(Before we start the chapter, my 2nd OC i'm introducing in the series will briefly appear in the next episode, and have a more dominant role in the upcoming chapter. There art and bio will be introduced with the chapter because there back story has no plot spoilers unlike Flamboyant heart, until then, enjoy todays chapter.)
As you probably have figured out by now, Care-a-lot has slowly but surely started moving away from its pure roots. However, they do occasionally have those glimmers of there pure innocent roots, this was one of those moments. Although a good portion of Care-a-lot is at home, still recovering from last night. The ones that were not however, were having a blast over on Care-a-lot beach. Just casually having a good time. Swift heart, and Flamboyant heart were laying on a beach blanket, trying to get a decent tan. Flamboyant heart was wearing a carnation pink jammer speedo, naturally to show off his "Ass"ets. Swift heart was wearing yet again another sports bra, and a pair of board shorts, all black. Flamboyant heart was reading a romance novel, while the two made small talk.
"So Flamboyant, whats that book your reading."
"Girlfriend, you've never read council, this book is great. Its about this couple, that goes to marriage therapy, only for there female therapist to find out the women is secretly a lesbian, and the two grow a romance. All while the therapist tries to keep her job."
"Honestly, thats not my type of book, but hey, you quoted it best when you found out i walk around the house in my underwear, you do you boo."
The two laugh, but then Swift heart gets a nervous look on her face. She has been meaning to ask Flamboyant heart a certain question for a while, but was worried it was too insensitive. But she gets the courage to ask anyway.
"Hey um... i just wanted to ask you something. Um... ever sense the incident. How do you view... sexual attractions."
Flamboyant heart gives Swift heart a smile
"If it was anyone else, i would say its personal, but for you, i can make an acceptation."
Flamboyant heart turns around to lay on his stomach. Swift heart, being the thirsty girl she is, cannot help but stare at Flamboyant heart. With how good of a butt he had, she could see why he would want to flaunt it. It was very big, but not so big to the point it looked fake or crazy. She also liked how perfectly rounded it was, giving it a very cute feel. Swift heart being... Swift heart, takes any chance she can get to look at some boys. She would do everything imaginable to do this. From pretending to accidentally walk into the boys locker room at the gym just as Secret walked in, to giving Good luck a too small speedo for his poolside birthday, just to get a better view at his... assets. Needless to say, Swift heart is a giant pervert. Flamboyant heart starts to explain himself.
"I'm not gonna lie, the thought does make me a little nervous sometimes. But it doesn't stop me from having feelings. I still love my tight pants, you know, too flaunt the cushy tushy a little bit."
Swift heart laughs and blushes a little bit.
"I honestly, i don't mind if people look at me once in a while, its bound to happen. I just like to tease you about it, your quite fun to tease."
"Trust me. I can tell you think that."
"Anyway, it just that when... things get to touchy beyond maybe hands, i start to have... Flashbacks."
Swift heart felt bad for him. He didn't deserve to suffer like this, even though he is in a land of happiness now, he still was having some bad memories. All of a sudden, she can feels Flamboyant heart grab on to her arm.
"Hugs and Tugs i was fine with cause there just children... But, your an honest exception. Ever sense you saved me from the Yukon, i feel this... secure feeling when i'm around you. You haven't left my side ever sense i got here, and you have made my experience here so far great."
Swift heart pulls Flamboyant heart right next to her, the two hands around each others waist, smiling at each other.
"Of course Flamboyant heart. You only have been in Care-a-lot for a short amount of time, but i already feel like your one of the best friends i have ever had here."
The two just by looking at them had clearly bonded a lot within the short time they spent together. But Swift heart had another question.
"Hey, don't mind me asking sense all the bisexual people in Care-a-lot are female. But who in Care-a-lot so far do you think look... Attractive."
"Hmmmmmmmmm well lets see. Lets start female wise. Cheer has some of the most amazing eyes i have ever scene, that Grumpy guy is really lucky to have her. Friends puberty must have treat her very well, i won't lie, that girl has a nice chest."
Flamboyant heart looks at Swift heart and smiles. He grabs Swift hearts leg.
"But you. Your legs are so well built. And your arms are incredibly toned. I'm really surprised you don't have a boyfriend."
"Yeah. But hey the right person will come eventually. Sometimes, the might even be right next to you, and you don't even know it. So what about guys wise."
"Lets see. Loyal hearts chest is so ripped, so much anyone would want to run there fingers through its creases. Bedtimes chin is so defined, it could cut glass. And."
Suddenly, Gentle heart and Bright heart walk up to the two, with huge smiles on there faces. Gentle heart is wearing a magenta two piece bikini, while brighto... was wearing a way two small yellow speedo. Flamboyant heart is not the type to be hung like a weasel, but he did find it pretty attractive, he just does it make it obvious on the outside. Swift heart on the other hand, is staring at that thing like a winning lottery ticket, luckily only Flamboyant heart notices. Gentle heart starts the conversation.
"*Giggles* Its good to see you again Flamboyant heart, you to Swift heart."
Bright heart comes closer to Flamboyant heart.
"I know i saw you at the party, but i don't think we have been properly introduced yet. The names Bright heart raccoon."
The two shake hands, but then Bright heart gets a nervous look on his face.
"Oh, i forgot something back of my truck, we will be back in 5."
The two quickly go to there truck, while Flamboyant heart whispers into Swift hearts ear.
"Oh. Gentle heart has a good taste in men. Bright heart certainly has a... impressive package."
Bright heart and Gentle heart come back, this time with a boom box. They sit right next to Flamboyant heart, and turn on some light pop. Bright heart turns his attention to the book Flamboyant heart is reading, and his eyes light up.
"Your reading council"
"Yeah, i swear i have read some good romance novels, but this takes the cake."
"Me and Gentle heart are reading that novel together right now. I thought i was the only male here who liked romance novels."
"Well my friend, thats no longer the case. So what chapter are you two on."
"Chapter 10"
"Me too, we should so discuss this book"
Swift heart looks out at the horizon, and sees Harmony bear. As usual, Harmony is wearing the smallest swimsuit imaginable. Swift heart laughed to herself and turned to the others.
"Alright you guys do that, i have some scores to settle."
Swift heart runs off. Harmony and Swift heart don't have a very good relationship at all, but try to just publicly pass it off as a rivalry to avoid suspicion. To put it bluntly, Harmony thinks Swift heart is a butch, And Swift heart thinks Harmony is a hoar. Meanwhile down the beach, Friend and Secret bear are in the ocean, just casually enjoying themselves. However, unknown to them, Best friend bear was spying on them.
"Now i just have to wait for the magic to happen."
Best friend has a really bad habit of trying to play cupid among her fellow anthros. She honestly just cannot help herself sometimes, when she sees couple potential, she likes to go for it. She cannot help but clearly see that Friend and Secret have a thing for each other, and she has no problem trying to move the relationship gears a little bit. So she decided to use a little trick she learned from Playful heart. Best friend lives right next door to Secret and Friend. Last night, she left the party early and broke into there house. She took there swimsuits, and cut the seams entirely off. So all she had to do is wait. The two are just minding there own business, having a good old friendly splash fight, when Friends top comes tumbling down, Secret notices, and whisper into her ear about it, she quickly covers her chest, and responds.
"Um... Secret bear, you might want to worry about your own... bits."
Just then, secret realizes his board shorts have came directly off, and are floating right next to Friends bikini bottom. Best friend could not help but laugh at how funny this was. The two ran to there cloud car, with all the eyes on the beach directly on them. The run to the car and instantly lock it. The two blush in embarrassment. Secret whispers into Friends ear.
"Yes Secret bear, this is really embarrassing. I mean, we've scene each others... stuff before. But now we were on public display. I bet this was Playful hearts doing."
Secret whispers into her ear again.
"Good point, Playful heart and the whole joke crew are no where to be found. They were probably wasted after last nights party, and are still in bed. But nows not the time to play detective, lets get the towels and tie them around our... Were are our towels."
Best friend starts snickering, taking there towels and throwing them in the rainbow ocean. The two panic a little.
"How the hell are we supposed to get back home. Driving around like this without getting caught. Lets try and think for a bit."
The two bears attempt to think of something, but both are way to flustered by there current situation. They have scene each other in the nude before, but they surprisingly didn't make a sexual deal about it. In there private life at home, these two are even more casual then even Swift heart. But something about there current situation was making it really difficult not to focus on each others bodies. The two were blushing, obviously taking peeks at each other every chance they could. After about 15 minutes just awkwardly staring at each other, but then, Secret got an idea. He whispered into Friend bears ear.
"Wow Secret, i never thought of that, lets try it."
The two get in the back seat of the cloud car, which is lower so people can get less of a view. Friend bear puts the drivers seat down using a lever. Friend then got on top of Secret as Friend put her feet on the steering wheel, and Secret put his feet on the pedals, all while using each others hands and remaining body parts to cover up any extra... bits. Luckily for the two, there house wasn't far, or had many obstacles in the way. Which was good because Friend could only see half the windshield. There honestly pretty lucky to not have even crashed before they got home. And even luckier that no one saw this whole ordeal, which would probably lead to a lot of insane accusations. When the two got home, they quickly ran into the house, thankful no one caught them. Secret once again whispers to Friend bear.
"No Secret, you don't need to apologize. Its not like its your fault we were in that situation, besides, i appreciate you trying to protect my privacy."
The two blush at each other. Friend bear plops herself on the couch.
"Lets put something on later. Right now, i want to watch that episode of the Bachelor we missed"
Secret smiles, and sits right next to her.
XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxX
Share, Oopsy and Hopeful heart are all outside Brave hearts house. They are not trying to draw any attention to themselves, as they start chatting amongst themselves. But Oopsy os honestly having his doubts.
"I don't know Share. I mean, don't get me wrong. I want thing's to change to get us a better standing too. But this still feels like were basically manipulating Brave heart into doing are bidding."
"I get what your saying. But try not to think about it that way. At the end of the day, we are doing what has to be done. He has a giant as hell ego, and someone was bound to do this eventually. We don't really care about his out there lifestyle, but if thats what we have to say we are gonna say it."
"But what if this isn't enough, what if our problems don't get solved."
"Honestly Oopsy. I don't think it would ever come to that."
Share draws Oopsy closer to her, trying to comfort him the best she can. The three knock on the door, to there suprise, Lotsa heart answers the door. Hopeful heart greets her.
"Hey Loti, is Brave heart home."
"Why he sure is. He is in his bedroom getting ready for some coucil business. But I'm sure he wouldn't mind if you stopped in. I'm just rearranging some furniture for him. By the way, you guys heard the news right."
"Um, no Loti, we haven't"
"Good thing you dropped by then. There is a meeting at the hall of hearts this evening, there are some important matters the council needs to discuss. Be sure to attend. But until then, come on in."
The three walk in and head to Brave hearts room. He is brushing his hair in the mirror, but notices the 3 bears presence instantly, he instantly signals them toward the bed. They sit down and Brave heart greets them.
"Why hello you 3. What can good old Brave heart do for you today."
Feeling nervous, Hopeful and Oopsy elbow bump Share, signaling that they want her to start. She does exactly that.
"Well, we wanted to talk to you about Tenderheart."
"What about him"
"Well... Do you ever feel like Tenderheart is a bit... too much."
"Can you be a little more specific."
"Well. I feel like you have so many great ideas. Remember the Care-a-lot anniversary celebration last year. It was so amazing all thanks to you, you were the one that brought it together. But. We feel as if Tenderheart is trying to water you down."
"I get what your trying to say, but don't you think your over exaggerating a little bit."
Oopsy decides to continue the conversation, and give Share a break.
"Brave heart, you are truly very nice, but even you have to admit it on this one. You give out some amazing ideas, but Tenderheart always diverts them cause they think there too crazy. You just have everyones best interests in mind, and want everyone to have a good time. Its not your fault he is such a fuddy duddy."
"I guess you make a point"
"And all you want is for everyone to be happy. That just can't happen with Tenderheart."
"How so."
Now if Hopeful heart turn to finish the ordeal.
"Well Brave heart. We feel like sometimes Tenderheart favors some members over others. He tries to give reasons for them, but there often unjust in our opinion."
All there now turn to Brave heart, ready to stroke his ego. Once again, going in the same order.
"But you my friend, are an absolutely amazing leader Brave heart"
"Your Kind, Smart, Strong and one of the best friends a person here could have."
"You deserve more credit then you get"
Just by looking at Brave hearts face, they could tell that they have succeeded.
"I will definitely take your words into consideration, thank you guys. Now please excuse me, i have to get to the hall of hearts, Loti is going with. Help yourself to anything in the fridge, just lock the door when you leave."
Brave heart leaves the room. Hopeful and Share smile at each other. But Oopsy is still just plain unsure. He starts to voice about it.
"I don't know how to explain it, but i feel like we did something wrong."
Share puts her arm around him.
"Nonsense. And besides, this meeting is a chance for things to go in our favor. Just relax... Everything will be fine."
XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxX
At the hall of hearts, all 5 council members are sat down, waiting for someone to say the first word. Noble heart however, starts whispering with True heart.
"Are you sure this isn't a bad idea."
"We need to take action eventually, its best that we discuss this in full detail first though. I think we can get to something, i know its risky, but we have to try."
The silence continues for about 5 minutes, until Tenderheart gets a notification on his phone, he quickly looks at it, and addresses the council.
"Ug, my apologize guys, but it looks like we got a caring mission down on earth. I tried my best to be sure we cleaned house before the meeting, but i looks like i was wrong. So True heart, is there anyone who can miss this meeting your planing without effecting much."
"Well lets. Swift heart probably won't even pay attention to the meeting, that girl goes 100 miles a minute, trust me i know, never ask her to house sit. Judging by the subject of what we are gonna be discussing, Gentle heart would probably just excuse herself to the bathroom, and lock herself there the rest of the meeting. And Bashful heart is well... Bashful. We need someone who gives an opinion, and he certainly won't. I'm gonna call them all to the site of the meeting quick. Noble, you can explain everything else right."
"Of course, go ahead and make those calls."
True heart leaves the room to make her calls, while Noble heart starts to explain what the objective of the meeting later is.
"Ok, now i'm gonna try and make this quick, but you all know i suck at that so no promises. Know. I'm sure we can all agree that there are some... problems with tense emotions in Care-a-lot. Know, i'm not trying to blame anyone in the land, i mean it was kind bound to happen eventually. We are all kinda... different, but in a good way of course. And, sometimes honesty is the best policy. I mean, we are the Care bear family. Are job kinda involves getting kids to get some stuff off there chest."
"Oh. Like that time Cheer got a cheeto stuck in her..." Replied Love-a-lot
"Anyway... So the whole point of this meeting is gonna be for everyone to say what they think about how other people in Care-a-lot are doing. Once we do that. I think we might be able to manage... Loti, can you be a little more quite sweeping back there."
"Oh, sorry. I just want to be sure that we have the best quality cleanliness for our room."
"Alright. Now i know what you are probably thinking. OML Nobel, your literally asking for this plan to go up in flames, and everyone to hate each other. To that i say this, who here has a better plan."
Everyone is silent, admitting to themselves that they really don't.
"Exactly, so. Just play along, and i'm sure we will be alright."
Everyone just nods in silence. But in each of the 3's minds, they think of opportunity. Tenderheart and Love-a-lot think about calling out Brave heart, for his messiness, carelessness, and claiming him as Care-a-lots "Problem". Brave heart was thinking about the exact same thing, only with Tenderheart. Calling him out for his unfairness, stuck up, bossiness. And claiming him as Care-a-lots "problem". Luckily (for now) These thoughts are put to the side, as True heart walks in with Swift heart, Bashful heart, Gentle heart and Flamboyant heart. The 4 are greeted with a smile, as True heart sits back down in her spot. Tenderheart addresses the group.
"Hello, thank you 3... or 4 for coming. We apologize about calling you last minute, but we had a matter to discuss. We have a last minute caring mission we were alerted to, and we were wondering if you 3 could take it, don't worry, you guys will be excused from the meeting later today."
True heart puts a rainbow crystal on the table. Which can be used as a vessel to look at earth, similarly to the Rainbow river. The reflection shows a boy named Ray, sitting on his bed looking sad. True heart starts to explain the situation.
"This kid is named Ray. He is an alternative artist, and is quite talented. But he is suffering through some severe troubles. He is very insecure, after he suffered some severe bullying at his old elementary school. But once he moved to his new school, his mind never fully recovered. He is extremely reserved, and has some of lowest self-esteem i have ever scene. But these problems have been brought to an all time high recently. There is an art show going on at his school tomorrow. He has a brilliant piece of artwork he wants to submit. But he is really worried that he is gonna ruin his reputation. But I'm serious, this is amazing, look 4 yourself."
True heart broadcasts the art through the crystal. Its a very amazing galactic anime painting. Everyone cannot help but stare in pure aw. It really is incredible. The 3 family members nod in agreement to take the task. True heart then turns her attention to Flamboyant heart.
"You can go to if you like. I mean, you and Swift heart haven't separated ever sense you got here. Look at what we Care Bears do at our jobs everyday. Beside, not being an official member, we don't need you at the meeting, and we don't want to leave you in a ghost town."
Flamboyant heart gives Swift heart a big hug.
"I would absolutely love too."
Brave heart raises his voice.
"ALRIGHT THEN CADETS!"
Swift heart can feel Flamboyant heart hold onto her tighter, seeing the fear in his eyes. But this time, she sees more in his face then fear... she also sees some anger. But luckily, no one else seems to notice. Noble heart continues.
"We still need to get a cloud car prepped for you guys. We got Grumpy on it right now, go to the cloud car lot in 20 minutes good luck."
The 4 exit the meeting room. Bashful and Gentle continue onward, but Swift heart stops Flamboyant heart around 1/4 through the hall. Gentle heart takes notice.
"Hey, is something wrong."
"Oh nothing, me and Flamboyant are just gonna stay behind for a minute. You go ahead."
Gentle heart leaves. Swift heart grabs Flamboyant hearts hands, and looks him in the eyes.
"Hey Flamboyant heart. I don't want to sound like I'm nitpicking or anything. But you always act super weird around Brave heart, whats up with that"
Flamboyant heart starts to get a look of sadness in his eyes. Swift heart instantly knows that this is deep.
"Alright, i will tell you. But you will promise not to judge me for it, right."
"Of course i won't judge you. I just want to know."
"... He is a clear alpha male."
Swift heart looks at him in confusion. She has no idea what he is trying to say.
"I need you to elaborate."
"... I hate alpha males... But i also fear them."
Swift heart was in absolute shock. She always saw Swift heart as one of the most open minded people she has ever met, and now he's saying this. But she tries to let him continue.
"Ever sense i have been born, these kind of men have ruined my life. My dad, a muscular, loud mouthed hunk. Who all he wanted for me, is to be something i was not. All of my teachers at the boarding school. Bodybuilder, hot headed, testosterone filled men, who didn't care about me, they cared about how "manly i was." All those homeless jerks in Porterhouse. Thinking they could beat me up, take my stuff from me, and leave me cold turkey all because i'm not your stereotypical man... And of course... all those men... in the Yukon"
Flamboyant heart starts to get a little emotional. Swift heart pulls him into a hug, trying to comfort him.
"All of them, damn all of them. They think they have all the power in the god damn world, that everyone who's not them should bend down, and give them a rub. Thinking they should be self entitled to everything and everyone. All because they conform, to what it is to be a man. I bet you any money, 75% percent of those guys, are really just cowards, who take steroids, and have balls the size of raisins."
Swift heart pulls him closer. She can really feel for him right now. He starts to rub his back, and give him her sympathy.
"I understand but... then were does the fear come from."
"I don't feel like i could ever overpower them. I know that i'm proud of my Flamboyant ways, and i always will be. But i know no matter what i do, i just don't match up. I'm an open minded individual, who truly wants all the barriers to brake down. But how could that even happen, when even i have prejudice i cannot get over."
Swift heart surprisingly enough, sheds a few tears of her own. In the short time they have spent together, she feels as if they have grown a stronger bond then either of the two have ever had. She feels for him big time right here, and feels his pain.
"Oh Flamboyant heart. I really do understand how your feeling right now. Those types of men have mistreated you your whole life, so feeling the way you do is completely understandable. But at the same time, even if it feels that way to you do to your past situations, thats not always the case. Brave heart is one of the most kind people you could meet, and all he wants to do is protect his friends. Not all alpha males use there power to attack others. And if they do, i will personally whip there ass. But no, your not powerless in comparison to them. You have hair that some women would die for, a heart of gold. And trust me, you could outsmart them anyway. You do know how to pull peoples emotional strings, your teasing defiantly proves thats."
Flamboyant heart doesn't know how to explain it. But something about Swift hears words, make him feel at peace.
"Thank you Swift heart. Thank you"
Back in the meeting room, the council was having a discussion not related to the meeting later, but about Flamboyant heart. True heart leading to conversation.
"I would like to talk about Flamboyant heart while im here... I'm sure you all have heard his backstory, stuff gets around here very quickly."
"That poor thing. I truly hope the effect on him is only short term." Said Love-a-lot sympathetically.
"Me too, but thats not what i'm talking about. There is something about his past that we just cannot ignore anymore. I'm sure you guys have heard a secret town called Porterhouse get thrown out there. And... its causing some concern."
Everyone nods in agreement.
"I because of that worry... I think we should ask something of him tomorrow."
XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxX
The four family members assigned to there mission are now almost at there destination. Swift heart driving, Flamboyant heart in the passengers seat, and Gentle heart and Bashful heart in the back. Playing Justin Timberlake at maximum volume. There are clearly some people down on earth staring, as they draw clear attention to themselves. But they did not have on care in the world. They eventually get to the house of Ray. Luckily with the power of modern Care bear technology, they can use a rainbow ray (No pun intended XD) to launch themselves through the window, and the car will land automatically on its own. The 4 enter the 10 year olds room, but he does not yet realize there presence. The 4 spy on the kid, in the middle of making some art. Its clearly only the line product, but the four are amazed. This kid can produce stunning art work, in what feels like seconds, he producing amazing products that are just incredible, all anime themed of course. Ray is talking to himself, which gives Swift heart a good idea.
"The second i snap my finger, we will reveal ourselves to Ray, got it."
The 3 nod as they observe Ray talking to himself.
"I feel like this is just a slap across the face. Of course an art competition has to come along eventually. Ug, i want to enter the competition so badly, i know i would win by a landslide. But... After what happened at my last school, i just don't think its the right thing. I mean, artists like me are something you just don't see everyday."
Swift heart snaps her fingers and everyone jumps out at the boy, Swift heart doing the talking.
"You don't see brightly colored anthros everyday. But we turned out just fine."
"... no way. The care bears, right here in front of me. I amazed, its a pleasure, it really is."
"Oh no Ray, The pleasure is truly ours. I'm Swift heart rabbit, that Green bear is Bashful heart bear. And that one Green sheep, Gentle heart lamb. And we my friend, are gonna see if we can help you."
Ray gives a forced smile, kinda knowing what its gonna be about. But then he has a valid question.
"Hold on, then who's the pink bear over there."
"Oh, my name is Flamboyant heart. I'm not an official member of the Care bears, i'm just currently living in Care-a-lot. I'm keeping these guys company, you know."
"Oh, all right."
Everyone looks at each other, trying to think about how to approach this whole situation. Gentle heart signals to the rest of the group, and decides that they should start by casually making art the topic of discussion.
"Wow Ray, this art you are making is really impressive. Can you show us some of your skills."
"Hmmmmmmmmmmm. I don't see why not."
The 4 family members sit on the bed, and look at the work Ray is doing. He explains whats he's doing as he draws.
"This drawing is still technically a beta work. Im currently doing some rough sketching for whats gonna be the final product. Right know what I'm trying to do, is give the drawing a bit of a 3d model to it. For example check this out, if i sketch this first like just basic like this, it looks like your average 2d style drawing model you could find anywhere. But simply just curving that line, and giving it that little extra dimension, it gives the more authentic look that i strive for."
The Family members were just absolutely amazed. They could clearly tell that Ray did not get to talk about this stuff much, as he was going on like he was Picasso himself. He had a huge smile plastered on his face the whole time he was talking, being absolutely wrapped up in what he was talking about. His passion was truly inspiring. Everyone knew they would need to go to the subject of the contest eventually, but they needed to be a little gentle about it. That is, everyone except Swift heart. As usual, Swift heart likes to rush into situations before she thinks them through.
"With art that amazing, its beyond me why you don't want to enter that art contest."
Everyone can instantly see the look of sorrow on Ray's face. Bashful heart gives Swift heart a bump on the shoulder, and she instantly knew she messed up. Gentle heart tries to continue on what they have.
"You're talent is truly amazing, why wouldn't you want show that too the world."
Swift heart continues.
"When you have a talent, i would like to think you would want to show it off to the world. Especially with talent like your's"
Ray once again sighs. Swift heart elbows Bashful heart to try to get him to say something, but as usual, he has nothing. Swift heart face palms in her mind. Ray speaks again
"Don't get me wrong Care bears. I really appreciate what your trying do. But its just not as easy as that, not with what modern society has become lately. I'm willing to keep an open mind and see if you convince me, after all open mindedness is the key to success, but i doubt it will work."
All of a sudden, Flamboyant elbows Swift heart, signaling that he wants to go in the hallway.
"Um, sorry to interrupt, but i have to go to the bathroom."
Flamboyant heart goes into the hall. Swift heart tries to make an excuse, but dose not think about how wrong it is.
"And um, i want to go with him."
She leaves too, as Gentle heart and Bashful heart look at each other oddly.
"What!?"
Back in hall, Swift heart and Flamboyant heart stop outside the door. Swift heart looks at him confused.
"Is something wrong"
"Yes there is something wrong, how you're dealing with this situation. You're missing the whole point on what this kid is feeling, and its costing you guys. You need to think about it from an emotional standpoint Swifty"
"Did you just call me Swifty"
Flamboyant heart blushes, giving her that nickname without even thinking.
"I'm sorry"
"Oh Flambo what are you apologizing for. Its not that big of a deal. I like it actually. But if you're gonna call me Swifty i get to call you Flambo. Deal."
Flamboyant heart blushes yet again.
"Deal. I like mine too. *Giggles* But i think we need to get emotional root of this problem. I know I'm not exactly an official member of your ranks, but i think i know what we need to do, can i have a go."
Swift heart smiles
"We don't have much going for us, go ahead and try."
The two smile at each other and re enter the room. Clearly seeing the 2 other anthros at a loss for what to do. Flamboyant heart instantly walks in with the confidence of a movie star, and sit right next to Ray.
"Hey Ray, you have some baggage from your past, am i correct"
Ray nods.
"I should understand for sure, being well, Flamboyant. That sometimes, people can seem mean spirited, would i be correct."
Ray clearly starts to get emotional. Flamboyant heart puts his arm around him, as he starts to shead some tears.
"There, there. Just let it out."
Ray continues to cry for a good 5 minutes. All for Anthros wrapping him into a giant hug. When Ray calms down, he starts to speak.
"I'm sorry guys. I don't know what came over me"
"Oh, there is no need to apologize. You feel a little better don't you."
"... Yes Flamboyant heart, i actually do."
"Thats good. Now just hear me out. I understand how you feel entirely. Sometimes when people are different, they are targeted for stuff like that. But at the same time, its not always like that. Your parents took you from that old school because they wanted to give you another chance, and trust us, we know they choose carfully. But you know what, you my friend are amazing. Sometimes, all it takes to get some respect is a little confidence. One thing i know, is that people often follow confidence."
Flamboyant heart puts his hand on Rays shoulder.
"I know that thing will change for you. Sometimes, you just need to give it the opportunity."
Ray gives Flamboyant heart a reassuring smile. About 3 hours later, the results for the art competition are taking place. With the 4 family members sitting in the back. Swift heart could not help herself, but make a dirty joke.
"Hey, you guys know about the back row rule right. Who wants to take advantage of it."
Flamboyant heart and Gentle heart giggle a little bit, while Bashful heart sits in confusion, not getting the joke. The announcement of the winner is made.
"And, First place in the Emerson art contest. Ray Andrews."
Ray goes up with a huge smile on his face, as he went and picked up his trophy. As everyone starts to file out, the 4 go to look for Ray, and catch him by a group of kids.
"Wow Ray, that art you made the best artwork i have ever seen in my life."
"You did an awesome job man, wait to go."
"Want to hang out at my lunch table tomorrow."
As Ray is getting bombarded with compliments. He looks back at his 4 friends and smiles. Swift heart addresses the group.
"Well guys, our work here is done."
XxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXxXx
Back at the hall of hearts. One by one, everyone is filling into the hall of hearts for the meeting. And through that, there unique personality showing through, even as they enter. Good luck is still looking very depressed, with not soul in Care-a-lot knowing why. Rainbow heart and Piece of heart, also known as the bears resident lesbian couple, walking in hand in hand. With couples like Cheer and Grumpy, and Funshine and Wish doing the same. Loyal heart walked in like he was about to attend a Senate meeting, looking as professional as always. Some of the gang however, were still not fully recovered from last nights party. With everyone on party planning committee clearly still hungover from the night before, except for Wish and Funshine for some odd reason. Champ however clearly had it the worst, as Always there and Do your best, literally has to carry him into the hall of hearts. But eventually everyone is in the room. Execpt for one noticeable absence that Noble heart brings up.
"Hey, has anyone seen"
"Supri"
Suprise tries to come out from under that table, and scare everyone. But still being hungover, she accidentally bonked her head on her chair instead. Everyone started laughing uncontrollably, especially Birthday, who thought of this as karma for Suprises comments on M-preg fics. Eventually everything settles down, and True heart starts the conversation.
"I would like to thank you all for coming to the last minute meeting. Now, we are going to do something that we have never tried before. Now, this may seem kind of shocking, so please try and follow."
True heart reaches into her belly badge, and grabs a bright green pen out of it.
"Now, i want you to be perfectly honest with everyone when you make this statement. I want to respond to the following statement... Who do you think, is the weakest member of the family right now."
Everyone was absolutely shocked. Although tons of people would admit they saw this as an opportunity to vent. They never expected it to actually happen. True heart continues.
"Now, only the person with the pen in hand is allowed to speak. The pen will be passed around clockwise. Earlier we did a random draw, and Cheer your first."
True heart rolled the pen to Cheer and she started to give her opinion.
"I personally think that title should go to Champ bear. He constantly is drunk, and is hands down the most unprofessional."
You could clearly see that Champ was trying to hold back tears. Cheer passed the pen on to Grumpy.
"I think its Daydream. Never in my life have i ever seen anyone more lazy then you. Not even showing up to work... have some damn respect."
As the line continues, we hear more names get thrown out by diffrent people. Good luck said.
"Its Bedtime. He constantly uses his late night jobs, as an excuse not to participate in daily duties."
Take care on the other hand.
"Thanks-a-lot. We always have to pick up the slack for her when she messes up. She thanks us, and no one makes her improve at all."
But then Playful heart thought.
"Proud heart. She is to by the books, and she can never think outside the box, and thats a problem."
But however, there were a ton of names that consistently came up throughout the ordeal. Proud heart being the first to mention.
"Harmony bear. Don't even get me started on the outfits she wears on missions, there so inappropriate sometimes. I also feel like she gets off the hook more then the rest of us, when she does the wrong thing, just because of her looks, and thats not right."
Piece of heart, Rainbow heart, Cozy heart and Amigo bear all said Harmony as well. Harmony was clearly trying to hold back interrupting the whole conversation, and swearing the house down. But then another name that was bound to come up came up. All thanks to Do your best.
"Brave heart lion, he is one of the most careless people i have ever scene in my life. Day to day life would be much easier around here if he could pull his weight."
Always there, Champ (Being honest with himself, even though he would have loved to say Grumpy) And Daydream all backed up this claim. Tenderheart was next, and knew it was time to power against him.
"Brave heart. I'm sorry, but i'm afraid i'm gonna have to agree with Do your best. You have caused us a lot of problems, and being a member of the council, i expect more of you."
Love-a-lot made an identical statement afterward. Brave heart knew his opportunity was coming up. Share bear gave him a wink, and he started to speak.
"I'm also would like to apologize Tenderheart, but i think you are the weakest link. I don't think there is a soul in this room who cannot agree that you run the Care bears like a business. That my friend is not we are meant to be, or what we stand for, so if you ask me, you're the one we should expect more from"
One by one all the members of Shares club also state Tenderheart is the weakest, giving him a total of seven people thinking this. You can tell just by looking on his face that his ego just took a giant blow. But whats even more surprising is who ties with him... Loyal heart. As quoted by Funshine.
"Loyal heart, i think your losing the point of what the Family is all about. We do need to have certain amount of work like edict. But we also need to be happy, and have fun around the kids, and you just lost that man."
Everyone in the party planning comity said Loyal heart, except for Playful heart. When Play-a-lot nudges him to ask why, he gives him an odd look. But Play-a-lot just thinks he is in a bad mood. The tension in the room was higher then ever, with everyone looking like there at someone throats. Loyal heart was the last person to speak, and he was ready. He saw this as an opportunity, and opportunity that he was gonna overuse.
"Funshine... Fucking Funshine. I don't know were to even start with you. You are an arrogant, self centered, immature, and you should be ashamed of your existence here. When we found this place, we wanted a pure and peaceful haven, and we cannot have that thanks to your dumb ass. All you care about, is drinking, parties, and being a frat boy. If it was up to me, i would get you kicked out of the Family for good. You are an asshole."
Everyone is the room was beyond shocked... That just came... Out of Loyal heart. Everyones emotions were running high, everyone knew someone was gonna snap, but did not know who. But however, it ended up being the already damaged Champ bear. He ran up on the table, and lunged and Grumpy with all his might tackling him to the ground. Cheer was mortified, and started beating on Champ. Even if Champ started it, the situation was too heated for the two to think rationally. So Do your best and Always there, went and attacked Cheer. This prompted Funshine to attack Loyal heart, and Tenderheart to attack Brave heart. One thing lead to another, and the hall of hearts became a full out war zone. The bears not living up to there name, looking like they all wanted to kill each other. However, the ones who were not fighting, were hiding in the closet for refuge. Those being Secret, Friend, Best friend, Take care, Noble heart and True heart. Everyone looked scared for there lives, except Secret. He ended doing something no one would have ever expected. He grabbed a megaphone, headed back to the hall... and spoke.
"WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK IS WRONG WITH ALL OF YOU"
The second he screamed this through the megaphone, everyone had there attention on Secret.
"YOU ALL SHOULD BE FUCKING ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES. THIS IS NOT WHAT WE ARE ABOUT, THIS IS WHAT WE TRY TO PREVENT THIS. EVERYONE GET OUT OF THE HALL NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWW."
Everyone did as they were told, and peacefully and swiftly left the hall. Back in the closet, everyone went up to Secret and applauded his bravery. Espically Friend who gave him a big hug. Everyone except Noble heart and True heart. Thanks to this incident, Noble heart could no longer be in denial, and he burst in to tears.
"Are you alright Noble."
"... no... everything we have worked for... its falling apart... and its all my fault"
Back outside. Tenderheart and Love-a-lot were trying to quickly leave the premise to calm down, but then something happened, the Hall of hearts storage room security alarm went off. The two quickly rush to see whats going on, but by the time they got there, the bear who broke in was gone... along with something else, which Tenderheart noticed thanks to the box in the middle of the room.
"No way... Someone stole the insta key."
The insta key is an invention made by Bright heart. This key, when hooked up to a cloud car, can teleport someone anywhere in the world, all they had to do was picture it in there head. And now it was gone. But then Love-a-lot noticed something. The green pen used at the meeting was next to the box. And was put to another use.
"Oh my god. Tenderheart you need to look at this"
Love-a-lot turns the box around to find the following message written down. "Care-a-lot, is my purgatory"