Summary: In the month of June, a Special performance is going to be performed by Toren on stage in front of Cinderella Castle to celebrate love and respect for everyone, no matter who they love or how they identify.

Before you go reading this chapter, I would like to say that the ocs that appear in this story belong to their original creators including mine ocs. I don't own them, they belong to their original owners. I only own my ocs. Thank you.

In June, Walt Disney World is ready to celebrate Pride Month with all the magic and inclusivity it's known for. As park guests enter the park, they are immediately greeted with a burst of color: flags from different queer communities, banners, and signs welcoming guests of all orientations and identities. The iconic Cinderella Castle is decorated with pride banners such as Gay flag, Lesbian flag, trans flag, non-binary flag, and many more different flags to celebrate the month of Pride. Every corner of the park is in the spirit of Pride Month, making it truly the best experience for all.

Main Street U.S.A. is decked out with Pride decorations, including rainbow-colored bunting and flowers. Shop windows are filled with special Pride-themed merchandise, from Mickey ears with rainbow patterns to T-shirts and pins featuring beloved characters showing their support for the LGBTQ community. Even the food stands join in the celebration, offering delicious l treats like rainbow churros, cupcakes with multi-colored Pride frosting, and refreshing drinks in every shade of the rainbow.

Throughout the park, characters make special appearances in outfits designed to celebrate Pride Month. Mickey and his friends are dressed in their "Pride Nite" outfit that they have worn before in 2023 as they interact with guests. Special photo spots are set up in each different land section of the park with different Pride-themed backdrops, perfect opportunities for visitors to capture memories of their inclusive Disney experience.

In addition to the decorations and character interactions, Epcot's World Showcase is particularly spectacular during Pride Month, with each pavilion highlighting LGBTQ cultures and contributions from around the world. Visitors can learn about global LGBTQ history and advocacy efforts, taste international cuisines with a Pride twist, and participate in cultural celebrations that emphasize unity and understanding. The sense of global community and solidarity is palpable, making Epcot a must-visit during this special time.

The celebration extends beyond the theme parks, with Disney resorts and Downtown Disney also participating in the occasion. Hotels display rainbow lights and decorations, and restaurants offer special Pride menus and themed dining experiences. Downtown Disney hosts live performances, art installations, and community events that bring people together in the spirit of Pride. Everywhere you turn, there's joy, acceptance, and celebration, making Walt Disney World an unforgettable place to honor Pride Month.

Through these efforts, Walt Disney World not only creates a magical experience but also sends a powerful message of love, acceptance, and support to the LGBTQ community and allies. By embracing diversity and promoting inclusion, Disney continues to make dreams come true for everyone, regardless of who they are or who they love.

Oh!

I almost forgot.

There is one more piece of information that I forgot to mention.

Tonight, later on, at the front stage of Cinderella Castle, a special performance is being scheduled to perform and it is going to be sung by one of the six members of the famous Dream Defenders heroes.

Who is it that you may ask?

Well, why don't you come and see the performance yourself?

The sun started to go down and the sky started to go dark, the crowd gathered in front of the stage at Cinderella Castle. Everyone is eagerly awaiting the start of the evening's performance. Inside the castle, six performers are going through their final stretches and chatting nervously, trying to recall their rehearsal steps. Among them is Toren, a Jaquin, who is meticulously scanning through the lyrics of the song he's set to perform tonight.

Toren, while usually confident, is having this performance nerves crept up. Though he's no stranger to performing — having sung with the girls at the House of Mouse, belting out "I Just Can't Wait to Be King" from The Lion King for the first time as well many others — tonight feels different. The stakes seem higher, and the audience larger. It's a full house, and every eye will be on him.

Later tonight, the excitement was palpable as everyone gathered in front of the stage at Cinderella Castle, eagerly awaiting the night's performance. The air was filled with anticipation and the soft hum of chatter. Inside the castle, eight performers were doing their final stretches, chatting amongst themselves, and going over the rehearsal notes one last time. Among them was Toren, the Jaquin, who was nervously scanning the lyrics he had been practicing for weeks.

Toren was trying to shake off the nerves that were creeping in. He wasn't exactly dealing with stage fright but rather the pressure of performing in front of such a large audience. He had performed before at the House of Mouse, singing "I Just Can't Wait to Be King" with the girls, but this was different. This was a solo performance in front of a full house, and all eyes would be on him. As he scanned the lyrics, trying to memorize each line perfectly, his thoughts were racing.

Mickey, the show producer, walked up to Toren with a supportive smile. "Hey there, Toren. How are you holding up?"

Toren sighed, trying to mask his nervousness. "I'm... well, I guess I'm not really okay," he admitted. "I don't understand why you picked me for this. Why not Silver? He's the first member of our group to come out as gay. He would've been perfect for this."

Mickey nodded, understanding Toren's apprehension. "I did contact Silver, actually. I offered him the opportunity to sing for the Pride Performance, but he declined."

Toren looked surprised. "He did? Why would he do that?"

Mickey's smile widened, "Silver said he knew someone who was best suited for this part and suggested you instead. He believes in you, Toren. He thinks you're the perfect choice for tonight."

Toren blinked, processing Mickey's words. "Silver really said that?"

Mickey placed a comforting hand on Toren's shoulder. "He did. And I believe in you too, Toren. You've got an amazing voice and a great presence. You're going to be fantastic out there."

Toren took a deep breath, feeling a bit of the weight lift from his shoulders. "Thanks, Mickey. I'll do my best."

"You don't have to do this alone, you know," Mickey said, his voice reassuring. "We're all here to support you. Just remember to have fun out there."

Just then, the stage coordinator called out, "Alright everyone, gather up and get ready! The show is about to start!"

Mickey gave Toren one last encouraging smile. "Good luck, Toren. You're going to do great."

Once Mickey walked away, Toren started to get more confidence in him. He glanced one more time at the lyrics, took a deep breath, and joined the others, ready to give a performance that would make everyone proud.

Mickey looks at Toren one last time and gives him an encouraging smile. "Good luck out there, you're going to be amazing, Pal."

Toren nods with a smile on his face, "Thanks, I'll do my best."

With that, Mickey leaves to open a performance, while Toren gathers his courage and prepares to step onto the stage. The buzz of the crowd seemed to go quiet and the lights started to dim down, and the performers began to take their place on stage, ready for a night of unforgettable memories under the spotlights at Cinderella Castle.

Outside, the audience begin to hush, the quiet settling over them as they wait for the show to start. Just then, the sound of music began to play over the speakers, a soft melody that gradually grew in volume, signaling the start of the performance. The spotlight flickered on, illuminating the stage with a warm, inviting light.

[Song: Show Yourself - Frozen 2]

The wooden double doors at the back of the stage slowly began to open. From the shadows, Toren slowly emerged, his steps measured and deliberate as he made his way towards the spotlight.

Toren:

Every inch of me is trembling

But not from the cold

Toren's gaze was steady as he sang, taking in the vast expanse of the platform before him. His nerves seemed to melt away with each note, replaced by a growing confidence. He reached the center of the stage, where the spotlight was brightest, and paused for a moment.

Toren:

Something is familiar

Like a dream I can reach but not quite hold

Standing underneath the spotlight, Toren took a deep breath. Slowly, he raised his head, ready to face the audience.

Toren:

I can sense you there

One of the stars in the sky began to blink rhythmically. The twinkling light grew brighter until, with a burst of shimmering stardust, Star from Disney's "Wish" began to descend gracefully toward the stage, leaving a trail of glittering star dust behind.

Toren:

Likea friend I've always known

Star seemed to have floated down to meet him. The small, glowing figure of Star approached Toren with a joyful energy, his spherical body swaying with excitement. Toren smiled warmly at Star, his nerves now completely forgotten in the presence of such small company.

Raising his left front paw towards Star, Toren's smile widened as Star giggled and playfully dodged his touch. Star's laughter was light and infectious, Toren turned his head to follow Star's movement.

Toren:

I'm arriving

Stars circled around Toren, their movements synchronized in an impromptu dance. Toren moved gracefully with Star, his eyes never leaving the star figure. Finally, Toren sat down on his haunches, lifting both of his front paws together, palms facing upward, as if offering a platform for Star to land.

Toren:

And it feels like I am home

Star slowly floated down, his body swaying side to side, mimicking the gentle rhythm of Toren's song. Hovering just above Toren's paws. Suddenly, eight additional spotlights slowly illuminated the stage, two by two, revealing eight distinct performers each caught in their own moment of quiet contemplation.

Toren:

I have always been a fortress

The first two spotlights revealed Alisha Hawthorne from "Lightyear" and Pleakley from "Lilo & Stitch." Alisha stood tall on one of the elevated platforms behind Toren, her back turned to him and her arms folded across her chest, stoic, yet contemplative. Opposite and across her, Pleakley stood on another platform, dressed in his brown suit with a short bob wig, looking down dejectedly at a stack of papers in his hands.

Toren:

Cold secrets deep inside

The next pair of spotlights illuminated Ryan Evans from "High School Musical" and Perry the Platypus from "Phineas and Ferb." Ryan sat on the steps leading to the platforms, nervously playing with his fingers, his usually cheerful expression replaced with a look of melancholy. Nearby, Perry leaned against the wall with his arms folded, his posture mirroring Alisha's.

Toren:

You have secrets too

Further down, two more spotlights shone on Luz Noceda from "The Owl House" and Lake Ripple from "Elemental." Luz sat on the bottom stair, her elbows resting on her thighs and her head cradled in her hands, lost in thought. Lake Ripple, with their fluid, shifting form, sat facing Toren, their head turned away from the audience, capturing a poignant moment of introspection.

Toren:

But you don't have to hide

The final spotlights illuminated Elektra from "Pose" and Deadpool. Elektra stood at the close end of the platform, her body angled sideways to the audience, her arms wrapped around herself as she stared at the ground, lost in her thoughts as she sighs. Deadpool, in contrast, sat on the edge of the platform, simply slowly cleaning his blade with a cloth.

Toren:

Show yourself

Toren looked around at each of the eight performers, taking in their expressions. His gaze then shifted to Star, who floated near him with an infectious energy. As if sensing the need to uplift the mood, Star began to interact with each of them one by one.

Toren:

I'm dying to meet you

First, Star approached Alisha Hawthorne. She stood resolute, her back still turned. Star playfully circled her head, leaving a trail of glittering stardust. A small, reluctant smile tugged at the corners of her mouth as she glanced over her shoulder.

Toren:

Show yourself

Next, Star floated towards Pleakley, who was still absorbed in his papers. Star hovered over him and gently tapped the top of his head. Pleakley looked up, initially startled, but his worried frown softened as he watched the cheerful little star dance above him.

Toren:

It's your turn

Ryan Evans, still sitting on the steps, was the next to receive a visit from Star. His fingers stopped fidgeting, and a hope appeared in his eyes as he followed Star's joyful movements.

Toren:

Are you the one I've been looking for

Perry the Platypus, who had been leaning against the wall with crossed arms, was approached next. Star zipped around him, making playful loops. Perry uncrossed his arms and allowed a faint smile to break through.

Toren:

All of my life?

Luz Noceda lifted her head from her hands when she felt Star's presence. The tiny star hovered close, its light reflecting in her wide eyes. She reached out tentatively, and Star spun around her hand, drawing a delighted laugh from Luz.

Toren:

Show yourself

Elektra looked up from the ground as Star floated near her. The star swirled around her, wrapping her in a comforting light. Her arms slowly unfolded, and she stood a little taller.

Toren:

I'm ready to learn

Finally, Star reached Deadpool, who was still meticulously cleaning his blade. Star's antics finally drew his attention. He looked up, his eyes following Star's light. With a dramatic sigh and a hint of a smirk, Deadpool put his blade away.

Toren:

Ah-ah, ah-ah

Ah-ah, ah-ah-ah

Now it was Toren's turn to interact with them. He took a deep breath and started with Alisha Hawthorne. Toren walked over to her, extending a friendly paw. Alisha turned fully to face him, a determined look in her eyes. She nodded and followed him, standing by his side, her posture now more open and encouraging.

Toren:

I've never felt so certain

All my life, I've been torn

Next, Toren moved towards Pleakley. He gently took the papers from Pleakley's hands and set them aside. Pleakley looked relieved and, with a small nod, got up to join Toren and Alisha, the weight of his worries visibly lifting as he stood with his new companions.

Toren:

But I'm here for a reason

Could it be the reason I was born?

Toren then approached Ryan Evans. He reached out a paw and offered a reassuring smile. Ryan hesitated for a moment before accepting the gesture, standing up from the steps and joining the growing group.

Toren:

I have always been so different

Normal rules did not apply

He continued to Perry the Platypus, offering a supportive pat on the shoulder. Perry uncrossed his arms and pushed off from the wall, falling in step with the others. Together, they all moved with a purpose, Perry's stance now more relaxed and ready.

Toren:

Is this the day? Are you the way

I finally find out why?

Toren made his way to Luz next. He extended both paws towards her, offering his support. Luz stood up from the bottom step, her face brightening as she joined the group.

Toren:

Show yourself

I'm no longer trembling

Lake Ripple was next. Toren reached out and gently touched their watery form, offering silent encouragement. Lake slowly smiles in response, rising to join the others.

Toren:

Here I am

I've come so far

Elektra was approached with a sweet understanding look. When Toren extended a paw, she took it, and then moved to join the growing group. Her previous uncertainty transformed into a proud, confident stance.

Toren:

You are the answer I've waited for

All of my life

Finally, Toren approached Deadpool. He offered a silent but sincere nod. Deadpool grinned back, putting away his blade entirely and standing up to join the others.

Toren:

Oh, show yourself

Let me see who you are

With each interaction, they each found their spirits lifted, each one joining Toren and contributing to the collective strength of the group. Together, they formed a unified front, ready to face the audience.

Toren:

Come to me now

The double doors behind them began to slowly open, revealing a bright, welcoming light. One by one, they each expressed their thanks to Toren in silent gestures—nods, smiles, and pats on the back—as they made their way through the doors. Alisha gave a confident salute, Pleakley a relieved wave, Ryan an enthusiastic thumbs-up, Perry a firm nod, Luz a cheerful fist pump, Lake a graceful bow, and Elektra a regal curtsy. Deadpool gave a dramatic bow before stepping through the doors last. As he did, the doors gently closed, leaving Toren and Star alone on stage. They shared a moment of mutual acknowledgment, recognizing their success in lifting the spirits of the performers.

Toren:

Open your door

Star began to spin around Toren. The movement caused Toren's figure to glow white, and soon, the glowing aura expanded outward, casting tiny, sparkling stars like dust over the audience.

As the white glow faded, Toren stood transformed on stage. He has now opted to wear a well-fitted suit in a white color. The suit are white that features double breasted style, notched lapels, four-buttons in gold at front, chest pocket, welt front pockets with flap, and two inner pockets, and long sleeves with decorative buttons at the cuffs, and over this jacket is a white dress shirt with silk satin green tie. His suit was now complemented by an Aromantic flag sash draped elegantly over his shoulder from his right shoulder down to his left.

Toren:

Don't make me wait

Now in his full getup, Toren took a deep breath and stepped forward as the wooden doors behind him began to open once more. The spotlight followed him closely as he took five measured steps, raising his paw to acknowledge something unseen. With a swift and graceful movement, he shifted to the side, standing on the platform where Pleakley had been earlier.

Toren:

One moment more

Once Toren took his place, two lines of four performers each emerged from the open doors, stepping forward proudly in their best attire. Each held a flag pole with a flag representing their orientation, holding them proudly for all to see.

Toren:

Oh, come to me now

On the left side, Alisha stood tall in her uniform, holding the Lesbian flag. Behind her, Ryan Evans held the Gay flag, Luz with the Bi flag, and Elektra gripped the pole of the Transgender flag.

On the right side, Pleakley led his group, holding the Genderfluid flag. Following him, Perry the Platypus held the Asexual flag, Lake Ripple carried the Non-Binary flag, and Deadpool presented the Pansexual flag.

Toren:

Open your door

Alisha took her place from the beginning, standing confidently on their spots. Ryan, Luz, and Elektra positioned themselves to the left of the stage, facing the audience.

Toren:

Don't make me wait

On the right, Pleakley, Perry, Lake, and Deadpool mirrored their movements, standing in a line and facing the audience as well.

Toren:

One moment-

Lastly, Toren moved to the front of the stage, standing between Elektra and Deadpool.

Toren:

more

With a synchronized movement, two by two, each extending the tip of their flag forward toward the audience across from them. Each of their flag fluttered in the gentle breeze as the eight figures stood tall and resolute.

Chorus:

Where the north wind meets the sea (Ah-ah, ah-ah)

Just then, behind Cinderella Castle, a series of fireworks shot up into the night sky. The explosion of colors illuminated the entire park, a magical light over the stage and the crowd.

Chours:

There's a river (Ah-ah, ah-ah) full of memory (Memory, memory)

Come, my darling, homeward bound

The crowd watched in awe as the fireworks soared higher and higher.

Toren:

I am found

Cheers and applause can be heard as families, friends, and everyone alike come together to witness this spectacular display of love and acceptance.

Toren:

Show yourself

Step into your power

Star soared above the audience. Down below, the crowd gazed up in wonder, their eyes followed Star's flight across the night sky.

Toren:

Grow yourself

Into something new

Back on stage, Star descended gently, floating beside each performer in turn. With a playful twirl, Star moves around them, showering them with its magical starlight.

Toren:

You are the one you've been waiting for

Star then floated towards Toren and Toren looked up, his eyes meeting Star's gaze with a sense of wonder and gratitude. As Star drew closer, Toren reached out his paw to him with a smile spreading across his face.

Toren:

All of my life (All of your life)

With a happy cheerfulness in its eye, Star's left arm touched against Toren's outstretched paw.

Toren:

Oh, show yourself

Star hovered above Toren one last time before showering him with a final burst of stardust.

Toren:

You, ah-ah, ah-ah (Ah-ah, ah-ah)

With a final twirl, Star soared into the night sky, leaving Toren in the light.

Toren:

Ah-ah, ah-ah (Ah-ah, ah-ah)

And as Toren stared at the crowd while singing the final part of the song, Star flew across the sky and then made a stardust glow arch over the castle with many more fireworks shot up.

Toren:

Ah-ah, ah-ah

And as the night sky began to shoot out by more and more rapidly colorful fireworks and the crowd below cheered at the performance, Toren knew that he was exactly where he was meant to be – surrounded by friends, families, and all who care about not just him but also others who join this year of Pride Month.

Later that evening, the ballroom in Cinderella Castle was alive with Pride decorations, cheerful laughter, and the hum of conversations as the Pride Month celebration continued. Different Pride banners adorned the walls, and tables were laden with an array of delicious foods and drinks.

Amidst the celebration, Toren, still in his suit, slipped away quietly, seeking a moment of solitude. He wandered out to the stone balcony overlooking Fantasyland, the cool night air refreshing against his fur. Toren leaned against the balcony railing, gazing thoughtfully at the lights of the view below.

As he lost himself in the view, Toren's thoughts drifted back to the performance. He replayed each moment in his mind, the applause, the fireworks, the performers, Star's interaction — all of it seemed like a beautiful dream.

But his thought was then interrupted by the sound of footsteps behind him that brought Toren back to the present. He turned to see Barcus, his partner, stepping onto the balcony and wore a warm smile that lit up his face.

"Hey," Barcus said softly, approaching Toren. "What brings you out here all alone?"

Toren sighed, a contented smile playing on his lips. "Just needed a moment to take it all in," he replied. "Tonight was... incredible. I still can't believe it happened."

Barcus nodded, leaning against the railing beside Toren. "You were amazing out there. I knew you would be, but seeing it... you took my breath away."

Toren chuckled, "Thanks, Barcus. But I have to admit, I was so nervous. I never imagined performing on a stage like that, with so many, many crowds watching."

Barcus placed a reassuring hand on Toren's shoulder. "You handled it amazing. And that moment with Star? Pure magic. You really connected with everyone out there."

Toren looked down, feeling a swell of emotion. "It wasn't just me. It was all of us — the performers, the audience, even Star. We were all part of something bigger tonight."

Barcus nodded again, his gaze following Toren's. "Pride Month is special because it's about celebrating who we are, together. And you, Toren, you catch that spirit perfectly."

Toren smiled, feeling a warm sense of belonging. "You know, when Mickey asked me to perform, I didn't think I was the right choice. But now... I'm glad I did it. It was an honor."

Barcus squeezed Toren's shoulder gently. "Silver knew you were the right choice. He believed in you, just like I do. And tonight, you proved it.

In Toren's eyes, there is gratitude inside. "I'm lucky to have you, Barcus. Your support means everything to me."

Barcus turned to face Toren fully, taking both of his paws in his hands. "And I'm lucky to have you, Toren. You're brave, talented, and you have a heart that's bigger than anyone I've ever known. Tonight was just one example of that."

Toren sighed happily. "Thank you, Barcus. For everything."

They stood there in silence for a moment together, with the sounds of the celebration inside behind them and the peaceful environment of Fantasyland below. The bond between them felt stronger than ever, a shared understanding and love that words could hardly capture.

Finally, Barcus broke the silence. "Shall we head back inside? I think there are a few cupcakes left that Ana and Berry had baked, best for us to get it before someone ate the last one from us.

Toren nodded, a joyful smile spreading across his face. "I'd love that."

The two creatures turned and made their way back into the ballroom, ready to rejoin the party and celebrate the night away, surrounded by friends and the spirit of Pride that had brought them all together.

Happy Pride Month, everyone! I'm so excited to celebrate with all of you. This is a special time of year to come together as a community and reflect on how far we've come in the fight for LGBTQ rights and equality. At the same time, it's also a chance to remember that the work is not yet done - there is still progress to be made, both legally and socially, to ensure that people of all gender identities and sexual orientations are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

This month is all about uplifting LGBTQ voices and honoring the pioneers, activists, and everyday people who have paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today. It's a time to celebrate love in all its beautiful forms, to stand in solidarity with our LGBTQ family, and to show the world that we are proud, we are powerful, we are not afraid, and we will not be silenced. Whether you're marching in a parade, attending a festival, or simply living your truth unapologetically, know that you are seen, you are valid, and you are so deeply loved.

When it comes to the song choice for this Pride Month special chapter, I went with "Show Yourself" from Frozen 2. That movie came out around five years ago, back in 2019. I've heard some chatter in the LGBTQ community before that this particular song has kind of a "coming out" vibe to it. The more I listen to the track on YouTube and really dive into the lyrics, the more I can see where people are coming from with that interpretation. It just has this feel to it that makes me think it could be seen as a metaphorical coming out of the closet, you know? It just feels like it could be this powerful anthem about embracing your true self and not being afraid to let the world see who you really are. I think the song's emotional depth and the way the lyrics speak to self-discovery make it a really compelling choice which I can understand why.

I, myself, am an Gay person and I am very proud of who I am. Growing up, I faced a personal struggle regarding my sexuality. To begin, I am gay, and I never realized this until I found male characters attractive when I was a young. I didn't start questioning my sexuality until middle school. I had believed that I was supposed to love girls, not boys, as seen in movies, TV shows, and real life. This led me to worry about how my parents would react. Would they accept their son being gay, or would they disown me? As a result, I decided to keep my sexuality hidden until I felt it was the right time to come out. When I was fourteen years old, I made the decision to come out of the closet and announce my sexuality. The first person I talked to was my mom. I was incredibly scared and nervous about how she would respond. I tearfully told her that I was gay and that I was attracted to boys. I shared with her how I had discovered my sexuality.

To my great relief, my mom, being a wonderful and supportive mother, accepted me and assured me that she loved me no matter what. In fact, she revealed to me that I have an uncle who is also gay, which came as a surprise to me as I never know that my uncle is gay nor has my mom ever mentioned to me about having an gay uncle in our family. When the rest of my family found out, they too were supportive of me. I feel very fortunate to have been born into such an amazing family that accepts me for who I am.

So let's make this Pride Month one to remember! Attend events, support LGBTQ businesses, educate ourselves and others, and above all, spread joy, love, and acceptance wherever we go. The fight for equality doesn't end when the rainbow flags come down - it's a lifelong journey. But when we come together as a community, there's no limit to what we can achieve. Happy Pride, everyone! Here's to another year of progress, visibility, and self-expression.

Anyway, review if you can. I would like to see your thoughts about this chapter so far! The reviews are the best form of motivation! Let me know what you think and see you all for the next one-shots chapter. Thank you. :)