the enemy any ammunition to be used against you. Shall we, Lady S1?”

The S-Cluster Star gave a small nod, before following Helios. He saw Aries begin gathering their books, and their backpacks with clothing. With luck, the rest of this mission would go without any issues, and he would deal with HD1... or Aries would.

Not for the first time, Helios felt exhausted.

Chapter Text

Earth and Luna had left the compound, both feeling as though they had been punched in the gut. Earth was walking quickly, causing Luna to almost jog to match his brother’s strides. Every one stride for Earth was nearly two for Luna: he hated being the smallest. He hated being the eldest and being forced to babysit at times. But as he looked up at Earth, he noted the tear tracks down the face.

Aries, after ranting at them, had left them behind. Earth had been stumped to silence, and Luna even more so. He gazed at his planet in the hopes that Earth would give him some indication or do something to stop Aries from leaving. But after what felt like several minutes, Earth had said they'd better get their task done and grab the mentioned planets that Aries wanted. Luna had tried to talk to Earth, but the living world had stated they should wait for now before discussing the next course of action.

Luna wondered about the rising tension now in the Solar System. While Ganymede and Europa had won in the bid to reopen the library, it would be a short-lived victory as X would close the library down the moment that Aries left the system. Luna knew he had, for lack of a better word, pissed the Ice Giant off by standing up to him, and dragging Earth into the mix had caused a possible irreparable break of trust between Earth and Luna. Earth had wanted to tread carefully over its new duties, and Luna had practically pushed him to act rashly and make enemies of a planet much bigger and stronger than Earth.

And Aries being indifferent to Earth and Luna – and others - was now answered. He was angry at them both. Aries had called them his friends in the past, but the moment he left for the Core, contact had pretty much ceased. While Luna and Earth had asked Sun for news at times aside from the revelation of the presentation and the occasional titbits, very little was said. Luna knew he and Earth should have made more of an effort, asked a Comet to send a message or more. But then... Aries never spoke to them either. Never told them he was struggling and needed his friends. Aries was right: they HAD failed him. Left him to the wolves at a time when he needed them the most. Luna never knew what Aries was going through, but now that he had a somewhat close relationship with Venus, he felt a touch of fear over the possibility of losing Venus. One day, that would be a reality when the Sun entered his Red Giant Phase. Was this what Aries felt as he watched his father fight, before seeing him die right before him?

Did he... feel abandoned by those he considered his friends? Luna wanted to see Aries as a friend, and it was clear that when he was a human, he was desperate to be friends with them. But being a human meant he was vulnerable and smaller, not on par with the Celestials he idolised. And when he returned to how he was, and left, he was left alone. Luna realised that Aries’ words had hit him much harder. Being the largest of the moons in the inner system, he was almost considered alone. Deimos and Phobos had each other, but Luna did not have anybody. He was pretty much alone.

His eyes found Earth. He remembered how Earth was suffering and sometimes felt alone when Mars ventured off to Jupiter, Venus was on the other side of the Sun, and Mercury was too far. Unable to leave his orbit, unable to visit without succumbing to his suffering. A loss of freedom. He felt saddened that he and Earth could not be surrounded by a lot.

Again, Luna could leave whenever he wished because he did not have the responsibility of Life. Earth, while he was happy for Luna to go explore, was left alone a lot. He never complained; sometimes he played Solitaire or remade his Solarcards deck. But aside from that, he would nap or stare at the Stars aimlessly, mapping them and noting the Constellations.

“He is right.”

‘Of course he is, idiot. You let him down. Both of you.’

“I know,” Earth said softly. He ran a frustrated hand through his hair, sending the locks into waves and curls that cascaded further down his back. His fringe caught in them, exposing his darker blue scalp. “We messed up, Luna. All of us. Aries had tried so hard to be friends with us when he was human, accompanying me... learning... and we just fed him to the dogs. We should have tried to visit more, especially if Jupiter was only exiled recently. We had plenty of time before that to visit Aries and failed.”

“Yeah...” Luna fell to silence. He turned his grey eyes up towards Earth, seeing his brother looking downtrodden, sadness in his eyes as he automatically walked to where the pair were heading. They knew that Saturn would be told to come along, as he was now the biggest planet in the solar system and was, therefore, to take up the role of protector. But he wasn’t Jupiter, Luna argued with himself. Saturn was as nervous as can be and always doubted himself.

‘Maybe he needs to get a grip?’

“That sounds about right,” Luna muttered as Earth continued to stride ahead. Luna tilted his head as he followed his brother, reaching out to straighten the sash at the back from where it had crinkled. “Earth, are we taking everyone to the island?”

“It is the best place. Secluded and isolated, and Aries and us can work in privacy,” Earth glanced as Luna tried to fix the sash again. “Hopefully we see Mr Rotsar again. Would that not be good? We can hear of any further advancements in his Eco-Technology programme. Last I heard, they were improving the Solar Panel technology further.”

“It would be good to see him! But... Earth...” Luna hesitated, his brother glancing at him to gauge what question he was aiming to ask. “Do you not find it strange we haven’t heard from him, too? I mean, usually, we see him when we are down at the island, and now we have heard nothing further, probe or otherwise. Is that not strange?”

“I agree it isn’t like Mr Rotsar to not mention to us about things, even asking us for advice on his eco-tech. Last I heard, he was making something new for planetary defence systems, but that was over a month ago. Whatever seems to be the issue will rectify itself.”

They stepped further into the borderlands, and Luna gaped with awe at the crystals that were in Mercury’s section. It was a bit cold, and he could see Earth shiver, but he continued at a faster pace. As beautiful as Mercury’s crystals were, they wanted out and into the familiarity of the orbit of Venus. While it was hotter than the chill, it meant they did not have to take much longer before returning home. But when Earth deviated, Luna was surprised and swiftly followed.

“Everyone will be playing cards. We should go to them and catch them, like Aries wants,” Earth clarified. “I feel sad that Mercury must stay. I wonder what the plan for him is. Do you think he will stay to help Proxima?”

“I think so, she is only here temporarily until Sun recovers, so she needs access to things that only Mercury will be aware of. That is probably why Aries wants him to stay, plus if Mercury needs to bring a message from Proxima, she has access to him,” Luna stated. He felt the stonework of the border, his ears perking up as he tried to listen for the usual response of the Planets to their cards. But it seemed unusually quiet.

‘Too quiet...’

Luna felt his senses become wary, but as he stepped forth, he saw Earth relax. His brother gave a goody smile, and Luna could hear laughter now. He relaxed, shaking himself from his worry, before stepping forth and leading Earth down the pathway to the stone benches. True enough, the other Rockies were there, Mercury looking through his Solarcards deck and making changes, Venus watching as Mars played with his moonlets. Luna sighed as he approached Mercury, whilst Earth stepped to join Venus.

“Hey, Kid,” Venus rumbled. He gave a nod before turning to watch Mars as Phobos leapt onto his planet’s back, aiming to save Deimos from Mars as he wrestled with the smaller moon. “What is up with your face?”

“Ha,” Earth joked back, nudging his father figure. He turned his azure eyes back to Mars and his two Moons. “We had a chat with Aries... he said he wants you and Mars to accompany him to the Island, alongside me and Luna. Mercury is to stay, I think, to be a messenger between Proxima and Helios, or Proxima and Aries. I don’t completely know what the plan is for Sun since he needs S1 to heal him. I imagine Helios will come with us; otherwise, there is no point in having Proxima here to lead the system.”

“So that Red Dwarf wasn’t for escorting Aries and S1,” Mars commented, before wincing when Phobos landed on his head. He carefully moved his moon off before placing a hand on Deimos’s head to stop his other moon tackling him. “She is here to be a placeholder. But the Gravity Quakes...”

“They aren’t here for long,” Earth stated. He saw Luna pick a card from the pile Mercury had made as he reconstructed his deck. The smaller Rocky planet huffed but allowed him to look through the cards laid out. “Max is probably three days. That is how long we have left... and unfortunately, that clock is ticking down. Considering they have arrived here quite late, we have little over two days left.”

“Two days on your surface.” The statement from Venus only seemed to increase the anxiety. “Great. Aries and that chick need to get their asses in gear. So, what is the plan?”

“They spoke about... some Shadow Council,” Luna responded. “Black Holes. They apparently have information that might be important for their mission, but that depends on how quickly they prepare and find it.”

“Black Holes,” Mercury shuddered, something unnoticed by Venus.

“You literally met the Queen, and Aries is half, why are you shuddering?”

“The difference is that these may not be friendly,” Mercury hit back. “Sagittarius and Aries are friendly but still a bit unnerving. These may not be as friendly. I do know one of them roams near the System, but that is about it. Sometimes Helios squints at them and looks the other way, like he knows something is there but can’t determine if it is truly there.”

“Silent and deadly,” Mars said. “Ominous. So, the Shadow Council: I guess they need to hurry up before Proxima leaves.”

“I don’t think it would be chaotic if Proxima HAS to leave it may be when the Council meets, and when our Star needs to recover,” Earth stated. He pulled out his deck of Solarcards, taking his spare Anomaly concerning Astrodude and passing it to Mercury. The smaller Planet smiled, placing the card into the anomaly section. “So, Proxima maybe volunteered?”

“Will you be alright with Proxima?” Mars asked his smaller fellow. He winced as Deimos crashed onto his tail, yelping. “Deimos! For the love of... go to sleep, you two!”

“But Mars!” They both whined. Earth sighed, giving a small smile to his... cousins? He doesn’t know. They were too low and younger than him and Luna.

“I should be absolutely fine,” Mercury stated, looking annoyed that they doubted him. The smaller Rocky planet placed his cards back into a deck, the spares heading into a small tin. “If I have any issues, I will shout for you. I will help Proxima run the Solar System... and keep those little Moons under control.”

“They will behave themselves,” Mars gave a very stern look at his small Moons. Deimos and Phobos stopped bothering his tail to play with one another, but at their planet’s look, became silent and more subdued. Their eyes turned to Mars, a sudden fear appearing. “I will be fine, you two. Please, do what I ask and listen to Mercury while I am gone. Once I get back, we can do another round of slingshot mania, deal?”

“Deal!” It seemed to have cheered the two of them up. Earth watched as they perched onto a stone bench, playing a new game that didn’t involve jumping on anybody or each other. He sighed, seeing Luna watching something that appeared to be approaching. Earth turned his eyes to the target and stood when he saw who it was.

“Halley! What are you doing here? Is something the matter?”

The other Rockies started moving, swiftly grabbing belongings and stashing them underneath. Mercury squealed as Venus used an arm to swipe off his tins of Solarcards, causing them to clatter onto the ground and open. The small world leapt down and started grabbing them all, or as many as he could.

Halley was a Comet that visited Earth every seventy-five years, and with the knowledge that she had been the caretaker of Aries as a baby and child, Earth saw the usually gruff female Comet differently. He wondered whether Aries and Halley had reunited, as she had last seen him thousands of years ago. Or was she actively avoiding the prince? He did not know, and from the sour look on her face, it was not going to be a question he was asking the pale being.

The comet paused, watching Mercury for a second before giving a shake of its head. They always said Mercury was becoming too obsessed with Solarcards and was so determined to collect all of them.

“That is becoming too much of an obsession, and you know it, Mercury,” Halley shook her head. She turned her eyes back to the other Rocky Planets. “I believe Helios has told you four to keep this area as clean as possible. I will pretend I did not see Venus swipe some things off that table, but be aware, Proxima will not allow untidiness.”

“I thought we were coming with Aries?” Mars asked about the comet.

“You are. Which is why I am telling you now to clean up this rubbish and make it fast. She has asked for the rest of the system to meet with her. Helios is having healing done by S1 and will not be attending. Aries asked the Comets to grab the planets he wanted to come and attend a quick briefing. Mercury will be going to the meet and greet with Proxima, or whatever.”

“What is with the attitude, Halley?” Venus grunted. “For something so small, you are making big demands on us.”

“Says the one with the worst attitude in the Solar System, just get your arses moving,” Halley snarked. Her pale eyes looked over at Earth and Luna. “Get to the compound. You and Saturn are in for a treat. A Star healing another Star is a treat you do not want to miss.”

“I’ll see you guys at the compound?” Earth asked of Venus and Mars, who gave a tight smile and nodded. Earth stood, seeing Luna – sneakily – pocket a missed Solarcard. He tilted his head, questioning, but his satellite smiled as Mercury started frantically trying to tidy up his Solarcards again. Venus guffed when he realised what Luna had done, whereas Mars shook his head (“Atta boy, taking after your old man!”).

Halley grumbled as she led them back down the pathway, Earth eyeing her in concern. It was not like Halley to be in such a foul mood, but he did not want to press her. He didn’t want her to go from Comet to Asteroid on his surface: it was bad enough that he had one to concern himself with once 2030 passed. He and Luna had discussed possible strategies, but he supposed the Earthlings had a general idea of what to do about it.

Earth eyed the compound again, seeing a familiar reddish woman with her Halo appearing. Proxima gave a tight smile, tilting her head at them both, and Earth reciprocated. Luna gave a small wave, which Proxima copied, before continuing down the pathway. No doubt to start her meet and greet. Earth could see Saturn heading down a different path, with a familiar moon by his side which caused Luna to beam and rush to him.

‘HE ISN’T BRINGING HIM, IS HE?’

“Titan! What are you doing here?”

“I need to bring someone with me with supplies and such if we are heading down to the Island,” Saturn confirmed. He smiled sadly as Luna and Titan hugged, before Earth gave a pleasant hello. “My other major moons are staying behind to give Proxima some help, as is most of Jupiter’s – I mean... X’s moons.”

Earth saw Luna give a saddened look at Saturn and wondered why. But he would press his brother later. Titan gave a pleasant smile at Halley, who grunted in greeting before giving a hasty farewell and walking off. Earth paused, before turning to watch her go.

“Are you not going to speak to Aries?”

The Comet paused. But she did not turn.

“You raised him, Halley,” Earth said kindly. “Surely-.”

“It is a time I think both of us want to forget,” Halley said softly, turning her head slightly to look at him. “I was a Comet trying to raise a Star. I was out of my depth. I did my best but... I cannot hide that at times we wanted to kill one another. I did my duty, and nothing more.”

“Halley...” Luna said sadly, but she turned away.

“Please... don’t. I swore not to get attached to him. I should keep moving. You know me. Us Comets? We don’t give a crap about bonding. I may have raised that boy for 3.5 billion years, but I was never his mother.”

Earth watched her leave, a sadness starting to grip his Core. Halley did not hesitate to keep walking, even as the door opened to the compound and Aries stepped out. He paused, seeing the comet walking away, before deciding against whatever he wanted to say. The prince’s eyes found Earth and Luna, and Earth made to speak, to greet him, or even apologise... but Aries turned and walked back inside. The prince clearly did not want to talk with them after his rant earlier.

Saturn moved in after Aries, Titan following his planet, whereas Earth and Luna kept their distance. Earth could sense the presence of Helios and S1, and as Luna and Titan waited back, Earth and Saturn strode to where Helios called his chambers. Unless invited, nobody was allowed to approach the Star’s chambers. Exceptions included a threat, but nothing else. Fortunately, as Healers, Earth and Saturn always had clearance. But not others... not after Jupiter... Jupiter had free rein to speak to Helios at any time due to their friendship, but now... Helios kept things close to him.

When Earth stepped in, he was immediately aware he was stepping into something sacred. That he felt unworthy to witness. His eyes widened at the sight of Helios, lying on his front, bare-chested, and his more horrific wounds on his back exposed. Above him was S1, her hands glowing as she worked a burning orb of molten liquid, pressing it against the wounds. The liquid bubbled like lava, glowing brighter as it started to solidify over the wounds, causing Helios to heave a sigh. S1 then turned to a small satchel, taking out plant materials that were golden and glowed in a gentle white pulse as she brought them closer to the wounds that had been stubborn. Saturn inhaled as she began whispering something in a language that Earth had never heard before. It was ancient, and made his Core pulse all the harder, the sense of unworthiness only increasing. He wanted to step out, especially when S1 ordered Helios to turn around. The molten salve had solidified, forming over and healing the worst of the back injuries.

S1 took cloths, placing one over Helios’ eyes, and the other over the deep gash on his chest. She whispered again in the language, her Core now glowing in her chest as a golden touch came to her hands, glowing as she pressed one on the forehead cloth and the other on the chest. Her bright eyes then found Earth and Saturn, who lowered his gaze, and she smiled at them.

She whispered something to Helios, and Earth could see the gentle rise and fall of his chest, indicating he was sleeping. It soothed Earth to see his Star finally resting after so much stress and grief. And that his Star was now finally on the way to healing. Earth felt guilty about not being able to heal his Star but was relieved he no longer felt the burden of it. And with an S-Cluster Star here, it was a great honour to witness.

“Out,” S1 said, not angrily but gently. Earth watched Helios as the female Star started to push them out, to let Helios sleep. Earth could see the remaining scars, but then the door closed and prevented them from seeing Helios.

“I have heard of the healing abilities of the S-Cluster Stars,” Saturn was saying to S1. “But that... was a blessing. Thank you for allowing us to see a part of it.”

“I know you have done your best to heal him, but sometimes a Star is better to heal another,” S1 responded. “The physiology and anatomy of Stars are different to Planets, so it would make sense. While we all have a Core, the regeneration ability of a Star cannot be replicated by a planet, and if so, not to that intensity. The skin of a Star was constantly shifting, so if the wounds were not properly managed, it would never properly heal over.”

“I see...” Saturn looked mildly distressed at this explanation. “If I had known... I would never have failed so much.”

“Both of us,” Earth interrupted, not wanting Saturn to take the full blame. “You should not take the entire blame, Saturn.”

“Stop blaming yourself for something out of your control,” S1 said gently. Her eyes found Aries as he started striding towards them, a smile starting to appear as she tilted her head to the prince. Saturn followed suit, and Earth quickly bowed with them. “My Prince. Lord Helios is now sleeping and will be for the next day. Proxima will bring him down for his training once we are completed with our research, and hopefully once we have met with the Shadow Council.”

“Very strict timeline,” Aries rumbled. He folded his arms, a frown crossing his brow. Earth noted that he continued to ignore Earth and Saturn. “I am aiming for us to meet the Shadow Council in one day. With luck, we can gain their allegiance to help us, and then we can prepare Helios for HD1.”

Earth inhaled, his ears lowered as he felt guilt start to swarm again. His hands curled into fists, as Aries continued to talk to S1, Saturn excused himself to go back to the moons. Earth inhaled, before blurting out.

“Aries... I am sorry.”

The pair stopped, Aries turning his eyes to the living world as Earth took a brave step to the prince, which caused S1 to tense slightly. Aries raised a hand to stop her from intruding before lowering his eyes back to Earth.

“Earth?”

“I am sorry. You’re right: me and Luna let you down,” Earth tilted his head, trying to keep himself calm. “We should have kept in contact with you when you left, and I know you had so much going on in the Core, but we still should have tried to show we are here for you. I know it is late, but I am here now and want to help you. And I am sure Luna would agree.”

Aries did not say anything for a solid minute. He was emotionless for a moment before a sigh escaped his lips, the prince closing his eyes before turning his head away. Earth saw S1 take Aries by the hand, squeezing gently as though telling him it was okay for Aries to feel this way. But also... A part of Earth hoped for forgiveness.

“Earth,” Aries opened his eyes, looking at him sadly. “I have always wanted to be your friend, even when I was a human. But I was just someone you kept around. Whatever relationship we have had before is... gone. Too much has changed. But...” He raised his free hand, stopping Earth from interrupting. “I do not mind trying again. Not now when time is not on my side, but in future. You must understand that you and Luna... have let me down. Big time.”

“Tell us what to do!” Earth sounded pained. “How do me and Luna fix this?”

S1 looked saddened, her eyes turning back to Aries. Her free hand touched his chest, over his Core, and Aries rested his other hand on hers. Earth felt... something upon seeing that. Of course, Aries would have moved on. He had no choice. He had tried to be friends with Earth and Luna, but they saw him as nothing more than a scientist. Sometimes, in the darkest of thoughts, Earth saw him as partially responsible for how he and Luna suffered in Area 51. Even though Aries did not truly cause the events.

“By giving me space to think, Earth,” Aries said, a gentleness to his voice. “Once this is done, we will sit down and talk. And air everything out. Something we should have done months ago. But... while I forgive you, I need you to not crowd me.”

“Aries...” Earth felt pain in his Core, feeling hurt. He saw S1 give a concerned look, Aries releasing her hand as he turned fully to face Earth.

“I forgive you, and Luna. Always. But I cannot forget. And it will take time for me to see you as a friend again. Now, please, let me go and finish my preparations, and we can get moving. I look forward to seeing Venus and Mars again. Please return to your Moon.”

Aries turned, walking back down the corridor towards the room where they had held the meeting earlier. He was distinctly aware that S1 was following him, but collapsed into the highchair that belonged to Helios. Aries sighed, his eyes locating Earth’s chair, seeing the circle with the cross. He felt saddened about how he spoke to Earth, but he was giving him a second chance... that was more than enough at present. He felt a saddened thought pass, leaning back against the chair, before feeling hands touch his shoulders and then rest on his chest. Aries sighed, feeling a smile touch his lips as he looked around to see S1 step around.

“Aries... are you alright?” Her hand touched his cheek, and he gave a solemn nod. S1, realising he wasn’t, took him close, holding his head over where her beating Core was. He clung to her, feeling her fingers thread through his hair as he shakily took a breath. She began soothing him, tracing her fingers over his temple now, causing his body to relax.

“I am sorry you... saw that...” Aries whispered. S1 tilted his head so she could see his face better. “I just find myself so angry. I missed our chance in grabbing S21; I fell for her trap, and she could have taken me to Entropy there and then. And... I lost it with Earth and Luna because I saw them as my home for so long, and they left me behind.”

“I know,” S1 kissed his forehead. “It has been a tough year for everyone. There is a huge vacuum now, which began with your father's death. He left a large gap in many things, from politics, relationships and strength.”

“Earth said something to me... that...” Aries felt tears. “That I am becoming him. Cruel. Before he-.”

“No,” S1 cut across. She squatted down, her face firm and gaze harsh. “Look, I knew your father for a couple of years, and while he was ruthless, he was a good leader. And when he came to those cells that day to help you with breaking us out, he looked at you with such love. And care. Determined to protect us all. He changed, Aries. He changed because of you. You aren’t your father because he became you.”

Aries was openly sobbing now, and she embraced him. Her own tears were starting to fall at her lover’s own, sensing the pain he truly was under. Her hands relaxed from his hair, and she slid down to sit on his lap, holding her lover close to her Core again. He seemed calm, his arms around her, hearing the low hum within.

“There is only one person to blame for all of this, and this is Entropy. Once we have him, we can return him to the Fundamental Forces permanently and return the Universe to how it should be. S21 will face the Queen’s Judgement, and his Forces will be disbanded. Three days, Aries. That is all we need. And we will succeed.”

“You think we will?” He asked of her, his eyes on hers. S1 touched the diamond on his forehead before stroking his cheek. “Will we succeed?”

“I know it. Within my Core. We will succeed,” She kissed him. Aries relaxed in her grip, accepting the kiss. For the first time, he felt completely safe in someone’s arms. He broke the kiss, raising his hand to her cheek, allowing her to rest her forehead against his, before protesting as she moved away. Aries had many relationships when he was a human, just fleeting reminders, but they never felt right. Never felt like... they were truly meant to be. But with S1? He felt that connection. Maybe that was why... maybe he was meant to have been with a Celestial?

As she stepped away, Aries stood, making the short distance between them and wrapping his arms around her waist. S1 squeaked but laughed, tilting her head so her cheek pressed against his own. She took his hands, releasing herself from his grip.

“We'd better get back, or rather I should,” she commented. “YOU need to keep packing. I need to make sure Helios is in his healing trance still.”

“A day,” Aries told her. “If he is to learn Gravity and Electromagnetism, he cannot be in more than that. We do not know his level with those two Forces, and we may not have enough time alongside our own mission.”

“Saturn and Earth have done more of the work; it is the more major wounds that still need some setting. And only a Star can work. I can maybe push him to a minimum of twenty hours, but no less than that, Aries. Otherwise, we are back to square one, and he could end up much worse than before. You can never interrupt a healing trance.”

“He will need to be guarded during this,” Aries pointed out. “I gather...”

“Proxima will keep a watch over him. But she must monitor his system too. Whatever or however this ends, she needs a huge thank you present from individuals.”

“I thought you said we would succeed?” Aries teased her. He saw S1 give him a side eye with a half-smile, and he couldn’t help but copy her. His tail was flicking behind him, betraying his emotion, and she could see it.

“Of course! I have high hopes we will,” S1 teased back. She poked his chest before turning around and leaving the room, making Aries turn his attention back to collecting the books they had taken. He opened the box, gently placing them within the empty void.

‘Like Father, Like Son... Enjoy, Aries. Because soon, you will be mine.’

Aries spun around, but nobody else was around. The room remained empty, and nothing was out of place. He shook his head, dismissing it, before lifting the box and making his way out. His eyes focused, his ears primed as he heard familiar voices reach them. The docile tones of Mars, and the gruff voice of Venus, followed by the accent of Saturn. The prince sighed, feeling himself tense at Venus, knowing how protective the Rocky was... and how hot-headed he can be. But as he rounded the corner, he saw that Venus was oddly calm, his burning eyes slowly turning to Aries.

“Prince Aries,” Mars tilted his head, giving him the respect he was due. Venus just nodded, folding his arms as he stepped by Earth and Luna, the other two looking dejected. Aries knew why. “It is good to see you again.”

“I wish under better circumstances,” Aries stated. “Are you all prepared?”

“We need details of what is going on and why we are heading down,” Venus grunted. “Can you provide those?”

“Of course. You are all the best fighters this System can offer, and should shit hit the fan,” He noted the confusion of Saturn and Titan but did not elaborate. “At least you will be here. I need additional muscle and healers.”

“And our Star?” Saturn asked. “What about his defence?”

“Proxima will be watching him as he sleeps. Nobody will be able to come close to Helios while he resides here, not when I am a step away,” Aries noted S1 as she emerged from the chambers that held Helios. Her eyes scanned the new arrivals before turning to Aries. Aries could see an arched brow appear on Venus, but the planet made no comment or statement otherwise. “To the gateway. This is your last chance: if you do not wish to come, please leave. There is no shame.”

“I am coming,” Earth said instantly, his moon stepping beside him. Venus grunted and moved off his spot, where he leaned on the wall, giving a firm nod. Mars followed. Saturn and Titan gave a glance at each, before moving forward. All of them were clearly coming down.

“Then let us save the Galaxy,” Aries said lowly. He adjusted the box, giving a nod to S1, who went to grab some of the bags with healing supplies, while Saturn and Titan began to help her. Earth gathered Luna to him, holding his brother, before following as Venus and Mars made their way out. Aries saw S1 glance at him before following behind her.

His eyes paused briefly at the room where Helios lay asleep, praying to the Singularity that he would be safe. Aries inhaled, shaking off the cold snap that rose in his spine before closing the door to the compound. He followed them, his eyes ahead as the planets and moons led him to the Gardens where the Gateway was held. Aries felt a brief hesitation, but continued, seeing S1 slow to walk alongside him. Her hand slipped into his, and he squeezed it.

“We can do this,” She whispered. “Just breathe. Three days and it is all over, Aries.”

“Three days. It is all we need,” He whispered back. “Then we can go back to the Core. Back home. Together.”

“Together,” She kissed his cheek.

The soft glow of the crystals appeared in his vision. Rebuilt, crystal trees standing tall above them, the gardens remained how Helios always liked them, it seemed. Aries glanced at Earth as he paused at one tree, pressing a hand on it. The tree glowed, more branches appearing as it spread its influence further. Aries gave him a hinting look, not wanting to waste more time, and the living world swiftly followed.

The Gateway was inactive until Mars approached, pressing his hand against the stone panel. The centre fired into life, revealing a white sandy beach, tropical blue waters, and palm trees. Aries could feel the heat, but not as bad as it was when he was first awakened. The others hesitated, but he wasted no time in stepping through, his shoes touching the soft sand and almost causing him to overbalance had his tail not rectified. Aries placed the box down, turning to offer a hand to S1 so she stepped through safely, before ensuring the two Moons and four planets came through safely.

Birds passed overhead, causing S1 to gasp softly. Her hands came to her mouth as she scanned around, her eyes wide as she tried to take in everything. She reached down and grabbed a handful of sand, letting it drop before she went to the water's edge. Aries watched her childlike wonder as she reached down and carefully picked up a crab, which raised its claws in a threatening manner. She promptly dropped it back, watching it scurries away.

The familiar noise of gulls came to their ears, the winged menaces (Aries recalled a time when they stole his lunch during an outing with Earth), scouting them. A flash of water in the ocean, as a huge whale rolled back under the waves. The tail raised high in the air as it dived, disappearing silently back into the depths. Even now, despite seeing it many times, it still awed Aries. But for someone like S1, who had never seen Life before, it was probably humbling. That everything which happened in the past had been building to this moment.

This single moment in the entirety of the time of the Universe.

S1 looked ready to keel over as she watched the water where the whale had disappeared. Her bright eyes were shimmering as Aries approached her to see if she was okay. The Star was looking overwhelmed by everything she was seeing, and Aries felt concerned that she could break down.

“Life...” She whispered. Tears started to leak out as she spun around to look at her again. A single butterfly fluttered to a palm tree near them, going to the flowers underneath.  “This... is Life?”

“Life,” Aries repeated. He saw Earth beam with pride. “This is Earth’s surface. We can’t see him, but Luna is somewhere in the skies too. Night would be better to see him.”

“And Luna is beautiful when he is up,” Earth’s voice held smugness. “He is so important to my Life! Without him, I wouldn’t have an advanced species.”

“Earth, you’re embarrassing me,” Luna piped up, a blush on his cheeks. But he smiled at the praise. “I think I am nearly full moon?”

“I think so. We will see tonight!” Earth looked at Aries. “We got new additions that I asked Mr Rotsar for. We can see them and how they are getting on! The grass was getting a bit too much, so-.”

“I gather you acquired some horses or ponies,” Aries mused. He touched S1 by the shoulder, bringing her back to the present. The Star quickly brought herself back to the group. “Any particular ones?”

“Not the big ones like Clydesdales, more the smaller variety like Cobs. I wanted to try to get another species but moving them would cause questions due to their endangered status. The second island,” Earth pointed it out. Aries squinted to see the secondary island, not as big as the one they were on but close enough. “Is completely wild. Last I heard, our released Jaguar had kittens, but...” His expression fell. “Since Jupiter left, they died. I don’t know why, but... something is going on here. Some trees and flowers are dying off there, too. I want to go over at some point and see what is happening but haven’t had the chance to.”

“Disease is still possible even with you present,” Mars said gently. “It could be that they are dying due to sickness. I wouldn’t beat yourself up, Earth. Maybe once we are more settled, we can take a trip over and see what is going on?”

“Yeah, but we have priorities,” Earth tilted his head in the direction of the house. “Shall we?”

S1 was curious as the group started moving. Her eyes were darting around, looking at anything and everything, but staying by Aries. Aries placed his hand in hers, worried she was becoming overwhelmed. This was an entirely new experience for a Celestial who may have never seen Life until now and had only read about it. Her free hand reached out and stroked some palm leaves, Titan even getting a fallen one and giving it to her so she could touch it. Aries placed a flower in her hair, and she blushed heavily. The S-Cluster Star had no idea what to say or do.

The group continued in silence, aside from Saturn occasionally protesting as his tail got caught in a branch, before reaching the pathway that would lead up to the house. Earth paused as he saw a new path heading to where they buried those who died in the fight on the island, but at Venus’ bark, he kept going. But what caused concern for Aries was how quiet it was around them. Usually, it bustles with activity, with Rotsar personnel working and relaxing in the sun. Even the small houses down towards the beach looked empty.

“What on-,” Luna whispered. Aries noted the grass did not look as pristine. “Earth? What happened?”

“I am not sure,” Earth commented. Concern also flashed in his features as he shared a look with Aries. “This is usually lunch time. Why is it so quiet? People work here!”

Aries frowned. He pushed the box into Venus’ chest before stepping up the steps and onto the porch. His hand grasped the large handle, made especially for the Celestials, and opened the door. Dust scattered into his view as he turned his head around to see what was around or not. The House was empty, bar the furniture, and thick dust was now starting to creep onto the top of books and objects. A spider or two ran across the hall before him. Even flicking a switch caused the bulb to fail.

“Where is everybody?” Mars asked, coming up behind the prince. His eyes widened at the state. “Did they just... abandon... Earth and Luna?”

“I am not sure,” Aries commented. Earth slipped under his arm with Luna, eyes wide as he saw the state of his house. He pulled a blue finger over some dust, coating it, before turning his eyes to look at Luna sadly.

“I thought... where are they all? We should call Mr Rotsar!”

“That would not be possible.”

The new voice was old and female, and all the Celestials jumped as their eyes turned to see a frail elderly woman standing in the living area. Her hair was pulled up into a neat bun, her hands clasped over a cane as she eyed them. Her suit was jet black, with black tights and shoes. Her eyes were tear-stained as she eyed them, shaking delicately.

“Wait... you were at the funerals!” Luna said. “You’re Mr Rotsar’s wife!”

“Call me Giselle, please,” Her voice was shaking. “I know who you are. Almost all of you. I... I need to tell you something about my husband, about Harold. I...”

Tears started to fall. Aries watched as Earth and Luna went to the elderly woman, concerned, and he almost cursed himself. Of course, this was Giselle Rotsar! The wife of the founder of Rotsar Corporation.

“I have been... waiting to see you two.” Giselle was saying shakily. They guided her to a chair, and Aries could see a helicopter waiting on the pad. “He said you would probably be down for Christmas, so I came here to try and catch you both.”

“Giselle...” Aries felt S1 come to his side as he spoke. “Giselle, what happened to Harold?”

Her eyes found Aries as she continued to shake, before a pained moan came out of her lips. The human shook in the chair, tears falling as she shakily answered.

“He is dead. He was killed by... by a Celestial.”

Her sobs broke the silence that fell on the room. She dabbed her eyes before whispering, deciding to continue.

“He died... defending the Hades Project,” Her eyes found Aries, who felt anger and realisation dawn. His hands curled into fists as he calmed himself. “I know you warned him, but... our son did it anyway. When Harold died, our son pulled the funding for here, stating that it has only proven the need for Project Hades.”

“He built it...” Aries growled. “The fool. The absolute fool!”

“Project Hades?” Venus grunted. “What is that?”

“And why is it named after Pluto?” Saturn interjected, before wincing at the looks thrown at him. “Sorry.”

“Project Hades is a prototype weapon,” Aries rumbled. He was angry. So angry. When he was approached by Rotsar over Project Hades, he venomously gave his refusal to be part of it. The weapon was too dangerous, too volatile... and should never be used. “A weapon capable of...” He fell silent.

So, Giselle offered the last three words.

“Killing a Celestial. Harold... he said not to do it. He wanted the weapon destroyed. But before he gave the order, he was killed by a Celestial. The weapon... Viktor, it’s gone. It was stolen.”

Aries roared angrily. His hands curled into fists as he turned and punched the wall, causing a large hole. The loss of his temper was frightening to see, and S1 was instantly there, placing her hands on his shoulders.

“Calm down. And explain to us what this weapon is. And why we should be concerned.”

“Project Hades... it is a Ballista. A Giant Crossbow weapon that was calculated to deliver one full-powered shot to a Celestial Chest. If aimed right, it can take out the Core, legitimately. Clean out. It was made from space rocks, debris... and the Gemstones from Earth.”

The mentioned planet blanched, standing instantly.

“The gemstones are integrated into a harpoon. They tested its composition in simulations, but Harold deemed the weapon too dangerous to be used. And yet minds after the incident in Area 51, thanks to Ganymede and Europa, showed there was a need for this weapon to be made. Harold said never to allow that weapon to keep living. It was supposed to be destroyed, Giselle! Why was it allowed to be stored?!”

“I....” Giselle stammered, her handkerchief in her hands and by her mouth. “Charles wanted...”

“I told Charles and your husband it was too dangerous! If that got out into the wrong hands, it could kill any Celestial!” Aries spun to her. “And now...” His expression fell.

“Now it is in the hands of the enemy.”

“When you say... it can kill any Celestial,” Titan stammered. The look from Aries seemed to answer the moon’s question, but his words only confirmed what they all thought.

“Moon, Planet, black hole...” He looked at S1. Her fear was clear on her features.

“Even a Star. And if Entropy has it... We are in dangerous territory. We need to destroy that weapon before he works out how to use it. He will use it on us... anybody. Even my mother.”

“Sagittarius needs to be told, Aries!” Venus said angrily. “Pronto! We need help.”

“No, if my mother finds out...” Aries swallowed. He knew his mother would be furious. She would never allow that weapon off Earth’s surface. Or out of the system.

“She will kill you all. Helios, the planets, moons... everyone to make sure that weapon is never allowed out of the system.”

Aries turned to face them all.

“By right, I must notify her, but we have time. And another wrinkle to sort out, and that is destroying that weapon. And unfortunately,” His gaze softened at Giselle. Her tearful eyes lowered.

“We don’t have Rotsar to help us. We are on our own.”

‘You won’t win, Entropy. Killing my father is one thing, but Harold Rotsar... an elderly man who cannot fight back... You'd better be ready for me.’

Across the world, in the snowy north, a cruel smile came on the features of the dark being. His eyes glowed red as he stared at the weapon, being primed and ready. With three harpoons laid out on the table, named for the three targets.

Helios.

Aries.

Sagittarius.

His hands tightened on the bannister as the prince’s challenge came to his mind. Such strong words for someone who had played their weaknesses so easily. A budding romance, a failing friendship, and a grief that made them blind to all else.

Yet... it was a challenge all the same. And after what Entropy had envisioned, after seeing what Aries would become, this made things so much easier. Aries was emotional and more prone to making mistakes. Nothing like how he would be in the future.

Aries… with a black halo. And a golden crown.

His smile grew at the thought of erasing that future. Everything was falling into place.

‘I will be ready for you... Your Majesty.’

END OF PART ONE

Chapter Text

Part II

A burst of energy. A tremble.

And he woke. A child. A young blue Star which battled with his gravity instantly. He was so hot, in so much pain. But within a day, he was grown, and trying so desperately to get his first planets. He did not know how long he had, but he had to try.

Then he met her. His only world.

His Core cooled at seeing her, and her smile. She was patched black and grey, with touches of blue. She was loving and kind, calling him her blue Sapphire. But he burned so hot, that he suffered daily. He cried daily. So many new Stars, Prototype Stars, a test from the Universe. To see whether they could truly exist. Whether they could exist.

In the mindscape they spent more time. Year upon year, they grew closer. He gave her a name. She gave him his. Hadrian. He liked that name. It made him feel special, having a name. She called herself Persephone. A beautiful flowery name that brightened his skies. But his Core burned hot still. Yet Hadrian wanted to spend as much time with her, and not have this lingering doubt over how long he had.

“What does blue mean?” She had asked him once, her dark eyes scanning his blue orbs. They stood in his chambers, looking out at the cosmic mess as the Universe settled. He could see the radiation, as the Dark Energy ran rampant. Binding everything together. Something that only the First Ones could connect to: the literal expansion of the Universe.

“Blue, my love?” He glanced at his blue skin as it shimmered gently. “I am a Blue Star. I burn hotter and bright. Why do you ask?”

“Because you are beautiful,” Persephone whispered. Her hands found his, bringing them up as she went into his body. He was much taller than her, so much taller... but he felt tiny compared to her. “Like gemstones. The ones on my skin. And your Halo... how it waves and glows. I feel comfort just seeing it.”

“I am glad, my love,” Hadrian pulled her close, resting his face in her curly hair. “Do not worry, I will not burn you. I can stop that.”

“I never worry, my love. Because I know you will never hurt us.”

Us? She had said us... what did she mean by us?

“Persephone?” Hadrian pressed her, seeing a smile spread over her features as she tilted her head up to look into his face. “What do you mean by that?”

“Well... I think this is a good time to tell you,” Persephone whispered. “Hadrian, I am carrying. Your child is in my womb. I just found out.”

A child... he would be a father!

“I know it is frowned upon but... I am so excited!” Persephone watched him so carefully. “Are... Are you?”

“I am, my love,” He whispered. Hadrian smiled brightly, his Halo glowing brighter with his emotion. “Oh, I am so happy. I hope the Universe allows us to find a space for them. And soon we will have new planets, whom they can play and grow with! I cannot wait!”

She embraced him, and he held her back. But deep inside he was worried: his Core was burning a little bit hotter. And his fever would soon overtake him. But after thirteen years... she birthed his son. He came screaming into the Universe, with molten surface and glowing eyes that resembled his own. Hadrian held his child as Persephone recovered from her hard labour. He did not inherit the Star traits, thankfully. Which meant he would be easy to hide should anybody come to visit. But he needed a place, and fortunately Hadrian and Persephone has already discussed what to do.

So Hadrian set to work with Persephone. She used her gravity to help collect the debris left over together, making an empty shell. Hadrian helped to transfer his son’s consciousness to the moon, which caused it to gain the required features. He watched with love in his eyes as his son soon woke, with his first sight being his smiling mother as a Planet and his father in his Inanimate form.

His first words was Mama, and his first steps was to Hadrian. His first artistic picture was of them all, the three of them, holding hands. Hadrian hung it on the wall of his compound. He would stare at that picture as his Core grew hotter and more turbulent.

Then one day, Hadrian collapsed during a meal. Persephone managed to drag him to their shared rooms. Hadrian could feel his Core contracting, the temperature climbing, but calmed saying he was maybe feeling tired. He asked her to make him a promise that, should anything ever happen to him, she would run with their child and find a new Star. One that would not incinerate them. But Persephone was stubborn and said it might not happen.

And she got pregnant again that night.

Hadrian was happy to hear, but now he was approaching a million years old and he could barely hold on. He rested more in his inanimate form, feeling as though his Core was tearing to shreds. Persephone and their child played in their orbit, unaware of what was going to happen. But when he let out a gut wrenching scream, they froze and turned to him. He was screaming so loudly as his Core shredded, contracting, his outer shell tightening up and shuddering.

“RUN!” He screamed at them both. “Percy... RUN!”

She tried. She grabbed their child and tried to flee, but his gravity was... too strong. Pulling at them. Hadrian tried to send a Gravity Wave to throw them but he had lost all control. He couldn’t do it. He could only watch what happened as the pair were pulled towards him.

“Close your eyes, baby,” Persephone had whispered to their son. “Close your eyes.”

“But... what about Daddy? He is hurt! Mommy we need to help him!”

“I will! But close your eyes, baby,” Persephone managed to convince him to turn his face away, eyes closed. “Do not open your eyes. For Mommy, okay? Until I say to. Promise me.”

“Okay, Mommy,” Her son closed his eyes tight. Hadrian watched as Persephone approached, concerned, but he was crying. Crying so hard. He was shaking, the agony of his Core was starting to get too much.

“R-Ru...” Hadrian was barely able to talk. His tears evaporated as his surface began to get too hot to touch. His Core was ready to split. “Persephone... please... run!”

“Hadrian... let me help you!” She cried. But he knew she couldn’t. How could a planet help a Star? A Star who was about to go Supernova. She needed to run now with their son before she got caught in his gravity. Once he started pulling in, she would not be able to run. Neither of them.

“You... You can’t...” He sobbed. He felt a crack inside. “Run... before I start... please RUN! GET OUT NOW!”

Persephone seemed to realise what was about to happen. She turned and rushed to their son, pulling his small Celestial form to her. But Hadrian could not hold on, and the debris was starting to pull inwards to his centre. His gravity was going haywire, and he closed his eyes, desperate to hope that they would... but then he heard a scream. A petrified scream.

His eyes snapped open, and he saw them both. Persephone was trapped, their son by her side as she tried to pull away. But his gravity was too strong, and he was screaming. He was trying to release her so they could escape, but he had no control. He felt as though the Forces was laughing at them all. Laughing at HIM.

“PERCY!” He screamed. But it was too late...

She reached his Roche Limit. Her and their child.

And he screamed in grief as they shredded. Their remains floated around him as he convulsed, his surface pulling inwards as he felt his Core shred even further. The atoms within him began to tremble, his temperature rising even higher than before. Hadrian just wept at the site of his lover and son, their remains roaming around her. Her remains, their son’s remains, and with a sobering reason their unborn child too. Hadrian then closed his eyes as the final moments ticked down...

And erupted in a blaze of white light. Sending his remains outwards. The pain was so intense he passed out, expecting death. Expecting to step into the halls and be reunited with his lover and children. He had done his part, surely?

“How mistaken you are.”

His eyes snapped open at the voice. He recognised it. All Stars were spoken to on their birth: if they allowed it to. But the Singularity was here, speaking to him. His glowing image was burning his eyes. His anger was the size of Galaxies. Hadrian knew he was going to be punished for laying with and siring a child.

“The law of Absolute was clear: Stars and above cannot sire or bear Children,” The booming voice of the Singularity threatened to tear his mind apart. He clasped his ears, moaning as he fell to his knees. “You disgraced yourself, Hadrian. You were on a pedestal, one of the first of my Stars. And you decided to fall to lust. You are not worthy of Rebirth.”

“Please,” Hadrian wept. He raised his eyes to the Singularity. “Punish me but not them. I will take whatever judgement you have. Let them walk in the Lands in peace. I killed them, I...” He began wailing. “I killed my children and the woman I love! If I am to be executed, please... make it quick.”

“No,” The Singularity stood above him. “Your task is not done. I have something you are required to do. Pull yourself together, Hadrian.”

He hated the Singularity that day. And he swore to have revenge on the Singularity and his grand design. Hadrian watched as the Singularity raised a finger, snapping a finger.

The lights went out, and when his eyes opened, he was staring at the cosmos. The many lights that resembled Stars, so many who was blissful and growing their worlds. New Stars forming from the ashes of the First Ones. His eyes scanned the debris around him, fury gripping in his Core.

“Mark my words, Singularity... I will destroy them all. Nothing will be left.”

So, he started travelling. He gained a new name, and started consuming. Building his own Galaxy. But as HD1 roamed, he consumed and slayed other black holes. He consumed Galaxies. But as a First One, he could sense the Dark Energy accelerate, pushing him further out to prevent him. The Dark Matter frame around his Galaxy shattered, and he was broken. The Forces had seen what he was doing, he was too noisy. So they took his Galaxy away, punishing him for seeking revenge. But they did not destroy HD1 completely, oh no. It only gave him a greater resolve to keep going, so he began scouting other Galaxies. And one in particular took his attention.

He laid at the fringes, watching and waiting. Sensing. HD1 could sense something was off, his eyes scanning the Galactic Bulge. HD1 felt trembling from within, a familiar sensation that he knew from experience. But before he could enter the Galaxy to investigate, he was ripped out his inanimate form and into the Vortex of the Galaxy-scape. He was thrown onto the ground, his face hitting marble as he winced from the impact.

“Get up.”

The Voice was masculine, strong and powerful. He raised his head, eyes scanning the individual before him as he was grabbed by the arms by two other Stars. The one before him was uncharacteristically tall for a Star, with dark skin, black sclera and glowing embers for eyes. His hair was golden and waved, curling around the fur lining on the golden cloak he had over an ornate black and white suit. But what drew HD1 to him more was the diamond on his forehead.

But also... he sensed the First Ones. This was one of the Stars who had strong relations to the First Ones. His stature and bearing betrayed his lineage.

“I am Lord S2, Head of the Council of Sagittarius. You were seen roaming the edge of our Galaxy: who are you and state your purpose, outsider?”

Pretentious cunt as all of his ancestors.

“I am HD1. I apologise if I appear threatening,” He tried to placate the Star. “I am looking for a home, after losing my own. Please forgive me, my Lord. I seek sanctuary, and I hope I can speak with you and your King over taking residence here.”

The two Stars holding him tensed, and HD1 wondered why. But he did not need to wait long, as a new voice sounded behind the humongous Star. He side stepped, and HD1 could see why they tensed.

Incorrect gender for starters.

The black, marble Throne was occupied not by a King, but a Queen. She wore a black dress that sparkled with small Stars of varying colours, such as red, yellow, orange and white. Her hair was long and dark, curling and waved, with her fringe pulled back into a tie that made the tail look more like a cascade of water. Her legs were crossed, a black furred tail with golden bands curled around her knees as her hands pressed into the arms of the Throne. But the eyes and halo... betrayed everything about her.

Her eyes was cat like, with the irises burning bright on the black sclera. Each eye had a single black dot underneath. She radiated such beauty and grace that HD1 felt his mouth open and his eyes widen. And her Halo... it was larger than his own.

She stood, and approached him slowly, the Star before him giving a tilt of his head as he stepped back. The Queen waved a hand, the other Stars releasing HD1 as she gave a pleasant smile.

“I am Queen Sagittarius-A*, the supermassive black hole at the centre of the Milky Way Galaxy. I have heard about you, HD1... You are one of the first Galaxies! To meet you now is such an honour! Please, stand!”

He did as bid. He was somewhat the same size as her. His senses was tingling, and HD1 felt a stronger presence in his vicinity. A strong presence that reminded him of the Universe. The Dark Energy was strong around Sagittarius, and he wanted to know why.

“My Queen,” HD1 tilted his head. His eyes then caught it. He sensed it via his predatory smell. She had a child within her womb, but not just any child. Half-black hole, and half... Star. She was carrying a Hybrid!

“My Queen, I am seeking refuge. I am no longer with a home, and would like to join this Galaxy,” he could not let this opportunity pass up. This was a meal he could not miss. If he could feast on Sagittarius and her unborn child, he would ascend higher than anybody else. “If you would have me.”

The Star - S2 – shifted in tension. Curiosity came to HD1, seeing how the Star was close to the Queen, keeping in a boundary that would cause him to defend her should he be required to. Interesting...

“I am willing to allow any Celestial body to join my Galaxy, provided they abide by my Laws,” Sagittarius stated. She tilted her head, arms crossed beneath her chest. “You are a black hole and naturally must feed. There is a region void of a black hole which would benefit from the presence of one. If you wish, it can be yours.”

“Region?” HD1 repeated. She could not be serious... “Sagittarius, you DO know we are black holes? We are supposed to roam and feed on the gases, and Stars, even each other. This is how Galaxies are created. Restricting your subjects will cause significant issues down the line. You would subjugate your own kind to please Stars and Worlds who are lower than you?”

S2 curled his lip, and another of the Stars hissed. Sagittarius, for all her patience, seemed to tense slightly. Her tail betrayed her displeasure as she carefully chose her next words.

“Every occupant within the Milky Way has a role to play in the grand scheme of the Singularity.” Oh great, she was one of THOSE ones. HD1 wondered if the Singularity would repay her loyalty should he learn of her Unnatural child in her womb. He would pay anything to see that discussion... These new black holes lived in a delusion. “I have black holes who reside with Stars, who live in harmony with them. They feed on the Interstellar Gases, help to manage creation of Stars and form Nebulas from the remains. Alongside this, the black holes of the Milky Way have regions they occupy, and should they wish to pair up that is their wishes. I do not restrict them, but I do NOT.” Her eyes glowed fiercely. “Accept violence and intentional murder in my Galaxy by any Celestial Body. If you have no wish to follow this Law, I can have S2 and the S-Cluster Stars return you to your space so you can drift again to find a new home. By that time, you may not have long left.”

HD1 would scoff but the opportunity was too great to pass up. He could accept, and live in harmony, planning his next move. Or take the opportunity here to consume a supermassive black hole. Had it been Messier 31, heck, even Ton or PHOENIX (he had nightmares of her still), he would not have the chance. He would be forced or die. Sagittarius was giving him an opening.

So he bent his knee and accepted. Sagittarius smiled, pressing a hand on his greying dark hair.

“Rest. I will send you food. Tomorrow, we will find you a place in the Cosmic Landscape. You can join me for breakfast.”

She then turned, her navy cloak flowing as she started moving away. HD1 did not miss the Head of her Council watching her leave, before he turned his head back to HD1.

“We will allocate you quarters. Please, do not squandering this opportunity. It is such a mess to clean up once Sagittarius exacts her judgement on rule breakers.”

So, he planned in his rooms. Sagittarius would need to rest soon, and she would be at her weakest during her sleep cycle. It would be a mercy, HD1 reasoned with himself. Should she reach term, she would be forced to give up or her child killed. The father, whoever he was, maybe the Head of her Council, was a Star and be executed when discovered. Sagittarius would be locked up. It would be better to have an individual not so weak that would allow such a thing to happen. It would be a mercy for HD1 to consume Sagittarius.

So he snuck out, and went into the gardens. HD1 watched the windows that belonged to Sagittarius’ apartments, seeing the Queen outside on the balcony, brushing her hair. She was a beautiful woman, HD1 thought to himself. He could see why a Star would be so easily seduced by her. Whether it was love or lust, HD1 did not care. He had loved before and lost her. And his children. Why should anybody else have that chance?

The light went out.

HD1 climbed the stonework and went on the balcony. He watched through the gap of the blinds, seeing Sagittarius was settling down in her bed. And shockingly... she saw the Lord S2 there, leaning down to give her a gentle kiss. A smile came to the Star, as he brushed her cheek with his hand, and whispered three words that HD1 recognised. It disgusted him. Sagittarius was a supermassive black hole! Why was she lying with a Star?!

HD1 watched the Star leave, and the Queen seemed to settle down. Cautiously, HD1 leaned down to gently move the handle. It opened silently, allowing him instantly access. A hungry smile appeared as he floated over to the bed, seeing Sagittarius was fast asleep and resting. Her hand was instinctively over her belly. Did she know, he wonder? Probably not. Persephone did this when she slept before she found out about their son. It was an instinct.

His hand clasped Sagittarius over the mouth, causing the Queen to give muffled cries as she woke suddenly. He pressed a hand to his lips, but she struggled. HD1 took advantage of his surprise to pin her, seeking out her Core. He could feel it, the beating of her Core, and also the budding one of her unborn child. It was so strong... her child was so strong. Strong in the Forces and more.

This would be a meal to enjoy.

He started feasting. Harvesting her life force, her screams muffled by his hand. The golden energy moved from her Core to his hand, journeying to his own. The Power from consuming a supermassive black hole was... exhilarating. He pushed further, wanting more. HD1 would eat her all if he could. He could see her strength failing, her eyes becoming hooded as her struggling started to slow. He was almost there... he could feel the last embers. He would be King shortly.

“SAGITTARIUS!”

A Flare narrowly missed him. HD1 leapt away, releasing Sagittarius as he spun around to face the adversary.

“Of course,” HD1 growled. “You would come save her. I could sense it. You care for her, Star.”

The Head of the Council strode forwards, his eyes on fire as he moved to protect his Queen. Sagittarius was immobilised, her breathing rapid as her Core hummed. She was recovering: HD1 did not have long. He needed to deal with this Star NOW and finish off Sagittarius. The moment she recovered he would be in the shits.

“I do. I love her,” S2 growled. He raised his armoured right hand, and HD1 curled his lip in anticipation. Love? He once knew love, and he lost her. “So yes, I would defend her. With my dying breath!”

“THEN COME AT ME!”

HD1 lunged, his hands curled into claws as S2 leapt back, bringing his left hand up to throw the couch upwards as a barrier. HD1 side stepped, and S2 was ready for him, a Flare erupting out and narrowly missing him. The Flare burned a huge hole in the wall.

HD1 growled, working electromagnetism, sending energy at S2. The Star ducked and pulled the couch around, planting a foot and kicking it out. HD1 was shocked at the strength this Star was showing him: how was he so skilled? What did he know that HD1 did not?

He threw another plasma orb, and found himself shocked when S2 responded in kind. The Star can use the Forces?! This was blasphemy! Only Black Holes could, so why did this pitiful Star know how to use Electromagnetism? Pushing out, HD1 slammed into the Star and smashed the window as they tumbled onto the balcony.

The armoured hand slammed into his face. HD1 growled and slashed still the Star’s face, causing a wound on the side of the face. The Star backed off, giving HD1 time to leap and try to force them off the balcony. If this Star sired a child in Sagittarius, he would end him. The woman would want to join her lover in death.

A Flare narrowly missed him, and HD1 was forced to grab a stone bench and throw it. The Star brought his hand up, shattering it with Electromagnetism and lunging forward. His entire body was aflame, his eyes glowing bright as he roared. The roar was powerful, and deep, sounding like it was part of the Universe itself. HD1 responded in kind, his own roar matching as he leapt forward with his hands ready. The Star grappled with him, their arms connected and their bodies pushing to try overpower the other. S2 roared and brought his armoured hand around, striking HD1 in the face and making him back off. The glow of a Flare appeared, starting at the Core and heading to his arm -.

HD1 was ready. He lunged and tackled the Star back through a window, the Flare erupted and misfiring into the ceiling, burning it and causing fabric to smoke from the heat. S2 kicked him off, which sent HD1 into the side of Sagittarius’ bed. The Queen gave a moan, slowly coming to... which made HD1 waste no time to run to her. He grabbed her by her tail, pulling her as she screamed in agony, his arm coming around her neck as he held Sagittarius before him. S2 paused, breathing heavily, as he stared at them both.

“One move,” HD1 seethed, keeping his own breathing under control. “One. Move. And I snap her neck, Star.”

“S2...” Sagittarius rasped, her hand on the arm of HD1. Her other hand was loose by her side, while her eyes focused on her... lover? Partner? HD1 did not care. They were all expendable. “Hit him... Flare him...”

S2 hesitated, his hand raised as his eyes turned to Sagittarius. HD1 could see the affection in his eyes, but also the worry and fear. His emotions would be his downfall, HD1 predicted. His love for this woman would be the death of him.

“Here is what we are going to do. I am going to walk out of here, you will not follow. You and the other Stars. The moment you do,” He tightened his grip, choking Sagittarius and making her gag. “I kill her. And your Galaxy dies. Do we have an agreement, Star?”

S2 was looking at Sagittarius, so HD1 tightened his grip further to make sure his attention was back to him.

“AM. I. CLEAR?”

“Yes,” S2 grounded out through his teeth. He lowered his hand, stepping back. But an odd look passed between him and Sagittarius, and HD1 did not know why. But he did not care because he tasted freedom, he tasted success.

He missed one important detail.

Sagittarius.

She was a supermassive black hole, and used the Four. She was stronger than him, a Stellar Class. And when her free hand sparked, HD1 could not stop as the blast hit his side. He roared and released her, throwing her away as his hand flew to his injured side. This gave the Star the opening he needed as HD1 turned to look at Sagittarius. If he could not kill her... then he could...

As he raised his foot to slam it on her, S2 was there. He grabbed HD1 and threw him, causing him to crash with the wall. HD1 hissed, sending out Electromagnetism but Sagittarius was there, defending the Star. Outnumbered, outskilled, HD1 turned his attention back at her, to try and injure Sagittarius. To try and harm her and her unborn child so that S2 would be distracted from him. He could kill him that way! All three of them!

The happy little family.

Persephone swam into his view at that moment. Her and his child, and he hesitated. HD1 froze at seeing not Sagittarius but his lover and child, smiling, laughing, happy... before he destroyed it all.

“HD1.”

S2 released a Flare that was sent straight at him. It swallowed HD1, burning his flesh, incinerating his hair, causing him to fall to his knees in submission. The black hole collapsed, panting, as more Stars erupted in. They ran for him, to subdue him, as others went to check the Queen and her condition. S2 stood over him, hand raised and ready again. HD1 roared, lunging as he tried to attack the Star, his hands grabbing his throat.

“GET HIM OFF!” One male was yelling. Hands reached for him, but HD1 clung tightly onto the neck of the Star, who grabbed his own throat to respond in kind. The energy from the Star was moving, heading into HD1. It was glorious. Such ancient blood, such a strong lineage... and he wasn’t aware... he could tell...

Sagittarius rushed forward, but then the other Stars kept her back, trying to keep her safe. She was yelling for them to move. Yelling for them to get out her way so she could intervene-

His eyes were on the Star’s. S2’s eyes was still bright, full of rage. Of anger. Then... a smirk came to his face. A smirk that HAUNTED HD1 there and then. That smirk, HD1 knew something was coming. He released the throat, but it was too late-.

The Flare erupted from the chest, from the Core itself. HD1 was hit square in the chest, thrown off the Star as he was sent into the air. He crashed into the coffee table, groaning, unable to move as his chest burned. He weakly reached out, but then he was grabbed and pulled to his feet, before he saw Sagittarius step before him.

Her eyes had fury inside them. Her lip curled into a hiss as her tail flicked angrily. He had messed up his attempt. HD1 should have acted sooner.

“HD1!”

“Get out my Galaxy.”

He was knelt before the Throne, Sagittarius sitting on it with her expression stormy. Her hands were clenching the edges of the arms. By her side the Star was standing tall and proud, arms behind his back as he looked down at HD1 with his suit and shirt singed and torn by the Flare he had used. The smile had not left his face as he stared down at HD1, his bright eyes full of triumph at besting HD1.

“You set foot back in my Galaxy, I kill you personally,” Sagittarius stood abruptly. HD1 was held down, to prevent facing the Queen. “Get him out of my sight.”

He was thrown out the mindscape. There and then. To drift on the edge of the Galaxy, looking in with jealousy. And bitterness at his own failure. HD1 watched the Galaxy, thinking about his next steps. And so, when he heard about Entropy manifesting as a humanoid and working against the First... a World of Life... HD1 sought him out. To ally with him. To join him.

He came back to the present. Sitting around a table with others who had joined them. Opposite him was S21, a rogue S-Cluster Star who had betrayed her Queen the moment she found out about her Unnatural son. The Star had dark skin and long blonde hair, her Halo broken from her fall from grace.

The wolfish humanoid was not present, as he had been requested to stay behind in the Solar System. HD1 was curious over the wolf, with his navy fur, the clear X on his face, and his glowing red eyes. His ears was straight, notched in one, and life had not been good when he was sent into banishment.

At the Head of the Table... was Entropy himself. A large shadowy being, almost featureless bar his red eyes. His body rippled with cosmic energy, sparks sometimes erupting from the disturbance. Around his neck was a chain with an empty gemstone. A sign of his possible plan...

“My Lord HD1...” The voice of the Force of Chaos was rippled with the voice of many victims, but primarily male. His fingers were steepled before him. “You have not been paying attention.”

“I apologise, my Lord,” He responded. “I was reminiscing about past events.”

“Your time for reflection is over,” S21 sneered at him. “We have better things to worry about than your memories, HD1.” Her eyes turned to Entropy. “You summoned us, my Lord. What have you envisioned?”

“Much, Lady S21. Much indeed,” Entropy regarded them all. His soldiers and more. “I have received reports that the Shadow Council will be convening in the next twenty hours. I have high hopes that we may be able to sway them to our side... however Planet X has indicated to me that the Prince has acquired some texts relating to Black Holes. It is possible he intends to meet with them to gain their assistance.”

“What can that Unnatural hope to achieve when the black holes hate Stars?” S21 snarked. “This is risky, Entropy. They share a Hive Mind with Sagittarius, and once she is aware of your hand being played in the workings of the Shadow Council we will lose vital allies.”

“I have hopes that BH2 will sway them, and by doing so they will be able to sever their connection to Sagittarius. She has allowed her fellows to suffer for too long, and tensions have grown significantly. Especially with the revelation to them about Aries being sired by a Star. BH2 states that many opinions have grown against Sagittarius, whereas the stars have grown more positive,” He tilted his head at S21 giving a snort. “Regardless of your personal feelings, Lady S21, your fellows see Aries as a step forward for Stars. But the black holes see it as a step back: many believe that Sagittarius should have had her son sired by one of them, and not a star. They find it degrading. However...” A scowl came to the red eyes. “BH1 presents an issue.”

“The revolutionary, the one who wants black holes and stars to unite,” A scowl came from one of the shadows. “She needs terminated.”

“On the contrary, I find her amusing,” Entropy did not show respect to anybody. But amusement? More likely. “She complains about the defiance of nature yet seeks to defy nature by having ‘Stars and Black Holes can work in harmony with each other to reach a common goal!’”

Entropy snorted, before turning his eyes back to S21. The female Star inhaled as he searched her for a second, before leaning back in his chair.

“How goes the spying on the Solar System?”

“Helios has retreated into his compound: S1 has healed him and he is being guarded.” HD1 seemed to perk up: finally, a fairer fight! He could beat Helios at full strength. More rewarding this way. “Proxima continues to run in his absence, but naturally she has a time limit. I am inclined to move against her, as her lingering presence will cause Gravity Quakes after seventy-two hours.”

“Proxima is a Red Dwarf whose bark is bigger than her bite,” A rogue Star sneered. “She isn’t worth the energy or trouble.”

“All the same, I would treat her as a possible tool to be used.”

Entropy was silent as he listened, his finger caressing the crystal around his neck. He was deep in thought as he tilted his head, eyes watching the pair debate.

“It will not matter once we have Aries.”

“Your revenge on a teenager is taking hold of the work we need done, Entropy,” A Comet said angrily. “He is just a boy who can do no damage. Your power is greater than his. What is so special about him that you are so interested?”

Entropy looked at the Comet with a gaze that caused others to cower. Seeing they had overstepped, the Comet shrank back, but Entropy did not allow them to go in peace. He stood slowly, coming around the chairs as his fingers traced the backs, before stopping behind the Comet. The others leaned back, as Entropy slowly folded his fingers over the edge of the chair back.

“Aries... is much stronger than you believe,” His voice was cold. Methodological. Controlled. “He is the only one to have harmed me. A boy whose mother cannot even harm me. What I have seen he would become is a worry. The Dark Energy flows strong through him. Much stronger than any Celestial I have ever met. He has the literal essence of the Universe through his veins.”

“He is a mixed blood offspring who has no place in the Universe,” S21 said angrily. “Just because his father is descended more from the First Ones does not mean he carries their strength.”

“The Singularity mocks us all,” HD1 sneered. He remembered his own treatment at the hands of the Singularity. How it mocked him. “The Singularity robbed me of my family but allowed Aries to live. To torment us.”

“He would be better dead,” The gravelly voice of a planet stated. “As per the Law of Absolute. If we do not follow it, what do we have?”

“Disorder.”

Their eyes returned back to Entropy as he continued to stand behind the comet. They were shaking, looking terrified that the Force stood behind them still.

“You yourself have said that Aries has started to use the Fundamental Forces,” His voice was colder. “A boy who has only Awakened in the last three months. He has surpassed expectations already. His Mother took years to master the Forces, but Aries is already using them with a measure of control. He can use Flares to a measure. With time, the boy will surpass his own Mother.

“I have seen his future, I have seen what he will become,” Entropy raised a hand to the crystal again. “I intend to harness that power myself. The boy will be King and possess a black halo. Not now, but in the future.”

“I will not bow to that Unnatural scum, not now, not in the future,” S21’s words caused murmurs of agreement. “You have a plan I presume?”

“Of course,” Entropy tilted his head, eyes still on the comet who quaked before him. Unsure whether he was about to live or die. “I have seen him play his weaknesses too quickly. He is young, and naive, and believe himself untouchable.”

His hand curled further on the back of the chair, tightening. The comet tensed more, shaking violently.

“A budding romance with your fellow S-Cluster Star, S1.” He noted S21 narrow her eyes. “He has his father’s weakness: a woman. Despite the warnings he has ignored his mother’s instruction about public displays of affection. Becoming too brave, too arrogant. But not only this as his friendship to the First World has almost been shattered. Soon that will be fractured beyond repair, but if his actions in Area 51 was anything it shows he has an unconditional care for Earth and Luna. Either will be key, but Earth will be his biggest weakness to push his hand. Polluting that island of his has brought Earth a curiosity that will only be satiated by him investigating.”

His eyes located his rogue planets.

“I presume you will manage to capture him.”

“Yes, My Lord,” They chorused.

“Aries will choose to sacrifice himself for them both: he reeks of his father’s temperament,” His eyes found HD1 as the black hole scowled. “You scowl at me, Hadrian. Did you forget his father bested you many years ago?”

“Never,” He growled. “But Aries is not my target. You promised me a Star, Entropy. I want Helios. I have been robbed of my kill twice now.”

“Hm, very well. I would assume you would enjoy an S-Cluster more.” Entropy saw the anger rise but ignored it. He had no patience for black holes that had no self control. “But no matter. You will have your meal from Helios. Now go and do what black holes do best, HD1: hide and stalk.”

HD1 scowled, but stood, tilting his head. He turned and left the chamber, closing the door gently. Entropy watched him go, a frown touching his brow. HD1 was going to be an issue, it seemed.

Entropy watched the others shift in discomfort. Before he returned his gaze back to the comet that sat before him.

“We all seem to be forgetting how meticulously planned everything has been these last three months. Every one of you have contributed to events that are due to occur. However, doubt...” His hands suddenly grabbed the comet by the skull. “Has no place here. Or anywhere.”

A crack and the comet slumped, falling onto the ground. Entropy absorbed the death, feeling it strengthen. Feeling the life cut too short. He turned his eyes to the others, as they fell to silence.

“We will start moving against them. S21, you will begin planning the capture of Aries’ little lover. The rest... you know what must be done. I am too close to success now,” He saw them all stand, ready to leave.

“I will not allow failure now.”

As they filed out, Entropy turned his eyes to S21 as she stepped out the space of her chair. He frowned, before clearing his throat, telling her to wait. The former S-Cluster Star paused, turning to face her Lord and Master.

"You and I are going to have a discussion about your mission, S21. Too much is riding on your success. I need to know that your... views... will not hinder my efforts."

The female Star gave a smirk, tilting her head in respect to him. 

"I promise you, my Lord. I am willing to do anything to get my revenge. I will not hinder your efforts."

"Good," Entropy said. "Because I would hate to have to dispose of you, S21. You have been a strong ally to me these last three months, but if your hatred gets too great... the mess is too much to clean up. And HD1 does want to feed on a Star. If you fail me, I will not hesitate to guide him to you."

Her face scowled and she stared at him squarely in the eye.

"I promise. I will not fail you. I swear on my life."

"Do not gamble something so easy to lose," Entropy chided her. He stepped pass her to head out the door. "Life is fleeting. And easy to snuff out."

"I have to ask, my Lord..." S21 caused him to pause. "Why are you interested in the boy? Just because he managed to harm you with a gemstone?"

Entropy glanced at her. His eyes narrowed as he saw her probing look. But he would not tell her, not yet. The future he envisioned was going to upset her all the more. He was sure of it. And it would make her act irrationally.

Aries... standing before a Throne. With a crown of golden leaves, and a V on his forehead. 

And a black halo shimmering. By his head. 

"As I state, the boy will be King. I hope to prevent that future. Everything else is on a need to know basis."

With that, Entropy turned and left.

Chapter Text

The alarm by his bed blared with his usual time of 0600. But Earth was already awake, lying on his side as he stared at the numbers, his ears finding the screeching irritating. He sighed, raising a hand and pressing it on the mute button, turning himself onto his back as he turned his azure eyes to the ceiling instead.

Outside the many sounds of waves, wind, and birdsong came to his ears. But for once it did not excite him. It did not fill him with some enthusiasm. Instead, Earth grudgingly got up, sitting on the edge of his bed as he came to his senses. His hands came over his face as he leaned onto his elbows, the cool hitting his bare skin before he shook his head. The events of the last few days had finally started to hit him. In particular the death of Howard Rotsar.

Once Giselle had left, she had sent a cleaning crew to the house, stocked up with food and they were on their own. She had said before entering the helicopter that after three days they needed to vacate the island: with Harold’s death, there was no funding. She would do her best, but she could not guarantee supporting them financially. It would be too difficult, too stressful, at a time when she was grieving her husband. Facing her first Christmas without him. Earth had watched her go, saddened. And was reminded of Aries, and his own grief.

How irrational he had become.

The Prince had left them once the helicopter had departed, going elsewhere with S1. To start their plans and research. Nobody else was spoken to, and the planets were left pretty much by themselves. Luna had tried to take refreshments but there was nothing in the cupboards to offer. So they were stuck until Venus had the idea of barbecuing some fish, using herbs and more. It wasn’t a big meal, and messy, but it gave some sustenance to the planets and moons. Stars did not usually eat, as they burned their own fuel. They would do rarely, for taste, S1 explained to them. Earth then realised that Helios never really ate when he joined them in the mindscape.

Earth pulled his jogging clothing out, dressing before deciding to double check that Luna was still asleep. Hearing the soft breathing of Luna from under the covers, Earth quietly closed the door and made his way out into the corridor, a sense of great sadness hitting him that this would be one of the last few times he would be walking the corridors of... his house. But was it truly his house? Was this how his animals felt when humanity destroyed their forests and waters? How humans felt when awful fellows displaced them?

He raised a hand to the wall nearest, smoothing down it. His azure eyes scanned the many doors, some redecorated by his fellow planets. Venus had added additional scorch marks, Mars had Phobos and Deimos paint his door, and Mercury had added trinkets that he had found on his walks.

Earth stepped down the stairs, his eyes noting the electronic dating system on the kitchen. The 24th December. Christmas Eve.

He grabbed his headphones around his neck, pulling them on, before swiping on the ipod that Rotsar managed to source. Earth loved his vintage items. He could have had a smartphone but he had no need for one. Pulling up his extensive library of favourite music, Earth heard the beats of Queen in his ears before leaving the house.

Sun had already started to poke up over the horizon, sending pinks and oranges across the water. Earth raced down the path and to the beach, heading to the more stable sand than the looser and wet one birds had started to fly over to try and grab their morning meal, seals were heading into the waves. The insects remained absent, not yet ready to emerge. No whales or dolphins.

As Earth jogged, he felt his eyes head to the second island just off the main one. The news that something was going on there was itching his curiosity, and he was desperate to go over and figure out what was happening. While Mars had said about possible disease, Earth never knew of any disease of his inhabitants before. None of the animals or plants showed any indication they were unwell.

He turned his eyes back down the path he was jogging, the music now onto Bob Marley. Atmospheric, he amused. But he did like Bob Marley's tunes.

His eyes picked up another figure, up ahead. Sitting on a fallen trunk as they stared out the beach and into the water. Earth peered at her, cursing his right eye as he was unable to focus, before realisation started to hit him as he recognised them. From her beautiful white-gold hair, orange skin with rosettes like leopards and her bright eyes, Earth recognised her as the S-Cluster Star who was with Aries. Her Halo was smaller than Helios’ and Earth was curious why, but did not want to pry. The nature of Stars did not concern a planet like him.

Her eyes noted him, and a pleasant smile appeared as she turned to face him. Her shoulders and arms were covered with a shawl, to take away the coolness, but he could see slight shimmering around her to indicate her heat. Even as Earth approached, he could feel the warmth emitting from her.

“Lady S1. I see you are an early riser too?”

“Stars never need a lot of sleep,” was her response. Her voice was soothing and gentle. “Aries sleeps more due to his mixed blood, but Stars can survive on only a several hours per day. Much like our lack of need for food.”

“I see...” Earth fell into an awkward silence. He did not know what to say, as the last S-Cluster Star he spoke with was unpleasant. Had grabbed his face. Whilst S2 redeemed himself, he did feel a slight apprehension around S-Cluster Stars.

“Your Life is incredible,” S1 continued, her eyes returning to the water. She tilted her head, eyes following the birds. “But I am curious. How did all this... come from something so small?”

Earth approached, cautiously sitting beside the Star. He paused his ipod, putting the headphones around his neck. The Star watched him with interest, and Earth was suddenly on the spotlight. He supposed he had to answer.

“I started getting Life about 3.5 billion years ago. It was mostly a single celled organism that my dominant species calls LUCA. That means Last Universal Common Ancestor,” Earth clarified to S1, noting her confusion. “All my life is descended from that single celled organism. Whether it is plants, or animals, or whatever. But it took a long time for it to really change to a multicellular organism. Over 3 billion years to be exact. Just the right mutation at the right moment... then it accelerated.”

“Very fascinating!” S1 leaned towards him, and Earth felt small. Stars were far too tall. “So it is all randomness in traits and more. Caused by random events. Incredible. But then, how... did such small organisms barely seen reach such complexity? Randomness of that scale in such a short evolutionary time. Three billion years of being single celled and boom...” Her hands opened. “A single trait difference and a waterfall erupts.”

“Life finds a way, it just needs a push,” Earth agreed. “But the resulting mutations also triggered... many mass extinction events.”

“Many?” S1 sounded worried. “Did Helios know of these events?”

“Most of them. The worst was the Permian,” Earth winced. He remembered when his surface erupted in a huge explosion, and he was unconscious for what felt like days. The explosion had triggered anxiety in Luna, who had screamed so loudly that it caused the other worlds to come to them. Sun had been beside himself, concerned and worried by what had happened. “But that isn’t what my facial scar is. That was from the asteroid impact sixty-five million years ago.”

“I have never been hit by asteroids in my orbit, but I have felt them hit my Roche Limit,” S1 stated. “I imagine it was... unpleasant.”

“Extremely: being hit right on my right eye does that,” Earth said. He raised a hand to the scar, tracing it. “I am partially blind in that eye but I can still see something things relatively well.”

 “Did you not get any healing?” S1 asked of him.

“It is difficult in my planetary form to heal something like that, had it been my humanoid form probably,” Earth stated. “The amnesia was the worst thing. I just... could not remember anything. Prior to that. Just flashes now and then, or the others tell me things.”

“But you know of LUCA, and of your extinction events, so that means you may still have some recollection,” S1 highlighted. Her hand rested on his shoulder comfortingly, a warmth spreading through Earth. It wasn’t fiery like Helios’. “Time is just needed with these kind of wounds.”

“I know,” Earth noted the worry in S1’s eyes, but wondered if he would overstep. He chewed his lip, before saying. “You look anxious. Are you worried about the Shadow Council or...?”

“Worried about a lot of things,” She responded. Her openness surprised Earth: Helios was never open with any of his planets, but it did not take a blind person to know he was suffering. “Shadow Council for one, Aries as another, and other matters. I am young in Star terms, I have only been raised to replace my predecessor in the last billion years.”

“How old are you? If you don’t mind me asking.”

S1 gave a hint of a smile.

“Never ask a lady her age! But I am three and a half billion years old. Same age as Aries, though I probably was created first. Stars age very differently to planets and moons. It is why Helios looks so young compared to the rest of you, but is much older. Black Holes are just as confusing with their ageing process. Sagittarius looks young but she is a lot older than many of us, about nine billion. King S2 was eight billion.”

It was hard to believe that they looked so young but were old. Earth recalled Jupiter, who was just slightly younger than Helios, ans how he had greying hair, lined features and the shape of a middle-aged man. Saturn was similar. But Helios looked like he was slightly older than Earth. Earth assumed when Helios reached his Red Giant Phase that would change drastically.

But he recalled how youthful that S2 was when he first met him. It was hard to picture that S2 was only four and a half billion years old at that time, and Sun was barely over a billion. He looked so youthful compared to them, and Sagittarius was even older! And she looked so young too!

Ageing was weird in Celestials it seemed.

“And Aries?” Earth asked, cautiously. “How... was he at the Core?”

“I think you can guess,” S1 said sadly. “He has dealt with a lot. His father’s funeral, his presentation, adjusting to Core Life... if he regrets it, he does not say, but his behaviour speaks differently. I think he misses being human at times, just to not have the responsibility he has. His grief has taken such a hold over him and I don’t know how to fully break him out of it. And he needs to be broken before we meet the Shadow Council: if they sense his turbulence, they will not treat our mission with the utmost respect and responsibility. They will see weakness and take control of it. While he has said he will speak later, I think the three of you NEED to sit down before then.”

“You alright, kid?”

Earth turned to face the individual who had entered the conservatory. Rain had started hammering down, the dark clouds covering his skies. He knew it was because of his turbulent emotions upon finding out about Howard Rotsar, but Earth made no attempt to fix them. The gap Howard Rotsar left was... colossal. He had been a steadfast grandfather-figure to Earth and Luna for the last year, and his brutal death had impacted him.

“Just thinking,” Earth watched as Venus stepped beside him. The Volcanic World had drawn his now shoulder length hair into a man bun, his unshaven features betraying nothing now. “About things. Seems we have missed a lot. I...” Earth sighed. “I definitely did.”

“Care to explain?”

“Aries... he isn’t happy with me and Luna. He said we left him to the wolves, never wrote to him. And he is right, we didn’t. We just assumed...”

He felt Venus place a hand on his shoulder.

“Kid, listen. I get you feel guilty as does Luna but you two are not the only ones who are at fault here. You two have been through enough and I won’t stand for anybody treating you two like you are primarily to blame,” Venus eyed Earth. “If Aries was struggling, he knows to shout and we would all be there. He didn’t. How could you have known?”

“I-I.”

“EXACTLY. Earth, listen, you could not have known had he never told you,” Venus said. “You said he is one of your Earthlings. He is part of you, and you part of him. So why did HE not call for you if he cared so much about you? Why is he criticising you?”

“Venus...” Earth stammered.

“I will speak to Aries. I think some truths need to be said. He needs a kick up his arse, because right now, he needs to focus on shit and he is taking his grief out on the wrong people. He is being irrational and someone has to be honest for once.”

“You heard him, he wants to talk after all this has happened,” Earth said, shaking away the flashback. His shaking caused S1 to be concerned, her bright eyes filling with worry but he forced a smile on his face to keep her calm. “I will continue to support him regardless, but I do not want to push him. He is under enough pressure, and if he needs space to process things then I have to accept it.”

S1 looked at him sadly, before giving a resigned sigh. She stood, and Earth followed, the Star turning her eyes back to the rising Sun. His rays was now stronger as he almost cleared the horizon bar the smallest lower covering.

“Today and tomorrow are special days,” Earth said softly. “I hope we can decorate anyways... not that it will make much difference.”

“Special days?” S1 repeated.

“Yeah, today is Christmas Eve, and tomorrow is Christmas Day. It’s a special time in lots of religions my humans have. A celebration because of a special human born,” Earth started, trying to keep it simple. S1 was already overwhelmed by a few things, he did not want to make it worse. “A lot of humans come together during these times, but not all of them. Some are just downright evil.”

“There is always evil, regardless of what form it takes,” S1 said sadly. She stood and Earth joined her, deciding to accompany the Star back himself. Once again he felt tiny compared to the S-Cluster Star, and she was roughly the same height as Helios.

The walk back was slow, mainly because S1 was looking around at everything so much. Her hands would touch the flowers, and she would sniff them before sneezing. Her hands would touch the palm leaves as she walked under them, and when the butterflies came to Earth, she gently caressed their wings with her pinkie. She was absolutely enthralled by the life, and even laughed when a small shrew animal moved over a branch.

“I... didn’t realise how wonderful this is,” S1 whispered. “This is the goal of every Star, every planet and moon... I never realised... how wonderful life is.”

“It isn’t always nice,” Earth said sadly. He did not want to damper S1’s belief, but his life... well his humans sucked. He loved yet loathed his humans at times. But he would not change them for anything... he just hoped they would be better. The fracking and more hurt, plus the election of... greedy individuals. Not to mention the bombardment on his surface in a couple of his countries. “But when it is... Life is wonderful.”

Their walk took them back to the house, where Earth could see others had woken up. Venus was outside, sipping a cup of coffee, his fiery eyes watching the pair. He gave a respected nod at them, before Earth gave one back, stepping up into the house with S1. Luna was sitting at the table with some cereal, reading a book whereas Mars was scanning a newspaper. Earth could see Saturn and Titan outside in the back garden, looking over the now overgrown herbs. Picking some, and going over their properties. Earth saw them sniff a mint leaf, Titan smiling but Saturn balking at it.

Aries was outside, at the band stand. Earth felt anxious seeing him, but the Prince did not seem to notice him. He was sitting on a bench, ankle balanced on his knee, looking at a book. He did not have anything to eat or drink with him, and Earth remembered that S1 said that Stars very rarely needed sustenance. They could power themselves by fusion, why would they require food?

“You alright, kid?”

Earth jumped as Venus sounded behind him, and gave a sad smile. Venus watched as S1 made her way to the kitchen, curious over the appliances, before turning his eyes to Earth.

“Go get something to sustain yourself. Then we figure out the next plan of action. Deal?”

“Deal,” Earth agreed. He walked to the kitchen, Venus turning his eyes now to the prince on the bandstand. He took a breath, before striding towards the back patio door, sliding it open and outside. The Volcanic World watched Saturn and his moon for a moment, before making his way down the path and onto the grass, eyes focused entirely on Aries. The Prince was looking over a black book, a frown touching his brow as he noted some things in a pad by his side.

Venus cleared his throat.

Aries looked up, his eyes glowing as a cloud passed over the rising Sun, curious over to why Venus was here. He closed his book, watching him, and Venus leaned against the band stand.

“I want to talk to you, Aries.”

The clear statement set the atmosphere instantly to one of tension. Aries placed his book down, frowning at Venus, as the Volcanic world crossed his arms and frowned back at him. No, Venus was never one to be intimidated by anybody. The planet was fiery and able to resist intimidation, and was not going to hold back his literal and metaphorical punches.

“About what, Venus?” Aries asked of him.

“Your treatment of Earth and Luna,” Direct and to the point. “Because the way I see it, you are NOT as innocent as you believe yourself to be.”

Aries’ eyes flashed dangerously. He stood up, standing much taller than Venus, but this did not stop Venus in his crusade.

“I get it. You lost your Dad, you had a lot to deal with. But don’t you dare,” Venus pointed at Aries in his chest. “Treat my boys as the culprits to your bad luck. Those boys have been through enough these last months, with Earth losing his gemstones, Luna being forced to watch it happen, and more... you have no idea...”

“I was there, remember?” Aries snapped. He swatted the finger away. “I rescued them.”

“Yeah, so did I and Mars and many others. I watched those boys grow up, so you can imagine how I felt seeing them how they were at Area 51.”

“What do you want, Venus,” Aries had a tone of coldness. He curled his lip, showing a canine, his tail dangerously flicking behind him. “Because the way I see it, the one place I counted as my home and friends... abandoned me when I left for the Core. They never wrote to me or visited!”

“I could say the same about you,” Venus threw his arm out before Aries, stopping him. “You never wrote back, you never visited either. I get you are grieving, I get you are being irrational, but I will NOT tolerate.” His eyes were in flames. “You blaming my boys solely for the issues you have faced when YOU could have made the effort too.”

“You-.”

“You claim Earth never saw you as a friend, well guess what, he does,” Venus growled. “Ya know what Earth and Luna both did when they found out you were kidnapped? Against the advice of your Daddy Dearest, they journeyed to the surface and tried to find you! They were willing to risk themselves to save their friend because ya know what? THAT is what Earth and Luna do: they care for someone else and will do anything and everything possible for them. If you never wrote to them, how did they know you were needing them?”

“Stop.”

“No, I will not stop,” Venus growled. “You lost your Daddy. There is nothing worse than losing someone you love and care for, but don’t you DARE take it out on those boys. They have been through enough this year, but do they complain about it all the time? No, they don’t. They got through it, and I could not be prouder of them.”

“Stop it,” Aries snarled.

“Grief makes you irrational. And you, Aries, are forgetting who are your friends and see them as enemies no matter what you do,” Venus spat. “But grief is not an excuse to be an asshole.”

“What do you know of grief, Venus?” Aries said angrily. He bore down on the smaller Celestial, eyes ablaze. “You know nothing about it?”

Oh how wrong he was. Venus felt a pained smile appear on his features, as he stared Aries down.

“I don’t know? Oh, you are wrong there, Aries. Because over four billion years ago, I lost my closest and dearest friend, the woman I loved... the very woman who is the mother of those boys,” Venus felt the pain within over Theia. The pain of her rejection... and more. “She chose their father. And collided with him to form those two boys... Mars may have lost his sister but I lost someone I truly cared for so deeply I would do anything for her. “

 He saw Aries’ eyes widen.

 “I know what you are going through because you are ME, Aries. You are doing EXACTLY what I was doing when I lost Theia.”

Aries recoiled, stepping back. But Venus stepped forwards to the Prince, his eyes softening as he gave a sigh. Venus watched the Prince look like a cornered animal, shaking as he lowered his eyes to the ground, clearly realising the painful truth. It made Venus feel satisfaction but also guilt that he gave Aries the words needed to get a kick up his arse.

“Ya wanna act like this, fine. But lemme tell you, Aries, you WILL lose everyone else you have caring for you. People have their limits, and if you keep pushing them, they will ignore you and leave you behind. That is a truth you need to realise, because it will happen if you keep going down this path. You wanna beat whoever it is that is causing you pain? You live a better life and let go. Your Dad would not want you to be like this, so don’t...” Venus sighed. He was not S2’s biggest fan. Never was. “Don’t be something he wouldn’t want you to be. Grieve him, but move on. Because your Dad gave his life so you and Sagittarius can live on. Don’t squander it.”

Aries winced at that. Venus did not know why, but the Prince looked extremely guilty, a realisation seemingly to pass over his features. The younger man looked down, his shoulders slumping as he sighed, eyes downcast.

“That is exactly what I said to my Mom...” He whispered. Aries then snorted and shook his head at himself. “I cannot seem to follow my own advice, huh?”

Venus grumbled. He folded his arms across his chest, leaning back on the railing once again. It creaked but did not give way.

“Sometimes we find it more difficult to follow our own advice, and expect others to abide by it. That is how things go, kid.” He grunted, shrugging one shoulder. “The living have to keep living so the dead aren’t forgotten, ya know?”

“And... how did you handle... Theia’s...?” Aries said hesitantly.

“Me? I had questions only she could answer, and I never will get them,” sadness passed over Venus, softening his expression. “So I got to move on. No point dwelling too much in the past... sometimes it hurts. And yeah, I lose it. Sometimes, I wanna hit your planet in the mouth for how he acts, but then I realise I have to... kinda move on. Yeah, I miss her loads, and I have loads of regrets.”

Aries sighed. He slowly backed off and sat down, his hands clasped on his lap as he stared down at them. Venus pushed himself off the railing, walking towards him and sitting on the other side.

“You regret not talking to your Dad sooner. You wanna know what he wanted to say... probably that he was proud of you and loved you very much,” Venus gruffed. “Because I saw how much he loved ya when he looked at you. How much he cared. That... is all you need to know.”

His expression then darkened, his hair becoming a blaze.

“If you hurt my boys again, Aries... mark my words, I will not hesitate to harm you. I don’t care if you are a Prince or a Star, because I will.”

He turned and strode off the bandstand, leaving Aries standing there, feeling disappointed. More in himself than anything else. He turned away as Venus strode off, feeling a small droplet of water hit his cheek. He hissed, a small stream of steam starting to appear from where it struck, and grabbed his books quickly. Aries rushed out, the rain starting to gather in strength, prompting him to move faster to prevent the worst of the water impacting him. He breathed a sigh of relief as he got to cover, watching the rain sadly. No longer can Aries stand outside during the rain. He had to be careful.

Aries stepped in the house, eyes searching for S1 who was in the kitchen. She saw him, and instantly walked to the prince, worried at his expression. Aries smiled, whispering he was alright, before hearing a thunder clap above.

“Great. Guess no beach day?” Mars groaned.

“I can turn it off, Mars,” Earth said. “But the island needs the water to grow the plants and replenish the supply here. If we are okay for it lasting a day, I will turn it off.”

“Just so long as it does not flood,” Venus grunted. He shook his head, eyes turning to Aries. The Prince avoided his eyes. “Maybe tomorrow if Aries allows it, we can visit that other island. See what is going on?”

“Honestly?” Aries said, tilting his head. “I think you are right.”

Eyes turned in surprise to Aries. He had been thinking about it. It was suspicious that animals were dying, and disease was rampant. There should be no reason for any of it while Earth was on his own surface.

“You don’t think-.” S1 started.

“No, I don’t think it is Entropy. But something strange is happening there, and could present clues in itself,” Aries looked to Earth. “While myself and S1 speak to the Council you should go investigate what is going there. There could be an agent of Entropy... in which case you should capture them. They will hold valuable information that may be beneficial, and also help stabilise your safe haven for a little while longer.”

“That sounds like a plan!” Luna agreed. “But... how do we cross in this thunderstorm?”

“Tomorrow, you go,” S1 said softly. Her eyes scanned Aries, and he knew something was important in that gaze. She needed to speak to him. “With luck, we will be back before you do, or are in danger.”

“We can handle it,” Venus growled. “Don’t worry. Your mission takes priority.”

“All events take priority,” Aries corrected. “Alright... so we have more to add to this mission. If you capture that agent, we might also get information about Project Hades. A lot is riding on your success... I’m counting on you. All of you. But if you need us...”

“We will be fine,” Earth said cheerfully. “What is the worse than can happen?”

“Oi!” Luna swatted his brother’s arm. “Don’t do that.”

“Hey!”

Aries rolled his eyes, smiling, before turning his eyes back to S1. She gave a hinting look, and he followed her to the conservatory, the rain pounding on the glass above their heads. S1 winced as thunder rumbled again, her ears flattening as she looked scared. Aries realised... she may have a little phobia...

“I heard from my contact earlier, but I needed to mull over what he said,” S1 said softly. “The Council are gathering. Sooner than anticipated.”

“Sooner?” Aries repeated, worried.

“Yes. A challenge has been voiced,” S1 said, her hands wringing. “Between BH1 and BH2. BH1 has stated her support for your mother, but BH2 is against it. Her reasons are... you.”

Aries felt surprised, and tilted his head.

“She says your conception, while a milestone for your mother, set black holes back and raised Stars up,” S1 was worried. “She and her supporters are stating that, if Sagittarius wanted a child, one of the male black holes should have sired you. Not S2. Him siring you is being used as a weapon for her to gain supporters.”

Aries felt anger rise at that. The use of his conception and mixed heritage as a weapon was getting ridiculous. He needed to show them all that black holes and stars should work in harmony and not against each other.

“We need to stop this challenge,” Aries said firmly. “When are they meeting?”

“My contact states that the tents are going up. He will meet us in an hour at the Kuiper Belt Market used by the Dwarf Planets.”

“One hour?” Aries repeated, feeling hit by a truck. “We have barely had any preparation!”

“I know, I know,” S1 was shaking. Aries reached out and took her hands, keeping her secure. Another rumble of thunder caused S1 to shudder. “But we have to use what we know so far. We don’t have the time, Aries.”

Aries inhaled, closing his eyes and thinking of what to do. They could go in now, but with minimal preparation, to prevent a civil war between the black holes... or go later amidst one. They had to react now.

“Alright... alright,” Aries chewed his lip, opening his eyes. “We get going. This will be a civil war otherwise, will cause deaths. My mother is trusting us, and we have to act.”

S1 nodded, before giving a much firmer nod. She stepped into his arms, and Aries held her, resting his chin on the top of her head. Keeping his hold on her, Aries pressed his mouth and nose into her white-gold locks, breathing in the gentle fragrance. Then carefully he released her, S1 now calmer from his embrace.

“Let us tell the planets. Then we move out.”

“Tell us what?”

Aries and S1 jumped, their eyes turning to see Luna as the moon popped his head around the corner. Aries winced, but S1 smiled, coming towards the moon and bringing herself down so she did not seem so threatening to him.

“Our mission has taken a turn. We need to move out sooner than anticipated. Aries and I are heading to the Kuiper Belt Markets, where your Dwarf Planets like to hang out. Will it be okay to open a Gateway here?”

Luna seemed unimpressed being spoke to like a child, but tilted his head. He chewed his lip, before glancing around the bottom flooring, the other planets seeing his look. Earth stood up from the couch, curious.

“Can we get a gateway in here?” Luna asked his brother.

“If we clear the furniture. It might dent the sealing but I don’t see why not,” Earth said softly. He looked at Venus and Mars, who also had troubled expressions. “I am not sure how...”

“I can open a gateway,” Aries was glad they had the experience to connect back to the Solar System. Planets could only use a smaller amount of energy to manifest themselves, but Stars... they can move as they pleased. “Let us clear the area up and I can manifest one for where we need to go. Once we are done, we will return to Proxima and down here.”

“This is gonna hurt,” S1 winced. “We need a better alternative for the Gateways.”

“You can keep it open in the living room,” Earth said softly. “We are being evicted anyways. Might as well use it.”

Of course, the eviction. The house would be knocked down. They might as well use the living space as a starting point. He grabbed the couch nearest him, pulling the furniture over to the wall, S1 helping Venus lift the coffee table and pile it on. Everything was moved back, emptying the room, leaving an open space for Aries to begin preparation for the gateway.

“Alright...” Aries whispered. He stepped into the open space, raising his hand. His Core pounded as he reached out to connect to the Dark Matter, trying to locate the invisible tendrils that connected all physical matter in the universe. His hand slowly moved down through the air, until... he felt a feather. His fingers grabbed it carefully, and he slowly hugged at it. The Dark Matter resisted, but he slid his hand inwards, trying to manifest the gateway they needed.

“Come on...” He growled. “Open.”

The Dark Matter gave way.

And the gateway opened to reveal an alleyway, with a street bustling with activity. Aries smiled, but panted at the energy he expended, looking back at the awed looks of the planets and moons. S1 gave a proud smile, stepping forth as she grabbed her shawl, wrapping it around her head to hide her halo a bit better. Aries made to step through -

“Wait! I’m coming!”

“Luna!” Earth said, trying to grab his brother. Luna paused, looking at Earth, before giving a pleasant smile. “You can’t-.”

“Earth... please, let me do this,” Luna said softly. “You are a healer, yeah? They might have techniques and more that you can learn! And I...” His expression fell. “I can’t keep sitting on the side lines anymore. I want to help, not be on my backside all the time.”

“It’s too dangerous, kid!” Venus said angrily. “Damn it, Luna! Get back!”

“You said we should be more supportive of Aries... well, let me do this,” Luna said to Earth. “Let me be the friend he wants.”

Aries felt Venus’ eyes on him, and gazed to the Volcanic World. He sighed, knowing the gateway was not going to wait... he could see Earth was battling with himself, before finally... releasing Luna’s arm. Luna started but smiled, looking at Aries and S1.

“Alright... alright,” Aries said softly. “But you keep close to us at all times. Do not wander off. Not all black holes are kind, much like stars, and they might not appreciate us. You will hear insults to us, and you cannot react... alright?”

“Of course. Now can we go?” Luna said. S1 gave an alarmed look at Aries, but did not stop Luna as the moon stepped through.

“We will see ya tomorrow!” Venus called to Luna. “And do what you are told!”

Aries stepped through, glancing back at Earth. He saw the azure eyes of his former home, and held the gaze. Aries opened his mouth, but before he could say anything to Earth, the gateway closed between them. Aries felt his shoulders slump, sadness gripping that he could not give an apology to Earth. He looked down at the ground, his tail limp, but then felt S1 take his hand and squeeze gently.

Aries smiled at her, sadly. But then she kissed his cheek, before waking down the alleyway to head to the busy street. Luna watched Aries, a grin starting to appear as he stepped beside the Prince. Concern came to the grey eyes, and Aries placed a hand on his shoulder, coming down to his level.

“Luna... I just want to say. You are an amazing friend. You and Earth. And...” He took a deep breath. “I am sorry for how I treated you. I hope I can prove to you how much you mean to me.”

“We are sorry too,” Luna said softly. “For me... I shouldn’t have lashed out at you. I would love to start fresh because, you know... Earth is right. You are one of our Earthlings, and will always have that place with us. You and your Mom.”

“Thank you, Luna,” Aries felt tears. Luna, sensing his feelings, hugged him. Aries could see S1 waiting, a smile on her features, and he gave a clear of his throat. Luna, realising he was holding them up, released him and stepped by Aries. As the Prince walked to S1, Luna gave a grin at seeing their expressions, side eyeing Aries as he elbowed his hip slightly. Aries blushed, but kept moving.

“So, what is the plan here?” Luna asked. People said hello to them, but nobody suspicious was around. He did recognise a pale pink humanoid with glasses, chatting away to a vendor, from when the Solar System was gathered together for the meeting a few months ago. Was it... MakeMake? He had a pale humanoid with him that looked nervous.

“We are meeting our contact who will take us to the place that they are meeting,” S1 said. She gave a greeting to someone who was pleasant. Aries wondered why it was so different here compared to the Oort Cloud... maybe the presence of Neptune and the closer proximity to Helios prevented crime being more prevalent.

“How do we know who to meet?” Luna asked. He ducked under some trinkets, keeping up to Aries by jogging. “If they are being secret.”

“We have a meeting spot,” S1 said patiently, amused by the moon. Aries realised that S1 did not have planets, therefore did not have moons. Whereas he had one planet that was not yet awake. Maybe Cadoz will get moons? He hoped so. “Just a ten minute walk. We will find the Shadow Council meeting place from them.”

Luna fell silent as they continued to walk, heading up some steps where some tables were set up outside a small cafe. Aries inhaled, eyes scanning, before seeing S1 pause as she moved to a figure that sat with their back turned to them. He was hooded, a long tail flowing along the floor that was pale pink and cream. Luna froze, recognising the pattern, before slowly following up behind Aries as S1 stepped up to the figure.

“You have arrived,” The soft, deep voice sounded. “Thank the Singularity.”

“I apologise for our tardiness,” Aries noted Luna was hanging back. “How are you, Jupiter?”

“Jupiter...” Luna whispered. The figure paused, before turning to face the moon, lowering his hood. Luna was shocked at the appearance of the former planet, and that he was so close to the system itself. His hair was wavy and in a messy bun, face unshaven and dark shadows under his golden eyes. His clothing was dirty and unkempt, shirt unbuttoned at the top.

“Luna,” he said gravelly. “How are you?”

“I... Am fine,” Luna felt anger, but kept it down, stepping by Aries. Aries eyed them both, looking very concerned, before addressing Jupiter.

“You are our contact? How...?”

“I roam the outer regions pass the Kuiper Belt. I noticed the increased attendance of individuals bearing similarities to you in recent days, so fed information back to the Core. Especially with the increasing unrest,” Jupiter said tiredly. “Furthermore, I saw they were heading to a specific location between the Oort Cloud and Kuiper Belt.”

He slid a piece of paper to S1, who opened it and nodded, passing it to Aries. Coordinates.

“How many?” Aries asked of Jupiter.

“I could not count. I would say... about fifty minimum, children included in that count. Stellar and Intermediate,” Jupiter pulled his hood better around his face, standing. “I have spent too much time already.”

“Jupiter...” Luna started, making the Gas Giant gave a sad smile as he turned to address the moon now. “I just... have to know... why...?”

“Why?” Jupiter repeated, a great sadness on his face. “Luna... I... It was a mistake that I can never take back. I ignored the warnings, I was rebellious, and I paid for it. This... punishment...” He indicated the space between the Kuiper and Oort. “Is fitting for a man like me.”

Luna looked saddened, but before he could press, Jupiter moved off. Luna’s shoulders sagged, and Aries placed a hand gently on the moon’s shoulder, squeezing.

“Are you alright?”

“I-I...” Luna stammered. He then shook his head, and Aries drew him into his side, letting him know that he was safe and secure. Luna sighed shakily, before moving out the grip, calming down. “I am okay. I just never realised that your contact was Jupiter.”

“We did not realise either,” S1 said softly. She was apologetic. “I am sorry, Luna. Are you sure you are up for this?”

“Yes,” Luna whispered. He stood, looking at the two Stars intently. Aries stood, followed by S1, his eyes turning to her as he decided to address S1 now.

“We have the coordinates. We should get moving, as the longer we delay the worst the situation could get. The walk is about thirty minutes, and even then we have to be cautious of our steps,” Aries looked at Luna. The moon was shorter than them both, and their strides would make it easy for them to arrive. Luna would get too tired by keeping up with them. “I can carry you, Luna.”

“I am not a child,” Luna protested, starting to follow the stars as they made their way down the steps and towards the northern part of the market. Yes he had to jog, but he was still fit. And hopefully could keep up with them. For every one of their stride, Luna had to do three to keep with them. And as they walked, heading off the path and down the rocks and edges, Luna was starting to struggle. He winced as he nearly slipped, Aries catching him and instantly carrying the moon. The Prince had the luxury of a tail, keeping him steady should he overbalance. S1 was able to climb down, then slid down the last few metres onto the ground. Aries slid down, landing effortlessly, placing Luna down. Luna coughed at the dust that clogged his mouth, fanning to try and get rid of it.

Aries coughed, before he followed S1 as she checked the paper again with the coordinates. Luna jumped on a boulder, then off, stepping onto another one and moving onto another to see if he could see further. His grey eyes found the two Stars, but then... he noticed movement high above.

“Aries...?”

Aries glanced upwards, but the source of the movement was gone. He narrowed his eyes, looking at S1 who was also staring upwards. Her eyes held a frown, as she shared a look with Aries.

“They are watching us.”

“Who?” Luna asked of them both.

“Black holes. They are watching us.” Aries felt his ears twitched as he glanced behind them. He saw a figure dart behind, feline tail disappearing into the shadows. He curled his lip, turning to walk backwards as he watched for any sign of the individual tailing them.

A head popped up, a black halo behind their head of black hair. They noted Aries, hissed, and disappeared back behind the rock.

“Aries...” S1 said hesitantly. He glanced back at her, noting she was looking more nervous. More figures had appeared over them, crouched like cats as they watched them. Eyes were focused on the three of them, pupils narrowed as slits. Like cats. Aries could see they shared similarities with his mother, but not as tall, and not completely the same. Their skin ranged from black to rich light brown, eyes showing little deviance, with their hair ranging from short to very long, from browns to black. Their halos were all black, with no glow. Tattoos ranged from spots to full patterns. One of the male black holes possessed a half face tattoo.

“Aries,” Luna came very close to Aries as two figures jumped before them, blocking their pathway. Two others jumped down, preventing their escape.

“Two Stars and a Moon,” One had a cold voice, female. “What a meal to enjoy!”

“Yes, sister,” The other said, her voice aged. “I am so hungry... and they smell so good. Especially the male Star. His blood is ancient. And powerful.”

Aries turned his eyes to them. The figures turned their eyes to him... and froze. They hissed, shrinking back as they stared into his orbs intently. S1 and Luna glanced between them, and Luna gasped: Aries shared the same eyes as the black holes! Of course!

“He has our eyes!” A child appeared from a rock near Luna. She was about his size, her black halo smaller. “He has our eyes!”

“He smells like us! How...” Another, an adult stammered. “But he is a Star?! Who...”

“What is he?!”

“Is this a trick from the Stars?”

“His eyes! He has Predator eyes!”

“He isn’t! It is a trick!” One shouted from behind Aries, S1 and Luna. He reached out, hands curled to claws as he tried to grab S1. The S-Cluster Star made to respond, but Aries turned, bringing his hand out and grasping the wrist. The male black hole hissed, and Aries adopted a more commanding voice.

“Back. Off. We are friends,” He released the black hole. “We have been sent by Queen Sagittarius-A* to meet with your leaders. And as envoys we are under protection and are not to be consumed.”

Laughs. Aries turned his eyes to the source, as two females landed behind the others before them. They were taller, not as tall as his mother, but definitely compared to the others. The children around beamed, coming to them and chattering happily.

“BH1! BH2! Look what we all found!”

“I see! Well done, your predatory senses are evolving,” The one on the left cooed. Her hair was straight, falling to her waist, wearing a black sleeveless top and shorts. Her tail was a wolf tail, long and fluffy, her face had triangles made of spots on the right. Her eyes had rounded pupils. “I am so proud of you.”

“BH1,” the other snarked, eyes fixed firmly on Aries. “What is this.”

The other was muscular, and possessed long fangs that overlapped her lip. Her ears were notched, burns present on one side. Her tail was a reptile one, and her eyes were slimmer. Her hair was up in an up do, turned and held by a knife.

The other - BH1 – turned her eyes to Aries and gasped. She stepped pass the others, coming right up to Aries. She pushed onto her toes, her face inches away from his own as she tilted her head, eyes staring into his. She gasped, her hands clapping as she stepped back.

“My goodness! It is you, isn’t it? You are our Queen’s son!”

Chatter, murmurs, even arguments arose. Disagreements. S1 pulled Luna to her, keeping him close to prevent him from being suddenly taken. She was tense as she looked at Aries, who brought her closer to keep her safe.

“Yeah,” Aries confirmed. The chatter stopped, becoming silent. All eyes were on him. “I am Prince Aries, son of Queen Sagittarius and King S2. I am half-black hole.”

Chatter. Murmurs.

“Liar,” BH2 said, causing silence. She stepped forward, eyes narrowed. “You possess a Star Halo, you dress like a Star, you walk like a stinking Star! You may have our eyes and Sagittarius’ blood but you are NOT half of us! You have clearly chosen your path!”

Agreement.

“Now, now, sister,” BH1 said, now starting to walk around Aries. She poked at his side, causing him to jump. Luna winced as a child black hole approached, sniffing, but then the child have a kind smile. BH1 stepped behind Aries, taking his tail to hand and causing him to curl his lip as she tugged it slightly. “Just because he is half doesn’t make him any less.”

“His father is a star!” BH2 seethed. “The majority of his features IS A STAR!”

Aries did not want to voice his father’s last words to them. Not say why he chose the Star Halo. He was reminded by S6 who warned him about his position and the display of weakness.

“If you wish to doubt me and my heritage further,” Aries turned his eyes to BH2. “Hopefully... this will ease your worries.”

He raised his hand, turning it to a boulder which had a child sitting on it. The child squeaked and slid off quickly as the boulder trembled, slowly levitating into the air. The black holes gasped, as Aries worked the Four. He aimed with weak to change the molecular structure, making the boulder become many pebbles, before turning it into glass. Sparks ignited on his hand, but the strain was starting to get to him. While he had a crash course... and natural talent due to his mother... it was exhausting using the Forces still.

He lowered his hand, the glass hitting and shattering on the ground. He felt S1 press a hand on his arm but smiled, keeping himself strong to prevent any weakness being shown.

All eyes turned back to Aries, S1 and Luna. Luna hid between them, eyes wide as some of the black holes curled their lips, eyes staring, and ears flattened. Did Aries insult them by using the Four?

“Blasphemy!” BH2 hissed. Her hands were clenched into fists. “The Four should not be used by any Star, half or full! This... this is an insult... the greatest... how dare SHE! How dare she lie with a STAR and have YOU!”

“Enough,” BH1 said, a coldness to her voice as she stepped to her sister. “That is quite enough, BH2. The boy has shown us who he is. He truly is our Queen’s offspring.”

“She should have laid with a male black hole... black holes rule the Galaxies! Why did she give the Stars our blood?!” BH2 argued back. Luna grabbed Aries by the hand, keeping him calm. “If she wanted a child, one of the men here would have given her one that would be more suitable!”

“My mother and father loved one another,” Aries said firmly. “A Black Hole and a Star. Two worlds, and I am in between them. A Star saved my mother as Entropy tried to kill her, and he paid with his life. My mother has another child within her womb that is also of the same mix I am. And my mother wants this split between Stars and Black Holes to end. I have an offer from her, which I will disclose to yourselves in private.”

BH1 and BH2 exchanged glances. BH1 turned her eyes back to Aries, a smile crawling onto her features.

“And why did Sagittarius not come herself?”

“My Mother is rebuilding the Core from the fighting, and I have been tasked as her Heir Apparent to speak with you. We... also wish for your aid in our mission.”

S1 tensed. BH2 curled her lip, glaring, whereas BH1 looked more thoughtful.

“Of course. You want to use and abuse us as all Stars do,” BH2 spat. She turned her back on them. “I don’t care about what the Queen wants. I’m out.”

“Oh, come on, sister,” BH1 said, nudging her. “Let us just hear them out. They came all this way... besides, we still have other things to test Aries with. It will be fun... and should he fail...”

She licked her lips, turning back to the three of them.

“We eat them. Sagittarius is already pregnant again, she has a spare. Maybe then you will get your wish of her respecting us more.”

“... fine,” BH2 glared over her shoulder at them. Others started to follow her whereas others remained behind, very curious over the newcomers. Luna smiled as some of the children approached, curious over him and why he did not have a halo. When he said he was a moon, they asked what that meant and more questions.

BH1 smiled at the children, before turning her eyes back to Aries and S1. Her eyes scanned S1, curious over the Star, but gave a pleasant smile at her instead of a predatory one.

“Shall we, my Prince?” She opened her arms, stating for her to follow her sister. “Do not worry, they will not touch you and your companions. Plus, BH3 will be very eager to meet you!”

She turned, starting to make her way down the path. BH1 then paused, turned her head to look over her shoulder at Aries, a grin appearing.

“You have black hole blood. And have returned to your people, Aries. From now until you leave... you are one of us.”

Chapter Text

The walk down the pathway was not quiet. Luna was chatting to the children, who held his hands, asking him questions about his home and the stars. Luna evaded questions about Earth, naturally, but was patient with the children as he kept his answers brief. S1 was silent, looking anxious among the predators of the Universe, but they ignored her. So, Aries made sure she was kept close to him for comfort and protection. He noted BH1 glanced at them, curious, but she had a pleasant smile at each glance.

Aries felt discomfort as her eyes kept drifting to him. While he shared such similarities with them, he knew that his primary star appearance would cause issues. S1 had warned him that they would use his father as a weapon, and she was right. Aries was tempted to tell them his father had defeated an ancient black hole, but knew that would only fan the flames.

He felt S1 tremble, and turned his eyes to her. Aries wanted to keep her calm, but she was keeping her distance to make sure that they did not see her as a weakness. Luna, realizing that Aries could not comfort her without showing his cards, excused himself from the children and went to S1. She started as his hand took hers, and she smiled. The children came over, curious over the Star now, and S1 was soon swarmed by the children.

“Be nice, little ones, and keep your teeth covered,” BH1 said sweetly. “Stars are not use to us, like we are not use to them. Be careful and friendly.”

The children all apologized, and began to give S1 some space. Aries smiled as she calmed, relieved that she was somewhat secure and protected by one of the leaders of the Shadow Council. Her eyes found Aries, and he reciprocated her smile, before seeing BH1 slow to walk beside him. He turned his attention back to her, tilting his head down to ensure she was in his sights.

“How is your mother?” BH1 asked of him. “It has been many years since I saw her.”

“She has been through a lot,” Aries commented. He decided to keep his answer brief, not wanting to divulge personal information relating to her struggles. “My Dad, S2... he...”

“Wait, your Dad is High Lord S2?” A hiss escaped from the black hole nearest him. BH1 held a hand up to quiet them, but her eyes had a flash of displeasure.

“I have met him,” BH1 said softly. “Once. I should have realised from your diamond and some of your appearance resembling him. Stars are all the same to us... but him being your father...”

“I know he has a poor reputation among others, but he was different,” Aries said. “He was being used by Entropy, manipulated and more. My Mom... she hid me because of it, and when I came back, when he met me, he changed. Married my Mom, and...” He swallowed. “He died saving her.”

Silence came to BH1 as she took in the information before giving a slight nod. The female black hole turned her glowing eyes back at Aries, a sad smile appearing on her features.

“He must have loved you very much. Both you and Sagittarius,” She jumped down a step, and Aries side-stepped, before turning to make sure S1 and Luna stepped down safely. “But you must understand that S2 has acquired a reputation with many celestials, and it was not a positive experience. When I saw your mother after her assassination attempt to make sure that rogue black hole was dispelled, he was very adamant that any of us helping that monster would be banished too. I knew what he did there and then... I could see the burns on that black hole.”

Aries twisted his lip between his teeth. He jumped down a step, before turning to help Luna down and then reached up for S1, the female Star, holding his biceps as he carefully helped her down. BH1 helped the black hole children down, but one was attached to S1, who helped them down. The child held tight, smiling at her and playing with the star’s golden white hair.

“My Mom was pregnant with me at the time,” Aries said softly. “She thinks... HD1 sensed me and wanted to consume Mom to ensure I was consumed.”

“Oh, absolutely. Black Holes merge by consuming,” BH1 looked amused at S1 being stuck with one of the children. “He probably sensed your immense Dark Energy. Even I can sense your power.”

“Dark Energy... I always assumed that was to do with the expansion of the Universe?” Aries asked of her.

“It is the literal essence of the Universe as is Dark Matter,” BH1 schooled. “Alongside many other things, such as the Cosmic Web. Filaments. Everything. But those who have ancient blood tend to have stronger essences. You, for example, smell with a much stronger scent. S2 had a strong scent when I met him.”

Aries kept quiet. Another fish for information, as BH1 glanced at him as though expecting more. But Aries gave a non-emotive expression, keeping his stance neutral. BH1 gave an approving nod before turning her eyes ahead.

“Look! We are home!” A child called. They started to race ahead, S1 letting the one in her arms down, so they rushed forward to the group.

Tents were erected, but others were not quite there. Figures of different sizes and shapes walked between them, all sharing similarities with BH1 and the others. Their halos were also jet black, ranging from small to medium sizes. A large tent was in the centre, guarded by other black holes. Stalls were set up, and vendors were starting to sell trinkets and food. An elderly male was playing music, and children gathered around as they sang a song that Aries had only heard once. When his mother hummed it. It reminded him of the Greek ballads he learned back on Earth.

From the tents that Aries could see, there was a range of different colours. Each vibrant. Green held black holes with familiar sashes, tending to cuts and scrapes on the knees of the much newer black holes, red the more battle-hardened ones with scarring, blue with the more scholarly ones. Musicians played outside the blue tents, strumming instruments similar to guitars. Their voices were musical, speaking words that Aries had never heard before. He cursed himself silently.

Luna gaped, his grey eyes wide as he looked around himself. He no doubt felt absolutely tiny around the others, with only the children holding a similar size to him. S1 was uncomfortable, but awe was in her eyes as she stared out at the tents with intrigue. After all, they were so used to the stone at the Core they never saw how others lived. Aries wondered if all black holes lived in this manner: never finding a true place to settle. His eyes saddened at the sight of an elderly black hole female making a stew; a child sat with her, looking hungry. His mother’s law always benefited as many as possible, but when areas ran low on gas, what did the black holes do? Did they just starve because they were locked, or were there other ways for them?

He needed to speak to his mother when he returned home.

“Look! BH1 is back!” A teenager called. Eyes turned as they all made their way to BH1, who stepped up her pace to greet them. S1 hesitated behind Aries, Luna holding her hand and looking cautious. Aries watched, waiting to see if BH1 would invite them forward.

“Stars!” Someone called, finally noticing them. The black holes all jumped, looking at them with apprehension. The children hid behind their taller counterparts, except for the ones that already met Aries and S1. Some of the men stepped forward, as did the women, ready to defend until BH1 stepped forth and raised her hands. One of the musicians nearby stopped strumming, his eyes staring at them, and his lip curled.

“They are friends and are under protection. Please treat them with the same respect you expect to be treated with.”

“What is this, BH1?” The male with the guitar-like instrument sneered. His eyes scanned them, lingering a bit too long on S1 and causing her to take a step back. “You bring one into our camp, and then they all come. This is a haven for us.”

“Yes, I am aware, Cygnus,” BH1 said patiently. “But these are not just any stars. Return to your lute and continue playing your songs.”

Cygnus sneered at her again before strumming his strings. Aries froze as another song filled the air, another familiar tune. He felt... strange...

He gurgled as his mother walked around with him in her arms. Just born, barely opening his eyes yet. Sagittarius hummed a song, which soothed him. Made him curl desperately closer to her chest for the warmth.

“Hush-a-by, my sweet little child,” Sagittarius sang to him. Aries yawned and cooed, his head now nestled by her collar. “Go to sleep... sweet dreams await you...”

“Aries?”

“ARIES!”

He was taken through the portal, never seeing... her... his mother... again...

“Aries?”

He snapped back, looking down to see S1 had placed a hand on his arm. It was just the two of them, standing there, as the others began to walk ahead. Aries shook himself, giving a smile to S1 as he calmed his pounding Core, following at a quick stride. Luna, realising they had fallen behind, paused and glanced at Aries in concern.

“I’m fine, just... the music. Made me remember something from my childhood,” He said softly. “My Mom used to sing those songs before... she gave me up.”

“Will you be okay?” S1 asked gently, lowering her hand from his arm.

“I have to be. Maybe... they can teach me one, and I can play it for Mom when I get back. She must miss the music sometimes.”

“Your Mom would sing our people’s songs at times,” BH1 interjected, seeing her guests were slowing. “But that was in the past. When she sang to us as we were born. I guess she still wanted our songs to be a part of you.”

“It... is beautiful,” S1 paused, listening to Cygnus as he continued to strum the strings. The music vibrated out, and Aries paused with her to listen. His ears flicked, trying to remember the lyrics, but his memory remained very hazy. But the notes had triggered that memory. “To hear it... I never realised-.”

“What, that predators can have culture?” Cygnus stopped, his eyes narrowing at S1. She stepped back. “We have some measure of modernisation. We aren’t mindless animals who eat all the time.”

“I-I didn’t mean- I just-.” S1 stammered. Aries stepped by her, his eyes narrowing down at the male black hole.

“She wasn’t insulting. Lady S1 has read of your culture, but words do not always show the beauty of hearing the music.” Aries tilted his head as Cygnus turned to address him now. “Texts can be misleading, much like the views between Stars and Black Holes.”

Cygnus curled his lip, but then turned away. He lowered his guitar, and Aries watched as he instead went to grasp another instrument. The children rushed to him, and Aries sensed BH1 standing by his side. Luna came to S1, taking her hand to comfort her.

“I suppose we can listen to this for a moment...” BH1 grinned. “I love this ballad. It tells of the First Ones.”

“Stars or Black Holes?” Luna asked hesitantly, worried he would insult them accidentally. But BH1 smiled at him and tilted her head.

“Black Holes, of course! When the Bang happened and the Singularity gave us life, the first Black Holes erupted into life. Before the Stars came into being. Much like the end, the beginning was dark.”

Luna winced.

“I... do like seeing things. All the beauty. But, I have seen the accretion discs of the black hole, and it is absolutely beautiful.”

Aries was silent as he listened. The male black hole took out a flute, sliding the pieces together before turning it so that it slotted together, soaking his lips with his tongue before blowing into the hole. His fingers pressed into the notes, and he began to push air into them. The tune was slow and somber at first, and filled Aries’ Core with... sadness. He closed his eyes and felt himself standing in the darkness of space, with Stars around him.

He remembered his mother. How he talked to her in her true form. The sheer size and depth, the monstrosity, yet her adoration and love for him were clear. Aries wanted nothing more than to be back with her now, in her arms. He remembered telling her he loved her, and the love she shared for him caused tears to appear in his eyes.

S1 grasped his hand, her eyes also shimmering. The children were enthralled, listening and watching. Luna leaned into S1 as the notes became low; Cygnus focused on the song. His eyes turned to Aries, who took a steady breath. Aries could feel something deep within his Core, rumbling. His sense of smell seemed to... increase, as though he was finally able to properly smell for the first time.

He looked at S1, smelling her floral perfume. But also her Star blood. He heard her Core beating, felt the movement of energy into her body, and the life within her. With Luna, he could smell a slight tinge of iron, his Core humming in his ears. Aries could sense everyone around him, their smells, and hear their Cores. He felt a tinge of fear inside his Core, realising his black hole blood was kicking in.

Cygnus finished the song, and the children clapped. S1 was clapping too, not as enthusiastically, but politely. Luna clapped before asking if there was another song he could hear. Cygnus gave a strained smile at the moon, but before he could start, BH1 interrupted.

“Come along, Prince Aries and guests. We have to go ahead to the main meeting.”

“Prince... Aries...?” Cygnus repeated, but BH1 was already leading them away. The male black hole was repeating the name as they left, his dark skin paling as he realised who he had just played for. Aries kept walking, his strides starting to match that of BH1, yet made sure that S1 and Luna were within his sight. More black holes were starting to appear, watching them, whispering as they passed. Aries could see their eyes on him, widened and shocked that a literal hybrid was walking between them. One with their eyes. One of the children from earlier was whispering to an adult black hole, mentioning the Forces.

The large tent appeared, bearing symbols. Aries recognised his mother’s seal on one part of the poles, but minute compared to the others. He tried to recognise them all, but couldn’t. But before he could take another step, two guards strode up and raised their arms, eyes on Aries, S1 and Luna.

“Stars are not permitted. We will allow the male, but the others must wait outside,” One gruffed, eyes on S1 and Luna.

“Of course, of course,” BH1 waved them off. She turned to glance at S1 and Luna. “Apologies, but only black holes are permitted to enter this tent. You can wait outside, and I will send one of my juniors out to get you some... sustenance... if they can find something for you.”

“Aries...?” Luna was not sure, his grey eyes looking at the Prince in worry. “Shouldn’t we...?”

“We cannot enter, Luna,” S1 said gently, but her eyes held worry as she turned them to Aries. “We will wait outside. Please... be careful, Aries.”

“I will,” Aries gave a smile at them, before turning to BH1 as she opened the front of the tent, showing darkness within. Aries inhaled, calming his nerves as they suddenly assaulted him, before stepping in. The door of the tent closed, and he sensed BH1 move around him to a part of the tent he could not quite see.

Then his eyes started... working. Or... he had good sight in the dark back in the Core, whenever he needed to use the bathroom, but even then, it was not as dark as it was inside the tent. Yet, he felt his vision sharpen, shapes appearing through the blackness. Figures. And then they started to have features. His halo, while it burned bright in the darkness, only gave him some comfort from the pitch black. He turned his eyes to the figures, recognising BH1 and BH2 as they sat cross-legged on either side of a male.

The male was larger, with bare arms and wearing a sleeveless top. His legs were crossed, shorts falling to his knees, a feline tail curled around his knees. His face had a scar running across it, one eye black, while the other was the same as the female's. He stared at Aries, his hands on his knees, before indicating a cushion before him.

“Sit.” His voice reminded Aries of his mother. But it was tired.

Aries did so, sitting cross-legged before the three of them. He willed his tail to curl around his knees, resting his hands on the bends as he watched the three of them cautiously. The male yawned, but then looked over Aries in intrigue.

“I am told by BH2, my sister... that you are Prince Aries. The son of our Queen Sagittarius and a Star. It is an honour to meet you. I am Gaia BH3, the third member of this Council.”

“An honour to meet you, Lord BH3,” Aries decided to be as respectful as possible. His eyes noted BH2 glaring, but he did not make any response or act.

“The honour is ours... BH2 also told me you requested our aid in a mission you are undertaking as per our Queen’s orders,” BH3 eyed him. “And what mission is this?”

“To locate Entropy,” Aries said softly. “We know he is in the Solar System, and-.”

“Answer in fewer words,” BH1 instructed. “BH3 has short-term memory issues. Too many words will not aid you. If we pose a question, you must use a single word to answer, so he can find patterns in your words and not miss much. And... be honest. We will detect if you are lying to us.”

“Honesty is important to us,” BH2 sneered. “As a Star, I know that is difficult, but we will find out quickly if you are lying.”

Aries swallowed, but nodded. This had to be one of the trials that the book had mentioned. He had to choose his answers very carefully, to ensure his mission and the aims were passed clearly to the Council. A wrong word would pass the wrong message, may insult, or give too much away. Aries had to keep secrets guarded.

“Let us start with a simple question. You are Prince Aries, son of Queen Sagittarius?” BH3 repeated.

“Yes,“ Aries responded softly. BH1 smiled, nodding in approval, looking at BH3 as he leaned towards Aries.

“Where do you live?”

“Core,” Aries responded, feeling very relieved he had this warm-up. It would help ease his nerves and allow his mind to be clearer when the more major questions came to the fore.

“Good,” BH3 nodded in approval. “Yes, and Core. You are Aries, living in the Galactic Core. Now that you have a general idea, we will start moving to more focused questions. BH1?”

His sister smiled, giving a tilt as she turned her eyes back to Aries

“You are half-star, half-black-hole, yet have identified yourself as a Star over your black hole heritage... why?” BH1 asked next. Aries thought for a moment, trying to figure out a single word that would answer the question but keep his position secure.

“Promise.”

“A promise?” BH2 sounded intrigued instead of aggressive. “Who did you promise?”

“Father,” Aries felt his Core fill with pain, but pushed it down. The three of them began staring at one another for a second before turning back to Aries.

“Your father? Who is it?” BH3 asked. BH1 gave a warning look, but Aries knew he could not lie. Or not answer.

“S2.”

His father’s name being spoken caused the three to tense instantly. BH2 hissed, but the male pressed a hand to her shoulder, shaking his head. He turned to Aries, a pleasant smile coming to his features.

“And why did the stoic and ruthless S2 break his barrier to be with our Queen?”

Aries thought for a moment. His shoulders slumped, eyes down as he whispered.

“Love.”

Silence came to the three, looks being exchanged. BH1 looked somewhat saddened, BH2 was neutral, and BH3 had a tilt to his head as he regarded the answer. The male leaned forward, eyes piercing into Aries’ very soul.

“Promise, S2, Love. I see...” BH3 drummed his fingers on his knees. “Your father is S2, who asked you to make a promise to Queen Sagittarius, the woman he loved, before his death. A lesson to be learned, what do you think that is, young Aries?”

Aries hesitated. Now it was difficult. He racked his brain, trying to figure out how to answer that question. It was a trick, and only one answer would suffice. Any other would turn the discussion the wrong way, and he would lose the debate before it even began.

“Destruction.”

A noise of approval from BH3 at his guess.

“Love is death and life. It can bring new beginnings, but can also destroy innocents caught in its fire. Your mother and father nearly destroyed this Galaxy through their love, but through you... saved it. And yet, you seem to be stuck between two worlds with no true home. Even with that halo, I see your eyes burning with our own. Our very essence. Tell me... why do you seek our aid?”

Aries leaned back, his tail stationary as he kept himself calm. He had to. The reminder of how close his parents came to losing each other, and also harming others, remained raw. Yet, he remembered how his father fought to defend his mother against Entropy. He felt bitterness and anger rise in his Core as he spat out the answer.

“Entropy.”

The word caused a hiss to erupt from BH1, her ears flat and tail puffed. BH2 also looked angrier, but BH3 looked thoughtful. His head tilted. Aries knew he was curious about why they wanted to find the being of Chaos, so he decided to supply the answer.

“Murderer.”

“Ah,” BH3 gave a solemn nod. “He murdered your father, as he defended you and your mother. His sacrifice saved you both. Very well. Why do you think we can help you? Tell me... in one word. One single word that will sum up the seriousness of your mission. And why did your mother feel it necessary for you to walk into our Den?”

Aries opened his mouth, then closed it. He frowned, thinking over the question. His ears flicked as he listened intently, his eyes burning as he stared right back at BH3. The male had a smile on his face as Aries looked deeper within himself. To find the answer to the question.

His sole word caused them to be silent.

“Singularity.”

BH2 glanced at BH1, who turned her eyes to BH3. A triumphant smile came to the male as he chuckled, his feline tail flicking in jubilation as he stared back at Aries. He raised his hands, clapping them slowly as the smile remained.

“Ah, yes, Singularity. The moment when everything is perfectly balanced. With no issue. The most specific second, a moment in time when chaos and balance are aligned with neither triumphant against the other,” He ran a hand through his hair. “Now, your last question... what does Sagittarius offer us for our aid?”

Aries felt a smile touch his lips. He leaned toward BH3, feeling confident in his answer.

The only answer.

“Unity.”

“Of course,” BH2 snarked. She rolled her eyes, turning back to her siblings as she addressed them. “Sagittarius wants us to be friends with the stars because of her lover and her hybrid son. Does she forget what stars did to us at the beginning of time? If it were not for us, they would not exist to begin with!”

“Now, now, sister,” BH1 said softly. “We clearly cannot base our opinions on our personal experiences. We were not alive back then to have witnessed the fight between the First Ones and the Stars.” Her eyes looked at Aries as a flash of confusion appeared. “You are confused. Why?”

Aries opened his mouth before waiting to answer. He did not know whether he should respond in a full sentence or with one word. His eyes looked to BH3, the male looking contemplative as Aries struggled to work out the answer.

“One?” Aries asked.

“Yes, one word,” BH3 said sternly.

“Versions,” Aries said after a moment. He hoped they would understand, and they seemed to. Their eyes became downcast, BH1 sighing as she realised the implications of the word he had just spoken.

“Yes, Stars and Black Holes have different versions of the First Ones. Stars believe they were the First; we believe we were the First. Either way, both sides have the same story, just different main characters. The victor always writes the history of the universe.”

Aries swallowed, knowing all too well what they meant by that. He felt his shoulders slump as he remembered how history was written on Earth, as the winners always determined the truth. Losers did not.

“Council,” Aries added. The word being spoken caused BH2 to hiss, her eyes looking at him dangerously.

“That is twice now you have spoken out of turn! You do not speak unless spoken to. We did not ask a question!”

“Enough, BH2,” BH3 said firmly. “He is adding through one word. He said Unity, Version, and Council. Sagittarius wants a Black Hole to sit on her Council of Stars, to bring unity to her Galaxy, regardless of whichever version of events is correct. She wants this disunity to end.”

“This disunity began the moment she conceived this bastard!” Aries winced at the harsh term. Yes, the one word used in humanity for a child out of wedlock. A child not from love... he had fortunately never been called it by the Stars, but the same could not be said for black holes. “If Sagittarius wanted a child, she should have asked us! There are more worthy men among us who would have felt it such an honour to sire the future King or Queen! Instead, she let herself be wooed by a STAR and bear his child instead!”

“And yet, this boy has shown he has inherited our traits despite his Star of a father,” BH1 argued back. “He can use the Four. He has our traits in his appearance.”

“You cannot be serious, BH1!” BH2 snapped. “Just because you are cosy with your Star does not make the rest of us feel the same! Mine is a brute who does nothing but throw insults and taunts, knowing full well I cannot react or I will get banished by our supermassive black hole! Sagittarius is one of us, the greatest of us, but ignores her most loyal subjects - her own kind – over those who see us as nothing more than wastes of space!”

BH3 looked at Aries, who looked back at him. The male black hole tilted his head, and Aries was realising what he wanted Aries to do. He had to stop this conflict. Before it exploded beyond what should be acceptable.

“Stop,” He tried to adopt a commanding tone. BH1 paused, turning her eyes back to him, BH2 glaring over.

Aries sighed, raising a hand to his hair.

“I know you feel my mother was wrong. But she cannot help who she fell in love with. My Dad and her loved one another from the moment they met, and they knew it would break the Absolute... but through their love, they showed that stars and black holes can be civil, or united. They married and she is now pregnant with my sibling. It kills her not to have my father by her side... which is why I have to find Entropy before he strikes again at any of us. He has shown it does not matter whether they are stars or black holes. Only by working together will we achieve a proper balance. My mother wants a black hole on the Council, and they agree. This disunity, the distrust, needs to end.”

“You are wanting to change billions of years of culture,” BH3 pointed out.

“I am the evidence it CAN be changed.”

BH2 made to respond to this statement, but her mouth closed. She sighed, leaning back as she tilted her head in submission, her sister noting this and giving a comforting smile. BH3 looked intrigued, then chuckled. The male black hole started laughing, his hand slapping his knee as he regarded what Aries had said.

“Yes, you are! You are evidence of such a unity. The great Sagittarius-A*, the supermassive black hole, and a woman revered as a Goddess. And Lord S2, perhaps the strongest Star this Galaxy has to offer, the only Star to ever defeat a black hole solo. You were not conceived with lust, but love. Your parents have shown that black holes and stars can work as one. But...” He had a saddened expression. “You must understand that it will take time to change the beliefs and views of both stars and black holes.”

“And we are aiming to help in any way,” Aries said softly.

“Regarding helping you... Our aid does not come cheaply. You must earn it,” BH3 clapped his hands. The tent sides opened, and Aries tensed... until trays were brought in with food. His eyes widened as they let the light enter, the trays being laid before the three black holes and Aries.

‘You are unique,’ His mother sounded. ‘Because you can eat both star and black hole foods. They may see if you can handle the diet.’

Aries felt a shadow of a smile tug on his lips as the black holes reached over to grasp a selection each. Biscuits with different hues, breads, what looked like falafel on Earth, and more. Aries accepted a plate offered, a sneer present on the black hole that gave him it.

“Take what you wish to eat,” BH1 said, a knowing smile on her features. “Even as a star, you need something. While I understand you can make your own energy, you can still do with a bite of food.”

Aries felt his smile break on his face, no longer needing to be hidden, and their expressions became confused. He reached out and took a piece of bread, sniffed... and promptly bit into it. BH2 dropped her biscuit, eyes wide as he chewed it easily, his teeth tearing through before he swallowed. Aries pretended to look ready to vomit it back, as a star would, but dropped the act and took a biscuit next.

“What the actual...” BH1 stammered. Her hand was paused up to her mouth. “You can EAT our food?!”

“I can eat both,” Aries responded. He chewed the biscuit, swallowed, and took another. “While my Core is primarily Star, the inner is... a mass of darkness. I can eat a wide range of foods.”

BH3 roared with laughter. He dropped his plate, raising a hand to wipe away his tears as he pointed at BH2, who was sitting in absolute shock at what she was seeing.

“Your FACE!”

“Shut. Up,” BH2 seethed. Aries could tell she was banking on him dying through eating their food, as refusal would mean insult. She probably expected, due to his decision to go as a Star, that everything else would be. The more Aries watched and listened to her, the more he realised how Entropy had managed to woo her. “There is still one more trial. And I will be the participant for that trial.”

BH1 paused, dropping her food before turning to face BH2. The other female was looking at Aries with anger, her mouth curling to expose her teeth. Aries had a sinking feeling about what that trial would be. He had shown his cunning, his knowledge... now he had to show his physical strength.

“There is no need! He passed the others. Why should we fight?”

“You said he is one of us while in this camp,” BH2 pointed out. “Black Holes fight one another to hone their skills. In mergers, the stronger lives and the weaker is consumed. How do you think our Queen became who she is? Her parents would have fought and consumed each other. The only reason she still stands is that there is no other black hole big enough to challenge her.”

 BH2 looked back at Aries.

“Yet.”

Aries remembered what S1 had said about BH2. The female black hole had the greatest anger towards his mother. He knew she would look for any reason to undermine his mother, and if that meant harming Aries, then that was what she would do. Harming Aries would give weight for her to show that Sagittarius was being biased to Stars, and that black holes should not follow laws if Sagittarius wasn’t herself. BH2 would use his mixed heritage against him as a rally.

“Prince Aries?” BH3 pushed, eyes on him.

“If you win?” Aries asked BH2.

Her smile crept onto her features, and she leaned toward him.

“Very simple. I win, you, the Star, and the Moon will be consumed. Black Holes become independent from Sagittarius’ Law, free to roam as we please and predate as we should. If Sagittarius wants to keep her current child in her belly, fair enough, but she abdicates and allows a true black hole to take control.”

Aries felt anger rise, his halo flashing dangerously.

“If I win, I gain the Council aid, the information I require about Entropy, and you step back,” He responded dangerously. “The Black Holes officially become a recognised entity in the Galaxy, with a seat on my mother’s Council. S1, myself, and Luna walk out of here alive.”

“A deal,” BH2 held her hand out, and Aries clasped it. “First to draw blood wins. I will see you shortly in the fighting ring.”

She stood up, releasing his hand. Her eyes noted her siblings, tilting her head, before spinning and walking out with a dangerous smile on her face. BH1 cursed, turning her eyes to Aries as she addressed the Prince.

“Are you out of your mind?! BH2 has practice fighting Stars!” BH1 grabbed her hair, shaking her head. “You absolute fool!”

“It is of no consequence to me,” Aries said calmly. He uncrossed his legs, easing the cramp in his knees, before standing up. BH1 and BH3 followed, the male black hole looking somewhat confused as to why his other sister had left. He really has memory issues... “She does not know much about me. You ALL do not know much about me.”

“Excuse me?” BH1’s eyes flashed dangerously. “I am Sagittarius’ supporter in this strife!”

“Yes, you are,” Aries said curtly. “But you still know next to nothing about me. Everyone makes assumptions about me, and they are always wrong. Let me teach BH2 why she should not base her actions and words on mere assumptions.”

BH1 winced. She turned to look at her brother, BH3, looking a bit confused. Seeing that her brother was a bit overwhelmed, BH1 sighed and ran a hand over her face.

“I hope you know what you are doing, Aries. BH2 is not a pushover. She has fought many a male black hole and star, and her scars are not for show. She will aim for a quick end.”

“I would expect nothing less,” Aries’ eyes flashed dangerously. “I will head to the ring. Do you have clothing I can utilise?”

“I will have a male black hole leave some combat clothing out so your pretty suit won’t get damaged,” BH1 sounded resigned to the decision made. She turned around, her brother sitting back down and closing his eyes. “Return to your companions. They will come with you... If you are to fall, they should bear witness so that Sagittarius gets her son’s body back at least to bury.”

She won’t be receiving any body, Aries told himself, watching her leave. He turned, walking back out the tent and pausing as he glanced around to try and find S1 and Luna. His ears picked up their voices, and he tilted his head as he let his eyes scan for their forms, spotting Luna and S1 sitting on a map, talking to one of the musicians. Luna was holding a wooden flute, his grey eyes staring as he listened intently to the musician as they tried to teach him some songs.

Aries saw S1 turn her head to him and smiled, before tilting his head for her to come to him. S1 stood, excusing herself, before walking towards Aries, concern on her features. He took her hands, squeezing them, making sure nobody was listening before whispering.

“I passed the two in the tent. The One Word answers and the food,” He saw her beam. “But... there was one challenge we did not anticipate.”

Her expression fell.

“Please, don’t tell me...”

“I have to fight BH2,” Aries whispered. Her hands shook in his own. “I don’t have a choice. If I declined we won’t get their aid.”

“Aries... you don’t have to,” S1 whispered back. She stepped toward him, leaning into his body. Nobody was paying attention to them, he was sure of it. “We can find Entropy another way. He will bound to slip up! Earth and the others will investigate that island, they could find an agent and-.”

“There is no guarantee that they will,” Aries said glumly. “If I did not accept BH2’s challenge, it would weaken my mother and my claim. She will push for independence, a civil war will break out, and my mother will be back on the front with a baby in her stomach and a high risk of her being killed. I have to show them that I am worthy, that my mother is worthy. That everything they believed about us is wrong. That we do care about them.”

“Oh, Aries,” S1 whispered. He pressed his forehead to hers, closing his eyes with her. “Please... don’t lose this.”

“I won’t. I promise you,” He pulled away, stepping out of her embrace. “I'd better head down to the Ring. But S1, regardless of whether I win or lose... get Luna out of here and back to Earth. He cannot sustain his Life without his moon. I will fight them off as long as possible, but please, make sure you get out.”

“I... I will...” S1 nodded.

“ARIES!”

The shout echoed around the camp. He sighed, turning his head to look down the pathway between tents, where other black holes were starting to venture. A male was approaching, holding a sleeveless black top and some breeches. He eyed S1 and Luna, who approached them, before turning to them.

“Get changed. Lady BH2 is waiting, and she is not a patient woman. You can change here,” He pulled a side of the tent nearest down, showing a small chamber. “Move it, Star!”

“Head back to the market at the Kuiper Belt,” Aries instructed S1 and Luna. He saw S1 reach out, and he took her hand, soothing it with a thumb. “I will see you there. This will soon be over... I promise.”

Luna opened his mouth, but Aries beat him to it. He reached out and grasped the moon, hugging him tightly. Luna started but reciprocated, holding Aries tightly. He released him, noting the male black hole was watching impatiently, before stepping into the side tent to start changing. He removed his suit and pulled on the tunic and breeches, tucking the breeches into his boots. He pulled his hair over his shoulders before pushing out the tent and stepping to the male.

His Core pounded as he followed, keeping himself as calm as possible. Aries could hear the chants for BH2, see the gathered crowds and the squealing children. How excited they were to see a fight between a Star and a Black Hole. But they all knew he was only half, and they probably assumed he was not going to be anything worthy to fight. Maybe they assumed it would be quick.

As he stepped closer, Aries saw BH2 walking around a circular ring, hands raised as she revelled in the cheering. She turned to look at Aries, a smile crawling on her features as she faced him, the crowd quietening as Aries stepped over the line.

“You are here... Good!” BH2 called. She lowered her arms, her smirk getting larger. “Where are your companions? They should get front seats to see this fight!”

Aries felt his Core freeze; his hope that S1 and Luna would sneak out was fading away rapidly. His eyes found S1 and Luna as they were pushed to the front, S1 taking Luna and holding him before her, arms protectively encasing him. Her eyes found Aries, fear crawling in as the black holes stood around her, cutting off any escape.

“Did you think it would be that easy?” BH2 sneered. “I intend for my reward to be claimed. I will consume you and them as well.” She picked up his growing anger. “Oh, you seem to be angry that your deception was discovered. Not very princely of you, eh?”

Aries kept silent, but his eyes filled with a flame to show his anger. BH2 was stalking him now, her eyes scanning him for some sign of weakness. A cruel smile crossed her features as the chants quietened down for the start of the fight.

“Let us BEGIN!”

Her roar reminded Aries of a lion, but he was ready. He pushed back, feet balanced as he drew from his Core, sending a Flare out of his hand. BH2 side-stepped easily, still coming for him as he roared in return, leaping out of the way as her hand slashed. Aries brought his foot around to try and get her off unsteadily, but she evaded his blow, responding in kind.

Aries winced and stepped back, another Flare erupting out. She brought herself down, and Aries saw the sparks in her hand.

He stopped the Flare, his Core aching as his father’s words reminded him of how exhausting it would be for him to keep going. Aries heard the cheers, the shouts as BH2 threw a sphere of electricity at Aries.

He leapt to the side, evading, drawing on electromagnetism to summon his own energy. His sparked with gold and purple, causing BH2 to scowl as he sent it to meet her own. The explosion caused a ripple, sending pulses of gravity out.

“Impressive. But you are fighting as a damned STAR!” BH2 sneered. “Pathetic. I expected so much more!”

“I have more to offer!” Aries snarled. He brought up gravity, the dust rising and forming a barrier as she lunged. Her hands sparked as she broke the bonds with Weak, and Aries collided with her, pushing her off and back into the ground. His tail flared, tightening his balance, and Aries felt her fist collide with his fist before he responded in kind by aiming his own into her side.

BH2 screeched, her nails narrowly missing his face. Aries pushed her back with gravity, creating space before he summoned another electro ball, sending several her way. The watching individuals ducked or dodged, the plasma balls striking areas such as tents and the surrounding rocks, causing them to fall. BH2 looked at Aries, her brow notched as a look came to her.

“For a hybrid, you are... stronger. Your mother’s genes helped. So sweet!” She laughed. Aries felt his temper rise, Luna turning his eyes to him in worry. “Have to rely on Mommy to help win your battles!”

“Don’t listen to her, Aries!” Luna called, above the crowd as they jeered. “You got this!”

Aries couldn’t hear as BH2 brought her hands together, a sound shock wave sent out at him. He winced, clasping his ears as it caused his ears to ring loudly. His eyes saw BH2 rush forward, and he brought his hands around to release a Flare – his body was tiring. He had released three. Anymore, and he would be too exhausted to keep fighting.

The Flare narrowly missed BH2, and she dragged her hand into the sand as she threw it at him. The sand scratched his right eye, and Aries roared – a roar that caused the onlookers to be silent. BH2 grabbed his shirt, spinning around as she tried to grab him into a headlock, but Aries forced himself back with his elbows, shoving her away. He turned to bring his good eye to focus, and her fist collided with his left cheek.

His left hand came around, smacking her in the face and causing a growl as she spun with agility. Her claws flashed, and again narrowly missed his skin. Aries pushed her back with his shoulder, using his superior height to gain a power advantage, before backhanding her to force BH2 on the ground. She crashed down, and Aries stepped back, trying to recover his right eye as the sand irritated it.

“Fool!” BH2 mocked, getting up. “You had your chance to draw my blood – now I should punish you!”

She drew her hands around, summoning the power of Electromagnetism again, sending blast after blast at Aries. He felt one hit him on the left, followed by the right side, causing him to stumble and fall to his knees.

“ARIES!” S1 screamed. She was clinging to Luna, and he could see her. See her fear... See Luna panicking as he watched them. He had to fight back. He had to fight harder.

‘I have to prove to them all and myself... that I am worthy.’

He turned his good eye back to BH2, noting she was keeping to the right. Aries growled and stepped to the side, bringing his hand up and using Gravity AND Strong to form a strong barrier to prevent BH2 from getting on that side. She cursed him, before he saw her use the same move to try and grab him again – reaching out and grabbing her leg and aiming his palm into her stomach, before throwing her back. BH2 screeched, getting back up, a smile starting to creep on.

“Good. Very good. You are learning, but you are still so young. And still considered a junior in the ring. You are so out of match with me, Aries.”

“Enough!” Aries roared at her. He managed to get his right eye open, but it stung. “You have done nothing but insult me and my blood; you are all talk and no bite! You want to fight... come at me!”

Luna inhaled, his hands coming to his mouth as he watched, eyes widening. Seeing Aries fighting was frightening to him, especially as the female black hole leapt for him, her hands in claws. Aries roared, his voice deep and powerful, unlike anything Luna had ever heard before. Earth had tried to roar once, as a dare, but it never came out like that. But Jupiter... his was not as deep, but it was powerful.

Luna winced as the pair grappled, the female trying to force Aries to the ground, but he was stronger and bigger than her. He turned his face away, feeling S1 pull him tighter to give up the much-needed comfort that Luna was desperate for. He regretted coming now, because now the reality was hitting him. That if Aries lost, he would die too. And Earth would lose him.

He was so determined to prove himself, he did not realise how much danger he was in.

Another flash of a Flare and BH2 screeched. Luna turned his eyes back to see the Flare had narrowly missed her, singeing her clothing, but she was otherwise okay. The female lunged, and Aries sent a blast of electricity at her, causing her to respond with kind. The two energies collided and caused a rupture, energy flowing and causing a gust of wind to hit Luna’s face.

“Calm,” S1 whispered, trying to keep her voice steady. “He will win... he has to...”

Luna turned his eyes back to the ring. Both Aries and BH2 were panting, but Aries was shaking. He was using too many Flares! Luna knew from seeing Helios that constantly using Flares in this form meant they got tired easily. It was different, more strenuous. Luna just hoped that Aries ended this quickly before he got too exhausted to continue.

“You can do it, Aries!” He called. He started clapping, seeing his friend give him a side glance. “YOU CAN DO IT!”

Aries smiled tiredly, turning his eyes back to BH2. The female growled, her eyes scanning him, before Aries decided to go on the aggressive this time. He rushed to her, his tail keeping him steady, but a smirk came to her face. Luna saw it, he wanted to shout out, but it was too late...

Her knee collided with his chest, and Aries was sent backwards. But her hand, her claws... flashed... and Aries was on the ground, face down. She stepped over him, pressing her foot on his back, raising her hands as she turned triumphant to the crowd.

“First Blood!” She roared, her hands held up. Cheers surrounded the ring as she stepped forward, eyes scanning them all. Luna felt S1 tense, but the other black holes came too close. Stopping them from slipping out. The other female Councillor looked crestfallen, her eyes low, before she turned her head away.

The female in the ring turned her eyes to Luna and S1, lowering her hands as she bared her teeth. Luna felt a flash of fear, pushing back as S1 tensed more, her hand coming off his shoulder and ready to defend him.

“And now... my prize...”

“WAIT! He is getting up!”

The child from earlier was pointing at Aries. He was moving, pushing onto his knees and hands, BH2 turning to face him as he slowly moved onto his feet.

“You lost, Aries! I told you, first blood! I hit your face! Stay down: you will...” She paused, her confidence failing. “Wait... your... turn...?”

Aries coughed, looking at BH2. Luna felt his breath catch in his throat. No marks... There was nothing on Aries! No wound on his face!

“I HIT YOUR CHEEK!” BH2 screeched. “How?!”

“You missed,” Aries growled. Luna felt anticipation rise as his friend stood tall and shadowed the smaller individual. BH2 looked afraid... no, terrified. “My turn.”

And a Flare erupted from his hand as he grabbed her arm. She screamed, flailing as he burned her, causing her to drop to her knees. Mist erupted from the burned area under Aries’ hand, and he released her, leaving BH2 panting on the ground, sniffling. Upset. She had done all those theatrical movements... for nothing it seemed. Luna held his breath as the area around the ring fell silent, eyes turned to BH2 as she knelt there. Crying.

“First. Blood,” Aries ground out.

At that, the crowd erupted into cheers. The other Gaia, BH1, beamed and clapped as she stepped towards the ring, entering. Luna felt S1 tremble and grabbed her hand before hugging her side. She reciprocated, tears falling as she held Luna in relief. Luna released the breath he had clearly been holding in for so long.

“I... I hit you...” BH2 was sobbing. Luna gazed at her, seeing her look desperately up to Aries. “I swear I did! I hit your cheek! I felt the impact, I...”

“Liar!” someone shouted. The crowd was turning from jubilation to anger, all shouting at the downed female. “Liar!”

“She is lying! Cheater!”

“She is spoiling our sacred rite!”

“Banish her!”

BH2 was cowering amidst the angry members of her kind, her hand on the burn. Luna felt S1 move, going to help DEFEND the downed female, and he did not hesitate to join her. Aries moved to BH2, raising his hands to stop the angry crowd.

“Violence is not the answer! She made a mistake, she made an assumption!” Aries barked. “I cannot fault her for believing in the heat of the moment. And neither should you.”

The crowd started to quieten. Luna looked at the downed black hole, her tears slowing as she looked up at Aries. Her sister, BH1, stepped to her to give some support or comfort, reaching down to place her hand on her shoulder. Luna was reminded of Earth, how he was during the worst moment of his life, his existence, and how he relied so heavily on Luna to recover. Luna saw a flash of him beating humans up for maiming his face and trying to do the same for Earth.

‘I haven’t been fair on him...’

Luna inhaled as Aries started to speak again, shaking slightly.

“BH2 cares for her people; she fights for your rights,” Luna saw glances shared, agreements made. The Prince turned his eyes back to BH2, lowering his hand to her. She grasped it, standing up, her face full of shock. “She challenges as well as accepts faults. It is only fair she fights so hard for her people.”

His eyes turned to face the rest of the black holes.

“My mother wants a representative on her Council. And I think I found it. BH2 has shown to me, and hopefully the rest of you, that she cares for the future of our people,” Luna noted the last two words. “I am stuck between two worlds, so I have the luxury of seeing both sides with no discrimination. Therefore, I see how she is without a biased view. Entropy does not show that same view... a Star does not, and we should not judge them the same were they in our place.”

Glances were passed between the black holes. Luna could see a triumphant look on BH1 as she held her sister up, BH2 lowering her gaze as Aries turned to face her. His bright eyes focused on BH2, head tilting as he asked her a silent question. Her eyes met his, and she gave a small smile. A friendly smile.

“If you accept, that is,” Aries finished.

Luna looked up at S1, noticing the Star was looking at Aries out of the corner of her eye. He tilted his head, questioning, as she seemed to be enthralled by what Aries had said, remembering the gentle embrace as they leaned their foreheads together. She had a faint tinge on her cheeks before noting that Luna was gazing at her. The blush deepened slightly, and she turned her eyes back to the black holes as they continued to murmur between one another.

Luna looked at Aries as BH2 released her sister. The black hole limped to him, her hand still on the burn. She gave a sad sigh, looking down at the ground.

“I hated you when I heard of your presentation. How did you choose the Stars as your people? But here...” She turned her eyes back. “You have shown me that you still keep much of the black hole way. You just... have better control over it than I do. If you wish for me to be the representative... I will accept. Provided the rest agree with the appointment.”

Silence. No disagreement seemed to be voiced. They tilted their heads, seemingly to accept what had been declared. BH1 looked triumphant where she stood, approaching Luna on the other side before clapping her hands happily.

“A wonderful occasion! We have chosen our representative to the Queen’s Council, and open a new chapter where black holes will be recognised as citizens of the Milky Way!” Her bright eyes found Aries as she shouted. “Long live Prince Aries and his mother, Queen Sagittarius!”

“Long live the Queen and Prince!”

Luna saw them all take to their knees, S1 following as she tilted her head down, showing her respect. Luna followed quickly, bowing his own head to Aries, who looked... embarrassed. A tinge came to his cheeks as he reached up to scratch his hair, before looking at BH2 as she, finally, took the knee.

Cheers erupted as the black holes all stood, going to BH2 to take her away for a celebration. BH1 laughed at her sister before turning her eyes back to Aries and the others.

“Will you join us? We will have food for the Star and Moon! It will be a celebration not to miss!”

“I don’t think we would have the time,” Aries commented. His gaze became more pointed at BH1. “You also owe us.”

“Ah, straight to business,” BH1 tilted her head. Her tail flicked slightly behind her, Luna staring at it with curious eyes. He really wished he had a tail... “Yes, we will aid you. I have heard... whispers about a Star who had fallen from Grace. Roaming on the surface of the Living World.”

Luna felt his Core freeze at that.

“Earth?!” He gasped.

“Yes, I believe so,” BH1 eyed Luna in curiosity. But then she turned her gaze back to the taller beings. “According to the underground whispers of the Dark Matter, there seems to be a collection of Chaos circling him. Originating from somewhere in the Northern Hemisphere.” Her eyes closed as her brow furrowed. “Coldness is all I see.”

“Coldness...” S1 repeated, shuddering. Luna side-eyed her with a smile, knowing full well the Star was capable of surviving in the cold. “So, he is definitely on Earth. Somewhere cold in the north. I guess that makes it easy.”

“It does not,” Aries grumbled. “Anywhere cold in the North... that is at least three-quarters of the Northern Hemisphere, not counting the Pole, and the tilt of Earth... even in the Summer. And worse, the current tilt means the most Northern sections are covered in Snow. That will be a large area to cover.”

“But not unless it is in darkness,” Luna said softly, feeling a click. “What about... the most Northern Point?”

S1 and BH1 looked confused, but Aries seemed to register what Luna was saying. He grew up on Earth, after all.

“Eternal Darkness. But why Earth? He wants him dead as he is the First!”

“Chaos attracts Chaos,” BH1 pointed out. “We black holes know enough about that. Chaos drives change, and through change comes adaptation. Driving on until you form such a chaotic being you desire.”

Aries growled.

“Entropy focuses on randomness driven by chaos, so he naturally is attracted to a world created through chaos,” BH1 continued.

More delays, Luna realised bitterly.

“I guess we cannot stay for the party, huh?” He murmured. Sensing his sadness, BH1 pressed a gentle hand to his shoulder.

“Hey, maybe soon! You are considered one of us now, so you are welcome to learn to play our music any time now!” BH1 grinned at Luna as he grew instantly happier. “I can get you a small flute and some music, how about that?”

“If that is okay! It is part of your culture and... I’m just a moon,” Luna felt his excitement evaporate, but BH1 shook her head in exasperation.

“Nonsense! You are considered one of us, as is Aries and S1 here. He won that right. So you can learn! I am sure if you ask Helios nicely, I can persuade Cygnus to come see you sometime when our Queen allows the 'scape to open for it. It will be good to talk to someone other than my Star.”

“You orbit a STAR?” Luna repeated, surprised.

“Correction, we orbit each other. I just don’t like feeding on him. He is such a sweetheart,” BH1 had caught Luna’s interest, it seemed to Aries. He smiled as he watched the Moon follow. “Come! Let us get you your flute and some easy music! I am sure Cygnus would be keen for a new student!”

Aries sighed, smiling as he watched Luna before calling.

“Luna, don’t take too long! We have to get to the gateway soon!”

“No need!” BH1 called back. “I will meet you in five minutes at the main tent. I will get you a rapid jump back to where you need to be! Do not worry yourselves!”

Aries chuckled, shaking his head before seeing S1 turn to face him. Her hand slapped his arm, making him wince, before she softened, her shoulders slumping.

“You scared me. Idiot.”

“Sorry,” He stepped by her, smiling at her. “I mean, BH2 didn’t realise that I had adopted similar healing to my father. It was suspected.”

“You were stupid to test that theory,” S1 shook her head. “You played a hand you were risking to play. Not realising your own healing abilities. You could have adopted your mother’s healing, and she would have seen it. How...”

“I cut myself. In the shower,” Aries admitted. “It healed over similarly to how a star does. Beneficial in smaller wounds, which BH2 inflicted... but easy to rapidly heal. I do feel bad, but... she did not say I COULDN’T use my healing strengths.”

“Fuck sake, Aries,” S1 shook her head. She relaxed. “Okay, I suppose... that is alright. But don’t lie again, okay?”

“Promise,” He gave a lopsided smile, going to move away. “We should head to see some of the party. I look forward to seeing a Star dance among Black Holes - ouch!”

His comment caused S1 to grab and tug his tail, making him jump around automatically. She laughed loudly before running off, causing Aries to chase her in pursuit as they rushed to the live music. He grabbed her from behind, wrapping his arms around her and causing her to laugh loudly as they approached the chanting black holes, before separating as they moved to the crowd.

Luna rushed to them, holding a fabric case that contained a small training flute, alongside several books. He was beaming, his grey eyes bright and glowing with his happiness as BH1 followed with a shake and smile. Aries smiled at his friend’s enthusiasm, before they dogged BH1 as she led them back to the main tent (Aries pausing to go get his clothing he removed earlier).

BH1 took them past the snoozing form of BH3, and to the back corner, where an ancient stone circle stood. She pressed a hand on it before trailing a finger over a symbol, whispering a word to it.

“Picture where you wish to go.”

Aries cleared his mind, taking S1 and Luna by the hand. Luna gave a saddened farewell to BH1, who cheerfully said she would see him again at some point. Aries smiled sadly at Luna before turning his eyes back to BH1.

Her smile was saddened before she tilted her head to him. Aries tilted his back in respect, closing his eyes as he pictured the house once again. The living room. The Island where Earth calls his own. His body was fading...

As he, Luna, and S1 faded, BH1 released a sigh. She felt her brother standing behind her, the music and cheers continuing to grow outside in volume. BH3 stared at the spot for a moment before turning his bright eyes back to his sister.

“Does he know?”

“Who?” BH1 asked.

“Aries.”

“No.”

BH3 tilted his head, looking back at the spot where Aries disappeared.

“He does not know. Hm...”

BH1 looked back at the spot, a great sadness within her. Yes, Aries may not know... he should NEVER know. While he would become King...

It would happen when he killed a Supermassive Black Hole.

Chapter Text

He stood there, before all the Others. The many Stars with their white-gold halos, bringing the chamber to light. His eyes focused on the Queen as she sat on her Throne, holding in her lap a golden cloak with a fur lining, to dress the new Head of the Council of Sagittarius. Her Council of Stars. Her closest Satelittes that she stated proved their worth. Her strongest and mightiest stars. All of them knew they were only second to her, because of her nature and size, her sheer gravity.

He turned his eyes to his rival for the position he coveted so much. Compared to S6, S2 was tall and broader, a handsome man with waved and curled golden hair, dark skin and eyes with his pupils and irises as white as the brightest stars. His eyes held yellow points, with black lines that crossed over... and his head held a diamond on the brow. Not yet fully pointed, as he was still growing.

Whereas S6 was shorter and stockier. He did not hold the same air as S2, but he was most definitely not a pushover. While he did not orbit close to the supermassive black hole as S2 did, he had proven himself time and time again. But as he stood there, before all his fellows and the Queen, S6 hoped his merits would take shape. He did not rely on lineage as S2 did. Everyone could smell his ancient blood, how it rumbled in his Core. A direct descendant of the First Stars. But born like the rest of them in a Nebula... he had drifted close to Sagittarius on his birth. Much closer.

“Unlike my fellows,” Sagittarius began, deciding to begin. All eyes turned to her. “I seek a council. A ruler is only as good as her subjects, and her subjects are only as good as their ruler. For this, a Council of Stars with all my strongest of Stars is to be formed. For me, there is no greater honour. As I look at you now, I am reminded of the magnificence of the Stars.”

They tilted their heads, showing respect. Adoration that she recognised their worth. That, despite the animosity between black holes and stars, their Queen was willing to go against her own nature to please her subjects.

“The Head of the Council is the bridge between the Council and the Queen. A leader, a role model for everyone within the Galaxy,” He noted, Sagittarius had an affectionate look at S2. The smile sent back to her made S6 feel jealous. S6 knew he was about to lose to S2. “Through voting, and my observation of both of you... I am pleased to announce that S2 has been elected as the new Head of the Council of Stars.”

S6 felt his Core plummet with disappointment as applause sounded. S2 tilted his head, stepping forth as the Queen stood, bringing the cloak up and letting it fall as she swept it around his shoulders. S2 gave a pleasant smile, tilting his head again in respect to the Queen. His eyes found S6, as other Stars came to congratulate, and the taller Star stepped to him.

“I am sorry, Lord S6. You have shown strength and resolve during this process,” S2 held his hand out to S6. All eyes on them. S6 knew if he did not tread carefully, he would show himself as an immature Dwarf Orange who truly had no place. “It is only fitting you have a high position in my Council.”

S6 looked at the hand. He plastered a pleasant smile on, and reached out, taking the hand and shaking it.

“Congratulations! I would be honoured to be on the Council.”

“As would I,” S2 rumbled. Sagittarius made her way over, a saddened smile on her features as she regarded S6. She was clearly apologetic, had to act as per the views and votes of the others. S6 was glad that she was at least willing to listen to others.

It was a joyful time at least. While there were times of disagreement and tough events, the Council flourished. S6 was happy to be part of it, and he felt listened to. But after what was a billion years, the Northern Sector was rebelling. He had offered to go, but they all decided on Lord S2. The Queen was adamant she would be leaving to handle the matter, but they talked her down. Should anything happen, the Galaxy and Dark Matter would dissolve, and their home would be lost. S6 was glad they talked her down.

After a year... S2 came back a changed man. He did not smile much and was permanently frowning. His face was scarred on one side. He looked like he had been through much at the North. His manner changed, and how he spoke to them. Everyone became uptight became cautious about voicing things or joking around. S6 did not have the same relationship with his superior anymore. It became sneers and the occasional comment.

Then... that day happened.

He got an alert that he heard screaming from the Queen’s chambers. They could not locate Lord S2 to come to her aid, and the guards were fearful that she was being attacked. So S6 was the closest individual to the Queen, and went to attend, running to her chambers. He forced the door open... and saw THEM.

The Queen was not on their current plane. She was absent, eyes open and unblinking, not registering anything that was going on. She was frantically breathing, her hands flailing, and looking frightened. By her side, trying to calm her, was... Him. His Lord. Calling her name, trying to rouse her. Completely bare.

“LORD S2?!”

His shout alerted the other Star. Their eyes met, and S6 turned his eyes away to save his further embarrassment at seeing his superior in such a compromising position. The Queen was muttering a single word over and over again, her hands grabbing at anything, as though seeking.

“Lord S6,” S2 growled. “The Queen had a vision. Send for a healer. Now!”

He was frozen as Sagittarius came to. Her hands grabbed at S2’s arm, and her eyes refocused. She sat up - S6 promptly looked away – and was jabbering about a planet that got life. Life... S6 looked at her, shocked. A planet got LIFE?! Life itself?!

And then he saw her stomach. It was swollen in her lower abdomen. It did not take S6 long to put two and two together. The Queen and Lord S2... in bed together. And now she had a swelling in her stomach. She was with an Unnatural! And the fact that Lord S2 was...

He fathered it.

He ran. S6 ran. He heard S2 roar but S6 kept going. S6 had to run as fast as possible, his mind reeling as he tried to come to terms with what he had just seen. S2 was a leader, he was talented, he was gifted, but he was sleeping with the Queen! He was supposed to be impartial. He was supposed to be the bridge between them and the Queen! S6 was distressed to see such a thing.

S6 calmed himself. He knew S2 would confront him, and he started to formulate a plan. S2 could NOT remain in his position on the Council! He was too close to her. So, he started making comments. Whenever the others spoke to S2 about asking the Queen, who was still incapacitated from her vision, S6 began saying things such as “Lord S2 knows the Queen very well.” Or “Lord S2 and the Queen are close.” But his final dig at S2 caused the male Star’s eye to twitch in the corner: he knew the Queen better than anybody else.

This would not go unnoticed by the High Lord. And after the meeting, S2 was there. S6 had never seen such fury on a Star before. But S6 wanted to make S2 aware of HOW close he was treading that forbidden line! He was a staunch supporter of Sagittarius; he had seen S2 protect Sagittarius against those who gave snide comments over her kind. And now... it was so clear. S6 just wanted to believe that it was because S2 was a good man!

“What were you thinking?!”

His High Lord turned to him, his jaw set and eye already twitching. This discussion had to happen. S6 needed S2 to be aware of how dangerous this was becoming.

“I do not know what you are referring to.”

S6 cursed loudly, waving his hands in agitation at his superior.

“I know what I saw! When the alarm was raised, nobody could find you! So I had to attend and... I saw YOU... with the Queen... in her BED and NAKED, Lord S2! Do you have any idea of how dangerous that is?! Please tell me you two were just sleeping and not-.”

The flash of fire in the eyes of the taller Star caused S6 to pause, but his next words sent a shiver down his spine. He was treading a very dangerous line.

“You saw nothing. You heard nothing. You attended the chambers at the same time as me, and the Queen was incapacitated due to her vision.” S2 pointed a threatening finger into his face. “That is the story YOU will stick to, S6. I raised you after you came second behind me; I can easily take you down.”

S6 felt anger rise. His own eyes flashed with fury: how dare he threaten him?!

“You are threatening me, S2?! Despite me knowing what I know?! You have some cheek! Nothing is stopping me from going around... nothing is stopping me from telling this truth! You must resign, leave the Court... or I tell everyone.”

This caused his superior to tense. His lip curled, and the fury was now on every line on his face. S6 felt a shiver of fear as his superior stood over him, the Star towering over the other Dwarf with such aggression S6 was now sure S2 was going to kill him.

“Tell them what... tell them how you degrade Sagittarius?!”

Sagittarius? He cared... more about the Queen’s honour? Why did S2 care so little about his honour and life, but hers was more? S6 suddenly realised... that S2 really loved Sagittarius. A part of him wanted to advise his colleague to propose to marry the Queen, because he was meant to be a King. But... the Absolute... would prevent that.

"You love her, don’t you? Otherwise, why would you do this?! By the Singularity, S2, you have to resign because your vision is becoming clouded!” S6 took a breath, ready to approach the next topic. “By resigning, you could-.”

“S6, I am warning you...” S2 growled, interrupting him from suggesting a proposal. He felt his temper flare: Stars had issues with their temper. That was known to them. If S2 was not going to listen... he needed to make him aware of how dangerous this road was if he did not act quickly with Sagittarius!

"You will be executed if people find out! Sagittarius would be imprisoned and watched if she becomes pregnant!” He saw S2 tense further, but ignored the warning. “And you... You will be forever known as the Star who BEDDED THE QUEEN and doomed this entire Galaxy! S2 –.”

He could not stop it.

The fist collided across his face, breaking his nose. S6 stumbled and fell against the wall, dazed, as S2 shook his hand, wincing at his knuckles. S6 raised a hand to his cheek and yelped at the bruise. S-Cluster Stars punched harder and resisted more: had he been any other Star, he would have lost a tooth or two. Coupled with S2’s lineage, he was stronger.

And when his Lord next spoke, his voice was quiet but deadly.

“Now I have your attention... You would do well to keep your mouth shut, S6. Or I end you. Who would they believe? You, a jealous Star, or me and Sagittarius, the High Lord and Queen who have a better reputation than you do? Remember your place.”

S2 then turned and walked out, massaging his knuckles. S6 winced, pressing his hand on his cheek, before slowly getting up. He released a breath he had been holding in, cursing his rash behaviour. S6 needed to tread very carefully. So, he decided to keep an eye on the pair.

S6 recalled seeing Sagittarius had a slightly swollen stomach. Whatever would come, that child needed to be protected. Not all the Stars would accept her child, and he knew S2 would be protective of his offspring. Hopefully, S2 would wise up and ask the Queen for her hand.

How wrong he was...

The Gathering. The Star with the World of Life was found, and Sagittarius announced her full support. Young Helios was a fresh Star, his world was a child. A sign of change. S6 was enthralled when he watched them, but missed the events that preceded them. But what happened next... he did not predict.

He had assumed Sagittarius told S2. And... he did not take it well.

Suddenly, S2 and Sagittarius were distant. They did not dine for breakfast or dinner, did not laugh and joke like friends, and S2 had a permanent scowl on his face. S6 was getting concerned over this change in their relationship: did Sagittarius tell him, and S2 reacted badly? Did he propose, and she declined? He needed to know what happened! S6 needed to protect that child.

After a meeting, where Sagittarius started to show a different clothing style (no doubt to hide her growing stomach), S6 tailed her to try and catch the Queen. He knew she would deny his questions; she would probably kill him, but if S6 said he supported her, then maybe that would give her some strength. He could speak to S2 again, and hope to be a support (despite their spat), and help!

Voices.

Down the corridor! He could see them both in an empty corridor not often used.

“- I know I said to break up! I know that, but I have to talk to you about something very important, S2!”

“Sagittarius, I do not care. You made it clear we are not to interact, and I do not want to speak to you unless it is official matters.”

He ducked behind a statue, Core pounding as he realised he had intruded on a very VERY private matter. He inhaled, willing his Halo to disappear, knowing if both his superior AND Queen found him... he could be consumed. While S2 knew that he knew, he had been told to keep his tongue. And yet, what was this? He thought S2 and Sagittarius loved one another! What had happened?

Did she... tell him about...

“I did not mean to give you the shoulder!” Sagittarius was desperate. He glanced around, his eyes focusing on the pair as they stood in a known secluded area. S2 was towering over the Queen, his stance tense, his lip curled in a snarl. Sagittarius was keeping herself together, only just. He had noticed that she had started to wear her usual clothing less and the larger cloaks more. To clearly hide the growing stomach, holding a very precious cargo within. “Personal matters aside, you and I are supposed to be a team! How can we work together if you won’t talk to me outside!”

“I said I would keep speaking to you about official matters, nothing more or less,” S2 said coldly. He turned his body away, making to leave Sagittarius. “Now, leave me alone, Sagittarius!”

“But... S2!” Sagittarius was now desperate. He could see her tears falling, her hand reaching out to try and grab his. “I really need to tell you something. It is really important! I need-.”

“You, you, you,” S2 snarled. He pulled his arm away, glaring at her. “Let me make this very clear, Sagittarius. I want NOTHING to do with you on a personal level.” He saw her break. Literally. He saw his Queen recoil. “I am not your friend anymore, not your lover: I am nothing more than the Head of your Council. I want no information about your personal matters unless you are sick or dying.”

“But-.” She stumbled over her words. “S2...”

“There is no ‘But’, or ‘However’, or anything.” His tone became brittle. He turned his eyes away, and tears were falling. “I have sacrificed much for you, Sagittarius. But you did not care.”

“I do care!” Sagittarius wept. “I just...”

“No, no more excuses,” S2 ground out. He began walking away from her. “I want absolutely nothing to do with you, Sagittarius. Unless, as I said, you are dying. Now, go and do what a black hole does best and slink into the shadows. It is what you are good at.”

The comment shocked him, and S6 was ready to step out: S2 was always against any hate-filled comment towards Sagittarius concerning her black hole kind. Always punished. And now... he was... S6 was going to confront him.

But S2 had already left, rounding the corner and away. S6 turned his eyes to his Queen, fearing she would have collapsed, fearing a lot... but she was still standing there, her eyes watching where S2 had left. He saw her hand come to her mouth, covering it, and the other went to her swollen stomach. She gave a sob, hidden by her hand, before it clearly got too much.

He watched his Queen seem to... die there. He could see her Core literally break before she lowered her hands.

“I understand,” She whispered, knowing S2 would not hear it. “I am sorry, my love... both of you.” Her eyes went to her stomach as she stroked it with her hand.

“I know what I need to do. I am so sorry, little one. I hope you will forgive me.”

What did she mean? Did she... No, S6 did not hesitate. He stepped out, and Sagittarius jumped, seeing him. She adopted her mask, and S6 trembled as he stepped to his Queen. Concern came to his features.

“My Queen! I am so sorry, I heard raised voices. Arguing. I came to investigate... are you alright?”

“It is just me, Lord S6,” Sagittarius was lying. Even now. Protecting S2 after what he did. “It might have been outside.”

“Of course, of course,” He tilted his head. “I apologise, my Queen, I may have miscalculated. May I be excused to investigate further?”

“Of course,” She eyed him, confused over his behaviour. Oh, if only she knew, S6 thought sadly. Sagittarius turned to walk away, and he could not help but blurt out.

“My Queen. I just want you to know... I will always support you. I know things have been difficult recently but...” He saw her tremble, her back to him. S6 wanted to give a hand but knew she would not accept it. “Know that I will always be by your side.”

Silence. Then he heard her shakily say.

“Thank you, my Lord S6.”

And she left him, continuing. S6 vowed there and then to support her. He set to work, getting allies among the others. S6 learned from others that S2 was doing the same: recruiting those considered discarded. Those who believed that Sagittarius should only be a figurehead, to keep the Galaxy going... and that S2 should be King. Then, Sagittarius announced she would be touring, visiting Helios to check his living world. S6 eyed her stomach when she announced: her clothing hid her well, but she was now halfway through her pregnancy.

“S6?”

She left them, and things deteriorated. S6 recruited as did S2. His superior became cruel, ruthless, punishing those for small matters. S6 knew darkness was reigning the Core. It had to be... and with Sagittarius gone, things were changing. S6 managed to convince five others to their side.

And then a message that she was returning. Five years later.

S6 stood among the other Councillors, his eyes darting to his superior as he felt his nerves increase. He bit his lip, noting that S4 glanced at him as she recognised his anxiety, but only offered her a polite smile too.

His eyes returned to S2. He was colder, harsher, ruthless. The kind young Star was gone, replaced by someone worse. S6 had tried to keep tabs on everything to do with S2, knowing that he could bring his worries to Sagittarius on her return. Once she recovered, that was.

S6 was expecting the Queen to return with her child. Upon learning of her imminent arrival back from her tour, S6 had felt increasing anxiety over the reception she would receive. It was clear to S6 that she was leaving to have her child, and after what he had witnessed a year before, she left with Sagittarius being verbally attacked by S2 in the corridor. He wanted to speak to Sagittarius and admit he knew everything, that he would support her. But it was too late. So he set out to get her allies, especially as S2 got worse. And when S6 learned that S2 was getting allies himself, it was about to be inevitable. The conflict. If S2 tried to seize the Throne, S6 would protect his Queen with the few others he managed to recruit.

The gateway opened.

And their Queen returned. But... alone.

S6 felt horror grip him. His eyes widened as he scanned for another individual who would have the child, but nobody joined her. S6 looked at his Queen and felt horror at how she looked. While she remained beautiful, her eyes... were dead. There was no smile. Even when greeted, she was cold in her responses, keeping space with her Stars when she was usually close.

Her eyes found S2. S6 held his breath, anxious.

"High Lord S2."

"My Queen Sagittarius. How was your tour?"

"Uneventful," She commented. Sagittarius turned her head away, and nothing more happened. "I will wait for a meeting for updated matters. Dismissed."

Confusion hit everyone, but Sagittarius did not elaborate. She walked away from them all, councillors murmuring until S2 barked for them to return to their duties. S6 watched his Queen go, sorrow hitting him.

Did she lose her child? Was that why she was so... defeated? Dead? His usually joyful Queen was now gone, her smile non-existent, and her body language indicated a distance that could be felt by everyone. Even as he glanced at S2, he saw very little concern in his leader. He curled his lip, hate filling his eyes, before S2 turned and walked away, leaving them talking.

"If that was not the most awkward exchange ever, I have no idea what is," S14 murmured to S6. He nodded in agreement. "Plan?"

"Let the others know. We keep monitoring our Queen: her safety is essential. The last thing we need is a full uprising among the S-Cluster Stars. We have a sacred duty to Sagittarius: we must keep to it."

She lost her child, S6 realised. Her child died. So, S6 would do what he can to support Sagittarius.

Until his dying breath.

“My Lord?”

S6 opened his eyes, the meditation ending as he blinked away the memories. The rest was history. He did not need to be reminded of the Dark Times, before... Aries. Before Sagittarius was reunited with her son and saved S2. And saved them all. But now that has left such a gap in their lives. Despite how ruthless S2 was, everyone knew he was an efficient leader.

S6 turned his eyes back to the figure that spoke his name, before giving a kind smile as he recognised them. Slender, tall and feminine, Ophelia was his Gas Giant, one of five planets he had orbiting him. They ventured between the mindscape and their inanimate form, and with him, now the Head of the Council, S6 was unable to always be present. Ophelia joining him was a rarity, but it helped keep him sane against all the politics.

“Lia,” He greeted her, snapping his finger. The darkness left, and the room brightened. The office was ornate, one that was once occupied by S2. Except... his personal belongings now littered the shelves and walls. Upon S2’s death, the other Star’s belongings were removed and given to Prince Aries. As his son, Aries had every right to them all. S6 kept very little from S2, mostly furniture that could not be removed. His trinkets were boxed and shared with his family, especially with what S6 had planned with some of the other S-Cluster Stars. He remembered how devastated the Queen was to find she would not have a body to visit. 

But S6 had an idea. 

Realising that Ophelia had stepped towards him, S6 returned his attention to his Gas Giant.

“I apologise. I have received a message from the Shadow Council. I felt it necessary to bring it to your attention.”

S6 felt his ears perk up. The Shadow Council? Sending a message to the Galactic Core? This was highly unusual! It must be something important, such as... he felt a sinking feeling. He reached out, and Ophelia pressed the paper to his hand. Checked for anything dangerous at least.

S6 opened it, scanning the words. A smile tugged at his lips.

Greetings to you, Lord S6! I am Gaia BH1, a lady of the Council of Shadows! We have had the pleasure of meeting Prince Aries and his fellows. We are pleased to announce that our allocated representative will be arriving alongside this letter.

“He did it...” S6 raised his eyes back to Ophelia. “Aries recruited them. Well, someone slap me because I must be dreaming. Where is their allocated individual?”

“Waiting outside. She wanted to come personally to deliver the message and speak with you,” Ophelia tilted her head. “Her name is Gaia BH2. Will I get some refreshments?”

“Please. And alert the PA of the Queen. I think, once pleasantries have been completed, I will take her to meet Queen Sagittarius to make it official. Provided she is not in meditation.”

“Her personal assistant states she is down in the Pillars.”

S6 cursed in his head. Sagittarius was spending a lot of time down there, repairing the Pillars after the fighting. It was taking a lot of time. Which meant... refreshments were not possible. To get there in time would mean he and this Gaia BH2 would have to leave now to make the trip down to the depths.

As Ophelia opened the door, S6 was met with a female with a reptilian tail, with the tell-tale dark skin, dark hair and cat-like eyes for a black hole (aside from the halo). Her clothing was rough, and she looked awkward amongst the stars and planets, who gave her a wide berth to prevent being near her. Some of the guards eyed her in curiosity before turning away to allow S6 to handle the situation. The High Lord approached her, putting a friendly smile on to make sure she remained calm in the face of the many stars who probably treated her with animosity.

“Lady Gaia BH2?” He hummed. She turned those eyes to him, awkward, but nodded. S6 held his hand out to her, hoping to get a sense of friendliness amongst them. "Greetings to you. I am High Lord S6, Head of the Council of Stars and Sagittarius. I am relieved you have managed to accept the Queen’s request: we were beginning to worry.”

“I apologise,” Gaia BH2 said, sounding unsure. Her eyes scanned around as she promptly released his hand. “But... your Prince convinced me, against my better judgement.”

S6 hid a smile. Good boy, Aries.

“You have met Prince Aries... how did you find him?”

“I would say he is... very different to how I imagine,” Gaia BH2 responded. S6 opened an arm, letting her walk ahead. “He had a member of your Council and a moon with him by the name of Luna.”

“Ah, Earth’s Moon. I am surprised Aries allowed such an important individual to accompany him to your encampment,” S6 tilted his head at her confusion and lack of willingness to walk. “I am taking you to our Queen. She is down in the Hall of Pillars.”

“Hall of Pillars?! Are you sure?” Gaia looked very unsure now, holding her hands to stop them both. S6 looked at her with worry. “Those are sacred grounds. I am just a Stellar Class, I have no right-.”

“Whether you have the right or not doesn’t matter,” S6 urged her to walk. Gaia joined his side, her worry evident on her features. “I believe the Queen would not mind if you attend in the Halls.”

“But... fine,” Gaia seemed resigned to her fate. She shuffled her feet, following the much taller Star as they made their way to the staircases that would take them down into the belly. S6 always felt... humbled when they walked down the steps to the Hall of Pillars. He had seen the maelstrom of darkness that would emerge as they walked down, the mist and more engulfing them.

The shadow of Sagittarius’ True Form swirled around them as they moved deeper. The cracks had long since healed, but S6 could see the fiery border that would emerge whenever Sagittarius consumed in her true form. She had recently consumed an asteroid that had ventured too close to her border during a discussion she had with her son, Aries.

The tendrils of fiery essence began to slowly descend again, heading towards the Singularity Point. Reinvigorating the Queen once again. Gaia seemed to shrink back as they moved deeper, the darkness stretching further as they stood outside the large doors. Guards were before them, staring at them with suspicion, before recognising S6. He raised his hand, curling it into a fist as he slowly banged it against the large doors.

He sensed Gaia tremble as the doors began to creak behind. Locks moved, heavy, before finally the great doors open. Revealing the Hall of Pillars in all its splendor. Great arches and stone walls, bearing the now repaired four towers which stood right up to the ceiling, bearing the seals of each of the Fundamental Forces. S6 glanced around, eyes trying to find his Queen in the room...

Sagittarius was wailing, lying across the now still form of S2 while her son tried to comfort her... the large gaping hole in the centre of the chest... Core shattered...

“My Queen?” S6 called.

Eyes opened at the other end in the darkness, white-gold irises with slightly widened pupils staring at him. S6 tilted his head as the pair moved, Sagittarius standing and emerging from where she was hiding, repairing the back of the statue of Gravity. The new Pillar was separated by two orbs, the larger one in the centre and the smaller one held by its side.

His Queen was still the same as always, with her cascade of black hair – now lined with grey – flowing like water down her back. Her beautiful features held only a couple of lines around her eyes, and her tail was now trimmed and covered in her usual golden band. She had forgone her dress for a black shirt speckled with Stars, and breeches with her shoes. Her hands were covered in gloves to protect against the construction. Some cuts remained from the fight with Entropy, but they were mostly all gone.

“Why do you disturb me on this sacred ground?”

“I bring you your representative from the Shadow Council,” S6 tilted his head, stepping aside to reveal Gaia behind him. The black hole trembled before the Queen, the size difference clear to see for all. Sagittarius stood at least two feet taller than Gaia BH2. “Courtesy of Prince Aries.”

Sagittarius blinked, keeping her emotions controlled before she gave a pleasant smile to Gaia. The smaller black hole lowered her gaze as Sagittarius turned to her fully.

“I see you have met my son and Heir. Greetings to you, Gaia BH2. It has been a long time, sweet sister.”

“As it has been,” Gaia responded in kind. “Sagittarius  - my Queen – I... encountered your son. He passed the trials placed to him, and with that has won our allegiance. We accept your proposal for a place on the Council of Shadows... if you will have me.”

“And why would I not, dear sister?” Sagittarius asked of her.

“Because... what I have done,” Gaia whispered, almost too quiet for S6 to hear. He glanced at Sagittarius, seeing her sigh before removing her gloves, exposing her hands. “I spoke out against you. Against your son. Against... everything.”

“Yes, you have,” Sagittarius was now curt in her voice. “You nearly brought a civil war to my Galaxy, nearly disrupted many lives and destroyed potential futures. You use my grief at losing my husband to work with my enemy, the very man who murdered my husband. Now you stand before me, asking to be a representative on my council... why should I accept?”

S6 glanced at Gaia, his brow raised at her. The female trembled at Sagittarius’ tone.

“After all...” Sagittarius took the distance to stand before Gaia. She towered over the Stellar Class. “I should be replaced by a Black Hole more worthy of the title, yes?”

Of course... Sagittarius shared a Hive Mind with the black holes. She could listen in and watch whenever she so chose.

“And you called my son... a name unfitting for his station as the future King of this Galaxy,” Sagittarius had a coldness. “An insult. To myself included. So I ask you, Gaia BH2, why should I allow you to sit on my Council?”

Gaia BH2 swallowed before raising her eyes, fear within them.

“Because everyone deserves a second chance, my Queen,” She whispered.

Silence came to the three of them. S6 felt himself tense as Sagittarius stared down the smaller, her eyes full of fire, pupils now slits, her tail flicking dangerously. But then Sagittarius seemed to deflate, realising something. S6 gave a saddened smile as her eyes went to the wall, where she was no doubt seeing him. Lying there. Dying after being given a second chance.

“You are right,” Sagittarius said sadly. Her eyes turned back to Gaia. “Everyone deserves a second chance. You saw the error of allying with Entropy... and so I accept your request to become a representative in the Council.”

Gaia seemed to relax, as did S6. He felt his Core ease, and he was once again reminded of how Sagittarius was as a ruler. She always gave a second chance, but never more. Sagittarius just... did not grant more than that. Sagittarius was merciful, but S6 knew that she had a limit to her patience. And was not to be pushed. It was like poking an angry bear; that bear would soon swipe and take the head off of whoever it was that was poking. 

The silence that had fallen was soon broken by the Queen herself. 

“My son...” Sagittarius asked, suddenly, as she turned back to Gaia. “How is he?”

“He is a strong young man, Sagittarius,” Gaia said after a moment. “But he is lost and angry. Too bent on revenge. And with the information that we received about Entropy and his location, I fear he would become crowded in reality. With Entropy being on Earth, I imagine he will become more engaged.”

Sagittarius sighed, and S6 stepped forth to his Queen.

“Do you wish for me to attend?”

“It is more complicated, but I fear for his mental well-being, and that of Earth,” Sagittarius said softly. “I just hope neither does something they will regret.”

“I can send a message to my sister to join him,” Gaia said, taking a step to join S6. The Star glanced at her, but she made no effort to sort her boundary stepping. Nobody stepped by the Head of the Council, not into their personal space. Only the Queen did. “Unless... you wish...”

“I have faith that Aries will succeed,” Sagittarius said. “And that Earth will keep him grounded. I just hope that Aries does not leave himself open to anything that will cause Entropy to obtain an advantage.”

Her eyes refocused back on the Pillars, but S6 noted a worried look on the face of the smaller black hole. S6 tilted his brow, causing Gaia to look at him questioningly. She chewed her lip before giving a glance to make sure that Sagittarius was not listening to them.

“That Star with him...” Gaia whispered to S6. “They are playing dangerous games.”

S6 groaned. He shook his head, turning to make sure Sagittarius was moving away. She was, clearly ending the discussion, now that Gaia had been accepted as the new representative for the black holes. He was glad that Sagittarius had moved away, finding the rest of the discussion boring: he had a feeling she would be furious if she heard her son was playing with literal fire. And probably would drag her son back by his ear, ban S1 from the Council, and maybe even go so extreme that she would banish her. 

He truly was his father's son. 

“I have to hope Helios brings him back to control. I do not think that Sagittarius will have enough strength left to bury her own son. I just hope... he does not do anything stupid.”

Chapter Text

The thunder crashed above his head. Darkness was starting to hit the island, as Sun was descending towards the horizon. The rain had increased in power, hammering on the glass above their heads. The lights flickered, a buzzing noise hitting his ears.

Earth, carefully, pushed the PS5 into the wall, powering it on. The television flashed into life, showing his profile as it came to his azure eyes. Taking the special controllers made for their hands, Earth walked to Mars as his uncle/friend sat on the couch, taking his own controller. Earth sighed as the screen flashed with another burst of thunder.

Saturn was in the kitchen, grinding up some herbs and making medicines, while Titan looked longingly at the planets. Venus was outside, fiery eyes turned towards the skies. Some steam was rising from his skin as the small heads of water hit his patched skin. Earth knew he missed water, and was often jealous to not still be habitable. Mars held little interest in the rain compared to Venus, as he had realised that once the humans arrived, he would be plagued by them, melting his ice and terraforming him to gain access to his own minerals. Earth felt sorry for his uncle that his future would be the same as his current predicament.

Earth flicked through his profile, as the disc loaded. Mars pressed for the Player Two option, the game flashing on the screen. Earth winced at another flash of lightning, which prompted Venus to open the door and enter the room. He sighed, looking at Earth and Mars, boredom in his features. His skin had small patches where the water had hit him, and his hair was soaked. The Planet walked to them, sitting down on the couch and placing his boots on the coffee table. Saturn tutted, before noting that Titan was looking longingly at the planets.

“Come on, Titan. Remember that brew,” Saturn instructed. “We don’t know the status of the prince and the others until they return, so we have to make sure things are prepared.”

“Do you need a hand, Saturn?” Earth could see the longing in Titan’s eyes. He was wanting to have a shot of the PS5, and Earth was not going to stop him. Titan wanted to be part of things, and with Luna gone at present he was alone in a room full of planets. “Titan can have a shot of my console.”

“Really?” Titan glanced at Saturn. The Ringed Planet sighed, his feline ears flattening, before he placed a smile on his features. A nod. Which caused Titan to abandon the brew and go to Earth and Mars. Earth passed his controller to the moon, before walking to Saturn as Titan settled down in the spot he vacated (“So, how do I play?” “You use this button here...”).

Earth stepped to the cooker, noting the small pile of bandages that had been made with the herbs and more. His nose wrinkled at the smell coming out the pan, before taking some leaves and pulling them off the stem gently. His eyes scanned Saturn, who was mashing some leaves using one of the utensils. The lights flickered again.

“Saturn?” Earth quizzed. The Ringed Planet seemed in a trance, pushing the utensil down on the already mashed leaves further. Earth could see he had tears in his eyes. “Hey, I can take that...”

“Thank you, Earth,” Saturn mumbled. He let Earth take the utensil, and now Earth saw the cuts on Saturn’s hands. He must have been pulling at the thorned plants. Earth winced as he recalled being in a bush when he and Helios were attacked a few months ago. How the thorns irritated his skin.

“Saturn, if you need to talk...” Earth said to him softly. “You know we can. We are all here for you. I know you miss Jupiter. A lot.”

“I miss him every day,” Saturn was quiet when he said this. His shoulders slumped as he tilted his head down, looking at the top of the kitchen counter. “And I cannot believe he is gone. I miss him so much, Earth, and I know he had done wrong... but it was... it was different back then. It wasn’t intentional...”

“What you talking about?”

Venus had come over, his volcanic eyes staring at Saturn. The Gas Giant sighed, his feline ears almost completely disappeared into his hair. His tail, which had been gently flicking, was now in a sway. Anxiety, Earth realised. Saturn was really affected by what had happened. How could he NOT be, Earth told himself.

“Back then... the Solar System was different. Many rocky planets,” Saturn whispered. “Jupiter didn’t mean to. He didn’t know his own strength. Jupiter just wanted friends... he wanted to not be alone.”

Loneliness... Earth had a flash of Neptune in his orbit, the planet crazy and relating more to asteroids than to anything else. Neptune said he got used to it, but still... how could anybody get used to it?

“I wanted to leave with him,” Saturn admitted. Earth felt his ears strain, as he turned to face the Ringed Planet. Even Mars and Titan had stopped their game, Mars looking at Saturn with wide eyes and Titan... he had an expression of discomfort. Earth sent him a questioning look but Titan shook his head, indicating with his head jabs at Saturn. “But... we made a promise. That day he brought Helios here. While Helios was unconscious, and after you healed him, we vowed to stand by his side. Protect him. I... I couldn’t break that promise.”

Tears started to fall.

“I watched Jupiter leave... AND DID NOTHING!” Saturn swiped with his paws, sending the pans everywhere. Earth yelped as hot water narrowly missed him, the leaves and mush falling all over the tiles. Not that it matter anyways, they would be knocking the house down in two days. “I promised him until we died, I would never leave his side. And I couldn’t even KEEP MY PROMISE! I just stood there and let him take the entire blame! I am such a coward!”

Earth felt saddened as he watched Saturn shake. The tears were falling faster down his cheeks, and his while body looked ready to give in. But then Saturn grabbed the edge of the counter, using his claws – so carefully sheathed - to clutch at the tiles. To keep him steady.

“Jupiter was relying on me to keep the Solar System going. To keep helping Helios. And I failed again and again,” Saturn curled his lip, showing a canine. “The one time I needed to step up and I couldn’t even do that.”

Titan stood, his orange eyes saddened. He walked to his planet, reaching up and hugging Saturn in the side, causing the Gas Giant to shake as he returned the embrace. Earth stepped to the Ringed Giant sadness gripping his Core, whilst Mars sat there, head down and hands curled on his lap. Venus looked uncaring, but his eyes were softened.

“We could try find him,” Earth said, bur Venus cut across him.

“Do not be naive, Earth,” Venus grumbled. “Jupiter destroyed baby planets. Expelled X. How can he come back? Sun had final say in these matters.”

“Sun may have final say but sometimes he can be wrong!” Earth argued back.

“Earth, listen to us,” Mars sounded. He stood up from the couch, eyes saddened. “Jupiter did something unforgivable. To Sun that was the greatest betrayal anybody could have dealt to him, and Planet X was ejected unfairly. Jupiter may have been good now. But how do we know he truly was?”

“If after over four billion years we doubt Jupiter who has been a steadfast defender of us for all that time, then I do not know,” Earth shook his head. “If Luna has taught me one thing, it is that we cannot make assumptions based on facts spewed by others.”

Titan released Saturn, his eyes low as he realised what had been said. The Moon narrowed his eyes, before raising his eyes back to Earth as he spoke.

“Yeah. Assumptions are dangerous. You know that.”

Venus made to give a retort but Earth stopped him. Earth knew that Titan was right: he made baseless assumptions due to his own insecurities. He turned his eyes towards Titan, azure meeting orange and gave a solemn nod in agreement.

“Yeah. And we only heard X’s side of the story,” he turned his eyes to Saturn, who had calmed thanks to Titan. Earth ran a hand through his three-toned hair, the cascade of green, blue, and white fluffing up slightly. “So, Saturn... tell us the version Jupiter should have said.”

Saturn swallowed. The golden feline looked down at the ground, his gold eyes saddened. He reached out and pulled out one of the barstool, resting his rear on the seat. His tail curled around his legs, the white feathering not as pristine as usual. Earth was surprised as Saturn always kept himself pristine, but then again, he had just been outside with Titan, picking herbs. Yet, Saturn would usually clean himself afterwards.

“It was a dreadful accident,” Saturn whispered. “X was right that Jupiter changed his orbit, but he did not intend for the planets to be destroyed. He migrated to the asteroid belt and beyond, and X and I saw him. Jupiter didn’t want to be alone... X tried to get him to stop... I... I did nothing. X wanted to tell Sun, but by doing so he would have went into the Inner Solar System and destroyed you guys. Jupiter tried to stop him, to stop more planets being destroyed... but we were young. Jupiter used too much strength and... and...” His voice broke. “X was... sent out the System.”

Earth fell silent, listening to the explanation. He sighed, sitting himself down on a bar stool, Venus pressing his hands on the counter as he glared at Saturn. Mars was silent where he sat, while Titan was looking awkward.

“I don’t know what to believe...” Mars whispered. He sighed, pushing his controller away. “This is too much to deal with.”

Earth agreed. He pressed his hands over his face, sighing, as he tried to come to terms with everything. X had one side, Jupiter had another. But he did not fight X, did not protest to prevent the Sun from banishing him. Jupiter even stated it was all true. He accepted the banishment, and left the System with a mumbled apology. Saturn had been broken when Jupiter left, and Earth recalled Luna moving to protect HIM when Jupiter turned his eyes to the Rocky Planets. As though expecting the Gas Giant to finish the job.

A crash came from the now empty living room, and Earth nearly fell. He jumped up, Venus running to the room with Mars, Saturn striding after telling Titan to keep back. Earth sucked in a breath, as a portal opened and three figures crashed onto the ground. One cursed loudly, and Earth recognised the grey form of his brother. He rushed to him, helping Luna untangle himself from the limbs of Aries. Earth looked over Luna, checking the patched skin, the grey and white highlights on the hair, and looked over the limbs. Luna gave a protest, reaching out to grab a box he had, before giving a grin.

“Hey!”

“That was a nasty landing,” Saturn commented. He walked to Luna, Earth stepping aside to allow the more experienced healer check his brother over better. Titan came over next, worry on his features over his friend, before breathing a sigh of relief. Luna looked alright, and he was more concerned about the box that had clattered through the portal too. He opened it, before breathing a sigh of relief at the wooden tubes.

“Luna?” Aries sounded, wincing as he pushed himself up. S1 grumbled, accepting a hand from Venus to be helped up, the Star shaking her limbs. “S1, you both okay?”

“Fine here,” S1 murmured, checking her limbs and torso, before pressing her fingers into her face. Saturn went to her when he noticed a cut on her cheek, but her skin was already shifting and healing it over.

“I am okay!” Luna closed the box before turning his eyes back to Earth. “We met them! The Black Holes!”

Earth smiled at Luna – but felt a pang of jealousy. He wished he could meet the other black holes, but Sagittarius was enough. And of course, Aries. But they were Core based, and did not need to try and survive compared to the Stellar Class.

“That sounds fun,” Mars commented. He gave a smile before turning to Aries as he noted the Prince was wincing. “Aries?!”

“My tail,” He grumbled, reaching around to gently take his black tail. Earth wasted no time in coming to him, reaching out and placing a hand on the tip and at the spine, gently caressing to see if he could see any breaks. Fortunately, no obvious kinks and cuts.

“Just bruised, it will – ooft!” Earth found himself pulled into Aries, as the Prince hugged him tightly. Earth started at the warmth, but then he relaxed as he rested into the grip, hugging Aries back. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah... I just...” Aries sighed. He released Earth, shame crawling on his features as Luna dogged Earth’s steps and watched Aries intently. “I am sorry, Earth. For how I spoke to you.”

Earth blinked, before giving a grin. He grasped Aries by the hand, squeezing tightly.

“Hey, no need! You’re one of my Earthlings, I will ALWAYS forgive you. I care about you, Aries. You know I am always here if you need me, okay?”

Aries smiled, Luna stepping to them both as he placed his hand on Aries’ other. The Prince raised it and Luna leaned into it, giving a smile before turning to Earth.

“They gave me a flute! They’re going to see if Sun can let Cygnus the Black Hole come teach me some time. Once this mess is done.”

Saturn seemed to be surprised, but returned his attention back to S1 as he helped checked her over. But the S-Cluster Star seemed to be alright, and did not need anything else. Thunder rumbled and she winced, raising her hands to her ears.

“Is that STILL going?!”

“Sorry, the island needs water,” Earth winced as another rumble passed over. “I can turn it off...?”

“No, kid,” Venus grunted. “Your life needs the water here. We can head to that island tomorrow morning if you are able to turn it then. So long...” His eyes turned to Aries. “You are happy to wait?”

“I am. We need a rest after the black holes,” Aries said in response. “S1 and Luna need to recover.”

“So do you,” S1 pointed out. “YOU did the fighting and trials. Luna and I can take some time, and it will help me plan our next move. With luck, Gaia BH2 will be heading to the Core shortly to speak with your mother.”

“I hope so. The deadline is approaching,” Aries checked his watch. Christmas Eve, but not for much longer it seemed. Another couple of hours and it will be Christmas Day. “Well... nearly. I recommend we all get some sleep.”

Another thunderclap. S1 trembled, but she nodded in agreement as Earth encouraged Luna to head up to his own room. He wanted to see his flute another time, but not right now. Not if they were heading to the other island in the morning. His eyes saw Titan lingering, unsure where to go, and Earth led him to one of the guest rooms. Saturn had his own room, and Earth was sure Titan would not like being in the same one. It would give him some space.

S1 thanked Earth for the next room, but Earth took Aries to the room that would belong to Helios. It was calming, a soothing place for the Star. But also was going to be destroyed like the rest of it. After saying a quick goodnight, Earth made his way to his own room, saddened that he would soon be evicted out of it himself. His azure eyes brimmed with tears as he stared at the door, tracing a hand over the name carved in it. Howard Rotsar made him feel welcome among the Earthlings, now he was not considered one of them. Not one of his own life. Just a vessel to be used once again, to be discarded.

Earth sighed as he stepped in, seeing the fountain had already dried up. The fish would be long gone. The lights outside his room flickered, and died as another flash of lightning erupted over his head, followed promptly by thunder. He hoped they would all get some sleep at least.

As Aries settled himself down, he lay on his back, staring upwards at the ceiling. Noting the patterns, the intricate designs, his feet barely being covered by the blankets. Whilst Helios was tall, he was taller due to his lineage and status. But Aries did not mind it. His eyes found his bare hands, glowing softly in the darkness, and he sighed as he tried to get his body to relax. His tail was... uncomfortable, as he had to rip a hole in a new set of pyjama bottoms so he could get in them. But he was not used to the mattress being so hard. Aries tried to turn himself, freeing his tail, but felt his body protest again from the beating it had taken.

He felt his thoughts drift to his mother. How she was doing. With luck, Gaia would have approached the Core and made the offer by now. Aries hoped his mother accepted the appointment, and with luck it boosted her mood to know some things were going well. Aries stretched his arms, feeling his muscles ache from the flares and his own use of the Forces. He really needed to let his body recover, because if they were getting so close to Entropy being found, Aries needed to be as close to recovered as possible. His father’s death came to his mind once again... it caused him distress.

Aries heard the door belonging to Earth’s room close, and sighed when he realised the house was no much quieter than before. He curled on his side, bringing the blankets around him, very glad he was able to heat himself up without relying on a housing system. Another flash of lightning and rumble of thunder, but Aries yawned, feeling himself drift off to sleep.

But it did not last long. And another loud blast came to his ears.

His bedroom door slammed open. Aries winced as it banged back closed, before he felt a weight on him. His senses triggered for danger, but then he paused as he realised the individual had a soft glow about them. White-gold hair. With familiar glowing eyes.

“S1?” He squeaked. Her body was curled on his in absolute TERROR. Aries felt his Core calm from the shock and fright, embarrassment hitting him as he realised he was half naked. “What- why-.”

Another rumble of thunder and S1 whimpered. Aries then realised why she had rushed in and to him for protection. She was scared of the thunder. The loud noise. S1 had already shown she was afraid of the natural phenomenon on Earth’s surface. Maybe it was a reminder of the power of higher Celestials? Aries did not know.

“Hey, it is okay,” Aries comforted, pressing a gentle hand on her back. “Thunder is just noise. It cannot hurt us while we are inside.”

“I know, it’s just... so loud,” S1 whimpered. She raised her face from where she had buried it in his side, eyes shimmering. “Can I stay with you, Aries? I don’t like being alone.”

“I-I...” Aries felt his cheeks heat up, but decided he could not deny her request. She was afraid, and being left in fear could exacerbate her feelings more... and he cared for her. Like her for him. Deeply. “Of course. You can stay.”

S1 pulled his covers down and slid under them, holding onto his body. Aries wrapped an arm around her, pressing his cheek in her hair as he rubbed a soothing circle with his thumb. Her shaking seemed to decreased with his soothing words and actions, as she gave a content sigh, turning her face more into his chest. Aries, not for the first time in the last five minutes, felt an immense sense of awkwardness.

S1 turned her eyes up to him, and he had to look away to keep his blush away. His mother’s words rang in his head again. He had been treading too carefully near that line, and now he was very close to dangerously crossing it. The odd kiss and action was fine but this.. was too much.

He cleared his throat and moved away, causing S1 to look confused at his action.

“S1... I...”

“Aries?” She pressed. Her ears then dipped as she realised. “Oh no... I am so sorry! I didn’t realise... forgive me, please.”

“No, you don’t have to apologise,” Aries said, turning to her instantly. He did not want her to be guilty for having a phobia and seeking comfort. He made the mistake too of believing Stars to not have fears. “You know if you are ever afraid of anything, you can come to me. I will protect you from it, S1. As best I can.”

“And you know I would do the same for you,” S1 said softly. Her hand took his, squeezing it. “Aries... you have shown nothing but strength these last few days. Despite everything. Your father... he would be so proud of you.”

Aries inhaled shakily, as another crash of thunder erupted over his head. His hand tightened on hers, as he turned his eyes to hers, his own ears dipping in slight distress. The clock by his side hit Midnight: Christmas Day.

“I am proud of us. Of what we have accomplished,” He whispered back to her. S1 smiled gently, as he raised his hand to her cheek, thumb caressing her skin. Her beautiful rosettes on her cheeks... “I could never have done it all without you by my side, S1... and... I want you to stay by my side. If you will have me.”

Her eyes widened, as she realised what he was asking her.

“Are you...”

“Will you be my girlfriend?” He knew it was a foreign concept to Celestials, but she clearly knew what it meant. Her mouth twisted into a jubilant smile as she threw her arms around his shoulders, kissing his lips.

Aries crashed onto his bed, accepting the kiss, before S1 broke it. She smiled down at him, and he couldn’t help but laugh.

“I take it that was a yes?”

“Of course, you fool,” S1 said back to him. She rubbed her nose against his own. “You know my feelings for you, Aries. You didn’t need to ask!”

“I mean...” Aries tilted his head, a cheeky grin coming to his face. “I DO remember what you said when I first saw you.” Her face turned red. “What was it...? Oh, he is kinda cute! All while in your cell!”

“Ha ha,” S1 sarcastically swatted his shoulder. She rested on his body, her head on his collar as she lay there with comfort. “I am just not going to move now. As punishment.”

“You know I am stronger than you, yeah?”

“I do! But you are too much of a gentleman,” S1 teased him, deciding to move off. Aries gave a protest and reached, pulling her back to his arms. “Hey!”

Aries held her, in his arms, deciding to sit back against the wall. S1 curled in his lap, her hand gently taking his tail and stroking the black fur. Each movement of her thumb on the fur caused a tingle in his spine, not a bad tingle. But a good one. He rested his chin on her head, before pressing his nose and mouth against the locks, smelling gently.

“Merry Christmas, Aries,” S1 whispered, her eyes turning back up to him. He was surprised at her awareness, but realised she had probably asked Earth on their return. Her hand came to caress his collar, his skin tingling now.

Dangerous, dangerous, dangerous, dangerous...

“Merry Christmas, S1,” He whispered back to her. Aries watched as she moved, turning to face him, her hands on his shoulders. His Core was pounding, his body reacting. He couldn’t stop it.

He loved her. Too much. So much.

Dangerous, dangerous, dangerous, dangerous...

Her lips touched his, and he succumbed to temptation. As they crossed that line, he stared down into her eyes, breathing heavily with her, her eyes burning with affection and love. Aries could feel her Core hammering, his own pounding in his chest. Her arms snaked around his back, her hands touching every inch of him before resting back against the before as his lips found her neck. Her gasp was audible, her breath a feather in his ear.

“I love you...” She whispered to love. Aries felt his own love for her, how it burned his Core. How only she was intending for him to hear those words... hopefully for the rest of his days. He lifted his head from her neck, seeing the euphoria in her face, and how she looked at him so expectantly. Aries breathed heavily, just taking in her eyes with his own. His hand found hers, and he held it as he lowered his lips to hers, passionately kissing her, ignoring everything else except for this moment...

DANGEROUS, DANGEROUS, DANGEROUS!

This moment between him and her. The woman he loves. He broke the kiss to brush her ear, hearing her jubilation in his own, before he finally uttered the words he had wanted to so desperately these last three months.

The moon broke through the now dead storm, as he breathed the words out to her.

“I love you too, Capricorn.”

Her smile said it all, and Aries reciprocated. He held her in the morning as the Sun started to poke up at the horizon. His breathing was gentle as S1 slept in his arms, his arm around her waist as he held her to his chest.

In the corridor, Earth closed his door as he placed his rucksack by it, deciding to head for a run first before the travel to the island. He paused, wondering if he should speak to Aries and see if he was interested in coming along: when he was Viktor, the human would join him. Earth, carefully, went to walk to Helios’ door, before noticing the door to the room that was used by the female Star was open. Worried, Earth poked his head in but saw the bed empty, before, with worry, walked to Aries’ door. But as he gently opened the door, he noted Aries wasn’t sleeping alone... He was holding S1 in his arms, the pair facing the wall, his arm around her waist and S1 curled into his chest. The pair were content, deep in their sleep.

Earth quickly closed the door, relieved the pair were together. Happiness hit Earth, a smile coming to his features as he walked, relieved that Aries had found some sort of happiness. Aries had said he had been so focused on everything in the Core... now he probably found love. Earth wanted to play a prank on them, but decided against it.

Returning back to his room, Earth took his rucksack and walked down the stairs to the hallway. He heard the clink of utensils and looked around to see Titan was sitting on the couch, eating some fruit with a fork. Earth blinked in confusion, but dismissed it: Titan was unfamiliar with how his Earthlings acted, so he was not going to correct him. They were to leave the house tomorrow anyway.

“Hey, Titan. You’re up early.”

Titan jumped, his feline ears straight up before he relaxed, giving a smile. He placed the bowel down, and Earth could see he had clumsily cut banana and oranges. Again, it did not matter to Earth. There was no point.

“Hey, Earth. Where are you going?”

“I was planning to head for a jog before the others get up. The storm has cleared, so the tide will be low enough to cross over. We are tall enough to wade.”

“I don’t think Saturn will let me go,” Titan said, his ears now relaxing. His tail was wrapped around his legs. “It would be nice. I heard you have a new... animal there?”

“It isn’t new as in a new species, but new as in just moved,” Earth corrected. “It is a Jaguar. But she recently had cubs that passed away: something is going on there, and as Aries said there could be a potential agent of Entropy there. We cannot miss that opportunity.”

“I guess,” Titan stood, stretching his limbs. “Alright to join you for the jog?”

“I don’t see why not,” Earth smiled. “Plus, it gives you a chance to see more potential life you could develop. Like I said, I am here to help you.”

Titan shuffled his feet.

“Mine is just a microscopic, it is barely worth anything interesting.”

“Single celled can evolve into multi,” Earth schooled. “It just needs the right mutations. Come on... let us go for a run and you can talk to me about anything you want to unload on me. Like I said... I am here to help guide you. And help you along the way.”

Titan gave a smile, before joining Earth by his side. Opening the door, the sound of the waves and wind hit Earth, alongside the dawn chorus. He led Titan down the path to the beach, which was a few minutes walk, before Earth started to increase his pace. Titan matched him, his tail helping to keep him balanced. A water spout appeared, and Earth paused, pointing as a whale surfaced and dived in the distance.

Titan inhaled, his ears poking up and his hands on his mouth. Earth realised he had not seen a whale until just yesterday. Earth couldn’t identify what species from the distance though. But he saw the seals laying on the rocks, sunbathing, and making little noise. Some would jump into the water to get food. Birds scurried at the border of the water, picking at the sand and trying to get their morning breakfast.

“I can’t believe this all came from a single-celled organism, ones you had for so long,” Titan murmured. “It really was a stressful process.”

“It was,” Earth said sadly. He placed his hands in his pockets, watching as the seals eyed them. “I mean, I had my single-celled organisms for billions of years, but when I got my multi-celled ones that was when shit hit me. The extinction events... I had to be so careful with them all.”

“You had no extinctions when they were single-celled?” Titan looked at him in surprise.

“Yeah, things kinda went downhill then,” Earth said sadly. He watched as the birds continued to scurry for their breakfast. “Multicellular means more complexity. Things get out of hand. The Permian Extinction – that is a period of time for my life – was the worst I ever had, due to the complexity of organisms. I was unconscious for a few hours during the explosion. I nearly lost all my life from it, but those that survived had buried themselves under the ground to evade the issues. I could barely believe it.”

“I think that is what I am worried about the most...” Titan was sad. “My first extinction. And... the possibility it could be an extinction that causes all my life to die.”

Earth looked at him out the corner of his eye. He sighed, and placed a hand on Titan’s shoulder. He felt the moon relaxed, but the worry was still there.

“And if I lose all my life... I will be seen as a disappointment. The other Saturnian Moons see me as Saturn’s favourite, and that would kinda finish me. Having my first extinction and not recovering.”

“Each Extinction was horrific,” Earth admitted. “But Life, Titan... it is very resilient.”

The Sun was now a little bit higher up on the horizon, and Earth fell to silence as they watched the waves together. Titan chewed his lip, before looking at Earth. Earth noted the orange eyes were sometimes looking at the second island, and a part of him wondered if Titan was about to suggest what he thought was about to be suggested. Earth blinked, Titan turning to him.

“That Jaguar... how important is she?”

“Important in the sense she helps stabilise the ecosystem and food chains... why?” Earth paled as he noted a look on Titan’s features. “Titan, we...”

“You said we are tall enough to wade. Why don’t we go? The others know we are heading there anyways, plus they won’t attack you. You command so much respect,” Titan sounded excited. “Of your life forms. Surely, we will be safe.”

“Yeah, but we don’t know WHO is there.” Earth was not wanting to go to the island without Venus and Mars, and Luna. Just in case. Two Celestial Bodies with life going presented a lot of issues. “If there is a rogue planet having two with life means if we get hit, we are affected as is our life forms. We have to work together and be entirely defensive.”

“You know your surface best, I have enough faith in you, Earth,” Titan stated. “Come on! Let’s go.”

Earth sighed, glancing back at the house in worry, before giving a firm nod. He turned his azure eyes back to Titan as the moon started to move away, before jogging after him. They walked beside one another as they headed towards the island, Earth feeling nervous as they saw the causeway ahead, the water now lower than before. He could see the seals watching them, one even coming up and almost preventing Earth from crossing. He hesitated, but Titan kept walking, and Earth whispered to the seal to go to the others near the house and alert a bird. The seal disappeared back into the water.

Earth felt insecure as they wadded, his azure eyes focused on the island. He could see the trees, still healthy and green, but also dead plants had sprouted up. His eyes widened as he stepped onto the beach, biting his lip as he saw dead birds on the sand, flies moving around them. Titan winced, not liking the noise, and the smell was starting to assault Earth’s nose and making him gag. His eyes located a dead tree, collapsed over, and he noted the rotting fruit. Earth glanced at Titan, who looked like he regretted the decision to come here with the others.

Earth stepped up the beach and his feet crunched broken branches. Titan hurried to him, not wanting to be left alone, his hand coming up to move some leaves and try to find a path. A coconut fell and broke on the rocks underneath the tree, revealing the once pristine white flesh as black and rotting.

Something was definitely not right. Earth sucked in a breath and he pushed more leaves out the way, horror starting to rise as he saw more deceased plants and trees, alongside the fruit and animals. Insects were non-existent. It was like a ghost town.

Running water sounded to his ears, and Earth made his way towards it. The smell was horrific, like sewage, but on closer inspection he saw rotting vegetation and dead fish. He heard Titan gag, raising his hand to cover his mouth and nose as the greenish-blue fur darkened to another green. Earth stepped aside in case Titan hurled at him.

“Still glad we came here?”

“No-No,” Titan stammered. “I don’t like this, Earth. I shouldn’t have... suggested... can we go?”

“Yeah, I think we lingered here too-.” A branch snapped. “Long?”

There was another branch snapping, and Titan jumped to Earth, eyes wide and his ears flicking dangerously. Earth curled his lip into a hiss, watching as a muscular form appeared through the vegetation. He saw the orange fur with brown rosettes, and the glowing eyes of a cat. Earth felt himself tense, as the large cat appeared through the vegetation. She panted, looking at Earth was weakness, her tail flicking. He noticed her ribs were starting to show under her skin. She was starving.

Earth inhaled, going to her. The Jaguar panted, her ears flat as she gave a feeble hiss, before accepting his hand as he ran it over her face and neck. Earth held her as she collapsed into his arms, lifting her up over his shoulder.

“Earth...?” Titan stammered. “What are you-?”

“Taking her back. We should get her to Saturn, maybe he can do something to help her. If that island is going to be abandoned, she can live on it and have a healthy life. She might not have cubs but at least she can live in peace.”

Titan looked unsure, especially as the Jaguar looked at him as though he was a threat. She hissed, trying to swipe with her claws, but Earth gave a hiss back at her to stop. The Jaguar calmed, but continued to growl.

Another branch.

The Jaguar roared, and leapt off Earth to go defensive before him. Her teeth was born, the large canines exposed as Earth stepped back to Titan. The Moon was staring, clearly regretting everything that had led to this moment. Earth grabbed his hand, to keep him calm, as a reddish Celestial appeared. They had brown patches, and bright green eyes, which stared at Earth in curiosity. They tilted their head, before another appeared, much taller and broader.

“Oh, shit...” Earth whispered.

“Look at this!” The reddish one said. He stepped forth, eyes scanning them. “Two more Celestials. Who are ya?”

“Never mind who we are,” Earth growled. Titan also started growling, now coming to his senses. These were not of their Star System. “Who are you and why are you in our system? You are not any of our planets!”

“True, we are Exo Planets. Told we could live here... but it reeks of life,” The broader one sneered. “Which if you is this world? Must be you.” His eyes looked straight at Earth. “Matches your colour scheme.”

The Jaguar snarled, backing off to help protect Earth better. The claws were out now.

“Ya know, there is a large bounty on your head, Earth... or Terra or Tellus, whatever the fuck your name is,” The broader one smirked, cracking his knuckles. “Entropy wants ya. So, call your pet off and come quietly.”

“Fat chance!” Titan said, finding his voice finally. “You want him, you come through me!”

“Challenge accepted!” The reddish one wasted no time in running. The Jaguar wasted no time in leaping up and sinking her claws into the arm, her teeth impaling. The reddish planet hissed, turning his attention back to the Jaguar, but the larger one ran at Titan. Titan growled and crouched, before jumping up and evading the punch and driving his fist into the side. Earth rushed to them, bringing his right fist around and smacking the broader one in the face.

The reddish one threw the Jaguar off, causing the large cat to crash into the vegetation. They turned their eyes to Earth, running to try and grab him, his hands grabbing at Earth’s hair. Earth roared as he was pulled away from Titan and the broader one, trying to get the hand off his hair.

Earth twisted and tried to bring his knee up to break the grip but the reddish one yanked his hair hard. Earth yelled as he felt tears rise at the pain, his hands grabbing at the hand to try break free. The reddish one was trying to subdue him, while the broader one threw Titan off him. Titan grabbed onto the vegetation, before running back to try and help Earth break free. But the broader one was instantly there, to be a barrier to try and stop Titan.

Earth yelled, but the reddish one suddenly screamed. The hand released his hair and Earth saw the reddish one fall, the Jaguar having impaled their shoulder with her teeth, dragging them away into the bush. Earth watched, horrified, as did Titan and the broader one, as the reddish one disappeared into the vegetation as the Jaguar continued to drag them away. The broader one looked at Earth and Titan, horror on his face, before he came around and lunged for Titan.

Titan roared back, and Earth ran to go help. The broader one punched Titan and turned his attention to Earth, grabbing his wrist and twisting the arm. Earth yelled, aiming a punch that was caught by the other wrist, hissing to try and give a threatening display.

“GET YOUR HANDS OFF MY BOY!”

Earth turned his eyes to see a fiery individual lunge out, their fist drawn back as they landed a right hook on the broader one’ face. They roared, releasing Earth, who stumbled at the change in balance before going to Titan to make sure he was alright. Titan stood, eyes wide, as Venus landed on his feet before them, turning his eyes to the moon and planet behind him.

“RUN! Get outta here!”

“Venus!” But the fiery world lunged at the broader one, his skin on fire and his eyes lit with his fury. Titan grabbed Earth by the hand and started running, Earth glancing back as he saw Venus grapple with the Exo. The Jaguar was nowhere to be seen.

Earth looked ahead, running with Titan, pushing leaves and branches out his way as he kept going, panting. Titan winced as his face was hit by the branches, before he was sent flying back as an arm came out and caught his chest. Titan groaned, rolling onto his side, and Earth skidded to a halt to see a brown Exo step out, eyes jet black, and focused on the living world. Earth glared, raising his hand and focusing his powers on the vegetation. The exo grinned, clicking his fingers to reveal a small flame – which he held to a leaf. The fire took rapid hold, and Earth froze, eyes wide and mouth opening as the fire began spreading up the tree and onto the dead vegetation – which promptly ignited. Smoke began to erupt upwards.

Earth ran to Titan, grabbing his arms and began dragging him back. The smoke was starting to billow black, erupting into the sky, and Earth could sense the sheer panic of the animals around him on the island. The Exo laughed, walking through the flames to Earth and Titan, who was coughing with the flames.

“What, can’t handle a little fire, Earth?”

Earth coughed as the smoke began to clog him up, but he wasted no time in raising a hand, sending up the vegetation to create a barrier. The fire ignited the dry leaves, and the Exo leapt through with their hands fiery red. Titan coughed bur jumped at them, sending them flying down the ground.

“Earth, run!”

“Titan!” Earth coughed as the smoke clogged him. The fire was spreading around him, but he kept moving. Running after his friend desperately. Titan was yelling as the Exo battled, their hands leaving scorch marks on his arms. Earth pushed into them, sending them into the vegetation, and causing them to roll again.

Earth felt the heat as the Exo reached for him, but he brought his feet up to kick their chest. Titan grabbed his hand and Earth threw him, the Moon colliding with them with his shoulder, sending the Exo sprawling. They hissed, before a smirk came to their face as they eyed the pair.

“Burn... everything must BURN!” His hands grabbed another tree, but Earth lunged to him, tackling the Exo over and sending him sprawling onto the ash. Titan joined him, the pair grappling with the Exo, not sure which limb belonged to whom. The smoke was now engulfing the area as the fire spread, catching the vegetation. Animals were fleeing, birds taking flight and the land animals rushing to the water to try and escape.

Meanwhile, Aries and S1 were running, Saturn with them as they made it to the causeway. Aries and S1 skidded to a halt, unable to go further as the water was still up, but Saturn wasted no time in running. Mars followed, the pair splashing as they made their way to the second island. Aries turned to look at S1, who was looking at the water with worry, before turning his eyes back to the island as the flames started to rise higher.

“S1, go around. There should be rocks you can use to cross over. I’ll head the other direction and start finding another route. This is a rescue mission.”

“Aries...” S1 turned her eyes to him, taking his collar. She pulled him to her, kissing him, and he reciprocated. “Come back, my love. Come back.”

“I will.” He wasted no time in kissing her again, before turning and running. His feet skidded in the sand, as he glanced back to see S1 running to head to the rocks. He knew she could make the last jump.

Aries pushed further, going to the dock where he knew the boats were. He could use one to head over. There could be injured who need transportation!

He paused, his eyes widening as he saw a figure by the dock. A figure enshrined in shadow that moved like waves. His eyes were red as they turned to the Prince... a scar visible on his neck where Aries impaled him with a gemstone to save his mother.

“Hello, Aries,” a fondness came to the echoed voice. But Aries was frozen, staring. “Look how much you have grown these last few months. Your father would be so proud of you.”

Aries felt his hands curl into fists, his eyes narrowing as he stared into those red, lifeless orbs. The smile on the individual crawled on their features, as they realised the Prince was struck to silence.

“I expected fighting words. No matter... I see you have a predicament.”

Aries broke out his stupor, and charged. The shadowy figure sighed, and side stepped, grabbing his tail and pulling him harshly back. Aries roared, but the figure kept pulling, and Aries was sure it would break if they did not release him soon. He was thrown against the sand, and Aries scrambled up, his Core igniting as he released a Flare at the shadow. It, lazily, side stepped but Aries charged, ready to grapple.

He found himself thrown by an invisible Force, landing against the sand.

“Enough, child,” Entropy snarled. He tilted his head, stepping up to Aries as the Prince stood up again to engage. “I do not have time... nor do your friends for that matter.” His eyes scanned the fire, the increasing smoke. “I can save them, Aries. Those Exo Planets have done something unforgiveable to me. I will ensure they are punished.”

“Bullshit!” Aries yelled. “You caused this!”

“I caused nothing, Aries,” Entropy raid smoothly. He was calm compared to Aries, who was ignited into fire. The glow of his skin showed the gathering energy, ready to be used to the detriment of the recipient. Unfortunately, Entropy was not one individual to be taken lightly. “Exo Worlds are untamed for a reason. They do not care. And besides, they are harming my vessel.”

Vessel? Aries felt his anger diminish at the word. What vessel?

“Earth was born from chaos. Two worlds colliding to form one, his moon another outcome,” Entropy schooled. “And he attracts Chaos. Meteor strikes, extinctions... Earth is a prime example of Chaos run rampant. Random chances driven by myself, to create and advance. He is the perfect image of Chaos, and his humans... even more so.”

“You tried to destroy him...” Aries stammered.

“All a test to see how he would respond. He passed that test. Earth is the perfect example for chaos, so naturally I would be attracted to chaos. I came to realise he is more like me than anybody else... and I am more like him,” Entropy laughed. “Odd, isn’t it. In a way he is like my grandchild. Theia and Proto died to form him, driven by chaos to create order. And from order comes chaos. Two sides to a coin, formed in a perfect world. He will ignite the Universe with his Life, Aries.”

Entropy watched him, Aries unsure what to say or do.

“Unfortunately, I do not have the power to save him and the others. You cannot cross the water, and I do not want my vessel to die. You, in turn, do not want your friend to die. We are tied together, Aries. Through Earth. And it is because of Earth everything is happening now. How you were found again by your mother, your father... everything. You owe much to Earth, and by extension... me.”

Aries felt his temper flare at this. His lip curled as he growled.

“I owe you nothing.”

“That is a truth you will come to terms with, Aries,” Entropy said, tilting his head. A crash and Aries turned his head rapidly, seeing more flames rise from the trees. Panic filled him. “Oh, dearie me. History repeating itself once again, my dear Aries. You watching, unable to help... as the woman you love goes to rescue them.”

Aries felt ice hit his Core at that statement. Entropy knew... he knew about S1!

“She will meet resistance, and be unable to escape once she rescues them. Earth will be incinerated, and this world will die,” Entropy stepped forth, his eyes watching sadly. “I can help them, Aries. I can save them.”

Aries felt his hands curl to fists as he looked at Entropy, shaking.

“I can swim...”

“You will be stone the moment you step into that water,” Entropy interrupted. “And the boat will not take your weight. Or theirs. It is futile, but I can help...” He raised his hand, holding it out to him. “I can save the woman you love, your best friend, and the rest of them. I just need YOU.”

“Me?” Aries felt himself shaking.

“Yes, you. Your gifts. I am not yet at full strength and cannot manifest myself on the island to douse those flames. I want Earth to live. I will save him and everyone else. I just need you to give me that boost.”

No, don’t... it’s a trick.... but what if he is right? What if I... S1 is a Star but... I have to help her! I have to help them all!

The doubt hit his mind. His hands shook as he looked at Entropy. The shadow stepped forth, hand out, a crystal within his palm.

“Once I am done, you will not be harmed anymore. I will make sure of it. I just need...” Entropy took another step. “Your strength. But my offer has a time limit, Aries: do you want them to burn?”

“They can survive, they survived much worse,” Aries stammered.

“Are you willing to bet the life of your lover and friend for that?”

Aries looked back at the burning island, before his eyes turned to the hand with the gemstone. He shook slightly, before squeezing his eyes shut, tears hitting him. Something told him to not do this, that this was a trap. But the other part, the doubt...

“Tick tock,” Entropy was getting impatient. “Goes the clock, Aries.”

Another explosion sealed his choice.

Aries shook as his hand grasped Entropy’s own. The Force had a predatory smile as the gemstone activated. Aries felt his body grow weaker, smaller, his tail dissolving into gold mist as it disappeared. His legs almost gave way, but Entropy held him up as the crackling energy moved from his Core to the gemstone. His hair became grey and shoulder length, his cat-like eyes became an ice blue as they turned human...

Entropy released him and Aries fell into the sand, his hands before his eyes. Human hands. Pink and lined with age. He shook as the tears fell, feeling empty. His tail gone, no longer coming to his side. His clothes were gone, replaced with a black tee and trousers more fitting for a human.

A sparkle as Entropy held up the gemstone. He could see the swirling essence within.

“Finally...” Entropy whispered. “After all these years, I finally have it. The one essence I coveted for so long.”

Aries felt faint. His hands reached out to stabilise, as Entropy turned his red eyes to him. A cruel smile came to his maw, as he pressed a foot in Aries’ back, forcing him down. Aries swore his ribs broke as he was violently impacted on the ground.

“Stupid boy. Foolish boy. So driven by emotion, much like your father.”

“You... You said you would save them,” Aries whispered, his Russian accent breaking through. He was back... as Viktor Romanoff. His body ached, his chest hurt badly. “You vowed.”

“I lied. You were so blind and foolish to believe I would adhere to your wishes. You ignored your own Mother and now... you will Fall.” Entropy laughed. “Don’t worry, I will keep your Star safe. Who knows, if she becomes with Child, they will make a good soldier for me. You have doomed your family, Aries... now you will watch from here as your actions bear fruit.”

Aries tried to stand, to charge, but Entropy was too tall, too strong, and he found himself back on the ground. The Force laughed.

“You are human now, Aries. Is that not what you want? In your darkest thoughts... to go back to being human. To be free from all of this. You have your wish but now you get to watch as I kill your mother and destroy everything you hold dear.”

“Leave my mother and the others out of this!” Aries said, trying to muster strength in his voice. His eyes watched as Entropy began to move away, clearly not interested anymore, placing the gemstone around his neck.

“You had your chance to defend them, and so easily gambled your powers away. You are now powerless, Aries. Everything that happens now... is your fault.”

His eyes turned back to the downed human.

“So, be a good boy and die in the sand. Do not worry, Aries. You will be reunited with your father, then your mother will join you shortly after. You can spend eternity together. And if S1 fails to do as she is told... she will join you.”

He gave a scoff, eyes watching Aries.

“To think of your strong lineage. Being so close to the First Ones and more... a disappointment. To think that the Singularity had a hand in your existence... he would be so disappointed in you, Aries.”

He turned away.

“Now, I have a planet and star to obtain. In case you change your mind and rebel against me. To remind you that actions have serious consequences.”

A rip appeared in the air, shadows spreading as Entropy stepped through.

Aries sucked in a breath, oxygen filling him. He felt hands on his back, grey and white blur above his head. His eyes filled with tears as the darkness came to him.

What have I done...

Chapter Text

Venus roared.

His fist collided with the face of the stockier exoplanet, sending them stumbling before they reciprocated with their own blow to his face. Their claws flashed, and Venus was aware they had broken his skin, but that did not stop him from bringing his fists straight down on the head. The broad Exoplanet growled as his chin impacted on his chest, stumbling before bringing his left hand around to try to grab Venus in the face. The Volcanic World yelled as his face was grabbed, before bringing his elbow crashing down on the knee of the Exo.

A snap erupted in the clearing.

The Exo howled, leg broken, and was forced to release him. Venus felt his eyes flash as his temperature increased, and he lunged, hands on fire as he grabbed the Exo by their own face, burning them. Their skin melted, but Venus did not stop as he forced his knee into their stomach, driving them back against the tree. The Exo slumped against the bark, wounded and panting… before the Jaguar erupted from the bushes. Changed.

Her maw was broken open, large canines now protruding out as swords, impaling the shoulder as she dragged the downed Exo. Venus heard them begging, screaming for help, but he just stood there and watched. After all, Venus was already a killer: what was one more to add to the tally?

Venus growled, raising his hand to his face to finger the diagonal wound that crossed from his temple to his jaw on the other side. He felt his ears twitch; his nose burned from a new smell that assaulted him. His eyes turned upwards to see… black smoke. Which only meant one thing to Venus: fire. And if Earth AND Titan were still here, then that meant that they could be caught in the flames. And Venus could not allow that to happen!

He lost Theia; he would not lose her son, too. He vowed to protect the Boys, a quiet promise, and he would fulfil that.

A growl came from the bushes, and Venus turned his eyes to see the Jaguar emerge. It was mutating, in pain, but Venus was not interested in soothing them. Instead, he growled back, before turning and running to try and locate the source of the fire. He heard the hisses from behind, but they were far away within seconds as he ran.

When he woke, he noticed Earth’s room was empty. He called but got no response. Panic ensued, and he woke Mars and Saturn, who saw that Titan was missing as well. Venus had erupted into Aries’ room, startling the prince awake and the woman with him. Venus would have roared in anger at the sight! His adoptive son was missing, and the prince was… He barked a quick update and never saw Aries and S1 move so fast. He didn’t care about dignity as the prince and S1 hurriedly dressed, before running out of the house as fast as they could. Venus had run down the path, noticing some footsteps heading to the beach. He had hoped so much that Earth and Titan were just messing around at the beach, but then he saw… the causeway down at the second island. Footprints in the harder sand led to the island. Venus wasted no time, running to the causeway, ignoring the pain as he rushed into the water to try and cross.

And now there was fire.

Black smoke got closer as Venus ran to the south of the island, and he could see fresh flames start to erupt in the vegetation. Venus shoved trees down, sending them to the ground as he tried to make a barrier of some sort to prevent the spread. A yell brought him back to the current predicament, and Venus leapt over a fallen trunk into the fire. It never hurt him, even as it engulfed him, and he continued to run as fast as he could through the fire as branches and leaves fell. Animals darted around him, trying to find a way to escape the flames, but some were not so fortunate. Venus ignored their corpses, knowing that it would not matter if Earth died. A few small Earthlings paled when compared to trillions upon trillions.

A crash, and Venus saw Titan get thrown into a tree that was just catching light. Venus growled and rushed to the Moon, before seeing Earth dodge and duck a very clearly fire-happy exo. Venus roared, running to the exo, and Earth glanced around to see him before dropping to the ground, Venus tackling the exo to the ground and rolling. The exo roared, before turning his attention to Venus now, sending a fist into Venus’ already wounded face. The Volcanic World coughed, his nose broken, but drove another fist into their ribs. The exo brought their teeth down onto Venus’ shoulder, and he howled as their sharp canines broke his skin, before Earth rushed to the exo and grabbed their arm, hauling them away and causing their teeth to make a large groove in Venus’ shoulder.

The exo turned, their fist now on fire as they brought it around to try and impact on Earth’s face. The living world released them, and they overbalanced, before their hand grabbed Earth by the ankle. The scream caused Venus to return to the present, as he watched a horrific burn start to spread up Earth’s leg where the hand had grabbed him. Venus brought his heel down on the head of the exo, ending their existence.

Earth stumbled and fell, wincing as he held his ankle. Venus panted, hand on his shoulder as he walked to Earth, trying to see what to do. Titan was staggering as he walked to them, his orange eyes barely hiding his pain and discomfort. The smoke was choking them, Venus realised. The pair were living worlds, and they could not survive without a lack of oxygen or whatever was required. Earth was breathing more rapidly, trying to get oxygen into his body and keep going. Venus wasted no time in reaching down and grabbing his adoptive son by the arm, hoisting him up before turning his eyes to Titan, barking for the Moon to get his arse up and moving.

Titan winced before standing carefully, coughing. Venus ripped his sleeve and pressed it against Titan’s mouth, before doing the same with Earth. Earth held it to his mouth and nose, dulling the smoke and its effects better. Venus pushed Earth ahead, trying to get them both moving. The fire was now all around them, and Venus could just about command it to clear a space. He could see a figure ahead, his eyes narrowing as he tried to recognise them… but as they stepped through the fire unharmed, Venus tensed.

They had a broken glowing halo, indicating they were a star – or former. Her hair was golden white, skin dark and eyes glowing like diamonds. She towered over Venus, but that did not stop him from roaring and running forth to try and tackle them. This star was NOT S1, or any other S-Cluster Stars.

“RUN! TITAN, EARTH RUN!”

Titan grabbed Earth and helped to haul him away. The S-Cluster Star narrowed her eyes, a grin appearing on her features as she watched the pair leave before turning her eyes to Venus. Venus tensed, his skin now ablaze as he ran at the Star to try and get her before she could take his son and Titan.

But as he grabbed a branch and brought it around, it split against her head. And did nothing to move her.

“Idiot. I am a star, a former S-Cluster Star. I am not your average Dwarf,” She grabbed the branch from Venus’ arms, ripping it out. She tossed it to the side. “I am one of the strongest stars in this Galaxy. And you, a puny pathetic failure of a planet, are nothing to me.”

“Shut the fuck up!” Venus lunged, and the star side-stepped him. He twisted and charged into her, but her feet planted so firmly in the ground that he could not move her an inch. She grabbed Venus by the hair, throwing him away, and he crashed onto the ground. Her eyes looked at where Earth and Titan were, now a bit further away, and she started walking towards them. Venus pulled himself up before running at the star. Her eyes flashed, and she turned around and raised a hand –

Venus found himself floating. He was held in the air, frozen, as the star curled her hand into a claw. Her mouth twitched into a smirk, before she pushed him with a slight flick of her hand, sending Venus flying through the trees that were ablaze. He found himself landing on the ground, rolling before he felt nothing… and then water. Venus was falling to the depths, his eyes staring up at the fiery skies above the surface, his eyes dulling as they began to lose their spark.

“Theia… I am so sorry. I…”  Venus felt his eyes close. “I failed you again.”

He hit the bottom, bubbles escaping his mouth and nose… before a loud splash. Venus opened his eyes and watched a feline shape come towards him, reaching out with his hand, and Venus grabbed it. Their face sharpened, and he was relieved to see Mars… and then another feline, Saturn, swimming down to wrap his arms around Venus under his own and push off. Mars kicked with his legs, going to Saturn to help the Gas Giant. Since when… could Mars swim? But as Venus was pulled out, he coughed and spluttered, relieved to be feeling the soft sand instead of the hard dirt. He raised his eyes to see Mars turn and race to the forest, while Saturn focused on tending to Venus.

“Earth…” He coughed, his consciousness swimming. “Safe… find… danger…”

“I know; S1 is already on route,” Saturn whispered. “She will get him. I promise, Venus.”

Meanwhile, Titan sensed the star approaching from behind. He turned his eyes to them, the female shoving the trees to the side as she quickened her stride to try and reach them before they would do something stupid. Titan wanted to try and get Earth to a body of water, knowing that the star would NOT follow… but the star was now ready to grab them. He dropped Earth suddenly, causing protest, and Titan turned with a roar, his feline features puffing up as he lunged at the star.

The star was shocked but hissed as she tried to swat the moon off her. Titan began clawing at her face, aiming for the eyes and the throat. But she was instantly grabbing him, holding the smaller humanoid at arm’s length before throwing Titan back into the fire behind her. Earth could hear his screams and yelled desperately for Titan. He tried to get to his feet, his burned ankle blistering, focusing on any body of water. But the female star reached out, her hand curled into a claw, ready to grab him –

Her ear twitched, and Earth saw a figure running towards them both. His eyes widened, and he threw himself down as the figure pushed off the nearest downed trunk and gave a roar, her hands ready as they sparked. The female star ducked them as they landed, the younger star spinning and moving back to tackle. Earth felt his eyes widen as he recognised S1, the female star, going for a grapple, but the enemy star pushed her back, trying to create distance. S1 crouched, before pouncing again, sparks flying in her hand as she grabbed the enemy star by the head. The other screeched loudly and rammed her hands into the torso of S1, pushing her up and over. S1 went to Earth, crouching protectively before him, her bright pupils narrowed as she bared her teeth in anger.

“Lady S1,” The other star sneered. “I see you have arrived to save Earth. How predictable.”

“Not as predictable as you,” S1 snarled. Her hands were ready to go, Earth standing behind her as he tried to focus on something to try and help the S-Cluster Star. “Going after Earth, the First… You need a new strategy.”

“Oh, I am just here to collect what is rightfully Entropy’s,” the other star snarled, pacing like a predator as she watched S1. A smirk crawled onto her features. “I am surprised you are here and not with Aries… should you not be protecting HIM than this planet?”

Earth felt his Core run cold, eyes widening.

“What do you mean?” He stammered.

“Entropy has… paid a visit to the prince,” the star laughed manically. Her halo sparked, a small piece falling onto the ground and turning to dust. “I imagine he is human now.” She noticed the pause in S1’s form, and Earth sucked in a breath. “Ah, I see. Aries wanted you two to be safe! He would do anything to save you two… even sacrificing himself and his immortality and doom the rest of the Galaxy!”

“YOU BITCH!” S1 lunged, and her hands grabbed the other star. The star laughed, grappling back before shoving S1 around, making her fall.

“Careful now, S1… Just in case,” Her eyes scanned S1, and Earth saw them land on S1’s stomach. “Just in case you carry some precious cargo in there. Unnatural breeds Unnatural, and you decided to allow that to happen. You need to be more mindful and behave yourself.”

“SHUT UP!” S1 got up, and Earth felt the rage from the female. She brought a tree around, using gravity and the other star reciprocated in kind. Earth raised his hands, vines rushing up the ground and wrapping around the star’s ankles, tripping her. The hiss came from the canines as she turned her attention to Earth, and he focused as best he could… and a raindrop fell on his cheek.

“S1, run! Hurry!” He called. “There is a cave nearby… go to it!”

But the female S-Cluster was not listening. She took advantage of the downed enemy to grab her throat, and the other star hissed as she punched S1 in the face, breaking their nose. The enemy star ignited into fire, burning the vines before raising a hand to Earth – and he felt himself pulled. The raindrops stopped as Earth was sent flying into S1, cracking her body as she fell to the ground with a slam. His surface trembled as he rolled, before… the heat.

FIRE.

HE WAS ON FIRE!

“EARTH!” S1 grabbed him, and he was pulled away, but he was screaming. His body was burned, and her hands patted down frantically as she desperately stopped the flames, her eyes wide as he relaxed. Earth calmed himself, his left leg scorched. His eyes turned to face S1, full of tears – before he saw the enemy star behind her.

“LOOK OUT!”

They brought their fist around, and a rock collided with S1, sending her to the ground. Earth gasped as he turned his attention back to the other star, curling his lip to try and push himself back up to tackle her. But S1 was already turning her hands around, her Core lighting up and causing Earth to dive out of the way – just in time as a Flare erupted. The other star growled as the Flare narrowly missed her, before grabbing the wrists to try and force S1 to the ground. Earth jumped on the back, grabbing her neck and covering her eyes, making the star release S1 to focus on trying to get Earth off her. S1 lunged too, but was off-balanced, her tackle hitting the other female star in the waist as she forced them down on the ground. Earth yelped as the star landed on him but wrapped his legs around their arms to keep them restrained.

The fire continued to close in, and Earth was feeling a lot of heat and the smoke closing in on him. He saw the female star kick at S1, sending her to the ground. But S1 got up with a groan, turning her hand back at Earth AND the star, Earth scrambling to get free as the Flare erupted out. But the hand was pushed upwards, and S1 found a hand around her throat, bringing her down to her knees. Earth felt his eyes widen as the familiar form of the Black Hole that attacked Helios appeared, licking his lips as his eyes widened with anticipation. S1 struggled, but could not get released, and the black hole snarled before driving his hand down to pin her against the ground.

“Gentle, Lord Hadrian,” The star sneered, turning and reaching for Earth. He yelped as she grabbed his burned leg, pulling him towards her. “She may carry precious cargo. Entropy wants the woman to be alive. And well. In case Aries seems to forget that actions have consequences.”

“Shame,” The Black Hole growled. He released S1’s neck, turning his eyes to Earth as he yelped again when the star forced him to the ground. Earth wasted no time in scrambling to S1 to make sure she was alright. The star was shaking slightly before a groan escaped, gently pushing herself up. “Stay down, Star. I don’t want to hurt you… and I AM getting hungry.”

“You will not be feeding on either of them.”

The voice sent chills up Earth’s spine. His azure eyes widened as he looked around to see a shadow move through the fire, parting it with very little effort. The shadow stepped to them, the star grabbing Earth and pulling him away from S1. The Black Hole wasted no time in doing the same with the fallen S-Cluster Star, pushing her to her knees as the shadow looked them both over. A gemstone glowed around his neck, a swirling gold essence within. It made Earth… tremble to look at the gemstone. He could feel a sense of familiarity within it.

Aries…

“These two are to be taken to our base,” Entropy rumbled. “I require them to ensure Aries behaves. While I have his Celestial essence, I do not believe he will allow these two out of his sight. We require leverage, as I am sure that Aries will convince his mother not to attack the system… which will ensure we can use the Weapon developed by these humans against our allocated targets.”

“You could have killed Aries once you stole his essence,” Earth rasped, struggling in the Star’s grip. “Why didn’t you?”

“Why?” Entropy turned a fond look to the planet, and Earth was greatly uncomfortable by it. He shrank back as Entropy approached, lowering a hand to cup the chin of the living world, the look remaining. Why was Entropy looking at him like this? Did he miss something because this man tried to kill him several months ago? “Because this is more fun, my dear Earth.”

Earth felt his temper rise. He scowled, glaring at the shadow as he made to run away.

“You are sick in the head. You destroyed S2 and Sagittarius’ lives, murdered S2, caused so much destruction and chaos… now, because of a boy impaling you, you seek revenge because you got one upped by someone who should be beneath you!”

Entropy scowled, turning his red eyes to Earth.

“I would punish you for that,” His eyes burned like fire. But then a pleasant smile came to his features. “But I am proud of you for speaking up, Earth. Nevertheless, I feel nothing in the way of guilt for what they have done to themselves. For what you all have done to yourselves. Granted, some of you needed a little… push to go down the path of destruction.”

Earth gave a scowl, not convinced. S1 was struggling against Hadrian, trying to break free from the grip of the Black Hole, but he was holding her far too tight. She hissed, kicking at him, before Entropy made his way to the Star to subdue her. Earth inhaled as fear gripped him: S1 didn’t know!

Before he could call to her, Entropy grabbed the Star by her white-gold hair, pushing his influence. She faltered, falling unconscious as he commanded her to sleep, Hadrian wasting no time in hoisting her over his shoulders. Earth felt the other star grab him, resisting as best he could, but a warning glance from Entropy caused him to stop. Earth’s azure eyes focused on S1, hoping she was going to be alright.

Entropy reached out, giving an affectionate place of a hand on Earth’s hair, stroking it. Much, too much, like a relative would do. Earth pulled away, baring his teeth at the Force to get him to back off, hissing.

“Now, now, young Earth,” Entropy hummed. “All will be clear to you soon enough. Come: it is time to bring you home.”

The Force turned, waving a hand to summon a rip in the fabric of space and time. Earth felt his eyes widen as he saw the pristine white of the snowy north, the cold hitting him as he was pushed through the portal with his feet touching the freezing air of his Northern Pole. His teeth chattered before he felt the star pull him closer so her heat could keep him going. Earth wanted to resist, but every time he did, he was forced to be back in her grip to stay warm. His eyes widened as they approached an abandoned facility, seeing Celestials moving around it. Sheets of ice dropped into a lake that Entropy navigated with ease, Earth noting a couple of Polar Bears roaming around to hunt, but their eyes looked… empty. Even he could not connect with them.

As they entered the main warehouse… Earth saw it. The stolen weapon was held in the centre of the room. A giant crossbow made of strong metals, the string missing to show a mechanism that could be wound back before firing. Earth’s eyes widened as he spotted three large harpoons, made of glistening gemstones.

“Beautiful, is it not?” The Star holding Earth grinned. “Even Sagittarius cannot stop a harpoon for her chest. But… that is for Entropy to decide. Since we now have a spare harpoon due to Aries becoming human. He is easier to kill as your feeble earthling.”

“Shut up,” Earth growled, the coldness hitting his skin. But the Star laughed, knowing he could do absolutely nothing against her. Her hands grabbed his arms as Hadrian took S1 towards a door, the Star dragging him over to.

“Off to the cells. We have some… special things for you both.”

“That makes me feel so special,” Earth said sarcastically. The Star pushed him through, down a corridor and to a room, throwing the planet inside. Earth winced, looking back to see Hadrian throw S1 in after him, before the female star slammed the door shut, his hands pressing against the floor before he stood to try and break the door down. But his hand burned at touching it, and he winced, eyes looking it over. “Hey!”

No response. Earth scowled before turning his attention back to S1. Worry hit him, and he ran to her, checking her over quickly. Just unconscious, still alive. Fearing over what the female star said, Earth hesitantly lowered his hand to her stomach but found nothing within. Maybe it was too soon? What if she were pregnant and he just… screwed all this up?

S1 groaned, and Earth swiftly removed his hand, turning his azure eyes to her. Her eyes fluttered open, and the bright irises met his as she slowly sat up, coughing as she tried to get to her feet. Earth grabbed her arm, holding her firm.

“Easy. You got a nasty bump.”

S1 nodded, wincing, before following his instructions as she got to her feet. Earth felt tiny compared to the tall star, so he turned his eyes to the room. It was strange. It had a door up in the ceiling, and where they were was the lowest point of the room, steps rising on either side. This was a strange room.

“What is this?” S1 asked, her eyes scanning the area. Her ears twitched, and a rattling came above their heads as a speaker erupted into existence.

“Hello, hello! Can you hear me, my dear S1?” It was the female star!

“Bitch!” Earth yelled, but she did not acknowledge his statement.

“I gather from your wordless shout that you can. Good. Entropy wants to be sure you both behave while you stay here, so let me give you a rundown of this room: this is a chamber that has been altered to deliver your worst nightmares! Basically, a star, as we learned from dear Helios, cannot be subjected to a rapid decrease in temperature all around its body. When Helios was thrown into the fountain, he was submerged and began cooling so rapidly his body would have gone into shock… And he would have been stoned and died.”

Earth turned his eyes to S1, worried. The female star paled in her dark skin, and the door above opened, narrowly missing them both. Earth was pushed back by S1, leaning against the wall as water started to trickle in, the pair scrambling up the steps to the higher areas. S1 was breathing rapidly, in fear, as she stared at the small trickle of water entering the room.

“So, let me make this very clear, S1. If you and Earth do anything suspicious, this chamber door will open, and more water will enter. Each rebellious thought, any suspicious activity, opens and more enter. Soon, the level will hit the higher steps, and you will be trapped.”

Earth made to open his mouth, but the female star cut across.

“Ah, don’t worry, Earth. This isn’t just any water: it is ice. Cold. You are a world of life and are so vulnerable to temperature fluctuations! As you have shown us, fire can hurt you. Why not ice? You will freeze as the temperature plummets with the water entering. Plus, as the level gets higher, you will start feeling the effects of the cold, too. You will freeze. A Star, frozen in time, and the world of life a rotting corpse.”

“If I die…” Earth stammered. “Then…”

“Oh, don’t worry about that either. We have our ways.”

The door opened again, and more water trickled in. Earth felt the chill, his eyes widening as he watched more join what was already present. He noticed S1 was hyperventilating, watching the minimal level, shaking, and Earth slowly made his way towards her to ensure he did not slip. His hand touched hers, and she started, looking at him with her eyes filled with tears.

“We will get out… we will be okay,” Earth tried to soothe her. “They will get to us. I promise.”

His hand took hers more tightly, and she nodded, trembling. Earth curled against her, shaking, remembering how when he was small… and afraid… Helios would stroke his hair. Comforting. He did not always do that.

Help us. Please.

The words hit Venus like a cannonball.

He stared awake, eyes wide, as he grabbed the nearest individual near him. Saturn yelped at the burning grip, turning his golden eyes to him and raising the other hand to try to soothe the disoriented volcanic world. Venus yelped at his shoulder, looking down slightly to see that it was heavily padded and bandaged, but the molten blood was staining. His eyes located Mars, who was speaking in hushed tones to Luna, who was indicating… a human sitting on the couch. Venus searched his mind, trying to figure out who it was… then it hit him.

“Aries…?”

The human looked at him with tear-stained blue eyes before he pressed his hands to his face. Venus shook off Saturn and shakily got up, walking to the human with his emotions carefully controlled. What happened? How did Aries… become human…?

“I found him. On the beach,” Luna explained quickly. “Entropy did this to him.”

Venus turned his eyes back to Aries, seeing that the human was shaking badly. But fury started to grip on Venus’ core: how did Aries lose his celestial self?! He had to know!

“What. Happened?”

“Venus, I think anger would be…” Mars started, but Aries opened his mouth. The familiar Russian accent was shaking, small, feeble. Venus knew he most definitely could not punch Aries now, because he would sooner kill him if he did so.

“He… manipulated me. Said he can save them because Earth… he said Earth was important to him,” Aries had more tears falling. “He could stop the fire, and I believed him. I foolishly believed him!”

Venus lost it.

His fist came around and hit the wall, sending the drywall flying as it fell to the ground and shattered further. He roared, his skin ignited, as he turned his rage now to the nearest objects. Mars stepped before Aries, protecting him, and Luna darted behind the couch to prevent himself from being on the receiving end of the rage. Aries recoiled, staring as Venus finally stopped, his fists curled as he turned his burning eyes back to the prince.

“You… caused this. My son is gone because you believed the fucking monster that MURDERED YOUR OWN FATHER BEFORE YOU!” Venus bore down on Aries, causing the human to push back to cower away from him. “You… I WARNED YOU, ARIES, THAT IF MY BOYS ARE HURT, I WILL END YOU!”

“VENUS!” The voice of Saturn broke through before Venus reached for Aries, the golden feline stepping before Aries and Mars, who also took a defensive stance before Aries. The Ringed Planet narrowed his eyes, curling his lip. “Do not lay your hands on him. Or anybody!”

“HE IS THE REASON EARTH IS GONE!” Venus roared, trying to side-step Saturn, but the Ringed Planet pushed back. Saturn towered over the angry Rocky Planet, whose eyes were focused only on Aries. “HE SHOULD HAVE DIED INSTEAD!”

Aries winced, tears running fast down his cheeks. His hands were shaking, and Venus felt no guilt at making him cry or be afraid. Venus had warned him what would happen, and he would act appropriately. He vowed to settle the matter with Aries should Earth or Luna get hurt. And he always kept his promises.

“We need help, and killing each other is not going to make things better,” Saturn said sternly. “My moon is also missing and on that island. But I do NOT blame Aries for that! Earth and Titan knew not to go to that island alone, but they did anyway.”

“Don’t you fucking dare-.”

“I dare because it is true,” Saturn roared. Rarely did the nicest planet lose his temper, but now the room shook. Venus was stunned to silence as Saturn towered over him, his claws out on the paws, and his tail moving frantically. “Look. We need to keep a level head because right now, we have three to save. And there is only one way we can save Earth and S1 because we are going against a Force of Nature that will be too strong for us planets alone to deal with.”

“If Sagittarius comes here, she will go ballistic,” Mars started, but Saturn cut across him.

“We aren’t going to contact the Core. Not yet, but we need a star’s help…” Saturn turned to Luna, who realised what Saturn was meaning. They needed someone to alert Proxima. She could lend power and aid that could help them rescue S1 AND Earth, while the others went to find Titan. “Luna, you MUST go and speak to Proxima. We need her aid before we contact the Core for help ourselves. By the time they arrive, it could be too late… and if Sagittarius finds out, she will consume us. With our own Star incapable of helping due to his healing, she is the best we have.”

“And what if she can’t help us?” Venus did not let his eyes leave Aries. The anger was so strong that they thought he would ignite before them. “She is leaving!”

“Then she might be able to send her brother stars instead,” Saturn retorted. He kept before Venus in case the planet did something he would regret. Saturn knew that Sagittarius would murder Venus if Aries was harmed in any way. “Now, back off… Luna, you know how to get back?”

“Yes,” Luna whispered. He turned his eyes to Aries, who avoided his eyes, before looking at Mars. “I… I can do this. Please, be careful, all of you. We don’t know what they have planned if we attempt a rescue.”

Saturn nodded, watching the moon slide out towards the garden. He sighed, turning his eyes to Aries, wishing he could comfort the prince. But found he could not. How could he? It wasn’t nice being manipulated. And Aries was young and foolish: he would one day be more suspicious of matters such as that. But for now, Saturn had to do what he could to keep everyone together.

Jupiter, I really need you, my love…

In the marketplace of the Kuiper Belt, sitting in run-down clothing with the black hole known as Gaia BH1, the pinkish feline flicked his ears. He turned his golden eyes inwards, seeing the compound ahead, before he stood. The black hole stood, her eyes narrowing as though realising what was about to happen, and he nodded. Gaia BH1 nodded back before leaving the table, her drink untouched.

The feline stepped out from the chair, heading down the steps, his tail flicking. He knew what he needed to do.

I am coming, Saturn.

As his golden eyes turned to the compound, the Red Dwarf known as Proxima was sitting beside the sleeping form of Helios, reading a book. Her eyes lifted to him, seeing his peaceful features, before sighing. Her hand reached out to touch her fellow star’s gently, before a sigh escaped her lips. She placed the book down on the bedside table before standing to exit the room. Unaware of what has transpired on the surface of Earth.

But someone else was aware.

As the door closed, the quiet form of Helios twitched. His brow furrowed.

“Help us… someone…”

His skin flared to life with an orange glow, the yellow patches blinding. His lip curled into a snarl as he sensed the presence of Luna running to his compound. To tell Proxima what had happened. That his planet had been taken.

Titan stared into the eyes of the former inhabitant of the now Burned Island. The Jaguar was completely different, larger, muscular, vicious. It's ears were split into four, lips pulled back to reveal teeth like swords. It turned its four eyes to him, before roaring loudly - a roar not heard before on Earth. And yet, Titan smiled, the creature responding with a head tilt as it brought itself down in a bow. Submitting to him.

His Halo sparked into life, sending rays of yellow and red out. The increasing pressure from him caused Proxima to rush in, worried, before freezing. Behind her was the form of Earth’s moon, Luna, and Helios’s closest planet, Mercury. Luna’s eyes widened at seeing the Star reignite, his hands coming to his mouth.

“He’s back…” Mercury whispered.

“And…” Luna whispered, trembling behind Proxima. “He is going to be so pissed.”

Pissed off was an understatement.

His wounds closed over, resembling nothing but light scars on his skin. His Core burned to life, fusing once again, as the healing trance faded. Could sense everything. He knew what had to be done. And this time, he was not going to fail.

His eyes opened. But instead of blue…

They were ignited with fire.

Helios had awakened.

End of Part Two

Chapter Text

PART THREE 

The library was now completely open, and moons had entered through the doors with excitement. Uranus was in, getting some art books, awkward as always and sitting in a corner to conduct his studies. For Ganymede, seeing the library so full of a wide variety of individuals was a blessing, and hopefully meant they could keep the library open permanently. X had not said anything about it, aside from his usual scowl at times. A small victory for the Galilean Moons.

Europa was with the younger ones, reading a story. Callisto was hiding between the shelves, whereas Io was waving his hands enthusiastically at the books for a couple of Saturnian moons. Seeing his fellow moons so happy now made Ganymede feel a sense of accomplishment. But his eyes darted to the back section, locked and inaccessible. He was so desperate to get in there and see the texts himself, but he knew their star would not be open to what he considered a lowly being having access to those ancient scrolls. It irritated Ganymede, simply because knowledge – as Jupiter had said many times – was precious and to be shared. But if the texts were dangerous, having them in the hands of a moon like Proteus would be disastrous.

Another issue with the star that he had, Ganymede thought distastefully. Helios believed himself so high and mighty that anything less than a star was redundant and shouldn’t advance in their thoughts. He ruled the system like a dictator, punishing severely, making demands that completely decimated his planets AND moons. He played God with the Planets and by proxy their moons. And it angered Ganymede that the star was allowed to do this, with nobody willing to talk back but Jupiter… who was now gone. Ganymede losing his role model was devastating to his confidence, but the news that Helios could be hurt was more important. He was not as powerful as everyone thought he was.

His green eyes found a couple of moons, confused about where to go. Giving a smile, Ganymede approached – and the door to the library crashed open. He spun around, eyes wide, before his mouth opened by itself. The appearance of their star, furious beyond measure, followed by the temporary replacement in the form of the Red Dwarf, made Ganymede tense, especially as he saw that their star was fully recovered. Healed. There was no way that Ganymede could approach the star with his request: Helios would sooner incinerate him than allow a mere moon to approach him over these matters.

Behind him was the smallest planet, Mercury. And by his side was… Luna…

Why was Luna here? Did he not go down to the surface? His features were panicked, and it concerned Ganymede. Where was Titan, too? Did something happen to him? While they were not friends, Ganymede still felt some care towards the other moon. He was a leader but never had the mindset. Yet, Titan started something with his actions and helped improve the lives of many moons. Ganymede cared somewhat for the moon but not enough... oh, who was he kidding?! Not seeing Titan was scary!

Before he could open his mouth to question, Helios turned his red eyes to Ganymede. Were his eyes not always blue?

“Clear the tables,” His voice was harsh and brittle. “Do not dally. Move them!”

Ganymede wasted no time in following the Star’s instructions. He and the other moons began doing exactly that, Luna and Mercury following as Helios strode towards the back door where his personal collection was. Proxima dogged his steps but paused when Helios gave her a silent signal to step back. Her red eyes scanned the area as the moons set to work, Ganymede turning his eyes to Luna to ask – but the other moon shook his head, shaking violently. Did something happen to Earth?! Was this why Helios was so angry? What about the other planets? Did something bad happen to them, too? Losing Jupiter was a disaster, but to lose Saturn would be death to the system. Ganymede recognised the importance of that absent-minded planet.

With the table cleared, all eyes fell to Helios as he stepped out, carrying a very thick book. The Star growled, Proxima behind him with wide eyes as she opened her mouth to probably say something snarky to the other star. But then Ganymede watched as the Sun threw the book up into the air. He almost expected it to crash down.

Instead, the covers opened, and the pages flew out, becoming a long scroll that was in the air before Helios. The Star raised his hands, palms up, as he stared back at the pages with his now red eyes, scanning each other before curling his lip. Ganymede felt the fear of the moons, Uranus turning his blue eyes to the star with an open mouth, before Helios spoke. Ganymede felt insignificant to the Star, not for the first time. Seeing his true strength in this form, when all Ganymede had known recently was that the wounded and frail star was humbling. He had clearly thought an adversary that was too strong, but now… now he could see why the star acted how he did. Granted, he acted too rashly at times, but so did Ganymede.

He still did not respect the star.

“My system is in danger. Evil walks its halls. I call upon the aid of Electromagnetism and Gravity to appeal for their strength. I, Helios, request your help.”

Two pages burned out of them all, and Helios’ palms ignited. The Star growled, before the book and its pages fell to the ground, ruined. Ganymede felt his eyes widen at the sight as the book dissolved into nothingness, before Helios stepped over the pages and made his way to the door. Proxima was trembling before she followed the taller Star. Luna turned his eyes to them, before making to rush to them.

“You will stay, Luna,” Helios said, pausing at the door. He did not turn around. “And Mercury. This is not a matter for planets and moons but stars. Because where Proxima and I are going requires the most aggressive of handling.”

Proxima seemed to realise what Helios had said, tensing and curling her hands into fists. A curl of her lip, and her halo burned brighter. Ganymede felt insignificant now as he saw them. Stars were clearly not to be messed with… he should have realised that when he shouted in the Sun’s face, calling him a dictator and warning him that if he continued, he would face a revolution. The Sun truly was overpowering at times, with all that strength, and he never cared to use it.

Until now.

Ganymede watched the stars leave, whispers starting to descend onto the room. The pages and cover of the book remained on the ground, Callisto slowly coming forth to pick them up. Her hands started collecting the pages, her eyes staring at the now blank sheets, and the spine lacking the ancient words. Ganymede glanced at Luna, who was clearly upset, and saw a couple of the Saturnian moons approach him to offer comfort. The moon was telling them what happened: that Earth had been taken, as was the S-Cluster Star, and that they were all in danger. Ganymede was surprised that Luna was willing to do what the star told him. Luna never allowed his planet to face whatever by himself: he was always there for him. He was loyal to a fault.

“And Titan?” Iapetus was asking.

“I-I saw him go with Earth… he might be trapped. I don’t think-.”

“Then why are we standing here?” Ganymede grunted. Eyes turned to him as he stepped forward, his shoulders squared. Europa eyed him in concern. “To Hell with what our star said: one of the moons is trapped. Your planet is trapped. You always follow Earth around, and are loyal: why you just standing here complaining?”

“Sun gave an order,” Enceladus said firmly. “We cannot just…”

“Yes, we can,” Ganymede retorted. Callisto and Io looked at each other in determination but also alarm. “He expects us to sit back while the System is in danger. To let this enemy steamroll us?”

“Ganymede, we only just got back,” Europa snarked at her partner. He felt his ear flick as she stepped by his side, her hand grasping his. “If we disobey the Sun, he could banish us. All of us.”

“The Sun cannot fight them all by himself, even with the other star,” Ganymede argued back. “And you heard him: the system is in danger. We were all taught by Jupiter, and we all know that when our System is under threat everyone is to act. Moons as well as planets, and stars.” His eyes hovered to see Uranus, the Ice Giant watching them and listening intently. “So, we gonna let them go and sit back, or we gonna do something about it?”

The moons present looked at one another before Uranus drew in a breath. He frowned before stepping forward, towering over the rest of them. Ganymede watched the Ice Giant for a moment, and the pale blue giant awkwardly said.

“I will grab who I can here, too.” His eyes found Mercury, who gave a determined nod. “Mercury will go grab whoever else can go down themselves. We will join you as quickly as we can. I will see if I can find Neptune and X.”

Ganymede grunted before he saw Callisto staring at him as the usually aloof Ice Giant left. Her purple and black eyes were looking deep within his Core, but Ganymede did not let his gaze deviate. He was not going to allow her to intimidate him. Ganymede had to be a leader now. And if they were going to let the stars and planets handle everything all the time, then the moons would only prove themselves to be useless. He turned his eyes to Luna, seeing Earth’s Moon start to move from his distress to determination, nodding as he looked at Ganymede. While Ganymede tried to kill Luna in the past, this time, things were now above them. Well above them all.

“Let us get ready. And we join them down on that island,” Ganymede grunted. “The Galilean Moons and Major Saturnian Moons. Luna, you are coming… Mercury and Uranus can gather whoever else is needed, and head down and join us.”

Time to show them all that Moons are capable.

Meanwhile, as he walked out of the library, Helios was aware that Proxima was by his side. His fiery eyes turned to see X appear, the Ice Giant pausing on the way to the library, but Helios paid him no mind. Instead, the Yellow Dwarf continued walking, silent. He could tell Proxima wanted to speak with him, but right now, Helios did not care to calm down. Helios had told Aries off about being open with his relationship towards S1, and maybe with the others, but it could be his mere presence had caused an acceleration of events to occur. Helios cared deeply for the boy, like a father to a child. While he can never replace S2, he could still guide the boy through the pathways so that he becomes a more responsible man. And Aries did not want that from their relationship.

A flash of a newborn Aries in the arms of his mother, sleeping and content. Unaware of the journey he would be facing, and the devastation his presence could have caused. Helios wished he could go back in time and offer to raise the child himself. Maybe then, things could have been prevented. Aries would be raised with love and support, not being forced to hide himself all the time.

A sudden touch of his arm, and Helios returned to the present. His fiery eyes found Proxima’s own, her reddish skin glowing with her own hidden anger. But when he looked closely at her, he noted it was not anger but exhaustion. What had happened while he was comatose in his healing trance? Did Proxima realise just how difficult he had it in this system as a lone star?

“Before you go down, you need to tether yourself.” There it was. Helios knew it was coming. “Going down there angry may mean you say or do something you will later regret. Aries…”

“My planet is kidnapped, and others too. Do you think I should care about Aries right now?” Helios snapped at her. Proxima winced. “I warned that boy about his foolishness. I warned him. And he intentionally ignored me. Now I must pick him back up again and save him from himself.”

“Helios, he is young and learning,” Proxima argued back. Her hand grabbed his arm, pausing him. “And going there in anger will only exacerbate the issues even further. He looks up to you and cares deeply about what you say. Aries does not need condemnation but support.”

Support… Helios would scoff if he could. No, he had done enough with the supporting. Now was the time for action, because if nobody else was going to act, he was. His eyes located the pathway that would lead him back to his compound, but he cared more about going to the Gemstone gardens because he needed to head down to the island. Proxima grabbed his arm with her other hand, pulled him back, and caused him to turn his lip at her, showing a golden canine.

“What?”

“You cannot just go down there by yourself. What if that black hole is there too? You need to bring some backup, like your Ice Giants. Saturn is already down there, as are Venus and Mars: we do not know what state they are all in, and this could be an ambush waiting to happen. You need someone with you.”

“I have someone,” Helios said. His eyes bore into her scarlet ones as he turned fully to her. Proxima inhaled. “I have you.”

Proxima released him, her eyes unsure. She looked around, as though seeking something, but then Helios took her hand and brought her back to him. Proxima looked back at Helios, chewing her lip as she thought over his words. And he knew why she hesitated: her time was nearly up. Helios was healed and could return to his duties. Which meant Proxima did not have to remain… but… He could see she was worried due to Aries and S1. They had a duty of care to the prince. And he needed them. Even if it was just bringing back a body of some kind for Sagittarius.

“You are the only one who can help me, Proxima,” Helios pushed her. “It would take time for you to get me aid from Rigil and Tolimon, and my Ice Giants are not as strong as they should be. Uranus and Neptune are still recovering from the fighting a few months ago. X cannot help me alone… we need stars to go down. It is up to us.”

“Sagittarius…” Proxima started but realised why the Queen would not go. If Sagittarius found out her son was possibly dead… her rage would be cataclysmic. Many innocents in the solar system would die, and even Helios. She would not allow or accept them back. “Okay… okay, I will stay. But we must be quick, Helios. I have between several hours and a day left before effects become noticeable. I am not an S-Cluster Star. I do not have the same abilities to ground myself!”

“Hours are all we need,” Helios said to her. “I have faith in you, Proxima. Ever since I met you as a baby star, you have had a strength in you. One that not many stars possess. You and I together can beat them.”

 Proxima gave a small nod, then a much stronger nod. Her eyes turned to the Gateways in the Gemstone Garden, her lips curling into a small snarl. Helios grinned as she began walking towards them, following behind her with a similar determination. The Red Dwarf pushed her hand on the panel, and the swirling vortex changed to show the beach that Helios recalled seeing on the island that Earth liked to use. He angled himself, keeping his stance strong, before stepping through first, followed by Proxima.

His form hung partway between horizon and zenith, and Helios basked in his own heat and glow. His halo glowed brighter at his action, and his yellow markings joined the light that was bent by the atmosphere of Earth. But what took his attention was the black smoke rising from the second island just off the main one, rising high into the sky. Proxima tensed by his side, her eyes turning to Helios as concern appeared on her features. The danger senses were hammering Helios, so he did the next best thing and turned to run to the forest of the island, Proxima following him at a run herself. Helios pushed branches and leaves out of the way, wincing when some snapped (and reminding himself to apologise to Earth once he rescued him) before slowing as he saw the familiar house up ahead. Proxima slowed with him, relief in her features but also awe at the structure. But Helios did not want her to ask him any questions at present because he was more focused on everything else.

It seemed he did not need to do much because the door opened and… Saturn. Relief swarmed Helios at seeing his now largest planet, wasting no time in striding towards him. Saturn trembled before releasing a breath from his mouth as though removing tension. Helios pressed a hand on his shoulder, giving him a comforting smile, before whispering.

“Where are they?”

“I-I… Venus, Mars and Aries are inside,” Saturn stammered. Helios would embrace him, but he had higher priorities. Proxima stepped to him, her red eyes scanning the Ringed Planet. The way Saturn shook made Helios realise he was absolutely terrified about the star finding out about what happened. “Venus is badly hurt but okay, Mars is fine. Aries… he…”

Helios rushed inside. His Core was beating so hard in the sudden fear.

He pushed into the lounge where the others who were mentioned sat. Helios scanned them, Venus turning to face the star with stripes of bandages on his face, plus a pack on his shoulder. Mars looked alright, with no wounds. But it was the human who drew Helios’ attention. How he shook, his hands over his face. Wearing only a black jumper, trousers and boots. Helios tried to remember who they were, where he had seen them before…

Then he lowered his hands.

And Helios recognised the face instantly. As a cruel memory plagued him.

He stepped into the room that Halley had told him about. His eyes scanned the sleeping Celestial, now a teenager and now much too big for Halley to care for. With the news that Earth had finally gained a suitable life form like their humanoid ones, Helios knew it was time. But his hands trembled as he silently moved.

He raised the gemstone, eyes staring it over, before looking at the young man. His hair was dual coloured gold and black, his long tail curled around him as he slept in rags. Helios need not need a reminder of the eyes, which were covered by lids, but he recognised the diamond. There was only one other individual who possessed that diamond. And it was an awful meeting that Helios never wanted to remember. The repercussions of that meeting affected so many, including the young man before him. A man who may never know his parents.

“I am sorry… Aries,” Helios pressed the gemstone into the palm of the prince. The prince’s eyes opened, and Helios thought he was looking into his Queen’s eyes for a moment, but then… they started changing. To blue. No longer feline, with rounded pupils. His tail vanished into dust as the essence migrated to the gemstone, and Helios sighed as he saw the Celestial start to shrink and disappear. He pushed a sleep suggestion, Aries changing right before him to a young man with pinkish skin and dark hair.

Helios pulled the gemstone away, unable to keep it going. He sighed, taking the small box out of his pocket and placing the gemstone within, ready to send it back to Sagittarius. His eyes located the unconscious human, and he pressed a gentle hand on the dark hair.

He took him to the surface and left him in Egypt. With no memory. To live and die countlessly for all eternity.

“ARIES!”

Helios did not mean to shout. His stride took him mere seconds to reach the human, who returned his hands to his face, carefully reaching out to him. Helios squatted, looking at him, chewing his bottom lip as he moved his hands away from the face so he could see him properly. Aries looked very distressed, and Helios knew that shouting at him would yield no benefits. But what Helios wanted to know was how this happened…

“Explain,” Helios turned his eyes to Venus and Mars. Venus was growling at Aries and only stopped when Helios got his attention.

“He was fooled by Entropy. He stole his essence,” Mars explained, knowing Venus would twist it to something worse. “He… lied to Aries and the results… are there.”

“For the love of…” Proxima sounded, stepping behind Helios with Saturn by her side. Her eyes found Aries, realising who this was through the actions of the others around her. “Sagittarius will NOT be happy. She will sense this and believe her son dead… Helios…”

“Where did they take him, Aries?” Helios interrupted, his eyes staring into the human’s own eyes. His hands held Aries’ own gently, dwarfing his by so much that Aries was more like a child to him. “Do you have any idea where they took Earth?”

“They didn’t just take Earth, Sun,” Venus snarked. His eyes turned to the star, finally moving from the distressed human. Helios turned his own burning eyes to his volcanic world, confusion rising within him. “They took S1 as well. And I have an inkling why they took her.” Venus turned his eyes to Aries. “Because a certain someone crossed a boundary while his friend was running to the other island to investigate a disturbance!”

Helios would lose it if the situation did not call for calm. His eyes returned to Aries, who looked away from the star, staring at his lap instead. Helios counted to ten, keeping his nerves down. He had warned Aries… to keep his distance from S1 in that regard. He knew that Entropy would find out: he always found out. And now… they took an S-Cluster Star. That would infuriate Sagittarius even more, especially with the reason why.

“The Frozen North,” Aries said quietly. Helios listened as intently as he could. “The Black Holes gave us the intel. That Entropy is in the frozen north. But we do not know exactly where… I… And I messed up. Big time.”

“You did,” Helios said, standing and sighing. “I will have to inform your mother once this mess is sorted, Aries. I must. In the meantime, we must rescue the others. It has become more complicated because they took S1, but Earth… it will be easier to locate him.”

“How so?” Saturn asked. “We can barely sense him!”

“You aren’t his Star,” Proxima said softly. She gave a sly smile. “Distance is everything. And we are on Earth’s surface: he will send us clues.”

“He won’t send clues,” Helios interrupted her.  “Because Earth will be aware of my presence… I can sense him already.”

Eyes turned to Helios as the star made his way out, his eyes scanning the clouds. His form was a bit higher but not much, and as Helios moved, he drew Gravity inwards to his core. He inhaled sharply, his eyes scanning the gardens as Proxima stepped beside him, her hand pressing on his arm. He could feel Earth… barely. And Proxima was right: distance made the biggest difference. If he were back in orbit, it would be difficult as the distances went from thousands of kilometres to millions. Regardless of his size and mass, he could only see so far. When Helios sent his gravity pulse out when X returned, it was because he sensed something at the outskirts. It was a nipping sensation, but new and unfamiliar at the time. Now, he could sense the nipping for Earth, sense his presence. His life-force.

“What is the plan here, Sun?” Venus demanded. Helios turned his eyes to the Volcanic World, watching the smaller approach. “We can’t exactly walk in and demand them back. They have them imprisoned for a reason.” His eyes looked at Aries as the human walked out with Mars, Saturn and Proxima. “Plus, we can’t exactly take Aries with us in this form. He will freeze or be killed too easily.”

“The plan is simple,” Helios said shortly. “You and Mars will find a route to break out Earth and S1. Proxima and I will serve as a distraction for you both. Aries… you will hide. Until we locate your gemstone, you cannot be part of any conflict.”

“It was around Entropy’s neck,” Aries said softly. “He had it on some chain.”

For the love of… Of course he would, Helios realised. Of course, the Force would have the gemstone. Entropy would not allow something so precious to be retrieved so easily.

“You will remain behind, hidden and out of sight,” Helios said, now finding his voice. “Out of the way, because if you are seen, they will try to kill you immediately. I know it will be difficult, but you must pay attention this time, Aries.”

Helios glanced at Proxima.

“The Former S-Cluster Star will present an issue,” Proxima said, shaking her head. She folded her arms across her chest, frowning as she turned her head to look at Saturn. “We need to determine how to manage her. Between her, Entropy, and HD1, we have our work cut out for us.”

Silence came to the group. Helios drew in a breath, closing his eyes as he contemplated the words being spoken. He ran a hand over his face, trying to work it out…

A snap came from the treeline.

Everyone’s eyes turned to face the treeline. Helios curled his lip, bearing his fangs as he approached the rustling in the bushes. Proxima flanked him, her hand reaching out as she leapt into the bushes, causing someone to squeal loudly. She pulled… out a moon. A female moon, looking like one of Earth’s bobcats, with pale white features and black shading on one side of her hair. She cursed, struggling as she hissed, before a white and blue moon popped up with flopped ears, going to try and help the other moon. Helios tried to place them, tried to remember the names of the nearly three hundred moons (it was more difficult in these forms compared to their orbitals) and was grateful when Saturn rushed forward to go and greet them.

“Dione! Tethys! What are you both doing here?”

“We came to help!” Dione snarked, pulling free from Proxima’s grip. More heads popped up, Luna stepping out sheepishly as Helios tried to calm himself down. Aries was behind Mars, eyes wide as he also stared at the blatant disregard of Helios, possibly telling the moons to stay behind. “There are ten of us here.”

“TEN?!” Helios lost it. His eyes scanned each of the moons that stepped forth, in a line as they stood straight and stared into his fiery eyes. Helios raised a hand to pinch the bridge of his nose, exasperated. “I gave you all specific instructions to stay behind. Why did you ignore me?”

“Because.” The one he knew as Ganymede stepped forth, greenish-grey and feline. He resembled… him far too much. “You yourself said the System is in peril. We came to help defend it, plus Titan is missing.” Ganymede turned his eyes to Europa, the pinkish-white moon, stepping forth to join her fellow moon. “So, we came to help. Iapetus is staying behind to see who else we can recruit, and the other planets are rounding up more that would fight.”

“I told you all to stay behind,” Helios growled. “Of course… like planet like moon. Disregarding my orders…”

“You expect us to stay behind and let you fight while we cower in a corner,” Ganymede talked back. Helios felt his temple twist, eyes narrowed. “Jupiter taught the four of us to fight, and Saturn taught his own moons. So, it is only fair that we help you and the others who need to be rescued. Some of us are going to head off and find Titan, and the others will help you lot rescue Earth and that chick.”

“This isn’t a getaway,” Aries sounded, finding his voice finally. Ganymede turned his eyes to the human, recognising him instantly. Europa even blinked. “This is reality. There are going to be deaths: you need to understand that.”

“The Galilean Moons are familiar with fighting for our lives: Jupiter taught us to fight as if it were our last,” Callisto said casually. “So, yes, we are aware and understand that.”

“And Luna?” Mars interjected. Eyes turned to the Moon. “What are you doing?”

“You should have stayed behind, kid,” Venus walked to the smaller celestial. “I have lost one son today.” Aries looked down at that. “I am not losing another.”

“Well, you need someone to break Earth and S1 out,” Luna said softly. “The smallest of us can help with that.”

“The Major Moons such as I, Io, and Callisto will help fight alongside you,” Ganymede grunted. “The Saturnian Moons will split between finding Titan and helping you out. More muscle, more chances to succeed.”

Eyes turned to Helios, unsure. The star looked at the moons with a frown, before his shoulders slumped and he exhaled through his nose. He lowered his hand from the bridge of his nose before turning his eyes to Proxima to see her expression. The Red Dwarf gave a tilt of her head, deciding to allow Helios to make the decision. What a decision to make…

“Very well,” Helios turned his eyes to Saturn, who had wrapped his arms around his moons, keeping them close. “Saturn, you and three of your moons will go and find your lost one on the Burned Island, then join us in the North: I will leave the portal for you. Ganymede, Io, and Callisto, you three will join me, Proxima, Venus and Mars in the offensive. The remaining Saturnian Moons will also accompany us for more support.” He noted that Luna and Europa open their mouths. “Luna and Europa… you will oversee the rescue of Earth and Lady S1. Aries…”

He turned to the space elephant in the room.

“YOU will remain behind.”

“No,” Aries said, his tone firm. He stepped forward. “Entropy has my essence. I want it back. Once I get it, the tide will turn because I use the Forces easily: they will flee like they did at the marketplace.”

“I don’t mean to be the bearer of bad news,” Venus snarked. “But YOU are human. Your coming will mean they will get at ya first to kill you. Once you die, Sagittarius will rain fire on this system.”

“And if you destroy that gemstone, I will be stuck here permanently,” Aries said angrily. “Entropy… he said something. About my lineage. The reason why he wanted my essence. Apparently, the Singularity had a hand, and with that information, I must get my essence back.”

Proxima looked at Helios. Helios had a look on his face, a sudden realisation as he stared at Aries. Nobody else was looking at the stars, though, as Aries and Venus started to argue about Aries going. Helios felt her hand grab his, squeezing gently, before turning his eyes to her. Her look was questioning, but Helios did not feel it was appropriate at present. Yet, her insistence was clear.

“It is about his father,” Helios whispered to her. “Aries shares blood with the First Ones.”

“Everyone is, Helios,” Proxima pointed out. “We all come from the First Ones. What makes him more special?”

“His connection is stronger.” Helios did not expand on his answer, turning his eyes back to the group. Everyone was ganging up on Aries, telling him to back down and do what he was told, but the prince was not having it. Helios knew he could not change the prince’s mind. “That is enough. All of you. Aries… you will come along. But you will do exactly what you are told, when you are told.”

He ignored the protest from the others and stepped away to head down a little bit of the beach. Helios glanced back at Saturn, who had decided to choose his three moons to come with him to the Burned Island. Helios recognised Rhea, Tethys and Mimas. Saturn had chosen his weaker fighters to accompany him to find Titan, leaving Helios with his best ones. At least, if something happened to Earth, Helios would have one moon with life left in his system. But he would rather have Earth back.

“Saturn, you and the three allocated leave now and begin your search. The rest of you… will follow me,” Helios saw the others approach him. Proxima brought up the rear, keeping Aries within her sight. “I expect you all to do what you are told. Once we are through this portal, Luna and Europa, you will seek a way inside. Ganymede, you and Venus will flank with me, Proxima will provide me backup. I want the rest of you to flank Proxima: they will target us Stars first.” Helios noted that Mars was looking at him expectantly. “Mars, you will accompany Luna and Europa and provide further support from behind the lines.”

“You can destroy the weapon,” Aries said softly. He noted the confusion on Helios and Proxima. “I will explain on the way.”

“I have a better idea,” Mars said with a grin. “Once I help Luna and Europa break Earth and S1 out, I will leave… a little surprise behind. Courtesy of Deimos and Phobos when they broke into Area 51.”

“Those two have rubbed off on you, or I can see where they get it from,” Luna said, shuddering at the Two Terrors. Mars had told him and Earth when they got back in orbit that Deimos and Phobos were far too excited to blow things up. “But we cannot use our powers in the Frozen North, only the Stars can and Moons. Planets will find it more difficult.”

“I am sure there are weapons left behind,” Mars stated, glancing at Helios. “If you will allow us time to prepare.”

“You have ten minutes,” Helios retorted. “Gear up. Saturn, you and your chosen Moons may begin their rescue of your largest satellite. I expect you to join me in the location.”

As the Ringed Planet and his moons left, Helios watched as Mars, Venus, Aries and Luna ran away back to the house. He turned his eyes to his orbital form, watching it across the sky. His Halo matched with the position and shape, casting a yellow and orange glow onto the sand, followed by the casting of a rainbow as the light was bent. He felt Proxima join his side, her red eyes watching the water before them as she took his hand carefully.

“I will miss this,” Proxima whispered, turning her eyes to Helios. He tilted his head down, a sadness coming to him. Of course… once Proxima left, it would just be him. By himself. No star to talk to. “We should catch up at the next Galaxy-scape, Helios. Maybe… it would do you some good?”

“It would,” he said softly. “If Rigil and Tolimon can let you go. And your planets… the one thing they never tell you is once you get a world with life, how lonely you become as a star. Never able to move or migrate. The only time I could was at the Gathering, and that was when Earth was starting. Now his organisms are too complex for me to leave.”

“Then I will come to you,” Proxima said firmly. Her hand squeezed his tighter. Helios was aware that the Galilean Moons and the remaining Saturnian moons were talking strategies among themselves. “I vow it.”

“Please, do not make a promise you cannot keep, Proxima,” Helios released her hand. “You have habitable yourself. They could develop. And we will never be able to see each other again.”

“We will, because this is a promise I intend to keep,” Proxima said sternly. “I swear it, Helios.”

He gave her a sad smile, turning his eyes back to his form in the skies. Helios felt her turn to move away, her free hand coming to his cheek as she pushed onto her toes to kiss his other. Helios stared at her, confused, as she released his hand and moved off, going to the Moons, who were giggling as they witnessed the exchange. They promptly stopped at her approach, but Helios turned away with a sigh. He stared towards the water, seeing the birds fly low as they tried to grab their meal. How free it must be as a bird, Helios wondered.

I am getting too old for this, Helios said to himself.

His ears twitched as he turned to hear the others returning. Venus had wrapped his hands in black gloves, his body with padding, as was Aries, who was holstering two pistols that Helios was curious about but never questioned. Mars was carrying something on his back that was long and slender, as well as holding a strap close to his body that also had a weapon Helios was not familiar with. Luna was wearing gloves that were much too big for him, with childlike drawings of dinosaurs and humans on them. They were Earth’s old gloves that he used in training, and he spied more gear on Luna that belonged to his planet. Helios felt a sense of nostalgia as he looked at them, before turning his eyes to face the others as they all crowded around him. Proxima was looking at him eagerly, her arms crossed on her chest, as Helios raised his voice.

“We all know our tasks,” Helios turned, raising his left hand and waving it from left to right. A portal appeared, showing the glistening snow. He could sense him… he could sense Earth. “Let this end.”

He stepped through, followed by Aries instantly. The planets looked at one another, before flanking the prince as the moons started to pile through. Proxima eyed the area, one last time, before she stepped into the portal.

High above their heads, on a cliff overlooking the beach, a familiar pinkish-cream feline watched in a crouch, his tail flicking from side to side as his golden eyes stared at the spot where they disappeared. His paws unsheathed, claws out on the ground, the former planet turned his eyes to the five others by his side. Their halos shone black, the female leader crouching by his side as she let her own feline tail balance her. A curl of her maw, and she turned her feline eyes to the others with her.

“They are walking into a trap.”

“Evidently,” A male black hole responded, turning his eyes to his companions. “We know our mission. You ready to sow some proper chaos?”

Cheers. The male returned his gaze to his superior, tilting his head with a smirk before they vanished into the shadows.

“Don’t look so concerned, Jupiter,” Gaia BH1 said gently. “We won’t eat your former friends and star.”

“I am not concerned about that,” Jupiter straightened, his brow now knitted. “Something else is afoot here. Something that Entropy himself is missing.”

“The oldest trick in the book,” Gaia BH1 said sadly. “I believe it is a common saying on Earth, is it not?”

“Never trust a wolf in sheep’s clothing,” Jupiter confirmed. “I will handle them. What comes after is what I am afraid of. Once Entropy learns that Planet X has betrayed him, he will destroy us all.”

Chapter Text

The frozen north was exactly what Venus expected. Frozen. Covered in snow and ice and whatever else that plagued the landscape, with no trees, no cover, and no hope for those who got lost in it. It was perhaps one of Earth’s most dangerous environments, with the blizzards and the sheer drop in temperature which can kill a human in seconds. At least in the desert, a human could try to find shade and have a chance of finding water through specific plants. But here, temperatures dropped rapidly, and even shelter could be deadly.

Venus turned to look at Aries, who was shaking viciously. He raised his arms to curl around his core to keep warm, his teeth chattering as his eyes darted. Venus did not like the way the human was now looking and carefully approached Aries in deep concern, but Helios and Proxima were already making their way to the prince. Proxima wrapped her arms around the prince, giving him her warmth and causing him to sigh in content as the coldness clearly started to decrease for him.

Helios turned his eyes to the white landscape, trying to figure out a direction, but then his eyes located a bird that was flying above his head. The star raised a hand, and the bird descended, opening their talons and gripping his finger as he raised his other hand to stroke the chest feathers. Helios looked over the bird, which turned its eyes to him. The raptor focused entirely on the star as Helios stroked it, before the raptor seemed to realise what Helios was asking.

The bird opened its wings, and Ganymede watched as Helios threw it back into the air. The snow-white bird disappeared instantly into the skies, moving rapidly and without any issues to conduct whatever Helios wanted it to do. Ganymede tilted as he watched the star turn and walk back to Proxima, Aries now leaning for the heat against the Red Dwarf. Ganymede felt sorry for the former Celestial, knowing how much he relied upon his own heat to survive.

Proxima was speaking quietly to the prince, who nodded, and they gathered with Helios, who started speaking quietly to them. Whatever agreement was required was reached, as the stars separated – with Aries staying by Proxima – and Helios made his way to Mars, Luna, and Europa.

Ganymede watched the stars intently before stepping forth, Venus looking at him with wariness as the moon scanned every spot before turning his eyes back to the stars. Europa and Luna were whispering to each other, and Mars was listening to them to get an idea of their plan. All three of them looked at Helios, who approached and spoke lowly to them.

Venus narrowed his eyes as the three of them suddenly smirked, Mars giving a nod at the star and pushing Luna and Europa ahead, so they disappeared into the snow. Venus saw Mars glance back at him before turning his attention to Aries, who was now a bit more settled, as the heat of the two stars was keeping him secure. His blue eyes found Venus, and the Volcanic World scowled before turning to walk away from the group. Enceladus and the other Saturnian moons followed, and Venus wanted to tell them to get lost, but… their eyes were watching. Something.

“What do you see, Enceladus?” Venus grunted, his eyes trying to scan the horizon. He could see absolutely nothing. Just sheets of white and a touch of blue that showed where ice was lying. Enceladus turned his eyes to the taller planet, his feline ears twitching as his tail flicked.

Venus knew those signs were like whenever Jupiter or Saturn located something that was of interest. He watched as Enceladus turned his eyes to the other, before giving a nod as his ears flattened down on his head.

“You hear something?” Venus demanded.

“Hear and smell something,” Enceladus turned his eyes to the horizon. He curled his lip, tail now flicking before suddenly rushing out. The Snow-White humanoid disappeared in the backdrop of the snowy landscape, Venus unable to pick him up. Turning his eyes to the other, the Volcanic opened his mouth to ask her what was happening.

“Enceladus is a good scout when you need him to be,” Dione snarked. “I know Luna, Europa, and Mars can head to the location themselves, but Enceladus can reach the area and see if there is anything else we are missing.”

“We gotta have faith in Helios,” Venus snarked back. He did not like the tone of the moon. “He has a plan.”

“Sorry, but our star is too stuck up and pretentious for me to believe he has a decent idea of what is going on,” Dione snapped back. She turned her grey eyes back to the horizon. “Whatever he is doing with that bird, or why he sent the three of them out alone, I don’t know. Enceladus can check the clear way since we are meant to be a distraction for the formers.”

“And you don’t want to tell Sun about this,” Venus rolled his eyes. He shook his head, exasperated. “You guys think this is a game. It ain’t: this is something bigger. We are going against a force of nature that defined all of us, a former S-Cluster Star that sees us as nothing but toys, a black hole and whatever else they have in their arsenal. You honestly think moons are gonna be able to beat all that?”

“Why not? We beat you and Mars,” Dione hit back. Venus felt his temper flare.

“You had several hundred moons to help you there,” Venus snapped. “This is bigger than the moon revolution.”

Dione opened her mouth, but then paused as she saw Proxima stepping towards them. The star narrowed her eyes at the pair, and Venus scowled at Proxima, turning and making to move away until the Red Dwarf moved her arm before Venus. The Volcanic turned his own fiery eyes to hers as she opened her mouth to speak.

“Whatever this beef is… it stops,” Her eyes turned back to Dione. “Now, where is the other icy moon, Enceladus?”

“He went scouting ahead to make sure we are secure when we move out,” Dione stated. Venus shoved his hands in his pockets, glaring at the moon. “We barely know this terrain, he could pinpoint loads of places, especially as the moon that orbits this planet is now away to help Mars and Europa elsewhere. Unless Helios knows something that we do not know about this place, I want to make sure we are safe.”

“As long as the moon is not risked, that is fine,” Proxima eyed her suspiciously. “But please let us know in advance. Helios must make sure all possible pieces of this plan are within his knowledge so we can get back safely.”

“I guess so,” Dione muttered, lowering her eyes from the star. Venus felt a touch of victory at the submission of the moon. “I am sorry, Proxima Centauri.”

“You are forgiven,” Proxima shook her head, before muttering under her breath as she turned and walked back. Venus caught words like ‘iron fist’ and ‘young stars’. He did not want to press her further. Venus glanced at Dione as she shot a triumphant look at Venus, and he resisted the urge to punch the moon. It would have made him feel better if he did so. But as he glanced back, he saw Helios was speaking lowly to the Galilean Moons that had remained, so Venus strode forth to see what he could catch.

“… I understand you three have had extensive combat training, but I want you to remain close to Aries in a guarding role. Until he gets his Celestial Essence back, he is at a higher risk of being harmed than the rest of us.”

“How exactly are we supposed to get close to Entropy?” Io was stammering. Venus paused. “Getting that essence back will be so difficult! He is HUGE and powerful, more than us!”

“That is why we are distracting him,” Callisto said in a monotone voice. “Aries can drop down and grab his crystal, but the three of us need to step up and fight a Force of Nature.” She shook her head. “This is gonna get bloody.”

“Entropy cannot fight us all on three fronts,” Ganymede grinned, cracking his knuckles in anticipation. “Easy hit and run strategy. He cannot hit if he cannot see where he is getting hit from.”

“I appreciate that you are planning possible strategies,” Aries interjected, keeping close to Helios. “But Entropy is not a pushover. He managed to kill my father, perhaps the most powerful star this Galaxy has to offer and is equal to my mother, who is the supermassive black hole in the centre of our Galaxy. He can use the Forces to devastating effects… You must pay attention and evade him.”

“This is not a training mission,” Helios looked at the moons. “If you do not wish to do this, I will understand. Once I, Proxima, and Venus distract them, you four will be on your own. Enceladus and Dione will join our group once we have acted on the more difficult enemies.”

“Enceladus is gone, Sun,” Venus finally spoke up, causing the others to turn their head to him. “He went ahead to scout.”

Helios sighed, pinching his nose as he shook his head in dismay. Venus saw Dione throw a look at him and smirked, but Proxima stepped over to speak.

“I know about this, and their reasoning is right, Helios,” Proxima tilted her head. “We do not know the terrain as well as Earth and Luna do. Luna is now away with Europa and Mars to find a way to sneak in, and they will be expecting us soon. Enceladus can hide in the snow and scan the entire situation well. We will have a better idea of what is waiting for us when he gets back.”

“The more time we waste, the stronger Entropy gets, the more chance he has of using this weapon,” Venus retorted, turning his eyes to Helios. “This weapon can KILL celestials, Helios. It can kill anything from moons to black holes. It can kill Sagittarius if it gets to her! We gotta move NOW and hope Enceladus catches up with this intel.”

“How would he know we moved?” Dione argued.

“You yourself said that Enceladus has higher hearing and better sight than the rest of us. If that is so, he is a master-class tracker,” Venus pointed out. “So, he should manage to find us without any issues. Unless that was all lies and you just disregarded our star’s instructions for a chance of fame?”

Dione glared at him, and Venus felt a smile crawl on his features. Got you.

“Enough,” Aries adopted a commanding tone as his human form would allow. He stepped somewhat away from Helios, not too far away to not keep the warmth required.

“Dione and Enceladus would not have done what they did if they had no confidence that Enceladus wouldn’t succeed. I am sure he would find us without problems, but Venus is right that time is NOT on our side.”

“Listen, you being an idiot and losing your celestial essence is not our issue,” Venus snarled at him. “This is bigger than you, Aries, and you messed it up. This is because of you and your stupidity: this is why we are here.”

Silence came, and Aries looked down at the ground, his shoulders tensed. Proxima gave a warning glance to Venus as the Volcanic world turned, growling as he made to walk away – and found himself not able to move. He was locked in, his feet frozen to the ground. A moment of panic until he felt the burning presence of Helios behind him.

“After all this time,” Helios growled, glaring down at Venus, who suddenly felt very terrified. “You still haven’t learned, Venus.”

Venus turned his sight downwards, wincing at the scolding. Helios bearing down on him was terrifying, and he felt suddenly very aware that all eyes were on him. Venus inhaled, closing his eyes before turning to look at Aries. Except… he was not seeing Aries, but Theia, miserable and alone as she was forced to be separate from Proto, the man she loved. He left his jealousy and anger run rampant and hurt the one person he cared most deeply about. How desperate that Venus was to make her happy, to return her to Proto… and saw their collision.

How much he BLAMED himself for throwing her and possibly causing it.

“I-I.” Venus stammered. He sighed, looking at Aries, seeing the sadness there. “I am so sorry, Aries. I am just…”

“It’s okay,” Aries said softly. He shook his head. “I deserve it.”

“N-No, you do not,” Io stammered, coming to him. “W-we will get your friend back! Y-you have us!”

“One day, you are gonna be king,” Venus finally said after a moment. “You are still learning, and I shouldn’t treat you with such animosity. I will stop, Aries. At least we get to take that cunt who killed your dad down, huh?”

Venus then blinked, remembering something.

“Oh, I… found this. In the closet with Earth’s stuff. I don’t recognise the writing but… it is addressed to you.”

Venus dug into his pocket, pulling out an envelope. Aries stared at the writing, seeing his name in slanted letters that he recognised instantly. His hands shook as he reached out, taking the envelope as he stared down at the paper with tears rising in his eyes. Realising this was probably a private moment, Helios glanced at the others to turn away, to give Aries some privacy to read the letter to himself.

The prince removed the seal, bringing out a piece of paper with the same writing. He felt his tears start to fall as he read his name first.

It was the eve before they left for the Core. The newly married King Consort, S2, sat at a desk, with a pen and paper as he contemplated what to write first. His eyes scanned outside at the humans that were ready to begin their own plan, before turning them down to the paper as he placed the pen tip down.

‘Aries, my beloved son,

 If you are reading this letter, then... it is time. It means I face such mortal danger that I may not live another day. I hope to be proven wrong, so that I can be the father I was meant to be for you, much as Sagittarius wishes to be the mother she has so desperately wanted. The pain she must have felt to give you up; to protect you from me... a son should never be afraid of their father.

No child should feel that towards their parent.

I vowed to talk to you after this fight, but if I never do. Know that I love you from the moment I met you. You are my son first and foremost, before anything else. That was my weakness, something that Entropy used against your mother, and I failed you both when I joined him through lies and deceit. This is because he realised something extremely important.

Love can ignite the Universe, my son.

 It can move stars, and Galaxies, and the Universe should it be so strong. But beware, as it can also hinder you: love is sacred and should be controlled. One day, you may feel love, and I hope you learn from my mistakes.

There is more that I wish to tell you. About my family.

 As you know, we are descendants of Stars who have passed onto the Plains. Much as Sagittarius is descended from the Ancients, so am I. And yet... the moment I met you, I knew you would be for greatness. I can feel the Universe within you, the Songs of Many Stars and Black Holes, but more... you are stronger than us both, and I will do all I can to protect you. If I cannot uphold that wish, know that your mother and the many others will be by your side. I will be cheering your name to the Heavens so that you are filled with that strength. You are stronger than Entropy, than any of us.

You must believe it.

Whatever path you walk, know that I will be proud of you. But what I now detail in this letter must be for your eyes only. Because what I am about to tell you... can only be used by those blessed so heavily by the First Ones... It is called a Heart Flare. Read well, my son, and when you are at your darkest moment in your existence, in a fight you feel you cannot win, you will have your ancestors by your side as you use them. Only those with our blood can: we are the only ones with a direct lineage in the Milky Way left. And should anything happen to me… You will be the last connection this Galaxy has to the First Stars.

This is because… my ancestor is like you. He was sired on another star by another and found his place. And through him, more Stars emerged, until me. And then… you. Entropy wants that blood, which is why I must protect you from my failure. Only through such strong emotion, like love… can you ignite a heart flare.’

Aries could see his father pause, unsure how. His father gave a saddened smile before he turned his glowing eyes back to the letter. S2 seemed to realise what was happening when the door opened, and Sagittarius entered, his smile becoming sad as he turned to face her. He placed the letter into the envelope, sealing it and addressing it to Aries, as Sagittarius approached and pressed her hands onto his cheeks. S2 stood, embracing her as he rested his forehead to hers, leaving the letter on the desk.

“It is time, my love,” S2 whispered. “For the rest of our lives.”

Aries felt his hands shake as he finished the letter, pressing the paper to his face as he held the last piece of his father left. He inhaled before lowering it as he tucked the letter into his breast pocket, keeping it close as he turned his eyes to the others as they chatted lowly.

Helios was looking very impatient, eyes glancing at Aries before the human walked towards them, giving a small smile as he nodded at the star. To signal that he was ready to go. His father’s letter felt heavy in his pocket, but it gave Aries some comfort and strength that he needed.

As the group moved, Aries stayed by Proxima to ensure that the warmth remained. He felt a renewed strength at reading his father’s words. If S2 had such faith in him… he should have faith in himself. He was going to rescue S1 and Earth.

And they were going to succeed.

Meanwhile, Enceladus darted through the snow, easily camouflaged in the tundra as he skidded across a frozen patch before pushing up onto the snow once again. He grinned, feeling completely in his element here, relieved they could last in this biome of Earth’s surface without issues. They lived in a cold place in the Solar System; they would manage to navigate a tundra of snow and ice. Saturn’s orbit demanded that.

It was why most of his moons were ice and rock. With only some fortunate ones bearing water in their ground.

Enceladus paused, ears and nose twitching. He looked around at the snow and ice before crouching to hide himself a bit further. Watching the area, Enceladus felt his ears twitch and his nose move more rapidly as a new smell came to the wind, his eyes scanning for something. His lip curled, and he stood up, eyes watching for any sign of the disturbance. The light breeze in his fur caused him to turn his ears that way, knowing full well that staying downwind would be the best idea.

The strange smell was coming from that way at least.

Enceladus moved across the snow with light feet, his paws serving a good purpose in helping to keep grip. He skidded across some ice, tail flexed, before pushing himself off and onto the snowy bank to climb up. The feline flicked his tail before he popped his head up, looking around the area, before a smirk came to his features.

Bingo.

A metal cave ahead in the snowy hills. He could smell those inside. Very strange smells. His eyes scanned for any source of the strange smells, his ears flicking as he carefully crouched further down and moved on all four, like a cat would do. His eyes and ears perked up, Enceladus curling his lip as he felt his body ache, as he moved stealthily towards the metal cave, the figures becoming more noticeable. His fangs bore, Enceladus slid down some snow and pushed himself down behind more mounds, poking up with his ears before his eyes followed.

“Exoplanets. Great. How did they get in here…”

Enceladus growled as he saw one move before the front, before pushing his claws into the snow as he crawled over more snow, pushing the powder over his form to keep himself covered. While he was mostly white with a touch of blue, his clothing was not quite dark enough to blend in. Hopefully, he would be dismissed as some drifting snow, and nobody would be the wiser. They did not know Earth’s surface, and granted, neither did they know much of the moons or planets.

But they knew from lectures with Saturn and others how to play to their strengths and ideal biomes.

Enceladus pushed his claws out of their sheaths and sank them deeper into the snow before crouching lower like the big cats of the world. He turned his paws up to quieten his steps further, ears flatter as he kept himself as small as possible. Enceladus crept further as he started counting the numbers. Ten, twenty, thirty. He could not see any stars, but he could sense some inside.

Especially one.

Must be the S-Cluster Star, imprisoned with Earth. He could sense the world of life, his presence burning for Enceladus. He could break them out, but he was here for reconnaissance… but then he sensed more inside. A shadowy presence alongside another one that reminded him of the prince. Crying out and desperate to be freed from whatever prison there was. Enceladus felt his ears twitch as he contemplated his next move, deciding whether he should play a risky move. There would be a plan in place to save the prince’s essence, but that would be easy to rectify if Enceladus could get it himself.

Time for the ice moon to shine!

Figuratively, he corrected himself.

Enceladus crept closer, using his technique to silently move to the metal mouth. His ears flicked as he watched for some sign of the enemy moving. They were all busy, all occupied, and Enceladus knew he could sneak past. With his breath held, he turned his paws back around and crouched, before moving past the rim of metal – and winced as his pads impacted on the floor. Nope, too much echo. He needed to be quieter!

He sheathed his claws and turned onto his sides of his paws, going back on all fours as he moved up a nearby ladder and onto a walkway, crouched low and hidden. His tail flicked to keep him steady, his blue eyes scanning as he tried to figure out his next course of action. Saturn had always told him about moving in specific ways, but Enceladus had not cared for tracking until recently. His planet spent more time with him, deciding to give more focus to them all rather than Titan.

Enceladus turned his ears flat before a new voice echoed nearby that caught his attention.

“… I want to know what happened, S21. Weapons of that scale do not just disappear.”

“You do not command me, black hole. Only Entropy does.”

“I am not commanding you, pretentious little star. I am asking why you, perhaps the most powerful star in our arsenal, have allowed such a powerful weapon to be taken so easily!”

Enceladus felt his nose twitch as he silently crawled along the walkway. His eyes scanned and found the pair: a female star with a broken halo, and a male with a black halo and piercing eyes, squaring off at each other. His ears flicked back, then forwards, trying to take in the conversation: this would be good intel to be given to Sun!

If this weapon they mentioned was gone, then surely that meant they had a fighting chance? But that presented a whole new issue about where the weapon truly was. And who possessed it.

“I do not know why you are shelving the blame onto me, Hadrian,” The star – S21 – snarled. Her eyes burned with rage as she turned to face the black hole. “Because last I checked, both of us are responsible for the weapon. You would share the blame. Once Entropy leaves his meditation, I will let him know.”

The black hole curled its lip in anger, stepping towards the star who did not even back down. Enceladus filed away the information, considering the Force being in meditation. Which would hopefully make things much easier for him to do a little thieving.

Scanning the walls, Enceladus saw something ahead that looked like bars and carefully pulled himself to it, raising a paw and lifting the grate gently before setting it aside as quietly as possible. Pulling his ears flat, keeping his paws turned to help with silencing, Enceladus began to crawl in.

Cold snapped to his fur as he slowly but surely moved through the vent, his ears perked as he sensed and listened for anything and everything that could threaten his position. Pausing, Enceladus turned his ears to focus on his right before moving down the right turn that came up. He could sense something old, ancient, up ahead… maybe…

Help me…

Yes.

Enceladus crawled further down before pausing when he noticed something strange up ahead. His ears twitched as he listened intently, his Core suddenly filled with such an unease that a part of him wanted to retreat and not continue. But the other part of him pushed on, knowing this was the right thing to do. He knew this was meant to be a scouting mission, but he could still do some damage.

Like Ganymede said, it was time for the moons to shine.

Enceladus froze.

His eyes found the place. But his fear almost made him empty himself in the vent.

Sitting in the room, in the centre… was him. Crossed-legged and completely pitch-black, bar the occasional speck of light which disappeared in a blink. His face was featureless, eyes closed and mouth. He could see absolutely nothing. The only part of him that gave any possible indication was a scar on his neck, which was glowing white. Enceladus could not see any ears or nostrils, just darkness and mist.

This was a bad idea.

Help me…

His eyes scanned around – and he saw it. They were on the floor right before Him. A crystal with swirling golden essence within, which Enceladus recognised belonged to the prince. He chewed his lip as he carefully reached out with a paw and silently moved the grate.

His core was beating so loudly in his ears as he carefully dropped down. Silently. Enceladus held his breath, eyes watching the shadowy figure as it continued its meditation, moving carefully forward as he tried to pinpoint anything that could trigger them to awaken. Enceladus continued moving, his core now beating faster the closer he got to the Force, Entropy deep within his meditation to notice the little moon. One swipe of that hand, Enceladus was done for.

Enceladus raised his paws, keeping his breathing as low and slow as he possibly could. His eyes continued to watch the featureless face as he went down on his fours, using his tail to keep him steady as he reached out and carefully pressed his paw over the crystal. He could feel the essence, the beat of the Universe within as he lifted it up. Enceladus turned his eyes to the shadow, seeing it was not moving still, before carefully pulling the chain – only to realise too late it was secured to Entropy’s hand.

A red eye opened.

Enceladus screeched and jumped about five feet into the air as Entropy reached out to try to grab him. His hand was the same size as Enceladus’ torso, but the feline wasted no time in evading before bringing out his claws in one hand – swiping at the hand which held the chain.

Entropy roared, a piercing roar that could shatter the very foundation of time and space. Enceladus grabbed the crystal before running on all fours as he built up momentum to try to leap into the vent. He crashed against the wall – before pain erupted in his tail. Enceladus hissed, eyes darting to see that Entropy had reached out to try to grab his tail, so Enceladus did the only thing he could.

And swipe. With his claws.

He was released and tumbled into the vent. He could hear Entropy roar beneath him as the Force began trying to dismantle the wall to gain access to the vent. A clawed hand erupted through the metal, close to Enceladus as he athletically dodged the next attempt and leapt over the gap. Panting. Terrified of what was about to happen should he got caught. Enceladus pushed himself down the vent, trying so hard to figure out how to now escape.

“FIND THEM! NOW!”

The roar was not like the star and black hole earlier. Enceladus was almost ready to void himself through sheer terror, but then he heard… explosions. The base shook, and he was almost sent into the wall of the vent as he desperately moved himself through the narrow corridors to find an escape route.

He could hear panicked yells and curses, his ears popping upwards as he took deep and steady breaths to calm his core before pushing himself onwards. He held his breath as he peered in the gaps of a vent, overlooking the open mouth of the metal base.

“Well, well, well,” A familiar voice snarled. “Lord Helios and some wayward moons, a Red Dwarf, and a stinking human. Typical.”

Helios stepped forth, Proxima flanking him as the moons, Aries, and Venus brought up the rear. Ganymede hissed as his ears flattened, him, Io, and Callisto falling into a guard around Aries as the prince turned his eyes towards the S-Cluster that had approached the group.

Exoplanets dropped around them, their maws curled to reveal their canines… and behind them was the black hole, HD1. His eyes were focused on Helios alone, a predatory smile starting to crawl on his features.

And…

“Hello, Aries.”

Aries stepped between the stars, his blue eyes staring as the crowd before them parted. The tall and shadowy form of Entropy moved ahead, fiery eyes full of fire as the Force turned to look down at the now human prince. Aries would have shaken upon seeing him but decided not to do so. His hands, though, trailed to the pistols by his side, ready to be drawn. Entropy stood at the front, a smirk trailing onto his features as he tilted his head down to look at Aries.

“Did you seem to forget, Prince Aries… that I have your friend and lover in cells?” He tilted his head. Helios felt his temper rise as he moved a protective arm before Aries, Proxima shifting as her eyes narrowed at the black hole that came forth. His own eyes located Proxima, and a hungry smile appeared on his face.

“I know what you have,” Aries said, his hands flicking beside the pistols. His eyes narrowed as the Force continued to tower over him. “And I have faith that they will be more than capable of beating your people to the ground. Furthermore, you have something that belongs to me, Entropy. I want it back.”

Entropy laughed. Venus growled as he stepped beside Proxima, cracking his knuckles as he eyed the nearest exoplanets as they turned their eyes back to him. Helios saw the joy that Venus had within his eyes at having proper fights despite his injuries. But he was waiting still, for the sign he needed.

And when his eyes noted a slight flash in the vent above him, and Dione’s surprised gasp, he felt himself start to laugh. His manic laugh caused everyone to look at him, even his own planet and moons. Aries turned his own eyes to the star, also surprised as Proxima tensed.

“Do you find something amusing, Helios?” Entropy said, his tone now cold. Helios stopped laughing, but the smile remained on his features.

“Yes, I honestly do.” The star tilted his head. “You really don’t realise we have the upper hand here?”

Enceladus grinned in the vent and flashed the gemstone again. He knew Helios could see him. And with everyone else distracted…

“S21,” Entropy said silkily. The S-Cluster star grinned, stepping forth as she held up a remote. “Open the door.”

The eyes of the Force turned to face Aries, whose own seemed to widen.

“Drown S1 and Earth.”

That was enough.

Aries unholstered the pistol on his left without warning, raising it skilfully and firing one well-aimed shot into the forehead of an exoplanet. They fell dead, as the prince turned the pistol to another, as Venus wasted no time in running forth and lunging at the nearest, while Ganymede roared in triumph as he and the other Galilean moons moved into their positions to attack.

Helios ran at the group, Proxima by his side, before Helios raised a hand to release a huge flare, which burned the nearest Exoplanet to him. An enemy star rushed to engage the yellow dwarf, who easily side-stepped and evaded, skidding on his knees before spinning to tackle the other star to the ground.

Aries aimed again, firing another shot before an exoplanet ran straight for the prince. He ducked and dodged before Ganymede erupted out of his fray and brought his fist around to break the jaw of the exoplanet, a well-placed abdomen kick sending them into the wall.

Callisto and Io were tag-teaming, dodging and attacking a star that was hell bent on killing them both, before Venus sent an exoplanet into the star, causing them to collide.

The Volcanic World roared and brought his fist around as he aimed for the face of one stockier exoplanet who decided to handle him personally. Proxima and Helios swapped turns using Flares and defending each other. Proxima fired off a flare, incinerating a comet caught in it.

Venus was flying now, on fire as he lunged into the group of nearest exoplanets, throwing his shoulder into the stockier one, sending it back into its companions. He wasted no time in sending a right, then left, hook into the ones nearest him, before they finally caught on and started to charge for him. He roared, ducking one before raising his temperature so he would be untouchable. As one grabbed at his arm, they screamed due to the burn they received, making Venus waste no time in kicking out and driving his foot into their stomach.

“HELIOS!” Venus roared, seeing his star duck a punch from another star, before leaping over the back of one exoplanet to deliver a kick to another. His star was slowly getting surrounded by the enemy, and even Proxima was struggling.

The Red Dwarf was igniting herself into fire, charging and using her agile movements to evade the enemy, but too many were coming to her. A gunshot sounded as Aries unloaded his pistol again, before ducking behind Ganymede, who provided cover to reload.

Venus rushed to Helios, throwing his weight at the star and his opponents as they began to try to bring the star to the ground, causing them all to fall. Helios snarled, kicking out and breaking free from their grasp, his hands turning a flare onto the nearest exoplanet, incinerating it.

“HD1,” Entropy turned to face the black hole, as S21 turned her eyes to the human form of Aries. The prince had his last weapon out and was completely distracted. Entropy could use the ballista to destroy the human, preventing any further rebellion. And regaining his Celestial Being.

HD1 turned to look at Entropy, who tilted his head with a frown.

 “The weapon…?”

HD1 swallowed, but did not respond, his eyes returning to focus on Helios as he watched the star rush over to help Proxima against her own opponents. The Yellow Dwarf was being very defensive of the Red Dwarf, and a smirk was crawling on his features as the two Dwarves were slowly getting overwhelmed, using flares and more to try and force their subjects away.

The black hole ignored Entropy as he stalked towards the stars, eyes flashing red as the hunger started to take over him, while S21 moved towards Aries. Above their heads, the grate was kicked off, and Enceladus dropped down, landing on an exoplanet as he held the gemstone in his hands. Entropy turned his red eyes to him and began striding towards the moon as it raced towards the group being overwhelmed by his forces.

“GRAB THAT MOON!”

The exoplanets nearest him began to run at Enceladus, who paused before skidding as he diverted his path to find another way to the prince. He collided with the nearest exoplanet and jumped off, racing towards Helios as the star realised what he had in his hand.

But before the moon could move another step, Entropy reached out and grabbed their collar, causing them to hiss and grumble, as the other spare hand reached for the gemstone.

“GANYMEDE!” Enceladus roared, dropping the gemstone and kicking it. Entropy’s hand missed, and he was forced to drop the moon, turning his red eyes at the gemstone as he tried to grab it with Gravity – only for it to continue flying.

Ganymede, who was caught between two exoplanets, managed to push his feet up and kick the gemstone as it flew towards him, sending it onwards.

Helios aimed a flare at the one blocking him, before charging forward as he saw S21 run towards Aries as the human threw his pistols out of the way and started running to where the gemstone would fall. The flare she was gathering was ready to be ignited, ready to strike the prince… and he connected with S21 as the S-Cluster fired it.

Helios roared as the flare erupted towards Aries as he lunged out, reaching out to grab the gemstone in his palm –

He was engulfed in the flare.

“NOOO!”

“ARIES!”

Down beneath their feet, the door above Earth and S1 opened, and water flowed in at a frightening rate. S1 pushed back against the wall as the water rushed in, starting to build up onto the first level of steps. Earth wasted no time in running towards her, trying to calm the star as the water started to spit towards them, small pebbles of stone appearing on S1’s skin as the droplets started hitting her.

He threw himself before her, blocking the droplets from hitting the star. S1, realising the dire situation, stood and they both ran to the door, banging their fists on it.

“HELP US! GET US OUT!”

The water was now at the second level of the steps, leaving only two. S1 turned her eyes around, fear within them, as Earth raised his hands to try to push the water back away from them both. But with the intensity and volume, he was struggling to stop it all. This was why they used it, he realised. He cannot command something that was continuously a torrent against him.

He heard S1 start punching the door, causing it to dent but not budge. Her Core ignited, and she tried to release a Flare to melt the weakened section, but it did not give way. S1 slammed her fists, shouting desperately as the water started to creep up to the level underneath theirs. Earth inhaled as he tried to summon ice, his hand shaking as the temperature started to drop further in the room.

“HELP US!” S1 screamed, her hands banging on the door. “PLEASE, LET US OUT OF HERE!”

Earth felt exhaustion grip him, and S1 turned to look at him in concern. The Star inhaled, now resigned to her fate as she pulled Earth back to her, leaning against the door. Both curled into one another, closing their eyes as the water started to creep further towards them, nearly at S1’s toes…

The door opened, and they both fell back suddenly. Earth landed heavily and rolled, before they were forcefully grabbed and pulled away as the door was slammed back shut, the water now crashing against it. S1 coughed, looking up at the pink and white feline that had pulled her away by her arm, a familiar feline with reddish-orange skin, pushing the door frantically to keep it closed.

“EUROPA, HELP!”

The pinkish-white feline leapt up, running to help the other as Earth watched them, trying to calm his pounding core. He felt his ears twitch as a familiar face with patchy grey and white skin appeared before him, black and grey eyes looking him over in concern. Earth inhaled, recognising them instantly, as Luna began to frantically speak to him.

“EARTH! Speak to me! Are you okay?!”

Luna.

His Luna.

His brother.

Earth hugged him, his moon starting at it before hugging him back. Earth had his eyes only for his beloved moon, just holding it desperately as though he would disappear at any minute. Luna held him tightly in his arms, keeping Earth’s head to his chest as he stroked his hair, calming him. Earth just clung to him desperately, his eyes focusing now on Mars and Europa as the pair battled to keep the door secure.

“Run!” Mars yelled at him. Earth realised the situation and released Luna, seeing the water start to leak through. S1 yelled as it hit her arm, causing stone patches to appear and spread as the water leakage worsened. “Go, Earth!”

“Mars-.” Earth started, but Luna wasted no time in dragging him back before going to help. Realising that if the water burst through, he and S1 were in trouble, Earth scrambled to the star and grabbed her hand, pulling her up and dragging her away. He glanced back to see Mars grin at him, before the trio released the door.

Water flowed out, hitting Europa, Luna and Mars. Earth gave a scream of anguish, but S1 kept him running, the torrent now filling the corridor and heading towards them. Earth was thrown upwards a set of stairs by S1, who promptly joined him as the water flowed past, heading down more stairs and onwards. Earth wanted to go back, but S1 was not wasting time running, dragging him with her.

“S1, we must go back! They might need us!”

“That corridor is full of water! We need to let it drain before I can go!”

“Then let me go!” Earth argued, the star curling her lip. “That is my brother and uncle down there! I must help them!”

“You will FREEZE if you do! The sooner we get help, the better. Now come on!” She darted left down a corridor, pulling Earth with her, his azure eyes looking back as he whispered an apology under his breath. He turned his face away, feeling tears rise as S1 forced him to leave Luna and the others behind. Their only blessing was that the three of them could survive in the colder water better than him and S1. But as the pair ran, they could hear fighting, yelling, and Earth quickened his pace as S1 started running.

An open door appeared before them, which went to a walkway, which Earth skidded onto with S1.

And saw the Flare, heading towards a familiar human…

Earth screamed.

“ARIES!”

S1 clasped her hands over her mouth as the human leapt, the flare engulfing him. She fell to her knees, tears starting to break free as the others were slowly being overwhelmed. Earth saw S21 turn to face him, pushing Helios off her, seeing the pair.

A cruel smile appeared as she started to walk towards the steps that would lead her up to them. Earth could see Entropy looking at the spot where the Flare had hit, smoke rising with the fire.

“A shame,” Entropy turned his eyes to Helios. “Looks like you will be dying via Sagittarius today, Helios. Unless I fulfil my promise.” His eyes turned to HD1, the black hole’s grin widening as he started to walk towards Helios. “And let HD1 eat you as he so wishes.”

The smoke died, and Earth was expecting to see a dead human… except a black tail flailed through the smoke. Eyes turned to the spot, exoplanets dropping their captured individuals as the tall and broad form of Aries stood – no longer human. With a white-gold halo behind his head, his bright eyes turned to face the rest of them. Earth inhaled, S1’s tears drying up as her hands fell, the female star standing as she saw the prince standing there in his Celestial Form.

Aries – eyes on Entropy – raised his left hand. Familiarly, Earth saw the shadow’s eyes narrow in deep anger. And drop the remains of the gemstone to the ground.

The action caused a waterfall to erupt.

Exoplanets began to run, the stars shouting but unable to do much as some fled. Helios pushed himself up, forcing the exoplanets who held him down to fall as he brought his fist around to shatter it against the face of one, breaking their neck.

Proxima roared, her hand flashing as a red flare erupted and burned a comet near her, freeing Dione as she hissed and turned to flash her claws at the one holding Enceladus. Io and Callisto tackled others, forcing them down and pinning them for capture.

“FLEE!” One was screaming. “RUN!”

“COWARDS!” S21 screeched, grabbing one exoplanet and throwing it – literally – at Aries. Aries side-stepped, the exoplanet landing hard against the ground, his eyes turning slowly to Entropy as the Force stared back in disbelief. Realising his plan had fallen apart.

But as Venus started to engage his own adversaries, bringing some to their knees and demanding surrender, the Force continued to back away. Aries grabbed an exoplanet that held Ganymede and threw it, before running as Entropy began to back off.

S21’s eyes turned to Earth and S1, who tensed as the star’s eyes turned red, her form shaking. Earth grabbed S1 by the hand, pulling her away to try and get her to go back: S21 would not hesitate to throw them off the stairs. There had to be another way! Another way to get out!

“EARTH!” Helios roared, making to run to support his planet – until a scream caught his attention.

Helios stopped, glancing around to see that Proxima was engaging with HD1, and the black hole was winning. He was bearing down on Proxima, his hand coming around her throat and forcing her to her knees, his other hand curling to be ready to take her Core out.

Gritting his teeth, Helios glanced back to see that S1 was already handling his wayward planet, so he turned to run at HD1 and Proxima. He could see HD1 throw Proxima on the ground, the Red Dwarf trying to crawl away in desperation to escape the black hole.

Helios raised his right hand, summoning a portal beside Proxima and HD1. The portal opening caused HD1 to glance in confusion before he realised who had done it. The black hole turned his eyes and form to Helios, a snarl curling as the Yellow Dwarf roared, leaping forth and tackling HD1 through the portal and onto the sand of the island they just vacated not too long ago.

Helios rolled, HD1 releasing him, before seeing Proxima struggle to stand as she reached out.

“Helios! NO-.”

The portal closed before she could complete her sentence.

Standing, Helios turned his attention to HD1 as the ancient black hole stood, his eyes turning to look at Helios as they stared each other down, several metres standing between them. Helios felt his form beating down with its heat and light, basking the two of them. Helios side-stepped, and HD1 followed him, eyes staring down the star as his hands sparked.

“Finally. No interruptions,” HD1 said, licking his teeth as he watched Helios intently. His lip twitched, a grin coming to his features. “I am going to enjoy this.”

“HD1,” Helios said softly, flexing his own hands. He kept his eyes on the movement, making sure that whatever HD1 was going to do would not catch him by surprise. He would have to dodge and keep on defence until close enough to launch a flare. While Helios had been blessed by Electromagnetism and Gravity, that did not mean he could use them.

“You need to stop this. Whatever happened in the past, happened then. It should not impact your future.”

“You know nothing about me!” HD1 snarled. “NOTHING.”

“I know enough. I know you were a First One, and I know you were punished so badly upon your death for a crime you feel you never committed,” Helios tilted. “And now you see Aries… and feel the injustice of it all. But you have killed countless others to try to feel better about that injustice. And…”

Helios’ eyes flashed red, now full of his rage. His teeth were bared, his halo now on fire as it burned with his emotion.

“I will not stand for it anymore.”

“You will not stand for it anymore?!” HD1 mocked. His hands crackled more, Helios tensing at the sight. Any moment now. “I AM A FIRST ONE! THE LARGEST AND MOST POWERFUL OF STARS! YOU ARE A PATHETIC DWARF STAR WHO WILL NEVER AMOUNT TO ANYTHING!”

And with a roar, HD1 lunged. Helios dove back, evading the grip before leaning to the right to dodge the plasma energy, before charging at HD1. Their hands grappled, each grabbing the other by the shoulders as Helios’ eyes burned into HD1’s own, the ancient star roaring in his ears before breaking the grapple and throwing Helios across the beach.

Helios skidded without issues, standing straight and aiming a quick flare as HD1 charged, throwing a plasma ball.

The two energies collided, sending a shockwave that disturbed the sand, water and trees. Helios winced and drove his fists into the sand, rooting himself before he flung his body forward, Gravity aiding him as he did so, bringing himself closer to HD1, who copied his move, twisting in the air to try and bring his legs around in a blow that would have felled any others.

Helios skidded and brought his top half away, so that one leg missed, but required his arms to block the other leg that struck him. Grabbing the leg, Helios drove his elbow into HD1’s face, causing the black hole to roar in annoyance and slash with his claws. The long nails caught Helios in the cheek, and he was forced to release the black hole’s leg before his core ignited for a flare.

HD1 effortlessly dodged the flare, bringing his hands around as he threw a plasma ball, striking Helios in the side. Helios hissed as his side burned but did not relent as he brought his hands around to send a blinding flare at HD1 once again, the burning heat narrowly missing the black hole.

HD1 was forced to back off, his eyes scanning Helios to see if he was about to reach his limit, but sadly not. The Star brought his hands up, palms held to the sky, as he felt the heat of his core and the strength within, before bringing them together to release another flare.

HD1 brought his core energy together, sending a plasma blast at the flare and causing another shockwave to erupt, more powerful than before and causing the animals to flee nearby.

Helios stepped back, not wanting to show weakness so that HD1 did not know that he was growing exhausted from the continuous use of flares. He rolled his shoulders before charging again, HD1 going to try and grapple the Star for a quick kill.

Except Helios skidded underneath his attempt to use his arm to floor the star, spinning around and bringing his hands up to send sand into HD1’s face. The black hole roared, and Helios brought his armoured hand upwards, sending a long three-fingered wound up the black hole’s cheek. HD1 stepped back, glaring as his eyes cleared of the sand, before a smirk crawled onto his features.

“Finally… finally. I have a worthy opponent that just won’t lie down and die like the many others. You aren’t just a dwarf star, Helios: you are a challenge.”

“I have to know how to fight,” Helios was not going to accept any flattery from the black hole. “With a world of life. I must defend him.”

His eyes flashed red once again.

“And you harmed him. It is only natural that I kill you, HD1.”

“If you can try!” HD1 roared. “I will not stop until I get my revenge on EVERY. LAST. STAR. Until I am dragged to the SINGULARITY HIMSELF! I will kill them and finally…”

His eyes flashed as Helios saw the former First One disappear… into a monster.

“I will finally have peace. With my family.”

“You disgrace your family and their memory by doing what you did!” Helios roared. “Do you think your family will want you to KILL innocent stars and worlds!”

“DO NOT DICTATE TO ME WHAT THEY WANT!”

HD1 lunged, his canines exposed as he went to try and grapple with Helios. The star tried to side-step but instead was forced to kick the black hole over, sending him rolling into the sand. HD1 was now out of control, as he spun around to face Helios as the star stood, legs braced and ready.

“I DID EVERYTHING I WAS MEANT TO, AND THE ONE CHANCE I HAD AT HAPPINESS WAS TAKEN AWAY! I WILL KILL THAT MIXED-BLOOD FREAK TO SHOW SINGULARITY HIS FAILURE! AND ANYBODY WHO PROTECTS HIM! INCLUDING EARTH!”

Helios felt his famed anger increase, exposing his canines as his brow became knotted and his form tense. His Core brightened as the energy readied to move from it, knowing that this time… he would have to kill HD1. Not capture, not force to surrender.

Kill.

“Threaten Aries all you want, you will not win,” he said darkly. “But threaten my planet… and I have no choice, HD1. I will kill you.”

“THEN COME AT ME, BOY!” HD1 lunged, hands sparking as Helios copied, his own hands igniting into golden fire as he braced for the inevitable. Helios roared, one not as strong as others but enough to give him some strength for the fight ahead. A fight only one would win.

High above their heads, the blue wolf form of Planet X stared down at the duelling two. His red eyes scanned them before turning to the weapon that he had managed to move from the base of Entropy.

The Force had acquired this weapon to use for his grand plan of killing the Queen, but for X, this was not what he wished. There were others he wanted to use this weapon on… and one of which was down in the sand, fighting the black hole known as HD1.

And Entropy was not going to stop him from getting his revenge against the ones who had hurt him the most. He loved his star, was always loyal, and Helios threw him to the wolves. It was only fitting that he died by the planet he had discarded so easily.

His hands pulled the mechanism, the harpoon sliding back, before X grabbed the handles to turn the ballista downwards. X looked through the targeting mechanism, turning the harpoon tip downwards as he aimed for Helios. The Star was battling the Black Hole, releasing a flare again as HD1 sent another plasma ball at him, leaving him open.

X smirked.

And went to press the button… until he saw…

In the reflection…

He swung the ballista around but was forced to lunge to prevent the blow from sending the weapon into him. The harpoon flailed and fired into the sky, going where X did not know.

His red eyes turned to the assailant as they pushed the ballista, sending it falling off the cliff and crashing into the ground, breaking and rendering it useless. The arms snapped, the wiring and electronics ignited into a blaze.

X pushed himself up, angry, as he turned to the one who had screwed up his plans once again.

“You.”

“Me.” The feline turned to face him, golden eyes saddened as they looked at X. “What are you doing, X?”

“What is right, Jupiter?” X snarled. His notched ear flicked as he looked at the planet he hated above all others. His hands curled into fists as he stood, his wolfish tail sweeping behind him, eyes burning darker red than before. “He deserves it… You ALL deserve it.”

“Helios did no wrong to deserve being murdered by you,” Jupiter said sadly. His feline tail swept behind him as his rounded ears flattened against his hair, no longer looking well-groomed and washed as before his exile. He still had his pinkish-gold hair, the red spot on his cheek, and his damn voice. His accent. Everything about him made X sick to know that Jupiter lived in such luxury while he struggled to make ends meet, lost in an orbit that was reserved for the worst of crimes.

“This isn’t murder, Jupiter,” X growled, before his claws unsheathed as he lunged for the feline.

“THIS IS JUSTICE!”

Jupiter side-stepped, keeping his claws in their sheath, as X changed direction sharply to try to catch the feline off guard. Jupiter raised his paws to interlock with X’s own, tears falling from his golden eyes as he faced the consequences of his actions from so long ago. His ears flattened on his hair, as his feet gripped the dirt to prevent X from pushing him off the cliff to the ruins below.

X broke free and slashed with his claws, catching Jupiter across the face and causing a wound from one cheek to the other over the bridge. Jupiter growled, but kept his claws in, deciding on the defence instead of aggression.

“X, stop this!”

“NOT UNTIL YOU PAY!” X screeched. “NOT UNTIL EVERY LAST ONE OF YOU PAY.”

Jupiter leaned back to prevent the claws from reaching his neck, grabbed the arm and pushed X back, throwing him to the trees. The wolf dragged his claws into the sand before running at Jupiter, leaping at the planet to try and tackle him.

Jupiter leapt to the side, tail keeping him balanced as he brought his leg up to try and strike the Ice Giant. X parried before grabbing Jupiter by the shoulders, the Gas Giant responding in kind to the grapple as he stared into the eyes of his former friend, his tears falling.

“You deserve this…” X growled, bearing his sharp teeth. “You deserve to pay for hurting me when all I wanted to be your friend!”

“X, I’m sorry,” Jupiter stammered, but the Ice Giant did not listen. His teeth slammed down onto Jupiter’s left arm, drawing blood, and the Gas Giant roared in agony as X broke the grapple, bringing his right fist upwards against Jupiter’s face. Even then, Jupiter only stumbled, his immense size and gravity keeping him grounded before finally… his claws flashed, and X was nearly caught by them.

Jupiter stared him down before glancing at his arm to see the bite, leaking small droplets of golden liquid. His eyes turned slowly back to X as the Ice Giant prowled, red eyes staring back as a grin came to his features.

“You expect me to fight honourably when you did not give me the same decency?”

“If you wish to fight without honour…” Jupiter growled, his claws now unsheathed. He drew himself up to full height, squaring his shoulders. His ears became more aggressive as he bore down on the smaller planet, before a roar escaped his maw as he charged at X.

The Ice Giant gave a jubilant call before running at the Gas Giant, who wasted no time in spinning and causing X to miss his tackle, grabbing the Ice Giant from behind and throwing him back on the ground.

X groaned and aimed a kick at Jupiter’s leg, but he dodged effortlessly and grabbed X by his collar, bringing him around again to slam him on the ground.

“You will not squander… my exile… to hurt my FAMILY!” Jupiter roared. He pulled X to his face before dropping him back. X felt fear as the Gas Giant raised his large foot to pin him and rolled as the paw slammed down.

“Your strife is with ME! Not Helios, not Saturn… NONE OF THEM!”

“They all deserve to pay!” X grabbed a branch, bringing it around at Jupiter’s hip. Jupiter grabbed the branch, holding it and preventing it from colliding with his side. He wrestled it from X, who leapt at the Gas Giant once more to try and grab his neck, but Jupiter brought the branch around and caused it to collide with the Ice Giant. X groaned where he lay before he got up and charged again in anger.

Jupiter pushed the branch at X, causing him to slide out of the way before he side-stepped and grabbed X by the hair, throwing him back against another tree. Jupiter raised his fist, bringing it towards the Wolf Humanoid, who ducked and glared, as in slow motion, Jupiter’s fist caused bark to fly from the tree as he brought himself around to engage.

X darted and leapt onto Jupiter’s back, the Gas Giant roaring like a lion as he tried to protect his neck.

“STOP!”

Someone grabbed X and pulled him off, throwing the Ice Giant on the ground. He rolled and turned his red eyes to the new individual, a growl coming to his features as he faced down the second assailant.

“Saturn… nice of you to join us.”

Saturn stepped by Jupiter, his eyes looking at his husband with shock at the planet being there. Jupiter straightened, his golden eyes looking back as he gazed sadly at Saturn, before the pair turned their eyes back to X.

Their crime.

“Of course. You two together,” X snarled. “The two who threw me out of this system and left me in the dark!”

“X, stop this,” Saturn begged of him. “Please! Violence is not the answer; talking is! We can talk and-.”

“I am done talking!” X roared, ears now flat against his head as he stood up. “You know what, I don’t care. I have waited for this, for revenge against you both for exiling me, for doing the right thing!”

He made a step to Saturn, but Jupiter went on the defensive. The Gas Giant parried the fist for Saturn, who made no effort to defend himself, before X returned his focus to Jupiter.

Saturn darted around and leapt, his foot colliding with X in the chest, but he grabbed the foot and dragged the yellow feline onto the ground, twisting the ankle.

Jupiter ran to aid, and X released Saturn, who yelled at the twist, to engage with the other Gas Giant, trading blows for blows.

Saturn got up and leapt over Jupiter’s back as he ducked down to bring his fist against X’s face, causing golden blood to fly from the nose. X turned his red eyes back at Saturn, raising a paw to his nose as he stared down at the droplets, before turning his eyes to the Ringed Planet.

Saturn felt terror as he stared at X, the wolf curling his lip as he lunged for the golden planet, Saturn jumping back as X grabbed Saturn by the tail and violently pulled.

Saturn screamed, a snap echoing on the cliff. X pulled Saturn close to him, his hand on his throat, before driving the golden planet into the dirt. Jupiter was up and running, but X brought Saturn around, so the pair collided, sprawling on the ground. X roared and leapt onto Jupiter again, dragging his claws across the Gas Giant’s back and causing deep wounds.

Jupiter roared and elbowed back, rolling off Saturn and dragging his own claws over X’s face, causing deep wounds in the cheek. Saturn, shaking and in agony, pushed himself from under Jupiter and grabbed X again from behind, pulling him off his husband, and causing X to flail.

“Jupiter… are you alright?” Saturn stammered as he tried to hold onto X. The Gas Giant nodded, his hand on his back, before turning his eyes to X as Saturn brought them both down, wrapping his arms around his neck in a grip to seek to bring him to unconsciousness.

X roared, driving his elbows back to disengage, but Saturn held firm, ignoring the agony of his tail as he wrapped his limbs to secure X. X was slowly turning purple, before finally… his flailing stopped. Saturn exhaled before pushing X over and off. The Ice Giant slumped as he lay in the dirt.

Jupiter panted, eyes now calming as he stared at X sadly. Saturn winced at his tail, looking at his break with saddened eyes… it may never properly heal. He would not be able to fight now. Not anymore. His balance would be permanently gone, and what else… he would have to explain this to Helios.

“Helios!” Saturn got up, but Jupiter pressed a hand on his. Saturn turned his eyes to Jupiter, desperate. “We have to help him!”

“We can’t,” Jupiter turned his eyes to the beach. Helios had evaded a plasma ball and thrown a flare out, causing the follow-up to be dissolved and sending another shockwave out. The Black Hole was getting irate, ready to leap at the Star for a quick finish.

“He knows that if we intervene, the black hole will escape, and we will be back at square one. If he sees me… he may attack and must fight on two fronts. While I will help him, I cannot fight a black hole and a star. Especially not my friend.”

Saturn trembled, tilting his head down. Jupiter cupped his chin, looking at his husband with great sadness.

“I failed my promise to you, Saturn. I… I am sorry, my love.”

“You are here now,” Saturn whispered. He embraced Jupiter, head on his collar, as Jupiter’s strong arms came around him. “You defended our star even now. I… I couldn’t keep my word. I failed, Jupiter. Not you.”

“You are too harsh on yourself, Saturn,” Jupiter caressed his hair. He felt Saturn cling to him, desperate. In case… the inevitable were to happen.

And sadly, it would.

“You are stronger than what you take credit for. A leader. You must believe it.”

Saturn inhaled, giving a nod. He tensed as he looked around at X, hearing a groan. The Ice Giant was coming around. Saturn looked at Jupiter, knowing that if his husband remained, this would be disastrous. While he caused X to fall unconscious, the sight of Jupiter would probably destroy any logical argument to be used.

He needed to leave.

“Go, Jupiter,” Saturn said, pushing away. “Get away. Go.”

Jupiter winced but realised what Saturn was doing. His hand squeezed Saturn’s own, as the Ringed Planet stared at him sadly before adopting a more aggressive stance. For show. His ears were twitching as he heard more approaching his location.

“Go!”

“I love you, Saturn,” Jupiter whispered. Saturn felt his Core break, as his oldest friend, his companion… his husband… ran to the trees. Saturn covered his mouth with his hands before turning back to X, going to his side to see what wounds needed tending to. The Ice Giant was coming to, and fortunately, Saturn could sense his moons approaching. X would not try anything with witnesses.

As his hands worked on the wounds, X’s eyes flew open. His hands grabbed Saturn by the wrists, his fangs bared, but then Titan emerged, and he relaxed. His red eyes glared at Saturn, unforgiving. Saturn knew he would not have any choice now in hiding away in the System: if X could not physically harm him now, he would find another way to punish Saturn.

Jupiter is right… I must step up. Whatever the cost. I must protect Sun, the Rockies… everyone.

On the beach, Helios was tiring, as was HD1. The black hole was breathing heavier but not as heavily as Helios, who knew he was reaching his firing limit. Any more Flares and Helios knew he would collapse and be at HD1’s mercy, and that black hole knew it. The grin was back, predatory, as he watched Helios where he stood, the star side-stepping as his blue eyes kept focus on HD1, refusing to try and allow any possible weakness to take hold.

But it did not matter, HD1 told himself. Helios was at the limitations before he would face collapse, and while HD1 respected the star for the fight, he wanted this to end with him feasting. He had gone too long without sustenance.

Something struck the sand, many metres behind Helios, and the pair turned their eyes to it. HD1 eyed it suspiciously before realisation dawned as he recognised it: a harpoon.

The harpoon used for Project Hades!

His eyes turned to Helios, seeing a flash of confusion. He could use the harpoon to kill Helios, take his Core… he would feast without resistance. Even better!

HD1 ran, and it seemed Helios had realised the importance of the harpoon because he ran after him as the black hole passed. HD1 spun and sent a plasma ball, which Helios dodged effortlessly before diving and wrapping his arms around the legs.

HD1 roared and spun around as best he could, sending his claws out, but Helios blocked, pinning him with his knees as he tried to keep HD1 on the ground. But it left his chest open… and HD1 wasted no time sending a plasma blast at the Core. Helios roared in agony and was thrown off, landing heavily on the sand, allowing HD1 to run without resistance for the harpoon.

Realising his error, Helios stood and adopted a defensive stance, hunched in pain at his Core, sending shockwaves of agony through his body.

HD1 prowled with the harpoon, running at Helios with the intention of killing him. Helios gritted his teeth and, as the barbed weapon came to him, he side-stepped and grabbed the slender arm, wrestling with HD1 as the black hole tried to force him away. Helios pushed at HD1, trying to get him off, but the black hole managed to force Helios to the ground. Desperate, Helios aimed a flare, causing the harpoon tip to fly off as it landed on the ground.

HD1 roared and charged, bringing his fist around and hitting Helios right in the jaw, sending him to the ground. Dazed, Helios could do nothing as HD1 leapt for the harpoon tip, his head spinning as he stared at the black hole. He inhaled sharply, knowing what must be done… and so when HD1 charged at him with the harpoon tip, Helios rushed to meet him, raising his hands to try and block HD1’s view and cause his aim to be skewed.

The harpoon tip hit Helios through his shoulder, and he was forced to roar in agony as the gemstones burned him. HD1 gave a triumphant smile as he drove Helios down on the ground, pushing the harpoon further into Helios’ shoulder, jubilant.

His lips came to his ear as he whispered

“You fought bravely, Helios. So brave. But futile. Now join your brethren… in Hell.”

Helios’ hands grasped his sides. And he realised too late.

The flare erupted.

HD1 was consumed. His sides burned, his stomach, his chest… his core… he was forced to pull away in the sheer agony he felt as Helios ignited him. But as his hands released the harpoon head, he failed to see Helios act quickly.

And now…

The harpoon head was in his Core.

HD1 choked. His Core was torn. Shattered as the head and gemstones poisoned him. Helios pushed the harpoon head with his good hand, sending it further in so that HD1 had no chance of retrieving it.

The ancient black hole stumbled as his form shuddered, his hands sparking as his power started to fail. His eyes looked at Helios, widened as the Star pushed himself up, staring at HD1 with not triumph… but pity.

Sorrow.

HD1 was falling. But then Helios was there, holding him in his arms. The Star brought them down to the ground, Helios holding him tightly. Why? He had tried to kill this Star twice, tried to destroy his planets… and he was showing him mercy? Why?

Why?

“I’m sorry,” Helios whispered to him, holding HD1 close to his collar. HD1 could not act against the Star even now. His Core was broken, struggling to continue to function. The gemstones decimated what made him… Alive. He could not function as any Celestial would.

“Don’t be…” He managed to strangle out. “You fought… valiantly, Helios.”

“So did you,” Helios was crying. He could see the tears. “I… I have respected you for so long. You are my Hero, HD1. Even now.”

HD1 gave a pained smile as he choked. Blood appeared from his mouth as his Core began to dissolve slowly. The gemstones did their work. He could see his planetary form recoil and twist, ready to blink out of existence.

His eyes stared at the skies above. The birds that flew above them, the crash of the waves, and the barks of sea mammals. He saw the palm trees rustle and… he felt the heat of Helios as he soared above their heads. HD1 smiled at the sight, his eyes saddening. Was he… responsible for this? Everything came from the old stare. Did… his atoms…

“You made this. You and the other First Ones,” Helios whispered. “You all made Life possible. You suffered… and for that I am deeply sorry.”

HD1 grimaced. He coughed, eyes turning back to Helios as he saw the tears on the cheeks of the Dwarf. Was it pity or… was it…

“I hope you reunite with them,” Helios whispered. “Your family. You deserve happiness, HD1.”

“Hadrian.”

The name.

His name.

He was stripped of it by Singularity. Hadrian gave a choked smile as he looked up at Helios, growing weaker in the star’s arms. Helios shook, his arms curling around tighter.

“I… am… Hadrian…”

“Hi, Daddy!”

He could see them. His son was standing there before him. His hand reached out, and he felt himself floating. His body slumped in Helios’ arms, but he was floating. His hand was blue, and he couldn’t… believe it. He was back in his former body, his Star form. With his radiant blue skin, eyes, and hair.

“Come play, daddy!”  His son grabbed his hand. “Mommy is waiting for us!”

“Persephone…” Hadrian whispered. Helios held his body closer, but he was already gone. His blue form brightened, the glow erupting outwards as he saw her. Walking toward him with her beautiful grey and brown form, long hair… carrying a baby in her arms. A baby with his beautiful blue eyes. The one she would have birthed had he not…

“Hadrian, my love…” Her voice was gentle. “It is time to come home.”

Her hand took his… and he followed her into the light.

HD1 passed.

Helios felt his body slump in his arms, the Core now dead. He felt his tears fall as he sobbed against the hair of his former hero. His form shook as the implications of his culture, the lies and deceit, finally got to him. Everything he had ever been taught… was a lie.

A hand on his shoulder, and he froze. Helios turned his eyes around to see that Saturn was there, and X… and the moons. He looked away quickly to preserve whatever he had left. Whatever dignity he had left. He felt his Core sink as he realised he wished it were Jupiter that was comforting him at that moment, not them. Not even Saturn.

“I want to burn him,” Helios whispered. “X, Moons, stay with the body… Saturn and I will return to the North and help round up the others. Protect his body and keep it secure.”

“Yes, my star,” X said, a solemn touch to his voice. “We will honour him by standing vigil.”

Helios, carefully, rested Hadrian onto the sand. He smoothed his hands over to the Core, covering the injury. Helios watched for a moment, whatever was left of his sanity seeming to just… die.

Finally, he turned and strode off without another word. His lip curled as he and Saturn walked to find a spot for the portal, determined… to finish what Hadrian started.

And kill a Force.

Chapter Text

Proxima stared at the spot where the portal had disappeared before she heard her name being called. She spun around, eyes staring as Venus grabbed an exo and threw them on the ground with the others. Her halo burned brighter as she pushed herself up, going towards Aries, who was battling two rogue stars that did not want to surrender. She hissed and rushed at the nearest one, grabbing them from behind and pulling the star away from the prince, throwing the star on the ground. Their eyes focused on her, dead on the inside, and they released a flare that Proxima evaded without issue. Proxima screeched as her own flare erupted, colliding with the star, who promptly disappeared into a mass of darkness.

And Proxima realised they were not alone.

A portal opened, and a dark humanoid rushed out. Their halo was a shimmering black, void of all light, as they lunged at the other star at Aries, pushing it down. Another black hole joined them, subduing the star and making sure they would not make a break for it. Two more appeared and rushed to try and subdue S21, who screeched at them with anger as she turned her eyes to them, shooting a flare at the pair, who evaded without much effort. The Former S-Cluster star rushed up the stairs, the black holes following.

“Sup, Aries!” A female called, her wolf tail flicking as she pulled an exo away from the moon known as Callisto. She tossed them with the others, as the other Galilean Moons surrounded them, keeping them in check. The female gave a grin as she stepped toward the prince. “How ya doing?”

“Not bad,” Aries turned his eyes to the rest of the room, curling his lip. “Where is Entropy?”

Proxima tensed, her eyes also scanning for any sign of the Forbidden One. Aries tensed rapidly, before turning instantly to face Proxima and Venus, as the Volcanic World read the hidden message in the prince.

“Ganymede, you guys have them?!” Aries called the moon.

“Aye! GO!”

“Good! Gaia, are you able to clean up in here?!”

Gaia gave them a thumbs up before turning with a grin at the exoplanets as the rest of her kind started to round them all up. Proxima rushed to Aries as the prince turned and led the star and planet at a run through a door just off the ground level, his eye scanning for any sign of the Forbidden One. Proxima saw more enemies ahead and pushed past Aries to prevent the enemy from gaining an advantage against the prince. Her flare erupted, catching some in her radiation, while Venus leapt off the wall and tackled one exoplanet to the ground, driving his fist into their face to get them to back off. Aries drove his fist in, sending another flying into a window and smashing it.

The trio moved into a walkway that held more within, and Aries pushed a comet over the railing and down into the depths. Proxima jumped down some steps and pushed herself onwards to handle the lower levels, whilst Venus turned his eyes to a fellow volcanic world that stepped to him. Cracking his knuckles, Venus grunted and rolled his neck, moving to engage.

Aries turned his eyes around, baring his teeth – before pain.

“ARIES!” Venus roared, losing his concentration and causing the enemy volcanic to punch him. Venus was sent falling down some steps before he rolled and roared, heading back up.

Aries staggered, leaning against the wall as he stared down at his side. A harpoon was lodged in, and he wasted no time in pulling it out as the gemstone capsules snapped and began leaking into his body. His Core shuddered in sudden pain, and he took steady breaths as he threw the harpoon away down into the depths, hearing it clatter and break as it fell. Aries slid down the wall, his tail arching as he winced delicately, his hands clasping his wounded side, his healing talent from his father… not working. This was what Project Hades did: it removed their abilities. If it never hit the Core, it could wound the target and help create a weak point for use.

His eyes looked upwards as he found the origin of the harpoon. He was standing there, many metres above him, red eyes glowing as he stared down at Aries. Without hesitation, ignoring his pain, Aries roared and got up, trying to run up the steps as he went to engage. He saw Entropy grin, moving away as Aries pushed past some enemies, throwing one over the railing before casting a flare at the unfortunate soul that stood in his way. Aries kicked one out of his way before pushing around as he tried to tail Entropy.

“Aries, wait for us!” Venus yelled, but he ignored him. He ignored Proxima as she also called for him to wait. All he could think about was his father lying there, dying, and this man was responsible for it. Any logic, any reason left him as he ran up the steps after Entropy, the Force moving like a shadow to a room off the walkway. “ARIES!”

He pushed the door open and released a flare. It erupted into the huge room, igniting it and burning computers nearby, which sparked and burst into fire. Aries set his teeth, hissing as he pressed his hand into his side, sparks flying from the wiring set loose by his flare, steam erupting from a burst pipe and sending mist into the area. Aries coughed, deciding to keep away from it, his eyes scanning around…

“Your father would be so proud of you, Aries.”

“Shut the fuck up,” Aries turned his head, listening intently for any sign of Entropy. “Don’t you dare talk about my father.”

“Why? I knew him well, Aries,” A flash as Entropy stepped out of the shadows… no, it wasn’t Entropy. He shrugged his shoulders, his form flashing between the shadow and…

S2.

“GET OUT OF HIS FORM!” Aries roared. He ran for the false form of his father, intending to tackle them. The taller and stronger form of Entropy met him, and he was thrown over the damaged computers without much effort.

“Disappointing,” Entropy had adopted the voice of his father. He pushed aside the desk as though it were nothing, stepping to Aries. “How disappointing you are, Aries.”

Aries winced at his wounded side before grabbing a falling chair and bringing it around, slamming it on Entropy’s face. The Force roared, losing the image and turning his red eyes at Aries, going to grapple. Aries met him, his face inches from Entropy, a roar escaping his mouth as Entropy responded in kind. Aries broke the grapple and pushed Entropy to the left, ramming his left fist into a hard strike before the Force responded in kind, causing Aries to back off. Aries felt blood from his nose, raising a hand to wipe it.

“Foolish, boy,” Entropy scowled. “So, determined. You want to fight me… You are nothing to me, Aries!”

“You’re right, I probably am!” Aries snarled. His hand slipped into his suit pocket, pulling out… a black crystal. “But after what you have done… I intend to bring justice. For my father. And my mother. And my sibling, whose father you have just ROBBED!”

Aries charged, and Entropy’s smile fell as the boy’s hands sparked. The Force leapt back, Aries following him as he skidded underneath an arm that came out, his tail flicking to keep him steady before he spun around as Entropy began to face him. Aries pushed himself back onto his feet. Entropy’s hands sparked as he sent a plasma ball at Aries, who was forced to do the same, causing a shockwave and sending the fire flowing out the nearest window, causing it to start spreading. Aries felt Entropy’s foot connect with his left hand, sending the black crystal flying, making the prince back off.

“You truly don’t know what is coming, boy,” Entropy snarled. He towered over Aries. “What is soon to happen. What your existence will bring to the universe: War is coming, not now, not in a million years, but soon. Every choice you have made, every outcome of the decisions you have chosen, has caused an irreversible effect on the universe.”

Aries breathed out, the fire raging around him. His hands curled in fists as he tensed, the pain dulling in his side now. He could hear shouting outside, see flashes of red and orange, and feel the gravity of the others. In this singular moment.

“I knew from the moment I sensed your presence the destiny you would have, the burden on your shoulders,” Entropy said, silky in his voice. “I look at you now… and I see more than that day in the Pillars. You are the only one to have ever harmed me. Do you know why, Aries?”

Aries could feel his core beating as Entropy’s question lingered. Silence, nothing more, was in the room. Even the fire’s noise was dull, a hum to his ears.

“I know why,” Aries said, his eyes bearing into Entropy’s own. “I have half-star, half-black hole. A hybrid between two of the most powerful celestials this universe has to offer. My blood is from the First Ones. The blood you sought to have for so long.”

Silence. Entropy stared at him, a frown on his features as he regarded the prince before him. Aries took a step to the right, and Entropy mirrored with one to the left.

“I do have one question to ask of you. When you stole my essence, you said you coveted it for so long. Why?”

Entropy curled his lip, tilting his head. His eyes narrowed as he stared down the prince, deciding clearly on whatever lie he wanted to tell. It did not matter, Aries realised.

“I knew from the moment I stared down at you, in the Hall of Pillars, who you were, Aries. When I was with the Forces, I knew of your ancestors siring a child with another star. And from him began an ancient war of discrimination. Against Unnaturals. Unaware of their importance to the Universe in how it functions. Singularity realised his error with Hadrian and seeks to absolve himself of his own guilt. And so, he had a hand in your creation.”

“You are saying Singularity had a hand in my conception,” Aries rolled his eyes. “My parents had a hand in that. Not some ancient deity who does not exist anymore.”

“Everything that has occurred is via his will, nothing more or less,” Entropy scowled. “You are the perfect weapon, Aries. My counterpart. Where I destroy, you encourage loyalty and turn the minds and decisions of others. You inspire. THAT is why you harmed me, Aires… you are Singularity.”

Aries sucked in a breath. His body ran cold, his core pounding in his ears, as he stared down at Entropy. Anger assaulted him as he shook his head, curling his lip to bare his teeth as he felt the Forces spark within him, the purple sparks engulfing his fingers as he took a threatening step forward.

“You are lying.”

“Every black hole has a singularity point, Aries,” Entropy schooled. His own hands sparked. “But you… You are half a star. You can create as well as destroy. The perfect moment, the perfect balance, the perfect being created between light and darkness. Your father is a star; your mother is a black hole. They started their romance, unaware of the effect they would have on the universe. They created the perfect God in you, and now your sister would face the same fate.”

He tilted his head as Aries paused.

“Oh, you did not realise your unborn sibling is a girl, did you… a Red Dwarf to be exact. But not just any Red Dwarf…” His lip curled. “An Unnatural given a place, whereas you did not gain one, and you never wondered why? Because, Aries, your destiny is to sit on a throne as a King. Over many Galaxies, of trillions of worlds, stars, black holes and more.”

“To be that… I would have to kill my own mother,” Aries snarled. The fire was gaining in volume, but he did not care. Fire did not hurt him. “And I refuse to-.”

“You cannot change your nature,” Entropy interrupted. “It is what I have envisioned, Aries. You will kill your mother, Sagittarius, and sit on her Throne. And many will bow to you and submit. THAT is your destiny, Aries: you cannot escape it.”

Aries ground his teeth together, more wires sparking as the fires crept further around him. His eyes drifted downwards as his thoughts battled with each other, his core beating so fast and hard he was surprised he did not collapse. Entropy took a step forth, raising his hand to Aries as though offering to him… offering a way to escape this turmoil.

“I can help you. Properly, Aries. A good King needs a good councillor: and you would make a splendid King with the right one by your side.”

Aries felt it. A hand on his shoulder. For a moment, he was not in that room, but elsewhere. Back on the island, seeing Earth laughing, Luna chatting excitedly about the black holes, S1… her kiss and embrace. How they lay together after their lovemaking, jubilant to be with one another. Her smile as she caressed his cheek, her fingers touching his lips as his own hand touched her hair, overjoyed to feel love for her. The possibility of spending the rest of their lives together as one, and who knows… maybe more.

His mother, her gentle smile and grace, as she held him for the first time since he was Awakened. His father, his hand on his cheek as he met his son for the first time. The promises of so much, how S2 would guide him to a prosperous future, and be the father and son they wanted to be. How S2 held both Aries and Sagittarius in his arms, watching the last rays of the Sun as it set over the horizon.

But then…

His father died, his mother sobbing over his broken body. Earth suffering from his injuries from Area 51, Luna disfigured, and S1… the grief she felt at possibly being alone, losing him…

“Everything that has happened this last year has been because of you,” Aries said softly. “You placed that idea into Ganymede and Europa, to get them to trap Earth, so that I could be found. Everything that happened… manipulating my father against my mother. You knew I existed, but you never could find me until that day in Area 51. You caused so much suffering… death… because you believe me as some sort of reincarnation of a dead being who created the Universe.”

His fists curled as his Core burned.

“And that is where you are wrong, Entropy. I do know who I am…”

His eyes snapped at Entropy, burning. With his rage at the bait.

“I am Prince Aries, son of Sagittarius and S2. Friend of Earth and Luna, and the partner of S1,” He moved his stance, ready for combat. His lip curled.

“And your visions… are lies, Entropy.”

The Force’s maw turned, snarling as he gazed straight at Aries, lowering his hand as rage erupted in the Force’s being. He squared his shoulders, Aries trying his best to seek out the black crystal in his peripheral vision, but unable to with the flames. His wounded side had solidified, filling the pain and making it more tolerable. Now he wished he had waited for Venus and Proxima. They would have been three against one, and Entropy would have been subdued much more easily.

“I see you require one last teaching, Aries. One lesson your mother and father have not given you…” Entropy seemed to collect the shadows around him, wisps of Dark Energy flowing and smothering even the fire. Aries felt a flash of terror, stepping back to try out the door behind him.

“And that lesson… is how to die well.”

Entropy lunged, a roar escaping him. Aries leapt back, ducking down and skidding on his knees to give him space as Entropy focused not on maiming him, but killing him. The Force’s hands sparked, and Aries pushed himself back, bringing a flare out that was skilfully blocked and sent flying elsewhere into a wall. It burned through, creating a hole and causing the fire to erupt out of a new opening, spreading further onto the walkway and causing the metal supports to creak.

Aries flung himself out the door before rolling as Entropy burst through him. Aries got up and sent a combined form of Electromagnetism and Gravity, which was blocked easily by Entropy and sent flying into the ceiling.

“If you will not grab your destiny by the hand… then I will end your line here and now,” Entropy was demonic. His roar was stronger than anything Aries heard. “And your mother will retrieve whatever I send her that is left of you.”

“Aries!” Venus roared from below. “This building is collapsing! We gotta go!”

Aries pushed over the railing, falling as he reached out and grabbed some railings several metres down. Entropy wasted no time in dropping after him, Proxima turning her attention to the Force and sending a Flare in his direction. Venus ran ahead, ducking under the radiation as he stepped up behind the Force – only to find himself floating as Entropy caught him in his web and threw him into Proxima, sending the pair sprawling.

Aries shot another flare, followed by a plasma ball and another, trying to get Entropy hit. But the energies faded through, the Force wasting no time in sweeping forth and aiming for his neck. To go for a fast kill. Aries roared and went for the grapple, pushing at Entropy as the taller being brought him around to try and push him off the walkway – the broken pieces below now sending spikes upwards that would impale even the strongest of stars.

Aries pushed back, bringing his fist around before a Flare erupted, striking Entropy in the side. The Force roared and threw Aries away, sending him onto the walkway as it started to buckle under the weight and ferocity of the fighting. Aries pushed himself up, working gravity to send whatever object was around him at Entropy, who responded similarly.

The plasma ball Aries sent was met by Entropy’s own, causing a shockwave that rattled the walkway. Aries, ignoring his ears as they sang loudly, ducked under Entropy and through the door Venus and Proxima had entered, kicking it shut before scrambling up. Both were still trying to untangle themselves.

“I think you pissed him off!” Venus snarled, helping Proxima up. “What’s the plan, Aries?”

“Get everyone out. Now. Find Luna, Europa and Mars,” Aries saw the door buckle, a shadowy hand grasping the edge as it tried to rip it off the hinges. “I will distract him! Go, now!”

Proxima wasted no time running to carry out his orders, but Venus waited, looking back at Aries. The prince saw him looking and pushed Venus, causing the volcanic world to stumble.

“Go, move!”

“Kid, I ain’t leaving you…” Venus started, but the door buckled further. Aries turned to face it, his Core lighting up as he built up more energy. Venus stepped to his side, ready, but Aries shoved him again. “Aries!”

“Find Earth and go! Get your sons out, Venus!” Aries’ tone indicated he would not accept any arguments. Not this time. His Core glowed brighter, and the energy was moving, Venus backing off as he watched Aries turn back to face the door as Entropy pulled the rest away, revealing himself.

Aries released a powerful flare, which engulfed Entropy. He staggered, as Venus turned to run, before moving his legs to start his own sprint down another corridor. Entropy was through, his shadowy form glowing a horrific red as the flare burned the Force, Aries running as fast as his weakening body could allow him. Entropy was a maelstrom of shadowy energy, tailing him, sparks flying as he chased the prince.

“If you will not accept your destiny…”

The voice had changed. It was no longer silky, smooth, but demonic and echoed with the many thousands – billions – of Celestials that died. Aries continued running, his tail keeping him balanced as he skidded around a corner, pulling chairs or whatever down to slow the Force.

“… I will remove you.”

Aries leapt over a fallen cabinet and skidded under some concrete, turning himself to use gravity to push it at the maelstrom. He scrambled up as he forced himself through a door, landing heavily on a concrete floor before running. In a hangar bay. Doors closed. He needed them open.

Aries scrambled as he tried to seek out a panel, but no luck. He skidded behind a container, willing his halo to extinguish and give him some cover. His Core pounded in his chest, his tail flicking at his side as his wound ached. The bleeding had got worse; he did not know when, but he must have caught it during his run.

The maelstrom erupted through, before concentrating into the familiar humanoid form of Entropy, flashes erupting as he tried to centre himself. Aries wasted no time in throwing out a plasma ball, followed by a flare. The blinding light and the sparks of Electromagnetism mixed with weak, strong and gravity erupted into the maelstrom, causing a shockwave to erupt and send the containers flying. Aries was thrown back against the ground, rolling and finally lying there, breathing steadily. His eyes turned to the flames of mist, before…

Entropy walked through, his form flashing with anger and determination, as he rolled his shoulders. The Force made his way straight for Aries, who scrambled to try to get to his feet. Entropy roared and ran for him, sending energy at Aries, who was forced to deflect it away to keep his life.

Now he could see why only his mother could hold against Entropy.

“Your mother sent you… An untrained boy against ME. A Force of nature that has existed since the Bang…” Entropy seethed. “Knowing she has a replacement within her. And you dare refuse me, Singularity? You of all of them.”

Aries panted, pushing himself up as he shook, trying to keep himself centred. His hands curled into fists as his tail flicked, before leaping over a container as Entropy lunged for him. Aries pushed boxes and more at Entropy before a flare erupted, his body shaking as the limit was being reached.

And Entropy knew it.

“She isn’t here to save you. Nor is Helios, or Earth. Not even your own father. You are on your own, Aries. It is just you and me.”

Meanwhile, Earth shuddered as S1 tore a door open, pulling him out into the snowy tundra. He held her hand tightly, teeth chattering as the cold air snapped at his skin, looking back to see they were not alone. As S1 pulled him onto the snow and ice, S21 was following, a harpoon in her hands as her halo burned blood. Her eyes were crimson, the anger and madness finally getting control of her. The Star was so deep within the darkness that nothing would bring her back.

Earth felt his feet skid, and S1 slipped, causing them both to slide down a snowy hill so steep they could not stop themselves, landing hard and painfully onto a lake that was covered in sheets of ice. As Earth impacted on the top, a crack emerged, causing him to carefully push himself up, trainers slipping as he barely managed to get a footing. His azure eyes found S1 as she joined him, her hotter skin causing the ice to… slowly…

Melt.

Water.

Shit.

He scrambled to S1, trying to get her to steady herself in case she accidentally released a flare. His hands grabbed her arm – and he yelped at the heat that struck him. Her eyes darted to his, relaxing as her skin cooled to allow his touch, the female star standing and helping him to keep his footing as well.

“Earth! Are you alright?”

“Yeah! We just… we gotta calm down,” Earth looked around, trying to find a good spot. The ice was creaking underneath their combined weight. “And make it to the edge over there. This ice won’t take all our weight!”

“Alright, I… I follow you.” S1 took his hand shakily, her eyes watching the ice underneath her feet. It creaked, and some cracks spread even more from where Earth’s face had impacted on the ice. “How do we tackle this?”

“Slowly, and test which is strong enough and where,” Earth pressed his foot forward, glad when the ice did not crack. “We cannot rush it. Or…”

“We fall in,” S1 finished. She gave a nod, chewing her lip as her hand squeezed his. “And drown. Okay, let’s…”

A flare narrowly missed them, and Earth spun his head around. His eyes widened as he saw S21 step onto the ice, causing it to shift even more, with a harpoon in her hand. He felt a connection to the crystals that glowed within the metal, feeling them hum. His crystals. Stolen from him at Area 51.

“We aren’t done here,” S21 was eyeing them both, her skin now red hot. The ice was creaking more as she moved confidently towards them. “I am not done with you, S1. Now that I know what you have broken… destroying the Absolute… you should not live. Traitor.”

“I am the traitor?” S1 repeated, keeping Earth behind her. He slowly guided her backwards, testing the ice. Strong part. He stepped forth, and she followed. “I did not betray our Queen, S21! You did!”

“Why would I follow Sagittarius when she destroyed what makes us special, by allowing S2 to bed and sire a child on her?” S21 spat. “And now you have done the same with her offspring. This Universe was pure and sacred until Aries came along. Now it is polluted. I WILL rectify that by ending you, any potential child of his you carry… before I kill him too!”

S1 hissed as S21 ran to the pair. Earth winced as the ice started to buckle underneath the pressure, before he felt S1 push him away as S21 brought the harpoon down where they had stood only seconds before. Earth skidded, rolling before turning onto his front as he watched the scene play out before him. S1 was ducking the harpoon as best she could, S21 moving skilfully against the junior S-Cluster to try and kill her. S1 managed to deliver a backhand, causing S21 to roar in rage as she skidded backwards.

Earth got up, rushing now to intercept. S21 turned her attention to him and swung the harpoon, but Earth slid underneath and pushed out to tackle. The S-Cluster Star hissed and threw him with one hand, Earth sliding on the ice and hitting the snowbank.

Cracks continued to spread, as Earth turned his azure eyes back to S21 and S1, the latter trying to keep her balance on the ice. She waved her arms, trying to sort her footing without slipping and falling, while S21 aimed with the harpoon. Earth sucked in a breath, his hand shaking as he raised it.

The ice rumbled.

S21 heard as the spikes erupted, blocking her from the view of S1. Her eyes turned to face Earth, brandishing the harpoon as she eyed the downed world of life. Earth pushed onto the snowy bank; his trainers were soaked from the snow seeping through and causing his feet to turn a lighter blue.

“I don’t care if you are his… I will end you myself!” S21 skidded over, using the harpoon as a lever to push her onwards. Earth turned, azure eyes staring as he grabbed a snowball – and threw it.

The ball struck S21 in her cheek, the molten skin instantly turning to stone. She shrieked, hand over it as she backed off, before S1 managed to sort her footing and barrel into her from the side. The collapse of the two stars and their heat caused the ice to tremble, deeper cracks spilling around them.

Earth pushed himself back onto the ice, running over the slippery surface as he aimed to grab the harpoon. Steam was rising from the hot skin of the stars as they rolled and grappled, S1 trying to get the harpoon off S21, her hands turning slowly to stone as the melting water started to increase around them.

“S1!” Earth called with panic.

He tackled S21, sending her crashing into the ice… and threw. S1 scrambled back, her eyes widened as she tried desperately to get off the ice, her limbs slowing as the stonework began to spread and her Core starting to plummet. She was barely able to breathe, move, she couldn’t…

Hands grabbed her, and she was pulled by three feline moons. The Star started, but Ganymede, Io and Callisto did not hesitate to bring her onto the snow, to Proxima, who wrapped her limbs around S1 to give her warmth.

“Where is Earth?!” Venus barked, frightened. He and Proxima had made it out! But… where was Aries?!

S1 shakily raised a hand, pointing at the gaping hole of water.

“NO! My boy!” Venus tried to run, but Ganymede grabbed the planet, holding him back. “Get off me!”

“You will freeze! It will send YOU into shock,” Ganymede looked to his fellow moons. “Callisto!”

The purple moon was already on her way – only to be overtaken by a smaller grey and white moon. She froze, watching them as they ran to the hole and dove into themselves. Ganymede allowed the surprise to leave him before seeing Europa join his side, soaking from something, and Mars, who wasted no time in running onto the ice. Ganymede held his breath as Mars ran for the hole in the ice, pushing his hands together before diving into the water himself. Shaking the shock away, Ganymede pushed Callisto and Io to the hole, peering down into the pitch darkness below the water’s surface, core pounding as he tried to work out what to do.

Underneath, Earth was sinking, pushing back against S21 as the star tried desperately to get out. The water was causing her vibrant, tanned skin to turn slowly to grey, cracks spreading as she frantically pushed upwards to try and escape. Earth felt his own skin turn from the familiar royal blue to a light blue, his landmasses gaining ice as it spread over. His hands grabbed at S21, who tried to push him away, the harpoon forgotten as it fell to the depths below.

Her maw opened, fangs bore as she tried to grab his neck. But Earth evaded, thanks to the water’s own nature, her grip too sluggish as she battled against a medium too unfamiliar. His eyes were full of panic as he gazed upwards, the light from the hole getting smaller the more they sank. His body was already altering, changing, due to the length of the period he had been submerged. His skin was rippling, pores erupting to allow him an easier time to breathe under the waves, his neck producing gills to help him suck in the water for the needed oxygen. But… he was far too cold!  

He would die if he did not escape!

The grip of the star was tightening, but he couldn’t remove her fingers. S21 was slowing, her halo gone as it fizzled out and died, leaving them in darkness. Her hands raked his arms and legs, almost splitting his skin as it became more delicate to survive in the water, causing Earth to push himself back to try to evade her attempts. Her skin was now almost completely stone, her lips parted as she tried to voice something, yet couldn’t… her eyes were wide and fearful. Her hands let him go, so Earth tucked his legs between them both – and pushed her downwards.

S21 fell to the depths, her bright eyes becoming smaller before extinguishing, the star now a permanent statue. He watched as she fell, the darkness swallowing her, before turning his eyes upwards. Earth pushed with his legs, trying to move upwards to the hole, his arms now gaining webbing as he tried to get his body to move upwards. But the coldness…

His skin was frozen. He could… barely…

His strength failed.

Earth stared up at the light as it slowly began to deplete in size. His face was starting to gain ice, as his skin turned almost white. His lips parted, purple, as bubbles began to escape, as his body began to fail. Earth tried to picture the escape word but could not make his brain act. He couldn’t focus on it…

A splash and a figure above his darkening vision. His eyes focused on them, the colours hazy. Who…

Then she saw a woman appear above him, with long brown hair. A woman with a kind smile, reaching out to him, with brown and grey skin patches, her beautiful green eyes staring as her hand took his. Earth gawped, his hand grasping hers as he felt the heat from her body. The love she felt for him. Like…

A mother to her son.

Mo-Mom…?

His eyes blinked, and the image faded. Instead, he saw a familiar face with grey and dark patches, his brother’s face before his. Earth felt Luna move around behind him, pressing his hands under Earth’s arms and trying to push his weight up. Realising he was too heavy, Earth willed his limbs to move, pushing upwards. Luna kicked frantically, as another splash sounded above them.

 This time, Earth could see a brownish-red humanoid with a long tail, see his uncle’s face as Mars reached out to help Earth from the front. Mars’ hands grasped Earth around his side, tail flicking behind him like a small propeller, pushing the living world upwards with Luna. The combined strength of Mars and Luna was enough, causing Earth to be sent up towards the light as it got bigger.

His head broke the surface.

And he was grabbed by several pairs of hands, Ganymede helping to hoist him out with Callisto and Io onto the ice, Luna and Mars joining him as their heads broke the surface. Venus wasted no time running towards him, as Ganymede and Callisto pulled Earth completely out, his aquatic features disappearing instantly now that he was back on land. Earth coughed, lying against the ice, before he felt Venus pull him to his arms, heat assaulting him. His almost white skin was now starting to get a touch of blue, his landmasses slowly losing the ice white to their normal colourations. Earth turned his azure eyes upwards to Venus, who kept him wrapped in his arms for the heat.

Luna coughed, Mars shaking himself down as he approached Earth and Venus. The Galilean Moons stood watch, Luna standing straight and going to them, giving them thanks. Earth raised his eyes to Luna, who turned back to his planet – his brother – and he raised a hand. Luna came towards him, taking it before coming into Earth’s arms, holding his brother tightly. Earth trembled as he clung to Luna, feeling tears as Venus and Mars kept close by, comforting the pair.

“I have to get to Aries!”

Earth turned his eyes to see that S1 was struggling to stand. She stumbled and was forced back onto the cloak that Proxima had laid out, so she did not turn into stone from the melting snow. Even then, it was dangerous.

“YOU need to get back to the island with the Galilean Moons!” Proxima argued. “I will go. Venus, take Earth and the others back!”

“What about the enemy exoplanets?!” Venus barked. “We can’t leave them…”

“The black holes will deal with them,” Callisto said in her usual monotone. “Granted, some of them will be eaten, but they are traitors to their kind.”

Earth made to ask her if she had any sympathy, but Proxima had already summoned a portal. Two figures were waiting, Helios and Saturn rushing through quickly, Earth feeling relieved at seeing his star was safe and secure. Helios did not waste time in going to him to check he was alright, his hands soothing as he scrutinised his living world before seeing the others. He noted Venus’ condition, Mars and Luna shaking, and the scrapes that the Galilean Moons had obtained. Saturn’s head swung around as he looked desperately for his two moons, Dione and Enceladus, coming from the snowy mound that they were camouflaged by.

“Where is Aries?!” Helios demanded, turning his eyes around as Saturn went to S1.

“Still in the base!” Venus barked back. He helped Earth up, the living world now starting to stress at the realisation that his best friend was still back in that nightmare area. “He told us to evacuate!”

“No!” Mars grabbed his hair, panic rising on his features. “Helios, we RIGGED IT TO EXPLODE! We got into the control area, and… and…”

“He set fires off, too!” Proxima was just adding to the stress that Helios was now feeling, lines appearing on the star’s face as the information thundered to him. The Red Dwarf went to S1 as the S-Cluster Star shook, standing as her worry started to get the better of her. The bright eyes turned back as an explosion erupted, black smoke erupting from the metal mouth as the fires were starting to take hold.

“Get everyone out,” Helios finally ordered. “I will fetch Aries. Do not dally. Proxima, get them out and back to the island.”

“Helios-,” But she then nodded, turning to help S1 up and frog-marched her through the portal. Earth was pulled up next, his azure eyes looking at the star as Helios began to run fast back to the metal, but then Venus and Mars pushed him through, Luna bringing up the rear with the Galilean and Saturnian Moons, seeing familiar Celestials starting to run towards them. The dark blue fur of X was rustling, the Ice Giant’s eyes wide in sympathy as he went to his (Earth was not used to it yet) Moons, checking them over before demanding why they were involved. Titan came to Earth and Luna, shaking and worried as he asked them a hundred questions.

“Kid.”

Earth turned his eyes to Venus, who was trembling. His father figure had tears falling down his cheeks, and Earth could see Venus was not allowing his macho stance to take control. The Volcanic World shook as he approached, reaching down and placing a hand on Earth’s cheek, before drawing him into a hug. Earth clung to him, face buried in his shoulder, before Mars approached and did the same, pulling Luna in too.

“Never again,” Venus said to them all. “I promise you. Never. Again.”

Earth looked back at the snowy landscape, hoping beyond anything that Aries was okay. And that Helios would reach him. But as Proxima stepped to the portal, he saw the Red Dwarf tremble as she raised a hand, closing it.

She looked down at the sand, saying and doing nothing.

Back at the base, Aries slammed into the wall. He was exhausted, unable to move, his side now ruined. His hands cupped his wound, hissing as he pushed his legs to move but found no response.

Entropy bore down on him, his red eyes flashing as he reached out and grabbed Aries by the collar, pulling the prince up and off his feet. Aries struggled, his hands grabbing the wrist but unable to dislodge the grip. Entropy pulled him close, eyes staring into the prince’s own, before throwing Aries into a container. Aries collapsed onto the ground, his tail writhing and revealing his pain and discomfort.

“You defy me. You defy nature by doing so. You foolish boy…” Entropy grabbed his hair, pulling Aries along the floor. Aries roared as Entropy sent him flying against another container. “You do not understand the gravity of the situation, Aries. When I request something, you obey.”

“Never…” Aries swung his leg, striking Entropy at the knee and causing the Force to stumble back. Aries struck out again, but missed, and Entropy brought his foot down on the ankle – shattering it. Aries yelled, hand on his leg, as Entropy pulled him up to his knees, holding Aries by the hair.

“Then you will be removed from existence. Because that is what I am, Aries…” The red eyes flashed. “I am not just chaos: I am death. And one day, this universe will bow to me as its sole king. King of its ashes!”

He drew his other hand up, staring down at Aries.

“And you. Will. Not. Be part of IT!”

Aries braced himself, his eyes on the hand that Entropy was curling into a claw. Ready to rip his Core like he did to his father. Time seemed to slow down, his heartbeat in his ears as he stared up at Entropy. Silence came to his ears. He could barely feel his own breath, his own thoughts.

But the letter… was heavy in his pocket.

He remembered his father’s written words. Aries could see his father now, waiting for him, but repeating the words he had said to Aries three months ago as he lay dying. His hand as it clenched Aries’ own, sending his essence to his son, igniting his halo. Aries felt it within him.

And then he heard them all.

The voices.

He could see his mother, her beauty and grace, her smile as she held her son for the first time after she birthed Aries. Being reunited with her, finding his home again, and then his father joining them. His strong smile, his pride, and his love for Aries the moment he saw him.

His mother and father. How he loved them both.

But then he saw more… stars he never knew, black holes he never met. Together, whispering to him, telling him they were proud. He could see different people, see their forms as they all came to him. Filling him with their love and joy. His eyes swam with tears at the sight, wondering if he truly had died.

His Core ignited.

He then saw S1, her beautiful smile, her white gold hair as it trailed over her back, as she smiled at him. Overjoyed. Their first kiss, the first embrace, every little moment he spent with her. His love burned so brightly, and she got hurt because of him. He loved her so much and nearly killed her.

His Core brightened, and Entropy paused in his assault, eyes widened as he released Aries by the hair.

“Impossible… IMPOSSIBLE! You are a half breed, you-you… only the FIRST ONES CAN…”

Aries felt his energy flow, igniting his skin in a glow that made his halo only brighter. A maelstrom of light and shadow, as he managed to stand. Feeling his father’s hand on his shoulder… Aries gathered as much energy as he had left to muster.

And released it from his Core.

Entropy was engulfed, roaring in pain as the Heart Flare ignited him. The Force recoiled, and Aries could not hold much longer. His body trembled, and he fell against the wall, unable to keep standing. His body was too weak, the energy too great. His eyes had darkness threatening to cloud them, his ears drooping as he slumped there.

Clapping.

He raised his head slightly, seeing the shadow emerge from the darkness. He heard Entropy give slow claps, and Aries could do nothing but sit there. Unable to move.

An explosion and a rumble.

“Clever boy. Your first ever Heart Flare… but it does not work on higher beings,” Entropy squatted before Aries. His body was smoking, healing over from the Flare. Aries kicked himself. “Much like me. And now you are too exhausted to escape me. Unable to resist me.”

His hand pushed against Aries’ chest, pinning him.

“Nothing can stop me from ripping your Core out of your chest. And presenting it to your mother, but…” Entropy tilted his head, a grin coming to his features. “You have impressed me, Aries. Impressed me by doing something only your father has done before. Yes, you truly are your father’s son.”

Aries tried to reach out but couldn’t. He could only sit there, Entropy keeping him pinned.

“I can end you right now. But I have a better idea: for you to see failure,” Entropy pulled his hand away. “To know that every step you take, you will have me shadowing you. Every moment you spend awake, I will be there to watch you. Any children, grandchildren, more… you will become so paranoid, I will watch you destroy your life yourself. Because you will always come back to me, Aries. Always.”

“No…” Aries managed to whisper. Feet gripped him. His Halo was shuddering, trying to keep ignited. He was so weak…

“I will be in the corner of the room, your peripheral, for the rest of your days. Because that is who I am… I did say who I was, Aries. I exist in every system, every Galaxy, every universe. Just in different forms, yet all the same ending for those who meet me.”

“No… Chaos…”

“Pay attention, boy,” Entropy scolded him. “I have said who I am. You just did not realise. So let me spell it out for you, Aries. You are the beginning, new life for the Universe, a balance. Me… I am the opposite of you.”

Aries felt ice strike his body as the base shook. He shrank back as he realised what Entropy was hinting at.

“You… aren’t truly… Entropy. You are… more… you’re…”

The shadow grinned, eyes glowing brightly as it finally hit Aries. The reality, how it shattered before him. Aries trembled.

“Death.”

The being laughed, and Aries felt small.

“I am Death. I have existed since the Singularly, from the moment the Cataclysmic eruption occurred. Every Celestial Body, every atom that was created, I have been there to see their end. Chaos is only part of me, Aries. With chaos there is death; much as without life, I cannot exist. I was banished for my actions, imprisoned inside this…”

He scowled before a triumphant smile appeared.

 “But now… thanks to Earth, I am free.”

Aries felt his breathing pause, eyes staring.

“His Life will reign fire and death across the cosmos. His humans are destroying him and will soon expand out into the universe! More death and destruction! Life, Aries? Properly nourished, it will prosper but poison it with greed and it will bring terror to us all. More for me to take, less for the rest to resist,” The being laughed. “Chaos. Everything is born from chaos, and his life forms feed that chaos!”

“No… there are some… who are good…”

“Come now, Aries,” Death sneered. “To have lived amongst them for millennia. Do you believe that humans are good?”

Aries opened his mouth but closed it. His shoulders slumped as his past lives flashed across his mind. The endless ears and conflicts, the disagreements, the felling of trees, the butchering of animals and more. Polluting the environment. Drilling, fracking, the wars… the Nuclear Explosions.

But then he saw the good. Humans saving other animals from the fires of Australia, others coming to aid those they do not like in disasters, laughter as friends from opposing sides joined, celebrations, unity, carnivals… he remembered once sharing a drink with a German at the end of World War I, telling stories and parting as friends.

“Where there is evil… There is good. Much like Celestials,” He managed to say. “And I will not stop fighting for that!”

Death chuckled. He shook his head, turning away as he walked to the flames. Aries tried to muster some sort of strength, tried to stop him from escaping. But his body was too weak, failing him.

“You are fighting a losing war, Singularity. When you realise that… I will be there.”

A rip appeared. Aries weakly raised his hand but could not bring himself to stop him.

“Entropy…”

“Farewell, Aries,” Death glanced at him with a widened smile. “We will meet again. And when we do, it will be ME who wins the fight.”

The shadowy being stepped through. And Aries was left alone. He couldn’t move, he could not breathe, his leg was not responding. His eyes swam with tears as he felt his chin tilt to his chest, his hands limp on the ground.

“Dad… I’m sorry…” He sobbed to himself. “I… I failed you…”

A portal opened.

And through his blurry vision, he saw a yellow-orange halo, felt warm hands on his side. Aries screamed as it burned through, cauterising his wound, before strong arms pulled him up and over his shoulders. His body sagged on them as he barely managed to keep conscious.

Dad…

… Aries! Hold on!

He blinked tears away. He felt the room shift, the metal turning to white… then marble. Speckled. Aries trembled as he heard people shouting. Someone is shouting for his mother. But why? He wasn’t in the Core, he wasn’t… he couldn’t be…

When he woke, Aries was in bed. He winced, raising a hand to his face as he saw his white clothing, before his eyes found his right leg, held up in support. His body felt… heavy. It took a lot of effort to move even an inch, let alone a full lift of his arm.

“Where…” his vision was still struggling. He swallowed.

“Where am… I?”

And a familiar deep voice sounded, causing him to try to turn his head to the source. Instead, he saw a familiar Star approach from a couch, white haired and with patched skin, an aged male who smiled kindly at him.

“You are in the Galactic Core. The private residence of your mother, Queen Sagittarius. By human terms, it is eight in the evening, and the date is the thirtieth of December. You’ve been out a long time, Prince Aries. Too long.”

Aries winced at the lights and raised a shaky hand, shielding his eyes. The star dimmed them before coming to sit by his side.

“You are lucky to be alive. Had Helios not found you in time, you would have been beyond our aid,” S6 said softly. The Star leaned on his elbows, giving a gentle smile. “When he appeared with you on his shoulders, we feared the worst. Your mother was hysterical but took charge of the situation despite that. Our best healers have cared for you since then.”

“Where are… the others?”

“Being debriefed by your mother and the Council: she wanted to be here. I elected to stay until you woke,” S6 knew another question was on Aries’ lips. “She’s fine. S1. Recovered and has been here with you as you slept. I believe she is getting debriefed by Sagittarius privately.”

“And Earth? Luna? Helios?” Aries stammered.

“Seeing you on the shoulders of Helios nearly killed them, Aries: they came with Helios,” S6 sighed, reaching over to take a glass of black liquid. He held it to Aries, the prince shakily taking it to sip. “Courtesy of Gaia BH1, says it will help your black hole blood kick the healing in and through that, your star genes. Don’t worry, it isn’t poisonous.”

S6 sniffed his own glass, unsure though, before deciding against it.

“Earth is well, mentally exhausted and traumatised: we have healed his burns. Venus, we have sorted him out, and Mars and Luna are uninjured but tired. The others are fine, stuck in a stupor at seeing the Core. Helios’ shoulder will heal in time, but it will only leave a scar,” S6 saw the question in Aries before he voiced it. “S1… it will take time, but we removed the stone from her skin. As I said, she has never left your side.”

“It’s because of me she got hurt,” Aries said glumly. He sagged in the bed, eyes on his leg in the support. “I… I was stupid…”

“Yes, we’ve already known what happened.” Aries looked at S6 in panic. “Your mother was, naturally, furious to start with. I rarely see Sagittarius angry and never hope to do so again. But… I imagine that she was more frightened than anything else. Once she is done with the meeting with Helios, she will come and see you.”

Aries felt a flash of fear, and S6 gave a comforting smile.

“She is not mad, Aries. But she did warn you,” S6 sighed. “Helios has complained, naturally. But Sagittarius has placated him. Your actions have caused danger to come to his planets, his moons and could have been prevented had you waited with S1.”

“I…” Aries tilted his head down, shoulders sagging.

“Your mother will speak with you once she is here, but please be assured she is not upset with you, Aries,” S6 placed a comforting hand on his own. “She was more frightened than angry. Seeing you… she thought you died. She thought she was losing you all over again.”

Aries felt shame rise. So caught up, he did not realise how badly it would affect his mother. He had undermined her orders and caused her distress.

“There’s more…” Aries said, his voice weak. “Something else…”

“I would wait for your mother to speak to you: information would be better filed with her,” S6 stood, giving him a fatherly smile. It filled Aries with… warmth.

 I really miss him… and I failed to bring him justice.

“Until then… sleep. Your mother will see you soon, and you will require your strength when she does.”

Meanwhile, Sagittarius was walking down the corridor to her son’s room, feeling furious. Angry beyond measure.

The debriefings had gone as expected. Now she had the full story of her wayward, her stupid boy’s, actions during these last few days. So much could have been prevented had he listened to her. Sagittarius had asked one thing from Aries, and he disregarded her advice and went against her instructions. It weakened her; if her own Heir could not listen or obey her, then it showed HER as weak. Everything Aries did fell back to her.

Movement in her womb, and she sighed, placing a calming hand on her stomach. Quietly telling her wayward unborn to behave for once, as she made her way down to the hospital area to speak with her child’s brother. The words of everyone seemed to have finally blurred together. But even then, nothing prepared her for facing her worst fear.

When Helios appeared through the portal, backed by others, he had Aries on his shoulders. The Star was on the verge of collapse, and she was struck numb. As others appeared to help Helios, her eyes had seen her son, barely alive and being carried by others. She wasted no time in going with them down to the hospital area, panicking. Hiding her fear as much as she could. As the healers tended to her boy, they reported the injuries, trying to hide their fear.

Aries survived the night. Barely.

His halo fired back up in the morning, and Sagittarius was relieved as she sat by him. S1 would always come in, but hesitated at seeing the Queen. Sagittarius knew the moment the female star stood in that doorway that Aries had ignored her one instruction. But she did not deny S1 entry: it allowed her to have a break. And Sagittarius had to attend to matters about the other casualties.

She spoke to Venus first. The Volcanic World was patched up, healed, and wasted no time in telling Sagittarius what had happened. How Aries treated Earth and Luna, blaming them. It hurt Sagittarius deeply that her son treated his oldest friends in such a manner, but it hurt her more to learn she could have been the cause of it. She thanked Venus for his honesty, before going to Luna and Earth to seek the truth of his words.

Mars was there. Two birds with one stone. She spoke to the three of them and got their side of the story. Luna wasted no time in telling her how Aries treated them both, but Earth interrupted and said they were still partially at fault. Sagittarius felt a sense of responsibility to better prepare Aries. This was too soon for him…

She should have dealt with this matter herself.

Earth was kind as he usually was. He shushed Luna and said that they would make more of an effort to support Aries. Sagittarius could not believe that such an innocent individual existed in this universe. Sagittarius thanked them. Her anger started to rise within her Core, but she kept herself calm. The Council would interview them officially, but Sagittarius needed the full picture before the details were spoken to them. She needed to be ready for any shocking details or revelations.

Finally, the stars. Proxima and Helios were sitting together, both looking exhausted as Proxima rested her head against Helios’s collar, his arm around her as he comforted her. Sagittarius knew Rigil and Tolimon were on their way to collect her. Proxima needed support and help back to their system and could not make that journey alone.

Her eyes scanned Helios. He looked much older and tired compared to when she last saw him. Things had clearly not been going well. Not in his system or outside it. Just healed, and he was already back out to fight and protect her wayward son. Helios had seen her, and Sagittarius tilted her head at the Yellow Dwarf, who whispered to Proxima that he had to go and speak to Sagittarius. Proxima tilted her head tiredly, and Sagittarius whispered that they would talk when ready.

Helios followed Sagittarius into one of the doctor's offices. She turned and offered him a seat, taking the other behind the desk, and Helios agreed. Agitated, Sagittarius asked him for the information she needed. And Helios was keen to supply it. He said that Aries had done his mission well but ignored his request that he and S1 keep themselves on the down low with their relationship. He said even he knew from their small details that something had happened. That the pair were more than just prince and lady of the Council. Sagittarius felt her hands cover her face at the revelation, shaking her head.

Helios apologised and said he would not complain, but his planets and moons were placed at great risk because boundaries were not respected. The mission’s integrity was under threat and destroyed.

Sagittarius thanked him and apologised. She then said to Helios that, due to his actions in defeating HD1, he would be awarded. Helios stated he did not need an award; Sagittarius disagreed. She stated he would become the High Lord of the sector, and Helios was shocked that he was allowed. He was… not important. Any star could have defeated HD1, but Sagittarius said many had tried and failed. So, it was only natural that he would be awarded.

Helios thanked her. Sagittarius then went to return him to Proxima, who was joined by her brother stars. Rigil was hugging her, Tolimon standing guard by her, before the other star noted Helios. Sagittarius saw Helios tense, but then Tolimon came over and clasped his shoulder, thanking him with tears in his eyes. Rigil also did the same, stammering a thank you for saving their sister star. Helios looked uncomfortable, but Sagittarius left them to it. The matters of stars were far too confusing for him.

At that moment, S6 had approached her. Stating that the Council were ready for their emergency meeting. Sagittarius sighed, hoping to stay by her son, but S6 had decided to remain with Aries until he woke. However long it took. So that Sagittarius could stay with her duties. But she did not want to leave her son behind, so when meetings were over, she left and returned to see that S1 had never left her son.

So, she had no choice.

Sagittarius asked S1 what happened. S1, shaking, told her details, but Sagittarius knew that not everything was being told. She placed a hand on the star’s elbow, marching her out and into a doctor's office, turning to look at the quaking female and demanding an explanation. So S1 gave it. Sagittarius listened intently, as S1 told her that they fell in love, that she loves Aries, and… they…

Sagittarius would have lost it.

S1 trembled, but Sagittarius calmed herself down, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. Sagittarius asked her if she was with child, but no, S1 said she wasn’t. Something positive at least, because if she were, things would have been much worse when she was held captive. And now, Sagittarius had to figure out what to do.

She calmed S1 down before telling her to go to sleep. She was excused from the meeting. S1 wanted to attend but Sagittarius, now firm and colder, told her to get her backside to the bed allocated. She would not accept any argument. S1 trembled and did as requested, and Sagittarius went to her son. He was still asleep, so she went to the meeting, doing her best to keep calm and not allow anybody to whisper.

Finally, after several days, S6 contacted her. Aries was awake. Sagittarius was overjoyed that her son was finally conscious, weakened but conscious. She finished their current batch of debriefing the planets of Helios’ system, before making her way down to the hospital area, her stride quick yet graceful. Sagittarius kept herself under as much control as possible, unsure what emotion would hit her when she arrived. She hoped it was relief.

Instead, it was anger.

Soon, she burst into her son’s room, S6 standing and tilting his head to her. Sagittarius cast an eye on her offspring, who was about to drift off when she entered, and started awaking. He cowered back, eyes low, as she watched him for a second before turning her eyes to S6.

“Thank you, Lord S6. For everything.”

“It was my pleasure, my Queen,” He hummed. “You have been busy. I will leave you both. And…”

He stood by her, his voice now quieter.

“Go easy on him, my Queen. He is feeling terrible enough.”

Sagittarius nodded at him, her bright eyes turning to Aries as S6 left him in the room with his mother. Aries turned his eyes down, submissive, clearly concerned that his mother was going to crucify him for his actions. Sagittarius pulled the chair to the side of the bed, taking his hand and gently stroking it with her thumb as she raised her other to smooth back his black and gold locks.

“How are you, my sweet?”

“I’m… I’ve been better,” Aries admitted, his voice small. He looked at her with tired eyes. “How are the others? Are they okay?”

“As well as can be, considering what they have had to deal with these last few days,” Sagittarius felt her tail twitch. She tried to keep her emotions under wraps. “Aries…”

“Mom, I’m sorry!” He blurted out. Tears started to fall, and he released her hand, placing them over his face. Aries seemed to curl in on himself as much as his supported right leg would allow him. “You were right! You were right!”

Sagittarius felt her anger dissipate at the sight of her son crying. How many times has he cried, with no mother to comfort him? To tell him it was right? How many nights does he cry alone, with no comforting presence? Her core broke as she felt her shoulders slump, her anger replaced with tiredness.

“Aries…”

“You warned me, and I didn’t listen!” He was openly sobbing now. “S1 and Earth almost died because of me! They all did, and I was too stupid to have realised it so late! Too stupid and I… I hurt people… I’m not worthy to be your son or… or…”

“That’s enough,” Sagittarius said in a firmer tone. She grasped her son by the wrists, pulling them away from his bruised features. Sagittarius got beside him, drawing him in, his head against her collar as she held her son tightly. “Aries, you are my son. You are more worthy than you give yourself credit for!”

“But… I hurt people…” He sobbed. “I hurt them because of my own insecurities! None of this would have happened if I had just listened to you!”

Sagittarius stroked his hair, giving him soothing noises, humming an old lullaby she had once sung to her fellows before she lost contact with them all. Her eyes closed as she hummed, Aries’ tears starting to slow as he relaxed in her arms. It had been over three billion years since she had last properly sung to anybody, as the last time was when her boy was born.

She threaded her hand through his hair, combing the wavy locks. Aries was relaxing more, almost limp, as she finally found the strength to whisper to him.

“You are my son, first and foremost. Before anything else,” Her tone was gentle. Sagittarius allowed her core to give a gentle hum, for Aries to hear it and be soothed by the noise. “Before the honorific, before anything else, you are my child. I do not want you to think of anything else as of this moment except learn, Aries.”

Her son looked at her with those eyes. So much like her own.

“I am disappointed you did not take my warning to Core. I am speaking from experience when I told you about Entropy using our weaknesses to his strengths,” Sagittarius saw her son wince delicately at the reminder, almost recoiling back. “He knew of mine and your father’s romance, and he saw the blood in your father’s veins. He wanted that used and did not care about anything else. Because Entropy knew… I could not do it. I would not kill S2 because I loved him so much.”

She brushed his tears away.

“He would have used S1 and Earth against you, as they are your weaknesses. One day, Aries… I will not be here to advise you,” She smiled sadly at his frightened expression. “This is why you listen and heed the counsel we deliver to you. One day, you will be responsible for the decisions made for this Galaxy to function. And one day you will have to choose whether to fight or submit against a foe that could be greater than you. By then, hopefully, you will have learned enough to make that judgement.”

“I don’t want to think of you dying,” Aries was distressed. “Please, not…”

“It will happen, Aries,” Sagittarius said sadly. “That is why I am preparing you to not be a ruler, but a leader. When you are a supermassive black hole, you must balance between them both. Rule justly but not weakly and encourage inspiration without becoming too palpable. Deliver justice without being cruel.”

“That’s why a Star can never rule…” Aries realised, as though something dawned on him.

“Stars may rule their own systems but must abide by rules and regulations that prevent them from becoming too much of a dictator themselves. But they can never rule a Galaxy,” Sagittarius tilted her head. “While they could, as your father has demonstrated, they cannot keep it for long. The Dark Matter dances to the tune of a supermassive, but we are always dancing to theirs.”

Aries fell silent, realisation dawning. But then his expression fell, as his voice came out on a strangled whisper.

“Him… Entropy. He… he isn’t Entropy: he is Death. Mom… how can something like that be considered one of us?”

“Death is Death,” Sagittarius commented sadly. “We all can never escape it, Aries.”

“But… he said something. About Earth.” Aries launched into an explanation about his fight. Sagittarius listened, her tail flicking at the end as her ears twitched, a solemn look coming to her features. As Aries got deeper into his explanation, she sighed with worry, shaking her head.

“I suspected as much. His life forms are the epitome of chaos and death. It is no wonder he is attracted to him.”

“Humanity isn’t all bad,” Aries said, desperately. “Some are, but not all of them. They just don’t listen to one another, or care. For themselves and others. But… they can do.”

He fell silent, lost in his thoughts. Sagittarius could see a pained look pass over him, his tail curling around as though protecting him. She recognised those signs because they happened to her. S2 had also said that if Sagittarius was not willing to voice something, her tail did it for her.

Gosh, she missed him so much. Maybe he would be better at this than she was. A comforting presence touched her shoulder, and she sighed, returning to her seat as she stared at her son.

“You are not telling me something.” Sagittarius knew he was intentionally denying her further information. She leaned forward, her eyes scanning her son. “Talk to me, Aries.”

“It’s… something Death said to me,” Aries said softly. He tilted his chin to his chest. “He called me Singularity. That… I am him.”

Sagittarius started at this; her eyes widened. Yes, her son had a stronger essence, but… to be on par with their literal creator? That was something she was new to. Never did she feel her child was a Singularity; he was just her Aries. Her child, beautiful and perfect. And now he was freaking out before her. She swore she would kill the Celestial for this, but right now her son needed her.

“Aries, listen to me,” Her hands took his. “Remember one important fact about that awful being. He is a liar. He will do anything to imbalance you. So, I would take what he said with a pinch of dust.”

“But I felt… he was telling me the truth,” Aries said, almost too quietly. “Mom, what if… he was right? I am the reincarnation of the Singularity?”

“We are all versions of past selves,” Sagittarius said carefully. “I am descended from a colliding black hole. Your father from dying Stars that originated from an Unnatural who was awarded for bravery. Aries, whether you are or not Singularity is irrelevant. You are you, and that is all that matters.”

Aries sniffed, raising a hand to his eyes as he tried to wipe away the tears. Sagittarius gave a comforting smile, standing and kissing his forehead – right over his diamond.

“The further you go, the prouder I will become, Aries,” She whispered. “But I think you and S1 need to talk.”

“I-I.” Aries hesitated, looking down at his lap. Sagittarius sighed to herself, feeling honestly so exhausted. It was not easy, she realised. Plus, she was not the reference point for romance, because she and S2 had been secretive, keeping themselves low-key. Her son, at least, had the luxury of being public with his relationship with S1. But this presented a load of issues with her, as Sagittarius might not allow her to remain on her Council in case she became too biased toward her son’s lover.

“For goodness sake,” Sagittarius shook her head, exasperated. “Do you love her?”

“Mom-!”

“Do. You. Love. Her?”

Aries opened his mouth and closed it rapidly, swallowing. A tinge came to his cheeks, and a goofy smile appeared on his lips as he nodded at his mother’s question. Sagittarius felt a brief flash of happiness, her own smiling crawling on her lips as she let her tail flick at the tip.

“Then you have your answer! Does she love you back?”

Aries opened his mouth, not sure how to respond, but hoping beyond anything that S1 did feel the same as he did for her –

“Yes, I do.”

Sagittarius looked around to see S1 at the door, her eyes brimming with tears as she looked at Aries square in his own eyes. He smiled at her, and she smiled back, Sagittarius feeling a sense of longing for her own love but not wanting to shadow her son’s own. She sighed and stepped back as S1 rushed to Aries’ side, his arms opening to welcome her as she embraced him, her hands in his hair as she held him so tightly that she was fearful she would lose him. Sagittarius would baulk if she could, more in jest, but decided to grin and whisper.

“Ah, young love… I will leave you both.”

“Wait, Mom?” Aries called, causing the Queen to pause and turn to look at them both. He let S1 curl into him, holding her so tightly in case he lost her once again. “Before you go, I need to ask you something.”

“Anything, my sweet.”

“Well… tomorrow on Earth there is a very special day,” Aries knew the concept would be foreign to other Celestials, bar Helios’ system. For Aries, it was a celebration. Joining friends now long gone, drinking and enjoying their time. Lately though, when he started working at Area 51, he did not join in celebrations, instead handling it alone. This would have been the first year he would have enjoyed with others. At least he could, hopefully, come along to Earth and see a final sendoff. They should still celebrate at least something.

“Every year, when he completes his orbit around the Sun, there is a worldwide celebration,” Aries saw his mother tilt her head in confusion, as did S1. Foreign concept. “It is usually a party. Where everyone enjoys each other’s company and forms new bonds, friendships… new beginnings. If Earth agrees, we could go to the island and celebrate.”

“There is very little to celebrate,” Sagittarius said sadly.

“There is more to celebrate than we realise,” Aries countered gently. “We found each other. Venus got his sons back. Mars got his nephews. There are some of the acts that can be celebrated if we allow it.”

Sagittarius seemed stuck in silence, but then her smile appeared, gentle. She tilted her head, clearly trying to decide before finally, a nod appeared. S1 grinned back at Aries, who hugged her tightly, his own mouth turning into a grin as he let S1 press her forehead to his own.

“Okay, you two, separate,” Sagittarius rolled her eyes. “Not while I am in here, you know.”

Both winced and did as requested. Sagittarius was reminded of when she and S2 first started out, how it was impossible to keep their hands off one another at first. Then, as they grew more content and comfortable, they settled into a proper relationship. Aries and S1 had clearly been dancing for the last few months, and only now started to act upon their feelings.

“Do you think it will be okay to try walking?” Aries asked of his mother, and she smiled at him over her shoulder.

“I do not see why not. I will fetch some of the comets and stars. They will help support you on your first steps. Then, I think you should go check your friends, Aries. They will be worried for you.”

The Queen left them, Aries relaxing in bed. But it did not seem to be an issue, as when the comets entered he was introduced to his brace, which was strapped to his still healing leg. Aries was shaky at first, and almost overstepped, but he felt S1 press her hands onto his sides to keep him steady. Aries smiled at her, allowing the support before slowly moving, his tail keeping his balance as his leg settled in the boot.

As they moved into the corridor, Aries was aware of the others around him. S1 kept by his side, her hand supporting him at the front as he made his way down the corridor, walking carefully. His eyes scanned each face, his ears flicked as he tried to pin point the location required. He could hear them. All of them.

Aries raised a hand to a door several metres away, and pushed it carefully open. His breath caught in his throat at seeing them all, relief swarming him.

Venus, with his shoulder length fiery hair and eyes, and two toned skin, wearing his black tee and trousers as he sat in a chair. Mars with his rusty skin and hair, tail curled around his knees, watching Earth and Luna as the pair sat close together, Luna resting against Earth. The mysterious Planet X standing in a corner, awkward about being in the Core. No sign of Helios, and the Moons were seated comfortably on the ground, chatting among themselves.

Saturn was nearby, his hands clasped together as he kept his eyes downwards. His brow was knitted, his tail wrapped in a splint and bandage. Aries hoped it wasn’t too bad, the injury. Saturn was a good fighter and should not be penalised for Aries’ own actions.

Seeing him, Luna beamed and got up, excited.

“Aries! You’re awake!”

“Aries!” Earth called, standing. He looked okay, Aries realised but… he was wary. Entropy’s words filtered into his mind again, and Aries was forced to push them back. “You’re up! We’ve been worried!”

“Took ya long enough,” Venus grunted from the chair.

“Seeing you up is such a blessing,” Saturn said nervously. He stood, trying to smile at the prince. “How are you?”

“I have had better days,” Aries eyed them all individually. “What about the rest of you? Some of you look like you’ve been through some trying times.”

“Part and parcel of fighting so many,” Mars said gently. He offered his suit, noting the brace on Aries’ leg. “I have to say, the Core is very different to how I believed it to be.”

“I imagine so,” S1 said gently. “You have all been secluded to one star, no visitors. The closer to the core, the more stars are available, but space is limited so planet numbers can be smaller.”

“Interesting,” X rumbled. “Is it very diverse?”

“You can have your rocky planets, but Gas and Ice Giants are very limited depending on the age of the star,” Aries responded. His eyes scanned the wolffish humanoid, feeling slightly unsure of X still. “Newer stars are more likely to have them than the older stars. I know High Lord S6 has a Gas Giant but the rest are Rocky Planets.”

“No Gas or Ice Giants… the chaos alone…” Saturn whispered.

“Yes, because Gas Giants are so reliable,” X sneered. “Sometimes they are more chaotic than the Rocky Planets.”

Aries eyed X. He did not like the tone used, and Saturn wincing was not missed. He filed it away.

“What about tomorrow?” Earth asked. “Will we be fit enough to go back to the island?”

“Do we have to go back?” Mars turned to look at him. Earth could see a saddened look. “They might have bulldozed the house. It will be rubble and dust now. Giselle Rotsar said so.”

“Even if we can’t celebrate there, nothing stops us celebrating back in the solar system,” Europa said in her usual snark. “Plus it sounds good. Being able to celebrate at least something.”

Earth leaned his head on the top of Luna’s head, his brother leaning into him. As the others began to talk and discuss what was going on, and about to happen, Earth turned his attention back to his brother. Luna seemed to notice that Earth wanted to speak to him in a quiet voice, his ears flicking as he turned his attention back to Earth.

“You scared me, Earth.”

“I know,” He mumbled. His arm tightened against Luna, as he held his moon. His perfect moon. His perfect brother. “Luna, you saved me. Again.”

“Always, Earth: I know we have our disagreements and… and I’m sorry I was harsh on you,” Luna lowered his eyes. “I was so desperate to prove I can be as good as you that I didn’t realise the stress you were under. These last three months haven’t been easy. On any of us.”

“More so with Jupiter leaving us recently,” Earth admitted. He was still not use to the lack of presence of the Gas Giant, and wondered how things would have occurred had Jupiter been in the System still. For starters, Sun would not have neglected himself. And many events could have been prevented.

Jupiter left a huge gap in their lives. He had been a steadfast symbol of hope and strength for them all, and now he was gone.

“I need to be better,” Earth said, causing Luna to turn to him. “It’s my fault this all happened… I… I went to the island, Luna. Me and Titan. I should have said no, and maybe then nothing would have happened that has happened.”

“You cannot blame yourself for all of this,” Luna said sadly. His hand squeezed Earth’s own, trying to give him some comfort. “I would… say your capture is the reason we actually defeated the enemy.”

“Yeah, but we could have easily caused irreversible damage.” Earth turned his eyes to Aries, saddened as he saw how tired and injured the prince was. “Aries could have died. And the rest of them… and… and you. I could have lost you, Luna!”

Luna hugged his arm, trying to comfort Earth. Earth shook, his arms coming around his moon as he tried to calm himself down.

“Earth… you will never lose me,” Luna said softly. “We are brothers. And brothers never abandon the other.”

“Brothers to the end,” Luna confirmed. He smiled as he looked at Venus and the others, chatting away concerning the island. Venus said they could still host a New Year’s Eve party, just have to be crafty.

 “Even when Sun goes to his Red Giant phase. I will never abandon you, Earth. Never.”

Earth smiled, tearful, before turning his eyes back to the others. It seemed the party was going to happen after all. And Earth would love to attend.

His eyes found Aries, and Aries smiled back at him. Luna went to Aries, who hugged him gently, before releasing the moon to return back to Earth. Mars was chatting about going to get Mercury, while Ganymede went to collect the moons, and X the other Ice Giants.

Maybe it was time to celebrate.

So, when Earth finally went down the next day, he, Luna, Mars and Venus went about setting up. This would be a night to remember.

Chapter Text

The house was done, now rubble on the grass. But despite this, animals had started to take over, with the burrowing animals now making their dens. Pots and pans were being taken by the smaller mammals, birds stealing cutlery and more. On the rubble, the mutated form of the Jaguar stepped over, her split tail flicking as her new ears twitched, eyes gentler than ever before she looked down at her side.

Two cubs appeared, smaller versions of her. She lowered her maw, nudging them, before a whistling sound erupted above her head. Jaguar turned her eyes upwards as a stream of bright colours headed into the skies above her head, bursting into bright flashes of light. Music came from the beach, and she wasted no time in leaping down with her kittens and onwards, purring. She knew they would not be threats to her and her kittens. There was no need to hunt them.

They were friends.

She moved through the bushes, pushing her head amongst the others as she prowled forth to the orange-green one, who touched her head with his hand. A scratch of her head, her maw opening as she panted slightly before her kittens joined her side. One of the beings with a bright halo smiled gently, holding their hands up as they asked if it was right to lift their kittens. She agreed, knowing they would be safe with this being.

They lifted her kittens, and moved off slowly, letting her follow. Her four eyes turned back to the orange-green cat. Her baby. Why did she have to leave him too?

“It’s okay!” He called to her. “I’ll see you soon! You’ll like it on my surface. And Earth will visit you!”

Said-mentioned world turned from his conversation with a fiery one, coming to Jaguar without hesitation. His eyes filled with tears as he knelt, running a smooth hand over her face and back. She knew this was their father, their Creator.

“Take care, Jaguar. And those kittens. You can live with Titan now, so give him Hell.”

Music sounded, a reddish-brown being behind some metal boxes, eyes turning to him as he shouted.

“DJ Mars in the house! Let’s crank up the volume for this New Year’s Party!”

Earth rolled his eyes before turning to Jaguar, running his hands over her new quills. The being with the bright halo was waiting patiently, her kittens mewing, before Jaguar turned her eyes to them as they began calling for her. A circle of gold, and inside was a new land. Of green and orange, with a yellowish sky. Her lungs did not burn as she followed the star, and her breath took in the air with no issue. She pawed the ground, lowering her mouth to a puddle of liquid and drinking with no issue.

“I’ll take care of her, Earth,” The orange blue said gently. “I promise you. I’ll feed her until she is ready.”

His smile became humbled.

“My first complex life… man…”

“You deserve it, Titan,” Earth said, as he watched Jaguar and her kittens move off. “I just hope she can survive in the cold.”

“The creature is advanced,” The S-Cluster let the kittens down, the pair running to the Jaguar as she brought her tongue over them affectionately. “They ingested blood from two different Celestial Beings who are both methane-based. She can survive in both environments. And the fact that her new kittens are miraculously conceived is a testament to her evolution.”

He tilted his head.

“We will monitor her still. If things deteriorate, I am sure other worlds of life will welcome her.”

“I hope she can stay permanently,” Titan said sadly. “I felt connected to her… it would be a shame if she had to leave so soon.”

“She has advancements we may not know of,” The S-Cluster stepped back through. “It will be interesting to see her progress. Nevertheless, she will be fine.”

“Thank you, S8,” Titan said, before realising they forgot to address them appropriately. “I mean…”

“Don’t worry about it. Tonight is about friends,” S8 winced as the music caused a cheer to erupt from the crowd near them. Moons especially. Mars was on fire with the music. “Just call me S8.”

Earth watched Jaguar as her form grew smaller, her kittens following and sometimes tackling each other in play. He smiled as the portal began to shrink, feeling… happier that she would be living somewhere where she would be safe. His surface was too hostile for her, and it would not be long before her presence was seen by humans. Humans who could kill her.

At least she would be at peace with Titan.

“Your first Titanling,” Earth teased the Moon. “How do you feel?”

“Strangely… humble?” Titan admitted. The pair started to walk back with the S-Cluster Star, not caring that it was a short distance. “Seeing her… and how she was gentle with me. It’s like she knew I was meant to be with her. I’m just… sorry it happened in such a way, Earth.”

“I am just glad she is with you.”

Earth smiled as he approached Luna, wrapping his arms around his moon and hugging his brother. Titan approached the other Saturnian Moons, joining them in the dancing and music as Mars continued with the booming songs. Deimos and Phobos were sitting on some speakers they had helped to connect to the downed wiring that enabled them to play, jumping with the speakers as they thumped underneath.

Venus and Io were handling the fireworks that managed to create, discussing between themselves over the order. It made sense that the two most active in the system with volcanoes and temperature would handle such a task.

Earth laughed as Luna turned and pulled him onto the mats they had placed out, dancing with the music Mars had on. Nearby, his azure eyes found Aries – with his brace on his leg – and S1 dancing too, laughing at each other. The other S-Cluster Stars were watching, some dancing but keeping themselves secure in case they stepped on a moon or planet.

Earth then spotted Sagittarius, standing off, speaking quietly to a couple of stars that he recognised. Proxima’s halo was glowing softly, a contrast to Helios’ fiercer one, both listening intently to Sagittarius as she talked to them both. Helios’ ears seemed to droop, and Proxima’s shoulders fell slightly, before they both nodded. Earth did not know what the discussion was about, but it seemed to be heavy.

The two stars bowed their heads in respect to Sagittarius before stepping away from her. Helios caught Earth’s eye, his own blue eyes looking at the living world, giving him a toothy grin. Earth smiled back and tilted his head in respect to his star, before Helios silently began to move away from the party. He hoped that whatever Sagittarius had said was not too detrimental.

Proxima was heading to Venus and Io, curious about the fireworks. But then her eyes noted that Helios was moving away, and her ears perked up. The Yellow Dwarf was clearly not comfortable amongst the other stars, planets and moons, and maybe wanted some space. She chewed her lip, turning her red eyes to her brother stars who were sitting with Uranus and Neptune, howling with laughter with them. Neptune’s small moons were running around, chasing the smaller moons of Uranus, Saturn and X, who was standing off, watching everything. Saturn was with an S-Cluster Star, chatting enthusiastically about healing.

The black holes present were dancing with, surprisingly, the moons of Uranus. Some were sitting at another table, one laughing loudly at something another said, slamming their fist on the table. A couple of the S-Cluster Stars were bemused at them but soon were laughing themselves. Proxima noted Sagittarius was amused at seeing them, before her son and his… girlfriend was it… approached and took her hands, bringing her to the floor themselves. Sagittarius was laughing at the pair, before Earth – bless his core – tapped her arm and she changed to dance with him instead.

Proxima noted that Helios had now left the area and excused herself. She walked around the dancing mat, heading to where she had last seen his fiery halo, her eyes scanning the trees and more to make sure her own halo did not set to fire any vegetation. She did not want Earth to be offended by her accidentally igniting his life.

Finally, she arrived in the clearing, the music now quieter but still present. Her eyes scanned around before she saw Helios sitting in the grass, legs out, and leaning on his hands as he stared upwards. His eyes were saddened as he watched the stars until his ears twitched upon hearing Proxima approaching him. She sat down beside him, her eyes staring upwards too, as he turned his head to her.

“Don’t like the dancing?” He asked.

“I do, but I don’t like you being alone,” Proxima looked at him, a saddened smile on her features. “Why? Do you not like the music?”

“Having so many around me just unsettles me. That’s all. I’m not used to it,” Helios turned his eyes back upwards. “But I don’t want you to sacrifice your fun for my antisocial behaviour.”

“It’s not fun without you, Helios,” Proxima said gently. She heard Mars speaking over the music about a change in tune, followed by cheers. And an announcement that it was nearly thirty minutes to go until midnight.

Helios gave a smile at her, before looking back upwards. Proxima could not help leaning her head against his shoulder, as the booming music turned to more gentle tones, before turning silly. Somehow, she could hear Deimos and Phobos scream-sing into the microphone before it was clearly being battled with by Mars to retrieve it.

“It’s beautiful what has been created,” Proxima whispered. “I know it is so unlikely, but I wish I could have a world of life.”

“It hasn’t been easy,” Helios said gently, resting his head on hers. “I have seen Earth struggle so much with its life, and his current organisms are not particularly good. I wish I could have helped guide him better; maybe it would have prevented more from happening than has already.”

“You were young when you got your first world. It is to be expected,” Proxima said, trying to soothe him. “Also, my backside is getting irritated. Can we walk instead?”

Helios chuckled before he gently began to move. Proxima stood, wincing at how much shorter she was than Helios. While he was a Dwarf Star, Red Dwarves were the smallest of Stars. Helios stood at a height of fifteen feet, but she was shorter than Saturn, standing at only thirteen and a half. No wonder she could not defeat Hadrian, who was taller and more capable.

So feeble she had to rely on someone else.

Proxima cursed herself, a bit too loudly, as Helios turned his blue eyes to her in concern.

“Proxima? Are you alright?”

“Yes, it’s just… I never thanked you for saving me,” She walked beside him as they headed back to the quieter section of the beach, to make a longer walk back to the rest of the party. “He would have killed me had you not done what you did, stupid decisions aside.”

“You saved me first,” Helios clasped her hand tightly, and she relaxed. “If you had not saved me in the market, my world would have died. All of this…” he waved his spare hand around. “Would have been gone.”

“Yet, I could not defeat him in the end.”

“You still contributed to his defeat,” Helios told her firmly. “You gave me the strength to fight him, Proxima. You aren’t some damsel in distress; you are strong. Plus… we were fighting prior to you facing him. I got injured… I was lucky to defeat him.”

Her eyes found the new scar on his shoulder, where the harpoon had hit him.

“I still should have been by your side,” She shook her head. “Maybe then…”

Proxima was abruptly stopped, as Helios pulled her back. She stumbled then rightened, seeing his disgruntled expression. Had she said something wrong?

“You were at my side. As was every star who ever existed,” Helios said strongly. “Each of you… Your strengths and lights helped me face him.”

Silence fell between them, his blue eyes staring into her red. It was only broken when a huge BANG erupted, their forms jumping as they turned to see a colourful star in the skies, followed by a gruff ‘SORRY!’ Proxima laughed, Helios joining her, before she shook her head.

“What a party… your planets know how to throw them.”

“What a party indeed,” Helios agreed, as they continued to slowly walk down the beach. He flicked some sand with his toe. “I never realised Venus is trigger-happy until now, but I seem to like it when he uses it for something good, such as fireworks.”

“Fireworks seem to be one good invention,” Proxima admitted. She then sobered. “I am glad we are allowed this one day. I cannot believe Sagittarius is closing the portals… for whoever knows how long.”

“I do wish we could celebrate more after today,” Helios admitted. She saw him pause, as Luna’s form started to cross the dark skies, splitting the stars in his wake. “You will write, yes?”

“Every day,” Proxima assured. “So long as you write back to me.”

“Always,” Helios said softly, as Proxima joined his side. Her hand grasped his, and he squeezed it in comfort.

“You will be fine, Helios,” Proxima assured him. “You may not feel it, but you are doing well for a lone star. I know it hasn’t been easy…”

“Definitely not,” Helios said sadly. “I do wish there was another star to count on; I really do. But… I would not trade Earth for anything.”

Proxima gave a confident nod.

“I am glad,” she said softly. “Because having another star is not all that good. Sometimes. I do want to strangle those two daily in our orbits, but at least my planets help me stop committing mass murder.”

Helios laughed loudly, and she grinned.

“There you go! Keep that smile going, a frown does not suit you, Helios.” She shook her head, releasing his hand to approach the safety zone of the sandy beach. Her halo was bright in the darkness, but remained somewhat dim compared to his own. Helios was watching her intently, worried in case she ventured into the water unawares.

She glanced back at him, noticing his eyes on her, before smiling and turning back.

“What?”

“‘Nothing,” He commented. Helios started to slowly move his feet, Proxima coming to join him. “You’re incredible, you know that?”

“Thanks, I guess,” Proxima tilted her head at him. “At least it’s better than being called the Bitch Queen by Rigil and Tolimon.”

“They should be a bit more appreciative of you then,” Helios growled. “I am.”

“I don’t mind it. I am harsh on them sometimes,” Proxima commented. “But when they want to test their Planet Slingshot to see how far they can send someone to the edge of their ‘spheres, I must step up. Their jokes are too much sometimes.”

“Planetary Slingshot?” Helios repeated with amusement. Maybe that would be a good threat to get his planets to stay in orbit?

“Don’t ask,” Proxima shook her head. “They were caught testing it on my own planets. My throat was sore from how much I screamed at them in anger.”

“Doofuses.”

“The one downside of the multiple star systems is that you could end up with a star who really gets on your nerves,” Proxima laughed. “At least being a solo star, you don’t need to hear about their next plot to piss me off. At least I’ll live longer than them.”

“I think their life spans will be shorter than average if they continue with their current trajectory,” Helios agreed. “You run a tight ship, Proxima.”

They continued to walk for a moment, just enjoying each other. Proxima picked up a shell, interested, before tucking it back in the sand. Helios watched her intently, her eyes scanning the water as Luna started to reflect on the surface, rippled by the waves and currents.

“Helios?” She finally said, turning to face him with an odd look on her face.

“Yes, Proxima?” Helios whispered. She was so close to him now that he could see her red locks were streaked slightly with brown.

“I never really thanked you for saving me.”

His Core was thumping in his chest, turbulent as usual. Proxima’s words caused it to flare up, making his temperature increase slightly. Helios knew his planets all had their own individual cores, and different actions they made. Some like Venus hummed, Mars clicked, Earth’s was like a heartbeat… Saturn’s was like a high wind.

His rage was.

“Like I said, you saved mine,” Helios hummed to her. “It is only natural I save yours, Proxima. Because I care deeply for you as my friend. And I know if I look at the stars, I can find you. I just wish you could stay longer.”

“I am here now.”

Helios felt her hands touch his chest, and he let his circle her waist. His forehead pressed to hers, as Luna’s light cast their shadows over them. Maybe he wasn’t a new moon after all… maybe…

Helios felt her Core hum against his. Her Red Dwarf Core was different to his. He was like fire, cracking and churning. Hers was like a soothing warmth, a candle gently burning in its glass. Her burning red eyes were soothing, her lips parted slightly as she stared into his ice blue ones, feeling heat come to his cheeks and body.

Her fingers touched his lips, tracing over them. Helios tilted her chin up, ghosting her lips with his breath as she leaned up to close the distance between them, gently pressing her lips to his own. She broke it, a deep red blush to her cheeks as Helios felt his own burn orange.

One night… Helios decided it would be one night.

One night to forget everything. Just be two.

“One night,” Proxima whispered to him, her hands trailing down to his ornate jewelled belt. He did the same to her. Before capturing her lips in his own.

“One night…” Helios whispered to Proxima before kissing her again.

Back at the party, Earth was sitting playing cards with several of the black holes and moons. He frowned, moving a card in his hand before placing one down – and promptly moved his hand away as a black hole slammed theirs on top.

“SNAP!”

“We aren’t playing snap, doofus!” Iapetus said, glaring at the black hole. “It’s poker!”

“Oh, I thought you said snap in poker?” Hyperion asked, looking at Earth in confusion. “Is that not right?”

“Honestly? I’m not sure,” Earth glanced at Aries, who probably knew more about card games on Earth’s surface than he did. “Aries knows how to play these games.”

“Nah, this is more fun!” Cygnus said cheerfully. He dropped another card before jumping as Mars’ voice sounded over the speaker.

“That’s ten minutes, guys! Not long until midnight arrives on this lovely planet!”

“Turn the tunes up, Mars!” Deimos shrieked, reaching for the microphone. Mars lifted it high up to stop him, Phobos also joining the attempt. “Let’s shake the Earth with the songs!”

Laughter sounded from the stars and black holes, as the moons started jumping in the sand. Mars grabbed the microphone back, irate with his moons as he put Deimos and Phobos down, the pair annoyed, before coughing.

“Let’s all get to the stage for the countdown! A nice romantic song first before the last song of the year on Planet Earth!”

Earth laughed, before seeing Aries and S1 take hands as a slow song sounded to their ears.

“This is for the couple of the Galaxy… a special homage to Prince Aries and Capricorn. And all those who have loved and lost someone dear to them,” Earth looked at Sagittarius, who stood alone with Lord S6. Her eyes fell as the statement hit her.

“To those we have lost…” Mars paused, his shoulders slumping. “This is for you all. Thank you for your sacrifice and your dedication in safeguarding us all.”

Aries and Capricorn started a slow movement in the middle, Earth watching them before seeing Ganymede and Europa step up. Titan walked on with one of the Uranian Moons (Titania?) before other moons joined them. Earth looked at Sagittarius as the Queen stayed off the floor, taking a deep breath before folding his cards on the table as Cygnus eyed him impatiently.

“I fold, guys. Continue without me.”

Earth made his way towards Sagittarius, whose eyes were watching everyone as she occasionally chatted to S6. He stopped, clearing his throat before asking with some shyness.

“My Queen? Do you want to dance?”

Sagittarius started, looking down at him with surprise before smiling.

“You’re asking me to dance, Earth? It will look odd.”

“Ye-Yeah,” Earth scratched his head. “I mean, you don’t have to dance. I know… know you want to dance with… S2… and you miss him loads and I… I wanted to help you smile so that you know you have people around you who care about you, and…”

Sagittarius raised a hand, smiling down at him gently. Motherly. S6 watched with amusement before tilting his head to the Queen as Sagittarius gave a smile back to Earth. His cheeks heated up to a purple tinge, embarrassed. Of course, the Queen of the Galaxy would not want to dance with him! He was a PLANET. One of the lower classes compared to the supermassive black hole!

“Come, let us go,” Sagittarius said after a moment. She took his hand and led him to the dance floor. The First and the Queen. The height difference was humorous at least! He only stood ten feet tall, a whole seven feet shorter than she was.

Earth laughed at Aries as the golden retriever he had adopted rushed onto the floor, leaping up and he caught her, holding her like a baby. S1 laughed and hugged them both, the tail wagging happily as Laika panted, a smile pulling at her lips.

“Countdown is at sixty seconds, guys!” Mars called. Earth could see Venus and Io give thumbs up, turning to the fireworks. Deimos and Phobos clapped cheerfully, dropping down onto the floor and scampering over to Titan, going to join him. Earth released Sagittarius’ hands, as Aries and S1 welcomed the Queen over, everyone now coming to the floor. Earth tried to find his star but couldn’t see Helios anywhere. He hoped he was okay.

Proxima gasped. Her hand threaded through the golden locks, her lips on his. Her call was jubilant, joining his. Helios held her tightly as he pressed his lips onto hers, both now content… until she heard Mars on the microphone.

“The countdown!” She suddenly said. Helios paled, and they separated, sorting their clothing rapidly. Helios noted Proxima was panting, and he was breathing heavily himself. Making sure they looked presentable, they ran back, holding hands, emerging from the bushes and onto the dance floor.

Proxima felt Helios stand by her, his hand on her lower back, thumb rubbing as eyes turned to Mars. They were all chanting the countdown as it came on a screen, a television (?) wired up somehow (he forgot how smart his planets were when they wanted to be). His eyes caught Luna running to Earth, the planet hugging his moon as they turned their eyes to the countdown as it trickled down to single digits.

And then it was 0.

And the fireworks started.

Mars cheered as did others. Fireworks whizzed upwards under the guidance of Venus and Io, blasting in the dark sky and casting clouds of colour and patterns over their head. Helios felt Proxima lean into his hip and smiled as she turned and whispered.

“Happy New Year, Helios.”

He hugged her, his skin still blushing from their act, but so was she. They huffed to catch their breath before turning their eyes upwards at the colours. Neptune was laughing with his gaggle of moons, holding the smallest up as she pointed at the colours, his lone major moon standing with a smile beside a purple moon that Helios recognised as a Galilean.

His eyes found Saturn, standing with Mercury, watching the sky with shimmering tears in his eyes. He knew he missed Jupiter, and Helios wished he could allow the Gas Giant to attend, but he was banished. Out of the Solar System. Helios wanted to go to Saturn, but then he saw Mercury reach up and take the Ringed Planet’s hand, squeezing tightly.

Uranus was standing with X, who was whispering in his ear. The Uranian Moons were with the Gas Giant Moons, laughing and joking, unaware of their planet speaking with X. But as Helios looked on, he spotted Mars wrestling his two moons off the machine he was playing music on again. The two were hyped up and unable to sit still.

Finally, Helios found Venus, walking with the coughing moon known as Io. The fireworks continued to blast above their heads, now slowing down, Venus heading to join Earth and Luna. He wrapped them both in his arms, eyes turning upwards as he watched the display.

As the display started to slow to the finish, people started to leave. The black holes were ready to move, as they were roamers, and only those paired in shades were comfortable remaining. Gaia BH1 was chatting with some of the S-Cluster Stars before she left them, turning her eyes to Sagittarius, who approached. The pair talked quietly before Gaia BH1 tilted her head and went to follow the rest of her brethren. Several rips appeared in the air, as the black holes started to part from each other to return to their places in the Galaxy.

BH1 had looked back at Sagittarius at that moment. The Queen gave a saddened smile before tilting her head to the Stellar Class. BH1 responded in kind, tilting her own head before giving a grin at Aries as the prince joined Sagittarius by her side. The prince’s tail flicked, mimicking Sagittarius’ own as they kept their emotions under wraps.

Aries placed a comforting arm around his mother, squeezing her close, the Queen embracing the prince from the side. It was clear that the Queen was missing that part of her life, as whilst she was a black hole, the largest one… she was surrounded by stars, planets, and moons. Barely anything like her. Only her son.

Sagittarius turned her eyes to Proxima and Helios, the pair standing close together. Her golden eyes saddened as she gave a hinting look at Proxima, the Red Dwarf’s shoulders slumping as though she realised what was going to happen. Whilst she had fulfilled her three days over Christmas, she could not stay after that.

“It is time, Proxima,” Sagittarius said sadly. “Your brother stars will be waiting for you when the portal is ready to open. They have been anxious since you left for this event.”

“Thank you, my Queen… but is there no way I can…” Proxima started.

“Unfortunately, not. Once the portals are closed, access to other systems will be restricted and cannot be reopened,” Sagittarius sighed. The Queen approached the two stars, pressing a hand on their shoulders. “Once the portals and Galaxy-scape close, only the star can allow access to its own individual scapes. You will not be able to access Helios after today.”

Proxima sighed shakily, the Queen looking between them sadly, before she stepped back and made her way to a space. Proxima turned to face Helios, Saturn whispering for the others to give them space. They needed to.

“Helios…”

“It’s okay,” Helios said sadly. “Thank you for looking after them when I could not, Proxima. I had hoped to repay you and now… I cannot.”

“You did,” Proxima raised her hands to his cheeks, smoothing her thumbs over his skin. The Yellow Dwarf raised his own hands to her cheeks, before embracing Proxima Helios buried his face in her shoulder, holding her tightly as she shakily breathed on his ear.

He didn’t want to be alone. A lone Star was a saddened thought among Celestials, with nobody of similar status to speak to.

“The time we spent… Albeit brief,” Proxima whispered in his ear. “That is enough of a thank you. Our time on the beach… I will treasure that forever.”

“As will I,” Helios said softly. “You will keep your promise and write to me, though?”

“I will, Helios,” Proxima whispered, as Sagittarius raised a hand to summon a portal. None of his system recognised who were waiting at the other side but he did. The orange and yellow dwarves were standing there, eyes watching sadly. “I look forward to your letter arriving next week.”

“I will have lots to tell you,” Helios said softly. “But you know if the gateways open, you can come any time.”

Proxima nodded, her expression saddened. She turned her eyes to her brother stars, who waited patiently, before she leaned up… and kissed his cheek. Helios heard whispers among his planets and moons, but ignored them, hugging her before finally… letting her go.

Proxima walked the distance across the sand to Rigil and Tolimon, stepping through before looking back at the lone Yellow Dwarf. Her eyes scanned all his planets and moons, raising a hand to wave at them all, too. Proteus, Neptune’s moon, waved back with his siblings. Neptune joined them, before Uranus trembled, holding a book in his hands.

Proxima smiled at the Ice Giant as he made to walk to give it and shook her head.

“Keep it, Uranus. You are gifted in art and craft; just promise me you will continue in your craft. This universe needs more colour.”

Uranus swallowed, his major moons joining him. The younger ones hugged their planet, as Uranus held the book close to his Core. A small smile appeared on his features. But this was not missed by Planet X, who folded his arms and said nothing, his tail flicking behind him.

Saturn eyed X worriedly before stepping by the Rocky Planets as Proxima smiled at the lot of them. Her eyes found Earth, and she whispered.

“I’ll tell her you say hey…”

Earth felt a purple tinge and smiled, Luna standing in front and allowing his planet’s arms to come around him from behind. Luna gave a goofy smile, and Earth would shove him otherwise.

Proxima looked at Helios, who was watching her intently. She remembered him as the baby star, and more… now he was a grown man. Tall and proud as all Stars were. A steadfast defender of his system but grown up so young and unable to learn at a good pace.

She felt Rigil and Tolimon by her side as she looked at Helios, the portal now closing as Sagittarius passed her hand over the barrier. The crackling energy of the Dark Matter started to force it to close, Proxima keeping her eyes on Helios’ face a moment longer before it was all she could see.

Then nothing. He was gone.

She had hoped to stay a bit longer with him, but it seemed that their brief romance was enough. Their kiss, and more… Proxima could not have asked for a better goodbye.

“You okay, girl?” Tolimon asked, casting his eyes in worry at her. Proxima sighed before turning and embracing both the male stars. Seeing her distress, Rigil approached and hugged her too, both he and Tolimon giving a protective wall to her. After everything she had dealt with… it would have been good if they both came with her.

While she hated her doofuses of brother stars, she could not imagine a life without them. Having them by her side.

“I will miss seeing them all,” Proxima whispered. “But I was ready to come home to you two idiots. Please tell me you haven’t started slingshotting yet.”

“Nah, that device failed,” Rigil said with his goofy smile. He and Tolimon wrapped arms around their sister-star, walking with her back to their own compound in the Centauri System. “But we came up with a new one… we will tell you all about it, girl. Once back home.”

“I look forward to stopping you two from pissing my planets off as well as your own,” Proxima scowled, but laughed shortly after. “I could do with the laugh.”

“We can talk after. I think a good sleep and a special tray bake are in order. Yes, I know we don’t need food, but this is better!”

Proxima laughed before wrapping an arm around their waist, walking at their pace. She glanced back at the portal sadly, knowing she would miss that star.

But unaware… that Helios gave her a parting gift. In their brief encounter. One she would not discover for a year, when Proxima would feel them within her.

The stirrings of a child inside her womb. Helios’ child.

Her beautiful golden boy.

Named after his father.

Her Apollo.

Back at the party, Aries and S1 walked to Earth and Luna. Aries looked saddened, and the other two were not doing well themselves. Luna especially.

“You WILL write to us, yeah?” Luna asked through his tears. He rushed to Aries, who placed his hands around the moon, lifting him and hugging him. Whilst others would find it demeaning to be lifted when an adult in such a way, this was Aries.

“Yeah, I will,” Aries saw his mother nod at S6. The Star walked to a clear space, raising his hands gracefully and starting to work the Dark Matter to open the portal. “I’ll write in a couple of weeks. I’ll even see if my mom lets you visit.”

“It’s been years since we last saw the Core,” Earth admitted. He stepped up, eyes glistening with his own tears. Aries let Luna down and opened his arms, going to embrace him too. “But I don’t think we will be allowed if your mom is closing the portals.”

It had been a topic of discussion prior to the party starting. Helios spoke to them all that he had been in a meeting with Sagittarius before they left, where the Queen had instructed that the portals – and by extension the mindscape – would be closed. When everyone voiced their disapproval, Helios had stated that the Queen wanted the systems contained, as while the enemy had been defeated and his forces gone, He was still at large. And they had to keep everyone safe, because depending on where he was, they did not want him regaining his numbers and repeating what had occurred.

Earth understood this. But he saw the sadness in the eyes of others who had made friends from outside their system. Proxima looked saddened for starters, and Aries had looked at Earth and Luna with his own tears. They might not be able to see each other again… how was that fair? But Earth knew they had no choice.

“Earth…” Aries said softly.

“Just know, you will always be one of my Earthlings,” Earth whispered to Aries. “You will always have a place with me and Luna.”

Aries sniffed loudly before embracing him. Earth started crying, as did Aries, before Luna joined them both. S1 was sniffing nearby, rubbing her eyes as she watched, Laika standing by her side with her tail wagging enthusiastically.

“Aries… It’s time to go,” Sagittarius called sadly. Her eyes were full of grief at separating her son again from the people, the planet, he had grown up with. “I am sorry, my sweet. We cannot delay.”

“I know,” Aries stood straighter, his brace flexing to allow him movement. He stared at Luna and Earth with such great sadness that he truly looked ready to burst into tears.

Then… he raised his hand and saluted them both. Like when he was an Earthling. Many times.

Earth and Luna saluted him back. Then Venus and Mars. Mercury. All of them. Every planet and moon of the Solar System saluted him.

Helios looked at his planets and moons, turning to face Aries. He raised his hand and saluted as well, the star giving him the respect he clearly deserved.

Aries released a shaky sigh. A smile came to his lips as he felt the tears fall, before feeling S1 take his hand. She squeezed his comfortingly, before slowly turning him and guiding him to the portal where his mother stood waiting.

Sagittarius gave him a small smile, before her eyes trailed back – focusing on Earth for a moment. The words of her son sounded in her ears again…

Death.

Hopefully, his life forms would fix their world and prove them all wrong. But if not, they would tear through her Galaxy.

Yet…

Under the rubble of the fallen house, destroyed, never to be retrieved. Gadgets and much more were discarded, never to be recovered by anybody.

And through the darkness of the rubble, a shoot sprouted up, unfurling its leaves. Followed by thousands.

Life finds a way.

…

……

…Computer initialising…

… Accessing ROTSAR database, please enter login details… loading…

Welcome Mr Rotsar…

Subject: PROJECT IGNIS…

Warning: Approval of Project IGNIS requires Mr Howard Rotsar's authorisation. Please enter the security code…

Initialising…

Proceeding.

Project IGNIS accessed.

Chapter Text

Five years later…

Luna rushed through the ornate corridors, holding the precious cargo. He ducked and dived under the limbs of anybody in his way, causing them to shout in surprise, before skidding around a corner as he raced down the corridor. The last checks of decorations were underway, with beautiful gemstones in vases that flowed like lights in the dark corridors, drapes being tidied up and the last of the bow and arrow seals being cleaned down and polished.

Flowers were growing across the walls, reaching over arches and opening petals of red and dark blue, the colours of Aries and Capricorn, also known as S1. To protect the stars, the sheets of water disappeared into nothing by the walls, giving gentle mists to set the tone of the wedding. A memorial table was placed outside the main hall, featuring pictures of those lost in the fighting.

S2… An old image of Hadrian from a book… a happier S21… many stars and more who had fought several months prior.

It was bittersweet that none of them were here.

Luna paused as he finally found the door, panting, before raising a hand and knocking. Raising a hand to the collar of his ornate robing, he checked his grey waistcoat and white shirt, under the long black jacket. Luna placed a hand through his hair, making sure his curls were alright, as the door opened and revealed his brother in his ornate suit.

Earth looked vastly different. Unwell. His once deep blue skin was paler and murky, his landmass now less green and browner, and his ice now almost completely gone. The only feature that remained was his beautifully blue eyes, which were lit up with happiness at seeing Luna.

Luna wished he could take the pain away. Earth’s burning fever.

“You get them?” Earth asked his brother. Luna nodded, opening the cloth and showing the two rings, which he had been safeguarding. “Fantastic, Luna! You’re amazing!”

“Thanks!” Luna stepped in, his grey eyes scanning his brother. He wore clothing like Luna's, but his waistcoat was blue with some green woven in. His black suit had some spots of blue gems, dark and almost hidden unless peered at closely. Earth’s hair was cut to his shoulder, the fringe pulled back into a bun like Venus’s own: Luna wished he could grow his as long, but every time he did, Luna’s hair was ridiculously awful.

 “How is the groom?”

“Nervous! But he will be fine,” Earth and Luna walked into the chambers assigned temporarily to Aries and them for the night. The chambers were decorated with the essentials, but had other individuals within. Aries’ personal staff, who were busy preparing the prince and making him smart for the event to be undertaken. A comet left the room, carrying a golden patterned suit jacket to be put with the rejected pile, while another appeared with golden bands.

Earth poked his head in, eyes blinking as he looked at his friend, who stood before a mirror. Aries looked different, his facial hair more trimmed and suited for the day, his white shirt ironed and pressed, underneath a black and golden streaked waistcoat. Aries was handling the cufflink buttons at his wrists, his fingers shaking as he took some deep breaths in and out. His black trousers were tucked into black and gold boots with stars on the front.

His tail was thicker and fluffier, with a golden band around it that had starlight jewels trailing down to the tip, with another band. His long hair, two-toned with black and gold, was fluffy and more tamed. The prince’s staff had taken time and energy to make him presentable, but it made Luna take a double glance at his friend. Seeing Aries cleaned up and so smart was not familiar to Luna, but then again…

He WAS getting married.

“Hey…” Earth said softly. “Luna got the rings. We are ready when you are!”

Aries took some deep breaths before turning to smile at Earth. His staff stepped back, giving approving nods before one went to get the black long jacket from the hanger above their heads. Earth stopped them, going towards the hangar and taking the suit jacket gently, hands touching the soft material and feeling marvelled by it.

Earth held it ready, and Aries, after pulling his hair out of the way, placed his arms in before allowing Earth to help it onto his shoulders. Earth smoothed it down at the back, the gap at the back perfect to ensure that Aries’ tail was not caught at any point. Scrutinising the jacket and how it fell, Earth gave a nod before coming around to help with the buttons at the front, as Aries was shaking so much, he looked ready to have a meltdown.

“Deep breaths,” Luna said to Aries. The Moon stepped up and helped with the cuffs, as Aries was now shaking so much, he was fumbling. “You’ll be fine! Do you have your vow cards?”

Aries patted his breast pockets before nodding when he found the parchment with his words in his left breast pocket. He paused, seeing his reflection in the mirror, and Earth and Luna stepped on either side of him.

“I… look different,” Aries whispered. Compared to the ‘incident’ five years previous, he was less tired, more bulked up. It was clear that Sagittarius had been personally teaching her son to fight, but also other matters. To better prepare him…

 “I cannot believe it. The day is here and…”

“Breathe,” Earth said calmly. “Breathe, Aries.”

“I know,” He whispered. Aries sucked in air through his nose and released it through his mouth. The prince was shaking slightly as he sorted his collar again for what appeared to be the hundredth time, as Earth and Luna checked each other to make sure their own suits were well done.

A gentle knock came to the door, and a comet opened before instantly bowing its head, bearing robes and the seal that meant she was the personal assistant of the Queen. They stepped aside, leaving the door open, but kept their head bowed. From the movement, they could tell that the Queen was coming to check her son before his big day.

Sagittarius was dressed in a flowing blue dress with little gemstones sewn in. Her cloak was of a similar manner to her usual attire, waved and flowing behind her, with her hair in an elaborate updo. She wore her golden leaf crown and bracelets that trailed similarly to the one on Aries’ tail, connecting to her sleeves on her elbows. Her black halo shimmered with a slight touch of blue on the outside to show a similarity to her dress.

Her stomach was more swollen, showing that she was now five years gone with her baby. It did nothing to take away from her beauty and radiance, as she smiled at Earth and Luna before turning her eyes to her son. Aries gave a nervous smile at her as she raised her hands to her mouth, tears ready to flow.

“Hey, Mom,” Aries whispered. “Don’t cry. I’m barely managing myself.”

“Same with us,” Luna took out his handkerchief, dabbing at his eyes.

“I’m just… look at you all, all three of you,” Sagittarius sniffed, before heading towards Aries. “You are so smart. So handsome. My little boy, you’ve grown into a man and… and…”

Aries approached and hugged her, Sagittarius hugging back as tightly. She was trembling in his arms before releasing him and sorting his collar again. Aries smiled goofily, as it seemed to be an anxiety thing to fiddle with collars or buttons.

“How is she, Mom?” Aries asked of her. Earth and Luna stepped up, ready to do some last-minute checks again. “Is she okay?”

“Nervous,” Sagittarius commented. She stepped back, casting an eye over him as Earth fixed Aries’ waistcoat. “But she is beautiful, Aries. I gave her a little gift before I came to you, and I have one for you, too.”

Aries watched as his mother turned to face the comet that had trailed with her. The comet had a small ornate box in its hands, which Sagittarius opened carefully, before reaching in and pulling out a silver lead brooch, elegantly crafted and woven. It had a star on it, with a gemstone within that glowed softly with a yellow light.

Sagittarius turned, and Earth – with careful hands – took the brooch, fastening it on the collar. Aries felt the beat within; felt a presence he had not felt in five years…

It… couldn’t be…

“Courtesy of S6: he managed to ask the remaining super giants of the Galaxy to help craft this,” Sagittarius pressed a hand up to a broach on her own collar. “They are experts in this art; no star can replicate this, or anybody else. A dying breed and a great honour for them to…”

She sighed, wincing.

“I’m rambling… I have one, too,” Sagittarius pressed her hand to a brooch on her collar, with a similar glow and comfort. Similar make. It was then that Aries knew what it was made of, and his tears started falling. “Oh, my sweet…”

“Thank you, Mom,” Aries sobbed. He pressed his hand over the brooch. “I… was thinking of him last night. And… now he is with me.”

Earth and Luna hugged him, and he wrapped his arms around them before doing the same with his mom. He felt his sibling kick in her stomach and chuckled.

“My baby brother is kicking me.”

“Sister,” Sagittarius joked. “You were much calmer, so this must be a girl.” She sobered. “Aries… I know he will be proud of you. But remember, he isn’t gone from us… he is still with us, and I know he will be smiling this day on you. Now…”

The Queen tilted her head to her son, who responded in kind.

“It is time to begin the rest of your life.”

“My Queen,” The comet with her said softly. “They will be waiting for you.”

Sagittarius waved her hand before smiling at Aries. He kissed her cheek before she left, her comet with her, his hand coming to his cheeks to wipe the trails away. He felt Earth take his hand, squeezing gently.

“Come on…” Earth whispered. “We'd better go.”

Aries inhaled a few times, releasing his breath before he turned to face his friends, who were looking at him with tearful eyes. Earth raised a hand to his azure orbs, wiping them away before he opened the door for Aries to exit.

As Aries strode down the corridor with his two best men, he noted the hallways were empty, now void of individuals as they were all at the wedding. As they eyed the elaborate decorations, Earth could see Aries was shaking slightly, and he pressed a gentle hand on the arm of his friend.

As they ventured towards the great hall, guards lined the corridors alongside staff, and more that Aries never recognised. His eyes scanned their elaborate clothing before the stars reached to open the doors into the hall. Aries took several deep breaths before it was finally revealed to him.

The entire marbled room had been decorated with his mother’s seal on the drapes, but also flowery stands, banners and more. The entire room glowed with a soft light, the marble glistening white and grey and heavily polished. The glass windows showed the darkness outside, but the gemstones were positioned in such a way that rainbows cascaded over the ceiling and shed more light down onto the floor, creating a prismatic arch over the walkway to the front.

Every aisle was full of stars, black holes, and their accompanying planets or moons they chose to bring. Stars of varying colours all stood when the officiant called, black holes also joining amongst them and turning to face Aries as the prince calmed his pounding core. Earth walked with Aries, Luna trailed in behind, as they moved down the lush red rug placed out for the event.

At the head of the room, the Throne of his mother stood bare. The Queen was in a separate row, with members of the High Council around her. Other stars with similar but smaller white-gold halos were in the row behind, and from their robing, they were the lower council. All of them were smiling, tilting their heads to him. Future members of the High Council of Sagittarius. His Mother was silently crying, happy. Tears fell down her cheeks as she looked at Aries, her hands slightly shaking as she held them by her side. Aries noted that Lord S6 was not among them, his seat empty by Sagittarius.

His eyes found the faces of stars he knew, but others were familiar. He saw BH1 with a beautiful green dress, standing beside her star as the pair smiled, tears falling down her cheeks as her star pressed a hand on her shoulder, giving her some comfort. Aries saw BH2 with the council, the black hole giving an encouraging smile and nod as she tilted her head, the male S-Cluster beside her taking her hand and squeezing gently.

His eyes found familiar faces at the front. Helios was there, wearing his ornate robes with a golden cloak, lined with a small bit of fur to show his position as a High Lord of the Sector. By his side was Jupiter, now back in the Solar System, wearing formal burgundy robes, his hand holding Saturn’s as the Ringed Planet leaned their head against Jupiter’s arm. Rigil and Tolimon stood behind Helios, with no Proxima. Their eyes sometimes darted to Helios, but no words passed.

As he stepped to the front, the star officiating the ceremony gave a smile of comfort, before the band started to play a song that Aries did not recognise. But he saw the black hole known as Cygnus stand, ready to sing, as the officiant turned to face the rest of the congregation. Earth came to Aries’ side, glancing back at the doors, whilst Luna took his place by the officiant.

“Please stand… for the bride.”

On a distant world, six weeks later, they lay on the rug as the meteors soared over their heads. Aries was wearing a tee and shorts, the warmth of the twin stars now comfortable with their setting. By his side, arm slinked around his waist, was his new wife. S1. Beautiful and radiant. A small smile touched her lips.

“Aries…” she said after a moment. “I have something to tell you.”

The doors opened, but Aries did not turn. Yet Earth had full view of the bride as she walked in on the arm of High Lord S6. Her dress was flowing, pure white, with gemstones sewn into the bodice, which held lace over her shoulders and arms. Around her head was a silver leaf tiara, from which a white veil fell, sparkling like stars. Her white-gold hair was pulled into an elaborate bun, her eyes brimming with happy tears as she walked down with the High Lord. S6 looked at her with pride as the music continued, helping her down the aisle.

Earth beamed before whispering to Aries.

“She is beautiful. You’re lucky, Aries.”

Aries smiled but resisted the urge to turn around. He kept his eyes forward, hands overlapping before him, his tail being willed to keep still.

An orange female star was crying in the aisle with others, her yellow-haired planet by her side, emotionless. Aries recognised her as Potiguara but could not remember what sector she was part of. Apparently, she designed the dress that S1 had chosen to wear.

“Is there something wrong, my love?” Aries asked of her, as S1 sat up. He watched her, his hand caressing her arm as she smiled down at him with tears in her eyes.

“Aries… I’m… I’m pregnant.”

Pregnant?! She was…

“Really?” Aries stammered, sitting up with wide eyes. She nodded, now crying happily, and Aries hugged her, overjoyed. “Oh, Capricorn! I’m so happy!”

She joined his side, and Aries saw his wife for the first time. His breath caught in his throat, tears now starting to escape as he stared at her, S1 smiling at her with her own tears falling. S6 stepped to her side, and she thanked him, her smile coming to her features as she was handed over to Aries by the High Lord.

His hands shook as he took hers, but his eyes were focused on hers. He whispered ‘I love you’ to her, and Capricorn responded in kind. S6 joined his fellows in his empty seat, tilting his head to Sagittarius, before everyone was asked to sit by the officiant.

“Welcome,” the officiant called, as everyone sat in their chairs. Earth stood by Aries, tears falling as he beamed, Luna sniffing him. “To this joyful occasion. To witness this marriage ceremony, the joining of Aries and Capricorn, as they begin the rest of their lives together.”

Aries felt his tail flick and willed it to keep still; his eyes focused on S1. Her hands squeezed his tighter, to try and control herself.

“… love is eternal and can ignite the universe into a supernova. It is pure, it is the strongest of all forces…”

Luna stepped forth at that moment, offering the rings to the officiant, who thanked them quietly. The star turned their burning eyes to the couple, as Aries took the ring assigned for S1, taking her left hand as he readied to place it on the finger.

“I, Aries, promise to love and hold you… to care for you through all our darkest times, to shield and protect you…”

“Aries… you’re a daddy…”

S1 was exhausted but sobbing happily as she held the squealing bundle in her arms. Aries was sobbing with her, his head resting against hers as he stared down into the face of the bundle, to see his newborn daughter.

As the baby started to quieten, her eyes peered up at them, his own eyes staring back at them both. Her skin was orange, like her mother’s, the rosettes mirroring S1’s. But her hair was two-toned, like Aries, with black underneath and white-gold on the top. Aries trembled as S1 carefully handed the baby to him, cradling her in his arms as she stared at her father with wonderment.

Then he saw a diamond on her forehead. His diamond.

His father’s diamond.

“H-Hey,” Aries whispered. His tears fell, one landing on his daughter’s cheek. “Look at you… You’re so beautiful. So perfect. Oh, my beautiful girl.”

He brought her up, his child closing her eyes as she choked back a sob, small hands pressing into his collar as he held her close to him. S1 smiled tiredly, watching her husband, knowing that the pair needed time to themselves.

“… with this ring, I give you my word as your husband. I will always stand by your side. Forevermore.”

Aries almost dropped the ring but managed to gently place it over S1’s ring finger. S1 gave a comforting smile, her hand squeezing his as she was offered the ring for Aries. Her hand took his tightly, as she gently positioned it on his own finger.

“Aries, our first meeting was not in good circumstances…” Aries chuckled, as did those in the know. “But if you told me that the man who rescued me would be the one I would grow to love and marry… I would not have believed you. And yet, I have grown to care so deeply for you, to love you so much that I cannot imagine my life with anybody else.”

“Does she have a name?”

Aries smiled at his mother as Sagittarius bobbed the newborn girl in her arms. After a restful night, the Queen asked to see if she could visit her first grandchild. After S1 had cleared that she was ready for visitors, Sagittarius and Carina came down within the hour. His sister was the spitting image of their mother, but her eyes were bright like S2’s, and she had red and gold streaks in her hair. She had a deep red small halo by her head, indicating she was a Red Dwarf.

“We have chosen one…” S1 looked at Aries, who smiled encouragingly. “And well… we are calling her after you. Her name is Sagi.”

Sagittarius was stunned to silence, tears welling in her eyes. She sniffed, looking down at her granddaughter, overwhelmed.

“I… would be honoured…”

“I now declare you husband and wife. You may kiss each other.”

Aries smiled down at S1, their hands clasped together with their rings sparkling. He raised his other hand, cupping her cheek as he leaned down and kissed her. Applause sounded, cheers erupting in the chamber. The orange star from earlier was crying happily, enthusiastically clapping, while her gas giant looked at her with bemusement.

The officiant raised their hands as Aries and S1 broke their kiss, resting their foreheads against the others, before turning to make their way down the aisle. Confetti rained down, as the applause started to gain in volume, the pair walking fast as they started to lead the others out of the chamber first. Sagittarius was supported by S6, and heads were tilted to her in respect, before the aisles started to empty.

Earth and Luna followed at the rear, Earth wrapping an arm around his moon in a side-hug. He saw his star glance at Rigil and Tolimon as everyone filed outside to the gemstone gardens to head for the reception area, before Helios whispered to Jupiter and Saturn to keep with Earth, walking to the two male stars. Both were chatting to one another, keeping their voices low, but when Rigil noted that Helios was heading to them, he swatted Tolimon to shut him up.

Both Dwarf Stars tilted their heads to the head of their sector, noting his golden cloak with a small fur tuff on the shoulder. Giving Helios the respect he was owed.

“Lord Helios,” He greeted. “A good ceremony, no?”

“Yes,” Helios scanned them, his eyes searching. His shoulders seemed to slump before he asked sadly. “No… Proxima…?”

“All of us can’t go,” Tolimon said gently. The pair shared a look, but Helios didn’t know why. “We don’t have mature planets like you do. So, she elected to remain behind. But… she wanted to be here to see you. I promise.”

“Please, tell her I am asking after her,” Helios said, keeping his desperation out of his voice. “It has been five years since she wrote. I sent her letters… Is she truly okay? What is going on?”

“She’s just been busy since one of her worlds got primitive life at the terminator line,” Rigil said, trying to calm the star. “It was a shock. That’s all. We never expected it. We all thought it would be us, but sadly, it seems our distance and orbital resonance were probably causing issues. I hope we are proven wrong soon.”

“I hope so, too,” Helios tilted his head. “Please, let her know I am here if she needs me. I… I miss her.”

“She misses you,” Tolimon said gently, Rigil glancing at him. “We will pass your message on to her.”

Helios gave a tilt to respect them before walking away. Rigil sighed at Tolimon, checking that nobody was listening, before whispering.

“Should we have told him?”

“No, that is Proxima’s call to make,” Tolimon responded quietly. “She knew once that invite arrived, she couldn’t make it. Imagine if she rocked up with her stomach the same size as the Queen’s own? People gonna talk.”

“I agree,” Rigil glanced back at Helios as he continued to head back to his Gas Giants. “Proxima should be the one to tell Helios about their child. Maybe soon… I just hope it won’t explode on them both.”

“Yeah, just remember we vowed to help her through this,” Tolimon said firmly. “That kid will want nothing with us. Maybe one day… one day Helios will be told. But that is Proxima’s call to make. And this is the only day the portals are open: even if we did say to Helios, he can’t see the baby. We will be causing unnecessary pain to Proxima.”

Rigil looked at his feet, taking a steady breath. Yes, they would cause unnecessary pain to Proxima. It hurt that she could not tell Helios about his child, and she was struggling to write to him. How could she? What could she put in a letter of all things?

“Hey girl, are you okay?”

Proxima started from her desk, looking around at Rigil as he poked his head in, holding a tray with some cups and a pot, containing liquid substance for the Red Dwarf. While Stars never needed to eat due to their Cores producing their own energy, sometimes they liked to taste some food or drink to give them a bit of relief. This drink was good for enjoyment, and would be incinerated in their Core, but helped relax their Flares.

Especially now that a Red Dwarf was pregnant. Their Flares were intense, and they didn’t want her to start burning up while locked in her humanoid form.

“I’m fine, you doofus,” Proxima accepted the cup, cupping it with both hands as she sipped. Her stomach was larger now, and she relaxed in her chair, gently resting her hands on the top of her belly. “Just trying to do some writing. Where is Tolimon?”

“Had to deal with some shit at the markets, but he will be back once those crooks are kicked to the asteroids,” Rigil said, sipping his own cup. It was sweet to the taste. “I stayed back, just to be sure you’re okay. He took a couple of the Giants with him.”

His eyes found the paper.

“Still struggling to write?”

“I don’t know what to say to him,” Proxima admitted. “I vowed to write to him. When I left. And now it’s five years later, and I have sent nothing.”

“You don’t owe him-.” Rigil started, but Proxima cut across him.

“Can you stop? I don’t know WHY you hate him, but he has done nothing wrong. I started this between us,” Proxima shook her head. “And I must live with my choice. I won’t fault Helios for any of this, and neither should you.”

Rigil sighed, his shoulders slumped.

“The invites arrived,” he said after a moment. “For Aries and S1. You want to go?”

“All three of us can’t go. One needs to stay, and if I go, people will ask questions,” Proxima said. “Questions I am not ready to answer. And Helios will see me like this, and I can’t put him through that.”

“You care more about his feelings than your own, girl.”

“I am protecting my child and Helios from my error,” Proxima said firmly. “If Helios finds out, what is he going to do? He won’t be able to see me after the wedding because the portals will be shut. No…”

 she rubbed her belly.

 “I can’t put both father and son through that. My Apollo deserves happiness in his life.”

“You named him?” Rigil asked, curious. “How do you know you’re having a boy?”

Proxima had a tug of a smile on her lips.

“Call it a hunch.”

“Please make your way in for the first dance!” An S-Cluster Star sounded, breaking Rigil and Tolimon out of their thoughts. They shook themselves down before walking in, their eyes glowing as the lights were dimmed for Aries and S1, both stepping on as Cygnus and the others involved in music began to play a joyful song. Aries had removed his suit jacket, in his black and gold waistcoat, with a long-sleeved white shirt, and S1 had removed her tiara and veil.

Both held their hands up as they walked on, applause sounding through the air as they turned to each other, embracing for their first dance. S1 rested her head against Aries’s collar, closing her eyes as the two slow danced, embracing one another lovingly. The lights were dimmed down, only showing them in the centre as Cygnus started to sing a slow romantic song.

“Please join the couple if you so wish to!”

Earth was dragged on by Luna, causing laughter to erupt. S6 asked Sagittarius, who politely accepted, followed by BH1 and her star. The act caused others to join, Jupiter and Saturn coming to the floor to join Earth and Luna, who were jokingly dancing together as the music changed to more energetic and joyful tunes.

Sagittarius laughed at her son as Aries and S1 started to jokingly dance, causing S1 to laugh loudly at her new husband dancing with her.

“He’s here…” Proxima whispered, gently crying in happiness. She reached out and took the bundle from Centauri D, who smiled through tears of joy at the star as she held her newborn son.

“My Apollo…” Proxima whispered to her son. The baby’s squealing diminished, and he blinked up at her with mismatched eyes of red/white and blue/black. He gave her a small smile, licking his lips as Apollo stared up at her with unconditional love, most of his skin much like hers… except for the right patch of his face. And his hair.

His patch was yellow with some black spots, and his hair was a fiery yellow with streaks of orange.

“Oh, Apollo…” Proxima nuzzled her son’s face, the baby reciprocating. “You’re so beautiful… I wish he could see you. But… I know he can’t. Yet, you will want for nothing because me and your idiot of uncles will be here to love you.”

Apollo cooed, his hand resting on her collar, as he yawned to ready for sleep.

“My little light.”

Aries and S1 left the room, heading for privacy as they walked to the bandstand built during the five years. Their own special place, surrounded by flowers and trees that had started to grow due to Earth’s presence in the Core over the last couple of days. Aries and S1 leaned into one another, S1 placing her head against her husband’s chest as they slowly danced, Aries pressing his lips into her hair as he held her.

S1 closed her eyes, smiling gently against him as she listened to his Core, the soft hum soothing her own Core. She lifted her head, smiling up at Aries as he pressed his forehead to hers, his wedding ring brushing against her own as he took her hand, twirling her underneath before she returned to his embrace again.

“I love you,” S1 whispered to him.

“I love you more,” Aries whispered back, his forehead against hers as they listened to the distant music. His tail flicked behind him gently, as fireworks erupted above their heads into the cosmic skies around them, celebrating their wedding day.

They left for their honeymoon the next day. Eight weeks of relaxation, enjoying each other’s company, seeing the mysterious geysers of an Ice World, the aurora on a Moon that burned Orange, the Cosmic Ballad of the Pillars of Creation that rose so high above them they were almost swallowed. They had a picnic on a desert moon where they watched the meteors fly across the sky.

It was there that, six weeks later, S1 told Aries she was pregnant.

And thirteen years later, his daughter was born. His beautiful daughter. Aries never felt love like this before. The moment his eyes saw his newborn baby, he fell in love with her.

His Sagi.

Another would soon follow, many years later. A boy who resembled his father with a tail, a boy named Tellus. Aries loved his son so much. And the others that followed.

But he never forgot the brothers. He would visit them when he could, watching Earth as his habitability started to leave, but the planet grew happier. The pain is leaving him. Aries felt himself grow older, but never hesitated to make the journey to see them with his family.

And as he stood on a balcony many billion years later, watching his grown family play with his last and eighth child, a toddler they called Terra, he felt his wife sling her arm into his own. Aries smiled down at his wife, marvelled at how beautiful she still looked even five billion years from the moment they said, ‘I do.’ S1 pressed her nose to his, and he rested his head on hers as his older children played tag with the youngest, around the feet of statues in the new memorial garden.

With Helios standing proud, his planets and moons all around him, Jupiter carved perfectly with a book and Saturn leaning on his shoulders. Their Moons as spheres or markings on their clothing. Uranus with a sketchpad, Neptune with a brush. Mars sits with Venus and Mercury, around two individuals carved magnificently into stone.

Earth and Luna.

The Brothers.

Aries smiled as his children playfully chased his toddler to the other statues, seeing his daughter pause briefly at the statue of S2 and Sagittarius, looking lovingly at one another with their arms interlocked. Flowers opened and colours and smells began to punctuate the air.

“Do you miss them?” S1 whispered.

“Always,” Aries rested his head on hers.

His black halo sparked by his head, a reminder of his trials – and his triumph.

His eyes looked at the statues of Earth and Luna, as they were carved to lean toward one another. The landmasses of Earth were beautifully carved; his eyes seemed to glow, his brother’s face showing the beautiful freckles and magnificent patterns. With little animals that Aries somehow managed to remember.

His eyes glistened with tears as he stared at them both…

They were his brothers.

His Brothers.

Always have and always will be.

My brothers.

Aries felt S1 take his hand and smiled at her as she led the newly crowned King of Andromeda Way down the steps, bemused at her act.

“Where are we going?”

“To join our children,” S1 said, turning to give him a large smile. “If that is suitable, Your Majesty?”

Aries chuckled, capturing her lips briefly, before hearing Tellus shout.

“Get a room!”

 His siblings laughed.

Aries and S1 stepped onto their level, coming towards them all. His eight children. His Mother always joked about how he and S1 had to stop jumping on one another, but he would never trade them for the world. For the universe.

“Papa! Mama!” Terra rushed to them, and S1 lifted him into her arms, hugging her toddler child. “Come pway?”

“Of course, my love,” S1 whispered, nuzzling her son as he copied her. Aries chuckled as his son kissed his nose. Aries caressed his son’s cheek before S1 let him back down to run at their third and fourth born, the twins Selene and Sol. Selene lifted Terra, as the children crowded around to join their parents, and S1 slipped her hand into Aries’ arm, leaning into her husband as they started to follow their children.

Sagi smiled, coming to join them at his other side. S1 smiled affectionately at her eldest as Aries side-hugged her, before letting her go.

His eyes found the statue again, and Aries tilted his head at the group of now permanent figures.

“Thank you… for everything. My brothers.”

“Come on! Mom, Dad!” Tellus shouted impatiently, the group now further ahead. Aries shook his head at his eldest son, marvelled at how much like S2 that Tellus was, before quickening his pace to catch up with his wife and children. His black halo shimmered, bending the light around it as it glowed not purple or gold, but with a touch of blue and green, before white took hold. The sparks flew for a second before the halo returned to orange with purple tints.

His eyes spotted Sagi sneaking away to a yellow-haired male star he identified as Apollo. Helios and Proxima’s son. She always thought she was fly, as Aries called it, to sneak away to see the boy. But he had decided to monitor the pair at present: he would not stop his daughter unless there was a risk to her.

He chuckled as he saw Terra splashing about in the water nearby, void of his star at present. When older, he would select his star form and join the skies. Each of them. Only Sagi held his old place, forsaken when he defeated him.

Aries felt S1 slink her arms around him, and he leaned on her, placing his arm around her shoulders as he watched their offspring play hide and seek, walking slowly among the bushes and flowers. The entire Remembrance Garden was filled with the laughter of their children.

Aries beamed at them all, his head resting against S1 as he felt himself relaxing for the first time in over 5 billion years. Maybe things were finally going to change in the Universe.

Death was right: he was a Singularity. Force for change and advancement. To shepherd in a time of peace and prosperity to the Galaxy, he would be charged with caring for it. As Aries looked at his family, he finally felt at peace. He could hear the laughter of his children, feel the beats of every star within his clouds as they crafted their worlds, former M- and S-Cluster Stars who were now his closest advisors in the Universe.

And it felt… good.

Aries glanced back at the statue of Helios and his worlds, a smile coming to his features as he let his gaze linger on them all.

“Thanks… for everything.”

Chapter Text

Epilogue 1 – Helios

Slayer.

Madman.

He was called many names.

But a monster was one he never thought to be.

He was burning. Pained. His Red Giant phase was now in full swing; his once vibrant yellow skin was blood red, his eyes bled, and he had a fever that never seemed to be dulled. Some days he lay in bed, others he lay in orbit screaming in agony. Saturn gave him sedation as much as possible, as safely as possible, but it was only temporary.

As Andromeda met the Milky Way, Helios found himself able to engage with the Galaxy-scape. With Sagittarius’ strength failing, the portals were forced open, and chaos started rampant. Everything was in turmoil. He would have attended the Core, but his fever sometimes burned too hot to make the trip.

And a letter had arrived.

From… her.

Five billion years later.

Helios had stopped writing to her well before this. After the wedding, he had put his pen down and sent no more letters. He had received none from Proxima, and there was a clear disassociation between them. Rigil and Tolimon had acted strangely at the wedding, stated she had life, but Helios found more questions when that happened. She knew he had an advanced species on his system, but why did she not contact him for help?

But the nature of her letter was desperate. That she wanted to speak with him. Before…

He died.

Helios couldn’t make the trip alone, though. Jupiter and Saturn, despite being older and greyer, accepted accompanying their star to the Alpha Centauri System. With his condition, he could be attacked by rogue planets and stars from the Colliding Galaxies, and death by them was far worse than death by his own natural process.

And just as well he did ask them because Helios could not make the trip alone. He needed to rest several times, with Saturn soothing his temperature with elixirs and salves to help his failing body. Helios was grateful that they were with him. Jupiter offered to carry him the rest of the way, but Helios swatted his hand away, saying he could walk as best as possible.

Finally, after five long days of travel, they arrived at the borders of the Alpha Centauri system.

What was left of it.

He sensed the two remaining stars of the system, feeling the pulses of the Red and Orange Dwarf, but also the dying pulse of a White Dwarf. Helios felt saddened that Rigil was gone, but the Star was older than him, and Yellow Dwarves had the unfortunate shorter life compared to their orange and red counterparts. The lack of his presence was clear in the area; a sombre feeling had fallen over the system. Never mind the ticking time bomb just beside Tolimon.

His blue eyes located the compound at the centre, but his strength was failing. Helios could feel his legs start to buckle, and Jupiter swung around to support his star as best he could. The fever was now worse, almost burning his oldest friend’s hand, and Helios wanted to spare him the pain.

He didn’t know how… if he lost consciousness, or something else happened…

But he woke up on a couch.

To… her.

She remained as beautiful as ever, in a roguish way. Her skin remained a rusty colour; her hair was lacking in greys and still that wonderful red. Her eyes betrayed only slight lines, but not as bad as his. Red Dwarves had the luxury of long lives, could live for trillions, making their lifespan so short it was laughable to them. Her eyes glowed like rubies, full of worry as she pressed a cooling patch to his forehead. His hands trembled as he raised one to hers, staring at her as his body spasmed, his Core starting to shred.

“Proxima… you must be… a dream…”

“Not a dream,” She whispered. Helios wanted to warn her that she would burn, but her hand did not leave his forehead as she pressed the patch down. Helios sighed in relief at the feeling, willing himself to stay awake. “Oh, Helios… what have I done…”

“You…” Helios rasped. He reached out to her, and she came forth, guiding his hand to her cheek. His thumb shakily caressed her smooth cheek, worry rising at possibly burning her but… she did not seem to flinch.

“Proxima…”

“Sh,” Proxima leaned forth, pressing her lips to his forehead as she lifted the patch. Proxima caressed his skin, causing tingling. “It’s okay… just…”

“Your letter.” The subject as to why he was here. Helios moved, shakily pushing himself up and causing Proxima to move back to prevent herself from being head butted by his swift action. “You… Five billion years I have waited for a letter and only now you have sent me one. Why, Proxima? What did I do wrong?”

“Helios, you did nothing wrong,” Proxima said instantly. “Absolutely nothing! I just…” she hesitated. “I had other things happening. Alongside a tidally locked world getting life at a terminator line, I had…”

“Tell me,” Helios said frantically. His rapid breathing, his wide eyes, it was causing her some concern. Her eyes darted back at Saturn who was sitting with Jupiter in the corner. Both Gas Giants came to him, trying to soothe him.

“Helios… Sol… calm,” Saturn said gently. His hand pressed onto the Star’s own, his golden eyes brimming. A small smile was on his face. “It’s alright. Take some deep breaths, because you need to listen to Proxima.”

Helios took shaky breaths as Jupiter helped him swing his legs, so he sat on the couch, facing Proxima as she pulled a stool over. The Yellow Dwarf watched her intently, doing what Saturn told him, as Jupiter perched himself beside Helios to keep him steady.

Proxima pulled the stool over and sat before him, her hands wringing as she contemplated what to say. Her red eyes darted to the door, and then back at Helios, before finally she pressed her hands into her lap.

“Okay… okay,” Proxima took a deep breath. “Helios, I wanted to write to you. Desperately. Every day, I drafted letters, but I felt I was neglecting the truth from you. I felt that if I sent those letters, I was lying to you.”

Helios sucked in a breath, his shaking hands betraying his increasing anxiety. Proxima’s eyes darted back to the door, her ears twitching, and he tried to listen but couldn’t hear anything.

“Truth is, what I wanted to say could never be in a letter, and with the gateways closed, it made things so much more difficult,” Proxima stood. “It’s… I should show you. There is someone here who wants to meet you.”

“Meet me? Who?” Helios wanted to stand, but Jupiter and Saturn stopped him. “Why are you… let me stand!”

“You should sit down, Sol,” Jupiter said gently. “You will need to.”

Helios did as he was told, this once. His eyes watched as Proxima took a deep breath before she walked to the door, opening it. The Red Dwarf stepped out for a moment, and Helios could hear voices. Hers, Tolimon and two unfamiliar ones. A female and a male. His confusion rose as he tilted his head, trying to place them. One was vaguely familiar, but he dismissed it.

Finally, Proxima reappeared, Tolimon bringing a chair in. The Orange Dwarf gave a kind smile at Helios, but did not remain, preferring to keep silent as he moved another chair inside, setting it by the door this time. Helios watched as Proxima took some steady breaths before raising her voice.

“You… You can come in.”

Helios waited, holding his breath.

And then… they appeared.

Firstly, a young woman entered. Helios recognised her as Princess Sagi, the daughter of Prince Aries and his wife, S1. He recognised her from her dual toned hair, which was black and white-gold, and her diamond on her forehead. The last time Helios had seen Sagi was when she was a child, and she had blossomed into a beautiful young woman. She lacked a halo still.

But when Helios opened his mouth, ready to greet her, she paused him with a hand, a gentle smile coming to her face as she walked to the seat by the door. Helios felt confusion rise: why was she… on the sidelines? Was this not who Proxima wanted to meet?

Then…

A young man stepped in with a fiery orange halo. He was tall, as tall as Helios was, with shoulder-length wavy and curled hair that was layered, streaked orange and yellow. His skin was rusty like Proxima, his left eye possessing a red iris and white sclera. Every facial feature he had was of Proxima’s, with very little of the father aside from a couple of random features like the lips that pulled back into an affectionate smile when he looked at Proxima. Helios tilted his head as the man turned to face him after a second…

The right side of his face…

He did not see it until now…

Helios’ mouth fell even more open.

It was a patch of yellow. His yellow. With black patterns like his own. And his eye was blue and black, exactly like his.

Helios felt Jupiter and Saturn press their hands on his chest, keeping him steady, as Helios felt himself tremble. His eyes widened as they darted between the young star and Proxima, as the younger male approached her and… kissed her cheek affectionately. Proxima gave a warm smile, much like… a mother would.

Mother?!

“Hey, Mom,” His voice was soft and medium, young. Proxima beamed at him, hugging her son, before turning to look at Helios as though remembering they had company. The young man seemed to remember that there were two planets and a star not of this system, and approached them, a pleasant smile coming to his features. Helios felt his hands clench into fists, complex feelings rushing through him ranging from shock to anger, as he looked at the young man with shock at the similarities this star had to him, with just a single patch on the right side of his face. He would have dismissed him without it, thinking that… Proxima had moved on.

But then if she did, why call for Helios unless…

Unless Helios… fathered…

The young male star walked to the seat before Helios, moving his cloak to the side so he didn’t pull as he sat down. Helios felt Jupiter twitch beside him, tail flicking as his golden eyes stared at the young man, before looking at Helios with a knowing smile. Helios could feel his Core thumping harder in his chest, and it hurt. But he didn’t show it. Not just now…

This wasn’t… his moment…

“Hey there, Dad!”

Dad?

DAD?!

Helios trembled as he stared at the young star, before looking at Proxima, then back.

“How… who…”

“Oh,” The young star winced, placing a palm to his forehead. “Was that too direct? I’m so sorry. I just…”

He beamed.

 “I have wanted to meet you for so long! Like, a long time. Mom told me stories about you, and then that you sired me and such. I guess I am just excited to meet the star who protected the First, defeated a Black Hole, and more! You’re my Hero!”

Hero.

That was a first. He was this boy’s hero. His son saw him as a Hero.

Helios reached out, wanting to touch the cheek of the young male star and see if this was real. If this were a dream. Was this…?

His hand touched the skin, and the young man allowed him, even leaning into his touch. A grin came to the man’s features, a familiar grin. That familiar upwards pull of the lip to show a small bit of canine and incisor, and Helios recognised it from the times he smiled in the mirror or curled his lip for his characteristic grin when he spoke to his worlds. But this smile that the boy gave him wasn’t like his own; just the familiarity was enough to make Helios realise…

He has my smile.

“Who are you?” Helios whispered, unable to voice anything else. “What is your name? I feel stupid, not knowing what to address you as.”

“I’m Apollo!” He has one of my names… “Any questions, I can do my best to answer! But I just want you to know… I don’t hate you, Helios.”

He didn’t realise, but that statement caused a weight to be lifted from his shoulders. Helios didn’t realise he was worried about this boy hating him for being absent. Helios felt his form relax as he stared at the star (Apollo?), his hands coming to his lap as he grasped his clothing to try and ease some tension.

His emotions were getting too much as Helios felt the gravity of this all start to hit him. He was shaking so badly, as things started to slowly click together. Apollo said he never hated him but… Proxima never told him! Why was he never told?!

Sensing his turbulent emotions, Jupiter, ever the caring one, pressed a comforting hand on his own. Helios trembled, his eyes darting between them as his fever roared back into life at his emotions. He should have been there! He should have been there to see and help Proxima! Or… they could have talked to Sagittarius herself, work something out that Apollo could have at least SEEN him!

His eyes darted to Proxima, tears falling not as crystal clear but as fire. Like beads of lava. It burned his skin.

“Why… I… I should have been here!” Helios grabbed at his hair, turning his eyes to look at Proxima as he tried to relieve some of the tension as he pulled at his hair, not to shout or roar or lose whatever control he had left.

“Why didn’t you TELL me, Proxima?!”

Proxima sighed, her shoulders sagging as she pulled the stool over to sit beside Apollo. The young male star took her hand, squeezing it comfortingly as he smiled at her. Giving her encouragement. How was she so calm with this?! He had unknowingly left her to raise their son alone! Helios had… changed her life and…

He was awful.

“Our brief encounter at that New Year’s Party,” Proxima said quietly. Her hand tightened on Apollo’s own. “I didn’t realise… Until a year later, when I felt Apollo stirring within me. I knew I was pregnant, and you fathered him. There was no doubt about that.”

Helios sucked in a breath, his shoulders slumping. The Yellow Dwarf tilted his head down, guilt starting to assault him tenfold. Was this why Proxima didn’t want to write? He always assumed she was not interested and didn’t care… that he felt used. But now, Helios was seeing the truth. She just wanted to protect them, all of them, from heartbreak.

“I couldn’t write about it, and when the wedding invites arrived, I couldn’t attend even if I wanted to,” Proxima sighed, turning her eyes to her – their - son. “I knew you would see my stomach and freak out, Helios, and I didn’t want you to feel guilty because you would be unable to see us. It wouldn’t be fair on you and-and I couldn’t put you through that - until recently.”

Her eyes found Sagi, the Princess’s shoulders slumping as she turned her gaze to the ground. Of course… Sagittarius’ power was failing; she was dying. There was no way to keep the barriers up between systems now, so it allowed Proxima to contact Helios as she so chose to.

Aries could, but if Messier was on route, then the prince needed all the strength he required to fight the invading supermassive black hole.

“My grandmother knew that Apollo was an Unnatural, like me, my siblings and Dad and aunt,” Sagi supplied, her soft and musical voice having an instant calming effect on the entire room. Proxima was shaking. “But with how things were back then, she still couldn’t open the portals. Death was still rampant, contained in a system, and things were stable. My grandmother isn’t at fault: nobody is to blame.”

“I don’t blame Sagittarius for protecting the many over the few,” Proxima whispered. “I wish I could have told you, Helios, but how would it be fair for you and Apollo if I wrote this in a letter? You would have tried to come to me, and you would be in trouble… the gravity quakes would destroy both systems, kill many innocent people, and much more. I know-know I r-robbed you of a re-relationship with Apollo but… I had to protect you both. Like y-you protected me.”

Tears were falling from her eyes, and Helios took her hand, squeezing gently.

“I didn’t have a bad childhood,” Apollo interjected after a moment. “Truly. I had my mom, amazing uncles, the planets and moons. They all treated me so well, raised me to the best of their ability. When I got my Halo, Mom, Rigil, and Tolimon threw a celebration for me and cried when I left. And hey, I got my own system too!”

“You-you do?” Helios stammered. He swallowed to try to remove the lump that had developed in his throat.

“Yep! I even have a world of life! Advanced!” Apollo grinned happily. “Guess I take after my old man, huh?”

Helios smiled, his eyes welling up. Sadness gripped him as he leaned to Apollo, forgetting his fever in the company of his son and the woman he loved. His free hand took Apollo’s own, squeezing tightly as Apollo smiled gently at him.

“Tolimon and Rigil both helped Mom raise me, changed my diaper, and fed me when she was too tired.” Apollo looked at his mom affectionately. “And I couldn’t have asked for a better Mom. Rigil helped me walk for the first time, Tolimon fed me my first solids, and the planets… they let me use them as a climbing frame lots of times! When my canines started to appear, Rigil and Tolimon let me chew their hands. Mom… she did everything to protect me. Teach me. I learned from her, and her teachings I put into my own system. I read your books! About life and all that, and it worked… I got my own Rocky Worlds with life! One of them is advanced, and travels, and the others, too.”

Apollo’s expression saddened, his shoulder slumping as he squeezed Helios’ hand.

“I don’t want you to blame yourself for missing my childhood. I know you will regret it, but I don’t feel any hatred or anger towards you. I am just happy I finally met you now, and not…” His eyes found the halo by Helios’ head. “Not…”

At my funeral.

Helios gave a saddened smile, his hand tightening on Apollo’s as the implication of his unspoken words hit all involved. Proxima lowered her head, and Apollo tensed, but for the first time, Helios felt he was at peace. His hands shook as he released Proxima and Apollo, going to his neck as he fumbled with a chain before cursing himself. Saturn was there, helping with the clasp.

Helios pulled the chain up to reveal a pendant. His pendant. It’s not like he needed it anymore. Why should he when he was dying? His system was going to die with him.

“Take this,” Helios whispered. He reached for Apollo shakily, raising the chain as he carefully fastened it around Apollo’s neck. The young Star’s eyes widened, his mouth opening as he raised a hand to the yellow stone pendant, which was in the usual star pattern. Each pendant was individualised to the one who wore it, and was never offered to another… unless…

“I have nothing to give, Apollo,” Helios said sadly. “I couldn’t give you my time as your father. I couldn’t guide you, and yet… I hope when you look at this pendant, you feel some strength and resolve from it. I only hope you can forgive me… I know you do not hate me, but I have done you wrong. Wrong that I am too late to rectify.”

“I…” Apollo swallowed, tears welling up. “I don’t know what to say… I’ll treasure this for all my life.”

“It is yours to do with as you wish,” Helios said softly. He was so tired now. The pain wasn’t as bad, though; his fever was not as strong. “I only hope you look at it in the darkest of times, because there will be plenty with worlds of life to care for. I am just glad you have others to look to.”

Helios inhaled, his shoulders slumping.

“I do have one request… can I… hold you, Apollo?”

Apollo blinked, as though the request was unusual, but then nodded. The young man sniffed as he came over, Jupiter moving to allow him in, and Helios wrapped his arms around him. Apollo felt the strength – what was left of it – in his body. Helios just held his son, resting his chin on Apollo’s fluffy hair, before his eyes found Proxima as she sat there, smiling with tears down her cheeks. He raised his other arm, and she came over, Helios embracing her on his other side as he held them both.

“Thank you…” He whispered to Proxima. “And… I’m sorry I wasn’t there. Whatever time I have left, I will care for him. I promise.”

“Helios, you’ve cared for everyone else,” Proxima whispered to him. “Let everyone else care for you. I will ask Tolimon to accompany you back to the Solar System when you are ready.”

“I’m coming with you,” Apollo whispered. “I want to be by your side, however long you have left…”

“I’ll speak to Grandmother,” Sagi stated, standing up with a smile as tears fell. “I think it should be alright considering you’re related… but I want to make sure that there are no lasting impacts from Gravity Quakes. I’ll join you when I get my answer.”

Helios smiled at the Princess before noting the affectionate smile that Apollo and she passed to one another. He felt saddened that he probably missed a huge milestones – numerous milestones it seemed – but a part of him was glad that Apollo had found such a wonderful person to share his life with.

Apollo was discussing with Jupiter, Proxima, and Tolimon about the journey back. Helios watched them, his breathing slightly worse than before. His thoughts trailed to Mercury and Venus, how they accepted their fate as they died, the comforting words that Venus gave Mercury and how Earth screamed for Venus to come back…

Apollo and Tolimon approached Helios, helping him stand. Ready to help him make perhaps his final trip back to his system. Helios looked at Proxima, and shrugged them off, going towards her as her eyes brimmed with tears. She gave a saddened smile, raising her hands to his cheeks as his own hands covered hers, the fiery tears falling again.

“Thank you… For caring for our son,” Helios whispered to her. “And… I’m sorry I could not be here for you. And I’m leaving you again, permanently.”

“Helios,” She whispered to him. “You aren’t leaving us. Not permanently. You are part of me, through our child. And I will always remember you. Care for you.”

Helios felt a saddened smile on his features, as Jupiter approached, his golden eyes worried at how Helios was managing to stand up. He squeezed Proxima’s hands tightly, comfortingly, and he pressed his lips to her forehead affectionately.

“You saved me again, Proxima,” Helios whispered to her. “How can I ever repay you?”

“You have already repaid me with our boy,” Proxima said, her thumbs stroking his cheeks. “You do not need to thank me anymore, Helios. Because you know it is not needed.”

He left. An hour later.

On his journey back home, Helios was so exhausted that he relied on Tolimon, Jupiter and Apollo to bring him back. They carried him, the exhausted star, the dying star.

In his fever, Helios lost his mind. He began to hallucinate, see others. His eyes found Theia and Proto, whispering to him that they would see him soon. Helios felt extraordinary guilt when he saw them, and how he forced them apart and basically tortured them both for just being in love. How could he treat them that way when he fell to lust for a time with Proxima? Helios had argued he was young and foolish and yet… it was pathetic.

He saw Mercury, and Venus, their faces frozen in time when he expanded as a Red Giant. How they were afraid at the end, before finding comfort in each other. Two enemies became friends for the briefest of times. Helios felt broken hearted to have done that, how he destroyed his own worlds. So desperate for companionship that Helios was not ready to say goodbye to them all.

In his very few lucid moments, he was in bed, his Core slowing. Helios would see Apollo less as he began to sleep more, his fever burning him so badly that Saturn and Jupiter stripped him to keep him cool. His hand would clench Apollo’s hand as he whispered how proud he was of him. Apollo stayed awake all day and night, and soon the planets would appear to say their final farewells to their star.

Helios asked all of them to leave.

Bar Jupiter.

His oldest friend.

His first friend.

“Was I… a good star?”

Jupiter started, his golden eyes gentle as he looked down at Helios. Helios was barely able to move now, his head resting against Jupiter’s collar as the Gas Giant helped to soothe him. To keep him comfortable.

One night they forsook their friendship. To act on feelings. He was clumsy but she didn’t care. He wished he could have seen her again.

Wait… what was her name?

“The best,” Jupiter whispered. “No other could have survived what you did. Helios… Sol… you are the best star we could have asked for. And nobody should say differently.”

Helios smiled, his eyes unseeing as he rested against Jupiter. His hand squeezed Jupiter’s tightly, as the Gas Giant began to realise… what was about to come. Why was Helios asking these questions?

“Apollo!” Jupiter called. The door opened suddenly, and Apollo rushed in, his eyes wide as he looked at Jupiter and Helios. “It’s… it’s time…”

Red hair, red halo, she was beautiful. Rusty skin. He felt emotions when he saw her. Heard her voice. What was her name?

Apollo swallowed, before making his way slowly to bed. He took over from Jupiter, letting Helios rest against him. The burning red halo was pulsing, as the thermal pulses in his orbital form began to reach its final phase.

“Dad…” Apollo whispered, resting his lips against Helios’s hair. His hand came around to stroke the orange and yellow locks. “I’m here. We all are.”

Who was she?

The remaining planets entered. Neptune and Uranus were trembling, holding one another tightly, knowing full well what would happen the moment that Helios died… that Neptune would be ripped away as was Uranus. Their Moons huddled against one another, tears falling from the younger ones. The moment Helios died, they would be torn out the mindscape.

Saturn and Jupiter held one another tightly, Titan and Titania approaching and embracing. The two moons would soon be separated, and so would many others. Earth and Luna sat nearby, Mars and his sole surviving moon by his side. Earth’s surface was now black, with red markings, indicating the death of his life and loss of habitability, but he still had his blue eyes. Luna was also of similar appearance, now tired as he rested his head against Earth’s arm.

Proxima Centauri. That’s her name… I like that name. She was so nice. So friendly. We have a son together. He is here.

Their eyes were watching the star.

Proxima, I will wait for you.

Helios looked at them all, his eyes now glossing over. The familiar blue was now disappearing behind his closed lids, before he gave his familiar grin.

“Thanks… for everything… guys…”

Proxima…

His halo sparked and shrank – turning white. Prisms of colour shone from the outside of the halo, before Helios’s eyes turned pure white. His skin became… faint; his entire body was fading away. His halo became solid, a small sphere of white with a swirling essence inside, falling and rolling on the sheets to the edge…

Jupiter reached out, but Apollo stopped him. The orb fell to the ground and smashed, dissolving into nothingness. Jupiter turned to open his mouth to ask why Apollo stopped him, and all Apollo said was.

“He should be where he is happy… if you catch it, he will be in limbo. He deserves peace.”

Apollo was stoic, his eyes brimming with tears as his father’s form began to disappear. He wanted to curl into a ball, his hands shaking as he felt his grief start to assault him, as the compound started to shake.

“NEPTUNE!”

The Ice Giant – Neptune – suddenly buckled and was pulled into a rip, his moons following. Another appeared, Uranus, grabbing the hands of Saturn, tears falling as he screamed not to be let go. His Moons clung to the others, as the invisible force… pulled…

They were torn apart, Uranus screaming as he disappeared into the rip, which sealed up instantly. The Gas Giants trembled as they looked at one another, distressed, Saturn suddenly wrapping his arms around his stomach as he looked at Jupiter desperately. Jupiter reached out and tried to grab his husband as another rip appeared…

“SATURN!”

“Jup-Jupiter!” Saturn sobbed, his hands grabbing the hands of the largest planet. “What’s happening…?!”

“The formation of a White Dwarf means unstable orbits…” Apollo sounded distressed, standing as he watched with tears falling. “Outer planets… don’t…”

“I’ll find you!” Jupiter yelled, clinging to Saturn’s hands. The many Moons of Saturn were clinging to the large feline, the smaller ones screaming as Earth and Mars tried to help. The Galilean Moons were reaching out to try and grab whoever they could – Ganymede had grabbed Titan, who was crying. Both looked at one another desperately, Ganymede begging Titan to keep hold of him.

Titan slipped out and disappeared into the Rip. Saturn was being pulled now, his claws sinking into Jupiter’s own as he begged him not to let go. Jupiter drove his feet into the ground, clinging on tightly to Saturn, tears falling as he begged for Saturn to keep hold-

The former Ringed Planet… was torn from his grip.

The rip sealed, and the compound shook. Cracks erupted on the walls, and Apollo wasted no time in grabbing Luna and Deimos as he urged their planets to leave. He saw Jupiter standing there, hands still raised, his moons sobbing as Ganymede just stood there, also with his hands held up.

“We have to go!” Earth shouted. “The compound… come on, Jupiter!”

“Jupiter!” Mars begged. “We will find them… please, we've got to go!”

Apollo cursed, holding the two moons under his arms before he kicked at the feline in the backside. The hit caused Jupiter to leap, and he seemed to have broken out of his stupor, barking for his moons to run too. The smaller ones tried to follow… and no matter what, even with the larger moons and Jupiter grabbing them, they couldn’t get out.

As the building collapsed, they rushed outside, moons crying at losing their siblings. Earth sank to his knees, holding several small moons, tears falling as Mars came to him and embraced him. Deimos was crying, Luna comforting him, while the Galilean Moons stood stoic, eyes on Jupiter to see what was to be done. Jupiter just stood there, unable to voice or even seem to comprehend what was happening.

Apollo looked at the compound, his form tense, as he stared at the rubble, as the ceiling finally crashed down. He released a breath, raising a hand to his eyes as he smoothed away his tears, before turning his head to look at the surviving planets. His hand reached to his neck where the pendant that Helios gave him was still fastened.

He had to tell his mother. But first…

“What do we do now, Jupiter?” The small voice of Europa finally broke the air. Sobs quietened, eyes turning to the Gas Giant. The pinkish feline did not seem to respond at first, before he finally turned his eyes to Europa, taking his glasses off and shakily wiping them on his clothing.

“We… Our orbital forms will be stuck around the White Dwarf. Us… we are pretty much alone. Locked in the mindscape until a higher Celestial sends us back, and even then… we are at the mercy of our unstable orbits,” His golden eyes turned to Apollo. “What would you advise?”

Apollo bit his lip, turning away from them. His tears started to fall, and he raised his hands over his face, trying desperately to manage his grief and sorrow. He exhaled rapidly before lowering his hands as he whispered.

“I’ll take you to the Core. There… the supermassive black hole will decide what to do… whoever it may be. It will be a long trip for the young ones, but we can make it. If you are willing to come with me.”

“What do we have to lose?” Io stammered.

Apollo looked at them all with grief on his features. He had not heard yet from Sagi: had something happened? She had gone to go get aid from her family. Sagi had said she would be here.

“Nothing…”

“Nothing…”

Nothing.

What was nothing?

That voice was familiar. How was it familiar?

Who spoke it?

Maybe one day… I can hang with the other stars…

“Wake up, child.”

He didn’t want to.

“Wake up, my son.”

The voice was more insistent. But he was too comfortable where he lay. On the ground, a solid ground. Far too comfortable.

A hand touched his shoulder, and he whimpered, curling further into his form. His hands grasped his hair, ready to rip it out in his frustration at being woken up. But when the hand shook his shoulder again, he finally opened his eyes to try and swat at the person.

Except… they weren’t a person.

Featureless and almost blinding, the individual was looking down at him with their hand so gently touching his left shoulder. Their eyes were only visible by the faintest of lines that allowed it, and their mouth were invisible. Was this a Star? THE star?

Or was it…

“You’re him…” Sol whispered, almost childlike in his manner. “The First Light. The one who birthed our Universe.”

“I am,” Singularity said gently. “You landed very hard compared to others. I was worried. You have not stirred for days.”

Days?

But he just… got here?

“Can you stand, or do you require assistance?”

Sol shook his head and carefully pressed his hand into the ground, releasing his battered shoulder. His hip, so harshly pressed into the ground, ached before the pressure released. With such great effort, Sol managed to sit up and then push up onto his feet, standing nowhere near the height of Singularity.

“Where am I?” Sol asked of him.

“You are on the Plains, Helios,” Singularity said softly. “You have become a White Dwarf. And I have already passed your judgement, and I feel you should pass on to the lands… if you so wish to.”

To spend eternity in peace… Sol liked that. Really did. His eyes turned to the room, scanning around as he tried to figure out what to do.

“I will have peace…?” Helios asked of Singularity. “But… I can also…”

“If you wish to. You can reunite with Proxima and be with your son if you so wish to.”

Reunite with Proxima and his son. Sol would love that, but then… Rebirth never guaranteed the possibility of them being reunited. He could be born in another Galaxy, not even of the same family group.

“I will wait for them. Both,” Sol whispered. “Every day.”

“You will not be alone in that venture.”

Sol turned at the new voice and instantly tilted his head low to the new individual who had appeared. Tall, broad, his bright eyes smiling with his lips, was S2, wearing a long loose white shirt and shorts, his hands in his pockets. S2 tilted his head back before looking to Singularity expectantly, his eyes holding a question within.

“Not yet…” Singularity said gently. “But soon, my child.”

“I will continue to wait here until she arrives,” S2 whispered, his eyes turning back to look at nothing. “I will always wait for her. She would do the same for me.”

His eyes found Helios, and S2 tilted his head, his now mane of golden waves around his shoulders. The diamond was the same as ever, on his forehead, sharply pointed and slanting to the very points with elegance. What would have been the horrific scar on his chest was now gone, the cut in his shirt showing no fatal wound that had been the cause of his death.

The cause of so much heartbreak.

“You’ve been waiting for Sagittarius… for five billion years,” Helios whispered, as his bare feet finally touched… sand. The room had faded, leaving only the two Stars standing on a beautiful beach with a glorious sunset over crystal clear water. Helios could see a house in the trees, footprints leading from it to the man who stood before him. “S2…”

“As I said, I will always wait for her,” S2 said gently. He looked so at peace, compared to when he was alive. “That urge has become stronger now than before. Singularity telling me that… I think it is soon time. I weep that she is going to die, but to see her again is something I have always dreamt of for so long.”

Helios watched as S2 stepped to the shoreline, his bare feet sinking into the sand slightly as the water lapped at his toes. He wanted to warn the Star, but… There was no need. S2 let his feet get washed by the water, not turning into stone.

“My son, Helios…” Pain came to S2 as he spoke. “How is he?”

“A grown man,” Sol whispered. “He has married and has his own children. Eight, I believe. I met a few of them. One of them… Tellus… he is the spitting image of you.”

S2’s eyes shone with tears, his eyes turning back to Helios. Why was he crying?

“I cannot thank you enough for caring for him. You have been a better father to him than I ever was, and I can never repay that.”

“It was my honour, my King.”

“S2,” The star interrupted. “Here, there are no Kings or Queens, Stars or Black Holes… just names.”

Helios felt a peaceful smile appear on his features. His shoulders relaxed as he walked to join the Star, his toes and bare feet being swallowed by the water. It was soothing, warm, not cold and biting as he expected.

“There are others here to see you, Helios,” S2 said after a moment’s pause. He pointed to show a hidden path, heading into the trees. “If you follow that, you will see them. I would join you... But if what Singularity has said is true, I wish to stay here. Sagittarius will be coming any day.”

“Sagittarius can defeat Messier,” Helios said confidently. “I know it.”

But S2 gave a saddened smile, tilting his head before returning his gaze to the sunset. Helios felt a sudden coldness rise in his chest, an unease he had never felt before. Would Sagittarius not defeat Messier? She had beaten a Force; surely Messier would be easy.

“You best not keep your friends waiting, Helios.”

Friends? Helios didn’t have friends. His planets would do anything to leave him. They abandoned him before, why would they…

S2 turned his back to him, watching the sunset, ending their discussion. Deciding to humour the King, Helios turned and began walking down the path that was indicated by S2, his feet feeling soothed by the coolness of the vegetation. The shadows were impacted by his gentle glow and offered a coolness to the gentle warmth in the air. Helios briefly wondered if everyone had their own island, their own places, so why did they reside on this one? Surely each Star System had its own island. Why did S2 share this one?

He was happiest on that island on Earth. We all were. That’s probably why: the one time he was at peace.

Laughter broke through the air. Helios blinked as he heard a fire crackling, more laughs: a female and several males. His eyes widened as he stepped into the clearing, before his jaw followed.

Four planets sat around a campfire, toasting something. Three males and one female. Helios recognised two of them immediately. Mercury’s surface was scorched with red, his iridescent skin now glowing with many colours that changed in the light. Venus had a red-hot surface; his hair pulled into a ponytail as he bellowed with laughter at something another male was saying.

Helios could only see the back of the other two, but even then, he recognised them. The male had long hair in a braid over one shoulder, with black and grey surface and orange markings. He turned to see the newcomer first, obviously hearing Helios before the others, a pair of grey-blue eyes widening as he stood suddenly.

“Sun?!”

The laughter stopped, and Helios winced. Mercury wasted no time running to him, Venus bringing up the rear, Helios feeling tears rise as he went to his knees to accept their welcome. His eyes looked to Proto as the former Rocky Planet came close…

And behind her, with her light brown and grey surface was…

“Theia.”

Her green eyes widened as she saw him, her hands coming to her mouth before she rushed to him. Theia was only a foot taller than Luna, standing at seven feet, and Helios was careful as he hugged her tightly.

“Oh, Sun… you’re here.”

“I am,” He whispered, feeling awkward as he looked around the clearing. He noted the hammocks, the handcrafted furniture, and more. They had made themselves comfortable. Happy. Without him.

“I was told you were here, and wanted to come say hello,” He was awkward. Unable to feel comfortable about being in their presence after what he did. Mercury and Venus burning alive were still ingrained in his mind… especially Earth as he screamed for Venus shortly after Mercury’s destruction.

“Dad! Hurry!” Earth was exerting his gravity, trying to pull Venus away, but the Sun was much stronger.

He was swelling up… screaming in pain…

Venus was looking at Earth and Luna, tears in his eyes, a sad smile on his features as he was pulled towards the Star as the Sun swelled more. Ready to consume Venus in his expansion.

“Dad!”

“Venus!” Mars was shouting. The other Rocky Planet came forth, exerting his own gravity to try and help Earth. But it was nothing compared to Sun. “Come to us, hurry!”

“It’s okay…” Venus was looking at Earth and Luna, slowly heading to the Star. “Kids… just know that I love ya. Both of ya. And I am proud of how far you have become.”

“Dad, no!” Earth screamed, his tears falling. “Don’t say that! Hurry, come to me!”

“I love you both. I’ll tell your Mom and Dad you said Hey, like you did for us, Earth… they would be so proud of you both.”

“VENUS!”

He was gone.

“I’m sorry, to all four of you,” Helios blurted out. “I was terrible to you. I reacted poorly to you both, Proto and Theia… and I… consumed you both, Venus and Mercury. Before that, I was awful to you and many others. I know I do not deserve your forgiveness, but I am sorry.”

He wanted to leave them. Helios had to. His guilt at his actions was so high that he was ready to collapse. But before he could move, he felt arms around his shoulders, making him jump as Mercury embraced him from behind. Venus joined him, hugging Sun from the side as Proto took the other, the three of them curling into him…

And Theia finished him.

He began sobbing as Theia embraced him too, kissing his cheek and nuzzling into his collar. All four of them were desperate to keep up with him, to tell him everything was alright. Theia was stroking his hair, whispering that she forgave him. They all did. And thanking him for looking after her sons after all this time.

He was so exhausted that he collapsed where he sat, the four of them holding him. Helios felt his ear twitch on the left, as a sad smile came to his features.

“You’re home now, Sun,” Theia whispered. “You looked after us for billions of years, let us look after YOU now.”

So, he let them.

Helios would sometimes join S2 as he waited, but one day on a beach walk, he saw S2 embracing a woman whom Helios recognised at a distance. He saw Sagittarius in his arms, both weeping as they kissed one another, before heading to the house at the treeline. So, he left them be.

And Helios waited.

And waited.

And then she appeared.

It was a shock to see Proxima Centauri again. But she was there. Helios wasted no time in going to her, and once her red eyes saw him, she raced to him. Helios swept her into his arms, holding her as she pressed her body into his own.

He knew she had died in the merger. The risk that many Stars would die was a flip of a coin, and unfortunately it flipped for Proxima Centauri.

“Proxima…” Helios whispered in her ear with affection. She nuzzled his neck, closing her eyes as she held him, her body greatly burned from the Merger. Not that it diminished Helios’s view of her. She was still perfection.

“Helios…” Proxima whispered back, her tears falling from her red eyes. “You’re here…”

“I am,” Helios kissed her forehead, letting her arms stay around him. Seeking comfort from him. “And I won’t leave you this time, Proxima. I promise – mfft!”

Her lips pressed to his, and Helios melted into her kiss. He accepted it back as passionately as she gave him, before breaking it as he rested his nose against her, smiling at her as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, nestling her face in the crook of his neck as he buried his face in her shoulder.

“I guess we are not friends anymore, huh?” He joked in her ear.

“I guess we aren’t,” Proxima said with a joking tone. She pressed her head into his collar, wrapping her arms around his waist as Helios took her up the pathway to where he and his four planets have built several wooden shacks. He loved the basic living, and he hoped Proxima felt the same.

She did.

That night, they sat watching the stars above their heads. Helios’s planets were setting up a fire, ready to start another exciting night. Of stories and food, laughter and dancing.

For once, Helios was laughing genuinely. Not in madness, or anger, but in happiness.

Proxima grabbed his hand and pulled him up, to dance alongside the fire. And he agreed to with a smile.

Yes, Helios was happy.

For the first time in his life.

Happy.