Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Panda and Ice Bear took Grizz to one spot of the San Francisco forest after he put on his blindfold from home. They’ve been hiding the surprise from his brother for days, preventing him from anywhere in the forest especially San Francisco ever since they released all the bears from Agent Trout. A lot has changed since bears were fully accepted in society and it wasn’t easy for them to set up the surprise for their brother.

“Are we almost there?” Grizz asked.

“Yes, just keep walking.” Panda smiled.

“Still can’t believe I haven’t spent days in the forest.”

“Trust us, it’ll be worth it.”

“Ice Bear doesn’t mess with surprises.” Ice Bear commented.

They made their way to their destination where a fire took place. In no time, Panda and Ice Bear stopped Grizz in place as Ice Bear untied the blindfold.

“SURPRISE!!!” Chloe, her parents, Darrell, his wife Sofia, Lucy, her brother and boyfriend Clifford and Kale, Ranger Tabes, The Poppy Rangers, Griff, Tom, Isaac, Amanda, Samantha, Kazumi, and Karla shouted, catching Grizz by surprise.

“Wow!” Grizz reacted.

“Happy Bear Solidarity Day!” Panda cheered as the bears, small and big, jumped out of the brushes. They walked up to Grizz and they roared softly, not loud to disturb him.

“Happy Bear Solidarity Day?”

“It’s a holiday Panda and Ice Bear made back in San Francisco a week ago.” Chloe smiled.

“They’re celebrating the holiday over there, but it’s way better doing it here.” Ranger Tabes added.

Grizz teared up from the sight itself. His friends, brothers, and bears are celebrating a holiday they earned. “This is awesome!”

“You bet!” Griff and Kale replied.

Grizz and his brothers sat down next to the fireplace while the other bears sat next to the other humans. “I never thought we would get our very own holiday!”

“Believe me, it wasn’t easy to make it a holiday.” Panda giggled.

“It’s a long story.” Lucy replied.

“I’m still surprised you managed to get a holiday thanks to a heroic rescue.” Karla commented. “I wasn’t there when you three came back.”

“Surprised you didn’t see it on TV.” Darrell turned to her. “Everyone saw it.”

“I was out of the city.”

“Ohh, that’s right.” Grizz remembered. “You took a trip to Los Angeles for a week.”

“It was the closest place I could take a vacation.”

This gave Grizz a thought when it came to him and his brothers escaping even if it was anything but a vacation. “If you had to escape a corrupt government agent, you would probably have to go far away from California.” Sofia added.

“The bears did tell me their story and about Agent Trout, it’s just it was my first vacation in almost a decade.”

“Not that we blame you, it’s Trout we’ve been worrying about.” Panda replied.

The bear cubs hid behind Amanda’s leg in fear, still remembering how intimidating Agent Trout was. The panda girl picked one of them up, hugging to give it comfort from fear. “We all have a lot to think about but all that matters is that he's arrested and he’s not gonna be released from jail anytime soon.” She nuzzled on the cub.

“I still can’t believe you almost went to Canada.” Clifford replied. “Even if it wasn’t by choice.”

Grizz did tell them why they couldn’t go to Canada, but he didn’t plan out what their new life would’ve been. He wasn’t sure if they were safe, but in the current duration, he and his brothers were far from harm. “I only glorified the idea of going to Canada with my brothers. But we never stepped foot in the land because we did not have passports.”

“Ice Bear never experienced Royal Canadian Mounted Police.” Ice Bear commented.

“Not to mention there’s more bears there from what I saw online.” Chloe replied.

This gave Karla a thought, knowing how Canada has a variety of bears in the high north. She sat by the bears, taking them by notice. “Do you want to go to Canada?” She asked. “Even after everything that happened?”

Grizz and his brothers looked at the bears all wanting to know their answer. “If we had passports…” Soon everyone paid attention to Grizz. “...we still don’t know what life is like there.”

“Life in Canada looks good from the outside.” Diaz replied. “On the inside…”

“It’s a wonderful world to explore.” Murphy added.

The Poppy Rangers loved the idea of going to Canada, but Ranger Tabes still feels unsure. “It is but do you know what adventure it would be like?” She pointed at the bears.

“That’s a great question.” Kale commented.

“You went through a lot.” Tom added. “Everywhere you go, something happens.”

“There’s no avoiding it.” Samantha added.

The bears remembered their journeys, endless and endless journeys even from their house alone. But in a new environment like Canada, they don’t even know what the unexpected would be like.

“I guess we could try giving it a shot but we still need time.” Grizz answered.

“Adventure or experience, we need to plan out before…obviously.” Panda still remembers the whole passport problem.

“Ice Bear qualifies blueprint odyssey.” Ice Bear spoked.

“That’s fine.” Lucy smiled. “Just remind us when you're ready.”

“We'll come if you do, even if it requires passports.” Griff replied.

“Isaac all the way.” Isaac added.

The bears and friends returned to their holiday as they ate marshmallows, heating them over the fireplace. Soon the other bears allowed The Poppy Rangers, Chloe, and Clifford to ride on their backs along with cubs in the front and back. Bear Solidarity Day put the bros back in the mood, hanging out with their friends and how the changed society improved their lives. When it comes to their plans, they get back to that when they head back to their home.

Chapter Text

When everyone left the forest, the bears returned back to their home. When Charlie came over, Grizz, Panda, and Ice Bear sat together on their sofa, thinking about their plan after telling Charlie their time with their friends.

“Canada?” Charlie blinked. “You three want to go there?”

“Yes, but we still need to plan this out.” Panda answered. “Passports are the first goal.”

“And taking people along.” Grizz remembered. “We really need to work out some of their schedules.”

Ice Bear knew he would take Chloe along, but there’s one person he wanted to bring, knowing it’ll take weeks until he reunites with her. He made a promise to himself to show her to his brothers but he didn’t know when the time was right.

“Ice Bear?” Grizz taped on Ice Bear’s shoulder. “Thinking of someone to bring along?”

Ice Bear nodded. “Ice Bear will show you tonight.”

Charlie crossed his arms, while looking at the ground. He wanted to come along, but at the same time, he still hasn’t got over his fear of being around humans. “Aren’t you gonna miss me if you do go?”

“Charlie, even if you do come along, you haven’t met all of our friends.” Grizz spoked.

“I was with a few of them when you came back.”

“Yeah up until you headed back to the forest.” Panda recalled.

“I didn’t have anything to do, even when you’re accepted in society, I just wanted to keep my distance from humans. I can’t let go of my fear.”

The bears wanted to help Charlie, but they’re aware how sensitive he is. Aside from Ranger Tabes, they still feel unsure about helping him meet their friends one by one. “We will miss you.” Grizz replied.

“Sorry bears, if only I can figure out a way to work out my problem.”

“It’s not like you couldn’t control your fear.” Panda replied. “I had fears I couldn’t let go.” As they got back to their Canada plan, there was only one way to resolve their passport problem. “Do you think we need someone to help us?”

“What do you mean?” Grizz asked.

“Like having someone to help out with the passports? Not to mention getting us in Canada? Our friends may be willing to come but if they can’t get their own passports on their own, we won’t be able to have our Canada adventure.”

“Ice Bear can’t get through the massive barrier.” Ice Bear commented.

Grizz couldn’t disagree. After the journey he and his brothers went through after being forced to leave San Francisco, they didn’t want the same set back to ruin everything all over again. Then an idea came to Grizz. “Panda, do you still have that Mom App?”

Panda blinked from the idea, he took out his phone while looking at the apps until the one his brother just mentioned. “Yes.” He responded. “I forgot to delete it.”

Grizz took the phone from Panda while pressing the Mom App. “We picked three moms while having one mom…get punished since we couldn’t cancel her.”

“You couldn’t cancel her?” Charlie asked.

“We called her mother, but it had nothing to do with cancel culture.” Panda answered.

When Grizz looked through the section of moms up until the one he picked last time. “This could work.” Grizz showing his brothers a picture of Gayle. “She could take care of not only our passports, but some of our friends too.”

“Wait, should we think about this? You know she embarrassed us and she’ll have to come with us.”

“It’ll be the only way to get to Canada. We can at least reason with her, she can be more than a mom.”

Panda and Ice Bear wanted to believe him, but they wished there’s another way. If they had the choice of picking a different mom, they would get themselves into the same predicament as before. But they agree that out of the three moms they picked, Gayle was the best.

“Okay, but there’s no going back.” Panda sighed.

“Ice Bear prays he doesn’t take violin lessons.” Ice Bear said, taking the risk.

“Charlie, you need to leave right now, the moment we press the button, she’ll be right at the front door.” Grizz pointed at the door.

“Okay.” Charlie makes his way to the back door of the house. “Good luck with your trip to Canada.”

“We'll find something to give you when we get back.”

Charlie felt a little better from their gesture before he headed out, finding a different route to prevent getting attention. Grizz pressed the button on the phone and in no time, Gayle knocked on their door. Like before, they walked up to the door as Grizz opened it, revealing Gayle.

“Oh it's you boys again.” She cheered. “Let’s throw a party to celebrate-”

“No! No! No! No!” Both Grizz and Panda shouted.

Ice Bear pulled Gayle inside while closing the door, placing her on the sofa. “Whoa! Then we can play party video games!”

“Maybe later, but please don’t do anything!” Grizz walked in front of Gayle.

“We support your supportiveness, but do it when we need it.” Panda added. “Even though…that’s not why we wanted you.”

Gayle felt confused after listening to the honesty from the bears. “Then what do you really want from me?”

Grizz sighed while telling the truth. “We want you to help us and our friends…to get passports to Canada.”

Gayle remained silent from the answer she received. She wasn’t happy, but she wasn’t mad either. All she wanted to do is support her boys with her part of the family, while in actuality, she’s only part of an app for services. “Do you love your mom?”

The bears looked at each other, not wanting to hurt her feelings. “Yes.”

“We’re doing activities in Canada. If you help us, we'll do anything to prove to you we love you.” Panda replied.

“Ice Bear won’t keep moms in the dark.” Ice Bear said.

“Well it’s not that I don’t like Canada, it’s just doing passports is the last thing I would want to do.” Gayle speaking honestly. “What kind of trip would it be like in Canada?”

“It’ll…be an adventure!” Grizz coming up for the solution. “We’re maybe separated in groups, but you will have a great adventure.”

“You can hang out with our friends. They’re really fun to be around.” Panda said.

Gayle found the idea appealing, especially with the surprises coming her way. Even a mother who takes their pride seriously, it still wouldn’t hurt to make friends if she helps coming along. She got up from the sofa, walked towards the bears while giving them a big hug.

“I love seeing my boys have their adventures!” She cheered. “Even if I’m not gonna be around for all of you three, you can still tell me everything that happened.”

“So you’re gonna help us with the passports?” Grizz wondered.

“You bet I am!”

“Great, we’re sending you to Ranger Tabes and The Poppy Rangers to help them out, after we play party video games!”

“Oh!”

As Grizz turned on his video game system, he gave Gayle her controller and so did Panda. Just when he’s about to give Ice Bear his controller, he made his way to the kitchen. “Ice Bear, it won’t be family without you.”

Ice Bear turned around before heading into the kitchen. “Ice Bear needs an important item before Ice Bear forgets.”

“Oh that’s right, we don’t want to leave a single friend out from the adventure.”

“We’re waiting for y'all.” Panda added.

Ice Bear entered the kitchen while opening the refrigerator. He’s thankful Grizz and Panda didn’t find out soon but his time ran out when the unexpected happened. He took out the necklace, from someone who they forgot to bring, and Ice Bear kept it to himself since. He however doesn’t know if Grizz and Panda will catch on if they meet the person, especially Chloe, who he wanted to tell her about it. He’s lucky enough to get the person’s phone number the last time he crossed paths, but he’s unsure if the person’s willing to accept the trip to Canada.

Chapter Text

Later in the night, Ice Bear took Grizz, Panda, Isaac and Chloe to the destination he usually goes during nighttime. Unlike him and Isaac, Grizz, Panda, and Chloe were too tired, planning to go to sleep. They never bothered Ice Bear’s daily nights out, but they were never those types. When they tried to follow him, they couldn’t keep up with Ice Bear riding on Roomba.

“Icy B.” Grizz yarned. “I appreciate you getting your closest friend to come along, but is it really necessary to do it this late?”

Ice Bear turned around while maintaining his balance on Roomba. “Yes.” He responded.

“I have to go to bed, Ice Bear.” Chloe trying to keep her eyes open. “I also need to work out my problem of heading to Canada too.”

“We still have time, but can we not do this at night?” Panda added.

Ice Bear and his group entered the hidden ally only he went to from time to time. He got off Roomba as he knocked on the door but no one responded like last time. He expected the bouncer to answer but after ten seconds, it felt like he wasn’t by the door.

“Hm!” Ice Bear reacted.

“Isaac senses no one’s taking the job as bouncer.” Isaac commented.

Ice Bear looked at the door while eavesdropping on it. He didn’t hear everything from the other side, as if no one’s inside. Then he decided to push the door as it opened, learning it was unlocked the whole time. They all entered inside with all the lights off. Ice Bear clapped twice to have Roomba turn on its flashlight capability.

“I don’t think anyone’s here.” Chloe looked around.

“Are those computers?” Panda pointed.

“And a coffee bar?” Grizz added.

Ice Bear went to the electric switches, turned off when the employees usually keep them on. He turned them on as the red leon lights of the word Coffee lit up. The green lights turned on around the bar, while the computers slowly turned on, taking everyone by surprise.

“So what is the person you wanted us to meet?” Grizz asked.

“Yana.” He responded.

“Who’s Yana?” Panda asked.

Ice Bear then opened the necklace, showing his bros and friends the picture of her and their parents. He pointed at her underneath, her father as they looked at her closely. “How old is that picture?” Chloe asked.

“Twenty years old.” Ice Bear answered.

“Really? How do you know what she looks like now?”

Then they heard the door being pushed open, taking their attention and so did Ice Bear as he closed the necklace. When she saw Ice Bear in person, she wasn’t fazed at all, especially his group with two bears. “Ice Bear never forgets human faces.”

Isaac took notice from the lady with purple highlights in her black hair with a tattoo on her arm. When she walked up to the group, she looked down at Chloe, taking her by surprise. “You must be Yana right?” She backed away a little.

“You catch on quick from him, huh?” Yana smirked.

Ice Bear then walked up to her while handing her the necklace. “Ice Bear kept personal belongings.”

“You had my necklace this whole time?” She took her necklace from him. “I thought I lost it.” She opened it, and witnessed her photo of two parents.

“Wow, an undercover dude.” Grizz commented. “That’s an interesting friend you have, Icy B.”

Ice Bear didn’t want to retort to his brother, but he knew he won’t get the real truth from what his night outs are like. “Ice Bear, brothers, and friends are going to Canada. Ice Bear wants to know if you want to come.” He offered.

“Canada?” Yana responded. “Seems an odd place to go after the many places we went.”

“You went to different places?” Chloe took notice.

“Yes. Places all over the globe, Tokyo, just to name one of them.”

“Tokyo!?” Panda reacted. “Why didn’t you tell us Ice Bear!?”

“Okay, let’s not get over our heads.” Grizz pulling Panda away. “But still, you didn’t tell us about this?”

“Ice Bear wants to be a solo adventurer.” Ice Bear responded.

“Isaac was overthrown by a world traveling bear.” Issac replied.

Yana laughed from Ice Bear’s bros. “I have to say your bros are kind of funny. Not to mention your friend there seems to qualify for missions.” She stared at Isaac. “As for your offer, I’ll take it. Besides from how our troubles got last time, it’s better to go somewhere that isn’t a deathtrap.”

This caused Ice Bear to place his paws on his face, causing his brothers to take notice. “On second thought, it’s better if you never told us what you’ve been doing over night.” Panda awkwardly grinned.

“Why is this coffee place closed with the door unlocked?” Grizz asked.

“I had to quit my job and the people who used to work here abandoned this place due to…Barry finding out where I work.” Yana sighed. “Granted I wish he and his goons would leave me alone, but I knew it would just get uglier.”

“Just hearing the name Barry is someone I really don’t want to meet, just like how I met Agent Trout.” Chloe commented which caused Yana to lean down.

“I’ve heard of him and I saw Ice Bear on TV when I was at a bar. Haven’t heard of him since you came back.” She looked up at Ice Bear while back at Chloe. “If you saw me and him together, we would make an unstoppable team.”

Chloe looked back to Ice Bear, from time to time, they’ve done so much together but when it comes to missions, she looked at Roomba. She wished she experienced what Ice Bear accomplished, but living on the verge of danger is the last thing she wanted. But her attention was turned to Yana’s necklace, remembering her parents. “Do you remember the last time you met your parents?”

“Not much, life was different when I was with them and it changed when I came here.”

“It’s sad that your mom and dad aren’t gonna be in Canada.” Grizz spoked. “I believe it would make your time there.”

“It’s not like I was expecting more. If there's a will there’s a way of getting away from Barry.”

When Ice Bear looked at Roomba, he planned on bringing it along, but was having second thoughts. If Barry is still in San Francisco, he could find his home and rob it. But if he does bring it, he could encounter him with him being a step ahead of him. However with Yana by his side, she’s right about him and her being an unstoppable team. And with Isaac by his side, he has no problem telling him everything.

“Ice Bear makes sure our trip is harm free.” He responded.

“I’ll pack up and I’ll come when you’re ready.” Yana smiled. Just when she’s about to head out, she turned around. “By the way, I found your little kid my favorite.” As she headed out, it caused Chloe to smile a bit.

“Looks like I’m gonna be making a friend in Canada.” Chloe replied. “If I can still resolve to go to Canada.”

“We’re still working it out.” Grizz looked at Chloe. “Do you need to convince your college principals your trip to Canada is important?”

“They wanted me to do research in Canada, but I turned it down. Too much work for me to handle nor have fun.”

“You could write a story about your experiences in Canada.”

“Yeah, it’s still an adventure and it’s also your adventure.” Panda added.

“Ice Bear’s happy to read Chloe’s Canada adventure.” Ice Bear replied.

“Okay, I’ll tell them that.” Chloe smiled. “That’s something I would have fun to do.”

“I do want you to meet someone tomorrow. Ranger Tabes, Griff, and Karla are gonna come also. If he wants to come, that is.” Grizz placed his paws on his body. “I still can’t believe you haven’t heard of him yet.”

“Isaac is aware of celebrity animals, but never knew them personally.” Isaac commented.

“I can tell he won’t like Ranger Tabes at all.”

“I’m still looking forward to meeting him. Especially since I might make a friend with someone we just met.” Chloe said.

“Trust us, he’s not gonna be like Yana.” Panda replied. “Anyway, we should head home. Me, Lucy, Clifford, Kale, Kazumi, and Tom are gonna go to Amanda’s house first thing in the morning.”

The Bears and two humans left the coffee building as Ice Bear took Chloe home, the same way he did after the camping day he had not too long ago. The moment he arrives in Canada with Yana by his side, he’ll be prepared if any foe similar to Barry or Trout gets in his way.

Chapter Text

The following morning, Lucy, Clifford, and Kale picked up Panda after they picked up Kazumi and Tom. Amanda texted them that she has a surprise for what she’s bringing along for their trip to Canada. “I still can’t believe you haven’t been to her house yet.” Kale said, sitting on the front seat.

“Or met her parents yet.” Kazumi added.

“Well she never told me where she lived in San Francisco.” Panda replied, sitting in the back. “Her profile here felt like me and my brothers were, except she appeared less in San Francisco, only hanging out with me while mostly at my place.”

“She never told you where she lives?” Tom replied. “I did kidnap you, but I still showed you where I lived…up until I moved into Griff and Isaac’s place.”

“People don’t always stay in San Francisco, which is why she texted me her home address.” Lucy took out her phone. “When she moved along with her family, she moved to Sausalito.”

“Her friends told me about Amanda being at Sausalito after Christmas. It’s just me and my brothers who never had an interest in going there.”

“You’re in for a surprise.” Kale looked back. “Lucy and I went there and it’s amazing. You get a great view of San Francisco in the distance across the sea.”

“And the houses there are great.” Lucy added.

“I enjoyed the olives there. They were much fresher.” Clifford commented.

“Huh, it’s weird she never asked me to hang at her place when her parents aren’t there.” Panda said to himself.

“It’s probably because her parents love their new home deeply.” Kuzumi smiled. “Can’t wait to see what it looks like.”

Lucy drove through the buildings of Sausalito while paying attention to Amanda’s home address. She parked by the end of the road while the dock houses are located. Upon coming out, Panda followed Lucy, Clifford, and Kale from behind. He looked at the dock houses floating on the water, while Tom enjoyed the sight of the ocean. Mornings make Sausalito beautiful, especially when boats appear in the sea for more sightseeing. It wasn’t long until they arrived at Amanda's house, it was painted in pink, but wasn’t big like Chloe’s house. They slowly stepped on the front porch where the water lapped underneath.

When Panda looked at the house itself, he took a deep breath, knowing the moment inevitably had to arrive. “Well, there’s no going back now.” He pressed the doorbell, waiting along with his friends by his side. Soon, it was answered with Amanda’s dad revealing to Panda for the first time. He didn’t hesitate the moment he saw Amanda’s boyfriend after the pictures she took with him.

“Panda.” He responded. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

“Yeah, long overdue, but hello.” Panda lifted his hand up while Amanda’s father gave him a hand shake. He invited them inside as he closed the door behind Tom, while taking them to the living room.

“I’ve heard you are going to Canada…and my daughter wants to go.”

“It was technically Grizz’s idea when it came to our holiday last night.”

“We’re still making preparations.” Lucy added.

“I know how that felt when we made the choice to move here.” Amanda’s father commented. “Even if you are only taking a vacation up north, we had so many preparations on which place we should move to.”

“Must’ve been a rough time before moving here.” Clifford replied.

“There’s so many choices, but in the end, you can only pick one.”

Then Amanda’s mother entered the living room, taking notice of Panda himself. “Oh you’re finally here.” She smiled.

“Hi Amanda’s mom.”

“Amanda’s upstairs in case you’re wondering. She just finished breakfast.”

“Are you gonna be alright with Amanda leaving if we do go?”

“No, not at all. Amanda went on vacation on her own without us. She had a lot of fun activities.”

“What was her favorite place she wanted to go?” Kuzumi wondered.

“China.”

This caused the ramen chief to smile. “Oh, is it because there’s pandas over there?” She gently hit her elbow on Panda.

“We all know where pandas come from.” Panda smiled. “But to be realistic, she wouldn’t have met me since I’ve lived in San Francisco my whole life.”

“I’m sure she wouldn’t even get a boyfriend who’s willing to cross overseas just to be with her.” Amanda’s mom replied.

Panda knew it wasn’t a coincidence for Amanda to just accept to be his girlfriend, knowing that his brothers helped him out before heading to camp. “Should we meet your daughter now?” Kale asked.

“Of course, she’s outside, on the balcony from her room.” Amanda’s dad pointed upstairs.

“She has an outdoor balcony?” Tom replied.

“Dock houses here have balconies, just to have a clear view of the ocean. You couldn’t imagine how lucky we are just to have this place.”

“You all can meet her upstairs. She has a surprise for you.” Amanda’s mom said.

“Yeah, she texted me about it.” Lucy showed her phone to Amanda’s parents. “We should be on our way.”

Panda’s group wasted little time as they headed upstairs. Panda saw Amanda’s door open, all the while seeing her room for the first time. Tons of panda accessories all around the room didn’t even phase Panda. He knew she adores pandas the many times she hung out with him, even when their profile slowly became accepted thanks to society changing.

“Wow, talk about panda mania.” Kale wrapped his arm around Panda. “Imagine her being dressed up as a panda in Canada.”

“Everyone up north will definitely get the picture on who you and Amanda truly are.” Lucy added, while rubbing Panda’s head.

“That is if pandas actually live in Canada rather than China.”

“People in Canada still like Pandas, just like your girlfriend.” Kale replied.

Tom and Kuzumi’s attention were turned to the outside balcony where Amanda and Samantha are out; however, it wasn’t Amanda nor her friend themselves. “Uhh, Panda…” Tom getting his friend’s attention. “Look.”

Panda, Lucy, and Kale turned to the balcony which took them by notice. Clifford went past everyone to see the balcony himself, as he and the others saw two young kids playing with Amanda and Samantha. “Two kids.” He responded.

When they made their way out on the balcony, Amanda took notice as she stood up. “Panda.” She smiled while giving him a hug. Panda’s attention was still glued on the two kids, one of which looked at Clifford the moment he stepped outside. One is a boy and the other is a girl who both have the same hair color as Amanda.

“Amanda, who are these kids?” He replied as Amanda broke the hug.

“These kids are my younger brother and sister.” She answered as she pointed at them one by one. “My brother Chanda, my sister Tatiana.”

When Panda looked down at Amanda’s siblings, he always thought that Amanda was a single daughter in her family. “Was this the surprise you meant?”

“Yes. If we go to Canada, I want to bring my brother and sister along.”

“We heard so many cute things about you.” Tatiana smiled.

“That Christmas Eve when you and your brothers turned into cubs.” Chanda added. “I want to hang out with you.”

“Christmas miracles don’t always happen to everyone you know.” Amanda looked down on his brother.

“Besides, you haven’t even heard most of what happened on that day.” Samantha recalled. “You would probably want to hang out with Ice Bear for what he's been through.”

“I’m still having a hard time, a wish caused them to turn into cubs.” Kale commented.

“I’ve watched Grizz’s latest Crowbar Jones movie.” Lucy replied. “It didn’t fool me that Grizz was a cub in that.”

“Anyway…” Panda getting back on topic. “...so many cute things about me huh? Are you panda fans like…”

“They are.” Amanda giggled.

“Well…” Panda blushed.

“I’m sure they saw all the photos of you and your girlfriend.” Kuzumi replied. “Especially the ones from Valentine's Day.”

“You look so cute with the kiss marks on your face.” Tatiana said.

“Seriously, am I the only one who didn’t enjoy that?” Clifford replied.

“I mostly felt jealous the moment I saw it to be honest.” Tom added.

“I’m really looking forward to our trip to Canada.” Chanda replied. “I can’t wait for the adventure we’re gonna have there.”

Panda would want to be respectful towards Amanda’s siblings, but if there’s one thing he didn’t think about is what his adventure would be like with or without his girlfriend. “I would be happy to have you being part of the adventure but…aren’t you two a little concerned about the unexpected?”

“Relax Panda, nothing horrible is gonna happen.” Kale replied.

“Yeah, we’ve watched so many movies with tons of unexpected moments.” Tatiana commented.

“Do they have anything to do with Canada?”

“No.”

“Like, we can do anything fun there, it’s just the unexpected I’m referring to is Canada itself. Even if we’re gonna be away from anything bad happening to us, I just hope it’s something extraordinary.”

“It will be.” Samantha chimed in. “Not only am I coming too, but extraordinary is the point when it comes our way.”

“Yeah!” Chanda cheered. “I just know it!”

“Can we at least slow down on the fact we need to plan out the activities there?” Tom asked. “We are planning to bring tons of people but…the things we’re doing there is what we should be thinking about.”

“I’m gonna work on that with Grizz and Ice Bear later.” Panda replied as he turned back to Chanda and Tatiana. “As for you two, I have no problem giving Amanda’s brother and sister some anime fun.”

“Well this is gonna be weird knowing I’m not gonna be Panda’s only friend.” Clifford said which caused Tatiana to pull him, giving him a hug with Chanda also joining in.

“You're Amanda's brother and sister's new friend!” Tatiana replied.

“I’m gonna ask Ranger Tabes if she’s willing to add more kids in the Poppy Rangers.” Lucy leaned next to her boyfriend.

“Good luck seeing your brother having his own adventure then.” Kale giggled.

Kuzumi had a thought of her own when it came to Canada itself. “I mostly want to see how you and your brothers are doing since it has been a long time since we’ve met.”

“Yeah, you never told me how you and the others left her back from Japan.”

“We had to go somewhere, Japan just isn’t our place for a home.” Panda answered.

“It’s true.” Kuzumi filling in. “Karla and I wanted to be supportive since we agreed to spend more time with you. I also wanted to spread my ramen talents in different places in the world.”

“Don’t worry, we could stay in Canada longer. Like Tom said, we can plan out activities, you, Karla, me, and my brothers can do something when we get the chance.”

“I’ll look forward to that, especially Gayla who’s gonna take care of the passports today.”

“You will like her.”

When everyone made their settlements, they all took a group picture back in the living room with Amanda’s parents. From snaps from Panda and Amanda’s phones, they upload them on the internet which gained attention right away from their followers. It may be the beginning of preparations, but a slow process to keep everything on track. What matters to Panda is what he’s gonna have in store with Amanda, including her brother and sister.

Chapter Text

Grizz took Chloe, Ranger Tabes, her pet Kirk, Griff, and Karla to the mansion of one of the famous animals on the internet. He still couldn’t believe some of his friends had never heard of him, but that’s mainly how their lives were more important than watching videos on the internet. He’s fully aware how much Griff spends all day in the mall as a Mall Cop, Chloe focusing on her studies in college especially her Canada adventure story she’s planning upon arrival to the country, Ranger Tabes spending her life protecting the forest, and Karla who barely spends time on the internet. But he knew at some point, he needed to make sure everyone's coming.

“We’re here.” Grizz said, walking up to the gate of the mansion itself.

“You never showed any videos of this koala buddy.” Griff commented. “Especially since he’s really famous.”

“Trust me, I’ve never learned the lesson of never meeting your heroes.”

“I’ve learned that before I skipped school grades.” Chloe replied. “Through judging from his mansion, I’m prepared to find out who he really is.”

“I’m looking forward to meeting him.” Ranger Tabes smiled and Kirk barked. “And Kirk is willing to come along. He is independent, but it’s our only chance to go on a country adventure. Especially the Canadian Ranger who could be around after we met at Ranger Con.”

Grizz knew Ranger Tabes had hopes, but even after everything that happened, he’s still unsure if she’s gonna take it well when she witnesses the Koala’s true self. The gate itself opened, taking them by surprise, it wasn’t long until the bodyguard from the building made his way to meet the uninvited guests. But judging from the security cameras recording them from the gate, the koala knew one of them would come over even if he didn’t want him to.

The bodyguard walked up to Grizz’s group as he gave them the news. “Nom Nom is in his office at the moment.” Farmer replied. “But…he’s unsure about meeting your friends.”

“He doesn’t have any friends…especially him?” Karla pointed at Grizz.

“Somewhat, but I have little to know about that.” They all went inside Nom Nom’s mansion, not wasting any time to take them to his office. Inside Nom Nom’s office, Nom Nom just finished a phone call after getting congratulated from signing people’s autographs he did from the mall last night during Bear Solidarity Day. But every time he heard about the holiday itself, it didn’t bug him of how it reminded him of three specific bears, however he knew a lot had changed. He never met any of his friends, including the ones he’s bringing in. Little did he know, he has yet to learn about Grizz’s plans on why he’s bringing his friends in.

Farmer entered the office which took Nom Nom by notice. “Are they waiting?” He asked.

“Yes.” Farmer answered. “Grizz has an offer for you, but it has nothing to do with autographs for his friends.”

Nom Nom took a deep breath while attempting to get this over with. “Invite them in.”

Farmer headed out of the office, not long until he took Grizz and his friends inside the office. The moment Grizz’s friends looked at Nom Nom, Ranger Tabes found him adorable while Karla caught on to everything from the way his mansion looks from the inside. Chloe and Kirk are the only ones who can’t see him with the desk blocking the way. When Grizz walked up to the desk, Nom Nom cut the chase immediately.

“Do you want you and your friends to be invited to one of my next parties?” He guessed.

“No, but it would’ve been cool.” Grizz answered.

“He does parties?” Ranger Tabes wondered. “I would be willing to come over for a sweet little koala like him.” He padded on the koala’s head, which irritated him.

“Please don’t do that.” Grizz said, grabbing Ranger Tabes’s arm.

“Why are you here?” Nom Nom retorted.

“Last night, me and my brothers were thinking about going to Canada soo…”

“If you’re asking about using my private jet, It’s not happening.”

“No, we’re taking care of that. What I’m trying to say here is…” He closed his eyes while getting to the point. “...do you want to come…for a vacation?”

Nom Nom lowered his head which took Grizz’s friends by notice. “No.” He answered. “You know I have a schedule I’m focusing on.”

“I’m not surprised.” Karla sighed.

“Also, I have zero plans on making any friends if that’s what you're thinking about.”

“Nom Nom, you barely give anyone a chance.” Grizz said.

“You barely get to know who we are.” Griff added.

“That’s the thing.” Farmer turned to. “He barely remembers any names of people he meets after one day.”

“I may remember your brothers but trust me, if I’m not gonna spend a lot of time with them,” He pointed at the others. “I won’t even enjoy Canada itself.”

“But koala.” Ranger Tabes looked down.

“Call me by my name, Nom Nom!”

“Sorry, Nom Nom, I’m a ranger who takes her job seriously and it would be exciting to witness more animals with you around.”

“For your information, I never made animal friends. And judging by how you look, I wouldn’t enjoy being around you.”

Ranger Tabes lowered her head while backing away, being affected by the koala’s words. “It was just an offer.”

“Believe me, I was his emotional support animal…it didn’t last too long.” Grizz said, patting on the shoulder of the ranger.

Chloe heard everything despite not meeting the koala face to face. From the way Grizz and Ranger Tabes are feeling, she’s not meeting a nice animal like the ones Dana met back in the forest. She walked up to the desk, trying to reach from the top with Kirk lifting her up. Upon getting to the top, the koala took his attention. The two stare at each other face to face, with almost the same height with Chloe refusing to get her feelings the better of her.

“Our lives are different when we weren’t internet famous.” She walked up to the koala. “Unlike you, I skipped grades and I went straight to college.”

“You do realize he has never been to school right?” Grizz leaned down.

“I know.”

“Really, what did the bears do for you?”

“They tried to make me fit in my classes and helped me study…even though we did that for nothing other than being on a sugar rush.”

Nom Nom rolled his eyes while turning around. “Do you not understand why I refuse to be around them, they’re hazardous to be around!”

“You’re wrong.”

“They once hijacked the internet which caused them to leave San Francisco in the first place.”

“It wasn’t even a horrible crime.”

“Do you even know any of the shenanigans they’ve caused?” He looked back.

“Some.” She replied. “But they’re not horrible people.”

“Horrible people or not, something always happens when he and his brothers are around.” He then leaned face to face to Chloe. “Bad things always happen.”

Chloe closed her eyes, remembering what happened when the bears captured Professor Lampwick once. “The point I’m trying to make is I’ve spent time with them to know them more. Like, did you at least once spend a full day with them?”

Nom Nom leaned back while thinking about what Chloe said. He sighed while telling the truth to the ten year old. “Yes, but I only used them. Do you need any proof?”

“No. Nom Nom, I’ve never watched your videos, but it isn’t because I’ve never seen you for the first time, it’s because I’m not a fan of celebrity animals. Canada is a place to make memories of the people you’re close to.”

“Chloe.” Karla chimed in. “I think you’ve said enough, he’s never gonna believe any of that.”

“Then what are we gonna do?”

“Let me handle this.” After Chloe took her words, she got off of the desk as the former castaway survivor looked straight down at the koala. “Do you even remember how you became famous?”

Nom Nom didn’t retort after taking the question into consideration. “I…remember that I…got picked into being one.”

“Bet you were way too young when it happened.” Griff added.

“Being rich can really affect your mind. I’d spent a long time on a deserted island with a madman who wanted to marry me.” She then leaned down to Nom Nom’s face. “But that never changed me. What would you feel if you were on an island without anyone aside from the one who’s lost his mind?”

Nom Nom was about to say Grizz’s name but he admits he never loses his mind. “I would lose my mind…and lose my ability to think…and talk.”

“Exactly.” She then lifted him up in the air, which took him by surprise, but didn’t infuriate him. “Finding the good in people isn’t your thing, but I’ve done it with Grizz and his brothers.” She then turned to Ranger Tabes who Krik’s with. “Ranger Tabes looks after the bears when she protects the forest where the bears live. The animals there are a lot kinder when they’re not harmed.”

When Nom Nom looked at Krik, it all came back that he gave the bears a dog when they were accidentally invited to his Christmas party. But at the same time, he didn’t give Tabes the dog, the bears did. “I cared less about the dogs I’ve been sending, I completely forgot that dog was from my Christmas Party.”

When Ranger Tabes looked at Krik, her eyes shot open. “Krik was one of the dogs you sent?”

“I guess. I never thought the bears would give you one as a Christmas gift.”

“I wasn’t gonna abandon him, it was mostly a last minute decision to make up for what me and my brothers caused.” Grizz walked up to Karla still holding onto the koala. “If you don’t want to come along because you won’t remember anything aside from Canada itself…” Grizz sighed while facing Nom Nom’s morality. “...you better off only being famous in the United States.”

Grizz made his way to one of the big windows of the office, watching the open field. Nom Nom and the others watched him, unlike him, his friends know how passionate he is going to Canada. Nom Nom had always gone to studios to perform videos and commercials while only going to the treatment center on vacation outside of the United States. Grizz is the only person he’s ever close to when he doesn't need it, but never thought about it.

“Put me down.” He requested as Karla put him on the ground. He walked up to Grizz while he turned around. “Grizz, I’ll go to Canada, but not with you and your group. I’ll think of something since I still have a schedule, but it would be likely I would hang out with your friends if I get the chance.”

“You’re gonna take a private jet to Canada?” Chloe wondered.

“Yes. It could even happen before you guys arrive in Canada.”

“You could do an event in Canada.” Farmer offered. “Or something like that. It’ll be for Grizz’s brothers and friends.”

“It’ll also be your first international exposure if you’re willing to get attention.” Griff smiled.

“As long as it doesn't give me a heart attack.” Nom Nom said, clenching his teeth.

“Not great motivational support.” Grizz leaning next to Griff.

“If we meet you in Canada, we can at least do one activity together.” Karla replied. “We should probably continue on getting transpiration.”

“My brothers will take care of that. We’re gonna take Gayle out in San Francisco to take a break.”

“It’s also really busy when it comes to the bears hanging out there.” Chloe added.

“Do your thing.” Nom Nom heading back to his desk. “This international thing is still a first for me.”

“It’s a first for almost all of us.” Ranger Tabes said. “Hopefully the experience there will change you.”

“Maybe…when I have the time for a break…I’ll think about hanging out…and maybe enjoying being around people like you.”

Ranger Tabes felt a little better from the koala’s choice of words. Grizz felt a little relieved it almost worked out even if Nom Nom didn’t meet his other friends yet. But when that happens and the events in Canada, he won't miss Nom Nom’s every move.

Chapter Text

Panda, Ice Bear, and Gayle sat together on the bench in San Francisco after the bears did their goals today. When Panda went back from his visit from Amanda’s, Ice Bear showed his friends, Yana after she agreed to join their trip to Canada. With Grizz returning from his visit to Nom Nom’s place, they took Gayle to the streets of San Francisco. Gayle couldn’t look at San Francisco the same way again with every bear, small and big in every direction.

“Does San Francisco usually have bears on the streets?” She asked.

“No.” Panda answered. “Everything changed when we arrested Agent Trout who caged tons of bears.”

“These bears are from different states, not the ones who were once in danger.” Grizz replied.

“Ice Bear still predicts there’s more brown or light colored bears.” Ice Bear commented.

“You all fit in more than other animals.” Gayle smiled. “Do you plan on showing bears from Canada about who you three are?”

“We will.” Grizz said.

“It’s the land and bears we’re thinking about.” Panda added. “Do you have the passports sorted out?”

“Yes, I’ve gotten Ranger Tabes, The Poppy Rangers, and the other older rangers coming along. In fact, bears are gonna take care of the ranger station. I was surprised when they showed me them.” Gayle continued to witness more bears appearing on the streets.

“You think that’s great, our friends are what's making our trip to Canada better.” Grizz wrapping his hand around Gayle. “You’ll feel fit in with them taking you to places…with the exception of one.”

“You manage to convince Nom Nom to come along?” Panda asked.

“Yes and no.”

“I’m not surprised.”

“Ice Bear can’t be one hundred percent confident, Happiness is for everyone.” Ice Bear commented.

“It’s fine, I’m not planning on making friends with everyone. I’m just looking forward to the trip itself.”

“Now that’s the spirit we need just when we arrive in Canada.” Grizz smiled.

They made their way to the park where they would normally split up but this time, they’re staying together. Bear cubs have been sliding down with kids on the slide while the big bears are hanging with the teens. “We’re planning to not bring any bears mainly because we’re trying to keep a low profile, so as to not get mixed up with the bears in Canada, but they’re still gonna miss us.” Panda commented.

“We did activities with them when we came back to San Francisco. So many, we'd have to show you a memory book.”

“If we did start a memory book.”

“Not that I’m against you for not bringing any bears along, but aside from the group you showed me, are there any more people you want to bring?” Gayle wondered.

“Well, there were two people but one is a popstar while the other is a doctor, a nurse, and even a dentist.”

“Ice Bear only remembers one man being everything for supportive purposes.” Ice Bear replied.

“They’re called Dr. Clark and Estellar.” Grizz replied. “They are the last names we’re thinking about, but they’re jobs are more important.”

“Yeah, I wouldn’t be surprised if some of my friends became popular or have a great profession of helping and saving people’s lives.” Gayle replied.

“It’s not like they would do anything important in Canada.” Panda said. “Estellar isn’t planning on performing in Canada.”

“And Dr. Clark is fine taking care of patients here, so it’s not like he had anything to gain in Canada.” Grizz commented.

As they continued to watch more bears hanging out with more people, a person finished up his shift from work as he arrived at the park. He looked at the three bears who he hasn’t met since the whole braces situation. He made his way from behind as he poked on Grizz’s shoulder, catching his attention.

“Dr. Clark?” He blinked.

“You’re here?” Panda added.

“I’m taking a break from work for about an hour. Bears have been taking my job more seriously.” He answered.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Gayle smiled. “The bears told me everything about you.”

“Good to know. I’ve heard you’re going to Canada soon.”

“We’re still planning out everything. We might have everyone come together at our cave the night before we leave.” Panda filling in.

“You’re bringing a lot of people along.” Dr. Clark became impressed with the dedication from the bears. “Do you have room for me to join?”

“You want to go to Canada!?”

“Yes.”

“But what about your job or…in this case, multiple jobs?” Grizz reacted.

“I once had a problem where I couldn’t leave the buildings I work in. But after the bears took classes of the jobs I’ve taken, they’ve been making my life easier to where I’ve been taking walks outside.”

The bears knew they changed the city for the better but when it comes to bears helping out humans with their jobs, there’s so much going on inside the buildings. “So you want to take a vacation?”

“Dentists and even doctors need a vacation to cool off, even though I never lose my cool.”

“We’re not complaining, if you have a passport, we can find something for you to do.”

“Actually, I want mainly a luminary experience from you bears. Inspiration for what could happen in Canada you could change. Just like here in San Francisco.”

The bears didn’t know what the word luminary meant but from someone like Dr. Clark who uses it, they’re way of inspiration would be in luck if it’s possible. “Do you really want that from us?” Panda spoked.

“I’ve seen too much luminary from talented celebrities, I want to see that from regular people like you.”

“Ice Bear prefers the word periodic.” Ice Bear responded.

“It’s not that we’re incapable of…luminary, we’re just expecting Canada to surprise us.” Grizz explained.

“That’s the whole point why we’re going there in the first place.” Panda added.

“Luminary can come from anyone. Including you bears.” From listening to that voice, the bears and Gayle turned around while Dr. Clark walked next to the bears. It’s revealed to be one of the famous pop stars in the United States and the bears encountered during Christmas Eve as cubs during the parade.

“Este-” Grizz and Panda reacted until Ice Bear covered their mouths, preventing the attention from anyone in the park. Estellar’s wearing a white jacket and wearing a hood to disguise herself from anyone out in the open.

“Speaking of talented celebrities.” Dr. Clark smiled. “She’s the one I couldn’t get enough luminary out of.”

“I’ve caught on when you mentioned Canada, because I'm gonna be performing there after I announced it in my last concert last week.” Estellar smiled. “I’ve always known I would at least meet familiar faces before I step foot in front of my fans. I'm meeting fans for the first time.”

The bears felt frozen with not one, but two people they thought were the last people willing to come, on their own conditions, willing to expect luminary from them. “In what world have I been missing this?” Gayle smiled while placing her hands on her hips.

“Quite a lot.” Panda awkwardly grinned.

“Maybe it’s just me thinking of the possibilities, but I haven’t thought this far to see what we would do with you.” Grizz replied.

“It doesn’t have to be perfect, but we should always expect nothing but greatness and surprises.” Esteller slowly turned to the cub bears in the park only for her to turn back to the three bears. “The Christmas parade may have almost been a disaster, but I know for a fact when we come back from Canada, we will reminisce about it in future.”

“Ice Bear always reminisces about end adventures.” Ice Bear said.

“Then again, Estellar does turn adventures into legendary.” Panda commented.

“A little bit much, but it still makes sense.” Estellar agreed.

“Not much of an adventure type, but I wouldn’t bail on it.” Dr. Clark replied.

“This trip is going to be better than I thought.” Gayle likes the two adults coming along. “None of the people who sent me to their house ever gives me anything this special.”

“You’re in luck.” Estellar smiled. “There’s more than what comes your way.”

“You say that to your fans?”

“Mostly when I hand my backstage passes for backstage parties.”

“So…like ten or twenty people?”

“Yes, I know how to keep in touch with the people I grew a liking to.”

“Then you won’t regret it when we meet you in Canada. This trip is getting better and better!” Grizz cheered.

“I’ll be ready for the get together at your cave.” Dr. Clark said. “Call me when you have it scheduled.”

“No problem.” Panda replied as Dr. Clark made his way back to his shift. He and his brothers turned back to Estellar. “Even though you’re not coming over to our cave, we might come to your concert if we have the chance.”

“I didn’t say we would meet at my concert.” Estellar said. “I’m doing other things in Canada like being a guest on broadcast news to market my concert. I’m also going sightseeing during my spare time.”

“We’re doing the same as well.”

“Canada is a big map but keep in mind, I know you and your friends will be close by.” Estellar left the bears and Gayle as she left the park.

“She’s so great when she predicts the future.”

“So should we spend more time together?” Gayle wrapped her arms around Grizz and Ice Bear.

“You bet.” Grizz agreed. “We may have to go back to our work in process but so far, everything’s working out.”

“So everyone’s coming along?”

Grizz stopped himself, still remembering there’s one more person who wants to come but at the same time, he can’t. “Yes, everyone’s coming. There’s no one left.” He smiled.

Chapter Text

Throughout the whole day where the bears and friends are heading from place to place, Charlie spends all day just lying on the ground, upset that he won't be able to go to Canada. He wouldn't mind that his bear friends aren’t around, but with all of his friends coming along for an adventure he’s been hearing about, it only made him feel more depressed.

“Who am I kidding? I can’t overcome my fear.” Charlie said to himself. “I’m only good at making animal friends, not the friends the bears make.” He took a deep breath to get the fresh air from the outdoors. “His friends must be more valuable in person. Ranger Tabes isn’t the only one.”

He stood up from the ground, taking a hike in the forest, thinking about what he could do in the meantime. He may have the chance to meet the bears one more time before they leave, but it’ll be a long time until they come back. Soon he heard travelers heading their way on the trail he’s on. He reacted in an instant, he jumped behind the brushes, lowered his body as the travelers walked past.

As much as he's relieved he didn’t get spotted, he’s ashamed he has to live with it unlike his bear friends. “How will society treat me normally like Grizz, Panda, and Ice Bear? It’s not too much to ask!”

Meanwhile, one of the snakes Charlie once took care of them, spotted him while hiding in the branches. It has the same colors Panda has that Charlie called him, Panda Jr. He wanted to meet him after being distant from him for months, but he heard another animal coming from the trees.

The animal walked up to Charlie, looking down which took his attention. “Is hide and seek the only thing you do here?” He crossed his arms.

“Ralph?” Charlie slowly got back up. “I wasn’t playing hide and seek, I was hiding from travelers.”

“Still the same thing you’ve done throughout your life. At least I get a kick of pranking people. That’s more than avoiding them.”

Charlie knew his former friend’s still performing stunts against travelers anywhere he goes. Ever since the whole Ice Cave situation, he distanced himself from him, keeping distant from the incident that he almost caused when it came to him causing harm towards the travelers when he removed the bridge a while ago.

“Ralph, in case you don’t know, my friends, are mainly the bears.”

“They’re your only friends, all I ever see when you’re not with them is animals who can’t open their mouths when they never talk.”

“At least it’s some people to hang around with.” While feeling offended, Charlie stayed on topic. “Grizz, Panda, Ice Bear, and their friends…are going to Canada soon. And I’m gonna be the only one here without them. And their friends are humans.”

Ralph would care less if the bears left or not, but when he heard the word, Canada, it made him interested. “You’re not gonna be the only one here, again you have animals who barely talk and are you really serious?”

“Serious about what?”

“You’re seriously gonna stay here while your friends are going to Canada?”

“It’s not the land I’m afraid of, it's literally the humans there.” Charlie said, putting his foot down. “Including all of the guests who’ll come along.”

“And you prove my point that you can’t man up, unlike me.” Ralph smirked. “If it was me, in your position, and I can overcome my problem with humans, I would make more friends than you can count.”

Charlie knows Ralph is only bragging rather than proving. But at the same time, he isn’t wrong about overcoming the problem. Panda Jr. couldn’t believe the words he's hearing from Ralph to the point he might have a plan. “More and more bears have been making friends ever since society changed. If we were the ones changing society, we would be treated as heroes rather than attention seekers.”

“Hey, I’m only an attention seeker. I was once a king in case you forgot. And I would’ve stayed as one if you didn’t help your friends.”

“I wasn’t gonna leave their cave as an ice cave. You know it’s the only place they can only live in.”

“Yeah right, staying outdoors wouldn’t make a difference since they’re like the both of us.”

“You’re just jealous that they’re better animal friends than you. At least they worked their way by saving their own kind to be accepted.”

Then Ralph walked up to Charlie after hearing the word accepted. “If there’s one thing we don’t have in common, it's that we come from different places.”

“We still have mustaches right?”

“But farther away if we weren’t here.” Ralph then turned around as he needed space from Charlie. “I know the white bear once lived in the arctic just like me, and as for you.” He turned back to him. “It feels like you only had a girlfriend who picked the wrong boyfriend.”

“Hey, I may never be a father, but I’m not Panda!”

“But he still got a girlfriend before you did right?”

Panda Jr. becomes irritated from Ralph’s insults while Charlie tries to defend himself. “I can still get a human friend even if I try.”

“Do you even know what I’m talking about?” He asked as Charlie shook his head. “If more people see me.” He showed off his muscles. “They would find me the rarest creature than you are, which if I come to Canada, I’ll bet hundreds, maybe even thousands would get my attention. Canada always snows when winter rolls around.”

Charlie wished Ralph was wrong, but Canada has always been colder during the winter. Even if winter doesn’t come until the end of the year, anyone in Canada would recognize Ralph as the rarest animal in Canada.

“I’m not an expert of Canadian culture, but if there was a place where creatures like me are popular…” He tried to find the idea of what he would feel if he was in Ralph’s position, but Ralph interrupted.

“Don’t push yourself, you can’t even make a speech without freaking out.”

“What I’m trying to say is that I wouldn’t attempt to be left out if I had the opportunity in my hands.”

“Then prove it if you want to come. Some opportunities only come around once in a lifetime.” Ralph walked up to Charlie again, while placing his fists on his hips. “I’m going to sneak into their trip to Canada.”

“What!?” Charlie reacted as Panda Jr. paid attention to Ralph's plan. “You’re gonna sneak into their trip to Canada, despite having no passport?”

“I don’t need a passport.”

“That’s what makes the bears unable to cross the border in the first place.”

“Just you wait. When people look at me, they would never resist my looks.”

“You would probably get spotted during the trip.”

“I only need transportation. I don’t want to be around your friends everyday.” Ralph retorted. “After all the traveling, I’m gonna head to the biggest city in Canada and I’m gonna come out in the open to reveal to the public the one and only Ralph, has arrived in Canada.”

“And…about you saying, opportunities only come once in a lifetime?”

Ralph knew he would ask that as he’s giving him the ultimatum. “I can help you sneak into their trip, giving you a chance to be part of their so-called adventure.”

Charlie refused to say no, knowing it could be the only way to hang out with the bears and their friends, despite having no passport. “I don’t know about that, they would eventually find out I’ve tagged along uninvited.”

“That’s your problem, not mine. But look at it this way. The moment we step foot out of their transportation, I’m out of your way. I don’t need you and you don’t need me. We get what we want by going our separate ways.”

Charlie wished Ralph was delusional, but there’s no other option to make it to Canada to join in with the bears and their friends. “Going there is hard, but coming back will be a nightmare. We don’t know when they’re gonna come back.”

“Again, that’s your problem.” Ralph then walked away from Charlie, preparing to leave on his own. “I’m going to Canada to do my own thing whatever you like it not, it’s your only chance to get help from me.”

Charlie lowered his head, thinking about his decision before it’s too late. At times he wanted to meet the many friends the bears made but he doesn’t know if he can handle it. With Ralph continuing to walk away, he closed his eyes. With another deep breath, he rushed back to Ralph.

“Okay!” He shouted as Ralph turned around. “I’ll come with you, I’ll tell you when the bears and their friends leave so we can make a head start.”

“Great!” He patted on the back of Charlie. “You pack everything you need, but I won’t be waiting if you’re late.” As he continued to walk, he had one more thing to say. “And don’t tell them about this. I don’t want them to ruin my vacation.”

“It's their vacation too.”

“Not as big as mine.” Ralph left Charlie alone, being prepared to put his plan to Canada into action. Charlie may have his chance but there’s no way out. He’s not even sure if he needs anything to keep himself occupied, knowing that the animals would cause noise if he brings some.

“I’m gonna be the loneliest person in Canada.” He sighed, but then he heard hissing from below, revealing Panda Jr. “Panda Jr.” He picked him up. “It’s great to meet you again but…I’m gonna go to Canada.” Panda Jr. slithered into Charlie’s fur on his arms, stopping on Charlie’s shoulder. “You want to come with me?” The snake nodded which thrilled Charlie. “Yes!”

As Ralph disappeared in the distance, it caused Panda Jr. to hiss louder, taking Charlie by notice. “You heard everything between me and Ralph? I was expecting the bears but…I am proud of you for never liking him in the slightest.”

He then remembered he’ll have to get the word from the bears when they’re leaving, even if he’ll have to do it on his own without the help from Ralph. “I would like to show all of the friends the bears made…but I don’t want to get caught and I don’t know all of them except Ranger Tabes.” As he turned around, he made his way to his own direction in the forest. “We should find your siblings and parents to tell them about our trip to Canada. At least I can be a babysitter.”

Panda Jr. may be away from his family, but the first person he saw after being hatched from his egg was Charlie. He’s not his mother nor his father, but he couldn’t get over him when he left him. He may not like Ralph, but he hopes after he and Charlie get separated from him, he’ll enjoy the adventure that comes their way.

Chapter Text

The three bears agreed with Chloe to come over to California University to straighten things out with her planned Canada essay. Her parents also came over after they agreed with their daughter to let her go to Canada on her own with her college friends. She’s allowed to bring three college friends along so they can help her out on her essay. It wasn’t hard to pick the three college friends upon arriving at the university after getting separated from Grizz, but the third friend she picked wouldn’t have even happened if the bears didn’t end Agent Trout’s reign of terror.

Grizz, Panda, and Ice Bear walked down the hallway after getting the directions where Chloe and the principal’s at. “It’s nice we’re allowing Chloe to bring friends to our trip to Canada.” Panda smiled.

“She’s one of our best friends, we may have everyone we want to come, but since we’re allowing Ranger Tabes to bring The Poppy Rangers, Chloe should bring her own friends too.” Grizz replied.

“You think Karla will be here after she’s done with lunch?”

“I’m sure, then again we’re gonna have lunch after we’re done here.”

“Ice Bear needs to be fed.” Ice Bear spoked.

The bears arrived at the auditorium, where they almost ruined Chloe’s report. Upon entering, the whole room was empty with only Chloe, her parents, the principal, and two of the college students who'll be coming along. “You’re here.” Chloe smiled.

“Chloe’s parents told me everything about you taking her to Canada.”

“It will be an adventure for all of us.” Panda replied while turning to Chloe’s parents. “You sure you’re gonna miss your daughter?”

“You took her on the road to see the meteor shower.” Mrs. Park said.

“It took us a while to rethink about this and she can go as long as she's bringing friends from this college.” Mr. Park added.

As the bears walked up on the stage, Chloe presented them to the two students she’s bringing. “I’m bringing Amy who I made friends with from the party you threw at your place.”

“I’ve never traveled to another country before. I’m really happy to help out with your essay Chloe.” Amy said.

“There will be a lot happening when we get there. We'll take turns.” Chloe then presented the next college friend she’s bringing. “Saavni and I made amends after the science contest. She actually came to me when she heard me about going to Canada.”

“I’ve been to different countries all over the world, but Canada isn’t one of them. I’m not missing a single event that happens.” Saanvi smirked.

“Yeah good luck with that.” Chloe said. “Canada is one of the biggest countries in the whole world.”

“You would take months to get everything in an essay if you go to every place in Canada.” The Principal added.

“I wouldn’t say I would go to the whole country to do an essay…but half of it.” Saanvi grinned and laughed.

“Ice Bear would go to seventy five percent of the arctic for an essay adventure.” Ice Bear replied.

“At least you two are getting along better than last time.” Grizz smiled.

“Don’t worry about us, just think about what we’re gonna do when we get there.” Chloe walked up to the bears.

“Where's your third college friend?” Panda wondered.

“Oh, that’s the surprise.” She went off the stage while opening one of the door exits of the auditorium, presenting the third friend she’s bringing to Canada. It’s a blonde bear with glasses, around the same height as Chloe. With Chloe back on stage, the bears remembered the selfies Chloe had with the bear itself, but never met him in person. “This is Blonde. He became a student ever since bears were accepted in society.”

“There’s so many bears with different colors, it’s hard to remember which bears are different from each other.”

“But with the glasses, he really does stand out differently if he was part of a herd.” Grizz smiled as he walked up to Blonde while leaning down. “Give me a high five dude.” Blonde gave Grizz a high five while Grizz went back to his brothers.

“I also need to point out that he doesn’t talk like some bears.” Chloe answered. “But he’s still helpful when he does assignments, including essays.”

“There are other bears who attend this university but Blonde is the most skilled.” The principal commented. “I also demand to have the Canadian bears be part of Chloe’s essay.”

“There could be Canadian bears in San Francisco, but there’s tons of rare ones in Canada, they must be rarer than the ones I’ve come across.” Amy replied.

“If you did come across them.” Saanvi crossed her arms. “Just saying, with every bear I’ve seen, they’re mostly American bears.”

“Then again, pandas like me don’t usually live in America, from what I’ve seen online, bears here are mostly from America.” Panda said.

“That still makes it exciting to write an essay about.” Grizz added. “There could be a new breed of bears we haven’t met yet.”

“It is true, so many surprises are going on, I’m expecting the unexpected.” Chloe commented.

Outside of the auditorium, Karla finally arrived at the university. She did get the directions where she needed to go, but she still missed the introductions of Chloe’s friends, including Blonde. But little did the people know in the auditorium, they’re not expecting the unexpected right now. As Karla walked in the same hallway the bears did, Amy and Saanvi showed the bears their tech equipment.

“It’ll be better to use my high quality phone to take pictures and videos in Canada.” Amy offered.

“Not as good as my three sixty VR camera.” Saanvi showed off her camera. “You can see every direction in one spot.”

“That’s an expensive camera.” Chloe commented.

“You could buy ten laptops for the price of that.” Grizz eyed Saanvi's camera.

“Maybe twenty phones.” Panda added.

“Ice Bear would work for thirty fridges for that price.” Ice Bear added.

“We would need this for open areas and cities if possible.” Saanvi puts her camera away. “An essay’s an essay, but we can still showcase it through videos.”

“I would've denied it if I paid for that camera, but I’m not against the idea.” The principal smiled.

“Trust me Chloe, it’ll make your essay better.”

“I trust you, I’ll give you and Amy credit for the camera work.” Chloe replied. “Then again, I would only have you two do the recording because I can’t be able to afford anything I break or lose.”

“Let us use our equipment, we’re fully responsible.” Amy replied. Then everyone heard one of the auditorium doors pushed open. When Amy saw the person from the distance, she thought she was dreaming but even in dreams, they don’t compare to the real world when they actually happen.

“I’m finally here after lunch, can you have me catch up on-” Karla stopped herself when she stared at Amy. Amy’s phone slowly slipped out her hands, only for Blonde to grab it before impacting the ground. As Karla got on stage, she walked up to Amy face to face with everyone around confused.

“What’s going on?” Panda blinked.

“Karla, did you reunite with your family when you got rescued?” Grizz wondered.

“Yes…but Amy…was my only youngest sister I’ve never reunited with.” Karla responded.

“All I’ve seen from you is family pictures. And the only time I’ve seen you off the island was on the news…when I was a little girl.” Amy answered.

“Okay, I’m not the only one who’s left out by how awkward this is, right?” Saanvi commented. “Seriously, this woman can’t be Amy’s sister.”

“You did say you met Karla on an island when you were cubs right?” Chloe turned to the bears.

“Yes. But we thought Karla was in her forties back at Christmas.” Grizz answered.

“You do know that bears age two years faster than humans…which I would’ve shown everyone if you didn’t change my report.”

The eyes from the bears shoot open, learning that Karla is actually middle aged, due to their ages being faster than humans. They witness Amy leaking tears from her eyes, with today being the first day she’s ever meeting her older sister. Karla opened her arms while giving Amy a hug. “I promise I won’t lose you again.” Karla spoked.

“We would’ve had so many memories if that Dave stalker didn’t keep you on the island forever.” Amy cried.

“At least we don’t have to worry about him anymore.”

The bears slowly walked up to Karla and Amy, while trying their best to not ruin their reunion. “I’m not sure if you notice this Amy but…Karla’s actually coming with us to Canada.” Grizz spoked.

“When she told us about her sister Amy…we didn’t think you would be that Amy.” Panda added.

Amy slowly opened her eyes, while Karla broke the hug. “I only thought about you bears, I never knew one of your friends had a friend who’s my sister, especially when I came with her when you took me to Nom Nom’s mansion today.”

“She’s not wrong.” Mrs. Park chimed in. “Your friends are only around you but not with each other.”

“Aside from the camping trip we had.” Grizz remembered. “But Karla wasn’t with us back then.”

“But if you can have friends make friends with each other, you can have sisters reunite.” Mr. Park added. “I know you have a ton of people coming along and this is for Chloe’s essay but…you can’t just have these two to be separate for the whole trip.”

The bears couldn’t avoid last minute choices even if they tried. But the sister reunion made it more shocking than bizarre. Karla will hang out with them upon arrival, but she won’t let Amy out of her sights even with Chloe’s essay still a priority.

“Okay, when Amy isn’t helping Chloe, she can stay with Karla at all times.” Grizz spoked.

“Ice Bear will be the bodyguard for Amy when she’s with Chloe.” Ice Bear added.

“Thanks bears.” Karla smiled.

“Don’t worry Chloe, I’ll still help you with the essay.” Amy wipes her tears from her face.

“It’s fine, but I also thought we could spend time together. It’s the least we can do other than the essay.” Chloe replied.

“It’s gonna happen, I’m sure of it.” Blonde then gave Amy’s phone back to her. “Thanks for saving my phone.” She then rubbed on Blonde’s head, so did Karla.

“We’re gonna meet a ton of cubs in Canada.” Karla smiled.

“Well it’s a shame you’re not doing a sister’s essay, but I’m not getting in the way of that.” The principal replied.

“Everyone on this trip has their own adventure.”

“We’re gonna need a welcome home party to keep track of everyone’s trip from Canada.” Panda replied.

“You could be right.” Grizz added.

“Anyway, I’m gonna pack up for Canada. Call me when we’re gonna have that get together.” Saanvi looked down at Chloe.

“No problem, there’s nothing left I have to do.” Chloe replied.

“Just stay safe Chloe.” Mr. Park said.

“We'll be waiting until you come back with a full essay waiting for us to read.” Mrs. Park smiled.

As Chloe gave her parents a hug, everyone left the auditorium with the bears ready to eat lunch. They’re close to heading to Canada sooner than they expected, but one thing’s for sure, the get together will be the last thing before it happens. With Karla reuniting with her younger sister, she’ll have the adventure that’s the total opposite from her last adventure. As she hopes nothing gets in the way of her reunion with Amy.

Chapter Text

In the San Francisco prison, locked in one of the isolation cells, an ex agent sat down on his bed, looking at the ground in defeat even after all the time that had passed since he got arrested. All he can think of is what he’ll do to the type of animals that got him arrested in the first place, without a reflection that leads to his arrest. His cell didn’t even have a light, nor a window, he slept in total darkness, whilst other criminals actually had lights and some windows in their cells. But at the end of the day, he couldn’t have cared less knowing he can’t escape the prison even if he tried. And if he succeeded, his vengeance won’t happen with the odds against him with society in San Francisco being the opposite of what he sees.

Then Officer Murphy entered the hall of cells, he walked down the hall while hitting the ex agent’s cell with his baton, gently. “Buck Trout.” He called to his attention. “You made bail.”

Buck lifted his head up while turning to the police officer. “I made bail?” He spoked.

“Yes but there’s still conditions for you to follow.” He took out his key to unlock the cell door while taking out his hand cuffs. “We’re having a meeting with the person who bailed you out.”

Buck slowly got up as he turned around, allowing Murphy to handcuff him. Upon going through rooms in the building, he took him to the courtroom where the person who bailed him out, sat down in front of the judge. He turned to him, not giving him a smile but at the same time, he wouldn’t do what he did considering the ex agent hadn't heard of him.

“Please sit down.” Murphy ordered as Buck sat next to the person as Murphy stood next to the judge. “Do the honors.”

The judge looked straight at Buck who he still isn’t on best terms due to his crimes. “Buck Trout, I won’t tolerate that you're getting released, but after talking to Barry Charles, we agreed to it, but you need to follow the conditions.”

When Buck turned to Barry, he precisely stayed on topic. “What are the conditions?” He turned back to the judge.

“There’s three conditions. First condition is that you're banned from San Francisco. Not only are you not allowed to step any feet close to the bears here, we’re not allowing you to cause anymore crises.”

“Trust me, he’ll be in mental control.” Barry replied.

“The second condition is you’re not participating in any wildlife control program with the fake news you made.”

“Just because we’re protecting the animals in San Francisco, doesn’t mean we’re allowing other states to have the same problems.” Murphy added.

Buck knew there’s no way any wildlife company would hire him if they found out about his track record. “I’ll distance myself to any wildlife control facilities, including zoos.”

“The final condition is if you commit the same crimes like before, we’re putting you into solitary confinement, permanently.” The judge laid down the law. “We’re also informing Barry that if he allows you to cause any crisis, he’s also getting arrested.”

“That will never happen.” Barry smiled. “I’ll make sure he doesn’t harm any animal as long as I’m keeping an eye on him.”

“You better because after weeks of discussing this, we won’t hesitate for a second to lock you up.” Murphy pointed at Barry.

“You may have the money to bail out a terrible criminal, but that doesn’t mean he and you are off the hook.” The judge added. “But to be fair…you didn’t commit a crime and the company you work in…doesn’t involve animals so, be smart about it.”

“Don’t worry, I’m more intelligent to keep animals from harm’s way.” Barry replied.

“Then with that, Buck Trout has been released.” The judge hit his board with his gavel, as Murphy uncuffed Buck. Barry and Buck headed outside of the prison while he took the released prisoner to his private jet at the airport. Throughout the whole time upon driving to the airport, Buck didn’t say a word when Barry bailed him out. He wasn’t happy, but wasn't complaining either. He doesn’t even know who Barry Charles is, especially why he’s bailing him out. But every time he looked back at him, he smirked, awaiting the moment to talk to him.

They arrived at the airport as Barry offered him a hood to protect his identity from the public. If he doesn't have a private jet, someone will reorganize him inside the airport, especially no one’s allowed to wear a hood when security's in charge. Upon arriving at the private jet, Barry invited Buck in as he entered last. He closed the jet door as Buck took off his hood with the windows closing off the light.

“I don’t know how or why you’re doing this for me, but this has to be important.” Buck replied.

“Oh trust me.” Barry smirked. “This is more important than you think.” He ordered the pilot to start the plane as the plane began to move. “So how did you get into jail?”

“It was the bears…I tried to put them on lockdown under my control and…”

“They exposed you as a criminal who harms bears?”

“How did you know?”

“I saw it live on TV when it happened.”

Buck remembered he was on international television when he got arrested, especially the huge rescue the bears did. “You know those bears?”

“One of them I've encountered twice. And I’ve heard that he and his brothers are going to Canada. Which is where we’re going.” The plane lifted itself off the ground, up in the air as it headed to Canada. Barry took Buck to the other room where he had three other people sitting by the table. One who’s shaking in desperation, the other who has a golf hat on, and the final was a hunter who still takes pleasure in setting up traps. It took Buck by notice even if he doesn’t know any of these people.

As Buck and Barry sat down by the table, the three looked at Buck who they also saw on TV. “Who are you people?” He spoked.

“I’m Dave.” Dave replied. “I was once stranded on an island until Barry rescued me.”

“When did you rescue him?”

“Last week during my travels over the world. He was on that island for far too long, he told me everything.” Barry answered. “Let’s just say cubs ruined his happily ever after.”

“They took the love of my life away from me. No matter how long ago it was, I will never forget what they looked like.” Dave clenched his fist on the table.

“I’m Norm.” Norm introduced himself. “I have been planning on creating golf courses since…I love golf courses and there’s a ton in Canada.”

“He told me he planned on turning the forest in San Francisco into a golf course, but the ranger who lived there along with the other rangers from all over the world, stopped him.” Barry filled in.

“I disguised myself as a ranger when Ranger Tabes left. Those bears knew I wasn’t better than her, but it was never part of my goal.”

“These bears have more enemies than I thought.” Buck replied. “They’ve got into more trouble, outside of San Francisco.”

“You have no idea.” Barry said.

“I’m the yowie hunter, Courtney mate.” Courtney crossed his arms with a grin on his face. “I’ve seen you being thrown in jail the moment it happened.”

“I didn’t look at you, nor the other prisoners.” Buck said.

“I know you didn’t, but I knew those bears were on your mind. Because I haven’t gotten them off my mind, especially that Ranger of theirs.”

“I made my employees bail him a week ago. We needed to keep our plan intact, without anyone in the way, including the bears.”

“We’re lucky they’re busy with their flight to Canada, especially we’ve heard they could be heading to Toronto.”

“Which we’re not going to, Vancouver is where we’re heading, more than forty hours away from Toronto on the road.”

Buck wished he was closer to the city the bears are heading to, but the way Barry and the others are united in revenge as much as he does, he’s not against the idea of heading to Vancouver. “Seems we all have something in common. Our enemies are the same bears, cubs to grow, it’s like they once traveled around the world to stop anyone on their way.” He commented.

“You don’t even know how their teamwork would affect us.” Dave responded.

“Especially with all their friends on their side, it’s impossible to ruin their vacation if one of them interferes.” Norm added.

“I knew that their Ranger would tell their closest friends about us.” Courtney added.

“That is…if they’re aware of us being in Canada, which they don’t.” Barry took the remote from the center on the table as he pressed the button to turn the TV screen on. It showed Grizz, Panda, and Ice Bear in bear stack formation. “I may know Ice Bear the most, but I’m slowly getting to know who his brothers are.”

“Panda has a girlfriend.” Dave filled in.

“You mean…his girlfriend is a panda?” Buck replied.

“No.”

Barry then clicked the button on the remote, revealing a photo of Panda kissing Amanda from Valentine’s Day. “A human as a girlfriend.” He spoked.

“How did society get this way?” Buck twitched his eye.

“The people who respect the bears more than us.” He then pressed another button to turn to the next photo, revealing Grizz on the news, protecting his cave from being destroyed to turn it into a cellphone tower. “They once protected their home when they got the chance. You once took over their home right?”

“Yes. I had the upper hand all the while tracking down the bears.”

“Seems it was a difficult mission for ya?”

“Mostly, it just took a long time when I captured them.”

“It happens when they resist defeat.” Barry then pressed the button again to reveal another photo. This time it’s Ice Bear destroying all the robots from the HQ he got himself into. “And this bear is the definition of resisting defeat.”

Buck remembered how much Ice Bear expressed when it captured him along with his brothers. “Getting on his angry side was something I had to learn the hard way.”

“He’s way smarter when I comforted him the second time.” He then turned to the following photo, revealing Yana by Ice Bear’s side. “I know for a fact she’s coming since I’ve had history with her.”

“We don’t have photos of the other people who’ll come along.” Norm replied. “But if we see them with the bears, we need to prevent them from interfering with our plans.”

“They will never accept us as friends of who we are.” Courtney said.

“Nobody wants us to be their friends if they knew about the terrible things we did.” Dave added. “But it’s not like it’ll stop us forming a revenge team.”

“So you want me to join your crusade?” Buck responded. “For your information, I had everything when I was in control of wildlife.”

“You mean all those bears you put in cages?” Barry asked.

“Yes, if I didn’t underestimate them that led to all of the bears getting released, I would’ve just left them free. Even if they still wouldn’t be able to enter Canada.”

“Leaving them free would’ve solved your problems.” Courtney responded. “But if there’s one thing they should learn, it's what goes around, comes around.”

“They’ve won against us, but we’re still their problems.” Dave replied. “And we’re doing it the hard way.”

Barry turned to the following photo, revealing the building he and his group are going to upon arrival to Vancouver. “This is the new HQ of my company. It has everything we need to put our plan into action.”

“There’s a few people, mostly creatures who'll be waiting for us there.” Dave said. “Let’s say, Panda’s heart will be broken in pieces while…Canada will have another cub near Tornado.”

“You have a bear?” Buck responded.

“Yes. She may not be a person, but she will when the bears meet her.” Barry replied. “It’ll be a surprise once we arrive at our HQ.” He turned off the TV as he got up. “I would love to show more of our plan but it’s still a work in progress.”

“I still can’t believe you bailed me out, but…I’m still new to this crusade.”

“You'll get used to it, especially since you’re just as intelligent as me.”

“With him being a billionaire, anything is possible.” Norm commented.

“This mate’s way of vengeance is vicious.” Courtney grinned.

“Indeed because of what happened to me,” He took off his makeup, revealing the scar he got from his second encounter with Ice Bear. It took Buck by surprise, but not the others, since they saw Barry’s true face when they met him for the first time. “I’ll do anything more horrible to ruin all the goodwill they have in life.”

Buck couldn’t disagree, in fact the scar shows the vengeance in Barry, which slowly grew a sinister grin on his face. “When we arrive at HQ, I’ll think of a strategy that’ll involve one of their friends into our trap.”

“Now that’s the person I want vengeance out of.”

The plane continued to fly higher up the sky, heading to Vancouver in two hours. Barry knows for a fact the more outlaws he recruits with their history of the bears, they will form the most heinous plan to ruin the bears and their friends. With Buck on their side, they know he’s a bigger menace towards the bears more than them. He may not have a plan yet but once he sees the inside of HQ, he’ll go back to his old ways like before, breaking all the conditions as long as he’s hiding from the police in Canada. He’ll make sure no one comes in his way.

Chapter Text

After lunch, Grizz, Panda and Ice Bear took Karla and Amy to the bell tower where Darrell and his wife, Sofia are at. They’ve texted them that they took care of their flight tickets to Toronto and their passports. But before they headed to the Bear’s cave, they agreed to have them appear by the bell tower, where their wedding took place.

“I really found it cute that you three became their best bears.” Karla smiled.

“It was a great wedding, if you’d been there.” Grizz replied.

“Granted there were problems before that, but the less said about that, the better.” Panda added.

“Ice Bear remembers Sofia saving Darrell’s life thanks to Sofia Wings.” Ice Bear added.

“Wow, I can’t believe the only wedding we’ve been together,” Amy looked at her sister. “Didn’t have that.”

“It’s not him giving her angel wings, she actually saved his life when he fell from the top of the bell tower.” Panda pointed on the top of the bell tower.

“It still feels like she was an angel from the way you describe it.” Karla replied.

As they walked past the bell tower, Darrell and Sofia were waiting. “We’re here!” Grizz called, getting their attention.

“Bears!” Darrell and Sofia called as the bears and his guests walked up to them.

“Really appreciate you coming over before coming to your place.” Darrell smiled.

“Big time, almost everyone is there right now.” Panda responded. “There’s gonna be a party there just like the one here.”

“A really big get together.” Sofia commented. “Still find it mind blowing that there’s a lot of people going to Canada, it feels bizarre.”

“No problem with that, I’ve checked online and there’s a huge hotel for all of us to sleep in.” Grizz replied.

“Ice Bear’s confident that a hotel in Canada will allow four times our group to sleep in.” Ice Bear said.

“I don’t think it’ll be five stars, but it won’t be lower than three stars.” Panda added.

“It won’t be a problem for us.” Darrell replied as he turned around with his car parked. In the back, all of his and Sofia’s luggage are inside. “Our families helped us pack our things this morning.”

“Everything today was ludicrous, I’m just looking forward to our first ever vacation together.” Sofia smiled.

“What are you two planning when we arrive in Toronto in the morning?” Amy wondered.

“We’re thinking of giving Toronto a chance, we’re gonna be tourists like every other person from outside of Canada.”

Darrell wasn’t against the idea, but on the other hand, he had other thoughts upon looking up Canada. With how huge the place is, he wished he and the group had privileges when it came to flight transportation. “Is there a problem, Darrell?” Grizz took notice.

“Nothing.” He responded.

“No, actually he’s been quiet ever since we did our errands today.” Sofia said as she turned to her husband. “It’s gonna be a great time in Toronto, it’ll be amazing.”

“Yes, it will but…I’m expecting something else in Canada.” He looked straight at the bears, Karla and Amy to give them his answer. “I wanted us,” He turned to Sofia. “To go to Quebec City.”

“Quebec City?”

“Yes. When I looked up the place, I love the locations so much, it feels more romantic. How far away is Quebec City from Toronto?”

“I’ll look it up.” Karla took out her phone.

“Toronto’s like Canada’s number one city there, there’s a lot we can do there.” Grizz smiled.

“Amanda told me there’s romantic restaurants there, you might go to one of them.” Panda added.

“Yeah, Toronto still has great food when restaurants come to mind.” Amy smiled.

“I’m never against it, everything’s gonna be great. I just wished we could explore beyond the lands. That makes an adventure really atmospheric.” Darrell replied. “That would mean a lot for me.”

When Karla typed in the car transportation from Toronto to Quebec, she flinched, getting the attention of everyone. “You’re not gonna like this.” She showed everyone the screen on her phone. “It takes almost eight hours to get there by car.”

“Eehhh!” Panda flinched.

“Ice Bear fears of five hours plus transportation.” Ice Bear commented.

“Sorry Darrell.” Grizz turned back to Darrell. “You might as well find something else to do in Toronto.”

“Yeah, I was afraid how far away it would be.” Darrell placed his hands on his hips while he turned around. “I do want to come, but with everything happening for nearly twenty four hours, I had some other ideas in mind.” He then walked away from the group, standing on the spot where he and Sofia got married. He did reminisce about the memory, but he knew his responsibility with his wife.

“Darrell, if this is about you vowing for my happiness, you don’t have to try hard.” Sofia walked up to Darrell with the group behind her. “Quebec City is really promising and going to Canada is a once in a lifetime vacation, but Toronto’s the only place we can go to.”

“If it was somewhere else, would we go to Toronto?” Panda added.

“No?” Darrell guessed.

“No, we would all want to go, but this isn’t a road trip.”

“There’s a lot going on in Toronto, so why not make the best of it?” Sofia guessed.

Darrell didn’t do any research of Toronto unlike his wife. He wanted to take her advice but on the other hand, he doesn’t know where to start. “Everyone who’s going there at least has one thing they're gonna do. I didn't get to do that when I went on field trips during childhood in school but now…I can’t vow on that.”

Karla and Amy looked at each other after hearing Darrell. Despite them never going to his wedding, they’re aware he’s become more concerned about what he’s gonna do to impress his wife. “Darrell.” Karla walked up to him with Amy by her side. “To fill you in, I just met my sister Amy after such a long time and we had plans.”

“Separately before we reunited.” Amy replied. “I’m still willing to help out Chloe with her essay but us together, we also don’t know where to start.”

“It is true.”

Karla stood to the right next to Darrell, while Amy stood to the left. “I think the discovery in Canada is not gonna be the entirety of the country for adventure, it’s the memories that count.”

“Our memories as sisters there will be extraordinary.”

“So what advice should I take from this?” Darrell asked.

“Expect the extraordinary coming your way.” Sofia chimed in as she walked up to her husband. “I’m sure if you can’t find something I’ll like, maybe it’ll find you…or even us.”

Darrell thought about the possibilities when his life wasn’t anything other than ordinary. He’s aware Toronto won’t be the city of dreams however, neither is Quebec City. But it is possible that the extraordinary will make things better for him and his wife.

“It won’t happen soon, but this does happen to us a lot.” Panda replied. “The best you can do is join us in the meantime.”

“I do enjoy traveling so…I’m sure there’s always gonna be a big group if they’re coming along with you.” Darrell smiled.

“Trust me, it’s gonna be a blast to meet more bears when we go to the forests of Canada.” Grizz replied. “That’s what's been on my mind since yesterday.”

“There are gonna be a ton of bears there so…we don’t want to miss that.” Sofia commented.

“That’s something that’ll get my mind blown.” Darrell replied. “It’s the undiscovery in Canada I should focus on when I’m ready.”

“Be ready all the time, it’s not easy but not hard either.” Sofia took Darrell to his car. “We'll meet you by your cave.”

“Get to know others there while you’re at it.” Grizz said. Darrell and Sofia hopped inside the car, turning it on as they made their way to the bear’s cave.

“Is there anywhere you three need to be?” Karla wondered.

“No, we’re going straight to our place. There is one more thing to do there and that’s Ranger Tabes and The Poppy Rangers.”

“Lucy joined in to help but it’s for a demonstration for The Poppy Rangers on their skills for Canada.” Panda added.

“Hey, how's Griff, Tom and Issac?” Karla replied.

“They’re also where Ranger Tabes and the others are at, they'll be by the cave once they’re done.” Grizz answered.

“Ice Bear’s ready for tonight.” Ice Bear commented.

“Hey, what about Yana?” Panda remembered.

Ice Bear then remembered that ever since she agreed to come over, she texted her that she’ll come by the cave before the afternoon. But knowing Derrell, she isn’t the only one trying to get to know others she hasn’t met. “Ice Bear predicts she’s making friends.”

“Should we check on her before meeting Ranger Tabes?”

“We should.” Grizz replied while turning to Karla and Amy. “We'll meet you tonight by the cave.”

“Okay.” Amy responded.

“We would join you but…the reunion’s still over our heads.” Karla commented.

“You need your space, get yourselves occupied by our cave.” Panda smiled.

The group makes their way from the bell tower, to their last destination for the night. Ice Bear still wonders how Yana’s taking it upon joining the group. But he hopes she’s getting along with everyone who’s there, even though he’s aware she’s not the friend type.

Chapter Text

In the forest, Ranger Tabes was watching the Poppy Rangers going through the obstacle course with Lucy, her boyfriend Kale, and Ranger Martinez by her side. The Poppy Rangers have spent all day preparing for their trip to Canada. In case something terrible happens, they’ll put their bravery and smarts to good use. The final obstacle was a rock climbing wall with a bell on top of it, with the first to ring it winning the obstacle course.

“Keep going rangers!” Ranger Tabes called with Parker fell into the mud from the monkey bars. “Go back and try again, Parker!“ She then turned to Wallace who hadn’t done ten push ups. “Wallace!” She shouted the moment Wallace headed to the next obstacle. “That’s nine push ups! Go back and do ten!” Wallace went back to redo the ten push ups.

Aside from Ranger Tabes and her friends, Griff, Tom and Isaac were watching underneath the trees. “I got to say man, these Poppy Ranger dudes have really upped their game.” Griff commented.

“Imagine if they come across something big and dangerous.” Tom added. “They wouldn’t even scream in fear.”

“Isaac knows they’re standing without the face of fear.” Isaac added.

As they continued to watch, another person watched The Poppy Rangers in the shadows of the trees. Yana laid against the tree, crossing her arms, watching the kids performing the obstacle course. She arrived two hours ago, while meeting some who hung out in and outside of the Bear’s cave. Kale didn’t forget she was there the moment she appeared. In fact, no one ever told him she was also coming along.

“Lucy.” He gets her attention. “Have you ever talked to this person?” He pointed at Yana.

“No.” Lucy responded. “I’ve talked to nearly everyone who’s coming along, including them.” She pointed at Griff’s group

“Have you met her Tabes?” He turned to Ranger Tabes.

“Not now, I’m paying attention here.” Tabes responded.

Ranger Martinez turned to Yana as he’s just as curious as Kale is. “Are The Poppy Rangers almost done?” He turned to Tabes.

“After this course, they’re all set for the trip.”

Nguyen and Murphy were the first to climb up the rock climbing course with them being neck and neck. Upon reaching near to the top, Nguyen hit the bell just before Murphy, as she began the first ranger to win the course. “I won!” She shouted.

“Have we done enough!?” Murphy asked, panting heavily.

“You’ve all done enough!” Ranger Tabes smiled. “You’re all ready for Canada!”

The Poppy Rangers cheered as Nguyen and Murphy all got back down from the rock climbing wall. “Three hours of training really feels like three days of no sleep or bathroom breaks.” Ranger Martinez commented. “Are you sure you can handle this?”

“Yes. While I wished the bears would give us days or a week, it never stops The Poppy Rangers and their bravery.”

As The Poppy Rangers took a drink from their water bottles, Grizz and Ice Bear appeared from the trees as they noticed Yana. “There she is.” Grizz pointed.

Ice Bear got some answers from the people by the cave, but on the other hand, there wasn’t a lot of progress she made of getting to know them. He and Grizz walked up to her as she took notice.

“You’re here so early?” Yana smirked. “Don’t worry, I’ve at least gotten to know two people.”

“Isaac and Chloe?” Ice Bear guessed.

“Maybe.”

“Yana.” Grizz chimed in. “Have you been standing there for a while?”

“I’ve been watching these kids.” She pointed at The Poppy Rangers. “They’ve been going around in circles on this obstacle course.”

“You didn’t talk to them? Especially with Ranger Tabes? And Lucy and her boyfriend?”

“Nope. I’ve seen they see me as the odd one out. They never saw that with the others.”

Ice Bear was aware everyone around took time to know each other’s names upon heading back by the cave. But since there’s not enough time left until tonight’s party before tomorrow's plane trip, Canada would be an empty experience for Yana. Without hesitation, he took her arm.

“Ice Bear demands you to make an impression with Tabes and Lucy, now.”

“Okay, I’ll do something.”

With Grizz walking from behind, Ice Bear and Yana walked up to Ranger Tabes with Lucy and Kale taking notice.

“Hey it’s Grizz and Ice Bear.” Griff smiled.

“With a girl.” Tom added. “She’s really not my type.”

“Isaac predicts conflict.” Isaac added.

“Hey Grizz and Ice Bear.” Lucy smiled.

“Where’s Panda?” Kale added.

“He’s in the cave in his room, hanging out with Amanda and her brother and sister.” Grizz answered. “Are The Poppy Rangers ready, Tabes?”

“Definitely.” Ranger Tabes smiled as she witnessed Yana for the first time. “Who’s this person?”

“Yana.” Ice Bear spoked.

“Yana?” Kale commented. “She’s…interesting.”

“What makes you think that?” Yana wondered.

“It’s your tattoo on your upper arm.”

“Like your two arms with tattoos all over it?” Yana looked straight at his arms. “Must be very painful to get all of them on.”

“It is…for only my first tattoo.”

“He got used to it.” Lucy added. “But still, I like your tattoo.”

“See, you’re getting along easily.” Grizz smiled.

“Hold on.” Ranger Tabes walked up to Yana. “Just because I’ve talked to nearly everyone who’s coming along, doesn’t mean I’m believing a word from her.”

“You think I’m a threat?” Yana guessed.

“No, but you’re someone who wouldn’t be a ranger in my eyes.”

“Oh geez.” Grizz lowered his head.

With The Poppy Rangers witnessing Yana in person, Diaz walked up to her, whom she took notice of. “Is it because you prefer minors as rangers rather than confident adults?”

“Hey, there’s nothing wrong with having kids as rangers.” Ranger Martinez chimed in.

“Yeah, regardless if Canada doesn’t have rocks for them to climb.” Ranger Tabes said.

“And you think I’m not incapable of climbing rocks?” Yana replied.

“You won’t keep up with me, unlike Lucy.”

Lucy turned to Tabes, confused from her choice of words. “What’s your problem with her?” She spoked.

“Yeah? She’s not a threat.” Grizz added.

“Ice Bear never wanted Yana to have a frenemy.” Ice Bear added.

“It’s not that, nor do I not trust her, but what would she do to prove to me she can make this trip better?” Ranger Tabes replied.

“She could do something out of the blue?” Diaz commented as everyone turned their attention to her. “Like…what would we do to get your approval that’s way better than getting a badge?”

“That’s a one in a million chance.”

“I doubt that.” Yana crossed her arms. “In my book, I went through more than one in a million chances.”

“At least I believe the bears way more since I protect the forest’s animals all the time.”

“Well, not long since I’m gonna do that job while you’re gone.” Ranger Martinez said.

“Guys, me and my boyfriend might do something out of the blue.” Lucy replied.

“So could the bears.” Kale commented.

“If there’s one thing I’m sure we can agree on, our own vacations aren't about who gets the better vacation. And Tabes.” She turned to her. “If you had to spend one day with her, would you find her at least enjoyable?”

Ranger Tabes wanted to believe Lucy, especially what awaits her tomorrow, including The Poppy Rangers but her plans aren’t the same as Yana. She knows Yana is one of those people who's willing to come over to the Tornado, but her plans, despite sleeping in a hotel, are little inside of cities.

“No.” She answered. “Because…”

“Because I’m not like you?” Yana guessed.

“Yes.”

When she turned to the obstacle course, it gave her an idea. “How about a challenge?”

“For fun, not competition!” Grizz reacted.

“Yes, no competition.” Ranger Tabes agreed. “What challenge?”

“A race on the obstacle course.” Yana answered. “Just one lap for the first person to ring the bell.”

“You wanna race with me?”

“Yes.”

“Do you mind if I join?” Lucy offered. “I want to see how fast she is compared to me.”

“As Co-Rangers, we’ll show her our ranger spirit.”

“Rangers!” Diaz turned to The Poppy Rangers. “Ranger Tabes and Co-Ranger Lucy’s racing against the new girl in the obstacle course!”

The Poppy Rangers cheered as they moved away from the obstacle course, watching from the sidelines. As Tabes, Lucy and Yana went to the starting line, Griff and his friends walked next to Grizz and Ice Bear. “Hey Grizz.” Griff smiled. “What’s going on here?”

“Who’s she?” Tom wondered.

“She’s Yana.” Grizz answered. “She’s…Ice Bear’s partner, coming along.”

“Partner?”

“It’s a long confusing story that me and Panda learned last night.”

Ice Bear didn’t respond, as he’s paid attention to Yana racing against his friends. He expected something simple, but as long as it’s a good first impression, he’ll take it. Yana stared at the obstacle course, as she placed her hands on the ground in position. “Are you sure you can do this without practicing the course at least once?” Lucy said, also getting into position.

“It’s not like we’re gonna remember this course when we get back.” Yana said. “But we will remember the outcome.”

“You wish.” Ranger Tabes being the final to get into position. “Bet your outcome in Canada won’t be as great as mine.”

Wallace placed the whistle in her mouth as she blew it hard. Ranger Tabes, Lucy and Yana ran to the balance steps with Tabes being the first to get on. Upon stepping on the ten steps while getting on the staircase, their next obstacle is the high ropes. Tabes got on the first high rope while Lucy got on second.

“I’m starting to think that Yana isn’t the fastest.” Tom commented.

“It’s still the start of the course.” Griff added.

“Even if she did get ahead, Lucy would still beat her for how fast she is.” Kale added.

Yana managed to finish the high ropes as she crawled underneath the boot camp obstacle. She’s on Lucy’s tail, who’s also on Tabe’s tail, she’s not giving up in order to prove a point to Tabes. After getting out of the boot camp obstacle, Tabes and Lucy got on the monkey bars while Yana jumped to the fourth bar.

“Coming through, Co-Rangers!” She climbed in between them as she’s in the lead.

The ten push ups were the next as Yana jumped down, doing her push ups as fast as she could. “You’re still not gonna win!” Ranger Tabes taunted as she and Lucy began their push ups.

Yana finished her push ups, but it wasn’t long until Tabes and Lucy finished theirs. “Man, they’re doing great!” Grizz smiled.

“Talk about years of athletics.” Parker smiled. “Tabes is still doing great.”

“But Yana’s doing better.” Nguyen added.

After doing the following obstacle, all that’s left was the rock climbing wall. Yana got in the middle while Tabes and Lucy got to the left and right separately. Even with it outdoors, it was almost the same size from the one in the gym from San Francisco. Ranger Tabes and Yana are neck and neck, while Lucy starts to climb faster.

“You’re starting to sweat?” Yana grinned.

“I never sweat!” Tabes responded. “Especially Lucy!”

With everyone watching, They climbed past the middle section of the rock climb itself. “Have you ever climbed borders?” Lucy panted. “Tabes trained me to climb them.”

“You don’t know what I’m capable of!” Yana responded. “Just because your ranger friend thinks I’m the odd one in the group, doesn’t mean I’m the boring one.” She went faster, focusing on the objects to climb on before Tabes and Lucy.

“They’re getting close to the top.” Ranger Martinez spoked.

“You can’t prove to me you’re not the boring one!” Tabes said.

Yana climbed to the top as she rang the bell, being the winner of the obstacle course but knew it wouldn't impress Tabes. She turned around, looking down at Tabes as she and Lucy looked up at her.

“Then I bet you'll be jealous of this.” Yana jumped over Tabes, off the top of the rock climb as Lucy stared at her before she got to the top. Everyone watched Yana fall straight down the air while Isaac took out his phone, recording it when it happened. As for Ice Bear, he knew she would do something like this, but not in a stunt of showing off. She landed on the ground with her feet, but she wasn’t harmed upon landing. She lifted her body back up with her hair flow on her back, with a grin on her face.

“Whoa!” Lucy reacted.

“She didn’t break a bone.” Tabes blinked, looking down.

The Poppy Rangers cheered as they ran up to Yana. “That was awesome!” Murphy shouted.

“You landed on the ground like a superhero!” Wallace added.

“Just don’t do it yourselves in Canada.” Yana responded. “There's a reason trained professionals never ever jump off high cliffs.”

Grizz and the others felt like they watched a stunt double perfmored in a movie, but in a real scenario rather than a staged one. It would take dedication to perform an extremely dangerous stunt like that. “My girlfriend would never do that.” Kale commented.

“It would no doubt break her legs.” Ranger Martinez added.

“We really need to know Yana now.” Tom added. “She’s a tough lady.”

“She’s gonna make the trip really fun.” Griff added.

“We're going to the cave now!” Yana called to the bears. “I’m ready for Canada!”

As Yana and The Poppy Rangers left the area, Ranger Tabes and Lucy climbed back down. They walked up to the group who felt stunted the entire time. “If the animals here saw what she just did,” Ranger Tabes spoked. “They won’t believe I would do that.”

“At least she did something out of the blue.” Grizz smiled.

“Too far out of the blue if you ask me.” Lucy responded. “Maybe she’s more of an outsider friend.”

“Ice Bear’s outsider’s status agrees with you.” Ice Bear said.

“He would tell you everything about her, but it’s time to head to the cave.” Grizz pointed in the direction.

“Yeah, it’s getting late and you all need to be on time for your flight tomorrow morning.” Ranger Martinez added.

“But what do you think of Yana, Tabes?”

As Tabes tried to accept the fact she got beaten fair and square, she took a deep breath to focus on tonight’s party. “She’s nowhere near as bad as the Ivy Rangers, and Ranger Zhao.”

“At least in a cocky way, Zhao wouldn’t perform a stunt like that.” Lucy smiled.

“Yeah, she would’ve stayed in the hospital for a long time.”

“Thankfully, she and the rangers aren’t coming with us.”

“Exactly.” Grizz said as he and the group headed back. “As long as no one’s coming after us, it’ll be the greatest Canada trip ever.”

“You said it dude.” Griff responded.

Chapter Text

Night has officially fallen with everyone hanging out at the party in and around the Bear’s cave. Everyone parked their vehicles knowing the first thing they’re doing tomorrow morning is drive out of the forest and straight to the airport. They agreed to the bears sleeping over for tonight so they can all leave together. With everything out of the way, all that’s left is to enjoy themselves for the night with their big adventure coming tomorrow.

Inside Panda's bedroom, Panda’s reading one of his volumes of Dr. Ocelot with Amanda, Chanda and Tatiana. “I’m starting to love Dr. Ocelot.” Tatiana smiled.

“I told you, you would enjoy it.” Panda replied.

“She really knows how to kick butt!” Chanda added.

“I would bring more volumes along but…it’s a long story that happened underneath.” Panda pointed at the ground.

Amanda’s brother and sister laughed while Amanda walked next to Panda. “If there’s an anime convention in Toronto, they would like to see Dr. Ocelot live in person. That’ll be enough to read many more volumes.”

“That’s where we’re taking them before we leave.” After Panda put his Dr. Ocelot volume away, he, Amanda and her siblings headed outside of his bedroom. They head outside the cave where Ice Bear’s handing out drinks, while Chloe is assisting Grizz to set up his speech with Gayle by his side. “I’m gonna be with the bros now.”

“Okay, I’ll hang out with Samantha for the rest of the night.” Amanda smiled. “Let’s go Chanda and Tatiana.”

“See ya, Panda!” They both cheered.

“See ya too, get some good rest tonight.” Panda made his way to Grizz with a microphone in his hand. “So, is everyone here?”

“Everyone we know is here.” Grizz responded.

“And I’ll do a head count when we all get outside tomorrow.” Gayle smiled.

“Be ready to make your speech Grizz.” Chloe turned to him. “It’s almost ready.”

“No problem.” Grizz responded as Chloe went back to set up the speakers. “I’m ready to step foot in Canada. Are you excited?”

“Yes I am.” Panda responded. “So aside from Nom Nom…if we meet him, what are you planning to do in Canada?”

“Hang out with Pan-Pan and Ice B!” He cheered. “We at least deserve a day hanging out together.”

“Yes, but on your own.” This caused Grizz to look at Panda. “On my own, I’m hanging out with Amanda and her siblings while Ice Bear might be on his own. If you’re gonna be on your own, there’s at least something you should search for.”

Grizz had been going everywhere with his brothers doing the same, to have everyone be all set for the flight. But now, all that’s left is what he’s gonna do on his own. Finding the excitement coming his way that could give his Canada adventure memories he’ll forever remember.

Meanwhile, farther away from the party, Charlie and Panda Jr. slowly made their way to the party lights. With his only goal to inform Ralph about the time to get a head start tomorrow morning, he’ll do anything to go with them as long as he doesn’t get caught.

“I can hear them.” Charlie spoke quietly. “There’s gonna be a lot of people there.” Panda Jr. hid behind Charlie’s head as Charlie saw people hanging out with each other. He noticed Ranger Tabes with Kirk by her side, talking to Karla and her sister, Amy. Upon hiding the bushes, he heard their conversation.

“You’re gonna miss the animals here?” Karla asked.

“Yes, every single one of them.” Ranger Tabes responded. “As much as they should feel the wonders of Canada, I can only bring one animal along.” She looked down at Kirk who barked.

“I went through this place a few times and came across animals.” Amy smiled. “But since you know all the creatures here, what’s the most important animal who should come even if they won’t?”

Ranger Tabes took out a picture of a deer with a broken antler and showed it to them. “My second most important animal is Little Buck.” She responded.

“Oh, what happened to his antler?” Karla wondered.

“I broke it, but it was an accident. He still managed to be with another deer even with only one antler.” She leaned towards them, whispering in their ears. “He fought a homewrecker.”

“Really?” Amy giggled. “We could see something like that in Canada.”

Ranger Tabes leaned back. “The Poppy Rangers could encounter something like that, but most of the animals are mostly friendly.”

“So what’s your first important animal who should really come?”

“Charlie.” She put her photo away.

“Charlie?” Karla followed on. “What type of animal is he?”

“I can’t say that.”

“How come?”

“Because…he’s not the type to hang out with humans.”

“He’s shy?”

“No, he’s really afraid of humans.”

Charlie couldn’t believe his name was in a conversation, but felt relieved Ranger Tabes told them the truth on why he isn’t in the public eye of humans.

“I feel like him coming along would put him in an environment he’ll enjoy the most. Especially since…Canada has more forests compared to here.”

“Considering the amount of animals you’ve taken care of, they wouldn’t be part of a herd if they’re traveling separately.”

“They could travel together as a big herd.” Amy responded. “Forest to forest meeting more big herds, it does happen.”

“It is true and Charlie does meet other animals. But it’s really sad he’s not gonna experience it. And either way, he’s not gonna get over his fear towards humans which is something that still wouldn’t happen if he came along.”

Charlie slowly lowered his head in shame. No matter what happens if he succeeds tonight, tomorrow morning, and arrives in Canada, he can’t face his fear in any situation he could get stuck in. “Ralph would brag out in the open if they ever met him.”

“Everyone!” Grizz spoked through the microphone, getting everyone’s attention as Ranger Tabes, Karla and Amy made their way to the wooden stage where Grizz is at. As everyone gathered up to Grizz, Charlie paid attention to Grizz’s words while still hiding his presents. “It’s really an amazing honor that we’re all here for our trip to Canada tomorrow.”

Chloe then pressed a button, releasing a Canadian flag next to Grizz. Everyone clapped with some cheering. “Canada, here we come!” Samantha shouted.

“Now we're leaving at three o’clock in the morning, so we have enough time to get to the airport for our flight at four o’clock.”

“It’s gonna be almost five hours until we arrive in Canada.” Chloe added.

“If nothing bad happens, we should be there at nine o’clock.”

“That’s really hard for some of us to get up.” Clifford commented.

“Then you don’t know how I feel when I wake up so early every morning.” Lucy looked down at her brother.

“But at the very least, we can check into our hotels and get straight to our adventures.” Grizz smiled. “It’s a big country, so we'll be there for a long time…” He then looked at Darrell who he clenched his teeth. “...but only the places that'll be close to us.”

“I know.” Darrell responded.

“But Toronto’s a big city with so many activities to do. There’s more than enough for all of us to have fun.”

Panda and Ice Bear all got up next to Grizz as he handed Panda the microphone. “There may be problems when we get there, but it’s better than not going at all.”

Ice Bear leaned towards Panda’s arm. “Ice Bear is sure there’s no tearing groups apart from beginning to end.” He leaned back.

“Including couples, with one giving her siblings the adventure of a lifetime.” Panda looked straight at Amanda who adored his comment. Panda gave the microphone back to Grizz to give the final saying of the speech.

“We have one more hour to party until bedtime, let’s savor every single second for our adventure to Canada!” Grizz lifted his hand up as everyone cheered.

They continued to party for the following hour as Charlie had the information he needed to inform Ralph later. He made the choice to stay a little longer even though he can’t party with them. It wasn’t easy, but he was lucky no one had spotted him, including the bears and Ranger Tabes. When it all ended, nearly everyone slept inside the cave while the rest slept in the shack behind the cave.

Inside Grizz’s room, Grizz was the last to stay awake while everyone, including his brothers went to sleep. He still thought about what Panda said to him and if he did tell his friends about it, they'd give him options but it’s the obvious direction. His mind about Canada since yesterday is more of a mystery the more he thinks about it.

“I’ve been spending most of my life wanting to get recognized by everyone here…” He sat on his bed. “...Canada’s like a free ticket of happiness.” He took a deep breath in order to focus on the arrival tomorrow. “It’s never a bad thing, but if we had passports while running away…Agent Trout wouldn’t interfere with any of the animals there if he tried.”

His memory flashed, remembering how he almost lost his brothers behind cell bars. But he’s no longer afraid of him, especially after the time he finally stood up to him, along with the other bears he and his brother rescued. One thing’s for sure, he knows there's bears in Canada’s forests. It may not be the first thing he’ll do when he gets there but he’s waiting until it happens.

He tucked himself to bed to be prepared for the early rise tomorrow morning. “Keep it chill Grizz, everything’s going to be fine, it’s just you, your bros and a whole group of friends coming along. Nothing will ever ruin this adventure.” He closed his eyes as he became the last to fall asleep. Little did he realize, Charlie watched him through the window with Panda Jr. still by him.

He refuses to wake him up along with the other people inside. But he’s really thankful to go out in the open without getting spotted, despite the risk. He went to the Canadian flag, still hanging as he walked up to it. Panda Jr. looked at the flag himself while Charlie took a deep breath. “Well…it’s our Canada adventure if we bypass the airport and get onto the plane they’re going on.” He commented. “I just wish Ralph’s smart enough to do that.”

Panda Jr. looked at him as Charlie looked straight at him. “I know we don’t have enough time to say goodbye to our friends in the forest, but I was too desperate.” He looked back at the cave, still relieved that no one from inside spotted him. “The bears wouldn’t even believe how I got to Canada uninvited. In fact, they haven’t been thinking about Ralph for a long time.”

He again looked at Panda Jr. “Ralph isn’t as bad as what they’ve been through.” He then left the location, heading straight to where Ralph is at. He’s uncertain how Ralph can do it, but once he gives him the information, it’s all his doing to sneak him onto the plane. But no matter what, he’s dealing with his own problems the instant he’s done with Ralph’s help.

Chapter Text

Barry, along with his syndicate, arrived in Vancouver, Canada, high over the city as they flew past the airport. The jet turned after leaving the city, heading to the North Shore Mountains where HQ is located, away where the citizens can’t find it. The jet began to descend towards the runway as Barry and his syndicate readied themselves. The jet stopped at the end of the runway, next to the HQ with only the streetlights on.

“We’re here.” Barry smirked as he and the group got up. The jet's door opened, allowing the syndicate to disembark, heading straight to the building.

“You really know how to put money into good use, do you?” Buck turned to Barry.

“It’s the technology where I put my money into good use.” Berry responded.

“Never found technology a specialty.”

“Neither do I.” Courtney chimed in. “But I’m not against it when it’s a weapon against the bears.”

The syndicate entered inside the building with their first destination being the storage room. All the way at the back of HQ. Barry made sure all the contents of his plan remained hidden from the public eye. Especially the people he joined for not only his, but their own revenge. “The organization that I work in is Techies Gang.”

“And you keep that as a private organization?” Buck asked.

“I wouldn’t have all the money I have if it was public.” They then came across a door that was wide open. Buck checked inside where people are playing a robot battle game with tons of robots being destroyed.

“You really have a sense of aggression.”

“I would consider my sense of…triumphant.” Barry turned around.

“That is, if triumphant requires aggression.” Dave commented.

“He’s really triumphant when he can overcome the innocents.” Norm added. “In this case, I’m looking forward to what tech he has in storage.”

They made it to the door where everything according to the plan was behind. Barry took out his keys and unlocked it, opening it so the rest of his syndicate could come inside. They witnessed another person waiting for them, chewing gum along with a big black curtain in the end of the room. “We're heading to Toronto tomorrow, in the late afternoon on our private jet to put our plan into motion.” Barry responded. “So in the meantime, let me give you a warm welcome to our biggest weapon against the Panda lover.”

They walked up to the person who took notice of them the moment they came in. He had long brown hair that stopped on his shoulders, he had a green coat with ripped pants with his knees revealing. He blew a bubble of his gum, popping it in front of the syndicate as he grinned. “How's it going?”

“Really devious.” Courtney responded as Barry and Dave walked next to him.

“This guy is Gabriel.” Barry said. “Dave called him just a couple of days ago and he’s been here since.”

“It’s all part of breaking Panda’s heart.” Dave added. “Since he broke my heart.”

“Yes yes, you established your old love life.” Buck rolled his eyes. “I never got married, but never been on an island.”

“Are you on my side or not?”

“I am. So what’s the strategy?”

“The strategy,” Gabriel spoked. “Is to show Panda and his girlfriend that I’m more than just a guy, but someone who’s just a cool citizen in Toronto who wants to be friends.”

“Nothing to do with love?”

“Oh, there will be love. Just because I'm a weapon of breaking a panda bear’s heart, doesn’t mean I’m stupid.”

“He’s not a fan of anime from what he told me, he’s an intellectual of romance.” Dave grinned. “Movies, sitcoms, ever since he turned thirteen.”

Buck and the others catched on with him being the person that he is. “Did you cheat on your girlfriend?” Buck wondered.

“Yes.” Gabriel answered.

“Did you have remorse for your actions?”

“No, I don’t.”

“That explains everything.”

“Better than getting an actual loser.” Barry said as he made his way to the poster of Grizz, Panda and Ice Bear displayed on the left side of the storage. “And I’m sure if we ever get into a roadblock of any kind, we'll make sure we kick them down.” He then turned around, crossing his arms. “Our main goal of heading to Toronto is to abduct one member of their group, taking him or her here so they can’t go back without a friend left behind.”

“That’s the issue.” Courtney commented while also crossing his arms. “We’ve only met one of their friends, not even half.”

“Capturing Dana, who went to Ranger Con isn’t enough.” Norm added. “There has to be one friend who is more precious to them.”

Buck remembered that after the bears were taken away, he met four people who they’re friends with the bears. He did see a very young kid with glasses, who stood out the most while the others were adults. “There’s a kid who I still remember.” Buck getting everyone’s attention. “She’s really that precious to them. I don’t know her name, but she’s the one they’re never ever leaving Canada without.”

“Great.” Barry replied. “You should be the one to abduct her.”

“We just need to know where they’re staying, while keeping their friends out of it.”

“We’ll split up when we arrive in Toronto, then we will reunite to abduct her.”

“Mate.” Courtney responded. “You said on the way here, I’m going to a forest nearby.”

“Yes, but it isn’t gonna be for hunting.” Barry walked past him. “You'll get your vengeance against them later. Because what comes first.” He and the group walked up to the black curtain. “Will be our greatest trap.” They enter inside with everything being pitch black. Barry took out his remote in his pocket, pressing a button with one light turning on from the end of the storage room.

There was a cage with one bear cub inside, taking notice of the light turning on but in fear without any freedom. She turned to Barry who just came up to her, she backed away to the other side of the cage. Buck and the others witnessed the cub itself as it was almost the same color as Ice Bear.

“This little creature will be everything according to the plan.”

“So I gotta drop this critter in the forest by Toronto?” Courtney looked at the cub. “Expected the cub to be vicious.”

“It wouldn’t even make our plan work.” Barry then placed his arm on top of the cage. “They may not find it tomorrow night, or the day after tomorrow, but they will find it to take care of it.”

“And just how are we gonna accomplish that afterwards?” Gabriel said.

Barry snapped his fingers, getting the attention from one of his members of Techies Gang with a silver briefcase. Upon giving it to him, Barry unlocked it with the combination, presenting the contents to his syndicate as he opened it. The contents inside revealed items of stickers, different colors and shapes.

“Don’t be fooled with these.” He smirked. “These stickers are not only permanent once being put on, but they have a really small camera for us to spot anything that happens.”

“Interesting.” Buck grinned. “Hard to believe, but I’ll take it.”

The cub’s shaking, afraid of what they’re gonna do to her. “So which one should we pick?”

“I think I found the one that makes her really innocent.” Buck picked up the neon-blue star sticker, while looking at the cub and back to the sticker. “This color matches her.”

“I agree with him.” Norm commented.

“Let’s put it on her.” Dave added.

Barry closed the briefcase as he took out his key, unlocking the cage. Upon opening it, Countney grabbed the cub with his hand, taking her out while holding onto her with both of his hands. A tear came down from the cub’s eye, but it didn’t stop the syndicate’s plan. Buck peeled the end off as he turned to the cub. “This won’t hurt you at all.” He went closer to her. “But it’ll hurt them more when the time comes.” He placed the sticker on her chest, tightly as the cub closed her eyes. Courtney immediately put her back into the cage as Barry locked the cage.

“They can try everything to get it off, it’ll never come off.” Barry replied as he took out his phone, revealing the camera’s perspective on the cub’s sticker. “We'll be watching everything.”

“I can’t think of a better way to begin our revenge tomorrow.”

“Feels great to be part of the group now, Buck?”

“More grateful.” Buck crossed his arms as he and the syndicate watched the cub inside the cage with a star sticker on her chest. “The bears will never cross the border of any country ever again.” The cub covered her eyes with her hands, sobbing with no way out. The moment she gets dropped off in the forest, the rest is history with no one to stop it, including the bears and their group. The syndicate left the area with Barry being the last to stop.

“Sweet dreams and nightmares.” He pressed the button to turn off the light, leaving the cub alone in the darkness as she continued to cry throughout the night.

Chapter Text

At two thirty in the morning, Charlie, Panda Jr. and Ralph made a head start out of the forest while wearing disguises. Panda Jr. hid in Charlie’s disguise in one of the pockets as they arrived by the airport just before the time the bears and the group arrived. Charlie felt too tired without sleeping over the night just to follow Ralph. He couldn’t keep his body up as once he snuck in, the first thing on his mind was sleeping throughout the flight.

As they hid behind a truck, Ralph kept an eye on his surroundings, making sure no one caught him in the act. “Charlie.” Ralph turned to him. “Wake up.”

“I’m trying.” Charlie attempts to keep his eyes open. “You sure you know what you’re doing?”

“Never doubt me. There’s a reason why we’re not going inside.”

“Does each plane have directions from the airport building?”

“Yes, but to stay out of sight, we’re taking the safer route.” As they moved to the next truck, Ralph saw the plane with the Canadian colors on it, along with the logo. “There she is.”

As Charlie looked at the plane, he couldn’t believe the bears did it. “That’s enough for their whole group to be inside.”

“That’s right. We're entering where all their luggage goes.”

“How are we getting out when we get there?”

“Don’t worry, I’ve got that figured out. Just keep following my lead.”

Inside the airport, the bears and their group were waiting for the announcement to get on their flight. Some were tired from waking up way earlier than normal, while others were less lethargic. The bears sat together with all of their and the group’s luggage all packed. Panda felt a little energetic hanging out with Amanda and her siblings, while Ice Bear’s ready for his first activity in Toronto. Grizz however remained feeling down ever since he got up. He’s still considering the first activity to do even if it’s a work in progress until they get there. He looked at the clock as it was almost time to get on board.

“Ice Bear.” Panda turned to Ice Bear. “Should I wake some of them up in case they fall over on their way to the plane?” Ice Bear nodded as Panda got up, preparing to get most of the people ready. “Any ideas for yourself Grizz?”

“We can talk about it when we board.” Grizz responded. Panda accepted the offer as he went to his friends. Grizz looked out the window where his plane is next to the air bridge. The Canada logo is where he’ll be seen anywhere upon arriving, as so do his brothers and friends. Once they get inside the plane, their adventure will be waiting for them in less than five hours.

Just when their announcement was up, back outside, the employees opened the cargo hold, as they turned their attention to the luggage coming out. As they prepared to carry their luggage, Charlie and Ralph immediately got inside the cargo hold without getting caught. Upon reaching the end, the employees tossed the luggage inside, they paid attention to more luggage while Charlie and Ralph crawled down, camouflaging behind the luggage itself.

Back inside the airport, the whole group got inside the plane thanks to the air bridge. The bears took their seats in first class, along with their best friends sitting around them. With the rest of the luggage being put in the cargo hold, the employees closed it up. “We’re all set.” The employee spoke through his headset.

The pilot received the message as he turned on the speakers inside all the classes. “Ladies, gentlemen and bears.” He spoke through the microphone. “We’re about to take off to Toronto, Canada. We'll be landing there in five hours, so sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.”

With the air bridge being moved away, the plane began to move to the runway. In no time, the plane sped up and eventually lifted into the air. Everyone looked out their windows as they climbed out, leaving San Francisco. “Well, we’re off.” Karla commented.

“It’s finally happening.” Griff added.

“Won’t be back until we all feel like it.” Ranger Tabes added.

“Canada essay, here I come.” Saanvi added.

Soon the plane left behind San Francisco, with the lights disappearing into the distance. It climbed up through the clouds, high enough above them with not a single person in the group behind. Inside the cargo hold, Ralph sat down relaxing while Charlie laid down with Panda Jr. coming out of his pocket. “We did it, for now.” He responded.

“Told you to never doubt me.” Ralph responded. “Enjoy your sleep while it lasts, you’re on your own.”

“I know.” Charlie responded. “I don’t need to ask if you miss San Francisco.”

“That place got stale as milk anyway. Just make sure you come up with a way to get back on the plane back there.”

“Doing what we just did?”

“Yes, unless the airport in Canada has better security.” Charlie moaned with his slumber getting the better of him. He laid his head on the ground as Panda Jr. slept next to him. “He has nothing, while I’m basking all the glory being gift wrapped for myself.” Ralph laid his head with his arms against the wall as he waited for the plane to land.

Three hours passed, as the sun shone through the windows of the plane. Everyone woke up from the slumber as they filled their spare time, with nearly two more hours until landing. Panda and Ice Bear waited patiently while Grizz watched his Crowbar Jones projects to pass the time.

“Grizz.” Panda poked on Grizz’s arm as Grizz paused his project. “Since we’re on the plane…three hours have passed, do you have any ideas?”

“I’m still thinking about it.”

“You’re planning on going with Ranger Tabes and The Poppy Rangers?”

“It’s gonna happen later today, but it’s something.”

“You should at least have something to do in the meantime.”

Chloe then popped up from behind. “There’s still the hotel we need to get to.” She spoked. “Are we gonna search for one?”

“Ice Bear promises its first goal before beginning day one.” Ice Bear responded.

“I’ll check the hotels online once we land. But yeah Grizz, there has to be something for you to plan for yourself.”

“Do I have to be alone to make it work?” Grizz said.

“No, not at all.”

“No one’s going to be alone throughout the trip, but every moment is for everyone. Seek for your moment.”

“I’m sure it’s possible but the question is, does the moment seek me?”

Ice Bear then turned to Yana, who’s sitting on the other side of the first class. She looked out the window, waiting until the time came. He still remembered what she did yesterday, but knew that moment wasn’t seeking her as she seeked it herself.

“Ice Bear.” Grizz turned to him. “Are you waiting for your moment to seek you?”

“There will be many moments other than that.” Panda replied. “Plus, nothing bad’s gonna happen to us.”

“I’m aware.” Grizz turned back to Panda. “It is my idea on going to Canada, I just didn’t think we'd go this far.”

“If you never got Agent Trout arrested and saved the bears, maybe you wouldn’t be this famous by getting to Canada this way.” Chloe smiled. “Especially since we have passports now.”

“True, but on the other hand, we could’ve planned this months ahead of time, instead of just two days ago.”

“We can’t argue with that.” Panda said. “But if we did stay a little longer, we wouldn’t have the surprises come our way.”

“Canada is full of surprises despite doing research.” Chloe added. “Like when you made it to the border there, what was your first thought?”

Grizz remembered the moment he almost arrived in Canada while escaping from Agent Trout. Despite the miscalculation afterwards, it was sealed in his mind ever since. “I wanted to make a home in another cave.”

“Another cave?”

“We need to make a home to live there, so we could try finding one. We’re staying in a hotel, yeah, but it could give us the feeling when we made our home back home.”

“I like it.” Panda smiled. “But what about making the home?”

“We don’t have to. But if there’s animals homeless, we can make a home for them.”

“I don’t think there will be animals who could be homeless, but it’s worth a shot.” Chloe also smiled.

“Ice Bear’s willing for bro’s possible homecoming for lost animal.” Ice Bear commented.

“You should tell Ranger Tabes about it when you go with her.”

“I will.” Grizz smiled.

The plane continued to fly over the clouds, thirty and a half thousand feet in the air. With Grizz having a plan at least, he’ll see if there’s a cave that suits perfectly similar to the one back home, or even better.

Two hours have passed with the plane arriving at Toronto's airport. It landed on the runway and gradually slowed down. Upon reaching the gate, the employees connected an air-bridge to the plane. Back under the plane, they opened the cargo hold to get the luggage out. Once they managed to hand out the first pieces of luggage, one was thrown out on the ground, alerting them in an instant.

“What in the world?” One employee walked down from the cargo hold, witnessing the luggage being thrown out. Ralph and Charlie head out as fast as they can, jumping off just before the employee checks inside. They ran out of the airport while hiding like before. They head into the woods as Charlie panted, even after getting his sleep.

“We made it.” He spoked.

“And my work and help here is done.” Ralph grinned. “It’s been a pleasure knowing you, Charlie. Enjoy your boring adventure without me.”

“Good luck on not getting transferred.”

“That’ll be unlikely, unlike you.” Ralph headed to Toronto, leaving Charlie and Panda Jr. “Good luck having your friends protect you from that. That is…If you can handle meeting their friends.”

Charlie remained silent as he turned to the airport. He’ll be lucky if the bears helped him back to San Francisco, but he doesn’t have a passport like them. Panda Jr. got onto his shoulder as Charlie looked at him. “At least I’ve got someone to talk to.” He smiled as Panda Jr. nuzzled on his cheek. “Thanks. Let’s meet some new animals.” He went in his own direction to the forest with many animals. He may not leave on time with the bears and others when it happens, but it’s not stopping him for his own adventure with the only animal he has with him. But if they get left behind, the bears will never ever let go of their whereabouts when they find out.

Chapter Text

The Bears and the group took a bus to head to Bay Street in Toronto. Just before they left the airport, Chloe found the hotel they will stay at throughout their time as it’s cheaper and more comfortable for everyone. They all looked out their windows to witness the city itself with the bears more impressed from the sights in every corner.

“Amazing…” Grizz commented. “We’re finally here.”

“It looks better than from the pictures we’ve seen.” Panda added.

“Ice Bear awaits nonstop memories." Ice Bear added.

The bus arrived at their destination as everyone got out, witnessing the Bay Street Corridor. “Hello, Canada!” Ranger Tabes cheered with The Poppy Rangers behind her.

“Should we check in right away?” Darrell wondered.

“We should stay out for a little longer.” Lucy witnessed the park sign itself. “Let’s go to Clover Hill Park.”

“Yeah, there’s a donkey statue over there.” Clifford pointed.

“Yeah, we should spend our first time in the park together before we split up.” Amy smiled.

“We still need the fresh air after our flight from this morning.” Kayla added.

The group wasted little time as they made their way to Clover Hill Park. Most of the group went to the open space while some took pictures of the donkey stature. Grizz, Panda and Ice Bear walked on the park together as they’re still taking it in on actually being in Canada.

“So far so good, but this is still the beginning.” Grizz smiled. “I’m gonna go around Toronto for about a couple hours and I’m going with Ranger Tabes and The Poppy Rangers to the Rouge National Urban Park.”

“I’ve seen online that the anime convention will happen tomorrow so I could take Amanda, her brother and sister to Canada's Wonderland today.” Panda replied. “What about you Ice Bear?”

“Ice Bear going to Niagara Falls with Karla and Amy.” Ice Bear responded.

“Well it seems Chloe’s gonna have to rely on Saanvi and Blonde for today.”

“You’re gonna keep Karla and Amy company?” Grizz wondered as Ice Bear nodded. “The more comfort they get, the closer they should get to one another.”

“So Grizz, since we have enough time along with checking into our hotel, we can go to one place before we split up. But it has to be close to here.” Panda then showed Grizz the map of Bay Street on his phone. “High Park is where The Giant Maple Leaf is located.”

“It’s less than half an hour away.”

“It’ll be something we can take a picture of together.” Panda putting his phone away.

“Okay, I should let Tabes and Griff know to take the bus there later, so she can meet up with me.”

“Yeah, and we should check into our hotel in about fifteen minutes, but we’re not in a rush.”

As the bears joined in on their friends in the open spaces, fifteen minutes passed as everyone headed inside the hotel. After taking time to check in while sharing the apartments, the bears took the street bus again to High Park. Upon arriving, Grizz and his brothers walked past multiple trees.

“This does look nice, but it still won’t compare to the forest me and Tabes are going to.” Grizz looked around.

“It still looks nice.” Panda smiled. “San Francisco isn’t the only city that has parks.”

“True, just wanting to keep that mood up until later.”

“Ice Bear has his moods always saved for later.” Ice Bear commented.

After walking in the park, Grizz witnessed an open space in the distance. “Hey, look over there.” He pointed. As Panda and Ice Bear looked at Grizz’s direction, they made their way to their destination. At first they thought they were looking for things but they received something they never got from San Francisco. Grizz paid attention as he got closer and once he witnessed roses, it was over one hundred roses, all in a shape.

“It’s the maple leaf logo!” Grizz cheered.

“Shaped in roses!” Panda added.

“Ice Bear’s impressed…and feels the maple leaf spirit.” Ice Bear added.

They walked up to the leaf as they smell the roses from it. Panda took out his phone as he took a picture of it. “Our friends would come here to see this.”

“I know. This is impressive how Canada made this in the shape of Roses.” Grizz said.

“It’s not enough for you but it’s still something for the three of us.”

“Yeah, still something.”

“Bro selfie?”

“Bro selfie.”

As the three prepared to take a selfie, someone appeared inside High Park. After the bears took their selfie of the giant maple leaf, Grizz turned his attention to the person with his hair color being similar. But not only that, he was wearing a helmet along with a scooter he’s pulling by his side.

“Grizz?” Panda took notice. “Grizz?”

As Grizz looked closely with the man coming closer, it almost clicked to him. “I’ve remembered him.”

“The guy with the scooter?”

“Yeah, it’s weird but If I remember…” Grizz slowly walked up to him as he’s walking down towards him. “...Lo…Lorenz…”

“Lorenz what?”

When he laid eyes on Grizz, he stood in place, especially in the presence of two bears next to him. “Lorenzo?” Grizz spoke as the guy’s eyes blinked in realization.

“Family Troubles…Bear?” He spoked.

“Family Troubles?” Panda added.

“Were you the same bear where I auditioned in the Family Troubles sitcom a long time ago?”

Panda and Ice Bear looked at Grizz. “You were part of Family Troubles? In Canada?”

“I…might have forgotten about it.”

“You’ve met our brother?” Panda turned to Lorenzo.

“When…I was a kid…but he never had brothers.” Lorenzo answered. “A lot has changed since you left…Especially after you left, Family Troubles got canceled.”

“It got canceled?” Grizz reacted. “After I left!?”

“You'll be surprised you won’t find reruns from the day after you left.”

“Ice Bear thinks they air it on sibling’s channel.” Ice Bear said.

“Sadly…no.”

“Even in Canada, people will still hate on something that wasn’t that bad.” Panda said. “Except I never watched Family Troubles.”

Grizz then turned his attention to his brothers. “Bros, before we met, I was in Family Troubles and I decided to leave to find my own family. And before I left, is where I met Lorenzo. He was the cool kid.” He pointed at him.

“We never knew each other when…we’ve raced to be the star of the show.” Lorenzo replied. “We were never friends or in the sitcom’s logic, brothers.”

“If only I knew who the other actors were, I doubt they’re here.”

“If the sitcom happened in this country, then I’m sure they’re still around, unless they’ve moved.” Panda said.

“But wait.” Lorenzo placed his hand on his hip. “Why are you back in Canada?”

“Because I’ve never truly experienced Canada, nor did my brothers. We did try to go to Canada, but let’s just say it was our last chance to find a home.” Grizz answered.

“So it’s just a vacation?”

“An adventure actually but yes, it’s a vacation. So…you’re here to see the maple leaf shaped in roses?”

“Yeah, because I live close to here. I’m not a fan of flower gardens but this really reminds me how much I love Canada.” He walked past the bears to see the Giant Maple Leaf. Grizz walked next to him while his brothers stood to the other side of Lorenzo. “You wanna know what I’ve been doing since you’ve left?”

“Yes.”

“I’ve been participating in scooter races and I’ve been practicing since. I’ve won first place in one tournament and it really changed my life.”

Grizz witnessed the scooter's color in red with flames on it. “Yeah, I didn’t notice that.”

“I’ve ended my acting career since one of the producers told me after the cancellation of Family Troubles, I would be a top champion in scooter racing.”

“If I had time, I might watch you race.”

“Don’t worry about it.” He turned to Grizz. “My next race won’t happen until next month.”

Grizz wished he could do something with him but knowing he’ll be gone next month, he’s back in square one. “Well umm…you don’t know where the actors of Family Troubles live?”

“I do know but when they retired as actors, no one has ever heard of them since.”

“Oh no. They’re probably depressed that their- I mean…our show got canceled."

“They have other things in life, you know?” He then turned his attention to Panda and Ice Bear. “Do you bears have other things to do in Canada?”

“Yes.” Panda responded. “As much as we want to meet the actors of Family Troubles, we have other places to go.”

“You have a girlfriend?”

“Hard to believe, but yes.”

“Good for you, dude!” He padded on Panda’s back. “Give her a vacation she’ll never forget, O Canada style!”

“Yeah, she’s gonna love the rollercoasters.”

“What’s he gonna do?” Lorenzo pointed at Ice Bear.

“Ice Bear’s adventures are unpredictable, for scooter dudes.” Ice Bear responded.

“Okay, awesome for you.”

“Ice Bear finds Scooter dudes, awesome.”

“Sweet.” Lorenzo and Ice Bear gave a fist pump to each other. “You’re gonna be apart for most of the vacation?”

“Yes, but can you at least tell me where the retired actors are?” Grizz asked.

“They’re from Waterloo, which is over an hour away. It’s where most retired actors go.” Lorenzo then walked up to Grizz. “They’ve been hoping you would come back to meet them.”

Grizz had thought they'd moved on just like them, but for how long it was, he could imagine the looks on their faces when they saw him. “It’s sad most of my friends aren’t coming with me but at least Ranger Tabes and Griff would.”

“They have a memory book of their time in Family Troubles. They showed me it the last time I came over.”

“That really can bring back more memories.”

“That’s positively Grizz!” Panda cheered. “If they allow you to borrow it, show them to us and everyone else back at the hotel.”

“Ice Bear wishes we had more childhood memories for bro’s memory book.” Ice Bear commented.

“Trust me Grizz.” Lorenzo leaned next to him. “You took a lot of pictures with them. When they treasure it, they always treasure you as well.”

This gave Grizz a smile. “Sweet choice of words from the cool kid.”

“And you’re still cute even as a grown bear.” He wrapped his arm around him. “Even cool kids find bears cute when they grow up.”

“I’m gonna look forward to meeting the bears later.”

“Trust me, there’s a lot here.”

Grizz and Lorenzo both took a selfie from Panda’s phone as they all left High Park. Grizz found his first goal in his own adventure in Canada. No matter how small it is, he hopes it’ll grow big upon expectations. His past as a former sitcom star is his first step of making his adventure memorable in his own way, compared to his group and his brothers.

Chapter Text

Over an hour drive away from Toronto, Grizz, Lorenzo, Ranger Tabes, Griff and Gayle arrived at Waterloo. Lorenzo guided them to the neighborhood where the retired stars of Family Troubles live. The houses in the neighborhood weren’t anything special like the ones back in San Francisco, but it didn’t bother Grizz. He just hopes he can meet his co-stars.

“Have you three watched Family Troubles?” Lorenzo turned to Ranger Tabes, Griff and Gayle.

“I kind of remember watching a clip of it.” Griff remembered. “But I don’t remember watching Grizz in it. It was mostly outside the house.”

“I guess that is true, Family Troubles didn’t have just one soundstage.” Grizz responded.

“Do you remember other soundstages?”

“No, just the house itself.”

“For the cub you used to be, you can’t remember everything.” Ranger Tabes said. “Not to say you forgot everything, but with how I’ve seen cubs have been part of television thanks to you saving them, they won’t forget now they are a part of society.”

“I still find it hard to believe you and your brothers are being normalized because of that." Lorenzo replied. “Bears in Canada aren’t like that.”

“I don’t need to know they’re like me, in fact all of the bears we’ve saved don’t talk.” Grizz said.

“And I doubt education would help them talk.” Gayle added.

“Not to say you’re lying, just too weird for me to believe that.” Lorenzo smiled. “But I’m sure these former actors would believe it.”

They arrived at the house that’s by the end of the road. It’s wooden and slightly bigger compared to the other houses. The group walked up to the front porch as Lorenzo rang the doorbell. Grizz stared at the door while waiting for the moment to happen.

“Just relax.” Griff comforted him. “I’m sure they'll remember you.”

“And allow you to borrow their memory book.” Ranger Tabes added. “I really want to see it myself.”

“So do I.” Gayle added. “I love seeing you as a cub.”

“Thanks.” Grizz responded. In no time at all, the front door was being unlocked, being pulled open revealing a young blonde woman.

“Lorenzo.” She smiled. “You came to visit again.”

“And I’m not the only one Victoria. I’ve brought an old star.” Lorenzo took a step aside, revealing Grizz to Victoria. Grizz took a step forward, standing in front of Victoria who remained silent. She stared at him while Grizz made the first move.

“Are you their caretaker?” He asked.

“Yes.” She answered. “Part time despite still having a career in playing Hockey.” She then turned around with whom she’s caretaking in the living room. “You remember me?” Grizz tried to remember who Victoria really is but not long until Victoria placed her hand on his shoulder, catching his attention. “It’s okay, I’ve learned your current family life would keep you more occupied.”

“She’s caught on good.” Griff smiled.

“And still a family person.” Ranger Tabes added.

“Come in.” Victoria invites everyone in as she closes the door behind them. Grizz witnesses the family photos in the hallway but not a single one has him on them.

“They’re just regular family pics, not from the sitcom.” Lorenzo commented. “But they’re still here.”

“Just please follow me.” Victoria said as her visitors followed from behind. “Tom, Barbara.” She popped her head in the living room.

“Yes Victoria?” Barbara responded.

“Lorenzo came to visit, but he’s not the only one.” As Tom and Barbara turned their heads, Victoria presented Grizz to them. Grizz slowly walked up to them as he witnessed their hair turn grey.

“Uhh…hello.” He waved. But much to his patience, Tom and Barbara both got up from their sofa. They immediately walked up to Grizz as Grizz slightly backed away.

“No no no, don’t back away.” Victoria responded.

Grizz stopped himself while Tom and Barbara placed their hands on his fur. “Our baby…is back.” Tom commented.

“And all grown up.” Barbara added.

“Our classic star of Family Troubles is back.” Victoria crossed her arms with a smile on her face. “I told you in the past he’ll come back.”

“You all…” Grizz growing a smile. “Didn’t forget me.”

“We wouldn’t forget our favorite baby in our favorite sitcom.” Tom replied.

“You people really have a passion for doing Family Troubles.” Ranger Tabes commented.

“More than you think.” Victoria smiled.

Grizz, Tabes, Griff and Gayle took their seats on the other couches in the living room while Lorenzo stood next to Grizz. Tom and Barbara sat back down on their sofa, thrilled with being reunited with Grizz. “You came all over the world with three other cubs to find your home?” Barbara smiled.

“Yes, and then when we got to San Francisco, it became our home even to this day.” Grizz answered.

“Not the family I expected, but still good enough.” Tom said. “Would we get the chance to meet them?”

“Not today since they’re enjoying their vacation in different places.”

“So maybe tomorrow?”

“Possibly tomorrow night.” Gayle replied.

“We’re also going to Rouge National Urban Park later today.” Ranger Tabes smiled. “But would you be willing to travel?”

“It’s not gonna be a good idea.” Victoria filled in. “It’s not a bad idea to go traveling there, it’s just that they're too old for that.”

“We’ve been having so many body problems over the last few years.” Barbara responded.

“Oh.” Ranger Tabes replied. “So I guess tomorrow works.”

“I mean we can do anything else other than traveling, aside from going to the studio where he used to shoot Family Troubles.”

Grizz felt concerned after the cancellation to where he wondered how they’re able to cope with it afterwards. “How did you feel when the sitcom got canceled?” He asked.

“Disappointed, not gonna lie.” Tom responded. “But we all agreed that there is no other show that’ll capture the magic of Family Troubles.”

“It explains why they retired afterwards.” Lorenzo commented.

“Such a cruel atmosphere of executives.” Gayle added.

“Not really into many professions in acting, aren’t ya?” Griff replied. “Like I respect your choices in life but were you all poor when you quit your jobs?”

“Yes…Because…” Tom took a deep breath while being honest with them. “...me and Barbara never had a family of our own…” Tom and Barbara closed their eyes in depression while Grizz catched on.

“You two…never had a family?” Grizz responded as both Tom and Barbara nodded. “I thought you always did after leaving the studio.”

“We couldn’t afford to have a family, nor adopt kids.” Barbara said.

“Those pictures when you got in were my family.” Victoria being honest. “I did get married a few years later and I invited them occasionally to take pictures with.”

Grizz looked at the ground in disappointment. “I can’t believe this. I don’t know what to say.”

“It’s okay Grizz.” Gayle wrapped her arm around Grizz. “You can’t have an opinion right away.”

“It’s sad when you’re at a loss of words.” Tom said. “But when you just came back…you felt like family to us.”

“Even with me getting in the way, they regret paying attention to me over you.” Lorenzo commented.

Victoria knew the moment she laid eyes on Grizz, the first thing he really wanted to see before he became a star in Family Troubles. “You don’t remember how you became a star, don’t you?”

“No.” Grizz answered.

Victoria headed straight to the basement after receiving Grizz’s answer. “Life in Canada felt empty when you were gone, but not only we have pictures behind the scenes in Family Troubles, but also before that.” Barbara said.

“We’re really looking forward to that.” Ranger Tabes smiled.

“We didn’t come here for nothing.” Griff added.

“He really wants to see them.” Gayla added.

“And you may not know this but…I want to show my time in Family Troubles with the rest of my group.” Grizz said. “Not just my brothers.”

Tom and Barbara didn’t respond, but they didn’t want to say no. Victoria came back from the basement with a wooden memory book in her arm. With everyone’s attention on her, she opened the book to the page of the memories Grizz had forgotten. She showed it to him, along with Ranger Tabes, Griff and Gayle. When Grizz laid eyes on it, his memories slowly came back to him.

Decades ago at the fire station, Tom, Barbara and Victoria came out of their car while heading straight to the fire station.

“You sure finding an animal from the fire station would make the best star in our sitcom?” Victoria asked.

“Yes, it’s the only way to make our show original and successful.” Tom commented.

“Training him will be hard, but kids would love him or her.” Barbara added. “Let’s do it together.” She pulled the door open, allowing Tom and Victoria to come in.

Tom walked up to the firefighter at the front desk. “Excuse me, but we’re looking for an animal to adopt for a sitcom we’re about to rehearse.”

“And one of our executives said you’ve been taking care of the animals after saving them.” Victoria responded.

“Yes we have, give me a minute.” The firefighter went to the back where the hall’s filled with animals in cages. Grizz was hugging a silver wrapping in his cage, keeping himself occupied after being detached from the fireman’s arm. He quietly moaned while the firefighter walked up to him while picking up his cage.

Upon returning to the front desk, the firefighter showed the three sitcom stars to Grizz. “Wow.” Victoria noticed him. “You have a bear cub?” She smiled.

“Yes, after we found him weeks ago, he needed shelter so we put him here. Still through. Most bears stay in the woods.”

When Tom and Barbara walked up to the cage, Grizz slowly backed away from his silver wrapping, putting his attention on the humans. Victoria placed her hands on her mouth, including Barbara. “He’s really cute.” Victoria smiled.

“And perfect.” Barbara added.

“How much does he cost?” Tom wondered.

“About forty bucks.” The firefighter answered. “You sure you wanna get him?”

“Yes, we can train him.”

After making their decision, Tom paid for Grizz, the firefighter unlocked the cage with his keys, allowing the door to be open. Victoria reached into the cage with both of her hands, holding onto Grizz as she pulled him out. With her hands on his body, Grizz didn’t feel afraid, it was the first time he felt the bare hands of a human. He slowly smiled as he nuzzled her arms.

“Awww.” Victoria replied. “He likes me.” She slowly pulled him for a hug as Grizz nuzzled her chest.

“This could impress the executives.” Tom commented.

“And so many kids.” Barbara wrapped her fingers.

“Would you want a group picture of him?” The firefighter offered.

“Sure!” The three cheered.

Two decades later, Grizz and his friends witness the first pic of him and the Family Troubles future cast outside of the fire station. “You’re still nuzzling…” Gayle wrapped her fingers.

“This is cuter than I thought.” Ranger Tabes added.

“Does it give you good memories, Grizz?” Victoria asked.

“Yes.” Grizz said as he took the book from her. “That’s me with the executives.”

“And it’s before we came up with the name, Family Troubles.” Tom replied. “We were lucky enough they allowed us to take care of you.”

“You were like our only baby we’ve ever had off the set.” Barbara added.

“From what they’ve told me, they had permission and duty to take care of you.” Lorenzo filled in.

As Grizz witnessed so many pics of his time with them, the warmth in his heart felt more pleased. “I really wished I'd kept these for myself.”

“Sorry, but we couldn’t get copies.” Tom said. “What you see is all we have left.”

“We'll allow you to borrow it with one condition.” Victoria slightly takes the book from Grizz. “Be really careful with it while returning it to us before you leave Canada.”

“We take this as pride and make sure no one steals it.” Barbara added.

Grizz knew how important this all is for them and knowing he’ll take pride in it as well. “I’ll do everything to keep this safe and sound.”

“At the end of the day, this is also yours even if you stayed with us or not.” Victoria replied as she handed the book back to him.

“Grizz, I’m sure you can do this.” Griff smiled. “And I’m sure it’ll surprise everyone else.”

“Yeah, it really gave me a better impression of you.” Ranger Tabes added.

“Yeah, I didn't think it would be this memorable.” Grizz smiled as he hugged the book.

Gayle felt more proud at Grizz to where she knows how to make him feel more better. “Hey, do you have the episodes of Family Troubles?” She asked.

“As a matter of fact, yes.” Victoria smiled. “You all wanna watch the first episode?”

“Big time!” Griff cheered.

“I knew we wouldn’t leave until we watched the first episode.” Ranger Tabes added.

“I was actually thinking the same thing.” Grizz laughed.

As Victoria headed back to the basement to get a VHS tape of the first episode, she put it in the VHS player while turning on the TV. As Grizz saw the intro itself, a tear fell from his eye with his memories still stored in Canada thanks to the retired actors. They felt like family to him, not big like Panda and Ice Bear, but giving him sweet nostalgia his brothers wouldn’t even top it when they see the pics themselves.

Chapter Text

Ice Bear, Karla, Amy, Isaac and Yana took a two hour drive to Horseshoe Falls. Ice Bear knew Horseshoe Falls would be the first location that would please him and his group. Despite being disappointed that Chloe isn’t coming along, it won’t stop him knowing she’ll be safe with the other group.

Upon them all getting out of the bus, they all boarded the boat where it’ll take them to the falls itself. Ice Bear also had his backpack on, but he didn’t expressly state why he brought it along, but he was lucky enough he’s allowed to bring it on the boat. Yana on the other hand felt unimpressed with the falls itself, unlike Karla, Amy and Issac.

“I just don’t understand why you don’t find Horseshoe Falls wonderful.” Karla spoke.

“I’ve been to Niagara Falls so many times, even the biggest ones don’t impress me all that much.” Yana responded.

“But this is one of the biggest waterfalls in the world.” Amy added. “This is my first time experiencing it.”

“Good for you, but for me, this is the only place I’m the most interested in compared to the other places. At least for today.”

Ice Bear and Isaac knew she wasn’t thrilled being around here but at the same time, it wasn’t just for them. “Ice Bear’s doing this for long lost sisters.” Ice Bear spoked.

“Isaac agrees.” Isaac said. “But Isaac wants to be unexpected in this chapter of Canadian wonder.” He stared at Horseshoe Falls in the distance with Ice Bear next to him. With all the guests getting on board, the boat finally started to move, heading to the waterfall. Ice Bear turned to Karla and Amy who also stared at Horseshoe Falls.

“So…” Karla attempted to make her first move. “When you’re helping Chloe tomorrow with you and her project, do you still want to hang out?”

“I really do want to hang out more.” Amy smiled. “I’m still processing that we’ve finally met after a long time.”

“But we can still make this vacation work, right?”

Amy sighed, while thinking about the possibilities she can do with her sister. “We’re not gonna come with Grizz’s group where most of the bears are from later tonight.” She turned to her.

“It’s fine. I did find cub bears…” She turned to Ice Bear. “...Especially the cute old ones…” Causing Ice Bear to blush as she turned back to Amy. “But there’s more we can do in Toronto, like meeting famous people we’ve never met.”

“Seems you’re just as unscheduled as I am.” Yana chimed in, getting their attention. “Like, what is the first famous person you really want to meet?”

Karla looked down in the water to come up with her answer to Yana. “Bret “the Hitman” Hart?”

This caused Yana to laugh at the response. “The first thing on your mind is a retired pro wrestler from the eighties and nineties?”

“Isaac found Canadian wrestlers legendary.” Isaac commented.

“No offense but I can name many wrestlers that are more legendary, in the Anoa’i family from the Samoan Islands and of course, the woman like The Nightmare.”

“Have you been to the Samoan Islands?” Amy replied.

“Yes. Missions mostly, but I did meet one Samoan.”

“Is bragging really necessary?” Karla retorted. “You try to get stranded on an island with a maniac who really wants to marry you.”

“Ice Bear still remembers throwing a starfish shell at him.” Ice Bear added.

Amy then looked straight at Yana while proving her sister’s point. “Or you’re relatives being the survivors while you meet them out of nowhere.” Yana kept her mouth shut when she heard the word relatives. “And while it feels wonderful reuniting.” She leaned close to her face to face. “It still hurts if you lose them again.”

Ice Bear paid attention to Yana’s body language as her eyes slowly shot open. She closed them while placing her hand on her head. “I…I…” She then crossed her arms, frustrated. “I need to be alone!” She rushed to the other side from the boat, walking past multiple people in the process.

“Yana, wait.” Karla replied. “She didn’t mean to say that.”

“I had to, okay.” Amy said.

“It still hurts her, no matter if she’s brave like Ice Bear.”

“She kind of mocked our tastes.”

“But she didn’t make fun of us.”

When they looked back at Yana through the group of people, she didn’t look at Horseshoe Falls. Instead she only stares at the opposite side on the boat, leaning her arms on the edge. But then she took out his necklace from her pocket, opening it to see her family picture. She took a deep breath while remaining calm in an attempt to stay healthy mentally. “I’m really trying to search for you but no matter how far I go around the world, you get harder to find…”

With the boat just over halfway to the falls, Yana noticed some ziplines from the distance. She would love to ride one like the times she went out at night. But during day time, no shadow protects her mental state. Ice Bear was about to walk up to her, hoping he could comfort her but then, everyone on the boat started cheering. With his attention towards the ziplines, he and his group watched three people ziplining down but upon looking closely, he couldn’t believe it.

“Ice Bear sees an upcoming emergency.” Ice Bear took out Roomba from his backpack. While attempting to program it, someone gasped after looking through his binoculars.

“She doesn’t have a harness on!” He screamed.

With everyone gasping, Ice Bear doubled time as Roomba started functioning. He picked it up, headed straight to the other side and threw Roomba as far as he could. Roomba headed straight underneath the ziplines as the person without the harness let go.

“She fell off!”

But luckily, she manages to land on Roomba itself, unharmed and not slipping off. “She’s landed on it!” A little girl cheered. As soon as Roomba takes her to the boat, Ice Bear witnesses Estellar in her blue and light blue outfit with her hair dyed in blue. Yana bare witness to the sensational popstar herself as Roomba lifted her up to the edge of the boat. She backed away, allowing Roomba to land on the boat, allowing Estellar to step foot on the boat as everyone around her cheered for her.

“How’s that for an entrance?” She smiled as she walked to the center. Roomba then went back to Ice Bear while Amy couldn’t believe she’s witnessing a popstar feet away from her.

“I used to actually work for her.” Karla smiled, leaning next to her sister.

“You have?!” Amy reacted.

“For awhile until last Christmas where…I’ve met the bears since forever.”

“I really wish I was at the parade.”

“Yeah, you should’ve.”

Isaac felt nervous the moment Estellar dropped off while landing near the water. He wouldn’t be able to be prepared since he doesn't make machines unlike Ice Bear. His attention turned to Roomba, especially the time he witnessed it two nights ago. “Isaac…wouldn’t take that much of a risk jumping on a waterproof vacuum cleaner.” He commented while holding in on his breath, letting it out in the process. “But Isaac knows to be prepared for the unexpected.”

Estellar walked up to Ice Bear with a smile on her face. “Knew out of all the people on this boat, you came prepared.” She smiled. “How’s Canada so far?” Ice Bear lowered his head with his eyes closed. “Good I see.” Ice Bear lifted his head back up while opening his eyes.

“Why did you decide to come here, Estellar?” Karla smiled.

“I have a lot on my schedule and I got late by reaching the boat. But that didn’t mean I skipped the smarter route.” She then placed her hand on Ice Bear’s chin. “You’re a smart and a fast thinker to succeed in my plan.”

Ice Bear blushed while making a quiet giggle. “You wanna experience Horseshoe Falls?” Karla guessed.

“Yes, who doesn’t. Sightseeing never gets out of my mind.”

“Ice Bear knew Roomba would help behind schedule passengers." Ice Bear commented as Estellar took her hand off of him.

“What are you gonna do tonight?” Amy asked.

“I’m going to rehearse for my upcoming concert. It’s gonna take days, but it’ll make the performance spectacular for my fans.”

“You literally make everything spectacular.”

“It’s impossible to not do it. When we go through the Horseshoe Falls, I’m gonna sing one of my songs with you all. There’s no music but fans still love my voice.”

“No one would ever disagree with you.”

“Is there anyone else with you?” Ice Bear knew Yana turned around, leaning against the edge the moment Estellar got on board. He pointed at her, causing the popstar to turn around. “Yeah…I saw the look on her face when I got on. Not upset…but knew she’s the type of person who never heard my songs. Night people. Let me handle this.”

Before she headed to Yana, she ordered everyone to give her space just for this moment. With everyone looking away, she walked next to Yana, leaning against the edge but it didn’t catch her attention.

“Have you listened to my music?” She spoked.

“No…not really a popstar music fan.” Yana responded.

“Why won’t you look at me though?”

“I’m too occupied…on my…” She’s about to lift her necklace up again but her mental hesitation prevented her. But it catched Estellar’s attention. She lifted her hand out, grabbing the necklace, opening it.

“Well.” She spoke as Yana turned to her. “You’ve lost your family?”

“Mostly my father.”

“I don’t need to ask how long it has been since you’ve last seen him.”

“And I’m sure I don’t need to tell you the many times you’ve met your dad with the many concerts he attended.”

Estellar didn’t appreciate her choice of words but followed on with her next move. “Just because I have a celebrity life doesn’t mean I look down on people like you.”

“What’s your point?”

The popstar wrapped her arm around Yana’s arm as she slowly but surely turned her back to the view of Horseshoe Falls. “Everyone has a soft side and also a depressive side, even me. While I don’t get depressed since I’m always with my family, that doesn’t mean I was really sad when…” She then looked at Ice Bear. “...Bears were almost on the verge of being banned out from the public.”

“Yeah…granted I’m trying to get to know the other two bears but…”

“But you really want to see your father?” Yana nodded but at the same time, couldn’t respond. “I can’t tell you’re ever going to meet him if he’s still alive but if that ever happens when you least expect it,” She let go of her. “He’ll miss you more than you think.”

Ice Bear couldn’t imagine what his life would’ve been like if he was far away from Grizz and Panda. He missed them more in his system, but knowing Yana personally, he would’ve taken her to The Arctic if he had the ability. But on the other hand, he doesn’t know if Yuri’s still there or captured by the hunters even after all this time.

Finally, the boat reached Horseshoe Falls with everyone’s attention on it. They get a splash from it as Estellar lifts her hands up, catching the water drops in her palms. “I’ll sing soon but since we’re gonna be here for a while, just take in the moment of Horseshoe Falls around you…”

Everyone opened their hands to feel the water itself, including Ice Bear. When Yana looked straight at the falls themselves, she wanted to see her reflection of her young self along with her mother and father. But her memories were impossible to remember with the little happiness she has left.

Isaac walked next to her with his hood up. “Isaac requests, open your hands.”

After taking his advice, Yana opened her hands as she gained water drops. With the drops the right temperature of coldness, Yana moaned, closing her eyes with her surroundings being peaceful even with people around her. “That’s right…If he misses me…” She sees her father behind the falls itself. “I wish I could see your face first before you see mine. That’s how much I really miss you.” Much to her surprise, she opened her eyes, witnessing a rainbow above. “A rainbow?”

“Ice Bear knew a rainbow would appear around huge waterfalls.” Ice Bear smiled.

“So beautiful, I knew it would happen.” Karla commented.

Amy then noticed Yana looked at the rainbow itself. “It’s not beautiful if someone’s not into it.” She slowly walked up to her, catching her attention. “Yana, sorry for hurting your feelings.”

Yana didn’t hesitate like before. “Truthfully, I didn’t know your life, nor you knew mine so…we’re even.”

“Yeah. We’re supposed to get to know each other but we don’t have to force it between us.”

“I wasn’t planning on forcing anyone to be my friend, especially you and your sister.”

“Well if you don’t want to spend time somewhere else after this, the least you can do is give me a hug.” Amy lifted her arms open. “You don’t have to be shy, I’m clean…even though we’re getting wet.”

This gave Yana a smile. “Yeah, it’ll be a start for our cute little friendship.” As Yana was preparing to lift her arms open, Amy’s about to wrap her arms around her with her eyes closed. But little did she know, someone’s behind her and it’s not her sister. Yana winked at her as she turned Amy’s body towards her, gently pushing her as she wrapped her arms around her. Upon opening her eyes, she wasn’t feeling Yana, it was the popstar herself, Estellar.

“I’m…hugging…you?” She reacted.

“Think of it as a late Christmas gift.” Estellar smiled. “And my inner child is still in me to hug fans like you.”

“Oh…my…-” Karla covered her sister’s mouth.

“Just relax, she knows you’re not embarrassing yourself.” She spoked. “She actually really wanted to meet my sister.”

“It’s true.” Estellar said. “Take it all in before I sing for everyone.”

“...Okay…thanks.” Amy slowly wrapped her arms around Estellar tightly as she closed her eyes, smiling.

Yana walked next to Ice Bear and the others, witnessing the moment she created. “For the record, I’m not a hugger.”

“Fair enough, at least you gave friendship a chance.” Karla commented.

“Isaac still thinks kids would still get jealous.” Isaac added.

“Friendship still counts.” Yana replied. She then turned to Ice Bear as he’s mostly proud of her. She knows he hopes she tries to make more impressions with his other friends. “Maybe sometime during this vacation, do you want me to hang out with Chloe?”

“Ice Bear prefers if we do it tonight.” Ice Bear commented.

“Isaac would like to join.” Isaac added.

“We'll just see how I feel then.” Yana replied as the water splashed onto her along with everyone else. “At least it’s not gonna rain tonight.”

As Karla moved her hair out of the way after getting splashed, she laughed. “I still have memories of me and Amy playing around in the rain.”

“Yeah.” Amy laughed as well.