Episode 9:Launch
Entrapta lifted up a metal plate, sliding down into the opening below. Flashs of sparks and the clanging of metal sounded from beneath the floor as she worked. Nearby, Emily handed her tools and parts as she needed them. Hordak tapped away at a keyboard, the sound of her work white noise to him. Lines of code and data flew across his vision as he did diagnostics of the ships systems. It was the third time today he had done a full scan, making absolutley sure things were working as intended. Everything was all green and he nodded in satisfaction.
"All systems are fully upgraded and operational." Hordak said, as Entrapta hopped out from under the floor.
"Excellent. Now we just need to do the final test. The batteries." Entrapta was filled with barely contained excitement at the prospect.
Hordak nodded and sat up from his chair, feeling a stiffness in his back from leaning forward for so long. WIth a loud pop he stretched, and groaned in both pain an releif. The pair headed toward the main lab, with Emily trundling behind them. Sitting at the center of the lab was the fruits of their months of research. The hopefully final prototype for their magical battery. It had been a long road to get the initial concept working. The most troublesome part had been containing the magical energy once it had been drawn from the atmosphere. It was highly unstable and had cause several small explosions during each of their tests. Their research had been stuck at that roadblock until about two months ago when Zed suggested that using one runestone shards in the creation of their batteries. The clone had discovered several on his research digs with Lance and George.
Entrapta moved to her computer station as Hordak double checked all their connections to the battery. It was a cylidrical device with a clear polycarbonate casing and a metal diode on either end. The runestone shard was in the center of the clear tube, connected to teh diodes that were then plugged into another device that drew in the energy and refined it before sending it into the battery itself. Once everything was ready, Entrapta turned to Hordak and the pair shared a nod before Entrapta initated the energy transfer sequence.
There was a whir of power a sthe ambient magic in the air was pulled into the condenser. Once condensed, the pure magical power flowed through long conduits, a visible pulse of light traveling across them as it moved. The engerly flowed throught the diodes, creating arcs of multicolored lightning as the energy was channeled into the runestone shard. The shard began to whine, and glow with power, making Entrapta and Hordak back away cautiously. Entrapta glanced over at the computer. The containment was holding, and the energy charge was already at 20% and climbing rapidly. The whining and glow intensified as the charge began to climb. 50% 62% 73%. Entrapta quickly rushed over to the shutoff switch, just as the energy approached 95%. The arcs of energy slowly disipated and the charge climbed slowly to 100% stablizing.
Hordak and Entrapta waited with baited breath. There was no explosion. Containment was stable. The runestone shard inside the battery now only faintly glowed softly resonating with power. Entrapta dared to approach the battery, disloding it from its connection and held it in her hands. She could feel the faint energy pouring off of it, like a tingle across her skin. Her eyes sparkled and she held the batter aloft.
"Eureka! Success!" she exclaimed.
"We will have to continue to refine the process of transferring the energy." Hordak pointed out. "But yes, success indeed."
"This calls for celebration!" Entrapta exclaimed. "We must tell the Queen! Now that we have these batteries we can finally traverse the stars!"
Hordak nodded in agreement and tapped the containment vessel of the battery. He felt that faint energy as well. The energy itself could not only serve as a secondary fuel source for the ship and other machines on Etheria but also solve one the main issues of traveling away from Etheria itself. Glimmer had noted that while out in space her powers did not function. It seemed distance from the runestones and Etheria's magic caused the princess's to be drained of power. But with the batteries they could carry magical energy with them to help the princesses recharge their magical reserves. In theory of course.
Entrapta excitedly grabbed her datapad, calling Glimmer. "Glimmer! I have amazing news! The newest battery test was a success! We have a stable source of rechargable magical energy that can bet transported! If out theories about the elemental princess powers are correct we can finally traverse the stars!"
Glimmer looked at Entrapta half lidded. Her hair was a mess, face half sunk into a pillow. She blinked, and yawned. "Entrapta. Do you know what time it is?"
Entrapta glanced over at the clock it was almost 4am. "Oh. Ooopsie. I guess we lost track of the time again hehehe."
Glimmer groaned. "Please unless its an emergency try not to call so early again. I'm going back to sleep. We can talk-" She let out a snorting yawn. "-more later, okay?"
"Oh yes of course. Bye for now." Glimmer let out a grumble and then hung up. "Well I suppose we could do some more calibrations before our proper presentation. But it occurs to me that getting at least a few hours of sleep may actually be more benificial."
"You sleep, I will handle calibrations." said Hordak as he looked at his console.
Entrapta slipped in behind him, coiling her hair around his arms and pinning them to his sides. "Ah ah ah. We talked about this. We would both work on getting better sleeping habits. Studies show that good sleep can help the mind better process information."
Hordak was lifted up by her hair as she started to walk. "Ugh. Very well."
"Good. Besides, I've been doing some studying on domestic traditions as well." She gave him a smile before continuing to her bedroom. "I'm looking to do some practical applications of cuddling."
Hordak blinked, as a strange new sensation bubbled inside him. "What."
Catra loved sleeping in. It was a luxury she had not been afforded the past few months. Her nightmares and work had kept her from being able to just bask in the warmth of her bed as she slipped in and out of sleep. She blindly reached for the warm form of Adora but sadly found nothing. Eyes still closed she frowned and kept grasping reaching farther and farther still only finding sheets and blanket. Slowly she sat up and looked around, letting out a yawn as she did. The sound of the shower indicated where her girlfriend had gone. The blonde stepped out of the bathroom minutes later, toweling off her hair.
"Morning~" said Catra stretching her back in the way only a feline could.
"Morning. Enjoyr sleeping in?" Adora asked as she approached.
"Mmm you have no idea." Catra purred, and slipped out of bed. "Can you get us some breakfast while I hit the shower?"
"Sure thing." Adora answere, kissing Catra's hand as the other woman touched her cheek.
Catra slid her hand across Adora's face as she walked past, leaving Adora to watch her saunter into the bathroom. The blonde blushed a little, realizing she had been staring and headed toward ther closet to get changed out of her sleepwear. She decided maybe one of her new outfits might be nice. It was a white. sleevless jumpsuit that fitted to her lean body. Lines of gold along the suit, and a several gold bangles broke up the solid whie. Her boots were her favorite shade of red, and were made for both function and style. Bringing the whole outfit together was a slightly different variation on her red jacket, with less pronounced shoulder pads and the symbol of pinned to her chest as a metal war badge of sorts. And finally a belt with several pouches and holsters. (Handmade by Bow for her Birthday)
Once she was fully dressed she heard a knock at the door. "Coming!" she called, moving to answer. "Oh, hey Glimmer."
Glimmer nodded her head and smiled. "Morning. Hope I'm not interuppting anything."
"No, not really. Catra's in the shower and I was just about to grab breakfast. Wanna join me?"
"That sounds nice." Glimmer said with a heavy sigh. "I have not eaten since I woke up and one cup of coffee is not enough."
"Then it would be my honor to escort you to the kitchens, my queen." Adora said with an overdramatic bow.
"Oh please do lead on, faithful knight." Glimmer giggled, putting on her best impression of her mother.
The pair shared a laugh before heading out. They returned not long after, having a quick breakfast with Catra before heading out again. The trio were headed to Entrapta and Hordak's lab, curious to see the fruits of their labor. Bow was already waiting for them when they arrived, being the most eager to see the technology Hordak and Entrapta had worked on.
The foured headed into the main lab which had been converted from one of Prime's control towers. It was huge space, filled with dozens of crates, barrels, and other containers of chemicals, machine components, and tools. Several consoles were arranged in a semi circle around the labs testing stage and there were work stations to teh left and right. It was not hard to tell whose work stations was whose based upon the parts being used and presens or lack of tiny food.
Hordak looked up from his computer as the four entered. "Ah, welcome. Thank you all for coming. Entrapta is in the kitchen preparing-" He let out a groan. "-tiny appetizers."
Bow snickered before waving to Hordak. "i'm excited to see what you two have been working on. I mean I've read the reports but I'd love to see it in person."
Entrapta entered the lab moments later with a tray of the promised appetizers. She had a paire of oven mitts on and an apron with the molecular symbol for salt. "Oh you're just in time. I made tiny spinach puffs! Careful they're still hot."
"Oooh thank you." Adora took one gratefully not heeding Entraptas warnings and just popped it into her mouth. She immedley puffed her cheeks, blowing as she tried to cool it off in her mouth.
Catra snickered at her and took one herself, taking a napkin to hold it on while it cooled. "You're so impatient." Adora tried to reply with her mouth full but failed, making Catra shake her head.
"I'm glad you could make it. We have so much to show you." Entrapta said as she offered more puffs to Glimmer and Bow.
"Well lead on." Glimmer said, taking a bite and hissing. "Oh wow those are hot."
Bow mirrored her action and Catra just stared at the three of them. "Why are you all like this?"
The trio ignored her as Entrapta lead them over to the testing area where the battery waited. She hooked it up to a display of lights and flipped the switch. The magical energy inside the rune stone was converted to electrical energy and flowed into the bulbs making them glow brightly. So bright that it was almost blinding.
"And voila." Entrapta said, before flipping the lights off. "We've successfully made a stalbe battery that can store excess magical energy.:"
"Wow, you finally worked out the kinks." Bow said, looking at the device. "Thats incredible. These batteries could be used to power all kinds of things."
"Don't you think its kind of dangerous to be using magic like that?" Adora asked. "I mean, we've learned first hand that trying to tamper with magic too can be disastrous."
"We've taken those concerns into account." said Entrapta. "We're well aware of the dangers that could come from abuse of combining technology and magic. But we beleive if used reponsbly it can be used for just as much good."
Glimmer walked over to the battery, hand touching the plastisteel surface as she looked at her refelction. "We can't repeat the mistakes made by the first ones. But I think Entrapta is right. Combining magic and technology responsibly will help Etheria build a better future."
Bow nodded in agreement. "The first ones tried to control magic and bend it to their will. They tried to control it too much and pushed the natural balance. We should always keep that balance in mind."
"i'm with Adora." said Catra. "We can't just go doing crazy experiments with things we don't fully understand." Her ears flattened. "Speaking from experience."
Glimmer looked to Adora and Catra. "I understand your concernes beleive me. I'm the last person who wants another Heart Of Etheria." She hummed in thought for a moment. "I'll speak with the council on setting laws and ground rules on magic an technology should be used. A set of guidelines."
Adora looked to the battery and nodded. "Okay, but I want to be their for all the proceedings."
"Of course." Glimmer nodded befor turning to Hordak. "Have you made sure to test and make sure its safe?"
"The only thing we have not tested is if the energy can be drawn out by elemental princesses like yourself your highness." Hordak said "We have done extensive testing on containment, energy levels, drawing only the required energy and so on."
"Well, only one way to do the last test." Glimmer remarked. as she pressed her hand against the runestone battery.
She took in a deep breath and focused, trying to find the connection to the stone. Eventually, she felt a soft warmth. If the Moonstone was a raging inferno, the shard was like a warm campfire. Slowly, she reached out to it with curious but gentle hand as if about to pet an unfamilar animal. Her minds touch pressed against the warmth and she felt the magic react but not in a negative or positive way, simply acknowledging her presence. With a bit of focus she tugged on the energy drawing it out of the runestones core and toward herself. The bundle of energy was at first resistant but its power began to slowly flow as Glimmer willed it filling her own body with warmth. After a few moments she slowed the flow like turning off a fauceet before pulling her hand back and opening her eyes.
"I think it worked." she said turning to the others.
Entrapta checked the batteries readings and indeed Glimmer had drawn at east five percent of its charge. "Fascinating. How do you feel?"
Glimmer looked at her hand, flexing it. "Like I just got a good nights rest and a refreshing bath." She sighed, basking in the flow of extra energy. "Its nice."
"Well, it seems our theories were correct." said Hordak, allowing himself a small smile. "Now we may traverse the stars without issue."
"Speaking oooooof~" Entrapta said, rolling on her chair. "Now we can show you our other project. Follow me."
Entrapta hopped off her chair with excitement and lead the group out of the main lab and toward a set of elevators. They took the lifte down a floor, the elevators opening up into a massive hangar like space. Its original purpose was as a launching platform for Prime's own ships and vehicles. With barely containe glee, Entrapta moved over to the hangar's main power switch, and flipped it on. Bright flood lights bathed the room in a warm glow, dispelling the near pitch black darkness. Glimmer, Catra Bow and Adora gasped as they beheld what sat in the hangar's center. It was Mara's ship, or at least it used to be. The first one's vess had been heavily modified and expanded. It had a mixture of both Prime tech, and First Ones tech, all brought together with Entrapta's own sense of desgin.
"I present to you Darla II aka The Moon Chaser!" Entrapta exclaimed, gesturing to the vessel. "Now equipped with more crew, storage, and utility spaces. Upgraded scanners, and communcation array. Gravitational, magnetic and energy shielding. Four warp space engines. A tractor beam, guided missile launchers, four mounted ion cannons, a plasma beam emitter." She finally stopped to take a breath. "Aaaaand a fully upgraded AI and computer system."
"I don't really know what half those words mean but...its sounds impressive." said Adora. "And I gotta say she looks gorgeus."
"Yeah, I gotta admit, I'm impressed." Catra said, moving in to get a closer look.
Bow as tearing up, trembling hands clasped together. "Its...beautiful. Entrapta, Hordak you're amazing. More than amazing."
"I must admit its really something." said Glimmer. "Though I do have to question why a diplomatic and exploration vessel would need that many weapons."
"We cannot be sure who or whatever we encounter will be non hostile." Hordak pointed out, arms behind his back. "We must be prepared to defend ourselves should the need arise."
"Hmm yeah thats true. Better safe than sorry." Glimmer admitted. "Still I think we should only use them if we absolutley have to."
Catra tapped on the ships armored hull and turned to Glimmer. "So have you decided whose even going on this mission?"
"Well, the four of us obviously." Glimmer answered. "Entrapta and Hordak too since ya know they upgraded the ship."
"Ooooh does that mean we get official titles and ship positions?" Adora asked.
"That wouild make sense, Bow agreed. "I volunteer for communcations officer. I think Hordak and Entrapta should science and engineering repsectivley."
"I would accept this position." Hordak said with a nod.
"Sounds good to me!" Entrapt agreed.
Glimmer hummed in thought. "I don't think I should be captain. I'd be more an emissary for Etheria. A diplomat I guess?"
"Catra should be captain then." said Adora.
Catra blinked in surprise, eyes widening in shock. "M-me?! Why me?"
"Well, I mean you have a lot experience being a leader." Adora pointed out. "And you've gotten even better at it since you've been helping with the restoration project."
"Yeah, you've more than proven you can take charge of things." Glimmer added.
"I don't know about this/" Catra said ears flattening. "Why can't Adora be captain? Isn't she like the big hero?"
"I mean, I am but I'm not as good a leader as you or Glimmer." Adora replied.
Catra scratched her head, grumbling. "I just don't know if I can."
"Then how about Adora is captain and you're first mate?" Bow suggested. "Seems like a good compromise."
Catra hummed in throught, tail flicking back and forth before she let out a heavy sigh. "Fine. I guess so."
"That settles it then." Glimmer said, clapping her hands togther. "We should probably have at least a couple more crewmembers though." She hummed in thought. "Mermista and Seahawk are out since the repairs in Salineas are still underway. And to be honest, I would rather not bring Frosta. She's nice and all but ya know..."
"How bout Scorpia?" Bow suggested. "I think we could use the extra muscle."
"Maybe also Pefuma?" said Catra. She knew Scorpia wouldn't come without Perfuma considering their last conversation.
"Why Perfuma?" Adora asked. "I mean, I'm not against it but I'm surpirse you're the one suggesting it."
"Well...I mean who knows what kind wierd alien plants we'll run into. Might be nice to have the flower princess around for that."
"That does make sense." Bow said with a nod. "We should ask them first though before we make any decisions."
Glimmer nodded and turned to Entrapta and Hordak. "Start preperations for out launch. I'll be taking care of a few things beforehand."
"Of course, Queen Glimmer." Hodrak said with a small bow.
"I can help with any preperations you guys need." said Bow raising his hand.
Adora mirroed him. "Me too! I can do any heavy lifting."
"Then I guess that leaves me to go talk to Scorpia and the flower princess." Catra said, putting a hand on her hip. She then walked over to give Adora a kiss before following after Glimmer. "Try not to get too sweaty. You just showered."
"No promises." Adora laughed, kissing her back.
"Perfuma should still be at the castle." said Glimmer as Catra moved in step beside her. "All the other princesses left but she decided to stick around for a bit."
Catra had to hide a smug smile. "Gee, I wonder why."
Micah leaned back in his chair, sipping a cup of tea. He and his sister Castaspella were discussing the goings on of Mystacor. There had been apparently some experiments into using the extra magic now present on Etheria and its potential. New spells were even being created. It was fascniating but very technical. Even someone withy a decent amount of arcane knowledge might get lost in places. There conversation was interuppted when there was a knock at the door.
"Who is it?" Micah asked, setting down his tea.
"Its me Dad." Glimmer answered, voiced muffled from behind the door.
"Come in Glimmer dear." Castaspella said, her niece entering moments later. "Your father and I were just having some afternoon tea."
"What brings you here, my Glimmer?"
"I was hoping I could talk to you about the mission into space."
Micah frowned a little. "Ah yes, that."
Castaspella looked between the two and stood up. "This...seems like a discussion for just the two of you. I'll talk to you later Micah." She gave both her brother and niece a quick kiss on the forehead before heading out.
Micah took a sip of his tea before speaking. "I have reservations about this mission into space Glimmer. You're the queen of Bright Moon. You have responbilities."
"I'm well aware of that." Glimmer said, a slight edge to her voice. "Thats why I've been working my butt off for months to make sure that Etheria was in a better position to run without me. The council, and you can take care of things in my place. Besides you have way more experience being King than I do Queen."
"I think having others to delegate to is good. You've done well on that front." Micah's tone was similarly stern to match Glimmer's seriousness. "But being a queen is more than just being in charge of things. You're a symbol, a beacon that can inspire people. The people of Etheria may beleive that you have abdicated your duties, and abandoned them if you leave so soon after Prime's defeat."
"Its also my responsbility as queen to help make Ehteria a better place." Glimmer retorted. "And to be a representative of its people. Going into space to seek out alliances, and help people who have been harmed by Primes rule is something that isn't just the right thing to do. Its good for Etheria." She narrowed her eyes. her countenance reminding Micah so much of Angela. "We've beem stuck in Despondos for millenia hidden from the universe. Who knows what kind of amazing discoveries we could make and all the people we could help or that could help us."
"And who knows what kind of dangers you'll find." Micah quickly argued. "We have no idea what kind of horrors are out there."
"And we'll never know if we just stay here!" Glimmer nearly shouted.
Micah slammed his hand on the table and rose from his seat. "DAMMNIT GLIMMER I JUST GOT YOU BACK I CAN'T LOSE YOU AGAIN!" Glimmer was taken aback for a moment and Micah's face softened. He seemed to deflate, all his anger just flowing out of him. He slumped back into his chair, voice quiet. "I...can't lose you again."
Glimmer frowned and stood up, moving to kneel next her father and place a hand over his. "I'm sorry dad. I understand how you feel. But you don't have to worry about me, I'll be fine. Adora and the others will make sure of that. And I'll try and keep in touch, okay?"
Micah gripped her hand tight and sighed. "My how you've grown, my Glimmer. I remember when this hand of yours could barely wrap around my finger. Now look at you, all grown up and an amazing and strong leader." He paused for a moment, running his thumb across her hand. "I still have my concerns and reservations about all this, but I'll respect your decision."
Glimmer smiled and leaned in to give her father a hug. "Thanks Dad. Love you."
"Love you too, Glimmer."
Catra searched around the castle for any sign of Scorpia or Perfuma. Neither were in their room, or the kitchens. Eventually her search lead her out of the castle and into the gardens. They were lush and green, well kept by generations. Flowers, small trees, bushes and lush green grass were everywhere. There small creatures flitting about among the green, birds, insects and the like. Near center of the garden was a lily pond, with several large, shady trees nearby. Catra finally spotted Perfuma and Scorpia beneath one of said trees.
The feline gave them some space for a moment, watching them afar. She wanted to make sure she wasn't barging in on something romantic. From what Catra could see they were both wearing flower crowns, and dressed in some form fitting workout gear. Perfuma was doing various stretches, extending her lithe body as Scorpia did her best to mirror her. After a few moments of observation Catra approached as they began to move into a different stretch.
"And now we outstretch the arms, and bend the knee, legs outstretched." said Perfuma, as she easily peformed the motion. "Hold the position and breath in and back to neutral. Then we do the other side."
Scorpia struggled with the motions a little, her large frame making it a bit harder. But despite that she seemed to be getting the hang of it. "I think I got that kink out." she said, finally finding her balance.
"Goood. Don't strain yourself though. We're not here to make these positions perfect." Perfuma moved into a prayer pose. "Just the best you can."
Scorpia nodded and mirrored her. "Right."
"I'm not interuppting am I?" Catra asked as she approached.
Scorpia turned and waved with a smile. "Oh hey, wildcat! Perfuma was just showing me some yoga poses."
Perfuma did a pose that lifted one of her legs and bent it to press her foot agianst her knee before making a prayer motion. "Care to join us?"
"Yeah its really relaxing." said Scorpia, doing her best to stay balanced as she tried to do the same pose.
"Uuuuh, I'm good thanks." Catra replied, waving a hand. "Not really my kind of thing."
"Well if you change your mind let me know." said Pefuma doing another pose. "Its very good for the body and spirit."
"So, what brings you here wildcat?" Scorpia asked, wobbling a little as she balanced.
"I don't know if you've heard but Sparkles been planning a expedition out into space." Catra began crossing her arms. "I came to ask if you two wanted to join us on the mission. We could really use Scorpia's muscle and having an expert on plants wouild be pretty helpful." Catra smirked a little. "That last part was a half truth. I know you two probably wouldn't wanna be far apart so soon after you started dating."
Perfuma and Scorpia both blushed in unison and the larger woman finally toppled. "W-we've only been on the one date, wildcat."
"Though it was very nice." Perfuma admitted, before helping Scorpia to her feet. "But I agree One date doesn't mean we're dating."
"Fair enough but my point stands." Catra retorted. "You two probably don't wanna be apart for who knows how long right?"
Scorpia offered a nod of thanks to Perfuma as she was helped up. "W-well, I mean yeah. But you don't have to say it out loud."
"Hmmm it is an interesting offer." Perfuma said, putting a finger to her chin. "I'm torn. On the one hand, having to live on a ship for possibly months would not be ideal. But on the other hand, the thought of seeing entirely new ecosystems of nature is thrilling."
"I like the idea of traveling." Scorpia said, pulling Catra into a sidehug. "It'll be like a roadtrip with my bestie." Catra managed to wriggle free making Scorpia give an apologetic look. She then turned to Perfuma. "But, Catra is super right. I'd...probably wouldn't go if you didn't."
Perfuma let out a giggle, and blush. "Well, I wouldn't want to keep you from a 'road trip with your bestie'. Count me in."
"Good to hear, I'll let Sparkles knOOOOWWW! Scorpia put me down!"
Scorpia had lifted the pair up in either arm, giving one of ther patented hugs. "Ooooh this is gonna be so great! I'm so excited!"
"Okay okay! Geez you're more touchy feely than usual today!" Catra hissed, trying to squirm free.
Scorpia set he and Perfuma down. "Anyway, just let us know when we're supposed to leave, okay wildcat?"
'Yes theres lots of planning to do." said Perfuma. "I need to make sure my kingdom is left in good hands and that someone takes care of my plants while I'm gone. They get so lonely."
"Maybe we could take a few with us?" Scorpia suggested.
"Thats a great idea!" the flower princess exclaimed, clapping her hands together.
Catra couidn't help buit smile watching the two, they really were perfect together. "Well I'll leave you guys to that. See ya later."
"Later wildcat!" Scorpia said with a wave.
Catra kept smiling as she walked catching bits of pieces of the pairs excited conversation. It was infectuously cute and heartwarming.
Adora headed to her room, stretching her limbs She had just spent the better part of the last few hours loading heavy equipment into Darla II. There was more to be done but a majority of their supplies and cargo were now ready for launch day. Bow decied to stay at the lab, continuing to help with final calibrations on the ship's systems as well as learning how all the technology worked. With nothing else to do, Adora decided to finally get some lunch with Catra. As walked, she heard the familar sound wings and hoof clops nearby.
"Oh hey Swifty." she said, waving as the horse landed. "Haven't seen you for a almost a week. Was starting to worry about you."
"I have my own life outside of you, Adora." he replied, flitting his feathers. "But, your concern is very aprpeciated." He moved in to give her a nuzzle. "I've just been flying hither and yon, spreading the good word of quadrapedal independence. And honestly just kind of enjoying all the extra magic in the air. Its invigorating. Makes just want to spread my wings and fly on into the sunset!"
Adora laughed, givving him a pat as they started to walk together. "I get what you mean. Lately I've been feeling a stronger connection to my powers. I feel stronger, faster and just well...more me I guess."
Swiftwind let out a little whinny. "It the connection between you and the planet. Without the heart of etheria taking all the magic the core of etheria can more directly connect to you."
"You know Swifty sometimes you say really informative and wise things."
"I a conduit for your power Adora." Swiftwind said, trying to sound mysterious. "I hold many secrets and can hear the voice of Etheria. And do you know what its telling me right now?"
"That you...want a sugar cube?" Adora asked, with a knowing smile.
Swiftwind narrowed his eyes and got a little huffy. "No. Thats not what my inner wisdom is saying. But. I would very much like a sugar cube."
She pulled one from her pocket, always having at least a few on hand. "So what is your inner wisdom really telling you?"
Swifwind whinnied and slurped up the sugar cube before answering. "My inner wisdom is telling me that you should take me with you on your trip into space."
Adora stopped, putting a hand on her hip. "And how do you know I was going into space soon?"
"I have my ways." he answered, putting a hoof to his chest.
She quirked a brow at him, hand on her hip. "You've eavedropping haven't you?"
"Ah, Adora, I'm offnded! How dare you accuse me of such a thing!" She continued to give him an even look and he faltered. "Okay I maybe may have overheard a few things. So can I go?"
"Weeeeell, I don't know." Adora said in that way you did when a child begged for a toy. "Are you sure you're up for it? Itll be pretty dangerous."
"Danger is my middle name. Swift Danger Wind. I can handle it I promise. Besides the last time you went out into space I stared up at the stars waiting for you to come back. I can only do so much wistful staring in one lifetime Adora."
She couldn't help but life. "Fine, fine. I think having a scout who can fly would be great to have around."
"Scout Swiftwind, reporting for duty captain!" he said, saluting with his wing.
She saluted back. "At ease, scout. Now, if you'll excuse me I need lunch."
"I could go for something myself. I'm sure apple orchard nearby won't miss a few or a dzoen." Swiftwind then spread his wings and left the same way he came in. Dramtically and with a huge gust of wind.
In the coming weeks the ship was prepped for its maiden voyage. Though technically it was upgraded from an original shipt that had already had its maiden voyage. But the details didn't matter. All of its cargo was readied, As was its crew, including the final additon, Melog who Catra refused to leave behind. The computer systems were triple and quadruple checked along with all the ship's functions. Multiple rune stone batteries were charged with magic, enough to last them a whole year by Entrapta and Hordak's calculations. The diplomatic matters were also set into place, leaving Micah in charge of Bright Moon in Glimmer's abscence.
After nearly a two weeks of prep, hundreds of citizens gathered at the launching pad. All the princesses and dignitaries were there and anyone who could make it. Gifts, well wishes, hugs, tears and all alike were shared among the crew and those gathered. Once the farewells had died down, Glimmer moved to stand on a makeshift stage. It was connected to the communcation spire, and would relat her message to all of Etheria.
"Thank you all for gathering here on this momentous occasion." Glimmer began, looking out the mixture of hope, tears, and terpidation among the people. "We here for a momentous step for all of Etheria. For centuries, our planet was closed off from the stars, unable to see the vast universe before us. But no longer. We make this journey to foster friendship, make great discoveries, and to show the universe what Etheria represents to its people. Though I may be leaving you for a time. My heart will be here, and I will carry your hopes with me to build a better tomorrow for our home and the universe! I wish you all well, and that you carry on making Etheria better in my abscence."
The crowd roared with cheers, and applause, as Glimmer and the rest of the crew all waved. One by one they began to board the ship, with Adora being the last. She gave one last triumphant raise of her fist to the people and then stepped inside. As the ship's door's closed, the crew moved into the command room, each taking their positions.
"Beginning launch sequence." said Hordak, tapping away at his console. "Everyone secure yourself."
Hordak pressed a button on his seat, summoning an X shaped harness, around himself. The othe did the same, while Entrapta helped Hordak with the launch sequence. Everyone both outside and in, waited with bated breath as the ship's engines begn to rev up, charging with power. Once at maximum charge, Hordak turned to Adora, hand hovering over the button.
"Captain? Would you care to do the honors?" he asked, a bit of uncharacteristic mirth in his voice.
Adora smiled and nodded. "Countdown for launch. 3. 2. 1. Liftoff!"
Hordak slammed the buttone down and the Moon Chaser slowly hovered up higher and higher into the sky. Then the engines unleashed their energy, creating a small shockwave and a massive gust of wind. Like a shooting star, the ship hurtled upward into the stratosphere, far beyond the clouds, turning into a twinkling streak of light that could be seen for miles. Within minutes, the powerful g forces pushing on the crew finallay halted, as they escaped Etheria's gravitational pull. They now began to drift through the vast sea of stars. Taking their first step on a new adventure.
Author's Notes
Thanks to the people who have enjoyed this fic so far and I apologize for the infrequent updates.
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