Episode 8 Dates And Diplomacy

Catra drifted in a void, finding no sense of gravity or perception. She then felt a deep bitter chill, and she was suddenly pulled down and beyond by an unseen surface. The chill grew, water seeping into her lungs and soaking her through. It was a deep abyss, with only silvery light breaking the surface. She struggled and gasp for air but could not move. Then, she saw a figure, floating in the light. Her eyes widened as she saw Adora, body limp and lifeless, eyes foggy white. Catra could not scream, or move, uselessly flailing as bubbles poured from her lips in the dark abyss. That was when the whispers came. A dozen voices speaking in a dissonant chorus in some tones she recognized and some she did not.

"You couldn't save her."

"You can't save anyone."

"You are weak."

She felt herself slowly pulled down deep into the depths, farther and farther away from the lifeless Adora. In the shadows of the water she could see the scornful faces of Mermista, and the Salineans looming, watching as she drowned. That was when she felt what was pulling her down, chains with heavy iron weights. More appeared, wrapping around her arms and midsection, making her sink faster and faster. Then she finally reached the bottom, lungs burning and cold seeping into her bones then the visage of Adora's dead face flashed in front of her once more.

Catra gasped, air finally filling her lungs. The deep biting cold was gone, replaced by the cold sweat on her back. The touch of chains were the sheets and blankets tossed about her. She quickly looked to her side, finding Adora sleeping, a soft snore falling from her lips. Catra sighed, and brushed a finger across Adora's cheek, before sliding out of bed. After glancing at the clock she groaned. It was far too early to be awake, but not early enough to try and get back to sleep. A truly hateful frame of time. Melog seemed to sense her distress and moved from their spot on the floor to press their snout into her side. She smiled at them and after a few moments she slipped out of bed.

Her shared room with Adora had slowly grown homier over the past few months. They had replaced their paired single beds with a massive queen size one. It was made to their specs, firm and far less plush than a normal bed like it. But there were lots of pillows, which Adora often hugged in her sleep when not grabbing Catra. The wardrobe had been diversified for both of them. They clearly had a preference for certain looks and colors but at least they were not always wearing the same things anymore. Pefuma had provided some flowers to brighten up parts of the room, and there was a shelf now full of little knick knacks that Catra had picked up while traveling across Etheria. A iradescent river rock, a seafoam green shell, the bleached skull of some reptilian creature and so on. Catra was never one for such things but much like how Adora had taken to reading, she found her own little hobby, strange as it was.

Catra made her way over to the bathroom, taking a moment to wash her face. As she looked herself over in the mirror she took note of her hair. It had grown back out to her shoulders since she originally had it cut. She preferred having longer hair, but thought her usual mane look needed a changeup. After finding a nearby hairband she tied her hair back, into a low ponytail, parting it to one side. Satisfied, she got dressed, putting on one of her newer outfits. A sleeveless black top with a high collar, and a crimson red leather jacket, with the symbol of Bright Moon emblazoned on the back. Her black tights were trimmed with red lines along her legs and thighs, and a belt hung at an angle around her waist.

Adora began to stir, as Catra looked herself over in the mirror. "What time is it?"

"Way too fricking early." Catra sighed, walking over to her.

"Then come back to bed." Adora grumbled, beckoning her over.

"I'd probably get like ten minutes more of sleep tops." Catra replied, before giving Adora a kiss on the forehead. "I'm gonna go get some breakfast for us, okay?"

"Mmmm, okay." Adora yawned, mind still half asleep. "Bring me donuts."

Catra rolled her eyes. "As you wish, princess."

Adora stuck out her tongue lazily. "Love you."

"Love you too."

As Adora drifted back into slumber, Melog followed after Catra through the halls and toward the kitchens. Catra had gotten lost her first few dozen times going through the castle on her own. But now she had grown familiar with its twists, turns and stairways. She had also grown accustom to the guard shifts, even recognizing a few names and faces. As she walked past one of the small balcony gardens her sharp ears caught the faint sound of a familiar voice. Curious, the cat followed, walking out onto the large balcony.

The sun wasn't even rising yet, moon low and starting to fade along with the stars. The soft silvery blue glow bathed everything in its light. Several hedges and flowering bushes grew long the balcony, with the centerpiece being a small fountain. Pacing back and forth near the statue was Scorpia mumbling something to herself. Catra padded her way over, slinking silently. She didn't have to try too hard, as Scorpia was so distracted by her own thoughts. As Scorpia turned around to pace again, Catra was standing in her path.

"Hey."

Scorpia let out a scream of surprise and went flailing backward. She tried to catch herself, but ended up dunking her head into the fountain. Catra sputtered with laughter, Melog joining her with their own joyful noises. After wiping a tear from her eye, Catra helped Scorpia to her feet. The larger woman shook her hair dry, and shivered a little from the cold water.

"That's one way to wake you up in the morning." Scorpia said, knocking some water out of her ear.

"Sorry, I couldn't resist." Catra replied, holding back another laugh. "What are you doing out here so early?"

Scorpia suddenly blushed, avoiding Catra's gaze "O-oh, nothing. Nothing at all."

Catra smiled mischievously. "Nothing huh? Sure didn't seem like nothing. You were pacing pretty nervously and talking to yourself."

"Y-you didn't hear anything did you? I mean not that you could hear anything because clearly it was nothing and I'm totally not nervous about anything at all." Catra quirked a brow at her and Scorpia sighed, shoulders sagging. "Okay, yeah, I was talking to myself. I guess I was practicing."

"Practicing what?"

"I-Its dumb don't worry about it." Scorpia insisted.

"Well it can't be that dumb if its making you so jumpy." Catra said. "Come on, spill."

Scorpia sat down on the edge of the fountain, searching for the words. "I was...practicing because I'm trying to figure out how to ask Perfuma on a date."

Catra's eyes widened and she blinked in surprise. "Oh."

"Yeah. I just don't know what to say. Or should I even say anything at all?" Scorpia began to stammer, words flowing from her lips like a river. "Maybe I should just keep this to myself. I don't want to make things weird and what if she says no and then that would super awkward and-"

Catra put a finger to Scorpia's now pursed lips. "Listen, I am the last person who should be giving advice about romance or whatever. But, speaking from experience, nothing good ever comes from not telling someone how you feel. Trust me. My girlfriend had to almost die before I said I loved her. Don't do the same."

Scorpia's eyes sparkled with tenderness. Catra knew what was coming next. She could have leapt away, or used her reflexes to dodge. But she fought all her instincts and instead accepted what came next begrudgingly. Scorpia stood up and pulled her into one of her patented hugs. She didn't hold it for long, remembering their talk about boundaries, and set Catra down moments later.

"Thanks Wildcat."

'Its no big." Catra said, blushing a little. "After all, I have a lot to make up for in the whole 'being an actual good friend' department."

"You're doing great. I'm still super nervous but I won't hide my feelings forever. I'll ask her out as soon as possible."

"Best of luck." Catra chuckled. "For now, how bout some breakfast. I was about go get some stuff from the kitchens. Maybe you'd like to...I don't know join me and Adora for coffee? That's a thing friends do right?"

"That sounds great!" Scorpia exclaimed, having to stop herself from giving another hug. "And coffee sounds real good right about now. I could use a pick me up before the meeting today."

"Ugh, don't remind me. I hate council meetings."

The pair then walked with Melog in tow to the kitchens as the sun was finally starting to peak past the horizon. Fingers of golden orange light stretched across Bright Moon's castle walls.

Glimmer downed the rest of her coffee, and looked herself over once more in the mirror. Feeling mostly presentable, she walked out of her chambers. Her two personal guards moved from either side of the door, and began to walk just a few steps behind her. She honestly disliked having them shadow her all the time, but it was not something that was really negotiable. It didn't take her long to arrive in Bright Moons council chamber. It had been renovated in the last few months. More seats had been added to accommodate all the new members of the council and other diplomats from other parts of Etheria. As she walked in, something seemed off. She glanced at one of the guards at the chamber's door.

"You can show yourself, Double Trouble."

The guard smiled, transforming into the shapeshifter's true form. "You're getting good at seeing through my disguises your majesty."

Her two personal guards readied their weapons but Glimmer raised a hand. "They're with me. Please wait outside." The guards hesitated for a moment. "That's an order."

With a quick bow, the guards stepped out leaving the pair.

"I even made sure the guard usually stationed there was on break." Double Trouble sighed.

"Lets just say I'm getting a sixth sense for these things." Glimmer smiled. "I assume you're done with your mission?"

"As requested." they bowed. "Would you like the full report now?"

"No. Wait for the rest of the council. Our guest won't be arriving until two hours after our opening meetings."

"So, I have to sit in on the logistics snorefest?" they groaned.

"Consider yourself honored." Glimmer remarked smugly. "Besides, the royal spy should probably be present for these sorts of things."

"Royal spy? I do love titles." Double Trouble said, humming in delight. "I guess that means I get to sit at the big kids table."

Moments later Bow arrived, looking over his datapad. He had slowly taken on a new look in the past few months. His usual outfit now sported a bit of golden leather armor on his right arm that covered his index and middle finger. He had let his hair grow into short dreads that were combed back and held in place with a red hair tie decorated with a small heart. His pants were dark blue, with golden kneepads, and tall boots that were mostly the same gold colored leather. But on the outside of either calf they were emblazoned with a red heart, outlined in white,

"Morning, Bow." Glimmer said with a smile.

"Morning Glimmer, Morning Double Trouble." Bow hummed to himself and sat down. After several moments his eyes went wide and he stood to his feet. "Double Trouble?!"

"Its okay Bow they're with us." Glimmer assured.

"Yeah, no need to be so high-strung ranger boy." Double Trouble chuckled.

Bow moved over to whisper at Glimmer. "How long has Double Trouble been here?"

"A few months. They've been doing some spy and scouting work for us."

"And you decided not to tell me, because?"

Glimmer quirked a brow at him. "Bow, I don't know if you've noticed but I have a lot on my plate. We all do. I'm sorry if it kind of got lost in the shuffle."

Bow was about to offer a rebuttal, when Catra entered the room. Adora, and Scorpia were right behind her, offering their greetings. The three blinked in surprise and bewilderment as Double Trouble waved back.

"Double Trouble." Catra hissed, ears folding back.

"Hi there kitten." the changeling replied. "No hard feelings about our last encounter, right?"

Catra's eye twitched and she smiled. "None at all." She quickly approached Glimmer, leaning down for a hissing whisper. "What are they doing here?!"

"That was what I said." Bow exclaimed.

"Both of you stop it." Glimmer replied. "Its fine. Trust me. My dad and I made sure to put a spell on Double Trouble so they can't lie in my presence or his presence and they report directly to me so there's no need to worry."

"Well, that does make me feel a little better." Bow said, with a thoughtful look. "Though I do have to question the morality of that."

"Pssh, serves them right. Backstabber." Catra scowled, earning her a look from both Bow and Glimmer. "Okay, yes, I realize that I'm throwing a stone from a glass house but I like the breeze!"

"So, you're kittens main squeeze." Double Trouble commented, circling Adora. "Hmmm, I see why she likes you. Tall, strong, nice features."

"Uhm...thank you?"

Catra's eye twitched again, her claws sinking into the table. "Hey. Back. Off."

"Ooooh, so defensive." Double Trouble said, teasingly. "No need to worry kitten, she's not really my type."

Catra quickly moved back over to Adora, taking her arm, and sticking out her tongue at Double Trouble. Adora just looked back and forth between the pair, in bewilderment and confusion. Catra pulled her several seats away from Double Trouble, staring daggers at the changeling. At least until Scorpia took her seat between them, her larger frame blocking their view of each other.

A look of realization came over Adora. "Wait, were they hitting on me?"

"You're lucky you're cute." Catra sighed, holding back a laugh.

"That can't be the only reason you love me." Adora retorted.

"I can think of a view other ones."

"Okay, you two save the lovey dovey for later." said Glimmer. "Everyone else should be here soon."

Sure enough, the other members of the council began to slowly filter in over the next ten minutes. Hordak, and Entrapta were the first, followed not long after by Juliet, Spinerella, and Netossa. Mermista, Seahawk, and Perfuma arrived together. The flower princess quickly moved over to sit next to Scorpia, offering her a friendly smile. Catra gave her a 'you got this' look which made Scorpia blush. Micah, Castaspella and Frosta arrived next, along with two of the newest members of the council. Bright Moon's newly appointed head of trade and mercantile dealings named Galvan. A heavier set fellow with a large bushy beard and thick braided hair, a large nose and warm smile. In contrast to him was a tall, muscular woman, and newly appointed head of the builders and architects guild named Zedra. She was a humanoid rhino in appearance, with large floppy ears, and a pair of trimmed horns on her face.

"Good, now that everyone is here I'd like to discuss a few things before our guest of honor arrives." Glimmer began as everyone was seated. "Catra, Netossa, and Zedra how are rebuilding efforts in the areas around Bright Moon and the whispering woods?"

Netossa and Zedra nodded to Catra, who stood from her seat. "Most of the major damage has been taken care off. Buildings, homes, shops and so on. We've also finished up most of the clean up of Prime's robots and the tech left behind. Its being repurposed, or put into storage for later use. We've also been discussing the possibility of forming small militias and defenses for the villages without defenses like Bright Moon."

"Its not really my department." said Zedra. "But I think we need to shore our defenses. Walls, outposts, and so on."

Netossa nodded. "The citizens need to be able to defend themselves. They can't rely on the Princesses and She-ra for everything."

"But who would we be defending from?" Galvan said, twirling his mustache. "We live in a time of peace!"

"But for how long?" Hordak said, templing his fingers. "Prime may be gone but there will always be threats to peace. From simple raiding bandits to other conquerors looking to fill the vacuum left behind in Prime's absence. To be complacent is folly."

"As much as it pains me to do so, I agree with him." Micah said. "Etheria cannot rely solely on its champions for protection. The people must be given the means to defend themselves."

"I also agree." said Glimmer. "Juliet, I want you and other members of the Bright Moon guard to start organizing volunteers for militias and training them. Zedra, you and the architects begin plans to construct defensive walls and towers as well as outposts. Catra, and Netoss coordinate with her to make sure these defenses are placed strategically."

"I believe i may also offer some insight here." Galvan said. "Trade routes, and roads should be taken into consideration when placing these outposts."

"Of course." Glimmer replied with a nod. "Speaking of trade. How goes our efforts to try and make such routes?"

"Well enough." Galvan remarked, stroking his beard. "But the whispering woods consistently proves to be a difficult hurdle. Any trade to and out of Bright Moon by land will have to completely circumvent the forest."

"Maybe Perfuma and I can try and find a solution to that." Adora offered.

"Yes, the whispering woods has an almost collective will." Perfuma commented. "With She-ra's powers and mine we might be able to speak to it and allow a main road to pass through without disturbing it."

"I'll leave that to you then." said Glimmer. "For now focus on trade routes by sea."

"I can certainly help with that." Seahawk offered, puffing proudly. "No one knows the seas like me."

"No one knows how to set a galleon on fire like you either." Mermista groaned.

"Daaaaww, thank you my sea angel."

"That wasn't a compliment."

The meeting continued as Glimmer received a report on the status of the other kingdoms. Their rebuilding efforts were also going well, and were more or less back in working order or even better off than before. Hordak, and Entrapta had a report on their progress with Prime's long distance communications. As well as their experiments in collecting excess magical energy in batteries and upgrading Darla for an eventual diplomatic and exploration mission into space. But that would wait until things were better established on Etheria. Only one report then remained as Glimmer turned to Double Trouble.

"Everyone, for those who don't know, this is Double Trouble. They have been acting as our royal spy and scout for the last few months. I asked them to do some recon on our guest."

"Thank you, your majesty." Double Trouble said, bowing dramatically. "From what I can tell, this Callix person seems to be exactly what they say they are. I didn't see anything to the contrary while I was living among them. The worst thing I can say about Callix is they're a bit of a bore and a stiff but a good leader."

"Wait, you had Double Trouble spy on Callix?" Bow asked.

"Yes. I wanted to be sure they were on the up and up before we made any deals." Glimmer replied. "I want to give people the benefit of the doubt but you can't blame me for being cautious."

"I guess not." Bow sighed, still frowning.

"Well unless anyone else has something they'd like to say, our guest in question should be arriving shortly."

The rest of the council took a brief recess as Glimmer went to greet Callix in person. Bow, and Adora joined her, allowing her some time away from her personal guards. The three headed out into the castles main courtyard, sharing some small talk. A few minutes passed before a hover tank approached from the distance. It slowly came to a stop. Callix stepped out from inside, joined by a pair of their elite troopers. Glimmer and Adora were in awe at Callix's stature and weight as they neared. The stone giant offered a bow of respect, which the three returned.

"Welcome to Bright Moon. I am queen Glimmer."

"I am Callix." the stone giant replied. "This is Borom, and Percival. They insisted I require guards."

"Thats something I can relate to." Glimmer chuckled.

"I'm Adora." the blonde said, shaking Callix's giant hand.

"Aaah, the famous protector of Etheria. It is an honor."

"Pssh, you're making me blush." Adora giggled.

Callix smiled, and stood straight once more. "And good day to you Bow."

"Same. The council is ready to meet you." Bow replied, gesturing with a hand.

Callix nodded and followed the three, their guards moving in step behind them. The three were lead to the entrance of the meeting room. The guards at the door, called for their weapons. After a moment of hesitation Callix nodded in understanding, handing off his axe. The guard taking it nearly fell forward as the weapon was dropped in their grip, they strained to hold it, face flushing with effort. Callix's guards followed suit, and the small group headed inside where the others were waiting. Callix's massive frame earned them several stares and curious looks. The stone giant seemed to ignore them, taking the seat set for them, which thankfully had been made larger to accommodate them. Their two guards stood by the door along with the Bright Moon guards, watching silently.

"Greetings, council of Bright Moon." Callix said, taking in the gathered. "I am Callix. Queen Glimmer, and Bow have told me this meeting is to speak on what is to be done with the Fright Zone, and my people who now inhabit it."

Glimmer nodded and looked to the other members of the council. "We've already gone over some of the proposals before you're arrival. We all have agreed we want to have a friendly relationship and want you to continue living there and cooperate."

Glimmer was about to continue before Hordak raised a hand. "If I may, your majesty. I have another proposal that I wished to withhold until our guest's arrival."

Callix looked Hordak up and down. "I should have guessed that the previous lord of the Fright Zone would have something to say on these matters."

Glimmer made a 'go on' motion, to Hordak, who nodded in thanks. "My fellow council members. I am in no position to be making demands or requests. But, I would humbly ask a great favor. My brothers, the clones of Prime are lost and without a place to call their own. We have all seen it, they wander lost, creating temporary settlements or finding uneasy work with the people of Etheria. They are directionless, and many people hold animosity toward them. The current state of things is not healthy for either side."

Bow nodded in agreement. "Zed's mentioned as much. And I've seen it for myself. Many of the clones suffer undue prejudice and are taken advantage of. Without Prime they don't have any structure."

"Much like my people." Callix remarked. "I see what you are trying to say. You wish for Primes clones to make the Fright Zone their home and live among my people."

"Yes." Hordak replied. "I know this is much to ask. From everyone. Moving all the clones would require manpower, and planning that could be used elsewhere. But, I believe it is in the best interest of all, and follows the path set down by Queen Glimmer at the Bright Moon festival. Building a better Etheria for all its people. What say the council?"

To everyone's surprise the first one to speak was Catra. "I agree. The clones should be a part of the new Etheria as much as everyone else."

Adora smiled at her, and placed a hand on hers. "I agree too."

There were a series of agreements all around, including Callix themselves and even Micah. The vote was unanimous. Hordak looked stunned for a moment, glancing around at the gathered council. He offered a deep bow, and a thank you, before taking his seat again, soon feeling Entrapta's arm hook around his own. With an official agreement made, the true purpose of the meeting began, discussing the logistics. Moving supplies, trade agreements, how involved Calix's people would be in salvage, the autonomy of the Fright Zone and so on. Several members of the council nearly drifted off to sleep during the proceedings, especially Frosta, and Mermista. Double Trouble openly fell asleep but had mastered the art of doing so with their eyes open to save face.

Eventually the meeting ended and those visiting Bright Moon were all offered guest quarters before returning to their own homes. The visiting princesses had their own rooms that were almost like a second home for them, while Callix and the other members of the council had more simple accommodations. Many of them were eager to retire from the meetings and decompress. Especially Glimmer herself, who let out a long groan of exasperation once it was only her and the rest of the Best Friend Squad.

"Uuuuugh. I think my brain is going to be leak out of my ears." she sighed.

"Tell me about it." Catra said, rubbing her temples. "Its barely after lunch and I've already done enough work to last me a week."

"Maybe we should all take a break?" Bow suggested. "We've kinda been working almost nonstop since Prime was defeated. I think we've all earned at least one day off."

"Yeah, that sounds great." Adora agreed. "Catra and I haven't had time for a proper date at all."

"A date would be nice." Catra hummed in thought. "Uhm, what do people usually do on dates anyway?"

Bow and Glimmer shared a look, before the Queen spoke up. "Spending your whole life in the Horde really sheltered you huh? You don't really do anything specific on dates. Just spend time together, go out have fun. Do something you both enjoy."

"Ahhh, so you're the date expert now?" Catra retorted. "Didn't know you had so much experience Sparkles."

Glimmer blushed, face scrunching in annoyance. "Listen, just cause I've never been on an actual date doesn't mean I don't know about them."

"Alright, calm down." Bow said, pulling Glimmer back into her seat. "Maybe you two should decide what do on your own time. Even just having a night in can be a date. Its just about spending time with each other and making an occasion of it."

Catra and Adora shared a look, before Adora spoke up. "That does sound nice. Shall we retire to our quarters darling so that I may speak sweet nothings of romance into your ear?" Adora put on the smuggest, grin as she held out a hand.

Catra let out a snorting laugh. "Stooop. You're such a dork."

Adoa pulled Catra to her feet despite her snickering protests and dragged her along toward the door. Catra pushed and shoved her lightly as they laughed. Bow and Glimmer watched them go with that trademark 'sparkle eyed' look. Catra could sense it and gave them a glare over her shoulder, before she and Adora disappeared into the hall. Now alone, Bow and Glimmer sat in silence for a moment, the queen drumming her fingers on the table, as Bow awkwardly cleared his throat.

"Do you...wanna do something?" Glimmer eventually asked.

"Like a date?" Bow joked. "I mean, if that's okay of course."

"That does sound nice." Glimmer blushed, tucking a hair out of her face before letting out a heavy sigh. "I still don't even know where we really stand Bow. We said we would figure it out together but we haven't had anytime to talk, in the past six months. Let alone have like an actual in depth conversation about our relationship."

Bow frowned, and put a comforting hand over hers. "Hey, its okay. We both have a lot on our plate right now. But its getting easier to delegate and things are finally starting to come together." He gave her a warm smile. "Its not too late to have that talk. Maybe...over dinner?"

She smiled back and gripped his hand. "That sounds great Bow."

Seahawk enjoyed the Bright Moon guest suite. It was one of the perks of being such close friends to the princesses. There was nothing wrong with the Salinean royal palace but a change of pace was always nice. He hummed to himself as he walked out of the shower, dressed in a buttoned up silk shirt, and loose fitting slacks. The shirt was open at the top, letting his neckline and chest breathe. After checking his hair, he walked out to the balcony and took in a deep breath of late afternoon air. He then began to softly hum a little shanty as he took in the view.

The door to their room swung open, and Mermista entered, letting out a sigh. She had a bottle of wine from the kitchens, grabbing a glass. After pouring herself a sizable serving, she walked out onto the balcony, and slumped into one of the chairs. Her whole body seemed to melt and she let out one of her trademark groans, before taking a sip of her wine.

"Uuuugh, I hate council meetings."

Seahawk approached and smiled. "I'm not too fond of them either but they're necessary."

"For someone who doesn't like them, you sure seem to use it as an opportunity to bluster."

Seahawk blushed and cleared his throat. "Yes well.' He moved in to stand behind her, and reached down. "Care for a massage my sea angel? It might help get rid of all that stress."

"I guess." she replied, sipping her wine again.

He nodded and leaned down, slowly rubbing soft circles across her shoulders and neck. Slowly, she relaxed, taking more sips of her wine. Her usual blasé tense look melted away. As the combination of alcohol and that soft touch flowed through her. He pressed in with his thumbs against the tenser spots and she sighed happily.

"Mmm that is nice." she downed the rest of her wine, and reached up to touch his hand. "You're too good to me."

"I try, my sea angel." he said, swelling with a little pride.

She slowly sat up, and stood from her seat. Her features were flush with the excess alcohol. "You know, maybe I should return the favor." She traced a finger across his chest.

The sultry, half drunken tone made Seahawk's voice hitch in his throat. "R-really? Here? I-I mean seems a bit inappropriate to propose that kind of thing while we're you know, guests?"

She smiled playfully, and leaned in close. "I wasn't implying anything What were you thinking about?~"

"W-well, I-uhm..." Seahawk paused, squinting his eyes. Something seemed off. It was subtle. Tiny little details that only someone who had spend extended time with Mermista would notice. He put a finger to her lips as she moved in closer for a kiss. "You're not Mermista, are you?"

Mermista's eyes widened in surprise and her voice shifted. "Darn. I thought my performance was flawless." Her form shifted as she stepped back, transforming into Double Trouble. "What gave me away?"

Just outside the door, Mermista had returned from the kitchens, yawning. As she neared the door of her guestroom, she heard voices from inside. Curious she peeked inside, just in time to see herself, transform into the changeling. and catch their last sentence.

"Mermista isn't a lightweight for one." Seahawk pointed out, pointing to the wine. "She can drink like a sailor. Second of all. Even when she has been at her drunkest, she's a handsy drunk. But not that handsy. I know her better than anyone."

Double Trouble twirled a hair around their finger. "That's so saccharine its rotting my teeth darling. But its also very sad, because she clearly doesn't care as much for you as you do for her."

Seahawk narrowed his eyes. "Meaning?"

"Oh please, she is blasé about everything. Anything you seem passionate about she brushes off. You could write her a love song, and the best you would get is 'Its okay, I guess'."

"She has a hard time expressing herself." Seahawk offered. "I understand that. I like her as she is."

"Has she ever told you that she loves you? Once?"

"That's really none of your business." Seahawk had an edge to his voice that even made Double Trouble step back. "Please leave. And if you ever try anything like this again, the queen will hear of it."

"Fine fine. I was just trying to do you a solid, handsome." Double Trouble shrugged, and slowly strutted away. "If you ever change your mind about the lukewarm princess, come find me."

Seahawk didn't respond as Double Trouble turned about, heading toward the door. Mermista pressed herself against the wall, as the door opened, trying to stay out of sight. If the changeling did notice her, they made no show of it. Once Mermista was sure they were gone, she sighed, and frowned, peaking in through the door. She saw Seahawk leaning against the balcony, plucking a rose as he hummed to himself.

"Hmmm perhaps I should write her a love song." he thought aloud, inspired by Double Trouble's words. As he began to compose, Mermista slipped away, as sense of guilt settled in her stomach.

Scorpia took in a deep steadying breath as she neared Perfuma's guest room. As she stood near the threshold, she could smell a soft, flowery scent, wafting from within. She fidgeted nervously and began to pace back and forth in front of the door practicing what she would say over and over again. The scenario had run through her mind a million times and she knew it by heart. She could do this. She had every contingency planned. As long as she stuck with it and kept all of her practice and focus in mind she could not fail. She steeled herself, and knocked on the door.

Moments later, the door swung open, and Scorpia's heart skipped a beat. Perfuma was not dressed in her usual outfit and instead was sporting a rose pink nightgown, pajama bottoms and slippers. Her hair was fully down, and looked like it was freshly brushed. All thoughts left Scropia's head. Every plan. Every practiced line. Every single thing she had been focusing on for the last three days gone. Evaporated like a droplet of water on a griddle.

"Oh, hi Scorpia." Perfuma greeted with a smile.

Scorpia's nearly blank mind could only bring one soft word to her lips. "Pretty..."

Perfuma blinked and actually blushed a little. "W-what?"

Scropia smacked herself and shook her head. "S-sorry what I meant to say was...uhm... M-may I come in? I wanted to talk to you about something. I-if that's okay."

"Oh! Uhm I don't see why not. Please." Perfuma stood aside, and let Scropia through the threshold.

The inside of Perfuma's guest room was exactly what one would expect. It was decorated with flowers of all shades, hues and scents. There was even an entire planter bed dedicated to cacti. Sitting on one side of the room was a bubbling fountain and small pond with water lilies and other fresh water plants. Her bed was a hammock made of hanging vines that was filled with pillows. Finally there was a simple pink sitting couch with living wood making the frame and a table also made of the same material.

Perfuma took a seat on the couch, and patted the cushion beside her which Scorpia took, body tense.
After several moments of silence Pefuma cleared her throat. "So, what did you want to talk about?"

"O-oh right. Yeah I came to talk about something important. I mean not like important in the sense of it being something that involves the council or the Etheria restoration project or like ya know a big thing its more like a personal important like important to me and-"

Perfuma pressed a finger to her lips. "Scorpia. Breathe."

Scorpia blushed and nodded before Perfuma pulled her finger back. She then took in a deep breath and exhaled. "Sorry. I'm just...nervous. I shouldn't be bothering you so late."

"its no problem at all." Perfuma assured. "Please, tell me what's troubling you. Its clearly got you very rattled."

"Well, its..." Scorpia took a moment to look at Perfuma's soft understanding smile. "I've been meaning to ask something for a while now. But I've been too nervous to say anything and I guess I also didn't really know how to ask?" She gently took Perfuma's hands in her claws, making the other princess blush. "I was wondering if you'd like to go on a date...with me?"

Perfuma's eyes widened and she stared in shock for a moment. Scorpia almost pulled her claws away, before Perfuma gripped them tighter. "I'd love to. I've actually been wanting to ask you the same thing."

"Wait. Really?" Scorpia giggled. "Well now I just feel silly."

Perfuma giggled in kind, and tucked a hair behind her ear. "Yes. Ever since the enchanted grotto, I've kind of had a crush on you to be honest."

"Oh wow. I wish i had known sooner."

"Well, what matters is the now." Perfuma moved a hand up to cup Scorpia's cheek. and held it tenderly before pulling back. "So, what kind of date did you have in mind?"

"Ya know, I honestly only ever got to the part where I asked you a out. i don't think I thought about what we would do for a date." Scorpia smacked her forehead. "Ugh, I'm so dumb."

"Ah ah ah. We've talked about this. No self deprecation." Perfuma chided, wiggling a finger. "We can figure out something together."

Scorpia smiled tenderly. "Yeah, together."

Adora paced back and forth, hand held in her chin as she thought. Catra watched her lazily, tail flicking back and forth. Melog was asleep next to her, softly purring as she idly pet the creature's head.

"Maybe we could go dancing?" Adora suggested, stopping in place for a moment.

"Hmmm I really don't want to get all dressed up for that." Catra replied. "If I'm gonna go out dancing, I wanna look good."

"But you always look good." Adora retorted and she received a pillow to the face for her trouble. She snickered, tossing the pillow back on the bed. "Maybe a play?"

"Same problem. Also, I'm not really much of a theater person."

Adora put her hands on her hips. "How would you know, you've never even been to a play."

"Touche. Maybe sometime just not tonight." Catra frowned a little, "Sorry I'm being difficult. Can we just I don't know, just have dinner together? Not go out. Just here. No special dinner. I honestly just wanna spend a normal night with you and sleep in without having to worry about all this logistics stuff."

Adora smiled at her and walked over to kiss her cheek. "That sounds great."

The two had food brought to them fresh from the kitchens as they sat on the balcony just outside Adora's room. It wasn't anything special, just as Catra ordered, but it was still delicious. They shared wine, and chatted casually as they ate, Catra making snide remarks about Adora's lack of table manners, only to get a piece of chicken flicked in her direction. Catra quickly retaliated with a cherry tomato right into Adora's eye. The two laughed, wiping the bits of food away before finishing the rest of their meal.

When the table was clear, the pair sat on the balconiy;s bench. Catra leaned on Adora's strong frame, savoring her warmth that fought back the brisk night air. Adora had an arm wrapped around her, hand idly playing with Catra's hair. They looked up into the night sky, taking in the stars, and planets that shimmered across the inky blackness. It really was a sight they still had not grown used to. The vast sea of lights were so alien compared to the void of Despondo's empty sky.

"I wonder if they're are any planets made of food." Adora said.

"Wow. Way to kill the moment." Catra snickered, looking up at her. "But who knows what we'll find out there. Maybe there's a whole planet of yarn."

"Or a planet populated by talking horses."

"Maybe a planet where everyone only speaks in rhyme."

"How bout a planet of robots?"

Catra thought for a moment. "That'd be kinda cool actually. Giant robots."

"Giant robots shaped like animals." Adora shared a laugh with her and looked back up with a frown. The stars faintly reflected in her eyes as she tried to fathom how many there were. "Do you think...my parents are out there somewhere?"

Catra stiffened and sat up, watching Adora stare into the night sky. "Do you want to find them?"

"I mean, kinda? Its complicated. I've been so focused for so long on all this She-ra stuff and who I am and my destiny and blah blah. But I never gave much thought to where I came from. I'd be okay if I never knew but I think I'd regret it if I didn't at least look, ya know?"

"You know most people don't have to go on epic galaxy spanning quests to have their parents meet their significant others." Catra joked, trying to lighten the mood and she was happy when Adora laughed in return. "Jokes aside. I'd be happy to look with you."

"Thanks, that means a lot." Adora then leaned in, kissing Catra softly. "We've got a whole galaxy to explore. It'll be a fun ride, no matter what we find."

"Yeah."

Catra then leaned back against Adora and the two embraced, staring back up at the stars. Both letting their minds wander at what possibilities and discoveries awaited them in the vast sea of infinite starlight.

Authors Notes

This one ended up being longer than the last ones so it took a bit heh. I hope you guys enjoy cause we're gonna be getting to stuff I've been excited about since starting this fic. Mainly heading out into space. But thats for next time. For now I hope you enjoyed this chapter. (randome aside I only just realized Bright Moon is two words not one so I need to fix the other chapters at some point ugh)

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