Authors' note: all the songs used in this chapter are copyrighted to their respective composers and singers. I'm not listing the songs titles here because I want the readers to be surprised.

Finding Your Voice

Anger Heart gritted his teeth as he swept up the floor of the Hall of Hearts, which was covered in ribbons, rice, and other festive paraphernalia from the aftermath of Loyal Heart and Proud Heart's wedding. He wasn't the only one who was cleaning up, Love-a-Lot, Funshine, Snowy Heart, Champ and Playful Heart were also cleaning up, having either been selected or volunteered for the job of cleaning up the mess.

"Why do I have to clean this up!" Anger Heart asked aloud, not really to anyone specific but not really wanting a response, "So Loyal Heart knocked up his girlfriend Proud Heart, I have to sit through a dreary wedding and then I have to clean up this mess! How does that work at all?"

"Com'on, sport's fan," Champ said, pushing a large table to the side to they could clean up the floor underneath where it had been, "you didn't have to help out during the wedding."

"Neither did Defiant Heart, and he's not here helping," Anger Heart shot back.

"Well that's just the luck of the draw, sport's fan," Champ shrugged and continued pushing before grabbing a broom and sweeping up.

"So where's Guidance Heart?" Anger Heart asked, "I thought she was supposed to be helping us out here."

"I offered to take her place," Love-a-Lot said, "She said Bright Heart invited her to watch something with him."

Anger Heart bared his gritted teeth at the ground, Bright Heart again! Guidance Heart had been hanging out with that other raccoon too much for it to be just a coincidence anymore, the nerdy raccoon even had a girlfriend of his own, and a hot one at that, what was he thinking?

Anger Heart didn't voice any of this, but picked up his pace so he could finish as soon as possible so he could leave and try to go and see Guidance Heart. The others paid no attention to his outbursts, they were used to it by now and like with Grumpy Bear's near constant grumbling, they had just accepted these anger flares as part of who Anger Heart Fox was.

Playful Heart and Funshine had volunteered to help out with the cleaning both because they wanted to, and because it gave both of them a good excuse to have some fun with the wedding decorations after they promised not to do anything disruptive during the wedding or reception. Playful Heart especially was having fun pulling the ribbons and streamers off of the ceiling, he had climbed up to the ceiling on a ladder and had actually used the various hooks and bars that were up there for hanging decorations to climb all over the roof, despite protests against such things, and was using his tail to hang from them while he pulled the decorations off of the ceiling, balled them up, and either dropped or threw them down for Funshine to catch in the trash bucket she was carrying around.

"Ready, Funshine? Here it comes," Playful wound up and chucked the current ball of streamers and ceiling hangers down but off target, forcing Funshine to run so she could catch it.

"Got it!" she shouted triumphantly, as the ball landed in the garbage, turning into just a pile of garbage in the can.

"You really should be careful, Playful Heart," Snowy Heart said as he piled up dishes to take to the kitchen, where Lotsa Heart and Good Luck were washing them, "you'll get seriously hurt if you fall from that height."

"Oh lighten up, Snowy," Funshine said, flicking a small ball of paper at the white fox, "we're just trying to make this chore a little more fun!" Snowy rolled his eyes but didn't say anything else as he carried the latest load of dishes off to be washed.

Anger Heart did his best to ignore the antics of the two family pranksters as he swept up. He scooped what he hoped was the second last pile of rice into the dustpan and dumped it in a nearby trash bin before going to take care of the last part of the floor where there were still rice and streamers lying around. Champ was now folding up the chairs and tables from the reception and piling them off to the side, for him and Lotsa Heart to carry back to storage later. Love-a-Lot was grabbing a mop and bucket to clean up some of the food spills from where the tables had been.

Just as he finished with the last bit of dry mess on the floor, Anger Heart was hit in the head by a ball of junk that had been stuck to the ceiling. He growled angrily and he pulled the stuff off his head while Playful Heart, who was still hanging from the ceiling, snickered trying to use his hands to hold in his laughter.

"You think that's funny! Why don't you come down here and I'll show you how funny it really is!" Anger Heart shouted while shaking his fist up at the laughing monkey.

Love-A-Lot managed to diffuse the situation by letting Anger Heart leave and telling him he should go and try to talk to Guidance Heart. As the fox left he brushed past Illusion Heart Alligator and Defiant Heart Badger.

The gator cousin heard the fox swearing to himself about "that irritating monkey" and asked, "Is dat renard always angry?"

"Why do ya think he's called 'Anger Heart'?" Defiant Heart quipped, "That fox finds a reason to get mad about almost everything."

Inside, Playful Heart was still sniggering from his little "attack" on Anger Heart. Funshine was also laughing but managed to calm down enough to shout up at the monkey.

"All right, the ceiling's clean, funny monkey, come down before you fall"

"Aww, all right," Playful Heart began to climb back over to where the ladder he had climbed up on was still standing, but at one point, he missed his hand hold and slipped. With a cry of dismay he fell. Everyone still in the Hall of Heart's gasped but Funshine, being the closest to where Playful was falling, dashed over as fast as she could and managed to catch him, however the force of the impact knocked both of them to the floor. Fortunately by some miracle neither of them was seriously hurt, sure they were both in pain but nothing that wouldn't fade in time.

Playful Heart grinned and propped himself up on his arms, "Nice catch, Funshine."

"Hey, anytime," Funshine said smiling back up at him. The two of them remained lying there for about a minute before Champ shouted across to them.

"Get a room you two!"

"Hey let them be," Love-a-Lot said, giving Champ a shove, "they look happy and the cleaning in here is done."

Getting to his feet Playful Heart extended his hand down to Funshine and pulled her up. "I have an idea. How about we go snatch some of the leftover wedding cake and go eat it over by the Caring Meter."

"I could go for that. Can you believe all the work Illusion, Treat Heart, and Bedtime put into it?"

"I heard Illusion wanted to put cayenne in the frosting and Treat Heart threatened to clobber him with a rolling pin."

Funshine laughed and grabbed a large section of the cake and 2 forks. "Well obviously she got her way because I definitely taste raspberries in here."

Hesitating a moment Playful Heart looked through the refrigerator, "Hey someone else beat us to the extra cans of whipped cream. No fair!"

Funshine placed a hand on his shoulder, "Don't sweat in Playful," She held a bag of the chocolate flowers used to decorate the cake "I saw where Illusion stashed these!"

"I knew I kept you around for a reason." Slinging an arm around her waist he walked with her out of the kitchen.

As they approached the Caring Meter they saw Fauna lying on top of it and Swift Heart, Grumpy, and Brave Heart sitting around the base laughing.

Fauna squirted the missing whipped cream into her mouth before letting the can hang in her hand over the side of the Caring Meter. She was still in the gold dress she had worn to the wedding. Below her the others were taking turns drinking from what looked to be a bottle of champagne and taking whippit's from the whipped cream can just like Fauna.

"So looks like we found the after party." Playful called as he and Funshine sat with them.

"Hey! Ooo you guys brought cake. Wanna share?" Swift Heart asked held the bottle out to him.

Moving his arms protectively over the cake he turned his nose up at her. "No! This here be our swag."

"Suite yourself." Brave Heart snatched the Champagne away from Swift Heart and took a large swig.

Funshine looked up at Fauna, "So where was Blue? I haven't seen him around lately."

"He's not going to be." Rather then look at her she took another squirt from her can.

"Oh no what happened? Did you two break up?"

Grumpy cut in, "Nope, not even close." He gave a tipsy little snark.

Fauna turned on her side to look down at him and glare. "Blue was chosen by Wind Rider to be his heir. So he has a lot to learn and doesn't have time to spend flying between here and the Falls."

"Hasta la vista Azul." Grumpy took the bottle from Brave Heart. However before he could take a swig, Fauna's can connected with his head. This got a round of giggles from the others.

Brave Heart held up a full can of whipped cream, "Here's a toast. To Loyal Heart no longer being a free man, and to Proud Heart landing herself a personal servant."

"Cheers!" Sounded from the small gathering.

"You so should have included that in your toast at the wedding."

"Proud Heart has been moody enough lately Swifty. I wanted to survive the night!"

At Bright Heart's house, the purple raccoon was showing Guidance Heart some of his Star Trek model collection. Guidance Heart had discovered that she was a fan of Star Trek, and had begun watching it at home so she naturally began to socialize with Bright Heart more often and they would discuss things about their favorite Star Trek series.

A heavy pounding at the door to Bright Heart's house got their attention and Bright Heart excused himself to see who was at the door. The raccoon was surprised to see that it was Harmony Bear at his door. She never came to visit him.

"Oh, hi Harmony, what brings you to my house? And why the loud pounding?" Bright Heart asked.

"I never know what you're working on Bright Heart, just thought I'd make sure you hear me knocking," Harmony explained, "is Guidance Heart here?"

"Yeah she's here, just a moment," Bright Heart turned away from the door and called back to the other raccoon, "Hey Guidance Heart! Harmony Bear is here and she wants to talk with you!"

"All right, no need to shout," Guidance Heart emerged, "Hi Harmony, I saw you at the wedding, what brings you over here?"

"Well, girl," Harmony removed her dark purple sunglasses, "I wanted to talk to you about your singing."

Guidance Heart's face turned red and she politely excused herself from Bright Heart's house, shutting the door behind her, "What do you mean?" she asked, sounding a bit panic stricken.

"I heard you yesterday after the rehearsal dinner," Harmon explained and she took Guidance Heart's hand, after placing her sunglasses in their case and placing the case in her pocket, "I was in the Forest of Feelings for a walk, listening to the neat tunes of nature, when I heard you singing."

"You heard that," Guidance Heart was clearly embarrassed, but Harmony just smiled at her.

"Yes I did, girl, and I was wondering, maybe you'd like some help in learning how to sing better. You have a good voice but I can show you how to sing better, and maybe help you get over that little issue of stage fright you seem to be suffering from, don't worry," Harmony clapped her on the back softly, "I won't tell anyone about this, my house has good acoustics but won't let anyone hear you from the outside."

"All right, I guess it couldn't hurt," Guidance Heart said.

"That's cool, com'on we should start right away," Harmony grabbed Guidance's hand and pulled her along to her music studio.

Shortly after they left Bright Heart sat down to watch some of the shows he had recorded on his DVR, when there was another heavy pounding at his door. Bright Heart got up and was greeted by Anger Heart Fox, who was breathing heavily having run nearly all the way to Bright Heart's house.

"Is Guidance Heart here?" Anger Heart demanded.

"Umm no, she left a few minutes ago," Bright Heart was a bit taken aback by how aggressive the fox was acting.

"You sure? She's not here?" Alex asked again, leaning forwards and glaring at Bright Heart.

"I'm sure, Harmony was just here and Guidance Heart went with her," Bright Heart said, backing up a few paces.

"All right," Anger Heart backed off, "Just remember you have a girlfriend already, maybe you should spend more time with her instead of ogling someone else, especially since Gentle Heart's got everything you could want and then some!" Before Bright Heart could reply, Anger Heart slammed the door and stormed off, leaving a somewhat confused Bright Heart to shrug and go back to his television.

The next morning Swift Heart, Cozy Heart, Treat Heart, and Gentle Heart sat in lawn chairs on the banks of the Rainbow River. Their attention was fixated on Etienne as he swam his morning laps. The newest addition to the Care Bear Cousins had become the main source of eye candy for the girls and they did not let him go to waste.

"Look at those arms. I cannot get over how defined they are. Can't believe you got to see him first Swift Heart." Treat Heart commented.

She shifted in her seat, crossing one leg over the other. "What can I say, I just got lucky. Speaking of which," she lowered her sunglasses so she could look at the girls over the top, "Did I mention he was shirtless the first time I saw him?"

Rather then answer, Treat Heart and Cozy whistled in appreciation. Gentle Heart was quieter then the others. While she had come out of her shell she still was one of the shyer members.

"So Cozy and Gentle, your boys don't mind you being here ogling at the new guy?"

"Don't hate Sssswifty. Not that Jolly and I are officially together, but no he doessss not mind."

She laughed, "I am not hating Cozy. I am perfectly happy being free."

Gentle Heart smirked. Bright Heart had let something slip about just how "free" Swift Heart actually was. Coyly she responded to Swift Heart's remark with "What Bright Heart doesn't know won't hurt him."

By this time Etienne had finished his laps and was walking out of the water. He seemed to be moving in extra slow motion, the water rolling off his muscled arms, defined chest, and washboard abs. The early morning sun was coming up behind him giving off a halo effect that made him glow. Even his emerald scales seemed to glisten brighter.

A wolf whistle from Swift Heart brought his attention to the girls.

"Mornin mon cher's. Don you belle femmes have somewhere bettah to be den watchin me do mah laps?" Grinning he walked up to them, stopping behind Swift Hearts chair to lean over the top.

Treat Heart giggled, "We don't know what you're talking about Etienne. We were just enjoying the sunrise."

"Everyday dis week? You gals are makin it hard fo' meh to concentrate. Every tahme I look dis way ah loose count." He fiddled with one of Swift Heart's ears. She smacked him away playfully, unaware a slight blush was on her cheeks.

"Oh dat reminds me Treaty. I was wonderin if I could stop by latah fo' yo' biscotti recipe."

"Of course Illusion, I'll be home all afternoon."

"Tre bien! You have ma tanks." Looking over at Gentle Heart, he saw a lady bug crawling on her head.

"Hold still cher. You seem to have acquired a hitch hiker." Leaning over he gently brushed his hand over her wooly hair to shoo the bug away.

Gentle Heart giggled and blushed, "I don't mind the bugs, but thanks anyway."

Unknown to Illusion Heart or the girls, Anger Heart had wandered nearby, mostly from wandering aimlessly, and the fox had overheard practically everything; he managed to get close just in time to see the alligator flick the ladybug from Gentle Heart's hair. That did it, no wonder Bright Heart was spending so much time with Guidance Heart. Anger Heart stormed off, determined to tell Bright Heart exactly what was on his mind.

Guidance Heart Raccoon was completely unaware of the events going on outside of Harmony's house. The blue raccoon had spent the night at Harmony's house, having been up late practicing and deciding to stay there so they could get an early start on the raccoon's singing lessons. After eating a good breakfast and doing some vocal warm ups Harmony plugged her MP3 player into the speaker system of the music room in her house.

"Well you've done well so far, and since you have such a good talent for this, I think you should try a song on your own, girl," Harmony said.

Guidance blinked, "Are you sure, I mean, what if I mess up?"

"Then we'll laugh about it later, Guidance," Harmony said, "no one but you or me will hear this, so give it a shot," she handed Guidance Heart a sheet of paper with lyrics on it, "take a minute to read over that, you'll need to know it."

Guidance Heart scanned the sheet then smiled a bit, "I know this song. I used to listen to it whenever I had the chance, which wasn't often."

"That's good," Harmony said, selecting the song's karaoke version on her music device, "now give it a shot," the purple bear hit play and Guidance took a deep and began.

"Something has changed…" Guidance trailed off and Harmony nodded, restarting the song and letting Guidance Heart take a deep breath before she started over.

"Something has changed within me
Something is not the same
I'm through with playing by the rules
Of someone else's game
Too late for second-guessing
Too late to go back to sleep
It's time to trust my instincts
Close my eyes: and leap

It's time to try
Defying gravity
I think I'll try
Defying gravity
Kiss me goodbye
I am defying gravity
And you wont bring me down

I'm through accepting limits
''cause someone says they're so
Some things I cannot change
But till I try, I'll never know
Too long I've been afraid of
Losing love I guess I've lost
Well, if that's love
It comes at much too high a cost

I'd sooner buy
Defying gravity
Kiss me goodbye
I'm defying gravity
I think I'll try
Defying gravity
And you wont bring me down

I'd sooner buy
Defying gravity
Kiss me goodbye
I'm defying gravity
I think I'll try
Defying gravity
And never bring me down
bring me down"

As she let the last note trail off, Guidance Heart exhaled, her face was red both from the effort and stage fright. Harmony clapped at her student's efforts.

"That was good, Guidance Heart, how do you feel?" Harmony asked.

"Exhilarated," Guidance Heart said, smiling, "but tired. Can I take a break, I wanted to go and meet with Bright Heart for a bit, he was going to show me how to put a model together yesterday before you pulled me for lessons."

"No problem, girl, I need to clean up a bit," Harmony paused and added, "you spend a lot of time over at Bright Heart's don't you."

"Yeah, but it's all right," Guidance Heart said, understanding what the purple bear might be implying and doing her best to steer her thoughts away from that, "Gentle Heart is over there quite a bit too, the three of us sit and watch old Star Trek episodes. Those two are quite affectionate, not so much when I'm around cause Gentle Heart doesn't like to have an audience, but those two trust each other completely, even when I am spending a lot of time with her boyfriend. Sometimes I hear them together as I'm leaving Bright Heart's place," Guidance Heart smiled as she departed. Harmony rolled her eyes, well at least Bright Heart and Gentle Heart's relationship was going well.

In Care-A-Lot Noble Heart and True Heart were organizing Caring Missions. Reading over the latest bit of information, True Heart realized it was an update from a situation they had encountered 13 years ago.

"Noble Heart, then men who killed Fauna's mother have been found and arrested."

He came over to read over her shoulder, "Really? On what charge?"

Her voice got very quiet. "A poaching charge." Tears rolled down her cheeks, "We should have stopped them all those years ago."

Noble Heart put a comforting arm around her shoulder and kissed her temple, "They disappeared True Heart. We had a mess load of cubs to take care of and didn't have the resources or help to track them down. At least they are behind bars now."

True Heart placed her hand over his, "We can't let Fauna know they've been found. You know how she'll react."

"I know. I feel awful doing it but you're right. Knowing they are locked up will never be enough for her. Not after how she reacted with that gang a few weeks back."

True Heart printed out the information for her files, filed out the forms that said the mission was closed, and placed it in a folder and under other papers on her desk. Erasing the information from the computer she continued on as if nothing had ever come up.

Bright Heart had just finished his morning routine and was just leaving his house to go and see Gentle Heart, when he heard a loud noise moving towards him rather rapidly. Bright Heart turned only to be forced back against his door by a practically snarling Anger Heart Fox.

"What's your deal Bright Heart Raccoon!" he shouted.

"What, I…" but Anger Heart wasn't letting Bright Heart have any words in edgeways.

"While you've been spending all your time romancing Guidance Heart over here under the pretence of having fun with your Star Trek stuff and watching TV! Gentle Heart isn't being fooled! Heck she's down at the river ogling that alligator Illusion Heart while you're probably preparing to go and make a move on Guidance Heart!"

"How could you think that?" Anger Heart whirled around and gaped, Guidance Heart had arrived shortly after he did and had heard the entire rage that Anger Heart had just dumped on Bright Heart.

"Guidance Heart, I…" Anger Heart was stuck for words, which wasn't helped when Guidance actually slapped him across the cheek.

"I don't have feelings for Bright Heart, he couldn't be more in love with Gentle Heart and I, I…" Guidance Heart suddenly broke down and stated crying before running back the way she had came. Anger Heart just stood there with his hand on the cheek where he'd been slapped, letting Bright Heart slip away. Bright Heart didn't think Gentle Heart was being unfaithful, he wasn't in the business of restricting her freedom or actions, especially since they had consummated their relationship.

"What did I just do?" Anger Heart asked aloud, but no one answered, and he slowly shuffled home, a tear trickling down his cheek.

Later that day, Love-a-Lot was taking a stroll through the Forest of Feelings when she heard someone singing. The voice was male but she didn't recognize it, as she approached she finally caught sight of who it was. Anger Heart, with several tears on his face, was strolling around near a pond in the Forest of Feelings, he had his MP3 player's headphones in his ears and periodically he would pick up a stone and try to skip it across the pond's surface, with varying success, as he sang along to the music he was listening to. As she watched the music seemed to have changed because Anger Heart stopped for a moment, then suddenly began to sing with rather great earnest, doing his best to get through the tears which began to flow faster from his eyes as he danced to the music, stopping his skipping attempts altogether.

"I can't fight this feeling any longer
And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow
What started out as friendship has grown stronger
I only wish I had the strength to let it show

And even as I wander I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window on a cold dark winters night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might

And I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
It's time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars
Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore

My life has been such a whirlwind since I saw you
I've been running round in circles in my mind
And it always seems that I'm following you, girl
'Cause you take me to the places that alone I'd never find

And even as I wander I'm keeping you in sight
You're a candle in the window on a cold dark winters night
And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might

And I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
It's time to bring this ship into the shore
And throw away the oars forever

'Cause I can't fight this feeling anymore
I've forgotten what I started fighting for
Even if I have to crawl upon the floor
Come crushing through your door
Baby, I can't fight this feeling anymore"

Anger Heart hit the pause button on his player and rubbed the tears from his eyes.

"Someone on your mind?" Love-a-Lot asked, getting the fox's attention.

"Oh what do you want!" Anger Heart said, severely, "can't you let me be sad in peace?"

"I heard about what happened with Bright Heart earlier, why did you do that?" Love-a-Lot asked, walking over to the fox and facing him.

"Because, I thought Bright Heart had designs on Guidance Heart and that maybe he wasn't being faithful to his girlfriend," Anger Heart shuffled and turned away from the pink bear, "but I was wrong and now I really upset Guidance Heart and I don't know what to do."

"Because you love her," Anger Heart spun around, shocked at her statement, but Love-a-Lot forestalled his denial, "I can see it in your face, and in that song you were singing. You were jealous that Guidance Heart was spending all her time with Bright Heart because you're in love with her."

Anger Heart sighed, "Yeah, you're right," he pulled his earphones out and sat down with his feet next to the pond, "Germaine, Guidance Heart has been my friend for as long as I can remember, she was always there to support me, to help me when I had trouble in school, and she even stuck by me when I was fighting with Defiant Heart back in school."

"And you never get angry in front of her," Love-a-Lot added, sitting down next to Anger Heart.

"Yeah," Anger Heart said, "you're the love expert in the Care Bear Family, what do I do?"

"Well, let her cool off for a couple of days," Love-a-Lot said, happy that someone was actually asking for her advice, "The Valentine's Day dance is in three days, by then she should have cooled off and you can talk to her about what you did, apologize, and hopefully patch things up, and maybe tell her how you feel. In the meantime you should apologize to Bright Heart, he doesn't usually hold grudges so that should be simple."

"Thanks," Anger Heart said. He sighed and stood up, "I'll go find the science 'coon and apologize, hopefully things will work out at the dance." Anger Heart turned and left, Love-a-Lot grabbed a flat stone and skipped it across the pond.

"That felt good," she said happily, "Valiant Heart, when are you going to return, I miss you."

"Can't believe he is making me come all the way over here to get a paper he forgot while he was working. I'm sorry do I have the words Air Pegasus stamped on my forehead?"

Grumbling to herself, Fauna entered the Hall of Hearts mission room to look for Grumpy's lost papers. In the next room she could already hear the noise from the Valentines Day Dance. Even though she was bummed about Blue once again not being able to make an appearance, she was still going to attend because it was an important occasion in her surrogate family.

Taking a moment to straighten her red velvet pants and white off the shoulder top; decorated with red ribbon and red hearts on the neck, bust, and hem, she dove into the papers on True Hearts desk.

"How do you forget something you had in your hands all day until the moment you are ready to leave." Blowing her down and curled hair out of her eyes, she moved onto the next pile. Her elbow knocked over the pile on her right and it fell to the floor, splattering papers everywhere. Groaning she dropped to her knees and started to pick the papers back up and put them back into the folder that read "Closed Missions".

Her eyes non-chalantly skimmed over the names and information of those who had been recently helped. The skimming stopped however when her eyes read the words "locked up and charged for 6 counts of poaching. The folder fell from her numb fingers as she started from the beginning of the file.

True Hearts notes said how they were the 4 men who had murdered her mother 13 years ago but had slipped away and were unable to be located. They had finally been incarcerated on another poaching charge and were going to be locked away for 10 years per charge.

Her brown eyes found the part where True Heart had signed off saying there was no further involvement needed from the Care Bear Family and the case was finally closed.

"They found them and didn't do anything. They found them…and they didn't tell me." All the sadness and loss form 13 years ago came rushing back, causing Fauna to bring her knees to her chest and bury her head as tears began to rush from her eyes. Only this time, these tears burned with a new sense of betrayal she never thought she would ever have to feel.

Despite the ticking time bomb that had just been planted, the Valentine's Day dance started without a hitch. Like at Halloween everyone was dressed up but not in costumes but, for the most part, in formal attire. Loyal Heart was there with Proud Heart of course, the dog was in a tuxedo and Proud Heart was in a maternity dress, still a bit loose on her but everyone knew she would fill it out in the next couple months or so. The girls had all picked dresses that suited their individual tastes, except for Guidance Heart, who had been rushed into a side room near the beginning by Harmony, who had insisted that she perform for the family as a surprise, and thus be allowed time to try and control her stage fright.

Anger Heart had arrived early in more casual clothing, a bit dressed up but not as much as some members of the family; the fox was looking for Guidance Heart and once he saw her pulled aside he made his way over to the side room. He knocked on the door.

"Hello, who is it?" Guidance's surprised voice came from inside the room.

Anger Heart opened the door, "Hi, it's me," he said, his voice clearly full of regret.

"Oh, hi," Guidance Heart didn't turn around, she wasn't sure how she should react, she was angry and sad at the same time and so just remained emotionally neutral.

Not being one to beat around the bush, Anger Heart got straight to the point, "Guidance Heart, I'm sorry about what I did, I apologized to Bright Heart already and he said he's forgiven me. What I did was stupid, and I jumped to a conclusion too soon and I was hoping," he took a deep breath, "that you might be able to forgive me."

The blue raccoon stood up and turned around, she looked sad and somewhat relieved, "Anger Heart, I don't know what to say. I forgive you but, I don't know, I hope we can move past this soon, but I just…" she trailed off then added, "please just go for now, I have to try and get ready to sing, Harmony wants me to perform so." The red fox nodded a left. It didn't go as well as he had hoped but maybe things would improve, over a long time.

Playful was going around the snack table munching on things, he wasn't really interested in pulling pranks tonight for once, plenty of time for that later, something that he'd decided was more important was on his mind. The orange monkey was wearing black jeans and a tuxedo t-shirt, nothing fancy because he liked to have more freedom of movement, plus he was never a formal kind of guy so this worked just as well, even if Love-a-Lot had rolled her eyes at his choice of clothing for Valentines Day.

Playful Heart looked up at the door and noticed Funshine arriving, he snickered slightly as her outfit as the yellow bear was wearing a pink jean jacket over white shirt and pink and white polka heart ballerina skirt, and to cap it deely boppers with red sparkly hearts on the end of the antennae. Not one for subtlety he bounced over to her.

"Hey Funshine, nice outfit, I love the antennae," he said, flicking one of them playfully.

"You would, you gave them to me for Christmas," Funshine said.

"Goody, you remembered!" Playful Heart smiled.

"And look at you, nice shirt, didn't expect you to get formal on me," she said, poking the tuxedo t-shirt the monkey was wearing.

"What, who says you need to be formal on Valentines Day," Playful heart threw up his arms in a "w" shaped

"Or dramatic," Funshine said, quickly moving in and kissing Playful Heart on the lips. Playful blinked and smiled.

"Aww, Funshine, do you love me?" he asked in a "make fun of" sort of voice.

"Do I need to paint a sign for you, of course I do," Funshine said.

"Well prepare to be shocked, because the prank monkey loves you too," this time it was Playful's turn to give Funshine a kiss. Funshine smiled then grabbed Playful's hand.

"Let's dance, funny monkey," the yellow bear said, dragging him to the centre of the dance floor. Playful just grinned and went along with it

Once she had seen to Guidance Heart, Harmony decided to seek out Brave Heart. He was wearing a simple suit, the only piece of formal clothing he owned, and being dateless he was eating munchies at the snack tables. Harmony carefully straightened her normal clothes, she hadn't felt like wearing anything formal, and walked over to Brave Heart.

"Hi, Brave Heart, how's it goin'," she asked.

"Oh, not bad Harmony," Brave Heart said, looking up then swallowing, "how 'bout you?" he asked.

"Oh, pretty good, pretty good," Harmony waved nonchalantly, "like the music, the décor?" she asked.

"Oh yeah, they're neat," the lion said, "The food's pretty good too."

Harmony rolled her eyes, such a typical guy, "Well the food's not the only thing that's nice here, there are other nice things."

"Yeah, people are dancing too," Brave Heart commented, casting an eye over the strange dance that Playful and Funshine were doing, which almost didn't match up with the music.

"Well maybe you would like to dance," Harmony suggested.

"I can't dance alone, it's Valentines Day," Brave Heart protested.

"Well you could always ask someone to dance," Harmony gave Brave Heart the best romantic attraction look she could.

Brave Heart stared at Harmony for a moment, blinked, and then said, "Who here would want to dance with me?" before turning back to the food. Harmony blinked then seethed and stormed out of the Hall of Hearts, she was going to get the message across one way or another and she had thought of the perfect way she could do it too.

Jolly was waiting for Cozy Heart by the punch bowl. He kept fiddling with his button up shirt collar and red tie, convinced it wasn't straight. "Blymee OI'm nervous."

"Take it easy homme. Tain't like you expressin yo undying love for de femme or anytin." Etienne laughed at his own joke before looking at Jolly. Seeing the platypuses face pale he quickly stopped. "Non. Jolly tell me it ain't so. Not tonight mon ami."

"Woi not tonoit. It is Valentoines day."

Illusion shook his head at his wayward companion, "Oui so dere be a million oder hommes doin de same ting. It so cliché an unorigional. You want ta do it on a day dat de femme is gonna remembah for de rest o her life."

Considering Etienne's words, Jolly realized he had a point. "Yer roit mate…as usual. How'd you git so bloody smart anyway?"

"It de Cajun in me frer. We know romance no?" He polished his nails on his dark red silk dress shirt.

"Well then it'ssss a good thing you came to the Valentine'ssss day dance issssn't it Illussssion." Both of them jumped and turned, not having heard Cozy Heart come up behind them. Jolly's jaw dropped as he looked her over. She was wearing a white sweet heart mermaid style dress that had a red lace trim over the heart shaped bust and a red lace skirt. On her right cheek was a red glitter heart.

"Croike sheila you look dazzling."

"Awww thanksss Jolly. Swift Heart helped me pick it out."

"Wanna dance love?"

"Absolutley." Taking her flipper in the crook of his arm he spun her out onto the dance floor, but not before sending a wink back to Illusion Heart.

At that point Harmony returned, in a much much different outfit than she had been wearing before. She was dressed in skin tight black lace that was semi-transparent, black gloves with white sections between each of the fingers, black high heels and on her head, was a mass of black hair curlers that was far too many for the amount of hair she actually had with some glitter marking the area above her eyes. She was carrying a CD from her personal collection and she strode over to the area near the stage, careful not to draw too much attention, which was a big challenge for her in the outfit she was wearing.

Suddenly, the dance music stopped as Harmony carefully swapped the disc in the sound system for her own, "This should do the trick," she said as he hit play and moved to her position behind a small curtain that had been hung, originally just for Guidance Heart but now for Harmony as well.

The music started with some strange harpsichord trills that confounded everyone, well almost everyone. Funshine grinned at Playful from where they were standing in the dance floor.

"Aww, did you find one of my favorite songs and splice it into the music?" she asked. But Playful shook his head.

"No, but now I wish I thought of it."

Then everyone heard Harmony start singing as she emerged from behind the curtain and started her performance, even Guidance Heart emerged from her little room in order to watch.

"Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance

Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance

Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah-ah!

Roma-roma-mamaa!

Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!

Want your bad romance"

"Hey, she's doing my favorite song, com'on she needs some backup!" Funshine didn't need to drag Playful over to stand near to Harmony where they joined the purple bear in her dance to do Lady Gaga good justice. No one objected

"Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah-ah!

Roma-roma-mamaa!

Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!

Want your bad romance

I want your ugly I want your disease

I want your everything as long as it's free

I want your love

Love-love-love I want your love

I want your drama the touch of your hand (hey)

I want your leather studded kiss in the sand

I want your love

Love-love-love I want your love

(Love-love-love I want your love)"

"She's real pouring her soul into that song," Snowy commented.

"You know that I want you and you know that I need you

I want it bad, bad romance

I want your love and I want your revenge

You and me could write a bad romance

(whoaaa oooh)

I want your love and All your lovers' revenge

You and me could write a bad romance

Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance

Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance

Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah!

Roma-roma-maa!

Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!

Want your bad romance

I want your horror I want your design

Cause you're a criminal as long as your mine

I want your love

Love-love-love

I want your love"

Brave Heart noticed that Harmony kept shooting him severe looks as she was dancing and singing and asked Cheer, who was the nearest to him, "why does she seem so mad?"

"Does someone have to draw a picture for you?" Cheer asked, exasperatedly, "Harmony has a crush on you, you really should talk to her when she's done singing."

"I want your psycho your vertigo stick

Want you in my rear window baby you're sick

I want your love

Love-love-love I want your love

(Love-love-love I want your love)

You know that I want you

('Cause I'm a freak baby!)

And you know that I need you

I want your bad, bad romance

I want your love and I want your revenge

You and me could write a bad romance

(whoaaaa ooh)

I want your love and all your love has revenge

You and me could write a bad romance"

"Look, Funshine and Playful Heart are really helping Harmony," Champ commented, "guess those two are together now, I thought they'd try to mess her up or something."

"Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance

Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance

Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah

Roma-roma-maa!

Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!

Want your bad romance

Walk, walk fashion baby

Work it move that think crazy

Walk, walk fashion baby

Work it move that think crazy

Walk, walk fashion baby

Work it move that think crazy

Walk, walk fashion baby

Work it I'm a freak baby

I want your love and I want your revenge

I want your love I don't wanna be friends

Je veux ton amour et je veux ta revanche

Je veux ton amour I don't wanna be friends

(Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance)

I don't wanna be friends

I don't wanna be friends

Want your bad romance

(Caught in a bad romance)

Want your bad romance!

I want your love and I want your revenge

You and me could write a bad romance

(whoaaa oooh)

I want your love and all your lovers' revenge

You and me could write a bad romance

(Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance)

Want your bad romance!

(Whoaaa oooooh caught in a bad romance)

Want your bad romance!

Rah-rah-ah-ah-ah-

Roma-roma-maa!

Ga-ga-ooh-la-la!

Want your bad romance

A slow clapping came from the doorway to the Missions room. Fauna walked slowly into the main room, continuing to clap. "Wow Harmony…that was some performance. I mean it was great how passionate you were and how clearly you got your message across. I mean, it's great how you didn't hold anything back and you laid all your cards on the table." Her words dripped with sarcasm.

Now that she was in the center of the dance floor, the others could see her pants were stained with wet spots and the red eye glitter she was wearing was running down her cheeks. In her hand she clutched a crumpled piece of paper.

"It's so nice that we've all gathered here to celebrate love. Because that's what we do right? That's our shtick? We help people express themselves so they can lead happy lives."

Confused looks were being exchanged. They could clearly see Fauna was upset about something but they had no idea what it could be. Holding up the paper, she turned slowly for all to see before she focused her attention on Noble Heart and True Heart. She could see True Heart knew exactly what the paper she was holding was.

"Fauna dear let me-"

"Shut up!" she yelled at her. Tender Heart moved forward, "Fauna you can't speak to True Heart like that."

"Oh I think I can. I'd like to read for you all the 'Valentine' I received while running an errand for Grumpy." Opening the paper she began to read, "4 men were incarcerated today after being brought up on the charges of poaching which have stretched over a span of 13 years." She paused foot tapping, "Hmm that's funny. Am I not 13 going on 14? But wait, let's continue. These men were sentenced to 60 years each and, oh wait, down here in the notes it's confirmed that they are the men who killed my mother!"

Eyes glowing gold she crumpled the paper and slammed it to the floor, crushing it into the tile with her foot.

"And you decided no further action needed to be taken against these murderers? Are you kidding me? What gives anyone the right to decide their fate but me? They ruined my life!" She was yelling forcefully at the founders.

"I think you can see why we didn't want to tell you. It's the same thing as with the gang." Noble Heart offered calmly.

"Oh right. The gang that beat me up for no reason except to get my money. yeah they too got off free because everyone can change. Right Noble? No one ever deserves to be truly punished. Especially not these men who over the coarse of my existence ruined 6 other lives with their greed!" She spun and faced everyone now, eyes still glowing.

"You all took me in and raised me. I thought we were a family so I stayed. I gave up living with my own kind and my real friends, who tried to protect me because of all I thought you did for me. But this, this has crossed a line. I can't over look this one and move on, not by a long shot. So Happy Valentines Day, I'm leaving." Shifting into her true Pegasis form she charged the doors and with one kick of her hooves knocked them off their hinges allowing her to escape.

In the stunned silence that followed, Harmony was the first one to bring herself back to her senses and decide that she had to do something, or the dance would disband and no one would remember any part of this day fondly, well almost no one. Harmony moved quickly over to where Guidance Heart was still standing.

"Now's your time, girl," she said, pulling the blue raccoon out, "if we don't do something now this is going to be remembered as the most horrible day in the Kingdom of Caring."

"Bu-but what can I do?" Guidance Heart asked, bewildered.

"What I wanted you to do all along, sing!" Harmony grabbed a CD she had set next to the player and swapped discs again, "this is the one we practiced, you should be able to do it, now go, your public awaits." Harmony pushed Guidance onto the performance area, she was dressed in an easy to move in light green dress. Gudiance gulped and took a deep breath, holding up the microphone she had with her to her mouth as the music started with a guitar solo

As Harmony was hitting the play button, Anger Heart managed to make his way over to her, not a tough challenge because everyone was still standing in stunned silence. He took one look at the nervous look on Guidance's face and said.

"She's not going to make it, not under this much pressure."

"I have faith in her," Harmony said, giving Anger Heart a sideway look.

"So do I, but she'll need, help, give me a microphone, I'll try to step in," he said, right as Guidance began to sing, catching everyone's attention.

"Guess this means you're sorry
You're standing at my door
Guess this means you take back
All you said before
Like how much you wanted
Anyone but me
Said you'd never come back
But here you are again

'Cause we belong together now, yeah
Forever united here somehow, yeah
You got a piece of me
And honestly,
My life (my life) would suck (would suck) without you"

Guidance Heart paused, her stage fight was taking hold and time was standing still for her. She couldn't handle everyone giving her their undivided attention, wanting her to save them from the disaster that had just happened, and she wanted to flee. But then, she was saved as a male voice started off the next verse.

"Baby I was stupid for telling you goodbye
Maybe I was wrong for tryin' to pick a fight"

Guidance saw Anger Heart, walking over to her and singing along with her. Suddenly, she wasn't scared anymore and she sang her next part with great gusto.

"I know that I've got issues
But you're pretty messed up too"

Then both the fox and the blue raccoon took hold of each other free hand with their free hands as they finished the rest of the song together.

"Either way, I found out I'm nothing without you!"

'Cause we belong together now, yeah
Forever united here somehow, yeah
You got a piece of me
And honestly,
My life (my life) would suck (would suck) without you

Being with you
Is so dysfunctional
I really shouldn't miss you
But I can't let you go
Oh yeah"

During the instrumental bit, Anger Heart couldn't help himself, he moved in and kissed Guidance Heart, actually electing a cheer from the previously shocked audience. Guidance Heart smiled, she knew how he felt now and this was the best way he could have done it. She'd tell him she forgave him and how she now felt after the dance, but for now, they had a song to finish.

"'Cause we belong together now, yeah
Forever united here somehow, yeah
You got a piece of me
And honestly,
My life (my life) would suck (would suck) without you

'Cause we belong together now, yeah
Forever united here somehow, yeah
You got a piece of me
And honestly,
My life (my life) would suck (would suck) without you"

There was applause for the two's performance that quickly faded. Guidance Heart and Anger Heart's performance may have softened the blow, but it hadn't changed the events that had transpired, Fauna was gone. The silence that followed the last song was still uncomfortable, but some of the family members were a bit more relaxed than they had been a few minutes ago.

It was Defiant Heart Badger who broke the silence, walking deliberately over to Noble Heart and True Heart before he started speaking; he didn't raise his voice, but no one missed what he said.

"Well now that my two old school pals are finished their rather good performance, let me ask something. I'm pretty new here so tell me, what the heck was that all about?" he held up his hand to forestall anyone interrupting him, "Never mind, I think I've figured it out. Noble Heart and True Heart adopted Fauna along with the rest of the original bears and cousins some 13 years ago after her mother was killed by poachers, but you couldn't go after them then because you had cubs to raise and some dude named 'Dark Heart' to deal with. Now you found out they've finally been apprehended and imprisoned for what is basically the rest of their lives and you decided not to tell her hmm, let me think on that for a moment," the badger made a mock thinking pose for a moment before continuing, "Well I can't see how that makes much sense to me, even if she would have reacted the same way I think she deserved to know. You two had to know she'd find out eventually one way or another and as it turns out she found in probably the most troubling way possible, now she feels hurt and betrayed by the people she probably trusted the most up until now and she's gone! I barely had a chance to know her but I liked Fauna and while I may not have been here long, I know there are at least two others in this room who will miss her a lot more than the rest of us, but now she's gone and judging by that exit she made I doubt any of us will ever see her again."

Tenderheart tried to step in, but surprisingly it was Brave Heart who held him back and shook his head. No matter how harsh the badger's words were, they were the truth and sadly they all needed to hear this.

"All of us, well," Defiant Heart glanced over at Illusion Heart Alligator then spread his arms as he continued, "Most of us are orphans and those of us who are don't know what happened to our parents, some probably just fell victim to nature, or predators, which is fine, but I'm sure more than a handful of us lost our parents to humans for one reason or another, and if we found out we'd probably react in the same way. Sure most of us wouldn't go out of the way for vengeance, but even I can't imagine how angry Fauna was right then, heck I bet Anger Heart over there doesn't even know how angry she is, and he understands anger better than any of us." Defiant Heart crossed his arms and stared at the founders, narrowing his eyes, "and you know what the cherry on top of this disaster pudding is? Your attempts to prevent her revenge will be rendered moot by the end of the week. I've been doing my best to follow recent events up here and I heard about the gang that assaulted Fauna for her money on Earth, and how swiftly the Pegasus from that place they live were to want to take violent action against them, so I can guarantee you that by the end of this week, whether by Fauna's hands or by the hands, hooves, or whatever of the other Pegasus will use, those poachers will be found dead in their cells and retribution will have been had. It doesn't matter if you think differently, I'm sure all of you know what I'm saying is true, Fauna's gone and I'm positive there's nothing that's going to stop her or the other Pegasus from exacting revenge for the murder of one of their kin. Noble Heart and True Heart, you two may be older and wiser than any of us, but even you aren't infallible and I think you made the wrong judgment call this time, now excuse me because I'm leaving, I need some sleep after all this excitement." Defiant Heart Badger turned and strode out, leaving a dumbstruck Care Bear Family behind him.

"He always did speak his mind without holding back," Guidance Heart whispered to Anger Heart, who nodded in reply. Noble Heart and True Heart quietly left after Defiant Heart, the two founders hadn't said anything, they weren't sure they agree with the badger's harsh accusations, but he was right about one thing, the Pegasus would have their revenge, and with Fauna gone, there was little to no chance of dissuading them.

In the heavy atmosphere following Defiant Heart's speech, other people from the dance began to disperse. Snowy Heart, Share, Funshine, and Playful Heart stayed behind to clean up, no one would feel like dealing with this mess in the morning. Loyal Heart offered to stay behind as well, Proud Heart wanted to go get some sleep and she said she'd like some time along to digest what had happened, and the large amount of food she had eaten.

She knew what they were expecting. She knew the others thought she was going to go storming after her "parents" and chew them out for what they had done. But the truth of the matter was, Defiant and Fauna had pretty much said it all. She couldn't even bring herself to look at the founders tonight.

Swift Heart stripped off her red boots and left the Hall of Hearts through the kitchen. She drove back to the Forest of Feelings and instead of rushing home, she took her time to walk through the trees. The evening was cool and her short red dress was little protection against the nip.

Getting to her rabbit hole she climbed down the ladder and let herself into the warm burrow. Turning on the light she saw her and Fauna's clothes scattered over the floor. She'd forgotten that they'd gotten ready there and Fauna had been asked to run Grumpy's errand before they'd had a chance to clean up. Going to the couch she picked up the blue shirt draped over the arm before collapsing on the couch.

Swift Heart's tough façade melted away to expose her vulnerable side, a side she never exposed around her family. Burying her face in the shirt she allowed herself to cry over the loss of the little sister. Knowing she wasn't going to see Fauna everyday crushed her. They had come to depend on each other so much; it felt as if her right arm had been snatched away.

Her phone ringing caused her to jump. Quickly drying her eyes and collecting herself she picked up. "Hello?"

"Are you going to be okay?" Hearing Grumpy on the other end almost brought the tears back. It was no mystery that the two who were going to miss Fauna the most were her and Grumpy; a fact that should have comforted her.

"I'm fine. I just need some space and time to cope."

She heard him sigh. "Don't shut me out Swift Heart. I'm going to miss her too."

A small sob escaped before she could catch herself, "Which is why I can't talk to you right now. It's too close, it makes me remember all the times the three of us had together and I can't think about them." She wiped her eyes.

Grumpy was silent on the other line as he waited for Swift Heart to calm down. "She loves us to much to completely abandon us. Sure she's going to be pissed for awhile but sooner or later we'll see her again. Think on that and I'll talk to you tomorrow."

Hanging up his phone, Grumpy got up and headed for his bedroom. Stopping to look at a picture on his wall, he saw the newly adopted 5 month old Fauna, curled up next to him as he sat on the floor. He couldn't have been more then 4 years old at the time.

"Stay safe baby sis." Running a paw down the picture he retreated to his bedroom, slamming the door a little harder then normal.

Brave Heart and Harmony lingered a bit, also lending a hand to clean up. Brave Heart looked up at the outfit Harmony was wearing and gave a quizzical look.

"Is it hard to walk in that?" he asked.

Harmony managed to smirk, "A bit, but once you get used to it it's not so bad."

"Ahh," Brave Heart was silent for a moment, "guess I owe you an apology, I should have read those signals you kept sending me better."

"It's all right, I guess I overreacted, most guys can't pick up on the subtle signals we gals send out," Harmony playfully hip-checked the lion.

"Well umm, would you like to go out some time?" Brave Heart asked.

"Maybe, we'll see," Harmony sighed, "once the dimness has died down from what happened tonight." Brave Heart nodded and continued to help clear the dishes.

Despite having enjoyed doing the "Bad Romance" song and dance alongside Harmony Bear, Playful Heart and Funshine could tell this was no time for jokes or pranks. At the moment that wouldn't be a good way to lighten people's moods, this was the kind of thing that could only be remedied by time.

"Where did you learn Gaga's dance moves?" Funshine asked Playful as they lifted a table that had been cleared off so they could fold the legs in.

"From watching you when you thought you were alone," Playful giggled.

Funshine smirked, "I knew you were there, Playful, I just wanted to see how long you could watch me dancing before you joined in."

"Well how was I?" he asked as they dragged the table off to the side.

"Not bad, a little off on the timing, but you have plenty of time to learn if you're interested now," Funshine said, grinning over at her boyfriend.

Anger Heart and Guidance Heart departed in a hurry, managing to catch up to Defiant Heart before he got too far away.

"Hey Defiant, wait up!" Anger Heart called. The badger turned and rolled his eyes as he saw his two old school mates rushing up to meet him.

"Where's the fire you two?" he asked.

"No fire, we just wanted to talk," Guidance said, "so how did you like our performance."

"Oh, that song, yeah it was good, I liked it so…" Defiant Heart grinned at them, "are you two a couple now."

"Well, I'm not really sure…" but Anger Heart's uncertainty was cut off by Guidance Heart.

"Yes, we are," she took Anger Heart's hand in her own, "what he did tonight too a lot of courage and I've forgiven him for his little incident with Bright Heart."

"Aww, thanks," Anger Heart said, blushing though it was hardly noticeable behind his red fur.

"Aww aren't you two sweet," Defiant Heart said, rolling his eyes and he continued home, with the new couple walking with him.

"Speaking of bravery," Anger Heart chipped in, "what you said to everyone back there took a lot of guts."

"Thanks," Defiant Heart nodded, "think I was too harsh."

"I really couldn't say," Guidance Heart said, "I never got to know Fauna all that well but at least what you said was honest and to the point."

"Do you really think Fauna's never coming back?" Anger Heart asked, concerned.

"I can't say, I'm just going off what little I know and was able to piece together. The way she was acting I honestly think there's a good chance she might not return here, at least not for the foreseeable future," Defiant Heart stopped and stared up at the sky through the canopy of trees of the Forest of Feelings, that they had entered a minute ago, "maybe she'll come back someday, when she and all of us are older and wiser and can forgive what happened today, but I know we'll never forget so it will take time, a lot of time," he looked back down and continued home. Anger Heart saw Guidance back to her house before heading back to his home. In almost any other circumstances he would be jumping for joy, he and Guidance Heart were together! But it came at such a sad time that he found himself unable to really celebrate the event, so he just sighed and went home.

As Loyal Heart was wiping some of the mess off the floor, he felt a slight ping in his head. He looked up, strange, he thought he felt something, but it was gone now so he shrugged it off. Snowy Heart, who was stacking chairs, stopped for a moment and held his head. He'd had a headache since the start of the dance but it hadn't been anything serious, now it was getting worse for some reason. Suddenly the arctic fox cousin felt very weak in the knees and he collapsed, his eyes clouding over.

"Snowy!" Share Bear was at his side in an instant and once again that night, everyone was stunned.

Snowy's eyes cleared up and he said, "I just had a vision."

"A vision, you mean like when you meditate?" Share asked.

"Yes, but," Snowy sat up, "it has never happened this way before. I suddenly felt a rush of images in my mind, nothing clear but it was strong."

"Well what did you see? Don't leave us hanging," Playful Heart insisted.

"I saw, a familiar face, yet once I cannot remember, strange monsters cold to the touch, a strange and mystical place with things I cannot even describe, two beings, at once familiar and alien, and then I saw, there were more of us, but not us," Snowy shook his head, "it's gone now and I don't know what to make of it."

"I think what went on tonight just has you rattled," Share said, helping the fox to stand up, "considering all that's happened I'm not surprised you collapsed, I'll help you home." Share proceeded to help the fox, supporting him as he walked home.

Fauna moved through the forest of Pegasus Falls making her way to the nest she had been born in. It was where she often stayed when she had her over night trips here, and now she was going to make it her permanent home. Plus she really needed the extra comfort of knowing this place held a special connection to her mother.

Lineing the side of the nest were a layer of her mother's molted feathers. Unlike with mortal birds, these feathers would never disintegrate or grow old because they had come form an immortal being. They had kept her warm for the first 5 months of her life, before her world had been turned upside down.

Laying in the nest she folded her legs underneath her and spread her wings over her back. Burying her nose in the rim she inhaled her mother's ever present scent. Silent tears continued to fall down her cheeks as she drifted off.

2 hours later Fauna felt someone lay next to her. They placed their neck over hers, pulling her against them. Fauna spoke sleepily, "How did you know I was here? And how did you get away?"

"Thunders mom saw you come through the portal and said you looked upset. And the guards don't know I can shift, Wind Rider said it would be a good secret to keep for my security." She snuggled deeper into Blue. "I'm really glad you're here."

She heard her other friends enter her nest. Frosty lay above her, allowing her to rest her head on his flank, Thunder curled up on her other side, and Red Snout lay on the other side of Blue.

"You wanna talk about what has you so upset? Normally True Heart and Noble Heart wouldn't let you leave this late."

"In the morning Blue. All you have to know is I don't live there anymore so I could care less what they think."

Frosty nudged her cheek. "We're really happy you're here. We've missed you."

Fauna felt a smile pull up her lips and a happy warmth fill her, burning away the feelings of betrayal. "I'm happy." And she was. For the first time in her life she felt one hundred percent herself, back among her friends for good. She knew what the morning would bring, but for now she wanted to enjoy her one bit of serenity.