Into the Crimson
After meeting with Bow's dads and learning about the destination of their search, Izuku, Catra, Glimmer, Bow and Melog made their way back to Brightmoon. They felt like they had finally gotten their hands on the lead they so desperately wanted. As nice as it was to help Bow get some closure and a better relationship with his family, now they had an idea of what they needed to do and that meant facing the trials that awaited Izuku and Catra back home. For all the years they spent there, they never thought that it would be the place where all the answers were being held. It felt like going through life in a full circle, which brought out several concerns and questions from two fifths of their party.
"So, the plan is to go to the Crimson Waste and find whatever Mara was looking for?" Glimmer asked as they walked back. "Gotta say, we better have a great sales pitch because my mom will not give us a pass just out of the possibility that Mara or First Ones stuff is somewhere around there." She scratched her chin in thought
"Relax, Sparkles, Izuku and I know the place like the back of our hands," Catra said. "And every curve in yours~." She whispered into Glimmer's ear.
"Cut that out! This is serious!" Glimmer blushed, pushing Catra away.
"We know, Glimmer, but this is the best lead we've gotten since the message. And it's on our home turf." Izuku placed a hand on Glimmer's shoulder, calming her down. "Mara went to the Crimson Waste for some reason. We need to find out what it is before the Horde does. It could be where the First Ones kept their most dangerous weapons. Or maybe the seat of their power."
"I've been wondering about that myself. Most of the ruins we've run into have been about communication, information, and small security enforcement. What could be in the Crimson Waste that's so important?" Bow looked at the information on his pad. "I took the liberty to borrow everything my dads had on the Crimson Waste, legends, theories, accounts of large beasts and monsters, but none of them talk about ancient weapons of the First Ones. Maybe that's where their leaders were stationed?"
"I'm more worried if anything is still standing. The Crimson Waste doesn't let loot just lay there." Izuku crossed his arms in thought.
"Yep, if it's shiny or looks cashable or expensive, it better be nailed down." Catra added, remembering the many times they saw bandits running with whatever they could get their hands on.
"Then time is of the essence, if it hasn't been found then we gotta find it before any bandits do." Glimmer punched her palm as they finally saw Brightmoon before them. "... What's with all the guards?"
The group turned to see every single guard in Brightmoon running and checking every corner of the castle and the surrounding terrain. They were all armed and ready for something to pop out and attack them as though it were the Battle for Brightmoon all over again. Like ants at the command of their queen, they were swarming around to protect their home from any invaders or forces that threatened them. And someone clearly had gotten them in a mood for battle. This was not a good sign. The group spotted Netossa and Spinnerella talking to the captain of the guard. The last thing they needed was an invasion from the Horde so soon.
"Netossa, Spinnerella!" Izuku called out, getting their attention.
"What's happening?!" Catra unsheathed her sword.
"Are we under attack?" Glimmer asked with her staff ready.
"Izuku, Catra, Glimmer, Bow, thank goodness you're all alright." Spinnerella hugged them tightly, making sure to smother Izuku, and Catra with her boobs.
"Where the heck have you been?! We've gone crazy looking for you!" Netossa pulled on their ears like a scolding mother.
"If this is what having two moms instead of two dads is like, I think I'm good." Bow rubbed his ear.
"Well you all better get ready for the earful the queen is going to give you for just leaving without telling anyone." Netossa continued grabbing Izuku and Catra with disapproval. "Honestly, I expected this from Catra and Glimmer, but you, Izuku and Bow? What possessed you to leave without telling anyone?"
"Um, Bow left leaving only a message and Glimmer feared that he got kidnapped and we went to look for him." Izuku winced. "We're sorry for not telling you. It won't happen again." Izuku cried as Netossa released her hold on their ears.
"Ouch, if you're this intense before the baby, I don't wanna be on the receiving end of you with crazy hormones." Catra rubbed her ear.
Netossa blushed before shaking it off. It still made her feel weird that Izuku and Catra had a relationship with her and Spinnerella. She loved every second of it, but those comments always made her blush like a schoolgirl.
"We're sorry but there was a development while you were gone," Spinnerella explained, calming her wife.
"What happened? Is my mom alright?" Glimmer asked.
"Follow me, please." Spinnerella gestured to them to follow her.
The Best Friend Squad followed the two older princesses all the way into the throne room where Angella was talking to Castaspella. And she looked ready to strike down anyone that got on her bad side. The air around them was tense and thick enough to be cut with a knife. Whatever had happened had shaken them. But there didn't seem to be any evidence of an attack or even so much as an attempt on the queen's life.
"You can call off the search, the kids are here and in one piece." Netossa said, getting their attention.
"Aunt Cass, what's going on?" Glimmer spoke out in curiosity.
"Glimmer." Angella hugged her daughter tightly. "Where were you? Are you alright?" The queen looked all over Glimmer's body, making sure that she was okay.
"You four-" Castaspella began only for Melog to meow at her, reminding her of her presence. "Sorry. You five scared the living daylights out of us. You disappeared without a trace, we feared the worst."
"What happened, Ms. Castaspella?" Izuku asked. "Why is the whole castle in such a frenetic state? Are we under attack?"
Queen Angella and Castaspella looked at each other as they knew they needed to explain things. Clearly they didn't like the idea, but there was a big need for context.
"It is best that we explain while we head to where she's being kept." Angella gestured to them to follow.
The group followed them as they walked through one of the hallways. They continued seeing guards running up and down the castle, almost as if they were searching for signs of a secret passage or hidden treasure. But the look on their faces told the group that they were looking for something bad.
"While you five went missing, at first I thought you were off around the Whispering Woods practicing or training. So I sent a squad with Netossa and Spinnerella to find you and make sure you were alright." Angella gave the group a look of slight annoyance. "You do have a tendency to get wrapped up in some unsavory things without our knowledge."
"The curse of being the protagonists." Catra shrugged.
"However, our patrol ended up encountering someone we weren't expecting." Netossa said. "Someone many here would love to see executed for her crimes."
Izuku, Catra, Glimmer and Bow looked at each other in equal curiosity and confusion. There weren't that many people that the queen wanted dead in particular, let alone all of the Alliance. Their minds went through all the different people that were on their personal 'Dislike' lists to see if there was one or two that popped out the most. Hordak and Modulock were at the top of the list. Shigaraki was close second, but after so many butt kickings, he barely was considered a threat anymore. Then there was the bottom of the list and the source of many of their issues, Shadow Weaver. Who just so happened to be the only woman on the list without counting Lighthope and her whole thing with the First Ones.
"Here it is." Angella gestured to a room guarded by two guards.
"Um, the spare room?" Glimmer asked. "What of it? Don't we usually just keep junk in there?"
"Angella, please tell me that this isn't what I think it is." Castaspella begged.
"Don't worry. We made the required modifications." Angella assured her. "We took out all the cushions."
Everyone looked at the queen not taking her word for it.
"Alright, most of the cushions." Angella sighed. "It was the only room where we could put her with the proper spells you needed. Plus the castle has never had a dungeon before and it seems a bit late to start now." Angella opened the door, revealing the source of all the commotion.
In the middle of a dark and mostly cushion free room, kneeling inside a glowing bright magic circle, laid Shadow Weaver. The woman that had for many years haunted the nightmares of both Izuku and Catra. She was shackled in chains imbued with magic, keeping her from using any magic and down on the floor. She looked up through her black hair veil, hatred clouding her eyes and all her intentions. Even as weak and imprisoned as she was, she could still talk with a voice that demanded respect and fear from those around her.
"Don't just stand there gawking, you boobs, come closer." Shadow Weaver glared through her mask. "Or are you still scared of me like when you were younger?"
Izuku and Catra tensed as the last thing they wanted or expected to see was their former tormentor chained and bound in Brightmoon of all places. They had dreamed of the day she would pay for all her crimes before some higher authority, but they never expected to see her in such a state before them of all people. They had long shaken the fear they had for their former mother figure, though some part of it still resided deep inside their minds. Their breaths slowed down as their blood began to boil and the need to attack Shadow Weaver grew as every second passed. It was like when a beast sees its natural enemy and they can't help but assume a combative position, knowing that they have to strike at the right moment. These reactions had not been born out of past trauma and constant training, but out of instincts honed through countless hours of living in fear of the woman during their childhoods. They couldn't hold back the one desire they wanted then.
"What is she doing here?" Izuku asked, in a tone that made him sound like a warrior veteran of countless wars.
"We found her in the Whispering Woods and we assumed she had done something to you." Angella explained. "And we've held her here in this cell for interrogation. So far she seems to have come here alone, since we haven't found any other signs of the Horde or Shigaraki."
"So why aren't we chopping off her head?" Catra gripped her sword tightly.
"Oh Catra, so quick to jump to violence. I knew there was something of use inside you after all," Shadow Weaver mocked.
"Says the woman in chains. Why are you here, Shadow Weaver?" Izuku narrowed his eyes at Shadow Weaver. "Hordak wouldn't have sent you here alone."
"Oh, Izuku, such a darling little thing. I see your voice stopped cracking. No longer hiding behind Adora and Catra, I see-." Izuku stepped hard, sending a shockwave through the room.
"I won't repeat the question." Izuku narrowed his eyes.
Queen Angella and Castaspella shook off their surprise before stepping up. Though they had to admit that they hadn't expected Izuku to put on such a fierce face.
"Shadow Weaver, you stand accused of working with the Horde to subjugate and take over Etheria, use of black magic, torture, abuse of your position, brainwashing, murder, and all the crimes you committed while in Mystacor." Angella dictated. "These and many other crimes will all but guarantee a place for your head for execution. But you may live the rest of your life in prison if you tell us everything you know about the Horde and their plans."
"Is that your attempt at sweetening a deal, Angella? I'm disappointed in whatever Micha saw in you." Shadow Weaver jabbed.
"That's all you deserve." Angella growled, tightening her fist. "More than you deserve, you witch."
"Temper, temper, what would your sister-in-law say about such slang terms." Shadow Weaver continued mocking.
"I'll tell her when she says something that I don't agree with, bitch." Castaspella retorted.
"Aunt Cass!" Glimmer looked at her aunt, shocked that she had cursed.
"She's not wrong." Catra unsheathed her sword. "Okay, Shadow Bitch, you got one second to answer the questions or else you'll be met with one gruesome end. Clock is ticking."
Shadow Weaver began to cough violently. Dark energies flowed off of her body like dark black make up in a shower. Her body shivered and spasmed as she coughed more and more of that dark mist-like magic. It almost looked like she was about to cough out her lungs… and stomach… and intestines… and other vital organs. Her nails weakly scratched the floor as she felt her whole world growing ever bleaker. She could barely hold herself up. Her legs were too weak and the idea of standing up seemed like a dream she could no longer get ahold of.
"Wha-What's wrong with her?" Izuku asked.
"She's been like this since we found her." Netossa explained. "At first, we thought that it was the result of a fight between you guys and her. But now, we're not sure."
Castaspella looked at the magic, pulling up a glyph in her hand. She looked at the magical aura around Shadow Weaver's body, expecting to see the source of this illness. If this was a curse then there had to be a source that could be treated, but if this was a strange illness then the healers would have to find a cure from what she could find. Her eyes widened at what she saw. Her aura was diminishing, growing darker, like a flickering light from a flashlight that was losing energy.
"This is the result of the Spell of Obtainment, isn't it?" Castaspella asked.
"It would seem… You're not as hopeless as… as I thought." Shadow Weaver coughed.
"That's the spell that turned Shigaraki into what he is today, isn't it?" Glimmer asked.
"Yes, and it seems that she's ran the length of her rope. She's been using something to keep herself going, but now, I guess she no longer has access to whatever source of magic was keeping this from happening," Castaspella said. "My guess is that now like any parasite, it's dying because it no longer has any nutrition to keep on going. Guess this is what Master Orko and the others were worried would happen if it was unleashed."
"Can… Can we stop it? Cure it?" Bow asked.
Castaspella looked down in deep thought, wondering how and even if they should help the woman that had caused them so much trouble. She was not a vindictive woman by any means, but she never forgave Light Spinner and Shigaraki for what happened to her master. Her eyes landed on Izuku and Catra. If anyone had pretty good reasons to kill Shadow Weaver, it would be them. Not that she could blame them. If she'd gone through the same stuff that they had, she'd want her dead as well. But if there was a way to cure her, however, it was another issue.
"There isn't much in terms of how to cure the effects of the Spell of Obtainment after such a long time. We'd need a healing spell that not only targets the corrupted magic but that also revitalizes her scarred body and organs." Castaspella explained. "But the amount of energy and magic that would be needed is beyond what I can manage. It would basically require the magic of two or three sorcerers for it to work."
"What about a Runestone?" Izuku asked.
Everyone turned to look at him.
"Um, possibly," Castaspella replied.
"Catra, you think you could manage it with the Runestone in the sword?" Izuku turned to Catra.
"You know I'm more likely to stab her with the sword than actually heal her right?" Catra shrugged.
"Wait, you want to heal her, Izuku?" Angella asked.
Izuku looked at the queen of Brightmoon and then to the woman that had made his life hell.
"I'm not gonna lie. I have no love for her. But I'm not about to let someone suffer," Izuku said. "If she has any knowledge about the Horde, it'll be more valuable to us than if she takes it to her grave. Catra, you think you can do it?"
"What the hell. For the Honor of Grayskull!" Catra transformed into her She-Ra form. "Hey, Castaspella, you think you can give me a quick crash course on how to heal? This is gonna be new ground for me."
Castaspella nodded her head. She explained the basis of healing magic and the steps that had to be taken into account to use. Using her magic she prepared the spell with the aid of Catra's sword as she aimed it at Shadow Weaver. It was weird for her to work with a relic of the First Ones, but it should to be a great magic conductor for her to use.
Meanwhile, Glimmer, Netossa and Spinnerella looked at Izuku and Catra as they worked to save Shadow Weaver.
"I'm surprised they're doing this for Shadow Weaver," Glimmer whispered. "From all they've told us about their time in the Fright Zone, I thought they'd kill her without a second thought."
"Yeah, but it is a sound strategic move. Save her life and we'll get information out of her." Netossa picked her chin. "They are better people than me, that's for sure."
"I think that's exactly why they are willing to save her." Netossa and Glimmer looked at Spinnerella as she looked at Izuku and Catra like a proud mother figure. "Izuku and Catra have seen that just because the world can be a mean and horrible place, that is no excuse to be like that to others. They want to help others because they know what it's like to be helpless. They'll make great parents one day." She added with a blush on her face, picturing herself with a baby with Netossa, Izuku and Catra.
Glimmer and Netossa couldn't see what Spinnerella was imagining but they figured they would agree with it. They had seen Izuku and Catra go through some rough stuff and still be the same kind of people they truly cared for. Sure, they often got in over their heads, but they were always there for others and ready to help them out. It was one of the reasons why they both fell for them. Though it still made them blush at the idea they were all in the same harem all the while loving the two heroes.
Back with Izuku, Catra and Castaspella, the sorceress of Mystacor had finished the work on the glyphs over the Sword of Protection.
"Alright, your sword has the power of a Runestone and can channel magic at will. All you gotta do is focus on the glyphs of healing, the spell will do the rest." Castaspella explained.
"Alright, let's get this over with." Catra walked up to Shadow Weaver with Izuku by her side. "Are you with me?" Catra turned to him.
"Always." Izuku replied without a doubt in his voice.
Catra aimed her sword at Shadow Weaver, holding it with both of her hands while closing her eyes. She could feel it. The energy coursing through her from the sword and being focused by it. It felt like being submerged inside a river as it flowed around her. It was cooled and controlled but at the same time, burning and wild. Magic was both simultaneously and a reminder that it could move mountains and heal what was corrupted. Focusing on the healing power of the sword and the spell, she aimed it at Shadow Weaver's chest.
"What are you-?" Shadow Weaver asked.
"Don't talk. You're making me rethink stabbing you." Catra cut her off.
The Runestone in the sword's guard began to glow as she sent the energy into Shadow Weaver. The room became engulfed in a bright light with colorful sparkles, bringing in warmth and light to all that were in the room. Shadow Weaver was lifted into the air as the magic surged into her. The darkness inside her that had turned her into a parasite was burnt away by the raw power, healing her and restoring her life.
The light subsided as everyone uncovered their eyes.
"Damn, that was kinda wicked." Catra groaned as Izuku caught her.
"Are you alright?" Izuku asked.
"Peachy, my love." Catra kissed him.
"...You should've left me to die." Everyone turned to Shadow Weaver. "Hard to believe you would allow an enemy to live."
"Guess we're not strong enough to be cruel." Izuku glared.
"Shadow Weaver, explain yourself. Why were you in the Whispering Woods? Did Hordak or Modulock send you?" Angella asked.
"Send me? I escaped the Fright Zone after I failed to kill Modulock." Shadow Weaver answered. "I learned the end goal of Hordak and Modulock on my way out, at least."
"Oh yeah, let us guess, conquering Etheria? We already knew that," Glimmer said.
"That's only the beginning. They mean to destroy all magic on the planet and bring about a new age for their empire." Shadow Weaver replied. "And to do so, Modulock has been working tirelessly to create countermeasures for all forms of magic."
"But that's not possible. Apart from you, no one in the Horde knows about magic. How would they even get their hands on that kind of technology?" Castaspella asked.
"By doing what Hordak's masters once did in their prime. You probably have seen their work. They did make someone useful out of Deku and brought out Adora's great potential." Shadow Weaver smirked behind her mask.
"You think you can lie to our faces and we'll just believe you? That Hordak is somehow as old as the First Ones and seeks to bring them back?" Angella asked.
"Yeah, come up with a better lie than that one!" Catra snarled. "We already have enough to deal with on that front with a different bitch. What assures us that you're not lying to save your own skin?"
"I've lost everything and what little I had left was taken from me, including Shigaraki." Shadow Weaver sounded almost remorseful. "And if you want to go make sure that I'm telling the truth, I know where their next target will be. That is, unless you want to see how Modulock's new toys can counter each one of you?"
The members of the Alliance looked at each other, clearly taking everything that Shadow Weaver had said with a grain- no- a ton of salt.
"What's his next target?" Izuku asked.
"He seeks to claim something in the Crimson Waste. Modulock detected something sending faint signals from the center of that forsaken land," Shadow Weaver said. "And he believes it to be the game changer Hordak has been looking for. Or perhaps you already figured something was going on?"
Izuku, Catra, Glimmer and Bow looked to Angella and the other members of the Alliance as they did react to Shadow Weaver's words.
"Mom?" Glimmer asked.
"We need to talk." Angella turned as they left Shadow Weaver in her cell.
Back at the War Room, everyone started comparing notes on what they had learned up until then.
"With the help of Bow's dads, we were able to find the location of where Mara, the previous She-Ra, was going before she disappeared." Izuku explained. "The Crimson Waste. We think that there might be something in there, a First Ones ruin or some kind of weapon that brought down their empire all those years ago."
"It does match the movements of Horde equipment and forces towards the area." Netossa passed the reports.
"And if what Shadow Weaver said was true, then the Horde is aware of it and could be going after it." Glimmer added.
"It's a race and we intend to win." Catra cracked her knuckles while smiling.
"A race to where? We don't even know where to start looking," Castaspella said. "Most of Etheria believes the Crimson Waste to be just that. A wasteland where few things live and fewer things survive. It could take days or weeks of searching before we got actually close to the center of the Crimson Waste."
"Not to mention we don't know about the plants, animals or possible bandit factions that call the Crimson Waste home." Spinnerella added. "We would need to send scouts to learn the terrain."
"No worries," Catra said. "Me and Izuku know that place like the back of our hands. We'll take you anywhere you want or need to go." Catra wrapped her arm around Izuku. "We can take everyone there and leave before the Horde even knows what has happened. That's how we roll."
"That's great. And with the information from my datapad, we could go right now and-" Bow began.
"No." Angella cut him off.
"What? But mom-?" Glimmer began.
"The Crimson Waste is a very dangerous place, Glimmer. Not to mention that this information was given to us by Shadow Weaver of all people. She could have easily been lying to our faces and is baiting a trap to take us out." Angella explained. "We may have grown in strength and power but we can't afford to make rash decisions without proper knowledge and information on the situation. We should at least send scouts to verify what Shadow Weaver has said to be true. Until then, we won't make a move."
"But mom, if Shadow Weaver is telling the truth then it is important to go there and stop the Horde from getting what they're looking for." Glimmer argued. "Besides, Izuku, Catra, Bow and I can handle it. We're the best."
"What you know can be dangerous to your enemy, Glimmer. But what you think you know is dangerous to you. Acting rashly and with overconfidence could cost us dearly." Angella explained. "Izuku and Catra can go with the scouts, but until we have an idea of what's going on, I won't move our forces into what could be a trap."
"But we've already taken on Modulock and the Horde before. We can-," Glimmer was stopped by Angella's hand on her shoulder.
"I do not doubt your skills, Glimmer. As a queen, and a leader, you need to make risky decisions but also measure if it is worth the risk. That is something you'll have to learn one day, Glimmer." Angella explained.
"But-but," Glimmer stuttered.
"Glimmer, your mother is right. You'll have to sit this one out." Castaspella added, only for Glimmer to walk away in frustration.
Angella sighed. Understanding Glimmer's frustrations was easy, but getting her to understand was a task she often found daunting. As great a fighter and as brave as she was, her daughter was as bullheaded as they came. She was often thankful that she had friends that helped her think ahead. Hopefully they would help her become a good queen if she wasn't able to help her grow those skills.
"Izuku, you and Catra will go with the scouts tomorrow and look for any signs of the Horde in the Crimson Waste. If there's any truth to Shadow Weaver's words, we need to be sure it isn't a trap lying in wait for us." Angella instructed. "Everyone, I want you to prepare and keep looking for anyone that might've followed Shadow Weaver. Even if she wasn't followed, I want to know how she got so close to the castle without detection."
"Y-Yes, your majesty." Izuku bowed his head.
With the conversation done and the meeting adjourned, everyone stepped out of the war room. But there were some that didn't plan on waiting. As Izuku and Catra walked to their room to prepare, Catra turned to her best friend and lover, noting the worry in his face.
"You're worried about dad too, right?" Catra asked.
"Yeah. Last time we saw him, he was alright. But he hasn't had to fight anything like the Horde for a long time." Izuku looked down in worry. "Not to mention that life in the Crimson Waste wasn't easy back then either. I want to go see and make sure he's alright."
"Same here. We can go there and have a quick look around with Melog and no one would be the wiser." Catra smirked. "Besides, with just the three of us, we'll be in and out before anyone knows we left. We'll sneak in and sneak out." Catra opened the door to their room, only to see Glimmer waiting for them on the bed.
"Except that you'll be having some company." Glimmer crossed her arms.
Izuku and Catra weren't all that surprised that Glimmer had been in their room or on their bed. Given their harem and open relationship, having the girls pop in from time to time was almost as natural as breathing. But usually they talked and made sure both sides were open to having some fun, which was done to keep any surprises, like Entrapta, from popping up on them. But Glimmer didn't look like she was looking for some fun in the sheets or making love to relieve stress. Her look was more determined and not one for fun, at least that's what it looked like.
"Glimmer, how surprising to see you here." Catra smirked, trying to act cool. "If you're here for some fun, you gotta give us a heads up. You could be on top or if you want, you could have Izuku really go all out as I-" Catra whispered into Glimmer's ear, making her blush and steaming out of her ears.
"No, no, no, that's not why I'm here!" Glimmer teleported away from Catra, trying to keep her arousal in check. "I know you're planning on going to the Crimson Waste, and I want to go too."
"But-?" Izuku began, only for Bow to fall in through the balcony.
"I'm okay." Bow said.
"We're going with you. If there is a powerful weapon or First Ones ruins there, then we need to get it before the Horde." Glimmer punched her palm. "Plus, you were going there to check up on your dad. We can help get you there a lot faster."
"That's right, we're with you." Bow smiled.
Izuku and Catra looked at each other, wondering what to do. Their friends were not going to back down from what their plans were. The idea of having company would speed things up, and they would be able to cover more ground than if it was just the three of them. Not to mention that Bow was the best when it came to using his own tech. If they could find out where Mara had gone to and what type of ruins they could find there, they would be able to better coordinate with the Alliance and destroy and find all they needed. The queen would not be happy, but the results would outweigh any possible dangers and risks they would be taking.
"Alright. But you gotta promise that you'll do and say everything we tell you to, understood?" Izuku looked Glimmer and Bow in the eye.
"The place isn't a cakewalk. What we say goes." Catra added.
"You got it. Let's go to the Crimson Waste!" Glimmer and Bow nodded, giving them a thumbs up. "Time to save the day, Best Friend Squad."
"Better name please." Catra groaned.
After leaving a note for the Alliance, they left Brightmoon for the red sands of the Crimson Waste. The sight of the dunes brought memories back to Izuku and Catra, of all their adventures, training and growth they went through in this desolate land. It was a great feeling that made them bask in the sun that bared down upon them. It may have been a lawless land of dangers and threats for everyone, but it was the place where the two of them grew and learned about the world. All those lessons came back to them tenfold as they ran away from the large three-headed snake.
"What is this monster?!" Glimmer screamed in terror as they rode on top of Melog through the desert.
"That's a sand snake, they're everywhere in these parts." Izuku said. "They travel underground, mixing with the sand before springing out to capture their prey. They usually have between two to four heads but they tend to be pretty slow as the heads sometimes fight between each other. And they tend to get tunnel vision."
"Yeah, like this!" Catra gestured Melog to run towards a cliff, much to the panic of Glimmer and Bow.
The snake got closer and closer to them as they got closer to the cliff. The heat of the sand echoed as they got ever closer, like the ticking of a clock as it reached zero. The three snake heads lunged at the magical cat and its passengers, fangs opened and ready to bite down on them for a tasty morsel. But before the teeth could touch its prey, Melog disappeared before its eyes. The snake didn't have time to realize what had happened as it slipped down and over the cliff into the sands below.
Melog reappeared with the Best Friend Squad dismounting her with ease.
"Ha ha! That felt awesome! Just like back then!" Catra and Izuku high fived.
"Nice quick thinking, Catra." Izuku smiled. "It's almost like we never left."
"Oh man, that was intense." Bow dropped to his knees. "And you grew up here? How did you survive?!"
"Lots of luck mostly." Catra shrugged as she scratched Melog's chin.
"So many of your quirks make sense now." Glimmer sighed. "Back on topic, where do we start? This place looks so endless. If there were any ruins they could be under the sands and we wouldn't even know it."
"Yeah, that's an issue. But there's a place we need to go check up first." Izuku pointed to a settlement. "That's one of the few things that pass for towns in the Crimson Waste. Dad often came here for some resources. They could tell us where we can find him."
"We also need a wardrobe change for Bow and Glimmer." Catra added.
"Wardrobe change? What?" Glimmer asked.
The group made their way down to the settlement, keeping an eye open for any and all bandits and threats that were scattered around the Waste. Using Melog's invisibility, they walked around the many bandits and rogues that called this place their home. The air of danger was thick to the point that someone could cut it with a knife. Everyone had a sharp look at them and one wrong move could lead to a fight. Which was perfect for Izuku, Catra, Glimmer and Bow as they took a few hoods from the store racks.
"I don't know, this feels wrong." Bow put on the cloak and hood.
"Yeah, stealing isn't exactly what I thought of doing." Glimmer looked at the hood and cloak she wore. "Why are we wearing these again? They're not very clean and they smell like alcohol and sand."
"Glimmer, this place isn't exactly welcoming to outsiders, and a princess walking around in a pink and purple suit and cape will not make us very popular." Izuku put on his hood.
"Yeah, we need a low profile on this one." Catra said. "Let's get a drink."
The group walked to a tavern made up of large tarps, some wooden walls and a large skeletal remains of a dragon-like skull, spine and ribcage. The sound of talking and drinking could be heard as they got closer. The wooden doors swung open as a man was tossed out on his ass followed by knives and broken bottles, which made Glimmer and Bow flinch.
"Rule number one of the Crimson Waste: The strong make the rules." Catra held up one finger. "Just don't appear like an easy meal and you'll be fine."
"Great, how do we do that?" Bow asked.
"Stick close to us, we'll ask a few questions here and there and then we'll go look for our dad. Just try not to get anyone's attention." Izuku opened the doors to the tavern, letting Glimmer and Bow get a taste of what life in the Crimson Waste was all about.
The tavern was full of bandits and desert travelers. Everyone had an intense look to them, almost as if they were waiting to stab someone at the earliest opportunity. The dim lights that pierced through the ribcage and tarps; it was like entering any dangerous tavern in the world. But the heat of the desert kept everyone from snapping. The roof barely managed to keep a sense of coolness along with the drinks, and that alone was keeping the bandits peaceful, relatively speaking. They turned to look at them with a fierce expression on their faces.
Izuku and Catra stood between Glimmer and Bow while Melog remained invisible to their eyes. Glimmer latched onto Izuku's arm, while trying to make herself look tough. No one said a word but instead allowed Izuku and Catra to keep up the appearances of being stronger. A narrow-eyed look from them and everyone turned back to their own business.
"We're good now." Catra smiled before they walked in.
"Perfect, that was terrifying." Bow whispered. "So, what are we gonna ask around for?"
"Just some information." They made it to the bar where a tall muscular woman was cleaning up a glass.
"What can I get you?" She asked.
"Oh, can we get some iced tea?" Bow asked, getting everyone to look at them.
"Iced tea?" The bartender asked, only for Glimmer to elbow Bow.
"He meant water, Doris." Izuku said. "We're looking for someone as well. Has The Mighty One been spotted in this area recently?"
"Not really. He hasn't been by," Doris replied. "Normally people try to keep away from him. Why are you looking for him?"
"When was the last time you saw him?" Izuku asked.
"About three weeks ago. He got some supplies and said he was going somewhere." Doris explained. "Maybe it's because of a few rumors flying about. Why are you asking? Most people know about his movements or try to keep to themselves."
Izuku and Catra thought about telling her who they were but their attention was caught by someone walking towards them.
"You are not from around here, are you?"
They turned around to see a tall goat woman bandit looking at Bow with dark perverted eyes.
"Um, I'm-um, just passing through." Bow looked away.
"Well, if you're looking for something to do other than passing through, we can have some fun." She licked her lips, sending shivers down Bow's spine. "I could show you some moves that would knock your socks off."
"He's not interested." Glimmer said in a tough voice.
The goat lady looked Glimmer up and down.
"Well, you are a little short but I'm sure Tongue Lashor's gang will have some fun with-" Izuku grabbed the woman by the hem of her shirt before slamming her against the bar, cutting her off.
"You better think twice about that." Izuku glared at the woman angrily.
"They're with us, lady." Catra growled, narrowing her eyes. "And that clown better think twice before laying a finger on them."
Izuku sent the woman flying back with a finger flick to the forehead,
Everyone looked in astounded silence at what had happened. It wasn't uncommon for someone to get their butt handed to them in the Crimson Waste, but it was a first to see it happening with someone that looked incapable of harming a fly. To everyone in the tavern, it was like looking at a younger Mighty One that was just looking for an excuse to cut loose and start taking out anyone that got in his way. Like knowing a mighty sandstorm was coming and even praying that it wouldn't go in their direction. Many tried to reach for their weapons and at least pretend to be fierce and fight back against him. But all their bravado died as Izuku and Catra looked at them.
"You said that he was probably heading somewhere, right?" Izuku asked.
"Y-Yes. He didn't mention where but some think he was heading to the center of the desert. That's where Tongue Lashor's gang has supposedly been meeting with Horde soldiers." Doris explained. "No one wants trouble from the war coming our way."
"Thanks, we'll be on our way then." Catra left some money on the counter before they turned away.
"You kids better be careful, Tongue Lashor has been ranking up fighters for his fighting pit. Just the other day he captured a group of traveling outsiders." Doris added.
"That's interesting. Thanks for the warning." Izuku said as they walked out of the tavern.
As the group made their way out of the tavern with canteens full of water, thoughts ran hot between the members. Mostly it had to do with the information that they had learned.
"So, now we know that the Horde is here and whatever they're looking for is in the center of the desert," Glimmer said. "You think Toshinori went off to stop them?"
"I wouldn't put it past dad to do something like that," Izuku replied. "But Lashor meeting the Horde is troubling."
"What kind of a name is 'Tongue Lashor' anyway?" Bow asked, confused.
"A D-lister that thinks he's the next ruler of the Crimson Waste," Catra explained. "First time we ever got here, he and his gang tried to take us out before dad came in and whooped their butts."
"Ever since then he's been more of an annoyance than anything." Izuku spotted a few members of Tongue Lashor's gang leaning against a very familiar vehicle. "Hey, isn't that a Horde transport vehicle?"
The group turned to see the vehicle, noticing that it was indeed. It also had a very close resemblance to the truck that Adora, Lonnie, Scorpia, Kyle and Rogelio had used to escape the Battle of Brightmoon.
"What are the odds that it is the same one they used?" Glimmer asked.
"I can't believe those brats were dumb enough to get themselves caught in the pit and asked us for help." One of the snake men laughed. "Did you see the look on their faces?"
"Yeah, they're probably kicking themselves in the fighting pits." Another gang member added with his own laugh.
"Yep, it was them." Catra sighed, looking at Izuku. "You want to rescue them, don't you?"
"Yes." Izuku nodded.
"Even after what Adora did?" Catra asked.
"She didn't know any better. and I'm sure she's punished herself enough." Izuku clarified.
"Catra, as much as I'm not a fan of Horde soldiers, or former Horde soldiers, Izuku's got a point." Glimmer pointed out.
"Fine. But only because if anyone is going to kill her, it's going to be me." Catra unsheathed her sword. "But before we rescue her big blonde ass, let's get ourselves some wheels."
Izuku cracked his knuckles, knowing fully well what Catra meant. He followed her up to the snake men before they quickly took them out with swift but non-lethal takedowns.
"Is it just me or does this place make them more vicious?" Bow asked.
"Yeah, it looks like it." Glimmer blushed at the sight of Izuku and Catra beating up the snake men with ease. "I kinda like the sweet Izuku more but the tough guy act is a very nice change of pace~."
"Have some water, Glimmer. Your face is getting very red." Bow teased, handing Glimmer a canteen.
Glimmer covered her face with her cloak, now blushing from embarrassment. She couldn't help it. All the time she knew Izuku and Catra, the green haired young man was always the sensible one that usually played it nice and polite. To see him act like a warrior of some wasteland and taking charge outside of the bedroom made her heart beat faster. It made her wonder what kind of command he could put out if he really wanted to. Maybe after this mission she would make it her mission to taste the limits of his commanding nature. The other princesses would be very open to the idea of him being all dominating with them and all.
"Okay guys, let's ride!" Catra signaled them to get in on the truck.
"Shotgun!"
Izuku, Catra, Glimmer, Bow and Melog drove to the middle of the desert with the truck. They didn't know where the Horde would be, but they knew that a show off like Tongue Lashor would do his best to have his position well known. They traveled quickly with the truck all the while keeping an eye open for any other bandits or traps that had been laid out for them. The sandy sea before them was quickly becoming a well known sight for them and in a way, it was better than what they had expected to see. They watched wild creatures running through the sands while strange and dangerous flora sprung from the ground to catch unsuspecting victims. It was a deadly beauty of a sight.
"Enjoying the view?" Catra asked.
"I still find it hard to believe that you two grew up here." Glimmer replied without taking her eyes off of the sea of red sand. "More along the lines of surviving than anything else. Doesn't look very hospitable with the angry neighbors and dangers at every corner."
"It may look like that, and there are safer places on Etheria," Izuku said. "But this place helped us grow and showed us that there was more to life than what the Horde allowed us to believe."
"You know what I would like to believe," Bow said from the back. "That those raiders could've at least left us a working radio. Look at this, it looks like they tried to break it open with a hammer and a chisel. It'll be a miracle to get it working again." Bow worked on the radio, almost duct taping it together, fixing it.
"Yeah, you better put that down for now, Bow," Izuku said as the truck stopped. "We're here."
The group looked ahead to a large makeshift coliseum made out of wood, bones, tanned skins and leather. It was a large enough arena with three levels of stands for all the members of Tongue Lashor's gang to watch the spectacle. In the middle, there was a large sand pit where the warriors and wild beasts would battle for the spectacle of the gang and anyone that wanted to bet on the fights to make money. The fighting arena was currently full with a pack of wild desert wolves fighting against the recently acquired warriors of the waste.
Adora struck down another one of the wolves with her staff as Lonnie blocked the fangs of the desert wolf with her shield. They were joined by Rogelio who wrestled with another one of the wolves, pinning it down before throwing it away. Scorpia and Kyle ran from the remaining three desert wolves around the battle arena, dodging not only their sharp teeth but also any piece of stuff that was tossed at them from the stands. They quickly spotted two shields before them. They snatched them before putting them up before the wolves. Scorpia used this chance to quickly stab two of the wolves with her stinger. But the last desert wolf avoided the stinger.
"Nice doggy." Kyle whimpered as it got closer to him.
The desert wolf pounced on Kyle, only to be skewered by Adora's staff.
"Are you all okay?" Adora asked as she pulled her weapon back.
"Oh yeah, this isn't so different than my usual time at the Fright Zone." Lonnie struck one of the wolves with her mace, breaking its teeth. "I will say, I could do without the heat or the snake men cat calling me."
"Well, at least we survived another day." Kyle groaned. "You think they'll let us go now?" He turned to see Tongue Lashor walk up to the edge, casting his shadow upon them.
Everyone turned to Tongue Lashor as he clapped slowly, mocking the efforts of the gladiators.
"Well done, gladiators. You have done well these last few days," Tongue Lashor said. "But sadly, my friends here aren't all that happy with how repetitive it's all getting. So, let's up the ante. Release the Scavenger Worms!" He turned to his followers as they cheered.
Adora and her group watched as another cage opened up before them. They saw large orange worms with spinning sharp teeth that could bite through metal like it was candy. They started slithering into the sand, digging around Adora and her team. Adora ordered her friends to gather up together in a protective circle, with those that had shields at the ready. It was all they could do as the worms surrounded them like sharks after smelling blood in the water. They watched the sands around them moving and changing like they had suddenly found themselves on the waters of the sea.
"Stick together, and don't make any sudden movements before they do!" Adora instructed, keeping her eyes on the shifting sands.
A sand worm pounced from amongst the sand at Rogelio, only to be blocked by Kyle's shield. But it did little in terms of stopping the small terror. The worm's teeth dug into the shield before spinning like a tiny drill, eating through the metal. Kyle swung the shield around, trying to shake the little terror away, but with little success. He ended up throwing the shield before it was devoured by the sand worms pouncing on it.
Tongue Lashor and his crew of mercenaries laughed at the sight before them, only for them to be blinded by a bright pink light.
"Oh, you're all together, that saves time." Glimmer landed between the former Horde soldiers.
"The sparkling princess?" Lonnie asked.
"Don't ask, just hang on to me!" Glimmer grabbed hold of the prisoners, teleporting them all away from the worms.
Tongue Lashor and his gang shouted and growled in rage at the strange lightshow. But their anger was short-lived.
The coliseum was sliced in two by a powerful slash, causing them all to run in fear as the stands fell apart. Just then, one half of the coliseum was lifted up in the air, dropping Tongue Lashor in the middle of the pit, surrounded by his deadly hungry sand worm pets. He looked down at the bottom of the stands, spotting Izuku and Catra lifting them against him.
"YOU!" Tongue Lashor screamed.
"Yeah, we're here!" Izuku and Catra tossed the coliseum back down, destroying it and leaving Tongue Lashor with nothing.
Izuku and Catra jumped onto Melog taking off with Bow driving the truck next to them.
"So, how do you like the Crimson Waste?" Catra asked.
"Could be better!" Bow replied as several of the snake men cursed and fired arrows at them. "I am so happy you guys moved away!"
"You guys lived here?!" Scorpia poked out her head, narrowly dodging an arrow.
"Save all questions at the end of the escape!" Izuku flicked his finger at the snake men, sending a compressed air bullet at them, knocking them back. "There really is no place like home." He looked ahead as they left the gang behind.
They rode to the top of one of the rocky formations where they parked the truck. After making sure that they had lost the snake men and their poorly named leader, the Best Friend Squad turned to deal with their newly acquired company. Lonnie stepped up as Adora was having trouble looking at Izuku and Catra in the eyes.
"Okay, so, where do we even start?" Lonnie scratched the back of her head. "Um, thanks for the save back there."
"You're welcome. Now it's our turn. What are you guys doing here?" Glimmer asked.
"After the battle of Brightmoon, we've sort of been on the run," Lonnie said. "We've just been out here surviving and eventually we wound up here."
"You just ended up in one of the most desolate and dangerous spots in all of Etheria, went in without proper provisions and didn't expect to get caught by the gangs of the Waste?" Izuku asked, looking at Adora. "Why are you here, Adora?"
Adora looked away from Izuku and Catra, remembering how they went their separate ways the last time. She was not proud of what she had done, and had come here to learn more about herself. The messages she'd been hearing all this time had led her here and now there was no turning back. She needed to face her past, all of it.
"We're here because a woman's voice told me to come here. The same woman from the Beacon," Adora admitted.
"Lighthope's told you what?!" Catra snapped. "And you came here without a second thought?! I don't know if you forgot, but this is the same crazy woman hologram that tried to turn you into She-Ra and mind-control Izuku and also tried to destroy Etheria." Catra wanted to beat up Adora for her actions.
"Why would you believe anything she says?" Izuku asked.
"Because I don't know who, or what, I am." Adora walked forward. "I'm sorry for what I did. I'm sorry I didn't believe you. That I abandoned you. I'm sorry that you had to suffer because of me. I just wanted us to be together like we used to. I know that you hate me and you have every right to do so. But I need to know who I am. That's all I ask. We'll go our separate ways and never see each other again. I promise."
Izuku and Catra looked at each other. They could tell that Adora's words were genuine and from the heart. The betrayal they faced from her had not come from malice but by Shadow Weaver's manipulations and conditioning. But the idea of going to wherever Light Hope wanted them to go could only spell disaster. They knew what they had to do.
Catra stepped up to Adora and punched her in the face.
"Hey!" Lonnie snapped.
Adora waited for the next attack but was instead greeted by two open hands.
"Now we're even." Catra smiled at Adora.
"We never hated you, Adora. You were a victim just like us," Izuku said. "There's no reason for you to bear this alone."
Adora took their hands, accepting their help in getting up.
"So, where were you headed?" Izuku asked.
"...The center of the desert. That's where Light Hope wants me to go." Adora admitted.
"Bow?" Glimmer asked.
"That's also where we're going." Bow confirmed.
"So, wait, you want us to travel with you?" Scorpia asked.
"I mean, it would be safer than traveling on our own." Kyle pointed out with Rogelio growling in agreement.
With a final nod of agreement from everyone, the group made their way towards the center of the Crimson Waste. The ride was bumpy and with a few sights of dangerous creatures, and more than a little bit awkward between everyone trying to be polite. Oddly enough, it was Bow and Scorpia that got along the best. They talked for hours while everyone else was focusing on the road and the possibility of dangers in the desert. Adora herself kept some distance from Izuku and Catra, making sure not to get too close to them. But for the most part they were all civil.
"Stop the truck." Glimmer called out. "There's something up ahead."
Bow stopped the truck as they all stepped out.
They looked at what could only be described as a large black pyramid. It looked old yet new. The light of the sun made it shine like a piece of carved ebony with white marked circuitry carved into it. And just by the face of it, there was a large carved skull with an entrance for whoever tried to get in.
"What is that place?" Bow asked.
"It looks like a pyramid. This is what Mara went after all this time," Catra said.
"This is where Light Hope has been leading us." Adora looked at the pyramid with awe and amazement.
"But what is it?" Izuku asked.
"Glad you asked my gullible guide."
Before the group could react, they were all enveloped by a red forcefield, getting shocked to the ground. They turned to see Modulock holding a device that resembled a red cube inside a black cage with a cannon sticking out, and Hordak walking up to them.
"So, Hordak, how does it feel to be here after all this time?" Modulock asked. "Feeling nostalgic, perhaps?"
"It feels good to be home." Hordak replied as he gazed upon the black pyramid before them.