My Dog is Chase Devineaux

Chase is transformed into a dog after wishing he understood Carmen Sandiego and why she tried to save him. Carmen finds him and adopts him. Chase becomes a part of the team as a dog and slowly develops feelings for Carmen. Maybe she is not the villain he thought her to be or maybe he's just falling in love. Oh help, he's in trouble now. Julia is worried about her partner and V.I.L.E hates Carmen's new ally. Chase/Carmen

Disclaimer: I don't own anything.

Sorry, sorry, sorry. My life got in the way, my job started to get hectic and I've also been playing a whole bunch of new Switch games too. This chapter was not easy to write either. I'm never writing two episodes in the same chapter again. Unless I need to.

Remember, this is an AU. Enjoy.

Chapter 10: The Fashionista Caper and Need for Speed Caper

It had been two weeks since Greece and everyone had settled down in Poitiers. Chase was now seventeen weeks old, a grand four months and a week and his ears stood up straight, but they looked too big for his head, making Carmen and the others, minus Shadowsan giggle. He had grown and had perfected the tricks 'Bang, Steal and counting and spelling, He was fully trained to Carmen's standards, and he was happy that she was happy with his progress. He sometimes got that nasty little voice in his head telling him that he was a human, and he shouldn't be lowing himself to this, he wasn't a show dog, this whole trick thing was beneath him. He ignored it, the voice was getting smaller every day and he tried to be honest with himself, it was a key factor in being happy. He was currently listening to Bastion offering to tell Carmen another story about him.

"Sure, tell me a good one," she said, absently stroking Chase's head.

"Ok, Entrapta, any suggestions?" asked Bastion.

"Hmm, how about the one where we were almost kidnapped?" she suggested.

"WHAT!" yelled Carmen and even Shadowsan and Player looked shocked.

"Yeah, that is a good one, it all began after the science fair, the three of us having amazing projects, I might add," said Bastion as he began to tell the story.

Flashback

It was two days after the science fair and Bastion and Emily were waiting for Chase, they were going to go and get lunch off-campus. They were talking about the fair.

"Your robot of the future was awesome Emily," said Bastion to his sister.

"Your idea was just as good, a mega magnifying glass to see things like molecules, it'll revolutionize science," said Emily.

"Chases' was just as good, a spider spun bridge, using specific soundwaves to make the spiders spin the bridge, really excellent," said Bastion.

"Who knew he knew some much about spiders and had a liking for them," said Emily. They laughed as they remembered some of the shrieks that the older girls had let out upon seeing the spiders, it had been funny. They were still laughing while two people were slowly walking up to them.

Chase was humming as he walked towards the siblings, he was very proud of them and himself for doing so well in the science fair. His parents were proud too. "Hey Bastion, hey Entrapta!" he called, reaching them before the other two did.

"Hey Chase," they said happily.

"Hey, you both ready to go?" he asked with a smile, and they nodded.

Bastion then drew in a sharp breath as he finally noticed the two people who were right behind Chase. He didn't like the look of them. Chase turned and stiffened; Emily hid behind Bastion.

"Chase Devineaux, Bastion, and Emily Drill?" asked one of the people, it was a woman in a skin-tight pastel-coloured suit, long blonde hair, odd yellow-green eyes, pouty lips with pink lipstick, and long fake pink nails and heels. She had an oversized white belt with two tasers attached, "I'm Rosedust and this is Killadog," she said, indicating to the man next to her. He smiled though it was more like a snarl. His head was shaved with tattoos, and he had piercings on his ears and nose. He wore a black leather jacket and pants and black boots with chains. On his black shirt was a picture of a dead dog. He also had some sort of rod in his hands.

Chase instinctively stepped in front of his young friends, "What do you want?" he asked, his instincts were screaming to run.

"You're a couple of smart and capable kids, we've gotta proposition for you," said Rosedust. "We belong to a group that will grant your every wish with power, money, and respect," said Rosedust.

"We can earn that on our own," said Chase, still not moving from in front of his friends. Emily clung to Bastion, she was brave, but these people were not nice, and they scared her.

"Come now, this is a great opportunity, don't pass it up," Rosedust told them, but it sounded more like a warning to Chase.

"No," he said firmly.

"Fine, we tried being subtle, get them," said Rosedust to Killadog. He walked forward, turning on the rod which crackled with electricity and Rosedust pulled out her tasers. "Come quietly and no one gets hurt," she warned. Killadog just growled and had a sick smile on his face.

Chase knew that he couldn't endanger his friends and these people were armed and didn't look afraid to kill, so he did the only thing he could. "RUN!" he shouted, and the siblings bolted with him right behind them.

"Get them!" screamed Rosedust and they ran after them.

Chase turned to look back. He skidded to a stop, "Keep going and get help!" he yelled to Bastion and Emily and dodged to the side as Killadog tried to use the electric rod on him. He was grabbed from behind by Rosedust, who had a surprisingly strong grip.

"You're coming with us," she hissed. "Get the two brats," she ordered Killadog. He snarled but he ran off. Chase knew he could not let his friends get hurt so he lunged his head back right into her face. "Ow!" He then struggled as best he could, managing to step hard on her foot. He swore that he heard a bone crack, "OUCH!" she yelled, letting him go. He ran as fast as he could.

"Let us go!" he heard and saw that Killadog had caught both of them. Bastion was in a chokehold and Emily was being held by her hair. Bastion was trying to struggle but his face was beginning to turn blue. Emily was also struggling, screaming her brother's name. They were being dragged off.

'NO!' he thought.

"Got you," he heard and Rosedust's hand clamped onto his shoulder like a vice, he was sure that would leave bruises. Chase grabbed her hand and arm. Her mouth opened in surprise as he threw her over his shoulder. He then dashed past her and tackled Killadog.

"The FUCK!" he yelled, letting go of Emily and Bastion in surprise. By now they had attracted a lot of attention and the police were on their way. Killadog growled at Chase and lunged at him. Chase couldn't dodge in time and got punched in the face. He groaned but Bastion, who had gotten his breath back tackled him in the legs, giving Chase a chance to recover.

"Thanks, Bastion. Take Emily and run," he said panting. Bastion nodded and took his sister's hand and ran. Chase stood up and put up his fists. Killadog aimed a punch at him again, but Chase was ready this time and he was the one to deliver the punch. Thankfully he didn't have to do much more since the police arrived. Both of them were arrested and Chase, Bastion, and Emily were taken to the nurse's office for treatment, not seeing the tall, stern woman in a suit and a few people in blue suits and glasses arrive. The three of them need some therapy after that but the incident gave Chae a new goal, he was going into law enforcement.

End flashback.

"That's how he ended up working for Interpol," Bastion said, concluding the story. He noticed that Shadowsan and even Carmen were looking a bit pale. "What's wrong?"

"Those two were V.I.L.E. agents," said Shadowsan, shocking everyone. Chase almost fell over; he'd encountered V.I.L.E. before he even knew what V.I.L.E. was? This could not be a coincidence! Entrapta noticed his reaction though.

"WHAT! V.I.L.E was after me and my friends!" he barked angrily.

"Chase, hush, Shadowsan, you explain, you know what happened better than me," said Carmen.

"Very well. It was during the science fair, we had operatives placed there to see if there was anyone with potential that we could bring into V.I.L.E.'s fold. Young Devineaux and the two of you were noticed because of your projects. Looking into your backgrounds we saw that Devineaux was a young man whose family had struggled financially and had worked hard to make it into college, his grades, we noticed were due to the result of hard work, some grades higher than others but they were very good, nonetheless. A hard worker is valued in V.I.L.E. His athleticism was also noticed, a three times Track Star at his high school and learning how to box at the time. My fellow Faculty felt that someone like him would be a great asset to V.I.L.E. Then we have the two of you, both young geniuses, with problems at home. Bastion also being physically gifted, and Emily was said to be strong for her age back then. The three of you were prime targets for V.I.L.E. I did not agree, to bring in two children, so young and one young adult with such a strong moral compass, I was the only one who did not vote in favour of bringing you to V.I.L.E. Carmen, or Black Sheep as she was known as back then overheard and was thrilled because to her mind, she would have someone her age to play with. The idea of recruiting you all was scrapped once we lost Rosedust and Killadog. Cleo said that if you could cause that much trouble then she didn't want to know you. I was relieved, I was also the one to send the two of them, knowing they would not succeed, their talents were not in recruiting. I'm glad to see that my suggestion paid off," he said, finishing his story and giving the siblings a small smile.

"Well, it seems everything all worked out," said Bastion.

"It's fascinating, that what it is," said Entrapta, "To think, we were almost taken to V.I.L.E. and yet we all still managed to meet anyway, there is no coincidence here," she said, using a recorder to record her thoughts.

"I remember being so disappointed when I was told that there would be no children coming to the island but then I stole the phone and I forgot all about it," said Carmen, she was stroking Chase's head.

Chase was unable to believe it, V.I.L.E. was once after him and they failed. He would have met Carmen sooner though. Their relationship would have been very different though. V.I.L.E was responsible for his career choice.

"One question though, if V.I.L.E. knew who Chase was, then why go after him the way they did?" asked Bastion.

"The Faculty had long since forgotten his name and face due to my encouragement and Carmen escaping and destroying their empire was enough to make them focus on her and not a once potential recruit. I had not forgotten though. It was another reason for me to volunteer to pretend to go and retrieve him. I did not wish for him to be harmed," said Shadowsan.

Chase was fuming at being forgotten but hearing Shadowsan's explanation, it made more sense. 'Thank you Shadowsan,' he thought, and he went over to him. Shadowsan raised an eyebrow, and everyone was shocked when Chase licked his hand a few times and barked before going back to Carmen's side.

"What got into him?" asked Player.

"He probably senses Shadowsan's emotions, his remorse and he tried to comfort him," said Carmen, offering what was a logical explanation. Entrapta wasn't convinced and Bastion was looking suspiciously at Chase. They looked at each other and nodded. They'd keep an eye on their furry friend.

Xxxxx

Carmen walked into her room with Chase following her, she sat down and opened up her diary, "Dear Diary," she began, Chase sitting next to her and listening. He was glad that Carmen had taken to writing down her thoughts, it was therapeutic for her. He was amused that Carmen thought that the fact that he had been a track star three times straight was impressive. He was even more amused to hear that she found his interest in spiders fascinating. "I'm so glad to learn these things about him. It gives me insight into who he really is as a person but finding out that he grew up poor is heart-breaking, poor Devineaux, it explains so much about him, his drive, determination, and his work ethic. I really admire him for turning out so well and on the right side of the law. I hope to tell him these things one day. Maybe even my feelings for him, which grow stronger each time I hear a story from Bastion and Entrapta. Well, see you later Diary," said Carmen and she finished writing and locked her diary up.

Chase was again, amused but he was pleased that she thought highly of him and who he was. 'Would she think that of me now?' he wondered; he knew that he'd changed for the better, and he was glad, he was the son his parents had raised, and he was sure that they'd be proud of him. 'If Carmen ever finds out about me before I transform back, will her feelings for me change?' he wondered. He loved her as a friend, but he wasn't sure about romantic love yet.

Xxxxx

It was one week later, and an eighteen-week-old Chase was creeping around with Carmen, it was a caper, and he was eager to get to work. They were back in Greece for this caper. "How's the big fat Greek caper going, Red?" he heard Player ask.

"Wish I was gazing at the Parthenon in Athens rather than an airstrip in the boonies," she replied and ruffled Chase's fur as he tensed upon seeing the V.I.L.E. helicopter. "But your intel was spot on, V.I.L.E.'s on the scene intercepting a package, contents unknown," she said. Chase was now quietly growling. "Time to intercept their intercept," she said but Chase let out a ferocious snarl as his hearing alerted him to danger. He pushed Carmen to the side as something whooshed past her.

"Who the hell is this clown?" Chase barked angrily, as the man with the sawblade hat smirked at Carmen. Then he started sneezing. "What?" Chase barked. Then he remembered, he'd read this guy's profile on the computer. The guy was Dash Haber, assistant to Countess Cleo and he was allergic to dogs! 'Advantage!' he thought.

"Carmen, achoo! Sandiego. You should…achoo! Watch…yourself! That…achoo, achoo, achoo, mutt… isn't always going…achoo, achoo to be ar…around, to, to, achoooo! Save you," he said.

"Dash Haber, nice little hat trick you've got there. But I'm afraid you'll be going back empty-handed," said Carmen. She petted Chase, "Thanks Chase," and he barked in reply. He was growling at Dash, daring him to come closer. "That's a bad case of the sniffles, or…could it be...? You're allergic to Chase?" Dash threw his hat at Carmen again and she leapt out of the way. A fight ensued. Carmen noticed that Vlad and Boris were about to put the box of unknown contents on the helicopter. "Entrapta, Shadowsan, it's time," she said.

Xxxxx

"Starting teleporter, now!" said Entrapta, pulling the lever to send Shadowsan to Carmen. She created a teleporter earlier that week and it could only be used for short-distance travel, so they decided to test it out tonight.

Xxxxx

Shadowsan appeared out of thin air literally.

"What the!?" asked Dash in horror.

"Chase, go help Shadowsan, attack the Cleaners!" said Carmen. Chase wasted no time as Shadowsan was already fighting them.

"Hey, try picking on someone with sharper teeth!" he barked as he leapt at Boris.

Xxxxx

"Bastion to Player, do you copy?" Bastion asked, he was driving the new car they'd just bought.

"Player to Bastion, what's wrong?" he asked.

"How much longer until I get there?" he asked, he'd been driving for a while now, Carmen had requested that he'd go and check another airstrip first.

"You're about three minutes away, one if you break the speed limit," said Player with a grin.

"You know me, Player, I'm the fastest man alive when it comes to driving. Time to break speed!" he said, going faster than before.

Xxxxx

Chase and Shadowsan were working together, Boris was keeping them busy while Vlad was getting the crate closer and closer to the helicopter. Shadowsan got punched in the stomach, hard, "Ooff!" he grunted.

"Shadowsan!" Chase barked, leaping to his defence.

He was backhanded by Boris, letting out a yelp. Carmen who was running towards them gritted her teeth when she heard that but was surprised when Shadowsan lunge at Boris, "I will not let V.I.L.E. hurt him again," he said, throwing Boris over his shoulder.

'Shadowsan?' Chase questioned as he got up. What had come over the man?

'What the?' Carmen asked herself. She dodged Dash's hat again, found herself in combat with him. Dash ran. "Not so fast hat hair. I have a date with that crate," she said running after him.

"Are you alright Chase?" Shadowsan asked. Chase blinked but he nodded, giving a sharp bark. Shadowsan nodded and then they all heard the sound of a car approaching at top speed.

"Move it!" shouted Bastion to his friends. Chase and Shadowsan dived out of the way and Dash shrieked like a little girl. Boris and Vlad also dived out of the way, but Vlad managed to get the crate onto the helicopter and he, Boris, and Dash made their getaway.

"Rats!" barked an annoyed Chase.

Bastion leapt out of the car, "Sorry I was late, is everyone ok?" he asked.

"We're fine Bastion don't worry," Carmen reassured him.

"Sorry I wasn't able to help," he said, hanging his head. Carmen hugged him.

"You got here, that's what counts, and hearing Dash scream like a little sissy baby was worth it. We shook them up a bit. You did great Bastion."

"We lost the crate of whatever they were stealing though," he objected.

"Maybe not!" Chase barked; he'd found more crates!

"Good boy Chase," said Carmen as she opened it to reveal some kind of fabric.

Xxxxx

"Why would VILE only steal just one crate of fabric?" asked Bastion.

"Maybe Coach Brunt just needed enough material to knit Maelstrom a sweater," said Carmen.

"Those Cleaners are tough," said Bastion, he'd been informed about how the fight went.

"They do not know fear," said Shadowsan. His picture was taken by a tourist, a child, and her husband. He glared at them and they gulped and ran off.

"You need some new clothes to blend in," remarked Entrapta.

"Yes, my attire does attract unwanted attention and as such, it would be best not to discuss delicate matters in public," said Shadowsan.

Carmen's phone rang. She answered.

"The fabric V.I.L.E stole, it's called Smart Fabric," said Player.

"I've heard of it," said Entrapta, "It's not bad stuff but it can be improved upon, I can conjecture that V.I.L.E. will be using it in some way which will allow me to gather data on it, that way I can make a better version and use it for you and everyone else Carmen," she said.

"Thanks, Entrapta, that's sweet. Player, what can this Smart Fabric do?" asked Carmen, she was amused that Entrapta wasn't impressed with the Smart Fabric.

"Lots of things, once made into clothes, it can do things like having underwear that can keep track of your temperature," said Player.

"No thanks, we have thermometers for a reason," said Bastion with a smirk.

"I'm sure I can do better," said Entrapta, looking unimpressed.

"Who wants their underwear to keep track of their temperature?" Chase barked in confusion.

"So, the two of you aren't impressed?" asked Carmen in amusement.

"No," they both said. "We had more creativity than that," said Bastion. "Entrapta could come up with something far more reasonable."

"I could make a watch that can monitor more than temperature, like making it adjust your body heat if you were too cold or too hot, monitor your breathing, alert you if you were sick, and list the symptoms while telling you what sickness you've got. It would be fashionable, functional, and inconspicuous. There would be other functions too. Also, it wouldn't allow for mind control, which is something the Smart Fabric would," said Entrapta.

"If it is fabric, they are using then it is safe to say that Countess Cleo is behind this caper. Every year there is a big fashion show, Fashion Fest, this year it is in Milan, Italy," said Shadowsan. "Where clothing designers display their latest styles.

"We know that she was a failed runway model before turning to a career of crime," said Carmen.

Chase's ears pricked up at the little titbit, on the Countess. He filed it away for later, 'Interesting,' was all he thought.

"Though wearable tech does scream more of Dr. Bellum, am I right?" asked Player.

"It could be a team effort or the brainchild of someone new entirely. V.I.L.E. will inevitably begin the process of seeking my replacement, if they have not done so already," Shadowsan said.

Chase mentally smirked, he was sure that his time on the island had slowed them down a bit on that part but…Shadowsan had a point. He tilted his head at the man. What had said last night, 'I will not let V.I.L.E. hurt him again?'" 'Weird,' he thought.

"By the way Shadowsan, you were very protective over Chase last night, any reason why?" asked Carmen and the siblings leaned in to hear his explanation.

"The last time something happened to him he was dognapped and hurt. His dognapping hurt you, Carmen I will not allow V.I.L.E. to hurt him or you again if I can help it. He is also a valuable member of the team," said Shadowsan. Chase was surprised but he felt a warm glow inside him. It seemed that Shadowsan would protect him to protect Carmen, something they both agreed on.

"Thank you Shadowsan," said Carmen and he gave a small smile.

Xxxxx

V.I.L.E. Island was nice and quiet, this was a very good thing. Though it had been a few weeks since Carmen had rescued her dog the aftermath for the Faculty was painful. All of them had had to recover from injuries along with the mental trauma and so had the students. Some of them had been afraid of dogs. Maelstrom was quite busy with that. So now it was quiet, all order and routine had been restored and they were back on track to replace Shadowsan.

Shadowsan had been correct, this caper was a joint project but with Cookie Booker added to the mix. She was trying her hand to see if she could join the Faculty.

Xxxxx

"There has to be some explanation for why they were seen together in Rio. Carmen Sandiego may have been information gathering or…or trying to keep an enemy close," said Julia as she presented her theories to Chief and Zari.

"Possible but unlikely. I'm afraid our girl was recently seen in Japan and in Greece. Care to guess who her traveling companion was?" Pictures of Carmen and Shadowsan appeared on the screen but what intrigued Julia was the German Shepard that was also with them, always at Carmen's side. It appeared to be older in Greece than in Japan.

"When did Carmen Sandiego get a dog?" she asked.

"We're…actually not sure, sometime before Japan as that's when he first appears," said Chief.

Julia had a brief flashback of seeing a puppy at Carmen's table in Rio. "It was around Rio; I saw him with her before she left."

"So now Sandiego has a way to track our scents," said Zari.

"I doubt she would get a dog just for that," said Julia.

"Regardless of why she has a dog, it's another problem," said Chief. "Agent Argent, you and Agent Zari will be heading to Milan. We're certain that Sandiego will be there."

Xxxxx

The team was on a plane and Chase had his head on Carmen's lap, with Shadowsan sitting on her other side. Entrapta was making upgrades to his collar and Bastion was reading a book, Treasure Island. "Anything more on potential V.I.L.E. targets in Milan?" asked Carmen.

"Working on it Red, but I did learn a thing or two about Fashion Fest. All the top designers show off their seasonal collections at certain times of the year in different cities of the world. Milan's a big one. Every year, the shows get more elaborate and more competitive. Big buzz translates to big profits," said Player.

"What really fascinates me is Italy has a long history with fashion, dating back to the Renaissance, a period of great artistic and cultural achievement that began in the 14th century. Wealthy families, like the Medicis, didn't just sponsor artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci, they cultivated their own sense of high style," said Carmen, and Chase listened with interest.

"No kidding, check out their threads. Guess the Medicis did good while looking good, just like you, Red."

Xxxxx

"Well, here we are in Milan," said Carmen as she and the others walked around. "Fashion events are taking place in every major venue," said Carmen.

"We should separate to cover more ground," said Shadowsan.

"Maybe while we're here, Shadowsan could get a new wardrobe," suggested Bastion, "He still stands out."

Shadowsan gave him a look, but he didn't deny it.

"We'll shop after we stop V.I.L.E," said Carmen, "But speaking of blending in, I need a dress for tonight."

"Then that means that Entrapta and I need to get new outfits as well," said Bastion and Entrapta gulped.

"What is wrong?" asked Shadowsan.

"I'm…not very good at stuff like dresses and parties," said Entrapta, her hair twirling nervously.

Chase remembered how it was back in college and he cringed a bit, she wasn't good at the social scene but if he could change so could Entrapta. He barked at her and wagged his tail.

"See, Chase thinks you can do it," said Carmen, petting Chase and Bastion nodded.

"You'll be fine sis, it's just part of the job, ok?" Bastion comforted her.

"Ok, I'll try," she said.

"Great, I'll leave you in Carmen's capable hands," said Bastion as he hugged his sister and walked off.

"Come on, it's girl time," said Carmen, putting her arm around Entrapta.

Chase barked, "Hey, what about me?" he asked.

"Oh Chase, I'd never leave you out of anything, you're coming too," said Carmen, bending down and hugging him. Chase was satisfied.

An hour later

Chase was yawning, why did girls take so long to shop?

Several hours later he was wondering why it took women so long to get dressed. This was worse than shopping. He was already dressed for the occasion. Carmen had given him a bath earlier and a good brushing, so his coat was soft and clean. Then Entrapta had added a new feature to his collar's functions, 'wardrobe.' Aside from his thief look he now had formalwear and winterwear. Entrapta said she would add more as time went on. He was in a white shirt, a red tux jacket, and had a little red bowtie as well.

"Hey, Chase," said Bastion, coming out of his room. He was in a black tux with a white shirt, shiny black dress shoes, and a blue tie. He wasn't wearing his goggles for once and Chase could smell a spritz of expensive men's cologne. He barked in approval. "Thank you," he said, "You're also looking pretty sharp," he complimented him.

"Thanks," he barked.

"Hey guys," said Entrapta, coming out of the room a bit hesitantly.

"Entrapta, you look beautiful," said Bastion with a smile. She smiled back nervously. She was wearing a strapless purple dress that gradually shaded into lavender and then into lilac. She was wearing purple kitten-heeled shoes and a lavender shawl. She had lilac earrings, a bracelet on her right wrist, and her hair was in a braid that was twisted into a bun with the rest hanging down her back. She wore light make-up that accented her features, but she looked really shy and uncertain, which was highly unusual.

"Thanks," she said, looking uncomfortable. Chase licked her hand to try and comfort her. "Thanks, Chase."

"It's one night, just for an hour or two, then you can go back to your normal look," Bastion soothed her.

"I know but I'm still really uncomfortable," she said.

"Do you think Carmen's previous help would have dressed up for this? They'd probably have walked on the runway in their regular clothes, we are doing things right and doing them better," said Bastion with an encouraging smile.

"You're right, they'd probably trip over their feet or wreck the dresses somehow," said Entrapta. Carmen had told them about how the redheads had acted and they were not impressed.

Chase heard the door handle being turned and his jaw dropped, Carmen was in a gorgeous red dress with gold trim and slit going up her left leg. She had her hair in a high, straight ponytail, wore black wine-glass gloves and black heels and earrings. His heart almost burst out of his chest, and he had to put a paw over it to ensure it was still there. She was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. He gulped and wondered what was wrong with him. He'd seen her in a dress before but then again, he hadn't been actually looking at what she'd been wearing at the time. He felt his cheeks heat up under his fur. Bastion and Entrapta were complimenting her, but they also noticed Chase's strange and very undog-like behaviour and they looked at each other. They kept quiet though.

"Well, aren't you looking smart, the handsomest dog in the room," said Carmen, gently petting him. He wagged his tail and barked. "Why thank you, Chase," she said with a smile.

"Do you speak dog?" asked Bastion in a joking tone.

"Somebody in this family has to," she replied with a chuckle.

"What if I made something that allowed us to understand Chase and what he's saying?" asked Entrapta.

Chase gulped nervously, 'Uh oh, no, bad idea, bad Entrapta, very bad. I can't let her do that. Carmen would find out and then she'd…' he wasn't sure what she'd do, he just didn't want to find out. Would she be angry with him, disappointed? Would she throw him out? What if she thought he'd been using her? He shook his head; he didn't want to think about it. He hoped Entrapta wouldn't go through with the idea.

"Understanding Chase…You mean like in that TV show you got me to watch, Pup Academy?" asked Carmen.

"Something like that, or any other show that allows humans to speak to dogs, like…Puppy in my Pocket: Adventures in Pocketville," said Entrapta with a smile.

"We can talk about this later, we've got to get our heads in the game," said Carmen, and the siblings nodded. Chase was relieved and they all left to steal the show.

Xxxxx

After eavesdropping Carmen found out that Dash Haber was there and that they were going to use the models to steal the dresses, which would actually be on display for a brief period of time.

"V.I.L.E.'s MO," she said.

Chase growled in warning as he had smelled Zari thanks to the scent of her gas gun.

"Carmen Sandiego, you're under arrest," said Zari.

"No thanks. Chase, trip her up if you don't mind," requested Carmen. He quickly lunged at her knees, making her stumble. Carmen caught the gas gun and gassed Zari. "We don't need you messing things up," she said, watching her drop. "Good boy Chase," she said petting him. He wagged his tail; he was always happy to put Zari in her place.

Meanwhile, Entrapta and Bastion were mingling, getting used to the social scene and Bastion saw a beautiful woman in an orange and green strapless dress, matching strappy heels, a handbag, and a necklace with a matching bracelet on her wrist, with chin-length paper-white hair and blue eyes with a beauty mark. He didn't know it, but it was Tigress who was still on recovery leave after the beating Carmen gave her just before Chase was rescued from the island. "Helloooo nurse," he said, staring for a moment.

"Boys, go figure," said Entrapta, shrugging. He looked at her brother, "We've still got a few minutes, go on bro, introduced yourself," she encouraged him. It was rare that he took an interest in a girl, he had high standards and specific ones too.

"I'll be right back," he said, moving towards her swiftly. "Excuse me, madam, may I have the honour of knowing your name?" he asked smoothly, holding out his hand.

Tigress looked at him and thought, 'Hello Doctor. Handsome hottie at twelve 'o clock.' "I'm Sheena, Sheena Stripe," she said, taking his hand and was surprised when he planted a kiss on the back of it instead of shaking it. She blushed.

"It's a pleasure, my name is Drill, Bastion Drill," he said. She blushed at the James Bond reference, it worked well with his cute accent. They chatted lightly about minor things for a minute or two before Entrapta waved at him. "Pardon me mi' lady, my sister calls, perhaps I'll see you again sometime," he said, kissing her hand again in goodbye.

"Yeah, maybe, I'll remember you," she said, keeping herself composed but couldn't help but feel that this was nice, to be treated with respect by a nice guy. Unfortunately, her phone rang, and she walked off to take the call in a quieter area, missing Bastion meeting up with Carmen and Chase. The quartet made their way backstage.

"We have no choice, we need to walk the runway," said Carmen.

"You better hurry Red, the models are going on any second now," said Player.

"We're on it Player," said Carmen, then Chase started growling. He and everyone else turn to see Agent Argent trying to sneak up on them.

"Carmen Sandiego, you're under arrest," she said.

Bastion rolled his eyes, clearly not impressed and Entrapta looked confused. Chase just growled, he knew that Miss Argent believed in Carmen, but she was A.C.M.E., they were not allies.

"Jules, right?" asked Carmen as she took the gas gun and put it back into Julia's pocket. "Keep an eye on things back here for us."

"Why would you want to arrest Carmen, she's saving the dresses," said Entrapta, making Julia blink.

"Come on crew," said Carmen, "Remember, long strides, and smile," she said as she started walking on the runway, Entrapta next to her and Bastion behind his sister, and Chase strutting behind Carmen.

Xxxxx

"It's Carmen, and her little dog too!" cried Cleo who was watching the show with Bellum and Miss Booker, Bellum controlling the models with a mind-control helmet that was on her head.

"I don't recognise the other two," said Cookie.

"None of us do," said Saira.

"Carmen's found new help," frowned Cleo.

Xxxxx

Bastion was having the time of his life, he lived for this type of thing. He waved to everyone and then gave the crowd a charming wink and blew a kiss in a random direction. Several women passed out from his charm and good looks. "Nice one," said Carmen quietly.

Chase was also in his element; he'd once gone undercover as a male model about two years ago and he'd enjoyed it. He was walking proudly and confidently, his ears pricked and in his little tux, he looked very sharp. He was enjoying it now too, despite being a dog. He tilted his head and looked cute. He gave a bark and high-fived in the direction of the nearest camera. He then spun around, jumped, and posed. His cuteness and tricks drove the crowd wild.

"Good job Chase. Now we turn," said Carmen. They began to walk back towards the dresses. "Get ready to grab a gown," she said. The siblings nodded. "Jules, grab the gown closest to you," she hissed as they closed in on the gowns.

"You want to me to steal?" she asked. Chase rolled his eyes and calmly walked over to a gown, becoming the fourth person they needed. Then he gave a little bow to the audience.

"Never mind," said Carmen, she stood next to a gown and reached out and grabbed Julia, pulling her onto where she was standing so she went down with them. "Alright, you guys take the gowns to safety, Bastion, you're in charge, Jules, go with them," said Carmen once they were under the stage. Chase and I will hold off the models." Chase barked sharply.

"Your dog's name is…" Julia never got to finish as her hand was grabbed by Entrapta.

"Car spoke of you but so far I'm not impressed," said Bastion as he gathered two of the dresses in his arms. "Start pulling your weight Agent Argent, get a dress," he said a bit sharply. Her jaw dropped but Entrapta who had quickly undone her hair used it to grab her and the dresses.

"For someone who's supposed to be smart you're not acting like it," she said as she dragged Julia out the door with her hair while following her brother. Bastion was normally very kind with his words but people who didn't impress him and couldn't do what they were told in the heat of the moment irritated him and so he became sharp-tongued with them. She could tell that he was also scared of messing up at this pivotal point in time. Carmen had put him in charge, and he didn't want to mess up or let her down. They had to get the dresses out of here.

"Somehow, I don't think she made the best impression on them," said Carmen as the models came down.

Chase barked, "Ya think?" He growled at the mind-controlled models.

"Ok Chase, try not to hurt them, they're victims after all," said Carmen as a fight started. Chase just growled as he ran towards one of them and dodged a kick before tripping up that same model, it allowed him to grab the hat off of her. Carmen on the other hand threw one of the models over her shoulder and then dodged a pair of heels. "Not very lady-like but thanks for the idea," she said, using her own heels to hit one in the head, and then Carmen flipped over the other one, and grabbed a hat. Chase was chasing the last model around in circles before leading her to get her arm trapped in some fabric rolls. "Good work Chase," said Carmen as she fought with the other model. He barked and tackled the model she was fighting with, making it easier for Carmen to snatch the headpiece off of her head. The last model got free, but her headpiece was suddenly sliced in two by a hat that was familiar to Carmen and Chase. They turned and looked at Shadowsan who had thrown the hat. He simply nodded and Carmen smiled while Chase barked and wagged his tail a bit.

Xxxxx

"I have a headache," said Bellum, taking off the helmet she was using and left Cleo glaring at Cookie.

"Uh…that's the way the cookie crumbles," she said with a nervous smile.

Xxxxx

The next day

Carmen was talking to Shadowsan who was finally getting a new wardrobe and Chase was sitting with her. He was amused at the whole thing. They'd gotten the dresses to safety, and everything had worked out in the end. "You won't stand out in that outfit," she said to Shadowsan, who was wearing a very nice ensemble.

"These prices are…steep," said Shadowsan, looking at a price tag.

"The best thing is that V.I.L.E. is footing the bill," said Carmen with a smile.

'I love it when I hear that,' thought Chase with a mental smirk.

Carmen petted Chase, "You were amazing out there last night Chase, I'm proud of you," she said. He just wagged his tail. "I loved how you bowed, that was cute," she said. Chase licked her face, acting like the happy puppy. "Aw, who's a good boy?" she asked, giving his ears a good scratch. Chase dropped back down onto her lap, a look of bliss on his face, he loved ear scratches. He loved belly rubs even more though.

"Can I get these?" Shadowsan asked, pointing to the glasses on his face and Carmen smiled.

Xxxxx

"No Sandiego this time either," said Chief, looking at the picture on the screen. "Yet you managed to save the dresses," she said to Julia.

"Yes, though I don't believe that I made a very good impression on those who were helping her," said Argent.

"Did you get names?"

"Bastion is the man's name. Her dog's name is Chase. The girl's name was never spoken," said Julia. "However, I believe that I have enough evidence to go on that Carmen Sandiego is actively trying to save what she steals as the girl asked me why I'd want to arrest Carmen, 'she's saving the dresses,'" said Julia. "Carmen never denied it and her actions confirmed it. So here is my proposition, what if instead of trying to capture her, we try to recruit her instead?"

Xxxxx

Three weeks later a five-month-old Chase was playing fetch in the park with Carmen, the two of them having some downtime. They'd had two or three little capers recently and were trying to unwind. "Good boy Chase," said Carmen as Chase ran up to her with the ball, his tail wagging. "Fetch!" she shouted, throwing it again and he bounded off happily.

'This is nice,' he thought, he was about to pick up the ball when he heard a child scream. 'WHAT!' he thought, looking around and then spotted a child, a little girl who had fallen into the Clain river. 'Oh, no,' he thought, and he ran, not thinking at all, he just jumped into the river. "I'm coming," he barked, trying to swim to the girl. Her parents were screaming her name in horror.

"CHASE!" yelled Carmen who had heard the scream and had seen him jump. She ran alongside the river, trying to find a way to help him.

Chase swam furiously and grabbed the girl by the shirt, he could hear her coughing and spluttering. He had to get her to shore! 'Hang on kid!' he thought as he did his best to swim to the riverbank.

"CHASE!" Carmen yelled.

Chase somehow heard her over the rushing water and saw her holding onto an overreaching branch. Chase was tired and he may have been a dog, but he was still the same man who had the same stubbornness and determination, and those traits gave him the strength to swim over to Carmen, the woman he was falling in love with. Carmen grabbed him by the scruff and pulled him and the girl ashore.

"ABBY!" came two cries, male and female. The girl's parents were rushing towards them. Abby was coughing up water but apart from that, she was fine. Carmen checked her over, thanks to Chase's rescue she really was fine but would probably have a cold for a few days.

"She's ok," said Carmen as they scooped her up. The mother was sobbing, and the father was saying thank you over and over. "Don't thank me, thank Chase, he's the real hero," she said, Chase, although out of breath wagged his tail and barked before sneezing. "Oh dear," said Carmen, looking at Chase in concern. "Thank you, Chase, for saving my little girl," said the father.

Chase barked, "You're welcome," and held out his paw. Abby's father shook it and thanking both of them once again they left, but not before someone got a picture of the moment.

"Come on Chase, let's get you back home and into a hot bath before you catch a cold," said Carmen hugging him.

He shivered a bit, "I can agree to that," he barked. They quickly fetched his ball and were soon home. Bastion and Entrapta were instantly worried upon seeing them, but Carmen calmed them down and then took Chase upstairs for a bath. "Oh, that's nice," he whined as he splashed in the hot water. Carmen just let him sit there for a while before warming up the water again and washing him. She made sure to dry him thoroughly and then tucked him up in his basket with a blanket. Chase yawned; he was now feeling sleepy.

"You need to eat Chase, just wait for a few minutes," said Carmen, stroking him before going down to get some wet food, soft biscuits, and gravy, and heated it up before giving it to Chase. He fell asleep instantly, the hot bath and warm food knocking the tired man turned into a dog out. "My brave Chase," said Carmen quietly, gently stroking his head but he never stirred.

The next day Chase's heroic act was on the news and in the papers. "Well, looks like we have a hero in our midst," said Bastion with a grin. "You know Carmen, our Chase Devineaux would have done the same thing, he did it for Entrapta after all," he said.

"That's good to know," she said with a smile. She'd made a call to the vet who gave her instructions on what to do if Chase started showing signs of getting sick, but he seemed fine at the moment.

"Hey Red, hey gang, hey super dog, hello Shadowsan," said Player from the TV.

"Hi Player," said everyone.

"What's up?" asked Carmen.

"I'm actually just checking in on Chase, when I heard about what happened I was worried, is he ok? No aftereffects?" asked Player.

"He's fine Player, thanks for checking in," said Carmen with a smile.

"Yeah thanks," barked Chase and he wagged his tail.

"Ok, that's good, I'll call you guys if I find anything," said Player, and he disappeared off the screen.

Xxxxx

While all was happy with Carmen and friends the V.I.L.E. faculty was going through potential candidates for their fifth member.

"And what about Neal the Eel? He's extremely conniving, yet loyal to a fault," said Bellum.

"We require someone capable of masterminding, Dr. Bellum. The slippery one is hardly what I would call, Faculty material," said Maelstrom.

"Plus, he leaves a slimy trail," said Cleo, that was a no from the fashion queen.

"Who's game for a trail of grease then, eh? Or are you headmaster types all about manners and extended little pinky fingers?" asked a muscled, blonde woman in a grey mechanics outfit and black gloves.

"Mekkie!" exclaimed Brunt joyfully, leaving the table and going to do a special handshake eagerly while laughing. "Everyone, you remember The Mechanic.

"Hard to forget," said Cleo.

"Mm. Hello. How are you?" asked Belum, both women highly unenthusiastic.

"So, how's the old chop shop, Mek?" asked Brunt.

"Tip-Top, Coach, Tip-top. Got me, crew, pinching motor cars from the East End all the way to Blackpool. Oh, blimey, when we get through to stripping them down to the floorboards, they look like piranha ate them."

Brunt laughed, "Ain't she the greatest?"

"A mechanic who steals cars. How does that make her V.I.L.E Faculty material?" asked Cleo.

"Oh. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm not looking to pinch any old jalopy for you, Princess. I am out to snatch a technological wonder, I am. Real space age-like," said the Mechanic.

"Which we would do what with?" asked Cleo with a raised eyebrow.

"Reverse engineer to see what makes it tick. Possibly build a fleet of our own," said Bellum, sounding more enthusiastic now.

"Which we would do what with?" asked Maelstrom.

"Hello? Greatest getaway car ever," said Brunt.

Cleo huffed, "Shouldn't you be in Dubai attending to this grand carjacking scheme of yours?" asked Cleo, sounding irritated.

"Oh, no, me driver's already there, love, getting the lay of the land. I just popped in to throw me wrench in the ring for me seat at your big, fancy table." said the Mechanic, throwing her wrench on the empty chair, grease going all over it.

"Ugh. Disgusting," said Cleo.

Xxxxx

"Let me get this straight, we have to fly for sixteen hours to save the fastest car in the world?" asked Bastion.

"But the fast car in the world is in our garage," said Entrapta, she was confused.

"Some guy created it, he thinks it's the fastest car, no one knows about your car Em," said Bastion.

"Then why are going if our car isn't under threat? Why would VILE go after something so slow?" she asked.

"V.I.L.E. are a bunch of idiots, sans Shadowsan, and we're lucky that they don't know about our car. This car would be a perfect getaway vehicle for V.I.L.E.," Bastion explained.

"How could people who claim to be criminal masterminds be so dumb anyway? She asked. Bastion just shrugged. Chase was amused at their bashing of V.I.L.E. and so was Carmen. Shadowsan frowned.

"Shadowsan, relax, the two of them are fully capable and they're right, they have the fastest car, but it'd still be a bad thing for V.I.L.E. to get a hold of this particular car. I'll handle it, you talk strategy with Player," said Carmen. Chase barked in agreement.

"So, I have a choice of playdates?" Said Shadowsan, he liked Bastion and Entrapta more than he'd ever liked the Bostonians and they were far more mature, but they were still young, even though Bastion was older than both Carmen and Entrapta by two years. At least he had a brain and didn't think about food twenty-four seven. They were for more competent and smarter too. Those were just some of the reasons he liked them.

"I heard that," said Player from Carmen's phone.

"Player's been decrypting the data on the hard drive you supplied, but you're the only one who can take the guesswork out of how V.I.L.E. might intend to put it to any use," said Carmen.

"Player, please arrange my air travel and a town car to escort me to your place of residence," said Shadowsan. Chase's jaw dropped, go to Player's place?

"Whoa, what? You can't come here. What would I tell my parents? "Meet my new friend; he's a ninja?"

"Take my laptop, you can work remotely," said Carmen. "Let's go, Chase."

"Right behind you," he barked.

"Mmm," said Shadowsan.

"Alright Player, get us up to speed before Shadowsan logs on to the free Wi-Fi at the local coffee house," said Carmen.

"You're currently en route to Dubai, the largest city in the United Arab Emirates. That may sound like a bunch of places, but it's actually a country in the Middle East."

"Yup, Dubai sits on the Persian Gulf, known locally as the Arabian Gulf, in the Arabian Desert, and it's famous for its cutting-edge architectural engineering. For example, the Burj Khalifa skyscraper holds all kinds of world records, including the tallest existing structure, which means it has a great view of Dubai's artificial islands, which are completely man-made," said Carmen.

"The Palm Jumeirah is where you'll be hobnobbing with the rich and famous tonight. I scored you invites to a private party hosted by Ibrahim Al Sibaq. H's the owner of Al Sibaq Motors."

"Let me take over from here Player, cars are my thing,'" said Bastion with a grin.

"Go ahead Bastion."

"The party is actually a gala unveiling for his all-electric prototype super car. It's the type of thing that V.I.L.E. would steal," said Bastion.

"That's what the V.I.L.E. chatter says," said Player.

"What's the best time to steal it?" asked Carmen and Chase barked, he wanted to know too.

"The best time would be during its inaugural test drive at Dubai's Autodrome tomorrow morning," said Bastion.

"So, we need to steal it tonight in order to keep it secure until then. Once the party's in full swing, everyone's attention will be away from the showroom where the super-car's on display. We'll mingle our way through the festivities to see if we can ID ay VILE operatives, taking care to avoid detection by Al Sibaq's private security force. I break us into the showroom, Entrapta hotwires the car and Bastion drives it out.," said Carmen.

"Luckily for us, the car's engine is reputed to be nearly silent," said Bastion with a smirk. "We shouldn't attract any attention."

"A master plan Carmen, you really are a master thief," said Entrapta.

"Oh, this is going to be good," said Bastion who was reading the program for the test-drive. "Trey Sterling is driving the super car."

"Trey Sterling?" asked Carmen and Chase barked, he knew who this guy was. Bastion had spoken about him before.

"Trey is a vain, condescending, and wealthy little boy who thinks that he has driving skills and is dependent on his father's money. Sterling Sterling, his father is much nicer, they're both from Boston. Trey is the one I won against when I broke my hand that one time, against ten other drivers," said Bastion.

"Yeah, he also drove backwards to prove he could, Bastion did that part on a dare from Trey, and he still won," said Entrapta.

"The look on his face was priceless. I have pictures," said Bastion with a grin.

"I see," said Carmen and she looked at Chase who was now pawing at his mouth, his teeth were bothering him again. "Here you go Chase," she said, handing him one of his teething toys. He shook the stuffed bunny and ran around before dropping it and searching through his bag for another toy. He found his chewy rope and ran over to Carmen, whining.

"Come on Carmen, play with me," he barked softly.

"Ok Chase," and she picked up one side of the rope while Chase instantly started tugging on the other side. She laughed and tugged harder. Chase tugged harder as well. It was a battle of wills, well, it was until Chase deliberately let go, casing Carmen to fall backwards onto the floor. Chae leapt forward and landed on Carmen, "Chase!" she shouted in surprise. He gave her a doggy grin and started licking her face all over, causing her to giggle like a madwoman.

He mentally grinned in satisfaction, she needed to relax before the caper. He barked and ran to get another toy while Carmen got up. Chase ran back with his squeaky ducky and shook it. "Come on Carmen, play with me," he begged.

She grabbed hold of ducky and held it above his head, just like she had all those weeks ago on the plane to Rio. "You want ducky, Chase?" she asked.

"YES!" he barked enthusiastically, and Carmen laughed before running around, Chase chasing her, he wanted his ducky. "Give me!" he barked, thoroughly enjoying this. They ran around for a while before he leapt and managed to tackle her to the ground. The ducky landing on the floor but Chase landed on Carmen, both of them out of breath. He wagged his tail happily, licking her on the nose before getting up and grabbing his ducky, shaking it and making it squeak.

"Having fun Chase?" Carmen asked, a bit out of breath. He looked at her with his head tilted and then went back to shaking and chewing on ducky. Carmen petted him before flopping down on her chair with a smile on her face. Bastion and Entrapta looked at each other and smiled. Chase was good for Carmen.

Xxxxx

"The Al Sibaq 9000 heralds the next generation of engineering marvels," said Sibaq, making Chase yawn. These really were dull facts he was hearing.

'Boring,' he thought and looked up at Camren. She was in a stunning blue outfit, and he matched it with his outfit, he even had a little cloak, just like Carmen. He thought she looked beautiful and mysterious. He felt his heart pound with new-found love.

Bastion and Entrapta were mingling when Bastion spotted Trey Sterling, he had a lovely woman on his arm, but Bastion thought she was second rate compared to Sheena back in Milan.

Trey spotted him too and smirked, "Bastion Drill, what are you doing here?" he asked. "Aren't you a little too amateur for a place like this?"

"If by amateur you mean, defeating you so badly the last time you needed to spend your father's money to make you feel better, sure, I'm amateur," said Bastion with a grin, causing Trey to turn red in fury.

"You should get your coloration checked, you're all red, that can't be good for you," said Entrapta. "Can I study that reaction for science, it won't hurt at all," she said, using her hair to stand over him, causing him to back away from her.

"Freak!" he said.

Bastion clenched his fists but shoved them into his pockets, it won't do to start a scene. "Funny Trey, you called her that the last time we raced and I thrashed you by coming in first place. I can do it again. In a car that's better than Al what's his name," said Bastion. "You can call her a freak but know this, there will be retribution for it, so…are you man enough to take me on again…and lose?"

"There's no car in the world that's faster than the car I'm going to be driving tomorrow. I'll accept your challenge; you'll admit that I'm the best driver in the world after I win."

"Ok, if we're betting on it, once I win, you'll apologise to my sister and admit that I'm the best driver, deal?" he asked, holding out his hand. Trey shook it.

"Deal," he said. The two glared at each other before Bastion smiled again.

"Well, we have to be off, we have better people to give our company to, the next time you see me, I'll be in the winner's circle," said Bastion with a grin as he walked off with Entrapta.

"That was too easy," said Entrapta.

"Trey is nothing more than a violin, you just need to know how to play him," said Bastion with a smirk and they mingled.

Carmen was now outside with Chase, she took a peek inside where the car was being kept and smiled. She took one of her many tools out and pressed a button. Chase was quiet and he was feeling that rush again, the one where you were about to pull off a successful caper.

'I hope A.C.M.E. doesn't show up,' he thought.

Xxxxx

Back at the party Bastion and Entrapta had been confronted by Mr. Sterling. "I remember you, you're the one who beat Trey," he said.

"It wasn't difficult sir," said Bastion with a smile.

Trey revealed that he was test driving the super car tomorrow.

"Mr. Sibaq only gets the best," he bragged.

"If by the best you mean he's only able to afford you, of course, you're who he gets," said Bastion with a cheeky smirk.

"What's that supposed to mean?" he asked, infuriated. The woman that was with Trey, her eyes were wide and so were Al's and Mr. Sterling's.

"I mean he couldn't afford me on a good day, so, naturally, he has to settle for second best all the time. Not to mention, I'd never drive a car that wasn't built by my sister, so you're all he's got anyway, nothing but low-grade talent for a second-rate car. Later everyone," said Bastion as he and Entrapta walked off to do their job.

"You never get tired of causing Mt Trey to erupt, do you?" asked Entrapta with a small smile.

"I don't and I've got it down to an art," said Bastion with a grin. They made it to where the car was kept and got in. Bastion calmly drove out without a sound, no one being any the wiser. Carmen and Chase watching them from Carmen's motorcycle. Chase was dressed for the occasion once again. He wore a red motorcycle jacket, a white and black scarf, and a red helmet, designed for his ears, with a black stripe. He also wore special dog goggles that Entrapta had made for him to prevent the wind and dirt from getting in his eyes. He was the best-dressed dog in business and Carmen thought he looked very cute.

"Ok Chase, time to follow them to make sure nothing goes wrong," said Carmen, climbing on her motorbike. Chase hopped into the special sidecar created for him and was strapped in securely.

"Let's go Carmen!" he barked. They drove off. Chase realised that Carmen driving a motorbike was a very sexy sight, even from his current point of view. 'Bad Chase, think unsexy thoughts,' he scolded himself. 'Focus on the mission,' he thought but she really looked amazing. He mentally sighed, she was making him hot under the collar, literally! He cursed his luck being a dog at this point in time.

"Hold on Chase," she said, and he hunched down a bit as she drove up a ramp and they flew through the air. Camren laughed and looked at Chase. To her shock and surprise, she saw Devineaux instead of her dog. She blinked and then saw that it was her dog that was next to her, 'What the hell?' she wondered. She shook her head, 'It must have been a trick of the light,' she thought.

Xxxxx

"So that's our usual pattern," said Player to Shadowsan. "Piece together some V.I.L.E. chatter then cross-reference it with data from the drive to see where it might connect."

"You really are Carmen's secret weapon," said Shadowsan.

"Speaking of, shouldn't she have reported in by now?" asked Player.

Shadowsan phoned her and Carmen answered with a smile, "Hello, this is one happy Carmen Sandiego, how can I help you Shadowsan?"

Chase barked quietly, letting him know that he was there too.

"You took longer to report in, is everything alright?"

"Everything is fine. I think Bastion was fishing at the party."

"Fishing?" he asked.

"He was baiting his old rival, who called Entrapta a freak. Don't worry, he got the car out and it's already hidden, Entrapta also put a bug on it to make it invisible, from what she told me. Everything is fine Shadowsan."

"Good, I dread to think what would have happened should the other two had been there instead."

"Well, we'll never have to find out," said Carmen. "Talk to you tomorrow."

"Farewell," he replied.

Carmen met u with Bastion and Entrapta, congratulating them for a perfect caper. They said it was nothing and then they ordered dinner, celebrating their success.

Bastion then went for a walk, coming across Sheena of all people. Tigress was actually sent there by Cleo secretly to see exactly what the Mechanics plan was. So, she was just as surprised to see him.= and was thankful that she was in her civilian look.

"Sheena?"

"Bastion?"

"What are you doing here," they both asked. They blinked and Bastion laughed.

"Well, ladies first," she said.

"I'm here on work, I'm…checking up on one of my employers…associates. She doesn't trust them, so, here I am," she said.

"Oh, well, I hope that goes well for you. I'm participating in the race against the world's fastest car tomorrow," said Bastion, making Tigress's eye go wide for a second. "I sometimes race, it's a side hobby. I'll be up against my so-called rival. He's pathetic really, all money, no skill. I should win easily against him," said Bastion.

"Sounds like you're talented. I might just come and watch you," she said with a smile. This was perfect. The Driver was racing tomorrow and coming to watch Bastion was her ticket in.

"Really, that's great. Hey, how about we go and get a coffee, my treat," offered Bastion with a smile.

Tigress smirked inwardly, this guy was too nice, but she did accept his offer. Soon they were sitting at a table, drinking their drinks, Bastion having chosen a hot chocolate and Tigress was drinking a decaf latte with creamy foam on the top and sugar. Tigress looked at Bastion, "He's a genuinely nice guy, I'm not sure why I'm thinking this, I don't care for anyone but myself and VILE but he's such a gentleman and those are hard to find.' "So, Bastion, what's your job anyway?"

"Nothing too particular, I mainly help out my sister with her projects, call me her test dummy," he said with a grin. "I'm currently working for a friend who needs my driving skills. I get to travel the world with my sister and drive around everywhere, so I'm happy. I dabble in science and other things, martial arts, languages, cooking, among other things. You never know what skill you may need at any given time."

"I see, so you're not a man who decides on just one job huh?"

"No, the world is too interesting for that. I was to give my life true value before I start pushing up daisies. For me that means I'm going to do as much as I can and enjoy what I do at the same time," said Bastion, taking a sip of his drink.

Tigress blinked. "I've never come across a man with your type of attitude before. It's…refreshing. As for me in the job department, well, I…I work for those who pay the best, odd jobs and stuff. I get to travel and do cool stuff," she shrugged.

"I see," he said, sensing there was more but it wasn't his place to ask that.

"So, you're close to your sister?"

"Yes, she's the reason I am who I am. Without her I'd be a very different person, thank goodness she was born is all I say," said Bastion.

Tigress blinked, "How bad could you have been if not for your sister?"

"Bad," was all he said.

"I see," she said, she strangely didn't press for more, instead she thanked him for the coffee and said she'd be there at the race tomorrow.

"Great I'll see you then," he said eagerly.

"See you, good luck, and run over that rival of yours."

"I always do," he smirked, and she smirked back before the night swallowed her up.

Xxxxx

The next day Carmen was at the racetrack. Chase was with her. He was barking energetically already, he loved to watch Bastion race and he was hoping his friend would win, just like every other time he'd raced. "Calm down Chase, the race hasn't even started yet," said Carmen with a smile. He turned and licked her face, making her laugh.

Entrapta was in the pit, their car had arrived early this morning and she was giving it a final tune-up. "She's good to go, bro," she said, smiling at her brother who had just walked up to her. He was in a green and yellow driving suit with a matching helmet with a dark visor and a blue neckerchief around his neck.

"I know she is, you built her after all," he said with an easy smile on his face. Their car was a thing of beauty, it was sleek and coloured light blue with silver stripes on the sides and hood. On the top of the car was a silver star. All in all, she was one of Entrapta's greatest creations. Bastion looked at Trey, who had his helmet on and was already standing by the super car, which they had returned early that morning, no one knew it'd been stolen. "He's unusually quiet," he said.

"Suspicious, normally he'd be trying to needle you into getting angry," said Entrapta with a frown.

Meanwhile, Tigress was also sitting in the stands, she knew that The Driver was down by the super car and over there was Bastion. 'I hope he wins,' she thought as she was not happy to be here. The Driver was annoying, in her opinion but The Mechanic was worse.

"Hey, Trey," said Bastion, who, acting on a hunch walked over to his rival. Trey turned to look at him. Bastion held out his hand, "Good luck," he said.

"Good luck to you too Sebastian," said 'Trey'.

"Thanks, by the way, there's something on your helmet, let me get it for you," said Bastion, who was certain now that this Trey was a fake. He reached forward and quick as anything yanked the helmet off of the imposter's head. It was a woman, that same woman hanging from Trey's arm last night.

Everyone gasped in shock and Camren's eyes were wide, as were Chase's. Tigress's eyes were wide too. "Where is my son?" asked Mr. Sterling.

"How did you know?" asked the woman.

"First of all, my name is Bastion, not Sebastian. Second, you didn't act like Trey one bit, he would have been heckling me, and third, he'd have never wished me good luck with sincerity. So, in conclusion, you're trying to steal the super car," said Bastion. The woman gritted her teeth and made a rush for the car. She was too slow since Bastion was already close to her. He tackled her to the ground and the security came and took her away with the Mechanic watching in horror.

Carmen looked at Chase, "Well, I didn't see that coming but Bastion and Entrapta are both proving their very great worth, aren't they?"

"Yes, they are," he barked softly, they weren't sure if dogs were allowed so he was staying low and quiet.

The real Trey was found tied up in a broom closet. He was freed and offered a half-hearted apology before stating that he'd still win the race.

"That's the Trey I know," said Bastion to Entrapta as trey walked off to change into his driving gear. She nodded.

"A real stubborn mule. No offense," she said to the mule standing next to her.

"None taken," he said.

"Oh, he's gone," she commented as the mule was nowhere to be seen a second later.

"I still don't understand how that happens to us," said Bastion as he got in the car.

"We're special," was all Entrapta said with a big grin.

"You can say that again. Man, I wish our Chase was here to watch this," said Bastion with a slight frown.

"We can record it for him," said Entrapta. Bastion nodded.

"Read to lose Bastion?"

"Losing isn't in my vocabulary Trey, Winning is."

"I see you in the loser's circle," said Trey.

"I think you mean I'll see you standing there, loser's circle, population: 1, Trey Sterling," said Bastion, "Don't try and compete with the best Trey and remember our deal." The starting gun sounded and they and several other racers were off. Bastion played it smart, allowing Trey to take the lead and become overconfident. At the sharpest turn Bastion shot forward and took the turn as easy as anything, startling Trey who braked on instinct. He realised what he'd done and started the car again, overtaking everyone else, except for Bastion. He pushed the car to the max, but Bastion's car was faster, just like he said. Bastion crossed the finish line first to many cheers. He was presented the trophy which he held up proudly.

Tigress, Carmen, and Chase had all been cheering for him, but thankfully Tigress hadn't spotted the other two and they hadn't spotted her.

Trey was stunned as was the super car's owner. Trey's father made him keep his word though. "I'm sorry for calling you a freak and you, Bastion are a better driver than me," said Trey with gritted teeth.

Bastion smirked a bit but nodded in acceptance. "Good race," he said. Trey nodded.

Xxxxx

"Well gang, that caper turned out better than I'd ever hoped," said Carmen, they were celebrating Bastion's win and their successful caper with dinner. "You two are the real heroes of this one."

"Not me, Bastion did it," said Entrapta with a smile.

"I couldn't have done it without you sis, your car was the best, thanks," he said, hugging her. She hugged him back. Bastion was glad to have won and made Carmen proud. He'd also seen Sheena slipping away after he got the trophy, but she'd seen him win, that meant something to him.

Chase was wondering what was in store for them next because things were never boring when Carmen was around. 'I wouldn't have it any other way,' he thought, placing his head on her lap. She scratched his ears, causing him to sigh in bliss. Life was good and he was certain that he was beginning to love her romantically. He honestly didn't mind.

Xxxxx

"Another off the list," said Brunt with a frown as The Mechanic was crossed off on the screen as well as The Driver.

"Has anyone noticed that ever since we dognapped Carmen's dog, we've been losing more and more operatives due to us having to mind-wipe them?" asked/pointed out Cleo.

"Indeed, you hold a fair point, my dear Countess," said Maelstrom.

"That dog Is bad luck, for us," said Bellum. They all looked at each other, they'd have to be more careful with their operatives in the future.

Xxxxx

Chase was dreaming and it wasn't a good one, "No, Carmen," he whimpered and whined.

"Chase, Chase, wake up!" said Carmen, shaking him. Chase's head shot up but he was panting.

"Carmen!" he barked, launching himself at her, snuggling and trying to reassure himself, she was ok. He wasn't sure why, but it had been very cold in his nightmare, Carmen had been hurt and Julia had stood over them with Fraser, and V.I.L.E., laughing at them.

"It's ok Chase, I'm here. You've comforted me when I've had nightmares, now it's my turn. It's ok, ssshhh," she said, holding him and stroking him. He whined, licking her face gently. He didn't want her to get hurt.

'I must be vigilant in order to protect her,' he thought, that dream was a warning, he was sure of it. Carmen started humming a lullaby from a movie they'd recently watched. 'Carmen, I'll…protect…you…' was his last thought before he dropped off to sleep in her arms, little knowing that the next couple of days and months would be emotionally taxing for him.

Xxxxx

I hope you all liked this chapter. Next up is Fire, Jealousy and Crackle.

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