Introduction:
At the end of the day, when I look to find someone to blame for all this . . . I blame my fiancée, known to you as Siriusfanatic or Terrabm or Captain Terrabm. I know her as "mousey" or simply "sweetheart." That's neither here nor there. What it comes down to is the fact that she re-implanted the idea of visiting an abandoned fandom when she handed me "The Brotherhood." Two and half years after I read her massive "Biker Mice from Mars" epic, I decided that an old He-Man story idea I had needed to see the light of day.
Hence, "The Final Adventure."
So . . . thanks for that.
What happened then, dear readers? You all came and told me how much you liked it. Being blown over as no one had actually had that kind of reaction to anything I had written, I decided "Well, I've got readers . . . might as well go with it."
Hence . . . everything else.
So . . . thanks for that, readers.
In all honestly, I use the word "blame" with the most amount of love possible. I have certainly enjoyed writing these characters and taking advantage of freedom that comes with fanfiction and adding my own twists and turns to their adventures. I have more than enjoyed having you read them and give me comments.
In case any of you didn't know, "Endings and Epilogues" will most likely be my final Masters of the Universe fanfic. I've told just about every tale that I wanted to be told. That doesn't mean that when I revise and re-post this later this year that an extra chapter or two won't appear, but this is in fact my last story in this continuity. There's still one more left with New Legacy.
Then . . . who knows?
I want to take this time to thank all of you – new or old readers – for taking the time to read these stories.
I would also like to thank my collaborators for their work on the co-ops – Princessadora, Classic Cowboy, Fusion Blaster, General Stingrad, Deltara, Jagwarknight, Brimstone, and Ashley. Out of the group, I'd like to extend a special thank you to Jagwarknight, General Stingrad, Classic Cowboy, Fusion Blaster, and Princessadora – who not only contributed to the co-ops, but took to time to help me with story issues and whatnot. Also – the New Legacy gang, whose work was always an inspiration.
Furthermore, everyone both at and that tossed in their opinions and reviews. I'd also like to give all the members of the Dudes of Fanfic and Chicks of Fanfic back at the .org a firm "thanks." Despite the threads going silently into the night, you guys and gals were a great inspiration to me as well.
Finally, "thank yous" go out to everyone at the Four Horseman, the good guys at Mattel, MYC and MYP, Filmation, Jetlag, Entertainment Rights, NECA, and Cannon. There are a ton of individuals that contributed to the mythology of MOTU, but my creative leg is itching too much for me thank them all right now, so – THANKS!
I'm going to take the time now to kindly ask for reviews. It isn't something I like to do, as I don't want it to seem as though I'm some sort of "review whore," BUT, this story means a lot to me and as it is my final conclusion to the MOTU saga, I'd like to know what everyone thinks of it.
Again, thank you so much. Expect an even sappier A/N at the end of the entire fanfic. Enjoy!
With Warmest Regards,
Thew40
Disclaimer:
Masters of the Universe, Princess of Power, and The New Adventures of He-Man are all copyright to Mattel Entertainment. The characters presented here belong to them are not licensed or endorsed by Mattel or its licensees.
The following story is a work of fanfiction, written Thew40 and owned by Thew40. No profit is made from the production of this story.
The characters Kathryn, Addison, Woodsman, Pelicor, Talas, Ferna, Johanna, Kortan, Elementor, and other original characters are my own creation. If you wish to use them, IM or E-mail me.
Author's Note:
Like just about all of my other fanfics, this story takes place in the same continuity as Preludes and Beginnings, He-Man: Year One, The Day That Nothing Happened, The Elfsong of Eternia, The Return, The Crossroads of Destiny, Prophecy & Change, Just Another Day, Liberty and Valor, Manifest Destiny, Roots, Dues Ex Machina, My Blue Reflection, The Last Battle, Return to Eternia, A Winter's Heart, The Shroud of the Horde, The Shroud of the Horde: Prelude to Hope, and Across All Worlds. All of these stories save The Return are here on (The Return is not yet available – long story). I highly recommend you read them. If you have not, then the following if for you. If you have, no worries . . . just skip to the part that says "Prelude."
Previously:
Much of Eternia's long history has either gone silent in the faint whispers of myth or drowned out in the roars of battle. What is known is that Good and Evil has waged war for many thousands of years.
Prince Keldor of Eternos was born on the same day his mother died. The third son of Miro and the fourth of his children, Keldor was plagued with a weak heart. However, he often used this as a crutch. While his siblings didn't help with this issue, Keldor turned to the forces of darkness and began to study evil magics. Chief among his studies was the secrets of Castle Grayskull, which he lusted after. When threat of war with the Orcs came upon Eternos, Keldor aided the Orc leader (a human named Monteeg) in the hopes that it would cause Castle Grayskull to reappear. While Keldor's siblings Randor, Johanna, and Stephan dealt with the Orcs, Keldor entered Castle Grayskull. Luckily, a Lieutenant named Duncan was nearby and was summoned to Castle Grayskull to halt Keldor. While Keldor was stopped, the fallen prince managed to steal the Sword of Darkness. The Sword of Deception was accidentally cast into the Abyss. Keldor was returned to Eternos, where he decided to go into exile, as his family had indeed wished. It was then announced that Keldor was killed in the battle with the Orcs. In the tragic days after, King Miro grew weary and fled the throne, giving it to Randor. Miro then went missing during a battle with the vile Enchantress. (Preludes and Beginnings – Book One: Hate)
Two years later, a space explorer named Marlena Glenn was accidentally shot through a wormhole near her homeworld of Earth. She crashed on Eternia and became a guest of King Randor and Eternos. While the two danced around each other, uncertain of the others feelings, Duncan and the Sorceress of Grayskull fell madly in love. The Sorceress – Teelana – was released from her role while the Spirit of Grayskull gathered power. It was during this time Teelana became pregnant. Meanwhile, Marlena and Randor grew closer, admitted their feelings to each other, and married. While this was all occurring, Keldor had come under the command of Monteeg and his Orc host. During a raid, Keldor's heart nearly cost the entire pack. He was challenged by a rival, but Keldor killed him and took the Orc's heart as his own – unexpectedly changing his skin color to blue. Shortly thereafter, the fabled fallen Elder and the warlord Hordak arrived on Eternia in the name of his brother, Horde Prime, to conquer the world. Keldor swore allegiance to him and became Hordak's apprentice. (Preludes and Beginnings – Book Two: Love)
Shortly thereafter, Eternia was thrown into a war with the Horde. Keldor maintained his identity a secret and no one knew exactly from where it was the Horde was attacking from. During the course of the war, Teelana gave birth to a daughter. However, in order to maintain the secrecy of their new daughter's legacy (for the girl named Teela would have to become Sorceress someday), Duncan and Teelana were forced to fake Teelana's death. Teelana became the Sorceress again. Eventually, Randor discovered that his own brother was working for the enemy and was captured – only to be rescued by the Sorceress. Over a year after it had begun, the Horde War came to its final battle at Eternos. Randor and his forces were able to break the strength of the Horde and sent them into retreat. However, knowing that they were destined for something special and with Keldor having revenge on his mind, Hordak and Keldor went after the newly born children of Randor and Marlena – Adam and Adora. Adora was captured, but the arrival of Duncan prevented Adam from being taken. Keldor was captured by Duncan, but Hordak left with Adora. The Sorceress and Duncan went after Hordak and chased him back to Snake Mountain, but were too late. Hordak was gone, along with Adora. In order to secure that Adam have a happy childhood and that the people of Eternos enjoyed the great victory, the memory of Adora was suppressed by the Council of Elders. (Preludes and Beginnings – Book Three: Conflict)
A year later, Keldor gathered new forces at Snake Mountain. He had made alliances during the war including the witch in training named Lynn and the monstrous Beast-Man. Together with the thug called Kronis, the blind warrior named Eathos, and the warlord Mer-Man, Keldor joined this ragtag team with various sorcerers and warlords to create the Council of Evil. When they went to battle the Council of Elders, however, the Council of Evil was dispatched rather quickly. In the end, Kronis was greatly wounded and Keldor . . . Keldor's face was burned away by his own evil magic. If not for the mysterious Scare-Glow, Keldor would have died. But instead, he was preserved and transformed into the faceless Skeletor. (Preludes and Beginnings – Book Four: Peace)
Many years did pass and while the evil of Skeletor festered, the goodwill of Eternos flourished. Adam and Teela grew up, as did their parents. On Adam's 16th birthday, Duncan, now the Man-At-Arms, was summoned to his former lovers side at Castle Grayskull. The Sorceress warned that Skeletor would strike soon and that Adam must be at last ready to embrace his destiny. (Year One: Prelude in December)
Weeks later, Skeletor did indeed attack, this time with his warriors re-imagined as Evil-Lynn, Beast-Man, Trap-Jaw, Tri-Klops, and Mer-Man. Adam was taken to Castle Grayskull, where he and his cowardly tiger Cringer were tested. They were found worthy and the Sorceress bestowed upon Adam the Sword of Power. Using the Sword of Power, Adam and Cringer were transformed into the mighty He-Man and Battle-Cat. Together with allies such as Orko, Teela, Stratos, Moss Man, Buzz-Off, and Mekaneck, Skeletor's forces were repelled. (Year One – Part One: January)
The next few months were a challenge for He-Man. Juggling his training sessions with Teela made for some trouble when Adam was forced to fake being lazy, cowardly, and weak. This lead to greater tension when they were captured by Skeletor and Adam had to "hide" so that He-Man could fight the villain. (Year One – Part Two: February) Not long after that, a new ally named Roboto helped He-Man fight Skeletor when he had constructed a device called the Magic Stealer, which had been designed by the new Evil Warrior Spikor. (Year One – Part Three: March) Not long after this, the forces of Eternos were joined by Man-E-Faces, who aided during a battle with the mad wizard Jarvan. (Year One – Part Four: April)
He-Man's greatest challenge came when he was forced to go toe-to-toe with Skeletor's newly expanded Evil Warriors. At the hands of Evil-Lynn, Tri-Klops, Trap-Jaw, Mer-Man, Webstor, Kobra Kahn, Beast-Man, Jitsu, Stinkor, Spikor, and Clawful, He-Man was defeated and left for dead. Luckily, Teela rescued him. (Year One- Part Five: May) Shortly thereafter, Skeletor tried to use Lord Fisto of North Eternos and his enforcer, Ram-Man, to create a coup detat against Randor. It was defused and the pair joined He-Man and his newly instated Heroic Warriors in stopping Skeletor and the Evil Warriors from entering Castle Grayskull again. (Year One – Part Six: June)
Following this, Skeletor was joined by Zodak, the Cosmic Enforcer who – sensing a disruption in the balance of Good and Evil – aided Skeletor in discovering the key to the Golden Discs of Knowledge. The Discs had been given to Skeletor by Zanthos, who had gotten them from the Elders, who in turn got them from the Ancients – who was given them by the Cosmic Enforcers. Zanthos, understanding his mistake by giving them to Skeletor, aided the Heroic Warriors and their new member Sy-Klone, in reaching the Key of Castle Grayskull atop of Point Dread. Protected by Centaurs, both teams had trouble at Point Dread. However, He-Man being foretold to them, the Centaurs allowed He-Man forward and he ultimately stopped Skeletor. The key was destroyed and with the clan protecting it gone, the balance was restored. Zodak then punished Zanthos by sending him to the Phantom Zone – even though Skeletor still retained the Golden Discs of Knowledge. (Year One - Part Seven: July)
After Teela's rite of passage with Marlena the next month (Year One – Part Eight: August), events began to escalate quickly. Skeletor manipulated the terrorist Whiplash and his clan the Thundertails in taking the Lizard-Peoples' chief captive – while stealing an object called the Nurrune. Teela helped free the chief and stop the Thundertails. Despite Whiplash and Skeletor escaping, Teela was rewarded with promotion Captain of the Royal Guard. (Year One – Part Nine: September) After this, Skeletor attacked He-Man with the Nurrune, which created zombie-like evil duplicates of He-Man's allies and loved ones. He-Man won the day, but not before a half-constructed duplicate of himself was created. Skeletor took this half-duplicate back to Snake Mountain. (Year One – Part Ten: October). Then, the two-headed bounty hunter called Two-Bad joined with the Evil Warriors after retrieving some of He-Man's blood as a rite of passage. Skeletor had, in the meantime, picked up the Unity Stone – that which had created Two-Bad. (Year One – Part Eleven: November)
Using the blood, left-over Horde technology, and the half-duplicate, Skeletor created Faker, He-Man's evil twin. Faker was used to help send the Heroic Warriors into the Lost Dimension and capture Randor, Marlena, Man-At-Arms, and Teela. He-Man and Faker fought, allowing Skeletor time to enter Castle Grayskull. After temporarily defeating Faker, He-Man raced to Castle Grayskull. There, he forced to give up the Sword of Power. After he did, he again battled the Evil Warriors. He had them on the run . . . when the Heroic Warriors returned! Orko and He-Man rescued their captured allies, who then followed He-Man and Battle-Cat into Castle Grayskull. As the others fought, Skeletor and He-Man became locked in a heated battle in which He-Man was able to turn off the Sword of Darkness. Defeated, Skeletor went into retreat with his Evil Warriors. (Year One – Part Twelve: December)
Weeks later, Skeletor started a new plot – this one involving the Diamond Ray of Disappearance. (Year One: Epilogue in January) Of course, it failed and the day was saved ("The Diamond Ray of Disappearance")
The next two years were quite busy for He-Man. The battle with Skeletor waged on. Often times, it involved various schemes and plans that fell apart completely.
Once, Skeletor and his Goblin ally General Tartaran launched an attack against Eternos when a visiting alien had arrived for the first time. The alien – named Ohm – was so stunned by the violence that he forced He-Man and Skeletor to battle each other over the fate of the world. He-Man won out, due to Skeletor's obsession and vileness getting the better of him. He-Man saved Skeletor from his own trappings and Ohm sent the Goblins and Skeletor's forces back to where they belonged. ("The Arena")
Skeletor was not the only threat to Eternia, however. Even though Skeletor continued to launch plans upon plans against the forces of good – He-Man had to face down foes such as Game Master, Toy Maker, Negator, Evilseed, Jarvan, Darkdream, Kothos, the Space Pirates, the Spirit of Evil, and the cunningly sleazy Count Marzo.
Even with these other enemies, He-Man battled Skeletor the most often. One adventure led to Zanthos being helped by He-Man to find redemption. He-Man was able to recover the lost Golden Discs of Knowledge and he gave them to Zanthos and Zodak. Zodak made Zanthos into Cosmic Enforcer. ("The Golden Discs of Knowledge") This was the not only time He-Man met with Zodak, though. Skeletor had trapped He-Man on another world. He-Man, amnesic, helped the last survivor of this world (a bird-like woman named Gleedal) overthrow the despot called Plundor. ("Quest for He-Man") The last time was to recover the powerful sphere left over from the creation – the Starseed. ("The Starseed")
Other events with Skeletor involved the opening of relations with the Dragons, via their master, Granamyr ("The Dragon's Gift"). There was also the mysterious power of the young girl named the Starchild. ("The Starchild")
One adventure not involving Skeletor was He-Man's rematch with Faker. Faker had found his way into the Elf realm of Dellos after his last defeat. There, he tapped into the Elves energies. He-Man took Faker down and then helped the Elves in their return to Eternia. As their realm collapsed, Faker saved He-Man, but was caught in the energy backlash. (The Elfsong of Eternia)
King Miro, long missing and kidnapped by the evil Enchantress, returned to Eternia. He had chosen to allow King Randor to continue to serve as king of Eternos while Miro himself retired and joined the regular public. ("Out of the Past")
Not long afterwards, He-Man was duped into believing he had killed someone. He-Man sought to give up his mantle as Champion of Grayskull and did, only to discover that it was all a scheme concocted by Skeletor. Prince Adam then reclaimed the Sword of Power and vanquished Skeletor once more. The event not only renewed He-Man's conviction, but also served to bring both he and Teela closer together. Prince Adam had also grown closer to Teela, his feelings for her continuing to grow into more than simple friendship. ("The Problem With Power")
On a day when nothing happened, Teela found herself perhaps having feelings for Adam as well as He-Man, leading to some confusion on her part. (The Day That Nothing Happened)
Despite the on-going tensions between the forces of Snake Mountain and Eternos, a wonderful thing had occurred. The long-lost Princess Adora was discovered alive and well on the nearby world of Etheria. He-Man journeyed to Etheria, not knowing that Adora was his sister. His task was to give her the Sword of Protection, a blade similar to his own. When He-Man did find Adora and found out that the Sword of Protection was destined to be hers, he was stunned to find that she was a Force Captain for the Evil Horde! As it turned out, the Horde had conquered most of Etheria in the years following their withdraw from Eternia.
He-Man, captured while aiding the warriors of the Great Rebellion (a resistance movement against the Horde), eventually got through to Adora. With the help of the Sorceress, Adora learned that the Horde was a terrible force – one that only brought despair and pain to others. Upon grasping the Sword of Protection, Adora was changed into a second Champion of Grayskull – She-Ra, Princess of Power! As She-Ra, she was able to rescue He-Man and ultimately betrayed her master, Hordak.
The truth revealed behind their sibling-hood, He-Man and She-Ra helped the Great Rebellion rescue the former Queen of the kingdom Brightmoon, Queen Angella. With Angella freed and the Great Rebellion picking up, Adam reunited Adora with her parents. Unfortunately, Hordak followed the twins and teamed up with Skeletor to re-capture her. The plan failed.
Though it pained her, Adora knew that she was a valuable asset to the Great Rebellion. She-Ra and He-Man joined with the Great Rebellion in a crusade against the Evil Horde. The end result was the freeing of Brightmoon Kingdom. ("The Secret of the Sword")
Two weeks after this, Skeletor released the Snake-Men from the Void as a result of the arrival of She-Ra. This was also done because Skeletor sought an ally to fight the Horde, as Hordak was the rival of King Hiss in the old days. Once King Hiss arose, he restored the ancient Great Towers. A battle was fought over them between He-Man and the Heroic Warriors; the Horde; Skeletor and the Evil Warriors; and the Snake-Men. Though He-Man claimed the victory, he paid dearly for it. His secret love, Teela, was gravely injured. (The Crossroads of Destiny - Book One: Honor)
But Teela did not die. As King Hiss sent Skeletor and his minions into exile, Hordak built up an army to destroy his ancient nemesis. King Hiss and Hordak battled across Eternia and Etheria, and all the while the Heroic Warriors were in hiding. Teela recovered from her wounds during this war, thanks in part to King Hiss, who sought to make her his wife with a 'love spell.' Needless to say, it failed. The war ended when Hordak called upon his skills as a former Elder's apprentice. (The Crossroads of Destiny - Book Two: War)
In the aftermath of the Horde/Snake-Men War, Skeletor swooped in and gained control of Castle Grayskull. He-Man, Teela, Man-At-Arms, and newcomer Gwildor battled on planet Earth for the safety of Eternia. While they did so, She-Ra, Orko, and various other Heroic Warriors secured the palace of Eternos and the Great Towers. (The Crossroads of Destiny - Book Three: Beyond and "He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: The Motion Picture")
However, Skeletor's near gaining of power summoned the creature known as the Dark Cloud. It rushed to Eternia. To defeat it, She-Ra, the royal family (King Randor, Queen Johanna, and King Stephan), the Sorceress, Zodak, and Man-At-Arms joined forces with Skeletor, Hordak, and King Hiss. The battle ended when Teela used the long hidden Sword of the Ancients on the Dark Cloud. He-Man, She-Ra, and Zodak then finished off the creature. During this time, Teela revealed to Prince Adam that she had feelings for him. However, she later confessed that she actually had feelings for He-Man and was merely projecting those feelings on to Adam. (The Crossroads of Destiny - Book Four: Restoration)
Eventually, She-Ra and Adora took up the command of the Great Rebellion. As they warred against Hordak, the ranks of the Great Rebellion grew. Shortly after the events with the Dark Cloud, She-Ra went to the long-lost Crystal Castle and met with the being called Light-Hope. Light-Hope provided She-Ra with a way to defend Kingdom Brightmoon. ("The Crystal Castle")
In time, Adora met a pirate by the name of SeaHawk – a man with a good heart, even if he didn't know it. ("The SeaHawk") While SeaHawk showed an interest in She-Ra, Adora felt slighted. She eventually team ed up with SeaHawk again and the pair hit it off rather well – this time as Adora and SeaHawk. ("Return of the SeaHawk")
Just with He-Man and Skeletor, She-Ra faced Hordak many times. Once, she even needed He-Man to help her save a city. ("The Price of Freedom") Another, the crystal in the Sword of Protection was damaged and Adora needed to face down many feats and trials to repair it. ("The Stone in the Sword")
Just before their first birthday together, He-Man and She-Ra teamed up to stop Horde Prime from halting the Christmas spirit from reaching Eternia and Etheria. ("The He-Man and She-Ra Christmas Special")
A few months later, Adam and the forces of Eternos discovered that the entity known as the Spirit of Evil was attacking the titan Ancient known as Procrustus. Procrustus held together the Light and Dark Hemispheres, ensuring their stability. A team of Heroic Warriors set off to stop the Spirit of Evil, but failed. Procrustus was destroyed and the Light Hemisphere became a second Dark Hemisphere. (Prophecy & Change - Book One: Abyss)
As all those of the new Dark Hemisphere gave into their evil natures, the ones spared from the transformation - Queen Marlena, Rokkon, Stonedar, Lubic, and Orko - set off for Castle Grayskull. Lubic, however, was captured and tortured on their way out. Stonedar and Rokkon headed off into space to contact Zodak. Marlena and Orko arrived at Castle Grayskull, where He-Man, Man-At-Arms, and King Randor planned to attack. To defend Castle Grayskull, She-Ra and the Great Rebellion journeyed to Eternia. To do this, the secret of She-Ra's identity was revealed to Queen Marlena. The Great Rebellion defeated the Heroic Warriors and He-Man and Teela were ultimately restored to their true, good selves. (Prophecy & Change - Book Two: Sundered)
The quest to restore Eternia began then. She-Ra began a surrogate pregnancy to return Procrustus and she was guarded by SeaHawk. Teela went on a search for artifacts left over from the Ancients. And He-Man sought the help and cooperation of the Ancients themselves. In the meantime, an Army of Darkness under the command of Skeletor and King Hiss marched to Eternos. King Miro, who managed to remain free of the Spirit of Evil's influence, took control of Eternos as his children went mad with jealously. Stonedar and Rokkon then spared the palace, thanks to a device given to them by Zodak. While the Army of Darkness struggled with the device, Hiss betrayed Skeletor and handed him off to Hordak in an exchange with the means of entering Eternos. (Prophecy & Change - Book Three: Destruction)
As the Ancients were gathered by He-Man, She-Ra gave birth to Procrustus and Zodak and the Cosmic Enforcers defeated the Army of Darkness. With the help of He-Man and Teela, the Ancients destroyed the Spirit of Evil once and for all. The Light Hemisphere was returned to normal, as were all of its denizens. But the emotional and political scars ran deep. (Prophecy & Change - Book Four: Unity)
As Randor began a summit of Eternian kingdoms, universal scoundrel Count Marzo gathered Chimera, Sticky Fingers, Lava Man, Frog Man, Leo, Hisser, Evilseed, Negator, Darkdream, General Tartaran, Game Master, Toy Maker, Fang Man and Icer to help him in a major heist: all the gold in Eternos. After putting the Dark Hemisphere to sleep and transforming all Eternians and aliens on the Light Hemisphere into animals, only He-Man was able to stand up Marzo and his gang. He-Man took down the lackeys and then finished Count Marzo, who was accidentally teleported to Earth. He-Man then undid all of Marzo's handiwork. (Just Another Day - Book One: Caper)
After all of this, Adam suggested a party to boost kingdom morale. At this party, Prince Adam met up with a farm girl named Kathryn. Immediately, there were sparks between the two of them. These sparks blossomed into a relationship when Adam and Man-At-Arms were called to Kathryn's farm to deal with a leader-less Panthor and Screech. Adam and Kathryn hooked up, and then went on a exploratory trip where they and the crew were captured. Their captors were Pelicons, lead by the Warrior-Commander Pelicor. Immediately, it was assumed that Eternos has been aiding the enemies of the Pelicons, the Lobsterites. However, it turned out it was the Mer-People helping the Lobsterites. Adam managed to transform into He-Man, only to be caught by Kathryn in the act. He-Man and his allies helped the Pelicons, but Pelicor himself was exiled. He joined the Heroic Warriors then, and even helped prevent a Spider invasion lead by Webstor. In the meantime, Snout Spout discovered his past at last; Adora dealt with her post-partum depression; and He-Man told Teela that he absolutely can not return the feelings she'd been confessing to him. (Just Another Day - Book Two: Fellowship)
In an effort to change the present, King Hiss sent Kobra Kahn into the past to kill He-Ro before the fall of the Snake-Men. He-Man, She-Ra, Battle-Cat, and Swift-Wind followed and were able to stop Kobra Kahn from completing his mission. (Just Another Day - Book Three: Legacy)
King Miro retrieved Skeletor from execution at the hands of Horde for being a traitor. He hopes to transform Skeletor back into Keldor, but failed miserably. Skeletor then returned to his place at Snake Mountain. (Just Another Day - Book Four: Family)
Over the next few months, She-Ra's leadership against Hordak brought more and more conquests against the forces of evil. In addition to numerous victories, joy had been brought to the hearts of many in the Great Rebellion. Adora and SeaHawk's love flourished. The long-lost King Micah was returned to Queen Angella and Princess Glimmer. And, much to everyone's surprise, Spirit revealed he had a child on Unicorn Island.
Hordak, defeated once more at Unicorn Island, gathered his greatest generals, dukes, Elite members, scientists, and other allies and gave the man ultimatum: develop a plan to conquer Etheria over the course of six months in the next 48 hours or perish. It took them 47 hours and 30 seconds to come up the plan. The plan, as Hordak and Horde Prime found it, was full-proof. Horde Prime, dealing a resistance movement led by his own son Prince Zed, declared that if Hordak failed in this new, seemingly full-proof plan, then he would surely die. This was a bad time for failure and the more Hordak wallowed in his own losses, the more Horde generals would lose faith in the Horde Empire and would gather around Zed. Thanks to Shadow Weaver, Hordak uncovered a way to put into motion part of his plan. Hordak's attempts at destroying the Great Rebellion had been continuously halted by the protective power of the Whispering Woods. By seeking out Dark-Hope, the evil counter-part of Light-Hope, Hordak hoped to shatter the protection of the Whispering Woods. However, He-Man, She-Ra, and a band of Heroic Warriors and the Great Rebellion were able to stop Hordak and Shadow Weaver from awakening Dark-Hope from his slumber. Yet, as victory seemed clear, Hordak was granted a bit of Dark-Hope's power for his effort to destroy the Great Rebellion. Meanwhile, Queen Angella's spy within the Horde - Double-Trouble - stumbled upon the plans for conquest and brought them to her attention. Upon She-Ra's return, Angella shared with her the plans and both are currently preparing for a counter-attack. (Liberty and Valor - Book One: Hope)
In a manner much like Hordak's, various towns, cities, kingdoms, and peoples from across Etheria were called in for a meeting to discuss just how to counter Hordak's dastardly plan. A full-scale revolution took place, in which Horde Harbor was destroyed, towns were freed from Horde rule through riots, taxes were halted, and key components to Hordak's plan were lost. While the Great Rebellion dealt with things on Etheria, She-Ra traveled to Horde World to meet with Prince Zed. She was captured, though, and was to be executed by Horde Prime himself. But at that last minute, She-Ra was rescued by the person she least expected: Skeletor! She then returned to Etheria to aid the gathering of a massive army that would be marching soon to the Fright Zone. (Liberty and Valor - Book Two: Resistance)
After many battles, the Army of Etheria came to the Fright Zone and a combination of He-Man, She-Ra, Queen Angella, King Randor, Skeletor, and King Hiss were able to defeat Hordak. The Great Rebellion took down the Horde Elite. (Liberty and Valor - Book Three: Endgame)
A celebration after two weeks of recovery is held, at which Adora/She-Ra hook up with SeaHawk and Adam shares some mysterious yet uplifting information with his immediate family. Hordak, his fortress destroyed and his empire wasted away, discovered a magical object that he knew could change things around: the Sword of Deception, part of the four set of blades being the Swords of Power, Protection, and Darkness. (Liberty and Valor - Book Four: Aftermath)
Shortly thereafter, Adam proposed to Kathryn. While they were having their Engagement Party, however, the Snake-Men attacked and they captured both Teela and Kathryn. They then took to the pair to the Tomb of Vipera, the bitch-daughter of Serpos. It was there, he Snake Goddess Vipera was restored. Taking Teela as a host and displacing Teela's life force, Vipera needed a life force to feast on and to give it strength. It went after Kathryn, Adam's fiancée, nearly killing her. He-Man was then faced with a decision - take Kathryn to the Elves to help her recover or stay and fight Vipera. He chose to take Kathryn to the Elves, leaving She-Ra to fight off Vipera. However, She-Ra failed to defend the Great Towers from the Snake-Men and later, Eternos itself fell to the Snake-Men's wrath. Meanwhile, back on Dellos, He-Man had just learned that Kathryn was pregnant, but had lost the baby due to the attack from Vipera. (Manifest Destiny – Book One: Distress)
After breaking up with Kathryn because she decided she couldn't handle He-Man/Adam's lifestyle, He-Man teamed up with Skeletor and along with Orko, She-Ra, Battle-Cat and a few others, managed to overcome Vipera and the Snake-Men . . . only to have Skeletor use a mini-Magic Stealer to take a portion of Castle Grayskull's power and bring his Evil Warriors to him! (Manifest Destiny – Book Two: Alliance)
However, He-Man was able to stop Skeletor, but only after they were teleported aboard a starship that sought He-Man's help. Skeletor escaped the starship, leaving He-Man with Hydron and Flipshot, emissaries from the planet of Primus. They told He-Man of their worlds plight and how they needed his help to overcome the armies of the Mutant warlord, Flogg. Skeletor too learned of this information and left Eternia to join Flogg to eventually gain his trust . . . then take his army back to Eternia. With a portion of the power of Grayskull with him, Skeletor left Eternia. He-Man was forced to follow, saying good bye to his friends and family in the process. (Manifest Destiny – Book Three: Emissary)
He-Man arrived on Primus was immediately tossed into battle between the Primians and the Mutants. Exhausted and angry, He-Man helped fight back the invasion force single-handedly. He then met his new team – the Galactic Guardians. After a training session, He-Man and the Galactic Guardians battled Skeletor and the Mutant Enforcers. During the course of this battle, He-Man reclaimed the power of Grayskull that Skeletor had stolen. (Manifest Destiny – Book Four: Journey)
He-Man and Skeletor battled in the Tri-Solar System for five years. The Adam persona was fortunately subdued, as He-Man was needed more than Adam.
One particular battle with Skeletor involved the Jewel of Amara, which He-Man thought was destroyed. It was a family weapon, hidden away, but Skeletor had rediscovered it two years before they left for the Tri-Solar System. During a battle, it was lost again – this time in a volcano on Denebria's moon of Nordor. (Roots)
In time, the Mutants were able to temporarily conquer Primus using a "Trojan Horse"-style plan. However, He-Man and his friends won out. ("The Gift," "Skeletor's Victory," "He-Man in Exile," "Seeds of Resistance," and "Battle for Leviton") In the aftermath, both worlds visited the Galactic Council in pursuit of a peace treaty – but of course, it was a trick created by Skeletor. ("Glasnost Schmaznost")
Six months later, super-heroes called the Patheon arrived in the Tri-Solar System, pretending to be peacekeepers. During their stay, He-Man and an advisor to the Inner Council named Mara grew closer and became a couple. In time, the Patheon turned out to be another plot by Flogg and Skeletor. (Dues Ex Machina)
Mara and He-Man were still together when Faker arrived on Primus. Eventually, both He-Man and Skeletor were drawn into conflict with Faker. Faker was seemingly destroyed. Fearing for her safety, He-Man broke up with Mara. She claimed it was because he had feelings for another. (My Blue Reflection)
Eventually, the affairs of the neighboring world of Nekron began an issue with Primus and Denebria. One civilization – the Mites were friendly. Another similar civilization called the Gleanons, were quite hostile and allied themselves with Denebria – even allowing the Mutant Crita as their Queen. Mara too became Queen of the Mites.
Just under five years after their arrival, the war of the Tri-Solar System was drawing to a close. Flogg and Skeletor had He-Man half the Galactic Guardians captured on a remote world in the aftermath of an intense competition. Taking advantage of this, the Gleanons and the Mutants took the fight back to Primus. While the battle waged on and He-Man and the Galactic Guardians soon arrived and joined the fight, Skeletor had other plans. Using an energy magic chamber, he sought to re-energize the Sword of Darkness. Back at the battle, He-Man and his forces had Flogg cornered and Flogg opened up for surrender. Just as the treaty was being signed, Skeletor appeared and struck with fury at all of his manipulations coming undone. He and Crita took He-Man and Mara to the Ruins. There, He-Man and Skeletor fought. Skeletor eventually merged the two swords, negating He-Man's power. Skeletor was stunned to find out He-Man's secret identity was none other than Adam, his own nephew. When Adam awoke, Skeletor revealed his secrets to Adam. The Galactic Guardians then showed up, allowing Adam to take the sword from Skeletor and restore himself as He-Man. He-Man then tore all of the power away from Skeletor, exiling him and Crita into deep space, then accidentally repairing the nearly-gone atmosphere. A few weeks later, He-Man left for his long journey home. (The Last Battle)
Prince Adam/He-Man has returned home after five years on the distant world of Primus. However, what he found on Eternia was not what he expected. Eternia has been conquered by the Horde, Eternos is in shambles, and Etheria has been shrouded in a darkness of suspended animation. He-Man, rallying the forces of good, managed to free the Heroic Warriors and recovered She-Ra, Glimmer, Bow, and a few remaining members of the Great Rebellion. Together, they overthrew Hordak. However, during the battle with the Horde, the true identities of He-Man and She-Ra were revealed to the public. (Return to Eternia – Book One: Arrival)
With Queen Marlena and King Randor exiled on the planet Earth, Adam and Adora have vowed to restore the kingdom as King and Queen, while still protecting the planet as He-Man and She-Ra. Part of their new leadership was to rebuild Eternos and to make contact with the various remaining kingdoms of Eternia. With a long diplomatic mission complete and Eternos back to its former glory – and then some – He-Man and She-Ra set their sights on their enemies to determine what to do next. In the meantime, after some soul searching, Adam and Teela decided to finally get together and become a couple. (Return to Eternia – Book Two: World Tour)
At Snake Mountain, Adam learned that King Hiss and his Snake-Men journeyed into the depths of Eternia. Though warned by the Sorceress that he may find a terrible truth beneath the ground, Adam and a few Heroic Warriors went anyways. Once there, they confronted a giant, Mer-Man, and eventually, Adam met with a being called the Faceless One. The Faceless One showed Adam (and only Adam) the secret the Sorceress warned about. The Cosmic Enforcers have been manipulating Eternia into a prolonged with between the forces of good and evil. The reason for this manipulation? To, when the time comes, alter the entire universe to be whatever force is mightier. After this learning this truth, Adam was reunited with his companions and placed back on the search for King Hiss. (Return to Eternia – Book Three: Secrets)
King Hiss unleashed the last beast of the First Age- Pythor – upon Castle Grayskull as an act of revenge. She-Ra was eventually able to calm the monster and King Hiss and his minions were taken. However, the damage done to He-Man and the Sorceress' trust was not as easily handled. Meanwhile, Skeletor appeared on Eternia and recruited Shadow Weaver for a mission. (Return to Eternia – Book Four: Serpents)
This mission would be delayed, though, by the arrival of Hydron and Flipshot from Primus. They revealed to Eternos that shortly after He-Man left the Tri-Solar System, Horde agents attempted to wage war against them. Luckily, the new peace allowed a swift victory. The combined forces of Primus and Denebria then learned that as the Horde Empire falls apart due to civil wars, Horde Prime was seeking the ultimate weapon: a spell that could destroy entire worlds. This spell was locked in the mind of Hordak, who himself was a prison of Eternos. With the help of a dozen worlds, Eternia fought off what was left of the Horde's vast armies. In midst of battle, Adam and Teela's love was endangered due to Adam's loss of faith in himself and the arrival of an old lover. But in the end, both were emboldened by each other and their relationship grew stronger. (A Winter's Heart)
In time, all the secrets regarding He-Man's absence on both Eternia and Etheria came revealed. Teela's pregnancy, the conquering of Eternia, the darkening of Etheria, the near-suicide of Adora . . . all came out. (The Shroud of the Horde and The Shroud of the Horde: Prelude to Hope)
Randor and Marlena soon returned to Eternia, partially thanks to a plot hatched by the now President Marzo. Marzo's own plans fell apart thanks in part to Skeletor, to whom Marzo now serves . . . for now. However, see just how much of a great job their children did, Randor and Marlena decided to step down and allow Adam and Adora to retain King- and Queen-ship. (Across All Worlds – Book One: Earth)
Not long after this, Etheria was at long last restored by Light-Hope. This led to the ancient foretold battle between Light-Hope and Dark-Hope to come manifest. In the end, Light-Hope was victorious. After the battle, SeaHawk and Adora married. (Across All Worlds – Book Two: Etheria)
Months ago, during the time when the Tri-Solar System alliance fought the rogue Horde agents Calyx, Elementor, and Garton – Skeletor and Crita returned. Dumping Crita on Denebria, Skeletor had only one thing on his mind: revenge. He returned to the chamber and after one last encounter with Scare-Glow, Skeletor re-energized the Sword of Darkness. After this, he recovered the Jewel of Amara and restored Faker. Then, leaving with a prototype ship, he left the Tri-Solar System . . . with every intention of coming back. Presently, Skeletor struck at Central Tower and recovered the Ram Skull to his Havoc Staff, thus officially announcing his presence to He-Man and the rest of Eternia. (Across All Worlds – Book Three: Tri-Solar System)
Adam told Adora of his encounter with Skeletor and then told her of everything he had learned about the Cosmic Enforcers. Adora insisted they go to Castle Grayskull and talk to the Sorceress. While the Sorceress was forbidden to say anything, Veena the Goddess arrived and revealed to them all of the secret history of Eternia – including the Ape-Clan, Snake-Clan, King Grayskull, Serpos, Veena, Vipera, the Cosmic Enforcers, the Ancients, the Energy Beast, the Council of Elders, King Hiss, the Snake-Men, He-Ro, King Gray, the Light Warriors, Hordak, Horde Prime, Teelana, . . all of it.
In the aftermath, Adam and Adora constructed a new plan to at last deal with the Cosmic Enforcers and the Starseed. Thus far, all that is known is that it entails contacting Master Sebrian, the Galactic Council, and the Starchild.
Meanwhile, Skeletor prepares to make his move and begin his next part of his final plan . . .
In light of all this, Teela and Adam have gotten engaged. (Across All Worlds – Book Four: Eternia)
ENDINGS AND EPILOGUES
The Final Volume of the "Tales of Masters of the Universe" Fanfiction Saga
Book One: Protection
Prelude
Springtime on the Dark Hemisphere was different from any other time of year in that plants tried to desperately grow on the Valley of Storm's north bank. Unfortunately for the young, desperate seedlings, they never last more just a few days. The unstable mountain range to the west caused quakes that drown the plants with rocks just as they peek at the occasional stray sunbeam. However, evolution found a way to fight this. Every spring, as soon as the first plant breaks surfaces, hyper-potent pollen is jetted out the top – ensuring another year of desperation on the north bank of the Valley of Storm.
In the Dark Hemisphere, desperation is part of life. Part of the struggle. Much like the plant, dark rises up against the light – only to smashed back down. But it always finds a way to rise again; desperately trying again and again.
As Skeletor, formerly Keldor of Eternos, entered the Valley of the Storm, he sought to break that cycle for himself. Months of pulling strings, of watching over certain events, of securing certain loyalties . . . it had been leading to this. In the coming day and possibly weeks, he ultimate goal would be realized.
Eternia.
Grayskull.
The childhood desires of power and knowledge and domination still burned within even after he had lost his face and his name. He had been blocked for so long by those that rose against him. First Randor, and now Randor's son – He-Man. Their seemingly endless struggle had taken them across the very stars. And now . . . it had taken them back to their homeworld.
"Snake Mountain."
The voice came from Faker, He-Man's cyborg 'evil twin.'
Skeletor looked up and saw the corpse of Serpos strangling the spiky and craggy mountain, the Blood Falls pouring off the south edge. He was filled with a sense of nostalgia. How many years had it been since he stood here with Hordak by his side? How long had it been since he claimed it as his own?
"Indeed," he answered.
"Can't they see us?" asked President Marzo. Skeletor's new addition to his little motley crew was no stranger to Eternia – and manipulation.
"No. Tri-Klops was contacted before we arrived. All eyes are elsewhere." Skeletor's teeth grinded together. "She will have no idea I am coming."
Evil-Lynn was no one's fool.
While ever since He-Man had returned from space, rumors had been going around about Skeletor, the rumors were sounding more and more true. She felt the need to move things along. Show Skeletor that she was strong without him, that she wasn't just sitting behind the stone walls.
And then . . . just like that, he was there.
She gasped. She wasn't even thinking. She simply walked into the throne room and Skeletor once more sat upon the throne of bones and skulls, cloak flowing over the arms and underneath on the seat. On his belt was the Sword of Darkness, in his hand the Havoc Staff.
"Good evening, Evil-Lynn."
"Skeletor?!"
Her eyes darted to Skeletor's left, where Marzo and Faker stood, watching her.
"I . . ." she began.
He stood up, cloak rippling behind him as he did. "We had such a pleasant farewell, my dear, perhaps we could have just as pleasant a 'welcome home?'"
She bowed on one knee. "Whatever you say, my master. I am . . . overjoyed at your return."
"Are you now?"
"Of course, Skeletor. Much has happened."
"I know. I have been watching."
"You – you have?" she asked, looking up, her pale face full of uncertainty.
"Stand up, Evil-Lynn. Are we not equals?"
She did so, but not without reluctance. "You've never regarded me as such."
"Ah, but I left in command of Snake Mountain, gave you all of my resources. You've earned your place as my equal, wouldn't you say?"
"I would be honored to say such a thing."
Skeletor paused and she tried to tell if what he thinking of her. He stepped back and circled her. "You've changed, Evil-Lynn."
"Have I?"
"Gained a little weight."
"That . . . something happened."
"Did it?" he questioned. "How could anything happen, Evil-Lynn? Why, despite my instructions to maintain my forces and our stature here on Eternia, you allowed the very dignity of said forces and stature to rot away?"
"What do you mean?"
"You know of which I speak." He was in front of her now and stepped back a few feet. Before Evil-Lynn could move, the Havoc Staff zipped into Skeletor's clutches. He swung it forward. A force burst of telekinesis sent Evil-Lynn sailing back and slamming against the back wall.
"Skeletor! Wait!"
"For what? Excuses? I built an army! And you let it all go to waste!"
"All are loyal and ready for your command!" she argued, struggling against invisible magic bonds.
"And command them I will!" Skeletor shouted. "Unlike you, that is."
"Skeletor . . ."
"SILENCE!"
Her mouth closed, the lips sealed shut. But she didn't need her lips. Her magic was subtle enough. Skeletor hadn't changed. He was too engrossed in his prideful speeches to notice the little things. Her fingers twitched just a little and she could feel the necessary connection made.
"I spent five years groveling to a moron while you made alliances and deals with my greatest of enemies. Hordak, Hiss, HE-MAN! HE-MAN, BY ALL THE EVILS! You stood by while Hordak and He-Man built empires! You gave Hiss refuge!"
Evil-Lynn was spun upside down. "Your loyalty always wavered, dear Evil-Lynn, but I never thought you would betray me like this. You sold out to them. You sold your very loyalty. And now . . . you shall pay."
At that moment, Evil-Lynn's staff came flying into the throne room. There was a mighty crash as her bonds were instantly broken. The staff flew into her hands and soon as she rolled onto the floor. Skeletor's reaction was delayed.
The pair swung their staves forward. A sound like thunder echoed throughout Snake Mountain as invisible magic fields collided. The pair was pushed just a bit.
Lightning fired out from Evil-Lynn's left hand. It ensnared Skeletor's body, but with a wave of his hand, it was dismissed. Before she had time to launch a counter-attack, Skeletor let loose a beam of red energy from his right hand. It struck her mid-section, but Evil-Lynn had blocked the blunt of the beam with a force field.
"What is going on?" asked Blade, arriving with some of the Evil Warriors.
"SKELETOR!" shouted Beast-Man.
Skeletor paid them no mind. Neither did Evil-Lynn. The pair exchanged intense lighting bolts connected to their staves.
"What is happening here?" questioned Webstor.
"Why is he fighting Evil-Lynn?" wondered Spikor.
"Something isn't right . . ." grunted Saurod.
"Why do you say that? Skeletor's back and running the show now. Lynn's gotta problem wit' that," Whiplash replied.
"Like a duel. Battle of honor," Mer-Man added.
"Whoever wins, get Snake Mountain, right?" asked Clawful.
The lightning grew even more intense as both Evil-Lynn and Skeletor started to come closer to each other and chanting quietly. Magic spells were being cast and repelled so very quickly that the magic energy involved was manifesting in lighting bolts and occasional force fields.
"This is no duel," Ninjor told them.
Lightning struck the ceiling, causing a few loose stone to come down upon the pair. Other lightning bolts attended to them before they caused any harm.
"It's a battle," Ninjor then finished.
"She's been making all the calls," tossed in Karg. "It was like I've been saying. All of these alliances have been stabs in Skeletor's back."
"Whoa!" Stinkor shouted, leaping behind Two-Bad as a stray lightning bolt almost took off his head.
"Never thought I'd see this," Trap-Jaw said to Tri-Klops. "Knew it would come to something, but never . . . this. What do you think, Trike?"
Tri-Klops said nothing and simply watched with one singular eye.
There was a sudden burst of power and light. The heads of both staves slammed together. The magic roared and exploded, tossing Evil-Lynn and Skeletor in opposite directions.
Evil-Lynn was on her feet in an instant. Just as Skeletor was starting to stand, a burst of magic fired from her staff and struck his. The Havoc Staff went flying his grasp and clattered across the room. He was about to summon it to him when Evil-Lynn struck again, a wide-beam of green energy overcoming Skeletor. He staggered back, the hood of his cloak flying back.
"How dare you!?" she shouted at him. "HOW DARE YOU COME BACK HERE AND TELL ME I WAS DISLOYAL!? I DID THIS ALL FOR YOU, SKELETOR! I PRESERVED YOUR STRENGTH!"
"By making the wrong deals, Evil-Lynn. You should have known better."
The wide-beam dispersed. Evil-Lynn stood ready, her staff in her hands and at hip-level, poised to strike. Skeletor reached over and pulled out the Sword of Darkness. She could handle a sword fight; Evil-Lynn was aware of the Sword of Darkness's lack of power.
She was wrong.
Dead wrong.
Skeletor pointed it at Evil-Lynn's staff. Immediately, the staff began to shake violently in her hands. But for all her will, she could not let it go. She looked to the Sword of Darkness and saw that it was now glowing crimson.
"You've underestimated me for the last time, Evil-Lynn."
The vibration increased greatly in her hands. She looked to the orb at the end of the staff. It started to crack just a little . . . then it exploded into shards of glass. Her eyes turned to the staff. It too exploded, wood tearing through her hands. She yelled out in both pain and shock. Blood poured from her hands, large splinters of wood embedded from her hands to her upper arms.
"Skeletor!" she yelled out.
"No more."
Evil-Lynn was tossed to the ground and telekinetically pinned there. Green smoke began to rise from her body. Her magic was actually leaving her! Her eyes turned to Skeletor and he now held both the Sword of Darkness and the Havoc Staff in his hands. Her body began to turn slowly, but started to pick up speed. She was spinning in a circle, her head almost like an anchor. The green smoke rose more and more from her.
"Oh dear Lynn . . . you and I shared so much . . ."
"Skeletor! No more!"
"I hate to see it end like this, but this is the price you must pay."
She looked to the Evil Warriors, who stared in disbelief. She looked to Tri-Klops. The man that had been her lover closed all three of his eyes and turned his back to her.
"NO!" she shouted and tried to launch a spell. But none of it was working . . .
"Yes."
She was tossed back onto her feet, smoldering with green smoke. Skeletor sheathed the Sword of Darkness and raised his hand. He mouthed a few words that she recognized. Orange and red light formed around his hand . . . and then struck her.
Evil-Lynn's body seemed to burn away and vanished.
Shock and silence filled the throne room. Skeletor stood and looked upon where Evil-Lynn had once been. After a long moment, he turned back to the throne and sat down.
"Let this be a lesson to you all," he told his minions. "Disloyalty shall be punished."
"Is she dead?" asked Karg dared ask.
"No. She has been banished to the Dimension of Darkness. Saurod has been there."
Saurod visibly shuddered. "Yes."
"You were in the outer rim for nine hours. She has been cast into its darkest core for the rest of her life."
Again, Saurod shuddered. A little violently this time.
Skeletor sat back in his chair and looked them all over. At that moment, the mighty Panthor was at his side and took his place at Skeletor's feet.
"Who here is loyal to me?" Skeletor questioned.
All of the Evil Warriors – along with Faker and Marzo – bowed to Skeletor.
"Excellent," Skeletor said to his action. "Then let us begin. We have work to do . . ."