Saturday, March 24, 2012

Adora's Search For Honor Part 1: Chapter 4

And now, She-Ra Saturdays continue...

Adora’s Search for Honor
Part 1
Chapter 4

Previously: Catra let Adora and Spira know how angry she was about the Rebels escape from the Fright Zone. Glimmer, Bow, Mermista, and Perfuma made it back to the Whispering Woods safely. Glimmer gave a rousing speech assuring the members of the Rebellion to continue to hold out hope for supplies and an end to the Horde’s domination over Etheria. Castaspella had also brought survivors from the destruction of Poft (a seaside village) to the Whispering Woods. Adora and Spira discussed the Rebellion and the Horde, Adora found herself questioning a few things. Catra was catty with Frosta, who still won’t surrender peacefully to the Horde. Hordak and Shadow Weaver discussed various Fright Zone business while Catra asked permission to investigate her suspicions that someone in the Horde may be a spy…

Chapter 4

Adora stands with some Horde Troopers in the cargo bay area of the Fright Zone, awaiting the arrival of a man that grates Adora’s nerves. His name is Sea Hawk, a pirate on contract with the Horde. Sea Hawk's role is to find and deliver various items, including certain supplies and resources, to the Horde. The rugged pirate approaches the cargo area and reaches out to kiss Adora's hand, “Why, if it isn’t the most beautiful woman in the Fright Zone! How do you do Adora?” Sea Hawk is left hanging as Adora rolls her eyes and keeps her hands by her side, “I am just here to make sure the items are delivered Sea Hawk, I am not in the mood to deal with your come-ons.”

Nodding Sea Hawk looks around the cargo bay area. He notices more gaurds than usual, “Sure looks like Hordak has increased security around here. What happened here Princess?” Slightly impatient Adora speaks loudly, “We have had a recent security breech. Hordak wants to make sure that it doesn’t happen again and please do not call me Princess. Do I look like a Princess?” Knowing he has pushed a button, Sea Hawk grins, “Wow I didn’t think anyone could escape this place alive. For the record though Adora, you are the most beautiful woman in this high class dump. Sorry if I think of you as royalty.” Sea Hawk tips his head and starts to unload some boxes with the help of his crew members.

Shaking her head in annoyance Adora knows Sea Hawk is harmless. However his deliveries always fill her with dread. The Horde Force Captain feels that the pirate is too slick, and those are kind words. She does not trust Sea Hawk. Eventually Hordak walks into the cargo area and stands next to Adora. Looking at the shipment of stolen scrap metals for weapon parts and other goods Hordak grins, “Pirates do such great work. Sea Hawk, you do not disappoint." Sea Hawk nods approaching Hordak for his payment. The pirate is ready to roll in the riches, this was a big shipment. Hordak prepares to hand over a few coins, "I will give you half of your payment now.”

Caught off gaurd, Sea Hawk pauses, “Huh? That wasn’t part of the deal Hordak.” Laughing and snorting the Horde leader throws the coins at Sea Hawk, “Do not pretend like you make the rules pirate. You will receive the other half of your payment once you find something important for me.” Hordak motions for everyone to walk away, he wants to speak privately with the pirate. There have been times in the past where Sea Hawk went on missions to find rare and unique items for Hordak. Sea Hawk crosses his arms, “And what would you like? Another impish pet dragon?” Sea Hawk is referring to Imp, a small dragon that is Hordak's personal pet.

Hordak smiles, “My pet Imp was a rare feat indeed; however what I want is much rarer. I need an ice diamond.” Upon hearing the request Sea Hawk laughs, “Hordak! The ice diamond is a myth. How do you expect me to find something that does not exist?” Not skipping a beat Hordak is serious, “You will find it. If you have to look around every corner of Etheria, you will find me that diamond. Of course, I could always find someone else to do your job...” The pirate stops smiling, “No. I will do my best to find you an ice diamond Hordak.” Sea Hawk’s crew stops unloading the last of the shipment. Motioning his crew members, Sea Hawk prepares to leave.

Nodding his head to Adora and saying his goodbyes to Hordak, Sea Hawk heads back to the ship with his crew. Walking towards his ship on a landing pad, Sea Hawk looks back to make sure the Horde is inside and away. The pirate hoists himself onto the ship which is part flying air ship but can also travel on the sea as needed. While walking towards his personal cabin Sea Hawk is caught off guard when a net is thrown over his head.

Sea Hawk shouts, “What the heck?! Netossa what was that for?!” He tries to get the net off of him as Netossa steps forward and crosses her arms, “That is for doing dirty business with the Horde! I can’t believe I am stuck on this ship with the likes of you!” Netossa is a captivating beauty with long blue hair. A recent addition to the ship as a stowaway, Netossa is not happy that Sea Hawk does business with the Horde.

Pointing his finger at her Sea Hawk shouts, “No one said you needed to stay! But a deal is a deal, if you want me to help find your friend, you are going to have to pay off your debt!” A furious Netossa bites back, “I am willing to pay off my debt to you for sneaking aboard your ship and taking your items. I have already done my best to help your crew but when are we going to look for my friend? I’m tired of searching for items and making deliveries to the Horde. You have no idea how evil the Horde is!”

Sea Hawk calls out for one of his crew members to start up the ship. Looking at Netossa Sea Hawk lowers his head. Ever since they found Netossa on the ship he has heard how terrible the Horde is, “I don’t care how evil the Horde is. I have a job to do Netossa.” Vehemently shaking her head Netossa whispers, “How can you help the Horde? Do you have any idea what they are capable of?” Netossa is fully aware of what the Horde can do...

Rubbing his fingers together Sea Hawk is honest, “I do this job for the riches. You think I like putting up with that ridiculous Hordak? I am aware of what the Horde is, but let me tell you something chick, I have no other choice. If I stop doing the job, he will just find someone else to take my place. And in turn, my new place won’t be pretty.” Sea Hawk wants to be rich and very much alive.

Pausing before speaking, Netossa realizes she no longer cares. There are more important matters she wants to attend to, “Whatever your situation is I could care less Sea Hawk." Beginning to choke back tears Netossa continues, "I want to find my friend! The longer we wait, the more she is in danger. I just know it! You need to help me find her!” This is not the first time the pirate has heard of Netossa's "friend." Sea Hawk takes a breath, “Look lady, I catch you trying to steal my ship, causin’ a ruckus, and nearly taking out half my crew in the process. Do not tell me what I need to do. You pay off your debt fully for the trouble you caused and then I will be glad to find your friend and be done with you.”

Closing her eyes Netossa spits out, “You pirates are all the same. I can’t believe this. Forget the debt, let me off this ship. I will find my friend myself!” Netossa attempts to jump off the ship while in the process of lifting into the air. Sea Hawk rushes towards her, grabbing her by the waist. Shouting at her, “What are you doing!? Trying to kill yourself? What is the matter with you Netossa? We are about to be airborn!” Sea Hawk looks at the strong woman before him.

Choking back more tears Netossa shakes, “I can’t go on like this! I am wasting so much time, and if she is gone, I will never forgive myself.” The pirate can see that Netossa is clearly upset about finding her friend. He wonders if she will now shed light on just who this friend is, “What is so special about your friend?”

Netossa removes Sea Hawk’s hands from her waist, “What do you care Sea Hawk? You are only interested in gold from Hordak.” Shaking his head, “No. I’ve heard enough about this friend, enough with being vague 'Tossa. If I am going to help you, you need to start talkin’. Does this friend even have a name?”

Netossa pauses with tears in her eyes, “Her name is Spinnerella.” Sea Hawk smirks, “Spinnerella? What kind of name is that?” Rolling her eyes Netossa explains, “Spinnerella is a nick name her family gave her. She is a dancer.” Perking up Sea Hawk smiles, “Oh? I like dancers.” Groaning in response, “Not that kind of dancer you jerk. She does not dance for the pleasures of pirates. She dances to pass down the stories of our town’s ancestors. Spinnerella learned to dance from the other dancers in our town; she has been given a talent.”

Realizing he needs to be serious Sea Hawk apologizes and asks Netossa to continue. Netossa opens up about her life, “Well Spinnerella’s family lives next door to mine. We have known each other since we were little children. You could even say that we are like sisters. Our families are important to our town. My father and mother both have talents involving netting. My father uses netting to catch and sell food in a market my family owns. My mother uses her netting skills to create fantastic fashions for the people of our town. Learning from both my parents I have learned how to use netting for various purposes. In fact I was always helping to design Spinnerella’s dancing costumes for festivals.”

Sea Hawk nods, “That explains a lot. So the two families have been close. Now how did you lose your friend?”

Netossa continues, “We both wanted to go on holiday and tour Etheria. Or rather parts of Etheria, since it has not been completely safe to travel due to the Horde. Our families were concerned, but Spinnerella and I were able to convince them to letting us travel on holiday. That is what we did. We made it to a quaint sea side village and roomed in an inn. The inn keeper’s family liked us so much, that we decided to stay in the town for longer than we had expected. I taught the town how to use netting to help them catch food while Spinnerella had been busy teaching the children how to dance and tell stories. Spinnerella had even caught the eye of a handsome young man. Love was in the air, and our holiday was simply divine.”

Thinking of the families, Sea Hawk asks, “What of your families? Did they wonder where you two were after awhile?”

Netossa goes on, “We sent word to our families that we would be staying longer and that we were safe. We just adored the sea side village. There was even going to be a festival, Spinnerella was creating a dance group to perform sharing so many historical stories about the villagers. I was helping to make the costumes; we were all having such a fun time.” Netossa pauses and stares into the distance, the images of what occured burning in her memory.

Noticing that something is wrong, Sea Hawk touches her arm, “Hey, ‘Tossa, are you still here?” Coming back to reality Netossa looks at Sea Hawk with fear in her eyes, “Everything changed a few evenings before the festival. It was a dark night and a few of the villagers were expected back from a trip gathering some food. Spinnerella and I were relaxing at the bar in the Inn. Laughing at past stories and dreaming of future hopes. Then we heard a scream. It had been heard outside the village. A few of us gathered around to see what was going on. The screaming continued and we realized that it was Tobul; he was a part of the group that had gone searching for food. He was shouting for help.”

Shaking even further Netossa relives the horrific night, “More people had exited their homes and began to gather around. A few of us walked towards Tobul, he had staggered into the village. He was missing an arm. There was blood everywhere. He was begging for help and screaming that we would all die. No one knew what was going on, none of it made any sense. That is when we heard the noises.”

Vividly recalling the sounds and blinking back tears Netossa cries out, “Some of the villagers went out in the darkness with torches, searching for whatever had attacked Tobul. He was no longer screaming, just shaking. Spinnerella and I were looking on as some of the villagers were searching. Then we saw it. A beast unlike any I’d ever seen appeared out of the darkness. It had two heads, and all of these arms and legs! My goodness it was so frightening and very fast. The monster raced towards the village. None of us stood a chance. It began laying waste to everything.”

Sea Hawk asks what happened next, even though he has some idea. If this was the village he had heard about... Sea Hawk knew who was responsible for the carnage.

“The monster began slaughtering the villagers. People were screaming. There was death everywhere. Somehow the village caught fire, everyone was running anywhere they could to find a safe spot. Some were trying to hide others tried to fight. Spinnerella and I ran to the Inn. The Inn Keeper’s family had stayed behind and we wanted to help them escape. We set ourselves up for trouble. The Inn was on fire and Spinnerella and I could only do so much. The ceiling collapsed and I got separated from everyone else. I told them I would catch up to them. I found a way to escape, fighting for my life to avoid the monster.”

Netossa cries, “All I could do was run. I ran. I tried to take others with me, but everyone was scattered every which way. I found my way through the night until I could run no more. I passed out from fear and exhaustion, awaking the next day with determination to find any survivors. Everyone was either hiding or gone. I still searched though, being careful where I went. I was never able to find anyone, and that is when I came across your ship.”

He listens to her account. The pirate feels for Netossa and asks, “That village was Poft wasn’t it?" The look on Netossa's face answers his question. Sea Hawk thinks to himself, how could she have survived, there had been no reports I fear her friend is gone..., "I’d heard about the assault on the sea side village of Poft. That monster was from the Horde and I believe he was searching for Rebels.” Sea Hawk remembers hearing the story from an older gentleman at a bar, shortly before he came across Netossa.

Opening her mouth in defiance Netossa is adament, “There were no Rebels! That Horde monster was not searching for any Rebels. Its only goal was to destroy lives. I was there Sea Hawk! I saw what happened. I do not understand how anyone can think the Horde is out for the good of Etheria! Innocent people were butchered!If I ever come across the Great Rebellion I will happily join and drive a stake through that monster’s heart, if it even has one.”

Sea Hawk thinks for a second, “I know you may not believe this Netossa, but I am sorry for what you went through.” He is sincere and that surprises Netossa. She smiles briefly, “Thank you.” Looking out over his ship at the night sky Sea Hawk thinks about his role in life. Current times were strange he thinks to himself, but then again, weren't they always? He wants to help Netossa, “I have to find something for Hordak. However I want you to know that I am forgetting about your debt, and I will do my best to help you find Spinnerella.”

Shaking her head, Netossa knows that is asking too much “I will still work off my debt until she is found. I am glad to hear though that you will really try to help me. It is so important. I do not want to return to my home town without her. It would be devastating.” Netossa can't even allow herself to think about life without Spinnerella.

Sea Hawk nods, “I know it would. Don’t worry though; I’ll do my best to help you. Let's hope she is still alive” Walking away from Netossa, Sea Hawk wonders what he has gotten himself into. How will be find an ice diamond for an evil empire while also helping a stranger who is now becoming a friend?

*** 

Meanwhile on another part of Etheria inside the Fright Zone Adora sits at a table in her room. Staring at herself in front of her mirror Adora rubs her eyes while also pausing to massage her head. Tired and ready for sleep, Adora opens her eyes as she hears a faint noise that begins to grow louder. The noise is a voice...

“Adora.”

Startled, Adora looks into the mirror at her reflection that is no longer there. In the mirror is instead an image of the mysterious woman with feathered wings that came to her a few days ago. “What is going on?” Adora asks and reaches over touching the mirror. Her hand goes through the glass as if it were water. Startled again Adora quickly pulls her hand back. Looking at the image Adora asks, “Who are you? What is going on?”

The woman smiles, “You can call me the Sorceress. Ever since your involvement with the most recent Horde invasion on Eternia, I have been connected to you.” The statement sounds silly. Adora shakes her head, “And now what? You just show up in my dreams and vanity mirror? Explain to me why I am connected to you.”

“Adora, you are very special to many people. You hold the key to saving so many lives. I am able to have a telepathic connection with you, and I hope to help guide you to your destiny.”

“What is my destiny?” Adora asks the Sorceress. This is something that Adora has been thinking about for awhile now. Lately her life has been unraveling around her. The truths she holds onto now seem brittle. Adora wonders if she is losing herself. The Sorceress smiles, as if she knows what will happen next, “I will explain when we have more time. Right now I must make my message quick. You are in danger of losing everything you hold important. The sword you carry is very vital to your future; whatever you do make sure no one else takes your sword from you. That sword was always meant for you, do your best to protect it.”

Hadn't Hordak given me this sword? What does she mean... Adora thinks to herself. Lost in her thoughts Adora calmly says, “If you say so, but how am I in danger of losing everything?”

A voice interrupts the surreal moment, “Adora! Who on Etheria are you talking to?” Turning to the familiar voice Adora looks up and sees Catra in her doorway, “Oh. Catra. I was just singing to myself.” Walking in and crossing her arms Catra is suspicious, “Really? Interesting. I've never heard you sing.”

Ignoring the statement Adora stands to face Catra, “Before you tell me what you’re doing here, let me make sure I nailed my bookcase to the floor.” Referring to the most recent outburst from Catra, Adora smiles sweetly. Raising her arms in the air Catra purrs, “I surrender! I’m not here to fight. I come in peace.”

Raising an eyebrow Adora is surprised, “Really? Have you been hit on the head or something?” Rolling her eyes Catra groans, “Really Adora, must you always think the worst of me? I am here to talk to you. After my melodramatic event the other day I had time to actually think about some things. Particularly something that you had said during our spat.” Adora is not interested in games, “I said a lot of things, your point?”

Catra continues, “I am referring to the part you said about how we grew up with Hordak and Shadow Weaver. We were always told to stick together. That the Horde can only work if we are all together in our message and goal. After thinking about that I realized that I was a bit out of place and quite hostile towards you.” Smiling slightly Adora finds herself liking this sudden change in Catra, “Is this an apology Catra?”

“I suppose this could be the closest thing I can give in terms of an apology. But no, I am here because no matter what I may feel about you, we are members of the Horde. As such, we should stand united.” Catra looks at Adora, hoping for an agreement. Realizing this would be the closest thing to a truce Adora says, “I agree. So I guess this means we won’t be braiding and combing each other’s hair?” Catra groans, “Oh no, I do not think so. However there is something else I would like to talk to you about. Has anything seemed strange around the Fright Zone lately?”

Adora shrugs, “That depends on what you mean by strange. If we are talking about the lack of Horde Members that have fallen down Hordak’s trap door, than I would say yes; things have seemed strange. Hordak has an itchy finger and I'm surprised he hasn't been using it. Other than that I can’t really think of anything.”

“I wasn’t really thinking of Hordak’s trap door. I’m thinking more like the idea that someone may not be who they seem to be around here.” Catra studies Adora's face.

Adora asks Catra what she means by the statement, and Catra answers, “For instance, do you think that Mermista and Perfuma had help rescuing Bow and Glimmer?” The idea is not entirely new to Adora but she shakes her head, “I don’t know, Mermista and Perfuma both used to live in the Fright Zone. They would know their way around.”

“This is true, but still Adora. Those two would certainly need some help to sneak through the guards and everything else in the Fright Zone. Wouldn’t it make sense that someone aided in their saving the prisoners?” Adora thinks about what Catra is talking about, “I guess it could make sense, but without any proof there isn’t much to go on.”

Catra continues, “There is Adora. I am trying to keep this a bit of a secret, but I believe there is someone using the Horde to help the Rebellion.” Adora chuckles, “Like a double agent or something?” Growing serious Catra presses on, “Yes. This isn’t funny Adora. A few months ago Shadow Weaver reported to Hordak that someone had tampered with research in the Horde Labs, it is believed that this person was looking for information.”

Who would want to tamper with information from the Horde Labs? Many thoughts start racing through Adora's mind, though she keeps this to herself. Adora asks her most curious question, “This is news to me, why wasn’t I informed of this?” Catra slightly grins, “Well isn’t that interesting? The head Force Captain wasn’t up to date on Horde matters.”

Adora is annoyed, “Catra, get to the point. Do you have any idea who the double agent is?” Opening her eyes wide Catra purrs, “No Adora, I do not. Let me ask you though, do you confide closely with anyone? I know you are friends with Spira.”

“True, Spira and I are friends. We talk about some things, but I wouldn’t say that I confide my inner most thoughts with her. There are some things that we all secretly keep to ourselves.” Adora thinks about her odd visits with the Sorceress and how no one knows that. Looking at Adora, Catra wonders what is on her mind, “Interesting Adora, all of it. What of Spira though, does she ever confide anything to you?” Catra recalls a few secret conversations she has overheard between Spira and Adora.

“We are friends Catra. We talk about all sorts of things, but I don’t know that she confides much to me. There are some things she says in confidence, but nothing alarming.” Adora wonders where Catra is going with this.

Catra thinks about Adora's answer and shrugs, “Either way Adora, just be on the lookout for anything that seems strange. If there is a double agent spying on the Horde, Hordak will not be pleased.”

Continuing a brief conversation that eventually bores Catra, the Horde vixen announces she is ready to leave. Once Catrsa is gone, Adora sits in her room and thinks about Catra’s suspicions and questions about a double agent. Adora also thinks about the questions involving Spira, and wonders if there was anything Catra was searching for. Knowing she has had conversations with Spira that have contained liberal attitudes about the Rebellion, Adora is concerned that if anyone has heard those conversations they could make Spira look unflattering depending on the context. Adora brushes these thoughts off and heads to the stables. She wants to see Spirit and go riding…

***

Slinking around the halls of the Fright Zone Catra is looking for Mantenna. Eventually she finds him playing a card game with Grizzlor and Leech. Interrupting the card game Catra purrs, “Mantenna, you don’t have a winning hand. Take a break from doing nothing and follow me.” Mantenna is sad to lose the current game of cards but he does get up and follow Catra. Leech and Grizzlor mumble at how mean Catra is.

Mantenna looks at Catra, “I could’ve won the game with that hand Catra.” Impatient, Catra turns to him, “Shut up you bug eyed fool! This is serious! I am close to having my moment to shine! I’ve worked too hard for this, and I’m not going to have you ruin it with card talk!”

Mantenna cowers a bit, “Ok Catra! Geez! What do you want?” Glaring at him Catra says faintly, “I need a very important favor from you. Now follow me and let me explain. I have a few things I need you to do for me…” The two walk off heading into a hidden area of the massive Fright Zone.

***

Time marches on and Adora is walking with Spirit towards the Fright Zone. Having gone on a wonderful ride she isn’t ready to bring him back to the stables just yet. Adora gets lost in her thoughts. Many things flow throughout her mind, her old friends, the Sorceress woman, even the new possibility that there may be someone spying on the Horde. So many things can change in the flash of a moment. However her thoughts are interrupted once she notices Spira walking cautiously through a side hallway.

Adora calls out to Spira, and Spira doesn’t seem to hear her. Curious, Adora quietly follows Spira with Spirit in tow. Spira is sneaking around the Fright Zone. Still following from a safe distance Adora is surprised when she sees Spira hop down to a spot near the cargo bay area. Spira seems aware of where she is going and even has Storm waiting for her at a makeshift post. Storm is another of the horses that is usually in the stables with Spirit.

Whispering to Spirit Adora looks on at her friend, “I wonder why Spira has Storm tied over there. Let’s follow her Spirit and maybe we’ll find out.” Adora gallops off after Spira managing to keep a safe distance. Adora has many questions flowing through her mind; the biggest one being why Spira is leaving the Fright Zone in a secretive manner, especially after Hordak has forbade anyone from leaving the Fright Zone alone…

At this same time Catra is in her room lounging around and relaxing, thinking of all the plans she has brewing. Mantenna charges in panting. “I have news Catra! I saw her, she left and I can show you the way she went!”

Catra is full of glee. She knew asking for Mantenna's help would create some results, “That was sooner than expected! I wasn’t expecting her to actually leave the Fright Zone so soon. Show me the way; I’ll follow her with Clawdeen.” Clawdeen is Catra’s preferred mode of transportation. A large lioness, Clawdeen has been a great help in battle for Catra. Closer to seeing her plan fully realized Catra claps her hands together…

Racing through the night Adora finds herself concerned with following Spira. Adora has no idea where they are headed. They have been traveling a distance and Adora hopes they manage to reach a destination soon. There is even more concern once Spira slows down. They have made it to the Whispering Woods. Adora trails behind even slower to make sure Spira cannot spot her. Adora has no idea why Spira is at the Whispering Woods, but she is very surprised once Spira actually enters the magical forest. Adora shakes her head and stops to think about her current situation. Well aware that the Rebels live in the Whispering Woods, Adora also realizes that only members of the Rebellion are able to freely walk in. No one from the Horde has ever been to enter the woods.

Talking to Spirit Adora pats her steed on the head, “Come on Spirit. Spira could be in trouble if she comes across the Rebels.” Adora wonders if she even truly believes the words that just escaped her lips. Pausing at first, unsure how this will work, Adora and Spirit easily enter into the Whispering Woods. Just as Catra arrives and lurks around as well, waiting to see which events unfold…

Walking with Spirit through the Whispering Woods, Adora takes in all the nature surrounding her. The trees and plants are beautiful in every color imaginable. Caught off guard with how amazing the Whispering Woods look she realizes has never been inside the woods. It has been impossible for the Horde to enter the woods. Some have said that a magical field has prevented the Horde from entering. Adora has no idea how Spira and herself are actually stepping foot inside.

Finally catching up to Spira and calling out her name, Adora catches her friend's attention this time. Turning, Spira is startled, “Adora!? My goodness what are you doing here?" Walking up to Spira, Adora looks at her friend, “I should be asking you the same. I’ve been following you since I saw you leave the Fright Zone. What is going on?”

Spira pauses, “Adora you shouldn’t be here.” Shrugging her shoulders Adora looks around. Some things are starting to make sense, “To bad. I’m here now. Please Spira, you are my friend, what are you doing here?”

Full of caution Spira nods, “Yes, we are friends. And as my friend I need to know that I can trust you. It would seem I have no other choice but to tell you now...” Spira has no idea where to begin or even how to describe what is unfolding before them. Can she deal with this, how will she react... Spira asks herself. Motioning for Spira to go on Adora listens as Spira confess the truth, “Adora. I am a spy. I have been spying on the Horde ever since I joined.” The statement hits Adora, she had hoped it would not be true, though she secretly had a feeling. She stumbles, “What? You are a spy? You have been helping the Rebellion? Explain yourself now or I will drag you back to Hordak.” They both know this is not true.

Spira shakes her head, “No you won’t Adora. I know you. You have to listen to me, after you hear what I have to say you will understand. I grew up in the Whispering Woods. I have a very different perspective of who the Horde is. I saw the misery and chaos that Hordak caused towards many people. As I grew older I stepped forward to be a double agent, meant to spy on the Horde to help the Rebellion. I joined the Horde and went through the Academy at an older age. I have made it a point to help the Rebellion at all costs. ”

Listening to her friend pour her heart out, Adora is frustrated, “But Spira! You were brought up in the wrong place, the Horde is not out to hurt anyone. People get hurt when they try to fight against us. The Horde is meant to unite Etheria.” This is the only knowledge that Adora has ever known. This knowledge has protected Adora, kept her in a safe web.

Spira steps forward to Adora, “Adora after all the things that have gone on, all the things we have both done... Do you really believe that?” They have both done terrible things for the sake of the Horde. So many lives that should have had the chance to continue living...

Adora is unsure what to believe, “Spira, none of this makes sense. I don’t understand how this can be. You’ve lied to the Horde this whole time? You’ve lied to me?”

“I had no other choice. Adora, if you only knew how evil the Horde truly is. There is so much that Hordak has kept from you. Come on, follow me. I need to show you the Rebellion; you need to see for yourself.” Adora is uncertain but agrees and walks with Spira and their horses.

***

Further in the Whispering Woods, Glimmer, Bow and Perfuma are awaiting the arrival of Spira. They are awaiting news and further orders for the Rebellion's next set of plans. “I wonder where Spira could be? I hope she isn’t in any trouble.” Glimmer says and looks at her friends. There is always the possibility that Spira will be caught or unable to reach them. Of course Spira has never let them down.

Bow chimes in, “I’m sure Spira will be here soon. For now, I do like your idea Glimmer. Making a visit to Castaspella could really be of some help. We can see if she has learned any new magic spells or maybe this friend of hers can use her ‘seeing’ abilities to find Angella. I’m up for an adventure; the two of us can head out in the next few days.” Glimmer is glad for Bow's help. The group quickly turns around once they hear someone approaching. Spira and Adora walk into the small clearing. Bow's mouth drops open. Glimmer wonders if this has become a trap. Perfuma lights up once she sees Adora with Spira, “Oh wow, it’s Adora!”

“What is she doing here?” Bow asks Spira. “Adora followed me. She knows everything.” Spira says.

Bow walks up to Adora, “Well alright. I guess we should just lie down and wait for you to bring Hordak here to trample us to death.” Before Adora can say anything Spira steps in, “No Bow. That is not what is going to happen. Adora knows and now we have to show her why the Rebellion is not the enemy of Etheria.”

Perfuma walks up to Adora and gives her a hug, catching her off gaurd. Perfuma is full of glee, “Oh Adora it really is nice to see you! Come on, I’ll show you around!” Perfuma leads Adora to the main part of the Rebel hideout. Everything is occuring so fast, Adora wants to fight what is happening, but she recalls what the Sorceress had said, Trust your heart...

Shouting at Perfuma, Bow groans, “Perfuma! Don’t do that, we don’t know that she can be trusted!” Grabbing Bow’s hand Spira shakes her head, “Bow, it is too late. Either Adora will see the truth or she will turn us all in. There isn’t much we can do now, but hope.”

Glimmer joins Perfuma as they show Adora around. Looking at many of the Rebels, Adora finds herself surprised, she is sad to see so many people in need of resources. Based on what she has always been told, Adora finds herself looking for some army of rebel soldiers. Instead she finds people who are starving and worn down. Glimmer and Perfuma explain what the Horde has done to villages and towns throughout Etheria. Glimmer even explains how her mother and Kowl were kidnapped and are probably dead. Bow and Spira soon catch up, hoping that this reality is sinking into Adora.

Fighting what she is being told, Adora looks at them, “You should all be ashamed of yourselves. Destroying these people’s lives, their homes, and then bringing them here with virtually no resources? Then you blame it on the Horde, this is crazy. Bow and Perfuma, I can’t believe you both left the Horde Academy to join this... What would Madame Razz say if she were alive to see this?”

“Why don’t you ask me yourself dearie.” Madame Razz says behind Adora. Standing before Adora is the one woman who showed so much love and compassion to Adora growing up. Looking at Madame Razz in disbelief Adora asks, “Madame Razz? Is that really you?" Nodding, Madame Razz smiles warmly at Adora, standing around so many people caught off guard. With tears streaming down her face Adora slowly walks up to Razz. Doing the only thing she can think of; Adora hugs Madame Razz and chokes back tears. Soon the tears begin to fall. Adora is full of questions, “How is this possible? How can you be alive right now?”

Looking at Adora and brushing her blonde hair out of her face, Madame Razz holds onto Adora's hands, “Oh dearie, I was never dead. I simply could not be a part of the Horde anymore. There were too many things going on that I did not agree with." Madame Razz looks at Adora, Perfuma, and Bos, "I enjoyed taking care of you when you were children. I loved you all so much.” Madame Razz is not only referring to Bow, Perfuma, and Adora but the other people who grew up in the Fright Zone. Razz continues, “Taking care of you all was what helped me get past being in the Fright Zone. However one day I could no longer help the Horde. I knew Perfuma, Mermista, and Bow were planning on leaving. I could tell they were viewing the Horde differently, they knew. I wanted to find a way to give us all a clean break from the Horde, but that wasn’t possible. Hordak knew I was starting to dislike being in the Fright Zone. I escaped in time, because Hordak had enlisted some Troopers to kill me. I was able to escape with my broom and the clothes on my back. Thankfully I joined the Rebellion. And here I am. Of course there was never really any choice, I've always been a rebel.”

Glimmer joins in, “Adora, I don’t know you personally, but your friends have said many wonderful things about you. I know this must be a struggle to deal with all at once, but please do not turn us in. You have to believe us, we are not the ones at fault here. The Horde has been destroying Etheria for a very long time.”

Adora stands there taking everything all in. A part of her knows that what she is hearing is true, but another part of her is too scared to believe it. Everything she has known has been twisted into one life changing lie. I really have no idea who I am, or what my thoughts are, or even where my values should rest... Adora says to herself. And now she is standing in front of people she has cared about and missed for so long. She is overwhelmed. Anger begins creeping up her spine. Looking at everyone Adora blankly asks, “Why did you all leave me then?”

“Huh?” Bow asks first.

Adora is upset, “How could you all move on and leave me behind!? You were my friends,” Adora looks at Razz, “I thought you were dead,” and Adora lays eyes on Spira, “And you were my friend! This whole time you have been some glamorous double agent! No one tried to tell me or get me away from the Horde.”

Spira calmly speaks, “Adora, I am hardly living some glamorous lifestyle spying on the Horde! If you had known this information would you have joined us long ago? You had made your decision to stick with the Horde, but now you have seen another perspective. This perspective is giving you new possibilities.” Staring at Spira, Adora snaps, “Another perspective? Do they even know what you have had to do as a Horde Force Captain? You’re right when you say it hasn’t been glamorous.”

Spira defends herself, “I am not proud of the things that I have had to do for the Horde. I have done terrible things, but what other choice was there Adora? I knew when I signed on to be a spy that I would have blood on my hands. What now though Adora? What happens now? You know that what we are saying is true. For awhile now you haven’t been feeling right, I can tell from our conversations. And now, you have seen for yourself that the Rebellion isn’t what it seems. So what are you going to do now?”

Adora looks at her friends. So many emotions wash over her. Adora thinks about the horrific things she has done as the head Horde Force Captain. Adora feels sick, “I don’t know. I don’t know anything anymore. Nothing makes sense. My own life has been a lie. I have to go. I have to get away from all of this.” Quickly turning Adora hops onto Spirit and races away as fast as she can.

Glimmer looks at Spira and Bow, “Do you think she is going to tell Hordak?” Throwing her hands to her head Spira gasps, “I have no idea.”

Madame Razz speaks up, “Adora will hopefully trust her heart. She knows what is right.” Bow wants to be honest with they all just witnessed, “And what if she doesn’t Madame Razz? What then?”

Razz is solemn, “Then we’ll put up the greatest fight of our lives protecting our home.”

***

The embers of flowing lava light up Hordak's chambers as Catra and Hordak find themselves in the middle of a conversation. Catra's return to the Fright Zone sees her sharing a great deal of information to Hordak. While listening to Catra talk about the news of a double agent in the Fright Zone, Hordak is feeding his pet dragon Imp.

“Hordak, I have told you what I know. Now what do you think?”

Hordak stops feeding Imp and looks at Catra, “You have certainly gathered plenty of information, especially in such a quick amount of time.” Proud of herself, Catra purrs, “I know, but like I said I have been having these suspicions for awhile now. I’ve heard conversations and seen all kinds of things. What I bring to you is the truth.”

Standing up and looking at the flowing magma in the background Hordak snorts, “I know, I just don’t want to believe it. This pains me to know that she has been a spy helping the Rebellion, such a wasted talent.”

Catra nods, “I know. It is quite a surprise. What should we do with her Hordak?”

Thinking for a second Hordak explains his reasoning, “We can’t keep her as a prisoner. We can’t risk someone rescuing her and causing yet another fiasco. No, there is truly only one way to solve this problem. Catra, you are going to have to kill her.” Hordak knows there is simply no place for a spy in the Fright Zone, especially as a prisoner. Death would be the only answer.

“Are you sure you want me to do that Hordak?” Catra asks, secretly hoping that Hordak is serious.

Hordak nods, “Yes. I want you to kill Adora for being a Rebel spy.”

Catra grins. Her plan has fallen exactly into place.

“Oh and Catra, one more thing, make sure you bring me back her sword once she is dead. I have important uses for it...”


Up next!
-Catra and Adora braid and comb each other’s hair
-Frosta gets chilly
-Bow and Glimmer embark on an adventure

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