Chapter 2: Forming a Unit
[Location: NYPD Academy]
It's been a few weeks since the Care Bears Family started training to become part of the NYPD, and they finally managed to complete it. Jack stood in his formal uniform next to the Commissioner. They looked at each of the Care Bears Family and smiled.
"You've all done well. You should be proud of this achievement. Congratulations, Care Bears Family. Welcome to the NYPD." The Commissioner said.
"I'm proud of you all." Jack said. True Heart and Noble Heart then approached and the Commissioner gave them both Lieutenant shields. Jack then went to Tenderheart and Brave Heart, giving them Sergeant shields. Champ, Cheer, Grumpy, and Swift Heart got Detective shields. The others were given Officer shields, Hugs and Tugs included.
"Wear these shields proudly." The Commissioner said.
"I'm certain you're wondering why we call them 'shields' instead of 'badges.' The reason for this is meaningful. A badge can come in many forms, and can mean anything. Like how most people show their scars and tattoos as 'badges of honor.' However, a shield is something that protects others. That's why we call them 'shields.' Because we are trained to protect everyone." Jack said.
"These are one of a kind shields," the Commissioner said, "because the numbers for them have meaning."
"Each of your badges starts with your placement in the Care Bears Family," Jack said, "and ends with how well you did during your training. Naturally, Tenderheart came in at the top of the class. True Heart and Noble Heart are Lieutenants because of their leadership. Tenderheart and Brave Heart are Sergeants, meaning they are in charge of specific groups. Champ, Cheer, Grumpy, and Swift Heart are Detectives, meaning they are in charge of performing investigations assigned to them. The rest of you are Officers."
"You're all trained," the Commissioner said, "and you have the proper tools."
"Thank you, Commissioner." Noble Heart said.
"No," the Commissioner said, "thank you."
Two Days Later
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
Champ and Cheer were smiling, taking care of Therapy. Champ soon turned on the TV they had and smiled as a sitcom came on. However, he soon got a message from Tenderheart that called him away.
"Cheer," Champ said, "I have to go."
"Up to catch a case?" She asked.
"No clue. Message came from Tenderheart." Champ said. Therapy looked sad, but Cheer gave a smile.
"Don't worry," Cheer said, "he won't be gone long." Champ smiled and kissed Therapy's forehead.
"I'll be back before you know it, sports fan." Champ said. He then kissed Cheer before grabbing his Detective's shield and leaving. On the way, he met up with Grumpy.
"You, too?" Grumpy asked.
"Yup." Champ said. The two then walked into the Hall of Caring and saw Tenderheart with a file.
"Thanks for coming." He said.
"Cut to the chase, Sarge." Champ said. Tenderheart gave a look of shock, but caught on.
"Relax, Champ. It's not a case." Tenderheart said.
"If it's not a case," Grumpy said, "then why did you ask for us? Is it a Care Mission?"
"No," Tenderheart said, "it's not. I need your help planning something."
"Planning?" Grumpy asked.
"You finally asking Love-a-Lot on a date?" Champ asked. Tenderheart tensed which got a chuckle out of Grumpy.
"No," Tenderheart said, "and I'd appreciate it if you never mention that again. It's for Share and Secret."
"What about them?" Grumpy asked.
"I think something is happening between them. They've been spending a lot of time with each other." Tenderheart said.
"Isn't that what friends do?" Champ asked.
"Yes," Tenderheart said, "but they're sneaking off from time to time. Earlier, I saw Share go into a bathroom after buying a pregnancy test." This got Champ's attention.
"You think Share and Secret are lovers?" Champ asked.
"I'm thinking it's possible." Tenderheart said.
"Why not just ask them? Why the cloak and dagger?" Grumpy asked.
"Because I don't want to seem offensive." Tenderheart said. That was when Champ sighed before leaving.
"Where are you going?" Grumpy asked.
"To find out if Tenderheart's claims are valid." Champ said.
"Wait, no!" Tenderheart said. Champ then opened the door to leave, but saw Cheer with Therapy.
"What claims?" Cheer asked. Tenderheart hit his face on the table.
"Tenderheart thinks Share and Secret are lovers," Champ said, "and he claims Share had bought a pregnancy test." Cheer was stunned, but nodded.
"I'll ask Share about it." Cheer said.
"Ask me what?" A voice asked. Cheer looked and saw Share Bear with Secret Bear.
'Talk about perfect timing.' Champ thought.
"Tenderheart claimed to have seen you buy a pregnancy test," Cheer said, "and thinks you and Secret are lovers." Share and Secret both blushed, but Share looked livid.
"He what now?" Share asked.
"Don't be mad at him, Share. He didn't want to offend you if he was wrong." Champ said. Share then calmed down, but her blush remained.
"Is he right, Share?" Cheer asked. Secret looked to Share, having a sorrowful look. Share then sighed.
"He's partially right. Secret and I are dating," Share said, "and I had bought a pregnancy test. However, the test wasn't for me, and Secret and I have NEVER gone that far. He wants to wait, and so do I."
"If the test wasn't for you," Champ said, "who was it for?" Share looked to Secret who gave a nod.
"It was for a young girl named Jane. She lives in Soho," Share said, "and her neighborhood is being overrun by a gang. She was raped as a result of an initiation. Her parents were murdered by the gang, and she stays with her grandmother."
"What neighborhood?" Cheer asked.
"Flatbush." Share said.
"We need to tell Captain Pellegrino." Champ said.
"I've already informed him. They have a task force set up to take down the gang." Share said. Tenderheart heard everything and was shocked. He started to walk to Share, but she beat him to it.
"Share," Tenderheart spoke, "I-."
"Don't apologize, Tenderheart. I forgive you. Just… ask next time." Share said. Tenderheart nodded in understanding. The two hugged it out and Champ smiled. Just then, Champ got another message and his expression changed to serious. Cheer noticed it and grew concerned.
"Champ?" She asked.
"Grumpy," Champ said, "you and Swift Heart need to get to Flatbush. Captain Pellegrino just found a traumatized kid while doing a raid." Grumpy went on alert and nodded, running off to get Swift Heart so they could gear up.
[Location: One Police Plaza]
Jack was sitting inside the Commissioner's office, looking through a report. Grumpy and Swift Heart then walked in and Jack looked at them.
"Thanks for coming. Kid's in the conference room." Jack said.
"How bad is it?" Grumpy asked.
"Poor kid was forced to see their mom brutally attacked." Jack said. Grumpy nodded and Swift Heart opened the door, seeing a little girl. She looked at the two and her eyes went wide.
"Y-you're Care Bears!" She said.
"That's right. I'm Swift Heart Rabbit," Swift Heart said, "and this is my friend, Grumpy Bear."
"I didn't think the NYPD knew about you." The girl said.
"Well," Grumpy said, "they do. In fact, they made us part of the NYPD. Captain Pellegrino says you saw your mom get hurt. I bet that was scary." The girl shed tears and nodded.
"I was told that I needed to see what happens when bad girls are punished." She said.
"Do you mind talking to us about it? I know it's scary to see," Swift Heart said, "but we need to know what happened. You can tell us." The girl clenched her eyes and sobbed.
"I don't want to get in trouble!" She said.
"You won't get in trouble. If anyone tries to hurt you," Grumpy said, "they'll have to deal with us. We can protect you." Swift Heart then went to the girl and opened her arms for a hug. The girl hugged Swift Heart, sobbing.
"They told me I'd be a bad girl if I spoke to you! I don't want to get hurt like my mom!" The girl sobbed.
"It's okay. It's okay." Swift Heart said. Grumpy joined in and the girl shed more tears.
"You're safe now." Grumpy said.
"What's your name?" Swift Heart asked.
"Amanda." The girl said. Grumpy and Swift Heart simply comforted Amanda before she got control of her emotions. Swift Heart then dried Amanda's tears and nodded.
"Tell us what happened, Amanda." Grumpy said.
"T-they busted the door in," Amanda said, "a-a-and pointed guns at us. One of them grabbed my mom, and forced her against a wall. I…. I was so scared!"
"It's okay. What happened next?" Swift Heart asked.
"They… c-c-c-cut her pants and underwear. They put a hole in them." Amanda said.
"Where?" Grumpy asked.
"I-in this area." Amanda said, pointing to right above her thighs.
'Dear God.' Grumpy thought.
"You tried to look away, right?" Swift Heart asked. Amanda nodded.
"I did try to," she said, "but one of them said I needed to watch. They said my mom was a bad girl, and she needed to be punished. They wanted me to know what happens to bad girls. My mom begged and pleaded for them not to make me watch, but one of them slapped her with their gun and made her scream."
"What happened next?" Grumpy asked.
"They tied my mom up," Amanda said, "a-a-and one of them had undone his pants and lowered them. They gagged my mom, and she started crying. Then they… they…."
"They started punishing her." Swift Heart said. Amanda nodded.
"My mom was crying," Amanda said, "and she was in massive pain. One of them told me to reach down under my pants and underwear and start rubbing that area down there. I didn't want to be punished, so…. I did as they said. It felt weird."
"They had you watch the whole time, right?" Grumpy asked.
"They did. I…. I also had to do things to them while I watched." Amanda said. Swift Heart gave Grumpy a knowing look before looking back at Amanda.
"What did they have you do?" She asked.
"They… they had me touch them." Amanda said.
"Where?" Grumpy asked. Amanda then looked to Grumpy's crotch, causing his blood to boil.
"Did they say anything?" Swift Heart asked.
"They told me that good girls get rewarded," Amanda said, "and that I was a good girl. They kept telling me to touch them, and my mom was crying. I heard another of them undo his pants before they told me to stroke them where I was touching, and to… to…."
"What is it, Amanda?" Grumpy asked.
"They told me to… put it in my mouth." Amanda said. This made Grumpy's blood run cold and Swift Heart was stunned.
"Did that make you uncomfortable?" She asked.
"It did," Amanda said, "but they told me I would be punished if I didn't do it. It had a weird taste to it. I could hear my mom crying and screaming, but they told me not to look at her anymore. That I was a good girl, and I didn't need to see her be punished. They told me to focus on what I was doing, and to not look. I felt one of them touch me where they had me rub, and they told me I didn't have to rub there anymore."
"What happened next?" Grumpy asked.
"They took my pants and underwear off," Amanda said, "and I saw most of them near my mom. I only had two near me. The other one had lowered his pants, and I felt something go inside of me. It hurt, and it felt weird, especially after I felt it move in and out. However, it started feeling good after awhile. The two with me kept calling me a good girl, and they said I would be getting a reward if I kept doing what I was doing. It felt very weird, but it also felt good. I didn't want to be punished, so… I listened to them. My mom kept screaming, and it sounded like she was begging for them to stop and to let me go. I…. I didn't look because I didn't want to be punished. I could hear them hit her, but they didn't let me look. I started feeling weird, but they told me I needed to listen to them to get my reward. That I didn't want to be punished. I did as I was told, and I felt something liquid go into my mouth. It tasted weird, but they told me to swallow it. I did as I was told. They said I was a good girl. It made me feel weird. They told me to keep stroking them, and I felt more liquid go into my mouth. I swallowed all of it, and kept stroking as I was told. They were petting my head, and said that I was getting closer to my reward. I was feeling very weird, but it felt good, too. They had started moving faster and faster, and it made me feel good. It made me feel hot, too. I was sweating a bit. My mom was still screaming, but it got more muffled. I felt my body shake, and I felt something liquid go inside me. Suddenly, I felt good inside. I wanted more, and they said I would be getting my reward soon. They didn't stop moving the entire time, and it felt very good. I didn't want it to stop! My mom was still crying, and I soon had them all around me. They all had me touch them, stroke them, and put what I was stroking in my mouth. It made me feel really good, and they all had put something liquid inside of me. They kept calling me a good girl, and it made me happy. I didn't want them to stop. They told me my reward would be something special, and all I had to do was keep doing what I was. They all had multiple turns with me, and it made me feel really good. It made me feel happy. They were happy, too! They kept calling me a good girl. They said it over and over. It made me feel very good. I listened to them and did everything they told me to do. They were making me feel very good as I did it, too! I was getting filled with liquid, and each time felt better than the last! It felt so good! I never thought I would feel that good before! They said I was closer and closer to my reward with each time I did what they said. I just listened to them! I was feeling so good! I just wanted my reward! They kept filling me with liquid! Each time was more than the last! I was feeling so good I could burst! One had left and said they were getting my reward, but I had to keep doing what I was doing! I listened to them! I wanted my reward! I felt so good, too! I felt amazing! They came back with ice cream, and said I would get it after they were all done! I let them do what they wanted! It made me feel good! I wanted my reward, and they were giving it to me! Nothing could stop me from getting my reward! Then they… they…." Grumpy looked as if he were going to kill someone.
"They gave you your reward." Swift Heart concluded. Amanda teared up again.
"They told me I was a good girl," Amanda said, "but now I don't feel like one."
"What happened to your mom?" Swift Heart asked. Amanda looked down and sobbed.
"They killed her," Amanda said, "and they said they would do the same to me if I said anything!" Swift Heart hugged Amanda again, to which she returned and started crying. Grumpy looked at Jack, who shared the same expression as him.
"Take Amanda to Care-a-Lot. Have her talk with True Heart and Noble Heart. I'm going to talk to the DA." Jack said.
"Wait! D-did I do something wrong?" Amanda asked.
"No," Jack said, "you didn't. Amanda, you're a victim, too. Those men who gave you the ice cream, who did those things to you, are the ones that did something wrong. They manipulated you, and you were raped as a result."
"I never told them I didn't want it." Amanda said.
"You're still just a child. The legal age of consent is 18." Jack said. Amanda then caught on and went pale.
"A-am I going to get pregnant?!" She asked, starting to freak out.
"No, sweetie. You aren't. Your body isn't developed enough for that yet." Jack said. Amanda then nodded, causing Grumpy to look at Swift Heart.
"Did they perform a rape kit?" Swift Heart asked.
"There was too much DNA for one. However, we have plenty enough physical evidence to convict them. This just adds to their charges." Jack said. He then walked out, leaving the door open. No sooner did he walk out, he saw the DA for the borough that Flatbush is in.
"I was hoping to see the Commissioner." They said.
"Out on business. I was about to go see you. New charges need to be added." Jack said.
"What charges?" The DA asked.
"Sexual Assault on a Minor," Jack said, "and Kidnapping." The DA paled before nodding.
"They'll be added immediately. Shall I arrange for counseling for the victim?" They asked.
"No need. I have that covered." Jack said. The DA looked and nodded once seeing Swift Heart and Grumpy.
"That's good," the DA said, "but we have a problem. That assistant you captured. Beastly, I think his name was? He escaped custody." This caused Jack to go on alert.
"He what?!" Jack asked.
"The FBI is looking for him now," the DA said, "but they don't want to make it public knowledge and cause a panic. Especially since Beastly killed two FBI agents and stole the weapon from one. He even robbed a bank and a gun store. Stole money from the bank, and stole bullets from the gun store. He even shot the gun store employees, and stole an AR-15 and body armor."
"What's his last known?!" Jack asked.
"He was last spotted going to the place he was arrested. Why does it matter?" The DA asked.
"Because that's where his copter is! He stole those guns to kill the Care Bears Family!" Jack said.
Meanwhile….
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
True Heart and Noble Heart were smiling as they looked at a photo album. Unbeknownst to them, Beastly was sneaking up on them, wearing a bulletproof vest that had several pistol and rifle magazine clips in it. In his hands he held the AR-15 he stole from the gun store.
Present time….
[Location: One Police Plaza]
Jack ran into the conference room and looked at Grumpy.
"Get on your phone and message Champ. Beastly escaped custody," Jack said, "and he's armed to the teeth. He's looking for revenge!" Swift Heart gasped and Grumpy pulled a phone out, dialing a number and hearing the line ring.
'Pick up. Pick up!' Grumpy thought. The line then picked up and Grumpy heard laughter in the background.
"Calling to complain, Grumpy?" A voice asked. Grumpy recognized it as Cheer.
"Put Champ on." He said.
"You're on speaker with everyone, Grumpy. Well, except True Heart and Noble Heart." Champ said.
"That makes this easier. Ten HUT!" Grumpy said. Gasps were heard and everyone went silent.
"What's going on, Grumpy?" A voice asked. Grumpy recognized it as Brave Heart.
"Orders from Captain Pellegrino, Sergeant. Beastly escaped custody," Grumpy said, "and he's armed to the teeth. He's looking for revenge!"
"Put Captain Pellegrino on." Tenderheart said. Grumpy passed the phone to Jack, who took it, put it on speaker, and set the phone on the table.
"I have you on speaker. I heard it directly from the DA. The FBI is looking for him," Jack said, "but he may already be there! Consider him armed and dangerous! He's already killed two FBI agents, robbed a bank, and killed the staff of a gun store before robbing it of its ammo, an AR-15, and some body armor, most likely a bulletproof vest! He was last seen headed to La Guardia!"
"Why weren't we told earlier?!" Brave Heart asked.
"The FBI didn't make it public so it wouldn't cause a panic." Jack said.
"I can have some units go and check the hangar where he was arrested." Swift Heart said.
"Won't do any good." Jack said.
"Swift Heart," Tenderheart said, "you and Grumpy make your way back with the kid! Bring Captain Pellegrino with you!"
"Understood, Sergeant!" Swift Heart said.
"We'll need the transport ready!" Grumpy said.
"It will be." Tenderheart said.
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
Everyone was getting prepared to find and arrest Beastly, who was lying in wait to start his blitzkrieg. Grumpy and Swift Heart then showed up with Jack and Amanda, Jack having his NYPD Ballistic Vest on.
"They really ARE part of the NYPD!" Amanda said.
"You know it, sports fan!" Champ said. Cheer went to Champ and looked serious.
"Grams is taking care of Therapy for us. I grabbed our vests." Cheer said. Champ nodded and the two put their armor on.
"What if they need to do a Care Bear Stare?!" Amanda asked.
"In dangerous situations like this," Jack said, "it's not a good idea." Amanda looked around and got worried.
"Where's True Heart and Noble Heart?" She asked.
"I haven't seen them anywhere." Brave Heart said.
"Alright," Jack said, "we split up. Half of us start searching for Beastly, the rest of you take Amanda and do a welfare check on the Lieutenants."
"I'll lead the welfare check." Brave Heart said.
"Grumpy and I are with you." Swift Heart said.
"Leaving me, Champ, and Cheer with the Captain to search for Beastly." Tenderheart said.
"Keep your radios on," Jack said, "and remember your designators. The Commissioner is still waiting to get confirmation about a precinct for us." Jack's phone then rang, causing him to look at it to see the Commissioner was calling.
'Speak of the devil.' Jack thought. Jack immediately answered the call.
"Pellegrino." Jack said.
"I managed to find a precinct for you and the Care Bears Family. The city had an old warehouse they were going to demolish," the Commissioner said, "but they decided to refurbish it and turn it into a precinct for us. The problem is they have to rebuild it from scratch."
"Better than nothing. What are you calling it?" Jack asked.
"I was thinking of calling it the 0-1," the Commissioner said, "but that would mean it's the 1st Precinct."
"Then give it a true name. We have Manhattan South, Manhattan North, Central Park. Give it an original name that sets it apart from the others. We have 77 precincts ever since the 9-9 was decommissioned," Jack said, "and I already know they plan on renaming Manhattan South and Manhattan North to Midtown South and Midtown North. They also decommissioned the 6-5, from what I hear. If you have to, get the mayor to refurbish the old 6-5 and rename it."
"That… might actually work. Get to the 14th floor when you have a chance." The Commissioner said.
"I will once Beastly is recaptured." Jack said.
"I heard about that. Bring True Heart and Noble Heart with you when you come. I think this could work out for us." The Commissioner said.
"Well," Jack said, "we need a name to go by for our radios."
"Thanks for reminding me. Just use Team 1 and Team 2 for right now." The Commissioner said.
"Understood, sir." Jack said. Jack then hung up and looked at Tenderheart and Brave Heart.
"What's the verdict?" Brave Heart asked.
"We go by Team 1 and Team 2 for now." Jack said.
"We'll take Team 1." Tenderheart said.
"Meaning we're Team 2." Brave Heart said.
"Let's go! Team 1, on me!" Jack said, drawing his pistol and aiming.
"Team 2, let's go!" Brave Heart said.
"Come with us, Amanda." Swift Heart said. Amanda nodded and followed Swift Heart and Grumpy.
A Few Moments Later….
Beastly was eyeing towards True Heart and Noble Heart, looking at the two as they smiled.
"Hard to believe that after all this time," True Heart said, "after all we've been through, we've never had children of our own."
"That will probably change, though. Given it's possible." Noble Heart said. Beastly then started to make his move, but stopped as he saw Brave Heart with the others. Brave Heart knocked on the door as some went around the house.
"True Heart? Noble Heart? Are you home?" Brave Heart asked. The two went to the door and opened it, confused.
"Brave Heart? What's going on?" True Heart asked.
"Welfare check." Brave Heart said.
"Beastly escaped custody." Grumpy said. True Heart gasped and Noble Heart got serious.
"When?" True Heart asked.
"We don't know," Swift Heart said, "and neither does Captain Pellegrino."
"Is he armed?" Noble Heart asked.
"He is. He killed two FBI agents," Grumpy said, "stealing the weapon of one, before robbing a bank and gun store. He killed the gun store staff and stole an AR-15, ammo, and some armor."
"He might already be here." True Heart said, worried.
"Captain Pellegrino is with Tenderheart and the others. He asked us here because we have a traumatized child on a different case." Brave Heart said. Amanda then stepped forward and Noble Heart gasped.
"I can smell it on her. Come in. We can help you." He said. Amanda nodded and walked inside.
"Stay on the perimeter. I'll join the Lieutenants. Grumpy and Swift Heart will be at the front door. Everyone else find a spot and stay there." Brave Heart said.
"You got it, Sarge." Swift Heart said. Brave Heart then walked inside as Grumpy and Swift Heart stood near the door. Beastly stayed hidden.
'Damn it! This complicates things! Not only are they goody-goodies,' Beastly thought, 'but now they became part of the NYPD! This is only HALF of them! Where are the others?!' Beastly then heard movement behind him and saw Jack with the others, each one searching and scanning for him. He started to move, but stepped on a twig. The sound caused Loyal Heart Dog to look from where he stood, as he was closest, and he saw Beastly.
"FREEZE! POLICE!" Loyal Heart yelled. Beastly glared and fired a shot at Loyal Heart, missing him. The others had aimed at Beastly and glared.
"DROP YOUR WEAPONS!" Jack yelled.
"It's over, Beastly! Just give up!" Tenderheart said.
"GO TO HELL!" Beastly yelled, aiming at Amanda from where he was.
"OPEN FIRE!!!!" Jack ordered. Before Beastly could fire a shot, everyone else started shooting at him. Beastly couldn't even scream as the bullets hit him so fast. He soon fell down, dropping the AR-15.
"CEASE FIRE! CEASE FIRE!" Tenderheart said.
"Call it in!" Jack said, approaching Beastly with Tenderheart.
"Team 1 Portable to Central," Champ said, "shots fired! Shots fired! Wanted suspect down!"
"Central to Team 1," a dispatcher said, "identity of wanted suspect is requested by federal authorities."
"Central," Jack said, "wanted suspect is Beastly. Repeat, wanted suspect is Beastly. Current location unavailable."
"Copy." The dispatcher said. Tenderheart then checked Beastly's pulse in multiple locations, but couldn't find one. He looked to Jack solemnly and shook his head. Jack sighed and went solemn.
[Location: One Police Plaza]
Jack, True Heart, and Noble Heart stood in front of the Commissioner, who was joined by the SAC of the New York FBI Field Office.
"I'm surprised at you, Commissioner. You allowed one of your Captains to look for a suspect that the FBI was looking for." The SAC said.
"I wasn't aware the FBI was the only one who could look for federal suspects." The Commissioner said.
"It's not a matter of he was a federal suspect," the SAC said, "he wasn't the one authorized to look for Beastly! It was left up to Major Crimes!"
"Who Beastly has slipped past because of your delayed response to the situation. Plain and simple." The Commissioner said.
"So you're blaming our training?" The SAC said.
"He's not blaming anyone or anything. Beastly escaped your custody after killing two of your agents. What do you think his next move would be?" Jack asked.
"He'd go into hiding!" The SAC said.
"Not if he had an agenda, which he did. He wanted to get rid of the Care Bears Family," Jack said, "and he proved he would do anything and everything to do it. Even if it meant killing others."
"Then why rob a bank? Why not just rob the gun store and be done with it?" The SAC said.
"Because after he was done with what he planned," Jack said, holding up a book in an evidence bag, "only THEN would he would go into hiding. We found this on Beastly's body. We made copies for you to read." Noble Heart handed the copies to the SAC, who took them and looked through them before their eyes widened and their jaw dropped.
"My God." The SAC said.
"He wasn't going to stop until he was fully satisfied. The only way that would happen is if the Care Bears Family was dead," Jack spoke, "and there was no more caring in the world. He would have gone into hiding after that, and defended where he hid from the anarchy that would ensue from his actions."
"He threatened an innocent child's life," True Heart spoke, "and opened fire at Officer Loyal Heart. They had no choice." The SAC then sighed and set the copies down on the Commissioner's desk.
"Alright. You've made your point. This all would have been avoided if we informed you of what happened. It was a grave oversight on our part." They said.
"Best to learn from our mistakes," the Commissioner said, "and better ourselves from it. Otherwise, we are doomed to repeat them." The SAC then nodded and left. The Commissioner's Secretary then closed the door and Jack sighed.
"I'm going to be doing paperwork for a month over this." Jack said.
"We can help you with it, Captain." Noble Heart said.
"Good to hear. Seem to be settling in quite nicely to your positions as Lieutenants." The Commissioner said.
"We have, Commissioner." True Heart said.
"I spoke to the mayor after I spoke with you," the Commissioner said, "and he agreed to your proposal. The old 6-5 will be refurbished, retrofitted, and updated. We decided to still call it the 6-5, but the look will be updated. We just need to discuss how you'll be getting there from where you live."
"We can install a teleportation platform in the meeting room." Noble Heart said.
"Will you be doing so yourselves?" The Commissioner asked.
"We will." True Heart said.
"That's good. That takes care of it." The Commissioner said.
"What about the old 6-5 Captain? What happened to them?" Jack asked.
"They've been assigned to the 1-3." The Commissioner said.
"That's good. They needed a strong Captain." Jack said.
"Wait," True Heart said, "could we ask for a daycare area in the 6-5? That way, we don't have to worry about finding someone to watch our children."
"That's being done on the mayor's recommendation." The Commissioner said. Jack then held his head.
"Getting a headache?" Noble Heart asked.
"Yeah. Haven't ate since breakfast." Jack said.
"Then allow us to cook you something." True Heart said.
"Take the rest of the day, Captain. Tell the other Care Bears and Care Bear Cousins that, too. I'll call you whenever they're done with the 6-5." The Commissioner said. Jack nodded and left with True Heart and Noble Heart following.
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
Amanda was smiling as she held a sleeping Therapy Bear in her arms.
"He's so beautiful." She said.
"Captain Pellegrino helped deliver him, you know." Champ said.
"He did?" Amanda asked.
"Yeah. He was trying to get our statements on a different case the day it happened. He was still a Detective at that time." Cheer said.
"I thought my ears were burning." A voice said. The three looked to see Jack with True Heart and Noble Heart.
"Captain!" Cheer said. Jack then held a hand up.
"Just call me 'Jack' for right now. PC gave us the rest of the day." Jack said. Champ smiled and Amanda looked at Therapy.
"We offered him to join us for a meal." Noble Heart said.
"I'll get started on it." True Heart said.
"I'll help you!" Cheer said.
"I don't think so, Cheer." A voice said. Cheer looked to see Wish Bear walk in.
"What do you mean, Wish?" Cheer asked.
"It's almost time for you to feed Therapy. You know he needs you." Wish said.
"Does that mean you'll help her?" Champ asked.
"It does. I have a recipe I've been wanting to try." Wish said.
"By all means then." Cheer said. Wish gave a smile before nodding, joining True Heart in the kitchen. Jack then sighed before hearing someone fussing. He looked to see Therapy holding his arms out to him, wanting to be held. Amanda smiled, but soon held Therapy out gently. Jack caught on and took Therapy from Amanda. Therapy gave a smile, giving a light coo.
'So adorable!' Amanda thought. Cheer then took Therapy and put a blanket around his head as she held him to her chest. Out of respect, Jack looked away, only to see Champ looking confused.
"Why did you just look away?" He asked.
"Because I have more respect than most men. I know better than to watch as a mother breastfeeds her child." Jack said. Champ then understood and nodded, giving a small smile to show he appreciated it.
[Location: Unknown]
Good Luck Bear and Bright Heart Raccoon were finishing up putting a teleportation platform in a home. Good Luck then heard a noise and looked to see two they hadn't seen in awhile: Perfect and Polite Panda.
"Ah! Good Luck and Bright Heart! What brings you here?" Perfect asked.
"I know this is sudden," Good Luck said, "but we feel as if you should be included in some of our events. So, we decided to put in a teleportation platform here. That way, you can still take care of the valley while also being in Care-A-Lot!" The two were stunned, but Polite ran to Good Luck and hugged him.
"Thank you, Good Luck! We missed you and the others so! Now there's a special place we can go!" She said.
"There's also something else we should tell you." Bright Heart said.
"It might be best if we show instead of tell." Good Luck said.
"Good point. I've just finished calibrating what I needed to," Bright Heart said, "so we can go between here and the valley. We just need to make sure they can be sent back."
"I get that Care-A-Lot is the place to go," Perfect said, "but what is there that you have show?" Good Luck gave a soft smile.
"You'll just have to trust us," he said, "and see for yourself." Perfect then understood. Before Polite could say anything, the ground shook violently.
"What the?!" Bright Heart asked. Good Luck looked and gasped as he saw soldiers invading, looking back to Bright Heart.
"We have to go! Now!" He said.
"Wait," Polite said, "it was just a tremor! It happens often you see. Regardless of that, did you forget we both can't leave?"
"I remember what happened last time," Good Luck said, "but this is different! The village is being invaded by armed soldiers!" An explosion occurred and Perfect gasped.
"The valley isn't safe! We have to go!" Bright Heart said. Soldiers started lining up at the house the four were in, ready to demolish everything. Good Luck, Bright Heart, and Polite rushed over to the platform, but Perfect stood still.
"I don't want to go! The valley is our home!" Perfect said. Polite then grew serious.
"I understand brother," she said, "and I'll miss it, too. However, we only have each other, and I can't lose you. Our time here is done, and I'd hate to be shot. We can make our new home in Care-A-Lot!" Banging on the door was heard, and Perfect understood. He then went to a cabinet and pulled out a claymore mine. He set the mine near the door as flames appeared around the house. Perfect then got on the platform and nodded. Bright Heart then activated it and set it to self-destruct after it was used. The platform then activated and the four were sent away in seconds. By the time the door was busted open, they were gone. The soldiers ran in, but were ultimately killed by the Claymore mine and the platform self-destructing. The explosions then sent off a chain reaction, causing the entire village to turn into a raging inferno. Soldiers everywhere tried to escape, but it was futile as they were killed by their own explosives.
Meanwhile….
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
Good Luck, Bright Heart, Perfect, and Polite all appeared inside the Hall of Caring. All four collapsed out of exhaustion. Thankfully, they were caught by Brave Heart, Proud Heart Cat, Cozy Heart Penguin, and Harmony Bear. Good Luck panted, but looked at Brave Heart.
"Nice catch." He said.
"Is everything okay?" Brave Heart said.
"Depends on your definition." Bright Heart said.
One Explanation Later….
Everyone had gathered around Good Luck and Bright Heart, completely stunned.
"That's so awful!" Funshine Bear said.
"Who would do this?!" Grumpy asked. Perfect then looked solemn, tears forming in his eyes. He felt someone dry them, looking to see Gentle Heart. She hugged Perfect, showing him that he and his sister didn't deserve that. Perfect then returned the embrace, his eyes closing. Polite soon gave a sob, tears flowing down her face, but Good Luck hugged her tight. She returned the embrace and started crying. That was when Jack approached with Amanda, Champ, Cheer, and Therapy. Tenderheart looked at them and motioned for everyone to make some room. That all made room, letting them approach the two Care Bears Family members. Jack knelt down before them, causing Good Luck to look at him.
"Perfect? Polite? There's two others we would like you to meet." He spoke. The two pandas looked and saw everyone, gasping when they saw Jack.
"I mean you no harm. My name is Captain Jack Pellegrino of the New York City Police Department," Jack said, "most commonly referred to as the NYPD. I'm sorry for the loss of your home."
"An NYPD Captain?" Perfect asked.
"We're all part of the NYPD now. You can join us, if you want." Brave Heart said. Cheer then approached, holding Therapy, and the two gasped. Cheer smiled as Therapy looked at them.
"Perfect and Polite Panda," Cheer said, "meet Therapy Bear. He's mine and Champ's son."
"He's so cute!" Polite said. She then held Therapy out to Polite, who gently took him. Perfect then walked next to his sister, a tearful smile on his face.
"Hello there, little one!" He said. Therapy smiled and gave a soft coo. Polite then gave a blush.
'That is so adorable!' She thought. Amanda smiled as all this happened. However, she soon felt tears well up. Cheer saw this and dried them, shaking her head.
"No more tears today. We're here to help you." Cheer said. Just then, a loud scream was heard from outside. Jack went on alert and ran towards it in an instant, his training kicking in. He looked and saw two men trying to stuff Hugs into a sack. He glared and drew his pistol aiming at them.
"NYPD! FREEZE!" Jack yelled. The men looked and drew pistols, but Jack shot them before they could fire. He then ran to Hugs as Tenderheart and Brave Heart ran out, pistols drawn. They went to the men, moving their weapons away from them and seeing they were still alive.
"Turn over!" Tenderheart ordered. The two complied and Brave Heart and Tenderheart holstered their pistols before cuffing the men. Jack was looking over Hugs, making sure she was okay.
"Are you hurt anywhere? Did they touch you inappropriately?" Jack asked.
"N-no. A-all they did was try and get me into that sack." Hugs said. Jack then holstered his pistol and sighed.
'Thank fuck.' Jack thought. Hugs then saw the two men being taken away, glaring at them.
"You just tried abducting a cop, idiots." She said. The two were floored and immediately regretted everything.
'It was at this moment they knew... they fucked up.' Jack thought, watching life fade from their eyes. Perfect and Polite then approached and Hugs went to them, hugging them.
"Thank goodness you weren't hurt." Polite said. Perfect then looked at Jack, who held a hand to his head.
"I'll be having to fill out paperwork for WEEKS because of this." Jack said.
"Is being in law enforcement always that dangerous and taxing? I have a hard time believing you get to be relaxing." Perfect said. Jack looked at him, before getting serious.
"Danger lurks around every corner in every place. As a cop," Jack said, "I took an oath to protect and serve. If it means I jump head first into danger, I do it. If I survive, I live to fight another day. Should I lose my life, I'll have done so doing something honorable." Perfect looked at Jack in awe.
"They tend to rhyme a lot. Maybe you can help with that?" Good Luck suggested. Jack gave a nod and stood up.
"Follow me, Perfect and Polite. Your lessons start now." Jack said.
Three Hours Later….
[Location: Care-A-Lot]
Jack sighed as Perfect and Polite were smiling.
"Thank you, Captain Pellegrino. The lessons really helped!" Polite said.
"I agree! Now we can carry on real conversations." Perfect said.
"The pleasure was all mine." Jack said. Good Luck then approached with a smile.
"Dinner's ready!" He said. Jack nodded and the three went to the Hall of Caring, seeing everyone talking. Jack sat next to Amanda, who held Therapy in her arms, as Polite sat next to Good Luck. Perfect then sat next to Treat Heart Pig, who gave a smile at him. Wish, True Heart, and Noble Heart then came out and the smell hit everyone. Jack's eyes widened and he was stunned.
"Do I smell steak?" Jack asked. Wish smiled and nodded.
"That you do!" She said.
"That's not all. Lime, bell peppers, shallots, mushrooms. Did you make burrito bowls?" Jack asked. True Heart was stunned.
"That was amazing! You guessed it in just a few ingredients!" She said.
"Comes with experience." Jack said. The food was then brought out and everyone was shocked.
"I haven't had something like this before! I can't wait to try it!" Amanda said.
"You won't be disappointed." Jack said.
"Before we eat," Noble Heart said, "I want to inform Jack and Amanda of a new tradition we started. We say grace before eating dinner."
'That brings back memories.' Jack said.
"Tenderheart," True Heart said, "would you like to do the honors?"
"Allow me," Jack said, "if I may. I haven't been able to sit down to an actual dinner in so long."
"I have no problems with it." Tenderheart said.
"Very well." True Heart said, nodding to Jack. Everyone then lowered their heads, Jack taking a breath to ease his nerves.
"Bless us, O Lord, and these, thy gifts which we are about to receive from your bountiful hands. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen." Jack said.
"Amen." Everyone repeated.
"Let's eat!" Amanda said. Everyone started eating and Jack smiled as they tasted their first bites.
"Wow! That's really good!" Cheer said.
"Yeah! It's amazing!" Love-A-Lot Bear said. Secret gave a nod of confirmation. Everyone gave nods and voices of approval.
"Thanks, everyone!" Wish said. True Heart then looked at Jack.
"What about you, Jack? How is it in your opinion?" She asked. Jack swallowed what was in his mouth before getting serious.
"The flavor of the meat is spot on. Plus," Jack said, "it has that mild kick from the Southwestern spices. The ratios of everything were perfect, and the rice had flavors of the Southwestern spices which was counter-balanced by the cilantro and lime. The cheese ratio was perfect, and the correct one was used. I also tasted the mild kick from the bell peppers that was mixed in with the mushrooms, shallots, and I noticed a corn salsa in there, too. Speaking of, that had a VERY mild kick to it, so it was perfect for the dish. All in all, this dish is one embodiment of Tex-Mex fusion that can be customized to suit the tastes and flavors of a specific individual, or an entire group." Everyone was stunned once they heard that. Treat Heart even set her fork down to not drop it and waste food.
'Am I that intense?' Jack thought, deadpanning.
"Wow," Wish said, "I never thought one could go into such detail over it. Were you a food critic in a past life?"
"I… had to do food articles for the New York Times as a part-time job growing up." Jack said, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Wow!" Hugs said.
"I never would have guessed." Cheer said.
"You've certainly got a knack for it. You talked like an accomplished chef, and that's the truth." Lotsa Heart Elephant said.
"Let's move on from that. I don't want to dwell too much on it." Jack said.
"You're not ashamed of it, are you?" Grams Bear asked. Perfect then caught on.
"He's not ashamed of it," he said, "but he was ostracized over it. Right?" Jack then sighed.
"Even a Care Bear is a better Detective than Gumshoe." Jack said. Hugs and Tugs looked confused.
"What does 'ostracized' mean?" Tugs asked.
"It means he was singled out. Everyone saw him differently because of what he did." Braveheart said.
"Oh." Tugs said, going solemn.
"It was because of that article some of the best places in the city had been shut down. No one would even invite me to parties because of it." Jack said.
"Seriously?!" Treat Heart asked.
"That's messed up!" Playful Heart Monkey said, doing an Ice T impression.
'Well,' Jack thought, 'I just brought the mood down. I should have just kept my big mouth shut.' Jack then finished eating and stood up.
"I'd better get home. I have paperwork to do tomorrow." Jack said. Before anyone could speak, Jack left the table.
"Don't you want to stay for dessert?" True Heart asked.
"We worked hard on it!" Wish said.
"I would," Jack said, "but I'd only bring your moods down further. Some of you already have the looks, and see me differently. I should go." Jack then left, but was stopped by someone hugging him. He looked and saw Proud Heart.
"Please stay. We don't care what you did growing up. What matters most is what you are now." She said.
"She's right. You don't have to worry." Loyal Heart said.
"Yeah!" Swift Heart said.
"Please stay for dessert?" Gentle Heart asked. Jack started to speak, but Therapy looked sad. Jack then saw tears forming, causing him to sigh.
"Alright. I'll stay for ONE dessert. I really do have to leave after that. Wasn't kidding about the paperwork." Jack said. Everyone nodded and Jack sat back down.
The Next Day….
[Location: One Police Plaza]
Jack had finished up some paperwork and sighed, rubbing his head. He suddenly saw a cup of coffee and looked to see True Heart, holding it out to him.
"Thank you." He said. He took the coffee and sipped it, sighing as he felt the caffeine enter his system.
"You looked like you needed it." True Heart said.
"Yeah. Where's Noble Heart?" Jack asked.
"On an errand for the Commissioner. It was his turn for a lunch run." True Heart said.
"Where'd he send him? The Upper East Side?" Jack asked.
"Is there a cheap Chinese place in the Upper East Side?" True Heart asked.
"It has Chinese places," Jack said, "but none are cheap." Noble Heart then walked in holding three bags of food and handed them to the Commissioner's Secretary.
"You were right about it being cheap. Place has an 'A' health rating," Noble Heart said, "and the food looks and smells incredible. I'm impressed the Commissioner found a place like that."
"I'm sure the Commissioner will appreciate the compliment. Captain Pellegrino? Would you like to join us?" The Commissioner's Secretary asked.
"I would like to," Jack said, "but I'm afraid I wasn't present when the orders were taken. I also need to file these reports."
"Oh," True Heart said, "I can handle that. You just relax and eat lunch."
'If I didn't know any better,' Jack thought, 'I would say she's acting like MY secretary.'
"If I didn't know any better," Noble Heart said, "I'd say you were acting like HIS secretary."
'GET OUT OF MY HEAD!' Jack thought.
"Well," True Heart said, "doesn't he deserve it? He does so much for every unit. He'll be in command of his own precinct soon. He at LEAST needs one of his Lieutenants to act as a secretary. Why not that be me? Especially considering what our plans are."
"What plans? You two tying the knot?" Jack asked.
"Not per se." Noble Heart said.
"Noble Heart and I had talked," True Heart said, looking away and blushing in embarrassment, "and we decided to… try for a child of our own."
"You two want to start a family?" Jack asked.
"We have a family," Noble Heart said, "but… not one to call our own."
"I see. I trust this won't interfere with your duties." Jack said.
"Of course not, Captain." True Heart said.
"We'll be sure to keep the two lives separate." Noble Heart said.
"That would be best." Jack said.
"Thank you, Captain." True Heart said. Jack then saw the Commissioner approaching and went serious.
"Ten HUT!" Jack called, standing up and going to attention.
"As you were." The Commissioner said.
"Was there much traffic, Commissioner?" True Heart asked.
"I must admit that traffic was at a minimum. Thank you for asking." The Commissioner said.
"I just finished getting lunch, Commissioner. The change is in with the fortune cookies." Noble Heart said.
"Thank you, Lieutenant. Will you be joining us for lunch, Captain Pellegrino?" The Commissioner asked.
"He wasn't here when the orders were taken, Commissioner." The Commissioner's Secretary said.
"I'm aware of that, Baker. I had his order memorized." The Commissioner said. This threw Jack for a loop.
"You memorized my Chinese takeout order?" Jack asked.
"I make it a habit of knowing what my Captain's like to eat." The Commissioner said. That was when Jack saw a familiar look in the Commissioner's face.
"Something happened to the 6-5." Jack spoke. The Commissioner sighed before nodding.
"The Mayor had to scrap the project. You and the others will have to work here for now." The Commissioner said.
"I see. Will we be working out of the 14th floor?" Jack asked.
"I believe that would work best." The Commissioner said.
"Alright." Jack said.
"I even have a good name for you to use. The Care Services Task Force." The Commissioner said. Jack heard the name, smiling soon after.
"Has a nice ring to it." Jack said.
"Join us for lunch. We can finalize the details." The Commissioner said. Jack then stood up and nodded.
"At your six, boss." Jack said. The Commissioner smiled and walked into his office. Jack followed him, as did True Heart and Noble Heart, and the Commissioner's Secretary followed them all in to close the door behind them.
To Be Continued….