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regrown forest, hungry life. A cougar crept around, not caring how or why the forest was suddenly back but smelling and hearing something alive nearby. It had found the sleeping Love Heart Bear and Confidence Heart Fennec and it licked its lips in anticipation of an easy meal.\n\nIt stalked up to the pair and was about to pounce when a chestnut still locked in its spiky shell struck it in the head. The cougar let out a yowl but didn’t get a chance to see its attacker before more chestnuts struck it on its back and head.\n\n“Leave the saviours of the forest!” Chipper Heart Chipmunk shouted his voice, which echoed around the forest as he pulled back another chestnut in a slingshot he carried with him, “They are not your food!” He saw the cougar about to recover and attack and let the next one loose, this time striking the cougar’s eye.\n\nFinally deciding this prey was not worth the effort, the cougar slunk away, encouraged by two more chestnuts in its hindquarters.\n\nConfidence Heart stirred from the noise and sat up, “Huh, what?” she rubbed her eyes.\n\nChipper dropped down next to her, “Don’t worry, I just chased off a big cat,” he grinned, “Go back to sleep while Forest Ranger Chipper keeps watch.” He saluted at her.\n\n“Mmmmkay,” Confidence lay back down and fell asleep.\n\nChipper just chuckled then climbed back up his tree to watch over them.\n\n[center][u]Chapter 33: Adjustments[/u][/center]\n\nSu Yung was becoming more lucid the longer she spent in Meridiana and now floated in an abandoned strip club examining the creatures that Jose had arrayed before her: fixed ideas, big green hulk-like humanoids with blonde flat tops and red eyes surrounded by black skin masks; technos, mostly human-like creations with only occasional telltale signs of their artificial nature; and Frostbite, the last truly experimental creation of Jose’s late father.\n\n“Impressed yet?” Jose goose stepped back and forth in front of the assembled creations then turned and smirked at the ghostly woman.\n\n“They are unlike anything I’ve seen, but their numbers are so few.” Indeed the fixed ideas numbered about 20 and there were only a dozen technos in the group.\n\nJose fumed, “CB6 and those nightwolves are bleeding me dry! Once I get rid of them I’ll be able to get more human resources to expand my control.” He jabbed a finger at Su Yung, “so how do you plan to use this ‘magic’ to make them better?!”\n\nSu Yung produced a pair of faint cards from her person, “I have two cards that should be able to empower them, but only one at a time unless you find a way to distribute them.” She floated them over to Jose who examined them.\n\n“The Dash? The Power? Yeesh, those drawings are ugly,” Jose adjusted his glasses as if that would help, “Maybe I can infuse their sustenance… hmm that’s an idea,” he got an evil grin, “I think I know the perfect way to use them, just give me time to work on it.” Jose turned and goose stepped away to them small lab that was in what had been the strip club’s manager’s office and began working on the newest batch of sustenance.\n\nFrostbite had followed and stared dumbly at what Jose was working on, “Duh, boss, what’s that?” he saw Jose mix a vial of liquid and carefully label it with a skull and crossbones.\n\n“A little surprise for CB6 that he won’t be able to resist,” Jose grinned evilly at the first vial.\n\nOoOoO\n\nIt had been two months since Love Heart restored the forest and he was restless. He was lying awake, snuggling up to a still sleeping Confidence Heart, knowing it was close to morning. He carefully extracted himself from Confidence’s arms, grabbed The Heart Book and headed outside for some fresh air.\n\nOnce outside he let The Jump out of its card and sat down on the edge of the long disused subway tracks. A moment later, Kero flew out to join them.\n\n“Morning,” Love Heart said as the guardian beast landed next to him and The Jump hopped up onto his shoulder.\n\n“Barely,” Kero glanced at the sun just peeking out over the horizon, “can’t sleep?”\n\n“Got too much on my mind,” Love Heart picked up The Heart Book from his side and pulled out the last four untransformed Clow Cards, “Shadow, Illusion, Light and Dark. I can feel their energy fading but I can’t find anything big enough to transform them.”\n\n“Even with our odd jobs,” The Jump sighed.\n\nNews of Love Heart’s restoration of the forest had spread like wildfire, ironically, and everyone knew his name now, anthro and human. He had used this fame to set himself as an ‘odd jobs’ person who could use his magic to fix various problems around the city. He had hoped that a major problem would come to him and grant a chance to transform one of the remaining Clow Cards, but so far nothing appropriate or serious enough had happened, at least the pay was decent. He couldn’t go full nocturnal to help CB6, Flash and Oopsy with their patrols most nights. Now all the anticipation of what Jose and Su Yung might be up to was making him nervous.\n\nAs Love Heart sat, pondering, he saw something emerge from the old tunnel and turned to greet Confidence Heart in an oversized t-shirt she had worn to bed. She smiled and hopped up next to Love Heart, “Morning, Love,” she gave him a kiss on the cheek.\n\nLove Heart put the cards away and turned to kiss her back, “Morning, Cassy.”\n\n“Trouble sleeping?”\n\nLove Heart shook his head, “A bit, just woke up early. How are you?”\n\n“A little bored, but not sleepy. My shift doesn’t start for like three hours though,” Confidence stretched.\n\nLove Heart coughed, “You could go out at night again, if you really want.”\n\nConfidence shook her head and place a protective hand over her just visible baby bump, “No way, not taking that risk.” She saw Love Heart about to offer encouragement and put a finger over his lips, “I know, you don’t want to feel like a tyrant keeping his ‘oh so fragile pregnant wife’ out of danger because ‘suddenly I can’t do anything now that I have two babies in me’ and I get it,” she sighed, “Fucking sitcoms… anyway this isn’t like that. Yeah, it’s my body but it’s not just me I have to be responsible for, and if I’d taken that hit,” she placed both hands on her belly, “even if I survived, they wouldn’t.”\n\nThey both shuddered then leaned up against each other for comfort as they remembered the night a month ago when they went out with CB6 to track a Techno. They found it and two Fixed Ideas escorting it so they started a fight. Confidence had managed to trip one of them but the other almost punched her in the stomach had she not dodged aside at the last second and pulled back. After that they both decided that Confidence couldn’t risk going out to fight those monsters lest their unborn children die. Love Heart had almost backtracked but Confidence agreed it had been the right call and had taken a job as a cashier at a grocery store as well.\n\nNoise nearby drew their attention as Flash and Oopsy, both still in wolf form, arrived from their night patrol.\n\n“Morning,” Flash growled out before he changed back into his bear form, “Nothing major tonight.”\n\n“Sad, can’t go out much longer,” Oopsy had a hand on her own baby bump as she changed back into a bear. She yawned, “But now, sleep.”\n\nLove and Confidence followed the couple inside so they could retrieve their clothes before they settled down to sleep and seek out their secluded placed near the edge of town.\n\n“Winter, heed my call! Water Shower!\"\n\nThe Heart Staff sent out a stream of water that broke into a shower of water after it arced a fair distance up, making a magical shower for both Love Heart and Confidence once Love Heart wedged it in a rock to keep it still. The two of them gratefully stood under the falling shower, hidden by foliage, and helped scrub each other clean with some organic soap that wouldn’t poison anything that found this place after they left. It was a nice start to the day, scrubbing, washing, even feeling each other up and kissing. Love Heart lovingly washing over Confidence’s tummy symbol and baby bump and kissing it after it was rinsed.\n\n“Can’t wait to see you two,” Love Heart whispered.\n\n“Me either,” Confidence helped him to stand so they could kiss, “Breakfast at the diner?”\n\n“Sounds great,” they kissed again before Love Heart shut off the water.\n\nRather than bringing towels they’d have to haul back to their home or using magic, Love Heart and Confidence opted to just sit on a large rock they had found nearby and let the sun and air dry them slowly.\n\nLove Heart smiled as he glanced at Confidence, the water droplets in her fur shimmering in the early morning light. “You’re beautiful.”\n\nConfidence blushed, “Hardly, I’m just tough and putting on weight a bit.”\n\nLove Heart gave her a kiss, “I like tough, I like how much you’ve helped me since this all began, and you’re not putting on weight you’re growing children. I’m the one who’s plain looking.”\n\nIt was Confidence Heart’s turn to admonish Love Heart, “You’re handsome, and don’t forget it!” she poked his nose with a finger, “and you’re very brave to take all this on. I wish I could help but I won’t risk those big monsters punching our kids,” she placed a hand on her belly then kissed Love Heart. He kissed back and pulled her closer. Their kissing quickly evolved into a make-out session, only ending when Love Heart reached up to grab Confidence’s breast and they hastily pulled apart, their faces red.\n\nLove Heart cleared his throat, “Don’t want to get messed up after we just showered,” he chuckled nervously.\n\n“Yeah,” Confidence twiddled her fingers, “don’t want to show up to the store smelling like sweat and sex.” She used her tummy symbol to conjure a couple hair brushes and combs, “Here, help me with my hair.” She pulled half her hair forwards and started brushing it and turned around so Love Heart had access to the rest of her hair.\n\nLove Heart carefully brushed Confidence’s hair, pausing at each minor tangle to carefully work it through, breathing a sigh of relief each time he managed to not rip any out. “Does it hurt?”\n\n“No, you’re getting better,” Confidence smiled as she brushed more of her hair, “You’re the only one I trust to help me with this.”\n\nLove Heart paused for a moment, “But you don’t need me to help that much, do you?”\n\n“No, but I like you being here to help me,” Confidence let her hair fall back then picked up one of the combs for finer work, “It’s taken me years to figure out how to do this right but it’s so worth it,” she sighed happily.\n\nLove Heart carefully combed out a few tangles as Confidence finished off and then started brushing her tail until it was dry. Love Heart reached around Confidence to hug her from behind, his hands reaching up to cup her breasts, “I love you,” he kissed the back of her neck.\n\n“I love you too,” Confidence gently pushed Love Heart’s hands away, “but let’s not get carried away,” she pushed her hair back and straightened it then stood up, “Let’s get breakfast.”\n\nLove Heart nodded and they both dressed, Confidence’s clothing was new to meet the dress code of the grocery store and Love Heart with his cargo vest which let people know he was ‘ready for any job’. Kero and the Jump had sat a fair distance away to avoid intruding on the couple’s intimate time and both jumped up to Love Heart’s shoulders when they passed by and headed into town.\n\nIt was too early for anyone to really be up and about so Love Heart and Confidence didn’t run into anyone until they got to the diner. They found a half-asleep Anger Heart at the register who just blinked at them as they entered.\n\n“Welcome, what can I get for you?” Anger Heart tried to force the enthusiasm as best he could, like most teenage/young adult workers.\n\nThe couple smiled as Confidence ordered, “Three bacon and egg sandwiches and six hashbrown patties with a jug of water, please.”\n\n“Just bacon and eggs for me, rye bread and ginger ale,” Love Heart added.\n\n“A piece of strawberry cake!” Kero all but shouted.\n\nAnger Heart rang them up then went to make their breakfast while they stood at the counter in the otherwise empty diner. They didn’t say anything until Anger Heart arrived at the counter with their breakfast.\n\n“Who did you piss off to end up at the crack of dawn shift?” Confidence joked.\n\n“I volunteered once I heard you two were on your morning shifts too,” Anger Heart replied, “Wanted to chat before things got busy and have time to actually cook stuff instead of spending all day at the register.” He sighed, “I’m new so I get stuck on the till if we get busy or there’s anyone else to cook.”\n\n“Good luck,” Love Heart picked up his plate and followed Confidence to the table where she had balanced her two full plates and huge water jug without any spills and was now devouring her food with gusto.\n\n“Eating for three?” Loyal Heart had entered while they were talking to Anger Heart. Confidence just smiled and nodded around her mouth full of food.\n\n“Just finished my rounds,” Loyal Heart ordered some coffee and pancakes before he sat down with the couple.\n\n“They still tease you about being a mail carrier dog?” Love Heart smirked, “or ask if you’re going to chase yourself?”\n\nLoyal Heart sighed, “A bit, but after I showed them I could fly they gave me a nickname.”\n\nConfidence swallowed long enough to ask, “What’s that?”\n\nLoyal blushed, “Angel Dog.”\n\n“Aww, that’s so cute,” Confidence beamed before going back to eating.\n\n“Where’s Defiant?” Love Heart looked at the door in case the badger was waiting outside.\n\n“He works later today so he slept in,” Loyal got up to get his breakfast, “So I won’t have to stop by the docks to see him before I head home.”\n\n“Home in time for a quickie?” Confidence waggled her eyebrows.\n\nLoyal Heart’s face turned so red it looked like he was glowing, “Maybe… he’s so strong I like to feel safe in his embrace and we talk about a lot of stuff… laugh at stupid stuff on TV…” he was fumbling over his words.\n\nLove Heart interjected to try and change the subject, “So how does Defiant deal with being cat-called at work?”\n\nLoyal Heart’s face faded back to its natural color and he chuckled, “Well he’s flattered that guys find him hot. They slowed down a bit when he told them he was a guy. Then again some of the others don’t care and just want to see him in overalls with exposed cleavage and hauling cargo by hand so they can save on gas for the crane and forklifts. He’s adjusting pretty well all things considered.”\n\n“That’s good,” Love Heart finished his breakfast and stood up to return the dishes to the counter.\n\nThe diner was just starting to get busier as Confidence and Loyal finished their breakfast and the three left, Love Heart and Confidence sharing a kiss before they went their separate ways, Kero and The Jump riding on Love Heart’s shoulders.\n\nLove Heart didn’t have an office or the like, instead he wandered around town waiting for someone to call on him for a task. There were so few people with cell phones that he there was no reason for him to sit at home waiting for calls, that and he didn’t want to risk someone finding their home and the oversight that kept the old office still receiving power.\n\n“Love Heart!” A human child ran over to the bear, “I lost my ball up that roof!” he pointed up at a nearby building.\n\nLove Heart shaded his eye as he looked up, “Wow, you must have kicked it hard to get it up there.”\n\n“My friend did,” the boy said, “Can you get it down for me, please?”\n\n“Alright,” Love Heart turned to his shoulder, “Jump?”\n\n“OK then,” The Jump dove into Love Heart’s body and the wings appeared on his feet.\n\nLove Heart leapt up to the roof in a single bound then back down with the soccer ball in his hands, “Here you go.”\n\nThe child beamed, “Thank you!” he reached into his pocket and handed a piece of candy to Love Heart, which he accepted.\n\nLove Heart sucked on the candy as he walked what was his usual round of the city. He suspected that some of the kids deliberately threw their toys into places that would be impossible for them to retrieve specifically to talk to him, not that he minded and he never charged them, but sometimes they would give him a small gift like candy. For adults he would work out a reasonable fee for his services and hope that one of them would have a crisis serious enough for him to transform one of the last four Clow Cards.\n\n“Love Heart! Hey Love Heart!”\n\nLove Heart turned to see Crafty Heart Coyote jogging towards him, practically bouncing as she skidded to a halt with a bright smile on her face. She was wearing a t-shirt that still looked overly bulgy and awkward but not uncomfortable.\n\n“Crafty Heart?” Love Heart stopped for a moment so she could fall in step beside him, “You need help with something?”\n\nCrafty shook her head, “Not anymore, I just wanted to thank you.”\n\n“Thank me? For what?” Love Heart pointed to himself, “I haven’t seen you since the meet and greet.”\n\nCrafty nodded, “Yeah well that thing you said kinda lit a fire under me, about thinking Flambo was Hidden’s baby daddy.”\n\nLove Heart cleared his throat awkwardly, “Sorry, I didn’t know. I have a couple intersex friends so I guess I should have known.”\n\nCrafty snorted, “How could you? People go on about ‘assumptions’ all the time but that’s all someone has to go on at a first meeting and it was just a bad memory. Besides I’m not intersex, I’m a transwoman.”\n\nLove Heart’s eyes went wide, “Oh… I see I mean, I don’t know anyone who…” he stumbled over his words.\n\nCrafty sighed as painful memories resurfaced, “Let me tell you my whole story. I was born human and assigned man at birth. My parents were hyper religious nuts and had turned my older sister into a kind of ‘wind up toy perfect daughter’ and were eager to raise a ‘perfect son’ too. When I finally hatched and figured out I was a woman trapped in a male body I tried to just keep it on the down-low, but they were too perceptive and found out. I was already sick of their bullshit so I ran away after a big fight when my dad said he was going to send me to an all-male boarding school. I wasn’t sure where to go or what to do, the few friends I had thought I was just a woman so I couldn’t risk telling anyone.” She laughed, “So I found myself asking for anyone or anything to help me, first time I sort of prayed in my life.”\n\n“What happened?” Love Heart has stopped to listen to Crafty’s story.\n\nCrafty smiled, “The Great Wishing Star answered me and said that it thought I was the perfect candidate to join the Care Bear Family, but not right away because I was needed elsewhere. It offered to grant my wish and give me my ideal form and even an animal of my choice. I always liked coyotes so I chose that, with all the assets I wanted and then some,” she patted her chest then down farther to the lumpier parts of her shirt, “and so I got that but…” she paused feeling awkward, “I still had my… dick and balls… I asked ‘what the hell?!’ and it said it could only change or give me things, not take them away so I had to live with that as it warped me here to Meridiana. There’s a lot more but after I helped Flambo, Hidden and some other friends free Vivacious and other friends from their basically being slaves at a strip club I settled down with my mates. I got Hidden knocked up after one night kinda going off the deep end on drinks and so I’d been kinda umming and erring on getting them surgically removed. After our meeting I decided I needed to just bite the bullet and spend my savings on that operation so now I’m finally all woman, and then some,” she giggled, patting her lumpy stomach area.\n\nLove Heart finally had to ask, “What do you mean ‘and then some’ and why is your shirt always so lumpy?”\n\nCrafty snickered then leaned over and whispered, “I have six breasts.”\n\nLove Heart almost jumped, blushing slightly, “S-six?!”\n\nCrafty leaned back to stretch and now Love Heart could clearly make out the shapes under her shirt, three pairs of breasts that could pass as her just being oddly chunky to a casual observer. “Yeah, I kinda went overboard in my wish based on art I saw online, but it makes me unique and you won’t believe the kinda fun the three of us get up to in bed,” she waggled her eyebrows, “Especially after my operation I felt so liberated that Flambo and I-”\n\n“I get it!” Love Heart interjected, “Much as I like hearing how I’ve helped people I should get back to my rounds. Hope you keep having fun.”\n\nCrafty turned to leave and winked, “Oh trust me, we will.”\n\nOoOoO\n\nJose stood in front of a tank of sustenance, pouring it into 32 separate vials before turning to a larger jar full of red liquid, “Perfect, now I just need the final ingredients.” Jose turned to Su Yung, who floated nearby.\n\nSu Yung held The Power and The Dash over her hands and passed them to Jose, “If your substance is correct, they will be distilled into it as the cost of their existence.”\n\nJose just grinned evilly as he took the two cards, “Oh it is,” he could swear he heard screaming from the cards as he turned back to the jar and dunked them into the red liquid, the card dissolving as they hit the caustic substance which turned blue. Jose stirred the liquid with a glass rod until it turned purple.\n\n“Excellent!” Jose pulled on two large work gloves and carefully lifted the jar which he distributed evenly into the vials of sustenance, all of which bubbled and took on a purplish streak within their liquid. “Perfect!” he set the now empty jar down then picked up a smaller vial with a medicine dropper in it and put a drop of clear liquid into each vial, which made the liquid briefly fizz. Jose set it down and turned around.\n\nJose’s makeshift lab was in the former strip club’s main office but the wall, at some point, had been broken down prior to their occupation. All 20 remaining Fixed Ideas and 12 Technos stood or sat, waiting on Jose’s orders.\n\nJose grinned, “Alright. Fixed Ideas, Technos, drink your enhanced sustenance!” He watched as all 32 of them entered and took a swig from one of the vials, “By tonight you’ll be stronger and faster than CB6, the Nightwolves or anyone else who comes to help them!” He watched them finish then all look at him confused.\n\n“Duh, boss,” Frostbite had stood nearby silently until now, “They look the same.”\n\nJose fumed, “I said it’ll take till tonight! Don’t you ever listen!?” he stomped on the stool he stood on, which rocked then toppled over. Frostbite moved to catch Jose and banged his head on the table. Jose just grumbled and forced himself up.\n\n“Why do you need to destroy CB6?” Su Yung asked.\n\nJose jabbed a finger at her, “He’s the last failure of my father and if I’m going to rule, I need to get him out of the way and then I can help you deal with this ‘Clown Reed’ person and his aides, and maybe even destroy those ‘fuzzy wuzzies’ dad used to be obsessed with.” Jose folded his arms, “How do you even know he’s here?”\n\nSu Yung’s eyes flashed dangerously, “I can sense him here in the city, I know I’ll meet him soon and once I have my revenge you can do what you want with the rest of my power while I pass on.”\n\nJose didn’t respond but goose stepped over to the still intact manager’s chair and hopped in. Oh, he’d have that power alright and once CB6 was out of the way he’d have all the resources he needed.\n\nOoOoO\n\nDefiant Heart was having a typical mid-day shift day. Despite the jokes, Loyal Heart just gave Defiant a kiss before he headed off to work at the docks in nothing but overalls, boots and a bra with his cleavage exposed. He had to admit he liked hearing the hoots and catcalls in his direction from other men, some human but mostly anthro, thrown his way; it was flattering.\n\nSome part of him had thought about joining CB6 and the others in their battle against Jose, but it was a small part. Instead, he put the super strength that Von Reichter had given him to work as a dock worker. He was agile enough and when he showed he could effortlessly lift cargo containers that needed a forklift or crane, he was hired almost right on the spot.\n\nAt lunch time Defiant headed for a small wooden section of the docks and sat down with his legs dangling over the water as he pulled out his lunch. There was a splash from the water below as a blue otter anthro only wearing swim trunks climbed up a ladder up onto the dock then walked over to sit beside Defiant.\n\n“Hi, Marine Heart,” Defiant said as he pulled a sandwich out.\n\n“Afternoon,” Marine Heart Otter had a small net with him which contained five live fish and he sat down and pulled one out. “Have a good morning?” He bit into the fish and devoured it almost whole.\n\nDefiant finished his first sandwich, “Same old, same old, but it’s good,” he smiled.\n\n“Hi. Mind if I join you?”\n\nDefiant and Marine turned to see Love Heart approaching them.\n\n“Go ahead,” Defiant patted the spot next to him, then grunted, “just a sec, need to let the guys breathe,” he unlatched his overalls then pulled off his bra, setting his tits free with a sigh of relief, “I swear they’re getting bigger, or this bra’s shrinking.”\n\nMarine was unphased by his friend’s casual nudity and looked over at Love Heart, “So where’s that little yellow guy?”\n\n“Kero? I gave him some cash to go get his own lunch, just dessert stuff,” Love Heart rolled his eyes as he pulled out a sandwich to eat for his lunch. A question popped into his head as he watched Marine finish off the last of his raw fish, “Marine Heart, what do you do for a living exactly?”\n\nMarine swallowed, “I’m a fisher but also a conservationist, so’s my mate, Flora Bear.” He smiled and turned to Love Heart, “Actually she wanted to ask me to thank you personally for restoring the forest, saved them probably decades of work and now they’re able to start making sure wildlife can move back in safely. Actually, the night she heard she was so excited she practically yanked me into bed. Best sex we’ve ever had.”\n\nLove Heart blushed slightly, “Second person to tell me that today,” he mumbled.\n\nMarine continued without acknowledging Love Heart’s words, “She even told me if you were in an open relationship like us that she’d want to jump your bones to thank you.”\n\nDefiant rolled his eyes, “You’ve become quite the celebrity, Love Heart,” he devoured what was his fifth sandwich.\n\nMarine looked down at Defiant’s still not empty lunch box, “Kinda overdoing it aren’t you?”\n\n“Hey! I had to live of that vile sustenance crap for god knows how long, I want to eat all the real food I can get!” Defiant shot back.\n\n“Even if you’ve putting on weight,” Marine looked at Defiant’s slightly chunky belly.\n\n“Gotta feed these muscles,” Defiant flexed an arm. It only looked above average in build since the super strength was a more subtle effect.\n\n“Riiiiiight,” Marine rolled his eyes, “So, Love Heart, any luck finding a big enough job for those cards of yours?”\n\nLove Heart shook his head, “No and I’m getting worried. Kero says the cards can hang on for a long time if they stay near me but every day I wonder if it’s going to get down to the wire with them. I just hope I can find something to use them on before too much longer.” Love Heart pushed himself back then stood up, “I’m gonna go find Kero, see ya later.”\n\n“See ya,” Marine waved, so did Defiant but his mouth was full. Marine just pushed himself off the dock and back into the water to swim out to where his boat was anchored in the middle of the bay. Defiant Heart continued to eat before he pulled his bra on and re-latched his overalls to head back to work.\n\nOoOoO\n\nEriol sat at a bench with a book in hand and Spinel in his small form resting on his lap out of sight. Eriol followed Love Heart with his eyes and spoke quietly, “So far nothing serious.”\n\n“Are you sure this is right, master?” Spinel asked without raising his head, “Su Yung and this Jose person could strike any time and we’re just going to let them?”\n\n“For now,” Eriol took a drink from the thermos he’d brought with him, “Ruby’s keeping an eye on them and if needed then we’ll intervene, but not before we see what Love Heart does.”\n\nOoOoO\n\nLove Heart stopped by the library mid afternoon, having had a less than productive day. Guidance was on duty at the check-out and she smiled at Love Heart.\n\n“Hello, did you have a nice day?” Guidance was practically beaming.\n\n“Alright, just a few jobs, made about $50 today,” Love Heart searched around, “Where’s Soul Heart?”\n\n“In the back, processing some returns,” Guidance gestured over her shoulder, “How are Defiant and Loyal doing?”\n\n“As a couple, good,” Love Heart nodded, “I’ll find something to read until she’s done.”\n\n“No need, I just finished,” Soul Heart appeared pushing a cart full of books, “Just give me a few minutes and I’ll able to talk.”\n\n“Just a quick question,” Love Heart got closer, “Any idea what Jose’s up to?”\n\nSoul Heart whispered back, “Nothing, and I’m worried. No sightings of Fixed Ideas or Technos for weeks now. We’ll meet later tonight.”\n\nLove Heart just nodded before he left to pick up Confidence at work so they could walk home together.\n\nThe rest of the day went without incident before Soul Heart was able to head home. Lucas was already there, cooking supper while Tarot Heart did his homework.\n\n“Mom!” Tarot Heart jumped from the table and ran to give Soul a hug, which she caught him in.\n\nSoul smiled, “good to see you too. How’s school?”\n\n“Alright,” Tarot Heart let go, “getting harder though.”\n\n“I’d hope so,” Lucas left off stirring the soup, “But he’s working fine at it.” He gave Soul Heart a kiss then turned to open the freezer, “Here, got some more for you.” He passed a pair of neon green sustenance cubes to Soul Heart, which she popped into her mouth and grimaced at the bitter taste as they dissolved, but grateful for the energy they gave.\n\n“Thank you, Lucas,” Soul Heart smiled.\n\nLucas returned to the soup pot, “Anytime, just give me a few to get supper ready for me and Tarot.”\n\nSoul Heart kissed him back then went to sit down and read, trying to keep her mind off Jose.\n\nOoOoO\n\nLove Heart and Flash Heart, in wolf form, both left the abandoned manager’s office as the sun went down to meet with CB6 on the rooftops under the light of the full moon. They arrived first, accompanied by Keroberos in true form and with The Jump already attached to Love Heart’s feet. While they waited, Love Heart pulled out the heart key.\n\n\"Key of the Heart\nWith Powers Burning Bright\nReveal the Staff\nAnd Shine Your Light\nRelease!\"\n\nLove Heart grabbed the staff out of the air as Flash Heart looked on, “I still can’t believe that whenever I see it,” he growled out.\n\n“Neither can I,” CB6 landed softly nearby, “Where’s Oopsy?”\n\nFlash shook his head, “I asked her to stay home and help protect Confidence just in case.”\n\nLove Heart rolled his eyes, “You could have just told her you didn’t want her in danger. Even if she believed that, Confidence knows and she’ll tell her.”\n\nFlash coughed, “Maybe, but I just… I dunno.”\n\n“You didn’t want her to think she was weak but wanted to keep her safe,” CB6 nodded, “She’ll understand, but for now we need to see if we can find Jose or some of his creations.”\n\n“Then let’s go!” Keroberos spread his wings and took off with Flash, Love Heart and CB6 on his tail.\n\nAfter about an hour of searching they came to a stop in front of a building in what was once a Red Light District but was now mostly abandoned buildings. CB6 frowned and pushed his glasses back up, “Something’s wrong, I can feel it right here.”\n\n“How perceptive.” The voice caused them all to spin around.\n\nJose stood there next to Frostbite, a sinister grin on his face as his glasses flashed.\n\n“Jose!” CB6 readied himself, “What are you up to?”\n\n“This!” there was a sudden rush of air and suddenly the four of them were surrounded by 20 Fixed Ideas and 12 human-like Technos. “Courtesy of my new ally. Have fun! HAHAHAHAHAHA!” Jose seemed to melt back into the darkness.\n\nLove Heart barely had time to pull out a Heart Card and jab it with his staff as he shouted “Shield armor!” before they were on them. One of the Fixed Ideas charged at him and punched right after the armor formed. Love Heart was sent reeling but thankfully in one piece as he pulled out The Sword Card, turning it into a sword in his hand. He tried to slice at a Techno only for it to practically vanish and strike him in the back. Love Heart rounded on the Techno and a pair of Fixed ideas ready to strike, only for them to be pierced by glowing blue-white arrows and start leaking sustenance from their wounds. Love Heart took the chance and jumped up on top of the nearby building.\n\n“Loyal Heart!” Love Heart shouted in relief as he saw Loyal Heart Dog, wings and bow out as he hovered over the battle.\n\n“Yue and I sensed something was wrong. What’s going on?” Loyal Heart looked down at the carnage below.\n\nLove Heart looked down too and saw CB6, Flash Heart and Keroberos being assaulted by Jose’s monstrosities. Flash Heart lashed out with teeth and claws, Keroberos breathed fire and CB6 struck out with a spear made of ice, but none of them managed to land any hits. One charged with blurring speed and smashed into one of the abandoned buildings and brought it down.\n\nLoyal Heart started firing arrows down at the creatures but now that they were aware of his presence they were dodging all his shots. Love Heart bit his lip then looked up at full moon, an idea coming to him.\n\n“Gotta stop them before they destroy the city,” Love Heart pulled out a Clow Card and threw it up as the creations encircled CB6 and Flash Heart below.\n\n\"Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall\nAncient forces heed my call!\nShadow Card, discard your former might\nAnd draw new power from my light\nHeart Card!\"\n\nThe explosion of magic overhead briefly startled everyone as The Shadow spirit emerged. It was all that was needed.\n\n“Shadow Card! Grab their shadows and hold them in place!” Love Heart swung his staff down at the assembly below. The Shadow spirit flew down and separated into many tendrils. The Technos and Fixed Ideas dodged the tendrils, but it was for naught as the tendrils struck their shadows and they all froze in place.\n\nLove Heart jumped down and shouted, “Hurry! The Shadow can’t hold them for long!” Love Heart sliced a fixed idea in half with The Sword as he landed, a tiny cry escaping from spirits escaping the corpse.\n\nIt was the work of only a couple minutes before all the Fixed Ideas and Technos were on the ground, their sustenance pooling around them. Love Heart watched the wisps of magic float away as he stood with Keroberos, Loyal Heart and with The Jump now on his shoulder.\n\n“Did you feel that?” Love Heart looked up, “like a bunch of small screams and magic.”\n\n“I did,” Keroberos nodded, “It felt like small pieces of those fake Clow Cards.”\n\nThe Jump shuddered, “Like they were torn apart before they died.”\n\n“That means Su Yung is here,” Loyal Heart touched the locket around his neck.\n\n“ACK! AHHH!” Everyone turned to see CB6 hacking as he spat out the sustenance he had just tried to drink.\n\n“Mom! What’s wrong?” Flash Heart carefully patted CB6’s back while still in wolf form.\n\n“Tastes bad,” CB6 coughed.\n\nFlash Heart leaned down and sniffed the sustenance then reeled back, “Poison! Jose poisoned their sustenance!”\n\n“And I used up so much power tonight,” CB6 took a deep breath.\n\n“You gonna be alright?” Flash asked.\n\n“Yes, but I’m gonna need to take a break from night patrols until Lucas can get more of his synthetic sustenance,” CB6 took a deep breath and shifted back into Soul Heart, wincing and convulsing slightly, “Can you carry me home?”\n\n“Of course,” Flash Heart waved for the others to head to their homes before he picked up his mother in his wolf arms and began to walk to where she was living with Lucas, “why do you need to wait so long?”\n\n“Because real sustenance uses… people as part of its ingredients,” Soul Heart’s revelation made Flash Heart’s eyes go wide but she continued to talk, “the synthetic stuff has all the right ingredients but without breaking down human tissue it’s much less potent.”\n\n“Like removing all the sugar from juice?” Flash Heart tried to speculate.\n\n“I don’t know, maybe, but its effects are diminished for the lack of cost.” Soul Heart sighed, “My time as a superhero might be over.”\n\n“Just hang in there, mom,” Flash Heart kept up his steady walk back to her new home.\n\nOoOoO\n\nJose had watched the battle through security cameras and still grinned. “Looks like my plan worked.”\n\n“But how?” Frostbite scratched his head then looked up at Su Yung, “Duh, didn’t they all die?”\n\n“Of course! Not the idea plan but there were three possibilities.” Jose held up one finger, “they would win and I’d be rid of CB6 and her sidekicks forever,” he held up a second finger, “He’d drink the poisoned sustenance and die or,” he held up a third finger, “He doesn’t drink it but now he’s all out of sources of sustenance and he’s going to starve! Now either he works for me or he’ll die and I’ll have all the time in the world to rebuild my forces.” He turned to the chemistry equipment on the table across from the monitor, “And I have big plans for you, Frostbite.”\n\n“What plans?” Frostbite just stared at him dumbly.\n\nJose grinned, “You’re going to be my final trump card!”\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "It was the dead of night when life returned to the regrown forest, hungry life. A cougar crept around, not caring how or why the forest was suddenly back but smelling and hearing something alive nearby. It had found the sleeping Love Heart Bear and Confidence Heart Fennec and it licked its lips in anticipation of an easy meal.

It stalked up to the pair and was about to pounce when a chestnut still locked in its spiky shell struck it in the head. The cougar let out a yowl but didn’t get a chance to see its attacker before more chestnuts struck it on its back and head.

“Leave the saviours of the forest!” Chipper Heart Chipmunk shouted his voice, which echoed around the forest as he pulled back another chestnut in a slingshot he carried with him, “They are not your food!” He saw the cougar about to recover and attack and let the next one loose, this time striking the cougar’s eye.

Finally deciding this prey was not worth the effort, the cougar slunk away, encouraged by two more chestnuts in its hindquarters.

Confidence Heart stirred from the noise and sat up, “Huh, what?” she rubbed her eyes.

Chipper dropped down next to her, “Don’t worry, I just chased off a big cat,” he grinned, “Go back to sleep while Forest Ranger Chipper keeps watch.” He saluted at her.

“Mmmmkay,” Confidence lay back down and fell asleep.

Chipper just chuckled then climbed back up his tree to watch over them.

Chapter 33: Adjustments


Su Yung was becoming more lucid the longer she spent in Meridiana and now floated in an abandoned strip club examining the creatures that Jose had arrayed before her: fixed ideas, big green hulk-like humanoids with blonde flat tops and red eyes surrounded by black skin masks; technos, mostly human-like creations with only occasional telltale signs of their artificial nature; and Frostbite, the last truly experimental creation of Jose’s late father.

“Impressed yet?” Jose goose stepped back and forth in front of the assembled creations then turned and smirked at the ghostly woman.

“They are unlike anything I’ve seen, but their numbers are so few.” Indeed the fixed ideas numbered about 20 and there were only a dozen technos in the group.

Jose fumed, “CB6 and those nightwolves are bleeding me dry! Once I get rid of them I’ll be able to get more human resources to expand my control.” He jabbed a finger at Su Yung, “so how do you plan to use this ‘magic’ to make them better?!”

Su Yung produced a pair of faint cards from her person, “I have two cards that should be able to empower them, but only one at a time unless you find a way to distribute them.” She floated them over to Jose who examined them.

“The Dash? The Power? Yeesh, those drawings are ugly,” Jose adjusted his glasses as if that would help, “Maybe I can infuse their sustenance… hmm that’s an idea,” he got an evil grin, “I think I know the perfect way to use them, just give me time to work on it.” Jose turned and goose stepped away to them small lab that was in what had been the strip club’s manager’s office and began working on the newest batch of sustenance.

Frostbite had followed and stared dumbly at what Jose was working on, “Duh, boss, what’s that?” he saw Jose mix a vial of liquid and carefully label it with a skull and crossbones.

“A little surprise for CB6 that he won’t be able to resist,” Jose grinned evilly at the first vial.

OoOoO

It had been two months since Love Heart restored the forest and he was restless. He was lying awake, snuggling up to a still sleeping Confidence Heart, knowing it was close to morning. He carefully extracted himself from Confidence’s arms, grabbed The Heart Book and headed outside for some fresh air.

Once outside he let The Jump out of its card and sat down on the edge of the long disused subway tracks. A moment later, Kero flew out to join them.

“Morning,” Love Heart said as the guardian beast landed next to him and The Jump hopped up onto his shoulder.

“Barely,” Kero glanced at the sun just peeking out over the horizon, “can’t sleep?”

“Got too much on my mind,” Love Heart picked up The Heart Book from his side and pulled out the last four untransformed Clow Cards, “Shadow, Illusion, Light and Dark. I can feel their energy fading but I can’t find anything big enough to transform them.”

“Even with our odd jobs,” The Jump sighed.

News of Love Heart’s restoration of the forest had spread like wildfire, ironically, and everyone knew his name now, anthro and human. He had used this fame to set himself as an ‘odd jobs’ person who could use his magic to fix various problems around the city. He had hoped that a major problem would come to him and grant a chance to transform one of the remaining Clow Cards, but so far nothing appropriate or serious enough had happened, at least the pay was decent. He couldn’t go full nocturnal to help CB6, Flash and Oopsy with their patrols most nights. Now all the anticipation of what Jose and Su Yung might be up to was making him nervous.

As Love Heart sat, pondering, he saw something emerge from the old tunnel and turned to greet Confidence Heart in an oversized t-shirt she had worn to bed. She smiled and hopped up next to Love Heart, “Morning, Love,” she gave him a kiss on the cheek.

Love Heart put the cards away and turned to kiss her back, “Morning, Cassy.”

“Trouble sleeping?”

Love Heart shook his head, “A bit, just woke up early. How are you?”

“A little bored, but not sleepy. My shift doesn’t start for like three hours though,” Confidence stretched.

Love Heart coughed, “You could go out at night again, if you really want.”

Confidence shook her head and place a protective hand over her just visible baby bump, “No way, not taking that risk.” She saw Love Heart about to offer encouragement and put a finger over his lips, “I know, you don’t want to feel like a tyrant keeping his ‘oh so fragile pregnant wife’ out of danger because ‘suddenly I can’t do anything now that I have two babies in me’ and I get it,” she sighed, “Fucking sitcoms… anyway this isn’t like that. Yeah, it’s my body but it’s not just me I have to be responsible for, and if I’d taken that hit,” she placed both hands on her belly, “even if I survived, they wouldn’t.”

They both shuddered then leaned up against each other for comfort as they remembered the night a month ago when they went out with CB6 to track a Techno. They found it and two Fixed Ideas escorting it so they started a fight. Confidence had managed to trip one of them but the other almost punched her in the stomach had she not dodged aside at the last second and pulled back. After that they both decided that Confidence couldn’t risk going out to fight those monsters lest their unborn children die. Love Heart had almost backtracked but Confidence agreed it had been the right call and had taken a job as a cashier at a grocery store as well.

Noise nearby drew their attention as Flash and Oopsy, both still in wolf form, arrived from their night patrol.

“Morning,” Flash growled out before he changed back into his bear form, “Nothing major tonight.”

“Sad, can’t go out much longer,” Oopsy had a hand on her own baby bump as she changed back into a bear. She yawned, “But now, sleep.”

Love and Confidence followed the couple inside so they could retrieve their clothes before they settled down to sleep and seek out their secluded placed near the edge of town.

“Winter, heed my call! Water Shower!"

The Heart Staff sent out a stream of water that broke into a shower of water after it arced a fair distance up, making a magical shower for both Love Heart and Confidence once Love Heart wedged it in a rock to keep it still. The two of them gratefully stood under the falling shower, hidden by foliage, and helped scrub each other clean with some organic soap that wouldn’t poison anything that found this place after they left. It was a nice start to the day, scrubbing, washing, even feeling each other up and kissing. Love Heart lovingly washing over Confidence’s tummy symbol and baby bump and kissing it after it was rinsed.

“Can’t wait to see you two,” Love Heart whispered.

“Me either,” Confidence helped him to stand so they could kiss, “Breakfast at the diner?”

“Sounds great,” they kissed again before Love Heart shut off the water.

Rather than bringing towels they’d have to haul back to their home or using magic, Love Heart and Confidence opted to just sit on a large rock they had found nearby and let the sun and air dry them slowly.

Love Heart smiled as he glanced at Confidence, the water droplets in her fur shimmering in the early morning light. “You’re beautiful.”

Confidence blushed, “Hardly, I’m just tough and putting on weight a bit.”

Love Heart gave her a kiss, “I like tough, I like how much you’ve helped me since this all began, and you’re not putting on weight you’re growing children. I’m the one who’s plain looking.”

It was Confidence Heart’s turn to admonish Love Heart, “You’re handsome, and don’t forget it!” she poked his nose with a finger, “and you’re very brave to take all this on. I wish I could help but I won’t risk those big monsters punching our kids,” she placed a hand on her belly then kissed Love Heart. He kissed back and pulled her closer. Their kissing quickly evolved into a make-out session, only ending when Love Heart reached up to grab Confidence’s breast and they hastily pulled apart, their faces red.

Love Heart cleared his throat, “Don’t want to get messed up after we just showered,” he chuckled nervously.

“Yeah,” Confidence twiddled her fingers, “don’t want to show up to the store smelling like sweat and sex.” She used her tummy symbol to conjure a couple hair brushes and combs, “Here, help me with my hair.” She pulled half her hair forwards and started brushing it and turned around so Love Heart had access to the rest of her hair.

Love Heart carefully brushed Confidence’s hair, pausing at each minor tangle to carefully work it through, breathing a sigh of relief each time he managed to not rip any out. “Does it hurt?”

“No, you’re getting better,” Confidence smiled as she brushed more of her hair, “You’re the only one I trust to help me with this.”

Love Heart paused for a moment, “But you don’t need me to help that much, do you?”

“No, but I like you being here to help me,” Confidence let her hair fall back then picked up one of the combs for finer work, “It’s taken me years to figure out how to do this right but it’s so worth it,” she sighed happily.

Love Heart carefully combed out a few tangles as Confidence finished off and then started brushing her tail until it was dry. Love Heart reached around Confidence to hug her from behind, his hands reaching up to cup her breasts, “I love you,” he kissed the back of her neck.

“I love you too,” Confidence gently pushed Love Heart’s hands away, “but let’s not get carried away,” she pushed her hair back and straightened it then stood up, “Let’s get breakfast.”

Love Heart nodded and they both dressed, Confidence’s clothing was new to meet the dress code of the grocery store and Love Heart with his cargo vest which let people know he was ‘ready for any job’. Kero and the Jump had sat a fair distance away to avoid intruding on the couple’s intimate time and both jumped up to Love Heart’s shoulders when they passed by and headed into town.

It was too early for anyone to really be up and about so Love Heart and Confidence didn’t run into anyone until they got to the diner. They found a half-asleep Anger Heart at the register who just blinked at them as they entered.

“Welcome, what can I get for you?” Anger Heart tried to force the enthusiasm as best he could, like most teenage/young adult workers.

The couple smiled as Confidence ordered, “Three bacon and egg sandwiches and six hashbrown patties with a jug of water, please.”

“Just bacon and eggs for me, rye bread and ginger ale,” Love Heart added.

“A piece of strawberry cake!” Kero all but shouted.

Anger Heart rang them up then went to make their breakfast while they stood at the counter in the otherwise empty diner. They didn’t say anything until Anger Heart arrived at the counter with their breakfast.

“Who did you piss off to end up at the crack of dawn shift?” Confidence joked.

“I volunteered once I heard you two were on your morning shifts too,” Anger Heart replied, “Wanted to chat before things got busy and have time to actually cook stuff instead of spending all day at the register.” He sighed, “I’m new so I get stuck on the till if we get busy or there’s anyone else to cook.”

“Good luck,” Love Heart picked up his plate and followed Confidence to the table where she had balanced her two full plates and huge water jug without any spills and was now devouring her food with gusto.

“Eating for three?” Loyal Heart had entered while they were talking to Anger Heart. Confidence just smiled and nodded around her mouth full of food.

“Just finished my rounds,” Loyal Heart ordered some coffee and pancakes before he sat down with the couple.

“They still tease you about being a mail carrier dog?” Love Heart smirked, “or ask if you’re going to chase yourself?”

Loyal Heart sighed, “A bit, but after I showed them I could fly they gave me a nickname.”

Confidence swallowed long enough to ask, “What’s that?”

Loyal blushed, “Angel Dog.”

“Aww, that’s so cute,” Confidence beamed before going back to eating.

“Where’s Defiant?” Love Heart looked at the door in case the badger was waiting outside.

“He works later today so he slept in,” Loyal got up to get his breakfast, “So I won’t have to stop by the docks to see him before I head home.”

“Home in time for a quickie?” Confidence waggled her eyebrows.

Loyal Heart’s face turned so red it looked like he was glowing, “Maybe… he’s so strong I like to feel safe in his embrace and we talk about a lot of stuff… laugh at stupid stuff on TV…” he was fumbling over his words.

Love Heart interjected to try and change the subject, “So how does Defiant deal with being cat-called at work?”

Loyal Heart’s face faded back to its natural color and he chuckled, “Well he’s flattered that guys find him hot. They slowed down a bit when he told them he was a guy. Then again some of the others don’t care and just want to see him in overalls with exposed cleavage and hauling cargo by hand so they can save on gas for the crane and forklifts. He’s adjusting pretty well all things considered.”

“That’s good,” Love Heart finished his breakfast and stood up to return the dishes to the counter.

The diner was just starting to get busier as Confidence and Loyal finished their breakfast and the three left, Love Heart and Confidence sharing a kiss before they went their separate ways, Kero and The Jump riding on Love Heart’s shoulders.

Love Heart didn’t have an office or the like, instead he wandered around town waiting for someone to call on him for a task. There were so few people with cell phones that he there was no reason for him to sit at home waiting for calls, that and he didn’t want to risk someone finding their home and the oversight that kept the old office still receiving power.

“Love Heart!” A human child ran over to the bear, “I lost my ball up that roof!” he pointed up at a nearby building.

Love Heart shaded his eye as he looked up, “Wow, you must have kicked it hard to get it up there.”

“My friend did,” the boy said, “Can you get it down for me, please?”

“Alright,” Love Heart turned to his shoulder, “Jump?”

“OK then,” The Jump dove into Love Heart’s body and the wings appeared on his feet.

Love Heart leapt up to the roof in a single bound then back down with the soccer ball in his hands, “Here you go.”

The child beamed, “Thank you!” he reached into his pocket and handed a piece of candy to Love Heart, which he accepted.

Love Heart sucked on the candy as he walked what was his usual round of the city. He suspected that some of the kids deliberately threw their toys into places that would be impossible for them to retrieve specifically to talk to him, not that he minded and he never charged them, but sometimes they would give him a small gift like candy. For adults he would work out a reasonable fee for his services and hope that one of them would have a crisis serious enough for him to transform one of the last four Clow Cards.

“Love Heart! Hey Love Heart!”

Love Heart turned to see Crafty Heart Coyote jogging towards him, practically bouncing as she skidded to a halt with a bright smile on her face. She was wearing a t-shirt that still looked overly bulgy and awkward but not uncomfortable.

“Crafty Heart?” Love Heart stopped for a moment so she could fall in step beside him, “You need help with something?”

Crafty shook her head, “Not anymore, I just wanted to thank you.”

“Thank me? For what?” Love Heart pointed to himself, “I haven’t seen you since the meet and greet.”

Crafty nodded, “Yeah well that thing you said kinda lit a fire under me, about thinking Flambo was Hidden’s baby daddy.”

Love Heart cleared his throat awkwardly, “Sorry, I didn’t know. I have a couple intersex friends so I guess I should have known.”

Crafty snorted, “How could you? People go on about ‘assumptions’ all the time but that’s all someone has to go on at a first meeting and it was just a bad memory. Besides I’m not intersex, I’m a transwoman.”

Love Heart’s eyes went wide, “Oh… I see I mean, I don’t know anyone who…” he stumbled over his words.

Crafty sighed as painful memories resurfaced, “Let me tell you my whole story. I was born human and assigned man at birth. My parents were hyper religious nuts and had turned my older sister into a kind of ‘wind up toy perfect daughter’ and were eager to raise a ‘perfect son’ too. When I finally hatched and figured out I was a woman trapped in a male body I tried to just keep it on the down-low, but they were too perceptive and found out. I was already sick of their bullshit so I ran away after a big fight when my dad said he was going to send me to an all-male boarding school. I wasn’t sure where to go or what to do, the few friends I had thought I was just a woman so I couldn’t risk telling anyone.” She laughed, “So I found myself asking for anyone or anything to help me, first time I sort of prayed in my life.”

“What happened?” Love Heart has stopped to listen to Crafty’s story.

Crafty smiled, “The Great Wishing Star answered me and said that it thought I was the perfect candidate to join the Care Bear Family, but not right away because I was needed elsewhere. It offered to grant my wish and give me my ideal form and even an animal of my choice. I always liked coyotes so I chose that, with all the assets I wanted and then some,” she patted her chest then down farther to the lumpier parts of her shirt, “and so I got that but…” she paused feeling awkward, “I still had my… dick and balls… I asked ‘what the hell?!’ and it said it could only change or give me things, not take them away so I had to live with that as it warped me here to Meridiana. There’s a lot more but after I helped Flambo, Hidden and some other friends free Vivacious and other friends from their basically being slaves at a strip club I settled down with my mates. I got Hidden knocked up after one night kinda going off the deep end on drinks and so I’d been kinda umming and erring on getting them surgically removed. After our meeting I decided I needed to just bite the bullet and spend my savings on that operation so now I’m finally all woman, and then some,” she giggled, patting her lumpy stomach area.

Love Heart finally had to ask, “What do you mean ‘and then some’ and why is your shirt always so lumpy?”

Crafty snickered then leaned over and whispered, “I have six breasts.”

Love Heart almost jumped, blushing slightly, “S-six?!”

Crafty leaned back to stretch and now Love Heart could clearly make out the shapes under her shirt, three pairs of breasts that could pass as her just being oddly chunky to a casual observer. “Yeah, I kinda went overboard in my wish based on art I saw online, but it makes me unique and you won’t believe the kinda fun the three of us get up to in bed,” she waggled her eyebrows, “Especially after my operation I felt so liberated that Flambo and I-”

“I get it!” Love Heart interjected, “Much as I like hearing how I’ve helped people I should get back to my rounds. Hope you keep having fun.”

Crafty turned to leave and winked, “Oh trust me, we will.”

OoOoO

Jose stood in front of a tank of sustenance, pouring it into 32 separate vials before turning to a larger jar full of red liquid, “Perfect, now I just need the final ingredients.” Jose turned to Su Yung, who floated nearby.

Su Yung held The Power and The Dash over her hands and passed them to Jose, “If your substance is correct, they will be distilled into it as the cost of their existence.”

Jose just grinned evilly as he took the two cards, “Oh it is,” he could swear he heard screaming from the cards as he turned back to the jar and dunked them into the red liquid, the card dissolving as they hit the caustic substance which turned blue. Jose stirred the liquid with a glass rod until it turned purple.

“Excellent!” Jose pulled on two large work gloves and carefully lifted the jar which he distributed evenly into the vials of sustenance, all of which bubbled and took on a purplish streak within their liquid. “Perfect!” he set the now empty jar down then picked up a smaller vial with a medicine dropper in it and put a drop of clear liquid into each vial, which made the liquid briefly fizz. Jose set it down and turned around.

Jose’s makeshift lab was in the former strip club’s main office but the wall, at some point, had been broken down prior to their occupation. All 20 remaining Fixed Ideas and 12 Technos stood or sat, waiting on Jose’s orders.

Jose grinned, “Alright. Fixed Ideas, Technos, drink your enhanced sustenance!” He watched as all 32 of them entered and took a swig from one of the vials, “By tonight you’ll be stronger and faster than CB6, the Nightwolves or anyone else who comes to help them!” He watched them finish then all look at him confused.

“Duh, boss,” Frostbite had stood nearby silently until now, “They look the same.”

Jose fumed, “I said it’ll take till tonight! Don’t you ever listen!?” he stomped on the stool he stood on, which rocked then toppled over. Frostbite moved to catch Jose and banged his head on the table. Jose just grumbled and forced himself up.

“Why do you need to destroy CB6?” Su Yung asked.

Jose jabbed a finger at her, “He’s the last failure of my father and if I’m going to rule, I need to get him out of the way and then I can help you deal with this ‘Clown Reed’ person and his aides, and maybe even destroy those ‘fuzzy wuzzies’ dad used to be obsessed with.” Jose folded his arms, “How do you even know he’s here?”

Su Yung’s eyes flashed dangerously, “I can sense him here in the city, I know I’ll meet him soon and once I have my revenge you can do what you want with the rest of my power while I pass on.”

Jose didn’t respond but goose stepped over to the still intact manager’s chair and hopped in. Oh, he’d have that power alright and once CB6 was out of the way he’d have all the resources he needed.

OoOoO

Defiant Heart was having a typical mid-day shift day. Despite the jokes, Loyal Heart just gave Defiant a kiss before he headed off to work at the docks in nothing but overalls, boots and a bra with his cleavage exposed. He had to admit he liked hearing the hoots and catcalls in his direction from other men, some human but mostly anthro, thrown his way; it was flattering.

Some part of him had thought about joining CB6 and the others in their battle against Jose, but it was a small part. Instead, he put the super strength that Von Reichter had given him to work as a dock worker. He was agile enough and when he showed he could effortlessly lift cargo containers that needed a forklift or crane, he was hired almost right on the spot.

At lunch time Defiant headed for a small wooden section of the docks and sat down with his legs dangling over the water as he pulled out his lunch. There was a splash from the water below as a blue otter anthro only wearing swim trunks climbed up a ladder up onto the dock then walked over to sit beside Defiant.

“Hi, Marine Heart,” Defiant said as he pulled a sandwich out.

“Afternoon,” Marine Heart Otter had a small net with him which contained five live fish and he sat down and pulled one out. “Have a good morning?” He bit into the fish and devoured it almost whole.

Defiant finished his first sandwich, “Same old, same old, but it’s good,” he smiled.

“Hi. Mind if I join you?”

Defiant and Marine turned to see Love Heart approaching them.

“Go ahead,” Defiant patted the spot next to him, then grunted, “just a sec, need to let the guys breathe,” he unlatched his overalls then pulled off his bra, setting his tits free with a sigh of relief, “I swear they’re getting bigger, or this bra’s shrinking.”

Marine was unphased by his friend’s casual nudity and looked over at Love Heart, “So where’s that little yellow guy?”

“Kero? I gave him some cash to go get his own lunch, just dessert stuff,” Love Heart rolled his eyes as he pulled out a sandwich to eat for his lunch. A question popped into his head as he watched Marine finish off the last of his raw fish, “Marine Heart, what do you do for a living exactly?”

Marine swallowed, “I’m a fisher but also a conservationist, so’s my mate, Flora Bear.” He smiled and turned to Love Heart, “Actually she wanted to ask me to thank you personally for restoring the forest, saved them probably decades of work and now they’re able to start making sure wildlife can move back in safely. Actually, the night she heard she was so excited she practically yanked me into bed. Best sex we’ve ever had.”

Love Heart blushed slightly, “Second person to tell me that today,” he mumbled.

Marine continued without acknowledging Love Heart’s words, “She even told me if you were in an open relationship like us that she’d want to jump your bones to thank you.”

Defiant rolled his eyes, “You’ve become quite the celebrity, Love Heart,” he devoured what was his fifth sandwich.

Marine looked down at Defiant’s still not empty lunch box, “Kinda overdoing it aren’t you?”

“Hey! I had to live of that vile sustenance crap for god knows how long, I want to eat all the real food I can get!” Defiant shot back.

“Even if you’ve putting on weight,” Marine looked at Defiant’s slightly chunky belly.

“Gotta feed these muscles,” Defiant flexed an arm. It only looked above average in build since the super strength was a more subtle effect.

“Riiiiiight,” Marine rolled his eyes, “So, Love Heart, any luck finding a big enough job for those cards of yours?”

Love Heart shook his head, “No and I’m getting worried. Kero says the cards can hang on for a long time if they stay near me but every day I wonder if it’s going to get down to the wire with them. I just hope I can find something to use them on before too much longer.” Love Heart pushed himself back then stood up, “I’m gonna go find Kero, see ya later.”

“See ya,” Marine waved, so did Defiant but his mouth was full. Marine just pushed himself off the dock and back into the water to swim out to where his boat was anchored in the middle of the bay. Defiant Heart continued to eat before he pulled his bra on and re-latched his overalls to head back to work.

OoOoO

Eriol sat at a bench with a book in hand and Spinel in his small form resting on his lap out of sight. Eriol followed Love Heart with his eyes and spoke quietly, “So far nothing serious.”

“Are you sure this is right, master?” Spinel asked without raising his head, “Su Yung and this Jose person could strike any time and we’re just going to let them?”

“For now,” Eriol took a drink from the thermos he’d brought with him, “Ruby’s keeping an eye on them and if needed then we’ll intervene, but not before we see what Love Heart does.”

OoOoO

Love Heart stopped by the library mid afternoon, having had a less than productive day. Guidance was on duty at the check-out and she smiled at Love Heart.

“Hello, did you have a nice day?” Guidance was practically beaming.

“Alright, just a few jobs, made about $50 today,” Love Heart searched around, “Where’s Soul Heart?”

“In the back, processing some returns,” Guidance gestured over her shoulder, “How are Defiant and Loyal doing?”

“As a couple, good,” Love Heart nodded, “I’ll find something to read until she’s done.”

“No need, I just finished,” Soul Heart appeared pushing a cart full of books, “Just give me a few minutes and I’ll able to talk.”

“Just a quick question,” Love Heart got closer, “Any idea what Jose’s up to?”

Soul Heart whispered back, “Nothing, and I’m worried. No sightings of Fixed Ideas or Technos for weeks now. We’ll meet later tonight.”

Love Heart just nodded before he left to pick up Confidence at work so they could walk home together.

The rest of the day went without incident before Soul Heart was able to head home. Lucas was already there, cooking supper while Tarot Heart did his homework.

“Mom!” Tarot Heart jumped from the table and ran to give Soul a hug, which she caught him in.

Soul smiled, “good to see you too. How’s school?”

“Alright,” Tarot Heart let go, “getting harder though.”

“I’d hope so,” Lucas left off stirring the soup, “But he’s working fine at it.” He gave Soul Heart a kiss then turned to open the freezer, “Here, got some more for you.” He passed a pair of neon green sustenance cubes to Soul Heart, which she popped into her mouth and grimaced at the bitter taste as they dissolved, but grateful for the energy they gave.

“Thank you, Lucas,” Soul Heart smiled.

Lucas returned to the soup pot, “Anytime, just give me a few to get supper ready for me and Tarot.”

Soul Heart kissed him back then went to sit down and read, trying to keep her mind off Jose.

OoOoO

Love Heart and Flash Heart, in wolf form, both left the abandoned manager’s office as the sun went down to meet with CB6 on the rooftops under the light of the full moon. They arrived first, accompanied by Keroberos in true form and with The Jump already attached to Love Heart’s feet. While they waited, Love Heart pulled out the heart key.

"Key of the Heart
With Powers Burning Bright
Reveal the Staff
And Shine Your Light
Release!"

Love Heart grabbed the staff out of the air as Flash Heart looked on, “I still can’t believe that whenever I see it,” he growled out.

“Neither can I,” CB6 landed softly nearby, “Where’s Oopsy?”

Flash shook his head, “I asked her to stay home and help protect Confidence just in case.”

Love Heart rolled his eyes, “You could have just told her you didn’t want her in danger. Even if she believed that, Confidence knows and she’ll tell her.”

Flash coughed, “Maybe, but I just… I dunno.”

“You didn’t want her to think she was weak but wanted to keep her safe,” CB6 nodded, “She’ll understand, but for now we need to see if we can find Jose or some of his creations.”

“Then let’s go!” Keroberos spread his wings and took off with Flash, Love Heart and CB6 on his tail.

After about an hour of searching they came to a stop in front of a building in what was once a Red Light District but was now mostly abandoned buildings. CB6 frowned and pushed his glasses back up, “Something’s wrong, I can feel it right here.”

“How perceptive.” The voice caused them all to spin around.

Jose stood there next to Frostbite, a sinister grin on his face as his glasses flashed.

“Jose!” CB6 readied himself, “What are you up to?”

“This!” there was a sudden rush of air and suddenly the four of them were surrounded by 20 Fixed Ideas and 12 human-like Technos. “Courtesy of my new ally. Have fun! HAHAHAHAHAHA!” Jose seemed to melt back into the darkness.

Love Heart barely had time to pull out a Heart Card and jab it with his staff as he shouted “Shield armor!” before they were on them. One of the Fixed Ideas charged at him and punched right after the armor formed. Love Heart was sent reeling but thankfully in one piece as he pulled out The Sword Card, turning it into a sword in his hand. He tried to slice at a Techno only for it to practically vanish and strike him in the back. Love Heart rounded on the Techno and a pair of Fixed ideas ready to strike, only for them to be pierced by glowing blue-white arrows and start leaking sustenance from their wounds. Love Heart took the chance and jumped up on top of the nearby building.

“Loyal Heart!” Love Heart shouted in relief as he saw Loyal Heart Dog, wings and bow out as he hovered over the battle.

“Yue and I sensed something was wrong. What’s going on?” Loyal Heart looked down at the carnage below.

Love Heart looked down too and saw CB6, Flash Heart and Keroberos being assaulted by Jose’s monstrosities. Flash Heart lashed out with teeth and claws, Keroberos breathed fire and CB6 struck out with a spear made of ice, but none of them managed to land any hits. One charged with blurring speed and smashed into one of the abandoned buildings and brought it down.

Loyal Heart started firing arrows down at the creatures but now that they were aware of his presence they were dodging all his shots. Love Heart bit his lip then looked up at full moon, an idea coming to him.

“Gotta stop them before they destroy the city,” Love Heart pulled out a Clow Card and threw it up as the creations encircled CB6 and Flash Heart below.

"Spring, Summer, Winter, Fall
Ancient forces heed my call!
Shadow Card, discard your former might
And draw new power from my light
Heart Card!"

The explosion of magic overhead briefly startled everyone as The Shadow spirit emerged. It was all that was needed.

“Shadow Card! Grab their shadows and hold them in place!” Love Heart swung his staff down at the assembly below. The Shadow spirit flew down and separated into many tendrils. The Technos and Fixed Ideas dodged the tendrils, but it was for naught as the tendrils struck their shadows and they all froze in place.

Love Heart jumped down and shouted, “Hurry! The Shadow can’t hold them for long!” Love Heart sliced a fixed idea in half with The Sword as he landed, a tiny cry escaping from spirits escaping the corpse.

It was the work of only a couple minutes before all the Fixed Ideas and Technos were on the ground, their sustenance pooling around them. Love Heart watched the wisps of magic float away as he stood with Keroberos, Loyal Heart and with The Jump now on his shoulder.

“Did you feel that?” Love Heart looked up, “like a bunch of small screams and magic.”

“I did,” Keroberos nodded, “It felt like small pieces of those fake Clow Cards.”

The Jump shuddered, “Like they were torn apart before they died.”

“That means Su Yung is here,” Loyal Heart touched the locket around his neck.

“ACK! AHHH!” Everyone turned to see CB6 hacking as he spat out the sustenance he had just tried to drink.

“Mom! What’s wrong?” Flash Heart carefully patted CB6’s back while still in wolf form.

“Tastes bad,” CB6 coughed.

Flash Heart leaned down and sniffed the sustenance then reeled back, “Poison! Jose poisoned their sustenance!”

“And I used up so much power tonight,” CB6 took a deep breath.

“You gonna be alright?” Flash asked.

“Yes, but I’m gonna need to take a break from night patrols until Lucas can get more of his synthetic sustenance,” CB6 took a deep breath and shifted back into Soul Heart, wincing and convulsing slightly, “Can you carry me home?”

“Of course,” Flash Heart waved for the others to head to their homes before he picked up his mother in his wolf arms and began to walk to where she was living with Lucas, “why do you need to wait so long?”

“Because real sustenance uses… people as part of its ingredients,” Soul Heart’s revelation made Flash Heart’s eyes go wide but she continued to talk, “the synthetic stuff has all the right ingredients but without breaking down human tissue it’s much less potent.”

“Like removing all the sugar from juice?” Flash Heart tried to speculate.

“I don’t know, maybe, but its effects are diminished for the lack of cost.” Soul Heart sighed, “My time as a superhero might be over.”

“Just hang in there, mom,” Flash Heart kept up his steady walk back to her new home.

OoOoO

Jose had watched the battle through security cameras and still grinned. “Looks like my plan worked.”

“But how?” Frostbite scratched his head then looked up at Su Yung, “Duh, didn’t they all die?”

“Of course! Not the idea plan but there were three possibilities.” Jose held up one finger, “they would win and I’d be rid of CB6 and her sidekicks forever,” he held up a second finger, “He’d drink the poisoned sustenance and die or,” he held up a third finger, “He doesn’t drink it but now he’s all out of sources of sustenance and he’s going to starve! Now either he works for me or he’ll die and I’ll have all the time in the world to rebuild my forces.” He turned to the chemistry equipment on the table across from the monitor, “And I have big plans for you, Frostbite.”

“What plans?” Frostbite just stared at him dumbly.

Jose grinned, “You’re going to be my final trump card!”
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