Disclaimer: I do not own Care Bears nor Care Bears Family. All rights reserved to their original creators.
WARNING: This story is rated M for Mature due to graphic content not suited for younger readers, foul language, mentions of rape and/or murder, suicide, and crude jokes. Discretion is highly advised.
Chapter 1: A New Challenge
[Location: Unknown]
It was early in the morning as a man walked into a home. Said home had belonged to a young child who was now without parents. The man saw the child and knelt down to them.
"Hey. You doing okay?" The man asked. The child looked at the man, tears in their eyes.
"My parents are dead. Would you be after that?" They asked.
"True. I'd probably be sad, too. In fact, I was. The same thing happened to me when I was your age. Though," the man said, "I wasn't at home when it happened. They died in a multi-vehicle collision, and I was in the car when it happened. It gave me small comfort to know the one that killed them had died, too." The child looked at the man in shock.
"I'm sorry to hear that." They said.
"Eh," the man said, shrugging his shoulders, "it's New York. Comes with the territory." The child then saw something on the man's belt and moved his jacket aside to reveal a badge.
"You're a police officer?" They asked. The man gave a small chuckle.
"I did my time as an Officer. I'm a Detective. What's your name?" The man asked. The child sniffled and dried some tears.
"T-Ted." The child said.
"Well, Ted," the man said, "my name is Jack Pellegrino. I'm a Detective with the NYPD. I know it's tough right now, but I have to ask you some questions, okay?"
"O-okay." Ted spoke, slightly whispering.
"From what I was told," Jack said, "you were hiding when it happened." Ted sniffled.
"Under the couch." He spoke.
"Is there anything you can tell me about who might have done this?" Jack asked. Ted teared up before taking a breath and releasing it.
"All I heard was my parents arguing with someone. I was so scared!" Ted answered.
"Just keep calm, okay? What about who they were arguing with? Can you tell me anything about them?" Jack asked.
"They spoke with an accent." Ted answered.
"What kind of accent? Russian, German, Chinese, Thai, Irish, French?" Jack asked.
"I think they spoke with a Scottish accent." Ted spoke.
"Alright. What did they say?" Jack asked. Ted thought about it, before sobbing.
"He said they needed to pay him what they owe." Ted responded.
"What did he mean?" Jack asked.
"Something about my education. Sniff I can't remember clearly." Ted answered. Jack looked around and saw a picture of Ted and his parents in front of a public school.
"You go to a public school?" Jack asked.
"Yeah," Ted answered, "but I was being bullied. My parents pulled me out after that."
"Did you recognize the voice?" Jack asked. Ted shook his head and sniffled.
"What's gonna happen to me?" Ted asked.
"We're gonna find someone else in your family to take care of you. Don't worry." Jack spoke. He then stood up and walked outside to two others in uniforms.
"Well, Detective?" One asked.
"Take him to the precinct. He could be in danger." Jack said. The two nodded as Jack walked away. Jack then started walking to his car, only to stop when he saw something suspicious.
'What the?' He thought. Jack looked further and saw someone shaking in what looked like fear. He approached calmly and the one shaking looked at them, scared.
"Hey! Hey! It's okay. I'm a cop." Jack said, showing his badge. The one scared seemed to have calmed a bit, but they were still scared. Jack got closer to them before kneeling down. The one scared looked at him, revealing themselves to be a bear.
'What the?' Jack thought. The bear then pointed to Jack's badge before holding up an imaginary ID. Jack got the message, pulling out his wallet and showing a second badge with his police ID. The bear teared up before hugging Jack tight, revealing they were pink in color and wearing a diaper. Just then, Jack heard an engine accelerate and looked to see a white panel van speeding to the house he was just at. The pink bear heard it and gasped before hiding behind Jack as he noticed someone in a ski mask was driving. The two in uniforms immediately drew their weapons, but two guys in masks jumped out and a third tried to grab Ted. Jack drew his service weapon and aimed it.
"POLICE! DON'T MOVE!!!!" Jack yelled. The third saw Jack and pulled out a revolver, aiming it. Jack fired twice and hit the guy, causing the two others to aim at him. The two in uniforms fired on them as Ted hid behind a wall. The driver started to flee, but two marked police vehicles had stopped them by surrounding his car. Jack started to approach before feeling something grab his leg. He looked and saw the pink bear.
"W-what's your name?" They asked. Jack was stunned at first, but regained his composure.
"Detective Jack Pellegrino, NYPD." Jack responded. The bear nodded before pointing to a bush.
"I'll be waiting there to give you my statement, Detective." They said. Jack then approached the scene as the bear hid in the bushes.
"Ted?! You alright?!" Jack asked.
"I'm okay!" Ted spoke. A Sergeant then walked up and nodded.
"Nice shooting, Detective." They said.
"Bust my chops later, Sarge. Get these punks to the precinct and put them in separate rooms. Separate cars, too. I don't want them talking to each other." Jack said.
"Yeah. You got it." The Sergeant said. Jack sighed as two others approached.
"You caught this, Pellegrino? Never figured you for the truancy type." One said.
"What's a couple of Truant Officers doing at the scene of a double homicide?" Jack asked.
"Looking for a child named Ted. He was supposed to be in school today." The other answered.
"He witnessed his parents get killed," Jack said, "and they pulled him out of the school system before they were killed. Why are you two here?" The two Truant Officers looked at each other before turning around and walking away.
'Morons.' Jack thought. After a few moments, the scene was cleared and Jack saw Ted leave with the two officers that were at the scene when he got there. He approached the bushes and saw the pink bear was still there. They looked at him and Jack saw less fear than before.
"What's your name?" Jack asked.
"M-my name is Hugs. I'm a Care Bear." The bear spoke.
"A Care Bear? Never heard of them." Jack said.
"I can prove it! I was here with two others when it happened." Hugs said. That got Jack's attention.
"You saw the murder?" Jack asked.
"Along with the two I was with. They ran off when they heard gunshots from the house." Hugs said.
"What about you?" Jack asked.
"I tried to run with them," Hugs said, "but I tripped. When I looked up, they were gone. I don't have any way to contact them."
"What were their names? The ones you were with?" Jack asked.
"One was named Champ," Hugs said, "and the other was named Cheer. They were taking me to Ted's house so I could talk with him. This was supposed to be my first Caring Mission." Hugs teared up, but Jack knelt down and placed a comforting hand on them.
"Don't worry. You're not in trouble." Jack said. He then heard something and looked at the source, seeing a light blue rabbit with a cream-colored bear.
"Hugs!" The rabbit said. Hugs looked at them and gasped.
"Swift Heart! True Heart!" Hugs said, running to them. They ran to them and hugged them tight. True Heart then looked at Jack and grew angered.
"Did he hurt you?" True Heart asked.
"No," Hugs said, "he didn't. He kept me company."
"Who is he?" Swift Heart asked.
"His name is Jack Pellegrino," Hugs said, "and he's a Detective with the NYPD."
"NYPD?!" Swift Heart and True Heart asked.
"Ted's parents were murdered. Champ, Cheer, and I saw it." Hugs said. True Heart then put it together, looking at Jack.
"She was giving you her statement." They said.
"We can trust him, True Heart. He protected Ted when some men tried grabbing him." Hugs said. Swift Heart then nodded and looked to Jack.
"Meet us at Central Park. We'll have Champ and Cheer there with us." They said.
"Too crowded." Jack said.
"Then where do you suggest we meet?" True Heart asked. Hugs then got an idea. She then went to Jack, grabbing his pen and notepad, and wrote down a location.
"Meet us here." She said. Jack saw the location and gave a grin.
"Smart girl. I gotta stop by the precinct first. Make sure you tell Champ and Cheer the situation. Whoever tried to grab Ted will try it again." Jack said, closing the notepad. Hugs nodded and Jack left. True Heart looked confused.
"What location did you write down?" They asked.
"St. Brendan's." Hugs said. This caused Swift Heart and True Heart to look stunned, but it soon turned into looks of approval.
[Location: St. Brendan's Catholic School]
Jack walked to the front doors of the old school, having a key in hand. He approached the door, putting the key inside, and unlocked it before entering. He kept walking until he saw a room that had a window open. He looked inside and saw a note on the board that said the following: "Meet us in the gym." Jack did just that and heard voices inside. Some were laughing, others just talking. Jack walked in and was soon met with a hug from Hugs.
"You made it!" She said. Jack looked and saw the familiar faces of Swift Heart and True Heart, but there were other faces that he didn't recognize.
"I believe introductions are in order. Ladies first." Jack said.
"We've already met," True Heart said, "but allow me to formally introduce myself. My name is True Heart Bear. These are some of my friends: Swift Heart Rabbit, Gentle Heart Lamb, Cheer Bear, Love-A-Lot Bear, Noble Heart Horse, Grumpy Bear, Champ Bear, Tenderheart Bear, and Baby Tugs. We have more than this, but they all couldn't come."
"Who is he?" Grumpy asked, living up to his namesake. Jack then pulled out his wallet containing a badge and his ID.
"Detective Jack Pellegrino," Jack introduced, "NYPD. I'm investigating a double homicide that occurred last night. I understand that Hugs, Champ, and Cheer were witnesses to it."
"NYPD?!" Noble Heart asked.
"Double homicide?!" Tenderheart asked.
"Is that why Hugs was left behind last night?" Tugs asked, addressing a concern of Jack's.
"HEY!" Jack boomed, causing them to get quiet and pay attention.
'He sure knows his stuff.' Grumpy thought.
"I understand this comes as a shock to you," Jack said, "but I need you to focus. Now, a few moments ago, Hugs saw me stop some goons in ski masks from taking Ted. If they're willing to try and grab a kid from his own home while cops are present, then they'll try and grab him from the precinct. I have ESU at every precinct so they won't know where Ted is. However, I still have to find the one who killed Ted's parents. Can you help me or not?" This got them all thinking. Soon Champ and Cheer stepped forward, Cheer holding Champ's arm after a bit and holding her stomach.
"Are you okay, Cheer?" Love-A-Lot asked. Jack saw the look in Cheer's eyes and looked to Hugs.
"You remember what car I drive, right?" He asked.
"Yes, I remember." Hugs said.
"Grumpy," Jack said, "you and Swift Heart follow Hugs to my car. In the back seat, driver's side, there's a medical bag. Grab it and bring it here."
"Huh?! You can't boss us around like that!" Grumpy said.
"Don't argue with me! Just do it!" Jack said, expressing urgency. Swift Heart caught on and looked to Grumpy.
"We should listen. Something might be wrong with Cheer!" She said. Grumpy then realized it and looked to Jack.
"Keys!" He said. Jack tossed them to Grumpy, who caught them as Swift Heart picked up Hugs.
"I'll get us there," Swift Heart said, "you direct us!" The three then left and Jack looked at Tenderheart.
"Find a mat and some towels!" He spoke.
"Right!" Tenderheart said.
"I think I saw some in the store room!" Love-A-Lot said. Tenderheart followed her as Gentle Heart ran to Champ and Cheer.
"Let's get her to the bleachers for now." She said.
"No," Cheer said, "I'm fi- AAGH!"
"Bleachers! Now!" Jack exclaimed.
"Come on, sports fan. We should listen to the Detective." Champ said. Gentle Heart helped Champ get Cheer to the bleachers and sat her down.
"We'll look for some water for her." Noble Heart said.
"I saw a water cooler down the hall!" Tugs said.
"Go." Jack said. Noble Heart, True Heart, and Tugs left as Grumpy, Swift Heart, and Hugs came back in.
"We got the medical bag! Right where you said!" Swift Heart spoke. Jack took it, and the keys, and went to Cheer. He opened the bag and pulled out a stethoscope, putting it on.
"I need you to breathe for me okay. When I tell you," Jack said, "I want you to take a deep breath in, then a deep breath out. Okay?"
"O-okay!" Cheer said. Jack placed the stethoscope on the area where Cheer's left lung would be.
"Deep breath in." Jack said. Cheer took a breath in, but soon felt pain in her stomach and bit her lip so she wouldn't scream.
'I knew it.' Jack thought. The others then came back and Tenderheart rolled a mat out in front of where Cheer was sitting. Love-A-Lot placed a rolled up towel down.
"Get her on the mat!" Jack said. Champ and Gentle Heart helped Cheer get onto the mat before Champ noticed something from where Cheer was sitting.
"Is that blood?" Champ asked. Jack looked and his eyes widened. He looked to Cheer, who was in tremendous pain, and saw blood running down her legs.
'Sweet Virgin Mary!' Jack thought. Hugs and Tugs then realized it and gasped.
"She's in labor!" They said. Champ looked at them in shock before looking to Cheer.
"C-Champ?" She asked.
"Did you know?" Champ asked.
"I had no idea!" Cheer said. She then felt pain again and muffled a scream. Jack then put on gloves that were in the medical bag and looked at Cheer.
"I know you're in pain," Jack said, "but I need you to listen to me. Okay?"
"O-okay." Cheer said.
"Whenever I tell you," Jack said, "I want you to push. Okay? Can you do that?" Cheer was scared, but she nodded. Champ grabbed one of her paws and held it.
"Just squeeze my paw if you feel pain. Okay?" He asked. Cheer looked at him and nodded. Jack looked at her eyes and took note of the dilation.
'Her eyes are 10 cm dilated.' Jack thought.
"Control your breathing, Cheer. Two in, one out." Jack said. Cheer did just that, and felt some pain fade.
"We should get her back to Care-A-Lot." Tenderheart said.
"There's no time. Her eyes are 10 cm dilated. She has to give birth here." Jack said.
"What?!" Love-A-Lot asked.
"Cheer," Jack said, "whenever I tell you, I want you to push. Okay?"
"Do you know what you're doing?!" Grumpy asked.
"I trust him, Grumpy! He knows what he's doing!" Cheer said. This stunned Grumpy a bit, but he soon sighed and looked to Jack.
"Don't try anything stupid to my sister." Grumpy spoke. Cheer then gasped in pain started breathing again.
"Alright, Cheer. Push on three, okay?" Jack asked.
"O-okay." Cheer said. Jack positioned his hands and said a prayer. Cheer felt pain again, but it was different.
"One, two, three, push!" Jack said. Cheer gripped Champ's paw and started pushing, taking a deep breath in and clenching her eyes before doing so. Swift Heart looked at Jack in awe.
'So calm and composed. How is he not a CO?!' She thought.
"Breathe!" Jack said. Cheer stopped pushing, taking breaths.
"You're doing great, sports fan. Just hang in there." Champ said.
"I'm glad you're here for this." Cheer said, looking at him.
"I am, too." Champ said. Cheer pulled him down and put her forehead on his.
'Guess we know who the father might be.' Noble Heart thought. Cheer then felt that pain again and Jack recognized it.
"Alright! One, two, three, push!" Jack said. Cheer started pushing, gripping Champ's paw and clenching her eyes again, and True Heart prepared some towels. Gentle Heart became impressed with how Jack was handling the situation.
'He truly does know what to do.' She thought.
"Breathe!" Jack said. Cheer stopped pushing, taking more breaths, and looking at Jack.
"Is it almost over?" She asked.
"Almost. Just one more big push. You're doing great." Jack said. Cheer teared up and shook her head.
"I can't do this!" She said.
"Yes, you can. I have faith in you." Jack said.
"So do I." Champ said. Cheer looked at Champ, seeing his smiling face.
"C-Champ?" She asked.
"You're doing great. Just a few more minutes of pain for a lifetime of happiness." Champ said. Cheer gave a tearful smile before she gave a few sobs. Jack then positioned his hands closer and gave a nod.
"Alright, one more big push. Okay?" Jack asked. Champ put his other paw on top of Cheer's and gave a nod.
"You've got this, sports fan." He said. Cheer felt that familiar pain, but time seemed to slow for her. She closed her eyes and took in a deep breath, causing the others, save for Champ and Jack, to look on in awe. Time went to normal for her as Jack started counting.
"Three, two, one, push!" Jack said. Cheer then clenched her eyes and started pushing as hard as she could, gripping Champ's paw tight and groaning.
"You've got this!" Champ said.
"I see the head!" Jack spoke. Cheer then screamed loudly before she soon felt something come out and heard high-pitched cries. Her eyes shot open and Jack held up a young, newborn bear that was dark orange in color. True Heart cleaned it off and Jack lightly pressed on Cheer's stomach to push the placenta out. Jack then opened the medical bag again and held out a special pair of scissors to Champ. This confused him.
"Huh?" Champ asked. Jack soon gave a small smile.
"Would you like to cut the cord?" Jack asked. Champ then caught on and took the scissors, cutting the umbilical cord. That was when True Heart gave a smile and looked at Cheer.
"It's a boy." She said. Cheer cried tears of joy.
"Can I hold him?" She asked. True Heart nodded and gently placed the newborn in Cheer's arms, allowing her to hold him. Champ smiled, too, holding her close. Grumpy then looked to Jack, seeing him sigh in relief.
'He really did know what to do. I should have trusted him from the beginning.' He thought.
"Our sweet baby boy, Champ!" Cheer said. Champ formed tears in his eyes before looking at Cheer.
"Guess we should reschedule that doctor's appointment." He said, making a small joke. Cheer laughed lightly before they both looked at Jack.
"Thank you, Detective." Cheer said. Jack shook his head.
"Just doing my job. Congratulations." Jack spoke. Hugs then smiled and remembered.
"Ah! Our statements!" She said. Champ and Cheer both realized it, and looked at Jack.
"Time to repay the debt." Champ said. Jack took the gloves off and disposed of them before pulling out his notepad.
"What time did you arrive?" Jack asked.
"About midnight, one o'clock." Champ said.
"It was Hugs' first Caring Mission. She noticed that Ted was feeling miserable," Cheer said, "and that he was thinking of hurting himself. Since she had seen it, she wanted to take point on the mission. They refused it, at first, but Champ and I agreed to go with her and oversee."
"The moment we got there, everything was calm. However," Hugs said, "a man had stormed out of the house and drew a gun. Ted's parents were trying to get him to calm down, but Ted's dad eventually told Ted's mom to call 911. That was when the man said something and opened fire."
"You two ran away the moment the shooting started, right?" Jack asked, directing it towards Champ and Cheer.
"I couldn't explain it," Champ said, "but my instincts were telling me to grab Cheer and get her out of harm's way."
"I had that same instinct. Something told me to get to safety." Cheer said. The two then looked at the newborn in Cheer's arms.
"Guess we know what it was now." Champ said. Jack nodded and looked at Hugs.
"Do you know what the man said?" Jack asked.
"He said 'Guess you made your choice. If you won't let the schools teach Ted, then you don't deserve to have him.' After that, he opened fire." Hugs said. Jack had written it down before looking back at Hugs.
"Could you describe the man? How he looked, how he sounded?" Jack asked.
"He was Caucasian," Hugs said, "late 30s, spoke with a Scottish accent." Jack wrote that down.
"He had a scar on his left cheek. It went to his ear." Champ spoke. That got Jack's attention.
"Are you sure?" Jack asked.
"I couldn't see it clearly." Champ said. Jack then nodded and wrote it down.
"Alright. Is there anything else you can tell me about him?" Jack asked. Cheer then gasped.
"His gun!" She spoke. That got Jack's attention.
"What about the gun?" Jack asked.
"It had a silencer on it!" Cheer said. This put Jack on alert.
"You said you ran when the shots were fired." Jack said.
"We did. I just forgot to mention the gun was silenced." Cheer said. Jack nodded and wrote it down. He then pulled out a card and gave it to Hugs.
"If you remember anything else. Call me. Okay?" Jack asked.
"I will, Detective." Hugs said, nodding.
"Thank you for your time. Congratulations, again." Jack said. Champ and Cheer nodded. Jack then turned to leave, but Grumpy stopped him.
"How'd you know what to do?" Grumpy asked.
"What do you mean?" Jack asked.
"Delivering Cheer's baby! How'd you know what to do?!" Grumpy asked. Jack gave a small grin before grabbing his medical bag and pulled out a photo.
"I served as a Corpsman in the Navy before becoming a Master-at-Arms." Jack said. Grumpy was stunned, but soon teared up.
"Thank you for your service." He said. Jack put the picture away before turning to leave. As he left, the newborn cub looked at him and gave a soft coo before falling asleep. Cheer smiled and Champ kissed her forehead.
"Let's get back to Care-A-Lot." Tenderheart said.
"I agree." Love-A-Lot said. They all started to go, but Hugs felt sad.
'I wanted to help catch the man.' She thought.
[Location: 65th Precinct]
Jack was sitting at his desk before he was approached by his Sergeant.
"Hey," the Sergeant said, "good call on having ESU at all the precincts. A group of five men tried to infiltrate the 12th. One of them had Ted's picture on him."
"They say who hired them?" Jack asked.
"Even better. One of them had the murder weapon. They're bringing him up now." The Sergeant said. Sounds of struggling were heard and Jack looked to see a man with a scar on his left cheek that started on his forehead and ended at his ear.
'Champ was right.' Jack thought.
"Got a name for him?" Jack asked.
"Yeah. Willie Flannigan. He's from Scotland." The Sergeant asked. Willie took one look at Jack and his jaw dropped. Jack looked at the two ESU members before getting up and approaching. Willie then put it together and started sweating.
"I want my lawyer." He spoke.
"You're gonna need one. I don't even need a confession from you." Jack said. He walked away, causing Willie to sweat further.
"Wait! WAIT!" Willie exclaimed. Jack stopped and looked at Willie.
"Yes?" Jack asked.
"I want a deal. My testimony in exchange for the charges being dropped." Willie bargained.
"You killed two people. Those charges won't be dropped. The only thing you'll be doing is avoiding the death penalty." Jack countered. Willie tensed further before sighing.
"Alright. I confess." He said. Jack looked at the ESU members.
"Put him in the box and have him start writing his confession." Jack said. The two nodded and put Willie in the interrogation room. The Sergeant then approached Jack and got his attention.
"PC wants to speak with you. Forthwith." He said. Jack gave a nod and left.
[Location: One Police Plaza]
Jack approached the doors to the PC's Office, causing his secretary to open the door and walk in.
"Detective Pellegrino's here, sir." They said. Jack walked in soon after and the PC smiled.
"Detective," the PC said, "thank you for coming."
"When the PC calls," Jack said, "you better show." The PC smiled before approaching Jack.
"It's occurred to me that you've been passed up for promotions due to your military status." They said, looking serious.
"Commissioner," Jack said, "this is not the time to be discussing my future in the department."
"It's the perfect time, actually. I have it on good authority that you managed to get a confession in your case." The PC said.
"Which means I need to close it out." Jack said.
"How long have you been a Detective, Detective?" The PC asked. Jack was stunned, but grew concerned.
"Almost four years now." Jack said.
"In that time," the PC said, "you've been considered for promotion, given numerous commendations, and solved many cases working in Major Case. The Chief of Ds even recommended you for the Captain's Test. However, your current CO has been giving these to other Detectives. Internal Affairs has been investigating, and the proof has surfaced in this latest case you worked. We received a tip recently about how you conducted yourself throughout the investigation, and how you even helped deliver a witness' baby." This put Jack on alert and the PC went to the conference room, opening the door and revealing Champ, Cheer, and the others. Jack was stunned beyond belief.
'They told the PC?' He thought.
"They started questioning if you had ever considered stepping up," the PC said, "and they came to me not soon after you had arrived back at your precinct at Hugs' request. She asked me why you hadn't been considered for promotion to a Sergeant. At first, I thought she was joking. That was when she showed me your business card, and I had grown concerned. You joined the military right out of high school, became a Corpsman in the Navy, left as a Master-at-Arms, joined the NYPD, worked two years in Patrol before becoming a Detective and being assigned to Major Case where you have been working the past four years. You have no family, no friends, not even a local hangout."
"Your point, Commissioner?" Jack asked. The PC sighed before looking at Jack seriously.
"My point," they spoke, "is that you'd rather work on cases and put criminals behind bars rather than focus on making yourself happy. The question is why?"
"Why would I rather work, or why am I not happy?" Jack asked. The PC was speechless for a bit.
"Yes." The PC said.
"Stop being a smartass, Commissioner. It's not funny." Jack said. The PC sighed before smiling.
"I apologize." They said.
"As do I for the language." Jack said.
"Regardless," the PC said, "they brought up the fact you had been passed over. You're 26 and you haven't been considered for a promotion. The NYPD has a zero tolerance policy on career hindering. That's why they brought it to my attention. I'm rectifying it now. I want you to go with them back to Care-A-Lot and learn what you can while teaching them how to better prepare for certain situations, such as the one from last night."
"I can't, Commissioner. I have another tour in about two hours." Jack said, stunning the PC.
"Seriously?" They asked.
"Yeah. I'm the only one working that shift because the others were dished out to JTTF. I have no cases," Jack said, "and I'm kept out of the loop on purpose. I'm the only 24/7 Major Case Detective in the NYPD." This sent the PC for a loop and caused Grumpy to get angry.
"No one deserves that." Grumpy spoke.
"Where's your CO right now?" Noble Heart asked.
"About to be on his way here." The PC said, furious.
"Permission to go back to my command?" Jack asked.
"Denied. Wait in the conference room." The PC said.
"Yes, sir." Jack said.
'This will definitely earn me a one week rip.' Jack thought, walking into the conference room and sitting down. Whenever the door to the conference room closed, Hugs and Tugs both went to Jack and hugged him before sitting in his lap. Noble Heart and the others then sat down as the door to the PC's office opened.
"You wanted to see me, Commissioner?" A voice asked.
"I wanted to talk about Detective Pellegrino." The PC said.
"Oh, uh, sure. W-why would you possibly want to talk about him?" The voice asked.
"Because he deserves recognition for all the work he's done." The PC said.
"I don't follow." The voice asked.
"Detective Pellegrino was recommended to take the Captain's Test after two years as a Detective in Major Case. However," the PC said, "out of those in the 6-5, his name was not on the list, but your son and daughter were. They're still in the Probationary period, and ineligible for any promotions. You have 22 Detectives in your command, and I only see one of them not having any time off. Care to guess who?"
"He requested it." The voice spoke.
"He didn't request anything," the PC said, now expressing agitation, "and you know it! You purposefully hindered the career of a military veteran! You make me sick! Do you have any idea how huge it is to be considered for the Captain's Test after two years as a Detective?! He was recommended to take it by the Chief of Detectives!"
"He still has more to learn." The voice said.
"WHAT'S THERE LEFT TO LEARN?! HUH?! HE'S SOLVED EVERY CASE IN THE BOOK! HE EVEN WENT AS FAR AS TO COOPERATE WITH INTERNAL AFFAIRS TO EXPOSE THE CO OF THE 9-9 FOR CORRUPTION AND BRIBE RECEIVING BEFORE HOLT WAS PUT IN CHARGE! HE'S DONE IT ALL! HE'S STILL A DETECTIVE, AND HE'S EARNED ENOUGH COMMENDATIONS TO BE CONSIDERED THE CHIEF OF DEPARTMENT!!!!" The PC boomed.
"Then maybe he should back down every once in awhile to let someone else take credit!" The voice said.
"What did you just say?" The PC asked.
"I've been his CO for this whole time," the voice said, "but all I hear the other COs talk about is how well Pellegrino's doing! Pellegrino this, Pellegrino that, it's all I hear from them! I never even recommended those commendations for him! I tried to have them squashed! He should still be a damned TRAFFIC COP RIGHT NOW!!!!" This hit Jack hard, and he took a shaky breath.
"That isn't your call." The PC said.
"Well, it should be!" The voice said. Jack had heard enough, and stood up, causing Hugs and Tugs to jump onto the table. The look on Jack's face caused concern to Tenderheart.
"Detective?" He asked.
"Why do you think he doesn't deserve what he has?" The PC asked.
"Because he's only a KID!!!!" The voice said. Jack then burst through the door and had tears in his eyes. He saw his CO with a look of shock on their face before facing the Commissioner.
"I've heard enough, Commissioner. He doesn't want me as a Detective. He doesn't want me being above him. He doesn't even want me in the NYPD." Jack said.
"Hey," his CO said, "I never said that."
"IT WAS IMPLIED!!!!" Jack boomed, causing his CO to jump.
"Detective," the PC said, "go back into the conference room."
"He's already gonna give me a one week rip for not showing up for my tour. I'm not giving him the luxury." Jack said. The PC looked at his CO, who just went as pale as a ghost.
"What does he mean by that?" The PC asked.
"He has a lot to answer for. He wants to be recognized so bad. How about being known as the career ender?" Jack asked. Before the PC could ask Jack another question, Jack took his badge and gun off. His CO gasped in realization.
"Detective, no!" He said. Jack looked at his CO and started shedding tears.
"Too late." Jack spoke. The PC couldn't even speak or move fast enough as Jack had slammed his badge down on the PC's desk before removing the magazine from his gun and clearing it before setting both items down on the PC's desk. Jack took one final look at the PC before giving a salute and walking out. The PC then got furious and followed Jack out.
"Detective, get back here!" They said.
"I'm not a Detective anymore. I've resigned to the Police Commissioner in the presence of my CO. I'm a civilian." Jack said, continuing to walk. Jack got to the stairwell door and opened it, walking through.
"DETECTIVE!!!!" The PC yelled. Jack kept walking, not stopping. Once he got to the bottom, he walked out of the stairwell and into the front lobby. He saw the Chief of Detectives, along with several others, and walked right past them.
"Pellegrino! Wait!" One said. Jack then bolted out the door faster than anyone could stop him and ran right into a busy crowd outside. The PC and Chiefs followed, but they couldn't see him. The Chief of Detectives saw something on the ground and picked it up, revealing it to be the keys to the department car. One picked up Jack's phone, another picked up Jack's smartwatch. However, the clincher was when the PC had picked up Jack's wallet that contained his police ID and second badge.
"Put a FINEST message and BOLO out to all patrol units! Have ESU on standby! All tours extended! I WANT PELLEGRINO FOUND AND BROUGHT BACK TO ONE PP ALIVE! I WON'T LET THIS HAPPEN AGAIN!!!!" The PC boomed. The Chiefs all scrambled inside as two Detectives approached.
"Sir," one said, "we have the car ready for you."
"Any reason why you requested?" The other asked.
"We're hitting the streets and looking for Pellegrino." The PC said. The two Detectives were stunned.
"Enough said, boss." The first said.
[Location: Unknown]
Jack was standing on top of a bridge. Tears were flowing down his face as he looked over. He steeled his nerves and stood on the edge of the bridge. He never even noticed the cars that were driving. However, he soon heard tires screech and people running. He looked to see the PC with a sea of blue behind him. He shed more tears before clenching his eyes and going to step forward.
"JACK, NO!!!!" A Detective said. Time seemed to slow as Jack stepped forwards and off the bridge, starting to fall to his demise.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!" The PC yelled. Time seemed to resume as Champ had grabbed Jack's hand in time to stop him from falling.
"I gotcha, Detective!" He said, holding on. Tenderheart and Grumpy both held on to Champ so he wouldn't fall.
"What the?!" An Officer asked.
"Don't ask questions! Get him up!" The PC said. Several uniformed NYPD members, some of them being ESU, ran past and helped the three Care Bears pull Jack up. One ESU member in particular held Jack tight, sobbing. Jack was soon surrounded by the sea of blue, each one there to show their support. Champ gave a sigh and the PC went to him.
"Don't say it. He's not out of the woods yet." Champ spoke. The PC caught on and nodded before looking at the ones who were keeping Jack from going over the bridge.
"Let these guys speak to him!" They spoke. Champ, Grumpy, and Tenderheart started to approach Jack, who was now on his hands and knees while crying. The three were soon joined by Cheer, Swift Heart, and Love-A-Lot. Cheer held hers and Champ's newborn cub in her arms, said cub stunned at how Jack was. Champ then put a paw on Jack and knelt down to him.
"Talk to us, Detective. Why would you do something like this?" Tenderheart asked.
"You can trust us, sports fan. We won't judge you." Champ said. Jack soon looked up, his eyes red from crying, and took a shaky breath.
"I've been put down my whole life. I have no family because they disowned me for not going into the family business. I have no friends because I don't have a home. I've worked my…." Jack spoke, hesitant to continue. Cheer soon realized it and gave a soft smile before nodding.
"Go ahead and say it, Detective. You deserve to." She spoke. Jack took a breath before continuing.
"I've worked my ass off just to make it to where I could have a semi-decent life." Jack spoke.
"What was the family business?" Champ asked.
"They owned a warehouse in Yonkers. When I was in the Navy," Jack spoke, "that warehouse caught fire. My family, save for my parents, was inside. None of them survived it." Grumpy immediately felt sorrow.
"Sorry to hear that." Champ spoke.
"I had finally become my own person. I had inherited everything they had," Jack said, "but all they had was debt. I used my funds from the military to pay it all off. I couldn't even begin to understand why they hated I never went I to the family business. I soon learned why after I paid off their debt. They hated that I never went into the family business because I followed my great-great-grandfather's tradition of being in the military. They saw me as a coward for trying to do something honorable. Everything fell into place then."
"You wanted them to respect you." Champ said.
"I never had any respect from anyone other than my colleagues. The one time I thought I had it was when I was in the PCs office today. I get no respect, but I always give it." Jack said. The Chief of Detectives heard all of this and shed a few tears. The PC motioned two people forward. The two he motioned had Jack's CO with them. Jack clenched his eyes, tears flowing again.
"I'm rectifying this right now. Take his gun and shield." The PC said.
"You already have Pellegrino's gun and shield." An ESU member spoke.
"Who said I was talking about Pellegrino?" The PC asked. The Chief of Department then went to Jack's CO and took their gun and shield. Cheer then approached and Champ was confused. However, Grumpy caught on and looked at Jack.
"Get up, Detective." He spoke. Jack reluctantly listened and got off his hands. He then saw Cheer holding hers and Champ's newborn cub. The cub then held their arms out to Jack, wanting to be held by him. Cheer was shocked, but soon caught on and smiled.
"Looks like he wants to be held by the one who helped bring him into the world." Cheer said. Jack was stunned, but Champ nodded in approval. Cheer held the newborn out and Jack gently took it, holding it to where it wouldn't fall. The cub dried Jack's tears before putting a paw where Jack's heart was and smiled. Jack soon felt a strange energy start to envelop him.
'What is this feeling?' Jack thought. The PC was shocked, but soon caught on.
"He's healing your spirit." They spoke. Tenderheart was shocked and looked at Champ and Cheer.
'I almost forgot. They never named him yet!' He thought. The energy then left and the cub giggled. Jack then felt as if a huge weight was lifted off his shoulders and sighed. Cheer went to take the cub back, but the cub gripped Jack tight.
"Huh?" Cheer asked. Jack realized what was happening and smiled.
"I'm okay now. You can go to Mama now." Jack said. The cub looked at Jack as he held him out. Cheer took the cub back and smiled.
"All it takes is some time to get your bearings straight. Something you never got." She said. Jack then stood up and sighed before looking at the PC.
"I never accepted your resignation." The PC said.
"Then I need a promotion." Jack said.
"I planned on that. The Captain's Test is tomorrow." The PC said.
"I'll be there." Jack said.
"I don't doubt it. Take the rest of the day." The Chief of Detectives said.
"I have no place to go other than the precinct." Jack said.
"Seriously?" The PC asked.
"Yeah. Seriously. I had to sell everything my family had just to afford to keep gas in the car I drive." Jack said.
"A personal car?" A Sergeant asked.
"No," Jack said, "my squad car. Every time I get it, I always have to fill it up. Makes me want to just walk a beat again."
"Absolutely not!" Everyone, save Jack and the cub, said.
"Then I need my own squad car." Jack said.
"We'll see." The PC said.
The Next Day….
[Location: Manhattan South Precinct]
Jack sighed as he turned in his test papers and gave a nod to the proctor. However, before he walked out, the proctor slid a set of keys and a piece of paper to him.
"The Commissioner wants your presence at this location. Forthwith." They said. Jack nodded went to the location on the paper. When he got there, he recognized the area as where the PC lived. He saw where the PC was and approached, having the keys with him
"You wanted to see me, Commissioner?" Jack asked. The PC smiled and gave a nod.
"I did. I talked with the housing authority," they spoke, "and they told me your family had a house here. They said it was foreclosed because they couldn't make the payments. I took the liberty of making the last few payments. They said the house rightfully belonged to you."
"What does that have to do with why you asked me here?" Jack asked. The PC then held the keys out to Jack, who was shocked.
"Go take a look at your new home." They said. Jack took the keys and saw two ESU members at the front door of a house. They gave a nod and Jack unlocked the door, walking inside and nearly collapsing. It was fully furnished. He looked around, being followed by the ESU members, and teared up. The house had everything he needed. A garage included. The PC walked in and Jack was still in disbelief.
"This feels too good to be true." Jack said.
"Well," the PC said, "it is true. The mortgage has been paid in full, so you don't have to worry about that. One thing I ask, however, is to avoid taking the R train to work. It's a real pain in the ass waking up early to make it on time. I'm sure you don't need me to say anything."
"No, Commissioner." Jack said.
"You'll be getting an unmarked vehicle within a few moments. I suggest you open up the garage for it." The PC said. Jack did just that and smiled.
"Now I don't have to keep sleeping in the break room at the precinct." He half-joked. The PC gave a smile and nodded.
"Just keep the place as clean as you can." They said.
"You got it, Commissioner." Jack said. The PC and the ESU members then left and Jack locked the door behind them. He then went to the master bedroom and looked at the closet, seeing some new outfits, his dress uniform, and a pretty fancy suit. He even saw some new shoes. He looked at the dresser and opened the drawers, seeing new socks and underwear, new shirts, new shorts, and some pajamas. He soon felt tired and went to the bed, lying down immediately and falling asleep. As he slept, Champ and Cheer had left the bathroom with their cub. They soon saw Jack sleeping and smiled as they remembered what all he went through. Champ then took Jack's gun and badge off his belt and placed them on the end table next to him.
"Sleep well, sports fan. You've earned it." Champ whispered. Cheer gave a smile before nodding.
"Sweet dreams, Detective." She whispered. The cub smiled and gave a soft coo. The three of them then left, being quiet so that Jack could sleep. As he slept, he gave a soft smile.
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
The entire Care Bears family had gathered and were watching intently as Champ and Cheer held their cub over a small basin of water. Noble Heart smiled as he addressed the rest of the family.
"We are gathered here today to welcome a new member of the Care Bears family. Without even knowing it," he said, "Cheer Bear was pregnant with Champ Bear's cub. It was all thanks to a Detective in the NYPD that Cheer was able to give life to our newest member. Have the parents decided on a name?" Champ smiled and Cheer nodded.
"We've chosen the name Therapy. Because of how he was able to help the Detective who helped Cheer give birth." Champ said. Noble Heart smiled and gave a nod.
"In the name of the Great Wishing Star," he spoke, holding a cup of water over the cub, "we welcome Therapy Bear to the world, and to the Care Bears family. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit." Noble Heart gently poured the water over the cub, and the others applauded. Champ smiled and Cheer dried some tears that were forming.
"Hard to believe that we managed to make a cub after only one time." Champ whispered. Cheer blushed lightly, but gave a smile and leaned closer to Champ.
"Perhaps we could chance having another after he's asleep." She whispered. Champ looked at her in shock, but soon caught on and grinned.
"You're wanting to make up for all the times we couldn't because you either weren't in the mood," Champ whispered, "or we were too tired." Cheer nodded and Champ smiled. True Heart seemed to catch on and approached them subtly.
"I can see if Grams Bear can watch him tonight." She said. Champ and Cheer both nodded and True Heart smiled.
[Location: Unknown]
A robed man stood in front of a glassless window. As he stood there, a beast-like creature had approached him from behind with a young girl.
"No Heart," the beast spoke, "the latest plan is ready. I'm sure we'll get rid of those goody-goody's this time." The man, now known as No Heart, gave a sigh before putting his head down.
"Scrap it." He spoke, stunning the two.
"Uncle No Heart?" The girl asked.
"It's a losing battle. Besides," No Heart said, "two of the Care Bears are now parents of a cub. There's nothing we can do now."
"Huh?!" The two asked. No Heart turned around to face them.
"Beastly, Shreeky, I'm going to turn myself in." No Heart said.
"Turn yourself in?!" Beastly asked. Shreeky teared up, shaking her head.
"I can't lose you, Uncle No Heart!" She said.
"You won't be! I'm ending this farce right now!" Beastly said, turning away.
"No, Beastly!" No Heart spoke.
"You shut it! You've given up the fight! I'm ending this MY way! Nothing is going to stop me." Beastly said. He then walked off in a hurry. Shreeky started to go after him, but No Heart stopped her.
"Let him go. I want to spend one last day with you before I turn myself in, Shreeky. Not a day of evil." No Heart said. Shreeky teared up, but nodded.
"Okay, Uncle No Heart." She said.
Later That Night….
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
A masked figure moved stealthily and hid in the shadows as two Care Bears started patrolling the streets. They waited for the two to pass before continuing and approaching a house. The lights were off as the occupants were asleep. The figure found a way in and approached a crib in the house. The figure grinned and swiftly picked the cub inside it up and stuffed it in a bag. They then made their getaway, leaving no trace of their presence other than a ransom note, and hopped on a helicopter that was powered by pedals and using it to fly off. They headed towards an abandoned warehouse and grinned as they walked inside. They tied the cub up to a bomb and left to the office of the warehouse, taking their mask off to reveal themselves as Beastly.
"Let's see who they care about more. The humans they help, or their own kind." Beastly said, grinning and evilly chuckling.
The Next Day….
[Location: 65th Precinct]
Jack walked in and sighed before going to his desk, only to be stopped by a Sergeant.
"There's a couple that needs to talk with you. They're in the Captain's office." They spoke.
"I'm not up to catch a case." Jack said.
"The Commissioner's in there, too. He said you had to take this one." The Sergeant said. Jack soon got a bad feeling and headed to the Captain's office, seeing the Captain standing outside with the PC's detail.
'I have a bad feeling about this.' Jack thought. Jack then entered the office and saw the PC with Champ, Cheer, Hugs, Tugs, True Heart, and Noble Heart.
"Detective." The PC said.
"Commissioner." Jack said.
"I apologize for asking this of you," the PC said, "but the situation is dire." The PC motioned to the desk and Jack looked to see a note in an evidence bag. The note read as follows:
'I have your son. If you want to see him alive again, you'll surrender yourselves to me. You know where to be for it. If you refuse, your son dies. If you try and find where we are, your son dies. If you involve the police, your son dies. What do you care about more? The humans you help, or your own kind?'
Jack read the note before feeling his heart sink. He looked at Champ and Cheer, seeing Cheer trying not to burst into tears. Jack then got serious and looked at the PC.
"Where do I start?" Jack asked. The PC held out a file to Jack, who took it.
"These are some of the enemies that the Care Bears family has faced. They all have motive." They said. Jack looked through the file before seeing someone familiar.
"No Heart? Who is he?" Jack asked.
"An ancient sorcerer who lost his way and started using dark magic. It consumed him, and he soon lost his heart and will to care." Noble Heart said. Jack then got serious.
"He's my prime suspect. I need to speak with him." Jack said.
"Why would he want to take Champ and Cheer's cub? He doesn't even know about it!" True Heart said.
"He knows. Trust me." Jack said.
"In order to get there," Champ said, "you'd have to take a Cloud Car."
"Where?" Jack asked.
Moments later….
[Location: No Heart's Castle]
Jack was with some ESU members and looked at True Heart.
"If their cub is here," Jack said, "we'll find them. If not, we'll grill No Heart until he tells us where."
"Be careful, Detective." She said. Jack gave a nod and one of the ESU members held a ram up. Suddenly the door opened.
"I'm coming out. I'm unarmed. My niece is with me." A voice said. The ESU member backed away as No Heart walked out with his hands up. Shreeky did the same thing, but in tears. They looked to Jack and Shreeky gasped.
"Uncle No Heart," she said, "they aren't with the Magic Council! They're NYPD!"
"What? How did the NYPD get up here?!" No Heart asked.
"I'll ask the questions. Champ and Cheer's cub was taken last night. Do you know anything about that?" Jack asked. Champ and Cheer showed up with Grumpy and Swift Heart as Jack was talking. No Heart was stunned and Shreeky looked pale.
"W-what?" He asked. Jack gave a look and held up a hand.
"Stand down." Jack said. The ESU members listened and Jack approached. Shreeky teared up and put a hand over her mouth. No Heart started falling, but Jack caught him and helped him down. This confused Champ.
"Why aren't you cuffing him?!" Grumpy asked.
"Because he didn't do it." Jack said.
"How do you know?" True Heart asked.
"His niece paled when I gave it to them cold. Liars can't pale on cue." Jack said.
"I…. I didn't think this would happen." No Heart said. Jack looked at No Heart directly and got serious.
"A note was found in the crib telling them to surrender to the kidnapper. Do you know of anyone who would do something like this?" Jack asked.
"Beastly." Shreeky said. Jack looked at her.
"Who?" He asked.
"Uncle No Heart's assistant, Beastly. He said he was ending this farce." Shreeky said.
"Because I'm turning myself in to the Magic Council." No Heart said.
"Do you know where he is?" Jack asked. Shreeky held up a mirror, and sighed.
"I can find him with this." She said.
"A mirror?" Jack asked, confused.
"A magic mirror." No Heart said. Shreeky gave a sigh to calm her nerves before walking to Jack and kneeling next to him, looking into the mirror.
"Mirror, mirror, in my hand. Show me Beastly at my command." She said. The mirror turned cloudy before Beastly appeared on it. Jack took note of the surroundings and saw the cub tied to a bomb.
"Soon," Beastly said, "those Care Bears will all surrender just so they can save a precious cub. That will leave no defenses to No Heart's plan to rid the world of caring! He won't be turning himself in anytime soon." Jack looked further and grinned.
"Got him. I know where he is." Jack said. Shreeky was stunned and No Heart looked shocked.
"How could you tell so quickly?" Shreeky asked.
"I've been working Major Crimes so much I've learned every street, alley, subway station, bus stop, harbor, and port entrance in the city. That warehouse is close to an airport." Jack said, pointing to an Air Traffic Control tower.
"It's a hanger bay." No Heart said. Jack pulled out his phone and dialed a number.
"This is Detective Jack Pellegrino," Jack said, "shield number 9176. I need all flights diverted from airports, and Bomb Squad at the hangar bay near the back entrance to La Guardia! Have units respond Code One, suspect might detonate!" Jack ended the call and ESU hurried to True Heart.
"I'll get your transport ready." She said.
"No," Shreeky said, "I will. I know a quicker way." Jack caught on and gave a nod.
"Do it." He said.
[Location: La Guardia International Airport, Hangar Bay 19]
Members of the NYPD, as well as FBI, had surrounded the hangar.
"Where the Hell is Pellegrino?" An Officer asked. Soon enough, Jack had arrived with members of the Care Bears family, No Heart, and Shreeky. Their mode of transportation was one that left them all stunned. It was an old military transport chopper. Jack got off and had the ESU team that joined him follow him off.
"That's one way to make an entrance." An Agent said. Jack then motioned for everyone to gather around.
"Listen up. We have one suspect inside with a hostage tied up to a bomb. We need to make sure the suspect doesn't detonate it." Jack said.
"Who's our suspect?" An Officer asked. Shreeky held up a photo that had been printed out.
"His name is Beastly. He's the assistant to the robed individual with me." Jack said.
"My name is No Heart. I'm cooperating fully." No Heart spoke, introducing himself.
"He told Beastly that he would turn himself in. That was the trigger. He didn't want No Heart to surrender." Jack said.
"So he took matters into his own hands and abducted our cub in an attempt to force us to surrender." Cheer said, on the verge of tears.
"He might be armed," Jack said, "and he still has a bomb. We hit swift, fast, and accurate."
"No knock?" An Agent asked. Jack pulled out his pistol.
"No knock." Jack said.
"Alright," an Agent said, "NYPD has lead and point! Let's go!" They all soon got to the entrances and Jack went to join them. However, he was stopped by Tenderheart.
"We need you to teach us to fight against those who are like this." He said.
"Talk to the Police Commissioner." Jack said. Jack then started approaching and gave the signal for them to move in. Meanwhile, Beastly was looking at his watch.
"Why haven't I heard anything from No Heart? He's the only threat to the Care Bears right now!" He said. The cub was gagged and looked malnourished, but looked around and saw one of the doors crack open silently. Jack peeked in and the cub's eyes lit up. Jack gave a motion for the cub to stay quiet before sending a signal for others to go to the other side.
"Team 1, in position." An Officer said.
"Team 2, in position." An agent said.
"Team 3, in position." An ESU member said.
"Team 4, in position. Got eyes on the suspect, hostage, and bomb. All teams, standby for further." Jack said. Beastly grunted and started pacing.
"They have to care about this cub more than humans. They just HAVE to! It's their own flesh and blood!" Beastly said. An ESU member then prepared a flashbang. Beastly looked at the cub and grabbed a saw on one of the tables.
"Maybe they need proof of life." He said, moving towards the cub.
"Breach on my go." Jack said. The ESU member then rolled the flashbang in.
"Huh?" Beastly asked, approaching. Beastly then looked at it and Jack prepared himself. Jack took a breath before glaring. The cub closed their eyes before Jack readied himself.
"Three, two, one." Jack said. Beastly looked at the canister before it went off.
"GEAH!!!!" Beastly exclaimed.
"All teams, move in!" Jack said. Doors busted open and everyone rushed in.
"DOWN ON THE GROUND!!!!" A voice boomed. Beastly tried to run, but Jack ran in.
"FREEZE, BEASTLY!!!!" He boomed. Beastly looked at Jack and dropped the saw, putting his hands up. Two ESU moved in and took Beastly into custody while the Bomb Squad came in and started diffusing the bomb. Jack holstered his pistol and freed the cub, removing the gag and rushing them outside. Cheer saw Jack with the cub and ran over. Champ soon joined her, catching up with her, and Cheer started crying tears of joy.
"Our baby!" Cheer said. Jack stopped and knelt down, holding the cub out to them. Champ and Cheer took the cub and held it close. Cheer started crying out of happiness, starting to feed the cub. Champ looked at Jack and nodded.
"Thank you." He said. Jack nodded and sighed in relief.
Four Hours Later….
[65th Precinct]
Jack watched as No Heart and Shreeky filled out paperwork with the FBI supervising them. The PC joined him with a grin on his face.
"You did a good job." They said.
"I appreciate that, Commissioner." Jack said.
"No Heart agreed to the terms he's facing," the PC said, "and Shreeky will be given a second chance. Ted's foster parents even volunteered to take her."
"Good news all around." Jack said.
"Why aren't you happy?" The PC asked.
"Because another family will be broken apart." Jack said.
"They understood everything. No Heart cooperated. He's getting a reduced sentence." The PC said.
"Yeah." Jack said. The PC then held out a badge that was familiar to him.
"Congratulations, Captain." They said. Jack took the badge and gave a nod.
"Thank you, sir." Jack said. The PC then left and Jack sighed. He then sat down and started rubbing his head. He soon felt something on his knee and looked to see Swift Heart.
"I'm glad we finally got some justice." She said.
"Yeah." Jack said. Swift Heart then knew something was bothering Jack, but also knew not to pry.
"Champ and Cheer had named their cub before Beastly grabbed him." She said. Jack looked at her.
"What did they name him?" Jack asked. Swift Heart looked at him with a soft smile.
"They named him Therapy." She said. Jack nodded and gave a soft smile.
"It suits him." Jack said. Swift Heart then placed her paw on his head and was stunned.
"I can feel the blood pumping in your head. You definitely have a headache." She said.
"Not much I can do about it." Jack said.
"I can find you some ibuprofen or acetaminophen." She said. Jack then gave a look before nodding.
"Please?" He asked. Swift Heart nodded and went to find some. As she left, Grumpy then sat next to Jack and sighed.
"Is every day like this for you?" Grumpy asked.
"Pretty much." Jack said.
"Whew! You need a vacation." Grumpy said.
"Get in line." Jack said. Grumpy then smiled and looked at Jack.
"You're a good person, Detective." He said.
"Won't have that title much sooner. PC gave me the bump up." Jack said, showing the badge.
"You got your Captain's shield?!" He asked, keeping it quiet.
"Yes, I did. Hopefully the PC has a good assignment for me." Jack said. Grumpy gave a soft smile before nodding.
"I'm sure the Commissioner has that figured out." He said.
"Hopefully." Jack said. Swift Heart then returned with water and two acetaminophen. She gave them to Jack, who took both pills and drank the water to wash them down. Swift Heart then sat next to Grumpy, discreetly grabbing his paw with hers. Grumpy looked at Swift Heart, who looked to the side and blushed lightly. Jack smiled and looked at Grumpy.
"Don't forget to wrap it before you tap it." He whispered. Grumpy blushed before looking to Swift Heart, who was now looking at him.
"I don't think that will be an issue." Grumpy said. Swift Heart then laid her head on Grumpy's shoulder, closing her eyes. Grumpy had no idea what to do, but Jack smiled and motioned for him to put his arm around her to hold her close. Grumpy was confused, but did just that. He soon saw her fall asleep and smiled. Jack then got up and stretched before walking off. He then saw the PC with True Heart and Noble Heart, probably discussing something with them. He paid them no mind and walked to his desk, sitting at it to fill out paperwork. As he did so, he saw someone place some coffee next to him. He looked and saw Champ, Cheer, and Therapy, each of them smiling.
"Figured you would need it." Champ said.
"Yeah. This will take me all night." Jack said. Cheer then giggled lightly.
"You're halfway done with it right now." She said.
"This is only the first half." Jack said, continuing the paperwork. The PC then approached and sighed.
"You need to relax." They said.
"Paperwork won't do itself." Jack said.
"Then you should take a vacation after you're finished." The PC said.
"That your way of saying that you'll be giving me a new assignment?" Jack asked, not looking up. The PC smiled before giving a nod.
"You definitely deserve the promotion." They said.
"Just doing my job, Commissioner." Jack said, starting the second half of the paperwork. However, the PC had stopped him, causing him to look at them.
"You're doing the paperwork of several units that were involved." They said.
"The one in charge has the most paperwork." Jack said.
"Never this much, though." The PC said.
"House rule. Whoever has lead does all the paperwork." Jack said. The PC was stunned, but sighed and nodded.
"That changes now." They said. Jack then gave a nod and drank the coffee, only to grab a trash can and spit it out.
"Ugh! This isn't coffee! It's hot leaf juice!" Jack said. Champ looked stunned, but soon realized it.
"They gave us the wrong order." He said. Jack sighed, motioning for them to follow him. Grumpy and Swift Heart joined them, along with True Heart and Noble Heart, as he took them to his car. He opened the doors for them, letting them get in. He then drove to where they got the coffee from. Champ gave a nod and they all walked in, only to be met with a teenager that didn't look interested. Jack then approached and the teenager rolled his eyes.
"Can I help you?" They asked.
"I believe you messed up their order." Jack said.
"Got a receipt?" The teen asked.
"They weren't given a receipt." Jack said, showing his Detective's shield. The teen then gave a look before nodding and holding a pad up.
"W-what can I get for you, Detective?" The teen asked.
"Your manager." Jack said. The teen tensed up before sighing.
"One moment please." The teen said, going to the back.
"No need." A voice said. The owner of said voice then came from the back and smiled as they saw Jack.
"Ever teach your employees the difference between biodiesel and jet fuel?" Jack asked.
"He's still new. Teaching him the ropes." The person said.
"Do it better. You know what I drink." Jack said. The person gave a grin and nodded.
"You got it, Jack." They said, starting to make Jack some coffee. Jack then smiled and nodded.
"You really know how to impress, Sal." Jack said. Sal shrugged before putting Jack's coffee on the counter.
"Tell the CO I'll bring coffee for everyone tomorrow." He spoke.
"I'll let them know." Jack said, grabbing the coffee and sipping it. Sal looked at Champ before holding out a card.
"Consider this a courtesy. Call it an olive branch for messing the first order up." He said. Champ took it and looked at it.
"Buy one coffee or tea, any size, and get another and a pastry for free." Champ said.
"Might not make up for his attitude," Sal said, "but you can guarantee I'm teaching him the right way to make coffee."
The Next Day….
[One Police Plaza]
Reporters stood outside as the Commissioner stood at a podium.
"Today is the day I'm proud to call myself the Commissioner of the NYPD. For yesterday," the PC said, "after almost succumbing to the mental torture of his Captain, Detective Jack Pellegrino had captured a child abductor with assistance from the FBI and fellow NYPD colleagues in Patrol and ESU. After the termination of his Captain, I saw several recommendations to have him promoted. I introduce to all of you now, the newest Captain of the 6-5. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Jack Pellegrino." The reporters applauded as the PC left the podium and Jack stood at it, wearing a Captain's uniform.
"Thank you, Commissioner. Before I take any questions," Jack said, "I would just like to say that…. I feel undeserving of this. I took the Captain's Test, and never expected to pass. I never expected to feel the emotions I feel right now. I never expected to get recommendations from Patrol, Harbor, Mounted, ESU, CSU, TARU, Warrants, JTTF, SVU, the Chief of Detectives, the Chief of Department, Transit, Manhattan North, Manhattan South, even my own colleagues at Major Case. In all honesty, I wouldn't be surprised if the Feds put in recommendations for me to get promoted." The others around Jack laughed a bit, a lone person clapping.
'That eased the tension.' Jack thought.
"Seriously though," Jack said, after they had calmed down, "I'm grateful for everything. However, I'm calling the Commissioner out on his bluff right now. The 6-5 already HAS a new Captain, and said Captain is better qualified to run the 6-5 than I, a newly minted Captain, ever will. However, I know what my assignment is. No doubt rumors have circulated amongst all of you, some more than others, that the one who was captured had been the assistant of a sorcerer named No Heart. No doubt you have questions pertaining to that. I will answer what I can." The reporters had all started talking over each other until Jack pointed at one.
"Captain Pellegrino," the reporter said, "there have been reports about you seeing the Care Bears, and that the child was a Care Bear cub. Is this true?"
"I can neither confirm nor deny that without the Secretary's approval." Jack said, causing some to laugh at the reference.
"Answer WITHOUT making movie references, please?" The reporter said.
"I can confirm. I first encountered them on a separate case," Jack said, "but it quickly turned into a long and complicated encounter. However, I have full trust in them. They know what they're doing."
"Captain," another reporter said, "did you assist in the birth of the Care Bear cub?"
"I did. It was an honor and miracle." Jack said.
"Captain," a third reporter said, "what would you say to potential rumors that your next assignment will be training the Care Bears in protection."
"I can't speak about that," Jack said, "but the Commissioner has his reasons for what he has assigned me. I haven't been told."
"Captain," a fourth reporter spoke, "do you have any details in regards to a shooting that occurred late last night in your neighborhood?" That sent Jack on alert.
"I never heard anything about that." Jack said.
"That's all the time he has. I can answer any further questions." The DCPI said, making themselves known. Jack got off the podium and looked to the PC.
"Did you hear anything about that?" He asked.
"The shots were silenced." The PC said.
"Nice to know now." Jack said. The PC sighed before shaking his head.
"I hate that you had to find out like that." The PC said.
Moments Later….
[NYPD Academy]
The Care Bears Family were looking around before Jack walked in and they all looked at him.
"Congratulations, Captain!" Hugs said.
"Yeah! Way to go!" Tugs said.
"Why are we here?" Tenderheart asked.
"Because my assignment is to make you all members of the NYPD." Jack said.
"Seriously?!" Love-A-Lot asked.
"Yes, seriously." Jack said. They all looked at each other in silence before lining up in a formation and going to attention.
"Where do we start, sir?" True Heart asked. Jack grinned before going to attention.
"The basics." Jack said.
To Be Continued….