A New Song

by KidHeart4

In this Alternate Universe, Heart is for once born a duck, and is the sister of Wildwing and Nosedive Flashblade. This time, growing up quite happily, and training to be a singer, Heart discovers there's a bit more to her world than she ever thought there'd be. Upon meeting a famous drake, Duke L'Orange, she quickly begins to uncover secrets she simply can't ignore.

4. Thief

Heart:

"You okay there, girly-girl?" Nosedive asked as I tried to get my things together.

"Y-Yeah, I'm okay," I attempted while I was pulled away from my thoughts.

"You sure about that? You haven't really been yourself for a week. Since the night you came back so late?" my twin pointed out while checking my forehead now, "No fever?"

"I'm fine," I tried to insist while nearly dropping my song book as I tried to shove it into my overshoulder bag.

"Something up?" Wildwing asked as he walked in to see these interactions.

"It's nothing!" "Heart's acting funny!"

The both of us exclaiming surprised our older brother. Since we were little, Wildwing could count on maybe one hand the times we had argued like this.

"Sis, what's wrong?" Wildwing pushed carefully.

"Nothing, I mean..."

"I heard Duke L'Orange got attacked on his way home after a party or something. He managed to fend off the thug, but apparently something happened during the fight that's caused him to recover from inside his home," Wildwing mentioned, before asking in a gentle tone still, "Would that have something to do with it?"

"I..." I knew there was little I could do to hide that I knew something; but what exactly could I tell them?

"Heart? You can talk to us," Wildwing prompted while pulling up a seat at the table and inviting us both to sit with him.

Taking a deep breath and letting it go, I took a seat beside my twin. It had been easy to hide things thus far with them being away at games and practice, but this was an off day for them. Making it easier for them to notice me trying not to worry while he was recovering. Or to mask that I'd been trying to figure out how this new magic worked. As well as hide a new necklace that I'd found, and been gifted, that night.

"I...I was there when Duke got hurt," I finally admitted while trying to figure out how to explain the rest.

"What?!" Both of them exclaimed.

"Th-There was someone attacking him, and in the scuffle, he..." I shuddered from the cruel memory, nearly getting sick from the fear that came screaming back, before I took a breath to continue, "the attacker injured Duke's eye during the fight. W-We managed to scare him off, but Duke was hurt badly. I was able to help him to get his personal doctor, and he...he's okay...as far as I know..."

"Jeez, sis! No wonder you've been so quiet!" Nosedive said with a dropped jaw, "Why didn't you tell us?"

"I...I don't know...I guess I've still been trying to calm down from everything. I can only think of a time or two where I've been as scared as I was that night," I tried to say.

"I can't blame you," Wildwing said in lingering disbelief, before asking, "Were you hurt at all?"

I shook my head, "Duke kept him from being able to."

"I owe him a thanks for that then," he attempted a relieved smile.

I was tightly grasping at the fabric of my skirt as it rested over my knees, my frame trying not to shake as I thought back to that night.

"You haven't seen him since?" Nosedive asked.

I shook my head, "No. H-He needs to rest and recover. He doesn't need someone bothering him."

"Sis, I doubt he'd think of it that way. He would probably love to have a visitor?"

"I don't know where he lives," I half lied, "I was only able to get him to his doctor that night. I think he keeps his private life, well, private."

"I guess that's true," Wildwing admitted.

"I'm sure he's doing okay, sis," Nosedive tried now, "You'll see him once he's healed up. He protected you, so he definitely cares about you."

"H-He was just acting out of instinct. He's a gentleman, afterall," I pointed out.

"Don't give us that!" Nosedive insisted, "You two have at least become friends, and you met him that one time as a kid. That's gotta count for something!"

I shrugged, trying to withdraw from the subject.

"In any case," Wildwing tried to encourage, "One of this day's biggest stars can't hide from the public forever."

I shuddered at this, but kept my beak shut as to why exactly.

Taking the sign for now, Wildwing cleared his throat and said, "Anyway, I do have some news as well."

"What's that?" I asked.

"A distant relative is sending us something, I guess a family heirloom?" Wildwing mentioned, "He said as a rising team captain, I'm finally ready to wear it."

"Wait...!" Nosedive pondered at first, before looking to Wildwing with sudden intrigue, "Is it what I think it is?!"

Wildwing tried to hide his smile, "I think so."

"The mask?! It's being given to us?!" Nosedive exclaimed.

"That mask?" I realized, "Wing, that's so cool!"

"So how did it come to be in our family any way?" Nosedive tried to recall.

"Along time ago, when the mask was created by Drake DuCaine during a time of great need, it was used to help defeat a horrible tyrant," Wildwing began to tell us, as he had been told growing up, "This goalie mask could see through the enemy shields, and with this he lead ducks and others alike to victory. Afterwards, as he grew older, he would pass down the mask to his son, and so on and so forth. Until a young woman down the line eventually married into the Flashblade family, according to our family tree, and thus merging them. Going down the line a bit more, you reach our parents. Then finally us."

"That's so cool!" Nosedive and I said in unison.

"It should be here in two days, and I've been told to guard it close once it arrives," Wildwing informed us.

"In case it's ever needed again?" Nosedive clarified.

Wildwing gave a chuckle, "Well, I don't know about it. Nowadays we have the Order of Light keeping villains at bay. Though who knows, maybe with it I could join their ranks someday?"

"Or be your own hero?" I slipped slightly while trying to encourage him.

He gave an odd look, before laughing, "Maybe?"

"So when is it supposed to get here?" I asked, "Two days?"

He nodded, "That's what I was told, that's as fast as they could get it here. They had to send it in secret, but couldn't make the trip to hand it down as was custom."

"How come dad didn't have it?" Nosedive asked.

Wildwing shrugged, "I don't really know. In either case, it'll be in the family still. It'll be nice to have something like that."

Nosedive and I quietly agreed.

"You have a gig tonight, sis? Sorry it's the same day as our game," Nosedive mentioned, "I'm sure you'll knock 'em dead though!"

"You'll be great too!" I insisted, while masking my own concern as the order had been brought up during this conversation.

For it meant that I would have to get there and find a way home alone. I couldn't ask my friends who were busy, nor could I bring myself to confess to Wildwing just why it was important that someone be with me. Then again, if someone did try and grab me, I could very well use my magic to defend myself, couldn't I?

This is what I tried to remind myself of as I headed out early, where there would be plenty of people around if anyone tried anything. With this, I was able to reach the dance club without any trouble. This would be my first show since before the fight, since I'd last seen him. I tried not to focus on this as I set up for the show. I'd gone with a rocker look for this show, with a black jacket worn over a burgundy crop top. My dark pants had several zippers up along them, and there were a pair of almost knee high boots over my feet. On my hands were a pair of slick black gloves. Around my waist was a burgundy sash to pull it all together. On my right wrist was a bike chain fashioned into a bracelet and a cloth wrist band, the former Nosedive had given it to me, and the latter had been from Wildwing. They'd bought them when they'd heard of my magic, saying maybe having some encouragement to be reminded of might help. Finally, around my neck was the sapphire, and tying my hair back into a high set side swept ponytail, was the white ribbon he'd gifted me a long time ago.

Then, the music began to play, the band that had been hired to perform with me. As the beat picked up more and more, I felt myself nearly freezing up as I nearly had the night we met. When he'd been there...I was so scared thinking about it more and more. I knew why I hadn't been able to go and see him, understanding full well why he probably wouldn't want me to. Yet I wanted to so badly. It didn't matter to me what he was...I still...I...

Looking out over the crowd, I nearly choked, when I suddenly would catch a glimpse of someone standing in the back of the room. Smoothly leaning back against the wall, with his arms folded over his chest, he watched quietly. Wearing dark slacks that were tucked into high set tabi boots, with a high collar burgundy long sleeved shirt, and a black jacket worn over it. Where his right eye should have been was the red light of the cybernetic eye, and the eyepatch to hide it. There, he stood, watching quietly. Not knowing that my heart had now jumped to my throat upon seeing him. That same jump would cause my voice to unlock as the words I was supposed to sing emerged just in time.

Song after song filled the air for dancers to move to. Occassionally I would notice him swaying his head to the melody. When he did, I would notice the glistening aura showing around me, as I knew I was trying to make sure that in some way he were okay now. Unable to hide it any better than the last time this had happened, the first time it had happened. Though no matter how badly I wanted to run over and talk to him, I remained on the stage the entire show. About two hours later, after barely taking a bow and thanking the band for their partnership, I darted back stage to try and head out onto the floor.

However, I would be stopped by a well dressed wolf, possibly related to the one from before. He gave a friendly smile, "I loved your voice up there. You've got a bit of talent, don't you?"

I took a step back, "Thanks."

"Something wrong?" he asked as I quickly noticed the emblem worn on his jacket.

"No, I was just going to meet someone," I tried to excuse myself.

"A boyfriend?" he ventured.

I shook my head, hating that my blushing face was probably making this hard to believe, "N-No. Just a friend. Now if you don't mind?"

"Are you in that much of a rush?" he inquired while trying to step in my way.

"I-," I felt myself beginning to panic, grasping the gem hanging from my neck tightly to try and protect it.

Then I felt a firm hand suddenly grasp my shoulder, causing me to jump. I nearly let out a burst of electricity to try and warn them off, when I heard a voice from behind me catching my attention, "Sorry it took me a bit to get back here, sweetheart."

Looking over my shoulder, I would feel a wave of relief distinguishing my magic as I exclaimed, "Duke?!"

He gave a smile as he asked knowingly, "Everythin' alright?"

Stepping back closer to the drake, I gave a nod. Though we both noted the wolf's ears darting back briefly in annoyance to the interruption. Before he politely excused himself.

"They really aren't subtle, are they?" I began to realize more and more.

"Self proclaimed knights don't tend to be," Duke stated cautiously while scanning the room, "They'd rather barge in and try to fix or save what doesn't always need to be."

"Not realizing others then need to be saved from them," I mentioned while glancing up at the drake, "Thank you."

"I told ya I'd look out for ya, didn't I?" he reminded me with a bit of a smirk on his face.

Then it quickly dawned on me, "Wait, what are you doing out and about?! You should be resting!"

Duke let out a chuckle at my swift change from relieved to quite concerned. As happy as I was to see him, I couldn't help but feel, "It's only been a week!"

"That's too long in bed if ya ask me," he retorted while stretching a bit, "This was a good exercise to stretch my muscles so my skills don't grow dull."

"You snuck out didn't you?" I questioned with my hands resting on my hips.

"I'm sure Trent's realized I'm gone by now," he shrugged playfully.

"Duke, you were hurt badly," I insisted.

"Well, thanks to a certain lovely songbird, it wasn't as bad as it could've been," he parried while tilting his head to the side as he smiled at me, "Or did ya forget about that?"

I knew I was blushing through my feathers, like clockwork; but still I pushed back, "Duke, I don't want to cause you anymore trouble. Nor do I want you to get hurt again."

"Heart, if I hadn't shown up, those creeps may have jumped ya, an' I'd be the only one that would have known, but would have been too late to do anythin' about it," he said while folding his arms over his chest, "Do ya think I want to hear you've gone missin'?"

Recoiling a bit from these words, I took a deep breath and attempted, "You shouldn't have to worry about me like that..."

"Jus' like you could have left me to die last week?" he asked, "Or turned me in?"

"I wouldn't do that to you!" I blurted out before quickly covering my beak to stifle my own rather loud voice.

Seeing I was shaking a bit, Duke reached a hand out to me. When I took it, he lead me out behind the club so we could talk in a quieter spot. In fact, he lead me up to the roof, where we stood against a roof exit that masked us being there from the near full moon light above.

"I saw that ya wouldn't do that," he then said while taking a seat on the ledge lining the roof, "Though I'm still not sure why ya would't?"

"You're my friend," I said firmly while looking over at him as I stood against the wall of that roof exit.

"A friend that's commited grand larceny," he pointed out.

I shrugged, "A friend that saved my life."

"We're more than even for that, Heart," he retorted.

"Still," I pushed back.

"Don't ya wonder why I do it? Don't ya think I might steal from ya?"

"You could have done it well before I found out," I replied.

It was now that I realized why he'd chosen to sit at the edge of the roof. He was testing whether he would have to run or not, if he had to escape.

"I am curious about why, but I still trust you, Duke," I tried to assure him.

He looked to me with his remaining eye, as well as his new cybernetic eye that blinked a red pupil from behind the patch he wore. Looking rather surprise and uneasy, he said, "I wouldn't blame ya if ya didn't, Heart. I've entangled ya in somethin' quite unfair to ya."

"Just as you've been involved since I found out about my magic?" I pointed out, "When you didn't have to be. You could have let those guys take me away to "help" me?"

"That's still not the same as hidin' a wanted thief," he pushed back again.

It was now that I felt my heart starting to race in my chest, and a drying lump forming in my throat, "Duke...I swear I won't tell a soul, not even my brothers. You don't have to run from me. Please don't slip away from my life...?"

He looked to me a bit startled by this and said, "I wasn't goin' to run from ya, Heart? If I was, would I have come out to see ya tonight?"

"I don't know," I admitted, "You just seem so nervous right now, and I don't know what to say to convince you. I'm scared I'm going to still lose you..."

He let out a bit of a sigh as he got to his feet and walked over to me. In the shadow of that wall, he turned and leaned his back against it as he smoothly slid down. Looking to him a bit puzzled by this, I joined him there. The both of us sitting there on that rooftop. Only now did I realize that I was shaking, and trying hard not to. When he noticed, he took a deep breath and said, "Heart, I'm still processin' everythin' myself. I've gone all these years without anyone findin' out."

"How do you do it?" I asked curiously, "It's so much to balance?"

He let out a slight chuckle at this abrupt question, "Well, the thieve's highway certainly helps." He knocked on the roof to show what he meant, "An' what better way to practice my stunts, right?"

"Why do you do it?" I then pushed gently while masking a slight smile.

He grew quiet at first, resting his arm on his knee as he pulled it up to his chest, with his other leg set lying forward.

"At first, it was jus' for the fun of it," he admitted quietly, "I was good at it, an' no one could catch a glimpse of me, so I kept goin'. It was never to get rich, I have my other career for that at the moment. Though I really couldn't care less about that," he shrugged, before continuing, "Through the years though, as I went on more jobs, I uncovered somethin'."

"What was it?" I asked with growing concern.

"That there are treasures that actually need to be stolen an' kept safe, 'cause of what they are. Magical artifacts in the wrong hands, cursed items that could do harm to people, things like that. So I use my stardom to find some of these, an' then pull off the job without them knowin' it was me," he explained.

"That's how you got into studying magic, isn't it?"

"Well, I've always had an interest in it," he admitted cheerfully, "Though this did add to that, I guess."

Then he shrugged and said, "Still, what I do is considered wrong, no matter the reason. Before that, I did it anyway. There was no excuse."

He leaned his head back against the wall, glancing up at the stars as he took another deep breath, "It's what I was well before I was a star. I've known this life since...since shortly after I met ya the first time acftually. It was right about that time that I left home an' started this career."

"So then this...?" I realized while gesturing to the sapphire I was wearing, hidding under the bodice of my dress until I slipped it out, "Was it just another job?"

Duke shook his head, "Falcone challenged me for leadership of our gang, an' that was the target."

"Then I should give it back, shouldn't I?" I began to reach my hands back to unclasp it.

Until he quickly grabbed my hand and lowered it away the clasp. He gave a smile as he did this, "That sapphire was recently bought by a well known star while he's recovering from his injuries, an' thus was quickly delivered."

"Wait, how?" I asked in bewilderment.

"Well, no one know's the one that was delivered was a fake. Though it's one of my best if I say so myself," he said with a bit of pride in his smile.

"You bought your own forgery?!" I nearly exclaimed in shock, "Why?!"

With a soft smile, he replied, "'Cause that sapphire belongs with ya, sweetheart."

"Duke...why?"

With a short sigh, he replied, "It responded to you. I did some research on it before I went out that night. It's known as the Storm Dragon's Heart, an' was said to have some sort of power attached to it. While that would jus' seem like a nice legend, I've learned to treat these things as a bit more than that. Apparently not jus' anyone can wield it. The sapphire needs to sync up with the right kind o' soul."

"It bonded with me?"

He nodded, "It must have sensed the urge in ya to fight, an' unlocked itself to ya."

Thinking back on that night, looking to where his right eye should have been as I did, I said, "I just wanted to help you. I was too scared to think."

Duke:

Seeing her shaking again as she recalled that fight, it tore at something in my chest a little. Yet that same something grew warm as well. Closing a hand over hers, I said, "Ya saved my life, Heart. Not jus' that, but you've kept this all a secret when ya certainly didn't have to. I don't know how else to thank you."

"I did have to," she insisted quietly, "Or you really would slip out of my life...one way or another, I'd never see you again."

"Even knowin' I'm a thief, ya want me around?" I asked in lingering surprise.

She nodded her head, squeezing my hand a little as she did. Admitting, "I was so happy to see you there tonight. I'd been scared ever since that night that...that you wouldn't want me around..."

"Why would ya think that?" I asked.

"I would understand if you had to stay away," she replied, "While I'm still getting used to the truth, I understand what comes with it."

"I'd hoped you'd never find out; but in a weird way, if someone had to, I'm glad it was you," I admitted now.

"I swear I won't tell anyone," she promised, "Not even my brothers. I just want you to be okay, and free."

"That's an odd thing to want for a criminal," I pointed out.

"Not when he's my friend, and I think anyone would want that for someone they care about," she replied firmly.

I couldn't help but chuckle, "You're an odd duck, sweetheart. Still, I'm lucky for that."

Like clockwork, she was blushing again. After a few quiet minutes, and looking at the stars as we sat there, I then sighed, "I should get ya home before your brothers come lookin' for ya."

I got to my feet, and then helped her up. When we were back down and walking along the now emptied streets, Heart asked, "Duke, if you thought I'd turn you in, why did you risk coming back out tonight?"

"The same reason I had ya brought home the other night," I said while glancing over her, "I care about ya, Heart. Even if ya did turn me in, I'd still would want you to be okay."

With a shy smile finally curving her beak, she said, "Friends then?"

"Weren't we already?" I teased her.

Heart:

The next day I was in much better spirits. When my brothers asked about the change in attitude, I did mention getting to see Duke, but not much more than that.

"I told you he'd want to see you," Nosedive smirked, "Though we'd better keep an eye on him if this keeps up!"

"If what keeps up?" I asked.

"These late night rondevous, surprise dances, and all that! You're our baby sister! You can't be grown up already!" he protested.

"I see?" I laughed, before quickly changing the subject, "Isn't the mask supposed to come in today?"

"It should be here this afternoon. We have practice, but I was hoping you might be home to receive it?" Wildwing requested, "With such short notice, I don't have much option-"

"It's fine, Wing!" I assured him cheerfully, "I'd be more than happy to stay home for that."

"You didn't have other plans?" Nosedive nudged me.

I shook my head.

"I heard Duke will be going back to filming today. Everyone's been talking about it," Wildwing mentioned.

"He didn't mention that last night," I said carefully, "I hope he's not pushing himself too much."

"In the interview this morning he stated he'd had a full recovery, and was getting bored staying in bed," Wildwing chuckled, "I wonder if someone's song had anything to do with it?"

I then remembered the display of magic I'd shown while singing the night before. A sigh of relief escaped my beak as I realized that maybe I'd been able to help him more than I thought.

A couple hours later and my brothers were headed out to practice. Leaving me to do some routine chores, and then some voice exercises while I waited for the aforementioned package to arrive. About the time it was expected to do so, I decided to wait outside. It was a fairly nice day, especially in the warmer climate of Anaheim. Even for winter time.

So I was sitting out on the front yard swing when the mail truck pulled up. However, under the postman's arm was the usual assortment of envelopes, newspaper, and flyers. Bringing me over to ask, "We were expecting a package today, was it delayed?"

"A package?" the humanoid dog asked.

"Yes, our uncle called us ahead of time saying it was on the way. He paid extra to get it here today," I replied, "Would it be at the post office and I could go pick it up?"

He shook his head, "I don't believe so."

"The only package I saw got picked up early this morning," he mentioned, "Some wolf seemed really happy to get it, said he's been waiting a while to get it."

Something about this felt off, and more so as I recalled my brief encounter the night before, "A wolf? Was he wearing an emblem on his jacket?"

"That he was, do you know the guy?" he scracthed his head in puzzlement.

"We've run into each other here and there," I replied with an uneasy feeling washing over me.

"Maybe yours will come in tomorrow," he shrugged in a friendly tone.

"Yeah, maybe...?" I managed before he walked back to his truck.

As soon as he was out of sight, I moved without decision. I didn't know I was running, or where I was heading towards. Yet my feet carried me swiftly through the streets based on instinct. Leading me to where I thought he might be filming right now, based on what I'd seen on the news while waiting.

"Where are you going miss?" a guard startled me from my sprinting passed the gate when I tried to get by.

"Oh, sorry! I-"

"Hey, I know you! Heart Flashblade, right? You were singing at that party not long ago? I love your voice!" he smiled.

A fan? There was hope!

With a hopeful smile on my beak, I replied in genuine surprise, "Oh, thank you!"

"Where are you going in such a hurry?" he asked.

"I was hoping to see Duke?" I took a shot, trying not to sound like some start-struck fangirl.

"I think he's filming, but," he paused and looked over a paper placed on his clipboard, "Hmmm, well what-do-ya-know? Heart Flashblade is on his list, huh?"

"Wait, what?" I looked up in bewilderment as he showed me my own name, and noting it was a short list of those allowed in under allowed visitors.

"He's in building 13," the duck informed while opening the gate for me to head on through.

"Th-Thanks!" I smiled as I hurried ahead to the studio he was in, catching the visitor pass he'd tossed me.

In no time at all, I found studio 13 and slipped inside. From inside shouting could be heard, as they were filming a fight scene. So I would come in, seeing Duke with a sword in hand, as he faced the villain cursing him for his getting in the way. Hearing similar dialouge being tossed at Duke unexpectably twisted my stomach. Though fortunately I had enough sense to remember it was indeed a film set, and that the drake was not in actual danger. Still, I found myself trying to shake off the bad memories from that night.

"It's time the so-called great captain retired, permanently!" the villain scoffed while brandishing his blade.

"There's so much more adventure to be had for that!" Duke laughed with full confidence, keeping the foe at his left in stance.

I tilted my head a little curiously as I watched the fight play out. The entire time Duke kept the foe at his left, if not facing him straight on. His footwork was swift, and his movements just as quick to try and follow. Even while hopping onto a table center piece after his foe, advancing until finally disarming him and holding the tip of his blade at his throat, "Now then, you can either let her go an' sail away never to be seen again, or-"

It was then that Duke would catch sight of me, no doubt blushing from how warm my face felt. Quickly refocusing, he added, "I'm not lettin' ya hurt her, let alone near her, again!"

"I'll go! I'll go!" the swan pleaded quickly, hearing the bite in Duke's tone as much as I had.

"And cut! That was great!" the director shouted, "Take a break, and we'll get back to it in a few minutes."

As Duke sheathed his rapier, he quickly headed over to me.

"Heart, what are ya doin' here?" he asked, sounding a bit cheerful.

"I...that is..." I tried to gather my thoughts, as I quickly remembered why I was there.

"Is somethin' wrong?" he picked up quickly.

I nodded my head, but tried to figure out how to say what while we were around others. Realizing that I couldn't, Duke gestured towards the back door for me to follow him, "Come on."

Following him, I found myself now out in an alley between studios with him.

"What's the matter, sweetheart?" he asked in a hushed voice.

"I'm sorry, but I didn't know who else to turn to," I said, realizing this wasn't his problem to deal with, but nonetheless continued, "I think the order intercepted a package that was meant for my brother, and I don't know how to get it back...I don't know where to find them, or what I'm even asking you, but it's so important for him to have this. I don't know what else to do!"

"Hey, hey, easy Heart!" Duke caught my attention as he rested his hands on my shoulders, "Hey...take a breath, an' we'll go from there."

I did as he suggested, and then attempted again, "My brother was to receive the mask of Drake Ducaine, it's been in our family line for years. I think somehow the order got a hold of it, and I don't know how to prove this or get it back."

I followed this up by explaining the conversation with the mail carrier.

"One of their wolves," Duke noted under his breath, folding his arms over his chest.

"This is so important to Wildwing, I have to get this back for him! But I have no way to prove this other than instinct, and I can't break my brother's heart by telling him that the heroes he looks up to would do something like this! They probably don't even understand what they're taking from him!" my voice ran away quicker and quicker.

"So then, what do ya want to do?" Duke asked.

"I..." I faltered, realizing it was unfair to ask of him.

Duke:

As I watched Heart, I had an idea of what she wanted to ask. Yet hesitation, concern, and even guilt seemed to cause her to pause.

"I know where there local base is. If they have it, it's there," I prompted without a second thought, "That mask shouldn't be left in their uncapable hands."

When she looked up at me with widened blue eyes, I couldn't help the surge of confidence and excitement that ran through me. Causing me to say, "I can steal it back for ya."

"Duke, no! I can't ask you to do that! It's not your problem to deal with!" she protested.

"Ya don't have to ask; an' I think ya came to me knowin' what ya wanted to do," I assured her, "Besides, I didn't have to ask you for help, did I?"

She shook her head, "No."

"I'll get it back tonight, an' I'll have it in your hands before your brothers come home from their game tonight," I assured her.

Then, without a second thought, Heart replied, "I'm going with you."

"What?!" I had to quickly hush my voice.

"I can't ask you to do this alone. Let me come with you, maybe my magic can help?" she suggested.

"Heart,-"

"I feel that I should help. I don't want you to do this alone for me! I want to help take back what belongs to my family, I just can't do it on my own either..." she pleaded, "Duke, please?"

Why couldn't I say no to her?

That night, we would find ourselves outside of the converted temple outpost of the Order of Light stationed in Anaheim. Donned in my stealthsuit, I lead Heart carefully through the streets until we got to one across from the older wooden building adorned with new stained glass windows. It had been updated to have electricity some time ago, though they were turned off for the time being as everyone had gone home a long time ago.

"A temple?" Heart asked in a whisper.

I nodded my head, "One of the Great Mothers' temples too. At least that's what it was." My tone soured a bit to be reminded of this.

"You're a believer too?" Heart asked in surprise.

I gave another nod, "I was raised on those legends, that of The Great Mother, Drake Ducaine, an' so forth."

"Most current believers worship at their homes nowadays," Heart mentioned regretfully, "Our mother did as well?"

"Did?"

All she needed was the quiet look she gave me, but still said very quietly, "Both her and papa..."

My response was a softly spoken, "I'm sorry."

"It's been the three of us for a few years now," she replied, "And it's part of why it's so important that we get the mask back for Wildwing. He's given so much to step into their place and support us...they can't take this from him!" her voice remained carefully quiet.

"We'll get it back," I promised her.

I then looked over her, seeing as she nodded once more, while grasping the sapphire hanging from the chain around her neck. Taking a breath, she allowed it to change her attire as it had before. Donning something blended with stealth and a rocker style; wearing black pants with several pockets and a teal sash wrapped around her waist. Her top was burgundy with straps holding it up. With her right arm having a matching teal damsel styled sleeve and a short fingerless glove, while the left had a strap and then a black long satin glove. Up to her knees were a pair of black boots with teal lining at the very top. Her hair was pulled back in a partial side swept ponytail.

Glancing up at me, I realized what she was hoping for as I said, "Quite strikin', sweetheart."

I allowed a soft chuckle to escape my beak as she blushed bright red, "Th-Thank you."

With that I lead us closer to the temple, creeping quietly so not to gain unwanted attention. It was surprising to see how Heart took to this. Following alongside me without a word or even a noticable footstep. We made our way to the side wall, and I glanced around the corner to see an unguarded door. However, from inside, we could hear someone making their rounds. We both quickly ducked down to avoid the flash of of a light from the inside trying to spot possible intruders like ourselves.

"Wouldn't having a guard for a temple look suspicious on their part?" Heart inquired.

"They call it guardin' their post. Really it means there is somethin' to take. For where there's a guard, there is loot," I chuckled, feeling the energy of a heist running through my veins.

"So what's the plan?" Heart asked.

"We need a distraction," I answered while trying to ponder over our options.

"I hear two inside," Heart mentioned as I processed the information.

"I could slip in easy enough," I told her while looking in the window to pick up on their routine, "It's jus' two typical wolf guards. Nothin' I haven't dealt with before. One jus' came out of a back room an' locked it. That's where the mask will be."

"Do you want me to be ready to distract or be a look out?"
"I don't really know if ya should go in there," I admitted.

"Duke, let me do something to help you," she insisted, "Besides, this necklace masks me, remember? Even if they saw me, they wouldn't know who I am?"

Then I saw the wheels turning in her head before she even said, "Wait, I think I can distract them?"

"How?"

"I could show up at the front door, seeking the "help" they've been offering me?" she replied to my quick unease.

"Heart, I don't want them gettin' a hold of ya," I protested.

"I won't let them do anything, I'll just ask, keep them talking while slip in and grab the mask?" she assured.

"I can go in an' get out alone. I've been at this for years," I pushed back.

"And if they catch sight of you, your career is over!" Heart insisted, "Duke, I don't want them to call for support and take you away. You're risking enough by doing this."

Taking a deep breath, and running a hand through my feathered hand, I finally said, "Alright. Jus' be careful with them. If things go wrong, I'll be in earshot. Besides, it's not like they could do anythin' without one of their leaders here to give them orders on such a task. You can say you're lookin' for help an' then reconsider once I have the mask."

She nodded, and to my reluctance, she headed around to the front door of the temple. I waited until she was right at them before I slipped back to the back door, hopping the fence with ease to reach the gardens to get to it.

Heart:

With a quick breath taken, I knocked upon the door. Dropping my disguise so they would recognize me. With luck, it turned out to be the very same wolves that had approached me thus far. They both came to the door, flashing their lights on me before one recognized, "You're that singer!"

I nodded, "I-I'm sorry, I know it's late."

"It is," the gray wolf noted with a raised brow.

"You see, I was finishing up a show, and I was passing by on my way home. I've been giving some thought on your offers, and I think I might want some help afterall on how I can control this magic?" I explained a bit quickly, so to sound a bit nervous about my own gift.

The both of them listened, and then looked to one another with a nod. The leader of the two looked over me and assured, "You've picked the right night. We know just who can help you!"

Before I could move, the white wolf slipped an arm along my shoulders to usher me in, "Come in, my lady. We'll help you."

I swallowed my unease, and allowed myself to walk inside with them. Knowing he could hear if something went wrong.

By now one of them had turned on the lights so we wouldn't be sitting in the dark.

"You will?" I asked in easrnest, "Oh, thank you! You mentioned someone in particular though?"

"He'll be here any minute, and he'll know just what to do," the white wolf assured.

"He?"

"Grand Master Asteroth," the leader of the two confirmed with full respect in his tone, "He is very wise, and knows how to help with such matters. I'm certain he would help you right away!"

"Oh," I said with a bit of true unease now, "H-How will he be able to help? Can he show me how to control this? Or maybe send me on the right path?"

They both nodded, with the gray one confirming, "He'll be able to send you on the right road to help you with this troubling matter."

I now realized that the white wolf hadn't taken his hand off of my shoulder, as though he were keeping me from stepping back. Keeping me from changing my mind even if I wanted to. Yet I couldn't. I had to see this through so Duke could get that mask. Surely once he did, he could figure a way out for both of us?

They escorted me over to a chair. Then with subtle force, the two had me take a seat. Now guarding me, one asked, "So when did this start?"

"I'm not really sure," I replied with a shrug, "I don't know much about it yet."

"Well, we'll take care of you. Do not fret," he assured, sounding genuinely concerned for what it was worth.

We would then hear a precise knock upon the door, quickly getting our attention. When I tried to stand, the one held me by my shoulder to keep me seated, "Do not be afraid, Master Asteroth can be trusted."

The other would go and open the door, allowing the tall gaunt looking figure to step inside the temple. A slim, robe adorned bat with elderly gold eyes gazed over the room. As though casting judgment upon first sight. Until that gaze fell over me, as I froze where I sat. Holding my breath as he looked me over and asked, "Who is this little lost duckling?"

"She comes to us in need of help, Master Asteroth. It seems she has recently gained a strange ability, and seeks how to control it," the one beside me explained.

"A strange ability, you say?" the white bearded bat inquired with an deep chuckle, "What sort?"

"I...I seem to have awakened some sort of magic within me?" I forced myself to answer, keeping him from picking up on any sound his ears could notice with his large worn and torn ears.

"I see?" he mused while walking over with swift, calculated steps, his clawed hands joining at his chest as he continued to study me.

"Ah, yes. I can sense the odd aura about you. Tell me, child, how does this magic manifest?" he asked in an attempt at a fatherly tone, but came off as more threatening somehow.

"It occurs when I sing," I realized there was no use in hiding it when the wolves would have known otherwise.

"What occurs?"

"I, I'm not exactly sure," I lied, "I just feel the magic in me, and they have seen this to confirm it."

"It's true, sir," they did just that.

"Well then, I know just how we can help you, dear," he assured me in a warm tone that somehow sent a chill racing up my spine.

Dread swiftly washed over me as I suddenly felt myself locked in place where I sat. No matter how I budged, it seemed there was some sort of unseen bindings holding me there. Yet this was masked by the wolves now both holding me by a shoulder and arm each, unaware that I couldn't move regardless. Panic began to kick in as I was able to look up and see him reaching a hand to grasp the back of my hair, keeping me from moving even more!

"What are you doing?!" I exclaimed in genuine fear.

"I must perform the ritual to rid you of this wicked magic," Asteroth replied simply, as though it were obvious to understand, "And for that, you must be perfectly still. Otherwise you may lose more than this affliction."

"I don't want to be rid of it!" I protested, "I want to control it!"

"We can not let you run wild with this! What if someone were to get hurt because of you? What if that magic is a curse to turn you into some sort of siren?" Asteroth questioned in a frightening steady tone, "We musn't allow this to take and twist you!"

"I'm afraid your career must come to an early end, however," one of the wolves growled apologetically.

For as this was warned to me, I could see Asteroth holding up a twisted bladed dagger. A chant could be heard from his maw, yet I couldn't understand the words.

Yet as he went to perform whatever ritual he was attempting, a sudden crashing of glass would shatter the otherwise frightening silence around us. Then again, and again. Pulling their attention away and to the back room.

"What is the meaning of this?!" Asteroth demanded as he turned to try and catch sight or sound of the attacker on their temple.

Then a boomingvoice snapped quickly from within the room, "Let her go!"

I jumped a little in my seat, as I didn't recognize the voice myself. It didn't match the drake I'd come here with, nor either of my brothers or friends. Yet still, as I looked to see, I would catch a glimpse of his lean frame blended in the dark. However, over his face, was the very golden mask, crafted into a goalie mask made for ducks, that we'd come looking for. The activated red eyes gleamed in the dark as he stated again, "Let her go!"

Realizing I could move, as Asteroth was no longer focusing on me, I attempted to jump up from my seat. I managed to do so, slipping from the grasp of the wolves. Yet I was not so lucky with Asteroth, as he quickly grabbed hold of my arm to keep me from running.

I would then see the gleam from Duke's saber as he warned once more, "Let the lady go, cretin!"

He was being careful to mask his accent, with the voice making his voice a bit deeper. and use the shadows to his advantage. However, he would have to be even more cautious coming closer with the light of the main room on.

"You musnt' interrupt this ritual! This infliction plagues this poor girl, and I shall cleanse her of it!" Asteroth insisted.

He waved his dagger towards the drake, directing his wolves. The two rushed forward with their own weapons drawn. While I tried in vain to get free as the elderly bat pulled me back against him with the dagger brought close to my throat, as I caught the words, "What is drawn will never heal, your magic cast out. Be silent you corrupted siren!"

"No!" I pleaded as I struggled against him.

Glancing down, I would notice the blade, but also the sapphire as it gleamed in the light. Hearing the clashing of blades and the growls of the wolves, I tried to focus on what had made the gem react the first time. Why it had bonded with me. Then I heard another crash, as someone in the room was shoved into a shelf that scattered it's contents down upon them. Yet it was too quick for me to see who it was. Then another followed in this fashion. Fear gripped my chest as I cried out, "Stop, please!"

With this, a burst of electricity raced through me as it had before. However this time it shook my attacker off of me, and I quickly pulled away. Yet in doing so, causing Asteroth to graze the blade over my right cheek, just under my eye. A bit of a grimace twisted my face as I instinctively placed a hand over the wound as it began to bleed.

"What sorcery is this?!" Asteroth exclaimed as he sneered at me now.

Standing before him, I felt my body trembling as he gestured towards me and said, "What manner of monster are you?!"

"I, I'm not..." I attempted with a shaky step backwards from him.

I then heard someone stepping gently around the clinging items in the next room. Drawing me to quickly turn and run. Not daring to call out his name, I hurried inside even with Asteroth following after me. Scanning the room, holding my breath as I did, I wouldn't see who it was suddenly grabbing me and pulling me against him. Panic nearly caused me to scream, until I felt his steady hand against my back, and finally noticed the saber in his other. Stepping back away from the door with me as quietly as we could manage, we tried to use the dark to our advantage.

"Where are you, lost duckling? Allow me to cleanse you before this curse takes you!" Asteroth called out as he drew closer to the door, "Such magic would only corrupt a simple songbird such as yourself."

Duke's grip only grew firmer as my frame trembled against his. Then he slipped around my smaller form, stepping between Asteroth and myself with his saber drawn.

"Don't!" I pleaded quickly, "You can't-"

"You chose the wrong place to be, you miscreant!" Asteroth snarled at Duke, though he couldn't fully see him I realized.

"Careful," Duke warned, "If word gets out about this, your image will be eroded away, won't it?"

"Not if she can't say a word about it. Besides, who would believe a little witch like her over the Order of the Light? The heroes of this realm against two souls that have lost their way?"

"Your image isn't as perfect as one would think," Duke insisted, watching Asteroth's movements carefully.

"Then we'll seal the cracks in it, starting with you!" Asteroth assured in an eerily collected manner as he thrust a hand out towards Duke.

In that split second, a blast of energy came rushing towards the drake. With seconds allotted, I quickly pushed Duke out of the way, the sphere of crimson light shooting it's path between us. It instead collided with the shelf behind us, sending splintering wood and shattering items in it's explosive manner. Before Duke could redirect his attention, and steady his stance, Asteroth rushed him with the dagger still drawn. Giving the drake seconds to respond in time to block the attack meant for his chest.

The rogue growled as he spoke out, "An' you're callin' her the witch?"

"Who's to say it was me that did this? I saw her magic getting out of control and did my best to stop it!" Asteroth scoffed.

I glanced down to see both wolves had been knocked out. Proving his statement would be true, as they hadn't seen this display of magic from their leader.

Asteroth then caught sight of the mask worn on the drake and shook his head, "Besides, why would I be concerned over what a petty thief witnesses?"

He reached for the mask, only for Duke to avoid his hand and block with his saber again against the dagger. He would glance over his shoulder to me and quickly order, "Get out of here! Now!"

"I-"

I couldn't finish, as I would see Asteroth now wave a hand towards Duke as he had with me. Freezing the drake in place with a chant I barely caught said under his breath. He gave a dark chuckle as he began pulling Duke with a similar motion towards the well lit room, and reached for the mask as directed the drake, "Now then, let's see just who this criminal is, shall we? I'll sleep well knowing I've brought another one to justice, as it was intended!"

Panic gripped me as I tried to think of what to do. My magic wasn't enough against someone that clearly had decades of experience. Yet if I didn't do something, Duke would be exposed by the light, in a number of ways.

Wait...light? I looked around quickly, and then glanced over thr sapphire I wore. Without a second thought, I tried to focus on the electricity powering the old building we stood in. To my genuine surprise, the lights began to flicker on and off, powering down and back up as I tried to force it to shut down. Until I saw Asteroth's claws nearly grasping the mask as Duke dug his heels in in vain to fight back. Then a sudden wave rushed out from me, an invisible wall that disrupted the circuit, or so I thought. For what happened instead, was that it overheated the system within the older wooden walls. Causing a loud popping and cracking to be heard throughout them! The smell of ozone quickly blended with that of burning wood. That suddenly ignited in several places throughout the building.

"What have you done?!" Asteroth demanded as the old wood caught ablaze rapidly around us.

The two wolves would come to during the commotion, and were driven by instinct to hurry out of the building.

Flames and electricity blended together in a wicked display of eratic forces to be dealt with. We would need to get out of here and quick! As I tried to follow out the door to the darkened room now cast over with dancing flame light, I would hear a sudden cracking as the beam of the door came crashing down to block me in! I tried in vain to push them aside, but my smaller frame couldn't cause it to budge, nor could I hop over it as the flames took hold of it!

No longer focusing on holding him in place, Duke was now able to get free of Asteroth's spell. Quickly stepping back, Duke would turn to try and run back towards me. However, the bat would give pursuit, grabbing the rogue by the shoulder and shoving him back into the abandoned pues and altar, "You horrid thief! Look what you and that monster have done!"

Smoke was filling the air by this point, and I tried still to pull the broken up wood aside. Yet the heat simply wouldn't allow it.

Duke was already pushing himself back up, ignoring the bat when he saw the collapsed in door, "I'm comin'!"

For even Asteroth had found he couldn't stay any longer, as the smoke and flames chased him out. Sparks flew from the splintering wiring, making it quite treacherous to navigate through.

"Heart!" Duke called through the cracking and sparking chorus around us, "Heart, are ya...cough...hurt?! I'm goin' to get ya out! Stand back if ya can!"

I did as I was told, and would see the slash of his saber beginning to cut through the collapsed wood, creating a door of sorts that wasn't anymore stable than it was already. However, it was better than nothing as he quickly reached his hand in, "I've got ya!"

Upon quickly taking his hand, Duke would begin to pull me carefully through the improvised door. All the while we could hear louder cracks and sparks racing through the already crumbling temple. Stained glass windows shattered from the heat, littering the floor we traveled across. Ducking down to avoid the thick black smoke that threatened to choke us.

Then we heard it. As we drew closer to the wide open door, the thundering above our heads as the ceiling finally gave way. Before I could react, I would be shoved forward, stumbling to my hands and knees in the process of catching myself. Yet in the same instance, looking back and crying out, "Duke!"

For as I looked back, I would see him lying prone under the beam that had fallen over him. The eyes of the mask powered down, revealing his remaining one to be closed from being knocked out from the impact.

Hurrying back over to him, I quickly ran my hand along his neck. Nothing had been broken. And with that, I began trying to pull him to the safety that was outside the burning temple. With some luck, I was able to get him outside into the open night air. In the distance I again heard sirens, and quickly pulled Duke into the nearest alley to mask us with it's shadows.

Duke had not woken up from my moving him, and I was quickly growing to fear that he simply wouldn't. Ignoring the firefighters stating it was probably due to bad wiring in an old building and then trying to just put it out, I focused my attention on the drake lying still in the alley. Attempting to sing first, to see if he would awaken.

D-Don't know what's happened to me since I met you...

Fee-Feel's like I've fallen in love since met you...

I've got to know what you're doin', doin' to me with your love...

With your love...

Yet he remained still and silent, despite some of his burns washinng away. Was this a sign?

"Duke, wake up! Please!" I called to him desperately in vain as I carefully removed the mask from his face.

I shook my head, fearing the worst as I felt for his pulse, "I just got you back, don't leave me now! Not you too!"

After two rounds of cpr, he still wasn't responsive.

I tried to think, and fast! Then I got an idea, and hoped it would work better this time. Quickly and carefully slipping a hand down the collar of his suit, down the back to under where his heart would be, and the other over his chest in the same fashion, I breathed a silent prayer. With this I would send a quick jolt of electricity through him to in an attempt to jumpstart his heart.

"Come on!" I pleaded as I tried CPR once more, to no avail.

Holding my own breath, I repeated the previous steps. In that instant his eye flew open as he jolted awake, the energy giving him the boost he needed. Now gasping and coughing out the smoke, he looked up at me, "H-Heart?!"

My vision blurred to see him awake and hear his voice. As he tried to sit up, still coughing out the toxins, I began rubbing his back. Then before I could stop myself, I threw my arms around him. Causing him to jump a little as he held me in return, "H-Hey, it's okay, sweetheart. I'm alright now."

Even still I hugged him tighter, "I thought I'd lost you again..."

"Nah...it was jus' a harder hit than I'm used to," he attempted a coughing chuckle.

Pulling away, I looked over him to see his confident smile returned. Wiping my eyes in a desperate attempt to dry them, I said, "I didn't mean for you to get hurt. I thought if I could turn the power out, then he wouldn't see you! I just wanted to keep your secret safe-"

"Heart, calm down," Duke gently urged while grasping my shoulders, "I know, sweetheart. An' I thank ya for tryin' to do that for me. I'm jus' glad you're alright through this."

"I never should have asked you to do this..." I recoiled a bit, "If you'd died because of this, I never would have been able to forgive myself-"

"Heart, stop!" Duke finally snapped, catching my attention as he then gingerly brushed my hair out of my eyes, "I did this 'cause you're very dear to me. You've done a lot to help me, don't ya think I wanted to repay the favor? An' look, I"m still alive, aren't I?"

Finally taking a breath, I nodded. Clearing my throat a little, I then said, "You've been repaying it though...You've been looking out for me since you found out what I have. Duke..." I began to realize more and more, "I have to learn how to control this. I can't let you just protect me all the time. Asteroth knows who I am now, or at least knows my face. I have to learn how to use this to protect my family, my friends, "I looked up at him, "And myself."

"What are ya sayin', Heart?" Duke asked in growing concern.

"I...I have to find someone who can help me learn how to use this. There must be someone. Either way, I need to go where Asteroth and the order can't find me, or my family," I replied.

"You're leavin'?" Duke questioned in alarm.

This realization caught me off guard even as he voiced it. Causing me to slowly nod my head, "I have to. At least for a little while."

"Heart, ya wanted to sing. To be a star? To be around your family an' be stars with them?" Duke attempted, but I was too shaken to realize why he was at the time. What he was really saying, "Ya don't want to leave, do ya?"

Closing my eyes, blinking the tears away as I did, I then looked to him and said, "My life isn't what I thought it would be...so many things have opened up to me. Magic awakening in me, truths and secrets revealed, and..." I fought the urge to say what I wanted to him as well, being too close to the situation to register what I'd nearly confessed through a song moments ago, "I want to control this. To keep this from being taken away! I've seen the world you've introduced me to, and I can't turn my back on it now that I've seen it. I don't want you to protect me anymore."

When he faltered, I quickly grasped his hand and said, "I want to be able to help you as you've helped me...and not just by saving your life after you've risked it for me. I..."

Finally, with a sigh escaping his beak, he nodded, "I understand, Heart. I guess, I'm jus' goin' to miss ya."

Tears were already falling as my chest tightened. Though instead of putting it into words, all I could think to do was hug him tight, fighting the urge to break down crying while I was in his arms. Then I would hear him say in a more cheerful tone, "I know you'll be okay though. You're goin' to learn quick, an' they won't be able to mess with ya again. Ya have that magic in ya, but ya have a lot of well...heart."

I couldn't help but laugh a little. Shaking my head, I attempted a smile up at him. Then I noticed the mask sitting in the snow, and turned to gingerly pick it up, "First, let's get this where it belongs. Once Wildwing has it, the order won't be able to take it without revealing what they attempted to do."

"It was an honor to use my skills for such an important cause," he assured as he helped me up and gave a swift bow to me.

"I knew you were the right thief for the job," I smiled as he then escorted me home as he always did.

Something I quickly would begin to miss as he stepped away.

I didn't tell my brothers what had happened that night. Yet I did have to tell them that I'd decided to go into some sort of training. When asked how, I wasn't sure. Still, I'd made up my mind. Even if I'd spent most of my life wanting to sing, I realized more and more that this was not to be. Not since I'd met Duke, and found out his truth. Fate had other plans, and I was curious as to what they were. Even if that meant changing what I thought I once wanted. My world burned away, revealing a new one that would open up more and more into an adventure that had only just begun.