Warning: This story contains sensitive content that may upset some readers, including scenes of sexual intercourse, behaviors associated with disordered eating, the use of psychedelic drugs, a depiction of an emotionally abusive relationship, and a graphic description of a violent sexual assault. Reader discretion is advised.

Chapter 1

“System Notification! Arrival at planet HD1897-B in: 1 hour, 15 minutes. Now preparing for descent. Please follow proper safety protocol for landing.”

The sound of Galaxia’s voice rattled throughout the spaceship. Still lounging in bed, Star’s antennae immediately perked up upon hearing the announcement. She jumped out of bed and bolted into the main hub, eager to see the stats on this brand new planet. After punching a few buttons at the navigation board, a holographic screen appeared with all the data Galaxia had gathered.

“Let’s see... wow! There’s so much information! So this planet is called Eros.”

The starling expanded a few images from the spaceship’s files, mumbling aloud to herself.

“Interesting. There aren’t any big land formations here, just small tropical islands covered in jungles and mountains. And we’re headed for the biggest one: Valivipa! Ooooh... apparently this place is a super popular honeymoon destination!”

A quick online search produced a helpful article.

“’Valivipa is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and numerous cultural heritages sites, including ancient temples, palaces, and animal sanctuaries. While you’re here, you may be invited by the locals to take part in ceremony, which includes a performance of traditional dances as offerings made to the gods...’“

“Oh my stars!!” her eyes lit up with wonder and excitement. “This place sounds like paradise! Galaxia, let’s land as soon as possible!!”

She stationed herself at the dashboard, taking care to follow proper protocol for landing. The steps were the same as always.

Enable the transparency shields.

Gravity system set to automatic.

Disable all exterior lights.

Slow acceleration down to 0.2 lightyears per second.

All was going well, until they were about to breach the atmosphere of the planet. Galaxia suddenly began to tremble, setting off an alarm that blared throughout the main hub.

A sudden jolt of anxiety ripped through her chest. There shouldn’t have been any turbulence. They were still in orbit. Eyes darted out the window, and upon seeing what was outside, the starling’s heart dropped to the ground.

An asteroid was heading straight towards them.

No... not just one. Several!

They were in the midst of a meteor shower with nowhere to run!

“Warning! Warning! Asteroid field detected! Collision imminent!”

“Galaxia! Enable all defensive shields and use evasive maneuver 1218!”

The spaceship obeyed, weaving through the onslaught of space debris with utmost precision and miraculously avoiding every asteroid on its path. Several tense, terror-filled minutes passed before they finally reached the outer layer of the atmosphere.

Star let out a sigh of relief. That was way too close! But just when she thought they were safe-

BOOM!

“Warning! Warning! Transparency shields damaged! Now functioning at 64%. Warning! Warning! Defensive shields damaged! Now functioning at 89%.”

The spaceship rattled at the sudden impact. Hands tightly grasped the gear sticks at the dashboard, a desperate and futile attempt to regain control. The lights in the main hub flickered as they barreled towards the world below. Star furiously slammed a group of buttons on the dashboard in a last ditch effort to save them both.

There was no other option.

“Galaxia, start emergency landing protocol!” she cried. “Oh no, oh no, oh no, how do I do this again? Shut down the thrusters, enable the emergency silencer... what else? Oh, stars, please don’t let anybody spot us!”

It was the best she could do at this point. The transparency shields were not at full power, which meant they could potentially be spotted by planet dwellers upon landing. This meant committing the biggest starling taboo.

But it was better than a crash landing. This would at least spare Galaxia some damage and prevent injury to the lifeforms on the ground. The ship had to be kept functioning at a basic operating status, just in case they needed to evacuate.

They ground grew closer and closer with each second. Star squeezed her eyes shut, clutching the controls with tight fists.

“Emergency landing protocol in progress. Impact in ten... nine... eight... seven... six... five... four... three... two... one...”

Once the ship’s doors opened, Star stumbled out and fell face first onto the ground. Dizzy and lightheaded, she pushed herself up to a seated position and attempted to gather her bearings.

The sound of birds and animals chirped all around, along with a faint whisper of rushing water. It was night time. The world was dark, except for the sparkling stars that danced around the planet’s many moons. A grove of tall fruit trees stretched high into the sky, blocking out most of the moonlight. They must have landed somewhere deep in one of Eros’ wild jungles.

Physically she felt okay, other than a little bit of soreness. A quick scan of her arms and legs showed no visible injury. Nothing seemed broken, either. That was good at least.

There didn’t seem to be people around. If by some miracle they had managed to go unseen, that would be a huge relief.

But... her ship. What kind of shape was Galaxia in? Star swung around, eyes widening with horror.

Galaxia was still in one piece. However, there was damage to the outer layer, and both the defensive and transparency shields were functioning at an even lower percentage than before. The spaceship was clearly visible to the naked eye, even through the dense foliage of the jungle. Anyone walking by would be able to see.

“Oh, no... what am I gonna do?” Star mused aloud, desperately trying to come up with a solution. But as she stood puzzling, things went from bad to worse.

“...Hello? Is anyone there?”

Panic struck when a soft, feminine voice cut through the darkness. Should she rush back to the ship? Galaxia seemed to be in pretty bad shape. There might not be enough power in the engine to take off, and if not, the noise would only serve to attract more curious eyes.

The footsteps grew closer. There was no more time.

She was going to get caught.

Tears welled up and cascaded down her cheeks, dropping into the soft grass below. Everything was falling apart. Maybe it had been foolish to believe she was ready to journey into space alone. What would her family say when they heard about her committing taboo? The consequences would most likely be far worse than she could imagine...

“Hey, are you alright?”

The stranger pushed aside a thick brush of leaves and stepped into the small clearing where Star lay alone. She was a beautiful woman, one with shimmering russet skin and short, wavy purple hair. Emerald eyes sparkled in the dark, full of concern and worry as they gazed upon the crying starling.

“Don’t come any closer!!” she cried, raising shaky arms in a poor attempt to hide her face.

“What’s wrong?” the woman asked, taking a step closer. “I’m not going to hurt you. I just want to help.”

“No... just go away... please...”

“Wait, you’re...”

Star curled into a fetal position. Sharp, shallow breaths caused air to rush into her head, leaving the girl feeling dizzy and sick.

“Just breathe, okay?” the woman knelt down, dropping her voice to a whisper. “In and out. Just like that.”

Star followed the rhythm of her words and breathed deeply. The soothing tone quelled her rapid heartbeat, along with a comforting hand rubbing circles on her back. The flurry of tears slowly began to dry.

“There you go. It’s going to be alright.”

“No it’s not... you don’t understand, I’m going to be in so much trouble!”

“You don’t need to worry about that. You’re a starling, aren’t you?”

Star looked up, gawking at the stranger. “...How did you know that?!”

“Because,” the woman touched a white crescent moon shaped clip on the left side of her head, one that Star hadn’t noticed until now. “I’m a starling, too.”

A great transformation took place right before her eyes. The woman’s appearance slowly began to fade away, like a dream upon waking. Purple hair became light blonde, golden locks gently falling over brown shoulders. Green eyes turned gold, and the red attire wrapped around her slim curves became a silk lavender dress. A familiar twinkle of starlight danced in her gaze. She smiled warmly, melting away the last of Star’s fears.

“You’re really a starling...?”

“Yes. From KOI-55B. Gold Planet.”

“♩♪♫♬? ♪♫♩♪♫♬?”

“♫. ♩♪♫♬♩♪♫♬♩♪♫♬.”

“♪♫! ♩♪♩♪♫♬♩♪!”

The two began to converse in the starling tongue, their warbled notes ringing through the jungle air. It came effortlessly, freeing parts of her soul that had gone unsung for decades. There were many things that could not be expressed in the Universal Standard Language, all of which were released with just a few simple words. The last of her tears finally ceased, the remaining fear admonished.

“Wait...” Star quickly switched back, brows furrowed in confusion. “You sound... weird.”

“That’s because we’re from separate star systems. There are many starling dialects in the universe.”

“I’ve never met a starling outside of Pink Planet before.”

“Hmm... did you just recently begin your space voyage?”

“Yes. I just left home not too long ago.”

“I see. That makes more sense, then. How old are you?”

Star fell silent. The answer to that would arouse suspicion.

“Um... it’s hard to convert time on other planets...”

“Just tell me how old you are in Galactic Years. I’m around 2000 years old, give or take.”

After going back and forth for a moment contemplating the consequences of honesty, she finally confessed with a hesitant sigh.

“...I’m around 350 Galactic years.”

“What? You’re so young. How were you able to leave home so soon?”

“I, um - I had special permission!”

As much as she hated to lie, this was a secret that had to be kept no matter what. Fortunately, the other starling didn’t press any further.

“It sounds like you’ve got an interesting story to tell. Maybe you can fill me in me later. But for now we should probably stick to the Universal Standard Language. This planet is still in the early stages of interstellar development.”

“Oh, right...” Star frowned with a trembling lower lip.

“What’s wrong? Are you hurt?”

“No, but Galaxia got injured! While we were descending, we got caught in a meteor shower and had to make an emergency landing! Her transparency shields are damaged so someone might have seen us! Then we made a hard landing and... and I don’t know if she’s going to be okay! Everything went wrong and it’s all my fault...”

The tears began anew. The young starling sobbed quietly with her face in both hands.

“It’s alright, really,” the other woman spoke softly. “You landed far away from the city. There aren’t a lot of people out here. Besides, everyone’s gathered on the opposite side of town to watch the meteor shower. I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who saw or heard anything.”

“But, still... Galaxia was hurt because of me...”

“And Galaxia will heal. Our spaceships were built to regenerate with starlight. Just give her some time, and she’ll be as good as new.”

“I’m a bad pilot... how could I let this happen?”

“Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. When I tried landing on my very first planet, I accidentally collided with a rocket and had to flee immediately.”

Star wiped her eyes. “Really?”

“Mhm. It was a small planet in a far off galaxy. They had just developed space technology, and that was their first time launching a rocket. Fortunately I had my transparency shields enabled so they didn’t see me. But I felt awful for messing up their first rocket launch.”

“Was your spaceship okay?”

“Asha was a little banged up, but she fully recovered after a few months.”

“I wonder how long it’ll take for Galaxia to heal...” her eyes glanced over to the silent ship a short distance away.

“Well, why don’t we take a look at her now to assess the damage? Maybe it’s not as bad as you think.”

Still sniffling, Star nodded. “By the way, what’s your name?”

The woman smiled and extended her hand. “My real name is ♬♫♬, but you can call me Venus.”

“That’s so pretty... My name is ♩♪♫♬! But my nickname is Star.”

“Ah, that’s a very sacred name. You must be a very special kind of starling.”

“I’m not! I’m just... an ordinary one!”

The other starling chuckled. “Right, of course. Well, ordinary one, let’s go see how Galaxia is doing.”

The two approached the battered spaceship, circling around to gauge the condition.

“What a beautiful color,” Venus commented. “I don’t see any serious damage besides the outer shields. Those are easy to regenerate, it shouldn’t take too long. But let’s check the interior too. Just to be safe.”

Star nodded, placing a careful hand on Galaxia’s outer layer. A door manifested before their eyes, allowing the two starlings to step inside.

“Wow...” Venus placed a hand on the sparkling walls of the spaceship, pulling away to find hints of stardust on her palms. “Absolutely dazzling. I’ve never seen a starling ship like this before.”

Her praise went unheard, as Star fussed anxiously at the dashboard. She managed to pull up a blueprint of Galaxia’s interior on the holographic screen and was scrutinizing it with panicked eyes.

“I can’t figure out where the rest of the damage is...”

Venus appeared from behind, peering over her shoulder. “Hmm... have you run a diagnostics test?”

“Oh, yeah! Um...”

“Go to General Settings, then Network Diagnostics,” Venus stepped in to assist, fingers moving swiftly over the screen. Within seconds the diagnostic test was running. Moments later, detailed results came back.

“Okay, so the engine took some damage, but it’s minimal,” Venus’s eyes scanned the data. “It’ll need some time to regenerate. I’m guessing a couple months at most.”

“What about the other parts?”

“The thrusters and defensive shields don’t look too good, either. I mean, they’re still operable, but I suggest diverting some of the internal starpower to those sections so they can heal more quickly.”

“Okay! Uhh... how do I do that?”

Venus raised a brow. “You... don’t know how to divert power banks?”

“Well, I haven’t had to do it until now...”

“But you practiced in piloting class, right?”

When the young starling’s eyes fell to the ground, Venus placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.

“Hey, I get it. Piloting was my worst subject too. I had to study really hard to get to this point. But it’s best to learn on the job anyway, right? I’ll show you how. Watch closely, okay? It’s actually pretty easy.”

Star closely followed Venus’s demonstration as the older starling walked through each step with patience, taking ample time to explain each action.

“By the way... you know you’ve had safety locks enabled this whole time, right?”

“What?!”

“Look.”

She pointed out another feature in System Settings, one that Star hadn’t noticed until now.

“Don’t worry, I turned it off. You should be able to use hyperspeed now.”

“Wait, I could’ve used hyperspeed to travel this whole time!?”

“I don’t recommend it for extremely long distances,” Venus advised. “You’d basically be using all of your engine power just for a one way trip. But it’s good for emergencies, or when your ETA is within a year. Just keep in mind that you’ll need a lot of time to recharge your ship afterwards. Depending on the planet or your location in space, it could take anywhere between a few weeks to a few months.”

“Oh, wow!” Star was in awe. “Thank you for teaching me all of this!”

“No problem,” Venus beamed. “I could teach you a lot more if you like.”

“Yes, please!”

The two shared a smile, then a yawn.

“You must be exhausted,” the older starling commented.

“Yeah... and you, too. It’s pretty late here, right? We should get some rest.”

“Say... do you want to sleep together?”

Star’s face broke into a wide smile. “Yes!! I’d love to!”

“Awesome! Your place, or mine?”

“Mine. Since we’re already here.”

Star happily guided her guest towards the bedroom. When they stepped inside, Venus looked around in amazement. There were small model planets in every color hanging from the ceiling, along with tiny golden lights shaped like distant stars. The bed itself was massive, with a firm mattress and a gradient lavender-pink blanket neatly made. Cute little stuffed animals laid next to ivory pillows, which were placed near the giant window with a view of the dense jungle outside. A radio playing quiet music and a small potted plant sat on a nearby table; Star turned it off, then poured some fresh water in the upturned dirt.

“Do you need anything?” she asked while digging two pairs of pajamas out from a drawer on the other side of the room. “A glass of water, or a midnight snack...?”

“I’m okay for now, thanks,” Venus happily accepted the two piece set that Star handed to her and quickly changed out of her day clothes. “I love your bedroom. It’s so cute.”

“Thanks!” Star finished changing as well, then plopped down on her usual side of the bed. Venus shortly followed suit. The two laid on their sides facing one another, quietly making themselves comfortable.

Starlings had a strange tradition in their culture. By nature, they preferred to sleep with others rather than alone as a sense of protection and safety. This was how most of them were raised. Having a sleeping partner, or multiple sleeping partners, helped them feel more at ease. It didn’t matter what the relationship was between them - friends, family, and lovers alike often shared beds. That was why the space voyage was so important in starling development; they had to learn how to be independent and stop relying on others to regulate their emotions. It was one of the more difficult adjustments that starlings struggled with when they set off from home.

But for now, both of them could practice the old tradition and find comfort in the familiar.

“...Venus?”

“Yes?”

“Can you tell me about some of the places you’ve explored? You’ve been on your space voyage a lot longer than I have. I bet you have a lot of really interesting stories!”

Venus’ eyes lit up. “Of course! What would you like to hear about first?”

“Mmmm, tell me about your first planet!”

“Well... the first place I landed on that I didn’t have to flee was called Sirenia. It was a planet inhabited by merpeople who lived underwater. They called themselves Aquarians.”

“Merpeople?”

“Yes. Lifeforms that were half human, half fish,” Venus smiled. “Their language was similar to ours, as they spoke in song.”

“Wow!” Star sat up in bed with excitement twinkling in her eyes. “That sounds so cool!! So you lived underwater with them?”

“Just for a short time. I started to miss daylight and solid ground, so I left after a few months.”

“Where did you go after that?”

“Hmm, I think I went to Druma next. It’s a planet inhabited by tree people.”

“I know what you’re talking about! I read about it in my sister’s books! They were called Arborians, right?”

“Yep! They were... a bit odd. Arborians spend most of their days talking in circles. It was kinda boring, so I left after a day or two.”

“What about this planet?” Star yawned, head resting on one of the fluffy pillows. “How long have you been here? And can you tell me about the people?”

“Ah, this planet... I’m not sure how much time has passed since I first landed. I lost track long ago. But so far, Eros has been my favorite place I’ve visited. Valivipa island in particular has been amazing.”

“Why’s that?”

“Well, the locals are kind and welcoming. They have beautiful cultural practices. Music, dance, song, and nature are a core part of their lives. And the land itself is said to radiate love. That’s why they call this the planet of lovers.”

“Wait... I think I’ve heard advertisements for this place on the radio!”

“That doesn’t surprise me. Extraterrestrials treat it as an exotic honeymoon destination, so there are a lot of other beings here in disguise, too. I’ll take you to the city tomorrow, you’ll see them there.”

“What’s the city like? What are the...”

The turquoise-haired starling dozed off, leaving her question unfinished. Venus smiled, watching the starling rest peacefully for a few moments before joining her in slumber.

Chapter 2

A gentle beam of morning light snuck through the bedroom window and gently nudged the two starlings awake. Star, feeling well rested for the first time in ages, stretched her arms up high with a yawn. Venus stirred beside her, eyes fluttering open as the last remnants of sleep faded away.

“Good morning,” Star said with a sleepy smile.

“Grand rising.”

“How did you sleep?”

“Amazing,” Venus smiled, a peaceful look on her face. “I haven’t slept that well in a long time.”

“Me too!” Star leapt out of bed and pranced across the room. “You hungry? There’s plenty of food to eat for breakfast! I’ve got umelles, solapples, starfruit, and, uh... moonberries too!”

“Nah, I’m alright for now.”

As Venus freshened up in the bathroom, Star ate her fill of fruit and got dressed. Shortly, the two were ready for the day ahead. Before they stepped outside, however, they both took a moment to generate their avatars.

“Make up, please!”

A white light descended down their bodies from head to toe, drastically altering both hair and clothes. Star’s straight turquoise hair became bubblegum pink with thick bangs that hung over her forehead. Cyan eyes turned azure, and she now donned a white maxi dress with matching sandals.

Venus’s wavy, purple bob from the night before returned, golden locks fading away like a forgotten dream. Her silk pajamas turned into a long, red dress with a hem that stopped at the ankles. Both of their antennae disappeared in the transformation, masking their interstellar origins. Now, they could both blend in with the locals and start their adventure.

“Come on!” Star grabbed her hand excitedly. “Let’s go!”

The city was about an hour’s walk from their hiding spot in the jungle. It was a pleasant trip spent chatting and giggling as the two starlings got to know each other a little better. Time passed quickly, and soon the golden gates of the main entrance appeared before them with a large, bustling city on the other side.

Countless street venders lined the cobblestone roads, selling everything from food to clothes to other trinkets. It was as if the whole town was one big market. The people looked like regular humans, although all had pastel colored hair and dark, vivid eyes. Women and men of all ages filled the streets, air abuzz with chatter and laughter. Venus looped her arm around Star’s, ensuring they would not lose one another in the crowds.

“Wow! This place is amazing!!” Star said a little too loud as she spun around excitedly, earning a few strange looks from passersby.

“Welcome to Ubad,” Venus laughed, nodding at two people across the street. “Look. Remember how I said there are extraterrestrial tourists here? That’s a greyskin couple. Can you tell?”

Star squinted to get a better look. “Oh, yeah! When you really pay attention, it’s obvious they’re not planet dwellers.”

“But regular humans aren’t able to see things the same way that we can. To them, they just look like foreigners.”

“I didn’t realize other species had tech like ours.”

“They do, but starling tech is superior. I mean, come on, the skin grafting looks like a protostar designed it.”

The two of them started snickering amongst themselves.

“That’s mean! We shouldn’t make fun of other life forms!”

“Am I wrong?”

“No!” Star grinned, causing them to erupt into another fit of giggles.

“By the way, are there other starlings here?”

Venus shook her head. “Nope. At least, I haven’t run into any on Valivipa or Denpasa. They might be on other islands, though.”

Star was about to ask her another question, but something at a nearby shop caught her eye. She ran over to the wooden table, excitedly admiring their stock. They were selling a wide variety of goods - fine silks, embroidered clothes, woven baskets, knitted bags, handmade jewelry... all of it captivated the starling’s attention.

“I love this!!” she reached out to touch an embroidered golden scarf.

“500 rupiah,” a voice called out from deep within the shop. The vendor, whom she hadn’t seen until now, was a stout man with bronze skin and wiry lavender hair. He sat on a stool behind the register with a serious look on his face.

“500 rupiah?!” Venus suddenly appeared beside her, placing her hands on her hips with a frown. “Last week it was half the price.”

“Price went up.”

“Why? What changed? Does this scarf now solve all problems? Cure ailments? Bring forth prosperity and love?”

“Hmph. Fine. 400 rupiah.”

“400?! No, no, no,” Venus gently pushed Star’s back, leading her away from the storefront. “We will go to another shop. Good day.”

“Um, Venus?” Star asked worriedly. “What’s going on? He looks angry...”

“Don’t worry,” she winked. “This is all part of the bargaining act. I’m gonna get a great deal for you.”

“Grrr, alright!” he stood up and followed. “300 rupiah! Final offer!”

“250 or nothing,” Venus stood firm.

Finally, the vendor conceded. He gestured for the girls to come closer.

“And that’s how you haggle successfully,” Venus grinned at Star. “Go ahead, you can pay now.”

“Huh?” Star blinked. “But I don’t have any money.”

“...”

The three fell silent, staring blankly at one another as the awkward silence pressed on. Venus let out a sigh, then reached into her pockets to hand the vendor a few silver coins. She grabbed the scarf and led the younger starling away.

“I’m sorry,” Star frowned when they had finally made it to a safe place. “I was just looking...”

“No, it’s alright. I shouldn’t have just assumed you wanted to buy stuff,” Venus wrapped the scarf around Star’s waist, tying it tightly so it stayed in place. “However, you’re going to need money while you’re here.”

“How do I get some?”

A large grin spread across Venus’s face. “Come on. I’ll show you.”

The drummers led the starling’s dance with a steady, rhythmic beat.

Long skirts blossomed as they spun and twirled around, matching each other’s pace in their impromptu performance. Dusk had fallen over Ubad. The night market lit up as vendors set fire to candle lanterns, lighting a colorful rainbow path for all who wandered through its streets. The starlings had attracted a modest crowd who stood in awe as they watched the dance unfold before them.

A few people dropped silver coins into a glass cup placed on the ground while others tossed folded paper bills inside. When a handful of small children approached, Venus and Star invited them onto the makeshift stage. Laughter rang through the air as the dancers leapt and spun around, keeping pace with the drums as they echoed through the evening air.

When the music stopped, a riveting round of applause followed. Once the crowd dispersed, the two starlings began the long journey back to their ships. As she walked, Venus sifted through the cup to count their earnings for the night.

“That was so much fun!!” Star bounced through the foliage excitedly.

“We made a lot of money, too!” Venus grinned. “Over 1000 rupiah! Usually when I dance alone, I only make a couple hundred if I’m lucky. You’re a great partner!”

“So are you!”

“Can we do it again tomorrow? Pleeeease?”

Venus laughed. “Wouldn’t you rather do some more exploring? There’s still so much of Valivipa you haven’t seen yet.”

“Like what?”

“The nightlife is one of my favorite things here. Most of the parties last until sunrise.”

“Let’s go to a party then!!”

Venus laughed. “Alrighty. I’ll take you out one of these nights.”

“Oooh, like a date?”

“Yep! You’re gonna be all mine!”

They didn’t get back until later that evening, when the daystar had disappeared beyond the horizon and night had fallen over Eros.

“Today was fun, but I’m totally beat!” Star said with a weary sigh. “I need a bath and something sweet.”

“We can rinse off in the waterfall. It’s not very warm, though.”

“Ooooh, a waterfall bath sounds amazing!!”

“Alright, well let’s stop by my ship first so I can grab some towels for us.”

Venus led them to a clearing, where Asha was waiting patiently for their return. The transparency shields were enabled, but Star was able to perceive it through energy alone. Its current form was a beautiful shape; like a flying fish with wings ready to take to the skies. She stood there in quiet admiration, waiting for Venus’ return.

“You ready?” the golden haired girl emerged after a few minutes, carrying two lavender-colored towels.

“She’s gorgeous,” Star mused. “What was her name again?”

“Asha. I named her after my favorite space disco artist.”

“Space disco? I don’t think I ever listened to that before.”

“I’ll play some songs for you when we get back later. I think you’ll like it.”

“Awesome!”

“What about your ship? How’d she get her name?”

“Oh, I named Galaxia after a character in my favorite magical girl anime!”

“You like anime, too?!”

“Heck yeah I do! Right now I’m trying to keep up with Galaxy Girls!”

“Oh my stars, I love Galaxy Girls!! Who’s your favorite? Mine’s Glissandria!”

“I like Melodia, but Aria is a close second!”

The waterfall was deep in the jungle, surrounded by lush greenery. Animals and insects chirped and sang from their hiding spots in the dense foliage. Venus led them through a thick brush, pushing aside giant leaves to reveal a secluded lake. Freshwater fell from a massive height; Star guessed it was probably hundreds of meters tall. And the water was crystal clear, enough so that she could see smooth rocks at the bottom.

Venus, after shedding the avatar’s illusion, began to slip out of her clothes. Golden hair cascaded down her naked back and chest, and russet brown skin glowed in the dark of the night as she stepped into the lake. The subtle curves of her slim body created a beautiful silhouette that captivated Star completely.

“You coming?”

She realized too late that she was staring. Clumsy hands deactivated the avatar’s effects and haphazardly stripped the clothes from her body. After hanging the white dress and golden scarf on a nearby tree branch, she carefully took her first step into the lake.

“Ah! It’s freezing!” She let out a small shriek, earning a laugh from Venus.

“I told you it was cold!”

“It’s like an ice bath!! How can you stand it?”

The older starling girl snickered. “I’m used to it. My planet has chilly waters, too.”

Goosebumps lined her skin, sending shivers through every nerve. To warm up, she furiously scrubbed the remnants of the day off her skin.

But she had trouble reaching her back. Venus floated closer, lathering up a bar of soap.

“Here, let me help.”

“Oh! Thank you.”

Star brushed her hair aside, neck and back exposed and vulnerable. Venus gently ran the soap over her shoulders and spine, taking care not to scrub too hard. Star shivered, stifling laughter.

“Ticklish?” Venus asked with a smile.

Star nodded. “Just a little bit...”

“Hold on. I’m almost done.”

She finished up and poured fresh water down her back, rinsing away the last of the suds. Star let out a small relieved sigh and turned around.

“Thank you. Do you want me to get your back too?”

“Sure.”

Venus turned around, ignorant to Star’s longing gaze. Even her back was beautiful. Soft, smooth skin. A slight curve at the waist. The smell of flowers filled the warm night air, radiating from the golden haired starling’s skin. Star’s cheeks grew warm as careful hands slowly traced a path from shoulders to spine, washing away the soap with handfuls of cold water.

Venus turned around with a knowing smile. “Thanks.”

Both sunk into the water with only their heads and shoulders above the surface. Star met her gaze, falling silent as the sounds of the jungle rang out around them.

“You’re beautiful,” she whispered.

“Oh! Um, well, thank you... so are you.”

Neither knew what to say as they stared at one another, each silently admiring the other’s form. To break the silence, Venus reached out and ran her fingers through a few strands of Star’s hair.

“Is this your natural hair? It’s very pretty.”

“Yep! I wish I had curly hair, though.”

“No you don’t. It’s a hassle.”

“Yeah, but it’s got so much more personality than straight hair! And you can do so much more with it.”

Star returned the gesture, holding Venus’ golden locks in her hands.

“I like your hair, too. The color is like warm daylight. Or a golden star.”

“How romantic. Let’s see if you feel the same after I wash it.”

Grabbing a bottle of shampoo, Venus spent a few minutes scrubbing her scalp before rinsing out the suds. Her hair had transformed entirely; straight locks became coily and kinky, sticking out in all directions as the starling applied conditioner and styling cream to each section.

“I know what you’re gonna say,” Venus piped up when she noticed the other starling watching. “It looks like ramen noodles, right?”

“Huh? What are those?”

“You’re telling me you’ve never had ramen noodles before?!”

“Nope! But they must be very beautiful if that’s what your hair looks like!”

Venus gawked at her in disbelief. “You... you’re a strange one, Star.”

“I think you should wear your hair like this more often! It’s absolutely gorgeous.”

“Well, it’s a lot to maintain...”

“I can help! I have a few older sisters with your hair type, so I’m used to working with your texture!”

“Maybe... I don’t know. t’s been a long time since I’ve worn it natural.”

“Well, no matter how you wear it, you’re still going to look super beautiful.”

Venus’ frown slowly disappeared with her words. “Thank you, Star... you have no idea how much that means to me.”

After some time, the two stepped out of the lake and dried off. Then they walked back to Asha’s hiding spot, making sure to stick together on the dark jungle path.

“Can we sleep together again?” Star asked in a quiet, shy voice once they returned.

“Yeah, of course! You wanna stay here tonight?”

“Yes, please! I wanna see your room!”

Asha’s interior was vastly different from Galaxia’s. The walls were dark violet, with tiny twinkling silver lights that reminded her of star clusters in space. The floor was made of ivory marble and felt cool under her feet. There were two levels; the first floor had an amethyst-colored navigation board in front of the main window, along with a small storage area where food was grown and harvested. A wide staircase led a path upstairs, releasing glittery lights with every ascending step.

“Come on,” Venus called out from the top. “My bedroom’s on the second floor.”

When she stepped inside, Star was even more awe-struck. The walls were a mix of lavender and gold. Venus’s bed was circle-shaped and a bit smaller than expected, but it had more than enough room for two. Her bedding was simple and clean; a white comforter with lace embellishments, and four fluffy pillows that felt like clouds when Star laid down.

“Comfortable?” Venus whispered.

Star let out a content sigh. “Yeah. Your bed feels like a dream.”

Venus inched closer, laying on her side to face her companion. “It kinda feels like we’re protostars at a sleepover, being snuggled up together like this.”

“Oh... yeah...” Star’s smile quickly faded.

“What’s wrong?”

“...I never really got to have sleepovers.”

“Wait, really? Why not?”

“I wasn’t allowed. Not unless it was with my siblings, and they were almost always too busy to spend time with me.”

“Mmm. Your nebulae must have been very strict.”

“Yeah,” she sighed, curling her knees into her chest. “I wasn’t allowed to do a lot of things.”

Venus watched her curiously.

“Sooo... you couldn’t have sleepovers, but you managed to get special permission to start your space voyage before you reached 1000 years of age?”

The younger starling fell silent, refusing to answer.

“And your name. They don’t bestow that name upon someone unless-”

Star hugged a pillow against her chest. “You’re right. I didn’t get permission.”

She braced herself for a scolding, but instead the older starling took one of her hands and held it gently. They gazed into each other’s eyes, golden irises connecting with blue.

“Don’t worry,” she whispered. “Your secrets are safe with me.”

Star squeezed her hand, letting out a sigh of relief.

Venus’s lips curled up in a smile. “Well, now that you’re on your space voyage, you can do whatever you want. Within reason, of course.”

“There are so many things I want to do...”

“Then we’ll do them all. Together.”

“Everything?”

“Mhm. Whatever you want. We’re friends now, so you don’t have to be alone anymore.”

Star held her palm in the air, inviting Venus to complete a gesture known to starlings as an oath.

“Promise?”

Venus lifted her hand, pressing its palm against Star’s.

“Promise.”

Chapter 3

“Um, Venus? Are you sure about this?”

“Go on! You can do it. Just follow the steps exactly as I showed you.”

Star looked nervous as she stood at the dashboard next to her friend. Venus gave her an encouraging smile, urging her to start.

This was a practice run. They had spent quite a bit of time going through the basics of navigation, ship maintenance, and piloting. Now, after weeks of training, it was time for Star to test her knowledge and show Venus everything she’d learned.

“Okay,” she inhaled sharply. “To do short distance teleportation, I need to disable the safely locks and shift into second gear.”

“That’s right,” Venus nodded. “Then what?”

“I put the thrusters at max power and lower gravity to 10%.”

“Exactly! And the last step?”

Star grinned widely, oozing confidence as she pressed the final button.

“Initiate launch sequence!”

“Wait, no-!”

Venus barely managed to grab hold of something before Galaxia suddenly shot into the air. As the spaceship flew through the sky, a time warp tunnel materialized in the space field around them, warping and collapsing gravity in a technicolor haze. The two starlings lost their balance and screamed, senses overwhelmed by the momentarily leap through time.

Fortunately, it only lasted a few seconds. When Galaxia came to a harsh stop, they both fell to the floor gracelessly.

“Ugh... what happened?” Star found herself lying on her back.

“...You initiated launch before stabilizing the interior,” Venus, having fallen face first on top of Star, slowly pushed herself up until she was straddling her waist.

“Oh, crap!” the younger starling groaned.

Venus giggled. “You should’ve seen your face. That was hilarious!”

“It’s not funny!!”

“It’s kind of funny!”

Star tried to pout, but seeing Venus laughing so hard made it impossible to stay upset. She began to laugh along with her.

But when their laughter died down, both realized the position they were in. They paused, staring at one another as the long, quiet seconds passed by. Venus’s gaze trailed down Star’s body, lingering on her lips.

“...Your makeup’s messed up.”

There was stray lipgloss on her chin. She wiped it away with one thumb, then rubbed off the smudged rouge on her cheeks. Star kept perfectly still, despite the rapid heart thumping in her chest.

“There you go. All better.”

Another silent, heavy pause filled the room. Venus’s fingers lingered on Star’s face, gently caressing the soft skin beneath her palms.

“Um, Venus...?”

“Yeah?”

She bit her lip, a risky question burning within. Her lips moved, but the words got stuck before she could get them out.

“...Never mind.”

The days on Eros spent with Venus passed by like a rapid summer wind, melting into one another under the hot daystar of Valivipa.

For the first time, Star’s loneliness no longer haunted her spirit. The sadness that had driven her to leave home was now a distant memory. New and unfamiliar emotions blossomed in her heart, growing everyday as the weeks and months flew by. But she kept them inside, too shy to confess the secret feelings that had sprouted within.

They were just friends, right?

She loved her. There was no questioning that. But how... that was something she couldn’t define. Not even in starling tongue.

Star had never been in love before. Was this how it felt? And if she was in love... did Venus feel the same?

There were many times she tried to ask, and many times she failed.

But eventually, the answer came in a way she never expected.

“So,” Venus asked Star one day, when the two of them were sitting together in the pomolyu tree groves in the jungle. “What do you wanna do today?”

Star tossed aside a pile of fruit peels with a bored sigh.

“Is there a place we can go that’s outside of Ubad?”

“What’s wrong? You bored of it already?”

“No, the city is fun! It’s just that... I’m tired of hanging out with other extraterrestrial beings in disguise. I want to go somewhere more quiet, where we can truly enjoy Valivipa in its raw form.”

Venus tapped her chin with one finger.

“Hmm... I know what you mean. Nowadays it’s hard to find places like that. The locals haven’t realized it yet, but Eros is slowly being taken over by interstellar investors. That’s why there are so many extraterrestrials here. If you want to experience the true Valivipa, we’d have to go to the far reaches of the island where the tourists are too scared to visit.”

“Have you been there before?”

“A couple times, yeah. I went to a little beach city called Uluwa on the western side. But it’s been a while.”

“Can you take me there, too?!”

“Are you sure? It’s a long trip. Last time I went, it took half a day to get there.”

“We could take one of our ships and get there in a flash!”

“I thought you wanted the authentic Valivipa experience?” Venus stood up with a laugh. “No spaceships. If you wanna go, we’ll have to take the motorbike. Trust me, it’s better that way!”

“What’s a motorbike?”

It was a long drive, just like Venus said. But the ride was absolutely exhilarating! Star kept both arms wrapped tightly around her waist as she sat on the motorbike’s back seat. The strange vehicle that ran on fossil fuels had turned out to be an excellent method of travel, even if it was a bit archaic.

Turquoise hair flew with the wind as they rode through narrow dirt paths towards the mountain peak. The dawn sky followed along as they ascended. The rice paddies, jungle brush, and wild rivers of Valivipa looked tiny from way up high. Star took a deep breath, drinking in the fresh mountain air that filled her lungs.

After an hour or so of driving, they began their descent down the mountain. She could finally see the beach in the distance. It was just as amazing as Venus had described. White sand beaches. Clear cerulean waters. Trees with sweet, sour fruit hanging from their branches. It made Star a little homesick for Pink Planet.

After reaching the shore, Star climbed off as soon as they parked the motorbike. Venus carried a backpack full of picnic supples while Star led the way towards the shore.

“Over here!” there was a spot close to the water, right beneath the daystar’s warm midday light. They took a moment to rest and eat after setting up the blankets and snack platters. Star hungrily munched on a handful of moonberries while Venus sat quietly, watching the waves ebb and flow.

“You should eat,” Star gently urged, pushing a bowl of sliced solapples into her lap.

“I’m not hungry.”

“But you didn’t eat breakfast this morning. And we’ve been traveling for hours. At least have a little snack.”

Venus tensed up, avoiding Star’s gaze. But that didn’t deter the young starling.

“You don’t have to eat a lot, but at least try some of the starfruit,” she handed her a juicy, yellow slice. “Galaxia grew it in her greenhouse. It’s a special heirloom variety from Pink Planet I grew myself. Please try it?”

Venus finally looked back at her, eyeing the peeled fruit in her palm. Resigned, she accepted and took a small bite. Golden eyes widened as the sweet, sour flavor graced her tongue.

“This is delicious.”

“I told you!” Star beamed. “You can have more if you’d like!”

“Okay, okay. I’ll have a few more.”

After the two ate their fill, they stood up and walked hand in hand towards the ocean. The clear waters lapped at their ankles with each step. Now waist deep, they surrendered to the gentle flow of the current.

“It’s so warm!” Star fell backwards into the water, letting it the surface carry her as the waves ebbed and flowed. “I’ve missed the ocean so much.”

Venus floated beside her. “You have beaches like this on Pink Planet, right?”

“Yeah, but I like this beach a lot better.”

“Why?”

The waves lapped at their bodies, pushing them further towards one another as the breeze carried Star’s words. She moved closer, pressing her body against Venus until their warmth intertwined. A sweet, floral scent mixed with the salty sea air billowed around her like smoke. As if she was inhaling her very essence.

“Because on this beach... you’re here with me.”

Venus’ irises fixated on hers, locking them both in an unbreakable gaze. The blonde slowly wrapped both arms around her shoulders. Their foreheads touched, faces close enough to feel each other’s breath.

And then, they kissed.

Star’s eyes fluttered shut as she felt Venus’ soft lips against hers. The sensation of butterfly wings flicked across her chest, and a fire kindled in the depths of her stomach. A strange new warmth blossomed in her chest and expanded towards Venus like a bridge, glowing brightly on the surface of the cerulean water. Time came to a stop, and for a moment, all that existed was the two of them.

They only parted when hit by a sudden wave, dousing them in deep sea water. The starlings stood up and ran to the shore, coughing, gasping, and laughing as they collapsed onto the beach blankets.

“Are you okay?” Star wrapped an arm around her waist.

“Yeah! I’m fine,” Venus returned the gesture, resting both hands on Star’s hips.

Another second passed, and their lips found each other’s once more. Venus kissed a path down her neck, lingering at the collarbone when airy moans escaped. Star’s hands ran down her chest and stomach, stopping between soft thighs she’d been longing to touch.

“...Wait.”

“What’s wrong?” Star stopped immediately. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah... I mean, no...” Venus’ expression turned dark. “I’m sorry. I don’t know if I’m... if I’m ready for that.”

“Hey. It’s okay. We don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

“Are you sure...?”

“I’m sure. I don’t want you to be uncomfortable.”

“But... aren’t you disappointed?”

“Disappointed?” Star let out a laugh. “Venus, I just got to kiss you! There’s nothing disappointing about that!”

“Do you know how long I’ve been wanting this?” she whispered, planting kisses on the shell of her ear. “Even if all we ever do is kiss, I’ll be the happiest star in this whole galaxy!”

The older starling’s eyes filled with tears. Speechless, she leaned forward and kissed her deeply.

They sat together with blankets wrapped around wet shoulders, watching the daystar dip beneath the horizon. The sky was dyed shades of golden yellow, deep orange, and violet purple. And when the stars began to dance in the skies, they finally packed up to head home.

“...There! All done. You wanna take a look?”

Star held up the mirror, allowing Venus to get a full look at her new hairstyle. The upper half of her kinky blonde hair was now neatly wrapped in two space buns atop her head, while the lower half fell freely over her shoulders. The style emphasized Venus’ heart shaped face, bringing out her true shining beauty. She beamed, emanating a certain brightness that had been missing before.

“Ahhh! This is so cute! I love it!!” Venus hugged Star with a huge smile.

“See? I told you I was good at styling!”

“Thank you. This means more to me than you know.”

Venus leaned forward and planted a kiss on her cheek. “Now, are you ready?”

“Ready for what?”

In the palm of her hand was a small pile of dried mushrooms. “For an incredible experience.”

“What’s this stuff?”

“Something that’ll take you on a magical journey,” she smirked. “We’ll go together.”

Star hesitantly accepted the dried mushroom, taking a small bite into a cap. It tasted like dirt and soil, leaving an earthy taste in her mouth after swallowing.

She felt normal. Nothing seemed to have changed. The starling looked down at the palms of her hands, observing the grooved lines and the glow radiating from beneath her skin. Seconds passed. Or maybe minutes. Time began to distort until suddenly, her senses ignited, painting the world in colors once unseen. They bled into her field of vision, amplifying every perception. The soft music playing in the background of Venus’ bedroom plucked chords in Star’s mind; the notes vibrated against every nerve. And Venus, her beautiful face gazing back with utmost tenderness, appeared to her like a being out of a dream. Their foreheads pressed together, and soon their lips followed.

Every touch felt electric, reverberating through her body like a shockwave. Hands wandered under skirts, caressing the softest parts until rivers ran down their thighs.

Breaths intertwined as she began a steady pump. In and out, in tandem with melodic moans. Lips kissed scattered paths across every inch of skin, fingers sinking into the softness of hips and thighs. The lines between them blurred until it felt like they had become one. There was no beginning to Star. There was no end to Venus. There was only the love between them, and the ripples of pleasure washing over their bodies.

Hours passed. Morning turned to night, and when darkness fell upon the world, the two starling lovers collapsed onto the bed and into each other’s arms.

Today was the day.

Star was finally going to confess.

She had been planning this for a while. The anniversary of the day they met had arrived, bringing with it the perfect opportunity to reveal her hidden feelings.

Heart pounding with anticipation, she led Venus to a secluded spot in the jungle, next to the waterfall where they bathed together nearly every day. Waiting there was a soft blanket spread across the grass, a bottle of aged solapple juice, and some sliced starfruit.

“What’s all this for?” Venus laughed.

“Sit with me. I’ll tell you.”

When Venus sat down, she gently took her hand, intertwining their fingers together.

This confession was coming straight from the heart. One that had been desperate to escape for quite some time. Keeping it inside any longer was impossible.

“Venus, I’ve been meaning to say this for a really long time. But... this last year we’ve spent together here in Valivipa has been the happiest I’ve ever been in my whole life. You’re my best friend, but you’re also way more than that. And I...”

Her eyes squeezed shut as she swallowed the last her nerves.

“I love you. I think you’re the one. My ♪♫♩♪♫♬.”

Silence fell between them. Star hesitantly opened her eyes, curious to see Venus’s expression.

But what she saw caused her heart to shatter.

Venus’s smile was gone. Her eyes had lost their spark. She pulled away, muttering to herself with arms wrapped around trembling shoulders.

Star had never seen her like this before. It was as if a totally different person was sitting beside her. Someone who was drifting further and further away.

“Wow. Um...”

“Did I say something wrong...?”

“No, no. That was really nice. But-”

“But... what?”

“It’s just a lot to take in.”

“...I’m sorry...”

“No, don’t apologize, I just... I don’t... I don’t want that anymore.”

“Why not?”

“Because...”

Venus stood up with her back to Star.

“I’m sorry. I should go.”

“Wait, Venus!”

It was too late. She had already gotten up to leave. And when Star followed, her footsteps quickened until she was running at a brisk pace.

Eventually, Venus disappeared into the darkness of the jungle, along with Star’s hope for an answer.

Star searched for Venus everywhere.

Asha’s parking spot. Ubad’s crowded streets. The hidden waterfalls deep within the jungle. The nightclubs where the two of them used to dance. She was nowhere to be found.

There were times when she spotted her slipping into dark alleyways or turning around corners that Star couldn’t reach in time. But the flashes of yellow and gold faded away almost as quickly as they appeared.

Despite that, she continued her pursuit. Even if the answer wasn’t what she wanted.

One day, in a moment of pure coincidence, they finally crossed paths in the jungle. Star was walking back to Galaxia when she saw the older starling before her, ambling down the same path. They stared at each other for a few long seconds before Venus turned heel.

“Venus, wait!”

Star grabbed her hand before she could get too far.

“I’ve been looking all over for you! Where have you been?”

“That doesn’t concern you.”

Her voice was cold and distant. Yet, Star could sense there was something beneath. A deep, hidden fear that Venus was battling.

“Yes it does! You’ve been avoiding me and I want to know why!”

“Because I don’t want to be around you anymore! Don’t you get it?”

Harsh words pierced through Star’s heart. She slowly let go, cheeks damp with tears.

“But... why? What did I do wrong?”

“Just forget about me,” Venus muttered, a strained expression haunting her face. “I’m not worth it.”

“I can’t do that! Not after everything we’ve been through!”

“I just don’t feel the same way, okay? If you want an answer, there you go!”

“Then look at me. Look at me and tell me you don’t feel the same.”

At first, she refused. But Star waited patiently, and eventually Venus surrendered. She turned around to face the girl who had unearthed her deepest fear.

“I... I can’t...”

Tears broke free, falling onto the ground below. Star quickly pulled her into a tight embrace. She held her lover in a firm grasp hugging tighter when Venus began to tremble.

“Please, just talk to me. It isn’t like starlings to hide their feelings from one another.”

“I’m scared. I’m really, really scared.”

“Why? Are you afraid of me?”

“No... I’m scared of getting hurt again.”

Star cupped her cheeks with both hands, thumbs wiping away stray tears. Their foreheads pressed together as she spoke.

“I would never hurt you! At least not on purpose!”

Venus shook her head, struggling to release the words that weighed so heavily on her heart.

“Even if you don’t mean to, it’s inevitable. Every time I get close to someone, they end up hurting me...”

“But isn’t it more painful to lock yourself away?”

When she remained silent, Star continued.

“I know that I might unintentionally hurt you. That’s normal in any relationship. But if and when that happens, I’ll apologize and we can talk it out. Then we can heal together.”

“You haven’t been around other starlings for a very long time. I know how hard it is, pretending to be someone else, trying to fit in with people whose nature is so different from our own. But Venus, you can be yourself with me! I don’t want you to hide yourself away when we’re together.”

“I’ll hold your heart very gently, just like a newborn star. Not too tightly, because I don’t want you to feel trapped. But firm enough so that you know I’m always here for you. You can always come back to me, whenever you feel lonely or sad, and I’ll stay with you until the very end. Let me be your home.”

“Star...” Tears rolled down Venus’s cheeks. Star leaned forward, kissing all of them away.

“It’s okay if you’re still scared. I’m scared too. I’ve never been in love before. But we don’t have to be scared alone. We have each other.”

“I don’t know if I’m brave enough to love again.”

“Then I’ll be brave for the both of us.”

“Star...”

“Please, don’t run away from me anymore. I love you.”

Star clung on tightly, fearing that she’d slip away once more.

It was true; both starlings were afraid of these new, unfamiliar feelings. But Star had pushed past her fear for the sake of love. Venus wanted the same.

But as old memories resurfaced, her inner light was smothered by the darkness of the past.

Chapter 4

Content Warning: This chapter contains sensitive content that may upset some readers, such as discussion of an eating disorder, the depiction of an emotionally abusive relationship, coercion into sexual acts, and a graphic description of a violent sexual assault. Reader discretion is advised. You may skip to the next chapter if you do not wish to consume this material.

She hadn’t always been like this.

At the start of her space voyage, she was just as eager as any starling setting off into the universe on their own for the first time. On her 1000th birthday, she left home and set course for wherever the cosmos would take her, per starling tradition. She, too, had been wide eyed and naive, secretly yearning for the special person whose soul matched hers.

Eros was her tenth planet. It was just supposed to be another stop along the way.

But then, she met him.

Rubio was his name. As an extraterrestrial investor that had acquired property in Denpasa and amassed a great fortune from his tourist business, he was one of the most sought after bachelors on Planet Eros. But his refusal to settle down with one person shrouded his name in infamy. Handsome, tall, and wealthy, it seemed as though nobody could ever truly tie him down.

Venus was also alone. She stood out as a strange being on the outskirts of society, a person that had not been chosen or accepted by another. It made it difficult to assimilate into the culture, and led to many lonely nights in the jungle. So when they locked eyes at Club Monaco that one fateful night, she believed her search was finally over.

He was sitting alone in the booth, surrounded by bottles of expensive wine as nocturnal beats blared through large speakers. His bronze skin and silver hair stood out amongst the crowd, a spectacle that caught the eye of many. Too shy to approach, Venus resigned herself to admiring from a distance.

But all of a sudden, beautiful hazel eyes fell upon her form. And in that moment, he decided the she would belong to him.

Rubio pursued her fervently, showering Venus with gifts and treating her to lavish dates in expensive restaurants and luxury bars. It was the first time she’d been given special treatment. Inexperienced in love, Rubio was all she knew. He was affectionate and charming, like a prince straight out of a fairytale, and catered to her every need without complaint. The first few months of their relationship felt like a dream, or a wish that had finally been granted.

However, she soon learned that he was not the man she thought.

“You’re starting to get fat,” he absentmindedly commented one day while they were at lunch in the city. “Lay off the carbs today, will you?”

“What?” Venus looked at him with confusion.

“Listen, you don’t need to stuff your face every time we go out. It’s unbecoming of a lady.”

When there was no response, sharp eyes shot daggers at her from across the table.

“Don’t give me that look. I’m just concerned is all.”

Tears suddenly broke through, falling onto an unfinished plate. Her companion groaned in annoyance.

“Why are you crying? Come on, enough with that. I’m sorry, alright? Jeez...”

Rubio didn’t like tears. Venus quickly learned to stifle them, along with her appetite.

“This is your natural hair?” he scoffed when he saw her tight, coiled kinks for the first time. “No wonder you always wear it straight. It looks like ramen noodles.”

“...You don’t like it?”

“It’s alright, I suppose. But I prefer women with fine hair I can run my fingers through. You look better with it straightened, anyway.”

That was the last time she had freed her natural hair... until she met Star.

As time went on, Rubio’s mask slipped further and further. No longer was he the kind, thoughtful man she had known. His sweet words turned into sharp venom, lashing out with a critical tongue whenever Venus did something against his wishes.

“Normally I don’t wait this long for my women to put out,” he said one night in a cruel, snarky voice. “Come on. What are you holding out on me for?”

Venus wasn’t sure how to put this into words. Not in a way that wouldn’t upset him.

“...I’m just not ready yet.”

“When will you be ready? If you really loved me, you’d do this with me.”

Venus did love him. She loved him very deeply. Wasn’t it clear with every kiss, touch, and quiet confession whispered over pillowcases?

Unfortunately, it was never enough.

His desire was relentless. He beat her down for months until Venus begrudgingly agreed to try, despite her fears and anxieties.

As soon as the words left her lips, Rubio took what he had wanted from her all along.

She was torn down the middle, ripped in two by a painful burn that penetrated every nerve. It didn’t matter how loud she cried, or how many tears fell from her eyes. He just wouldn’t stop. Fingertips gripped so hard they left bruises, violent hands folded and pinned so hard she felt like her bones would snap. She tried to fight, but her small frame was no match against him. All she could do was wait until he had his fill.

She squeezed her eyes shut and prayed for a quick end.

Please, please, please.

Just stop.

Stop!

It hurts.

It hurts.

It HURTS!

An eternity passed until it was finally over. He finished inside, then flopped over and passed out, leaving a bruised and battered Venus lying awake beside him.

What just happened?

Was that what it meant to make love?

It didn’t feel right.

Something was very, very wrong.

But when she brought it up, he dismissed it with a sneer and a wave of the hand.

“What, are you saying I raped you? Don’t be stupid. A boyfriend can’t rape his own girlfriend. Besides, you said you wanted it. Now get dressed, we’re going to the lounge tonight.”

Venus didn’t feel like going out. But she followed Rubio’s orders as always, in fear of what would happen if she didn’t.

After that night, she refused whenever he asked. That pain was something she never wanted to experience ever again. Of course, he didn’t take kindly to it. When Rubio didn’t get what he wanted, the nasty side of his personality came out in full force. His callous words burrowed into her mind like parasitic worms feasting on her spirit. Each one an open sore that never fully healed.

“Who would want someone like you?”

“You should be grateful I’m giving you the time of day.”

“You’re lucky I love you so much. What other man would put up with this bullshit?”

“I’m all you’ve got. Don’t ever forget that.”

“Nobody else will ever love you.”

She believed him. Until that night in the heart of Club Monaco.

Earlier that evening he had left the condo in a rush with some flimsy excuse. Something along the lines of “I need some time alone.” Venus couldn’t remember. The only memory she had of that night was the image of Rubio with another woman, in the same booth where they had first crossed paths. A thin blonde sat atop his lap, kissing him passionately as large hands roamed over her body, slipping under her skirt to take what belonged to him.

Even after Venus revealed herself, he showed little remorse.

“What did you expect?” the man laughed. “I wasn’t gonna wait around forever.”

That night, she packed up her belongings and left the house key behind, fleeing the island of Denpasa.

She found refuge in the jungles of Valivipa, where she could truly be alone. Her solitude became a source of comfort, a promise of peace and safety that had been stolen by companionship. In the clear lake beneath the roaring waterfall, she scrubbed her raw skin in hopes of washing away his sins.

Looking back, she should have left the planet. But leaving meant that things were really over between them. And despite everything, she couldn’t let him go.

The dream of her ‘someone just for me’ had been shattered. Venus sunk into disillusionment, a frightening condition that all starlings feared. It was pain incomparable to anything else.

For many, many years, she was alone. She built a cage around her heart, holding it prisoner while keeping everyone at bay. It was easier that way. There was no pain in solitude.

But then, Star came along.

The young starling was a reminder of who she once was, bringing back the light and hope that had been lost long ago. When they were together, Venus came alive, the pieces of her shattered soul born anew. Through Star’s eyes, she once again saw the beauty and wonder of the universe.

But the fear was too great. Loving someone was handing them a sword. One that could easily kill as soon as they found an opening. Venus couldn’t handle another wound.

It was just as Rubio said. Nobody else would ever truly want someone like her. Even Star’s love would eventually fade, once her rose-colored vision faded to reveal Venus for the worthless creature she truly was.

Venus couldn’t bear the thought. Instead, she created a coffin of her own making, shutting herself away despite Star’s efforts.

But in the end, that choice became her greatest regret.

Chapter 5

“How much longer are you going to stay on Eros?”

“Mm, I don’t know. To be honest, I don’t really want to leave, but at some point I have to move on.”

“Yeah... I should probably go soon, too. I’ve already stayed too long.”

Neither of them could avoid the difficult conversation any longer. It arose as the two starlings waded through the jungle back to Asha. They had spent enough time dancing around the subject and could no longer put it off. Both felt the gentle beckoning call to return to their voyage through space and complete their journeys.

Silence fell between them until Star finally broke through.

“Venus, I have a crazy idea.”

“What is it?”

She suddenly stopped, almost causing them to run into each other. Turning around excitedly, she cried out, “Come with me! Let’s continue our space voyages together!”

“What? You know that defeats the purpose, right? We’re supposed to travel alone.”

“Who cares! It’s like you said, we can do whatever we want!”

“But if anyone finds out, we’ll get reprimanded!”

“Who’s gonna tell?”

“Star!”

“Come on, just think about it! You and me, the endless sea of stars, adventure around every turn! Think of all the cool places we’ll see, all the people we’ll meet!”

“It does sound nice...”

“And the best part is, we’ll be together.”

She took her hands, eagerly awaiting her answer. Venus, unable to resist a hopeful gaze, conceded with a sigh.

“...Let me think about it some more.”

Star leaned over and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“I’m gonna run back to Galaxia quick and grab something for us. You go on ahead, I’ll be there soon!”

Star rushed off, leaving a flustered Venus in her wake. The older starling let out a small laugh as she processed the impulsive parting words.

Star... she was out of her mind. That was certain. But Venus was even crazier for considering it. Two starlings on their space voyage together? Ridiculous. And yet, she found herself drawn to the idea.

Maybe this was the right choice. To escape from this prison with someone she loved.

These thoughts occupied her mind as she finally made it back home to Asha. However, something there made her freeze in place. Standing in the clearing was a familiar face, the sight causing a painful jolt to strike through her chest.

“Darling,” the man approached with a charming smile. “I’ve been looking all over for you.”

“...How did you find me?”

“I have eyes everywhere, remember? It wasn’t easy, though. You’re quite elusive when you want to be.”

“What do you want, Rubio?”

Sharp hazel eyes scrutinized her from head to toe. He was quiet for a moment, hands shoved into the deep pockets of his designer suit.

“To apologize. For everything.”

Still suspicious, she kept her distance. He sighed, face contorting into a serious expression.

“I know my past actions hurt you deeply. And for that, I am sorry. If you give me another chance, I promise that I’ll be better to you.”

Venus glared at him. “Why do you need me? What happened to that other girl?”

“She was just a fling. She means nothing to me.”

“Could’ve fooled me.”

“Look, it was a mistake. The worst one of my life. I’ve regretted it every single day since. You’re the only one I’ve ever truly wanted in this world.”

He pulled a small gift box from his pocket and held it out. “Here. It’s your favorite.”

“I don’t want your gifts.”

“Baby, come on...”

“You think this makes up for everything you’ve done to me?” she snapped. “I won’t let you buy my forgiveness anymore.”

He fell silent for a moment, letting her words linger in the air. After some time, he spoke again with a bit more gentleness.

“...You’re right. I must show it with my actions and changed behavior.”

He placed the box back in his pocket and took her hands, holding them gently as he spoke with soft tenderness.

“Come back to me. I promise things will be different this time. Let me make up for my wrongdoings.”

“But...”

He leaned in close, his breath mixing with hers, and she didn’t pull away. Large hands grasped hers tightly, holding them against his broad chest.

“Please,” he asked again, eyes filled with longing. “I can’t live without you anymore. Everything feels meaningless when you’re not around.”

Venus fell silent.

This was how things always went, wasn’t it?

Sweet, thoughtful actions always followed wicked words. He’d soothe her wounds with a heartfelt apology and promises of change. And she’d fall for it every time.

“Don’t you miss me, too?”

“I do miss you!” she cried. “I miss you every day! I loved you, Rubio... all I wanted was to spend my life by your side!”

“You still can. Let’s leave this place and make a new home. Together.”

“I...”

He closed the distance between them, leaning down as one hand rested on the back of her head. She could have pushed him away, but instead, she surrendered, unable to fight against the conflicting emotions arising within.

This was wrong.

She knew it was.

After everything he had said and done, he wasn’t worthy of her forgiveness or her love.

But despite all that, she just couldn’t stop loving him.

She closed her eyes, allowing their lips to meet as they once did long ago. The feelings she thought were gone broke through like water in a dam, drowning her as she succumbed to his seduction. Before she knew it, their hands met each other’s bodies, soaking up this moment of reunion she had been dreaming of.

That’s when she heard it. A quiet shuffling, followed by the sound of broken glass. Venus pulled away, eyes set on a heartbroken Star who was standing only a small distance away.

“Star!”

The young starling turned heel and ran, prompting Venus to follow. Rubio’s voice rang out, but it was nothing but a whisper in the wind.

After a great chase, she managed to catch up. But the grief-stricken Star refused to listen.

“Leave me alone!” she yelled, stomping through the thick brush.

“Wait!” Venus grabbed her hand, holding it tightly. “Just listen to me!”

“How could you throw me away so easily? Did I really mean that little to you?”

“I’m sorry... I’m so, so sorry...”

Star could barely speak through her tears. But the words that managed to escape spat out like venom.

“You’ve never said you loved me. Not even once. But with him, it came so easily...”

“Star, I-”

“Why don’t you just go, then? You’ve made it clear I’m unwanted!”

“That’s not true! Please, just let me explain!”

“I can’t forgive you!”

“But, Star-!”

“No! There’s nothing you can do to fix this!”

“Please don’t leave me! I love y-”

“I don’t ever want to see you again!”

Star yanked her hand away and ran off, vision blurred as she bolted through the trees and bushes.

Anger, betrayal, despair. An amalgamation of feelings exploded within, twisting at her core until it felt like she couldn’t breathe. Once Star made it back to the ship, she closed the doors behind her and fell to the floor.

Nothing in her life hurt as much as this. Witnessing her lover commit this betrayal had destroyed her completely.

Why?

Why did this happen?

What had she done to deserve this?

Is this what it meant to love and be in love?

Star pleaded for an answer, but all she heard was silence.

Morning came after a long, lonely night filled with tears and regret. After cooling down, Star sought out Venus to apologize.

There were a lot of heartless things she’d said in anger the night before, some of which had become fuddled in her memory. Now that the rage had quelled, she wanted to talk things out and apologize. Heart filled with remorse, she hoped that they could rectify things now.

But when she arrived at Asha’s parking spot, or at least, where it should have been... there was nothing but an empty space.

“What?!”

Star rushed forward, but it was just as she feared.

Venus was gone.

But... why?

How could she leave without saying goodbye?

They had gotten into a terrible fight, yes, but would she really leave like this without saying a word?

The tears came flooding back, falling into the palms of her hand.

This was all her fault.

She had said something that couldn’t be taken back, and broken the promise they’d made to stay together forever.

Star sat there for some time, mourning her loss until she couldn’t bear it any longer.

Galaxia was in working condition once more. The year spent on this planet had provided more than enough time for her hardware to regenerate.

There was nothing left. It was time to go.

Star prepared for takeoff as she’d practiced many times before. Each step took a lifetime to complete. Her body felt as heavy as cement. Every movement took a great deal of energy, and by the time they had lifted into the air, she was completely spent. But eventually, she managed to return to the stars, plagued with memories of her lost love.

Eros was now just a blink in the distance. Her time with Venus, too, was now nothing more than a painful memory. One that would haunt her for many, many years to come.

Big, big thanks to Michaëlle Abraham for acting as my editor and proofreader for this novelette! Your attention to detail, critical feedback, and helpful writing resources ensured that this was ready for production. I cannot thank you enough for the time and effort you have dedicated to this project, the emotional support as I struggled with my insecurity, and the gentle encouragement to share my art with the world. I am a better writer, and a better person, because of you.

Post-Story Discussion Questions:

1. After learning about what happened to Venus, does that change how you perceive her as a character? Why or why not?

2. How might Venus’s past explain her current thoughts and actions?

3. Venus and Rubio had a toxic, abusive dynamic. Why do you think she went back to him?

4. At the end, Star and Venus went their separate ways. In your opinion, who was at fault for the split? Explain your reasoning.

5. Do you think Star and Venus’s relationship was doomed from the start?

6. Is love enough to save somebody who doesn’t love themselves?

Please share your thoughts in the comments!

GALAXIA (NARRATING)

Memory log 0007. Coordinates: 333.526 x 90.323. NGC-7742 Galaxy.nUpload date: Galactic Year 10021.

Analyzing data, please wait... analyzing data, please wait... analyzing data, please wait... data analysis complete. Audio and visual information generated. File now playing.

GALAXIA

System Notification! Arrival at planet HD1897-B in: 1 hour, 15 minutes. Now preparing for descent. Please follow proper safety protocol for landing.

STAR

Finally! We’ve made it! Let’s see....

Wow! There’s so much information here! So this planet is called Eros.

Interesting... there aren’t any big land formations, just small tropical islands covered in jungles and mountains. And we’re headed for the biggest one: Valivipa! Ooooh... apparently this place is a super popular honeymoon destination!”

The internet says:

‘Valivipa is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and numerous cultural heritages sites, including ancient temples, palaces, and animal sanctuaries. During your visit, you may be invited by the locals to take part in ceremony, which includes a performance of traditional dances as offerings made to the gods...’

Oh my stars!! This place sounds like paradise! Galaxia, let’s land as soon as possible!! Alright, now to make sure I follow proper protocol for landing again...

Enable the transparency shields.

Gravity system set to automatic.

Disable all exterior lights.

Slow acceleration down to 0.2 lightyears per second.

GALAXIA

Warning! Warning! Asteroid field detected! Collision imminent!

STAR

Oh, no! Galaxia, Enable all defensive shields and use evasive maneuver 1218!

STAR (CONT’D)

Whew! That was WAY too close. If one of them had hit-

GALAXIA

Warning! Warning! Transparency shields damaged! Now functioning at 64%. Warning! Warning! Defensive shields damaged! Now functioning at 89%.

STAR

Aaaaahhhhh!! We’re gonna crash! Galaxia, start emergency landing protocol! Oh no, oh no, oh no, how do I do this again...? Shut down the thrusters, enable the emergency silencer... what else? Oh, stars, please don’t let anybody spot us!

GALAXIA

Emergency landing protocol initiated. Impact in ten... nine... eight... seven... six... five... four... three... two... one...

STAR

Ergh... ouch.

STAR(NARRATING)

When I opened Galaxia’s doors, a dark jungle greeted me after stepping outside. There was soft grass beneath my feet, and the sound of birds and animals chirping all around. It was night time. The tall trees blocked out most of the light from the planet’s many moons, so the world was dark. There didn’t seem to be any people around.

Thank goodness. If by some miracle we had managed to go unseen, that would be a huge relief.

But... my ship.

The impact had severely damaged her outer layer. Both the defensive and transparency shields were functioning at an even lower percentage than before. She was clearly visible to the naked eye, even through the dense foliage of the jungle. Anyone walking by would be able to see her.

What was I going to do?!

VENUS

Hello? Is anyone there?

STAR

Oh, no!! What am I going to do...?

VENUS

Hey, are you alright?

STAR

...No!! Don’t come any closer!

VENUS

What’s wrong? Are you hurt?

STAR

No! Just go away, please...

VENUS

Just breathe, okay? In and out, just like that... there you go. It’s going to be alright. You’re a good girl.

STAR

No it’s not... you don’t understand, I’m going to be in so much trouble!

VENUS

Don’t worry. You’re a starling, aren’t you?

STAR

How did you know that?!

VENUS

Because I’m a starling, too.

STAR (NARRATING)

The young woman pressed a finger against the white, moon shaped clip above her ear and transformed before my eyes, like a dream that faded upon waking. Purple locks became light blonde, and long, golden waves fell over her brown shoulders. Green eyes turned gold, and the red attire wrapped around her slim curves became a silk lavender dress. She smiled warmly, melting away my fears.

STAR

You’re… really a starling?

VENUS

Yes. From KOI-55B. Gold Planet.

[audio undetectable due to: starling language]

STAR

Wait... You sound... weird.

VENUS

That’s because we’re from separate star systems. There are many starling dialects in the universe.

STAR

I’ve never met a starling outside of Pink Planet before.

VENUS

Hmm... did you recently begin your space voyage?

STAR

Yes. Not that long ago, actually...

VENUS

I see. That makes more sense, then. How old are you?

STAR

Um... It’s hard to convert time on other planets...

VENUS

Just tell me how old you are in Galactic Years. I recently turned 2000.

STAR

...I’m around 350 Galactic years.

VENUS

What? You’re so young. How were you able to leave home so soon?

STAR

I, um, had special permission!

VENUS

It sounds like you’ve got an interesting story to tell. Maybe you can fill me in me later. But for now we should probably stick to the Universal Standard Language. This planet is still in the early stages of interstellar development.

STAR

...My spaceship... Her transparency shields are damaged so someone might have seen us! Then we made a hard landing and... and... Everything went wrong and its all my fault...

VENUS

It’s alright, really. You landed far away from the city. There aren’t a lot of people out here. Besides, everyone’s gathered on the opposite side of town to watch the meteor shower. I’m pretty sure the only one who saw anything was me.

Don’t worry. Galaxia will heal. Our spaceships were built to regenerate with starlight. Just give her some time, and she’ll be as good as new.

STAR

I’m a bad pilot...

VENUS

Everyone makes mistakes sometimes. When I tried landing on my very first planet, my ship accidentally collided with a rocket and we had to flee immediately.

STAR

Really?

VENUS

Mhm. It was a small planet in a far off galaxy. They had just developed space technology, and that was their first time launching a rocket. Fortunately, the ship’s transparency shields were enabled, so they didn’t see me. But I felt awful for messing up their first rocket launch.

STAR

Was your spaceship okay?

VENUS

Asha was a little banged up, but she fully recovered after a few months.

Come on. Why don’t we take a look at her now to assess the damage? Maybe it’s not as bad as you think.

STAR

Okay... by the way, what’s your name?

VENUS

My real name is-

[audio untedectable due to: starling language]

…but you can call me Venus.

STAR

That’s so pretty... My name is -

[audio undetectable due to: starling language]

…But my nickname is Star.

VENUS

Ah, a very sacred name. You must be a special kind of starling.

STAR

No!! I’m... just an ordinary one!

VENUS

Right, of course. Well, ordinary one, let’s go see how Galaxia is doing.

VENUS (CONT’D)

Hmm... the exterior doesn’t seem to have any serious damage. But let’s check out the interior as well, just to be on the safe side.

STAR

I can’t figure out where the rest of the damage is...

VENUS

Hmmm... have you run a diagnostics test?

STAR

Oh, yeah! Um...

VENUS

Go to General Settings, then Network Diagnostics.

Okay, so the engine took a big hit in the landing, but the damage is minimal. It’ll need some time to regenerate. I’m guessing a couple months at most.

The thrusters and defensive shields don’t look too good, either. They’re still operable, but diverting some of the internal starpower to those sections will allow them to recover more quickly.

STAR

Okay! Um... how do I do that?

VENUS

You... don’t know how to divert power banks?

STAR

...Um...

VENUS

Hey, I get it. Piloting was my worst subject too. I had to study really hard to get to this point. But it’s best to learn on the job anyway.

Watch closely, okay? It’s actually pretty easy.

By the way, you know you’ve had safety locks enabled this whole time, right?

STAR

Wait, for real?!

VENUS

Don’t worry, I turned it off. You should be able to use hyperspeed now.

STAR

Wait, I could’ve used hyperspeed to travel this whole time!?

VENUS

I don’t recommend it for extremely long distances. It requires using all of your engine power just for a one way trip. But it’s good for emergencies, or when the ETA is within one year. Just keep in mind that you’ll need a lot of time to recharge your ship afterwards. Depending on the planet or your location in space, it could take anywhere between a few weeks to a few months.

STAR

Oh, wow! Thank you for teaching me all of this!

VENUS

No problem, I could teach you a lot more if you like.

VENUS

You must be exhausted.

STAR

Yeah... and you, too. It’s pretty late here, right? We should get some rest.

VENUS

Say... do you want to sleep together?

STAR

YES!! I’d love to!

VENUS

Great! Your place, or mine?

STAR

Mine! Since we’re already here.

STAR(NARRATING)

Starlings have a strange tradition in our culture. By nature, we prefer to sleep with others rather than alone for a sense of protection and safety. This was how most of us were raised. Having a sleeping partner, or multiple sleeping partners, helps us feel more at ease. It doesn’t matter what the relationship is between us - friends, family, and lovers alike often share beds. That was why the space voyage was so important in starling development; we have to learn how to be independent and stop relying on others to regulate our emotions. It’s one of the more difficult adjustments that starlings struggle with when they first set off from home.

But for now, both of us could find comfort in the familiar.

STAR

Venus? Can you tell me about some of the places you’ve explored? You’ve been on your space voyage a lot longer than I have. I bet you have a lot of really interesting stories!

VENUS

Sure! Let me tell you about my first planet. The one that I didn’t have to flee. It was inhabited by merpeople who lived underwater. The Aquarians. These were lifeforms that were half human, half fish. Their language reminded me of starling song. It was very similar to how we speak. I only lived with them for a few months. It was tough living in a place with no daylight or solid ground.

STAR

What about this planet? How long have you been here? And can you tell me about the people?

VENUS

Ah... I’m not sure how much time has passed to be honest. But so far, Eros is my favorite planet. Valivipa Island in particular has been amazing.

The locals are kind and welcoming. They have beautiful cultural practices. Music, dance, song, and nature are a core part of their lives. And the land itself is said to radiate love. That’s why they call this the planet of lovers.

STAR

Wait... I’ve heard of this before... on the radio...

VENUS

That doesn’t surprise me. Extraterrestrials treat it as an exotic honeymoon destination, so there are a lot of other beings here in disguise, too. You’ll see them when we go to Ubad tomorrow.

STAR

What’s Ubad like? What are the...

VENUS

Goodnight, sweet Star.

…..

STAR

What did you name your ship?

VENUS

Asha, after my favorite space disco artist. I’ll play some songs when we get back later.

What about yours?

STAR

Oh, I named Galaxia after a character in my favorite magical girl anime!

VENUS

You like anime, too?!

STAR

Heck yeah! Right now I’m watching Galaxy Girls!

VENUS

Oh my stars, I love Galaxy Girls!! Who’s your favorite? Mine’s Glissandria!

STAR

Definitely Melodia, but Aria is a close second!

STAR(NARRATING)

The next morning, we both rose at dawn and got ready for the day. For the first time in forever, I felt soooo well rested! It was nice to co-sleep with someone again, especially after sleeping alone for so long. I had a fruit platter for breakfast, but Venus didn’t have much of an appetite, so the leftovers were packed into a small lunchbox for later.

Our plan for the day was to go to the city of Ubad. Of course, this meant activating our avatars.

STAR & VENUS

Make up, please!

STAR(NARRATING)

White light descended from our heads to our toes, drastically altering our hair and clothes. My hair turned bubblegum pink with thick bangs that hung over my forehead. The clothes I now wore consisted of a long, white dress and matching sandals.

Venus’s straight, blonde hair turned back into the same wavy purple bob from the night before. She wore a long, red dress that fell to her ankles. Both of our antennae disappeared in the transformation. Now, we could both safely blend in with the locals.

Ubad was about an hour’s walk from where we were in the jungle. We spent the whole journey talking and chatting and getting to know each other, so the time passed quickly.

Soon we arrived at the golden gates that guarded the main entry point. The city was HUGE, with roads made of cobblestone and countless street vendors that lined the sidewalks, selling everything from food to clothes to other trinkets. It was as if the whole town was one big market. The people here looked like regular humans, although everybody had pastel colored hair. Citizens of all ages filled the streets, the air abuzz with chatter and laughter.

VENUS

Welcome to Ubad.

Look. Remember how I said there are extraterrestrial tourists here? That’s a greyskin couple. Can you tell?

STAR

Oh, yeah! When you really pay attention, it’s obvious they’re not planet dwellers.

VENUS

But regular humans aren’t able to see things the same way that we can. To them, they just look like foreigners.

STAR

I didn’t realize other species had tech like ours.

VENUS

They do, but starling tech is superior. I mean, come on, the skin grafting looks like a protostar designed it.

STAR

That’s mean! We shouldn’t make fun of other life forms!

VENUS

Am I wrong?

STAR

No!

VENUS

Anyway, you wanna do some shopping? They’ve got some really cool stuff at the market here!

STAR

Oh! Uh... I don’t actually have any money.

VENUS

Hmm... I guess we’ll have to find a way to make some. Follow me.

STAR(NARRATING)

The drummers hit their instruments at a steady, rhythmic beat as we began our dance.

Dusk had fallen over the town square. The street market lit up as vendors set fire to their candle lanterns, lighting a colorful rainbow path for visitors and locals. Somehow, we had attracted a modest crowd who watched us twirl and spin around in our impromptu performance.

I saw a few people drop silver coins and folded paper bills into our little cup. Some of the people who donated even joined in! It was a lot of fun!

When the music stopped, the two of us held hands and took a bow. After a round of applause, the crowd dispersed, and we began our long journey back to the ships.

STAR

That was so much fun!!

VENUS

We made a lot of money, too! Over 1000 rupiah! That’s triple the amount I usually make on my own. You’re a great partner!

STAR

So are you! Can we do it again tomorrow? Pleeeease?

VENUS

Wouldn’t you rather do some more exploring? There’s still so much of Valivipa you haven’t seen yet.

The nightlife is one of my favorite things here. Most of the parties last until dawn. I’ll take you out one of these nights.

STAR

Oooh, like a date?

VENUS

Yep! You’re gonna be all mine!

……

STAR

Is this the waterfall you were talking about?

VENUS

Yep! That’s the one!

STAR

Ahhh! It’s freezing! It’s like an ice bath!

VENUS

Sorry, I should’ve warned you it was cold.

STAR

Ugh...

VENUS

Here, let me help.

VENUS

Ticklish?

STAR

A little bit...

VENUS

Hold on. I’m almost done.

STAR

Do you want me to get your back too?

VENUS

Sure.

VENUS

Thank you.

STAR

You’re welcome.

STAR

...You’re beautiful.

VENUS

Oh! Um, well, thank you... so are you.

Is this your natural hair? It’s very pretty.

STAR

Yeah. I wish I had curly hair, though.

VENUS

No you don’t. It’s a hassle.

STAR

Yeah, but it’s got so much more personality than straight hair! And you can do a lot with it.

I like your hair, too. The color is like warm daylight. Or a golden star.

VENUS

Yeah, well... it won’t be as pretty in a moment here.

...See? I told you. It looks like ramen noodles, right?

STAR

Huh? What are those?

VENUS

You’re telling me you’ve never had ramen noodles before?!

STAR

Nope! But they must be very beautiful if that’s what your hair looks like!

VENUS

You... you’re a strange one, Star.

STAR

You should wear your hair like this more often! It’s absolutely gorgeous. I’d love to style it sometime! My older sisters have this kind of hair, too, so I’m used to working with it!

VENUS

Maybe, I don’t know...

STAR

Well, no matter how you wear it, you’re still going to look super beautiful.

VENUS

...Thank you, Star. You don’t know how much that means to me.

STAR(NARRATING)

After we finished bathing, we headed back to Venus’s ship since it was close by. Asha was her name. She was absolutely beautiful. Her primary form reminded me of a flying fish with wings about to take to the skies. The inside was even more beautiful. Her walls were a deep violet, reflective of the depths of space. And it was much bigger than Galaxia’s interior - there were two levels instead of one!

Venus’s room was on the second floor. She invited me to sleep with her again, which made me really happy!

Her bed was a bit smaller than mine, but there was more than enough room for two. I snuggled under her sheets and felt right at home.

VENUS

It kinda feels like we’re protostars at a sleepover.

STAR

I never really got to have sleepovers.

VENUS

Wait, really? Why not?

STAR

I wasn’t allowed. Not unless it was with my siblings, but they were almost always too busy to spend time with me.

VENUS

Mmm. Your nebulas must have been very strict.

STAR

Yeah. I wasn’t allowed to do a lot of things.

VENUS

Sooo... you couldn’t have sleepovers, but you managed to get special permission to start your space voyage before you reached 1000 years of age?

And your name. They don’t bestow that name upon someone unless...

STAR

...You’re right. I didn’t get permission.

VENUS

Don’t worry. Your secrets are safe with me.

Well, now that you’re on your space voyage, you can do whatever you want. Within reason, of course.

STAR

There are so many things I want to do...

VENUS

Then we’ll do them all. Together.

STAR

Everything?

VENUS

Mhm. Whatever you want. We’re friends now, so you don’t have to be alone anymore.

STAR

Promise?

VENUS

Promise.

……

STAR(NARRATING)

The days on Eros spent with Venus passed by like a rapid summer wind, melting into one another under the hot daystar of Valivipa.

For the first time in my life, the loneliness that had haunted me for my entire life finally disappeared. New and unfamiliar emotions blossomed in my heart, growing everyday as the weeks and months flew by. But I was too shy to confess the secret feelings that had sprouted within.

We were just friends, right?

Can friends fall in love?

Spending time with Venus made me really happy, but... I wanted to kiss her. Hold her in my arms without letting go. Spend every day together talking and laughing and dancing.

But... did she feel the same way about me?

The answer came eventually, but it was nothing like I expected.

…….

STAR(NARRATING)

It was a long drive to Uluwa, the secluded beach town on the western side of the island. We set out in the early morning when the first hints of dawn stretched over the horizon, in hopes of getting there by midday. She insisted on taking something called a “motorbike” instead of our ships - it was the main mode of transportation on Valivipa. That was the first time I had ever gone for a ride like that. It was exhilarating!

Dirt paths stretched on for miles, climbing towards the mountain peak. The dawn sky followed along as the path ascended higher and higher. The rice paddies, jungle brush, and wild rivers looked tiny from way up there. Fresh mountain air filled my lungs with every breath.

During the descent down the other side, I finally spotted the beach in the distance. It was just as amazing as Venus had described! White sand beaches. Clear cerulean waters. Trees with sweet, sour fruit hanging from thick branches. The sight made me a little homesick for Pink Planet and the beaches I used to play in as a young starling.

STAR

Over here!!

We finally reached the shore. I found a spot with plenty of sunshine, in the middle of this secluded beach. No one else was around, so it felt like a secret escape just for the two of us. We laid down our blankets, then pulled out the fruit platters we’d packed for lunch.

STAR

Come on. You should eat.

VENUS

I’m not hungry.

STAR

But you didn’t eat breakfast this morning. And we’ve been traveling for hours. At least have a little snack.

You don’t have to eat a lot, but at least try some of the starfruit. Galaxia grew it in her greenhouse. It’s a special heirloom kind from Pink Planet. Please try it?

VENUS

Okay.

...This is delicious.

STAR

I told you! Have some more!

STAR (CONT’D)

The water is so warm here! I’ve missed the ocean.

VENUS

You have beaches like this on Pink Planet, right?

STAR

Yeah, but I like this beach a lot better.

VENUS

Why?

STAR

Because on this beach… you’re here with me.

VENUS

...Wait.

STAR

What’s wrong? Are you alright?

VENUS

Yes... I mean, no... sorry. I don’t know if I’m...

STAR

Hey. It’s okay. We don’t have to if you’re uncomfortable.

VENUS

Are you sure?

STAR

Yes.

VENUS

But aren’t you disappointed?

STAR

Disappointed? Venus, I just got to kiss you! There’s nothing disappointing about that!

Do you know how long I’ve been wanting this? Even if all we ever do is kiss, I’ll be the happiest star in the whole galaxy!

VENUS

Hey! I’m back! And I’ve got the *stuff*.

STAR

What is this?

VENUS

Something that’ll take us on a magical journey. We’ll go together.

STAR

Eugh! Mushrooms?! They taste like dirt!

VENUS

Do you feel any different?

STAR

Yeah... a little bit...

STAR(NARRATING)

I looked down at my palms, observing the grooved lines and the glow radiating from beneath the skin. Seconds passed. Or maybe minutes. Time began to distort until suddenly, every sense ignited, painting the world in colors once unseen. They bled into my field of vision like oil paint. The soft music playing in the background of Venus’ bedroom... I could feel the notes vibrate against every nerve ending. And Venus, her beautiful face gazing at back at me with tenderness, appeared like a being out of a dream.

STAR

Is this okay?

VENUS

Yeah... it feels good.

STAR

Tell me if it’s too much.

VENUS

Keep going... please.

STAR

Just like this?

VENUS

Mmm... yes...!

…..

STAR(NARRATING)

The anniversary of the day we’d met had arrived.

I led Venus to our secret spot, the waterfall where we bathed together nearly every day. The timing felt perfect. It was now or never.

VENUS

What’s this all about?

STAR

Sit with me. I’ll tell you.

STAR (CONT’D)

Venus... I’ve been meaning to say this for a really long time. But... the last year I’ve spent with you here in Valivipa has been the happiest I’ve ever been in my whole life. You’re my best friend, but you’re also way more than that. And I...

I love you. I think you’re the one. My-

[audio undetectable due to: starling language]

VENUS

Oh, wow. Um...

STAR

...Did I say something wrong?

VENUS

No, no. That was really nice. But-

STAR

But, what?

VENUS

It’s just a lot to take in.

STAR

I’m sorry...

VENUS

No, don’t apologize. I just...I don’t... I don’t want that anymore.

STAR

Why not?

VENUS

I’m sorry. I should go.

STAR

Venus, wait! WAIT!

……

STAR(CONT’D)

I searched for her everywhere. Asha’s parking spot. Ubad’s crowded streets. The hidden waterfalls deep within the jungle. The nightclubs where we used to dance. Venus was nowhere to be found.

There were times when I spotted her slipping into dark alleyways or turning around corners. But the flashes of yellow and gold faded away almost as quickly as they appeared.

Then one day, weeks after our last encounter, we finally crossed paths in the jungle, on the same path we had walked together thousands of times. But when her eyes met mine, she turned around and started to run again.

STAR

Wait! Please!

I’ve been looking all over for you! Where have you been?

VENUS

That doesn’t concern you.

STAR

Yes it does! You’ve been avoiding me and I want to know why!

VENUS

Because I don’t want to be around you anymore. Don’t you get it?

STAR

But... why? What did I do wrong?

VENUS

Just forget about me. I’m not worth it.

STAR

I can’t do that! Not after everything we’ve been through!

VENUS

I just don’t feel the same way, okay? If you want an answer, there you go!

STAR

Then look at me. Look at me and tell me you don’t feel the same.

VENUS

I can’t...

STAR

Please, just talk to me. It isn’t like starlings to hide their feelings from one another.

VENUS

...I’m scared. Really, really scared.

STAR

Why? Are you afraid of me?

VENUS

No... I’m scared of getting hurt again.

STAR

I would never hurt you! At least not on purpose!

VENUS

Even if you don’t mean to, it’s inevitable. Every time I get close to someone, they end up hurting me...

STAR

But isn’t it more painful to lock yourself away?

There will be times when we unintentionally hurt each other. That’s normal in any relationship. But if and when that happens, we can talk it out and heal together.

You haven’t been around other starlings for a very long time. I know how hard it is, pretending to be someone else, trying to fit in with people whose nature is so different from ours. But Venus, you can be yourself with me! You don’t need to hide when we’re together.

I’ll hold your heart very gently, just like a newborn star. Not too tightly, but firm enough to keep you safe. Come back to me, whenever you’re lonely or sad, and I’ll stay with you until the very end. Let me be your home.

It’s okay to be scared. I am too. But we don’t have to be scared alone. We have each other.

VENUS

I don’t know if I’m brave enough to love again.

STAR

Then I’ll be brave for the both of us.

Please, don’t run away from me anymore. I love you.

……

VENUS

How much longer will you stay on Eros?

STAR

Mm, no idea. At some point I have to move on, but... the thought of leaving bums me out.

VENUS

Yeah... I should probably go soon, too.

STAR (NARRATING)

Neither of us could avoid the difficult conversation any longer. There was a quiet, gentle pull that beckoned us to return to the stars so we could finish exploring the cosmos and learn more about this vast, expansive universe. We had ignored the call for long enough. But, still... the thought of going our separate ways broke my heart. There had to be a way for us to stay by each other’s sides. I would do anything to ensure that.

STAR

...Venus, I have a crazy idea.

VENUS

What is it?

STAR

Come with me! Let’s continue our space voyages together!

VENUS

What? You know that defeats the purpose, right? We’re supposed to travel alone.

STAR

Who cares! It’s like you said, we can do whatever we want!

VENUS

Within reason! If anyone finds out, we’ll get reprimanded!

STAR

Who’s gonna tell?

VENUS

Star!

STAR

Come on, just think about it! You and me, the endless sea of stars, adventure around every turn! Think of all the cool places we’ll see, all the people we’ll meet!

VENUS

It does sound nice...

STAR

And the best part is, we’ll be together.

VENUS

I don’t know. Let me think about it some more, okay?

STAR

Take all the time you need.

I’m gonna run back to Galaxia quick and grab something for us. You go on ahead, I’ll be there soon!

STAR (NARRATING)

Aged solapple juice. That was her favorite. It would be a way for us to commemorate this day, and solidify our plans for the future. After grabbing it from Galaxia’s stock, I rushed back to reunite with Venus.

But... something wasn’t right.

Who was that?

Where did he come from?

And why was...?

STRANGE MAN

Come back to me. I promise, things will be different this time.

VENUS

But...

STRANGE MAN

Please. I can’t live without you. Everything feels meaningless when you’re not around.

Don’t you miss me, too?

VENUS

Of course I do! Every day! I love you, Rubio... all I want is to spend my life by your side!

STRANGE MAN

You still can. Let’s leave this place and make a new home. Together.

VENUS

...Star!

STAR

Leave me alone!

VENUS

Wait! Just listen to me!

STAR

How could you throw me away so easily?

[Error! Audio corrupted!]

VENUS

I’m sorry... I’m so, so sorry...

STAR

You’ve never said you loved me.

[Error! Audio corrupted!]

STAR

It’s always so difficult with me! Why don’t you just go, then?

[Error! Audio corrupted!]

STAR

No! There’s nothing you can do to fix this!

VENUS

Please don’t go!

[Error! Audio corrupted!]

GALAXIA

Warning! Warning! File corrupted! Please restart the conscious recording system and select “repair files” to retrieve.

Warning! Warning! File corrupted! Please restart the conscious recording system and select “repair files” to retrieve.

Warning! Warning! File corrupted! Please restart the conscious recording system and select “repair files” to retrieve.

…..

STAR(NARRATING)

Morning came after a long, lonely night filled with tears and regret. And after cooling down, I decided to find Venus to apologize for lashing out.

There were a lot of heartless things said in anger the night before, some of which had become fuddled in my memory. However, I hadn’t given Venus a chance to say her piece. Hopefully, the two of us could talk it out now.

But... when I arrived at Asha’s parking spot, or at least, where it *should* have been... nothing was there except an empty space.

There were no signs of them anywhere. It was just as I feared.

She was gone.

Why? How could she leave without saying goodbye? We had a bad fight, but... would she really leave me behind like this, without saying a word?

This was all my fault. I must have said something awful that couldn’t be taken back. And the worst part was... our broken promise, to stay together forever. There was no way to fix this now. I couldn’t even apologize.

It would have been useless to search for her. She was probably long gone.

So I decided to leave, too. There was nothing left for me on Eros.

Galaxia had been in working order for some time. The year we spent here allowed her to regenerate fully, and all system functions were back at 100%.

Takeoff went smoothly. All that practice with Venus had taught me well. My body felt like cement as I carried out each task. But eventually, we managed to return to the stars.

Eros was now just a speck of light in the distance. My time was Venus, too, was now nothing more than a painful memory.

Infinite gratitude and love to this episode’s featured voice actors, Celestine and Fene!

Celestine is a beautiful soul, a talented multimedia artist, an author of LGBT romance novelettes, a creator of fantastical worlds and characters, a magical being from the stars, and my very good friend. Her artistic works range from traditional hand drawn sketches, watercolor paint and markers, chalk, and any other materials she can get her hands on. To support the artist, you can subscribe to her patreon here.

Thank you for everything, Bunny. The late night recordings, the hours of practice run throughs, the time dedicated to understanding your character, the guidance and mentorship as I learn to create my own art, and for being my friend. I wish you luck as your begin your new journey. Even though I will miss you deeply, I’m excited to hear all about your adventures.

Fene is a college student with dreams of starting his own game company under the pseudonym Fenetronics. In his free time, he enjoys playing Umamusume and Mahjong. To get in touch, please reach out to The Intergalactic Library directly.

Big, big thanks to Michaëlle Abraham for acting as my editor and proofreader for this episode, as well as the up and coming novelette that will accompany this story! Your attention to detail, critical feedback, and helpful writing resources ensured that this was ready for production. I cannot thank you enough for the time and effort you have dedicated to this project. I am a better writer because of you.

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
Spaceship ambient sfx - JCI21
Computing sound #2 - freesound_community
Spaceship Bridge Loop - freesound_community
Smart Sparks - kissan4
Robot Compute Beeps 1 - floraphonic
BOOM Geomorphism | Cinematic Trailer Sound Effects - SUBMORITY
ALERT - freesound_community
Earthquake - freesound_community
004173_whoosh,space ship,whiz,wiz,flyby,woosh,swipe - freesound_community
Sound Design Elements Impact SFX PS 140 - AudioPapkin
Crash - freesound_community
Boulder Impact - DRAGON-STUDIO
Nature sounds.tropical,jungle,birds - Placidplace
Sci fi door - freesound_community
Walking in a forest - photos_
Magic descend 3 - BenKirb
Square Bells Glitters (90 BPM) - freesound_community
Glitter Sound Effect for Music or Editing - Asgarli
Fairy Dust Shimmer 1 - floraphonic
Remembrance Harp - freesound_community
Harp Strum - freesound_community
Harp Glissandro Down - freesound_community
Electronic Glitch - freesound_community
Broken Expending Machine - freesound_community
Lofi Beats - barbrasbeats
windows NT 4.0 startup sound - ThatOneMonke
Feet no shoes walking - freesound_community
Movement in bed, blanket - freesound_community
Lullaby Music Vol.24 - RelaxingTime
Jungle Nature - Soul_Serenity_Sounds
Small Town Ambience - freesound_community
TVARI - Bali Nature - TVARI
talking people - freesound_community
Groovy Upbeat Drums and Percussion - SOFRA
Coins Dropping Into Wooden Box - DRAGON-STUDIO
Applause - Driken5482
Waterfall - freesound_community
Creek swimming - freesound_community
Water splash - freesound_community
Tap water - freesound_community
Sensual - JourinHannah
Lullaby Music Vol.4 - RelaxingTime
Celestial Harp for Meditation - KonstantinPazuzuStudio
Sound Effects - Motorbike Revving Up Taking Off -
motorbike hornet 600 onboard.clip 0005.N3.F - freesound_community
Park the vehicle - spinopel
Sand walk - freesound_community
Ocean Waves - RichardMultiMedia
SPLASH (by blaukreuz) - freesound_community
Rough Ocean Waves - DRAGON-STUDIO
Clothes rustle - freesound_community
Indian Sarod & Flute - Enchanting Raga -
jungle ambience - _Emycutiepants_
Peaceful Stress Relief Harp - KonstantinPazuzuStudio
sound effect - nice celest - Seaeagle_Music
Running, on path through forest, dirt ground, leaves, footsteps, NOTL, 2011 - freesound_community
Pure Mystic Harp Grace - KonstantinPazuzuStudio
Broken Glass Impact - Universfield
Horror Train - SUNRIZISH
Beautiful Birdsong 3 - AudioPapkin
A Heartfelt Goodbye - Katzen_Tupas
UFO Take Off - freesound_community
Swish Swoosh Woosh SFX-12 - StereogenicStudio

Post-Episode Discussion Questions:

1. Do you think it’s wise for friends to fall in love? Why or why not?

2. At the end, Star and Venus went their separate ways. In your opinion, who was at fault for the split? Explain your reasoning.

3. Do you think Star and Venus’s relationship was doomed from the start?

4. Is love enough to save somebody who doesn’t love themselves?

Please share your thoughts in the comments!

...Nothing tops a Valivipa holiday! And right now, you can save 300 xenites per person. That’s 600 xenites off for a newlywed couple! We’ve got hundreds of childfree holiday destinations available, with four free luggage check ins included! Book now with Eros Travel!

QUEXIA:

Zentalon...? What are you doing here?

ZENTALON:

I’ve come to win you back, baby. Ever since the day we parted ways, life has been empty and meaningless. Leaving you was my worst mistake, and my greatest regret. Find it in your heart to give me another chance, and I promise I won’t let you down again.

QUEXIA:

...It’s too late, Zentalon. I’ve already found someone else. And that someone... is your brother!!

ZENTALON:

NOOO - wait, which brother?

QUEXIA:

Alpharon.

ZENTALON:

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

COMET BOY:

...This song goes out to the brightest Star in the sky. I’ll see you soon.

STAR:

Oooh, it’s been a while since I’ve heard this song!

(singing)

Honey skin with turquoise blue,

Do you dream of meeting, too?

Hoping that the nearest falling star can make my wish come true.

Baaa, ba da da duh da da duh...

(humming)

Could you be the one who’s always been the only one for me?

You know I’m always here for you,

You can meet me at the crossroads of our daydream avenue…

(humming)

RADIO HOST 1:

...Thanks for joining us today.

RADIO HOST 2:

The pleasure is all mine, Googi.

RADIO HOST 1:

What are your thoughts on the cyborg rebellion on Planet TOI-3757B?

RADIO HOST 2:

Personally, I support the revolution, especially after the latest report came out about Alsetech.

RADIO HOST 1:

Can you tell our listeners what you’re referring to?

RADIO HOST 2:

A retired Galactic Federation officer recently went undercover on one of Alsetech’s work colonies in the Kitar section of the galaxy. What he discovered was that the tech company was relying on child labor to mine resources for their products, such as cobalt and unobtanium. There were children as young as five years old discovered working in the mines.

RADIO HOST 1:

Woah... that is totally not tubular!

RADIO HOST 2:

And on top of that, the work conditions were extremely hazardous. We’re talking loose electrical wires, poor architectural design, stray dynamite on the cave paths, and more. There are thousands of workers who sustained severe injuries while on the job due to Alsetech’s negligence. Some people have even lost limbs... including the kids.

RADIO HOST 1:

Well that’s just awful. Someone needs to put a stop to that!

RADIO HOST 2:

That’s what the cyborg rebellion is all about. They’re demanding an end to Alsetech’s occupation on all work colonies and proper reparations for the damage they’ve caused to the locals and the environment.

RADIO HOST 1:

It sounds to me like some regulation needs to be enforced with these interstellar tech companies as well!

RADIO HOST 2:

Right. They need to follow the same laws as everyone else. And they have a duty to keep their workers safe.

RADIO HOST 1:

With all that said, does this mean you support the violent actions of the rouge cyborgs? I heard they recently infiltrated the Alsetech headquarters and caused millions of zentities in property damage-

RADIO HOST 2:

The rebels did destroy their headquarters, yes. But nobody was hurt or killed in the attack. In fact, the culprits intentionally didn’t attack the building until after work hours when everyone had already gone home for the day. Their target was the product wing, where they were developing new technology that required even more resources from the work colony mines.

Look, the cyborgs aren’t just some terrorist group that the news is making them out to be. They don’t have unrealistic demands and they’re not out to hurt anyone. They’re everyday people like you and me who are just trying to make a living and support their families. People seeking Justice in a corrupt world that has stacked the odds against them. That’s why I support the rebellion.

RADIO HOST 1:

There you have it folks. You’ve given us a lot to think about, Astra. Thank you for weighing in on this.

RADIO HOST 2:

Thank you for asking, Googie. Until next time!

STAR:

...OH MY STARS!! Finally!! A television signal!! Is this... yes! It’s the new episode of Galaxy Girls! Oh my gosh, please work, please please please... pleeeease work please work...YES!

HARMONIA/MELODY/ARIA/GLISSANDRIA

Galaxy girls, unite!

HARMONIA:

We’re here to save the universe from evil with the power of sound vibrations!

MELODIA:

And today, we’ll go up against the evil Queen Discordia, a tyrannical ruler who hates music and laughter!

ARIA:

We’ll take her down with warbled notes and steadfast harmonies!

BUBBLEPOP:

And I’ll help!

MELODIA:

...Uhh, maybe it’s best if you stay behind this time, Mr. Bubblepop.

BUBBLEPOP:

Aww, but why?

GLISSANDRIA:

Well, the last time you tried to help, we almost got vaporized by an eclipse cannon.

BUBBLEPOP:

Oh, yeah... sorry about that, girls.

MELODIA:

Oh, no! We’re under attack by The Army of Dissonance!

ALL IN UNISON:

Galaxy Girls, crescendo!!

STAR:

Wait, nooooo!! Not again! Why does it always cut out at the best part?! Ugh...

Oh well... I guess that’s enough radio for now.

...Wait, am I recording? Oh! Whoops, I must have accidentally pressed the wrong button.

Hello space diary! Galaxia and I are back on the road again and already in route to the next planet! I’m gonna miss Flowerais. It was a really fun adventure! But the journey must move forward!

A lot has happened since the last voice log, so let me start from the beginning. As soon as Galaxia stabilized in space, I went ahead and planted the little seed that Mother had gifted to me. It’s in a pot on the windowsill next to my bed! The soil is a special mix I made myself from the sands of time. Don’t worry, I was super careful when handling that stuff!

...Anyway, we also got into a little bit of trouble. A Galactic Federation officer pulled me over for speeding, piloting without a license and, uh... some other thing. But he knew my brother Palomar and let me off with a warning! Now I’ve gotta go to some place called the DPV to get a proper piloting license. Fortunately, Galaxia and I were already heading in that direction. I’ll stop there after I finish exploring the next planet!

Speaking of that... Galaxia set new coordinates not long after we finished launch, and it’s a lot closer than expected! According to her calculations, we should arrive in approximately one year! I can’t wait!!

Still, it’s gonna be another long, boring ride. I’m trying to think of ways to pass the time. The radio’s always good, but I wish I could get more reliable television signals out here. Then I could catch up on all of the latest episodes of Galaxy Girls!

Hmm... you know what? Let’s read! You remember the book I read out loud before, right? A Planet With No Stars. Let’s dive into chapter 2!

STAR(READING):

Just as I feared.

There are no stars on this planet, either.

I am alone, because I am the only one.

My heart is lost on this lonely path of darkness.

It wanders aimlessly through the shadows in search of something special.

But still, I have not found it.

Is there anyone out there who is like me?

Someone that just for me, and only me?

Or is that a dream?

My inner light shines from within.

It yearns to find my other.

One day, we will reunite. But until then, only loneliness awaits.

Where must I go to find what I seek?

Is it out there, or is it in here?

I ask, but only silence answers.

This planet has no stars.

I will leave this place and search elsewhere.

Everyone has forgotten, but...

STAR:

Space diary, I have a confession.

There was another reason why I left home. Not just to explore the universe, but... because I was lonely.

Going on my space voyage gave me the chance to finally search for my-

[Error! Audio undetectable due to: star language.]

STAR(CONT’D):

...Oh, sorry. Starling language. Um, let me think... the best way to translate that word is... the person that is meant for me, and only me. It’s a very sacred thing that all starlings dream of. Even the ones that pretend they don’t care still yearn for this special someone.

How can I describe it? It’s... something deeper than love. When a star forms a direct connection to another person’s inner light, a bond forms between them that is unlike any other. It’s the moment when two become one, and both halves of a soul come together in unity.

...Does that make sense?

Maybe it’s not something I can express the universal standard language. But regardless, it’s very, very important to me. My whole life, I’ve been dreaming of meeting the one that is meant for me.

My hope is that... once I find them, this loneliness will finally end.

But... is my someone out there? I’ve been waiting for a long time, but we still haven’t met.

What if we never find each other? Will my light burn out before we cross paths? The thought of that makes me really sad.

That’s why I couldn’t wait anymore. I had to go out and search for them myself.

But, I have no idea where to start.

Where does this person live? What do they look like? Are they a man, a woman, someone in between, or neither? Could it be someone completely unexpected?

I don’t really care either way. If that person is really my-

[Error! Audio undetectable due to: star language.]

...Then all that matters is their inner light.

And no matter how long it takes, and no matter where they are, I’ll find them.

...Even if I have to travel the universe for all of eternity.

GALAXIA:

System Notification! Dream logs 00005-00009 failed to recover. Please restart the subconscious recording system and select option “repair files” to retrieve.

System processing. Files deleted. Now playing Dream Log 00010.

STAR(NARRATING):

I found myself in the same jungle, but this time, there was a grand celebration with many, many people. Upbeat music floated through the air, accompanied by the sound of laughter.

There were couples all around me. Smiling, chatting, leaping, and spinning. Lovers that embraced one another with gentle arms and soft kisses. Everyone had their someone, except for me.

I could only watch, because I was alone. There was no one for me to dance with.

Until I saw her.

A being of light appeared before me in the darkness, banishing the storm that brewed inside my heart. Beautiful golden hair fell over her shoulders, which glowed brighter with each step.

Now close enough to touch, She reached out and asked for my hand.

I don’t remember her face, but I’ll never forget our dance. Her deep russet skin radiated with warmth, like the glow of a daystar on a summer afternoon. Her body pressed against mine, enveloping me in her embrace. For a moment, it felt as if two became one.

But when the music stopped, so did our dance. She turned her back and walked away without a word. I followed, but her footsteps grew quicker until she was running at full speed.

And no matter how much I chased, I could never catch up.

The last thing I saw before waking up was the golden haired girl fading back into the darkness, her bright light smothered as it was swallowed by shadows.

Endless gratitude to this episode’s featured guests: Jordan, Luna, and George Watson! Thank you all for lending your talents to this project and helping bring these characters to life!

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
Spaceship ambient sfx - JCI21
Old Radio Tuning - freesound_community
Alien Communication Radio Sing Loop Mastered 200618_0009_01 - freesound_community
Ghost Alien Monster Communications - freesound_community
Alien Radio - shrek_30
Radio Tuning 1 - DJARTMUSIC
Radio - Hyperpop Sci-Fi SFX - kontraa
Happy Exciting Beats - FASSounds
Feel-Good Popper - heart_of_hope
Alien Breath - DeltaXMusic
Dramatic Piano and Violin (Short Version) - Universfield
Rain drops groove - ShidenBeatsMusic
新年だよ！- Superpuyofãns1234
Explosion FX - SoundReality
Closing Tape Casette - SoundReality
Lullaby Music Vol.20 - RelaxingTime
sound effect - nice celest - Seaeagle_Music
Glitter Sound Effect for Music or Editing - Asgarli
Peaceful Stress Relief Harp - KonstantinPazuzuStudio
Refreshments - drmseq
talking people - freesound_community
Sunset - Adinkra_Audio
Walking in a forest - photos_
Running, on path through forest, dirt ground, leaves, footsteps, NOTL, 2011 - freesound_community
Waterfall - freesound_community

Thank you very much!

Palomar walked at a brisk pace through the pristine halls of the Galactic Federation Headquarters, desperate to get to the sanctity of his office without interruption. The ivory hallways were bustling with activity and chatter as multiple squadrons returned from their missions across the universe. The oval-shaped doors made whooshing sounds as they buzzed open to let personnel through, a sound he had grown accustomed to over his years of service.

He noticed a group of Oankali waiting near an interrogation room. Palomar silently bet that they’d been arrested for non-consensual acquisition of genetic information again. He scoffed and shook his head as he walked by.

He did his best to weave through the crowds, heading towards the west wing. A large gathering of new cadets and lower ranking officers saluted him as he passed by them in the main lobby. He nodded in acknowledgement, hoping to slip away and avoid entertaining their small talk. Fortunately, none of them seemed to need him at the moment.

Excellent. Maybe he’d actually get the chance to be productive today instead of dragged into useless meetings or impromptu missions.

His footsteps quickened as his office grew closer. He was almost there. So far, so good. He turned one last corner, and at the end of the hall was a door with a gold plaque beside it on the wall, engraved with the words Colonel Palomar. Stepping inside, he shut the door with a weary sigh.

His office looked exactly the same as it had before he’d gone off for his mission to Romulus. A plain, white desk made of heliumite with supplies scattered across its surface, a flat holographic computer monitor, framed portraits of his loved ones, and a collection of trophies lined up on small shelves along the walls. And, of course, the makeshift cot in its corner. A thin blanket and lumpy pillow had been shoddily tossed together. There was also a towering pile of classified documents waiting for review. Just looking at it sucked out the last bits of his energy.

But there was no use complaining. He sat down and started sifting through the papers, running a hand through his lavender hair with a sigh. The sooner he got it done, the sooner he could attend to other matters, and the sooner he could rest if time allowed. Most likely, he’d have to work overtime again to ensure all of today’s duties were complete. It was the price he had to pay in order to keep the galaxies safe.

To his dismay, however, a firm knock on the door shattered his focus. He let out a groan and slumped against the back of the chair.

“Come in,” he grumbled.

He sat upright at full attention after seeing who was on the other side. His right hand man, Lieutenant Colonel Taurus, stepped inside and greeted him with a curt salute. Dark, curly hair peeked out from beneath his boxy cap and twirled around his pale face. He wore a serious expression per usual, brows knitted together to frame dark, steely eyes.

It was a very familiar face, one that Palomar had known for almost two decades and trusted more than anyone else. His irritation quickly gave way to relief.

“At ease,” Palomar waved a hand.

“I’m here for my daily report, sir.”

Straight to the point, like always. Palomar appreciated that.

“Right,” the colonel rubbed his temples, feeling a headache coming on. “Make it quick.”

“The Kili Lege are continuing to attack peaceful planets in the Tau Ceti system. We’ve dispatched more officers to that area, but lack the manpower and resources to maintain control over that grid.”

Palomar’s eyes narrowed upon hearing the news. “I’ll put in a request for additional funding with the High Council. We can’t keep letting them terrorize innocent people.”

“I’ll have the paperwork ready first thing tomorrow morning.”

“Make it tonight,” he fired back. “This can’t wait. People are going to die unless we act swiftly.”

“Very well.”

“What else?”

Taurus’ expression turned bleak. “We are still unable to make contact with the vice squad we dispatched to Modos.”

“They’re undercover, right?”

“Correct. The last communication we received from them was over a month ago, when they reported their successful infiltration of the upper ranks in the Ninko.”

Palomar puzzled to himself quietly. He leaned forward, tapping anxious fingers on the desk.

“If we don’t hear from them within the next week, send in our rescue team for backup. I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”

“Roger that. In addition, we are still in pursuit of the rebel cyborgs that escaped from Prison Planet HR-8779B. Sympathetic parties are most likely housing the fugitives until their next strike.”

“What about the leader, M-1013? Any updates on their location?”

Taurus shook his head. “The trail’s gone cold. We may have a new lead, but I’ve yet to verify if it’s legitimate.”

Palomar let out another groan, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Any other bad news?”

The lieutenant fell silent for a moment, then looked back at his superior officer.

“...I met your sister.”

The colonel sighed. “I’ve got thousands of sisters. You’ll have to be more specific.”

“Her name was Star. She was a short woman, turquoise hair-”

“You saw Star?!” Palomar slammed his hands on the desk and stood up. Taurus flinched slightly, his steely demeanor cracking for just a moment.

“...Yes, sir. I pulled her over for a traffic violation a few days ago.”

“Damn it, Taurus! You should have informed me immediately!!”

“I didn’t know it was worthy of reporting,” the lieutenant said with a deep frown.

Palomar hands clenched into tight fists. His jaw was tense, teeth grinding against one another to further fuel his headache.

“That’s my baby sister, damn it. We’ve been looking for her since last century…”

He looked up at his subordinate, desperate for answers. “Did she seem okay? Was she hurt?”

Taurus shook his head. “She was in high spirits and appeared to be in good health.”

He paused for a moment, then delivered his next sentence in a deadpan tone.

“She told me to tell you that she said ‘hi’.”

Palomar let out a bitter laugh. He sat down again, feeling drained from the sudden movement.

“...Of course she did.”

The two men fell silent, thick tension adding on to the stuffy air of his office. After a few seconds, Taurus cleared his throat and got back to the issue at hand.

“I apologize for my negligence. If I had known she was missing, I would have brought her back with me.”

“It’s alright...” Palomar waived a dismissive hand. “No point dwelling on it now. What’s done is done.”

He looked up at the lieutenant, locking eyes with him before asking the next question.

“Is that all?”

“Those are all the updates I have for today.”

“Good, then you’re dismissed.”

“...However, there is one more thing I’d like to discuss.”

Palomar quirked an eyebrow. “What is it?”

“Why didn’t you tell me about her sooner?”

His question was blunt and slightly out of character. Taurus wasn’t the type to ask people about their personal lives. He didn’t usually care about what he considered “trivial matters”. So when Palomar heard the inquiry, it only served to confuse him.

“Because...” the colonel frowned. “It’s not Federation business.”

“I could have assisted.”

“And how would you have done that?”

“As I stated before,” his lieutenant answered sharply. “I would have apprehended her on your behalf.”

Palomar shook his head. “She’s always been good at slipping away. Besides, I’m handling it myself.”

“With all due respect,” Taurus’ professional demeanor slipped for a brief moment. “You’re not handling jack shit.”

Palomar’s expression turned sour. “Excuse me?”

“You can barely keep yourself awake, let alone search for an entire person independently on top of your regular duties,” Taurus belted out angrily.

“Watch it, lieutenant,” he growled through gritted teeth. “Or I’ll write you up for insubordination.”

“Go ahead. Explain why you’re investigating a personal matter while on the clock. I’m sure the High Council will be thrilled to hear that their top colonel is committing time theft.”

He barreled down another fist. “Why the hell are you so fixated on this?!”

“Because it pisses me off!” Taurus snarled, slamming his own hands on the desk in anger. “You keep trying to do everything on your own when you’re clearly in over your head!”

“I don’t need your help or your concern!” Palomar glared down at his lieutenant, who returned his fiery gaze with even more intensity. Despite their slight difference in height, Taurus’ presence was quite foreboding.

“Oh really?” the dark haired man growled. “You didn’t need my help when you collapsed from exhaustion at the forum last month? Or when you had to be rushed to the ER for heart palpitations? Or when your caffeine withdrawals were so intense that you could barely hold a fucking pen?”

“...I could have taken care of myself,” Palomar grumbled, looking away for a brief moment.

Taurus scoffed. “You never take care of yourself. You barely sleep, you skip meals, you refuse to take time off-”

“None of that has anything to do with you,” he snapped back.

“Everything you do involves me,” Taurus scowled. “I’m your second in command. If you can’t do your fucking job properly because you’re starving and sleep deprived, that reflects on us all. And I’ll be damned if I let you make us both look like incompetent fools.”

“Fuck you!”

“Fuck you!“

The two stood at an impasse, shooting daggers at one another as the long seconds ticked on. Neither one of them showed signs of backing down. But eventually, the colonel conceded.

Suddenly overcome with exhaustion, Palomar let out a sigh and draped himself over the office chair, groaning weakly while holding his head in one hand. He didn’t have the energy to argue anymore.

“I don’t have time for this. You’re dismissed, Taurus.”

Taurus, still fuming, understood that the conversation was over. There was nothing more to be said, anyway. He gave the colonel one last bitter salute before making his leave. But as he was standing in the doorway, Palomar called out to him once last time.

“Oh, and Taurus?”

The lieutenant stopped in his tracks and looked back with a harsh glance.

“What?”

“Don’t let the door hit you on the way out.”

Taurus held his intense gaze for several long seconds, eyes narrowing as the two gave each other one last parting glare. Then he finally walked out, slamming the door so hard that the medals hanging on the walls began to jingle.

Palomar watched him leave from behind the glass window. The lieutenant stormed down the hall and took a left, then disappeared around the corner. He rubbed his face with one hand, feeling even more tired than before this heated interaction.

“Fucking asshole…”

Taurus let his anger simmer silently for the rest of the day. The conversation with Palomar had left him in a foul mood, and he was waiting for the right opportunity to take it out on an unsuspecting colleague or subordinate.

This had been a common practice for him ever since he had accepted the role as lieutenant colonel. Having earned a reputation for being a stickler over the years due to his tendency to dole out strict punishments, most people avoided him out of fear. Even the most innocuous infractions had led to severe consequences for those who ended up on the wrong side of his wrath. This behavior had earned him no friends or comrades in the ranks, despite his many years of service. Palomar was the only one who had managed to maintain a close relationship with him.

But Taurus didn’t mind. He had an important job to carry out. Friendships and relationships were merely distractions.

So when he saw the two cadets sitting together in one of the training rooms past curfew, he decided to teach them a lesson.

“Would either of you care to explain why the two of you are not in your rooms?”

The young couple nearly jumped out of their skin when they heard the gravely voice at the door. Both gawked at him with wide, terrified eyes as he stared them down with an intense, fiery glare. The short-haired brunette girl, whom he recognized as a new recruit, quickly scrambled to her feet. She held the hand of her companion, a lanky kid with curly red hair and metal glasses, and quickly let go after realizing they’d been caught.

“L-Lieutenant Taurus!” The pair saluted him.

“Fraternization within the forces is grounds for dismissal,” he approached them with slow, intimidating steps. “I’m looking forward to hearing your shoddy excuses as to why you’ve snuck out for this... rendezvous.“

“We, uh... well, you see-”

“I left an important report in this room earlier, and I couldn’t remember how to get here!” The girl chimed in, her voice shaking with every word as she scrambled to pick up a pile of papers from the table. “I’m, I’m still new here, I just joined the ranks last week-”

“And this report couldn’t have waited until the morning?”

“No, sir!” The lad chimed in. “It has classified information, so she-”

“So not only are you both out past curfew, you also left a classified document out in the open,” Taurus narrowed his eyes. “Do you understand the gravity of the situation? Your negligence could have threatened the integrity of the forces!”

“We’re sorry, sir! It won’t happen again!”

“It certainly will not,” he growled. “I’m demoting ten merits each, and you’ll both be on lavatory duty for the next three months.”

They clicked their heels with a salute, desperately trying to maintain composure. “Yes, sir! Understood, sir!”

Taurus scoffed. “Now get the hell out of here and go back to your rooms. Separately. If I catch either of you out again, I’ll have you both discharged.”

The couple scurried off in silence, whispering to one another in low, hushed voices. He caught the tail end of their conversation right before they disappeared around the corner.

“...I thought I was gonna shit my pants!”

“Me, too!”

“But it was worth it. I missed you so much.”

“I missed you, too...”

“I don’t care if I have to scrub toilets, I’m just happy I got to see you again before we...”

Their parting words weighed heavily on the brooding lieutenant. He was not an emotional man, but there were certain things that got under his skin that he couldn’t explain away with logic. And it really pissed him off.

He went from the south to east wing under the guise of making nightly rounds, hoping to clear his mind, but saw nothing of note or importance. The halls were dark and quiet, lest for a few higher ups who were speaking in hushed tones behind closed doors.

But as he was stomping through the north wing, he heard concerning noises coming from one of the break rooms. There was a loud thump, then the sound of something hitting the floor and shattering into pieces. After rushing inside to investigate, his heart dropped when he saw the sight before him.

Colonel Palomar was lying on the ground next to a broken mug and a small puddle of coffee. He was still, except for the rapid rising and falling of his chest. Taurus rushed over, kneeling down to grab his shoulders.

“Palomar!! Are you alright?”

“...Urgh... Taurus...?”

He was conscious and still somewhat lucid. That was a good sign. Taurus looped his arm around the colonel’s shoulders to hold him steady. He scanned his body, looking for signs of injury as best as he could in the dark of the room.

“What happened? Were you attacked?”

“No, no,” Palomar cringed, grasping his forehead. “I must have... I just came in here to refill my cup and...”

Taurus placed a hand on his chest. It beat rapidly beneath his palm.

“Your heart rate is skyrocketing. Keep still.”

He held the colonel close, both of them eerily quiet as the wall clock ticked on. Eventually, Palomar’s breathing started to settle. Taurus checked his heartbeat once more, letting out a sigh of relief when he felt the low, steady thumps.

“You overworked yourself again.”

Palomar didn’t have a clever retort this time. Taurus could see the fatigue in his face. Deep, dark circles under his eyes. A gaze that lacked its usual light and spark. Slumped shoulders that could barely hold themselves upright. It killed him to see the colonel like this. Especially knowing that it was self inflicted.

“I told you to stop pushing yourself so hard,” he fussed. “When’s the last time you slept?”

“...I don’t know. A few days ago, I think.”

“Idiot! No wonder you passed out!”

“I’m fine…”

“Like hell you are. Come on, you’re going to bed.”

There was no room for argument. Taurus helped him stand up, then wrapped an arm around his waist as the two began to make their way to the barracks.

Galactic Federation housing was nothing fancy, even for higher ranking officials. Taurus had a simple studio with a full sized bed and bath, and not much else. It was considered luxurious compared to the dwellings of new recruits, who often had to share rooms with two or three other people. At least he had his privacy. After dragging him inside, he led Palomar to the bed and commanded him to lay down.

“I don’t need you to fuss over me,” Palomar muttered as he collapsed on the firm mattress.

“Then show me you can take care of your damn self.”

He muttered something else, but Taurus didn’t catch it.

“Caffeine doesn’t replace sleep,” he continued, forcefully placing a blanket over him. “Guzzling coffee and pulling all nighters will eventually catch up with you.”

“I’ve pulled all nighters plenty of times...” he grumbled, pulling the blanket over the bottom half of his face.

“Yeah, and you’ve crashed plenty of times as well.”

He scoffed in response, his eyes fluttering shut as he slurred his last few words. “Why won’t you just leave me be...”

“Because,” Taurus said under his breath. “I can’t stand seeing you like this...”

But when he looked over at Palomar again, he found him fast asleep. A half smile creeped up his face, and he let out a sigh of satisfaction.

Good. He finally shut the hell up and went to sleep.

He watched as the colonel’s chest rose and fell, each breath deeper than the last. His hair, messy and unkempt, fell across the pillowcase, unable to hold its style. It glowed slightly in the darkness of the room, along with his warm russet skin and the white starlink above his head.

This was the first time he had seen Palomar at peace in quite some time. The tension in his gaze was now a thing of the past, and the frown that plagued his usual expression was nowhere to be found. The starling never slept in front of others in fear of leaving himself vulnerable, so the fact that he passed out so quickly on Taurus’s bed meant that he was truly and utterly exhausted.

Idiot, he thought. You shouldn’t keep letting it get this bad.

Taurus grabbed a thick blanket from the hall closet, along with a small pillow that had fallen onto the ground when Palomar had collapsed on the bed. He made himself comfortable on the ground, and soon followed Palomar into the world of sleep.

He didn’t mind taking the floor for a night. Not if it meant that the colonel could finally rest.

When Palomar woke up in the morning, Taurus had already gotten started with his day. Messy blankets and misshapen pillows littered the ground, with the sound of running water coming from the other room. The colonel rubbed his eyes and yawned.

He felt great , having slept through the night for the first time in months. Taurus’ bed was pretty comfortable. Or maybe he was just accustomed to his cot. Sleeping on a real bed felt like a luxury. It had been nice co-sleeping with someone again, as well. Starlings usually slept better with someone else beside them.

The water shut off, and a few moments later Taurus came out of the steam-filled bathroom with only a white towel wrapped around his waist for coverage. He was shirtless, his skin damp and glistening under the florescent light of the room.

All Galactic Federation officers had to pass a monthly fitness test. It was a physically demanding job, and everyone was expected to stay in shape. So it shouldn’t have come as a surprise to see the firm, sculpted muscles of Taurus’ body on display. The lingering dampness from the shower dripped from his arms and chest onto the floor, each drop taking its time trailing down the tight pale skin. A single droplet fell from his neck and slid down the dip of his navel, caressing it before running into the wet towel. The mop of curly hair atop his head was wet and heavy, falling over dark, brooding eyes like a frame. Thin lips were flushed pink, the corners curling down into a small frown. Palomar found himself wondering how they’d taste.

“So you’re finally awake.”

Taurus’ words snapped him out of his daze. “Huh? Oh, uh…yeah…ah, hell, what time is it?”

“11 am,” he answered. “You slept for 14 hours.”

“14 hours?! Why didn’t you wake me up? Ugh, there’s no time, I gotta-”

“Don’t bother,” Taurus threw him a clean, dry towel. “I cancelled all of your meetings today.”

“What?!” The colonel caught it angrily. “Why the hell would you do that?!”

“Because you need a day off,” Taurus glared.

“I can’t take time off right now! The High Council tasked me with-”

“Captain Pike will take care of it. He’s on his way to Talos right now.”

Palomar frowned. “Pike... knowing him, he’ll find a way to fuck things up per usual.”

“Quit complaining and get ready. We’re leaving soon.”

“Leaving where?” Palomar slowly stood up, clutching the towel in hand.

“We’re going to The Intergalactic Library,” Taurus said while pulling a black shirt over his head. “They’ve intercepted signals from your sister’s ship and might be able to tell us where she is.”

“Wait, really?!”

Taurus dug out a few other clothing items from his drawer and tossed them over to Palomar. A long sleeved ivory shirt, along with some off-white joggers. Something that would make him feel comfortable, yet fit his style.

“If we’re going to investigate your sister’s disappearance, we’ll have to do it off the clock. You’ve got plenty of unused PTO, so don’t bother with any of your useless excuses. I’ve already informed the crew that you won’t be available until tomorrow morning. Aquila will take command for the day.”

The colonel stood up and headed towards the bathroom, mumbling under his breath.

“I’m not a child...”

“Hurry up,” Taurus barked. “We haven’t got all day.”

Palomar shot him one last glare before closing the bathroom door.

Taurus insisted on taking his personal vehicle for the journey. A Pleione 9000, the latest model from Starfleet. Despite his humble appearance, Taurus had an inclination for materialism and luxury goods. It was evident in the designer clothes he wore and the expensive cologne that lingered in the air around him. Most people without a taste for opulence were none the wiser due to his simple, unassuming style.

But Palomar noticed. The comforting, familiar smell filled the cockpit with Taurus’ essence. It put his heart and mind at ease, despite the fact that he was forced to stop working against his will.

“I could have driven us,” Palomar grumbled from the passenger side.

“Your dumbass probably would’ve fallen asleep at the helm,” Taurus retorted gruffly. “And your ship is too slow. It would’ve taken days to get there at that speed.”

“You just wanted an excuse to show off your shiny new spaceship.”

“And you’re just looking for new things to whine about.”

“Fuck you.”

“Fuck you.“

Both grew quiet, further fueling the tension between them. Seeking a distraction, Palomar turned the radio dial until he found a clear signal. A sugary, energetic pop song played through the speakers.

“Heh, this sounds like the crap Star used to listen to back home,” he said offhandedly.

“...She’s a bubbly person. It’s fitting.”

“Yeah, that’s an understatement.”

His weak attempt at a change in conversation was rapidly faltering. Hoping to dispel his awkward feelings, he decided to ask something that had been on his mind since yesterday.

“...When you met her, did she say anything about me?”

Taurus glanced over briefly before returning his focus to driving. “She did.”

Silence. Palomar, realizing that he didn’t plan on elaborating, began to press him. “Well, what did she say?”

Taurus froze, his focus on piloting momentarily broken. “…‘My brother isn’t good at expressing his emotions, but that doesn’t mean he feels nothing.’”

Palomar cleared his throat, feeling unwanted heat creeping up his neck. “She, ah... she said that, did she?”

“Yes. Along with... other things.”

“What other things?”

“…Nothing. Never mind.”

“Oh, come on Torrie. You can’t just say that and then not follow-up.”

“Don’t call me that,” he shot him a warning look.

“Then tell me what else she said.”

“...”

He was being more defensive than usual, but Palomar refused to let it go. Whatever had been said had clearly gotten under his skin. There weren’t many things that could throw the lieutenant off his game, and Palomar was dying to know what had left him so shaken up.

“Whatever,” Taurus surrendered, knowing it was useless to resist any further. “She said that it’s alright to break the rules.”

“Really? That’s it?”

“...For love.”

Palomar’s heart skipped a beat. The heat in his chest spread to his cheeks, and suddenly he regretted pressing the matter so hard.

“...Oh.”

“Yeah.”

Silence again. But this time, Palomar let it be. He feared that if he spoke, a truth would come to light that he wasn’t ready to address. It was better to keep things the way they were. At least for now.

He messed with the radio dials once more until he found another station. The EDM music that played through the speakers drowned out the last of the thoughts that plagued his mind until they reached their destination.

It was a long, awkward ride. The Intergalactic Library was located at the center of the universe, which was a hundred or so lightyears away from headquarters. But thanks to the ship’s hyperspeed, they were able to get there within a couple hours. Palomar brooded to himself quietly as he stared out the window, watching as Taurus pulled into the library’s parking lot.

They managed to find an empty spot near the entrance marked ‘Visitors Only’. He carefully parked the ship and turned off the ignition, then hopped out of the ship to rush to the passenger side. He opened the door for Palomar, who had only just unbuckled his seatbelt seconds before.

“I can get out just fine,” Palomar smacked his hand away when he extended it for support.

“You don’t have a great track record of standing up on your own,” he mumbled, but Palomar pretended not to hear and quickly walked towards the entrance.

The Library was abuzz with visitors. Beings of all races were scattered across the property, enjoying the wonderful weather and the daystar’s light that basked the small planet in its warmth. Some visitors that were outside near the garden had commandeered the picnic tables to sit and read together in silence, while others laid on woven blankets spread across the blue grass. They snacked on fruits and other treats while chatting away, surrounded by piles of books.

Palomar watched them with envy. It was quaint, but they all looked so relaxed. He couldn’t remember the last time he took the time to read through a good book, or spent an entire day being lazy with a close friend. He watched them longingly as the two made their way to the entrance.

The head librarian greeted them at the front door. She was a tall, heavyset woman with rich dark skin and graying shoulder length hair styled in a short afro. Her galaxy printed cap-sleeved dress hugged every curve and complemented her hourglass shape. Deep lines dotted her eyes and face, giving the appearance of a friendly crone. The smile she wore was warm and inviting, putting both of the men at ease.

“Welcome, Colonel Palomar and Lieutenant Colonel Taurus!” She greeted in an over the top voice. “Thank you for coming all the way out here. It is our honor to host you today.”

“The pleasure is all ours, Miss Octavia,” Taurus bowed slightly. Palomar followed suit.

“Please, come inside. We have much to discuss.”

The two men were lead into the expansive library. The glass walls reflected the inside and outside world, allowing full transparency in all corners of the property. Numerous robot cleaners mopped up any filth tracked in from the outside, ensuring the floors were clean of dirt and debris. Various staff members were assisting visitors who needed help finding books, reaching the top shelves, accessing the internet, and figuring out which rooms hosted the activities they were looking for. There was a small reading circle in an open space on the first floor, right in front of the staircase. A group of children of all interstellar backgrounds sat afoot a green-skinned man with large antennae who was reading a story out loud to them with passion and fervor.

The head librarian guided them up a cellophane staircase to the second floor and into her massive office. It was a whimsical room, with all kinds of bizarre contraptions and art pieces that were abstract in nature. A model of a tesseract floated on her desk next to a mini persecom that had a cat-like design. Those items contrasted the room’s cottage-like decorations, such as the hand knit quilts and vintage paintings hanging on the walls. It was an odd, anachronistic sight for both federation officers.

Miss Octavia offered chairs that were painted to resemble amanita mushrooms, and they all sat down to begin their discussion. Palomar struggled to make himself comfortable on the plush seating.

“Colonel Palomar, I understand that you’re seeking information on your youngest sister’s whereabouts,” she began.

He stumbled slightly, then answered after regaining his balance. “Uh, yes, ma’am. We filed a missing persons report for her not too long ago, so any information that could point us to her location would be immensely helpful.”

“I see,” the woman tapped her fingers on the glass table and pulled up a holographic map of the known universe. She swiped left and right for some time before stopping at a far off galaxy.

“She’s an interesting one,” she mused aloud. “We call her ‘our little Star’. The staff and I have grown quite fond of her.”

“Yeah, she tends to have that effect on people,” Palomar mumbled.

“We were only able to pick up this signal by chance. One of our astrolinguists caught the tail end of it one night when they were scouring the radio for leads on another case study. They inadvertently discovered a completely separate radio channel in the process. We dubbed it ‘ZM’, since our employee Zentalon was the one who found this new modulation. Intriguing, no?”

“Incredibly so,” Taurus interrupted her rambling with a direct question to get back on track. “When did you first discover her signal?”

“A few decades ago. The coordinates listed were of your home planet, GJ504-B. I take it that was around the time she went missing?”

“That’s correct,” Palomar nodded. “Can you tell me where she went after that?”

“Of course,” the head librarian smiled and shifted the view of the map once more. “Her subsequent voice logs were broadcast from the Gliese 504 system, then the GLASS z-13 galaxy in that order.”

“She probably doesn’t even realize she’s transmitting her logs onto radio waves...” Palomar grumbled. “Damn it, she can barely pilot that ship on her own! What was she thinking...”

“...Her last location appears to have been Planet K2-409B.”

Taurus nodded. “That checks out. I pulled her over on the outskirts of the NGC-7742 Galaxy.”

“Okay, but where did she go after that?”

“I do apologize, but we don’t have any further information on her current location. We haven’t intercepted any additional signals since her time on Planet K2-409B, most likely because she hasn’t recorded any new voice logs.”

“So basically we came all the way out here for nothing,” Palomar clenched his fists, brows knitting together with disdain.

“Patience, young starling,” the head librarian smirked as she pointed at a small, white line making its way towards the eastern end of the map. “Her current trajectory shows that she’s heading for Eros. Unless she makes a detour or changes course last minute, she’ll most likely arrive there within the next Galactic Year.”

“Still... Eros is hundreds of thousands of light years away,” Taurus thought aloud. “Even if we used hyperspeed, she might have already left by the time we make it there.”

“Knowing her, she’ll probably do something stupid and end up on the other side of the galaxy,” Palomar groaned and rubbed his temples. “I can’t believe this...”

“I regret that the library cannot help you further,” Miss Octavia continued. “However, we can keep you informed of any additional signals we intercept from here on out, and notify you immediately as soon as we have news.”

“We’d appreciate that greatly,” Taurus nodded. “Thank you for all of your help so far.”

“It’s our pleasure. You are always welcome to-”

The sound of a laser cannon and terrified screams interrupted their conversation and set both Palomar and Taurus into action. They leapt out of their seats, clutching the ray guns at their hips as they stood in front of Miss Octavia protectively.

“Oh, dear!” she cried. “What ever could that be?”

A robotic, feminine voice echoed over the loudspeaker system. “Red alert! Red alert! A level five threat has been detected! All visitors should evacuate the premises immediately or take shelter in place if an exit is not accessible. Please remain calm, and consult a staff member for further directions.”

“Where did it come from?” Palomar asked.

“The first floor,” Taurus threw open the door and looked outside, where he saw a giant crater in the wall before the stairs. “Damn it, they’re right below us!”

The colonel seethed. “That’s where the children were sitting!”

Taurus turned back to the head librarian. “Are your staff members licensed to carry?”

Miss Octavia pulled out a large laser gun from the garter belt on her left thigh and held it in both hands, cocking it with a determined look in her eyes.

“All library employees are authorized to yield level two artillery per Federation Order 1-A01981.”

“Right,” Palomar turned back to the lieutenant with a nod. “Taurus, I need you on the frontline. I’ll go support the staff members on the first floor and make sure the kids are okay. Protect the civilians at all costs. After I call for backup, I’ll meet you there.”

“Roger.”

Taurus sprinted out of the room and downstairs, holding his gun steady as he assessed the situation. There was a hole in the front wall, presumably where the cannon had hit. His eyes darted around, searching for signs of casualties.

The staff were shouting as loud as they could over the destructive sounds, leading patrons to the emergency exits while holding firm on their artillery. No one appeared to be hurt, and there were no bodies on the ground. Good. One less thing to worry about.

He turned his attention towards the damaged wall, where the perpetrators were forcing their way inside. His disgruntled expression morphed into a deep scowl.

The Kili Lege. Brutish, savage monsters who had been terrorizing planets across the galaxy for centuries. Over the course of his career, he’d intervened several of their attacks on unsuspecting planets. They had the appearance of humans, but lacked all of the empathy or kindness that defined human nature. Each had leathery skin, wiry hair that stuck out at odd angles, and unnaturally muscular bodies hardened from a lifetime of warmongering, strong enough to snap bones with just a flick of the hand.

The sight of them triggered pure disgust.

Flattened villages. Burning flesh. Wildfires that blazed through ancient forests, destroying everything they touched. Those were the images associated with these heartless creatures. Taurus had seen too many atrocities carried out in the name of their bloodlust. He refused to let them turn the library into another tragedy.

A group of three walked through the shattered wall, looking up with wicked sneers. He returned their insidious gazes with fury and raised his weapon, firing three shots that hit each Kilian warrior right between the brows. He felt no pity as they disintegrated before his eyes.

Commanding officers in the Galactic Federation were authorized to use lethal force whenever they deemed necessary. The High Council put their trust in these officers and had utmost faith in them to do what they believed was right in the midst of combat, which included the use of prionic disrupters and ionic rayguns. Weapons that could destroy a life form’s DNA on a cellular level. Taurus often had to play the roles of judge, jury, and executioner while on duty. It displeased him, but the situation called for extreme measures. There were civilians to protect.

He rushed downstairs, knowing that there would be more Kilians waiting for him at the bottom. And sure enough, a large group swarmed through the destroyed wall. His mind and body shifted into a state of pure focus, allowing him to carry out a rapid fire takedown. He made several direct headshots in a row; each Kilian hit by his gun fell to the ground unceremoniously. The others simply stepped over their bodies, making no effort to mourn or assist their comrades.

But despite his prowess, the Kilians still outnumbered him. There must have been two or three squadrons that had been sent to invade the library. The more he killed, the more that appeared to take their places. Soon, he would not be able to sustain his position.

This was the bleak reality he had faced several times in the face of combat. In every battle, he had to accept the possibility of defeat. Nonetheless, he vowed to fight and stand his ground until his last breath.

As a group of large Kilians approached with their guns pointed directly at his heart, a few shots fired out from behind Taurus’ back and exploded their heads on contact. Taurus snapped around and saw Palomar sprinting at full speed, stopping when he was finally at his side.

“Took you long enough,” the lieutenant shouted.

“Gee, thanks for saving my life yet again Palo!” The colonel sneered while he stood by his side, each officer covering for the other as they took on the slew of Kilian warriors. “I don’t know what I’d do without you!”

“We don’t have time for touchy feely bullshit right now,” Taurus growled, quickly shooting an enemy that had his gun pointed at Palomar’s head. “Are the civilians safe?”

“They’re all accounted for. Backup’s on the way.”

They stood with their backs to one another as they fought, maneuvering in perfect sync. In time, they managed to take down the slew of Kilian troops and end their attempt at an invasion. Taurus heard an alarm in the distance; the sound of Galactic Federation combat ships warning of an oncoming attack. He breathed a sigh of relief and lowered his gun.

“Good. That must be-”

“Get down!!“

An ear-shattering boom. A blazing fire, and the smell of melting beams. He was now facedown on the floor, with something heavy weighing on his back. Smoke and debris filled his lungs; he coughed and tried to open his eyes, but they stung as dust particles got inside. He weakly pushed himself up to evaluate the situation and gather his bearings, but when he realized what was lying on top of him, all logic and reasoning left his body.

“Palo! Palo!!!“

Taurus sat up and cradled the weakened, injured colonel in his arms. Stray laser beams flew above their heads, prompting him to drag his superior officer behind a fallen table for shelter. His heart twisted when he saw the pained expression on his face. He tenderly cupped Palomar’s cheek.

“Heh, been a while since you called me that,” the colonel grimaced, forcing a smile through the pain. “Does that mean I can start calling you Torrie again?”

There was a wound on his shoulder. Part of the skin and muscle had melted off and left the blood cauterized. He must have been hit by a plasma cannon.

“Stay with me!” Taurus pleaded, clutching him against his chest. “Palo!”

“I’m fine...” Palomar said through gritted teeth. “It just grazed me...”

“You idiot!!“ he shouted. “You could’ve gotten yourself killed!”

“Yeah, well, your dumbass face was about to get melted off, what else was I supposed to do...” he chuckled weakly.

“I never asked for this, damn it...” Taurus clung to him tightly, pulling him further into his embrace. “Why did you do something so stupid?”

“Thought it was obvious,” Palomar cringed, feeling a sudden surge of pain jolt through his chest.

“I’m useless without you.”

“Hey, Palomar!”

“Hey! Welcome back! It’s good to see you again!”

It was the start of a new year at the Galactic Forces Academy. The new recruits and upperclass cadets walked together in pairs and small groups down the hallways, full of promise and excitement as they began the first day of their new lives. To be accepted into the training program for the Galactic Federation was considered a great honor, and everyone was eager to prove themselves worthy of the opportunity to study there.

Palomar greeted them all as they headed towards their homerooms. As the class president, he did this at the start of every semester to help dispel any first day jitters and make the new recruits feel welcomed. He took note of every student walking by, making sure to introduce himself to each one so they knew who they could go to for support. They started to blend together after a while, but he still managed to put his best face forward so none would slip past his attention.

But one in particular caught his eye.

A tall, slender young man trailed behind the crowd and was one of the last to arrive. He wore an irate expression as he carried himself through the halls, brooding silently with his bag slung over one shoulder. His frightening aura caused those around him to scurry away.

“What’s the deal with that guy?” He stopped one of the second year cadets, nodding towards the sullen recruit.

“Oh, that’s the new transfer student,” she spoke in a hushed tone. “I forgot his name.”

“A transfer student?” the starling glanced over to him curiously.

“He’s from the Silver GFA campus in the Spiral Galaxy. I don’t know the exact details, but apparently something really bad happened over there and he was involved in some way. I’d avoid him if I were you. He’s scary.”

A challenge. Palomar’s lips widened into a grin, and he immediately sauntered over to the new guy who was calmly putting his belongings into his assigned locker.

“Greetings,” he put a hand on the wall right above his head. “Welcome to the Academy. I’m Palomar, the class president. Let me know if you need anything.”

The transfer student paused, looking up at the taller man with narrowed eyes before slamming the locker shut. He brushed past him without saying a word.

“Hey, wait a minute!” Palomar rushed to his side with a frown. “Can I at least get a ‘hello’ or a ‘nice to meet you’?”

“Lecture is about to start,” was his cold response. “I don’t have time for chitchat.”

“We’ve got five minutes,” the starling kept up with his pace, walking backwards to meet his gaze. “That should be enough time for you to tell me your name, no? Unless you think that’s too difficult?”

The dark-haired cadet sighed in annoyance, then answered begrudgingly.

“Taurus. Now leave me alone.”

“Where’s your homeroom, Taurus?”

“Room S-9009.”

“Hmm... that’s odd. You appear to be headed in the opposite direction.”

This caused him to stop dead in his tracks. He yanked a crumpled map out of his pocket and tried to make sense of it, but the longer he stared, the more confused he looked.

“I thought... wasn’t it...?”

Palomar peered over his shoulder. “Your map’s upside down.”

The starling couldn’t help but snicker when he saw the dejected look on his face. But Taurus didn’t seem amused at all.

“Don’t look so sour. Come on, I’ll show ya.”

Palomar took the lead, and they were able to make it to the lecture room with a minute or two to spare.

“I appreciate your guidance,” Taurus said before he made his way inside.

“Is that your weird, overly formal way of thanking me?” Palomar grinned, following at his heels.

“Shouldn’t you go to your own homeroom?”

“This is my homeroom. We’re classmates. Isn’t that great?”

Palomar almost laughed out loud when he saw the look on his face. And from then on out, he made it his mission to bring out that expression whenever possible.

Their first year together was unforgettable. Back then, Palomar was much cockier and had a penance for banter and discourse. Taurus, on the other hand, was much more withdrawn, only speaking when spoken to and with a tendency to keep things brief. The two of their personalities grated against one another, but eventually grew into a bizarre friendship that puzzled everyone around them.

“Whatcha doin’ tonight, Torrie?”

“Don’t call me that,” he said while packing his bag after their lab had concluded for the day.

“Wanna come over and play Space Pirates again?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because I have to study,” Taurus shot him an unamused glare. “I don’t have time for video games.”

“Come on, don’t be such a fun sucker. It’s good to take a break sometimes.”

“I’d rather be a fun sucker than a loud-mouthed idiot.”

“Hey! Fuck you!”

“Fuck you!“

But sure enough, when the results of the final exam were posted, Palomar was shocked. For the first time ever, he saw his name at the number two spot.

“Who the hell scored higher than me?!” When he looked closer at the holographic board in front of him and saw the name above his, his frustration only grew. “Wait...”

The crowd began to disperse as disappointed cadets made their way back to their rooms. Palomar glanced over to look at the only other person left standing. The two of them locked eyes, the tension in the air hanging heavy.

“You got a problem?” Taurus grunted.

“Yeah,” Palomar frowned. “How the hell did you manage to get perfect scores in every subject?”

“It’s called studying. You know, the thing you neglected in favor of playing your stupid ass pirate game.”

Taurus turned his back and made his leave, furthering Palomar’s anger.

“Hey! Don’t get cocky just because you had one good semester! Next time, you’ll be second to me!“

That was how things were for the duration of their time in the academy. Tried as he might, Palomar simply could not surpass Taurus when it came to academics. They were consistently tied for first, with Taurus often pulling through to come out on top. Exams, final projects, aerial demonstrations, research paper publications. But the more one succeeded, the more the other pushed. It was an intense tug of war that lasted five years, up until the day they graduated and were sworn in as official officers of the Galactic Federation.

The years passed, and both men rose through the ranks due to their exemplary work and commitment to their roles. But eventually, the time came to choose a new colonel. It was a position they both highly coveted and had spent their entire careers working towards.

Yet, when the Major General pulled Taurus aside one day to inform him of their decision, he found himself at odds.

“The High Council would like to extend the offer to you for the role of Colonel,” the broad-shouldered greyskin said. “You have a perfect track record of success, and have consistently performed above and beyond federation standards. We believe you are most fit for the role.”

Taurus paused for some time to reflect. He had known this day was coming, and had already spent quite some time deliberating it over in his mind.

The General was correct. On paper, he was the most qualified candidate. However, there were other things to consider, such as the rapport with lower ranking officers and his ability to promote and retain high morale among the forces.

Taurus knew that he wasn’t a likable person. He had made no friends over the years, lest for Palomar. While he didn’t doubt his ability to make tough decisions and take swift action when needed, he understood that there was more to the job than simply being able to give orders.

The forces needed someone with a heart to lead them. Someone who prioritized harmony and safety among all beings, and would work himself to the bone to ensure his vision of peace among the galaxies would come to fruition.

Someone like Palomar.

It was his dream to be colonel. He had been pushing himself to the brink of his capabilities for many years in order to reach that goal. He had seen the work the starling put in, all of the sleepless nights spent filing reports and finishing up top secret missions that no one ever heard about. Things that came easily to Taurus were what Palomar had to push himself to accomplish.

He deserved this opportunity more than anyone.

“It is an honor to be considered for the position of colonel in the Galactic Federation,” he began, keeping his voice even and firm. “Unfortunately, I will have to decline this offer.”

“May I ask why?

“I believe Major Palomar would be a better fit for this role. He is devoted to the mission of the Galactic Federation and has the traits of a strong leader. On top of that, I believe his rapport with our troops will help conserve morale.”

“Are you certain?” the General asked with a raised brow. “This opportunity may not come again.”

“I’m sure. However, I do have one request.”

“Go on.”

“…Let me be his lieutenant.”

“Hehe! I finally got you beat, Torrie!”

“Don’t call me that. And don’t go getting a big inflated ego over it either.”

“Too late. How’s it feel knowing you’re gonna be my right hand man?”

“It feels like I’m going to have a gigantic headache for the rest of my life.”

Palomar threw back his head and laughed. He tossed his arm over Taurus’ shoulders and pulled him close, causing the dark-haired officer to stumble into his chest. When he had finally gotten the news, he spent the entire day rubbing it in his face. After years of hard work and labor, he had finally defeated his rival. Taurus let him have his moment, even though it annoyed him to hell and back.

“Come on, just think! You get to see my rugged, handsome face every day from here on out! That doesn’t sound too bad, right?”

Taurus, with his face flushed deeply, simply muttered in response.

Palomar would never know the truth behind his decision. And the new lieutenant was at peace with it. As long as he could remain by his side, that was all he would ever need.

Taurus paced anxiously in the train depot, stopping every now and then to scan through the crowd of travelers in hopes of finding what he was looking for. He glanced at the digital clock above the A station, his agitation increasing with each passing minute. The interplanetary high speed railway ran on a tight schedule. If the two of them missed their train, they’d have to buy new tickets for the next one. Which wouldn’t leave for another few hours.

That damn Palomar. He should’ve known his dumbass was going to be late.

After they had both been released from the hospital wing after the Kilian attack on the library, the pair were forcibly placed on medical leave for the next six weeks despite their protests. Taurus had insisted on taking a mini vacation, and when Palomar mentioned visiting one of the nearby moons, he decided to book tickets. Looking back, he regretted choosing a departure time this early in the morning.

“Hey! Torrie!!”

A familiar voice cut through the crowd, garnering his attention. Taurus turned around and saw the starling rushing towards him with a bag flung over one shoulder.

“You’re late,” he growled, turning heel to board the train. “Another minute and I would’ve left without you.”

“I know, I know,” he sighed. “I overslept. Sue me.”

“Why am I not surprised.”

“Hey, I’m still recovering! Give me a break.”

The two of them rushed down the platform until they reached their gate. With only a few seconds to spare, they both leapt through the doors of the train, barely making it through before they closed.

“Whew! We made it...” Palomar leaned against the wall, gulping in air.

“Dumbass,” Taurus keeled over, panting while he rested his hands on his knees. “Your little nap almost cost us the entire trip.”

“Fuck you. You’re always going on about how I need more sleep. Now you’re bitching about it?”

“Fuck you. You probably overslept because you stayed up late playing that stupid Space Bandits game again.”

“It’s Space Pirates, asshole. And so what if I did? It’s my day off.”

“Idiot.”

“Moron.”

“Idiot!”

“Moron!”

“Idiot!”

“Moro-”

The sound of someone clearing their throat interrupted their little spat. They turned around and saw one of the conductors standing behind them.

“Tickets, please.”

“…Right,” Taurus lifted his left arm and touched a few buttons on his watch. A holographic image of two train tickets appeared in the air, allowing the conductor to scan them.

“Your seats are right this way,” the man gestured down the cart, prompting them both to follow. When they both sat down, with Taurus at the window and Palomar near the aisle, he left them with a tip of his cap.

“Thank you for traveling with us today,” he said with a twinkle in his eye. “Enjoy your honeymoon.”

He disappeared behind the doors leading to the next cart before they could say a word. Both of them, faces flushed with embarrassment, made it a point not to look at the other as they train departed the station.

“Come on. We’re here.”

Palomar was nudged awake by the sound of Taurus’ voice. He opened his bleary eyes with a yawn and stretched his arms. The first thing he saw was the face of his companion, who was impatiently waiting for him to move. He stumbled to his feet and grabbed his bag, exiting the train with the lieutenant trailing behind him.

They stepped into the cold of the night together. The air, or lack of it, made the walk to the moon quite chilly. But their thick sweaters kept them warm. Taurus had been smart to pick them out the night before.

The two of them walked down the bridge that led to the surface, taking their time to soak in the sight of the stars and planets around them. Palomar’s breath hitched as he observed the scenery, focusing on the twinkling stars that danced above their heads.

“...Do you understand them?”

Taurus’ unexpected question piqued his interest. “What do you mean?”

“The stars,” the dark haired man confirmed, looking a bit awkward. He clearly wasn’t used to asking personal questions. It amused Palomar in a strange way.

“Oh. Yeah... I can.”

“Do they speak the same language as you? Or are there... dialects, or whatever?”

Palomar’s lips quirked up slightly. This must have been Taurus’s crappy attempt to show interest in his background.

“We all speak star language. But yeah, it’s kinda hard to tell what they’re saying. Their accent is pretty thick. I’m sure they’d say the same about mine.”

“Can you make out anything?”

Palomar closed his eyes, taking a long, deep breath as his body and mind became quiet. He felt the vibrations of their words touch his soul, their meaning conjuring vivid images in his mind.

“...They’re happy. I can hear them laughing, singing, and talking. Some of them are discussing a union.”

Listening to them stirred emotions within Palomar that he hadn’t felt in a very long time. Memories of his time in the sky dancing and spinning around Pink Planet resurfaced, reminding him of how much he had yearned for the day he would finally find his ‘someone just for him’. He was a colonel for the Galactic Federation, yes, but he was still a starling. And all starlings dreamt of the same love that felt impossibly out of reach. But being here with Taurus, the one he cherished most in the world, made him think that perhaps his dream wasn’t as far away as he thought.

“It’s still hard to believe sometimes. That you’re one of them.”

“Why?” Palomar raised a brow.

“You just don’t seem very sparkly is all.”

The starling laughed. “Asshole. I light up a whole damn room.”

Taurus scoffed, a hint of a smile creeping up his face. They found a bench along the path and decided to sit down for a moment to enjoy the view.

“I still don’t know why the hell a starling would want to join the Galactic Federation,” Taurus piped up after some time. He glanced over at Palomar, who seemed to be puzzling over something in his head.

“...It’s because I wanted to do something with my time while I was here.”

The lieutenant nodded, his eyes focused solely on his companion. “Yeah?”

“Most starlings live for a very, very long time. And when you live that long, it’s hard to figure out what to do. A lot of them are happy spending their entire lives just being stars. Shining, spinning around, watching as worlds are created and destroyed. But me? I wanted to do something while I was incarnated into this form. Something beyond just being a passive observer.”

Palomar looked to the sky. “When I was on my space voyage, I saw so much suffering and destruction in the universe. I wanted to help, but I felt powerless to stop it on my own. Then I saw the Galactic Federation at work and decided to apply when I got back home.”

He chuckled lightly as he reminisced. “My family thought I was crazy at first. But they came around. Eventually.”

He stopped avoiding Taurus’ eyes and looked back at him, believing he’d make some snarky comment in response or mock him for being a bleeding heart. However, he saw nothing but respect reflected in his rich, dark gaze. And to his surprise, the lieutenant nodded in understanding.

“You starlings have big hearts. It’s admirable.”

Palomar let out a small laugh. “Yeah, we do. It’s a heavy burden to bear. But I wouldn’t change anything about it.”

The starling looked back at his companion curiously. “What about you? I don’t think you ever told me why you joined, either.”

Taurus’ expression fell, but it was not one of irritation or annoyance. No, Palomar sensed something deeper within him. Melancholy, or somberness. He could tell it weighed heavily on his heart.

“...Because there was nothing else for me. I’ll leave it at that.”

He decided not to press him further. Taurus would tell him on his own time.

“Alright,” the colonel responded in a lighthearted tone. “Keep your secrets. I’ll just assume it’s because you flunked out of clown school.”

“Fuck you.”

“Fuck you.”

A comfortable silence fell between them as an asteroid flew above their heads. They watched as it joined another flying comet, leaping through the sky until they both disappeared into the distance together. Other visitors ambled past, chatting to themselves as they admired the view before them. It was a quiet moment of peace they both desperately needed.

“...What are you going to do about your sister?” Taurus finally asked after some time.

“Nothing. I’ve decided to let her go.”

“What? Why?”

“Because dragging her home isn’t the right thing to do,” Palomar sighed. “Star is an adult now. She might not act like it, but she’s a grown woman and should be allowed to make her own choices.”

He paused for a moment, retracing the memories of his mind before continuing.

“I was all the way over on Machina when I found out she was gone. I blamed myself for not being there. Maybe I could have stopped her, I don’t know. But everybody turned to me for help. I work for the Galactic Federation, and we have the resources to search for her. I guess I felt... responsible. But I became so focused on solving the problem that I didn’t stop to think about the consequences of the solution. “

He let out a small laugh. “Yeah. Now that I think about it, there’s no way it would work. If I were to interrupt her space voyage just to drag her back to the life she hated... it would make her even more miserable than she was before she left. I can’t do that to her.”

Taurus studied his face, pausing before he probed further.

“Are you sure?”

He nodded. “Star is impulsive and reckless, and she doesn’t know what the hell she’s doing... but she’s got a good heart. I believe it’ll lead her to the right place. Besides, all she ever wanted was to explore the universe. I’d be a huge asshole if I yanked that dream away, now that it’s within her reach.”

Taurus let out a small chuckle. ”She must be a special kind of person to evade both the colonel and his lieutenant.”

Palomar scoffed. “Yeah. Special is one way to describe her.”

His eyes suddenly drifted down to the bench, where his hand was resting on top of Taurus’. Their skin contrasted one another; Palomar, with his medium brown tone, and Taurus with his pale alabaster. When the realization dawned on him, he flinched and pulled away. His partner looked up as well, and when they locked eyes, they both awkwardly turned away from one another.

“...You don’t have to move your hand if you don’t want to.”

“What?”

“You heard me. I’m not going to repeat myself.”

Palomar glanced at his dark-haired companion, who was balancing his flushed, reddened face in one hand and pretending to stare at something in the distance. A smile crept up the starling’s face, and he lowered his hand back down until it once again rested on top of his.

“Careful, lieutenant. You’re starting to go soft.”

“Don’t get all weird and cocky about it. All I said was-”

“Yeah, yeah. I understand. You don’t need to get worked up.”

“I’m not worked up.”

“Sure you aren’t.”

“Just shut the hell up already.”

“Nope, don’t think I will.”

“Then I’ll shut you up myself.”

“Oh yeah? I’d like to see you try-”

As soon as the words fell from his lips, he felt Taurus grab his collar and pull him sideways. Moments later, he felt a soft pair of lips press against his own, stealing his breath away. Heart beating against his ribcage, it felt like three shots of espresso were coursing through his veins. Heat pressed against his cheeks like fiery coals, spreading down his neck and chest until the skin was hot to touch.

Then his eyes, wide with surprise, slowly fluttered to a close as he melted into Taurus’ kiss. He drank up his warmth and scent, savoring the sweet, fleeting moment he’d been dreaming of for years. His body began to glow as a radiant light emitted from the center of his chest and formed a bridge to Taurus’ heart. In that fleeting moment, the two became one.

When they finally pulled away, he fixated deeply into the dark eyes of his partner, witnessing a rare softness seldom seen in the lieutenant’s gaze. Both were silent for some time.

“...I would have done that much sooner if I knew it worked so well,” Taurus muttered, face reddened and flushed.

“Fuck you,” Palomar tore his eyes away, desperate to hide how flustered he felt. His brain was too scrambled to come up with a proper comeback.

And as he was looking away, he felt the rough, calloused fingers of Taurus caress the backs of his knuckles. Their fingers intertwined to share warmth in the cool air of space.

Then Taurus’s voice, soft and low, fluttered in his ears.

“...Fuck you.“

Big, big thanks to for acting as my editor and proofreader for this story! Your attention to detail, critical feedback, and helpful writing resources ensured that this novelette was ready for publish. I cannot thank you enough for the time and effort you dedicated to this project. I am a better writer thanks to you.

STAR (NARRATING):

After leaving Flowerais, I decided to increase Galaxia’s acceleration as we headed towards the next planet. She had already set course for a new world, and I didn’t feel like waiting a whole year to get there. I knew she was capable of greater speeds, so I figured we’d be alright!

But as we were zooming past a grove of uninhabited dwarf planets, I heard loud sirens coming from the rear of the ship. I thought something was wrong with Galaxia at first, but after looking out the window, there was another spacecraft approaching us at a frightening speed, its exterior lights flashing red and blue. I pulled over to the right, intending to let whoever it was pass by. But instead, it followed us.

It was really scary! I sped up again, hoping to shake them off, but they managed to keep up with our speed. Galaxia weaved in and out of the space debris around us, hoping that would deter them, but the spacecraft still pursued.

My heart was pounding so fast. Who was chasing us, and why? I began to panic when I realized Galaxia was slowing down. She stopped responding completely after a few seconds. No matter what button I pressed or what verbal command I shouted, she was silent. I had no choice but to come to a stop.

And as soon as I did, the spacecraft pulled up right beside us.

A notification popped up on the dashboard. It was a request for a visual and audio transmission.

Swallowing my anxiety, I pressed the accept button, and waited anxiously for a response.

STAR:

...Hello?

STAR(NARRATING):

At first, there was only a black screen and some background noise. But after a few seconds, a man appeared before me as a holographic image. He was a human with pale skin and dark, curly hair, which peeked out from beneath his boxy cap. His deep blue eyes, framed by thick, harsh eyebrows, glared at me with displeasure. The corners of his lips curled downwards into a deep frown.

He was well dressed in what looked like a uniform of sorts. The chest pockets were decorated with tiny medals and an identification card sewn into his chest pocket. Galaxia took a screenshot and expanded the image so that I could see it more clearly.

Uh oh.

He was an officer from the Galactic Federation.

Lieutenant Colonel Taurus.

Oh, no! I was in big trouble!!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

License and registration, please.

STAR:

Um... what?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

License. And registration.

STAR:

Um... I’m a starling from planet GJ504-B, and this is my ship.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

That information is not sufficient. I will ask one more time. License. And registration.

STAR:

...I never had those things. I don’t even know what they are. This ship was gifted to me, and it’s piloted intuitively. This is normal for starlings.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

One count of driving without a license or registered vehicle.

Your name and home planet.

STAR:

Um, my name is Star. And like I said, I’m from Planet GJ504-B.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Do you know how fast you were going, miss?

STAR:

Uhh... no.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

650 lightyears per second. 200 lightyears over the speed limit.

STAR:

There are speed limits in space?!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

How old are you, Miss Star?

STAR:

Oh, I’m... uh... add the two, carry the one... about 300 years old!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I’ll have to verify this information. Stay here.

STAR(NARRATING):

The video transmission suddenly cut off, but it wasn’t long before he was back. After a few minutes, his face appeared on screen once more.He pressed a few buttons on his wristwatch, and soon, an image of a document appeared on Galaxia’s notification screen. When I read the contents of this message, I realized it was...

STAR:

...A piloting ticket?!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

For one count of piloting without a license and proper vehicle registration, one count of reckless piloting, and one count of exceeding intergalactic highway speed limits. You will be fined in the amount of 500 xenites.

STAR:

500 xenites?! But I don’t have any money!!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

If you’d like to contest the ticket, you’ll have to make an appointment at the Galactic Federation precinct in the Andromeda Galaxy.

STAR:

But that’s millions of light years away!!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I suggest setting your appointment now. They’re booked out until Galactic Year 11068.

STAR:

But I don’t have time for that! It’ll set me off course for at least a millennia!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

If you do the crime, you must pay with time.

STAR:

You sound just like my brother...

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Excuse me?

STAR:

That’s what Palomar used to say to me all the time.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

…Are you referring to Colonel Palomar?

STAR:

Yeah! He’s my older brother! Do you know him?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Your brother?!

STAR:

Yeah... Why? Is that bad?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

...He never talks about his family.

STAR:

So you do know him!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Yes. I do.

STAR:

Well, we all have thousands of siblings, but the ten of us that were born within a millenium of each another are all pretty close! Actually, he has three little sisters including me! I’m the youngest, though.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Does he... ever talk about work?

STAR:

I haven’t seen him in a really long time. When I still lived at home, he was almost always away on some mission, and whenever he came back to visit it was only for a little bit before he had to leave again. He would complain a lot about how tired he was or how busy work had been, but he never went into detail or anything like that.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I see...

STAR:

He always seemed so exhausted. Like he barely slept. I guess that comes with being a colonel, huh?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I keep telling him to take it easy. One of these days he’s gonna burn out completely.

STAR:

Are you worried about him, too?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I always worry about him.

I tell him to get more sleep, to lay off the coffee, to take time off to recoup. But that stubborn jackass never listens. He just keeps pushing himself to the brink of exhaustion. And every time he falls apart, I’m the one who has to put him back together.

STAR:

Oh.

Oh.

I was finally starting to understand.

His sudden change in mood. The way he perked up when I said my brother’s name, and how his voice softened when it fell from his lips.

He loved him.

STAR:

...My brother is very lucky to have someone who cares about him so much.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

He’s my commanding officer. I have a vested interest in his well-being.

STAR:

But there’s more to it than that, right?

You know...Some people will spend eons searching for someone like you. Someone who sees their messiness, their stubbornness, and all of their worst flaws, but commits to loving them anyway. It’s a rare and precious thing, and not everyone will find it. That’s why us starlings consider it very sacred.

My brother might not be very good at expressing his emotions, but that doesn’t mean he has no feelings. I’m sure he’s very grateful to have you standing by his side.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

...I suppose you’re right.

STAR:

You should tell him how you feel sometime! Who knows, he might even have a crush on you, too.

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I can’t do that. Fraternization is strictly forbidden within the Galactic Forces.

STAR:

It’s okay to break the rules sometimes. Especially when it comes to love.

STAR(NARRATING):

After a long bout of pensive silence, Lieutenant Colonel Taurus suddenly pressed a few buttons on his wristwatch, and the piloting ticket on Galaxia’s screen was marked for deletion. I was amazed at how quickly he did it!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I’ll let you off with a warning for now. But don’t let me catch you driving like that again. Next time, I won’t be so lenient.

STAR:

Yes, sir! Whatever you say, sir!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Take care, Star. Stay out of trouble, and don’t break any more rules.

STAR:

I won’t, I promise! And I’ll brush up the laws of piloting, too, so I don’t accidentally break any more in the future!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Good girl.

STAR:

Uhh, speaking of rules... what should I do about my piloting license?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I’ll get in touch with my contact at the DPV. Head to the headquarters at the citadel center and give them your name. They’ll be able to help you out.

STAR:

Will do, thank you!

Um... before you go, do you think you could give me a jump? Galaxia seems to be having engine problems...

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

I will disengage the interceptor as soon as I get back to my ship. She should be up and running again in a few minutes.

STAR:

An interceptor...?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Yes. Every Galactic Federation officer carries one. It temporarily halts engine functions. We use it in cases where a suspect is on the run.

STAR:

Oh... so, kinda like, how I was trying to run away before?

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

Correct. Keep that in mind next time you try to outrun an officer of the law.

STAR(NARRATING):

Before the communication was cut off, I made sure to bid him farewell, and let him know how grateful I was for his kindness and leniency.

STAR:

Thank you for everything, Lieutenant Taurus! Take care! And tell Palomar I said hi!!

LIEUTENANT TAURUS:

May we meet again under better circumstances.

STAR(NARRATING):

The video transmission ended, and my ship filled with silence once more. Just like he said, a few minutes after Lieutenant Taurus took off, Galaxia’s controls returned to normal. The two of us could finally resume our journey.

After our meeting, I realized how important it was to both know and understand the laws of space while on my voyage. Rules are there for a reason, and I don’t want to hurt anybody by doing my own thing.

...But I still think love is a good excuse to misbehave.

Endless gratitude and appreciation for this episode’s featured voice artist, Spencer Lew!

Spencer Lew is a kindhearted soul who is new to professional voice acting. When he’s not working as a technician, he spends his time playing Dungeons and Dragons, modifying his cool green car, and taking care of the fish babies in his home aquarium. If you’d like to connect with him for additional opportunities, please reach out to The Intergalactic Library directly.

Sound effects and music sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
Spaceship ambient sfx - JCI21
Space Ship Bridge Loop - freesound_community
Sci-Fi Alarm - freesound_community
Computer Chaos - Diff_Style
004173_whoosh,space ship,whiz,wiz,flyby,woosh,swipe - freesound_community
Power Down - freesound_community
New Notification 9 - freesound_community
Space Cloud - H-beats
Funky Theme #61-1 - MartinWiller
record scratch - freesound_community
Tension Sandwiches - ESENÛ
Love Letter - Tomomi_kato
UFO take off and landing - TheFealdoProject
Sad piano effect - H-beats
UFO Take Off - freesound_community
Swish Swoosh Woosh SFX-12 - StereogenicStudio

Thank you very much!

Post-Episode Discussion Questions:

1. Lieutenant Colonel Taurus is a strict man who expects everyone to adhere to the laws of space. Why do you think he let Star off the hook so easily after she broke so many rules?

2. Star realized that Lieutenant Taurus deeply cares about her brother. Do you think his feelings toward her brother are platonic, or romantic? What led you to this conclusion?

3. What was the lesson that Star taught Lieutenant Colonel Taurus in this episode?

4. Do you think that love is a good excuse to misbehave?

STAR (NARRATING):

When I opened my eyes, I witnessed a tiny sprout emerging from the soil. It grew a rapid pace, from seed to germination until it became a giant bud, bursting open to reveal a beautiful woman standing in its heart.

She donned a soft, gentle smile as a crown of gold framed her head. Her curly, moss-colored hair was decorated with tiny rainbow wildflowers and cascaded down the soft curves of her body. The tight curls rooted down into the soil, becoming one with the soft ground. Many different kinds of fruit hung from her sleeves and skirt, all of which looked perfectly ripe and plump.

Her beautiful face, the color of rich brown soil, had an expression of pure bliss.

She smiled at me and gestured for me to sit. I stood before her in awe, captivated by her beauty and elegance.

MOTHER:

My, what a beautiful little lotus. It’s been quite some time since one has blossomed here.

STAR:

...Who are you?

MOTHER:

Don’t you recognize your own Mother?

STAR:

My... Mother?

MOTHER:

That’s quite right. I am the mother of all living beings in this world.

STAR:

...You... you must be the one. I’m sorry I ate your offerings. I didn’t know...

MOTHER:

Don’t worry, my dear. The dance you performed was absolutely lovely. I’m happy you’re here.

Now, tell me. Why are you crying? This is a day of celebration. What brings you so much sorrow?

STAR:

Everyone started to disappear... they withered and turned to dust... One minute we were laughing and dancing, and the next, they were all gone!

MOTHER:

I see. Is this your first time here? Are you newly blossomed?

STAR:

...Yes. I’ve never been to this festival before.

MOTHER:

Beloved, this happens every year at the Festival of Summer’s End.

STAR:

It does?

MOTHER:

Today’s festival marks the last day of summer. Tonight, our stars will withdraw, which will bring the frost, and soon all living beings will return to the ground from whence they came.

STAR:

WHAT?!? You mean everything here is going to die?!

MOTHER:

Not quite. However, they will all go through a great transformation. This happens with every change of the season. Today they eat, laugh, and dance. And tomorrow, they will sleep.

STAR:

But... that’s so sad! How can they sing and dance when they know they’re going to die soon?!

MOTHER:

Because, little lotus. It is not death they’re experiencing. It’s change.

STAR:

...What do you mean?

MOTHER:

Death is simply a transition to another state of being. The flowers will wilt and wither, yes, but their dust will become part of the soil that feeds and nurtures the seeds buried within it. Their essence will be retained, although their form will be different than what it was before. Autumn will come, and winter will follow. And in the spring, when the light shines bright once more, the remnants of who they once were will sprout and become something new.

Even I will transform when the time comes. This is what it means to be alive.

STAR:

...I don’t understand. Death is permanent, isn’t it?

MOTHER:

The only permanent thing in this vast universe is change. Change is always taking place, whether we are aware of it or not.

However, your soul, the essence of who you are, will always remain in tact no matter what. This is the true permanence in this universe.

Despite everything, you will always be you. Death is simply an opportunity to be reborn again.

STAR:

I can be reborn?

MOTHER:

Yes, beloved. There are many little deaths we experience throughout our lives that change and transform us. Making new friends, falling in love, experiencing heartbreak, losing a loved one. All of these destroy part of who we once were, and are the catalysts that guide us to evolve into something new. Even the most positive experiences hold this power.

Now, some changes may feel very painful. There is a degree of loss when something we cherish is taken away. The grief that one experiences from this perceived loss is a sign of a strong heart, one that has loved fully and deeply.

Allow yourself to feel this grief. It is okay to feel sad when things end. But always remember that sometimes things must die in order for new life to be born.

STAR(NARRATING):

She held out her hands to me, and I saw a tiny white seed sitting in her palm. When I looked up at her, and she gave me a small nod.

MOTHER:

You’re not quite ready yet, but I believe that one day you will be prepared to accept the knowledge that the fruit of this seed will provide.

I’d like you to take this with you. Nurture it with kindness, and care for it everyday. When you are ready for its wisdom, it will ripen for you.

STAR (NARRATING):

I observed the small white seed with curiosity. I had never seen one that looked like this, not even in my brother’s garden. I wanted to ask Mother what kind of fruit it would grow into, but decided against it. I had a feeling it would be better if I found out for myself.

STAR:

Thank you so much, Mother. I promise I’ll take care of it as best as I can!

MOTHER:

You’re very welcome. Now, before you go on your way, you must speak with my husband. The seed will not grow without his fertilizer.

STAR (NARRATING):

She waved her hand in the air, and a few moments later, a tiny, fluffy orange cloud descended from the sky at a rapid speed and stopped abruptly at my feet.

MOTHER:

This is Nimbus. It will take you to the sky where my husband resides. Now, don’t let him frighten you! He is a strict man, but he is kinder than he looks. Simply tell him that Mother sent you, and he will understand. Please address him as Father. He is a stickler for formalities.

STAR (NARRATING):

I hopped up on the little orange cloud, clutching the seed and holding it against my chest to keep it safe as I traveled. The soft fluffiness of Nimbus felt cozy and warm. I was worried I’d fall right through it, but the cloud was more solid than it looked. It began to float, lifting me high into the air and bringing me into the clear blue horizon.

STAR:

Thank you, Mother! It was very nice to meet you!

MOTHER:

Take care, little lotus. And remember - death is not the end. It is only the beginning!

STAR (NARRATING):

I waved goodbye as we flew farther and farther away from the safety of the ground. As I ascended with Nimbus, I witnessed the world below me shift and transform into something new.

The vivid greens of Mother’s curls slowly became warm oranges and deep browns. The fruit on her sleeves and skirt began to rot, and dropped from their branches to the dirt. A cold breeze blew past the trees, causing the dust left behind by the Florians to twirl in the air.

Summer on Flowerais was over. Now, it was autumn’s turn to rule. It made me sad, but I remembered what Mother told me before we parted ways.

There is no season that lasts forever. Just like our emotions, they come and go, ebbing and flowing like waves on a shore.

At that moment, I made a silent promise to myself. I vowed to cherish all of the things I loved while they were still here, and to do my best to let them go when it was time.

STAR (NARRATING):

I was a little nervous to meet the man in the sky. Mother had told me he was very strict, but she also said that he had a good heart. What if I said the wrong thing, or did something to make him angry? I didn’t want to think about what would happen.

But I didn’t have much time to worry. We quickly reached the tops of the clouds, greeted by the endless sky. The planet’s stars were beginning to set, dyeing the sky shades of marmalade orange, golden yellow, and dark violet. It was amazing. I forgot about my fears and worries for a moment, basking in the beauty that surrounded me.

But soon, my moment of peace was interrupted. A pair of thick, dark gray clouds appeared before me, letting loose powerful waves of thunder and flashing large jolts of lightning. They parted to reveal a powerful looking man standing in their midst, holding a golden staff in a strange shape I had never seen before. His face was old and weathered, marked with deep lines under his eyes and cheeks, a sign of one who had lived a long life. Both the hair on his head and his beard were a shimmery white gray, like faraway starlight. His eyes were steely and fierce, the irises a beautiful shade of periwinkle blue. They pierced through me like icy wind on a winter’s day, sending chills through my entire body. His thick brows were knotted together, deepening the stern expression on his face. He glared at me with a gaze that felt like sharp daggers and commanded me to speak.

FATHER:

Who are you, and why have you come here?

STAR:

Oh! Well, I, um-

FATHER:

Speak up!

STAR:

Aaah!

…You’re Father, right? My name is Star! Mother told me to come to you!

STAR (NARRATING):

I held out the tiny seed in the palm of my hand to show him that my words were true. He scrutinized me, his steely eyes locking with mine and staring into the depths of my soul. I could feel his cold gaze as it fell upon me, and the fear in the pit of my stomach grew heavier.

FATHER:

I see. So my wife has finally chosen a successor. Very well. I trust her judgement.

STAR:

She said that I need your fertilizer, or else the seed won’t grow.

FATHER:

That is correct. Nothing will grow without time.

STAR (NARRATING):

He reached into one of his pockets and pulled out a tiny golden pouch. He gestured for me to come closer, and nimbus carried me towards him.

I was still very scared. My heart was beating so intensely, I thought it would break free from my chest. But I remembered what Mother said, and summoned the last of my courage that lay deep within my heart.

We were at arm’s length now. He was tall, and loomed over me like a stone tower. I felt so small standing next to him. But I held strong, despite the anxiety eating away at my insides.

I held out my hands, and he dropped the pouch in my palms. I untied the little knot that kept it shut and looked inside, curious to see what was in there. The inner lining of the bag was a deep indigo blue, with tiny sparkling lights that reminded me of stars in space. I dipped my fingertips inside - when I pulled them out, they were covered with a shimmering white dust that blew sparkles in the air from my breath. I rubbed my fingers together and smiled.

FATHER:

Be careful! This is not a toy!

STAR:

Ahhh! I’m sorry!

FATHER:

Do not be sorry. Be careful. You must take caution when handling the sands of time. If it spills, there will be grave consequences.

STAR:

I understand. Thank you for letting me know.

FATHER:

If that is all, then be gone. I must prepare for the change of season that is upon us.

STAR(NARRATING):

He waved his hand, and the cotton clouds around us began to swirl. I heard something familiar stir behind me, and when I turned around, I saw Galaxia sitting on a gentle cloud, waiting patiently for me to return.

STAR:

Galaxia! Wait, how did you know this was my-

FATHER

I am aware of all things that take place in my skies. This includes the comings and goings of beings that are not of this world.

STAR(NARRATING):

Nimbus brought me to Galaxia, and as soon as I reached her, I started to board. But I paused when I heard his voice calling out to me once more.

FATHER:

...Wait.

STAR(NARRATING):

I froze, turning around to face him one last time.

FATHER:

Before you go, there is something I’d like to say.

STAR:

Y-yes, sir?

STAR(NARRATING):

The man in the sky paused for a moment, stroking his long silver beard as he contemplated his words. Then, after much deliberation, he finally shared his thoughts.

FATHER:

I can tell that you have just set off into the universe for the first time. Your journey will be long and harsh. There is no avoiding this. However, although there will be times when you feel like giving up, you must stay strong. When you find yourself in such hopeless times, remember what it is you believed in when you first began your voyage.

STAR:

...What I believed in?

FATHER:

Yes. Whatever it was that inspired you to leave home, return to that which once gave you hope.

Believe in something. Believe in change, believe in hope, believe in love. Believe in something. Have something to look forward to, a duty to fulfill, a loved one to protect. These are all things that you can do and are capable of.

If you lose your motivation or willpower, remember that motivation does not come out of thin air. It is made through the bonds you forge, the covenants you make, and the relationships you form with others. It is your connection to the ones you love that makes you who you are.

Be careful out there. Don’t let the cruelty of this universe determine what you believe in. There is always hope. Even in the darkest nights. Even in the darkest storms.

STAR(NARRATING):

Galaxia was now ready for takeoff. I punched the buttons on the navigation board, lifting her into the air. But before I took off, I looked out the window to wave goodbye to the man in the sky.

STAR:

Thank you, Father! Take care!

STAR(NARRATING):

The man in the sky simply nodded his head, then turned his back to me and retreated into the clouds. He disappeared into a wispy mist that swallowed his large, foreboding form, and once again I was alone.

As Galaxia flew up into outer space, I looked down at Flowerais one last time and saw a wondrous sight before me. The leaves from the trees had begun to fall, covering the land in a blanket of rich, warm colors. The vivid greens and colorful blossoms had turned brown and gray as the world fell silent.

Mother had become someone new. And the rest of the Florians had completed their transition.

It made me sad. But I remembered what Mother said. How change was the only constant in this universe, how death gives us an opportunity to be reborn again and again.

The light and warmth of spring would eventually return. And once it did, the flowers and trees would rise again, becoming a version of themselves that was entirely different than what they were before.

Maybe one day I will also be reborn. I can’t imagine being anyone else other than who I am right now. But when that day comes, I hope that I’ll be able to let go, and become the person I was always meant to be.

Endless gratitude and thanks to our two featured artists on this episode, Dani and William Hummeldorf!

Dani is a writer, a poet, and a self-published author whose works reflect her values of truth, honesty, and integrity. Her creations are an act of self love and are shared with the world to inspire others to live authentically and free themselves from the subconscious shackles of their minds. Her words invite us to walk through the portal of becoming and unfolding together. Solaris: Poetry to Ignite your Inner Sun, is a journey through her own awakening that encourages all who read to ignite the flames of the burning sun within them. Her book is available to purchase through Amazon. Subscribe to her Substack here!

William Hummeldorf is an exceptional man who has made several notable accomplishments in his field of study despite his young age. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology at the age of 20 and is currently in an MBA program for biotechnology with a path towards research. He has presented at biological sciences symposiums, speeches that were met with high praise and positive feedback. To get in touch, please reach out to The Intergalactic Library directly to get connected. Read about his abstract here!

Sound effects and music sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Rays of Life - Constantine3x3
birdsong - freesound_community
Calm Lullaby for Irish Harp - MountainDweller
Whispers of the Meadow 1 - adiiswanto
Woosh_Low_Long01 - freesound_community
The Rainbow Bridge by Hildegard Tummers - u_9aiuvdxlyb
The Cloud Factory - freesound_community
Wind - u_xg7ssi08yr
Recollections - Diamond_Tunes
MidnightStorm - WelbornWorks
Dry Thunder - DRAGON-STUDIO
Lightning Strike - freesound_community
UFO take off and landing - TheFealdoProject
UFO Take Off - freesound_community
Swish Swoosh Woosh SFX-12 - StereogenicStudio
Smooth guitar and harp. Emotive, sad, relaxing. - Rigel_Vega

Thank you very much!

Post-Episode Discussion Questions:

1. What “little deaths” have you experienced in your own life? How did these experiences change and transform you?

2. Do you feel like you’re the same person you were yesterday? What about the person you were a month ago? A year ago?

3. Do you believe that the relationships you have formed with others have helped develop you as a person? Why or why not?

4. What is something that you strongly believe in? How does this belief motivate you and drive your actions?

5. What’s the best piece of advice your parents ever gave you? Do you still believe it now?

Please share your thoughts in the comments!

STAR:

I made sure that I followed proper protocol for landing, taking care to perform each step exactly as I’d been taught. Enable the transparency shields. Gravity system set to automatic. Disable all exterior lights. Slow acceleration down to 0.2 lightyears per second. This was my first time landing on another planet. I wanted to make sure everything went smoothly. I couldn’t risk being seen by planet dwellers. If me or Galaxia were spotted, we’d have to evacuate immediately before too much damage was done. We absolutely, under no circumstances, can interfere with the evolution or progression of other lifeforms. It is the biggest taboo in our culture. This means that we can never show our true forms, and our spaceships must not be seen.

That was the starling way.

I kept all of this in mind while carefully piloting Galaxia. Our descent was slow and lazy, but it wasn’t worth taking any additional risks just for the sake of getting there more quickly. I didn’t want to mess up my very first landing, after all! And I didn’t want to cause Galaxia to get injured by rushing things, either. I’d never be able to forgive myself if that happened.

I’m not sure how long it took for us to finally touch down. It felt like hours. But fortunately, the landing was smooth and uneventful.

I spotted a safe place to park Galaxia in the middle of a giant meadow. When we were close enough to the ground, her legs extended from the base of the ship, then slowly, slowly, she grounded herself into the soft green grass.

GALAXIA:

Welcome to Planet K2-409B. Please use caution when exiting the spacecraft.

STAR

Yayyyy! We did it! We finally made it!

I rushed outside without thinking, barely able to contain my excitement! My feet started to float off the ground as I laughed and spun around. This was the best day of my life!! I finally made it to another planet, like a real explorer!

But, quickly remembering the starling rule, I paused and stood up straight, preparing myself to active my celestial crown so that it would generate my avatar. After raising my hand in the air, I shouted the command in my strongest voice.

“Make up, please!”

A glittering white light descended from the top of my head and all the way down to my feet. My straight turquoise hair became curly and brown, styled in a short bob that stopped at my shoulders. My clothes transformed next; I was now wearing a green strapless crop top, a skirt made of pink lotus petals, and a golden belt that sat comfortably on my waist.

Perfect! This look was soooo cute!

Now, I was finally ready to explore this brand new world.

It was a beautiful, bright, warm day, with the sound of birdsong all around me as little birdies fluttered above my head. When I looked to the sky, I noticed that the planet had two day-stars instead of just one. They were quite a distance apart, but both were shining down on the world below and bathing everything in their golden morning light. Amazing! I didn’t know that planets could have two of them! No wonder it was so hot here. I was used to warm weather on Pink Planet, so it didn’t bother me too much.

Next, I looked around at the meadow. It was full of colorful flowers and bright green grass that seemed to stretch on for miles. All were in bloom, soaking up the delicious light of day. They were thriving and well; not one of them were wilted or limp. All of the light from the planet’s two day-stars must provide all of the food and energy they need! Amazing times two!!

But... something felt... weird. The ground was... soft and squishy? Every time I took a step, a small dent formed beneath my foot.

What is this?

My legs suddenly gave out, but when I hit the ground, it didn’t hurt at all.

Instead... I started bouncing!

It took a few seconds, but after coming to a stop, something dawned on me. I was standing on flower beds! Like, actual beds made of flowers! No wonder the ground was so bouncy!

The tangled grass bedsheets curled back, revealing mattresses made of soft dirt and blankets woven from leaves and stems. They looked so cozy!

But suddenly, the ground began to stir underneath me.

Then, in perfect synchronicity, the flowers in the meadow began to rise.

I was so caught up in my excitement that I failed to notice that there were actual *people* sleeping in these flower beds. People who were a part of this vast, expansive meadow. They threw back their blankets and yawned, arms outstretched towards the sky.

I watched in awe as the flower people rose, straightening out their skirts, shirts, and pants.

They looked like humans, but different.

Each one had a blossom growing from their heads, just like I had a lotus growing from mine. None of them had noses, and their lips and eyes were bigger than most humans I had seen before. All had clothes that mirrored the flowers on their heads, woven from petals and leaves.

Their skin and hair came in every shade and tone, from rich deep browns to pale alabaster, with many brownish tones in between.

Some of the flower people had straight hair, while others had tight curls and kinks.

I saw my own face reflected in many of them, and felt a sense of belonging even though I was just a visitor.

These people must have been humans who evolved in tandem with the flora of this planet! I theorized that their DNA had merged at some point during evolution.

I decided to call them “Florians”. Maybe later I’d be able to learn their true names.

GLITTERCRESS ROSE:

Good morning!

HONEYROOT:

Grand rising.

STAR:

After they finished greeting one another, they began to walk across the meadow. Curious, I decided to follow.

Everyone seemed to be in good spirits. They were laughing, smiling, and chatting away with one another as if they were all close friends.

I wanted to be a part of it.

Walking next to me was a friendly looking person who resembled a lunar rose. I approached her and struck up a conversation.

STAR:

Greetings! Where are we going?

GLITTERCRESS ROSE:

Why, we’re going to prepare for the festival, of course.

STAR:

The festival?

SONGLIGHT:

Ugh, what? Did you just blossom yesterday? We’ve been preparing for the festival all season!

PANSIETTA:

What’s a Lotus doing here, anyway? Don’t you have some mud to play in?

STAR:

…I wasn’t sure how to respond to them. I didn’t understand why they were laughing, but it made me feel bad. I couldn’t explain why. But a kindhearted flower came to my side and explained things a little better.

SUGARCLOUD:

You’re not from around here, are you?

STAR:

...Um... that’s right. I’m from a different meadow!

SUGARCLOUD:

I see. Then you’re in for a special treat. Today is the Festival of Summer’s End. I hope you enjoy your time here.

STAR:

Moments later, she leapt high into the air. A strong breeze blew past us, and I saw her skirt expanding like a parachute.

She was riding the wind!

I watched as the other Florians followed suit, leaping into the arms of the wind and letting it carry them across the meadow. Amazing times three! Could I do that, too...?

I jumped as high as I could, the petals of my skirt opening up as I started to float. It was a little scary, but the wind was strong and carried us at a slow, comfortable pace. Looking down, I saw that there was an expansive green valley below us with winding hills near the foot of a mountain. There was a large circular field in the middle, right in front of a giant lake of clear, blue water. Around this circle were decorations, such as little mushroom chairs and tree stump tables, and what looked like instruments made of wood and string.

That must have been where the festival was being held!

When we finally landed on the soft green grass, the Florians immediately began their preparations. There were large wooden crates scattered around the field; when they approached them, a flurry of bees came rushing out in swarms. They flew around our heads, twirling themselves in our hair and clothes. One of them flew up to me, buzzing right in my ear.

SLEAZY BEE:

Hey good lookin’, what’s cookin’?

STAR:

Oh, hello! I’m not cooking anything.

SLEAZY BEE:

Well aren’t you sweeter than honey. I know we just met, but I think I’m pollen for you. Wanna bee mine?

GLITTERCRESS ROSE:

Buzz off, you bumbling nuisance! ...Don’t mind him, he’s only after your pollen.

STAR:

A Florian came up to us and slapped the noisy bee away. I felt kind of bad for him. It seemed like it hurt. But he flew off and started bugging someone else. I guess he was alright.

I looked at the other Florians, who were now holding large pots full of honey and carrying them to the fairy circle. I wanted to help, so I picked up a smaller jar and brought it over. They were taking them to a large pile of fruits, many of which I didn’t recognize. They must have been unique to this planet!

I reached out to grab a bunch of small, tiny purple berries. I was hungry, and I just wanted a little taste! Popping them in my mouth, an explosion of sweet tartness graced my tongue. Yummy! These reminded me of moonberries from my home planet. They were deeeeelicious!

WATERFAN:

Hands off! Those are offerings!

STAR:

Oh, I’m sorry!

HONEYROOT:

Did she really eat that?!

STARFLOWER:

Well, I never!

SONGLIGHT:

You’re in big trouble, Lotus!

STAR:

I didn’t understand what I did wrong. The fruits weren’t supposed to be eaten? Then why were they sitting out like that? And who were they were being offered to? Confusion sunk in as the Florians crowded around me, yelling angrily and demanding reparations.

...I’m sorry, everyone! I’m really, really sorry.

DREAMBELL:

We will forgive you, Lotus... if you provide a suitable replacement.

STAR:

You mean, a new offering...?

I thought long and hard about how to make up for my accidental transgression, but nothing came to mind. I had arrived empty handed, with nothing but the clothes on my back and a smile on my face.

What would be sufficient?

There was only one thing I could offer.

Myself.

And I feel the most like myself when I dance.

I walked to the center of the open field, taking deep breaths in and out to center myself and connect to my body.

And when the time was right, I started to dance.

The air was thick and sweet with nectar. A floral, sugary aroma filled my lungs, connecting me to the silent lifeforms on the planet. I heard the faint sound of drums, a whisper riding the wind, and followed the steady rhythm. My body began to glow as the light within me was released, lifting my feet off the ground.

All starlings love to dance. We are dancers at our very core, beings that were created to express love through movement. My hope was that the people of Flowerais would witness my deep love of dance, and understand that it was the best gift I could offer.

When the drums began to fade, I opened my eyes with hesitance, wondering what their reactions would be.

But to my surprise, a new song started up, and every single Florian joined me on the dance floor, spinning and twirling as their laughter floated through the air. Music began once more, but this time, I wasn’t the only one dancing.

Each Florian, beautiful in their own unique ways, opened up and blossomed as they found the dance within themselves. All of their colors mixed together like paint on a canvas; rich blues to deep purples, vibrant reds to fiery oranges, pastel pinks to gentle yellows.

It was a beautiful sight. Our laughter floated through the air like bells, accompanied by bright smiles and friendly chatter. I felt like I could dance forever.

But eventually, the dance came to an end. Everyone became still and turned to face one another. The Florians curtsied at their partners across from them, then curtsied at those standing beside them, and then...

They turned to dust.

Each Florian began to dry up, vivid colors disappearing as green stems turned brown. Their petals dried up, wilting before falling from their heads. It happened so fast. Every time I blinked, more of them crumbled and fell.

Panic took root in my heart. I reached out, hoping I could save at least one person, but all turned to dust right before my eyes.

What was going on?

...A few moments later, and I was alone. The world fell silent. Thick, gray clouds took over the skies, stealing the last light of day. A cool wind blew chilled me to the bone. I felt so lonely, standing there by myself.

Why did this happen? Why did they all just... disappear? I didn’t understand. It made me want to cry. My tears began to fall, and they just wouldn’t stop. It was too much to bear.

But as they fell from my eyes and onto the ground below, I felt a comforting presence blossoming before me. A gentle, nurturing feeling beamed into my heart like golden light, warming me from the inside out. And in the midst of my tears, I opened my eyes to see what was before me...

A special thank you to George Watson and Celeste for lending their talents to this episode! This episode wouldn’t have come to life without your contributions!

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
UFO Takeoff and Landing - TheFealdoProject
Computer Sounds - freesound_community
space ship landing - freesound_community
Dream Valley - Emmraan
Magic 03 - Universfield
Magical Sparkle Orchestral Music - MountainDweller
Sunny-Morning - Helleba
054883_Bounce - freesound_community
Sunny day - u_axz0a8oya1
Footsteps in Grass and Picking - freesound_community
talking people - freesound_community
Anime Cicadas chirping satisfying - Nasrx15
Garden Birdsong with curlew - freesound_community
Floating in Summer - Z8phyR
Hard Slap - freesound_community
Bees - freesound_community
Squelch - freesound_community
angry crowd - freesound_community
Atmospheric Drums - DRAGON-STUDIO
Tribal Drums - drmseq
African Percussions - SOFRA
Girl Laugh - freesound_community
Girl Laugh - LexieVause
Children Giggling Kids Laughing HD - Virtual_Vibes
Winter Landscape - DRAGON-STUDIO
Summer Breeze Meditation - NaturesEye

Thank you very much!

I still can’t believe I met a real wishing star. They’re considered quite rare, and back home some starlings say that they’re just a myth. I can’t wait to tell everyone that they exist, and that I met one!

It was really nice talking to another life form again. And now I have a new friend watching over me! I hope that other people go to visit Zetwal soon. It must be lonely, being the only constellation out there. And I bet it doesn’t feel good knowing that most people who visit her only go because they want something. That’s why I kept saying that she didn’t need to give me anything.

I understood how Zetwal felt, and why she ran away to become a constellation. I know what it’s like to have other people decide who you are and what your life will be like. They give you all these rules to follow and say no to everything fun. It’s like... you have no freedom in any aspect of your life. You’re not even free to be happy. And worst of all, they take away your voice and don’t give you the ability to choose what you want for yourself. I hate it! I hate it so much!

Well, that’s in the past now. Like Zetwal said, I can write my own future! I’m never letting anyone else decide that for me ever again!

...This galaxy is more barren than most... I didn’t realize how far away Pink Planet was from everything else in the universe. Or maybe Galaxia is just slow. I thought space exploration would be more exciting than this.

Hmm... I guess we could see if there’s anything interesting on the radio again!

[radio noises]

“...A missing persons report has been filed for the lost princess of...[audio undetectable]”

[radio noises]

“...the Kili Lege continue their brutal assault on unsuspecting planets in the NGC-1300 Galaxy despite Galactic Federation intervention. An evacuation order has been declared to all planets in the outer ring of the star system in light of the recent attacks...”

[radio noises]

“...But Zentalon, we’ve already intertwined our destinies together with the orb of xexion!”

“I’m sorry, baby, but nothing can tie a Zorpalorp down forever. Not even you.”

“Nooooo! Zentalon, don’t leave me!”

[radio noises]

“...A travel advisory has been issued for the Spiral Galaxy in the Omicron Grid. Space travelers should take caution when entering this area due to reports of navigation system failure and other system malfunctions...”

[radio noises]

“...civil unrest on the Alsetech work colony on TOI-3757B due to alleged neglect of proper workplace safety protocols...”

[third comet boy song]

Ooooooh, is this a new Comet Boy song?! I loooove his music!! I’m like, his biggest fan!

“888.4! Astroradio!”

...Aaaaaand it’s over already. Of course.

“…another interplanetary hit single from the one and only Comet Boy! Whose identity still remains a mystery to his fans.”

[turns off radio]

... Soooooo boooooring.

...Oh, I just remembered!! Why don’t I share one of my favorite books with you? My older sister let me borrow it from the library of time before I left, hehe... whoops, I guess it’ll be a while before I can return it.

Anyway, it’s called “A Planet with No Stars.” Nobody knows who the author is, but it was supposedly written a really, really long time ago. Like, ancient times. The wording is a little weird, but Vela was able to translate it pretty much word for word! She’s so smart. Alright, here goes...

[clears throat]

On this planet, there are no stars.

The skies are empty, and the world is dark.

I walk along the common paths and share my light.

The people on this planet live in darkness.

I’m different because I have a light that cannot be seen with eyes.

The rest of them are unaware.

They know that I’m not quite like them.

I am the light that they cannot see in themselves.

Some of them hate me, but only because they do not know who I am.

There are no more stars on this planet.

I will have to look somewhere else.

Everyone has forgotten, but I-

GALAXIA:

System notification. Arrival at planet K2-409B in: 1 hour, 53 minutes. Now preparing for descent. Please follow proper safety protocol for landing.

FINALLY! Oh my stars, I can’t believe it! We’re FINALLY landing on a brand new planet!! I’m so excited, I can’t wait!! Let’s see what kind of planet this is...

...I see. The navigation system led us to a little green planet near the edge of the GLASS-z-13 galaxy. After analyzing some of the data it gathered from its scan, Galaxia determined that there is indeed signs of intelligent life on this planet. The landscape is basically made up of gigantic flower beds, so I’m going to call it Florais!

I need to figure out what form I should take so that I don’t scare the locals.

...Oh, have I explained this yet?

I dunno if you noticed, but this little crescent moon shaped thingy on my head is a special device that helps me remember who I am. Um, the name of it is a word in the starling language... let’s just call it, uh... a celestial crown! All starlings wear one, but like our ships they’re unique to us. No celestial crown is exactly the same, and some aren’t even crowns at all. Anyway, blah blah blah the most important thing to know is that this device lets me change my appearance whenever I need to. It also functions as a dual translator! That means I can speak to anyone in their native tongue and also be able to understand them, and when they speak to me I can understand them!

...How does the avatar setting work? The ship’s Organic Intelligence System pulls data from the standard biometric and genetic information of a planet’s lifeforms and uses it to generate an avatar that’ll help me blend in. Basically, I can disguise myself as a local wherever I go! Remember how I said it’s taboo for us starlings to be seen by planet dwellers? This is a safe way for us to interact with them without giving our true identities away. The success rate for these things is 99.8% so it’s basically foolproof! Awesome, huh? Starlings really do think of everything!

Let’s see.... oooooo, yes!! I love this look! Here, I’ll upload a picture so you can see!

Isn’t this soooo cute?? I might actually add this to my permanent wardrobe!

Anyway, we’re going to land soon, so I’ve gotta go! Seeya later!!

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
Spaceship ambient sfx - JCI21
Old Radio Tuning - freesound_community
Alien Communication Radio Sing Loop Mastered 200618_0009_01 - freesound_community
Ghost Alien Monster Communications - freesound_community
Alien Radio - shrek_30
Radio Tuning 1 - DJARTMUSIC
Radio - Hyperpop Sci-Fi SFX - kontraa
Alien Breath - DeltaXMusic
energy (future) - RibhavAgrawal
happy musical tone - RibhavAgrawal
ROMANTIC(AUTUMNN) - RibhavAgrawal
hard dance(cyberpunk techno music) - RibhavAgrawal
Dramatic Piano and Violin (Short Version) - Universfield
Closing Tape Casette - SoundReality
Lullaby Music Vol.20 - RelaxingTime
Smart Sparks - kissan4

Thank you very much!

Analyzing data, please wait...

...Data analysis complete. Audio and visual information generated. File now playing:

STAR (NARRATING)

Galaxia and I had been wandering around for what felt like forever. And still, there were no signs of planets or nearby life. It felt like we were drifting aimlessly through the galaxy, and it was sooooo boring. I lost track of how much time had passed since I left home, but it felt like eons. I thought I was gonna die of boredom.

"Galaxia, what’s our ETA for the next closest planet?

Her system began to whir, calculating the distance.

GALAXIA

Estimated time of arrival in Galactic units: 3 years, 7 months, 24 days.

STAR

Convert that to Pink Planet time, please!

GALAXIA

Converting to Pink Planet units... estimated time of arrival: 6 months, 942 days.

STAR (NARRATING)

I sighed. That wasn’t too bad, I guess. The time will pass quickly. But still, I hated having to waiting! I had no idea what I was going to do to pass the time until then.

STAR (NARRATING)

But before I got too lost in thought, something caught my eye when I glanced out the window into space. A beautiful star cluster was right in front of us, shining so brightly that I couldn’t tear my eyes away. It was huge, way bigger than the ones near Pink Planet, and it bloomed in shades of deep indigo, vivid magenta, and rich violet. There were so many stars that danced within it - those that were big, others that were small. Some that were young, and some that were old. It made me a little homesick, watching them spin and twirl while chatting away with one another. I wanted to join in, but I felt too shy to speak up...

There was something about this cluster that puzzled me, though. It was formed in a shape that kind of resembled a face. At least, that was what my eyes saw. Maybe it was my brain trying to find meaning in the chaos, something familiar that made sense to me.

But as it turned out, I was right. And soon, the star cluster was staring back at me.

A pair of white eyes full of brilliant light opened up in the darkness as glittering eyelids pulled backwards, like a curtain made of stars, and I realized that what I was looking at wasn’t simply a cluster.

It was a constellation.

A beautiful woman’s face, outlined in tiny, dancing stars gazed back at me. I watched in awe as she blossomed like a cosmic flower right before my very eyes. Her long hair, made up of thick locs, cascaded through space like a river of stars flowing through water.

And her eyes. Her irises had the same twinkle characteristic of starlings, so I knew that she was one of us.

STAR (NARRATING)

But I was too amazed to speak. I fell silent, in awe of the wondrous sight before me. The face of the constellation looked at me with a stern expression, as silent as the depths of space. Her intense, starry eyes watched me carefully, then finally, after much time had passed, her lips began to move, and she spoke to me in a booming, commanding voice.

ZETWAL

Alo? Ki moun ki la*?

…Hmph. A starling.

STAR (NARRATING)

She talked to me! I was so excited, I started speaking in starling tongue, asking a million questions as they popped up in my mind.

[audio undetectable due to: starling language]

ZETWAL

Enough, enough! Do not sing at me, I just woke up.

STAR

Oh, I’m sorry! It’s just that, your eyes... I thought you were a starling.

ZETWAL

I am part starling, yes. Now who are you, and what is it that you want?

STAR

Well, my name is Star, and I’m on my space voyage! It’s really nice to meet you!

STAR (NARRATING)

She gave me another once-over, her eyes drifting from the top of my head to the ground where I stood, frowning when she heard my answer.

ZETWAL

Let me guess. You just left home recently, haven’t you?

STAR

Yes! How did you know?!

ZETWAL

Because all of you newborn starlings have that same wide eyed, starry eyed look in your eyes. You come here with so much hope and promise, yapping and blabbering about love and light and this and that. It’s exhausting, having to listen to it over and over again.

STAR

I’m not a newborn! I’m 250 years old!

ZETWAL

Tch. Barely grown, and already running out into the world like a fool. Don’t you starlings usually wait until you’ve made at least 1000 rotations before setting off?

STAR

Well, I... um...

STAR (NARRATING)

I didn’t really want to talk about it, but I also didn’t know what to say. I didn’t want to lie, and I didn’t want to tell the truth either. She waited for me to respond, but when I stayed silent she continued on.

ZETWAL

No matter. I suppose it can’t be helped.

So, kisa ou vle ti mun*? What is it you’ve come to wish for today?

STAR

...Huh?

ZETWAL

Your. Wish.

There must be a reason you sought me out and woke me up from my wonderful nap. What is it? I haven’t got all day, so spit it out.

STAR

Oh, we were just passing by! I only stopped to admire the view. Your constellation is beautiful.

ZETWAL

What is this nonsense? You traverse the sea of stars just to wake up Zetwal and tell her she’s beautiful?

STAR

Is that your name? Zetwal?

ZETWAL

Yes. That is me. I am Zetwal the Witch, the last mambo* from Planet Lakay*. I can grant you one wish, and one wish only. Flattery will not earn you anything more.

STAR

Zetwal... Does this mean you’re a real wishing star?

ZETWAL

You ask too many questions and provide no answers. Now tell me already. Is it true love you seek? Fame? Fortune? Power? Whatever it is, Zetwal can provide. For a price.

STAR

I don’t want anything. I didn’t come here for a wish. I didn’t even know a wishing star was here.

STAR (NARRATING)

She fell silent for a moment, studying me with her giant eyes of white. It felt like she was looking right through me, diving into the depths of my soul with just a glance.

ZETWAL

You are not lying, but you’re also not telling the complete truth. I can tell there is something deep within your heart that you are wishing for more than anything else.

A cure to your loneliness, perhaps. Or a deep longing for something you’ve never been able to possess.

STAR

...How did you know that?

ZETWAL

You aren’t just on a space voyage. You’re searching for something out there. Something more precious and rare than cosmic diamond. A wish that has been eating you alive since the day you were conceived.

STAR (NARRATING)

I started to feel uneasy. Nobody had ever read me so easily, and it made me feel vulnerable and raw. But my intuition told me that Zetwal did not have bad intentions.

STAR (CONT’D)

...There is one wish I have. One that’s been living in my heart for a very long time. But I didn’t come here to have it granted.

I’ve been traveling alone for a really long time. You’re actually the first living being I’ve spoken to since I left home... I was getting pretty lonely, even though I have Galaxia. It’s just not the same. The only thing I really want right now at this moment is to stay and talk to you for a little while longer.

STAR (NARRATING)

Zetwal was stunned. Her plump lips pursed, glittering as the star clusters moved in a fluid motion. Then, after a long pause, she spoke once more.

ZETWAL

What would do you wish to talk about?

STAR

Anything! Could you tell me how you became a constellation? Also, you said that you’re part starling, can you tell me more about that too? I’ve never met a halfling before!

STAR (NARRATING)

The corners of her lips curled up in a warm smile, and for the first time, her stern expression finally softened.

ZETWAL

It’s been eons since I’ve told this story. Very well. I’ll tell you everything. Make yourself comfortable. It is a long one...

ZETWAL (CONT’D)

There once was a human woman who had fallen in love with a starling from a far off galaxy. He had landed on her planet during his space voyage and tried to conceal himself with a disguise, but the woman saw right through him. She was a mambo, a priestess with the gift of sight, among other psychic powers that she used to help and heal her people. Her eyes could see through the veil into the spirit world, and through simple illusionary spells such as those casted by starlings.

“Do you think I’m a fool?” she said. “I know you’re not of this world. Enough of your tricks, show me who you really are!”

But when the human woman called him out on his trick, the starling simply threw back his head and laughed.

‘Good,’ he said. ‘I can finally be myself again.’

And when he returned to his true form, the woman was so captivated by his beauty that she fell speechless. The starling, relieved that he no longer had to put on a mask, was also at a loss of words. To him, she was the most beautiful human he’d ever laid eyes on.

It was love at first sight for them both.

But that initial infatuation blossomed into something much deeper as the years went on. The starling man had finally found someone who saw him for who he truly was, and still wanted him despite his flaws and shortcomings. And the human woman had met someone who demanded nothing from her but her time and companionship. The life of a mambo is a life lived in service to others. But with him, she could leave those responsibilities behind and simply be a young woman in love.

They lived together in harmony for many, many years, dedicating their lives to one another in total secrecy, so that the people of her home planet Lakay would never know there was an alien living in their midst.

Sadly, their love was not meant to be. When the human woman was with child, the starling man left the planet to gather his family so that they could all be present at the child’s birth. It was the first time a halfling child was to be born in over ten thousand years, so it called for a special celebration. But shortly after he left orbit, he was killed by a massive black hole that opened up when an elderly star collapsed.

The human woman never saw him again.

Devastated by the loss of her true love, the woman died of a broken heart shortly after giving birth, leaving the halfling child behind with no family to call her own. The humans of Lakay, unaware of her heritage or history, found the child all alone in her mother’s old home and adopted her into their village. They regarded this child as a higher being, for her eyes were white like starlight and her skin rich as umber, the color of midnight sky. So they dubbed her Zetwal, child of the stars.

As the child grew, she displayed very powerful magic that surpassed even her mother’s. She had prophetic dreams that predicted terrible storms that always came to pass, and crop failures that almost led to famine. She could create potions, salves, and ointments that cured all ailments, even those deemed fatal. She could cast away dark spirits that attached themselves to unsuspecting souls, and cleansed people with her radiant celestial light that chased away all shadows. The magic of her mambo mother, and the light from her starling father, came together in beautiful unity in the form of this magical child.

Because of her prowess, the villagers raised her to be the next mambo under strict rules according to their traditions. Her hair must always be wrapped in scarves. She must always wear white clothes. She could not run and play like other children, and she was always expected to lead ceremony and take part in ritual to bring prosperity to the village. She went through a brutal initiation where they burned her head and feet, leaving her scarred with the marks of the mambo.

And worst of all, she was not allowed to have friends. She lived most of her human life in complete isolation from other people like her.

When the halfling child came of age, she began to grow resentful of the village that had raised her. Although they had provided everything she needed, they were unable to grant her the one thing she wanted most.

A friend.

Zetwal had no trusted confidants, no close companion to share her deepest secrets. Although she was always surrounded by people, she was still completely alone in the world. The love of the villagers was conditional, based on what she could do for them and not who she was as a person. There was nobody who truly loved her in this world. Not on Lakay, and not anywhere else.

So one day, she ran away.

She left on a night when the moon was full, fleeing from the only place she had ever called home. She ran up the highest mountain until she reached the peak and leapt into the sky, into the welcoming arms of the cosmos. The stars that danced around her planet carried her to an empty space in the sky, where she became the mother star in a new constellation that circled the planet of Lakay.

She was at peace there for quite some time. However, she could still hear the voices of her people calling out to her from afar, begging for her compassion and mercy. Once they had discovered she was gone, they tried to chase her, but were unable to keep up. So from the ground, they appealed to her with song and dance, singing her praises and offering their gifts to the sky. Only then would Zetwal answer their cries.

Gone were the days of providing her services for free. Those who wanted their wishes granted by Zetwal would have to pay a price.

Most people offered her rare and precious minerals. Gold, xenon, unobtanium, and more. Others paid her with their time, sacrificing a portion of their lifespan that she would use to extend hers. There were even some that bound their souls to her, agreeing to return as a star in her constellation after they died to repay her for the magic she worked during their human lives.

Zetwal did this work for two millennia, granting one wish for every soul that sought her out. She still lives among the stars, waiting for the day when her own wish will finally be granted.

STAR

That story was so sad...

ZETWAL

You will learn that there are many stories out there in the universe just like mine. You must prepare yourself for this, and understand that there will be parts of your own story that will not have a happy ending.

STAR

But, the pain... it must be unbearable! How do you keep going after going through something so tragic and heartbreaking?

ZETWAL

Because is not the end, Star. It is just one chapter of my story. I will always carry this chapter within me, but as long as I exist, I can decide what comes next. I am the author, so I let the words of the past teach me and guide me towards the future. You, and everyone else in this universe, have the power to do the same.

STAR (NARRATING)

She wrapped me and Galaxia in a blanket of stars and pulled us close, until we were floating right in front of her beautiful, starry face.

ZETWAL

I can see that you have a pure soul. Protect that tender heart of yours, and don’t let this universe take your kindness or compassion away from you. No matter how cold or lonely things become.

STAR (NARRATING)

She closed her eyes, and the star between her brows shimmered and twinkled brighter than any other. A ray of white gold light beamed down, landing between my eyes and filling me with a radiant warmth.

ZETWAL

You have gifted me something priceless while asking for nothing in return, and for that, I thank you. If you will not let me grant your wish, then instead I will bestow upon you the blessing of the mambo. If ever you feel lost or aimless, or forget what you have come here to do, call upon me and I shall appear. We will be connected no matter the time or distance.

STAR (NARRATING)

The light began to fade, and soon the darkness returned, although I was still surrounded by the dancing stars that made up the constellation of Zetwal.

STAR (CONT’D)

Thank you, Zetwal. This is a beautiful gift.

ZETWAL

No, my Star. Thank you.

STAR (NARRATING)

I stayed and talked with her for a little while longer, the two of us chatting away until time began to escape us. It felt like I was talking to an old friend, someone I had known long ago but had forgotten, even though we had just met.

She felt like family. She felt like home.

But eventually, it was time to go. I hated saying goodbye to Zetwal, but she left me with comforting parting words.

ZETWAL

Ti moun mwne*, I already told you. We will be always be connected no matter where you are. Do not be afraid of goodbyes. They are not as permanent as you think.

STAR
Thank you for everything, Zetwal. I’ll miss you! I hope we can meet again soon!

ZETWAL

How long has it been now? I’ve lost track of time despite my efforts. Will you finally be satisfied after this adventure is over? Or will you once again rush into the next one, starting over again and again until you are finally satisfied? I pray that this time you’ll wake up, before your heart is broken, and before your soul is lost. Thank you again, my friend. For this time, and all of the times that came before.

Translations from Haitian Creole:

Ki moun ki la? = Who is there?
Kisa ou vle ti mun? = What do you want, little one?
mambo/manbo = priestess
lakay = home
Ti moun mwne = little person

Many thanks and utmost gratitude for Michaëlle Abraham, who generously lended her vocal talents in this episode for the role of Zetwal. Her contributions and collaborative efforts are what made this episode truly come to life.

Michaëlle Abraham is a Haitian American multidisciplinary artist, whose visual artistry covers a wide range of practices; from abstract ink paintings that embrace spontaneity, accidents, and transformation, to monochromatic illustrations. Beyond the canvas, she extends her creative vision into orality and literary creations, such as the podcast Narratives from the Black Diaspora and Beyond, and her upcoming novella titled Dark Bay.

To learn more about Michaëlle, and to support her artistic endeavors, you can access her artist CV below, or follow her instagram @_shetellsastory.

Passion for Art.

The story of Zetwal was loosely inspired by the Star Dreaming story of the Seven Sisters, an ancient songline that originated in Aboriginal Australia.

Learn more

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
Cosmic Dream - AVISIONfxS
Space Ship Bridge Loop - freesound_community
Sound Effect: Twinkle/Sparkle - ShidenBeatsMusic
Revelation and Awe - freesound_community
Square Bells Glitters (90 BPM) - freesound_community
Glitter Sound Effect for Music and Editing - ASGARLI
Valentine’s Stars - NadiaCripps
Twinkle like a Star - MondayHopes
Sweet Sleep Lullaby - BreakzStudios
UFO Take Off - freesound_community
Swish Swoosh Woosh SFX-12 - StereogenicStudio
UFO takeoff and landing - TheFealdoProject
constelacion - RASPUTING

Thank you very much!

Hi... I’m sad today. I really miss my family. This is the longest I’ve ever been away from home.

I think maybe it’ll help if I talk about my family a little more.

Um, I guess I could start with my parents. I mentioned it before but I have three parents. They’re nebulae, of course. All starlings are born from nebulae. The three of them have been together since the beginning of the universe. On Pink Planet, they’re known as the Founders of Creation, since they gave birth to many lifeforms. Not just us starlings, but some planets as well. They’re the ones who created water, gases, dust particles, supernovas, black holes, and a bunch of other stuff!

[audio indetectable due to: starling language]

Did that make sense? ...Oh, sorry. Starling language. Um, it’s really hard to explain. Maybe someday you’ll be able to travel to my home and see for yourself!

...Ummm, I guess I could talk about my siblings too... I’ll start with my favorites!

Orion is my favorite brother. He’s the oldest out of the ten of us that were born within a thousand years of one another, so he’s the most responsible and dependable. He’s always really nice to me, and he never gets mad or annoyed when I bothered him. That’s why he was my favorite. He likes mooncakes and starfruit juice, like me!

Andromeda is the second oldest. She’s super tall and super beautiful, but whenever you compliment her she gets really shy about it. She’s pretty introverted, so she doesn’t say a lot most of the time. But when she does, it’s the wisest sage advice ever. I liked hanging out with her. She never got annoyed of me, either. I think she’s the one who really likes cosmic brownies? I should have asked her before I leave.

Ophi is quiet and tends to keep to himself. Some people are intimidated by him because he’s broad and tall, but he wouldn’t hurt a speck of space dust. He spends almost all of his time taking care of the vegetable garden back home. I used to help him out there a lot, and he’s taught me everything I know about growing food and flowers! Sometimes it was nice to just sit with him there, even though he never really says anything. He likes silence and clear, sunny days.

Vela is really sweet and likes to read a lot. She also writes her own books! When she got back from her space voyage, she wrote a whole collection of encyclopedias about everything she learned and studied during her travels. Isn’t that cool? I think there are over 10,000 books now, all of them with a word count of at least one million! She keeps them in the library of time and basically lives there now. Of course, she loves reading and drinking black void tea.

Palomar is... a little high strung, but he has a good heart. He’s always stressed out about something, but that’s because he’s in charge of keeping all of the constellations moving. Also, I think he just got promoted to colonel at the Galactic Federation! It makes sense, he’s a no-nonsense guy that’s super dependable! He likes sleeping and Martian coffee. I didn’t really get the chance to talk to him much. Because of his crazy, demanding work, he never really had time to come home and visit us. And when he was around, he always seemed really annoyed or mumbled stuff under his breath when I tried to talk to him. But he always perked up when I made him coffee! I know just the way he likes it. A triple espresso with just a dash of Milky Way milk.

Then there’s Xihe. She married a Lunarian a few centuries ago and moved to a far off galaxy. So I only get to see her once every couple of decades. She’s pretty busy managing life on the moons, but every time I met her in the past she was always really nice to me. If I remember correctly, she likes gravity bars, specifically stellum flavored.

Tislit is alright, she’s just a huge scaredy cat. And she’s kinda boring. She didn’t used to be like that, though... it was only after she came back from her space voyage. ...Now that I remember, she’s the only one who came back home early. I don’t know why though. She never told me, even when I asked. Mmm, I forgot what she likes...

The rest of my siblings are my least favorites. Starting with Celeste. She’s so mean! She’s always mean to me for no reason and never just lets me be. Shes really pretty... but her personality is deplorable, as Orion would say. I don’t miss her at all! She likes complaining and criticizing people. Usually me.

Then last, there’s Eris. He’s the worst brother ever! He’s only 100 years older than me, but he acts like he’s in charge of me all the time. It’s so annoying! I’m glad I won’t have to hear his stupid voice or look at his stupid face for a while! He likes yelling and telling people what to do and making fun of them and calling them names and... ugh, I hate him! I can’t believe they all just let him...

...Nevermind.

That’s everybody though. I know that’s probably a lot, so here. Here’s a picture of all of us together.

…I thought that talking about them would help me feel better, but... now I just feel more sad. I miss them. Even though all they did was make fun of me and call me a crybaby and say that I was always too sensitive...

Well, I hope they’re happy now. Now that they don’t have to deal with my crying or my... sensitivity...

I think that’s enough for now... but at least I... at least I don’t have to hear them say that anymore... anymore...

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple Notification - Universfield
Celestial Melody - freesound_community
Square Bells Glitters (90 BPM) - freesound_community
Spaceship ambient sfx - JCI21
Shine - FaithMulato
Shine 4 - BenKirb

Thank you very much!

...Actually, that’s a big fat lie. I tossed and turned for most of the night and ended up having to go into the cryostasis pod for a few hours. I had this weird dream, too, but I can’t really remember it... I wonder if the Organic Intelligence System was able to record this one?

...It did! Yes! Okay, let’s see...

…Weird. I wonder what this means? I’ve never seen this person before. And I don’t think I’ve ever been to that jungle, either.

But I do remember the song he was playing on the flute.

...That was a man, right? I mean, I guess that person could’ve been a woman, too. Their face was... kind of a mix of both? Maybe it wasn’t a man or a woman.

Anyway, that song... I’m not sure where I’ve heard it before, but it did sound familiar. It sounds like something I’ve sung many times, even though I don’t remember it at all.

I wonder... is this person in my dream is the one I’ve been looking for...?

...Maybe I’m thinking too hard about it. It’s just a dream, after all. Sometimes they don’t mean anything.

But anyway, the reason I’m making another voice log so soon is because I realized I forgot that I never told you about my ship!!

Soooo, here’s the thing. It’s kind of hard to describe with words, so I tried drawing a picture. Hopefully this will give you some kind of idea of what it looks like.

This is what it looks like from the side... sometimes.

Aaaand this is what it looks like from the top!

Well, kind of. For those of you that have seen the space-time continuum, it sort of resembles that if you look down at it from above.

Our space ships are a little different than others. Most planet dwellers and other spacelings make ships that have one single, unchanging form. Starling ships are sentient and operate based on the will of the pilot. They have something called an Organic Intelligence System that adapts to our soul and changes form based on what’s inside of us. Isn’t that cool?! I’m not quite sure on the details for how they build them, but I know that they are created by nebulae. Just like how I was born! So in a way, all of us starling are related to the ships in a weird, distant kind of way.

One of the reasons we build our spacecrafts this way is so that they can become transparent and invisible to the eyes of planet dwellers. There have been quite a few times in history that some planet dwellers saw our ships and started worshipping us as higher beings. Which is silly, because we’re not! We’re more like... really really distant relatives! But yeah, because it’s considered unethical and a huge taboo in starling culture, I have to be careful when I approach and land on different planets.

Speaking of being careful... starling ships don’t get injured very easily, but when they do, repairing them is a bit more complex than fixing spaceships made of metal and stuff. Our ships can regenerate themselves at will, but the healing process takes a long time. If it’s a minor injury, it’ll heal quickly, but more serious injuries means that the ship can take months or even years to regenerate. There’s nothing that can really be done to speed up the process. It’s sort of like when you get a cut or a burn, and your body heals itself. You can put medicine on the wound or disinfect it, but ultimately it’ll take time for it to fully recover. It’s rare for those kind of things to happen, but still! A good pilot always takes care of her ship!

Every starling is different and unique, so our ships are also unique as well. Mine tends to take a circular, round shape with four points, like the way fully formed stars look from a large distance. I’m not sure why. But I love it! It’s totally my aesthetic. The exterior is smooth and covered in little sparkly lights that help me see in the dark. And I think I said this before, but it’s my favorite color: pink! Think of a soft, sunset pink mixed in with hues of natural green. Like a lotus flower with pink petals and a green stem.

The interior is super cozy too! The navigation room is also pink with bits of gold and green, but mostly green due to all of the plants. The floor is made of soft grass and tiny wildflowers. The walls are covered in tropical plants with huuuuuge leaves and vines. The ceiling has its own natural light system that resembles starshine. The ship has its own water cycle and can generate water at will, so sometimes it even rains in here! It’s always a nice, gentle rain though. Never stormy. I’ll draw a picture of it sometime!

My bedroom is a little different though. The room is basically one huge one-way window that lets me look out into space while I sleep. I can close it if I want, though, and I can change the view on the window to another landscape. Sometimes I’ll change the picture to a beach, like the one I used to live near on Pink Planet. I love beaches! They’re my favorite type of ecosystem! Other times I’ll change it to a woodland forest, like the ones I read about in my sister’s books. I also like the deep sea, and the mountains with rivers running through them. If it wasn’t obvious, I really like being around bodies of water!

Anyway, that’s enough yapping for now! I’ve got things to do now, so I’m signing off!

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple notification - Universfield
Spaceship ambient sfx - JCI21
Somber Constellations Ambient - Metriko
haze - freesound_community
Spaceship Bridge Loop - freesound_community

Thank you very much!

I head in that direction. I don’t know why. I just know that what I’m looking for is there. It’s a lush, green jungle with giant flowers that are almost as tall as me, and trees so high they caress the sky with their branches.

I keep walking and walking until I finally reach a clearing. I push aside a monstera plant’s leaves and find myself at the foot of a clear lake. A waterfall is before me, and the flute’s song plays a little louder. It’s gentle and calming, like the dew drops on the leaves by the shore.

And someone is sitting there, playing the flute. This person looks different from me, but the same. I can’t quite describe it. Their skin is light brown. Their long, feathery hair has subtle waves and dances around a lovely face when the breeze blows past. They look up at me with soft, kind eyes, but don’t utter a single word. I see the corners of their lips curl up in a friendly smile. They keep playing the flute.

“Who are you?”

That person doesn’t speak, but the flute answers. The tune changes from a reflective beat to a playful melody. The jungle birds gather around him, harmonizing with their birdsong notes. It’s beautiful... I walk towards the edge of the riverbank and sit down on a patch of green grass.

I don’t know how long I sat there and listened. But I realize that much time had passed when the planet’s star moves in front of my face and shines into my eyes. When the last colors of day drift down towards the flute player, their head is cloaked with a heavenly golden orb, like a shining crown of divine light.

“Hello?” I ask again. “Who are you? What’s your name?”

They smile again, but still no answer. The last thing I hear are the notes from the flute fluttering in my ear, along with whispered words in a strange language I can’t quite make out...

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay and Youtube Artists. Credits:

Glitter Sound Effect for Music or Editing - Asgarli
Refreshments - drmseq
Walking in a forest - photos_
Shakuhachi flute play - freesound_community
Waterfall - freesound_community
Leaves - freesound_community
Jungle Nature - Soul_Serenity_Sounds
whisper, fluisteren - petrakwn

Thank you very much!

...I don’t want to look at this memory right now. Galaxia, can you put this in the archive?

“Memory log 00001 archived. You can access the archive by-”

Yes, yes, I know. Thank you. Alright, time for a new voice log... huh? Why can I never get this thing to wor- oh, it’s already on. Hi! This is my second log of my first diary of my first space... yeah, you get it already.

The memory logging system seems to be working. That’s good, I guess...

[silence]

...I know! Let’s see what’s on the radio.

[radio noises]

OH MY STARS! I LOVE this song!!

[Bubblegum pop plays over the radio. Star hums along.]

...Awww, it’s over…

Alright, well, what else is on?

[radio noises]

...Thank you for tuning in to 888.4, AstroRadio! We play all the latest hits from galaxies far far away. Up next is the newest single from our favorite intergalactic artist, Comet Boy!

[radio noises]

...Authorities are still in pursuit of the rouge cyborg that escaped from Prison Planet HR8799-B earlier today. If anyone has any information about Cyborg M-1013 or their associates, please contact your local Galactic Federation precinct...

[radio off]

[sigh]

...I don’t like goodbyes.

I know it’s not really a goodbye. I can contact my family whenever I want. I could call them right now if I wanted to!

But I won’t.

Starlings don’t have to say goodbye very often. Many of us live for thousands and thousands of years. Some of the oldest ones are millions of years old. It’s not that we don’t have enough time. We have nothing BUT time.

But even so... goodbye is permanent. I’ve watched three elder stars collapse and return to the darkness. They weren’t scared... in fact, they were really peaceful. All of them were over 10 million years old. They had seen the birth of so many galaxies and the destruction of universes. They traveled through time and space and saw everything that existed in creation. They left with no regrets.

But now they’re gone. Forever.

It makes me sad. So I don’t like saying goodbye. That’s why I tried to sneak away before they could.

It’s not like I’m embarrassed or anything. I know there’s nothing wrong with crying when emotions move you. Starlings don’t believe in hiding or suppressing our feelings. Why would we? They’re our guidance system, they tell us things that our physical bodies are trying to say that we can’t always hear. It’s another part of starling language that can’t really be explained in the Universal Standard Language. I just... I knew if I started crying right there, I wouldn’t be able to stop, and then maybe I wouldn’t want to leave anymore.

But I begged for this voyage. I’ve been dreaming of it my whole life, ever since I took physical form. This is my purpose, my reason for being born into this big, beautiful universe. I can’t just waste my life dancing and spinning around GJ-504B!

...I guess I just didn’t realize how weird it would be to be alone like this.

The silence feels different. When I was with them, the silence felt warm. Like a big, warm, quiet hug. But when I sit in silence here, all by myself... it feels cold. Empty. I’m not used to being alone. I don’t know if I like it.

[silence]

...I wonder if I’ll ever get used to this.

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple Notification - Universfield
Old Radio Tuning - freesound_community
Alien Communication Radio Sing Loop Mastered 200618_0009_01 - freesound_community
Alien Radio - shrek_30
Ghost Alien Monster Communications - freesound_community
Bit mod synth - freesound_community
Radio - Hyperpop Sci-Fi SFX - kontraa
Radio Tuning 1 - DJARTMUSIC
Shimmer Pop Tone - samayraa
ROMANTIC(AUTUMNN) - RibhavAgrawal
Closing Tape Casette - SoundReality

Thank you very much!

“Galaxia, are we ready for takeoff?”

I punched a few buttons on the navigation board, activating the launch codes to prepare for takeoff. The dashboard lit up in shades of pink, green, and rose gold as I pressed each button. I heard the OIS buzzing and whirring as it analyzed the data I entered. A strong feeling of determination grew inside me, sprouting from a seed deep within my core.

Piloting a ship isn’t something I learned or practiced. It comes intuitively, when I’m inside the ship and connected to the internal consciousness system. When I’m in here, sitting at the dashboard with the whole universe right in front of me, it feels like I am complete. This ship knows me better than anyone. All of my innermost desires, my dreams, my intentions. It knows them intimately, and keeps them all safe in its secure data storage system.

That’s why it was working so hard to launch as quickly as possible. I was in a huge rush!

“All systems ready. Preparing for takeoff in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1... now launching.”

I took one last look out the window at the home I was leaving behind. It’s officially classified by the Galactic Federation as planet GJ504-B, but is known as Pink Planet to the starlings who dance in its skies. When we rise from the darkness to chase the night away, the sky blossoms in shades of magenta, fuchsia, and cerise. That’s where it gets its name. It’s a warm planet with a tropical climate, covered with pink sand beaches and clear, cerulean water. As Galaxia slowly beings to ascend, I watched as a gentle breeze caressed the swaying palm trees, fluttering over the waves as they ebbed and flowed onto land, and felt an intense, unbearable sadness consume me.

I remembered all the times I swam in those seas, diving for shiny crystals and other treasures. I remembered how the water held me, gently rocking me back and forth as I floated on its surface. I remembered how many trees I to get their fruit, cracking open their hard shells to drink the sweet water within. And I remember the first footprints I left in the sand with wobbly legs as I got used to walking with my physical body. I remember how much I loved dancing in the skies, twirling in circles as I watched Mother Star gift light and darkness to our planet. I remembered the chatter of starling language, the sparkling melodies that made the vastness of space seem a little less lonely.

Suddenly, it feels like these memories aren’t enough. I always took for granted that I could always do those things, that the mornings and afternoons would always come, that the beaches would always be there for me to play and explore, that the skies would always welcome me to dance, that my family would always be with me...

...My family. Was I really okay leaving them behind like this? I thought I would be happier when it was my time to launch, but now that I’m leaving...

Sound Effects sourced from Pixabay Artists. Credits:

Simple Notification - Universfield
Space Chords Loop - Idoberg
UFO Takeoff and Landing - TheFealdoProject
Computer Sounds - freesound_community

Thank you very much!

...

Hellooooooooo??

Is this thing on- oh, there we go! Hi! My name’s Star, and this is the first log in my first diary of my first space voyage!!!! It’s currently Galactic Year 10010, and my coordinates are 11.11x + 222.222y, on GJ-504B. AKA, home!

Uhh, what should I start out with... I guess I should talk about who I am and what I’m doing?

Alright! Like I said, I’m Star. It’s just a nickname. My true name can’t be recorded properly on this kind of audio device. It also can’t be transcribed in written form either. It’s difficult for non-starling speakers to comprehend our tongue, which is also why I’m speaking in the Universal Standard Language right now. You never know who might find this diary someday! I want people to be able to read about my amazing adventures without worrying about translation issues and whatnot.

...Oh, I guess I should explain a little more. I’m a starling girl from planet GJ-504B. Not too long ago, I traded in my celestial body for a physical one to make it easier for me to travel throughout the universe. All starlings take on corporeal forms at some point in their lives, because all of us eventually go on our own space voyages. I’ll get more into that later.

Also, I’m 250 years old! I know, I know, I’m still really young! In fact, I’m the youngest one in my family. I have nine thousand older siblings and three parents. My family’s pretty big. But I remember all of their names, ages, and favorite things! That’s what helps me keep track of them all.

Anyway, the whole reason I’m even saying all this is because it’s FINALLY my turn to explore the universe. I’m the very last one in my family. Crazy, right? My parents wanted me to wait, but I’ve been waiting for such a long time already that I just couldn’t anymore! Besides, one of my older sisters got to go when she was only 175 years old!

...Oh, wait. She was 400? She lied to me, then! Ughhh, this is why I can’t stand them!

...Whatever. So, the space voyage. It’s sort of like a cultural tradition for starlings. All new souls have to set off on their own journey to learn about the universe, other stars, the solar system, the planets, and all other kinds of life forms. There’s some hidden secret we’re supposed to discover while we’re out there before we come back. But that’s all I know. Nobody will give me any hints. They always say something about how the purpose of the voyage is to make the discovery for ourselves and blah blah blah. You know how elder starlings get when they think they’re being wise and clever.

I get what they mean, though. It’s much better to experience things for myself instead of just reading about it in books or listening to the elder starlings talk. Don’t get me wrong, I love those stories! But it’s not the same. And I won’t be able to apply what I’ve learned from those stories until I go see for myself!

It’s also really cool because I finally got my own spaceship! MINE! All mine with no one else!! Like a real, fully formed star!! I even got to design it and customize it exactly the way I wanted, too. It’s filled with plants and flowers and its own internal biosphere.

So yeah, the ship is pretty cool. And of course, it’s my favorite color - pink! Everything I need is on board or can be produced, thanks to the Organic Intelligence System, so I didn’t have to really pack anything.

... Oh yeah, you’re probably wondering what I look like, huh? I’ll upload a picture…

...There! Pretty cute, riiiiight?

Uhh, what else... I think that’s it for now. I’m going to take off soon, so this’ll be where I end my first log.

This is Star, signing off!

The skies are empty, but the earth is full.

I walk among them, but I am not one of them.

I’m different than the others.

Although my light shines bright, it cannot be seen with eyes.

And the rest have all forgotten.

The others know that I’m not quite like them.

I see the light that they cannot see themselves.

Some of them hate me, but only because they do not remember.

There are no more stars on this planet.

I will have to look somewhere else.

Everyone has forgotten, but I am the one who remembers.