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Chapter Text

He should never have let Earth go alone. But his body ached, his crust riddled with the cracks of the attack that had almost killed him.

As Venus watched the blue and green orb disappear into the asteroid belt, he felt his breath catch in his core. He had glanced at Mars, but his fellow red planet never spared him a glance, too stunned that, for once, Earth was thinking of others.

Something had happened to turn the egotistical annoyance into a humble world that was desperate to protect others. He was even nicer to the two asteroids that Mars called his moons! Mercury was silent, preferring to keep by him and Mars. Despite how much he disliked the tiny piece of rock, Venus was glad they had at least someone around to keep an eye on them. If they were attacked again, Venus knew he and Mars would not survive. Their crusts were too vulnerable now.

“Ouch... my everything!” A much younger Venus moaned as he felt the twinge of a crack. An asteroid had flown straight at him, shattering against his crust. He hissed as another twinge of pain assaulted the cracked area before he was aware of another, smaller world approaching.

The other rocky world was female, with a gentle face. Her crust was a rich brown, with pale patches on random spots. Her smile was gentle but marred with concern at his discomfort. “Did you hurt yourself again, Venus?”

“Not intentionally. I can’t help if it a damn asteroid comes my way!”

Theia approached, peering at the crack on his mantle. Venus felt his Core heat up at the closeness, but he kept his cool – figuratively speaking. She gave a gentle nod and smiled brighter at him.

“It’ll heal, my brave brother. Give it some time. Wounds always heal in time.”

‘Wounds always heal in time.’

Venus closed his eyes, resting in the spot where Mercury had unceremoniously dumped him and Mars. He could hear the two mumbling together. Mars was determined to go after Earth, but Mercury was talking him down. Saying he was too hurt, he too exhausted, and that Venus needed a rest. He could hear Mars become more frantic, feel his presence start to shift, and instantly opened his eyes.

“Stay. Put,” Venus said groggily. “We cannot do anything in our state.”

“We shouldn’t have let him go! Deimos and Phobos said it was a trap – they want him to go!” Mars was becoming more hysterical by the minute. Tears were in his eyes. “I know we aren’t friends with him anymore, but I still worry about him!”

“Look, we go there, we give them more ammunition for the Moons to use. He cannot protect us all!”

“He can barely protect himself!” Mars was moving again, and Venus – with what strength he had left – extended his gravity to the other Red. “Venus!”

“Earth said to stay here. He said he will finish this peacefully, and we have to trust him. Remember, his big mouth got us into this situation in the first place!” Oh boy, does that not remind me of you, Proto.

“No, you got us pelted with asteroids!” Mars’ tone was venomous. His eyes looked at Venus, his mouth curled at the corners – then he softened when he saw the tears in Venus’ eyes. The look softened, and he carefully came closer.

“Venus?”

“... I broke my word, Mars.” The Red Planet blinked. Then again. He seemed unsure what to say, and it took a few seconds before realisation came to his features. A glance at Mercury to check he wasn’t listening, Mars came a bit closer.

“No, you didn’t, Venus. We couldn’t have seen this coming.”

“I said, the day he was born from her ashes... I said I would look after him.” Tears threatened to spill, making Venus look away instantly. “I vowed I would look after Theia’s boy. And I failed.”

“You aren’t the only one to blame, Venus. We both failed, but... we tried our best to raise him right.”

Venus exhaled. He hissed as his tears touched the cracks of his mantle, irritating the wounds further. Thankfully, Mercury had not noticed. His eyes were focused on the asteroid belt, waiting, clearly panicking.

"By Helios, Venus, none of us would have seen this coming,” Mars said firmly. “I guarantee not even Jupiter would have seen it coming. But we will do right when he comes back. Alright?”

“What if... he doesn’t come back?” Venus whispered. “And if he did, he’s... hurt?”

“Well, good thing he has a bit of Proto in him, eh? You remember that world was a fighter. Earth is like that; he will be fine.”

Damn Proto. Earth had inherited the loud-mouth and speak-before-thinking approach from that slab of a planet. How Theia became friends with that arrogant bastard, Venus never knew. And by Helios, Earth reminded him recently of Proto. Too much. If Earth had changed, he would not have acted like his sire in that moment. It was becoming painful, all this waiting.

They kept their eyes on the asteroid belt, watching for any sign of the blue marble... and true enough, Venus saw two forms start to appear. He watched with bated breath as the Moon emerged first, followed by the tiny forms of Deimos and Phobos, then...

Earth. Without a single crater on him. Still blue and green, still swirling with clouds, and still looking beautiful. He had a gentle smile on his features, mirrored by the Moon.

Venus heard Mercury give a surprised squeak before immediately going to them, looking Earth over. Marvelled. Venus could barely make out what they were saying, but as he drew closer, he heard the Moon chime.

"The Earth spoke to the Moons and calmed everything down -"

Wait. He SPOKE to the Moons and calmed them all down?! Venus couldn't believe what he was hearing. Earth, the hot-headed, rude, the most annoying egotistical rock who never thought for a second before talking, calmed the Moons down? How...

"Pluto and Charon did!" He heard Earth exclaim. Venus could barely focus. How did Earth, who acted like Proto, manage to calm down several hundred Moons without so much as a scratch on him?

"That's enough, Proto, Venus!" Theia sounded angry as she squared up to the larger rocky planet. "Back off, both of you!"

"Venus started it!" Proto’s voice was rich and accented and barely hid his annoyance with Venus.

"I don't care who started it, I will finish it!" Theia came between the two worlds, her eyes portraying her anger and frustration at them both. "Proto, a word, please?" She pushed the bigger world with her gravity, hinting for Proto to back off as she eyed Venus with disapproval.

The other fiery world cursed as he watched the pair leave, feeling the impacts of the growing distance between him and Theia. All because he tried to control who she could be friends with... all because he couldn't control his jealousy.

"You need to calm down." Mars' voice broke his thoughts, and Venus felt his mouth curl into a snarl as he turned to regard the other molten world that approached his gravity proximity.

"What do you want, Mars?" Venus guffed.

"For you to stop being possessive over Theia and her relationship with Proto," Mars stated firmly. "You are going to end up fighting with not just him but Theia. She doesn't like to be owned, Venus."

"I just don't like how close she is getting to that bastard. He is trouble. She deserves better."

Mars sighed. The planet glanced at Venus, seeing the volcanic world bristle with anger. Proto and Venus never got along, mainly because Venus hated Proto's attitude towards his freedom. Venus always was about duty, about obtaining the goal of Life. Proto just scoffed and always indicated that they had a choice. If they were meant for Life, then so be it. But he said they lacked the necessary components for it.

"Look, I get you don't like Proto. I find him a bit much sometimes, myself. But you cannot stop Theia from being friends with whomever she likes to be friends with. Helios, Proto might be good for her. And she might be good for him too."

Venus glanced at Mars, sobering slightly. The other world was saddened as he gazed at Venus, noting how downhearted he was.

"I rejected her," Venus admitted softly. "She wanted to stay with me, said we could move orbits to help our chances. She wanted to create Life with me, and I told her she was an idiot. That she was delusional. That's why Proto and I were arguing: he heard me."

Mars sighed and closed his eyes. He seemed to contemplate for a moment before reopening them and turning back to Venus was sympathy.

"Let her calm down. Then, you go and apologise. I think the two of you should talk, you know? You should also speak to Proto. Even if you two don't like each other, the good thing you could do is make peace for Theia. We don't need more chaos in our already chaotic lives, Venus."

Venus watched the other world go, contemplating his words. He gave a smile before nodding to himself. He will apologise to Theia, he decided. He will speak to her in a while and hopefully make things right. Then, Venus will accept her proposal. They could make something beautiful together. He closed his eyes, pulling his gravity inwards to rest. To keep him rooted so he wouldn't drift. Venus could feel the presence of other worlds, could sense the Sun's overwhelming presence. A calming force in this otherwise chaotic system.

Then... screams. Followed by...

KA-BOOM!

Venus' eyes snapped open suddenly. He relaxed his gravity and immediately spun around. He heard the Sun screaming, Mars yelling for help, and felt Jupiter's overwhelming gravity. Without hesitation, Venus flew out of his orbit. He had never moved so fast -

"PROTO! THEIA!"

Those words made his Core stop. No... no no no no no! Venus moved faster, moved towards where he sensed the dying pulses of a familiar Core. His eyes found Mars, shaking in his orbit, staring while Jupiter was keeping the others away from the scene. Venus felt the image get burned in his eyes. Proto's celestial form was half gone; the other half melted. Debris swarmed around him; his mouth hung open. His eye - his remaining eye - was blank. Lifeless. There was nothing within him. Ingrained in the melting side was... another... familiar...

"Theia!" Venus practically screamed. Mars immediately pulled Venus back, stopping him from going closer. "No, no no no no no! Theia!"

Tears fell. He couldn't look away. All he saw was her lifeless form lodged in Proto, her debris floating around them.

'Theia, no...'

He was losing consciousness.

'I never got to say I'm sorry.'

Venus shook the memory away, noting that Earth was speaking to him and Mars. Saying he was sorry. That he wasn't a good friend. Venus barely registered what he said, all he could see was above his right eye. Where... America was, was it? He could just see the molten remains of Theia lodged there.

Then the high-pitched squeals of Mars' little pebbles erupted, and Venus was distracted as the two asteroids went straight to Mars. He looked at them with such love and adoration that it made Venus jealous. But as he glanced around, he noted Earth and the Moon, Luna was it, were moving off. He could feel Mars' rejection, and Mercury was being strangely quiet. Less whiny.

'Venus stared at the remains of Proto and Theia, sobbing. Mars was by his side, as was Jupiter, Saturn and the rarely seen Ice Giants. The Sun was in his orbit spot, eyes low, not shooting flares, and not being his usual self. Little Mercury was fast asleep near him, barely aware of anything that was happening. Barely aware of the destruction that had occurred in their Solar System. Venus didn't know how long they were just... there—watching, looking at the mess.

"Venus..." Proto's mouth curled in agony. His surviving eye opened, looking at them with a haze. Venus started, staring at the world. Was Proto not dead?! He was lifeless, he was...

"I'm... sorry..." The voice wasn't the same as Proto's usual. Like it was fused. Melted with Theia’s. "I'm sorry... I'm sorry..."

Those two words kept being repeated, but Venus didn't want to listen anymore. His anger started to take over, and all he could scream at the corpse was "WHY?".

"Why YOU, why Theia... why did YOU do it?! Why did YOU survive, Proto, and not poor Theia?! It should have been HER! Not you, you selfish bastard! It should have been her that lived this collision! This is all YOUR FAULT!"

"Venus..." Jupiter's usually calm voice was breaking. "Venus, he's dying. But do you not hear his voice? Theia is in there, too. Please, don't let your last moments be of hate. And anger. Don't let your last moments of Theia be this."

Venus felt immense anger rise within him at Jupiter's words. What the fuck did it matter what Theia wanted?! She was dead, melted onto Proto's surface! It was his fault this collision happened; it was his damn reckless fault that Theia was dead! His eyes bore into the lonely one belonging to Proto, hatred within them. No, Proto did not deserve any kindness at that moment. He was Core-Broken. He had lost Theia for good. Proto did not deserve Theia. Nobody was good enough for her.

"Drop dead, Proto."

Venus turned and left them. He just left the other worlds, refusing to look at the melted remains of Theia as they circled Proto. Refusing to look back as Proto closed his eye for the last time, the world finally dying before the others. He felt the last twinges of Life leave. The last remnants of Proto and Theia finally being extinguished from the Universe.

He finally cried in his orbit.

It wasn't for a few million years before he finally sought out the rest of the planets. When he finally decided to pay his respects to Theia. He had been a coward in that time. Refused or barely spoke to Mars and the others, with the occasional sneer at the newly woken Mercury. The little world annoyed him. Very much so. His voice was whiny, and he always ran to the Sun for protection, tattled on Mars, or just generally hid from them.

When he approached Mars, the other Red Planet greeted him fondly. Then told him something wonderful had happened. When Venus followed him to the old orbit of Proto and Theia, he was met with Jupiter and Saturn. Their faces were adoring, with Jupiter looking... strangely proud, like a father would. Venus could then see why, when close enough, and his jaw opened.

A new world. Where Proto and Theia’s once broken remains were was a new world. An infant. Fast asleep, with a circle of rocks around it. Venus couldn't believe his eyes. He just could only stare. The infant world squirmed slightly before opening its eyes. It looked at Jupiter before gazing at the newcomers.

"Saty, Jupe, who tat?" The infant was male, but a very young male. Not like Proto's arrogant baritone nor Theia’s graceful tones. But it still had somewhat the musical touch of Theia. Venus couldn't believe it. Was this... was this...

"This is Venus." Jupiter's usually thunderous voice was gentle. Warm. "He is your neighbour, like Mars. Why don't you introduce yourself, little one?"

The infant world seemed to beam and slowly approach Venus. Venus took a small step back to avoid the rings of rock around it, eyes widened as he stared down at the infant world.

"I'm the Earth! It's nice to meet you, Mr Venus, sir!"'

The infant faded from his memory and was replaced with the blue-green world that Venu was currently watching. Tears welled in his eyes as he gazed at Earth, seeing him looking outward in a moment of pondering. Contemplation. His Moon was nearby, reading a paper while keeping the Earth on his axis.

Venus couldn't believe that such a beautiful world was born out of destruction. Born out of a mistake. And developed Life. Theia got her wish after all, just not in the way she wanted it. And Venus regretted not being the one to take her offer. Worse, when he spoke to Jupiter after Earth woke, he found out why they collided. And it was his fault.

His damn fault.

He couldn't tell Earth. Especially when the infant had grown so close to him as a father-son would be. Except they weren't, Venus thought bitterly. This wasn't his son. This was Proto's boy, but also Theia’s. Earth should have been his. But he would continue to protect the Earth. Not because he was Proto's son. But because he was Theia’s Boy. A reminder of his love lost.

Venus sighed and turned his attention to Mars as the Red World approached. It was time they had a long talk.

A very long talk.

Chapter Text

“Then why are we not friends?”

It was his question which caused everyone to just... stop. Each of the Rocky Planets looked at one another, unsure how to truly answer it. Venus eyed Mercury, who in turn eyed Earth. Earth looked at each of them, then down, before mumbling.

“It’s because I ruined it.”

“I ruined it!” Earth cried. He poked the little rock world again with his gravity, but it still didn’t stir. Still made no effort to wake up. “I broke it!”

Mars sighed before carefully approaching the infant world. Hopefully, it will be to comfort instead of collision.

“It takes time, Earth. Be patient. Don’t be scared. Your moon will wake when they are ready to.”

“I’m scared of being myself again,” Earth said after a moment. His eyes were down, his expression saddened. He avoided the gazes of the other Rockies, and it made Mars’ core melt in sadness – and guilt. How did it come to this? How did he fail so badly in helping Earth? How did he fail so much in guiding the world of Life?

Mars eyed the infant Earth, listening to his giggles and laughs as he began to spin around the Red Planet playfully. Mars groaned, closing his eyes as he tried desperately to calm the literal child of a planet to settle him for a nap. Venus had been trying for days, and Mercury, well... Mercury was still too small. And Earth had got bigger and braver since he woke up. Mercury playing babysitter would cause the already underconfident planet to crack further.

“Settle down,” Mars extended his gravity again to try and stop Earth. But the budding planet had stronger gravity. Fortunately, he was still getting used to his strength. “Time for a nap, baby rock. You’ve kept us all up in this system for days.”

“WEEKS!” Venus shouted from the distance of his orbit. Earth stopped in his orbital circle, looking at Venus. “Get to sleep, or I’ll put ya to sleep, pipsqueak!”

“Venus!” Mars scolded. He sighed when he noted that Earth’s lip was quivering. The infant world was getting upset, realising he had got into trouble – and still wasn’t understanding why Venus kept his distance. But Mars knew.

Every time Venus looked at Earth, Mars knew he saw Theia. And Proto. He didn’t see Earth as his person. Mars, though, he saw the world as his own. The circumstances of his birth were not important: he was part of the Solar System family now.

And it would be enjoyable if he could just sleep for once. Mars didn’t know how Jupiter and Saturn managed with him when he was formed (and he aimed to apologise to them next he saw them).

“Come now,” Mars gently rocked the newly formed Earth with his gravity. Earth seemed to yawn but was fighting the sleep that was aiming for him. Mars gently rocked him again, making sure that the other rocky planet that had formed with him was not disturbed. At least one of them slept peacefully.

“Ni ni, Mr Mars,” Earth seemed to whisper. Mars winced as Earth seemed to curl close and threw up his gravity as defence. He didn’t want a collision so soon after Earth was born from one.

His eyes looked at Venus, noting the other world had his back to him. With a glance at Jupiter, who stood on the other side of the belt, Mars carefully guided Earth and his little spherical friend back into their orbits. Fortunately, the infant had managed to gain some control over his orbital speed and direction automatically. With a heavy Core, Mars made his way towards Venus.

“MARS GET BACK TO YOUR ORBIT!” The Sun practically screeched.

Mars winced but looked to the Sun. Then pointedly looked at Venus. The Sun gave a snarl before giving a firm nod. But Mars knew this was going to be a one-off conversation with Venus. And a difficult one at that.

When he did approach Venus, the world immediately snapped to focus on him. The disgruntled world gave a curl before looking at the sleeping infant behind Mars.

“You finally cracked? Or has the brat finally worn you down?”

“I looked after you at his age, and you were far worse,” Mars pointed out. He frowned as he looked Venus over, concern starting to take shape on his features. “When did YOU last sleep, Venus?”

“None of your concern, Mars.”

“It IS my concern,” Mars pointed out. “When Jupiter is occupied, I am looking out for the inner worlds. I do see how you act... and treat Earth. And it’s wrong, Venus. We need to talk about it.”

Venus immediately snapped around. The other world growled, bearing down with his larger size and gravity in a manner that made Mars almost tense. His danger senses rose through his Core as he prepared himself for a possible confrontation with the other Rocky planet.

“You don’t know shit, Mars! I am NOT a baby person, let alone a damn planet who-“ His voice faltered. But Mars knew how to finish.

“Is the spawn of Proto,” The proverbial nail on the coffin, so to speak. “And also, Theia. You wish Earth was yours and her.”

Venus’ face darkened in anger. The gravity began to get more intense as he bared his teeth. His eyes swam with tears, which he tried desperately to keep at bay. Mars held his position, building his gravity up to defend himself from whatever onslaught that Venus was going to give him. But... it never came. Even with the pulses coming from him, no assault rose from Venus.

“Venus, we are all grieving still. I heard Jupiter cry sometimes; I hear Saturn comfort him. I hear Neptune persistently asking where she is because she always was the first to welcome him in his proximity to the Sun. I hear Mercury ask where Proto is. Helios, I see everything going wrong when we should be focusing on this little rock that was born from such difficult circumstances!”

“Shut the fuck up,” Venus said, almost a whisper. He turned away from Mars. “Just... shut the fuck up, Mars.”

“No, because you need to hear this,” Mars said angrily. “You are hurt, Venus. I understand that. But you must let go, Venus. For your sake.”

“I said SHUT UP!” There it was. Mars barely stopped himself from being catapulted right into the outer areas of the inner system, but his gravity rooted him back into his orbital zone. He looked at Venus, watching him disappear behind the Sun – who gave a very disgruntled look at Mars before turning his attention to the worlds orbiting behind him.

Mars looked back at the infant Earth. Thankfully, he was still asleep with his little companion. Comfortable in his little rock ring. As much as Mars himself hated Proto, he could not treat this little rock the same. In time, Venus would come around.’

Mars glanced at Venus as he looked down at his poker cards. The fiery world frowned, and a grin came to his features before he coughed, laying the cards down.

“Read ‘em and weep, losers!”

A collective groan came from Earth and Mercury as they laid their cards. Mars sighed and placed his down before placing them back into the deck. He felt the Earth tug on his gravity borders and immediately sent a pulse to him to keep the planet on his axis. With Luna on a break, the Earth was relying on them for stability. A thankful look came from the Earth, and Mars smiled at him.

“Weeeeeeee!”

Mars laughed as he sent the infant Earth in a spiral again, the infant spinning around Mars before falling back by Mars on the other side. The Red Planet saw Earth spin around again, happy as he chirped a demand to go again.

“Again! Again!”

“Not just now,” Mars said softly. He nudged Earth with his gravity, silently telling him to calm down. The infant planet did as he was told, tilting on his axis as he looked towards Jupiter at the other side of the belt. “Uh oh, nope. You can’t go there.”

“Why?”

“It’s too dangerous for a tiny world such as you,” Mars said softly. He guided Earth back towards his orbit. “Now, I need to head into my sleep cycle. I also need you to play quietly in your orbital zone, but within my gravity proximity so I know where you are.”

“But... I want to play with the asteroids!”

“Oh no, you don’t,” Mars reached out with his gravity as Earth started to move towards the belt. Earth squeaked and pulled back, looking at Mars with a surprised expression. “You will stay, and in your orbit, while I sleep. Can you do at least this one thing for me?”

“Can you do this one thing for me?” Mars asked of Earth. The other planet looked at him with surprise before giving a smile.

“Of course. Anything the matter?”

“Why did you not tell me sooner about you being in pain and discomfort?” Mars saw the shock in the Earth’s features before deciding to answer quickly. “Mercury. Earth, why did you not tell me?”

“There wasn’t anything to tell. I am used to it.”

“Use to it doesn’t make it right,” Mars pointed out. “Earth, listen, how long have we known each other?”

The blue world blinked several times, confused about the question. Mars waited patiently, watching the blue world think over his answer to the question.

“Since we were small,” Came the answer. Mars decided not to correct him. After all, he was the eldest of the Rockies. His memory would be significantly better than in the early days of the inner solar system.

“I trust you, Earth,” Mars said softly. He sent his friend a gentle pulse through their gravity. “And know you can talk to me. Any time.”

Earth was playing near Mars’ orbit, trying desperately to get his little companion orb to wake up. But still, the little world wouldn’t acknowledge him. He needed a friend around. He felt so lonely and was not able to talk to anybody.

He glanced at Venus. Then, back at Mars. And then back at Venus. The infant world floated towards the edge of his orbital zone before raising his voice.

“Excuse me, Mr Venus?”

The planet turned with a groan, looking at infant Earth. The expression became darker, and Venus turned to look away again.

“What do you want, pipsqueak.”

“I’m bored! Can we play?” Earth squeaked. “Please?”

“No, get back to your orbit and leave me the fuck alone,” Venus ground out. “Play with that asteroid you have trailing around with you.”

“But I want to play with you!” Earth complained. The whining was aggravating Venus, reminding him too much of Proto. How he played the victim and whined constantly about anything or everything. “You are my friend, Venus!”

“Well, I am not yours, so get lost!” Venus growled. “Buzz off, Proto!”

He immediately fell silent. The only response he got from Earth was the sniffing, and Venus noted that tears had started to fall from the infant’s eyes. Venus suddenly realised what he just did and was reminded of his last ever talk with Theia...

“VENUS!”

Mars exploded. But the damage was done. Earth immediately left the two worlds and rushed back into his orbital zone. Mars was so engrossed in facing Venus that he allowed Earth to leave.

“You and I have a LONG conversation ahead. And by the time I am done with you, I expect you to give an apology to Earth.”

“The pain... you get used to it,” Earth stated. He tilted slightly and cussed, which made Mars immediately approach to rectify him. “The drilling that Astrodude did to you? How did that feel?”

“Like a needle.”

“I have that every second,” Earth whispered. “It’s... torture what they are doing to me. I thought having Life would be this amazing thing, but it’s not. Not always. Most of my humans are amazing, but the majority of them are not. The rest are spiteful, greedy, and angry with the others. The worst thing is that I worked so hard to get them. And they betrayed me.”

Betrayal. Mars was starting to see a pattern now in Earth’s behaviours. Ever since he lost the dinosaurs, Earth became unbearable. He worked hard to support his humans and to be better for them, but he forgot how to be better for himself.

“You know, if you ever need to talk, Earth, even if it’s to vent... I am here for you. We all are.”

Earth sat in his orbital zone, crying. He felt lonely and guilty as he heard Mars yelling at Venus in his orbit. Earth closed his eyes, wishing upon any star to have a friend. Someone he could trust, someone he could grow up with, to experience adventures with.

Earth sighed. He closed his eyes, ready to nap...

Crack.

Earth’s eyes snapped open. He immediately looked at the small rocky world by his side. The world was starting to move. It rolled around, and Earth felt it catch within his gravity.

Then, a pair of small eyes opened, and he found himself face to face with a new being. Earth squeaked, and the newcomer also squeaked, trying to jump back. His gravity hummed, and the little celestial being paused.

“I’m sorry!” Earth said quickly. The new celestial being paused but was cowering. Cowering against his gravity. “I am sorry. You scared me!”

“Who-who are you?” The being squeaked. His voice was higher and childlike like his own. It approached, curious over the Earth. “Are-are you, my planet?”

Oh! This must mean...

“You are my moon?” Earth asked of it. “A moon. You are my moon.” He kept repeating it. “I have a moon. I have a moon!”

The smaller being winced at his words and excitement. Earth cowered back, realising he maybe went a bit too far with his excitement.

“I’m sorry! I’m just happy I finally have a friend!”

“A Friend?” Moon repeated. He tilted slightly, looking down at Earth. “What’s a friend? Are we friends?”

“If you want to be! A friend is someone you trust, who looks out for you, who you can tell secrets to!” Earth said happily. He felt the Moon touch his gravity and smiled as the Moon seemed to huddle close to him. “You do anything for a friend. I promise I will be a good friend to you, moon! Forever and always!”

Mars watched as Earth entered his sleep cycle. His eyes found the familiar form of Luna by his side as usual, a gentle smile on the moon’s features. He had returned that day to find that Earth had a little moon. Someone to grow up with. It made a difference to being alone for so long.

Earth blossomed after Luna woke. Mars only hoped their brotherly bond would continue for many years. He eyed his Moons, Deimos and Phobos, as they nestled in their orbits for their turn on their sleep cycles.

Yes, having a friend made all the difference. But having a Moon made Earth’s life worth living.

Chapter Text

“You better get yourself pulled together, Venus, because this is going to blow in your face. The sooner you acknowledge that Earth isn’t Proto, the easier it will be for the rest of us.”

Venus glowered as he watched Mars leave, turning and staring back at the stars. His lip curled, his Core burned with fury as he contemplated Mars’ rant. Rant, because he refused to allow himself to have any responsibility in the discussion. Why can nobody see that ‘Earth’ was just going to be like Proto? There was so little of Theia in him, there was no way. The dark heart of Proto would have burned it away. Burned away any Light.

Venus gazed at the newly formed world, who had stolen Theia’s old orbit. Stolen. He was talking to a tiny pebble, who was squeaking back. Venus almost paused as he realised that the smaller world had woken up – and was now happily doing circles around Earth. Mars had paused and was at the edge of his own orbit, keeping an eye with a smile.

The brat had a moon.

“Venus.”

He immediately cowered. That voice was thunderous. It was commanding. There was only one individual who possessed such an atmosphere around him.

His eyes located the Gas Giant at the edge of the Belt. Jupiter had an expression of neutrality. His youthful look was nearly gone, and his colours were slightly lighter. But despite the more saturated pinks appearing, he still held the air of authority as the First Planet, the Sun’s right hand man. He commanded respect.

“Jupiter.”

“You and Mars had another fight,” It wasn’t a question. More a leading statement, that left Venus contemplating whether he should answer the Behemoth or not. But he didn’t wait long as Jupiter was quick to respond. “About the Earth. After all this time, you remain distant.”

Another statement.

“I don’t know why you’re all getting on my back about this. I don’t have to like Earth, or be his friend. I will tolerate his presence provided he stays out of my orbit and doesn’t infringe upon it.”

Jupiter eyed him carefully. The Behemoth sighed, before giving a slight shake of disapproval.

“You still see enemies in the shadows of this system, Venus. You must understand that Earth has no part in your rift with Proto, nor does he have any part in Theia’s death,” His voice was a steely calmness that made Venus’ Core almost freeze. “That’s child deserves no animosity for crimes he never committed.”

“Don’t parent me, Jupiter,” Venus grunted. He felt his gravity trembled slightly. “Again, what you all need to understand is that I do not have to like any new planet that forms in the system. I don’t have to give a damn about any of you. You all talk about ME having the problem? Well, fuck you all, you overgrown ball of gas!”

Jupiter’s expression changed, from neutral to thunder.

“You don’t get to dictate what I think and feel,” Venus continued. He tensed up. “You think that the moment he was born, we need to forget what came before! Well, I don’t want to forget! She was MY friend, MY everything! You all forgot about her the moment this little ball of nothing came along, and worse, you are trying to force ME to play babysitter! I don’t want this, I don’t want to be a caretaker, a nanny, or whatever for this damn rock!” Tears built in his eyes. “I want HER back. I don’t want this new world, I don’t want her to be forgotten. Because that’s all we do in this damn system is replace and forget!

“Well I don’t want to forget! I don’t want to forget how she laughed, cried, how she smiled! I don’t want this BRAT in the orbital zone, and I certainly don’t want to be the one looking after him like nothing has happened! You... you all sicken me!”

Venus turned and moved away as quickly as he could before Jupiter could respond. The Gas Giant sighed, before deciding to move off to go find Saturn. They needed to talk to each other, discuss what had just happen, and think on how to approach this matter in a delicate manner.

Unbeknownst to the both, a small world was listening. His cheeks flushed in upset, and he almost recoiled into himself. He felt his Moon touch his gravity gently to try and comfort him but he ignored it. The infant world backed away from the asteroid he had sneaked behind when Mars had fallen asleep.

He ventured further in, tears falling. His Moon curled into his side trying to comfort him, also feeling sad that Earth was sad. He tried to soothe his planet – his friend – but wasn’t being successful.

“Why does he hate me...?” Earth sobbed. He curled against the asteroid nearest him. “What did I do?”

Moon didn’t respond. How could he? He was barely woken, and he didn’t know what happened prior to it. But what he did know was that Earth needed his help and comfort. He supposed this is what a Moon did: they helped their world when nobody else would.

A crazed laugh erupted in their silence. Earth started and looked around frantically, the Moon hiding behind him. Earth shook in his spot, before turning tail and running – dragging the Moon with him. He was afraid, out of control. His gravity was flaring. He was losing all control.

Earth felt the presence nearing his borders. The giggles got louder, and his eyes widened as he spun around. Moon almost was thrown out his orbit, a squeak erupting from his lips. The Moon hid behind him, Earth desperately trying to find some way to get as far away from the laughing as possible.

A small circular body appeared, with a wide, crazed smile. It laughed, before seizing an asteroid and throwing it straight at Earth. An asteroid that was at least 1/3 his size.

“Run!” Moon squealed.

Earth seized Moon with his gravity and darted away. The asteroid narrowly missed him, desperately trying to get away from the crazed celestial body. Earth pulled Moon with him as they raced through the asteroids, before he stopped on the corner of a group. Earth squeezed his eyes shut, Moon curled into him. Tears fell from his eyes as he shook where he was.

“I’ll get help!” Moon squeaked. “I’ll go find Mr Mars! I’ll come back! Just stay here!”

“No, don’t...” Earth whispered. He opened his eyes, tears falling as he saw Moon race away. He was starting to feel very cold. He didn’t know why, he was molten like the rest. His Core was always nice and hot, always a comforting beat in his ears. Now, it wasn’t so much. Why was he feeling cold? “Moon! Don’t leave me alone! Please don’t go!”

His Moon had abandoned him.

The crazed laugh echoed around him. Earth squeezed his eyes shut, feeling his gravity tremble as the aggressor poked at its borders.

“Please don’t leave me behind.”

***

“EARTH! EARTH WHERE ARE YOU?!”

Venus winced as he heard Mars yelling from his orbit. The Red Planet was frantically moving around, spinning, his eyes full of worry as he tried to locate the infant world. Venus turned his back to Mars, but a niggling feeling was creeping through his Core. What was this feeling... was it... worry?

Fear.

Venus cussed, before turning from his orbital direction and immediately approaching the border that separated his and the Earth’s orbit. He cleared his throat, and called.

“MARS! What are you harping on about?”

The Red Planet had gained attention from the other side of the asteroid belt, as Jupiter approached with Saturn. Both had worry in their features as they watched Mars frantically move around the area.

“It’s Earth!” He said. Fear was in his voice. “I fell asleep and... I can’t find him! Or his Moon! I’ve looked all around his orbit, and I can’t see him!”

Tears were now falling as Mars returned to his frantic yelling and scanning. He was starting to look defeated. Venus inhaled, before approaching the Red Planet, a sense of guilt now rising within him.

“Mars! I’ll check my orbital zone,” He said after a moment. “Where have you..?”

“MARS! Help!” A high-pitched scream came from the asteroid belt. Venus turned his eyes towards the small sphere that was racing towards the Red Planet. “Help! It’s Earth! He’s lost in the belt and a mean world is attacking him!”

Jupiter made to move to the Belt, but Saturn stopped him. Their eyes located Venus, who approached Mars and Moon without hesitation. The Moon winced at seeing Venus, before whispering something to Mars. The Red Planet looked shocked, then angry, then furious. He turned instantly, and approached Venus at a very fast and aggressive pace. Venus felt the gravity from the other planet, weaker than his own but still a presence that made him shudder.

“YOU!”

Mars almost barrelled into him. His gravity was immense, but Venus was able to fend him off. A sudden realisation came to Venus as he realised why Mars was acting so aggressively, why Moon glared at him... The infant had heard him speaking to Jupiter. He had heard everything that Venus said.

“Mars!” Jupiter’s voice caused the Red Planet to freeze. It was full of authority, and was not going to tolerate any violence of this nature. This wasn’t their friend talking, but the leader of the Planets. “You will calm yourself down. This aggression will not help Earth. If he is being chased, he will panic and could be anywhere in the Inner and Mid System if he ran. I will search my side of the Belt, Saturn will check the area in the Middle of the System, Mars, you will check the rest of the Inner System-“

“I will check the Belt,” Venus said instantly. He turned towards the Asteroid Belt, moving quickly. Out of everyone in the Inner System, he knew the Asteroid Movements better than anybody. But the moment he moved an inch, Mars was immediately there, displeasure on his features.

“You are not going alone. I’m not having you say anything further that is damaging to Earth,” The Red Planet snapped. “I’ll be coming with you.”

Venus didn’t respond. He began to move towards the Belt with Mars in tow, the Moon keeping close to the Red Planet with worry and fear. Venus noted that he had tears in his eyes as he glanced at Mars, before gazing back at the asteroid belt. A part of Venus wished there was a way to comfort Moon, but he wasn’t sure what he could say, and the fear the little Moon had towards him was immense.

As they entered the asteroid belt, Venus extended his gravity. He could feel Mars beside him, the Moon... but he could feel a strong pulse from up ahead. Venus focused on it, ignoring its similarities to Theia’s own. And Proto’s. A deep sense of hatred rose when he remembered that name, but Venus forced it to diminish. He couldn’t think negatively right now. Earth needed them.

If he was not suitable for the cold, he would freeze in the Belt. Venus needed to get to Earth and pull him back to the orbital zone that he belonged in.

Laughter erupted in the silence of the Belt. Venus wasted no time and moved faster, heading in the direction of the gravity source. He dodged the asteroids that came too close, and pushed the others that he couldn’t with his gravity. Venus accelerated, leaving Mars and the Moon behind as he followed the gravity pulses. And immediately stopped.

Earth was curled against two asteroids, eyes closed tight, tears falling down his cheeks. Asteroids were moving quickly, disrupted by whatever source. Venus knew this was uncharacteristic of the Belt. He had always carefully tracked the Belt movements from his orbit.

“Earth!” Moon squeaked from behind him. The little one tried to move to his planet, but Venus immediately stopped him. “Hey!”

“This area is disrupted. You will get hit,” Venus ordered. “Stay with Mars. Nobody knows these routes better than I do. I will go get him.”

A high-pitched laugh sounded through the Belt. More asteroids were colliding, and Venus could sense they were dangerously close to possibly hitting Earth. And for a moment, Venus didn’t see Earth. Instead, he saw... Theia. Sitting there. Cowering amongst the asteroids. His eyes widened, horror in his features as he realised... there and then. In that moment, he was frozen.

What was he DOING?!

Venus wasted no time.

He immediately flew forward, sending his gravity out into pulses to force the asteroids near him to get back. His eyes focused on Earth, the infant world shaking in the spot, his tears still falling rapidly. Venus felt his Core pound in fear, quickening his movement to reach Earth.

“EARTH!” He yelled.

One asteroid collided with another, sending it straight to the frozen infant world. Venus exerted his gravity, trying to pull it off course. It was heavy, and it strained him. He couldn’t do this alone...

Another presence joined him.

Mars was by his side, exerting his own gravity. Venus glanced at him, the other Red returning his gaze before, together, they sent the asteroid flying away. It smashed into another, clearing the path they needed to get to the Earth. Without any hesitation, Mars flew to the infant world.

“Earth! Earth, look at me! It’s Mars!”

The infant shuddered and opened his eyes. Venus could see the fear, the terror, within them. And felt ashamed that he had treated this celestial so badly. Jupiter... was right. He was always right.

All he saw was Proto, and not Earth.

But now he did see Earth.

Venus glanced at Moon as it flew towards its Planet, desperate to get back to him. Venus glanced around at the asteroids, noting the mysterious culprit was now away. At least for now. They had to move before more instability hit the Belt.

“Venus?”

He turned to Mars when his name was spoken. The Red was looking at him expectantly, giving a hinting look. Venus knew what was expected of him. So he, carefully, approached the new world, his gravity minimal to prevent any aggression.

“Hey, Kid,” He whispered. “Are you okay?”

“Y-Yes, Mr Venus,” Earth stammered. He looked terrified of him. “I am okay. Thank you, for rescuing me. You and Mr Mars.”

“If it wasn’t for your Moon, we wouldn’t have found ya,” Venus stated, giving an indication towards Moon. The little rocky sphere was close to Earth, worried he would disappear again. “You got a good friend there, Earth.”

“You got a good friend there, Earth.”

Earth looked up from his cards at Venus, surprised that the usually hot headed world was sparing a moment to speak nicely. Mars and Mercury were behind the Sun now with their orbits, leaving just him and Venus on this side. Luna was away with Phobos and Deimos, having fun. It was good that Luna had some friends to call his own rather than be an extensive of Earth.

“Yeah, I wouldn’t have managed a lot of things without Luna,” Earth responded. He noted the tears in Venus’ eyes. “Hey, what’s going on?”

“Nothing, pal,” Venus responded. “I am just glad we didn’t lose you. That’s all. Yes, you do my Core in with your stupid actions and your inability to read others, but you are getting better. I’m proud of you, Earth.”

The blue-green marble blinked a few times, before giving a lopsided grin.

“I think that was a compliment.”

“That’s all the compliment you are getting off me, pipsqueak,” While Earth was now considerably bigger, it would not stop Venus from calling him one. “But yeah, I am proud of you.”

“Was that another compliment? Two in a short time? Venus are you feeling okay?”

“Shut up before I take it all back, you imbecile,” Venus grunted. He returned to his cards. “Anyways, what you got, loser?”

Earth chuckled and returned to his cards. Venus glanced back at Earth, a small smile on his face.

“I messed up, Kid,” Venus said sadly. He tilted downwards, trying to make himself as unthreatening as possible to the young Earth. “Like, really messed up. And I am sorry. I know there might never be a chance for us to be friends, but I would like to try. And prove to you I mean it.”

Earth blinked, before looking at Mars. Then at his Moon. He was starting to shiver, starting to feel cold. Why was he cold? He saw Mars sigh, his annoyed expression now sobering.

Earth looked at the mean rock, as Moon called him, before giving a small smile. He approached, sending a small comforting pulse of gravity towards Venus.

“Apology accepted, Mr Venus!”

“You can stop calling me that, pipsqueak. Venus is just fine,” Venus commented. He sighed, noticing that the Earth’s Moon was looking very angry and glaring daggers at him. Venus knew he had messed up. Big time. “Let’s get you looked at. Mars? You able to help guide him out?”

Mars glared, but decided to not argue in front of the infant. The two older worlds used their gravity to guide the infant and his Moon out the Belt, and back to the orbital zone that was his home. Venus side eyed Mars: the Red was looking furious in his eyes but kept his expression neutral.

“There we go,” Venus helped Earth settle into his spot. “Back safe and sound. Now.” He sent a gentle pulse to the Earth, giving him a nudged to go to sleep. The infant gave a wide yawn, and Venus gently sent a pulse again.

“Time to sleep. Any injuries you have will heal up if you take a sleep. And it will be quicker if you sleep for a few days.”

“Thank you... Venus,” Earth said, almost a whisper. “You’re the best.”

The infant world smiled as he fell asleep. Venus stayed close by, knowing that Mars would perhaps start yelling at him. He felt guilty that he was using Earth as a shield against Mars, but he couldn’t have another shouting match so soon after they narrowly avoided losing Earth.

“We will talk another time,” Mars said. He turned to leave, but Venus sighed and reached out with his gravity.

“I’m sorry, Mars. I was so focused on my grief... my anger... over losing Theia that I forgot she left a gift. This little one,” His eyes gazed at Earth. “You were right. I was a stupid, mean rock. I almost ruined everything.”

Mars didn’t respond. Venus couldn’t see his face. He didn’t want to see the expression on the other world. But from the ripples of his gravity, Venus knew he was furious.

“I don’t deserve your forgiveness, Mars. Nor this Kid’s. But I swear to you, here and now, I will not fail again to look after him. You have my word.”

A sigh escaped Mars. The world turned and gazed at Mars, before he paused upon seeing the sight of the infant world snoozing beside Venus. The Moon was beside Earth, yawning widely. The two had a big adventure, no doubt were very tired.

Mars turned his eyes back to Venus. The Red Planet had a look of determination, one that bore a similarity to his neighbour just beside the Asteroid Belt.

“I will hold you to that, Venus.”

Chapter Text

Venus smiled as he watched Earth do orbits around him, relaxing his gravity so he could send a boost to give him a throw. The infant world laughed gleefully as he was sent back into his orbit before circling back and heading towards Venus again. This game of “throw-around” was a frequent favourite of Earth, but it was getting difficult. With the debris around him now solidifying, he was becoming heavier and bigger. Much bigger than Venus and Mars.

It was hilarious as he still had a child's mindset.

“Alright, pipsqueak, that’s enough for today,” Venus told him. “You have a big day tomorrow, and you need to sleep. We have a big meeting with the Sun and the rest of the Solar System.”

“Rest of the Solar System?” Earth repeated. A sudden, nervous expression appeared over his features.

“The Sun wants the rest of the System to meet you,” Mars said. He gave a comforting smile when he noted that Earth was looking shaky, a flush on his cheeks. “It’s going to be okay! You have met Jupiter and Saturn already, but the other two worlds are far away.”

“Who are they?”

“One is called Uranus,” a snigger broke Venus’ speech, but he composed himself quickly. “The other is Neptune. They are the Ice Giants because they are so far from the Sun that their surfaces are frozen. Uranus is a bit closer to Saturn than Neptune, who is...” He paused, trying to find the word.

“Eccentric,” Mars supplied. He turned to Earth. Sending a comforting pulse, the cooling red planet smiled. “Uranus is a bit artistic and writes a lot, and Neptune is very much unreadable at times. He gets very excitable. Overall, they are both harmless.”

Moon looked at Earth, who looked back at him. A smile came from Moon to his planet, and Earth gave a small nod.

“Okay... okay!” He said, still slightly shaky. “You will be there?”

“Of course, pipsqueak,” Venus guffed. He sent a comforting pulse to Earth, touching the gravity. I am never gonna get used to that strength. Why is his gravity so strong? And what’s that I feel... some sort of field...?

He pushed his thoughts aside.

“Now, get to sleep. You two have a big day ahead of you.”

*** 

Earth woke from his sleep cycle a little bit earlier than Mars wanted, but he didn’t mind. Moon slept afterwards, once Earth was awake enough to keep his proximity stable between them. Mars gave a gentle and comforting smile to Earth as they sensed the thunderous gravity of Jupiter and Saturn, as they made their way through the asteroid belt to the destination for the meeting with the Sun.

Earth looked at the two Giants, and noted Jupiter give him a slight glance and a smile.

“Hello, Jupe, Saty,” Earth called to them.

“Hello, little cutie,” Saturn came closer, his smile wide as he gazed down at Earth with an adoring expression. “Oh, you are melting my core.”

“Saturn,” Jupiter gave a lopsided smile before turning his eyes back to Earth, Moon, and Mars. “How are you settling in, Earth?”

Earth looked at Mars for guidance. The Red Planet gave him a slight nudge to encourage him to speak. Mars and Venus could not keep sheltering him anymore, the Earth had realised. He had to speak and address the others himself now.

“Good,” Earth said, almost too quietly for the two Giants to hear. “I am glad I have Moon.” He felt his Moon give him a happy pulse. “But I am nervous! About meeting the others.”

Whispers came from the Giants. Earth glanced at the sources to see spherical shapes around Jupiter and Saturn. He tilted slightly, noting them staring at him and Moon.

Two of them were looking intently at Earth. One was his size, the other was smaller and female. Earth didn’t know why, but his Core suddenly went cold when he saw them. Moon even went slightly behind Earth.

“Ganymede, Europa, come,” Jupiter’s voice boomed through space. The two Moons glanced at Jupiter, then back at Earth, before following the Giant. Earth watched them go, slightly worried about how he had acted before the two Moons.

“Mars, did I miss something?” Earth asked the Red.

“You zoned out, I think,” Mars responded. He was not looking very impressed. “You need to remember to pay attention, especially to Jupiter and Saturn. They were the first of us all, they are the Sun’s favourites. Especially Jupiter.”

“I’m sorry, I just... those two Moons just made me uncomfortable,” Earth squeaked. He felt his cheeks heat up as his Core fired back into Life. “I’ll apologise to them.”

“It's fine, just be a bit more aware of how your words and actions come across.” Mars seemed to be distant when he gazed at Earth. He then started moving towards Venus’ orbit. “Come along.”

  ***

“Hurry it up, Mate!” Uranus rolled his eyes. He glanced back at the deep blue Ice Giant just casually following behind him. “We should have arrived by now!”

Neptune, his fellow Ice Giant, moved only slightly faster, tearing his attention away from perhaps the thousandth asteroid that had taken his attention. The characteristic out of sync blinking of his eyes still was something for Uranus to get use to, but it was becoming part of Neptune’s personality. Of course, Uranus didn’t know why Neptune was so... weird.

One minute he was there, next minute he was gone.

“Cuh-ming!” Neptune sounded far too cheerful. “What is this meeting about, anyways, Uranus?”

“It’s Ur-in-us, mate,” Uranus corrected. This was becoming too frequent. His name was now becoming a joke in the System. “I don’t know. The Sun said it is informal but preferential for us to attend. Something about new changes? I dunno, mate, let’s just go and find out.”

“Oooooh! I see Jupiter!” Neptune increased his speed, easily overtaking Uranus. Cussing, Uranus located Jupiter’s own gravity, hitchhiking to give him better speed. “Hello, Dew-pee-der!”

The familiar Gas Giant turned and gave a comforting smile as he approached. Uranus almost didn’t recognise him with his colours becoming so dull.

“Urinus, Neptune,” He boomed. A familiar yellowish Gas Giant also approached. “You have arrived just in time.”

“In time? I thought we were late,” Uranus would tilt further, but he was already too lopsided. Neptune approached Saturn, giving him greetings. “What is this about, mate? Whenever the Sun calls a meeting, we have to literally race to him. But he gave us time... has something bad happened?”

“On the contrary,” Saturn’s posh voice answered. “Something wonderful. You are about to find out shortly!”

“OH!” Neptune suddenly squealed. He moved rapidly from Saturn and passed Uranus, who turned to see the Rocky Planet Mars approaching with Venus. And with them...

“Wait, who is that, mate?” Uranus quizzed.

The other Rocky was someone unfamiliar. He was covered in brown and peach patches, with some cracks on its surface. Uranus tried to remember who this world was, but his memory drew up blanks. But it was unusual not to see Proto or Theia among them: had something bad happened to them? He must have been out of the loop these last few million years. 

“The reason for this meeting,” Jupiter said kindly. “The Sun felt it important they are introduced to the System. Although I think Neptune is already en route.”

“I hope he doesn’t frighten the poor child,” Saturn said softly. He made his way forward, but Jupiter stopped him with his gravity.

“I trust Mars and Venus to keep the Earth safe. Neptune is harmless; he will be fine. There will come a time when Earth has to do things on his own, and exposing him at this tender age will help him build his confidence.”

“Jupiter, where are Theia and Proto?”

The question came automatically from Uranus before he had a chance to stop himself. The expression from the Gas Giants told him all he needed, though.

“Oh,” Uranus paused awkwardly. Then, realisation hit him as he glanced to the new world coming towards them (with Neptune approaching at a fast pace). Uranus wasn’t close to Proto and Theia, but Neptune was with Theia. When his orbit was in proximity to the Sun, Theia always came to see him. Proto was standoffish with the Ice Giants. It was hard to imagine that two such opposites would willingly collide.

Unless...

Uranus glanced at Venus. He was Theia’s friend, and here he was acting like a father would to their offspring. Why would Venus be so kind to the offspring of Proto? When he hates the other Rocky?

Uranus decided not to dwell too much on the top, especially as a petrified scream erupted from the new world.

*** 

“Hi, Mercury!”

The smaller Rocky winced as they approached, his nervous features turning to face the approaching Rocky Planets from the outer areas of the Inner System. He was met with Venus first. The Rocky Planet disliked Mercury, which was why he made any attempt to avoid him.

Mars was next, the eldest of the Rocky Planets. And bringing up the rear was the new addition, Earth. Mercury liked Earth to start with, but as he started getting bigger, he started avoiding him. He didn’t want an overexcited planet that was at least twice his size bouncing around him.

“Hi Mars, Earth... Venus...” Mercury stammered. “You guys heading over already?”

“Surprised you aren’t there yet, pipsqueak,” Venus stated. He bore down on the smaller world. “You are usually at the Sun’s side by this point.”

“I am literally beside him, I can get to the meeting with minutes to spare. Not my fault you are slower than me!”

“Guys, come on,” Mars said, rolling his eyes. He watched Earth as the newest Rocky ambled behind him. He was nervous. Taking his time. “Earth, it will be okay.”

“I know, I just – ARGH!”

Mars jumped with Venus as a huge – HUGE – blue planet almost barreled into them. It spun in a full circle, eyes upside down and smile lopsided, as it stared at each of them with interest. Earth darted back, almost colliding with Moon, who squealed and ran off a fair distance to prevent it from striking Earth.

Neptune was staring at Earth, upside down, a grin on his face. He blinked each eye separately before sorting himself. He laughed as he wobbled, vibrations being sent out into Space.

“That was fun!” He chatted. Neptune tilted, looking down at the Rocky Planets (Mercury had long since run when Neptune almost swallowed him up). “Hello, Rocky Planets!”

“You lunatic!” Venus roared. He straightened himself up, looking at the Ice Giant with fury. “You almost collided with us, you idiot!”

“Venus, it’s fine!” Mars approached Earth to try to correct him back on his axis. Moon slowly approached them, clearly distressed, and hid behind Earth. “Neptune is harmless.”

Neptune flipped again, looking at them upside down. His eyes focused on Earth, a grin spreading on his features as he addressed the newer Rocky Planet.

“I am Neptune! One of the Ice Giants, I’m at the Kuiper Belt at the edge of the Solar System! Who are you, little tiny asteroid?”

“I... I am the Earth,” The infant world stammered. What in the world was this Ice Giant on? “I’m new.”

“Well, Hello there, New Earth!” Neptune chatted, too enthusiastic. “Although you look very familiar to me. Are you sure you are new? Or have I met you before but forgotten? I do that sometimes... anyways, who are you again?”

“I’m... Earth?” The infant world looked at Mars and Venus for some advice. The pair were still calming themselves down from the near-collision. “Are you... Okay, Neptune?”

“I dunno,” Neptune started shaking, looking like jelly as he spoke. “My surface is very volatile, so I tend to forget most things. Oh! Hello, Uranus!”

Venus gave a snigger and was promptly stopped when the much larger Planet gave him an annoyed look. Earth gazed at Uranus with curiosity but a slight bit of fear. Moon even popped behind him for some protection, peeking up over him.

The teal Planet gazed down at Earth and Moon. A small, lopsided smile came to the Ice Giant before he glanced back at Jupiter and Saturn, who also approached.

“He is very small, mates. A baby.”

“I’m not a baby!” Earth protested. He flared his gravity, but Uranus seemed unbothered. “I’m the Earth! And this is my Moon.”

Neptune wobbled again before sliding out of their view. Uranus gave a wide grin, clearly enjoying the joking he was having with Earth. He brought himself more upright, his size and mass overshadowing the infant.

Mars tensed. Visibly. Venus even moved behind Earth to provide some backup.

Then Uranus laughed. Loudly.

“You’re alright, mate!” He tilted back on his side again. “You got some fight in you, I respect that. I’m Uranus – pronounced URINUS, Venus – one of the Ice Giants. You’ve already met Neptune. Now, you have one more planet to meet, hopefully, he won’t be too late with his Moon. Don't worry, he isn't as crazy as Neptune. His orbit is further out, among the Kuiper Belt. But he sometimes comes very close to the Sun in his orbit."

“Hey ya’ll!” A cheerful voice interrupted Uranus. Earth turned to see two worlds, of similar sizes and not much bigger than Mercury, approaching. Both had welcoming smiles on their faces as they joined the group. “Nice to see you all again! What is this little gathering about?”

“Likewise, Pluto, Charon,” Jupiter boomed. A smile traced his features. “Just an informal meeting. To meet and introduce ourselves to Earth and his Moon.”

Earth fell silent as they all started to chat among themselves. He felt Moon nudge him and gave a smile at him. He was so thankful to have him. Just having his Moon by his side made the meeting all the more bearable, especially among all the Giants. 

“YOU KNEW THIS WAS IMPORTANT TO ME!”

Moon approached Charon, giving a meek hello. And started asking her questions. 

“I’m sorry! I just haven’t been myself recently –“

“JUST FORGET IT, EARTH! JUST... FORGET IT!” Luna turned and moved off, leaving a distressed and exhausted Earth behind. The Darkness spread further over the World of Life as he tried to follow, to talk. To reason with him. All-consuming. Ready to take him. 

He was truly alone in the Universe. His friends, once again, gone. And now... his precious Luna. His Brother. 

“Welcome to the family, Earth and his Moon!” Sun announced. “To the Earth and his Moon!”

"HEAR HEAR!" Saturn agreed. All of them were around the Earth and Moon, with welcoming smiles on their features. Even the Moons were at Earth's own, introducing themselves and chatting, giving advice. 

Everyone will be happier this way. 

Chapter Text

3.5 billion years ago...

“Happy billionth year to me.”

His voice cracked, and Earth winced as his once high pitched voice started dipping. He coughed, feeling his Core bristle again, his surface aching once more. Another shift of tectonics, breaking and cracking on his surface and giving him horrific discomfort.

“Helios sake, this hurts. Worse than asteroids.”

He felt a nudge on his gravity proximity, and glanced sideways at his Moon as he came forwards to see if he was okay. Moon was going through similar changes, but fortunately lacked the tectonic activity. Earth felt sorry that he was screaming in pain during the sleep cycles, when his tectonic activity got so severe he couldn’t literally sleep.

Yesterday he was not able to meet with the other Rocky Planets, nor attend the recent meeting. His Core was too active, and his surface had cracked and churned constantly. He had coughed so badly once that Venus had literally moved his position in his orbit, inciting rage from the Sun, and causing sleepless nights for the rest of the Inner System. Venus had muttered something and shot an annoyed look at Earth. He had barely slept too.

Mars, on the other hand, had been trying to give comfort. Calling to Earth to take breaths, sending pulses. But even he was powerless. He was losing sleep too, and when his proximity got bigger due to Earth’s speed, he could only watch as Earth struggled by himself.

The Gas Giants and Ice Giants were unaffected.

“Hey, Earth!”

Earth winced, feeling the pounding headache starting to increase again in magnitude. His surface shifted, and he felt his oceans clash with the land. Another damn wave. But he plastered a smile on as he turned to face Mars as he approached.

One look from the Red Planet told Earth that what Mars wanted to speak to him about could wait. The Red Planet looked sympathetic, tilting slightly as he spied the cracks and shifting crust of Earth.

“Still?”

“Yes,” Earth groaned. He leaned into his axis as bit more, physically exhausted. Unfortunately, nobody else had such an active Core. He didn’t see Venus or Mars have tectonic activity, nor Mercury. There was no point asking the Gas and Ice Giants. “I wish it would stop. And don’t get me started on my voice: I feel the damn black hole at the Galaxy centre can hear me sometimes.”

“I wish there was something I can do, but I have no idea what I can do,” Mars admitted. He glanced at Moon, who squealed and went behind Earth again. “Moon, I don’t bite. Come out.”

Moon appeared slowly. He glanced at Earth, noting the cracks and wincing his planet was giving. He sent a calming pulse, trying to soothe his planet – but it barely did anything as Earth gave a sudden cry of pain and shuddered. Even Mars looked shocked.

“Okay, I guess you are missing the meeting,” Mars came beside Earth. He sent a stronger calming pulse, trying to urge Earth to a sleep. “Just... relax. I’ll stay here and help you get a rest. Moon, you want to head to the meeting? I’ll keep Earth in his axis for now.”

“I-I don’t know,” Moon whispered. He glanced at Earth, seeing the trembling his planet was demonstrating. “Are you sure? It’s a planet meeting, I don’t think it will be appropriate.”

“Relax, Moon,” Earth realised he was snapping. But his crust was shifting again. Why was his Core so active?! “Go, if they ask, just explain I can’t go! I’m in too much pain! I haven’t slept for my last three cycles!”

Moon winced, and Earth winced back. The shaking world turned to face his Moon, and immediately started stammering apologies. His Moon smiled, and sent him a comforting pulse, before turning and heading towards the Sun. Earth felt Mars give a disapproving gaze, but he could care less. He felt tears in his eyes.

Finally, the shifting stopped. And he relaxed slightly. His crust creaked and ached, and he sagged where he was in his orbit. Mars gave a sympathetic smile, using his gravity to maintain the axis tilt that Earth now had.

“It’s stopped,” Earth winced at his high pitched words. “For now. But... Mars I can’t...”

“Its okay, Earth,” Mars said gently. “Just take a break. I don’t quite know what is going on with you, but I think it’s best we get you to rest until we do figure it out.” I wish I can ask Proto or Theia, both of them would know... Mars stopped in his thoughts. He tried to remember if Theia or Proto had something similar, but... neither said anything. Theia never complained, and Mars only occasionally spoke to Proto. Neither experienced this level. And Earth mentioned it felt like his surface was shifting against itself.

Could it be -?

“I wonder,” Mars moved towards the Belt, carefully keeping Earth in his proximity. The developing world winced at the forceful move, before giving a glared at the Red Planet.

“Do you mind?”

“Shush,” Mars looked through the asteroids, trying to see if he could find any sign of one particular planet. Especially before the meeting would begin. “Jupiter! You left for the meeting yet or are you still here?”

A rumble sounded from the other side of the Belt. The asteroids shifted, and Earth leaned to the side as one nearly went towards him. Mars glanced at him, then back as he saw the massive Gas Giant appear before him.

“Hello, Mars,” Jupiter said gently. His eyes roamed over to the other world that was with the Red, curiosity rising from his humongous form. “Earth. You look, erm...”

“Like I went twenty rounds with the Sun?” Earth supplied. His Core flared into Life again, and he felt panic consume him. Not now, not before Jupiter. “Mars...?”

“Jupiter, I am glad you’re here,” Mars said, ignoring Earth. He tilted slightly. “I’m hoping you can help me with something, or rather Earth, with something.”

“Can it be quick?” Jupiter boomed. He looked pointedly at the Sun “I am already late, Mars. As are you two.”

“Mars...” Earth could feel another wave ready to hit. But the two were still ignoring him. He was shaking again.

“Yeah, about that,” Mars looked sheepish. “Erm, we can’t go. It’s just for advice, see, something is going on with Earth and we are wondering if you saw someone go through this before.”

“MARS!”

The Red immediately turned, and Jupiter focused on Earth. He was shaking again, and looked visibly in agony. His Core was on fire again, and he was biting his lip to prevent him from screaming again. Tears rose in his eyes, and he squeezed them shut to prevent looking weak to Jupiter and Mars.

“Oh...” Jupiter’s voice was quite. “OH!”

He glanced at Mars, a look of understanding appearing. Yes, Mars was right. Jupiter was old enough to remember if any worlds before had the same experience. Earth was hopeful that the Gas Giant had maybe seen even earlier planets experience what he was going through. Maybe even find a way to stop it?

“Mars, take Earth back to his orbit,” Jupiter commanded. “I’ll come through to help, but I need him there. If I’m successful, at least Earth will be able to sleep.”

Sleep... what was sleep again?

Earth allowed himself to be dragged by Mars back to his orbit. He felt his Best Friend’s presence by his side as he rested back in the familiar streams of his orbit, before feeling the overwhelming presence of Jupiter. He glanced up at the Gas Giant as he moved through the Belt into the Inner System. He didn’t realise how big Jupiter was until he was pretty close. He could feel the overwhelming presence.

Fortunately, Jupiter was experienced enough to use his gravity in a way that wasn’t threatening to Earth and Mars. The Gas Giant sent Earth a comforting pulse, and Earth felt... insignificant. He felt like the smallest drop of water in a desert compared to Jupiter. His power... he could see why Jupiter was the Sun’s favourite.

Mars is right, I do not want to be on the wrong side of Jupiter.

Earth shuddered as his crust shifted. He looked at Mars as the Red moved slightly to let Jupiter have more space – and then Earth felt Jupiter’s presence touch his. He wanted to retreat, but it latched onto his. Earth could feel Jupiter envelope his pained presence with his comforting one, and a sudden suggestion came to his mind.

‘Sleep, Earth.’

Earth almost failed to stifle a yawn. It only made him more uncomfortable. He could feel his Core beating in his centre, all that he could hear. But the deep voice broke through again, silencing his inner turmoil.

‘Go to sleep. We will be here.’

‘But... what about the meeting?’ Earth asked of Jupiter. He could see the Gas Giant in his mind as his eyes closed. Earth could feel the Gas Giant’s inner being. ‘I don’t want you in trouble.’

‘YOU are more important. Your Core is shifting, causing your tectonic plates to crash. It means your Core is active. Peculiar, as I have never seen this before in the other worlds. But just because I haven’t seen it before doesn’t mean I won’t try to help you. The pain will soon stop, it will take time, it will hurt... but it will stop.’

Earth yawned again. He could feel himself drifting off to a Sleep Cycle. His pain seemed to be diminishing, even though he still felt his plates moving. Earth felt his form start to move automatically in his orbit.

‘Sleep, Earth. Mars will stay close.’

Earth felt his mind go blank. The suggestion to sleep got stronger, and he felt sleep start to finally settle. He was so tired...

He didn’t wake for three days.

When Earth woke, he groggily opened his eyes to find Moon’s face in his view. His Moon gave a relieved sigh, and moved back, Venus and Mars behind him. Their expressions were not as worried as Moon’s, but there was some concern there.

“Morning, pipsqueak!” Venus boomed. He gave a lopsided smile as he regarded the state the Earth was in. “Enjoy your beauty sleep?”

Earth shook himself to rid the last few moments of sleep and get himself awake. He looked at Venus with a lopsided smile.

“I did, yeah. How long were you three watching me? You know that is pretty creepy, right?”

“And he’s back,” Mars chuckled. He moved back slightly to give more space. Moon looked relieved, immediately settling back into Earth’s side without any further hesitation. Earth felt his axis change instantly, and relief spread through his Core and mantle at the correction. “You slept for three cycles. We were getting concerned: I was ready to call Jupiter over to get you back out his sleep suggestion.”

Wait, was that what happened? Earth paused in his response, a frown on his features. Jupiter had helped him get into a sleep cycle. But he must have been so exhausted and sore that instead of one, he went into three cycles. No wonder his Moon was freaking out: he probably came back to Earth to find him sleeping and not waking up when called. Or waking up after two cycles.

“I’m sorry, Moon,” Earth said gently. He gave a gentle pulse, wishing he could give him a cuddle. “I must have been tired. Do you want to sleep now?”

Moon gave a tilt, agreeing with the Earth. He was no doubt exhausted, and Earth felt bad that he had slept for so long to his detriment. As his Moon settled back in the orbit, Earth felt the familiar presence his Moon gave him, as it began to gently move around him.

“You alright now, pipsqueak?” Venus asked of Earth. He sent a slight pulse of gravity, as though comforting the planet he helped raised with Mars.

“I think so, the shifting has stopped,” Earth murmured. “Jupiter said in my head my Core was active, causing my plates to clash together. But it was... very bad. I thought my insides were going to rip up into pieces.”

Mars joined his side – keeping himself at a distance from the Moon – a small smile on his features.

“Well, now we know what it is, we can better prepare for it. You know you can manage it if you focus enough on your Core,” The Red sighed. “Still, it would be nice for another similar world to understand what you are going through. We don’t have tectonic plates, and while we can have activity, it’s not to your scale.”

Venus glanced at Jupiter, who was lazily orbiting in his zone. But then he returned to Earth and gave a smirk.

“So, about that voice, Earth.”

Venus rushed off as Earth sent an asteroid at him, the young water world rushing after him with Moon sleeping in his orbit. Mars laughed, watching the pair as Earth started chasing Venus in his orbit.

And on Earth’s surface, deep in his primitive ocean... a small bacteria came to Life. It started to separate, spawning two, then four...

Unnoticed by the Earth. But noticed by the Star in the centre, who smiled where he sat.

Chapter Text

Earth had this... strange feeling recently. It was like a movement, a ripple on his surface. At first, he thought it was waves from the recent plate tectonics, but now he wasn’t so sure. His Core had calmed, and there was no discomfort – or pain – from below or in his crust. Often, Earth had pictured his surface, it’s land mass appearing from under the waves, barren rocks and barely covered in anything.

But then he looked... closer. At the water.

It wasn’t just the usual shimmering blue.

There was a green haze. Moving gently on the surface of the water. But not just in that one spot, but many spots across his surface. He couldn’t believe he never noticed until now. The scale of the green masses on his water was incredible.

‘What in Helios...?’

He looked closer – and gasped. Tiny, and he meant tiny, little things were swimming in the green masses. But not just there, but elsewhere. He could see this little things in crevices of his underwater canyons, on the stretches of land that was taking shape, and forming in clumps on his volcanoes. Earth didn’t know what to think. Was he infected? Was this some sort of illness?

Panic took over as he withdrew. He took some frantic breaths, before calming his Core. Was he going to die? Was it going to be slow and painful? Or was it going to be quick?

His eyes found Mars, who was in a sleep cycle. And then Venus, who was just about to start his orbit behind the Sun. Mercury barely spoke to him, and Jupiter was too far. Yelling at the Gas Giant would be rude, and wake Mars. And after Jupiter had helped him a billion years previous with his plate tectonics, and when he started to get a landmass due to it, but there was no way he could help now. Earth cannot keep depending on Jupiter to help him with whatever happened on his surface. He was responsible.

Clearing his throat, Earth looked at his Moon. His Moon was working on something with a couple of asteroids, whether a model or just something random, Earth didn’t know. But right now he cared more for the fact he had parasites combing his surface.

He inhaled and continued moving in his orbit. Moon was completely oblivious to what was going on, and that Earth had turmoil within him.

“Hey, Earth!”

Earth inwardly recoiled at the high pitched voice that had intruded on his thoughts. He turned his eyes towards the Sun, who was giving one of his creepy smiles as he stared at the much smaller Rocky Planet. Maybe... the Sun... no, he shouldn’t give such trivial problems to the Sun, of all Celestials! He had more important matters to deal with than a silly little planet.

“Hey Sun,” At least Earth’s voice had almost settled and wasn’t as high pitched anymore. It wasn’t as deep as Venus’, but still. It was almost on the level of Mars’ own soft male voice. “How are you?”

“Bright and Light, Earth!” The Sun looked expectantly, but when Earth didn’t laugh he frowned. “I’m trying out some puns. But from your expression, I think I am falling drastically.”

Earth gave a grimace, before tilting somewhat. Moon, immediately, turned his attention from his art project to fixing the tilt. He gave a firm nod and then returned back to the two asteroids.

“You have a question to ask me?” The Sun said, his high pitched voice strangely soft.

“It’s... nothing, really,” Earth said softly. He truly didn’t want to bother the Sun. “It’s something I’m new with but I can manage! I really can!”

“Your expression lies to me, Earth,” The Sun stated, his expression becoming unimpresssed. “And I do not like lies. I prefer honesty in my Solar System.”

Earth winced again. Of course, stupid, he told himself. The Sun controlled the System, they just lived here under his supervision. He determined what happened, and if he gave an order, it was to be followed. If the Solar Flares was anything to go by, the Sun was capable of acting appropriately.

“I felt... weird earlier,” Earth said after a moment. He was immediately aware that the Moon had stopped his project. “Like I had ripples. At first, I thought it was my plates shifting again, or my Core activating. But it was... not the same as usual.”

He stopped to take a breath.

“So I used my mindscape to go to my surface. And when I went down, I saw my emerging land from the water. But I also saw... something else.” He paused, unsure if he should continue. But the Sun gave a nod, his expression softening. “I saw greenish... mist on the water. When I looked closer, I saw these little things swimming in the mist, but also growing on my rocks and the sand. I don’t know what they are, but I’m worried that... they’re parasites or something that is feeding on me.”

Worry and panic started to crawl onto the Earth. Tears threatened to gather but he refused to let them through. He wasn’t going to let the Sun see weakness. He couldn’t. To show weakness would mean the Sun could push him around.

The Sun suddenly laughed. And Earth and Moon just stared at him as the Star just laughed. But it seemed it attracted others, as the Sun’s high pitched laugh caused the rest of the planets up towards Saturn to glance around. Earth felt panic rise as they all started to approach him, their moons following, his own Moon moving slightly to protect him.

When the Sun finally stopped, Earth was now in the centre of a circle, with the planets and their moons on one side and the Sun facing him. The Star smirked down at Earth, before saying.

“It took you long enough! I thought you would have felt their presence long before now!”

“Sun?” Mars quizzed. He came to join Earth’s side, curious as his eyes darted between the planet and the Star. “What are you talking about?”

The Sun gave a wide smile. He angled so he could have Earth the front and centre of the entire discussion. His surface burned brighter, making the Earth retreat slightly to get away from the heat and the increased brightness. This added attention was starting to unnerve him.

“Young Earth here felt ripples on his surface,” The Sun answered. He ignored the planet that was increasingly uncomfortable. “Something I was already aware of. Because the source of those ripples is what I am interested in. You see, young Earth here has something special growing on his surface. Something that is changing him for the better.”

His grin grew as eyes turned to Earth.

“Earth here... has Life starting to grow on his surface.”

There was silence in the Solar System. Eyes darted between the pair, alternating between the Sun and Earth. Whispers then started to rise, as the Moons began muttering amongst themselves, only increasing when the planets joined. Earth felt his cheeks heat up, looking extremely uncomfortable. But something else started to work up in him. Was it... pride?

No, relief.

“I have... Life?” Earth whispered to himself. He looked at his Moon, who had paused in his art project to gawk at him. “I have Life? Life?”

Those little things on his surface. Those microscopic creatures... that was Life? But why was it so unimpressive? Why was it so feeble? He didn’t expect Life to be like this.

He noticed Venus. His expression was... different. It reminded Earth of when he first met Venus, how he was dismissive. How he always treated him negatively. Earth didn’t know what happen, but Venus gave a curl and turned, leaving the chatting and gathering Planets.

Earth left the group, his Moon by his side, following Venus. He cleared his throat as he approached the other water world in his orbit, noting Venus had his back to him. Earth could hear him sniffing. Was he crying?

“Venus?”

The other world spun around. Earth could see tears in his eyes, some falling down his surface. But they immediately disappeared. And it was then... Earth saw it. His water. Why did it look... less?

“Venus...”

“Piss off,” The gruff voice was full of venom. Venus turned around, his back now at Earth. “I don’t want to talk to you.”

“Venus,” Earth said softly. He tried not to winced at the tone. “Your water...”

“I said piss off!”

Moon winced and hid behind Earth again. Earth took a breath, before slowly coming towards him. He extended his gravity, touching Venus’ own gently. His gravity was full of pain, discomfort. Earth could feel the heat now radiating from Venus. Something was wrong...

He is sick.

Earth just kept by his side. He placed up his gravity proximity, like Venus and Mars had shown him, and gently leaned against Venus’ own. The feeling of Earth being close, comforting, seemed to finish Venus’ tough guy macho. He started to cry.

“Venus, I’m so sorry...” Earth whispered. He closed his eyes too, feeling tears falling as well. “I truly am so sorry.”

Venus sniffed, his cries becoming sobs. Earth let him cry for a few minutes, just keeping his eyes shut as he gave him comfort in his proximity.

“I’m sorry, pipsqueak,” Venus said after a moment. His voice was still breaking, betraying his upset. “I’m sorry I ruined your moment. I just... didn’t want to say anything until later. Me and Mars, we... we...”

“Both of you?” Earth whispered. “You are both losing your water?”

“Yeah, pipsqueak. As you’ve proven, with your Life, water is essential. Without it, me and Mars cannot maintain Life,” Venus sniffed again. “Now you got what the two of us having been trying desperately to get... and keep.” He shook himself, trying to rid of the tears. “Sorry, I don’t wanna make you feel bad.”

Earth bit his lip, before giving a small nudge. They fell silent for a few more moments. He was so focused on his own issues, he never considered that his two closest friends were suffering too. Suddenly, Earth felt... alone.

Except he wasn’t alone. A smile came to his features as he was reminded of a pleasant memory.

“Hey, just because you are losing water, doesn’t make you any less my best friend,” Earth stated. He felt Venus shift to turn to him. “The same for Mars. I would have died if it wasn’t for you two. You raised me from when I woke up. You saved me from the Belt. Helios, Venus, you and Mars losing water will not affect how I feel about you. I love you both, you’re my Best Friends. My brothers.”

“Best friend?” Mars asked, a wide smile on his features. Venus was yelling at Mercury, who was laughing even harder than before.

“Best Friend,” Earth said, warmly.

“You two will always be my best friends. Even if I get intelligent Life, it won’t come between us. I promise.”

Chapter Text

Mars woke suddenly from his sleep cycle. His eyes peered around at the other Rocky Planets, two of which were fast asleep in their Cycle. The other one...

Venus’ eyes found Mars. He had felt the tug too. The summon in their mindscapes to head to the Sun was not able to be declined. When the Sun summoned you, you had to attend it.

Mars approached Venus, the planet turning to face him. Venus glanced at Earth, before whispering that he shouldn’t go. He couldn’t leave the Earth alone in his orbit, otherwise he would try find them. And having Earth leave his orbit would risk him.

“I’ll represent us both,” Mars said softly. “I’ll catch you up.”

So, Mars ventured alone to the Sun. The fiery star turned his eyes to him, watching him, as Mars approached the edge of the Roche Limit. The Red looked at the Sun expectantly, as the Star glanced around for Venus.

“He is staying in orbit to keep an eye on Earth. What is this about, Sun?”

The Sun turned its eyes on Earth. He stared for a moment before returning his gaze to Mars. The Sun stared for a moment, before finally saying lowly.

“We have an important matter to discuss. About Earth.”

Ah, the proverbial nail. The announcement that Earth had Life was made to all the Planets and Moons. Whispers had already begun, awe in looks at Earth, Moons wanting to pester Earth’s own for secrets. Wanting to know what it was like to orbit a Planet of Life.

“I gather this is about him obtaining Life?”

The Sun glanced back at Earth. He was asleep, a smile on his features. The Moon was also smiling, keeping an eye on them Planet. He would occasionally try to rectify the tilt.

“Indeed,” The Sun said softly. He gave a small smile. “You and Venus have done well in your missions. I had my reservations, but you have proved yourself time and time again. And now your actions have bore fruit.”

Mars winced. He turned his eyes away from the Star, feeling shame rise. But anger.

“Earth is not just some mission. He is a breathing world. With feelings and a Core.”

The Sun fell silent. His eyes located the world in question, before turning back to Mars.

“I had hoped all three of you would obtain Life. Together,” he admitted. “When Venus started his volcanic activity, I became concerned. And as his water started to evaporate as his heat rose, I lost hope in him entirely. You facing the same fate caused me to doubt whether it would happen. And now, when I sensed the small microorganisms start to multiply and expand on Earth, I realised I had to put my... eggs in one basket. I learned that his proximity to me was essential.”

Mars turned back to the Sun, listening.

“The sacrifice made for him to be here cost me two worlds. But it was a sacrifice worth it as he now has Life blooming on his surface,” A crazed smile crossed the Sun’s expression. “Oh, I am so happy.”

Mars winced. The Sun was happy that Earth had started to develop Life. The Sun... It was only the Sun. He was happy, he was excited; he was this.

“Sun,” Mars started. He had to approach this delicately. “I am glad you are happy. But did you not stop to think about whether Earth was ready to be told that? Or worse, have it announced to the entire system?”

“The Earth can handle it. He is stronger, bigger – “

“That’s nothing if he is not mentally prepared for it,” Mars stated. “Earth may be the biggest Planet of the Rocky Planets, stronger than us, and much more. But he is mentally a child and loves to play and have fun. You announcing he had Life before he was old enough to handle that responsibility will have dire consequences in his upbringing.

“I agreed to look after Earth not because of a mission but because he is a Child. Who needs guidance and care so he can be nurtured,” Mars sighed. “He needed someone to step up after he was Awakened. Nobody else was in a fit enough state. Jupiter couldn’t, and Venus most definitely couldn’t. While I had to grieve two fallen friends, I knew I had to step in as Leader of the Rocky Planets.”

“You place too much importance on your role, Mars. I gave you that title, as did Jupiter, because of the scale of Rocky Planets I had,” Sun pointed out. “There is not much need for you to be a Leader if there are too few of you. And your failure to keep Earth safe before.”

Anger boiled under Mars’ surface.

“YOU failed to keep an eye on Earth after his Awakening, causing him to venture into the Asteroid Belt. YOU nearly destroyed a new planet and its Moon in that instant, jeopardising our future due to a personal grudge you had with Venus,” The Sun paused to let it sink in. “You had one mission as the Custodian of this sector, and you failed.”

“For starters,” Mars felt his anger creep into his voice. “I did not fail. Earth is alive and safe, back in his Orbital Zone. He was unharmed. Since then, we have taught him ways to manage the asteroids, how to use his gravity to his advantage. Secondly, you expected Venus, who was grieving Theia, to help care for her child. A child he wishes was his. You did not stop and think, for one minute, how Venus would have handled Earth.”

“Venus is a big boy; he can handle it.”

“No, I don’t think he could have,” Mars felt his voice rise in volume. “And another thing, Sun... he needs to be told about Theia and Proto, and how he came about.”

“No.”

“Sun, one day, he will find out,” Mars said firmly. He didn’t care that his water was being affected by the Sun’s heat and strength at his proximity. He was losing it anyway, why not speed up the process? “And when that day comes, Helios to pay.”

“You DO know Helios is my name, Mars...”

“That is not the point!” Mars winced when the Sun’s expression became furious at his tone. So, he softened his voice. “That is not the point. We don’t know the extent of the Impact the two had. Is Earth still Proto? Is he a new individual in an old body? Look, Sun, one day he will hear their names and wonder who they are. When that day comes, it should come from you or Jupiter.”

“I have made my decision. Nobody will speak about the two in Earth’s presence,” The Sun all but snarled. His eyes glanced at the blue marble, in a sleep cycle, checking he was not listening. Venus was, conveniently, missing. “Nor will you mention THAT name anymore, Mars. Proto caused that collision. He killed Theia through his selfishness. I will not have that bastard’s name mentioned anymore in MY system.”

“You cannot erase Proto- “

“Am. I. CLEAR?!”

Mars winced as the Sun started tensing. He knew that the Sun was becoming too aggravated. If he kept pressing the topic his oceans would evaporate.

“Yes, Sun. But you failed to answer my previous question about Earth. He is still far too young to handle the responsibility. You announcing to the entire system that he was obtaining life was too drastic and too much for him to deal with.”

“Are you JEALOUS of him, Mars?”

Ah. The nail in the proverbial coffin. Was Mars jealous? Maybe. He and Venus had tried desperately for Life these last million or so years. But no matter what, nothing seemed to happen. Then, Venus started losing his water. His volcanoes were erupting, his proximity to the Sun was causing immeasurable heat. His atmosphere was becoming so toxic that his water just... started leaving. Mars was the same, except he was becoming too Cold. His water froze, and what was left evaporated.

They were never meant for Life.

So, when Earth got it, Mars felt jealous. But it was a good jealousy, he told himself. Jealousy of a good thing that you were happy the other got it. He had raised Earth; he was happy he found a purpose.

Mars though... his purpose...

“I raised Earth with Venus,” he said firmly. “Him more than me. You ordered us to when he was awake. Not once did you stop and think how it would impact Venus. How raising the child of Theia would impact him. Venus, who lost his best friend – someone he cared for deeply – because you were so desperate to play the Forces. You filled Theia’s head with stories of Life and used us as SPIES to see if Earth would develop it. Did you not stop once, Sun, and THINK?”

Silence. Just silence. The mouth of the Sun twisted into a predatory manner.

“Come now, Mars. Don’t tell me that after all this time none of you care for the boy? Do you see him still as an obligation instead of a fellow?” He mocked. “Dearie me. Maybe I am not the one you should be angry with, Mars. If you saw Earth as nothing but a burden, you should not have been so EAGER to take the task!”

“Don’t put words in my mouth, Sun. I never said I regretted it, and I doubt Venus would either. I did my duty in raising Earth as the Leader of the Rocky Planets. Yes, I developed familial bonds to him. But what I do NOT like is being manipulated into it.”

He took a breath.

“If you want to remove my title, so be it. Jupiter is already a capable Leader of the Planets, and you can add the Rocky Planets under his jurisdiction without a bridge between them,” Mars said firmly. “I will step down, as you request. But I will continue to protect the Earth, and whatever lies on its surface. Because I will not have you see him as a trophy, Sun. The moment you start doing that will be the moment you lose all of us.”

The Sun was silent as he looked at Mars. A curl came to his lips as he contemplated the words the much smaller Celestial had just spoken. For a moment, Mars thought he was going to be on the receiving end of a Flare, bracing himself.

But the Flare never arrived. Instead, the Sun looked at him, deep in thought. The Star gave a ‘hm’ before saying in a lower pitch than usual.

“Maybe I am being hasty about removing your role. Maybe I am being possessive over Earth. Or maybe I am just being protective because there are others in this Universe who are not going to be as kind as I am now to you,” The Sun gave one of his sinister grins. “Your words have been heard, and I will contemplate it. Return to your orbit, Mars.”

Confused by the Sun’s sudden change, Mars backed off and started to make his way back. Then he felt it. The immense gravity caused him to freeze.

“Or maybe I am not a kind Star, Mars.”

The assault on his mind was immediate. He didn’t know what to do. How to stop it. He was screaming in his mind as the Star had locked his mouth shut.

It stopped as soon as it started. But his surface was cracked, broken. Mars could barely keep awake, but he managed. He managed to stop himself from drifting to the Sun’s Roche Limit, or into Mercury, or wherever.

“You will not speak of this to anybody. If you do, I will know. I will be aware of it. And you will not live another day. You will continue to monitor Earth, and report to me if any changes occur. Do we understand each other, Mars?”

The Red Planet winced as the gravity tightened.

“Am I clear, Mars?”

“Yes, Sun,” He managed to rasp. Mars felt the pressure leave, and he glanced at the Sun as a cheerful expression appeared back on the Star.

“Wonderful! Ha ha, now, return to your orbit, you silly little planet!”

‘Psycho,’ Mars thought bitterly. His whole form ached, and as he passed Venus’ orbit, he gave a pained smile at his fellow. His eyes found Earth, still sleeping, before they ventured further. To Jupiter. To... Jupiter.

There was only one Celestial that Sun listened to. One he respected and was also afraid of. And that was Jupiter. When Mars needed the Gas Giant, he knew Jupiter would be there. When the time came, Mars would approach Jupiter because he knew Jupiter would have his back.

Some Celestials deserved to be Stars. And Jupiter was one of them.

Chapter Text

“So, just because the Earth got some little mites on his surface, we are celebrating?”

Callisto rolled her eyes at her brother-moon, Ganymede, as they and Europa sat in a corner by Jupiter. Io, the other favoured moon, was with the Gas Giant, listening to a story he was reading the younger moons, in awe and showing jubilation at the fairytale. The father figure he was, Jupiter didn’t hesitate to read or tell stories, and always made sure they were soft for the ears of the younger moons. Sometimes, Saturn brought his own Moons. But not today.

Not after the announcement.

Callisto had heard the Sun’s high pitched laugh from their orbit, and wasted no time in following her father planet as he went to investigate. She was dumbstruck when she saw the Earth and his Moon, front and centre, in the circle of planets and Moons. But what really made her react was the subsequent words that had been spoken by the Star.

The Earth had Life.

Life.

Growing.

Even the young planet was shocked. Then relieved. As they descended into whispers and murmurs, Callisto saw him leave to chase Venus. She didn’t know the entire backstory behind Venus and Earth. Just snippets from Jupiter when he was talking to Saturn about things relating to the Inner System. She wasn’t awake when the Earth was, but she knew he was not much older than her. Mentally.

Most of the snippets came from worry Jupiter had over things relating to Venus and Earth, then pride. Then when Venus and Mars were losing their water. Callisto had traces under her surface, but not to the scale Earth had.

“It’s not mites, Ganymede,” Europa drawled. She mimicked the Sun for her next sentence. “It’s Life.”

“It is mites and you know it. Not all Life flourishes into something good. Sometimes it dies,” Ganymede grunted. Callisto had to agree with him. Not all Life flourished. Helios, they might have Life themselves, they would never know. “Why is the Sun so taken with this rock anyways? What is so special about this rock?”

“Beats me,” Europa mumbled. “He is just like us. Without his water, he is just another rock floating in space.”

“You two sound more like jealous children than anything else,” Callisto droned. She shook herself, feeling irritated by their complaining. “Look, something wonderful has happened. Something rare. Why are we complaining instead of celebrating an achievement?”

“Moons can have Life too,” Ganymede grunted. “If we are allowed to try.”

“Moons can be loads of things, just doesn’t mean we should be,” Callisto hit back. She could feel Europa glare daggers at her, but ignored the smaller rock. “What you two are saying is pretty dangerous. Be glad Jupiter is out of earshot.”

“Be glad I am out of earshot?”

The three of them spun instantly around to meet with the imposing form of the Gas Giant. Io grinned at Callisto before joining her side, but she was more focused on Jupiter. His expression was questioning, his presence almost crushing, but not too crushing that Callisto would feel suffocated. It was more comforting. A loving presence. Callisto always felt safe with Jupiter.

Other Moons would not be so lucky.

“We were talking about the announcement,” Ganymede said instantly. Callisto glared at him. “Jupiter, do we have to go? Can’t we stay and hear more stories from you?”

“Unfortunately, my attendance is mandatory as the Sun wishes to discuss with me afterwards,” Jupiter said soothingly. His Moons all gave a collected groan: the Gas giant had too many meetings these days. They felt neglected at times. “But when I return, we will have some time to spare before the sleep cycles begin. It is young Metis’ turn for a story this time.”

Said-moon gave a happy giggle.

“If you wish to come along, we will head now. Keep close until we clear the Asteroid Belt,” Callisto felt Jupiter’s immense gravity becoming a shield for them. Especially for the little ones.

Ganymede muttered under his breath, before the larger spherical moons started to follow. Callisto eyed him and Europa, weary over their expressions. Their little smiles as some thought seemed to pass between them. She elected to keep an eye on them both until they returned back to Jupiter’s orbital zone.

Clearing the Belt was uneventful, as Jupiter’s large mass and gravity was too immense. Any asteroid that came too close was pushed away like it was barely anything, and Callisto couldn’t help but marvel at his strength. To orbit the First Planet, the Leader of the Planets, was a great honour. Whilst they barely did anything to affect Jupiter, the respect they automatically gained from being part of him was immense.

Callisto sighed as they entered the Inner System. She could see Mars with his two Moons, Mercury hiding away, Venus with his resting bitch face, and the Earth with his own abnormally large moon. The moon had a smug expression on his features, which left Callisto feeling slightly irritated. But it was whatever to her, after all. Why should he not feel pride for his planet’s achievement?

Jupiter gave a friendly smile to Mars, pausing to have a discussion. More politics, Callisto thought, bored. Although Mars did look a little more red than usual... and the Sun did release a Flare recently.

She saw Ganymede and Europa head off in a different direction. Callisto eyed them suspiciously, but they instead just found an empty spot and just sat there. Bored. So Callisto turned her attention back to watching the others.

The Earth’s Moon was alone now, looking slightly dejected. The Earth had been pulled away from him, and was taking to Jupiter. The Moon glanced at Callisto, gave a smile, then looked away again.

“He looks lonely,” Io’s stammering voice broke Callisto’s thoughts. “Should we say hey?”

“Not just now, Io,” Callisto responded. She was starting to get bored herself. “I think they have been bombarded enough recently with Celestials. Let’s go back to Ganymede and Europa. Hopefully, Jupiter won’t be too long with this, and his talk with the Sun.”

Io coughed, before speeding towards Ganymede and Europa. The two were speaking lowly to each other, unaware they were approaching. Callisto paused briefly.

“Even Earth’s Moon isn’t getting a word of congratulations,” Europa was saying. “Poor thing. All alone. He is probably important to the Earth getting Life too, and he is being side lined. That’s like, not cool. At all.”

“Don’t tell me you care for someone other than you, Europa,” Callisto stated. She slid herself closer, Io coming to park himself by Ganymede. “Because, you know, if you care so much about that moon why don’t you say hello to him? Give him some words of advice?”

Europa narrowed her eyes. She glared at Callisto, her gravity starting to rumble with her displeasure. Both at being called at her hypocrisy and being challenged.

“Why don’t YOU go talk to it? We were having a private conversation before you appeared.”

“It is a male,” Callisto responded. This was getting annoying. Both Europa and Ganymede were becoming unbearable recently. “And there is no such thing as a private conversation in Space, you idiot.”

“I still don’t see you going to talk to the Earth’s Moon, Callisto!” Europa's voice adopted that annoying sing-song phrasing that always irked Callisto. She hated when Europa spoke to her like she was a child. It made Callisto feel insignificant and inadequate. Even though she was considerably bigger than Europa.

“That’s enough,” Ganymede finally said, before Callisto could give an appropriate response that would have been colourful. He moved between them, separating Europa and Callisto in case they did anything that would probably embarrass Jupiter. “Not here. Back home.”

Callisto scowled. She turned to watch Jupiter, who had moved to the Sun. They were not always privy to the meetings of the Planets, especially with the Star. These inner workings of the Solar Systems was restricted, and Moons were not included. But as Callisto let her eyes roam, she spotted the Earth’s Moon, still alone. She really wanted to speak to him, offer some advice...

Then Earth came back to the Moon. He was looking tired, she noted. The Planet gave the Moon a gentle nudge, and the Moon brightened when he saw his planet. Earth seemed to say something quietly, and the Moon beamed, giving a nudge back as the pair relaxed. Callisto felt a small smile tug on the corners of her mouth.

Maybe the Earth cared for his Moon after all. Maybe he appreciated the smaller being, and realised how important it was to him obtaining some form of Life. Callisto decided to hang back from talking to the Moon. She didn’t want to intrude on him and Earth unless it was absolutely essential.

So when she saw the Moon again, billions of years later, as part of a rebellion against his own planet, Callisto regretted not speaking to him that day. When Ganymede convinced Titan to become physical, to kill the Earth’s Life, she saw that small Moon stand up to them. Yell at them. That this was wrong, that violence was never the answer. That things should be done right. Alone, even against the other Moons of the Rocky Planets. Callisto watched the revolution crumble the moment that Titan declared the Moon was to be used as bait. So that the Earth would walk into a trap.

Not to destroy his Life, as was planned. By destroying his Life, they would bring Earth down off a pedestal that the Sun placed him on. No, when Callisto heard Europa whisper the true outcome of the plan, she knew enough was enough.

Killing the Earth. His Life, his surface, his Core... straight murder. That was the plan.

Callisto saw her brothers and sisters turn from sweet and innocent Moons, to potential murderers in that moment. No more, she swore. No more. She was not going to stand by anymore. So, Callisto dove in front of the planet, taking the blows that would have shattered his surface.

When it was all said and done, Callisto left with her siblings. But she had heard Ganymede say it wasn’t over. More was to come. When Callisto glanced back at the Asteroid Belt, she saw the Moon – Luna – leave with his Planet.

No, she realised. This was far from over.

Triton was right. Revolutions did suck.

Chapter Text

445 million years ago...

Mars woke suddenly when a piercing scream erupted from the orbital zone next to him. He instantly turned around to face the young planet just on the other side, panic erupting in his Core as he raced forwards. His eyes widened as he came close to the Earth, seeing him shaking, and openly sobbing. His Moon was by his side trying to calm him down. But nothing was working.

And Mars saw why, the moment he calmed his racing Core.

The Earth was... white. Covered. In Ice and Snow. Like Mars’ caps were. His eyes widened so much he thought he would lose them, but he made himself calmer. He had to. Especially as he felt the Sun’s eyes on them.

“Earth, calm down. It’s an Ice Age, it’s-“

“No, it’s not that!” Earth was openly crying. His voice was shaking. “I heard them, Mars. I heard them all scream! In terror, in fear, before being silenced! Billions of them, they’re... they’re all DEAD!”

Mars would freeze if he could. He felt the Sun’s eyes on him, felt the curl of a predatory smile. Mars felt his danger senses start to spike up, but he had to keep cool. The Earth didn’t know, and he wasn’t going to give the Sun the pleasure of falling here either. He cannot control what happened on the Earth’s surface.

“Earth, calm down. Take some deep breaths for me,” Mars instructed. The young world sniffed, trying his best to follow, but he was too distressed. His entire surface was covered in snow and ice... at this proximity he wouldn’t be able to get it. Did he drift? Was he too close to Mars’ orbit? Damn it to Helios, Mars thought. He should have paid more attention!

He vowed to look after Earth and his Life. Did he... fail?

“These things happen, pipsqueak,” Venus had approached. With Mercury just out of eye and earshot. “Sometimes you go through rapid changes, and your Life just... can’t keep up. It’s normal for a world to go through changes. Besides, it wasn’t intelligent Life. You showed us, remember?”

Mars winced visibly. As did the Moon. Heck, even MERCURY winced.

“Venus,” Mars started, but Earth got there first.

“Shut up!” Earth was clearly distressed. His gravity rumbled, and for a moment, Mars was feeling very small. Insignificant. For a moment, Mars was looking not at Earth, but Proto. Theia. “Just because it wasn’t intelligent doesn’t make it any less important! It was my Life, I loved it, I loved it so much that I cared for it! I ruined it, I destroyed them, and they relied on me to be perfect! And I FAILED THEM!”

“Earth,” Mars heard the Moon try to interrupt.

“You just hated me from day one, and you hate me more now because I had Life! Well I’m just like you now, Venus! Empty and barren!” The tears were falling faster. He squeezed his eyes shut and turned away from them all. “JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!”

Earth wasted no time in racing away, his Moon being yanked with him. Mars watched him go, shocked both at the outburst, and unsure on what to do. His eyes darted to Venus, who was frozen in his spot, staring after the Earth. He gave a snarl, then turned to Mars, angry tears in his own eyes.

“Ya see what happens when I get involved? Ya see what happens when I get fucking attached? Next time don’t involve me with this brat. I don’t give a shit.”

Mars winced as Venus spun and moved quick back to his orbit. Left alone, Mars sighed, before seeing the Sun once again. The Star was staring at him, expression unreadable. But then Mars felt a comforting presence, and he closed his eyes as he allowed it to fill it.

‘Sister... tell me what do I do? How do I help your son?’

He remembered Theia less these days, especially her physical appearance. But he always remembered her personality: her smile, her laughter. How she always made Mars feel good when he felt inadequate. Mars missed her during these moments. When he really needed her advice.

‘Just be you!’ Her joyful voice came to him. ‘Just be Mars!’

Mars snapped his eyes open. And he saw Theia, standing there, smiling widely. Joyfully. She gave a happy laugh, nudging him.

‘They need a leader right now, Mars! Go be that leader!’

Mars felt tears fill his eyes. His baby sister... Formed from the same remains he was. He missed her. Earth needed a mother, he needed Theia. But her words, her hallucination, was right about one thing. The Rocky Planets needed a Leader. But which needed him more?

Mars glanced at Earth. Then Venus. Before he sighed.

Mars went to Venus first. He could see him just... staring at nothing. Just lost in his thoughts, full of sorrow. But when he felt Mars approach, he turned instantly, almost surprised that the other Rocky was prioritising HIM for once.

“Are you okay, Venus?”

The question was enough. Venus started crying. He didn’t know where this was coming from but it happened. Mars gave him a nudge, leaning against Venus. Just to give him the support he desperately needed.

“Sorry, Mars,” Venus said after a moment. He sniffed, before turning to face his fellow Rocky. “I didn’t mean ta say that to him. It’s just... I think I’m jealous of the kid.”

Ah. The green monster. Mars knew it all too well. He felt the same twinge when the Sun announced that the Earth had gained Life. He felt insignificant in that moment, but when he saw the Earth’s expression he knew it was something the Earth both did – and didn’t – want. It only solidified his opinion that it was too soon for the Earth to have known.

And the resentment others would possess now had time to flourish.

Mars had heard the Moons of Jupiter constantly ask why they can’t have Life. Some had similar traits, so why can’t they have the same? Jupiter always said it will happen with time, but to remember not all will obtain Life. There is criteria.

There are conditions.

Resentment was starting to grow. Mars could sense it.

“You have nothing to apologise for, Venus,” Mars said softly. “I felt the same. But I realise now that, maybe... it’s better for me not to have Life.”

Venus gazed at him, surprised. And somewhat angry.

“Do we not deserve it too, Mars?”

Ah, the question that Mars was hoping never comes up. Do all not deserve a chance of Life? Yes, they did. But things... things happen. That prevented it.

“We all deserve a chance of Life, Venus. The question is, does Life deserve a chance of existing on US,” Mars responded. “If we developed Life, it would become a competition between us Three. The three of us would push and push, and one of us – or all – will break. Us Three having Life together would be wonderful in supporting the others, but the moment one of us faces it’s loss, we become... nothing. We will be casted out. We will grow envious of the others who keep it, and sabotage it ourselves.”

Venus started, looking at Mars directly.

“Then they will grow envious of us for not having the responsibilities, the hindrance, of Life,” Mars continued. “We won’t be able to have the freedom we have now. While the rest of the System enjoys themselves, we can become excluded. Alone. With no support. If we all lost our Life, we will grow resentful of what we lost, and in ourselves.”

“I... never thought of it like that.”

“Its a problem, that’s for sure,” Mars said sadly. “Theia was so determined for Life that she didn’t seem to realise there is a lot more to it. When we became habitable, I saw it more as a competition on who will gain Life first. When I started losing my water, I accepted it was never for me. I could not manage the responsibility of harbouring such creatures, keeping them safe, against anything and everything. I could not accept losing my freedom.”

“Freedom,” Venus repeated. He sighed, eyes down. “Ya, freedom. And Earth doesn’t have that anymore.”

“I think he is resenting us for the fact we have that freedom, Venus,” Mars said softly. He could see it starting to click. “He worked hard for that Life to exist, and because of one mistake on his part, he may have lost it for good. I think he resents us for having the ability to roam freely across this System, whereas he can’t. He cannot enter each of our orbits without hurting, or even killing, himself. Does that make sense?”

“Life is a hindrance,” Venus stated. He sighed again, eyes turning to look at where Earth and his Moon was. “He needs us. He is lonely otherwise, and being alone isn’t... good for anybody. Especially with his responsibilities.”

“I think we should all make a better effort to be supportive from now on, of each other especially,” Mars pointed out. “Not just of Earth. He was there when you lost your water, he comforted me when I lost mine. Maybe now we need to be the friends he deserves?”

A strange look passed over Venus, which didn’t go unnoticed by Mars. He eyed him suspiciously.

“Or... maybe more than that?”

Venus sighed, before turning fully to Mars.

"It’s just... I got close to the kid these last billions of years. I see him not as a friend, or a brother but more... more my offspring.”

Ah.

“Ano! Ano! It’s not possible for a planet to adopt but, for me, I love the kid as though he was my own,” Venus gave a shaky sigh. “And I wish... I can tell him. About it all. About Theia, about Proto, but if I do, he will hate me. And I hate that he will hate me. I love that kid as my own, and I don’t want to hurt him.”

“You need to speak to him.”

“I can’t, Mars. I just can’t: you know feelings isn’t my thing,” Venus winced. His eyes noted that Earth was moving, this time... heading towards them. “And I don’t want to ask and he, ya know, rejects me. That will break my Core. Best I keep dreaming – hey, Kid. How are ya?”

Mars smiled as Earth finally joined them. The tears had dried, but he still looked distressed. Anxious.

“I... I’m okay,” Earth said, very quietly. They were silent for a few minutes, just avoiding each other before the Earth finally spoke.

 “Venus, I’m sorry! I was upset and I didn’t mean those things! I shouldn’t have said any of that to you, it wasn’t right and –“

“Kid, stop,” Venus said soothingly. He gave a smile, before nudging Earth in a comforting manner. Earth seemed to tilt into Venus, glad of the comfort. “Look, if you ever need us on future you need to shout and we will be there. Even if it’s a good cry. I know you are upset about your Life, but these things have a habit of springing back. And I have confidence that yours will. So, let’s dry your eyes, get you back and work out a plan. We got a lot of work to do.”

“But – but, it might not come back!”

“Life finds a way, kid,” Venus said, tugging Earth along with his gravity. “And who knows, maybe some of them survived. We just need to give ya some time to recover, maybe have ya a bit warmer this time around. I’m sure once ya find the balancing spot, it will flourish like no tomorrow!”

Mars smiled as he watched them go, feeling the weight of the Universe on his shoulders. He sighed, sparing a glance at the Sun as it watched him, eye twitching. Without further hesitation, Mars followed the other two.

Chapter Text

Earth sighed as he gazed out at the outer reaches of space, subdued and feeling... slightly melancholy. He was never like this in the past, but that was because he had to hide it from his peers. Now that the secret was out, Earth could remove his fake smiles and happy-go-lucky temperament: no more hiding, no more fakeness.

He could finally be himself.

And then another needle in his surface. Another drill.

This one hurt even worse than before.

Earth winced and closed his eyes. Humans had set up another drill on the surface. Bigger than the others. The bombing of... Ukraine was it, wasn’t so sore. War in the Middle East, as Astrodude called it, he felt nothing. But this was going deeper into his surface. He didn’t know how much more he could give them, but he knew his humans were finding ways to slowly kill him.

‘What a contrast. I’m the Planet of Life but slowly dying.’

He puffed the air through his mouth in a ‘brr’ sound. The temptation was getting very strong. How many natural disasters had he sent their way recently? He lost count. Yet his humans never ceased to amaze him with their resilience. Earth remembered what he had said to Mercury about starting over. Now the temptation was so strong that Earth felt it tugging.

Earth’s eyes located the Sun. Maybe he could just scare the humans a little bit and make them see HE was in charge. Make them understand that HE decided what happened to them. A slight move closer to the Sun, and they would be scared shitless. They lived because of Earth, and they abused him. Betrayed him.

He worked so hard for Life, for them to exist. Maybe, just a little closer...

“Earth?”

He jumped in his spot, turning to face the intruder in his orbital zone. Earth only relaxed when he saw it was Mercury, before giving a faint smile at his fellow Rocky Planet.

“Hello, Mercury. How are you?”

The smaller planet gave a happy smile before joining Earth’s side. Earth didn’t realise how amazing Mercury’s colouration was until he was up close. Venus always demeaned him, but the little world had amazing pinks and corals. Earth had been red once before, he was reminded by Luna, and it suited him. Was he coral when he was born too?

“I am well! The new game from the Sun seems to be going down well! I saw Mars and Venus playing before they went into their orbits behind the Sun. It’s just us two now so...” He hesitated. “So, I just wanted to catch up, you know? See how you are?” Mercury glanced around at Luna, who was in a sleep cycle. “Or I can come back later...?”

“Luna needs his sleep cycle,” Earth stated, looking at his satellite. His brother. “It took some convincing on my part, but he relented a few hours ago. I think he was more uptight than usual after nearly crashing into me.”

“Is him being asleep after that... wise?” Mercury asked cautiously.

“Yah, it was my fault anyway,” Earth stated. “If I were paying attention, I would have held the proximity without issues. He was bored just watching us play... I said after he could find something he and the Moons could enjoy- “

“Earth,” Mercury shook himself in apparent disbelief. He glanced at Luna again before turning back to the other Rocky. “I think you made a mistake there. I don’t think he wants to find a game with others... I think he wants to play a game with us. With you. You two are brothers, and I think he, you know, wants to spend some time with you?”

Earth paused. His eyes immediately darted to Luna, feeling stupid. His Moon did look disappointed when he suggested to Luna about finding a game with the Moons. Venus was right, he was an imbecile at times. His ideas were detrimental, his actions hurt everyone, and his words caused more harm than good.

“You’re right,” Earth admitted sadly. He looked back at Mercury. “I haven’t been fair to him. Especially with him working so hard to help me. I’ll see if he wants to go down on my surface.”

Mercury gave a smile before he left the World of Life. Turning from Mercury, Earth approached Luna, who was now awake, and looking at the darkness of space with a sad expression. Giving a gentle nudge with his presence, Earth saw Luna turn to face him in surprise. The moon sighed, before giving a forced smile.

“Hey, Earth. Do you need some help?”

“I was thinking that you and I should spend time together,” Earth said softly. He tilted to hint for Luna to come join him in closer proximity. Luna seemed very hesitant, but approached, not too close. But close enough. “I haven’t been good again recently, so I want to make it up to you. How about we head into my mindscape, and go down to visit that little island of ours?”

Luna’s eyes widened, and he looked visibly excited. He started bouncing in the spot, causing Earth to chuckle. The Planet gave a short burst of gravity to steady Luna, the moon relaxing.

“Hawaii?! I love it there,” Luna paused, blinking. “Are you sure we will be able to go down? Who is going to keep an eye on our proximities, prevent us from drifting?”

“Luna, if I have not mastered our proximity in over four billion years, I have been doing something wrong.”

“And recent events...” Luna deadpanned.

“I was distracted! I won’t be this time,” Earth said, trying to keep himself carefree. He gave a grin. “Come on. Trust me, Luna!”

The use of the name his moon chose seemed to do the trick. Luna gave a confident tilt before taking his spot at the correct distance from Earth. Earth watched Luna intently, before closing his eyes to open his mindscape – and link with Luna. He didn’t know how, or who, but he always felt... another presence when they entered the mindscape. But Earth focused on himself, on his Core, trying to keep his centre calm. He felt the pain of his Earthlings drilling his surface, seeing his forests, everything that was being destroyed. Which he had worked so hard to gain.

But then he felt another presence. A calming presence, a droplet in the raging waves of his Core. Earth stared at the droplet, watching it fall slowly before it touched the surface. The ripples... how they spread over the raging waves...

And he woke, staring upwards into the blue skies of his body. Earth winced a moment, raising a hand to shield his eyes from the light of the Sun, sitting up in the soft, white sand. His ears, not as defined as the rest of the Celestials, picked up the gentle touch of the waves on the shore. The sounds of birds. The breeze.

His blue skin shone with small white gems, the Sun kissing them with his light and heat. He touched his face, pressing his fingers into his nose, before feeling his light purple lips, and smoothing them through his hair. With wariness, since it had been several years since he last walked his surface, Earth stood in the sand. He inhaled through his cat-like nose, before looking towards his feet, using all five digits to dig into the soft sand.

“Earth!”

He glanced around at his name being called. A smile broke his features as he saw the small form of Luna coming towards him. He knew from his grey skin, exaggerated ears and long, spiky grey and black hair. His eyes were a pearl white. Like his planet, he also possessed the cat-like nose all Celestials did.

“Luna,” He greeted. Earth was taller than Luna, by a good several feet, so he made sure he was as close to Luna’s height as possible. Thankfully, they were already in the clothing he wanted, with him wearing blue cargo shorts and a white tee with a NASA logo, and Luna wearing beige shorts and a white tee. “Shall we?”

Luna wasted no time in running ahead. Earth smiled as his satellite went towards the water, wanting to take a swim, before sitting himself down on the sand.

***

Earth yawned awake, giving himself a shake-down as his sleep cycle ended. He peered at his Moon as the other celestial glanced at him, ready to venture on his sleep cycle should the Earth allow him. Earth gave him a pleasant smile before noticing Mars was hanging around the Belt. He wanted to go close, but lately, Mars had been dismissive since the announcement. Which was unusual.

And his Moon had been dismissive too since Jupiter and his own Moons had left the Inner Belt. Earth didn’t know what was going on, but he was starting to get tired of the attitudes of the other Celestials around him. Why was he being blamed for something out of his control? He didn’t ask for Life. Plus, it was barely anything.

Just a few microorganisms. They would not amount to anything. He could lose his Life. Would that make him have his friends again?

He felt the Moon enter his sleep cycle; no words were spoken as he usually did. Sometimes his Moon gave him a goodnight or a nudge. But lately, his Moon had been silent.

Earth sighed again. He saw Mars give him a look, but then returned to the Asteroid Belt. Okay, this silent treatment was getting too much.

“Mars?” He called.

The Red Planet turned to face him, smiling at him. He approached the edge of his orbital zone, but no further. Earth blinked at seeing the surface, the cracks, the odd wince of pain. When did this happen?!

“Asteroid Strike,” Mars said instantly before Earth could ask. The swiftness of his answer and the avoidance of his eyes made Earth realise that he was lying. “It is nothing I cannot handle. What’s up, buddy?”

“It’s okay,” Earth elected not to ask. He felt stupid. Mars was probably watching the asteroids to prevent more from hitting his surface, doing the tracking like Venus had shown them. “I was wondering what you were doing.”

“Just tracking them,” Mars gave an odd look at how Earth was diverting his answers. “To stop any future blows. Granted, I can’t track them all, but I can stop the worst of them.”

Earth gave a smile, before deciding it best to leave Mars be. The Red Planet was not in a talkative mood, it seemed. Neither was his Moon, or Venus since his outburst at the announcement. He was starting to feel lonely.

“He-hey, Earth?”

Earth turned to the voice. A small, peachy Celestial was before him. Earth recognised him as Mercury, who lived by the Sun. Why was he so far in the System?

“Ca-can we talk?” Mercury stammered. “So-sorry, but Venus never lets me near you. He always tells me to leave you alone. So, with him busy, I wanted to come say hi.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” Earth greeted. “It’s okay. We can do more than say hey. Do you want to play, Mercury?”

***

Earth lay back in the sand, staring at the darkening sky, arms behind his head. He sighed, spotting the first stars as they began to appear. Earth could see Luna’s form glow in the darkness and glance at his Moon. Luna was sitting in the sand, making a castle, while the birds that had once occupied the trees now hopped around them. They were more attracted to the Earth, but he didn’t stop them from going to Luna.

The gems on his skin continued to twinkle like the stars, not as bright, but enough for him to look like his very skies. Luna didn’t have the same gemstones, but he was still glowing with his pale skin. He had even looked upwards at his Celestial form as it started to appear above their heads.

Earth winced when he felt a bird land on his forehead. He raised a hand, and gently waved it back, the bird hopping beside him as he sat up. More birds started to land on his head, and shoulders, Luna bursting into laughter. Earth couldn’t help but laugh with him.

A new sound came to their ears. Earth and Luna glanced around, curious, as a sea turtle dragged itself on the land. The pair watched the turtle in awe as it pulled itself further in, before sweeping its flippers into the sand. To make a nest.

***

“It happened! It happened! It happened!”

Earth couldn’t believe it when he left his mindscape. He beamed as the Moon turned to face him, curious. Earth gave him a nudge, leaning into him. The Moon started, but a smile broke his features.

“We did it, Moon!” Earth was crying. He looked at his Moon, happily. “They left the water, I saw them! I saw the fish leave the water onto my land! We did it, brother!”

The Moon started when Earth said “we” instead of “I”. The celestial gawped at what the Earth said, how he acknowledged the Moon in achieving his Life. And that he called him brother. Brother.

“We did it!” Earth was chanting. He was spinning happily in his spot, the other Rocky Planets watching in amusement. The Moon joined him, as they both continued spinning in jubilation.

“WE DID IT!”

Chapter Text

Earth landed in the dirt of the training ring, panting, as he stared up at the starry skies for the umpteenth time this hour. He heard his training staff clatter against the ground nearby, before feeling a sharp tap on his chest. A wince came to him as it hit the crack that remained, not quite fully healed. And yet Earth didn't want to make any movement from where he was lying.

A feline humanoid stepped into view, staring down at him with his spectacles leaning on the edge of his nose. The ears were flat, the left one adorned with rings, while the right one had a missing tear. His hair was plaited on the side, streaked with pink and peach, but greying at the temples by had ears. His beard was not well trimmed, but gave the Leader of the Planets a more rugged look. 

"Get up."

Earth groaned, and rolled onto his right side, his heavily scarred left arm aching. Earth grasped the training staff again, pushing himself up onto his knees. The tall and imposing form of Jupiter moved pass him, going back to his zone with the training staff. Even with his age, and the slight belly that had appeared on the Leader of the Planets, Jupiter still remained strong. Refined. His tail was regal, similar to a lion’s, and swept in unison with his displeasure. The humanoid turned to face Earth again, adopting a defensive stance.

"Again."

Earth held his staff ready, before darting forwards. Jupiter barely stepped, barely moved, only turning his body to avoid the hits. Jupiter tapped Earth’s side on the right, causing the World of Life to give a yell of frustration and start swinging again. His left arm was seizing up, the skin feeling as though it was tearing, and Jupiter could see it. He could see the weakness.

And again, another hit, and Earth was on the ground. Landing on his front, and just lying there as his staff rolled off to the foot of Saturn, who stood in concern off the side. Also feline, Saturn had wavy hair that looked like liquid gold, and his tail was adorned with flecks of white. He was beautiful to look at, and was always intricately dressed. But many always saw Saturn as something pleasant to look at, and ignored his combat prowess. Only Jupiter and the Sun could beat Saturn in combat.

"Jupiter... that's enough," The transatlantic voice said, scolding his long term friend. "He is exhausted, and in pain. You need to stop and let him have a break."

"Saturn..." Jupiter's voice held the tone that would not allow any argument. The large feline gazed at his friend and companion, shaking his head as he noted Earth was crawling to the staff. Trying to get to it. Yet, as Jupiter gazed at Earth, he saw the shaking in the refined muscles, and the inability of Earth to put weight on his left arm. Maybe Saturn was right... maybe he had done too much. But Earth was adamant to continue, even when beaten.

Finally, Jupiter threw his staff down on the ground, prowling to Earth. He reached down, grasping Earth by his right arm and helping him stand, holding the World of Life around the waist as he balanced his full weight against him. He noted Earth had frustration on his features, angry tears in his eyes, and guided him to the bench nearest. Jupiter saw, in the stands, the other Rockies and Luna making their way down, and sighed. 

Earth just sat there, face in his hands, his form shaking. Jupiter sat beside him, placing a comforting arm around him, letting the planet lean into him. Saturn was moving around, lifting the training staff Jupiter had discarded, placing it back in the stand alongside the one that Earth had lost. The Ringed World gave a tilt to Venus and Mars as they entered the ring, before moving off to go and leave the mindscape. 

Earth lowered his hands, tears of frustration on his features. Jupiter turned Earth to face him, using a thumb to wipe the droplets away.

"You fought well today, Earth. You are improving. You just need more time to adapt to everything that has happened."

"I have been at this for weeks, months!" Earth said, angrily. He stood, and kicked a stone out the way, wincing as his bare toe cracked on the ground. He limped, pacing before Jupiter, who waved a hand at Venus and Mars. Telling them they needed to back off. "It's been months since I had my arm fucking mutilated and I can barely fight with it! What use am I if I cannot defend myself, or anybody!"

"There are other roles, Earth. You use to love learning how to heal from Saturn," Jupiter said kindly. He stood, noting Earth had stopped in his pacing. "You could-"

"I want to learn to FIGHT, Jupiter!" Earth yelled. He turned on the much taller and broader individual, angry tears in his eyes. "Because one day I am going to have to fight, and if I can't rely on myself, if I can't help defend others, what use am I to this damn Solar System?!"

Jupiter sighed, unable to answer. Even as Earth looked at him expectantly, waiting for a response. But after a few moments, Earth sobered, running his good hand through his hair. The World of Life turned away, clearly no longer in the mood to continue talking.

"If the Great Jupiter cannot teach me, then that's my fault. I'm a failure of a student."

"Earth..." Jupiter paused as the mentioned world started walking away. He spotted Mars and Venus look at the Gas Giant with worry, before following after their friend. A sudden annoyance erupted in Jupiter, and he wasted no time in closing the distance and grasping Earth by the shoulder.

"No, Earth. You are not a bad student. I am just a poor teacher, who needs to adapt MY style of teaching to suit YOUR needs. You do not need to apologise when I should have remembered I was in your own situation myself."

Earth looked at Jupiter, his tears drying up. Jupiter sighed and embraced him, his tail relaxing now that Jupiter wasn't riled up. The Gas Giant just held the World of Life, before saying something.

"We will take a break. And try again in an hour. And this time, we will try something else."

"GET UP!"

Jupiter crashed on the ground, wincing at his cheek where the staff had cut him. Raising a paw, Jupiter touched the molten liquid now on his cheek, before looking upwards at the Sun as he towered over the Gas Giant. In the edges, Jupiter saw Saturn wincing, pushing himself against the wall as though desperate to be invisible. Uranus and Neptune were slowly making their way to the exit each second the Sun had his back turned, and X... X was scowling, his dark eyes full of jubilation that the Sun’s favourite planet was being taken down a peg. 

"I said..." The Sun cracked the staff on the ground. "Get up. If you don't, your enemies will continue to beat you down. And if you can't defend yourself, what use are you to others?!"

Jupiter winced at the words. He pushed himself up, rubbing his lower back where his tail had been crushed against his form, and pushed his paws on the ground to stand up. The Sun stepped back, his long golden hair pulled into a tail that went down his back. His eyes were full of fury, the pupils now slits, and his mouth was curled to show the elongated canines. 

"Again!" The Sun ordered, adopting a defensive stance. Jupiter wasted no time in lunging forwards, clattering the two staffs. Jupiter used his strength against the Star, feeling his anger and frustration start to creep into his stance. Jupiter battered at the Sun, who was lazily defending himself, even side stepping. "FOCUS!"

Jupiter caught the Sun’s cheek, making the Star hiss. And he realised his mistake.

The Star fought back. And this time Jupiter was on the defence, trying his best to keep the Star at bay. He was pushed into the wall, bracing both arms against his own staff to keep the Sun at bay. The Star grinned widely, looking at his first and favourite planet between the two staffs. Jupiter knew what was coming but his defence was far too high, and he found the Star's knee in his stomach... winding him.

Jupiter fell to his knee, but immediately brought his right hand upwards. His claws grazed the Star's arm, and the Sun backhanded Jupiter onto the ground. Despite the spinning, Jupiter brought his feet around and kicked at the Sun’s stomach, pushing the Star back a few feet. Without hesitation, Jupiter crouched like an angry cat, his tail flicking as he grabbed the staff and lunged...

The Sun’s staff struck his face, right over his left eye. Jupiter roared, staggering back, and lunged forwards again. The Star parried his blows lazily, before bringing a leg around and tripping Jupiter backwards. But Jupiter had already predicted this, and forced his right back paw into the ground, claws tensing to give a grip, and used both hands to smack the staff aside so he pushed the edge into the Sun’s chin.

A proud grin came to the Star, as he stared at Jupiter down the staff. 

"Perfect... you have used your anger and frustration to your advantage. However..." The Star grabbed the staff. Jupiter was aware of the... HEAT. His hands were burning as he released the staff, the wood now blackened by the Star. His hands held two marks that were perfect copies of the staff. "You must be sure it doesn't unbalance you. But still, exemplary, using your own Primal strength against me. You adapted."

The Star tossed the now burned staff aside, his expression becoming kinder. Gentle. He approached and took Jupiter's hands, looking over the burns. 

"One day, Jupiter, you will share your own teachings. And when you do, you will find not all students are the same. And some require adaptations to ensure they succeed. Your role as a teacher is to encourage them to flower against adversity."

Jupiter pulled the brace before him, checking it over as he scrutinised it's suitability for use. It had been many years since it was required, many billions to be exact. But Jupiter knew it was needed, to help strengthen Earth. And Jupiter had vowed he would try this before he recommended that Earth went down the healing path again. This was the World of Life's last chance to be useful, Earth had told him. So he was willing to try anything. And everything.

Jupiter loosened the brace... and paused at the writing inside. He recognised that writing. Jupiter felt sadness within as he traced the symbols, before blinking away tears. With a heavy heart, he took the rag and began to gently wash the writing off. If the Sun knew that the brace had the writing, he would ensure it was incinerate. And Earth needed this.

The P disappeared, alongside the X, and finally the T. He knew the writing was Theia’s, and she often wrote on Proto's brace when he was doing lessons, to give him an incentive to do well. He was Jupiter's best student despite his problematic arm. So good that he was able to defeat Venus. Their rivalry started that day. Much like Jupiter and X, when Jupiter had beaten X in their very first match together...

His ears back, Jupiter stood as he turned and approached the Rockies. Earth smiled as Jupiter held the brace out, offering his left arm to the Gas Giant. Jupiter, carefully, wrapped the brace on the lower arm, before nodding. 

And when he and Earth took their staffs, Jupiter felt pride swell within his Core as Earth began to succeed. In the weeks that followed, Jupiter saw Earth’s pain decrease and his weakness start to diminish. And even then, Earth wanted to learn how to heal from Saturn. He was a new man, Jupiter realised. The brace was a small thing, but gave him hope.

Sometimes, adaptation was required to help success. 

Chapter Text

The training ring was quieter than before, which left Venus time to walk on the sand. He gazed at every nook and cranny, a small smile appearing on his features as he picked up one of the fallen training staffs, his volcanic eyes looking it over. Venus traced his hand over the battered wood, inhaling deeply as he felt his muscles ache with anticipation over the fights he had faced. The clashing of wood staffs, and the cheers from others as they egged on the students that were in the ring.

Venus turned his eyes to the ring, as he spotted a blue skinned youth, smaller, running up to a younger version of himself. With a training staff. Venus felt the tears in his eyes as he saw the child form of Earth offer the staff to Venus, giving an excited smile.

“Can you teach me?”

“Of course I can pipsqueak! But I think Jupiter will take you for your first group of lessons. Then, if he is willing, I can take you and your Moon.”

“Yay!” Earth grabbed Venus around the waist, hugging him tightly. “Thank you, Venus!”

A blush came to Venus’ features. The boy looked too much like Theia in this form. Far too much like her. Granted, he held features of Proto but he saw more of Theia in Earth than him. After how he poorly treated Earth at the start, Venus aimed to do better. And he was determined to treat Earth better than he ever did with his parents.

“You look deep in thought.”

Venus glanced around, cursing himself silently. He thought he was alone in the arena, but clearly he was wrong. His eyes scrutinised the figure that approached, his golden hair now trimmed shorter and his blue eyes slightly duller. Venus tilted his head instantly to the Star, giving him the respect he is owed, before turning his eyes back to the staff in his hands.

“Just remembering. Nothing more.”

“Hm,” The Sun stepped onto the arena’s border. Venus noted the Star had changed out of his elaborate robes in this form into looser clothing, and wondered if he had interrupted something important. The Sun rarely entered the ring, and he clearly wanted to train in privacy away from the eyes of the others. The Star remained a mystery in combat, but if Jupiter and Saturn were anything to go by, he was clearly a good teacher and a skilled fighter. Venus wondered if all Stars were born gifted fighters. They had to be to defend their worlds.

And themselves.

“I heard Earth had a bad session again,” the Star said, after a moment. He walked to the training staffs, going to grasp one. Venus noted the Star had golden markings on his skin, resembling his rapidly changing surface. “And that Jupiter had to locate a brace.”

“Yes,” Venus felt awkward. He didn’t want to stay if the Sun wanted to train solo. He also didn’t want to be here if the Star wanted to fight him. “Sun, do you wish me to leave...?”

“Nae, actually...” The Sun turned to face Venus, indicating the staff already in the volcanic world’s hands. “I was thinking you and I spar. Friendly, of course.”

Spar? With the Sun? Venus swallowed, unsure whether he could stand to be in the ring with the Star. Jupiter was second only to the Sun, and Venus was further down the hierarchy that there was no way he could conquer the Star. He really couldn’t fight on even ground with the Star.

“Very well, Sun,” Venus said, after a moment of hesitation. The Sun gave one of his wide smiles, showing a golden tooth had replaced one of the elongated canines. The Volcanic World took a few steps into the ring, turning to face the Sun. “Friendly only?”

“Friendly. Besides, after recent events, I have a hunch you have some anger to release. Especially after what happened on Earth’s surface.”

Venus started. He felt his hair stand at what the Sun had stated. And was immediately cautious.

“Sun, I...”

“Your anger remains an issue,” Sun adopted a defensive stance. The Star had a predatory smile on his features. “So let us address it. We don’t want repeats of last time your anger got too great.”

Training ring – 4 billion years ago.

Two youthful males were sparring in the ring, watched by a humongous feline humanoid that stood off the border, a training staff balanced in his hand. The feline had streaked purple, peach, and beige hair, with a long feline tail that had a tuff of dark. His chin had the beginnings of a beard, and his eyes were black at the sclera with beige irises. His hands were half-pawed, not quite there.

One of the youths was a patchy male, slightly shorter than the other, with dark red hair and orange streaks. His eyes were a light pink, and his right ear was adorned with some piercings. He was not as built as the feline.

The other youth was dark skinned, with a pale patch on his cheek, hair in a braid down one shoulder. His hair was streaked grey, beige, and orange, his eyes a rich brown. His skin was also traced with orange streaks, but also touches of red.

“Focus, Proto! Parry the blow with more determination!” The humongous feline stalked around as the darker youth did exactly what was requested. The lighter patched male swung hard, striking the staff. “Perfect, Venus! Now pivot!”

Up in the stands, the white-gold form of Saturn was sitting beside a humanoid female. She was beautiful, with long brown hair, patched brown and beige skin. Her eyes were grey at the sclera, but a wonderful beige in the iris. Her head was resting against Saturn’s arm, as she read the book with the other Gas Giant, who was teaching her about remedies and treatments for injuries. Nearby, unknown to the others bar the Gas Giants and those involved, was her brother, Mars. Dark red and orange patched, he was a handsome lad, as Saturn called him. The family resemblance was clear in these forms. By his side, sleeping and clearly bored, was Mercury. His feathers were not quite in, and he was drooling in his sleep.

As the two sparring youths separated, they stalked around each other. Proto’s eyes found the female, who also looked at him. A smile crossed them, which caused Venus to... silently stew. In anger and jealousy. Venus turned his eyes back to Theia, then to Proto, a curl of his lip appearing.

He was ogling HIS friend. His Theia.

“Would you stop ogling at Theia for one damn minute and focus on our lesson?!”

Proto winced, before turning his eyes back to Venus. And apologetic look came to the other Rocky, as he adopted a defensive stance again. Helios, did Venus hate this boy sometimes. He clearly cared more for looking good for Theia than anything else. And Theia was allowing herself to be wooed by his arrogance and obnoxious behaviour.

“Sorry, Venus!” Proto gave Theia another quick smile, before returning to the task at hand. But unfortunately, the look and experience didn’t go unnoticed by Jupiter, who brought his staff between the pair to pause the fighting. The feline humanoid gave a scolding look at Proto, who tilted his head down in submission.

“If you are quite done with the doe eyes between you and Theia, focus on the lesson, Proto. And Venus, please, temper yourself. I want one lesson with you two not hacking at each other like a pair of asteroids battling for space,” He removed his staff, giving them both a disapproving look. “Any personal matters can be handled OUTSIDE the ring. When you are here, under my gaze, you are my students. And I need you to focus on what you are being tasked with today.”

“Yes, Jupiter,” Proto and Venus voiced. But Venus was stewing, they could see. Proto glanced apologetically at his fellow Rocky, but Venus wasn’t looking at him. The darker boy sighed, and tilted his head downwards to show respect to Jupiter, who noted that Venus was still unsettled. Angry.

“Whatever you have to say, get it out now,” Jupiter said after a moment, his voice steely calm. “I do not want this bad blood between you two to remain. So, out with it.”

Proto, clearly getting the go ahead, turned to Venus at that moment. He placed his staff on the ground, deciding to appear non-threatening towards his one-sided friend.

“Venus, you have to stop being so damn controlling. Theia isn’t a possession, she cannot even LOOK at anybody and you get jealous. You weren’t like this, at all, when we were younger.”

“And you need to stop telling me what I can feel,” Venus turned on Proto. His hand clenched the staff tightly, anger in his form. “You prance around, pretty boy, sniffing around Theia all the time and never leave her be. She is my friend, and...”

“Cease.”

Jupiter’s voice boomed over Venus before he finished. Both youths turned to face the Gas Giant, as he stared disapprovingly down at them. His voice held weight in the arena, as Saturn and Theia had paused in their lesson to look at them with worry. Even Mars had backed off, waking Mercury and making the smaller Rocky cower. Rarely did Jupiter raise his voice.

Venus noted another was watching in the viewing area, but didn’t want to acknowledge them. Why should he? His eyes were only on Proto, who had a saddened look on his features. No, he wasn’t accepting his pity. Proto was an asshole, Venus told himself. He was a huge jerk of a rock that was taking his friend away from him.

“Take five minutes, and we will return to the ring when clearer heads prevail.”

Proto turned and walked towards the benches, placing his staff on the holders nearby. Theia whispered something to Saturn, who nodded, before both descended the benches to come onto the ring. Saturn approached Jupiter, and Theia moved to Proto. Asking what happened, if he was alright, Helios... Venus saw her hand on his. Proto gave her a small smile, and she smiled back.

He was angry. He didn’t mean it.

The jealousy got too much.

Seeing them smile snapped something within him.

Next he knew, Theia was screaming at him. Proto was on the ground, having collided with the stonework. His left arm was bent awkwardly, and he was unconscious. With a wide open wound across his face where the staff had hit him. Saturn was there, grabbing some remedies, and Jupiter...

Jupiter lost it.

And Venus didn’t know what hit him. But the punishment was so severe, Venus woke back in his planetary form, aching. Sore. And never again, did he want to see Jupiter lose his temper.

Things changed that day. Proto couldn’t fight anymore, not without a brace. And Theia... Theia told Venus to stay away from her for a while. Since then, things went downhill between Venus and Proto. He had maimed him, humiliated him. And Proto never held back.

With the brace, Proto was the best fighter after the Gas Giants.

“That was a long time ago, Sun. You know that, and I am different now,” Venus felt sick. Embarrassed. “I am still paying for that incident even now.”

“Hm,” The Sun clattered the staffs together. Venus was aware the Sun was barely using his full strength in that one hit. If he did, Venus would have been on the ground. “Your anger that day caused you to act irrationally. And again, when you killed two humans. But then, you used your anger as a mechanism of defending Earth when he was imprisoned in Area 51. I am proud of how far you have come, Venus.”

“Pride over me being so angry and bitter?” Venus repeated. He shook his head as he aimed at lazy hit at the Sun, which the Star parried with ease. “Of how misfortune has occurred to me time and time again?”

“Proud of your control,” The Sun responded. He gave a slight jab at Venus, sudden, making the Volcanic world block swiftly. “You used your own form’s perceived weaknesses against those to protect the ones you love. And now, you have achieved something more. You are now the Custodian of the Inner System, given to you by Mars.”

“Only because Earth didn’t want it. He was right: he is too young and too full of responsibility. You shouldn’t have announced about him having Life,” Venus grunted as the Sun tapped his hand. “He was too young, Sun. Too carefree.”

“A mistake I made in the heat of the moment, one I regret,” The Sun shook his head sadly. “I see that now. I have made mistakes, Venus. But one of them has never been you and Earth getting close in his youth. He needed you, and you needed him.”

The Sun was right, Venus realised. Earth needed him, and he needed Earth to heal himself. To come to terms that Theia truly was gone. And Proto... time would tell if Earth was still Proto or not. Planets were fickle after collisions. Earth had been reset, was he his own or was Venus raising Proto? He didn’t know.

Nor did he care.

Earth was his son, even if he didn’t remember. But Venus decided there and then to talk to Earth about that. He wanted that again, Venus told himself desperately.

He wanted to be his father again.

“Now, about that friendly,” Venus didn’t know what happened, but his staff was on the ground before he could blink. The Sun gave another toothy grin, before picking the fallen staff back up, tossing it to Venus again.

“Shall we begin?”

Chapter Text

When Sagittarius A* had announced she felt they were mature enough for a Galaxy wide mindscape, to allow interactions with other systems and their stars/worlds, the Sun had to admit he was nervous. And hated the thought of trying to utilise it. Mainly because he would be forced to interact with other Stars like Rigil and Toliman.

And if Sag A* was to probe him, and find out about Earth, Sun would have more issues on his hands to deal with. So when he felt the summons, he tasked Jupiter and Saturn with monitoring the Inner Worlds for fear of what was to come. But Jupiter noted his anxiety, and offered to accompany him. They were friends, the Gas Giant stated, and he would help support the Sun against his foes.

And the Sun was glad that Jupiter agreed.

What he didn’t want was the Earth to also ask to come, to meet other Stars and Planets. He didn’t want Earth to be subjected to the jealous Star, as nobody knew of any other worlds obtaining Life. The Sun didn’t want a literal Child being subjected to more stares and pointing, nor hearing hateful words from jealous stars and worlds who wanted what he got. Especially from neighbours like Rigil and Tolimon.

So, after ordering the others to stay and BEHAVE, Sun and Jupiter entered the mindscape. When Jupiter woke with the Star, Sun was relieved that they were not late, or early. Just right on time. But what he didn’t bank was another presence joining his and his favourite Planet, and a pair of blue eyes peaking out from under his robe.

Oh, if Earth wasn’t with Life, the Sun would have shouted so loud he would have turned into a Red Giant. Even Jupiter was horrified at the blatant disregard that Earth shown for orders. How did the Earth even manage to LINK with the Sun and Jupiter?

But then, the Sun could see others approaching them to greet. And Sun knew he was stuck: if he sent Earth back, they would immediately get curious. So he quickly grabbed Earth by the arm, and ordered him to stay with Jupiter or the Sun at all times. He was not allowed to talk unless spoken to, and even then it was to be direct answers. The Sun even went far as to state that Jupiter was to HOLD Earth’s hand the entire trip. He didn’t want Earth to be separated: he didn’t know how good the senses of other Stars were to planets outside their system. If the Sun was able to sense the Life on Earth, they may feel the same if close enough. If the Sun was able to mask him, or Jupiter, then they would get out unscathed.

“Helios!”

The Sun turned, giving a quick smile at a familiar red head Star that approached him. She was a good size shorter than him, but bigger than Jupiter, who looked mildly uncomfortable. Earth, clinging to Jupiter’s hand, even hid slightly behind her.

“Proxima. Greetings.”

“Oh, stop with the formality!” The Red Dwarf said softly. She pecked his cheek, giving an adoring smile. “How are you doing, neighbour? It’s good we can see each other again. I’ve always wondered what happened with you after the supernova.”

Her eyes found the two planets with the Sun, giving a gentle smile in greeting at them. Her own small planet approached, of similar size to Earth, giving a friendly smile. They weren’t like Jupiter, or Earth, with beautiful swirls on their skin, and looked like they were angelic. Jupiter greeted them as Centauri B, and she greeted them back before asking Earth who he was. Earth gave a short and shy “hello, my name is Earth!” before falling silent again. Jupiter placed a gentle hand on Earth’s hair, keeping the young Rocky by his side.

“The larger one is Jupiter, one of my Gas Giants,” Sun stated, giving a prideful smile at the mentioned world. He looked at Earth, who was keeping close to Jupiter. “And the younger one is Earth, one of my Rocky Planets who had, unfortunately, stowed away during the mindscape.”

Proxima gave a small laugh, before bending down to smile at Earth in comfort and warmth. A very motherly look came to her expression, before she realised that Sun had moved somewhat before her. Her brow arched at him, but Sun gave a kind smile, and said softly.

“He is very shy, and I don’t want him frightened.”

“I understand,” Proxima said quietly. She gave a warm smile again at Earth, before turning her attention to Jupiter. The pair started engaging in a pleasant conversation. Her planet smiled at Sun, before looking at Earth in greeting.

“Do you want to go play? We never interact with other planets. We seem to be the youngest ones here, and it will get boring after a while.”

“Sun?” Earth looked at the Star, begging. He wasn’t sure he would enjoy all the politics going on and adults were boring at times. Even now, Jupiter and Proxima’s talking was making him feel tired.

“As long as I can see you, Earth,” Sun told him firmly. He waved a hand, giving permission to his World. “And stay close by. Off you go!”

Earth and Centauri B cheered. She poked his nose, yelled TAG, and ran off to a fountain nearby. Earth laughed and ran after her, causing Proxima to pause in her discussion with Jupiter. Seeing the look on his Star’s face, Jupiter followed, keeping Earth within his sights, his tail flicking gently as he watched the literal children.

“It’s good to see you, for real, Helios,” Proxima said, watching her planet as she hid behind a statue on the fountain. She spooked Earth, making him laugh before he ran after her. Proxima’s hand found Sun’s, giving it a squeeze. The Sun sighed, relaxing, as he smiled back at her with a gentle expression. He had been frowning too much these last few millions of years.

“Likewise, Proxima,” He squeezed her hand gently. “How are you managing your neighbours? Jerk one and Jerk two?”

Proxima laughed slightly at that. She leaned into Sun, placing her head against his shoulder, relief washing over her as she watched her world chase Earth now.

“I ignore them, most of the time. They can barely make their own worlds like them,” She smiled as she watched Centauri laugh as she poked Jupiter, wanting the humongous feline to join. Jupiter sighed, shaking his head with a smile, and lazily followed the two literal children. “But, have you heard the rumours over this meeting?”

“I barely heard anything about this. I gather it will be to explain the mindscape to us, and then we are pushed back.”

“No,” Proxima looked at Sun, curious. “Sag A sensed something in the Galaxy. Turns out one of the outer Stars developed Life: one of our systems. She wants to discuss with us all and determine what to do with this. It’s the first recorded Life in the universe we know of.”

The Sun felt himself freeze, which was impossible due to his Core temperature. His eyes darted to Earth, who was now splashing water at Centauri, the girl laughing loudly as she splashed back. His eyes widened as he spotted two Stars, staring at the children. And instantly, they started to approach.

Jupiter noted this, and gathered Earth and Centauri to him. But before Sun could move, the two Stars were there, looking over the three Planets. Sun recognised them instantly as Tolimon and Rigil. Anger rose in his Core, and he released Proxima to walk straight towards the two Stars. Without hesitation, he moved in front of his planets and that of Proxima, raising his arms as he shielded them from the pair.

“Back off.”

Tolimon gave a curl of his lip, but when Proxima joined the Sun’s side, he calmed. Rigil though, gazed over the Sun with mild curiosity, before a smirk came to his features.

“Wait... are you who I think you are? The baby star who cried at us when he was born?”

“Yes, my name is Helios. Now back off from our worlds,” Sun threatened. He moved to the side as Rigil tried to get a look at Jupiter and the two children. He arched a brow, his eyes scanning Earth and Centauri, as the chatter started to die down around them. Other Stars were watching now, and Sun was so focused he didn’t see one of them moving behind the children. But Jupiter did, and kept his arm before Earth and Centauri, giving a hiss at the star.

“What you gonna do, baby star?” Tolimon mocked. “You can’t take us both, and I gather you don’t want the Council gunning for you either. There is something strange about one of those planets. I sense... something. Could it be... Life...?”

“Back off, you two,” Proxima snapped. She stepped forwards, her eyes now on fire. Her world immediately rushed to her side, curling in and wanting protection. “If my world had Life, I would know, and more, I would never tell you about it. It’s none of your business what happens with my worlds, the same for Helios’.”

“Unfortunately,” A deep, soothing voice sounded by the squabbling group. “It is our business. You should know better, Proxima. As should the rest of you.”

Proxima winced by Sun, and backed away with her world. Sun gathered Earth to him, keeping his World by him, as Jupiter stepped in bodyguard mode to his Star. Rigil and Tolimon backed off, heads and eyes low, as a tall, dark male approached them. His elaborate robing indicated he was one of Sag A’s closest confidants, and the Sun felt... insignificant in the face of their power.

“S2, I...”

“Cease,” The Star raised a finger as he looked down at Sun. The Star promptly shut his mouth. “Let me see the Child, Helios.”

“S2, you can’t. He’s young, he isn’t an object, he’s...”

“Helios, shut it,” S2 rumbled. He raised a finger again, counting to two. The eyes started to turn black, burning in the pupils. Sun knew that look. And with a worried expression, Sun placed a hand on Earth’s hair, smoothing it before slowly moving the child forwards. Earth looked panicked as he gazed at Sun, trying desperately to cling to his robes. “Hm... So this is the world that is causing much gossip.”

S2 seemed to tower over Earth, his eyes staring at the child. Earth winced, turning his eyes away, not wanting to stare at the S-Type Star for long. He was unnerving, he was... intimidating.

“I scare you, child? Good. Because not all of us Stars are as soft as yours,” S2 grabbed Earth by the chin, turning his eyes back. A predatory smile came to his features. “A small insignificant Star has accomplished something on a small insignificant world. How unfair...”

Sun puffed himself up, but Proxima shook her head, keeping her arms around her own world. The Sun wanted to go forwards, and take his world back. Jupiter was even looking anxious, his tail flicking rapidly at the end, as he looked at the Star for some backup. The Sun stepped forwards, placing his hands on Earth’s shoulders, and started to slowly pull him back towards him. The movement caused S2 to grab the Sun by the left wrist, squeezing tightly –

“What is all this hubbub about?”

S2 released the Sun, and he was able to pull Earth back immediately. Jupiter approached and took the frightened planet into his arms, looking at the Sun, determined to get instructions. But when the Sun tilted his head, and S2 backed off, the Gas Giant relaxed.

A woman clothed entirely in black, with long black hair, and dark skin, stepped into the group. Her eyes were golden, fiery, and her robes were adorned with many stars of different colours and patterns. Her collar held a golden chain, which curled over one shoulder, locked with a swirling broach. Around her head was beautiful golden leaves, a bow on a seal in the centre. Her eyes scrutinised them, before turning to face S2 with a puff of indignation.

“Explain yourself.”

“It turns out young Helios here has been hiding the source of your visions, my Queen,” S2 rumbled. He threw a look at Sun, who pulled Earth as far back as possible. Hiding him. The child was clinging to the Sun’s robes, eyes shut. A coping mechanism that he had gained after the Belt incident. “The child has Life. And Helios has not disclosed this to the rest of us.”

The woman turned her eyes to Sun, then looked down at Earth. A kind expression came to her features, as she approached, squatting down before Earth to bring herself to his level. She gave a gentle clearing of her throat, causing the Sun to tap Earth on his head. The child opened his eyes, blue-green into black and gold, before he cowered away.

“It is alright, little world. I will not hurt you,” The woman gave a gentle touch of Earth’s cheek. “What is your name, my child?”

Sun gave a nod when his world glances at him, so the child turned back to the woman.

“Earth, miss.”

“You are speaking to our Queen, Sagittarius A*,” S2 rumbled, glaring at Sun. The smaller Star winced, turning his eyes away. “You will address her appropriately, planet, or be disciplined.”

“S2, shut up when I am talking,” The woman said, a bite to her voice. Her eyes burned brighter, causing the Star to cower away. She gave a kind smile as she returned her gaze to Earth. “Ignore him, little one. You are young, and learning. But already, you have a great burden on your shoulders. And we have been poor hosts so far to you, your friend, and your Star. Do you know who and what I am, little one?”

Earth shook his head, and Sun winced. He hadn’t managed to educate the Earth yet in Galactic Politics, and he especially didn’t want his world to meet the Supermassive Black Hole. But he was stuck, and now everybody knew. Was this what his world felt when he announced to his System about him having Life?

“I apologise, my Queen. I haven’t covered that in his schooling.”

“You are quite alright, Helios,” The woman stood, giving an affectionate stroke of Earth’s hair. Sun gave Earth a nudge to Jupiter, who held him instantly in his arms, lifting Earth up. “You and your system have accomplished something impossible. I will talk with you, in private, after we have taken your world to the Nebulas. There are new Stars born, and I am sure your World of Life would be interested in playing with the children. They are not quite dangerous, and I am sure he would find it refreshing to interact with others his own age, and not engage in politics.”

“My Queen...” S2 started, but the woman raised a finger. The S-Type Star winced, stepping back.

“S2, if you speak again without my permission, you will find yourself losing mass and sustenance quicker than you can say your name,” Her voice was now demonic. Sagittarius straightened as she turned to face the S-Type Star, bearing down on him with such intimidation that he cowered. The moment passed, and Sagittarius gave a motherly smile as she lifted Earth out of the Sun’s grasp, beckoning the Star and Jupiter to follow.

“Come.”

It was several long hours of discussion before Sun and Jupiter made their way out the meeting. Jupiter carried a sleeping Earth in his arms, keeping himself quiet as the Sun walked slightly ahead of him. The Star glanced at Earth, hoping that nothing was happening in his Solar System, mainly because they were wondering why Earth was not interacting with them.

The Sun paused when he saw someone waiting for him. Proxima was sitting by the fountain, alone, no doubt having sent her world back to their Planetary Form. The Red Dwarf stood when she saw the Sun, who whispered to Jupiter to get home with Earth. He had to speak to Proxima before leaving.

Once his Gas Giant and World of Life was away, Sun turned to his friend with a wince. Proxima looked hurt as she stepped towards him, and the Sun opened his mouth to try and speak with her.

“It’s okay,” Proxima whispered. She stopped before him. “I understand, Helios. You don’t need to apologise.”

“No, Proxima, I do,” Sun said softly. He took her hand, squeezing gently. “I should have told you sooner. Before it was publicly stated. I had no intentions of subjecting my World to such scrutiny by the other Stars and Planets either.”

“I know,” Proxima sighed. She opened her arms, and hugged the Sun, making him start, but he hugged her back. “Take care of that little world. And yourself. And please, if you need any help at any time... don’t hesitate to shout for me.”

Chapter Text

The Sun always marvelled at the resilience of his planets. How they stood in the face of adversity, how they supported each other and gave encouragement to those who needed to be picked up. His Core swelled whenever he saw Jupiter and Saturn giving their time to the Rockies, guiding them in their problems. He wished deeply the sentiment was shared with the Ice Giants, but he knew he couldn't intervene in those matters. The Ice Giants were aloof, and rarely spoke to others outside of Saturn’s orbit. 

His eyes turned to his youngest world. Earth had flourished these last 4 billion years. When he was a teenager, he had started his attitude problems, and sometimes Sun wanted to strangle him, but he was still a lovely boy. He looked up to Venus and Mars, and always hung around with the Red Planet. Mars seemed to have taken such an interest in the blossoming world, and it warmed Sun's Core. But as he suffered another cataclysmic extinction, Sun worried somewhat about his planet’s mental health. 

Now as the planet approached adulthood, Sun watched from a distance. Only intervening when he was required, such as when Earth tried to throw himself. Granted Sun could not do much without hurting the planet and his Life, and could only watch in distress as the Earth hurtled to his Roche Limit. Thankfully, he had stopped... but the stress was so bad he felt ready to turn into a Red Giant there and then. He swore that Earth would be the one to kill him, whether through his idiocy or something else.

"NOT THE TWO OF DIAMONDS!"

Sun turned his eyes back to the quartet of Rocky Planets as they continued their game of cards. Mercury’s screech, followed by the groans of Earth and Mars as Venus gave a triumphant laugh. The Volcanic World pulled the pile of meteorites to him, yelling "I'M RICH!". Sun wasn't sure the meteorites would appreciate that.

It was then that Sun felt the familiar tug on his consciousness. His eyes scanned the edges of his System, before he cleared his throat. The act caused the Rocky Planets to pause their game, looking at him intently. Almost trembling as they prepared for the eventual scolding for being outside their orbits. But this was something that Sun had planned. He needed to do this so that Earth regained some much needed help, advice... and closure. After the events on Area 51, Earth needed some prompting that things were worth it.

Another tug.

Sun gave a smile, turning his attention back to the Rocky Planets. Most specifically, Earth. As gently as possible, he said that he and Earth had to attend a meeting, in the Arm Mindscapes. Those who resided in the Arm of Orion could extend their influence to others, but it was brief. And only with permission from the Lower Council members that were part of the Core. Fortunately they were accepting. 

So, when he and Earth entered the mindscape, Helios gave a warm glance at his planet. Earth looked unsure. His eyes darted at the scars on his left arm, and Helios felt saddened he could do nothing to help. Saturn had already stated he was doing everything within his power to heal the arm, but it would take time. And Earth needing to prove himself was worsening the injury.

He had her stubbornness for definite. 

"Sun, why are we here?" Earth asked of his Star, as the pair began walking from the gateway to the beautiful crystal gardens. Sun could sense others already waiting. "And why me? Usually Jupiter accompanies you, and..."

"There is a special reason why I want you along with me," Helios responded. He placed a comforting hand on Earth’s shoulder, guiding him forward. "You have been struggling recently. I know because I have been watching you closely. So... I think this will give you an added boost to your confidence. A confidence you lost due to what happened with your own Earthlings."

Earth’s smaller ears flattened somewhat. He looked at Sun, unsure, and stopping. Causing Sun to pause and look at him as well, confused.

"I... don't know..."

"If you do not try, you will never try again," Helios stepped forward, looking back over his shoulder at Earth. "Come along."

Earth groaned. He stepped behind Helios, his head tilted downwards as he followed the Star, his hands deep in the pockets of his black jeans. Helios turned his eyes forward, a small smile crawling on his features as he raised his hand to open the large, ornate gate that led into the walled crystal garden before them. The latch creaked, rusting from lack of use, before giving way to allow the Star and his planet to enter. Earth winced at the noise but didn't comment.

Helios stepped aside, allowing Earth to take in the sight.

Stars. Of varying colours. From red, yellow, orange... but not just Stars but worlds. Planets and moons. All bearing one key similarity.

Water. In some shape or form. Whether it was Methane, or other, or Earth’s form. Only broken by landmass. Each world and star had varying features, some with feline features, others like Helios and Earth, some looking like oversized rabbits, reptiles, or whatever. But that was not where the similarities ended. Because as Helios could sense, as did Earth, there was more.

Life.

They all had Life.

In different forms, from the smallest of microbes to the largest of species. Not to the sophistication of Earth’s own, not yet, but they still possessed Life. 

Their eyes all turned to Earth and Helios, who placed a comforting hand on his planet’s shoulder. The conversation became silent, awe in the faces of the younger worlds but respect in others. Then, the whispers finally started.

"It's him!"

"Is that... Earth? He looks so young! I thought he would be older?"

"The First!" A child in a Star's arm called happily. She wriggled. "The First! It's Earth!"

Helios felt his grin increase as more worlds came forward, all coming to Earth. His planet was overwhelmed, looking among them all with wide eyes. Unable to comprehend what was going on. His azure eyes turned to Helios, who nodded and gave a wave with his hand, telling Earth to go. 

"Hello!" The girl from before managed to barge through. She was half Earth’s size, with a small feline tail and elven ears. Her skin was blue, broken only by large spots of landmass. Her eyes were mismatched, her hair in a messy cut. "I am Aristosa!"

"Hello, Aristosa," Earth stammered. Helios could see his planet didn't know what to make of this. Yet he could see how overwhelmed Earth was at seeing all the other worlds of life, even the moons. But Helios hoped it would boost his mood, take it out the bottomless pit he had found himself in. 

"Can you teach me how to look after my life?" Aristosa squeaked. Her hand took Earth’s, dragging him forward. The others began following, curious themselves. "I want to love my life too! I want it to flourish and grow and..."

Her small voice trailed away as they moved off, leaving the Stars be to converse amongst themselves. Helios greeted those who came towards him, answering their questions politely as best as possible. One Star, a Red Dwarf, came forwards with a gentle smile. He recognised her from her patterns that she was Lyse, who was the Star of the little girl. All Red Dwarves possessed a pinkish or orange hue, with vibrant red locks marked with orange or yellow. Their eyes were also dark red in the irises, with white sclera, and their bodies demonstrated their small and fierce forms by becoming feline or elven. 

"Greetings, Helios," She tilted her head in respect to him.

"And to you, Lyse. I see you have developed Life?"

"Yes, my little Aristosa," She had pride in her features. "In the habital line between day and night. Small microbes but it still counts. She is so desperate for it to grow and flourish, ans her two sisters help when they can."

Ah, two Moons? Helios was starting to see that Theia was right... maybe a moon helped with life. But two? But he decided to not speak about that, and maybe research it in Jupiter’s library at a later date. 

"She seems taken by Earth," Helios decided to state, watching as his youngest sat on a bench with others. Aristosa was asking him rapid firing questions, to the amusement of the others. 

"She heard about it from a Comet, so when your message crossed my system, I decided to allow her access to the mindscape so she could meet him. She was determined to help by any means," Her eyes scanned Helios. "Life is a chore for those who have it. We are lucky to have young worlds who see the good in everything, even when they shouldn't."

Helios couldn't help but agree. 

"Earth has felt the effects of his life in recent years, seeing he maybe isn't alone in this venture would help out. I only hope this compels him to improve. And realise he is not at fault for the horrors of his own life."

Pain was everlasting, Helios thought bitterly. If left unchecked, it would only grow into a maelstrom of bitterness. He was angry once, with Proto and Theia. How they disregarded his pain and suffering to go on a risk. On a one in a Million chance, with a 99.9% of failure.

Yet, they succeeded. In creating a world of Life. With a moon. That 0.1% was enough to give Theia and Proto the confidence needed. 

If there was a chance...

Life found a way.

Chapter Text

It had been twenty years since he had last been in the Solar System. 

The travelling was difficult with a toddler, but Aries managed it as best as he could. His baby girl was not quite used to the travelling, even with the distraction techniques that they had constantly practised in the weeks before the day they left the Core. It did not help that his baby girl was crying so hard about leaving her grandmother, and fortunately, Sagittarius worked her magic touch and calmed her granddaughter with kisses and a promise they would meet again in a week. That she would really enjoy being in the Solar System, meeting others who were not the pompous individuals in the Core. Her aunt, Carina, had given her cuddles too. While not much older, she was mature beyond her years. Being a Princess came with some perks. But at least she did not have the stress that her older brother had. Aries had the constant weight of his mother possibly dying one day, and he having to fight for his Throne. 

The portal finally opened, and he breathed a sigh of relief as he and S1 stepped through. Only for him to be met with the familiar and fiery form of Helios. 

The Yellow Dwarf stepped forward, his blue eyes cold as he approached the prince. He tilted his head, a curl coming to his lip. Aries knew why: Helios did not forgive so easily, and he was not going to criticize him for acting so aggressively. But when Helios noted the now sleeping toddler in the arms of S1, his brow was arched and his gaze softened. The Dwarf Star sighed, his posture softening, before he gave a gentle smile at the sight. 

"I see you have your own now."

"Yes, Lord Helios," Aries saw his daughter wriggle in the arms of S1, reaching for him. He felt a smile tug on his face, taking his daughter into his arms and smoothing his hand over her hair. His daughter rested her head against his collar, placing her thumb in her mouth to suck for comfort. Helios made his expression gentler, leaning towards the toddler with a small smile. Aries felt his daughter bury herself further into his collar and turned his mouth to plant a gentle kiss on her soft hair. "Say hello, Sagi. This is a friend of mine, and he will not hurt you."

Sagi blinked, glancing up at her father while S1 approached, resting a hand on her daughter's hair. Aries watched his wife smooth down his daughter's dual coloured hair of white-gold and black, Sagi's eyes mirroring his own. She took after him with his features, even down to the diamond on her forehead, her cheeks adorned by rosettes like her mother. She didn't have the tail, though, which Aries was happy for. Sagi liked pulling his tail too much, and his daughter pulling his tail had caused too many embarrassing moments in the corridors and post-meetings. Once, Sagi had pulled at his tail and caused him to jump several feet in the air. 

His mother had been the recipient of the pulling tail saga, but was taking it with more grace than he was. She had commented that Aries probably would have done the same... it saddened him that she had missed his entire childhood, but she had said she would not miss Sagi growing up either. 

"Hewwo," Sagi said, shy all of a sudden. Helios chuckled, carefully offering his hand so she could take it and give her a small shake. "I am Pwincess Sagi."

"An honour to meet you, Princess," Helios said gently. His eyes turned to Aries, S1 coming forth to try to take her daughter. But Sagi protested, yet allowed her mother to take her. She knew when she had to let her father adopt the persona of a Prince. "I have a few younger Celestials here who would be good playmates. The Moons of Neptune will be able to keep her busy."

"I suppose being eternally young has its benefits," Aries rumbled. His daughter tried to grab his tail, and S1 pulled her back to stabilise her in her arms, telling her not to do that. "It would be good for Sagi to interact with children and not adults. It can be lonely for her."

"There are ways to sort that," Helios said with a grin. 

Prince and Princess both coughed, with a flush appearing on their cheeks. Aries looked at S1, who shook her head frantically.

"We are waiting for more children, High Lord Helios," She said shakily. "Sagi is enough at present. I know Lord S23 has a moon who is young, and we are going to arrange play dates. But another baby is not on the table."

Helios glanced back to see that his Gas Giants had taken up a watchful position a few feet behind him. He sighed before turning to look at Sagi. She looked afraid at seeing the size of Jupiter and Saturn, but gave a small smile as he leaned toward her. 

"That is Jupiter and Saturn. They are my Gas Planets, and they would never hurt a fly. They are very kind and look!" He indicated the pair. "They have tails!"

"Tails!" Sagi repeated happily, wriggling to get down from her mother's arms. S1 let her down, and Sagi rushed up to the two planets, going to introduce herself. Jupiter chuckled at her, squatting, but Sagi was mesmerised by his much more fluffy and intricate tail than her father’s own. "Hai!"

"Please, don't encourage her, Helios," S1 asked tiredly with a smile. "I have enough jumping with Aries and the Queen when she pulls their tails." She leaned into her husband's side, Aries bringing his arm around her and resting back to her. "We have already had to replace my favourite vase at home. I don’t want more jumping felines to cause more damage elsewhere."

"Let children be children," Helios said gently. "She is experiencing the world around her. Pushing boundaries. This is normal."

"You sound like you have experience?" Aries questioned him.

"If you call rebellious planets experience, sure," Helios snipped. He turned his eyes back to Sagi as she, as per Jupiter’s instruction, looked over his tail. Jupiter did not mind the younger moons playing with his tail, and Sagi was no exception. "Earth and Luna were rebellious as youngsters."

"I can see Earth, but Luna?" Aries repeated. The planet's moon was always a stickler, kept Earth in his place, and now Aries was hearing he was a rebel at his Core? "We are talking about the same Luna, yes?"

"He took part in a revolution, which is why he got kidnapped back in Area 51. He turned against the rebellious moons and tried to defend Earth and others. Luna is very loyal to a fault," Helios tilted his head as Sagi was lifted by Jupiter. S1 tensed by Aries, who whispered a comfort that it was fine. Jupiter was gentle, and on closer inspection, they could see Sagi was curious about his braiding. Jupiter had acquired some smaller braids. "They are brothers through and through. I just wish Proto and Theia could see them grow. It... hasn't been easy."

"It never is," Aries felt a great sadness as he looked at Sagi. One day, his daughter would be grown up, exploring the Universe... and leave him and S1 behind. It was a saddening thought that his daughter would be independent from them and maybe have her own family. Aries dreaded that day... but also looked forward to the moment his daughter could stand on her own feet. Aries would realise he and S1 had done their job well if she could. 

S1 pressed a hand on his chest, and he looked down at her. She had a saddened smile, realising his thoughts shared her own. Aries pressed his forehead to hers as she moved much closer into his side. 

"Morbid topic aside," Helios said after a moment of watching his two largest planets and Sagi. "I can fetch Earth and Luna. But... please be aware Earth is not the same as when you last saw him."

Concern filled Aries as he moved to look at Helios. The Star was saddened as he watched Sagi, his pale blue eyes betraying his inner emotions. Aries felt S1 move to go collect their daughter and stepped to Helios.

"How bad has it become?"

"Bad. His fever is high, and he is secluded at times. Too exhausted. Venus is getting very concerned as is Mars, and Luna refuses to leave Earth’s side. Those humans... they are killing him." Helios scowled. "If he didn’t have his magnetic field, I would have incinerated those humans for what they are doing to him. It is disgusting, deplorable, and they are long overdue for eradication."

"Not all humans are like that," Aries argued.

"True. But the majority of them are selfish pigs. Earth does so much for them all, and they are betraying him. He should have a lifeform that actually cares for him."

"It hurts me. All the drilling and fracking. And the worst thing? These so-called superpower countries don't give a shit about it. I'm their only home, and once I die, they die. They don't seem to get it, Viktor."

Viktor turned his eyes back to Earth, saddened at the words being spoken. Earth was trying to remove a piece of plastic from a turtle, but it was hurting him. Plastic seemed to irritate Earth’s skin. But the blatant disrespect irritated Earth more. 

"I am sure they will. Imagine the shock if they can actually talk to you like I am now!"

"That won't change anything. Selfishness breeds selfishness, the same with greed."

Aries watched as S1 returned to his side with Sagi, who was angry that she was taken from Jupiter. Helios asked the two largest planets to collect Earth and Luna before leading the pair to his compound. Sagi's anger evaporated instantly at the sight of the building, and she began fussing to try to get down to explore. But S1 held her daughter tight to prevent her from moving and possibly knocking things over. Helios opened a door into his meeting chamber, smiling as they entered, before giving a nod to Aries. Aries tilted his head back in respect, before Helios closed the door behind him to give them some time to ready.

Aries removed his backpack, opening the top to reveal a playmat for Sagi with some toys. He opened a small box to fetch some biscuits, holding one between his teeth before offering it to his daughter, who picked one happily. S1 wasted no time in brushing through her hair to try to tame the curls and waves, as Aries began setting up the mat for his daughter to play her toys on. S1 crouched down and joined her daughter, taking a small puzzle toy and helping her place the shapes and pieces within. 

He was nervous. Aries sat in a seat, smiling gently at his daughter as Sagi began giving a small sing song, focused on her task.

The door opened…

Aries stood up, turning to face the newcomer while his daughter hid behind her mother. A smile broke to his features as he saw a familiar moon and planet enter, their features lighting up at seeing Aries.

”Aries!” Luna ran to the prince, who hugged him tightly. “You are here? When did you arrive?”

”Not too long ago, we are here for a couple of days and then heading home,” Aries beamed at Luna, before his eyes saw Earth. Horror almost took over him at the sight of his home, at how murky and barren he almost looked. Very little green was around. His ice was pretty much gone, and his landmasses had shrunk somewhat from the flooding due to his melting ice caps. 

“Earth…” Aries sounded distressed as he approached. “What happened..?”

”It’s… nothing.” The planet forced a smile on his face, but it was pained. “Don’t worry about it. Helios said you were here, and wanted to see us?”

”Ye-Yeah,” Aries eyed him, before feeling a tug on his tail. Glancing down he chuckled at his daughter as she pulled at his tail, smoothing her hands over the black velvet fur. He pulled his tail out her grip, before scooping her up. 

“Oh!” Luna had a large grin. “Who is this?”

”Someone I wanted you to meet,” Aries said softly, a grin breaking his features. S1 stood, clearly forgotten as their daughter had taken advantage of her father’s distraction to play with his tail. “This is Sagi, my daughter.”

Sagi became shy, leaning into her father’s shoulder and hiding her face in his hair. Aries laughed at her, before pressing a kiss to her forehead, as S1 came to him and leaned affectionately to his other side. 

“You have a kid,” Earth smiled welcomingly, leaning to Sagi. “Hey there… I’m Earth, and this wonderful person is Luna. We won’t hurt you, I promise.”

”Earf and Oona?” Sagi repeated, now no longer shy as her ears perked up. She beamed, now sitting more comfortable in her father’s shoulder. “Unca Earf and Oona?”

”Uncle?” Luna repeated, awed.

”You’re my Uncas!” Sagi beamed. She wriggled, wanting over, and Aries managed to put her down. Sagi rushed to them, Earth squatting down and smiling politely at her. “Daddy said so!”

”Oh, Aries…” Earth sounded tearful. His azure eyes looked up at Aries and S1, who placed her head against Aries’s shoulder. “She is perfect.”

Sagi beamed at the compliment, before pulling them over to the play mat. Earth sat down beside her, Luna taking some blocks, settling in to play with the Princess.

Aries relaxed, sitting with S1 as he watched his Brothers play with his child. His eyes shone with tears at how easy that Sagi took to them, his biggest fear now proven wrong.