DISCLAIMER: I do not own PAW Patrol, the characters, or any association of the series.
HELLO READERS! So I'm back with another official update. I've been incredibly busy with other projects but your little messages are very encouraging! In fact this story is the top followed story in the PAW Patrol fanfic community! And now number 4 as the most favoured fic! Honestly, this brings tears to my eyes. I cannot have done this without you all! *flaps arms wildly around*
I've realized this story said it updated yesterday and people were questioning what happened. I'm guessing it was because I deleted the update notice. Plus I tend to do edits on my chapters occassionally, or add new, extended scenes (which I did with Skye's Part 2 recently) so it could be that.
Also, I do status posts on deviantart… So let's just say I don't post a chapter sometime for awhile, check that site and you'll probably know what's up with the delay or whatever x reason I stated.
COMMENTS
Ace the new pup – Thank you! And yes if desired I can read your stuff. Send a PM on which one of your fics you want to be critiqued.
RubbleOnTheDouble – They are! And wow cool it reminded you of your friend?! I feel psychic haha.
Guest – LOL omg my bad! Didn't mean to catch you up in the feels X) I won't do posts like that again. I try to stay away for those types of updates, cause I get cheesed when authors I follow pull that on me.
Guest – Omg thank you! If you realized Skye's story has a distinctly different tone than Marshall or Chase's story. I was kinda worried that it wasn't as "intense" as the others, and since the tone is more light-hearted, people wouldn't like it as much. (Some were commenting she wasn't their favourite pup). But…grateful you find her as a fav!
And yeah *sweatdrops* I realized people keep repeating the same questions I have answered already. I guess people are just excited about the next chap and what's to come, and forget to check back in the comments or my A/N's.
Desgarbuiz – ¡Gracias! En realidad soy no muy bueno en comedia. ¡Feliz usted lo encuentra divertido
Guest – Haha I shall
Padworth Fox – It's the intention my friend ;)
A – Yeah when writing I like to post long chapters. For PAW Patrol I've actually done longer chapters than all the series I'm writing on Fanfiction right now. However, it's because I'm condensing the chapter numbers for each pup to a limit of 4-6.
marcogalmich – I know! He's overcome so much it's like a 180 turn of how he's changed. And she'll be meeting Marshall and Ryder in this chap!
TechWolf2.0 – Thanks bro
Zuma lover – Over next two chapters you'll see how she'll join (though it won't be easy!) And for the next pup it's listed in the story description
Daisy Rhine – Aww, appreciate the comment! Glad you enjoyed.
samuelswong – thanks so much! ^^
Mdmpinkie9088 – Haha their convo was kinda awkward but endearing! Even Chase who is so different from chapter 1 of his story he still's learning lol. And yes your shipping senses should be tingling! Caution though, it's still the beginning, so don't expect too much.
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She was excited.
"Skye."
Much too excited. Like, was she suppose to be this joyful? It probably looked unlady-like. It was probably ruining her flawlessly brushed fur.
"Skye..."
Was her outfit perfect? Well, of course it was, but now she was unsure for her choice of outfit today. What was she thinking with this magenta color? And pairing it with a golden trim? She should have stuck to blush pink as her first option!
"Skye!"
The cockapoo blinked from her thoughts, and glancing to her left, Sophie was staring at her questionably. The two were in a back seat of a car one of the assistants rented out from the town. Thankfully, the black car was considered decent enough for Lockwood standards, it being the only tool of transportation for the girls.
Sophie smiled in amusement. "You keep bouncing up and down from your seat to stare at the window!"
"Oh, hehe." Skylla sat down, knowing standing on her hind legs was extremely impolite. "Pardon for that."
With pregnant pause, Sophie queried lightly, "Pourquoi êtes-vous si pressé?"
Skylla titled her head cutely. "Je ne suis pas Sophie."
"Vraiment?"
"Hehe, oui Sophie!" She laughed, glancing back more the window. "Je suis…excite."
"Ah…"Sophie's eyes lit in understanding, clapping her hands together. "I am too. Hopefully my abrupt meeting with that boy Ryder will turn out well."
Oh right. The train. From yesterday's late afternoon to this beautiful spring morning, the engineering team had little progress on fixing the engine. It was that reason they woke up and were being driven to the Lookout.
But in truthfulness there was one thing that stuck out in her head that probably had to do with her excitement, thus she she voiced that thought out. "Se souvenir de la police chiot?"
"The police pup?"
She nodded.
"And what about him?"
"I…I think I'm anxious to meet him again. Or perhaps delighted."
"Why so?"
Skylla smiled happily. "He saved me Sophie! I have a debt I feel that I owe him. Yes, I know it was his job to help, but he also guided back to you! I fear the worst would have came without his help, and to that, I'm grateful."
Sophie petted her pup's luscious ears. "I am too. Perhaps we should get him a present as a gift. He declined, but I'm sure we can find something of his interest he appreciates."
She giggled. "Hopefully! Not the easiest to talk to, but very nice."
"Then there is no need to be anxious my little pup." She kissed her head. "You look lovely as usual."
At that mention, Skylla beamed. "Merci!"
They arrived two minutes later, and both Sophie and Skylla were impressed at the location. It certainly had nothing of the town's placid charm, as if cropped from a different photo, and the circular entryway was a sign of familiarly. The driver opened the back doors and out stepped the girls, polished and refined. Skylla was carried to the door in Sophie's arms, and that's when the pup noticed a large slide on the side of the building. Was that even real?
There was a buzzer, and Sophie pressed it, quickly stating her name. A voice replied, and Skylla recognized it was the same one she heard from the phone yesterday. Must be Mr. Ryder.
The doors opened, and Skylla was remarkably stunned at his young appearance. Wearing a red and white jacket, blue jeans and hair that seemed to defy gravity, the person she was seeing was a child! She heard he was young, but he looked to be Sophie's age! (And he was shorter than her too, as she noted).
"Hello. My name is Sophie Emilia Lockwood." The pre-teen said formally. "We spoke on the phone yesterday?"
"Ah, right!" he nodded with a smile. "Sophie. Great to meet you personally." He then noticed a pink wearing puff in her arms.
"And this is must be Skylla." The boy leaned down a bit, trying to equate his eye level with hers. "Hope yesterday wasn't too much for you."
Too much? Well, at first it was, but she was perfectly fine, in fact, better than before!
Her mouth opened broadly, ready to explain –
"It was," Sophie interrupted, petting her pup's head. "But thanks to your team, she was returned to me safely." She giggled into her palm. "My pup is much too delicate to go running off like that again!"
Skylla blinked in confusion. Delicate?
The two followed Ryder inside, and the interior was equally as nice as the outside. A lot of blue, if she might add. And… was that an elevator in the middle of the lobby? It was undoubtedly larger inside this tower than it appeared to be.
"What brings you here to my base?" Ryder shoved his hands in his pockets.
"I actually came by for a much-needed request." She said plainly.
"Request?"
"Yes."
With a nod, he said, "We can talk more upstairs in the lookout. That is if you don't mind."
"No. No trouble." Flickering her eyes down to her pup, Skylla's tail started to wag vigorously. "Are you sure you don't wish to join us?"
"Yip! I'm fine Sophie. You go on ahead."
"Alright then." She kissed her head before placing her down on the floor. "Now, no repeat of yesterday. Stay in the perimeters of this Lookout. Otherwise I might faint for real this time."
"Hehe, I promise my Sophie."
"Don't worry," Ryder reassured. "The base is entirely safe and monitored. If anything happened, we'll know."
"Good." It was then the two humans went up the elevator, and the lift smoothly closed its doors.
Skylla plucked her lips in thought. Now, where to go? What to see? And who to find?
She was tempted to ask Mr. Ryder where Chase was, but she decided to hold that question. It would be more fun to explore the place while finding him. Perhaps like a little surprise.
With that in mind, she ventured off into the other rooms, seeing a kitchen, a living room, bathroom, nothing particularly special. She assumed the more interesting rooms were upstairs.
She turned to the double doors leading outside.
Skylla noticed before, but there were these little pavement spots in front of the tower, and the one she saw had a blue vehicle. Was that a police car? Then, wait… that would mean Chase was there?!
She paddled to its direction a bit too eagerly, but to her disappointment, saw no pup around the area. It was then she scolded inwardly at her excitement showing too much. There was no need to run.
But then again…she couldn't help it! She was surprised she hadn't started doing her little flips (but oh goodness, that would be so improper to do in public!), although she had to be honest: she was eager to see Chase! After her encouter with him yesterday, she was suddenly intrigued about everything in this town, what the P.A.W. Patrol is, and obviously, the pup in blue.
Her ears quirked at a loud shuffling sound, and she silently followed its origin. It was then she saw another vehicle, this time red and looking like a fire truck. Unlike the previous location, the ground was littered with toys, books and clothing. The rattling continued, and it was then she realized it was coming from inside the truck. And sticking out of the truck...it was spotted black and white?
"Ah ha! I found it! I knew it was here!" the thing snapped out, and it was a pup – a Dalmatian. He didn't seem to notice her, as he stared at whatever was in his paws, but then his legs gave way at the slippery cloth under him and fell clumsily back. She flinched in response, missing his tumbling form as he plopped on the pavement, toy bouncing on his head.
"I'm good!" shaking his head, he blinked widely at sighting the cockapoo standing above him.
Skylla curved her mouth, eyes kind. "Hello."
"Oh, hi!" He sprung up on his legs. Skylla quickly took in how he was towering over her in height like Chase from yesterday. Truly, why were all the pups in this town so ridiculously tall?
The spotted pup began itching his head, a dumbfounded expression whisking upon his face. "Uh, I didn't think we'll be having visitors today." It appeared he was voicing out his thoughts to himself. "I don't remember Ryder saying anything…"
She titled her head, arching a brow in inquisition.
"Ah, nevermind!" he shook his head, and oh how his smile became bright. She immediately knew he was a friendly pup. "Name's Marshall! Firepup and EMT of The P.A.W. Patrol. Nice to meet you!"
She grinned ever so pleasantly in return. "And my name is Skylla Rose Lockwood. Pup of the Lockwood manor." She bowed. "It's a pleasure to meet another P.A.W. Patrol member!"
His jaw slacked. "Whoa…what a long name! That's like five names in one!"
"Hehe, I suppose."
"I actually have another name too! Like a last name, but I don't use it. Uh, well, only like if it's something super serious, like medical stuff, or…getting mail! For sure mail. Otherwise I wouldn't get my comic book orders."
She couldn't help but giggle at his words. It seemed his mind was going faster than he could speak! It was amusing.
A red ball rolled out from the truck, and eyeing it and the disarray of belongings, Skylla took notice. "What were you looking for?" she asked politely.
"Oh, hehe…" itching his head, he said, "My rope! I wanted to play tug of war with Chase, but I couldn't find it. I told him to check at the back, but whoops, found it in my pup house."
"Chase?" her eyes brightened. "He's here?"
And if on queue…"Yo! Marshall!" A German Shepherd came around the corner, shaking his head. "I can't find your toy anywhere." Sigh. "This is why I tell you to keep your stuff organized and not leave it around the Look…out…" he froze in his steps, bluntly realizing how his friend wasn't alone.
He blinked dumbly, because that was all that could be processed in his head at the moment. "Uh…hey."
He was here! She couldn't help but smile prettily back. "Hello again Chase!"
The pup nodded mutely.
"Heh? Wait? What?" Marshall did frantic doubletakes between the two pups. "You guys know each other?"
"Marshall." He said, gesturing with his head lightly. "This is the pup from yesterday."
"Whaaa?" came dubious expression on the Dalmatian's face. He turned back to Chase. "She's the pup you were talking about?"
Her mouth circled in a questioning awe. Chase spoke about me?
The pup nodded. "Correct."
"Who almost got hit by a car?
"Yup."
"And who's really small?"
"Sure."
"And the pup with the pretty pink eyes?"
"That's right – " he choked on his breath and to Skylla's surprise his face turned into a fiery red, features contorting in revolt. She didn't know a pup could turn so, so red before!
"W-What?!" Chase stared at his friend with alarming eyes. "I didn't say that!"
"Heh?" Marshall was stumped, with genuine confusion etched all over his face. "Buuuut…didn't you say pretty when you told me yester – "
It was then he was smacked on the head, and Marshall landed in a comedic fashion on the ground. There was no force in the hit, but Marshall, the clumsy pup as he was, fell down anyway, leg twitching in the air.
"I said pink." Chase grumbled, his face cooling into a glare at the Dalmatian. Marshall, in turn, lifted his head and laughed offhandedly at his friend's disciplining look.
Skylla was speechless at what happened. This was a side of the police pup she never saw before, and while from an outsider point of view it appeared what he did was quite mean, it seemed…different somehow. The pup Marshall did not at all mind he was smacked, in fact he was laughing it off! The glare Chase was giving out too, oh, she was sure if anyone was on the receiving end of that they would cower. But oddly enough Marshall wasn't fazed by the look. He was dismissing it like it was nothing!
Was… Was this their way of friendly banter? It must mean they were good friends then.
(She then idly realized that this would never if she tried this on her friends. Immediate scolding would ensure from someone older).
"So, ah…" The two boys returned their gaze at her in attention, and she to bite back her shock at how quickly they reacted. "I actually came by to your Lookout with my owner, Sophie. She wanted to discuss something important with your owner."
"Leader." Chase corrected.
Skylla looked on innocently. "There's a difference?"
"Technically he isn't because we work with him, doing missions, rescuing," Marshall added loosely, shrugging in thought. "But yeah…he takes care of us so I guess he's kinda like an owner!"
"Oh." She never thought about that before.
"What does she want to talk about with Ryder?" Chase asked.
"The train. I believe she's asking him to help our crew fix it."
"Oh right, your train!" Marshall nodded in remembrance. "We were called about a train that stopped about half a mile from Adventure Bay station. You've been stuck here since?"
"Exactly." It was then she let out a tiny sigh. "There hasn't been much luck with our crew working on it."
"Do they know what's wrong?"
"Sadly, I have no idea."
"Hmm…" The Dalmatian began pondering, but as fleetingly as it came, he then smiled brightly. "Don't worry! If anyone could fix it, it's Ryder! He's the smartest human I know."
"He is?"
"Yup!"
It was then a loud grumbling ignited from the group, and Skylla wandered her eyes around to see what in the world made that sound.
Marshall laughed. "Whoops! So early and I'm still hungry!"
"You're still hungry?" The police pup asked, somewhat scolding. "Breakfast was like two hours ago."
"Hey, I was busy looking for my toys! Worked up an appetite."
Chase rolled his eyes.
Marshall opted to turn his attention to their guest. "Did you eat already Skylla?"
"Yes, early morning." It was a light soup they served on the train.
"Oh, do you want a snack then? After all, you're our guest! We have pup treats in the kitchen!"
"Pup…treats?" she cocked her head. "What's that?"
Poor Marshall looked as if he were to fall over. Chase had no reaction. "What? You uh – Y-You never had one?!" He was aghast.
"No. My chef never made these 'pup treats.' Does yours make them?"
"Oh no, we don't have a chef. Hehe, I'll show you!" Bark! "Wait right there!" he rushed inside the tower, with Skylla turning to Chase with a questioning gaze. He shrugged his shoulders as his response.
Marshall quickly came back, almost tripping twice due to him gauchely holding a treat bag in his mouth. He snapped it open and dug his paw into it, taking out a small bone like treat. He passed it to her.
She froze. Oooh, it's dog food.
Like, the type of food she never tried before.
Food that was considered inferior for her class.
Food she had no intention to ever try, because it was gross and low-class and common.
"This one's a good flavor." Marshall said smiling, as he finally placed it in her paw. "It has uh, sweet potato, beef, and carrots! Even Chase likes it, especially since he doesn't like vegetables much."
Chase huffed to the side. "Still getting used to them."
Marshall took out another treat, this time tossing it to his friend. He then threw one into his own mouth, munching happily.
Her eyes reverted back to the thing in her own paws, and she observed it shrewdly. Was she really going to eat this? It looked processed, heck, probably was processed in some foreign factory with sweat and grim all around. Not even close to fresh, and she never had non-fresh food before. It wouldn't even be considered for her! Skylla was told she had a delicate stomach.
She glanced sneakily at Chase and Marshall, and they didn't seem to mind to eat it, eating it without a thought. Would it be rude to decline politely? Ooh, whom was she kidding? It would be disrespectful! She was a guest, and for them to offer food while they were so nice to her and then snubbing them? She couldn't do that, especially if…the food looked unappealing.
"And it tastes good?" she asked again, for the sake of her stomach and mind.
Marshall nodded. "Absolutely!"
With a tiny gulp, she placed the treat to her mouth, sniffing it (ugh, it smelled processed) and with that took a bite.
It was crunchy. Terribly crunchy. She had to bite back her grimace due to her audience, but still, she chewed and swallowed it down.
"And?" Marshall edged, looking hopeful.
Pink irises flickered rapidly, her face slowly absorbed in the flavor. "It …was…" she faltered in disbelief. "…good."
He beamed in confidence. "See?! Told ya!" Marshall threw another one in his mouth messily. "Best of the best!"
"Don't spray her with your eating Marshall!" Chase scolded, attempting to pull back his friend from their guest. "I don't think she wants her fur dirty."
"Whoops! Ah, sorry!"
Skylla stared at the snack once more before taking another bite, this time more boldly.
Wow…she ate dog food! And it wasn't bad! She was delightfully surprised with herself. And wait…didn't she say she would "rough it up?" to her friends? Well then, this was the most daring thing she did, voluntarily! She grinned smugly to herself. Another adventurous tale to tell her upper-class friends.
She finished it without a crumb in sight.
"Want another one?"
"Hehe, no thank you." It was then her eyes lite up in thought. "Oh, I wanted to ask. Like Chase…I assume you don't want to be called Mister either?"
That threw him over the loop. "Mister?"
"Yes!" The text-grated response spilled out of her mouth without thought. "As someone in a position of power, it is only proper to address them with a title that respectfully reflects their persona."
Marshall didn't know how to respond at such a weird request, so Chase, sensing his confusion, answered for him. Shrugging he said, "Don't worry, she called me that yesterday too."
"She did?"
"I had to!" she replied honestly. "After all, he did save me. But then he requested without the Mister."
"Mr. Chase?" the Dalmatian tested out the name. "Whoa, you sound funny."
"And Mr. Marshall sounds any better?" he deadpanned.
He laughed whole-heartedly. "Mr. Marshall?! Haha! But hey, it makes me sound older, like I'm a super serious dog! Like…Like my–" the pup precipitously had a huge grimace on his face, almost if whatever he was thinking was extremely disturbing.
She pouted at his response. Oh goodness. What was he thinking about? Or did the treat react poorly with his stomach?
"Eh, hehe, no Mister! Definitely no Mister!" he venomously shook his head. "Uh, let's just stick with Marshall."
With that, she agreed. "Alright."
"And while you wait for your owner talking to Ryder," Marshall said, "Wanna play a game with us? We could always use another pup to play with!"
Her eyes got impossibly wider. "Play?"
"Yeah! It's rare we get guests here. Or see other pups. We were gonna play tug of rope!"
"How do you play that?"
"Easy! We can show you." Marshall grabbed the knotted rope and passed one side of it to Chase, catching it in his mouth. It was then they both simultaneously pulled away from each other, and the rope became taut.
"And…you just gotta pull, like this!" he mumbled with the rope in his mouth, tugging it with strength. Chase was doing the same, and then the two were engrossed with their game, growling lowly as they tried to get the upper hand.
While they were tied, Marshall's paws gave way and he slipped forward, face in the grass and dirt.
She gasped. "Are you okay Mister – I mean, ah Marshall?"
"Whoa…uh hehe," he laughed away the jitters, dusting off the grass that was in his mouth. "I'm good! I'm just clumsy."
He sprung on his paws. "But heh, wanna go now?"
"Ah," she grimaced, "It looks…tempting, but I'll pass." She didn't want to think about her outfit getting dirty. It was horrifying to envision –
Beep! Beep!
Just like yesterday, Chase's collar lit up into a bright blinking blue. However, a second light flickered with it, as the Dalmatian's tag turned into a blazing red light.
"P.A.W. Patrol," a voice called, "to the Lookout!"
They gave each other a look, with Chase stating, "Ryder needs us!"
Okay, she was confused. "Mr. Ryder needs you?"
There was no time! Before she realized what was happening, they both began charging into the direction of the tower.
But then Chase came to a screeching halt.
"Oomph!" Marshall slammed into his friend's sturdy back, and his shock his head in surprise. "Uh, Chase? What's wrong?"
He sharply turned to the Dalmatian. "What do we do with her?" he whispered, eying back to the pup in pink.
"Oh right." Marshall pondered, and then with a great big smile and wave shouted over, "Want to join us Skylla?!"
Chase's jaw dropped.
Skylla blinked owlishly. "You want me to come with you?"
The Dalmatian barked. "Sure! I'm sure Ryder wouldn't mind. Would he Chase?"
He looked stumped, not expecting to be asked for approval. His mouth kept gaping wide, wanting to say something, but he quickly clamped it back shut, nodding silently as his verdict.
"Yeah, c'mon!"
"Oh." She smiled self-consciously. "Well, okay. If you insist!" She trotted to catch up, and three made their way to the doors. Marshall halfway tripped over his paws, tumbling into a slight ball before landing flat on his back. She idly wondered if Chase would stop for his friend, but he continued right into the elevator.
"He always does that." he explained, as if sensing her question. He sat at the side, watching her indifferently.
"Oh. Hehe." The pup giggled. "That makes sense."
Before he could retort, they both turned to the direction of the pup barking his way into the elevator doors. However, his charge was coming clumsily and hastily in, and this time with much more power.
"Whoa! Watch out guys!"
Skylla immediately expected to be slammed into Marshall, but to her bewilderment Chase slid over, blocking her from his fall. Marshall tripped inside, flipping over like a summersault and his back half on the floor and the other on the glass.
"Heh," Chase frowned at his friend's fallen form. "I'll work on that."
The doors shut close, and Skylla stared incredulously up at the German Shepherd's back, curious on his sudden behavior.
"Ah," he zipped away from her, realizing his hasty action. He cleared his throat. "Sorry."
She smiled. "It's okay."
The elevator glided up, pausing momentarily halfway before reaching the top of the tower. It was then both of the P.A.W. Patrol members doted in new clothes (how did they change so fast? Was there a machine to help them?) and as quick as it happened the elevator resumed going up.
The doors clicked open, and Skylla stood there in observing awe. The overhead was a large platform, with a computer in the front. There already was Ryder and Sophie, with the leader boy standing beside the digital device while her own owner patiently waited at the side.
The two pups rushed out of the elevator, and Skylla quietly joined Sophie, to which she picked her up. Then the two continued to watch at what the scene was to unfold.
Standing in front of Ryder was Marshall and Chase, both wearing their appropriate work attires and a pack of some kind on their back. They also wore their uniform hats, one in police and the other in firefighting.
To Skye's notice, Marshall beheld a somewhat restrain look, staring straight at Ryder with no smile lingering on his face. However, it held nothing in comparison to Chase's fierce stare, entirely filled with confidence and will.
If possible, the German Shepherd sat up taller. "Chase and Marshall, ready for action Ryder sir!"
"Thanks for coming pups." Ryder then proceeded to click something on his phone, and an enormous screen came down, displaying footage of a blonde girl and a purplish looking cat. "Katie and Callie are stuck in a hot air balloon, which got caught up on the tower at City Hall. The operator called saying it flew up without him in it, and now they are stuck. We need to hurry fast before the balloon has a chance to escape and start flying over Adventure Bay."
He gestured with his phone towards the screen again, and a firefighter symbol came up. "Marshall, we'll need your equipment, especially your ladder, to get them down. You'll be conducting the rescue."
"Arf!" He replied, ready to take action.
"Excellent. And Chase," a police symbol now popped on the screen. "We'll need you to clear the area for us as we rescue them. We don't want to involve any civilians, as it could turn dangerous. And we'll also need your truck to keep the hot air balloon stabilized once we rescue Katie and Callie. Your rig should suffice."
He nodded sternly.
"Alright team!" Ryder shouted. "Let's head out!"
They both howled, and Ryder immediately ran to a poll that stood promptly on the floor. He grabbed it with easy hands as he made his way down smoothly. Marshall then ran to a slide beside them (to which he slipped down, but still, disappeared in the hollow tube). Chase followed right after with much better control of his balance, and they too disappeared.
Skylla couldn't keep her eyes off of them, and neither could Sophie. The girls went to the balcony to see what would happen next, and what they saw was truly shocking.
The pups…they were driving! A fire truck and a police cruiser. With Ryder leading them front with a motorcycle of some sort, they left the premises of the Lookout, sirens wailing as they went.
The sounds began to dim down, and Sophie sagged her shoulders. "Wow…that was interesting."
Skylla nodded slowly. "It was…"
"I guess we should wait here while –"
"Can we follow them?!"
Sophie pouted. "Follow them?"
Her pup nodded anxiously. "Oh please! I would love to see what a mission looks like!"
"Well, uh okay. We shall go. They mentioned City Hall, so our driver can take us there."
"Yes, yes, yes!" she yelped. "Let's go!"
"Haha, okay! We're going! We're going!"
.
.
.
They got there literally in less than five minutes, and good timing too, as they were just about ready to conduct the rescue. The area was cleared, with a few traffic cones positioned around the perimeter of the city hall's courtyard. Ryder and Chase were standing near Marshall's firetruck, while the Dalmatian was pressing controls in his truck. Beside them was an adult male human, wearing a jacket that said 'Air Flight Festival' on his back.
And on top of the highest point was a hot air balloon, stuck rustling in the wind.
"Meow!" something bellowed, and Skylla noticed it was a cat calling from the balloon basket. A human girl was holding the animal tightly in her arms. Skylla assumed they must be this "Katie" and "Callie".
"Ryder!" the girl called, looking down. "We're so glad you're here."
"Don't worry Katie." He reassured. "We'll get you down safely. Chase, get your winch. Marshall, you're up."
"On it! Arf! Ladder!" Immediately the metal instrument activated, and after another press of a button, it elongated towards the basket's direction. It stretched just far enough for the ladder to reach.
A lady suddenly came bursting out of the city hall doors, an evident frown on her face. She looked distressed in her blue-coloured suit dress. "What in the world is going here Ryder?! I'm having a meeting and I cannot hear a thing without this banging sound – whoa whoooa! What is happening here?!" she gasped at the sight above her.
"Mayor Goodway." Ryder addressed formally. "We're just trying to get Katie and Callie down. It shouldn't take long."
"Hot air balloon – oh no! Jeffery! What happened?!"
"It was an honest mistake!" he replied, nervous sweat pouring at his head. "I was prepping the next ride at the outdoor track when the knot came undone and it flew over here!"
Her eyes bulged out of her sockets. "AH! I knew we shouldn't do these hot air balloon rides anymore! They're too dangerous! Ryder! You must help them!"
"Don't worry," Ryder remained remarkably calm, despite the two adults panicking around him. "Marshall's got it."
On that note, the pup was climbing the ladder, with the end of Chase's winch firmly in his mouth. Finally reaching the two in the basket, his head popped over the rim, taking the item and clipping it to the loop attached at the side of the basket.
"Everyone okay here?" he promptly asked, double-checking the security of the winch.
Katie nodded. "We're okay. Poor Callie is not liking this though." Eying down at her arms, the cat was clawing at his forearms. "Ouch! Callie! Not so hard!"
Marshall opened his arms. "Okay, we can get her down first, if that's okay with you Katie."
The blonde agreed, and instantly she began passing over her frightened pet over to the fire pup.
But as if Callie was going to go calmly.
With one look at the ground the cat shivered in fear and instantaneously jumped away from the dog, rocking the basket back and forth in a chaotic manner.
"Whoa, whoooaaa!" Marshall attempted to keep his balance, with the basket continuing to knock back into him, making him almost fall off the ladder.
"Callie!" Katie yelled, "Come back here!"
Uh oh.
"This isn't good." Ryder muttered. "With all that shaking, the balloon is gonna –"
Snap! The rig holding onto the loop attached to the basket suddenly released, with the loop tearing in perfect half. The sudden jerk whacked Marshall into the basket, head falling first onto Katie.
The rig that once held the balloon began dwindling down in rapid speed, and anyone it landed on would sure send them to the hospital with bone-crushing injuries.
Those at the bottom scattered, and the rig slammed into the pavement with a thundering sound, slightly damaging the concrete pavement.
Checking to see no one was hurt, they all turned attention back to the balloon, which now free, began to float off.
"You okay Katie?" Marshall asked, his EMT training kicking in.
"Yeah, but uh…" she blinked, feeling something odd. "I think we're floating away."
"Huh?" Seeing if this was true, he lifted his head up, and sure enough, noticed how they were getting farther and farther from the ground.
Oh no no no…"Uh, guys…" Marshall suddenly realized his predicament, face turning blue. "Help!"
"Marshall!" Ryder and Chase yelled, the pup in question continued to be out of reach. Before they knew it, a gust of wind came by and zoomed their friends away over Adventure Bay.
Everyone was stunned at what happened. Skylla surely didn't expect to witness her first rescue to turn ugly so quickly.
What were they going to do?
She looked to Sophie, but her owner was just as perplexed as the rest of them. Ryder and Chase were talking amongst each other in discussion of a new plan, and Mayor Goodway kept fretting around, rambling to herself about lawsuits.
It was then Skylla noticed the flag on top of the building rustling vibrantly in the wind. Staring at it for several moments, Skylla lifted her paw, closing her eyes at the feel of the wind grazing. She then pealed her eyes open, and suddenly wondered if she should mention anything.
From the countless interview videos she watched about famous pilots, especially that of Ace Sorensen, she remembered one of their tricks of air currents. It must have naturally stayed in her head, because she had a good estimate where the balloon was going.
Skylla knew she shouldn't get involved with matters like this. And…she was an upper-class pup! She should leave the problem to the professionals. Heck, if she really thought clearly, she would have remained with Sophie at the Lookout, waiting patiently for their return.
But Marshall was in trouble. And she liked Marshall, despite meeting him hours ago. It would be terrible if he got hurt in any manner, or any of the people and animals involved.
And suddenly that was enough for her.
"Excuse me! Mr. Ryder!"
She was startled at her own resounding voice, and Sophie as well. The girl was probably wondering why Skylla would be trying to get herself involve, eying her a look of compliance, but at that moment, Skylla didn't listen.
Ryder took a moment to glimpse at her, grabbing his attention away from Chase. He was fully focused, Chase as well, (more though of a questioning stare), however, it was clear this was her only window of opportunity to say her concern to them.
Eyes all on her, she sat tall and elegant as ever. "I wanted to say…judging from the wind patterns, the force seems to be going at 25 to 40 mph, so I'm thinking...Ms. Katie must be somewhere over those grasslands over there. She shouldn't have gotten far."
Surely she got everyone by surprise, because no one said anything after that. Chase's ears twitched at that mention, face becoming slightly dumbfounded, and then seconds later he turned to Ryder for his opinion.
The human leader was the most controlled of his emotion at the moment, difficult to tell what he was thinking. Was he truly taking in her suggestion? Or was he going to politely decline?
"We…could try that." he finally said, processing the information in. He stroked his chin in thought. "And you said grasslands? To which direction exactly?"
Skylla pointed. "Over there. I'm thinking northwest."
"Farmer Yumi's." Ryder nodded, and it was then he took action. "Chase, let's head out. At the wind speed Skylla said, we should be able to beat them before they get there."
Chase didn't argue. Bark! "On it Ryder!"
.
.
.
They arrived at a large vegetable farm, a small house center of the plowed lands. There were rolling fields of tended gardens, such as apples and pears, even pumpkins surprisingly despite it being spring.
"Oh, Ryder!" An Asian woman wearing overalls with tall boots and straw hat stood outside a farm pen.
The said boy leaped from Marshall's truck, with Chase closely behind in his police truck. Skylla and Sophie arrived too in their chaperoned ride, but they remained in the car. (As it was a farm, and Sophie refused to walk on dirt).
"Hi Farmer Yumi. Sorry we came unannounced."
"No, no need. I was actually going to call you." She pointed upward with her gloved fingers. "Because of that."
In her direction, a large green-stripped balloon was floating towards their direction.
"That's why we came over." Ryder confirmed swiftly. "We need to get them down before they go completely off course."
"Right, but how will you do it?"
Ryder stared to their skies, focus unmoving as he was deep in thought. It was then he snapped his fingers and said, "Chase set up your net over here, between those trees, and use your largest setting and heaviest density. Jeffery, stay here with Chase and wait for the signal."
"Sure!" the fidgeting man rode Ryder's ATV, and went to assist the police pup.
"Farmer Yumi, I suggest you moving Bettina away from here. It could turn messy."
"Alright Ryder."
It was then Skylla severely realized how out of place her and Sophie was (Mayor Goodway remained at City Hall). It was then she truly realized how…how useless she felt right now. And it wasn't a pleasant feeling.
Sophie noticed her pup's behaviour, to which she said, "Don't worry my little pup. They're professionals. They know what they're doing."
"I know…" she pouted, her head leaning over the window ledge. "I just hope no one gets hurt."
"Myself included."
.
.
.
Okay, so flying should be a joyful feeling right? To any sane being, person or animal, it should be a fun activity to engross yourself in an element that only a select individuals have been blessed with the ability, or the ingenuity to create machines to take you high in the sky.
But to Marshall, it was more of a torture device.
Floating over Adventure Bay, Marshall kept switching between talking to himself and pulling at his ears under his helmet. It was a situation he truly didn't know what to do. He dealt with heights before, but never at this altitude!
As Marshall wanted to keep calm, he couldn't help but feel terrified. He hated flying. No, no, despised it. Gosh, out of all missions they had done so far, the one time he got stuck was the one that included an escaping balloon! He knew as a firepup he had to be a professional about this, and breaking out into a panic attack would not help them (as much I as really wanted to). But oh, just when he thought he was getting his anxiety under control, it was thrust back at him with full force, desperate to make him suffer. Thankfully, Katie hadn't said anything about him shaking like a falling leaf, or his voice turning high ever so often when ironically he was telling her to be calm. He was literally on his last strings to stay remotely composed on this mission.
"Marshall!" someone yelled, and due to a pup's natural ability and Marshall's training, he was able to pick up on Ryder's voice right away. The pup leaned over, thinking it was Ryder following them, but nothing was there. Oh gosh, was he panicking so much he was starting to hear things?
Bleep! Bleep! A red light blinked at his chin, and he realized it was his pup tag activating. He clicked to reply.
"Marshall," Ryder began, "Is there anything in the basket that you could use?"
The pup took a deep breath, observing their location. He shook his head in response.
"What about above you? Around? What is there around you?"
Okay, Marshall, think! What could he do? He checked every inch, and then from a dim sound in the background heard something whipping against the basket. Leaning over at where the sound was, his blue eyes widened in response.
"Ryder!" he shouted, "There's a rope! At the backside of the basket!"
"Use it and drop it over the basket edge!" He explained. "And wait for my signal."
With no argument, Marshall would do as he was told, but with one exception…
It was outside the basket.
His heart was beating out of his chest. "K-Katie," he said, trying to keep his voice in check. "Please hold my legs as I grab the r-rope."
"What? No!" she was clinging onto Callie to ensure she wouldn't escape. "I can grab it. I have longer arms."
"But who will keep Callie relaxed?" he replied, eyeing the cat in slight envy that she could freely be panicking while he had to push his fears aside. He gulped deeply. "I have to do this. It's my job as a P.A.W. Patrol member. I can't risk your safety."
"Uh…okay." With a tight grasp, she held onto Marshall's legs. "But be careful."
"I will." Because if you don't you'll be falling like a pancake! His mind screamed, And your P.A.W. Patrol days will be finished!
He shock the idea away. Okay, stop thinking cryptic thoughts!
With another sluggish breath, he leaned over and swiftly tried to pull the rope off the clasp it was attached to. With two more tugs (and desperately trying not to look at the ground) he finally got it and with that he threw himself back into the basket.
"You did it Marshall!" Katie cheered, and even Callie was meowing in delight. Marshall robotically nodded as he tried to get over the daunting feeling of being light as air as he tied the one side of the rope with the pegs that connected the balloon and basket. He then threw it over, thinking it was their way off this horrible ride.
It only came down halfway.
"Uh, Ryder…" Marshall beeped into his pup tag. "The rope didn't go all the way! What are we going to do?"
"I figured much."
"What?"
"Don't worry Marshall." He said, and from his tone of voice he immediately knew the ordeal state of the Dalmatian's mind. "We'll get you down soon. Just remain calm with Katie and Callie."
With a shaky breath, he nodded stiffly, "Okay Ryder!"
.
.
.
"It's coming!" Farmer Yumi exclaimed, and sure enough it was, through the apple acres.
"It was…" Ryder mumbled, and with that he said, "Chase, remember what we discussed."
Chase nodded in compliance, turning his attention back at the controls in his truck.
"Uh, are you sure about this?" Jeffery asked, glancing over to Ryder who was adjusting the harness he was wearing. The boy stood at a high point of Marshall's ladder, hovering over the net Chase had assembled, and winch from the police cruiser was attached to his harness.
"I'm sure. But to be on the safe side I want everyone to step back." Ryder's focus was up at the sky. "Chase, we got one shot of this, so be ready!"
"Right!"
"Okay…it's here in three…two…one!" Spectators gasped as Ryder jumped off the ladder and onto Chase's net, and even more so, looked with widening eyes as the pressure of Ryder's fall catapulted him up back into the air, towards the balloon. There was no way he was going to reach the balloon basket, but that wasn't his intention.
Instead, the moment the boy was in reach of the floating rope he grabbed it and used all his weight to pull. The harness he wore tightened, and Marshall, Katie and Callie jerked at the motion of the halt.
"Now!"
Chase began driving backwards his truck, and the wheels spun rapidly. And to everyone's utter shock, the balloon began descending.
Halfway down Ryder tied the rope onto his harness, but he still continued to use his strength to pull the rope down. When they finally got close enough to the ground, Jeffery sprinted to the balloon with his own rope, tying the basket bars rapidly with the rope pegged to the ground.
And they landed.
When it was stabilized, Ryder helped Katie and Callie out, and Marshall leaped from the basket, landing flat on his stomach. Chase paced to the pup, watching him with slight concern as his friend was kissing the ground blessedly.
"Thanks so much Ryder. And you two pups." Katie said in apperception. "I wouldn't know what have happened if we kept going. Poor Callie was going to have a heart attack!"
"Ah well, whenever you're trouble, just yelp for help!" Ryder exclaimed, his attention now turning to his pups. "Marshall, you okay?"
"Uh, yeah!" he sprung up his head, "Thanks a lot Ryder! But…uh, how did you know we were gonna end up flying over Farmer Yumi's?"
Ryder smiled. "It was Skylla. She predicted your location by reading the wind patterns."
"Whoa…" Marshall glanced over the car with the mentioned pup, who was now outside in the arms of her owner. "That's cool."
"Yeah…" The German Shepherd agreed. "Didn't expect that…"
Ryder turned over to the girls' direction. "Thanks for your help Skylla. We wouldn't have been able to stop the balloon without you knowledge of wind speeds."
Marshall nodding vigorously, smiling in gratitude. "Yeah, thanks Skylla!"
The cockapoo stared in bewilderment briefly, as if slowly taking in their honest words. Almost like yesterday when Chase mentioned her trick, a warm bubbly feeling ignited in her chest, and soon after sweet smile beckoned at her face.
Usually, when receiving compliments, a confident "I know" would be her usual answer, but oh no…
Not for this one.
"You're welcome!" she exclaimed, not caring her joy was showing evidently. "I'm happy no one got hurt."
"Yes," Sophie reminded, patting her pup's head softly, "Skye is very knowledgeable. She learned the best at pup school!"
"I agree!" Jeffery entered in the conversation. "I didn't know a pup your age knew about wind patterns. Interesting to note."
"So…" Farmer Yumi voiced. "What's going to happen with this hot air balloon in the middle of my field?"
"I'll take it back!" The flight pilot gestured with his hand, "After a quick fix, my equipment will be out of Adventure Bay and into Foggy Bottom!"
"And me and Callie need to head back home." Katie said. "Had a long day."
"I can take you back." Ryder suggested. With that, the group dissipated, leaving the P.A.W. Patrol standing around tightly.
"Once we head back to the Lookout, I need to finish my meeting with Sophie."
"You're going to help them, aren't you Ryder?" Marshall inquired.
"Of course. Mechanics are my thing, but this is an engine we're talking about. Especially if the crew cannot figure it out so far, then it means there's something seriously wrong with it." He pondered by rubbing his chin. "I think I'm going to need another pup's help on this."
Marshall's blue eyes widened at that mention. "You're going to ask him?!"
He chuckled lightly. "I'm going to have to say yes."
The Dalmatian barked. "Awesome! We haven't seen him since forever."
"But wait. Didn't he say he didn't want to get involved anymore?" Chase added his thought, curving a brow. "He said he was busy with his family's farm and all."
"I know, but hopefully he can come around for this task. Marshall, you don't mind getting him for us? Pick him up in your truck and meet me at the train station."
"And what about them two?" The German Shepherd suggested with his head. The two girls were returning to their car. "We're just gonna leave them?"
"That…" Ryder stated, pointing at his police pup. "Will be your responsibility."
"Huh?" he blinked. "Me?"
"Yeah, you don't mind Chase?"
"Uh, no I don't mind but…" he slacked his jaw in thought. "Wouldn't Marshall be better at that job? I mean, he's friendlier than me. He'll be better company."
Ryder smiled in reassurance, patting Chase's head. "I know, but you pups can't always be in situations you're familiar with. Balance is key in order to gain more skills."
"And besides, Skylla is already familiar with you Chase. It makes sense to remain you guiding around here, especially since she's in a place that's foreign to her."
"Uh…" he sighed quietly, looking unsure of himself, which to Marshall looked very strange. "Okay."
"Don't worry pups!" Ryder exclaimed, his voice full of confidence. "Now come, let's get ready to leave. I don't think Farmer Yumi wants to be interrupted anymore with her work."
.
.
.
With all of them returning to the tower (with the absence of Marshall) Sophie and Ryder resumed their meeting upstairs, which lasted about ten minutes.
And…Chase felt lost.
Within that time, he showed Skylla around the Lookout, the different rooms and such, but truthfully there wasn't much to look at. And much to say.
It suddenly dawned on him why Ryder gave him this task. Social skills.
Hey, to be fair, Chase had improved a lot! In fact, the German Shepherd was proud of the level of he reached without snapping at anyone, or becoming really cold to others, or any of those hostile things! In fact, he hadn't gotten in those mood swings in a really long time. Wasn't that enough?
But then again… it took him forever to talk regularly with the folks here in Adventure Bay in an openly friendly manner. And he knew being a police pup he needed to be approachable, otherwise his job would be useless.
He thought back to the time he first met Skylla, and Chase realized he wasn't really that friendly with her. Heck, his answers were mostly clipped ones, and ugh, he really needed to work on his tone. But thankfully, Skylla responded positively, especially when he complimented her flip, so maybe he wasn't a total failure at conversing normally.
But still…what could he do to entertain her?
Currently, the pink wearing pup was fixing her fur for the umpteenth time, and from that small implication, it probably meant she was bored. He would have suggested a game or something, but she didn't seem like the type to play rough (judging from her reaction earlier from tug of rope). And there's the thing how she was constantly grooming her appearance. What's there to fix? She looked pretty already.
Wait, he meant fine! Fine! Not pretty! Gosh, he needed to relax.
He couldn't help but sigh. Ugh, he wished he could switch places with Marshall right now. At least then Chase would feel fully in control of the situation.
Then he got an idea.
He didn't know where the thought came from, but it was flying out of his mouth the second it came by.
"Want ice cream?"
In mid-action of fixing her bows, she turned over quizzing at him. "Pardon?"
"Ice Cream." The pup repeated with boarding eyes, suddenly realizing what the heck he said. "There's uh, ice cream here. Like, not here, like down the street. At Mr. Porter's." His tail stopped wagging, becoming more aware of how awkward he was right now. "Like, we'll ask your owner if you can go, or if you can't that's okay, like I'll bring it for you. It's pretty good, and I figured you would like it too and…yeah." He ended lamely.
Chase wanted to smack his head. Wow didn't he sound stupid? It was at that moment he sought the need to immediately take back his words.
…but seeing her mouth suddenly curve into a cheerful smile was something he did not expect.
"I would love to!" she said, recoiling him briefly. Noting how she startled him, she giggled. "I mean, it would be great. Of course, I need to ask Sophie, but I'm sure we can go."
"Ah. Okay." His tail started wagging, glad she accepted his invite.
Ryder and Sophie emerged from the elevator, and Skylla's owner looked absolutely fulfilled. Smiling politely, she said, "I cannot thank you again Ryder! With your help, we should be able to go to Trix City as early as tomorrow!"
"Haha, yes. I'm gonna be heading to the site now, and with Marshall bringing backup, we should be fine."
"Right." Sophie opened her arms to her pup. "Come Skylla. Let's return to the motel. I need to make some calls to Auntie."
"Oh Sophie," Skylla implored formally, "I would like to go into town to eat some of the local's ice cream. Chase will be accompanying me! Is that doable?"
The brunette contemplated for some time. "Well, I suppose it's fine as long as someone is with you…" she arched a brow. "But not too long. For the walk back, Chase can return you. Actually, nevermind that, call me. I'll be more than obliged to grab you."
.
.
.
Mr. Porter was incredibly surprised to see the duo again, entering smoothly at his doorsteps.
"Chase!" He said boldly, "What a delight. Ah. And you too as well Chase's friend."
"Skylla Rose Lockwood." She stated with a smile.
Looking around, Mr. Porter's store was fairly large; having a wide counter for customers to order food in the back while the front half of the store had veggies, fruit and other food products laid out for display. It had the green palette colour typical of any grocery store.
"Wow, what a wonderful name!" the mustache man placed the tray down on the counter. "Now, what can I do for you both?"
"Just wondering if you have your ice cream out." Chase said, "We, I mean, Skylla hasn't tried it yet since visiting here."
"Oh! Of course! Been telling her it's amazing?" Mr. Porter winked.
He chuckled. "You know it."
"Alright! I'll serve some up. We have different flavors." He gestured with his hand towards the large menu plastered overhead. "There's Peanut and Banana, Strawberry, Vanilla, Blueberry, oh! And our own special exclusive flavor, Pumpkin Frosty Bites! My personal favourite. And all our ingredients produced fresh by farmer Yumi herself!"
"Hmm…" her eyes twinkled in amusement, "Then I shall have that!"
"Great! And you Chase?"
"I'll have the same." Shaking his head, he said, "Getting addicted."
"Haha, it's the best!" Mr. Porter stated, his voice now dimming as he went behind the kitchen doors. "Best of the best!"
Quietness falling upon them, Skylla used this time to observe the food around them.
"It's lovely he sells organic food here." She stated wistfully. "Does Mr. Porter sell honey?"
"Probably." Chase replied, "He's one of the few grocery stores here. I know Farmer Yumi sells almost all her stuff here."
"Hmm…."
He sent her a questioning gaze. "You want to buy some?"
"Mm…possibly! For a gift."
"Okay!" The apron-wearing man reappeared through the flapping doors, two containers in his hands. "Two servings of Pumpkin Frosty Bites. One for you, and one for the little lady."
"Hehe, how did you know I am called that?"
"I didn't!" he bellowed jokingly, "But maybe I'm psychic. My grandson does say I have a knack of knowing things."
In a surprisingly polite gesture, Chase took both to carry, stacking it a bag that Mr. Porter gave him, and now jabbing the bag handle in his teeth.
"Where you wanna eat?" He managed to ask, passing a few coins to the store owner from his pup vest.
An image she immediately saw when coming to Adventure Bay struck her head, and she said, "The beach! I know it's still early spring, but it looked beautiful from my motel room."
He nodded. "Okay. We can go there." He nudged his head in a signal. "Bye Mr. Porter."
"Bye Chase! And you as well Skylla! Great seeing you again!"
"Goodbye! And thank you for the food! I shall come back here soon!"
Exiting the store, Chase gestured with his head. "Okay, it's literally across the street. So just uh, follow me."
"Hehe, Lead the way Officer!" she playfully bantered, a cute grin on her face. Chase only responded by keeping his head forward, forcing himself not to blush.
.
.
.
The beach, like Chase said, wasn't far – barely a minute walk. They had to cross the street, and now with her prior knowledge of road safety, she proudly pressed the button for the cars to stop in their tracks.
Chase led them to a spot that had a large umbrella opened, with one of them having a flat beach seat already sprawled out. He silently let her sit on there while he opted to sit in the sand.
He pulled the bag down from his teeth, and he passed the little ice cream box to her. She opened it and from the smell alone she could tell it was going to be delicious.
Skylla took a bite and immediately her eyes lit up, cooing at the taste. "Oh wow…these are delicious!"
"Told ya." Chase popped one in his mouth.
"No wonder these are your favourite Chase!" she grabbed another and swallowed it down. It was melting the minute it touched her tongue. "I could have this everyday."
And then suddenly… "CHAAAASSSE! CHASE! OVER HERE!"
The said pup turned, and a little boy in an orange shirt and dark green pants was running wildy towards them. Not far behind was a girl, with her footing much more calmer and controlled. What was more astonishing was to see a grin on the German Shepherd's face when seeing them. "Hey Alex. Hey Katie."
The girl smiled. Now getting a closer look at her, Skylla thought she was very pretty, especially how she had long blonde hair pulled back by a headband and bright blue eyes that were friendly and kind. While she might not look as "fancy" as her owner Sophie, Katie did seem to carry a genuine charm about her.
The blonde glanced at the pup next to him. "Oh! I don't think we met formally. I'm Katie, from the balloon rescue."
The cockapoo bowed. "Skylla Rose Lockwood. Pleasure to meet you all!"'
The boy beside the blonde stuck his thumb out proudly. "And I'm Alex! Super Alex."
"Hehe, lovely to meet you too super Alex."
"What are you guys doing at the beaches?" Chase asked to the ten-year old.
"Oh. After the whole incident, Alex wanted to do something nice for me as a way to de-stress myself. So, we're playing ball out here."
"That's kind of him." Skylla complimented.
"It was." Katie grinned, patting Alex on the head. "But I'm curious to ask why are two out here?"
"We just got some ice cream." Chase pointed out, "And then decided to eat it here instead at Mr. Porter's. After that I'll be taking her back home."
Katie's face morphed into bewilderment, but as soon as it came a different type of smile was on her lips. "Ahhh, I see. No, no need to explain any further." She said with a wink.
"What's to explain further?" he sounded genuinely confused. "We just got – "
"It's so nice of you to take your girlfriend out for treats. Didn't know you had one already."
…
In three…two…one –
"WHAT?!"
"Eh?"
"What's a girlfriend?" Alex asked.
Skylla's eyes fluttered in dismay. Girlfriend? She thought they were dating? They didn't even know each other more than two days! That was ridiculous.
Glancing to the police pup, she was stunned to see the pup who was usually under control to become so flustered! His eye was twitching in dismay, and cheeks that looked so red it could argue to be fire if dared touched it! Oh biscuits she was suddenly worried for his health! He looked worse than this morning.
Despite his mouth hanging open, it appeared sensibility began rolling in his head and he finally yelled, "I DO NOT HAVE A GIRLFRIEND."
"Oh. Then why – "
"SHE'S WAITING FOR HER TRAIN TO BE FIXED AND I'M JUST HELPING HER OUT."
Katie flailed her hands in front of her. "Oh, sorry Chase! I didn't mean to jump to conclusions." She clasped her hands together. "Forgive me?"
Chase grumbled under his breath, turning his head away. Oh my was he pouting? "Fine."
"But it was an honest mistake."
"Why isn't no one telling me what's a girlfriend?!" Alex whined.
"Whoops. Sorry Alex." Katie leaned down to reach his height. "It means two beings, whether pups, people, anything living, have started a romantic relationship with each other."
"Eww, like love and stuff?"
"Exactly."
"Gross! No, don't do that Chase!" Alex looked on pleadingly. "You'll turn into a mushy monster on those stupid girly shows! Don't go Chase!"
"Uh," he sweatdropped. "I won't."
"And I'm sorry for suggesting that to you Skylla." Katie turned her attention to the pink pup. "It was insensitive of me."
"Don't worry." Skylla shock her head. "Accidents happen."
"I try not to make too many though." Katie replied. "If I made accidents at my pet parlor, all the animals would look funny!"
"Wait, you're Katie? The Katie from beauty's pet parlor?" Skylla jumped, looking in awe. "With the pretty pink store?"
"Uh, yes?"
"Eee!" If possible, her smile got wider. "I absolutely love getting groomed! What do you do at your salon?"
"I'm glad you like it! And I do pretty much everything! Grooming, pampering, massages. There's nothing I can't handle."
She gasped in realization. "I should come by tomorrow! Or maybe later today!"
"Oh yes, come by!" Katie cheered. "I love pampering pups! Especially if the pup is already as adorable as you."
"Hehe, thank you!"
"Katieeee…" Alex tugged at her pink shirt. "I'm hungry. Can we go back to my grandpa's now?"
"Oh alright Alex. I'm getting pretty hungry myself." She laughed. "And the ice cream you pups are eating isn't making it easier."
"Yeah! We can ask grandpa to make us ice cream too!"
"Grandpa?" Skylla blinked. "Is your grandpa Mr. Porter?"
"Yup!" he stated proudly, hands on his hip. "My grandpa can make anything yummy. He's the greatest chef in the world."
"Come Alex, let's get going." She ushered the boy in front of her. "Bye pups! And oh, thanks again to both of you today for my rescue. You're amazing pups!"
Now, once again alone, the two continued to munch on their ice cream treats.
Chase turned to her. "Your owner…she said Skye earlier." She peered her eyes up to him. "Is that your nickname or something?"
The pup nodded. "She sometimes calls me that, but usually when we're alone. Skye sounds too casual from where I'm from."
"Oh."
"Yeah…" she drawled, but then her eyes shifted onto a different topic. "So! Chase. Besides coming here, where else do you go to relax?"
"Uh…Nowhere else really. I've checked around Adventure Bay, but haven't seen every inch of this place. I haven't been here for more than three months."
She gasped. "You could have fooled me!"
A tiny smirk came on his face. "Maybe I was."
"Okay then Mister Trickster," she leaned forward, sending him a knowing look. "The next time I see you, you shall be my tour guide."
Next time…it suddenly dawned on him that he wouldn't see her, now that the train would be fixed and she would be heading off probably by tomorrow.
He didn't know what to feel about that.
"Yeah," he finally said, "Maybe next time."
"And next time," she added, oblivious to his thoughts. "I can teach you one my tricks!"
"The spinning one?"
"Mm. Possibly." She puffed her cheeks out. "But I'm confused on something."
"What?"
"I find it strange that Ms. Katie would thank me for her rescue."
"Cause you helped?" he answered, arching a brow.
"Yes, but not like you or Marshall or Mr. Ryder. It's your job to save others. I can help, but I can't save." She pouted, pausing momentarily from her eating. Glancing up at the afternoon sky, she stated, "I don't see myself to be heroic in that sense."
He paused, sinking in her words. "…When I started, I didn't think so either." He said, which caught Skylla's attention. "But if you're capable of helping, what's stopping you?"
She snapped her eyes wide. "R-Really? I'm capable?"
"Yeah…" he said, somewhat baffled at her reaction. "Why, you didn't think so?"
"Of course I know I'm capable, but sometimes…I wonder if I really am. I feel people and dogs just tell me that because of who I am, and not what I do."
"If you were incapable, you would've have stayed in the park yesterday like a lump and expected someone to save you. But you didn't. You looked for help."
She opted to watch him.
"And while you did run across the street, which was a really stupid idea by the way, you didn't cry when you realized what could have happened, and just accepted it and moved on. And today…you helped out with our mission. You gave us help no one could have known besides you. If you weren't there, then our day could have turned out very differently."
He looked at her directly, and he noticed how attentive she was being. He flushed under her gaze. "Oh, sorry. Like, I hope I wasn't overstepping boundaries – "
"No…" she shook her head. "I'm just…glad. Thank you for being honest with me." She giggled lightly to herself. "You're a very honest pup Chase. It's something I've noticed about you."
"Like I told Marshall one time…" he said quietly, and this time he was smiling at her. "I only tell the truth."
She was speechless. It was really…weird to see him have such a relaxed expression... and directing it at her.
So...she replied with a kind grin of her own.
"You should smile more often." She simply said.
He was stumped, scrunching his face in disbelief. Well, there goes the smile. "W-What?"
Oddly enough, she wasn't giggling as usual. She regarded him with a neutral face. "Your smile. It's lovely."
Thankfully, he wasn't eating any more of the ice cream bites, otherwise surely he would be choking on them. Nerveless, he continued to cough nervously as he darted his eyes away from her, probably trying to gain a sense of control over his embarrassment.
Eyeing innocently at his side profile, she had the urge to laugh openly. Oh, Chase was a strange pup indeed! It made her giddy for the oddest of reasons.
So she kept laughing, keeping him confused to her strange delight.
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.
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It was an hour later the duo heard Marshall's fire truck ride up along the beach, and the pup leaped from his car. In typical Marshall fashion, he tumbled out and rolled towards Chase, making the two fall into a pit of sand. Apparently, after retrieving extra help for the engine, Ryder suggested Marshall to spend time with Chase and Skylla. With another playful eye roll from the German Shepherd and the Dalmatian's comedic remark, the three spent the next few hours relaxing at the beach, conversing on whatever came to their minds. Oh and getting a second serving of ice cream.
When it was hitting around four, a car drove by Mr. Porter's, and within it was Sophie. She waved her hand out.
"Skylla! Time to come back!"
"Okay Sophie!" she smiled back to the pups. "Well, I must be off. Perhaps later this evening for dinner I'll see you!"
"Dinner?" Marshall asked.
"Yes! It'll be my treat! I can get the chefs on the train to make something delicious for us! And I can show you something that I eat from where I come from! Just ask Mr. Ryder if you can."
"For sure!" The Dalmatian grinned. "We can't wait. See ya Skylla!"
"Yeah," Chase agreed, with a smile of his own. "We'll see you later."
Beaming at the two, she said her goodbyes and off she went happily to the black car waiting for her. She entered in gracefully, greeted by her owner who was finishing a call.
"Great news." Sophie clicked off her phone, her green eyes sparkling. "The train has been fixed earlier than expected! That means we get to leave for Trix City and finally begin our trip!"
"Oh." Skylla was happy, but it wasn't the grand feeling she thought she'd have. "That's wonderful Sophie. But when do we leave? Tomorrow?"
She smiled. "In one hour."
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A/N: Oooh, its so fun to tease these two. And did you guys catch the drop hint I said in this chapter about the mystery pup they had to get? I hope I made it obvious who it was.
So damn! Skye nows has to head back to her regular life! How much has she been affected by the P.A.W. Patrol? Will Skye even considering joining them? And will Sophie let her? Tune in for the next (and possibly last chapter) for Skye's arc!
Translation notice! (If any ya'll speak French, I'm hoping this was decent translation!)
Pourquoi êtes-vous si pressé?" - What is making you anxious?
"Je ne suis pas Sophie." - I am not Sophie.
"Vraiment?" - Really?
"Je suis…excite." - I am...excited.
"Se souvenir de la police chiot?" - You remember the police dog?
Thank you to all those who continuously read, comment and follow my work! (critique/suggestions are welcomed!) ^_^
P.S REVIEW!
P.P.S. My birthday is at the end of this month! (June 30th) I'm hoping I can post the next one on the day of.
Till next time,
mokocchii