Adora's Search for Honor Part 1: Chapter 19

Adora’s Search for Honor

Part 1

Chapter 19

Previously: Where to begin? A huge battle went down for Castle Chill. Sadly Frosta’s home sort of melted. She was also almost killed by Hordak but fought him off. Sea Hawk and his crew of pirates also helped the Rebels fight against the Horde. He also joined the Great Rebellion, even though he still has the ice diamond that he promised to get for Hordak. Catra finally met up with She-Ra. (It’s safe to say that Catra hates the Princess of Power) After all was said and done the heroes prepared to head back to the Whispering Woods as She-Ra flew off from the rest of the group to take care of some business, which is where we will begin…

Chapter 19

She-Ra takes a few steps inside the Crystal Castle. Flying from Castle Chill has left her slightly exhausted, but before she heads back to the Whispering Woods, She-Ra wants to bring a guest along. Looking around, She-Ra finds herself in good company as Light Hope glides across the floor, “Hello She-Ra. What brings you here?”

Smiling warmly, She-Ra says, “I am looking for Perfuma.” As if on cue, Perfuma descends the grand staircase. The flower maiden is pleased to see her friend, “She-Ra! What a nice surprise!” She-Ra smiles, It is good to see Perfuma. Ever since the events in the Midnight Lair, no one has really seen Perfuma. She-Ra took Perfuma to the Crystal Castle for safe keeping. After being bitten by a Pyre, Perfuma had intense cravings for blood. Away from any human contact, Perfuma hopefully found a way to overcome her desire for the red stuff.




Light Hope looks over at Perfuma, “Do you feel well enough to leave, Perfuma?” She-Ra is not sure what Perfuma has gone through, but she can tell that her friend has formed a close friendship with Light Hope. Smiling, Perfuma says, “Yes. I am ready. I just need to get a few things and say some goodbyes.” Hurrying back up the stairs, Perfuma disappears. She-Ra looks at Light hope, “Goodbyes?”




Beaming pure light, the once protector of Etheria smiles, “Perfuma has found herself quite a home away from home here. The Twiggets have enjoyed her company.” Nodding, She-Ra is curious, “And how has Perfuma been? Do you think she is ready to be around other people?” Pausing to answer, Light Hope goes on, “I do not feel it best to divulge what she went through here, but I do believe she is not a danger to others. Let me be clear though She-Ra, Perfuma may have to struggle with cravings for a long time to come. She has a handle on it now, but it may not always be the case.” Shuddering at the mere thought of her friend dealing with such a horrible process, She-Ra says, “We will all be looking out for her.”




A few moments pass and Perfuma eventually walks down the staircase again. The spritely Twiggets linger behind her. All three call out their goodbyes. On the main floor, Perfuma looks back at them, “Goodbye!” Turning to look at Light Hope, Perfuma smiles, “Oh Light Hope. Thank you for helping me.”




Light Hope smiles as light dances off his frame, “My dear, it was a pleasure helping and getting to know you. I hope you know that your presence is welcome here anytime.” She-Ra looks on at the two. Perfuma thinks of something else to say, “I will be back to visit. In the mean time though, do make sure the flowers continue to grow.” Tossing back a laugh, Light Hope looks at She-Ra, “Perfuma certainly has a way with plants. I don’t think this castle has seen so many flowers before. I will do my best to make sure they shine.” Perfuma nods matter-of-factly. She-Ra looks at Perfuma, “Are you ready?” Taking another look around the castle, Perfuma responds to She-Ra, “Yes. Let’s go home.”




Flying high in the air, Perfuma and She-Ra sit atop Swiftwind. Enjoying the sense of openness, Perfuma shares with She-Ra some of her stories from the Crystal Castle, “And She-Ra you would never believe what the poor Twiggets have been through! They were hunted down, but it just means so much to me that they wanted to talk to me about their journey. They were so shy at first!” Focusing on the flight, She-Ra is also listening, “I’ve never heard them talk. They have always been shy around me.” Perfuma goes on, “Well after I grew some lovely flowers on this little balcony, they really just hung around me! It was very nice.” She-Ra can’t help but notice that Perfuma talks like she has been on holiday, “Perfuma, how are you feeling? Do you want to talk about what you went through at all?”




The tone immediately changes. Perfuma is silent for what feels like an eternity. She-Ra wonders if she should have been silent. Finally Perfuma speaks, “I think I am fine. I can’t talk about what I went through though She-Ra. I just can’t.” Shuddering at the past few days, Perfuma wants to think of the happier moments and not the intense pain that came with cravings for fresh blood. Or the red tinged fantasies involving Perfuma’s teeth tearing into everyone she knows. Perfuma wants to think of the new forms of life she helped to create with the flowers at the Crystal Castle. Instead Perfuma starts to choke back tears. She just wants to feel like her old self.




She-Ra can’t see Perfuma, but she can hear her starting to cry. Oh I have upset her, that was never my intention, She-Ra tells herself. Trying to think of something to say, She-Ra softly speaks, “Perfuma, I’m sorry I asked that. If you don’t want to discuss anything, you don’t have to. That is your choice. Just know that there are a lot of people that are rooting for you. We are all here for you, ok?” She-Ra can feel Perfuma’s arms tightly wrap around her waist. Perfuma whispers, “Thank you She-Ra.” After a few moments, Perfuma composes herself, “So, what all have I missed since my stay in the Crystal Castle?” Looking back, She-Ra smiles, “Where should I begin?” As She-Ra rattles off the recent adventures of the Great Rebellion, they prepare to land in the Whispering Woods.




Hidden safely in the Whispering Woods is the glorious Castle Bright Moon. Members of the Rebellion go about their evening. Some people are working on various projects while others find time to rest and enjoy a nice meal before turning in for the night. Other people discuss the assault on Castle Chill and how the Empress Frosta was nearly killed. Some Rebels are hopeful that the Rebellion will win the fight against the Horde, while others whisper that they may all be doomed.




Inside a healing room and resting on a bed each, two friends begin to catch up. Frosta and Mermista were both injured in different battles against the Horde. Frosta peers out of the only open window in the room, looking at the last rays of the day shining away into night. Minwu, a powerful healer, is looking over the two ladies. Frosta rolls over in her bed, “Darling, fetch me something sweet please.”




Minwu pauses, “Empress Frosta, you just arrived to Bright Moon. I have not fully gone over all your wounds from the assault at Chill. I would like to make sure you are alright.” Frosta sits up, brushing him off, “Does it look like I’m dying? Please, a little dessert would go a long way. Now that I am… homeless… I would at least like to enjoy something to quell my hunger.”




Looking over at the unfolding mess, Mermista smiles, “You might as well do as she asks Minwu. She won’t stop until she gets her way.” Frosta looks over at her friend, “Finally, someone understands. Now go Minwu. And bring something for Mermista too. She looks like she could use a meal.” Minwu shrugs, exiting quickly. Frosta makes him nervous.




“I think you scared him sufficiently.” Mermista calls out. Frosta rolls her eyes, “Oh darling, he’ll be fine. Now tell me, what is that smell?” Ever since her arrival at Bright Moon, Frosta has been unable to shake a particular scent. Mermista looks around the room sniffing, “I don’t really smell anything Frosta. I think it is in your head.”

“Rubbish! I smell something. It is going to drive me crazy.” Frosta looks around the room, trying to figure the mystery out. Mermista notices the marks on Frosta’s neck, “Does that hurt? What happened?” Frosta runs her fingers across her neck, recalling Hordak’s hands as he tried to strangle her, “Oh this is nothing a draped scarf won’t fix. I am fine. Hordak thought he had me, but I got the last laugh. Honestly, I don’t know why the Horde even bothers. More importantly, who turned you into a pin cushion?”

Mermista looks down at her knife wounds, “Some Horde member calling herself Octavia. I thought I was alright, though I guess I had lost more blood than I thought. I’ve just been feeling woozy.” Frosta starts to chuckle. “Did I say something funny?” Mermista asks bordering on being hurt. Frosta shakes her head, as the chuckles turn into laughs, “Just look at us darling! Disasters in the glorious making.” Mermista looks at her friend and starts to laugh too. They both look disheveled and a mess. “There was a time neither of us would have been caught dead looking like this!” Mermista laughs out.

They continue to laugh until their sides hurt. Actually it is more than just their sides. Their laughter becomes infectious and uncontrollable. The lively laughter between the two changes though as Frosta’s eyes meet Mermista’s. They both nearly died. Frosta watched her home crumble away. Her lip trembles, “It’s all gone Mermista. My home. It’s gone.” Frosta breaks down. Mermista stumbles out of her bed and hugs her friend, “Frosta, it will be ok. You are alive, that is the most important thing. We will help you rebuild.” Mermista gets out of her bed and sits next to Frosta. The two friends hug each other.      

Through the tears and laughter, Frosta thanks Mermista, “What would I do without you Mermista? You are my best friend.” Mermista smiles, “As you are mine. Oh Frosta, how did our world ever become such a mess?” They are both weary and worn down. Soon Minwu brings in gifts of colorful confections.

Upon walking into the room, Minwu pauses as he stares at Frosta and Mermista sitting together on a bed, “Umm. I have brought the desserts.” He does not know what is going on. Frosta blankly stares at the healer, “Well put the treats down darling. They aren’t going to eat themselves.” Frosta looks at Mermista, shaking her head, “I mean really.” Mermista is glad to see Frosta back to her normal icy self. They both start laughing again. Minwu turns to leave and whispers aloud, “Women.”

Inside a newly furnished room inside Castle Bright Moon, Netossa gets comfortable in her new living space. Glimmer and Bow had brought Netossa to the room, helping her to settle in. She marvels at the space and how nice everything is. There is a plush bed with a small table to the side. There are a few book shelves as well as an old cushiony chair. Next to the door is a tall mirror. Suddenly she finds herself in company with Sea Hawk. He walks in the room taking everything in, "This place is different from Castle Chill, huh? Feels a lot warmer." Netossa smiles, "Yes much warmer. It is also better than an airship with smelly men too." Sea Hawk pretends to be hurt.

Netossa walks by an open window, taking in the night air, "And how is your room?" Sea Hawk shrugs, "Don't know yet. My crew and I are actually getting ready to leave." Turning to look at Sea Hawk, Netossa throws up a hand, "Wait. You just got here, why are you leaving?" Netossa is not happy with this bit of news. Her friendship with the pirate has become an important one for her. Sea Hawk grins, "Now 'Tossa, no reason to go and miss me yet." Netossa raises an eyebrow as if to say, don’t be so smug. Sea Hawk continues, "I will be back. There has been word of some resources on the outskirts of the Fright Zone. With a new influx of people to Bright Moon, I think it best to bring in more food. Every little bit helps, right?"


"That is nice of you Sea Hawk. I still can't believe you came back." Netossa is in shock that the pirate had a change of heart. Sea Hawk nods, "I don't think my crew would have forgiven me. It may not seem like I always have my priorities together, but I knew I needed to come back." Thinking of how bad things were in Castle Chill, Netossa shudders, "I'm glad you came back. Things were pretty scary for awhile." Sea Hawk nods, knowing there is much that he is leaving out.


The two talk for a little while longer. Sea Hawk asks if Netossa has seen the rest of the castle. "I would love to see everything Sea Hawk. Bright Moon seems like a wonderful place. However, I think I will rest some before I become familiar with my surroundings. Fighting against the Horde can take a great deal of energy out of you." Netossa says eyeing the bed in her room. She wants nothing more than to hop in and fall asleep under the covers. Sea Hawk understands and says goodbye. The pirate heads out of her room, preparing to leave.


After being dropped off by She-Ra, Perfuma greets Angella inside Bright Moon. "Oh Angella, it is nice to be back!" Perfuma exclaims, giving a hug to the queen of Bright Moon. Angella looks Perfuma over, "And how are you doing? I trust that everything is well?" Perfuma smiles showing no trace of the horrors she has endured, "I am lovely. There is so much that I am ready to just jump right into! I need to see how my flowers are doing. I would love to throw some sort of party. By the way, where is everyone?" Perfuma asks looking around the main hall of Bright Moon. I wasn't planning for a parade, but I had at least hoped to see some of my friends. I hope they aren’t scared of me, Perfuma thinks to herself.


As if reading Perfuma’s mind, Angella says, "With everything that we have all been through, I think everyone is taking some time to rest. Believe me though when I say this, we have all missed you Perfuma." Perfuma hugs Angella, trying to think of the brighter side of things, "Oh yes, I know. Even She-Ra is tired. She just dropped me off and then flew away. I’ll say hello to everyone tomorrow.” Angella nods reaching out to hug Perfuma again, “I will see you tomorrow morning Perfuma. Have a good night.”


Perfuma watches Angella head off towards her quarters. Perfuma whispers to herself, “I can’t sleep though…” Walking through Bright Moon, Perfuma heads to the healing bay. She has to see the sleeping survivor from Poft. Walking into the room, Perfuma can see that Minwu is already there. He is sleeping in a chair. There are flowers in the room. Tears fill her eyes; they remembered to have flowers for the sleeping Poft survivor. Perfuma stands next to the sleeping beauty, the dancer, and says to her, “I am so sorry for the way I was. I never would have hurt you.” Recalling her hunger and desire to rip into the dancer’s body, Perfuma makes a vow that she will not hurt anyone.


In another part of Bright Moon, Spira is quietly walking through a back way to her room. After the events at Castle Chill, Spira found a way to sneak off back to the Whispering Woods. She is tired and has a few important things to take care of before returning to the Fright Zone. Quietly walking down the hall to her room, Spira pauses. She can hear the sound of crying coming from Glimmer’s room.


Slowly approaching the door, Spira knocks. She can hear Glimmer composing herself. The door creaks open, Glimmer focuses her eyes on her cousin, “Spira? Come on in.” Spira walks in, explaining that she came back home for a little rest, “I really wanted to sleep in my own bed tonight.”


Glimmer nods, “I can understand that. I’m glad you are here.” The two sit down on the floor discussing the recent events. They also drift to their childhood and how close they were. Glimmer smiles, “This is so nice, getting the chance to bond. I feel like we don’t do that enough.” Spira agrees, “Yes, well, bouncing all over the place has put a damper on family. I do agree though, it is nice to just spend time with you.” There is a brief pause before Spira talks again, “If you don’t mind my asking Glimmer, why were you crying? I could hear you in the hall just now.”


With eyes wide in embarrassment, Glimmer looks down at the floor, “I didn’t think anyone would hear me.” Trying to look at Glimmer’s face, Spira goes on, “I’m sure no one else heard you, I just happened to be walking towards my room. Is everything ok?” Looking up at her cousin, Glimmer lets out a sigh, “I’ve just been really sad. Now that all the fighting has taken a momentary pause, I just started thinking about the current state of my life.” Before Spira can say anything else, Glimmer launches into a summary of her broken heart and Bow, “It just hurts. I really thought Bow would like me. I almost told him how I felt, but he likes someone else. It is just depressing. I really thought he liked me in that way.”


Doing her best to listen with an open mind, Spira can’t help but find the emotional drama a bit annoying. Snapping ever so slightly, Spira says, “Sounds pretty tough. I’m sure you’ll be fine though.” Oblivious to the change in Spira’s tone, Glimmer nods, “I’ll be fine eventually. I just don’t want it to hurt this much. You know what I mean?” Spira fervently shakes her head, “No, no. I don’t know what you mean Glimmer. I’m sorry, but I have no clue. I don’t get many opportunities to develop crushes on anyone. I get to look forward to going back to the Fright Zone, alone, with a group of villainous monsters at every turn. I wish my problems were as simple as a broken heart.”


Glimmer pauses, “Wait a minute Spira, I don’t like that you have to go to the Fright Zone. I wish you didn’t have to spy at all. If I could have taken your place back then, I would have, in a heartbeat.” Spira wants to laugh at the statement, “That’s an easy thing to say.” Hearing the tone in Spira’s voice, Glimmer asks, “What does that mean?” Spira finds herself getting angry, “It means you are full of it. You are a princess Glimmer. Even if you had wanted to be a double agent, no one would have let that happen. You have to continue the line. It is easy to say you’d take my place, because you know it would never happen.”


Dropping her mouth in shock, Glimmer protests, “I disagree! How could you say something like that? I hate that you are all alone in your work against the Horde. I want you to be here safe with us. More importantly, I have been through horrendous experiences. I don’t care if I am a princess, I would be able to make those choices.” Spira nods, “Right, which is why the only choice you can moan about is the fact that Bow doesn’t like you. Look at yourself Glimmer! You are one of the bravest women I know, and yet you want to sob because a boy doesn’t like you? I’ve seen you face down monsters. You are better than this. Who cares that Bow doesn’t like you. Move on, you are better than all of it!”


With arms crossed, Glimmer spits out, “So what are you saying? I have to be focused on the important things only? I know the world we live in is shitty. We are oppressed. People are losing their homes, their lives. Should I be more like you? Bitter and hardened by the horrible things I have done? I can’t help that I also have feelings. I should not have to apologize for being hurt, no matter how trivial it may be to you.” Both women are red in the face, they have never been this upset at each other.




Spira looks at her cousin and instantly hates having to fight with her, “Oh Glimmer, there is nothing wrong with being hurt over a broken heart. I’m sorry for being crude. I just am stressed and concerned about how we will survive. And I look at you… I see this strong willed woman and I don’t want to see you hurting like this, over Bow. No offense, I love Bow, but who cares if he likes you or not? You are pure shining light, don’t let anyone cause you to falter and dim.”




Glimmer knows her cousin is right, “I’m sorry too Spira. You are risking your life every time you step into the Fright Zone. I don’t know that I could do it. Or rather I really wouldn’t want to.” Spira smiles, “You could if you had no other choice. We are cousins; that bravery runs through both of us.” The two cousins hug each other. Glimmer asks, “Do you really have to go back Spira? Can’t you just stay here?” Spira shrugs, “I wish I could. I want nothing more than to give up being a double agent. However I have the ability to find where Kowl is and I must find out more about this Doom Dispenser that the Horde is building to destroy the Whispering Woods.” Glimmer hates the reality that they are in. Spira eventually gets up and heads to the door. Glimmer calls out, “Good night cousin.” Spira hugs Glimmer, “Good night.”




In a clearing off to the side of Bright Moon, Sea Hawk is almost finished with his preparations. His crew is about to start the ship. Before they leave though, a visitor approaches. Adora walks up to a very surprised Sea Hawk, “Wow, Adora, you are alive. I thought you were murdered!” Adora grins, “And I thought you worked for the Horde.” Sea Hawk walks up to her, “That was your job title darlin.’ I was always on contract.” Adora nods, “Right. So what are you doing joining the Rebellion and leaving so soon?”




Sea Hawk crosses his arms, “Is that how this whole Rebellion thing works? Everyone gets into each other’s business?” Adora shakes her head, “Only when there is a question of one’s loyalties.” Walking even closer to Adora, Sea Hawk half grins, “Haven’t you heard? My loyalties are to the Rebellion now. I’m sure you can understand that. Glad you are among the living Adora. You look as beautiful as ever.” The pirate smiles and Adora catches a whiff of his cologne. For some odd reason her heart flutters. Brushing that odd feeling away, Adora prepares for more questions. Before she can ask anything else, Sea Hawk turns. His ship is lifting off the ground. Waving with a wink, Sea Hawk grabs hold of a dangling ladder and the ship flies off. Adora stands there looking at him fly away…

*** 

In another darker part of Etheria, the Fright Zone is bustling with much activity. Locked in a section of cells, Prince Adam sits in darkness. After recalling his memories and trying to fight his way out, Adam was taken as a prisoner. Locked in a dank cold cell, the prince has had to keep himself company. The area he is in is reserved for the most important of prisoners. This is my life now, Adam says to himself. He wonders how he will escape.




He hears the sound of heels walking down the rows of cells. Someone wants a visit. Approaching his cell, Catra peers through the bars, “You fool. You had everything. Now how does it feel to be living in such wretched circumstances?” Adam chuckles, “This little space is great. I’d rather live in this dump than go on living some lie with the likes of you. I have my memories back. I know what real love is. I have people that care about me, and they will be here.”




Catra cackles a laugh. Purring through the bars, Catra taunts, “There are some memories that are missing though, correct? You have no memories of that annoying sister. That’s right; you never got to meet her. Such a shame. Don’t worry; when I killed her she wasn’t hurting. Much.” Adam jumps up rattling the bars, “Say another word about my sister…” Catra purrs, “Oh there are many things I can say about your sister. But what does it matter? She is dead. You traveled all this way, for nothing…” Adam shakes his head, “No not for nothing. Because when I get out of this cell, I will rip your head off your body.” Catra pretends to shiver, “So scary. I’ll be looking forward to it.” Catra laughs again before walking off. Her laughs echo down the hall.




Adam slumps to the ground, tears forming in his eyes. Could it be true? Have I missed the chance to meet my twin sister? I am so sorry I could not save you… Adam cries to himself. Suddenly a voice calls out from a cell next to Adam’s, “Young man, don’t listen to Catra. I know many things, one thing being this: never trust that jealous beauty.” Adam wishes he could see his cell-mate. The darkness forbids any visual contact, but Adam does say hello. The voice calls back, “It is nice to meet you. Now, what are you in here for?”




In another section of the Fright Zone, Hordak and Entrapta are involved in a private meeting. “What have you been finding out on her, Entrapta?” Hordak asks, feeding some scraps to his pet Imp. Entrapta looks on in disgust, “Not much really. I have talked and gotten close, and I have to say, I like becoming her friend. I don’t quite understand why you have asked me to be keeping tabs on Catra.” Hordak pauses from taking care of Imp, “There is no reason to fully understand anything I ask of you Entrapta. I will say this though; Catra is a bit… impulsive. I need her to be watched. I know her feeling towards the Horde is great, but I am not sure where her allegiance could ultimately be.”




Entrapta is full of questions, “Where else would her allegiance follow?” Hordak sits up, “Herself. Make no mistake, Catra believes in the Horde, but her own personal quests may lead her in any direction. I have told you this before, but I firmly believe she wanted Adora out of the way. So she distorted evidence to go in her favor. She knew I would be enraged at anyone who spies on the Horde. Catra’s hatred over Adora led to her murder. I was not finished with Adora. Now we are all suffering from Catra’s own selfish needs. So she must be watched, her motives might be harmful.” Entrapta tilts her head, “Are you saying that Catra could be the real spy?”




Snorting, Hordak brushes Imp away, “I’m not saying a thing. It is possible Catra could have created an environment for a double agent to exist so that she could create proof to justifiably kill Adora, but that is of no importance. It is all too late now. My intent is to ensure that the Horde operates seamlessly. We have a larger mission that must be accomplished. Anyone who deters that mission for any reason is expendable. So keep a close eye on Catra. There have been too many distractions as of late.” Entrapta does not agree with some of Hordak’s ideas, but she can agree on one thing, “I agree. There have been too many distractions going on around here Hordak. I think it is high time that our investigations start finding some answers soon.”

*** 

A new day begins in Castle Bright Moon. Spira is preparing for a visit with Queen Angella about her plans for returning to the Fright Zone. Spira wants nothing more than to stay inside her room. Adora taps on the open bedroom door, “Am I bothering you Spira?” Spira smiles, “Of course not! Come on in Adora.” The two catch up. “So you are going back to the Fright Zone?” Adora asks full of concern. Spira nods. Adora does not like this, “But why Spira? I understand that there is some more information that you need, but it is just too dangerous.” Spira laughs, “It has been dangerous since day one. I will be fine. I must admit though, it is harder now that you are no longer there.”




Adora shrugs, “I could always sneak in and help in the shadows?” Spira laughs, “Oh no. The Horde thinks you are dead. I think that should stay that way.” The two friends discuss their friendship. “It is almost over though Adora, I can feel it. I am so close to finding out where Kowl is, and if I can stop the construction of this Doom Dispenser, than it will have all been worth it. All of it.” Adora knows that Spira is also referring to the horrible acts that they have done as Horde members. “Do you think we will be forgiven for the things we have done Spira?” Adora asks. Spira shrugs, “I’m not sure Adora. I close my eyes at night and think of the terror we have inflicted on people. We may both have our own reasons, but those actions are still there. Nothing can be taken back.”




“I suppose. I hope the people we have hurt can forgive us. I wish I had known better.” Adora shakes her head thinking about all that has been wasted. Spira reminds Adora of all that has also been good in their lives, “We have our lives, our friendships. When the Horde is finally gone all those tough questions can be tackled then.” Adora thinks about that, “What will you do with your time when the Horde is finally gone?”




Pausing before answering, Spira carefully thinks, “There are many things I will do. The biggest one will be writing. I will finally finish writing a story I have been writing my whole life.” Adora has never heard this from Spira before, “You write? After all this time, I never knew that.” Spira blushes, “That is because I have never told anyone. I have always enjoyed writing, ever since I was a child.” Adora is so glad to know this, “Where are your stories? What do you write?” Spira takes a step back, “Whoa, hold on now! I have my stories here, at Bright Moon. I never write anywhere else, they are safe here. As for what I write about, I am too nervous to even share that right now.” Adora smiles, “Well I hope when this nightmare is over you have the courage to share your story with us Spira. I look forward to that.” Warmly smiling, Spira beams, “I just might do that Adora. Thank you for being interested.” Adora thanks Spira for sharing.




Together, Spira and Adora head towards Angella’s throne room. Spira looks at her friend, “You never said what you will do with your time Adora…” Looking over at her friend, Adora says, “I am going to finally meet my family. That is a reunion that is long overdue.”




Both women meet with Angella. Glimmer also joins the small group. Spira announces her plans for her return to the Fright Zone. Angella is not happy, “With the arrival of She-Ra, I am fully confident that we would be able to stop whatever this Doom Dispenser has for us. I want you here with us Spira, it is safer.” Spira understands, “Of course Queen Angella. However we still need Kowl. I firmly believe I will find him. As for She-Ra, I am aware of her strength, but we don’t know what we are dealing with in terms of the Doom Dispenser. I plan on finding it and dismantling it. That is the only way I will feel safe. I promise though, once my mission has been completed, I will return. Permanently.”




Footsteps enter into the throne room behind them. Frosta strides in with a scarf around her neck, “Darling, you have one other mission.” Everyone looks at Frosta. Spira rolls her eyes, “I’m not some short order cook Frosta.” Frosta shrugs, “I realize that darling. That is why we have Minwu.” Glimmer pipes up, “Actually, we have Minwu for healing purposes…” Frosta raises a hand, “I don’t care. I am missing my ice diamond. With all the commotion of my family home melting to the ground, I had forgotten that my ice diamond has been stolen.”




Crossing her arms, Spira bellows, “Frosta, I’m not going on a mission to recover some lost jewels.” Shaking her head, Frosta goes on, “The ice diamond is more than just a jewel darling. It may sound silly, but that diamond is mighty powerful. After I said good riddance to the pirates, I took a rather heavy nap. Once I awoke, that fur ball Grizzlor was looming over me. I have strong reason to believe that he stole my ice diamond. And since you will be in the Fright Zone, I would like you to see what you can find. This isn’t that difficult.” Adora is in disbelief, “I’m not sure Spira will have the time…” Spira speaks up, “That is fine.” Wanting to be done with the conversation, Spira speaks up, “I’ll do my best Frosta.” Looking back at everyone, Spira goes on, “If that is all, I will be gone. I will be back soon.” Spira says her goodbyes, leaving the group.




Frosta watches Spira leave and turns to look at Angella, “Alright, I have one more thing to say. Angella, do you smell anything strange? Your castle has this odd odor. At first I thought it was Mermista, but as I have been walking around, I have noticed that the smell is just everywhere.” Angella sits on her throne, trying to understand, “I don’t know what you mean. I can’t smell anything.” Frosta blankly looks at Adora and Glimmer, “Well?” Glimmer shrugs. Adora shakes her head. Throwing her hands up in the air, Frosta turns to leave.

*** 

Time passes on. In the Fright Zone, Hordak is at the cargo bay area, having a conversation with Sea Hawk. Hordak grins, “So nice to see you pirate. Do you finally have what I need?” Sea Hawk stands tall, hating every second of what he is about to do, “Yeah, I have it. Here.” Sea Hawk produces the ice diamond and hands it to Hordak. The pirate has no idea why the Horde leader has requested such a garish jewel, but Sea Hawk wants the rest of his coin from an earlier job. With the remaining amount of coin, Sea Hawk plans on helping the Rebellion with tons of supplies. Forgive me Empress, I didn’t want to steal from you, Sea Hawk says to himself. Though, he also reasons that Frosta must have plenty of other jewels at her disposal anyway. She probably won’t even realize it is gone, he mutters aloud.




Hordak is pleased to have the ice diamond, “This is wondrous. Here is the rest of your payment pirate.” Hordak promises and delivers a bag of coins for Hawk. Taking the bag from Hordak, Sea Hawk mentions, “Alright. That is it. I got what you want. I’m done now. You’ll have to find someone else to do your deliveries Hordak. I am through being on contract for the Horde.” Sea Hawk stands tall as Hordak laughs at him, “Oh that is truly funny pirate. You don’t get to say when you are finished with the Horde, and you are far from finished. I have more uses for you. If this is a problem, I can certainly find someone else to take your place. But remember pirate, your new place will not be pretty.” Hordak snaps his fingers as Grizzlor and Leech appear from the side.




Knocking Sea Hawk to the ground, the two Hordesmen pin him to the ground. Grizzlor holds a knife to his neck, “Do you want me to kill him Mighty Hordak?” Stepping in front of the laid out pirate, Hordak snorts, “That depends all on Sea Hawk. Come on Sea Hawk, what will it be?” Sea Hawk closes his eyes; he knew this would not be simple, “What do you want me to do?”


“Excellent. Teamwork is a great thing. Well Sea Hawk, since you wanted to help your new friends at Castle Chill earlier, how about from now on you help me with any information I need about them?” Hordak snorts out another loud laugh.

*** 

Inside the courtyard at Bright Moon, Perfuma is working on some flowers. The sun is shining brightly, and for a moment Perfuma has forgotten about her troubles. There is no sadness; just sweet smelling flowers. She is happy to be outside, under the sun, safe. Startling Perfuma out of her reverie, Glimmer taps the flower maiden’s shoulder. Perfuma turns and smiles from ear to ear. All of her friends are standing in the courtyard. One by one, they give Perfuma a hug offering words of encouragement. Bow tells her that they need to work on a special song for someone… Netossa introduces herself to Perfuma… Angella hugs Perfuma tightly… Adora has tears in her eyes, she cares about Perfuma and wants to share that she is She-Ra, and that she will do anything to help her friend, though she refrains… Madame Razz grins, producing some flowers and doing a fun impromptu dance with Perfuma… Mermista smiles and finally gives Perfuma free reign to landscape the Crystal Falls… Glimmer hugs Perfuma and shares a message from Spira as well as Peekablue and Castaspella who were unable to be there… Minwu kisses Perfuma on the cheek, catching the flower maiden off guard… Finally Frosta hugs Perfuma and asks her, “Darling, I have to ask. Do you smell that odor? I can’t get away from it and I am literally going insane.” Perfuma smiles, “Frosta, it is not an odor. You smell the scent of outside, of nature.” Gasping, Frosta groans, “Oh no. Living here is going to be worse than I thought.” Everyone laughs and Perfuma is thrilled to be loved by so many wonderful people.

***

Elsewhere inside the Fright Zone, Spira manages to walk through some passageways and back rooms. Studying over the blueprints of the Doom Dispenser, Spira actually believes she has found the location of the newly constructed Horde Weapon. I can’t believe how many things Hordak has going on all at once, Spira marvels aloud.




Entering a dimly lit room, Spira notices a large piece of canvas material covering a mass in the center of the room. Slowly walking towards the massive structure, Spira looks over the blueprints again. Destroying this device would not be simple, but Spira is confident that she can do it. Lifting her hands up, Spira takes hold of the canvas. She starts pulling it down, awaiting the vision of the mysterious Doom Dispenser.




Nothing is there. Spira steps back confused. There is nothing under the canvas. It was an illusion. Bright lights quickly flood the dimly lit room. The light is blinding. Spira tries to cover her eyes to see what is going on. She is not alone. Horde Troopers are lined against the walls. Hordak enters the room with Entrapta, Catra, and Shadow Weaver.




“Spira. What a surpise.” Hordak calls out approaching her. Spira is cautious, “Mighty Hordak. What is going on?” She can hear a sound of annoyance escape Catra’s lips. Hordak ignores everything and looks at Spira, “I’ll tell you what is going on Spira. I’m a bit unhappy.” Hordak shocks Spira with a gut punch, “I don’t like it when people try to fool me. It is so much better when I get to do the fooling.”




Spira doubles over in pain. This is it. I am caught, Spira shakes. “Did you think you’d make it all work Spira? I am the ruler of the Horde; I make sure this empire works.” Spira looks up at him, “I don’t know what you mean.”




Hordak’s eyes glow red. He grabs Spira by the hair, dragging her across the floor, “There is no Doom Dispenser Spira. It was all a hoax, a way to trap you. Thanks to Catra’s selfish ways, her ineptitude led me to work on finding the real double agent inside the Fright Zone. Adora was too simple to ever be a double agent. I’ve long suspected it was you, and now I have found the ultimate proof. Only a Rebel would have the audacity to come in here and destroy a machine bent on burning the Whispering Woods to a crisp. Good job though on fooling me for this long.” Hordak kicks Spira towards Entrapta and Catra, “Get that filthy piece of trash up. Take her to the cells; she is a prisoner of the Horde now.”




Spira looks at Catra, “Don’t let him do this.” Catra looks on in disgust, “No one will be able to help you now, traitor.” Spira is about to fight her way out, until she feels Entrapta’s hair wrap around her neck. Entrapta grins, “Now, now, now… there will be none of that.” Spira’s heart is beating all too fast. This was not part of the plan! Spira screams to herself. Catra grins, “Alright Double Trouble, let’s see how you like the Fright Zone now.” Spira is led to the slave cells, and the only thing she can think of is that she should have just stayed home…


As Spira is taken away, Shadow Weaver glides next to Hordak, “What are we going to do with her, mighty Hordak?” Looking at Spira being taken away, Hordak grins with glowing red eyes, “Very simple Weaver. The Horde is going to execute her.”




Up next!


Only two more chapters until the exciting end to part 1! I would say more, but what else is there to say? Be here next weekend for She-Ra Saturday!