Shimmers new life as a carebear
Chapter 14 Judgement and rebirth
"Darkage, Wait," Said Wishbear running towards him. Darkage stopped and slowly turned around and faced Wishbear. "Are you alright?" She said as she hugged him around his legs.
"Yes. Thanks to you guys." Said Darkage quickly reaching out with his hands against a nearby wall for support since Wish bear nearly knocked him over.
"Likewise. We couldn't of done this without you either." Nodded Trueheart bear as she also approached.
"If it wasn't for me, you never would have ended up in this mess." Confessed Darkage.
"Yes, but you only followed the evidence that was given to you." Said Wishbear.
"Let's cut to the chase Wishbear." Said Darkage as he wriggled himself free from Wishbear's hug. "Our alliance is over, and you all forgave me for my false allegation against you."
"There is just one more thing." Said Trueheart as she moved towards Wishbear and now stood in front of Darkage. "What are you going to do now that this is all over?"
"Move out of here and start a new life." Replied Darkage.
"You mentioned before that you wanted to find your purpose," Trueheart said. "We would like to help you find that purpose."
"Even after everything I did to bring your family in harms way? It took you and Nobleheart a long time to put together the carebear family which was almost destroyed in one night! I don't see how you could ever forgive me for that!" He said shaking his head from side to side with regret.
"That's what the carebear family is all about. Forgiving and caring for one another! Even at times when forgiving eachother can be very difficult," Trueheart bear said as she placed her paw on his knee. Darkage looked down directly at Trueheart. "I think your a good person who just took off into the wrong path. I do not think it is too late for you." She said smiling up at him.
"I agree!" Said Noblebeart Horse who now stood by Trueheart. "You acknowledged you were wrong not just in front of us, but also in front of Noheart and his friends.That took alot of courage. And I think I speak for everybody else here when I say we all forgive you from the bottom of our hearts!" All of the carebears nodded and cheered at Noblehearts comments.
"Thank you." Said Darkage nodding his head with achknowledgement. "You truly stand for what you represent. Caring for others whom you do not even know."
"You see Darkage," Said Nobleheart as he now placed his paw gently on Darkage's other knee.
"Call me Joaquin please. I know longer wish to be called by that name." Corrected the human softly.
"Sorry, Joaquin," Nobleheart said correcting himself while clearing his throat at the same time. "When me and Trueheart first built the carebear family, we built it with the purpose to not only help raise the abandoned cubs, but to help others in need! Me and Trueheart just got fed up with seeing baby cubs getting abandoned time and time again. So me and Trueheart both agreed to work together to care for as many abandoned cubs as we could find and hopefully in return, they would support that vision."
"As you can see, all of our family is still together," Stated Trueheart plainly. "So what do say Joaquin? Would you like to join our family?" Joaquin looked completely surprised at the proposed question. In all of this Sageheart was listening to this and not liking his one bit. But he bit his tongue as he watched on to see what Shimmers answer would be.
Joaquin took a deep breath and smiled. "I would love nothing more than to be part of this." With that everyone cheered cept for Sageheart. His mate Lifeheart was clapping in support for this despite being kidnapped by him and being dragged into this situation. With that, the carebears left the castle with there latest new human member riding in the back of the cloud car with True and Nobleheart as Sageheart stared at the human with mistrust and apprehension.
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Once in Carelot, the awaiting magi ran and were cheering that they had escaped Noheart. Loveheart among them was watching and staring trying to find his parents. He breathed a sigh of relief when he spotted them and ran towards them. But he was taken back when he saw there enemy riding with Trueheart and Nobleheart. "You!" He said as his hands began to glow forming his broad sword getting ready as lightning began dancing around his body. Trueheart quickly got out of the cloud raising her paws.
"Whoa hold on there leader of the magi," Trueheart quickly standing between the two as the human reached for his hilt. "Joaquin is with us now." She pointed out.
"That monster attacked you and took you all prisoner, how could you bring him back here?" Loveheart said gritting his teeth along with Anger Heart being transfixed with his glowing nine tails ready to unleash hell at any moment.
"He helped rescue us and turned against Noheart." Trueheart explained as she even was getting uneasy about the situation. "He realized that Noheart was only using him." She explained.
Passion Heart snapped his teeth at this since he had also kidnapped his mate. "Just give the word Loveheart, and will get him." He said forming his axe in his hands.
"Stop it!" Nobleheart said getting up taking charge looking crossly at the magi. "Your suppose to protect the carebear family from evil, not deviate from that purpose remember?" He said reminding them.
"He is right, back down son, order the magi to stand down." Sageheart said as he got really worried when he saw shimmers hope out of the cloud car and activated his saber.
"Joaquin, please back down, they won't hurt you." Trueheart said running in front of him holding up her paws. Joaquin was about to place his saber away as his red saber disappeared, then all of a sudden he felt his body being lifted up and being thrown violently forward in front of Loveheart's feet.
"Now's your chance! Let's get him." When they heard the saw a yellow fennec with two tails do a summer flip landing behind Joaquin and attempted to throw in a elbow to the humans shoulder. Joaquin quickly turned and grabbed her with both hands on her right elbow and threw her body into Loveheart's knocking them both backwards. He then felt something tackle him hitting him hard on his front midsection as he shouted out in pain but wrapped his arms around the body with wings, and got her in a holding move and quickly began to squeeze her tightly which stopped her right in her tracks.
"Sweetheart! Don't hurt my little sister!" Shouted Loveheart quickly getting up as lightning danced around his right paw as he threw his arm back them forward unleashing his lightning attack shocking the human as that forced him to let her go as she quickly flew away. As Anger heart and defiant heart badger were quickly moving in just as Lonesomeheart and Aqua bear stood in front of the human and unleashed there sabers.
"Back off! Your magi! What are you doing disobeying your own parents and the order of the founders?!" Lonesomeheart shouted meaning business.
Joaquin tried to get up but he soon grasped his ribs and layed back down in pain. Joaquin grit his teeth trying to crawl away from the ensuing attackers but Passion's mate stepped in front of Joaquin. "Stop this! Can't you see he's hurt?" Redemptionheart bear said looking at them crossly then looking at her mate.
Passion heart quickly put his axe away and came near and hugged her tightly. "I thought I lost you." He said. Redemptionheart bear smiled patting him on the back.
"I'm okay my love. Thanks to Joaquin and the caring guardians." She pointed out.
"He's the reason why you were captured." Said the wolverine.
"Yes, but everyone deserves a second chance my love. Everyone needs compassion." She said in a soft gentle voice. He sighed and placed away his weapon on his back. Joaquin was looking around worriedly at all the weapns drawn knowing he was vulnerable and that they could potentially kill him at anytime or further hurt him. Loveheart realizing the madness of this as well, against his better judgement re-evaluated the situation and saw Joaquin was truly hurt and saw there was no honor in hurting someone who was already down.
"Magi back down." Loveheart said as his broad sword disappeared and the lightning cackling around his body disappeared. The rest of the magi followed his lead although Confidence was about to say something but a warning glance from Loveheart made her realize this was wrong. Even for them to stoop this low so she held her tongue and obeyed. "Will do as you say Trueheart, but will be keeping an eye on Darkage." Said Loveheart.
"His name is Joaquin Loveheart bear, don't ever call him that again." Snapped Lonesomeheart bear not liking his tone. Loveheart bear bowed in what could of been taken as a mocking tone but didn't say anything and signaled for Redemptionheart bear to tend to the human's wounds.
"Thank you Loveheart bear." She said as she bent down to one knee. "Help me to get him to my infirmary. I need to take some x-rays of those ribs." She said smiling and in a nurturing way. She turned and was about to ask her mate for help but he had already turned his back walking away as she sighed.
"I'll help you Redemptionheart bear." Lonesomeheart bear said noticing this. "So will I." Aqua bear said as they placed away there sabers. Shimmers placed his arms around there shoulders as they helped Joaquin to his feet.
"Thank you, all of you." Joaquin said in appreciation.
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Back at magi headquarters, which was shaped like a magician's hat and was placed next to the hall of hearts all the magi cept for Redemptionheart bear since she was taking care of her new patient who was just there worst enemy who nearly destroyed them.
"So Sageheart bear why have you called this meeting?" Loveheart bear inquired.
"I am deeply concerned about how you ignored orders today son." Sage heart bear said in a worried tone. "You have never once acted like that defying the orders of the founders let alone us like that. I understand your concern about Joaquin but he was clearly hurt physically, and you guy's were just going to blatantly attack him even after Trueheart made it clear he was one of us now. I fear if the caring guardians weren't there to intercede then..."
Everyone heard a loud banging on the desk as they saw rising and gritting her teeth in anger. "How could you chew and admonish him like that? He was only defending our home and us!" Confidence yelled out as other Magi agreed. "Another thing too, I find it offensive that your standing up for that guy." She said slamming Sage Heart.
The usually calm Sage Heart bursted in anger. "Look, I don't trust him anymore than you do Confidence Heart fennec," He said sharply which made her shutter a jar slightly completely taken off guard by his tone since Sage has always been gentle in his dealings with all magi. "But disobeying orders and attacking someone who was hurt right in front of the founders was wrong!" He said sharply as this made her sit back down not knowing what to say to this. Sage Heart then felt Lifeheart placing her hand on his and saw her small gentle smile on her face. This made him realize he needed to recant, and think about what he would say next. "Besides, what I am saying is if he is hiding anything and this is just a trick, then we need to do this in such a way that we get proof before just acting. As it is we barely joined a year ago with the carebear's family and already just him being present is causing discension."
Lifeheart nodded and began to speak. "Sage Heart is right, I saw Joaquin turn on Noheart right before our very eyes, I know you guy's don't trust him after all the harm he has caused each and everyone of you, but I think we should keep an open mind and give him a second chance as Redemptionheart bear suggested." She suggested gently. Loveheart was taking this all in as he rubbed his chin in thought then began to speak.
"Father, mother, your absolutely right," Loveheart said. "I'm sorry for stepping out of line. We are trained soldiers but were not savages. We are now carebears and we acted shameful dishonoring how you raised me so for that I am sorry." Loveheart said accepting the rebuke. "I promise that will never happen again." Then he turned towards Confidence. "And regardless of how we feel about Joaquin, we're better than him, or are suppose to be better than him, and today we didn't prove that. We looked like the aggressors instead of him" He acknowledged as Confidence heart didn't protest to that but deep down had more feelings of mistrust with with the human.
"But he hurt me and Confidence Heart, Big Brother!" Sweet Heart was agitated enough that her wings started flapping, lifting her out of her seat for a moment. "My wings still hurt from that!"
"That human can't be trusted!" Anger Heart Fox and Defiant Heart Badger had both shouted at the same time. Silence hung in the room as they turned to face each other then shuddered as if they had both suddenly stuck their hands in something slimy.
"As surprised as I am that you two agree on something, we can't be too hasty." Guidance Heart's voice broken the silence. "We should give Joaquin a chance, but we should still be careful just in case he does change again."
Passion Heart growled, "I'll give him a chance but only because Redemptionheart wants to. If he hurts her..." he growled again leaving no one in any doubt what he would try to do.
"That's unlikely Passion heart given his current state," Lifeheart pointed out. "So we are agreed then? Keep an eye on Joaquin but don't make any moves on him?" Lifeheart inquired.
"I will still show my displeasure towards him, but I won't attack him out right unless he gives me reason to." Confidence slamming her fist against her open hand.
Sage Heart disapproved of that attitude but decided to let that be after the stressful days events. "Okay, meeting adjourned." Everyone got up but only Sageheart and Lifeheart left while the rest of the magi remained behind in the top hat magi black hat.
"I still don't trust him and I wished the caring guardians wouldn't of interfered." Confidence said a bit coldly.
"Neither do I, its why I am asking you and Sweetheart to keep in site of him so he knows were watching his every move!" Loveheart said. "But the rest of you are not to engage him, that would bring the ire of the founders protecting him again." Loveheart said as Passion Heart growled in disapproval. "So if were to get rid of him, we need to do it by there rules. Meeting adjourned." With that everyone dispersed into to there homes.
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Shimmers was now laying down deeply immersed into a X-ray tube. "Now take a deep breath Joaquin." Said the doctor smiling at him. He did so and held it and the machine made a robotic sound. "There, Now one more and this time breath out slowly." Shimmers timed his breathing and Redemptionheart quickly took the X-ray shot. "There all done, now we can have you rest on that bed over there. Now its time to give you some pain killer for those outchies you got." She said kindly. "Can you two help Joaquin over to his bed please?" She said to the two caring guardians. They nodded and very gently and slowly brought him over to the bed and layed him down kindly.
"There you go Joaquin." Aqua bear said smiling as he placed the blanket over him and carressed his chest through it softly with his paw up to his chest.
"Thank you." Joaquin said kindly almost not knowing how to react to such kindness since most of his adult life he has only been known to fight for his survival. It wasn't long as Redemptionheart reached into a medicine cabinet and found the perkeset she was looking for and ordered Joaquin to take three of them.
"Will see those x-rays in the morning. Hopefully none of your ribs are broken," She said. "But even if they are I'll nurse you back to health as long as it takes." She said kindly. Shimmers just relaxed and was already very tired from the days of events and swallowed down his pills with water and laid his head down as his eyes drifted off into peaceful sleep as he saw the smiling faces of these three kind bears.
"I have to go home now and get some rest," Redemptionheart bear said as she paused in thought for a moment looking at her two friends.
"What is it Redemptionheart bear?" Aqua bear asked.
"Can I ask you two a favor? I know I'm part of the magi family now, but after what transpired today, I'm not comfortable leaving him alone like this. I fear that the magi might try something." She said bowing her head down in shame at even having this thought.
"Consider it done," Lonesomeheart bear said saluting her. "Will watch him all night long. Will make sure no harm comes to him." Aqua bear fist pumped and nodded in agreement. The doctor smiled. "Thanks. Now time to go." With that her unicorn marking upon her forehead began to glow as she turned into a canary and flew out of the room and towards her home. A few hours had passed and Lonesomeheart went into check on Joaquin and when she saw him sleeping soundly. She smiled and went back outside. "He's doing alright." She said. "Good, so far so good." Aqua bear said till suddenly they heard flapping wings as there ears pricked up and had there hands on there swords as they saw Sweet Heart and Confidence Heart land right in front of them.
"What do you two want?" Growled Lonesomeheart.
Confidence smirked. "Oh we just came to see if Redemptionheart bear is still here." Confidence tried to say innocently. "Me and Sweetheart need to be checked out since the human your protecting hurt us a few days ago." She said stepping forward.
"She is not here, she is at home." Aqua bear said taking a step forward.
"In that case will help ourselves, we just need some pain pills." Confidence tried to sound convincing but Lonesomeheart stood in front of her. "Nu-uh, that is Redemptionheart's property and family of yours or not, its wrong to take without asking her first." Lonesomeheart said placing her hand on her chest. "Get your hand off of me Lonesome, and let me by, or I'll make you move." She warned grabbing her hand and twisting it adding pressure just behind the thumb painfully. Lonesomeheart winced but quickly pushed her back hard with her other hand then followed up with a side kick which hardly moved the fennec, but it was enough to losen her grasp on her hand. "You asked for it!" Confidence said getting into her fighting stance as sweetheart quickly got in front of her, arms and wings spread.
"No Confidence, remember, were carebears not soldiers anymore remember?" Sweetheart said looking at her alertly knowing this would endanger there simple mission. Confidence as much as she wanted to fight them, she knew that was not the best way to do this as she stood normally. Sweetheart folded her wings turning towards the two caring guardians.
"I'm sorry for my friends behaviour, the truth is we just came to see how Joaquin is doing." She said smiling at them. "Is he doing okay?"
Lonesomeheart stood at the ready but eased on her stance a bit. "He's asleep currently recovering." Lonesomeheart stated.
"And he's not ready for visitors at the moment," Aqua bear pointed out watching them closely.
"Can we at least take a peak? Just to be sure he's doing okay?" Sweetheart asked kindly and cutely.
Lonesomeheart sighed but responded. "Do you promise not to try anything? Give me your word Confidence, cause I know your word is your bond otherwise we won't let you in." Lonesomeheart stated. Confidence sighed and raised her right paw.
"I promise I will not harm a hair on that dirty human being on my word of honor as a karate master." She said crossing her two tails behind her, then unwinding them, but she was unwavering so she told them the truth.
"Okay, but you cant stay long after you see him okay?" Lonesomeheart warned as Confidence nodded.
"Thank you, lets go in." Sweetheart said. Lonesomeheart eyed her nervously hoping that these two would not try anything.
Lonesomeheart led in front followed by the pegasus, and the fennec and Aqua bear behind them to watch them so he could react just in case. Once they entered the dark hall to the room where a dimly lit light was in the room where Joaquin was sleeping, Sweetheart trotted in and saw him sleeping soundly. "Okay, everything seems to be in order." She said running up to the human as Lonesomeheart reached for her saber as Confidence grabbed her paw. Sweetheart stood with her face just inches away from the human. "I have never seen a human sleep so soundly before." She said almost smiling. But then she got startled when Shimmers began shouting in his sleep.
"Ohh no, Noheart! Stop it! You'll pay for what you did to my parents!" Shimmers shouted in his sleep as Sweetheart readied herself in a attacking pose but quickly saw he was no threat to her and she relaxed herself. "He's having a nightmare." Sweetheart even said sympathetically. "NOOOO Mom! Dad!" He said twisting his head to one side then the other. Sweetheart and most of the magi only heard of what happened to Shimmers but didn't know the full story. "His parents? Did Noheart do something to them?" Sweetheart inquired now on all four hooves and looked at Lonesomeheart.
"Yes, he burned them alive." Aqua bear said sadly which made even Sweetheart shutter.
"No, you mean he lost his parents?" Sweetheart inquired.
"Yes, they died in a fire that Noheart set." Lonesomeheart said as this made Sweetheart almost shed a tear. "He must be having a nightmare." She pointed out.
"Yeah, he's probably failing to save them. He can't even save them in his own dreams." Confidence said coldly as even Sweetheart thought this was mean.
"Nooo! Noo not again!" Shouted Joaquin in his dream as he sounded as if he was almost crying.
"Confidence, thats that's mean. How would you like it if Darkage actually carried out his initial plan and killed our parents when we were powerless to defend them?" Confidence shuttered and covered her mouth not meaning to offend her.
"Sorry Sweetheart, your right I shouldn't be taunting him." Confidence said looking down.
Sweetheart turned toward Aqua bear. "With your permission, I would like to cast a unicorn spell on him, don't worry, this will ease him out of his nightmare and he will have a pleasent dream instead of this bad one. I promise I won't do anything to harm him." Aqua bear and Lonesomeheart nodded.
"Were trusting you, please don't break our trust." Lonesomeheart said in a warning but trusting tone.
"I won't I promise." She said smiling and she gently flew above him and pointed head at his forehead as the eight-pointed star on her forehead began to glow. Shimmers went from writhing in his sleep to calming down as the radiance of her birthmark faded. "There, he should not be having anymore nightmares, at least for one night." She said smiling feeling good about her deed as she landed next to confidence.
"Thanks for letting us check in on him, and with that will go now." Confidence heart said as she went outside along with Sweetheart and she aimed one arm into the air and flew away as Sweetheart flapped her wings and flew along side her.
"I still don't trust them, there up to something." Aqua bear pointed out.
"Yeah but for now, will wait for them to make the next move." Lonesomeheart said as they stayed watch the rest of the night.
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In the meantime, at Trueheart's house.
Sage Heart Bear and Life Heart Unicorn sat down to a private meeting with True Heart Bear and Noble Heart Horse.
Sage Heart was the first to speak, "I feel I need to apologize for how my son and the other Magi behaved earlier. I do know why they acted that way, but I expected Love Heart at least to show more discipline."
"Just be more careful, Sage Heart," True Heart said, "Joaquin is dealing with a lot right now and we don't want the Magi attacking him again."
"They won't, but we are still concerned," Life Heart said, "I saw his change of heart, but Joaquin's presense is going to make things difficult for everyone. We are willing to give him a chance but the other Magi aren't going to forgive so easily."
"I figured this would be the case, but we need to be sure they won't try anything on Joaquin, especially while he's recovering." Noble Heart said.
"Don't worry, we'll keep them from attacking, Joaquin as best we can," Sage Heart said. "But I still think we should keep an eye on Joaquin from a distance, just in case." he turned to Life Heart, "Can you scry on him?"
"Spy on him?!" True Heart sounded shocked.
"I admit it would be prudent but invasive at the same time," Life Heart said.
"It's a violation of his trust," Noble Heart said, "I can't stop you but I think it's a really bad idea."
"Until we know he can be trusted, we can't take any chances." Sage Heart said with Lifeheart nodding in agreement.
Trueheart deeply sighs. "I don't like this one bit, and I fear how he will react in a very negative manner if he ever finds out." Trueheart pointed out.
"Will make sure that doesn't happen," Sage heart said. "Will report everything to you privately, and no one else will have to know." Trueheart almost looked sad as she dropped her arms down.
"Okay, but if at any point I feel this is to much, I will request you to stop spying on him." Trueheart said sharply which shocked even the founder magis as they nodded and got up and left.
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Joaquin slept soundly throughout the night after Sweetheart's spell and began to stretch his arms not remembering ever sleeping so soundly. He tried to get up but soon fell back down thanks to the whooziness in his head. "Ohh, such a headache." Darkage said rubbing his head back and forth while gritting his teeth slightly from the pain. It was then he heard a knocking at the door. "Come in." Joaquin said smiling. Redemptionheart bear entered in with a bowl of soup in a bowl, some cooked vegies, and a warm glass of milk.
"Good morning Joaquin, did you sleep well?" Redemptionheart came into the room as she placed the serving tray over him as she gently placed a paw on his forehead which made him wince since he was still quiet sensitive to the pain. "Oh sorry, here, let me give you some pain meds again." She said kindly as she went over to her medicine cabinet and grabbed some perkeset again.
"Yes thank you." Joaquin said who was a bit unaccustomed to being taken care of like this. He was quiet hungry as he began eating and accepted the pain pills from Redemptionheart bear. "Your so kind to me, I don't deserve this after how I treated you.." Joaquin said feeling bad still.
"Its called a second chance sweety," She said kindly. "You decided to join us and repented from what you had originally planned and turned on Noheart. As far as I am concerned, your one of us now and we take care of those we love around here." She said making Joaquin feel even more at ease who had a rare kind bedside manner."Now, your X-rays are ready. I'll be back in a few sweety." She said smiling at him as she went to the desk with the overhanging x-rays and took a few minutes to study them while Shimmers ate his breakfast. "Okay hun I have the results," She said walking towards Shimmers.
"Let's see what the damage is." Joaquin said expecting the worst of this.
"You have nothing broken, just sore ribs." She said smiling. "So you should be on your feet after a few more hours of sleep. But I want you to take it easy. I know that won't be easy, because there's a buzzing going around Carelot about you joining us, and its been very positive." She said smiling which made Shimmers blush.
"I didn't know me joining would have this kind of affect." Joaquin said as if almost ashamed to recieve the praise, but somehow wished he had this instead of the hostile lonely existancce he had.
"Now, I want you to get some sleep, Aqua and Lonesomeheart will be here shortly to walk you to the hall of hearts for your introduction with the carebear family."
"Huh so soon?" Joaquin said nervously.
"Yes, this is what you wanted isn't it?" She said looking at him concerned.
"Yes it is, its just happening so fast." Joaquin said as he finished his last gulp of milk.
"Well, try to sleep, given all this excitement your going to need your strength." She said as she kissed him lightly on the forehead as Shimmers closed his eyes and fell asleep. However there was someone watching in the window unnoticed and a small growl could be heard before the large object scampered off.
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A few hours later, many of the magi, and Sageheart and Lifeheart were there at the expectation of the newcomer. The human to join the carebear family. Everyone was in there seats at the red heart shaped table with all cousins, carebear's and magi's present with the founders and the magi parents sitting together.
"So where is the newcomer?" Inquired Sageheaert as they had been waiting for about five minutes already.
"I'm not sure but I'm sure he will be here soon enough," Nobleheart said. "Remember he is still recovering from.." Trueheart jabbed him in his side.
"Yes this is his moment for everyone to get to know him with the start of the introduction." Trueheart said smiling brimming with pride as she was glad that they had turned his life around.
"Yeah, were sorry about that. Our kids are just on edge is all." Lifeheart explained still very much ashamed of how they acted.
"He's not the same person, you will see if you just give him a chance." Nobleheart defended. "Besides you were there too remember and how he turned against Noheaart?" Nobleheart said pumping his fist and jabbing with his fist which made Trueheart slap her knee giggling at his imitation. This also made Lifeheart smile while Sageheart rolled his eyes as this helped to ease the tensions of yesterday's activities of what transpired.
Suddenly the room went silent when they saw Joaquin enter the room with Redemptionheart bear and the human leaning on her to help him walk due to his sore ribs as he had a bit of trouble breathing. But he didn't want to miss this at all, and he was looking forward to his new life as a carebear. There was mixed reactions in the room while the bears and cousins were smiling and whispering amongst themselves, the magi including Loveheart was gritting his teeth his heart still hardened at the harm the human had done to his home and family while clinching his fists. Confidence placed her hand on his paws and whispered in his ear. "Relax, will get our chance soon enough to expose him, and when that happens he wont be here for long." Confidence said determined as her two tails waved behind her confidently. Loveheart nonetheless never took his eyes off of the human as he slowly walked to the front and walked slowly up upon center stage then turned and faced his audience. While the cheering took place, Shimmers stood there waited till the loud applaused silenced as he was besides himself, never been applaused like this as he couldn't help but smile and waive while the magi looked on disdainfully at this cept sageheart was calm but cautious but his wife was applauding as well.
Once the audience was done applauding, Trueheart was the one who addressed the congregation. "Greetings, carebears, cousins, magi, we are gathered here for one reason, for the first time in the history of the carebear family, we will be having a human join us." Trueheart said smiling then turned to Joaquin. "Joaquin, can you give us a brief history of your self?" Trueheart asked kindly. Joaquin felt his heart beating fast, his mind racing, but took long deep breaths as Redemptionheart was still standing with him instructing him on how to calm down. Once he felt calm enough, Redemptionheart took her seat with her mate Passion Heart and she immediately felt the negative vibe surrounding the magi family as some stared at her disapprovingly, but alot more so with gritted teeth as they eyed Joaquin's every move.
"Yes Trueheart, I can do that," Joaquin said breathing slowly. "I just want to say first I have to speak slowly because my ribs are sore and still recovering." Joaquin said trying to find his thoughts and where he wanted to begin. "Now where do I begin?" He said more to himself than to them. "As you know, ten years ago, I lost my parents to a forest fire that was started by Noheart and planted evidence after the fire was done making it look like the carebear family committed this otrocius crime. Sadly, I fell for that lie and wasted ten years of my life training, working to avenge my parents joining Noheart and the darkside of the heart which I deeply regret." Joaquin said bowing his head a bit shamefully at this.
"Its okay Joaquin, keep talking." Trueheart encouraged. Joaquin lifted up his head and continued.
"As you know after I led the invasion against you guy's, most of you got captured, for the intent of being executed for the crimes I thought you guy's committed. But as you all know, as more evidence was presented, the words of Trueheart, Nobleheart, I heard the innocence in there voices, there sorrow for my loss, till I came to realize it was not them that did this. It was Noheart who had done this and as a result, I turned on him and I knew I had to make this right somehow." Joaquin said. "So against all odds, I fought him and my former comrades in arms in a desperate attemmpt to rescue the carebears while also trying to get Noheart for what he did to my parents." Joaquin said as he clutched his fists tightly as many of the carebears covered there mouths with there paws. "But with all the fighting, with the help of the carebears we were able to overcome Noheart as he retreated in haste and thankfully no one got killed." Joaquin said very thankful for that as alot of the bears showed sighs of relief. "Then Trueheart invited me to join this family which I am so undeserving of." Joaquin admitted humbled by the kindness that was extended. "So with a guilty but repentant heart, I accepted." This caused loud cheering and eruption in the hall of hearts with some confetti being thrown up. Loveheart bear was slightly touched by this story not knowing his true history, but he refused to show it as he looked at Joaquin with mistrust and his eyes narrowed.
Trueheart stood up. "Now here we are together." Trueheart said proudly. "Now Joaquin there is one last thing, I need you to raise your right arm" Joaquin tried to do so but winced in pain the moment he did that due to his sore ribs. "Oh sorry Joaquin, I didn't mean to cause you pain." She said regretting that.
"Thats okay Truehart," Joaquin said. "Please continue, I need to do this with everyone here to bear witness." Joaquin said. Joaquin once more reached up with his right hand wincing in pain but somehow managing to raise it.
"Shimmers don't hurt yourself," Nobleheart said alarmed. "You don't need to do that to prove anything to us."
"I appreciate that Nobleheart, but this must be done properly so that everyone here knows including the magi I am not here to harm them, and that I intend to make up for all the harm I caused." Joaquin said as he winced in pain as his hand fell. "Ow!" Joaquin said breathing slightly heavily.
Truheart looked on worriedly as she quickly approached him. "I'm sorry Shimmers, but we can do this when your healed up. We don't want you hurting yourself." Trueheart said.
"No Trueheart, I must do this," Joaquin said stubbornly as he tried to raise his arm again as Trueheart gently took his arm and brought it down as she shook her head. "Trueheart please, you don't understand how important this is to me." He pointed out.
"Nu-uh, I will not allow you to hurt yourself like this." Trueheart said as a protective mother would. As Shimmers was about to protest.
"Well, I guess this was a waste of time then." Defiant Heart badger said as everyone looked at him crossly which made Joaquin look in his direction with a bit of anger. Joaquin tried once more to lift his right arm gritting his teeth in determination.
"Joaquin please no!" Trueheart said grabbing his arm down once more as she messaged his shoulder to try to get him to relax. Just when Defiant heart was about to say something again he got interrupted.
"Hey there is a way we can do this," Nobleheart interceded rubbing his thumb against his chin in deep thought momentarily. "If he is this determined to want this done, then we can summon the Great Wishinng Star and hold the ceremony outside. Joaquin wants to do this, so he minus well do all the things he must eventually do anyways.
"Nobleheart, are you thinking that is even possible? Or that the Great Wishing star would do this for him?" Trueheart inquired.
"Yes, as long as Joaquin is willing to accept being transformed." Nobleheart said smiling looking at the human.
"Transformed?" Joaquin said looking at the founder curiously and a bit scared at the sametime.
"Yes, basically Joaquin, when the Great Wishing Star offers immortality to you, in rare instances, the Star also offers to transform you into one of us. With this you will get a new body and your ribs will be new and healed." Nobleheart pointed out noticing the fear in the humans eyes. "But its only if you want to, if you don't want to, we won't go through with..."
"I do and will go through with it." Joaquin said looking at Nobleheart bravely clutching his fist.
"If your certain, we will summon the star, just remember once you do this, you can never return to your human form." Nobleheart cautioned.
"He is not worthy of that!" Loveheart said aloud. "Not to mention he hasn't proven he is one of us yet!" Loveheart said finally unable to keep his tongue slamming his paws against the table.
"He is one of us," Said Trueheart looking at Loveheart with fierce opposition for daring to interfere with this. "He saved me including your parents, that more than gives him the right to this." Trueheart said defending Joaquin who looked astonished at her never seeing someone stand up for him like this as Loveheart sat back down crossing his arms like a over grown cub. "Joaquin, if you accept this, this means you will be given a new name along with a new body. I am willing to swear you in and to get this done today if your willing." Trueheart said placing her hands on his shoulders.
Joaquin smiled with true joy looking into Trueheart's eyes. "I am willing," Joaquin said. "Please, I wish to complete this."
"Then we shall. Come outside everyone." Trueheart said smiling as she held his hand and slowly walked him outside with everyone else following wanting to see this since this was a one time new occurrence.
It took everyone about five minues to get outside in random lines leading out just out in front of the hall of hearts near the magi black top hat magi building. Shimmers and the founders stood in the front, while everyone else was standing facing the hall of hearts. The carebears to the left, cousins in the middle and the magi to the right with Sage Heart, Loveheart and Lifeheart standing in the front. Trueheart and Nobleheart raised there paws politely asking for there attention. After about five seconds everyone was silent.
"Now we shall summon the Great Wishing Star. Wish Bear, will you please do the honors and send the signal?" Wish bear stepped forward smiling and saluted.
"Yes Trueheart. I will." Wish bear said closing her eyes as her tummy symbol lit up and her rainbow symbol lit up. "Great Wishing Star, I summon you! Please come answer the call." She said closing her eyes as a white beam of energy with a hint of teal and her rainbow colors on the white beam stare fired up into the sky into space and out of site. Wish bear then opened her eyes. "It is done Trueheart." She said smiling.
"Thanks Wish bear, now all we have to do is wait." Trueheart replied.
"Trueheart, I have a question I think needs an answer." Sageheart bear waived.
"What is it SageHeart?" She sighed bracing for more opposition.
"Joaquin as Darkage did subsantial damage to our homes in his wake when he attacked, will he be helping to repair our homes?" He inquired as Loveheart smirked as he looked at Trueheart to see what she would say to this. "I am happy is he joining us, and I get he is forgiven and all, but don't we hold anyone accountable too?"
Trueheart was about to answer till Joaquin stepped forth. "I can answer that Sageheart," Joaquin interrupted. "I will help rebuild the homes not just for my attacks, but for everything that Noheart ever did attacking Carelot. I take full responsibility for that, and I promise I will make all reparations and compensation for this for everyon here. Whomever I have hurt or wronged." Joaquin said finally feeling some since of worth since he wanted to truly make up for this." This made alot of the bears smile in acceptance, frustrating the entrapping question that Sageheart had given.
"Joaquin are you sure? That's going to be alot of work." Trueheart said concerned.
"Yes, I must answer for what I have done, and being a part of a family sometimes you have to face the consequences of your actions." Joaquin said.
"Um if Joaquin is going to be held to that standard then count me in as well." Aqua bear said raising his paw. "We all live here and I think we should all help Joaquin. Were the carebear family, not a prison facility." Aqua bear pointed out. Joaquin was about to protests till Nobleheart interrupted him.
"Your absolutely right Aqua bear, we all live here and we should work shoulder to shoulder to repair Carelot along with Joaquin." Noblehart said.
"But.." Joaquin protested feeling bad about this as it was.
"Then its settled, besides this will be a great way to get to know Joaquin personally." Trueheart said as everyone applauded. Once the applause ended Trueheart then turned to the frustrated Sageheart and bitter green bear who was still glaring at the human with hateful eyes. "Is there anything further you like to talk about Sage Heart?"
"No, there isn't." Sage Heart said as he lowered his paw satisfied with the answer as Lifeheart gently grabbed Loveheart's paw messaging it to try to sooth his anger.
"Okay in that case, the next step is to find a new name for you Joaquin. Did you have a name in mind?" Trueheart inquired as everyone looked at the human with happy anticipation. Joaquin blushed nervously at this attention as this was all happening so fast. Joaquin took a few deep breaths to calm himself down.
"To be honest I haven't really given that much thought to that." Joaquin said shrugging his shoulders as he winced in pain fro his sore ribs.
"Joaquin!" Trueheart said came over concerned. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I caused myself my own pain hehe." Joaquin said humored by his own mistake as Trueheart breathed a sigh of relief.
"LOOK! The Great Wishing Star is here!" Wish bear pointed up as everyone began cheering.
"Greetings carebears, cousins, magi," Said the male star smiling. "Wish bear I got your signal, so what is the special occassion?"
"Great Wish star, this is a very special occassion indeed." Smiled Trueheart standing next to the human.
"Well hello there, what is your friend's name there?" Said the star looking at Joaquin. Joaquin was blushing a bit nervously being the center of attention.
"Its Joaquin Great Wishing Star," Joaquin said trying to lift his hand to wave till Trueheart quickly grasped his hand gently as she placed it down to his waist. "Sorry I forgot."
"Oh you can't waive?" Asked the Star wondering why Trueheart stopped him.
"My ribs are sore from my last battle with Noheart," Joaquin explained a bit embarassed.
"Noheart? You battled Noheart?" Asked the star not knowing the story till Trueheart interceded.
"Its a long story Great Star, but in short he saved us all and turned against Noheart, and now we summoned you here to make him part of this family." Trueheart said as Joaquin and looking up shyly.
"Well in that case, I will be more than happy to help," Replied the Great Wishing Star. "What exactly is it your asking of me Trueheart?"
"Great wishing Star, Joaquin wishes to go through the transformation ritual along with the immortality that is offered to all our members." Nobleheart said smiling. "We told him he could wait to go through the ceremony, but he wanted this done here and now with everyone present." Explained the horse.
"In that case, before we begin, have you thought of a new name for yourself?" The Great Wishing Star asked.
"We were just discussing that," Trueheart said turning at the human smiling. "So, what would you like your new name to be?" Joaquin stood there deep in thought and a bit nervous. Even the magi stood in awe of the great wishing star as it seemed to calm all tensions for the time being as they stood in awe looking up at the star shining brightly.
Joaquin's eyes lit up as he snapped his free hand. "I got it!" Joaquin said looking at Trueheart then up at the Great Wishing Star. "Since my life went from good to dark, then my hope is restored to my heart with it flickering, Shimmeringstar is what I wish to be called." Joaquin said looking up at the great wishing star.
"That's a very unique name," Smiled the star. "Okay let's begin, brace yourself... Shimmeringstar, of carelot." As it suddenly glowed brightly as magic bursted out of his points and the rays of the starlight hit Shimmers body.
"Whoa my body feels all tingly." Joaquin said as Trueheart let go of his hand and spread his arms out till she regrasped his hand as Nobleheart grasped the other.
"Relax, accept the gift." Trueheart said with a reeassuring smile. Shimmers smiled back at her as he closed his eyes letting his body succomb to the magic.Suddenly, without warning Shimmers body began to glow along with the stars feeling tingly warmth in his chest that spread out throughout his body covering what felt like love and warm feelings of caring resonating through his body. Shimmers spread out his arms and closed his eyes embracing it and his new life as he completely gave himself over to this. But as he closed his eyes what he didn't notice, was sandy colored fur was beginning to sprout underneath his arms and began to rapidly spread around his ribs, going into his shirt which made it poof out and looked tight. Shimmers didn't know this as the intensity of the feelings of warmth increased. His shoes also were looking tight as his feet were also being transformed as his pants were stretched now looking three sizes to big. His ears wiggled back and forth till they eventually ended up on top of his head as light brown beige fur began to form on the newly rounded ears. This time he felt this as he lifted his hands up touching his ears.
"Huh? What's going on?" Shimmers said now alerted now noticing the fur spreading through his arms, and his hands got sucked into his wrists seemingly as small short bear paws began to form on his hands as he looked in alarm at that and looked at Trueheart.
"Relax my cub your transforming into one of us now." She said smiling at him reassuringly. Shimmers smiled blushing looking into her eyes accepting her warm welcoming demeanor then glanced up at the star as he tried to move, but found he could not. He felt the warmth of Trueheart's paw and Nobleheart gently carressing his other hand which in turn made him relax. "Embrace it." She said whispering as he closed his eyes feeling the fur spreading through his arms, as he felt the fur go between his legs and his thighs. Shimmers calmed down and accepted the change as he closed his eyes till he was completely transformed into a sandy furred bear and a newly three pointed star image that burned into his shirt on his tummy. His face was also shaped as a heart shaped nose formed on his nose along with a white muzzle with fur now covering his face. Then the star and his body stopped glowing. Shimmers opened his eyes and narrowed his eyes at Trueheart and Nobleheart. Trueheart caught his gaze as her lips trembled before speaking. "Shimmers, are you okay?" She inquired taking a step towards him. Shimmers then lifted his paws up taking a good long look at them, along with removing his shoes and socks. He had three toes the middle toes being the biggest. He also noticed as he lifted up his foot it had a red heart on his heel and white padded toes on each toe. His feet were much bigger than they were in his human form with well defined arches and details. He placed his foot down into the clouds as it felt very soft and welcoming like pillows before he looked up at the star again. His gaze left his face as he smiled admiring his new form. "I'm more than okay. I look cute and.... WOW!" Shimmers said smiling which made the star chuckle.
"Your transformation is complete," Said the Great Wishing Star smiling. "Welcome to the carebear family." Waived the star as everyone was cheering till this celebration was deterred momentarily.
"Wait, he has to be sworn in first remember?" Loveheart shouted making a point as if probing for a reaction to ruin Shimmers moment.
"Oh my stars, your right Loveheart bear, thanks for reminding us," Trueheart said turning and facing Shimmers. "Shimmers, raise your right paw." She said smiling enthusiastically as she raised hers Shimmers raised his smiling with no pain. "Do you promise to protect the carebear family?"
"I do." Shimmers said without wavering.
"Do you promise to also uphold the caring principle and to always be a beacon of light of caring and to serve and protect the innocent against all anti forces of caring?" Trueheart said looking into his eyes.
"I DO!" Shimmers said enthusiastically.
"Then welcome to the carebear family!" With that everyone started clapping and jumping up and down in celebration surrouding Shimmers as they also were curious about this.
"How do you feel Shimmers?" Asked Nobleheart.
"Does it feel odd being a bear and having a new body?" Wish bear asked.
"All I can tell you is, IT FEELS GREAT!" Shimmers shouted waiving his paw up in a fist pump truimphantly as everyone cept for the magi cheered with him.
"With that, Trueheart, I bid thee farewell. Goodluck with your new family Shimmers." said the star waving at him in a friendly tone.
"Goodbye Great Wishing star, I promise to put your gift to good use!" He said as the star disappeared into the distance as cheering could still be heard as the celebration continued. Shimmers took off his shirt and all his clothes and admired his new tummy symbol rubbing it up and down. "I can't believe I am officially a carebear. Thank you Trueheart." Shimmers said as a tear went down his cheek.
"Its my pleasure Shimmeringstar bear." Trueheart said nuzzling her nose against his right cheek as he closed his right eye smiling happily enjoying the affection. Shimmers was no taller than Trueheart. He tried to walk and nearly stumbled. "WHOA!" Shimmers shouted as Nobleheart and Trueheart caught him by his shoulders and pushed him back to his feet. "Careful there, your still getting used to your new body." Trueheart said in a friendly caring tone as Shimmers took a moment to stand on his own. "Now, try to take your first step forward." She encouraged. Shimmers lifted up his right leg and took a small step foward successfully with a little wobbling that was steadied by Trueheart holding his right arm for support as he placed his foot down meeting Trueheart's gaze. "Then the other. Step two." She said guiding him gently as he took another step forward with alot less wobbling. "Now, step 3." She said letting go but still with her paws there for support just in case he needed it. Shimmers took the next step with alot better success. "Step four." She counted like a kids nursery rhyme having done this many times when she and Nobleheart had taken care of many cubs. Shimmers took a wider step this time bigger than the last, and this time next to no wobbling and stepped again as Trueheart counted. "Step five and six." Shimmers after taking those steps successfully turned and faced Trueheart.
"This will take some getting used to being shorter, with this new bear body, but I think I'm going to like it." Shimmers said as he blinked his eyes.
"Now try walking on your own." Trueheart encouraged smiling at him. Shimmers then took his first step forward followed by the other as he looked like a over grown cub determined to get this down. He kept doing this till he managed a full walk without any help from others getting used to the feel of the clouds beneath his feet feeling like pillows against the fur of his feet and heels.
"Very good, now your getting it." Trueheart said as the carebears clapped for his success. "There, see? Not so bad huh?" Trueheart said encouragingly.
"No this is getting easier." Shimmers said as he now stood there. "So now what?" He inquired. Trueheart was about to answer when she got interrupted by a sharp voice behind her as everyone turned to face her.
"How about you face me in a friendly practice karate battle now that your officially part of the carebear family?" Confidence said openly challenging Shimmers standing beside Loveheart with her tails waving behind her. "Unless YOUR..unsure of yourself now." She said pointing her two tails at Shimmers above her head.
"Confidence Heart fennec, he is barely learning to walk, let alone fight, must you be this insistent on this special occassion?" Trueheart frowned wishing she would leave this alone.
"Yes, I must matter of fact Trueheart bear," She said almost in a mocking, unkind tone as her tails went behind her and stood up vertical alongside her back waving back and forth. "If he is the chosen one, sworn...protector of the carebear family trying to replace us, doesn't it make sense he has to be able to beat some of us in battle one on one in battle to see if he can handle it?" She said crossing her arms as some of the other magi were murmuring in agreement standing behind Confidence. Shimmers narrowed his eyes at her clearly not appreciating her tone.
"He's not replacing you or any of your family Confidence, please understand, we need your protection just as much as we need Shimmers protection," She tried to say in a kind logical reconcilatory manner to the fennec. "Besides he barely joined, that would be cruel and unfair for you to challenge him now." Trueheart said trying to defend Shimmers as if he was her cub.
"Why do you protect him so much?" Confidence heart chided gritting her teeth. "You forget the harm he did to us, and the fact is he also hurt me in battle along with Sweetheart." She pointed out. Trueheart narrowed her eyes and was about to respond till Shimmers stepped forward as his rage was building.
"ENOUGH!" Shimmers shouted stepping in front of Trueheart as this caught the fennec off guard as she quickly got into a fighting stance as if she was expecting Shimmers to attack her at anytime as the other magi stood in the ready just in case Shimmers did something out of line.
"Oh it seems Trueheart's cub has some courage after all, lets go!" Confidence said as her two tails waived behind her ready to use them in this for a unfair advantage.
"Confidence Heart fennec, I know why your wanting to challenge me, and honestly its a disgrace." Shimmers pointed out boldly rebuking her sharply.
"Disgrace? Your one to talk!" Confidence Heart said gritting her teeth.
"You talk about being a karate master, and I know what they teach in Karate form. I know cause I learned to fight in all fighting forms." Shimmers pointed out sharply. "You disgrace yourself and everything that karate gi you wear stands for." Shimmers said raising his voice determined to put an end to this.
"Don't you dare speak to me about honor! You have not the right!" She said as she stepped up to him as the two were nose to nose face to face. "Not after everything you have done and the harm you did to this family." She said gritting her teeth.
"Your only wanting to challenge me not for honor, not for training to better yourself, your only wanting to challenge me because you want to humiliate me in front of the carebear family for petty revenge to sooth your ego, and is this a reflection of the carebear family values? Did you not take the same vow I took? To protect and to serve those who are innocent, and to defend all love and caring?" Shimmers said looking at her squarely in the eye without flinching as Confidence was to stunned to respond to that point as Shimmers continued to talk. "I don't know much about magi or how you work or think, or how Sage Heart and Lifeheart raised you, but when I rescued them, they were very kind to me even though they were scared to death about losing there lives to Noheart." Shimmers said a bit sadly still deeply regretting that as everyone noticed his softer tone. "There good people, and they didn't deserve what I put them through, and I'm so sorry for hurting them, or any of your family. But we are on the same team now. All this fighting is pointless. So I am asking you, can't we please wipe the slate clean?" Shimmers said trying to show he was not wanting a confrontation.
"No," Confidence said pushing Shimmers back with her two tails hard nearly knocking Shimmers over as he stumbled and got his balance just in time. "I will not wipe the slate clean, what you did was wrong and you need to be held accountable for it." Confidence said getting back in her fighting stance as Trueheart and Lifeheart stood between them to intercede.
"Confidence, stop it right now!" Lifeheart said looking at her narrowing her eyes.
"Your defending him too?" She said surprised and stunned looking at Lifeheart.
"Yes, because it was already decided how Shimmers would make up for the mistakes he has done," Lifeheart said standing firm on that point.
"But he.." She said still trying to argue.
Shimmers walked up trying to get around the two. "Shimmers don't!" Trueheart said worriedly. standing between the two.
"Confidence you wanted me to answer your call for a fight?" Shimmers inquired as Confidence smirked.
"Yes, and this time I'm going to kick your...."
"The answer is no!" Shimmers said sharply. "I will not fight a member of the magi or anyone in the carebear family in such a disgraceful manner. In doing so I would dishonor myself more than what I already have." Shimmers said looking down directly at her and all the magi and catching Loveheart's gritting teeth narrowed look.
"Coward! You know that I have two tails now when before I only had one. Now with two tails I will beat you!" She said trying to get by Lifeheart who refused to move out of her way.
"Yeah, Shimmers would most certainly lose even if he had ten years to train." Giggled Sweetheart cruelly.
"That is not true, you couldn't even touch him, in the last battle," Aqua bear pointed out gritting his teeth not liking how the magi were ganging up on Shimmers.
"Confidence heart, fine you want me to suffer at your hands for what I did, go ahead, I won't fight back, your absolutely right, I deserve everything you want to give to me. I feel guilty as it is for the harm I caused.! If this will make you feel better go ahead." Shimmers said spreading out his arms.
"No you must fight me! Now defend yourself!" With one last ditch effort she somehow managed to push Lifeheart ouf of the way and used her wind power to knock Truheart over on her back and quickly stood in front of Shimmers with her tails just inches away from his face. "Well what are you waiting for! I'm right here! DO IT!" Shimmers said as she pushed him with her paws but Shimmers stood firm not being knocked over.
"I said defend yourself!" She said shouting angrily as she punched him hard in the tummy which made Shimmers wince and bend, but Shimmers stood back up.
"I will not, so long as we are part of the same family, I will not raise a paw to you Confidence. My fate is in your hands, now do it." Shimmers said with his arms open out to his sides. She was about to hit him again with a elbow strike to the head till she felt a firm hand stop her elbow.
"ENOUGH OF THIS!" Said the lime green bear. "Confidence as much as I hate to agree with this outcast, he is right." Loveheart said gritting his teeth. "But.." She stammered. "Get back, your attacking someone who is not defending himself, even when we were magi down on earth, we didn't handle things like that. Now step away!' Loveheart said pulling her elbow back as she violently threw her elbow out of his grasp.
"Fine, have it your way Loveheart bear." She said feeling a bit betrayed by her leader as she stepped away. With this Shimmers lowered his arms.
"Thanks Loveheart, I promise to try to show I have chang.." Shimmers didnt even finished as Loveheart bear turned to Shimmers placing a finger on his chest while rubbing his teeth together.
"And you, we are not friends!" Loveheart bear said sharply. "I only did that because she was out of line. And the truth is neither I nor the magi trust you. For all we know you may still be working for Noheart!"
"How could you even think that? I hate him for what he did to my parents!" Shimmers said trying to hide the hurt in his eyes grabbing Loveheart's hand as Loveheart pulled it out and jumped back.
"DON'T TOUCH ME!" Loveheart said in a threatening manner as Shimmers winced back. "You may have been transformed into one of us, but you will never be one of us." He said looking at the new bear up and down before turning around walking away. "Let's go Magi, its clear we are not needed here at the moment." With that the Magi gave Shimmers a few nasty looks including Passion Heart growling at him with those menacing eyes before turning away and grabbed his mates hand but she pulled her hand away.
"Passion, Nu-uh, how your acting and all the magi are acting is wrong. This isn't how were suppose to act." She said in a gentle rebuke.
"Your defending him too?! After everything he has done!" He said shouting at her which the wolverine quickly regretted as he saw his mate tearing up in her eyes which quickly softened him up. "Redemptionheart I..I.." He said stammering as she stepped away from him and began to cry. As he tried to reach for her again, Lonesomeheart slapped his hand away.
"I think you better leave, before you make things worse." Said the hot pink bear as Aqua bear stood there in the ready just in case as Redemptionheart bear buried her forehead with her unicorn star in Aqua bear's chest bawling. Passionheart was shaken, so not knowing what else to say, he scampered away running as he closed his eyes as a tear escaped his eyes wishing he could of taken that back. Shimmers placed a paw over his forehead around his eyes. Trueheart quickly came up to him.
"Shimmers are you okay?" Said the founding bear concerned.
"This is all my fault," Shimmers said shaking from the trauma of what just happened. "I joined this family to start a new and to find my purpose, but instead on my first day I am causing you guy's to be divided." Trueheart hugged him and nuzzled his cheek.
"No its not your fault, don't blame yourself Shimmers," Trueheart said hugging him tightly with Shimmers shaking in her grasp. "Its not your fault, I am so proud of you." She said kissing him on the cheek and comforting him.
"How could you be proud of me? I caused nothing but trouble." He said as a tear could be seen going down his cheek.
"I am proud of you because you didn't do the wrong thing," She said grasping her hands in his. "Look at me my cub."She said smiling at him. "You could of fought her, but instead you reminded her, and all of us why we're here and what we stand for." She said as Shimmers eyes were red trying to divert her gaze. "Look at me Shimmers, please." She pleaded as Shimmers sniffled but managed to look at her. "Its not your fault, and you are one of us." With that, Shimmers hugged her tightly. When Trueheart turned to see if Lifeheart and Sageheart were there, they were not, They had disappeared along with the magi not witnessing the tears of there newest member.
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In the home of Sage Heart bear, and Life Heart, Sage Heart was just happy to get away from that situation since his kids once more acted out of line. Only Lifeheart seemed to be the calmer of the two.
"How could they do that after the talk we just had with them? I told them to play it cool, not go after Shimmers like that again, Not to mention during his moment!" Sage Heart said looking down discouraged as Lifeheart smiled and held him as the two hugged. "What are we going to do about this? I know we got to look and be vigilant for Shimmers, but I didn't mean to rattle his cage and send more shock waves of mistrust to the founders especially." He said besides himself placing a paw over his head while nodding his head.
"Now honey, I have been around for a couple thousand years, and it will all be alright. I have learned that kids will act irrationally at times, sometimes radically, but we raised them right and deep down we know there good kids. If Shimmers shows true to whom he saids he is as he did today, they'll eventually give him a real chance." She said rubbing his back.
"Maybe," Sage Heart said rubbing his chin in thought. "After this wrongful treatment, I expect Shimmers to retaliate against our kids, and I am very worried for them since we both have seen what he can do." He said shaking a bit.
"I am also concerned for that," Lifeheart said looking at him seriously in the eyes with her hands in his shoulders. "Which is why I have decided to still fulfill your request and keep an eye on him." She said. Sage Heart bear smiled. "Thanks." Retorted the bear. "Will take a look into his new home later tomorrow night magically." She said. "This way will see what we are in for and what we're dealing with in terms of what his reaction might be." Lifeheart said as Sage Heart bear agreed with this next set of action.
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Meanwhile, the carebears and cousins dispersed back to there normal duties. Shimmers was now in Redemptionheart's office insisting she made sure he was okay.
"Redemption heart is this really necessary?" Asked Shimmers feeling a bit embarassed by the overly protective doctor taking a look at his ribs as she also felt them.
"Yes it is," She said smiling. "Does any of this hurt a bit?" She said applying light pressure to his ribs. Shimmers ribs flinched a bit as a giggle escaped his lips.
"Nohohohh!" Shimmers said.
"Ohh, are you ticklish?" She smiled squeezing his ribs making the bear wiggle his hips back and forth.
"Yehehehes! Nohohohohoh!" Shimmers said giggling cutely as she nuzzled his belly button making him squeal happily. She finally stopped and raised to his eye level. "Okay, glad to know your doing okay, and remember if you need anything I'll be here." She said crossing her arms over her midsection cutely which made Shimmers blush. "Thanks." Joaquin said as this helped him to feel better after his intense situation with the magi earlier. He then waived goodbye to her as Truehart and Nobleheart were waiting for him since Aqua and Lonesomeheart went home to tend to there son Heart Will Wolf who was being watched by Grams Bear during his time of his transformation.
"So is everything okay? We heard you giggling in there." Trueheart said smiling at the swordsmen which made Shimmers blush.
"Yes, everything went fine, she was just examing my ribs." Joaquin blushed nervously.
"You would not be the first nor the last patient she has tickled." Nobleheart giggled. "And given your earlier situation, I am glad she did that to help you relax a little."
"Yeah, now its time to introduce you to your new home here in Carelot. We already have your home ready Shimmeringstar bear. Come with us." Trueheart said as she grabbed his paw smiling and guided him to his new home. Shimmers followed along while still shaken up by what had just happened earlier, this was really helping him to calm down as it gave him something to focus on to try and forget what happened earlier. After awhile of walking around some cloud streets, and corners, Shimmers was walking barefoot with no clothes only his fur already getting used to this along with the rest of them as he saw his new home. It was white with a red heart on the beige door which took Shimmers by surprise by how nice it looked. "Wow, you got this ready for me?" He said astonished by this as Trueheart took out the key and unlocked the door.
"Yes," Trueheart replied. "Bed time bear took the time to spruce it up for you and got it all ready for you."
"Remind me to thank him later. That was really nice of him to do this for me." He said in a surprised thankful tone.
"Let's go in." Trueheart smiled as she opened the door. Shimmers walked in with her bowing with one arm crossed over her chest with a arm pointing at the open door. Inside it had a tv, a laptop, a red Heartphone, a beige leather couch enough to sit four people, with a decent sized living room. "This is just the living room, let's show you the rest of the house." Trueheart said with Nobleheart grasping his paw and leading him on. When he entered the kitchen, he saw a heart shaped sink, a dishwasher, a pair of heart pink shaped glove holders over hanging over the oven, a fridge and freezer which looked like it was made of cloud, and the floor was pink with his symbol centered in the center of it. A counter space enough to have four carebears standing shoulder to shoulder, and a kitchen table with four chairs.
"This is pretty spacious." Shimmers said smiling. "How did you manage to get my symbol on the floor already?" He asked a bit baffled.
"Bed time bear stared at your kitchen and this is what came to be after he saw you transformed." Explained Trueheart. "Now let's show you your bedroom." Nobleheart smiled at him as he took his paw which Shimmers didn't seem to mind. When he walked over to it, he saw a queen sized bed with a nice foot rest at the end of it that seemed to have two insteps just for his feet to sit on and it was white and a cloud and looked very cozy. "Wow, this is huge for a carebear." Shimmers said. "Not only that, you have a dresser, a desk computer, and a sliding mirror closet." That closet had doors twice the size of his bed's width. When he looked inside of it, it had alot of space with heart and star shaped hangers, along with plenty of room to store boxes and other things inside along with a small counter space above the hanger wrack.
"That's pretty much it." Trueheart said. "Oh your restroom is over there." She said as it was to the left of his queen bed a good distance away right next to the computer desk. It had a simple shower bathtub, a heart red heart shaped mirror, a towel wrack for a hand washing towel along with a towel wrack near the shower curtain by the door of the bathroom, once again the floor had his symbol engraved on the tiling of the bathroom with his yellow shaped star. "Neat huh?"
"Yes it is, its perfect!" Shimmers said almost crying in gratitude.
"Shimmers are you okay?" She inquired coming next to him watching him closely with concern.
"Yes, I am very blessed to have you as my new family, and this is far more than what I deserve, thank you so much." He said hugging Trueheart who closed her eyes hugging him back and rubbing his back as Nobleheart giggled as Nobleheart joined in hugging the sandy furred bear. After a long minute of this embrace, Trueheart handed him the key.
"Here, this is yours now. If you need anything were right next door along with Sage Heart and Lifeheart." Trueheart said with her voice trailing off.
"Thank you." Shimmers said as a happy tear escaped his eye. With that Trueheart and Nobleheaert waived him goodbye as he followed them to the door with the two founder smiling kindly at him. "Goodbye, see you tomorrow." Shimmers said. "I lo.." Shimmers stammered.
Trueheart and Nobleheart turned to him. "Yes Shimmers?" Trueheart and Nobleheart turned smiling hoping to hear what they thought he was about to say to them.
"I love you both." Shimmers said sniffling.
"We love you to my cub." Trueheart said throwing him a kiss with her paw which made him a blush a bit.
"Come now Trueheart, will see him tomorrow." With that once more they waived goodbye as Shimmers stood there by the door till they disappeared into there home. He then went into his new home and locked the door. As he entered inside his home, it seemed so lonely even though he felt so loved by the founders. As that loneliness set in, he went to go look in the fridge and saw a decent amount of food but he was not hungry since his stomach had that queesy sad feeling. Then it hit him the flash back of what Loveheart did snapping at him. "Don't touch me! You'll never be one of us!" Shimmers closed the door hard and began crying placing a paw over his forehead as the tears flooded his cheeks.
