Chapter Text
Outside the War Room, the tension in the air was thick enough to slice through with the Sword of Protection. Glimmer paced in front of the heavy door, frustration simmering in her fiery eyes. Queen Angella stood resolute on the other side, her jaw clenched in a display of unwavering authority. The weight of their unspoken arguments pressed down on the gathered Princesses, Huntara, and Shadow Weaver sat just on the other side of the cracked door. A chorus of coughs and shuffled feet betrayed their eavesdropping.
“We're wasting too much time!” Glimmer finally burst out, her voice tight with desperation. “We need to act. The Horde has Adora and the Sword.”
”And then what?” Angella's voice, though calmer, held an undercurrent of steel. “How are you going to get in? You have no plan. We are not rushing in. I refuse to lose anyone else.”
Glimmer bristled. “I don't need a plan," she retorted, her voice rising with every word.
“What I need from you is to be a leader, and that means not running off whenever you feel like it,” Angella said. "Being a leader means protecting those under your command."
Glimmer flung her hands up in the air. “What's the point? You'll always be around, telling me what I can't do.”
“That’s not true, Glimmer.” Angella's eyes softened with a flicker of hurt. "You never listen. I try and try to reach you, to trust you.”
Glimmer scoffed. "Trust? You want to talk about trust? Why didn't you stand up to the Empress in the Torn? You just let her hand Shadow Weaver the reins of Etheria without a fight!"
Angella opened her mouth to respond, but Glimmer steamrolled forward.
"Fine," Glimmer spat. “You know what? As much as I hate it, I should be talking to her. At least she knows the Horde better than anyone.”
“Oh, now you’ve decided she can be trusted?” Angella inquired.
“Not even a little bit but we have to do something. You would see that if you…if you weren't totally enamored by her.” Glimmer spat at her mother with a roll of her eyes.
Angella’s features hardened as her posture stiffened. “As queen, I am denying your request to storm the Fright Zone. You are dismissed Commander Glimmer.”
Glimmer's face fell. "But… Adora…" she stammered.
"Dismissed!" Angella repeated, her voice leaving no room for argument. Turning on her heel, she swept back into the War Room, leaving Glimmer alone in the hallway.
"No," Glimmer whispered.
Angella paused at the doorway, her gaze sharp. "What did you say?"
Glimmer squared her shoulders. "I said no. I'm not going anywhere. We need to save Adora."
Angella spoke slowly. "If you continue in this way Commander, you will be relieved of your duties.”
“You want me to be a leader. Well, I'm choosing to now.” Glimmer said, stepping closer to her mother. “I will be a leader not ruled by fear.”
Angella's eyes narrowed further. "Think carefully about your next words, Glimmer."
“Or you'll what? Shriek at me some more?” Glimmer challenged with an eye roll.
Angella's voice lowered to a dangerous register. "Consider yourself relieved of duty, Princess Glimmer. Furthermore, you are grounded. No Princess Rebellion meetings, no missions, and don't even think about leaving your room."
Glimmer threw her hands up in exasperation. "Fine! But I hope you sleep soundly knowing you've abandoned Adora!"
Ignoring her daughter's outburst, Angella addressed the guards. "Escort the Princess to her room."
Glimmer watched her mother disappear into the War Room, tears welling in her eyes. Her gaze met the faces of Frosta and Mermista peeking out from the doorway, a mixture of sympathy and concern etched on their features. Bow stood awkwardly beside them, clearly uncomfortable with the situation.
Just as he opened his mouth to speak, Angella's voice filled the room. "We will take a short break before reconvening to plan our next move in rescuing Adora from the Horde."
Angella rubbed her temples wearily as the last Princess exited the room. A soft chime alerted her to a video call in progress. “Who could you possibly be calling?” She asked Shadow Weaver.
Shadow Weaver silently held up a finger to Angella while the call connected.
The image of a scowling Hordak answered the call. “Shadow Weaver.”
"Lord Hordak," Shadow Weaver began, her voice smooth and professional. "We have recently encountered a technical difficulty with communication from our Junior Royal Historian, Bow. Were you aware?"
A flicker of something akin to bafflement, quickly masked by a neutral expression, crossed Hordak's face. "No," he stated flatly, "we have not seen your…Junior Royal Historian."
"That is a pity," Shadow Weaver replied casually, her voice devoid of any genuine concern. "Perhaps one of the Princesses might have a recollection of his whereabouts."
Hordak bristled. "If there's nothing else?" he inquired.
"Nothing further at the moment, Lord Hordak," Shadow Weaver said. "Thank you for your time." With a practiced flick of her wrist, she severed the connection before Hordak could utter another word.
Angella, her brow furrowed in confusion, turned to Shadow Weaver. "What in Etheria was that about?" she demanded. "Why didn't you ask after Adora?"
Shadow Weaver remained unfazed. Her eyes narrowed as she rewound the video call to the precise moment she mentioned Bow. "I served under Hordak for many years," she said, pointing a gloved finger at Hordak's face. "His emotional control has always been lacking. Look closely."
The video replayed, highlighting the fleeting flicker of surprise in Hordak's eyes before it was ruthlessly suppressed. Then, as Shadow Weaver pointed out, Hordak's gaze darted to the side, a subtle movement that spoke volumes.
"He's clearly hiding something," Shadow Weaver stated with conviction.
“Is that all you have to prove he has Adora?” Angella asked with a disbelieving frown. “Facial tics?”
Shadow Weaver responded by conjuring a smoky window. It flickered to life, revealing a scene in the Fright Zone. Entrapta, drifted by on her hair, oblivious to the events unfolding behind her. Then, the image shifted, revealing Adora. Her golden hair stood out starkly against the dark metal pillar she was bound to, mere feet away from the inert portal machine. Panic surged in Angella's chest, mirroring the tightness of her throat.
"Allow me to lead a rescue mission with the Princesses," Shadow Weaver stated. "Together, we can overpower the Horde and bring Adora back."
Angella's voice was firm as she rejected the impulsive plan. "Absolutely not. We will not be drawn into another reckless assault on the Fright Zone. When a well-constructed strategy is in place, we can discuss a course of action."
Frustration simmered in Shadow Weaver's eyes and her mask glowed. "This is not about land disputes, Your Majesty!" she countered, her voice rising. "Adora and the Sword of Protection are in enemy hands. We cannot afford to waste time with meticulous planning. I may have sabotaged the portal, but those parts can be easily replaced. We have limited time before it's operational again."
”You are Queen Regent and I said I will hear no more of this.” Angella said, storming out of the room. She was halted by Shadow Weaver’s next words.
“The Horde won't wait for us to debate or gather our forces," Shadow Weaver warned, her voice low and dangerous. "Why are you so hesitant to save Adora?"
Angella's eyes blazed with anger. "Do not twist my words," she hissed. "My priority is the safety of our people. We will find a peaceful resolution." The strain of the situation was evident in her voice, but she straightened her shoulders, determined to maintain composure. "We will, we must find another way."
Shadow Weaver dipped her head. "Very well, Your Majesty," she conceded. Before Angella could respond, Shadow Weaver vanished in a swirl of dark magic, leaving the Queen alone with her worry.
Shadow Weaver reclined in a lush armchair with a magical tome. She had hoped it would assist in any loopholes they could exploit to retrieve Adora without a full frontal assault against the Horde. It was an exercise in futility however and she was prepared to banish the book back to the library when she heard footsteps and loud whispering getting closer to the door.
“This is a bad idea.” Bow complained as he cast worried looks over his shoulder. They had just barely managed to stay out of the eye of the castle’s guard patrol.
“It’s a great idea.” Glimmer said quickly. “Okay, it's terrible.” She amended as Bow shot her a disbelieving look. “But what choice do we have?”
“I wanna help Adora as much as you do, but working with Shadow Weaver?” Bow asked.
“Adora needs us now. And Shadow Weaver would know all about the Fright Zone's weak points. Let's at least talk to her.” Glimmer said and grabbed his hand.
Glimmer and Bow teleported the last few feet just as the guard rounded the corner.
“Princess.” Shadow Weaver drawled, calmly placing the book on her lap. “It's about time.”
“You knew we were coming?” Glimmer asked.
“You both have the subtlety of a War Cannon.” Shadow Weaver said. “I could hear you from the end of the hall.”
Glimmer rolled her eyes. "Look, I just need you to help me get to the Horde. You said before you could boost my power to teleport us there.”
Shadow Weaver inclined her head in agreement. "Of course, Glimmer."
Bow placed a gentle hand on Glimmer's arm. "I understand you want to rescue Adora, but we can't do this alone. We need reinforcements."
Shadow Weaver's voice carried a note of caution. "Adding more people to the spell could destabilize it. However, we'll require a strong force to overcome any opposition we encounter within the Horde."
"I think they went in here!" Perfuma exclaimed, swinging open the door.
Mermista's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Uh, what do you guys think you're doing in here?"
Glimmer pleaded with the other Princesses, "Please, don't try to stop us. This is our only chance to save Adora."
Perfuma's soft response was a balm to the tense atmosphere. "We're not trying to stop you. We want to come with you."
Mermista's playful sarcasm cut through the tension. "Look, we could do the whole 'You can't come with us, it's too risky' thing," she said, miming a talking mouth with her hand.
"Or you could just accept that we're coming. Because we are." Frosta stepped beside Mermista with a bright grin.
Shadow Weaver, sensing their resolve, responded with a decisive snap of her arm. A dark, swirling portal materialized beside her. "Follow me if you wish to save Adora. There is much work to be done."
Mermista's dry humor didn't falter as she stepped cautiously into the portal. "I guess we are following the Weird Scary Queen," she muttered.
Standing below the Moonstone, Shadow Weaver finished the final line of the teleportation runes. Shadow Weaver stood and eyed the Princesses waiting for her instruction. “Quickly now.” She urged.
Drawing the spell in the air, she hollowed out the center of the runic circle and held out her hand for Glimmer to take. Shadow Weaver’s magic buzzed and surged forward tugging Glimmer’s hand the last few centimeters until their hands met. Glimmer grunted as she felt the surge of magic enter her being.
Shadow Weaver squinted, momentarily catching sight of a winged silhouette streaking through the air. It was Angella, her light pink form a stark contrast to the dark swirling vortex they were about to be sucked into. The queen's normally serene face was contorted with a mix of fury and betrayal, a silent accusation directed at Shadow Weaver.
But the world blurred too rapidly for Shadow Weaver to dwell on it. With a lurch, the very ground beneath them dissolved, and they were yanked into the void. The last thing Shadow Weaver registered was the raw, echoing scream that tore from Angella's lips.
“No!”
In an instant, the Fright Zone appeared around them. Everyone was tense, glancing at their surroundings.
“We did it.” Glimmer gasped. “I did it. Oh, that was amazing.” She said and leaped in the air.
Bow slowly lowered his arms, dropping his bow to the side. “Hmm, kind of figured Hordak's sanctum would be way scarier and not so empty.”
“Yeah, no, decorating is not their strongest suit.” Mermista agreed, glancing around at the desolate hallway of sheet metal.
“We aimed for Hordak's sanctum, but obviously we missed. We're not far.” Shadow Weaver explained as she floated toward the closest door. “Stay behind me. And try to be quiet.”
The door to their left slammed open and a Four-armed lizard girl dropped the cup of protein she was eating with a gasp.
“We have to go,” Shadow Weaver said hurriedly, pressing the panel next to the door and rushing from the room.
“Go on.” Perfuma summoned vines and stood in front of the rest of the Princess Rebellion “I'll hold her off.”
Shadow Weaver, Bow, and the Princesses were sprinting through the hallway when they encountered Rogelio and Lonnie.
“Shadow Weaver?” Lonnie said in shock. “Is Hordak expecting you?”
“Not likely.” Shadow Weaver replied calmly then gestured to the Princesses and Bow around her in aggressive fighting stances.
Rogelio growled in response and Lonnie triggered a nearby alarm. Sirens blared as red flood lights flashed. Lonnie pulled her stun baton from her back with a smirk when she heard the electronic shuffle of bots coming down the hall.
“My turn. I didn't almost drown in these sewers for nothing,” Mermista said, drawing the water up from a nearby grate. With a wave, she pushed the bots back.
“Oh, I want in,” Frosta shouted excitedly and sent ice shards soaring through the air, impaling the bots to the floor. She froze the bots in ice instantly.
Several doors began to open in the hallway and more bots marched forward.
Mermista was already pulling water through the machinery, causing it to short-circuit. “We'll keep them busy.” She shouted over Frosta’s whooping as she iced another bot. “Go.”
Shadow Weaver, Bow, and Glimmer took the now cleared path and continued to make their way to Hordak’s sanctum.
“Lonnie, why did you pull –?” Catra asked, then paused when she realized who was in front of her. “Shadow Weaver? You’re here already?”
“There's no sense in trying to fight us. You don't stand a chance.” Shadow Weaver said. “Join us, or stand aside.”
A second Catra materialized behind them. The doppelganger cracked her whip with lethal precision, while Bow retaliated with a volley of arrows. One arrow found its mark, lodging itself in the whip. With a swift, calculated motion, Catra detonated the goo arrow, sending Bow flying backward with a pained grunt.
Glimmer's heart pounded in her chest as she watched her friend collapse. “Bow!” She called out
The second Catra, a sinister grin spreading across her face, raised her arm to strike.
Shadow Weaver's grip tightened around Glimmer's hand, grounding her. "Don't lose your focus," she commanded, her voice low and urgent. "We cannot afford distractions."
Glimmer and Shadow Weaver blurred through the space, their forms flickering in and out of existence. The first Catra's eyes, twin orbs of predatory focus, tracked their every movement. With a silent nod to her duplicate, she unleashed the whip. Its braided leather snaked through the air and wrapped around Glimmer's wrist. She tugged against the whip, her heart pounding in her ears. Teleportation was risky now as she could drag Catra with her.
Shadow Weaver's fingers traced the length of the whip leading to Catra, infusing it with her magic. A jolt of electricity surged through the leather, finding its mark in Catra's body. The second Catra shrieked, her form convulsing as the magic coursed through her. The first Catra winced at the sight of her duplicate's suffering.
"Catra, there's no need for us to be enemies," Shadow Weaver's voice, smooth as velvet, cut through the chaos. "I can help you. I offered you a way out of the Horde.” She stepped closer to the suspended Catra.
The second Catra's breath came in ragged gasps. "So, what?" she snarled, her voice thick with venom. "You think I owe you something?"
“I should have known you didn’t really care for me.” The first Catra said. “I know the only reason you even came back was for Adora.” She said quickly and leaped toward Glimmer and Shadow Weaver.
Shadow Weaver released Glimmer’s hand and froze the first Catra in mid-air. “I came back to stop Hordak. I will make sure he and his portal machine are destroyed.” She clarified. “Don't make me destroy you too.”
“Oh, I'm going to make sure we win.” The second Catra scoffed. “We're going to open that portal, and then there will be nothing left of you or the Princesses.” Their eyes flashed yellow. It was almost too quick to catch.
Shadow Weaver’s eyes narrowed as she studied the second Catra. “Who are you?” She demanded. Tightening her magical hold.
The form in front of her melted away revealing a tall, slender figure with mint-green reptilian skin. Their face featured almond-shaped chartreuse eyes with double eyelids and pointed ears. They wore a black and green leotard with matching pants and dramatic shoulder pads.
They bowed lowly once Shadow Weaver released them in surprise, tail swishing lazily behind them. “Call me Double Trouble.”
“You are the contact that was supposed to meet me in Bright Moon over a week ago.” Shadow Weaver surmised.
“Kitten is wrong. You’re smarter than she gave you credit for,” Double Trouble said with a shrug. “What can I say? This place was so rife with drama I just couldn’t resist sticking around.”
Glimmer helped Bow up from the floor, wiping the remaining goo off his shoulder.
“Thanks,” Bow said, smiling at Glimmer.
A collective breath was held as the rhythmic thud of steps against metal echoed through the cavernous space. Adrenaline surged through Catra, propelling her to her feet from the hard floor. Her stance was low, aggressive, ready to unleash another flurry of attacks.
"No," a voice cut through the tension. The Horned Goon Girl emerged from a shadowy alcove, her grip firm on Catra’s shoulder. "You can't take them on alone. They're too powerful."
Catra's eyes held a flicker of defiance in her gaze. Yet, she reluctantly conceded, "You're right." Her hand darted out, snatching the whip from where Double Trouble had left it. With a swift, acrobatic maneuver, she spun, wrapping the whip around the Horned Goon Girl's ankles and sending her crashing to the ground.
"What are you doing?" The Horned Goon Girl sputtered, her face contorted in confusion.
"What I want," Catra replied coldly, her tone laced with contempt. A swift, calculated punch to the jaw rendered the Horned Goon Girl unconscious.
Catra whirled around, her senses on high alert. An arrow whizzed past her ear, embedding itself in the cold metal wall. Her gaze snapped to Shadow Weaver, her eyes burning with accusation. "You didn't tell them!?"
Shadow Weaver was a mask of practiced indifference. "I did reveal your plans for defection to the Rebellion. Unfortunately, no one found my claims credible."
"Well, you are the Queen of Lies, aren't you?" Catra said as she deftly coiled her whip around her hip.
Bow's hand held his weapon steady, his face etched with confusion. "So it's true?"
“Well, I don’t buy it.” Glimmer's eyes narrowed, her distrust palpable. "Why now, Catra?"
A sneer curled Catra's lips. "None of your business, Sparkles." She surveyed the room, then began to retreat, her steps purposeful. "Double Trouble and I will handle Hordak. You better have a plan," she tossed over her shoulder, already breaking into a run.
“Catra, no matter what happens. That portal machine must not be activated.” Shadow Weaver said.
”Yeah, yeah.” Catra said, waving a dismissive hand over her shoulder. “I got it.”
“Wait!” Glimmer called out.
“Leave her.” Shadow Weaver said, eyeing the ceiling.
Suddenly the Imp screeched above them and started dive-bombing Glimmer and Bow. Glimmer and Bow flinched, scrambling for cover. With a flick of her wrist, Shadow Weaver unleashed a volley of crackling magical blasts. They lanced through the air, narrowly missing the Imp as it twisted and dodged.
The Imp wasn't just attacking; it was a distraction. The mechanical whirring of earlier grew louder, accompanied by the clinking of metal on metal. Turning towards the source of the noise, their hearts sank. Bots swarmed towards them from every direction, their red eyes glowing with ruthless determination.
Glimmer reached for Shadow Weaver’s hand.
Bow shook his head. “Glimmer, no.” He interjected.
“There’s no choice.” Glimmer stated with determination. She nodded to the Sorceress. “Do it.”
A low hum resonated as their hands met. Energy crackled around them, the air growing thick with raw magic. Shadow Weaver raised her index finger, her eyes glowing a faint purple. Responding to her command, the bots lurched to an unnatural halt. They hovered mid-air, defying gravity as Shadow Weaver's magic took hold.
Glimmer, fueled by the surge of power coursing through them both, clenched her fist. Metal screeched as the bots twisted and contorted under the invisible pressure. With a final groan, they crumpled into flattened heaps of useless circuitry. Glimmer released Shadow Weaver's hand, gasping slightly as the exertion drained her. She spread her arms wide, telekinetically pushing the metal debris away from their path. With a clenche of her fist, she slammed every door in the vicinity shut, blocking any further robotic reinforcements.
Regaining her composure, Glimmer strode forward, her chin held high. "This way," she declared, her voice booming through the suddenly quiet hallway.
Bow hesitated, casting a nervous glance at the wreckage littering the floor. "Uh, Glimmer," he stammered, "Are you sure?"
Glimmer’s eyes blazing with newfound confidence, ignored his question. She marched toward the direction she had indicated. Shadow Weaver glided forward propelled by her magic. Left with no choice, Bow cast one last look at the testament to Glimmer's power and followed them.
A dark smile twisted Hordak's face. "Oh," he chuckled, a sinister undercurrent bubbling beneath his words. "She did it."
Double Trouble disguised as Catra rushed to his side. "The Princesses are here," they declared. "There's no time to waste. We need to activate the portal now!"
Hordak whirled around, his gaze darting to the shattered entryway. "Where’s Entrapta?" he rasped. "I need her to open the portal."
A cold, calculated lie slipped effortlessly from Catra's lips. "Who do you think let the Princesses in?"
Hordak's face crumpled with disbelief. "Entrapta... no," he roared, his voice thick with a wounded fury. "She wouldn't do this. I trusted her!"
Double Trouble let out a sharp, mocking laugh. “Oh, you can't trust anyone, especially a Princess." they scoffed, their eyes flashing with a cruel glint as they met Adora's. “They'll just use you to get what they want. Open the portal," they insisted, voice laced with a desperate edge. "Let's end this once and for all."
Suddenly, the sound of Bow's voice echoed through the corridor. "This way, everyone!" he yelled.
Adora, fueled by a surge of determination, strained against her bonds until, with a triumphant tug, she ripped the gag from her mouth. "Bow!" she shouted, desperate to alert her friend to their location.
Hordak's hand twitched towards a nearby weapon, a cruel glint flashing in his eyes. But before he could react, Double Trouble as Catra seized his arm, their voice laced with urgency. "Forget about them," they hissed. "Time is running out. Pull the switch and activate the portal!"
Just then Glimmer, Shadow Weaver, and Bow arrived in the sanctum. Double Trouble took this moment to disappear out of sight. Glimmer’s magic crackled around her as Bow let loose two arrows that struck Hordak with the force of a battering ram. He slammed into a nearby support beam with a grunt of pain, the building groaning in protest as a portion of the ceiling crumbled, pinning him beneath the debris.
“Catra, please, don't.” Adora pleaded when Catra suddenly approached the portal machine.
“Force Captain!” Hordak struggled to move the beams that pinned him. “Activate it now.”
Catra stared at Hordak with a devious smirk. Her hand reached for the lever.
"No!" Adora screamed, her voice a desperate plea echoing through the ravaged room.
Glimmer, eyes blazing with determination, teleported across the room, placing herself directly in front of Catra. "Step away from it, Catra!" she commanded. Her fists glowed with soft pink light in warning.
"I know exactly what I'm doing, Sparkles," Catra sneered, defiance hardening her features. With a swift, ruthless movement, she reached for the control lever and snapped it clean off.
The remaining Princesses, alerted by the commotion, finally arrived at the doorway to the sanctum. For a terrifying moment, the portal machine whirred to life, humming with a malevolent energy. Then, with a deafening pulse, it unleashed a shockwave that sent everyone sprawling to the ground.
"No!" Hordak roared, a primal scream of rage echoing through the room. With superhuman effort, he managed to heave the debris off himself and stalked towards a secondary control panel in the far corner.
Shadow Weaver, belatedly realizing the control panel's purpose, scrambled to her feet. Her hands moved with practiced speed as she channeled her magic, summoning a powerful barrier that slammed shut just as the machine sputtered and sparked. To her dismay, the barrier had only managed to encapsulate Bow, the Princesses and Adora, leaving Catra and Glimmer outside and unprotected.
With a heart-stopping hiss and a blinding flash, the portal machine imploded. Metal twisted and warped, molten slag splattering across the room as the very air itself crackled with raw energy.
"Glimmer!" Bow's voice split the stunned silence as he lunged forward, his hand outstretched in horror.
Adora mirrored his movement, her heart pounding in her chest as she pressed her palms against the shimmering barrier. “Catra!”
The Princesses huddled together, eyes wide with fear, bracing themselves for the worst. But then, a flicker of movement within the churning dust cloud gave them all a sliver of hope.
A lone figure emerged from the chaos. Relief washed over them all like a tidal wave. Queen Angella, her face etched with concern, shielded Glimmer and Catra with her powerful wings. A bubblegum pink glow emanated from them, a protective bubble deflecting the worst of the inferno.
As the dust settled, Glimmer and Catra cautiously stepped out from their desperate hug. Glimmer, eyes wide, looked up at her savior. "Mom?"
Angella's gaze swept over them both, her brow furrowed. "Are you both alright?" she asked.
Catra grunted noncommittally. "Yeah, we're good," she mumbled, trying to pry herself out of Angella's embrace.
Angella, sensing her discomfort, gently released Catra and deactivated the protective barrier. The silence in the room was heavy with unspoken questions and a newfound sense of urgency. The portal was gone, and with it, their immediate threat of war.
The Sword of Protection arced through the air before settling into Adora's outstretched palm. With a fierce cry, "By the Power of Grayskull!" she transformed, her body rippling with golden energy as She-Ra emerged.
She-Ra raised the glowing sword and sliced through metal with ease. Schematics, materials, and half-formed components that weren’t damaged in the blast were destroyed.
Hordak limped away from the chaos. He cast a venomous glare over his shoulder at Catra, a silent accusation in his eyes. But Catra met his gaze with a cold, unwavering stare, her face a mask of indifference.
“Adora!” Bow and Glimmer cheered together, their faces alight with relief and joy, and rushed forward, enveloping their friend in a tight embrace.
“See?” Glimmer exclaimed, her grin wide. “We told you we'd save you.”
“Woo-hoo!” Frosta, her excitement bubbling over, hopped onto She-Ra's back, whooping with delight. “Yes, we did it.”
Shadow Weaver, her voice cutting through the joyous clamor, interrupted the heartwarming reunion. “Touching as this is, we need to go,” she began, her tone firm, “Now!”
Reluctantly, the Princesses and Bow pulled away from their embrace and returned to their previous positions for teleportation. Angella found a place beside her daughter.
She-Ra's gaze fell upon Catra, a question hanging unspoken in her eyes. "Catra?" she began softly.
Before she could finish, Scorpia burst onto the scene, her breath coming in ragged gasps. "Catra!" she panted, her claws digging into her thighs for support. "I heard the explosions and came as fast as I could, but... you know, I'm not the fastest." Her voice trailed off as she took in the overwhelming sight before her. "You...you're surrounded by Princesses," she finished, her voice filled with disbelief.
Catra dropped her Force Captain badge to the ground with a clatter. "Let's go," she said flatly. "There's nothing left for me here."
Scorpia's heart sank as the gravity of Catra's words washed over her. "Wait!" she pleaded, her voice filled with desperation as she rushed towards her friend.
Shadow Weaver and Glimmer's hands clasped tightly, their joined palms glowing as they channeled the teleportation spell. A surge of raw magical energy coursed through Glimmer, momentarily overwhelming her senses. With a grunt of exertion, she held firm, her body becoming a conduit for the spell's immense power. In a blinding flash of light, they vanished, leaving behind only ripples of disturbed air.
Back in Bright Moon, the Princess Rebellion, Shadow Weaver, and Queen Angella materialized with a collective gasp. Relief washed over them as they confirmed each other's safety. The second a foot touched solid ground, cheers erupted. Their hearts overflowing with gratitude for their successful return.
"Yeah, we did it!" Bow roared, scooping Frosta into a celebratory twirl.
Shadow Weaver attempted a quick exit but her escape was thwarted by Perfuma, who engulfed both her and Catra in a suffocating hug. The only thing preventing Shadow Weaver from unleashing a torrent of magical fury was her amusement at the panicked yowls escaping Catra's mouth.
Finally, with a strangled groan, Catra clawed her way free, stumbling back and barreling into Queen Angella. Whirling around with a ferocious glare, claws bared, she hissed, "You're not getting all mushy on me too, are you?"
Angella cast a sidelong glance at Shadow Weaver, who was meticulously brushing imaginary dust off her robes. Then, her gaze softened as she met Catra's distressed eyes. It was hard to deny the striking resemblance between the two.
"No, Catra. I wouldn't dream of it," Angella assured her, a gentle smile gracing her lips.
Catra blinked, momentarily caught off guard. Frowning, she muttered, "Well, good. Hugs are definitely not my thing." She stalked away from the group, her movements stiff and awkward.
Glimmer, finally extricating herself from the throng of celebrating Princesses, made a beeline for her mother. “I'm probably going to be grounded for the rest of my life, huh?” She eyed the Bright Moon guards filing out onto the Moonstone platform.
Angella regarded her sternly. “Princess Glimmer, you led an unauthorized rescue mission into enemy territory, endangering both Rebellion forces and your fellow Princesses. You disobeyed a direct order.” She paused and held up a hand, cutting off Glimmer’s impending protest. “Yet, you successfully rescued a comrade without any casualties. It takes immense courage to face our enemies, but it takes equal, if not greater, courage to defy those we trust. For your bravery, I hereby promote you to the rank of Rebellion Captain.”
Glimmer’s jaw dropped in astonishment. "What?" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Are you serious?" Her face broke into a radiant grin as she eagerly awaited her mother's confirmation.
Angella returned her daughter's enthusiastic gaze with a warm smile. "I am," she affirmed. "I believe you’re ready to take on greater responsibilities."
With a triumphant shout, Glimmer vanished in a burst of light, reappearing an instant later to engulf her mother in a tight hug, followed by a swift, affectionate kiss on the cheek. "I promise not to let you down!" she declared.
The Princesses gathered around Glimmer, showering her with congratulations. Their excitement was palpable as they celebrated her promotion.
Angella's attention shifted to the enigmatic figure standing beside Shadow Weaver. "And who might you be?" she inquired politely.
Shadow Weaver stepped forward. "This is Double Trouble," she introduced, her gaze fixed on the being. "They will be an invaluable asset to the Rebellion, gathering intelligence on the Horde without raising suspicion."
A flicker of concern crossed Angella’s face. "You mean a spy?" she clarified, seeking further explanation.
Double Trouble bowed with exaggerated formality. "I prefer the term 'actor,' Angelface," they replied, their voice smooth and laced with subtle mockery.
Mermista, ever the direct one, cut to the chase. "So, what can you actually do?"
A mischievous glint appeared in Double Trouble's eyes as they prepared to answer. "I believe the more pertinent question is," they began, their voice deepening before transforming into a perfect imitation of Mermista's, "what can't I do?"
“That’s so cool.” Frosta's eyes widened in amazement. "Do me next!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder.
Double Trouble chuckled. "Previews are over, darling," they said, reverting to their normal voice. "Even the most talented actors need a break."
Shadow Weaver's expression hardened as she addressed Double Trouble. "Your abilities will be generously rewarded," she promised, her tone leaving no room for doubt.
Double Trouble's grin widened to reveal a set of sharp teeth. "Now we're talking," they replied, their voice dripping with satisfaction.
Shadow Weaver nodded. "We will assess the information you gather and determine its value accordingly," she stated.
A hint of defiance crept into Double Trouble's voice. "What if I decline?" they asked, their gaze challenging. "I only agreed to this for the drama of following Kitten around."
Adora's breath caught in her throat as she heard the name. “Kitten?” Her eyes darted between Double Trouble and Catra.
Shadow Weaver's eyes narrowed as she leveled a menacing glare at Double Trouble. "You could refuse," she warned, "but I wouldn't advise it."
Double Trouble met Shadow Weaver's gaze without flinching, a playful smirk gracing their lips. "You're quite the captivating creature," they purred, their voice dripping with false admiration. A knowing glint appeared in their eyes as they paused dramatically. "No wonder Kitten is so—"
Catra's icy glare cut through the room, silencing Double Trouble abruptly. The shapeshifter's expression remained unchanged, their innocence feigned to perfection. "Never mind," they said dismissively. "Clearly, I've said too much."
Angella cleared her throat, interrupting the tense atmosphere. "I believe it's time for us all to retire for the evening," she suggested. "We can discuss the day's events in more detail after supper."
The Rebellion nodded in agreement, their exhaustion evident. As they dispersed, their voices filled the castle with cheerful chatter, a stark contrast to the undercurrent of tension that lingered in the air.
Angella fluffed her pillow for what seemed like the thousandth time and flopped ungracefully against her bed. After treating any injuries, dinner, and finding lodging for all the Princesses, Catra, and Double Trouble, Angella finally realized she and Shadow Weaver did not speak for the rest of the evening.
She realized now the brunette was not staying up late and had no plans of returning to their quarters.
Her thoughts raced and with it her irritation and sadness. She wanted Shadow Weaver to understand that she couldn't just make unilateral decisions that put everyone at risk. Under their partnership, they needed to rule together. Angella winced internally. Earlier she let her own insecurities override her common sense and dismissed any attempt for Shadow Weaver to put forth her ideas.
Angella looked at the moons outside her window and sighed. It was so late in the night that it was nearly morning. There was no need to put this off further. She grabbed her robe before she walked down the hall, the quiet of the palace amplifying her anxiety.
The winged woman knocked on the door to Shadow Weaver's temporary quarters, waiting in the dim hallway. Silence. Doubt gnawed at her. Had Shadow Weaver fallen asleep already?
Just as Angella considered retreating, a voice called out, "Yes, Your Majesty. Why have you come to speak to your lowly Queen Regent?" Shadow Weaver asked, her voice laced with sarcasm.
"I don't want to fight," Angella said wearily.
"Had your fill from earlier, have you?" Shadow Weaver asked, moving to shut the door with a finality that made Angella's stomach clench.
Angella pressed her hand against the door. "Please," she said softly, surprised at the tremor in her voice.
Shadow Weaver stared at the other woman silently for a few seconds, her expression as always unreadable. Finally, with a sigh that spoke volumes, she opened the door fully, gesturing curtly for her to come inside the room. "What did you wish to discuss?"
Angella stepped inside, the starkness of the temporary quarters a stark contrast to the warmth of theirs. "Before I continue," she said, her voice firm despite her churning emotions, "can we both agree to speak civilly?"
Shadow Weaver waved her hand dismissively, a flicker of light akin to apprehension in her mask. "If you insist."
"Thank you," Angella said, her voice sincere.
"Is that all?" Shadow Weaver's cynical tone returned just as quickly as it left.
"No," Angella said, taking a deep breath. "I wanted to truly thank you for taking the initiative that I couldn't."
"Do not belittle your effort," Shadow Weaver said, surprising Angella. "You helped us secure our victory today."
"I should have gone with you from the beginning," Angella said ruefully. "When you disappeared from under the Moonstone I was so angry. I wanted to lash out, blame you for everything, drag Glimmer back to her room but..." She trailed off, overwhelmed for a moment by the memory of her daughter's near sacrifice.
"But you finally understood," Shadow Weaver said, her voice softer than Angella had ever heard it.
“I did.” Angella agreed with a nod. “I fell back into my previous habits.” She turned away and hugged herself. “I always thought that I would be able to avoid getting my hands dirty in this conflict. First, it was the other Princesses in the first Rebellion picking up the slack, then it was Micah taking on my share of the fighting.” The queen sighed. “Glimmer is right. I’m afraid. I feared that if we stormed the Horde and I was forced to cross that line, I could have turned into my Grandmother.”
Shadow Weaver, ever the pragmatist, stepped closer. "Your Majesty," she began, her voice firm but laced with a touch of unexpected sympathy. "You are nothing like that abhorrent woman. You may wrestle with doubts, but your actions have always been driven by what you believe is best for Bright Moon."
“You rule with me as well,” Angella said.
“Hardly. I am Queen Regent. You made that abundantly clear earlier.” Shadow Weaver’s voice took on a sharp edge.
Angella winced at the reminder of her words. “I didn't mean to belittle your rule.”
“There is no need to spare my feelings, Your Majesty. Take ownership of your words.” Shadow Weaver said.
“I don't want to fight further about this,” Angella said pleadingly.
“We are having a simple discussion about my place in this kingdom.” Shadow Weaver said firmly.
Angella’s voice raised before she knew what was happening. “Your place has been established-”
“Hey!” Catra's voice cut through the tension, sharp and dismissive. She had appeared between them, shoulders wrapped in a fluffy blanket. “I'm trying to sleep.”
Angella's eyes softened. "Apologies, Catra," she said gently, her hand reaching out to smooth the wild hair from Catra's face, an innate maternal gesture.
Catra flinched at the touch, but her ears twitched in a barely perceptible flicker of acknowledgment before she let out a tired yawn. "Just keep it down, alright?" she mumbled, shuffling back to her makeshift bed on the floor.
Once Catra disappeared back into the shadows, Angella turned back to Shadow Weaver, her gaze filled with silent questions. Shadow Weaver simply offered a shrug and a dry reply, "There weren't any other rooms available." The statement hung in the air.
“It's too late to continue this discussion now.” Angella sighed a gentle sound that rustled through the bedchamber. The flickering crystals danced on her face, highlighting the worry lines etched around her eyes. "Let’s go to bed," she offered, her voice laced with a weariness that extended beyond the long day.
Reaching out, she extended a hand towards Shadow Weaver, a hesitant gesture that spoke volumes. A flicker of uncertainty remained in Angella's gaze as she waited for her wife's response.
“I am not certain I am ready for that step just yet.” Shadow Weaver pointed out, her voice a low murmur that sent shivers down Angella's spine.
A blush crept up Angella's neck, coloring her cheeks a delicate rose. "I wasn’t—I didn’t mean," she stammered, momentarily flustered. She cleared her throat and attempted a stern look, though it faltered under Shadow Weaver's knowing chuckle. "You know perfectly well what I meant," she finally managed, a touch of exasperation lacing her voice.
Shadow Weaver's voice softened, a rare event that made Angella's heart skip a beat. "Yes," she conceded, taking Angella's hand in her own. The touch sent a jolt of electricity through Angella, a familiar feeling that both comforted and excited her. "Though," Shadow Weaver continued, her voice a husky whisper, "rest can come in many forms, wouldn't you agree, Your Majesty?"
Angella's lips curved into a secret smile. The playful jab from Shadow Weaver wasn't a reprimand, but a gruff acceptance of Angella's clumsy apology. Still, another blush crept up her neck.
Mentally, she kicked herself. She had to be better. The fragile illusion of peace with the Horde was shattered. Angella straightened her spine, her smile fading. This playful banter, while a relief, was a stark reminder of her shortcomings. This wouldn't happen again. She vowed it.
In the inky blackness of space, far from the twinkling tapestry of familiar constellations, a cluster of sleek, metallic ships hung suspended in the unforgiving vacuum. Their menacing forms, bristling with unseen weaponry, cast smooth shadows that danced across the imposing bulk of a colossal space station. The silence was punctuated only by the distant hum of energy generators, a lone figure sat within a darkened control room.
A lone green blip pulsed rhythmically on the console screen, a beacon cutting through the void. Suddenly, with a sharp electronic chirp, the blip vanished. The quiet in the room stretched for a beat before it was shattered by a low, rumbling chuckle.
It emanated from the figure, his voice smooth and laced with a chilling depth. "So," he murmured, "that's where you've been hiding, little brother."