Shadow Weaver and Castaspella sat in silence with only the occasional nightly sounds exuding from the forest as they observed the strange rift suspended in air. Finally, Castaspella spoke. "Do you have any idea what this thing could be?"
"No." Shadow Weaver said as she walked around it. It seemed to absorb anything that got towards it while at the same time repelling it. It didn't make sense. It wasn't natural to say the least. "But I can safely say it's not dark magic. In fact, I'm not detecting any magic from it at all.
Castaspella rubbed her face. "This is becoming worrisome."
"Indeed." Shadow Weaver drawled as she drew a circle in the air, firing a small bolt of magic at the strange object. As it shot towards the rift, the bolt seemed to warp and twist in mid air before slowly coming to a halt inside the rift. "Interesting."
"What is?"
"If I didn't know any better, I'd say this was a black hole." Shadow Weaver said as she picked up a rock from the ground before tossing it at the rift. After a moment, the rock seemed to shatter before completely going completely still, its explosion seemingly frozen in place. "But black holes don't do that."
"What's a black hole?" Castaspella asked as she looked at the frozen image before her.
"Something Hordak used to talk about. As I understood it, it's basically a portal that destroys anything that goes through it. Once you're inside one, that's it."
"That's it? What, like you can't escape?" She asked, tearing her gaze away from the rift.
"Precisely. Although, I'd say that isn't what this is."
"Then what?" Castaspella asked.
Shadow Weaver walked towards a tree before snapping one of the longer branches off and draining the plant until it lost its leaves and looked old and dry. "I have a theory that I'm hoping is wrong."
"What are you doing?"
"Testing something." Shadow Weaver strode over towards the rift and slowly shoved the dead branch into the rift. As it slowly got towards the center, the branch warped for a moment before straightening. As it touched the center of the rift, the branch immediately regained its color, blossoming leaves along its edges before it immediately turned to dust in her hands.
"What the hell just happened?" Castaspella looked at Shadow Weaver's hand in shock.
"Damn, I guess that answers that." Shadow Weaver said, closing her fist.
"Will you please tell me what's going on!" Castaspella said angrily, fed up with Shadow Weaver's antics. "I brought you here to help."
Shadow Weaver turned towards Castaspella, "What's the first thing I taught you about magic?"
"It always has a price. So what?"
"So, who's price do you think this is?" Shadow Weaver asked, sweeping her hand towards the rift.
". . .Catra?"
"Exactly." Shadow Weaver said as she turned towards the skiff General Juliet had procured for them. "Catra is using a rare form of magic that we've never even been able to touch, let alone harness. Who knows what the price is for her manipulating time in such a manner. I fully believe that this," Shadow Weaver motioned behind her, "isn't even a drop in whatever ocean Catra is swimming in."
"Hold on. How do we know that Catra caused this? This could be completely unrelated."
Shadow Weaver stopped, a red glint catching her eye. As she leaned down and picked up something out of the dirt, she found it was Catra's missing red headpiece. "Is it now? Because the answer is becoming quite clear." She said as she held the head piece up. "You've all been having Catra run back and forth through time without giving a single thought to how her new found magic is affecting the worlds around her and those who live in them."
"Now wait just a second–"
Shadow Weaver pressed forward. "No. We've waited long enough. Catra must learn to control the power she's wielding before she does something irreversible. She needs a teacher."
"Like you?" Castaspella asked sharply, her hands on her hips.
"Well someone has to." Shadow Weaver looked Castaspella up and down. "And I've been teaching magic for years. Just because I haven't done it in around thirty years doesn't mean I don't remember how. Besides, those in Mystacour require your attention."
"Catra could come to Mystacour. Learn with peers her own age at a safe level." Castaspella argued as they boarded the skiff.
"I doubt she would agree to it." Shadow Weaver said, looking at the red headpiece.
"Oh and why not? She's expressed great interest in learning magic. Why would she turn it down?"
"Because as much as Catra wants to learn magic," Shadow Weaver gently cleaned the Catra's headpiece. "She wants Adora more. And it doesn't matter how much training you offer Catra, she'll pick Adora before anything else."
"Well, I. . .what if–" Castaspella went silent, trying to summon a response to the obvious dilemma she found herself in. Eventually, her anger surfaced. "Well, what can you hope to teach her? Everything you can teach, I can teach as well. I still passed every one of your classes and I'm the head sorcerer in Mystacour. Do you even know how to manipulate this form of magic?"
Shadow Weaver turned towards the irate woman as if studying her before turning towards the rift. Cautiously, she drew a sigil in the air, as if unsure of what she was doing. It was an irritating feeling for sure. Rune after rune, Shadow Weaver added more and more markings to the sigil before giving a satisfied nod and sending it into the rift. Instantly, the rift slowly started to twist into itself before finally collapsing, imploding the air around it, dragging the very atmosphere into it. Shadow Weaver's hair billowed past her face, a heavy wind seemed to urge her towards the imploding rift. Shadow Weaver remained still as she observed the rift finally disappear.
Shadow Weaver turned back towards her old student, a smugness present in her tone. "No, not really. But I'm sure I can figure it out. It'll be a learning experience for both Catra and myself."
Castaspella scoffed before turning and walking back towards the borrowed skiff. "Come on. I need to get back to Mystacour and you need to get back to Brightmoon."
Shadow Weaver let out a hum, "Oh? Are you not going to stay for the celebration?"
Castaspella looked at Shadow Weaver in confusion, "What celebration?"
"Why, Catra's celebration of course. Brightmoon is throwing a festival in honor of Catra's contribution to the peace treaty between the Horde and the Princess Alliance's Kingdoms. Angella's been talking about it all night. You didn't know?" Shadow Weaver asked in an innocent tone, "Don't worry. I'm sure it's just been a long day. No one was actively excluding you."
"You can cut that shit out at any time." Castaspella said in a harsh tone as she stormed away from her.
"What ever do you mean?"
Castaspella scoffed, "Sure. Okay. Whatever you say."
Shadow Weaver let out a chuckle as she followed Castaspella back towards the skiff.
It was a little past midnight when Catra switched back. She awoke to Entrapta hovering over her, jotting things down on her pad. "Oh, you're back. Strange. It seems that the switch forward is much faster than the switch back. Tell me, did you experience anything weird on the switch?"
Catra gently sat up, looking around before letting out an exhausted yawn. "I heard you say my vitals were frozen with no brain activity. Besides that, no. Just a quick wake up."
"Fascinating," Entrapta held a recorder to her face, "Log 437, Subject enters a form of stasis when time traveling. Subject exhibited momentary spatial awareness in a state of nonexistent brain activity. Results show that the subject has the potential to observe while not being present. Further testing is required."
Catra stood and slowly peeled off the strange suction cups off of her body. "Listen, we can talk later Entrapta, but right now I'm dead exhausted. I'm going to get some sleep."
Entrapta waved her hand in the air, "Oh, that's fine. I need to review the data anyways."
Catra nodded and left the room, slowly dragging herself towards her bedroom. As she rounded the hall towards her and Adora's room she found Angella standing in front of Micah's mural with a small smile on her face. At the sound of her footsteps, Angella noticed Catra before turning towards her.
"Catra, you look like you've seen better days."
Catra gave another yawn. "I met with the King of the First Ones. His name's Randor."
Angella's eyes widened. "You did? What did he wish to speak with you about?"
"You know how Marleena's soul is split?" Catra said tiredly.
"Yes. What of it?" Angella's face contorted in confusion.
"She's the queen."
Angella looked even more shocked at the revelation. "What?"
"Yeah. The guy thinks someone tried to kill her. She was thought to be in a catatonic state. When he was informed about me and Marleena by Mara, he was insistent that he meet me. I told him not to get his hopes up and that this might not be her."
"And?"
"Well, it's hard to dispute his claim when I came face to face with her comatose body."
Angella let out a hum, turning back towards Micah's mural. Thoughts of Micah flooded her mind and what she would do if given the chance to get her husband back. She turned back towards Catra. "What are you thinking?"
"I. . . I don't know. How can I in good conscience leave this be? That would be like me refusing to help you if–" Catra cut herself off from what she was going to say. Angella remained silent but understood the predicament. There was a lot going on in Catra's head and a lot being thrust on her shoulders at once. Catra let out a tired sigh, "Did you ask Castaspella about teaching me magic?"
Angella gained an uncertain look, "I did. She said that you are invited to go to Mystacour if you wish where you will be taught with a group of peers around your age."
"I. . . No. I can't afford to go to school. I need to learn the effective stuff. How to throw a fireball, how to use magic, how not to die when I choose to use it."
"Catra, cultivating any sort of skill takes time and commitment. You can't rush things, especially magic."
Catra let out a sigh, "I can't afford the patient route. Ironically, time is not on my side here."
"What do you mean? Why not?" Catra stayed silent, looking away from the Queen, "Catra, look at me. What do you mean?"
"The First Ones, Eternia, they're in the middle of a war. To top that off, Randor thinks that someone from his own Kingdom was responsible for the assassination attempt on his wife." Catra let out an exhausted breath, "It's just. . . Look, I know it's not something you want to hear and I know I promised, but I can't keep putting it off. I need to learn magic and if Castaspella isn't going to be around then I need to go to the person who is."
"Catra, if we–" Angella went to speak before being cut off.
"No! I can't push this off anymore. I didn't want to say it so as to not worry anyone, but," Catra lowered her voice to just above a whisper, "Angella I almost died doing this. That's not an exaggeration. If I had been a literal second too late, I would have died. Mara got to me just in time to heal me but this method of winging it is severely limiting me. If I'm gonna help this woman, I need to be prepared."
Angella went silent at that. "Is there really no one else besides her?"
Catra gave a slow nod. "Evelyn is an option."
"Who?"
"Mara's mother." Catra quickly explained.
Angella looked at her with a hesitant look, "Has she offered to teach you?"
Catra shook her head, "Not personally. Although Mara claims that she would if I asked."
"Is she qualified?"
"For one, she's the King's court mage. Mara also claims that she's never met another person of higher skill in magic, so there's that." Catra said.
"Why don't you ask her?"
"A few reasons. The first and probably the biggest is that she resides on Eternia and I'm only there because we're talking to the king. Second–"
"Wait, you are on the First Ones planet? What's it like?" Angella asked, a bit of excitement in her voice. Catra gave her an exhausted look to which Angella realized that she was keeping the poor girl up. "Sorry, now's not the time. Go on."
"Second, I would need to stay in the past for an extended period of time which I'm not sure I'm comfortable with. And third, Shadow Weaver raised me. And no matter how badly I was treated as a child, she will know exactly how to teach me and where my bad habits will lie. I will ask Evelyn, but I still think that Shadow Weaver is the safer option."
Angella pursed her lips. "We will discuss this later when you are well rested. But I realize that you are right. We have been pushing this off to the side. Your training should be a priority, especially since we are at peace for the moment. I will take what you have said into consideration."
Catra gave a tired nod and trudged to her room. As she entered she peeled off her clothes and climbed into bed. She immediately felt her eyelids become heavy, the exhaustion of the day catching up to her. Catra, choosing to ignore everything that was piling onto her shoulders, snuggled into the blankets. As she fell into unconsciousness, she swore that she felt an arm gently wrap around her.
It was early morning when Randor poured himself a drink with a smile. Since Marleena's tragic incident he'd looked for anything that could help him wake Marleena up and now, against all odds, it appeared in front of him. His smile slowly faded as he thought of the Heart of Etheria project. Catra's arrival told him something that he had been dreading for the past two years. It was all for nothing. No amount of magic was going to help Marleena get her soul back. Granted, mining magic was nothing new for them but to the extent they had gone with Etheria was almost soul crushing. And now that he knew that, he could get to work in ordering the heart dismantled. Once the magic disperses back into the planet the damage should repair itself fairly quickly.
His thoughts turned back to Catra. There had to be something he could do to assist the girl in retrieving his wife's soul. There was no hope for his daughter. He knew that. The explosion that had caused Marlena's current state had rocked the castle and could be felt across the whole kingdom of Eternos. When they had found his wife, there was no trace of their baby left. He could only hope that it had been quick.
Letting out a breath, he quickly threw the drink back, the alcohol stinging his throat as he poured one more before closing the bottle. He gained a determined look as he thought about Mara. Mara was certain that Catra was the key they needed to save Marleena. He wasn't ignorant of Mara's thoughts on the Heart project. The girl loved Etheria and wanted to see it safe. He had no doubt that she had pieced together the true purpose of the Heart once she had learned of his wife's status. With Catra claiming to have met Marleena and having it all but confirmed must have reaffirmed her stance on the pointlessness of the project. To his shame, he had to agree. But now they had a chance to make amends.
Randor finished his drink before exiting his room. As he strode down the halls of his castle, he headed for his science division. Catra had made mention that she needed to upgrade several pieces of technology in her timeline. Namely her tracker pad. She had asked for a way to contact them without switching. Evelyn had assured the girl that with their time streams synced, she would have something ready in the coming days.
"My king." An approaching voice sounded from his side. Upon turning, he found a familiar communications officer making his way towards him. He couldn't quite recall his name.
"Yes?"
"Your brother, Prince Keldor, is on the line. He wished to speak with you immediately." The young man said, holding up a circular shaped disc.
Randor nodded his thanks before taking the disc and dismissing him. Randor thought for a moment before nodding to himself and opening the line. As Randor threw the disc into the air, it hovered for a moment before a holo-induced image appeared beside him. A sad smile broke out on his face. "Brother, it's always good to see you." Randor said somberly.
Keldor smiled for a moment before it gradually faded away, "How are you doing these days?"
"It's. . . been alright." A silence hung heavily in the air.
"That's good to hear. I know it hasn't been easy but we'll figure this out." Keldor assured him.
"I'm glad I can always count on you Keldor." Randor said kindly before his face gained a bit more of a determined look. "Actually, it's a good thing you called. I have something I wished to speak with you about, but I believe you wanted to talk to me about something."
"Yes, I wanted to ask you if Ensign Mara happened to have returned to Eternia?"
"Ah, yes, she has. I have called her back." Randor said as he kept walking. Keldor seemed a little irritated after hearing that.
"May I ask why? She Ra is a fairly integral part of the Heart project."
"I'm pausing the project." Randor said without missing a beat.
"What! Why?" Keldor exclaimed in shock, masking the tinge of agitation present in his tone.
Randor raised an eyebrow before pressing forward, "It has been brought to my attention that Mara has a new friend that is not quite from our timeline. She also informs me that you were quite aware of this. Did you think that time travel would be something that shouldn't be relayed back to me?"
"Well, yes, you are right. But Catra isn't actually from the future. She's from a parallel timeline. But what does she have to do with Mara?"
"Catra has informed me that she is currently locked in a war with an army calling themselves the Horde." Randor explained, utilizing the fact that Keldor was completely unaware of the recent peace treaty that Catra had helped work out. "From what I can garnish, this Horde is the very same army that we are currently engaged with. According to Catra, this army is working with limited technology and numbers and is still well on their way to winning. This has caused me to reevaluate my stance on the matter and consider yours. You and Stratos are right. I should be taking this Horde Prime more seriously.
"This is the reason I have requested Mara to return to Eternia. I need her to rendezvous with the front lines and crush the opposition before they gain the foothold that could tip the scales. Unfortunately, my focus is split with. . . Marlena's condition." Randor let out a shaky breath.
Keldor looked split before he spoke up. "Let me worry about Horde Prime."
"What do you mean?" Randor asked.
"Keep Mara here on Etheria. Have her return and I will take the main bulk of the soldiers and stop this Horde Prime. Mara can remain here and continue the Heart project. It would be better for all of us. If you allow me to do this, the Heart will just be slowed and not come to a standstill."
"I. . . I don't know. Are you sure?" Randor asked skeptically. "I can't have Stratos and you on different sides of the universe, Kai."
"I will take Stratos with me. As for the Heart, send Zed. My son is equally as capable of running the numbers as I am, maybe more so. We are so close to a breakthrough. I know it. If we can wake Marleena up then all of this, all of it, will have been for something."
Randor slowly nodded. "Alright. I see your point. . . I will send Zed with Mara and have her return to Etheria. I want You and Stratos to deal with this threat as quickly as possible. Don't waste time brother. You're all I have left." He said sadly.
Keldor nodded, "I promise that it will all be worth it in the end."
Randor gave a smile, "I'm sure Mara wishes to spend a few days with her parents before returning. I'll see to it that she is back by the end of the week. Upon her return, you have my permission to fully mobilize the fleet to crush this Horde Prime as you see fit."
Keldor gave a smile before giving a nod goodbye. After a moment, the hologram dissipated leaving Randor alone in the hall. "He seemed pretty adamant that my daughter return to Etheria."
Randor turned around to find Evelyn, "Yes, I caught that as well."
"Why is he so adamant on the Heart? I thought his main goal was the kingdom of Grayskull? You're not really going to send Zed and her back to continue the project are you?" Evelyn asked with concern.
"No. I'm intending to dismantle it entirely. It has come to my attention that we may have been going about this in the wrong way. I will not lie. I am quite ashamed that it has taken me this long to realize that." Randor said, his head hung in shame.
Evelyn put a comforting hand on the man's shoulder. "Randor, no one here blames you for your grief."
Randor smiled sadly. "Perhaps not, but while my actions may be understandable, my grief does not excuse the way I have conducted myself. On another matter, I wanted to ask you if you would do something for me."
Evelyn nodded, "Of course. Name it."
Randor gave a mirthless chuckle, "You may change your tune," He muttered before looking her in the eyes, "I'd like you to go to Etheria with Mara and teach Catra magic."
Evelyn, to her credit, didn't immediately say no, but Randor recognized the absolute fear that flashed across her body at the thought of leaving the planet. "I. . . I don't know Randor."
"I understand your reservations about space travel and they are completely justified, but I need your help with this. I can't have Catra dying because she couldn't turn this power off. I wouldn't ask this of you if I didn't think you could handle it." Randor said quietly.
Evelyn was quiet for a moment before giving a hesitant nod, and a shaky reply. "Just this once."
Randor smiled before pulling the woman into a hug, "Thank you Evelyn."
As she left Randor to his own devices, she couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that something had just shifted in the air.
As the morning rays peeked over the horizon, lighting up the room in a lovely morning glow, Catra awoke to heavy breathing and a slow steady heartbeat in her ear. As she drifted out of sleep, she became increasingly aware that she was not alone in her bed. Slowly, as to not disturb the person, she slowly started to look up until she caught sight of blonde hair. Catra immediately relaxed before lowering her head and closing her eyes, a soft pur emanating from her. As a small smile graced her lips, she drifted back into a slumber.
Unfortunately, the universe had other plans. With a loud bang, their bedroom door slammed open to an abrupt entrance from Bow and Glimmer. At their excited entrance Catra sprang out of the bed with her claws fully extended, every trace of sleep all but gone from her face. Adora was quick to follow with a dagger in hand.
"Wha. . .What's goin' on?" Adora tiredly slurred her words.
Bow recoiled a bit in panic at the sight of Catra's claws for a moment while Glimmer remained unphased, a dopey grin on her face. "What are you guys still sleeping for? Aren't you excited?"
Adora and Catra, fully awake by this point, sheathed their weapons before Catra looked at Glimmer in confusion and slight irritation. "Excited for what?"
Glimmer looked at Adora, "You didn't tell her yet?"
Adora shook her head before sitting back down on the bed. "She didn't come back until around midnight. She pretty much passed out as soon as her head hit the pillow."
Catra looked confused, "Tell me what?" She eyed Glimmer, "Why are you so excited?"
Glimmer clapped her hands together, a wide grin on her face, "In honor of your contribution as well as the success of the Alliance and all those who worked so hard for this to be possible, Brightmoon has invited the respective Kingdoms of the Princess Alliance to partake in a celebration."
Bow cut in with an equally excited grin, "In short, we're throwing a party because of the peace treaty!"
Catra furrowed her brow, "But. . . it's not a peace treaty. It's an armistice. Technically the war isn't over. We've only agreed to cease military operations."
It seemed like Glimmer's smile grew even wider, "Check again. Our scout caught wind of the terms of peace on the Horde's side. It's listed as a treaty on their end. Do you get what that means?"
Adora slowly stood up, "That Hordak has chosen to permanently end the fighting?"
Glimmer teleported in the middle of Adora and Catra, pulling them into a hug, "Yes! As long as we all abide by the terms, the war is over!"
Bow walked up to them as he flicked through his tracker pad. "So with preparations going on, everyone's in full swing. Mermista, Perfuma, and Frosta have all returned to their Kingdoms to deliver the invitation."
"What about Netossa and Spinnerella's Kingdom? Are they going to be joining?" Adora asked.
Bow nodded, "Yep, in fact they are already here. They're helping set up the decor right now. Besides that, Angella wants to talk to Catra. She said that you would know why?" At Catra's nod, Bow pressed forward. "Beyond that, we'd like Adora's help for a few things and technically this is still a royal celebration so we'll need to go over the honor speech and decorum."
Catra promptly laid down back in the bed at hearing the word decorum, to which Adora quickly picked her up. "Oh no you don't. You can't switch away at the first sign of decorum."
Catra went limp in Adora's arms, letting out a groan, "But it's so boring."
"Oh, I agree. But if I have to suffer through it, so do you." Adora said smirking as she set Catra down.
"Catra, you and Adora were the driving force behind this peace. You'll both have to stand before all of the Kingdoms and receive a commendation medal in honor of your contributions to the Treaty and the Kingdoms of Etheria." Bow explained.
Catra let out a sigh before waving her hand in the air, "Fine. I'm already awake so may as well." She grumbled.
"That's the spirit. Now, we'll let you two get dressed." Glimmer said before teleporting away with Bow.
As they were left alone in silence, Adora walked to the dresser before pulling out two changes of clothes. Catra walked into the bathroom with hers before the sound of running water started. Adora waited quietly before deciding to voice her thoughts. "So, did anything interesting happen while you were switched?"
Catra's voice carried from out of the bathroom, "Yeah, you could say that."
"How so?"
"I'm on the First Ones planet." Catra said, a playful tone present in her voice.
"What!" Adora exclaimed in shock.
"Yeah." Catra chuckled, "Oh, you wouldn't believe how gorgeous the place is. Mara's Kingdom is larger than life. It literally dwarfs Bright Moon. You could put Frosta's kingdom and Bright Moon together and it would still be tiny."
"Wow." Adora said, picturing it in her head. "What's it like?"
"It's weird for sure, but in a good way. There's so many different types of people. And the food was really good. They had roads made of floating water. Once Mara's mom gets my tracker pad up to par, I'll be able to show you what it looks like."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, according to Evelyn, our timestreams are synced up because of the Crystal Castle. So once I get the tracker pad upgraded, I'll be able to link our technology–"
"And be able to talk anywhere rather than just the Crystal Castle." Adora finished.
"Yep." Catra said as the water turned off. A minute later, Catra came walking out of the bathroom in her original horde clothes. As Catra adjusted her clothes, Adora eyed her body out of the corner of her eye before quickly walking into the bathroom to take her shower.
As Catra waited, Adora's voice came through the door, "What did Angella want to talk to you about?"
Catra remained quiet for a few minutes, unsure of how she wanted to approach the conversation. Unfortunately, that moment was long enough for Adora, "Catra?"
"Shadow Weaver. . . and magic." She replied hesitantly.
"Catra!" Adora exclaimed as the water turned off.
"Yes, Adora?" Catra replied snarkily.
"Don't 'Yes, Adora' me. I thought you had agreed to not push for this. Castaspella will teach you. You just need to ask." Adora said as she walked out of the Bathroom, drying her hair as her wet clothes clung to her body. Catra might have stared a bit longer if Adora wasn't currently confronting her over her choices.
Catra let out a sigh, "We already did."
That was enough to cut Adora off from whatever she was about to say. "You did?"
Catra nodded, "Yeah."
"And?"
"She said she would. But there's a catch."
Adora's face contorted into confusion. "Is it something bad?"
Catra shrugged, "Depends on how you look at it. She said that I would have to go to Mystacour and stay there. That way I could learn with peers at my level and around my age."
"No! You've only been here for a month. I just got you back." Adora said in defiance
Catra wasn't sure why, but she quite liked Adora's tone when she said that. Giving a small smile, she nodded, "That's what my reaction was as well. There is another alternative, but the conditions are more or less the same."
"What's the alternative?"
"Mara's mother."
"Evelyn? She knows magic?" Adora asked as she quickly did her hair.
Catra nodded, "She's the high mage of Eternia. According to Mara, nobody surpasses her in magic. And if a whole planet of magic users can't compete with her–"
"Then chances are she would be the optimal choice."
"But I'm sure you can guess the downside."
"You have to be over there instead of over here." Adora finished with a defeated tone as she laid down on the bed.
Catra nodded. "I still haven't decided yet, but the choices are Shadow Weaver or Evelyn. That's also assuming she'll agree. I haven't asked her yet."
Adora quickly sat up, "Wait. You said that they could sync your tracker pad, right? Just ask them to make it bigger. She can teach you magic while not presently being there. Mara said she could teach me in the same way at the Crystal Castle."
"That's. . .hm. I suppose that could work. I don't see any reason it wouldn't." Catra thought about it for a second. "I'll ask her next time I switch. As for right now though, Bow and Glimmer want to hang out with you and I have to go talk to Angella."
Adora nodded, "see you later."
As Mara sat in her quarters, she observed Catra's unconscious body. Something wasn't adding up in her mind and she didn't know what. Whatever had sent Catra back in time wasn't by accident. As she thought about all of the pieces she still couldn't get a clear picture. The Heart, Marleena and a possible attacker, Catra's time travel, Etheria being trapped in another dimension, the virus in the Crystal Castle from Keldor. There were too many variables.
Her thoughts were interrupted by her parents entering the room. "Mara?"
"I'm over here." Mara said.
Evelyn walked over to her and glanced at Catra. "She's quite the character. She reminds me a bit of C'yra."
Lorric came and sat down beside his daughter, "Actually, that's something I wanted to bring up. I wasn't sure of it at first but my theory is all but confirmed. Our feline friend is a direct descendant of C'yra."
Mara looked confused. "How can you be so sure?"
Lorric pulled out a small tablet device before a hologram of Queen C'yra appeared. Mara was a bit speechless. Save for some minor differences, Catra was the spitting image of the woman. C'yra was a beautiful woman with long purple hair bordering black with two golden piercing eyes that matched Catra's. Her fur however was a light lavender color in contrast with Catra's brown fur. Their hair was different with Catra's being more wild and spiky and C'yra's being straight and brushed. Her tail was also bushier than Catra's. But Mara could swear she could be Catra's mother if she didn't know any better.
"That's beyond weird. I didn't know C'yra had any children." Mara said.
"She doesn't. Although I hear she's been trying for one." Lorric continued.
"Well, if Catra is a descendant of C'yra, she'll probably have a child soon." Mara said.
Evelyn raised an eyebrow, "Why do you say that?"
"Catra told me that Etheria is trapped in an alternate dimension with no stars in the future. Incapable of space travel. She also said it's supposed to happen rather soon, so if Catra is a descendant, then at some point her child or grandchild will get stuck in Etheria."
Evelyn furrowed her brow, "That. . .sounds like Despondos."
Lorric looked at his wife in confusion. "What's Despondos?"
"Despondos is an empty dimension. It doesn't have any stars or moons or planets. Nothing. It's also almost impossible to detect, let alone find. Marleena and I got lucky just finding the damn thing." Evelyn explained. "Why would Etheria be there?"
Mara shrugged, "I don't know and neither does Catra. But according to her, they've been in this dimension for almost a thousand years."
"Well, ignoring that mystery for a moment, I wanted to talk to you about something." Evelyn said.
Mara nodded, "Sure. Go ahead."
"King Randor has asked me to accompany you and Catra to Etheria so that I may teach her magic." Evelyn explained.
Mara looked shocked. "But you hate space travel."
"Yes, I'm absolutely horrified at the prospect of this but Randor informed me that this girl almost died using her magic. That tells me that her source of time magic is not external like the mages, but rather internal, such as the princesses and queens of Etheria. Or the magicats.
Without a good teacher Catra will suffer for it and risk further harm to herself and others around her. If I can get her to a good enough level, then perhaps she'll be able to use these powers on command without help."
Mara stayed quiet, "Will you be okay on the ship?"
"Probably not, but in the worst case scenario I can just take some sleeping medicine." Evelyn said standing.
Mara looked at her father, "What about you dad? Are you coming as well?"
Lorric shook his head, Unfortunately, no. I have duties here and I need to be ready in the event that this Horde Prime will descend upon Eternia. But be aware that Admiral Stratos and Fleet Admiral Keldor will no longer be on the planet. They've been recalled to deal with the looming threat. The King will also be sending Zed with you to continue the Heart's project."
Mara looked like she wanted to say something before she was silenced by a pointed look from her father. "On another note, someone else wishes to tag along to Etheria."
"Who?" Mara asked. Evelyn also looked confused at this information.
"Me." A voice said from the door. Upon turning, Mara took in the appearance of a tall woman with gold and white armor. Her red hair and green eyes gave away who she was instantly.
Mara's face lit up in recognition, "Teela? Why would you want to come?"
Teela smiled, "For one, I'd like to see my little sister. Second, I've been chosen to be the next sorceress of Eternos. Your mother has been tutoring me and I still need to finish my training."
Mara looked at her mother, "You're retiring?"
Evelyn smiled, nodding in confirmation, "My magic does wonders keeping me fairly young. It extends my lifespan but I'm almost fifty six years old Mara. That's a long time for a human. Besides, Teela is the most powerful magic user I've ever encountered." Evelyn glanced down at Catra, "Well, besides Catra here. But I suspect that is for a different reason entirely."
Mara shook her head before looking back at Teela, "Well, congratulations on the position Teela. I'm happy for you. But I thought that members of the Women-at-arms couldn't learn magic?"
"Under normal circumstances you'd be correct. But according to the sorcerers' council, I'm unique. . .or something. I didn't really understand it all." Teela waved it off.
"So, when do we leave?" Mara asked.
Lorric spoke up, "The end of the week. The technology that will allow us to speak to Catra's timeline is still being built, but soon."
Mara gave a nod as they left the room, before turning her attention back to her time shifting friend. Perhaps if Mara had been She Ra, she would have detected the shifting in the air. Unfortunately, it went unnoticed by everyone.
Shadow Weaver thought about what she had heard over the last couple of hours. Catra had the opportunity to learn from a First Ones sorceress. She felt a bit jealous at the prospect of learning new types of magic. But that wasn't what she was currently fixated on. She needed to start teaching Catra magic as soon as possible, lest she choose to ignore her teachings entirely.
Fortunately, today was her day it would seem. For had she been a little slower, she would have missed the lingering looks from Adora towards Catra as they parted for the day. Catra and Adora's relationship grew closer and stronger with each passing day. Anyone with eyes could see it. But what they could not see was the potential leverage it brought Shadow Weaver. In the past, she had done her very best in separating the two to no success. But now, she saw the key to Catra choosing her as her main teacher.
If she could influence them towards one another and nurture their bond. Make them believe that she was an encouraging figure for it, well, she might not only gain Catra's trust, but perhaps regain Adora's to a varying degree. The celebration was the key point where she would make her move. She knew Catra didn't dare switch today. Not with her receiving an award for her contributions.
She needed to get her away from Angella. She had about seven hours until the celebration and she would not waste them. She had heard talk from the guards that with the peace treaty in place, she would soon be forced to leave Brightmoon. She couldn't allow that to happen. She needed Catra to vouch for her and defend her place in Brightmoon. If Adora was on her side as well, then it would be that much stronger.
As she wandered the city in observance, she watched the people hanging decorations and chatting lively. It sent a nostalgic feeling through her that reminded her of simpler times when she was a teenager in Mystacour. She let out a small smile before noticing something. A horde ship had arrived with crates. It was no doubt one of the supply lines that had been agreed upon. She noticed that this particular shipment had several people being escorted off of the ship who looked a little worse for wear. She knew a few of them. Prisoners of war. Her eye got caught on a file sticking out of one of the crates. She recognized the paperwork instantly, having done it herself. She also noticed that Kyle was the guard that was delivering the supplies.
As she strode over to the young man, he noticed her out of the corner of his eyes. "Ah, Shadow Weaver!" He quickly saluted her out of reflex. Technically it had only been a few days since she had left but still, she was no longer in charge of the boy.
"Cadet Kyle, I take it that these are the prisoner logs?"
"Yes, Shadow Weaver. We also released the prisoners of war that we had in our custody." Kyle said nervously. Shadow Weaver perused the files as Kyle continued to ramble on. She stopped at a specific file that she had forgotten about. A pang of guilt shot through her as she stared at the file that detailed Micah's departure to Beast Island. Although her guilt quickly faded as a sense of glee filled her body. Quickly grabbing the full report, she pocketed them away. It was definitely her day today. "I was also to deliver one of the soul shards in a show of good faith. Lord Hordak's orders."
Shadow Weaver looked at the box that Kyle was holding and quickly took it from him. Opening the box revealed the light blue glow of the shard. Upon looking at the shard, she sensed an almost miniscule shifting of. . .something indiscernible. Had she not had the experience with magic that she did, she wouldn't have noticed. Narrowing her eyes, she quickly pocketed the stone. Upon recieving a rather nonchalant dismissal, Kyle gave a nervous nod and continued on with his work before departing Brightmoon with the other Horde soldiers.
Shadow Weaver set out to find Catra, intending to speak with her first. As she wandered the grounds, she found Adora with Bow and Glimmer setting up decorations. Adora's happy chatter died down as she caught sight of Shadow Weaver.
"Adora."
"Shadow Weaver."
"Perhaps you can help me. I'm looking for–" Shadow Weaver started before Adora cut her off.
"I don't know where Catra is."
Shadow Weaver tilted her head towards Glimmer for a moment before replying, "I'm actually looking for your mother." She said with an indiscernible tone.
"Why?" Glimmer asked hesitantly, noticing Shadow Weaver's tone.
"I don't want to bring the jovial mood down, I just need to speak to Angella. It's rather important."
"The Queen is in the main hall of the castle." Bow answered.
Shadow Weaver nodded, "Thank you, Bow. Enjoy your day Adora. You earned it." She leaned in closer to Adora, "Just between us, I hear Catra is quite looking forward to the dance, seeing as how the last one was somewhat disrupted last time."
"She is?" Adora asked, her hostility fading from her voice.
"Indeed. I'm quite certain she wants to surprise you." Shadow Weaver reached into her bag and pulled out Catra's head before gently placing it in Adora's hands. "Perhaps you can surprise her as well."
Adora looked at the recently cleaned piece of armor. "Where did you find it?"
"When Castaspella asked for my help, I stumbled upon it by complete chance. It was just outside of Plumeria." She noticed Adora's apprehension regarding her actions. Shadow Weaver reached up to her face and removed her mask, exposing her face and looking Adora in the eye. "Adora, I know you don't believe me, but I mean it when I say my actions are genuine. I have a second chance. Catra healed me and gave me my magic back. I want nothing more than to help her learn to control hers. If you really are bothered by it, should she wish to learn from me, you may sit in on the lessons as well. If you cannot trust me, then at the very least trust in Catra."
Adora looked unsure. Unsure of the genuineness behind Shadow Weaver's words. Unsure of the vulnerability that she was exposing to her for the first time ever. But more than anything, Adora felt unsure of herself. She wanted to believe her, believe that she was genuinely sorry, but she couldn't be sure. "Fine, but in return, you trust me. Trust that I'm not stupid and that I'll see right through your mind games. Stop lying for once and trust me with the truth.
Shadow Weaver nodded, "Of course. Now," Shadow Weaver put her mask back on, "I must go see Angella and you three need to prepare for tonight."
As she left them to their devices, she heard their hushed whispers behind her. As she left the courtyard and entered the castle, she immediately caught sight of Catra speaking with Angella. Striding over to them, Angella narrowed her eyes in suspicion while Catra seemed caught between uncertainty and a longing for something. No doubt wanting to ask for lessons on magic while maintaining a sense of caution.
"Shadow Weaver, what are you doing here? Just because you've been released on the terms of the treaty, doesn't mean you have to stay here." Angella stepped in front of Catra, putting her safely behind herself.
"I hear Catra wished to learn magic." Shadow Weaver said nonchalantly. Before Angella could muster up a response, "But on another note, I'm actually here to speak with you Queen Angella."
"Me?" Angella said in shock. "What for?"
Shadow Weaver turned to Catra, "Could you give us the room for a bit Catra? It's somewhat important."
"Uh, yeah, of course." Catra said as she left the hall. At the sound of the doors closing, Angella pressed forward.
"What is it?"
"Do you remember General Calix?" Shadow Weaver asked.
". . .Yes." Angella said solemnly. "He was a vile person and deserved the death he got. Why bring him up?"
"About forty minutes ago the Horde dropped a sizable number of crates and supplies off at the commerce and trade station in the center of the city. Among the trade agreements and papers, I found this." Shadow Weaver said softly as she handed the file to Angella.
Angella eyed Shadow Weaver's outstretched hand for a moment before taking the file. As she looked over its contents, her face fell into a solemn grimace before looking at Shadow Weaver. "Why show me this? What does Calix have to do with it?"
"At the time of your husband's supposed death, I did not hold the position of second in command. When I heard of Micah's death, I was shocked. All paperwork flowed through my station at the time and that included a list of the dead. Especially notable figures in the war. I didn't receive any such letter. Do you get what I'm saying Angella?"
"Micah wasn't dead when he was sent to Beast Island?" Angella whispered in horror.
"Yes. But you're missing the point."
"Then what is the point?" Angella asked through gritted teeth as she threw the file down. "Because it is eluding me and hearing about the death of my husband on this day especially is grating my patience more so than ever."
"I'm saying," Shadow Weaver pulled the papers to her hand with magic before handing them back to Angella, "Is that there is a high chance your Husband is alive."
Angella froze. "How can you be sure?"
"General Calix was cruel beyond measure. He liked to see you cling to hope until the very end and then would take pleasure at the sight of your broken spirit. Killing the King of Brightmoon was not enough for the man. If I'm right, I didn't receive the file of Micah's death because he wasn't ever confirmed to be dead."
Angella looked back down at the file before balling her fists up, a slight furious tremor present. She didn't want to imagine what her husband had to endure upon his capture. But If Micah was still alive, then-then she could. . . "Thank you Shadow Weaver. You've given me a bit to think about."
Shadow Weaver nodded as she watched Angella head in the opposite direction. "You're welcome."
Shadow Weaver grinned under her mask. In truth, Shadow Weaver had been the one to personally send Micah to Beast Island. The previous second in command was sure to give Micah a long and torturous death if there ever was one. It was only thanks to her quick thinking of sending Micah away. She couldn't bear the thought of seeing him dead and could only hope that however he had died on the island that it had been quick.
But with Angella considering her options and Castaspella on her way back to Mystacour, that left Catra all alone for her to finally have a moment to talk with her. As she drifted out of the hall, she found Catra leaning against one of the pillars. "Catra, how are you doing today?"
"I'm doing alright."
"That's good. Walk with me. I want to talk with you about a few things."
"Alright." Catra said as she pushed off of the pillar.
"I hear from Castaspella that you wished to remain here instead of going to Mystacour. Why is that? I thought you'd be delighted to go." Shadow Weaver asked in confusion.
"I am, or rather was. But I can't go to Mystacour. I have other responsibilities to handle4 here. And. . ." Catra went quiet.
"Adora's not there?" Shadow Weaver finished softly. Catra gave a small nod at being called out. Shadow Weaver sighed, "You should tell her how you feel."
"How? It's not easy to say something like that!" Catra exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air.
"It never is. But you have to. Adora feels the same way, you know that right?" Shadow Weaver said as they walked through the Brightmoon Gardens.
"She does?"
Shadow Weaver nodded, "Yes. It's quite obvious. Maybe not to others, but I raised both of you girls. I can notice your habits fairly quickly, I'd say it's almost second nature to me." She stopped mid stride before turning to look at Catra, taking her mask off. "I know love is hard, and the possibility of being rejected is scary and can make you freeze, but Catra, look at Adora down there." She said, pointing over the balcony down at the streets below. Catra looked to where Shadow Weaver was pointing and quickly saw Adora. She was smiling with Bow and Glimmer. "She would never deliberately hurt you."
Catra looked at Shadow Weaver, "How do I go about it?"
"Get her a gift. I know that Adora is looking forward to the dance, seeing as how the last one got interrupted." Shadow Weaver said as they continued to walk the castle grounds. "Make a gesture that she would appreciate. It doesn't have to be grand, just something meaningful."
Catra thought of Adora and everything she knew about her. Images filled her mind of Adora fighting, laughing, She Ra, what she wore, how her body looked this morni– Her thoughts may have gotten a bit sidetracked. But something stuck out to her. Adora wouldn't care about flowers. No, she had a better idea in mind.
"A knife. Or a weapon of some kind. I think Adora would appreciate that." Catra said.
Shadow Weaver nodded, "It's a good start. Have you decided on an outfit for tonight?"
Catra froze, "No, not really."
"Well then, a word of advice. I'd go with white and gold. If you wish to go for a more obvious route. Matching colors have a bit of a history among couples on Etheria." Shadow Weaver said.
Catra's thoughts flew to the coat that Angella had gifted her. "I think I know what to do. Thank you Shadow Weaver. . . Tomorrow, we can discuss magic. If that's alright with you?"
Shadow Weaver nodded, "Of course." Catra turned and exited the gardens, leaving Shadow Weaver by herself. It was then something became painfully clear to Shadow Weaver. She had observed Catra for the last few days and she could see it. Catra's memories were coming back at an accelerated rate without the shards. Something wasn't adding up.
"Finally. I've been looking for you guys for an hour." Catra said as she walked up to Netossa and Spinnerella. "I need your help with something."
Netossa turned and looked at Catra, "Sure, what's up?"
"It's kind of private but I need your help with my outfit for tonight. Also do either of you know if Sea Hawk and Mermista are here yet?"
Spinnerella shook her head, "Sorry Catra. They still have yet to arrive. But we'll happily help."
As they accompanied Catra back to her and Adora's bedroom, she grabbed the coat from the closet where she had laid it and held it up to them.
"Ohhhh, I like that." Spinnerella cooed. "Are you planning on wearing that tonight?"
"Yeah, but there's a problem." Catra said, laying it on the bed.
"Well, show us the rest of it first." Netosa said.
"That's the problem." Catra said, taking a seat.
". . . That's all there is, isn't it?" Netossa asked.
Catra nodded, "Yep."
"I hate it when that happens." Netossa said as walked over to examine it.
"So, what should I do?"
Spinnerella looked at the dress for a moment before turning back towards Catra, "Are you sure that's what you want to wear? It's lovely and no doubt it'll look good, but those specific colors are. . .."
"They're Adora's colors." Netossa finished, "You might send her the wrong message wearing that."
"What message would that be?" Catra asked defensively.
Spinnerella answered in a gentler tone, "That you're looking to start a romantic relationship with her."
Catra raised an eyebrow, "Yeah, obviously. That's why I want to wear it." Catra said bluntly.
"Oh!" Spinnerella and Netossa said in shock.
"Well, in that case, I know exactly how to help." Spinnerella said.
For the next hour and a half, Catra listened to her friends' advice about how to approach the matter. Their approaches varied a bit but otherwise were fairly similar and both advised her to just tell Adora how she felt about her. Netossa stated that having a drink beforehand might calm any nerves she might have. By the end of the hour, she had picked an outfit for the dance. It consisted of a button up shirt with a shade of red that matched Adora's jacket, a pair of black pants with two golden stripes that ran down the sides of her legs, a pair of boots that stretched just below her knees with a golden buckle and heels.
Catra admired herself in the mirror before turning to face Netossa and Spinnerella, "Thanks, I don't think I could have picked this out myself."
"No problem Catra. We're rooting for you." Spinnerella said as they turned to leave. "Also, the party will begin in about three hours. By this point, everyone should have arrived."
Netossa turned back to look at Catra before closing the door, "Don't worry about changing out of your outfit. Everyone will already be dressed up and getting ready. I suggest finding Sea Hawk quickly. I know you were looking for him earlier."
As the door closed, Catra quickly rushed out to the balcony, scanning Brightmoon. Just past the buildings, she could faintly make out Mermista's ships. Nodding to herself she went to turn to leave before a sudden appearance of sparkles lit up her vision. To her surprise Glimmer had appeared in the room and had immediately marched over to Adora's dresser.
Catra watched in amusement as she dug through the clothes, frantically searching for something. Catra had a guess that she was searching for the hair pin that Adora had worn during Princess Prom.
Catra cleared her throat, startling Glimmer who had yet to notice her. "Looking for something?"
Glimmer spun around but froze when she took in Catra's apparel. Her eyes lit up in excitement before Catra held up the hair pin. "Hey, Sparkles, is this what you're looking for?"
Glimmer nodded, "Yes! Ugh, today has been hectic as hell."
"Well it's not over yet, but can you do me a favor?"
"Sure, what's up?" Glimmer asked as she took the hair pin.
"I'm looking for Sea Hawk. Do you know if he's here yet? I want to get Adora a gift."
"Oh! Yeah, he's with Mermista down by the city stalls. You want me to take you there?"
"Yeah, that'd be appreciated." Catra nodded.
As Glimmer placed a hand on Catra's shoulder, Catra found herself enveloped in magic before finding herself in the marketplace. Catra shook her head, "I'll never get used to that."
Glimmer let out a small laugh, "Alright, I've got to get going. Remember, the party starts in three hours but you need to be in the castle an hour before that so that we can get ready for our award speeches. So you've got about two hours. Here, take this." Glimmer said, holding out a seal. "That'll let you get anything in the markets of Brightmoon, free of charge. Once you're done with it I'll need it back though. Don't lose it."
Catra gave a nod of thanks, "Got it. See you in a bit."
Glimmer teleported away, leaving her in the middle of the stalls. Catra wandered around, looking for Sea Hawk and Mermista for a few minutes before spotting them. As she walked up to them she called out, "Seah Hawk! Mermista! Over here!"
Sea Hawk and Mermista made their way towards Catra before stopping and looking at her outfit. Sea Hawk was the first one to comment on it, "Well met Catra. I do say, "You are looking quite strapping today."
Mermista raised an eyebrow, "Those colors on purpose?"
Catra gave a nod, "Yeah, but listen, I need your help Sea Hawk."
"Name it my feline friend." Sea Hawk said exuberantly.
"I need help picking out a gift–" Catra began before being cut off.
"For Adora?" Mermista interrupted with a smirk.
Catra could already feel a headache forming, "Yes, for Adora."
"Uh huh. And why do you need our help? Normally, flowers are the way to go for this type of thing." Mermista said, gesturing to Catra's outfit.
"Because flowers aren't Adora's thing. I'm going to get her a knife, or dagger, or. . . something." Catra explained.
"Oh ho! Then you've come to the right man! I know just the place. Onwards!" Sea Hawk cried before weaving through the crowd.
Catra had to admit that she was already enjoying herself as she looked at the people dancing and having fun as they chatted with one another. They arrived in front of a stall that had a lot of ornaments and metal pieces although there were no weapons on display.
"Johnny, my good man, how are you doing this fine day?" Sea Hawk asked a fairly average looking man. Dark hair, dark eyes, a blacksmith if Catra ever saw one.
The man in question simply raised an eyebrow, "Sea Hawk. You here to pay me the money you owe me?"
"Now, now, let's not spoil the festive mood. I'm not here for anything. But our good friend here is. She's looking to acquire a weapon, preferably a gagger of some sort. Catra, this here is Johnny. He's the blacksmith of the one and only Phoenix Anvil"
"Pleasure to meet you. Like Sea Hawk said, I need a weapon." Catra said.
"What for? War's over. No need for weapons anymore." Johnny said as he moved a few things around in his stall.
"A gift." Catra replied. She's not big on flowers and I know she'd appreciate a knife."
Johnny eyed Catra, "No offense, but can you even afford any of my stuff? You look like you've got some cash, judging by that fancy attire, but my weapons aren't exactly cheap y'know. It's not like these ornaments I have out."
Catra reached into her coat's pocket and produced the seal that Glimmer had given her. "My friend said that this should allow me to purchase anything in the marketplace. Does that apply to your weapons?"
Johnny's eyes widened at the sight of the royal family's sigil before letting out a chuckle. "Why didn't you open with that? Of course it applies. But tell me, do you even know what it is you're holding?"
Catra shook her head. "Glimmer handed it to me and said to use it to get a gift."
Johnny nodded, "Figures it's the princess who gave it to you. Girly, that there is the official sigil of the queen herself. That won't just buy something from the marketplace, that could buy a city. That sigil gives you access to the Kingdom's wealth."
Catra suddenly felt a bit less confident brandishing such a thing in broad daylight, even if she was in the Kingdom of Brightmoon. She quickly pocketed the seal to the chuckle of the man. "Yeah, that should be the right reaction. Come on, let's get you a weapon."
As Catra stepped into the man's shop, Sea Hawk and Mermista said they'd wait outside. Once in the back, she noticed all of the weapons. They were all excellently crafted and she could tell that Johnny had mastered his craft. Everything from beautiful swords to elegant long bows lined the walls.
"This is where Sea Hawk chose to take me? Doesn't the guy know I don't have money on me?" Catra muttered.
Johnny laughed. "Yeah, he's a character alright."
"How do you know him?"
"He's my ex." He simply said. Catra realized that that was all he would say on the matter. "So, what are we looking for? Knife? Dagger? Sword? You pick something and I'll bag it up for you."
Catra wasn't sure how long she perused the store, looking at all manner of weapons. She picked up an exceptionally beautiful sword that was black in color and sported a ruby gem in the center. It looked like something the Horde would employ if they stopped using shock batons. She carefully set it back down and examined a knife that had a ring on one end and a curved blade. Catra looked at all of the weapons carefully before something caught her eye. She walked over to it and gently picked the weapon up. It was a staff that emitted a light red glow along a grooved pattern with golden rings surrounding the ends. A memory flashed through her mind as she recalled her and Adora training with staffs in the Horde as children.
Johnny walked over to it and let out a small smile. "Twist it."
"What?"
"The center? Twist it."
Catra did as he said. Suddenly, the red glow grew brighter before rushing to the ends of the staff, producing two long blades.. They were beautifully designed giving an almost ethereal glow of silver and red. Catra twisted it back to its less lethal mode before tapping it on the ground, a heavy thud sound betraying its weight. She looked at Johnny before nodding. "This one."
Johnny gave a smile. "Alright." He quickly wrapped the weapon before handing it back to her. "She must mean a lot to you, huh?"
Catra didn't respond right away but Johnny didn't miss the smile on her lips. "Yeah."
He didn't want to spoil the girl's evening by telling her that this was one of his signature pieces and that it was worth a small fortune. He knew that the Queen could easily afford such a thing without batting an eye, so he made sure that the wrapping was specially done.
"Don't be afraid to stop by again. You look like someone who would appreciate the subtlety of a blade." Johnny said as she took her gift and left.
Catra gave her thanks before taking her leave, looking for Seah Hawk. As she looked at the sky, she realized that the sun was slowly setting. It was only now occurring to her that she'd been in the weapons shop longer than she thought. Deciding to hurry up, she started moving towards the castle intent on making it back in time. Just as she made it out of the marketplace, Glimmer appeared before her. "There you are! Did you find a gift?"
Catra held up the wrapped weapon, displaying it to Glimmer. "Yep."
Glimmer looked around before lowering her voice. "What is it?"
"A staff from a weapons shop that Sea Hawk took me to."
Glimmer cringed as she looked closer at the wrapping, "Is that from the Phoenix Anvil?"
Catra looked a bit concerned. "Is that bad?" Catra wondered if she had just been swindled into something cheap.
"No, not bad per say, just that Johnny is the most expensive weapons maker in Bright Moon."
"Oh. . ."
"Whatever, it's fine. I gave you the seal for a gift and you went big with it. No biggie. Ignoring that for a second, we have to get ready. Let's go." Glimmer said as they teleported back to the rooms.
Angella looked over at the duo as they appeared. She looked Catra up and down, a big smile present. "That goes quite well with the coat." Angella noticed the wrapped gift instantly. She let out an exhale of minute annoyance before looking at Glimmer. "Do you have my seal?"
Glimmer nodded, "Here you go mom."
Catra looked from Glimmer to Angella. "Did I do something wrong?"
Angella shook her head. "You didn't do anything wrong, Catra. I take it that that's a gift?"
"Yeah, It's for Adora." Catra answered.
Angella nodded, "I figured. I can't blame Glimmer for this. I imagine she gave you the seal for the gift and left shortly after?"
"Pretty much, yeah."
"All items from Phoenix Anvil must be documented among the Bright Moon ledger. It's a matter of safety and identification." Angella explained. "Do you have the bill of sale?"
Catra nodded before pulling it out of her pocket. "It didn't say how much it was."
"Of course not. Johnny's shop isn't something you can just go into. You need to have a designated official sign off on it. Which I must ask, how did you get him to give you a weapon?"
"Sea Hawk introduced me."
Angella raised an eyebrow. "Sea Hawk? How?"
"He's his ex." Catra said.
Angella remained silent as she took the bill of sale before handing it to Juliet. "No matter. Are you ready for the ceremony?"
"As ready as I can be I suppose."
"Then let's start rehearsing."
Shadow Weaver sat in the room that was initially her cell as she stared at the soul shard in front of her. Something had been bothering her for the last few days about this whole time travel thing. When she had witnessed Catra reforge the shards, she had noticed that it looked very similar to something she had witnessed in her youth. She could feel the magic surge under the surface of the shard in a calm flow, a far cry from the volatility it had demonstrated before. It was then Shadow Weaver had a terrifying thought. She hoped that she was wrong about it, but she needed to be sure. Throwing caution to the wind, Shadow Weaver reached out to the shard and grasped it in her hand, magic flaring. . . to no reaction. Her blood was like ice in her veins as she came to a terrifying thought. Was Marleena lying? The shards couldn't hold a soul. It wasn't possible. . . was it?It wasn't because they weren't capable of holding large reservoirs of magic, oh no, they did that just fine, but because what she was currently holding in her hand was not a soul shard at all. Shadow Weaver had experimented with the Black Garnet for more than thirty years and upon touching the small stone, she instantly recognized the magical signature. She was holding a piece of a runestone.
Whatever reason Marleena wanted these shards put together was something she couldn't figure out, but she knew that something wasn't adding up. The rifts, the time travel, Catra's returning memories. The woman claimed memory loss but she wasn't so sure. So Shadow Weaver did something she normally wouldn't do without proper preparations. She swapped the shard from the black garnet in her mask for the soul shard. Immediately she could feel the shard's magic flow through her body. It was nothing like the Black Garnet, oh no, it was so much more dangerous. Taking a breath, she walked over to a vase that sat in a corner of the room and quickly shattered it. Calling upon the stored magic, she let the magic flow through her body, directing it towards the broken vase. As she watched the vase put itself back together as if in reverse, Shadow Weaver dropped the spell, letting out a shaky breath.
Something was very wrong.
She did her best to compose herself before heading for the celebration. She needed to do something. She couldn't allow Catra to reforge this rune stone without further knowledge.. The first time Catra had used a shard, she had stepped through time by a thousand years. The second time, she had rewound the day. Now, there were rifts appearing throughout Etheria. Catra's desperation for her missing memories was fueling her drive to retrieve the shards. For all intents and purposes this was Catra's runestone. She didn't know how, but Catra had forged a connection with this runestone and now. . . now Shadow Weaver didn't know what to do.
Quickly casting an illusion to change the color of the shard to match that of the Black Garnet, she left the room , heading to the ceremony.
Catra suddenly felt like a bundle of nerves as she stood with Angella. Glimmer had teleported to Adora and Bow to help them ready with their speeches. With the evening now right on top of her, she felt a little unsure of herself. She tried to lie to herself and say that her nerves were from the speech that she was going to have to deliver but she knew the truth. She couldn't care less about the speech. In fact she hadn't even prepared a speech. She was just going to thank everyone and that would be it. No, her nerves came from the fact that she was about to confess to Adora at some point in the evening.
"Breathe, Catra." Angella said from her side.
Catra turned her head to look at Angella, "What?"
"You'll be fine. It's just a speech."
"That's not it." Catra said, letting a deep breath out.
"Oh? What then?" Angella asked inquisitively.
". . .It's about Adora." Catra said quietly.
Angella looked confused for a moment before realization dawned on her face. "Ohhhh." A smile graced her lips. "I see. Well then, in that case, the best advice I can give you is to go for it."
Catra looked at her, dumbfounded. "That's it? Really? Just, 'go for it?' Nothing else?"
Angella laughed. "You don't know this but I initially didn't like Micah."
"What?" Catra looked shocked at hearing that.
"It's true. I thought he was annoying, a bit of a know it all, he was shorter than me, and I found him to be very pushy." Angella said as she looked out over the Kingdom as the royal lectern was being set up in preparation of the announcement, "But over time, I came to care about him. His know it all attitude seemed more wise, his annoying attitude was suddenly more charming, his height was endearing, and his pushiness was quite loving."
"Wow. So you just went for it?" Catra asked.
Angella laughed. "You could say that. There was someone else that I was under the assumption that Micah cared for. Well I later found out I was wrong, but that's a story for another time. But the point was that I felt that I had wasted too much time and I needed to at the very least make my feelings known to him."
"How'd you do that?"
"I got some help from a few of our friends and his sister. It wasn't until afterwards that I found out he felt the same way towards me." Angella explained.
"But what if she says no?" Catra asked a bit quieter.
Angella turned and put a comforting hand on Catra's shoulder. "Then that will be Adora's choice. And it will hurt for a while. Rejection always does, but I promise you that a weight will be lifted off of your shoulders. And if you find that she does feel the same way, you will be ever thankful that you did tell her."
Catra was quiet for a moment before giving a grateful smile. "Okay, I think I get it."
Angella gave a small smile. "Good. Now, do you have your speech prepared? We're about to begin."
Catra gave a sheepish smile. "No, but I don't think it needs to be a big thing. I think everyone's just happy that the fighting is over."
Angella nodded, "I suppose you're right. Well let's get started."
True to Catra's words, the speeches and medals were secondary to the joy of the treaty. There were smiles, laughs, and cheers as the medals were laid on each of the alliance members shoulders. Although Frosta was a bit hesitant as she had really only been a part of the alliance for a few days, Angella insisted that she had chosen to help, no matter how recently and that she deserved to be up there with the rest of them. When it was her turn, Catra stepped up to Angella as she laid a medal around her neck. She was ecstatic at the applause and cheering as she stood before an adoring audience. She knew it was for everyone else as well, but she was content to soak it in.
As the ceremony ended, Angella announced that the celebration had begun and for everyone to enjoy the night. Catra noticed Adora with Bow and Glimmer over on the main street. Catra felt her nerves return as her good mood from the medals died a bit. Glimmer caught her out of the corner of her eyes before Catra shook her head as if saying not yet. Catra wandered over to an area where drinks were being served.
She noticed that Netossa, Spinnerella, and Sea Hawk were over here as well. Catra noticed a drink that looked quite similar to a pink morning. She recalled Angella telling her that Salineas had a drink called a sailor's warning that was similar. Catra was about to ask for one before she found a hand holding a bluish purple drink in front of her. Catra looked at the owner only to find Mermista.
Catra raised an eyebrow at the woman. She handed it to Catra as she downed one of her own. "You're gonna want that for when you go talk to Adora, trust me."
Catra looked over at the Sea Hawk as he approached with Netossa and Spinnerella. Sea Hawk stepped forward with a smile. "My darling Mermista is right. The woes of the heart are not easily tread. A hearty drink can make all the difference in how one approaches such things."
Catra looked over at Netossa and Spinnerella and to her surprise they both nodded in agreement. Catra looked at the drink before throwing it back. Immediately, she erupted in a coughing fit before glaring at the offending glass in her hand, "Ugh, that's awful. What is this?"
Mermista laughed, "It's a rum mix. It's definitely a stronger drink for a beginner."
Catra looked out of the corner of her eye at Adora. She was surrounded by people as they talked and laughed with her. All of a sudden, a flash of sparkles lit up her vision as Glimmer appeared in front of her. Catra jumped a bit and was suddenly thankful she had downed her drink when she did.
"Wow, you look just like I did at princess prom." Glimmer said as she looked at Catra.
"I don't know what you mean." Catra said as she turned away from her.
"Catra, you have all night to talk to Adora. Have fun, mingle, don't just stand in one place. Enjoy yourself." Spinnerella said.
"I concur. This is no good. Come! We shall have a most awesome night! Adventure!" Sea Hawk said as he grabbed Catra before dragging her off into the crowd.
Glimmer grinned as Catra disappeared before turning to Mermista, "So, did you get your apology from her?"
Mermista waved her off, "It's fine. Besides, I think that ending the war is as great an apology as any. Now she just needs to see that Adora feels the same way as well and we can all move on with our lives."
Glimmer laughed, "Yep. You should have seen Adora earlier today. I've never seen Adora actively search for something to wear."
Mermista looked shocked. "Oh! So she was nervous too?"
"Nervous? I'm pretty certain that she wants to confess to Catra as well. She has a gift for her and everything. She even wore red to match Catra's colors." Glimmer explained.
"Hm, well in that case, I hope it works out." Mermista said to Glimmer's agreement.
As the night stretched on, Catra intermingled with people from all over. She met up with Frosta to the girl's delight and hung out with her for a while before being joined by Perfuma and Juliet. Catra had enjoyed the night, trying to let some of her nerves go. One thing was for sure though. Sea Hawk and Mermista had been right, the alcohol had done wonders for her stress. She had a pleasant buzz going that made the night much more enjoyable. The big dance was coming up and Catra had retrieved her gift from where Angella had stored it.
Adora had retrieved the wrapped box that contained Catra's headpiece. She had laid a metal polish on it several hours beforehand to restore its quality. As Adora wandered idly, she caught sight of Catra alone. As she went to make her way over to her, Angella saddled up to Catra's side, disrupting the opportunity. Adora let a bit of annoyance wash over her as she changed course. She then noticed Shadow Weaver off to the side chatting with some locals.
"Shadow Weaver, can I have a moment?"
The woman stopped mid-conversation before turning to Adora. "Yes, Adora?"
"Could you. . ." Adora let out a breath, "Can you help me out?"
Shadow Weaver smiled under her mask. She already knew she meant Catra. "Of course. What do you need?"
"Catra, er, rather, I want some alone time with Catra, but every time I get a chance, someone comes up to her."
Shadow Weaver nodded, "Of course. I know exactly what to do."
"You do?"
"Yes, you stay right here." Shadow Weaver said as she started towards Catra.
As Shadow Weaver walked up to Catra and Angella, they both stopped talking and looked at her. Angella spoke up first, "Shadow Weaver, how are you enjoying the celebration?"
Shadow Weaver could tell right away by the Queen's tone that she had already had a few drinks. "Quite well, actually. And you two?"
"I'm having fun." Catra answered with a bit of cheer.
Shadow Weaver smiled, and it seemed that Catra had also had a drink. She was nowhere near drunk though which was good. "Catra. I do believe that Adora would like some alone time."
Catra froze a bit before looking at Shadow Weaver, "Are you sure?"
"Well, considering she sent me over here to get rid of Angella so that she could get you alone, I would say so, yes." Shadow Weaver drawled.
Angella raised a brow before giving Catra a nudge. "Don't worry about me, Catra. You've been waiting all night. Now's your chance."
Catra gave a nod before gently grabbing her gift and walking towards Adora. Angella smiled as she watched her go before turning towards Shadow Weaver. "Did you wish to speak with me?"
"Yes, but it can wait for now. This isn't the time to discuss such things." Shadow Weaver said as she wandered off.
"Hm, just as well." Angella said as she walked towards her daughter and Bow.
As Catra and Adora stood together, they smiled at one another. "I like your coat. It looks nice."
Catra smiled at that before holding out her gift. "I got you a gift. Glimmer and Sea Hawk helped me out."
Adora looked at the wrapped item before gently unwrapping it. As she picked up the staff, she admired it in awe. The light subtle red glow reminded her of their time training in the Horde and the laughter that had usually accompanied it.
"Twist it." Catra said. Adora wore the same look that she had when Johnny had told her to twist it. "The staff. Twist the center."
Adora twisted it before two long blades extended, accompanied by a silver and red sheen, giving it an almost ethereal glow. Adora twisted the staff back, causing the blades to retract. Adora was amazed at the staff before gently setting it to the side. "It's beautiful. Thank you Catra."
Catra smiled. "You're welcome."
Adora held out a small box before Catra could continue, "I got you something as well. Shadow Weaver helped a bit."
Catra took the box before opening it. She froze as she gently picked up the head piece. Memories of her time with Adora in the Horde filled her head. She recalled the first time that Adora had given this to her when they were younger. She remembered how they used to sit at the railing and just talk for hours about their future. She remembered their fights, their laughs, moments of intimacy that they hadn't shared with anyone else. Adora suddenly looked a bit concerned.
"Catra, are you okay?" Adora asked gently.
Catra realized that she had tears running down her face. Quickly wiping her eyes, she nodded with a smile, "I'm fine. I just remembered a lot just now. Thank you." She said before enveloping Adora in a hug that lasted a bit too long to be friendly. As they pulled back a bit, to look at one another. As they stood there, gazing at one another, soft music started to play. Catra looked over Adora's shoulder to see Shadow Weaver ushering her on as she stood beside the band.
"Do you want to dance? I know our last one didn't end too well." Catra asked.
Adora smiled and nodded, pulling her out towards the street where others were dancing. They had set their gifts to one another on the table before Glimmer had teleported over and grabbed them. Adora noticed and gave a thankful nod before focusing on Catra. As they danced, Catra decided to take Angella's advice and just say it. "Adora."
"Yeah?"
". . .I love you. I always have." Catra said softly, almost a whisper.
For Adora, it was almost like the music had stopped. It was just them, with no one else around. She looked Catra in the eyes in shock. "You do?"
Catra gave a soft nod, not trusting her voice. Adora was silent for a second to Catra's stress. All of a sudden, Adora pulled Catra into a kiss. Catra's mind lit up in joy as she pulled back, looking Adora in the eyes before wrapping her arms around Adora's neck and pulling her back into another kiss.
Shadow Weaver grinned. She had done it. Admittedly, it hadn't been too hard if she was being honest. Now all she had to do was–
A ripple of magic flew across Bright Moon, washing over everyone. Shadow Weaver felt the shard in her mask glow, as if putting up a barrier between her and the ripple. Shadow Weaver watched the landscape change for the briefest of moments, the sky cracked and shattered, rifts opened in the sky as all too familiar monsters poured out of them, the world itself seemingly torn apart as the surge of magic focused in on Catra. She watched in shock as her hair began to change color to purple before she witnessed something extraordinary. Adora had begun to glow and with it the surge recoiled, throwing itself away from Catra, almost as if retreating. As quick as it came, any trace of the ripple was gone. Shadow Weaver whipped around, looking for any sign of change in the area. Nothing. There was nothing. It was as if it hadn't happened at all and she realized then, that no one had noticed it. Not even Catra herself. She focused on Adora and saw the glow was gone. Shadow Weaver eyes narrowed in fury. If she had doubts before, they were gone now. This had nothing to do with memory loss. Catra was being manipulated into breaking time.
Entrapta looked down at her tablet as she sat on Emily, eating tiny food. The images showed a completely destroyed Etheria. She rewound the small video as she watched herself be torn apart by what she could only guess was a form of a black hole.
"Fascinating."
Wow, did this chapter take forever. I hope everyone's enjoying it so far. I think this was probably my favorite chapter so far. I'm not gonna put a time table on it, but I think that we only have about two more chapters to go. But I'll be starting my summer job again soon so updates might be a little slower. For now, comment, like, yada yada. You get it.
