DISCLAIMER: I do not own PAW Patrol, the characters, or any association of the series.
A/N: HELLO READERS! Here's the next part.
I've been really down in the dumps lately because I'm stuck in a family financial situation I cannot get out from, hence my application to film school must be put on pause. Honestly I never felt so crappy about people before. It's like people don't understand what a passion is anymore. I still want to apply, but I have to wait for two years till then. So till then fuck people.
(except you guys. You guys make me get up in the morning. I send virtual hugs to everyone).
AND Green tea icecream always help haha.
To comments!
Tomcat549 - thanks :)
Magical20 - haha, yeah I really wanted to develop the two. Fundamentally they're different, so it'll take awhile to put down their walls (especially Chase) but heck, they help each other ALOT. Especially emotionally and mentally.
marcogalmich - muchos gracias! Yo nunca tuve un comentario Español antes. Perdón mi Español estar no bueno. Yo soy mejor lectura y comprensión de que hablar y escribir. ^^
Guest - not in this fic sorry!
SilverWolf - Thank you so much! And yes I would totally chat with you! Send me a message about anything you'll like to talk about the fandom :)
XxBravespiritxX - I'm glad you can relate to Marshall. (I feel as a writer that's what you should achieve) And yes, I feel bad for him alot. He just has crappy luck (and his luck ain't gonna get better next chap)
PBJNacghos - No, she's good haha.
ChaseLovesSkye - Wow I've never been so floored with such compliments before! *gushes nose bleed* I highly doubt my work is perfection, and I do take alot of time to sort this universe out. (I think I made this too complicated for my own good, but oh well). For Chase's arc yes it was hard for me to write. I truly got teary when Lucky had to realize he needed to move on without Archie, and Chase's first emotional breakdown. For sure Swift and Chase have a complicated relationship, and it will get more complex as the story unfolds, but I won't explore that in Origin. Perhaps in Sequel.
kristelrose - thank you! Glad you like my version! And thanks for alerting me some mistakes. I dont have a beta so I tend to edit quickly in hopes to posting it. I'll reread and see what I've missed.
HAYLEE RYDER - Haha soon! Fight's next chapter! And our fav pups and the bully will be staring in it.
Rocky the Recycler - Yeah that was weird I checked out the wiki page and I was confused why Zuma was after Rubble. But with yourexplanation it now makes sense haha. Perhaps the writers forgot to correct it.
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"You're gonna love the new comic books I have Chase!"
"Uh, I am?"
"Of course! Didn't you like the first ones I showed you?"
To be fair, Chase did like them. It was nothing like he read before, as this Apollo was the first comic book hero he ever read. Granted, the story wasn't as 'dark' or 'mature' like the other things he has read, but Apollo did have an appeal that intrigued him. Maybe it was the superhero aspect. Or perhaps it was the random jokes his sidekick constantly said in the background.
So he nodded. "Yeah. I really did."
"Then it settles it!"
Only several hours earlier, the two were hanging out as usual during lunch break. It was at that time Marshall abruptly asked Chase if he wanted to come over to his house and play after school. That threw the pup completely off guard at the request. He never once played 'over' somewhere. Besides, what difference would it make if they played here or there? It seemed redundant honestly. When he didn't reply immediately, Marshall sudden panicked (a noticeable trait Chase observed), suggesting if he didn't want to come he would totally understand. But Chase, slightly interested in the idea, agreed to the invite, and boy how the Dalmatian beamed.
And now to mention it, Marshall was well…odd. Like really odd. Unlike everything else here at reigned seriousness and authority, Marshall was the epitome of carefree and happy. It wasn't like the other pups here weren't nice, (they were, extremely so) but they all seemed to stick to their own group of friends. At first they were persistent to befriend him (why, he had no idea), even invite him to play or talk to him whenever possible. But the thing that stopped Chase from even fully accepting them was how they talked. It seemed he and their mindsets were in completely different worlds, and there was nothing to help with the awkward silences that followed their conversations.
Yet, out of all the pups Chase thought he would be hanging out with…he somehow came to tolerate this one. Marshall probably should be the farthest thing to be around, but what Chase appreciated about Marshall was that he didn't…lie. All these other pups seemed to buff their ego, whether physically or socially, but Marshall was honest like an open book, and didn't try to hide things (and if he did, it was poorly done, which made Chase amused).
Now, the two were walking to his house, and Marshall the entire way rambled about things they could possibly do.
That was another thing he liked – he filled in the silence. Marshall probably realized Chase didn't talk much, and thus, continued the conversation for them. But it's not like Chase ignored him. In fact, he tuned in often, listening to the ramblings of his new companion.
Marshall pointed his paw outward, and in that direction was an older firehouse, still in use, but probably not the central one. He exclaimed they were almost there, and then they could have food when they get there.
And speaking of food…Lucky had called him two days ago. Brief, straight to the point, but at the end he looked unsure as he offered to send Chase puppy snacks if he wanted. But Chase had to decline. He couldn't accept food as a good gesture.
Not ever from another K-9 dog.
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.
.
Marshall never felt more excited before.
In all his pup years, (technically one, but hey, one year to human is four to them!), he never had a pup over his house to play. Initially, he asked Chase without a second thought, (he overheard some pups talking about going over to each other's houses all the time), but then blanched in realization he asked, his clumsy, rambling puppy self asked. But for sure Chase once again surprised him by agreeing, even suggesting if they wanted to go after school. Marshall was flabbergasted, questioning why Chase wanted to come, but with another shrug and an honest answer said he didn't mind, and left it at that.
For the rest of the day, Marshall was conjuring up a dozen or so ideas they could do once they get to his house. The prospect of having a friend over (or he hope so a friend, they never really said what they were), was…exciting! He never had one, and for once in his short life, he was beginning to feel like a normal pup. He was so deep in thought during class he barely noticed Champ shooting spitballs at him.
They crossed a shortcut Marshall takes after school, and when going through the grounds, the pup mildly realized he was barking away whatever thought came to his head. Chase never spoke or really contributed to their conversations, but Marshall had a strange thought that maybe the German Shepard was actually listening. He could count on his paw how many dogs or pups actually pay attention to him. It made him feel…relevant. Like two weeks ago at the training race.
With that in mind, he was beginning to notice pups were sure acting differently around him. Pups he barely spoke to congratulate him, even teasing lightly if he was pretending to be clumsy all this time just to trump Champ when the timing was right. Others believed he had a lucky partner (he couldn't deny that, he did), and ultimately it was a fluke, which a small part of Marshall believed so. It was only because he knew Chase, and Chase knew him, they were able to coordinate the course properly. Even Mr. Murphy was giving him looks, more of a curious observation than anything. Champ still bothered him, (hence today's spitball routine), but something changed in the Boxer. He couldn't tell if it was good or bad.
His eyes then widened at a familiar sight of a Golden Retriever.
"Misty!" he shouted, and he was surprised he even called her out. Her ears flapped and she glanced to him, and oh boy – Marshall felt his checks heating – she was smiling at him!
"Marshall." She halted, and Chase watched the exchange. She glanced up the pathway they were on. "You're heading this way?"
"Yup! I'm going home."
"I see." She peeked behind him, returning her gaze back at the Dalmatian. "Oh, and I wanted to say…good job on your win. You impressed me."
He blanched. "R-Really?!"
She giggled. "Why wouldn't I? That's hard to do, breaking my perfect score."
Her tone…sounded off. "But you're still amazing Misty!" he quickly added. "I mean, that was just luck. And Chase is really good at racing."
"Perhaps." She turned, and surprisingly she winked at him. "See you Marshall."
"B-B-Bye Misty."
With another seemingly genuine smile she left the boys alone, and Marshall sighed heavily once they regained the pace.
"Do you think she's mad?"
He eyed him weridly, letting him continue. "What?"
"About us winning? She's super good at everything, always getting top marks…I uh, don't wanna upset her or anything…"
Chase observed him for a few moments, and then his eyes lit up in a way of recognition. "You like her."
Marshall blushed a sprouting red, stuttering evidently. "W-What?!"
"Oh." He looked momentarily confused. "You don't?"
"No! I do! W-Wait! I didn't mean it like that!" Marshall couldn't think straight, and he face-pawed his face. "Uh, I mean-"
Chase started chuckling. "It's okay Marshall. Like, it ain't my business or anything."
"No! It's fine Chase. Really." Marshall groaned, looking a little defeated. "Was it uh, obvious?"
"Nooo… not really." he side-eyed to the grass, as if thinking of the right words to say. He then offered a half-hearted shrug. "I'm just…naturally observant. And stuff."
"Heh, r-right. You're right!" Marshall seemed to believe it, tail wagging. "Like, she wouldn't know. I don't hang out with her a lot! She doesn't even really know me!"
Marshall mentally sweatdropped. Boy didn't that sound pathetic?
"Uh," Chase appeared unsure in the topic, but decided to ask anyway. "How long have you liked her?"
"Probably…a few months ago. So the beginning of firepup school." Marshall sighed contently, appearing bliss. "She's the most sweetest pup I've ever met."
"Oh. That's good right?"
"Absolutely! She doesn't bother me like how –" Marshall froze, suddenly realizing what he was about to say. Did he want to say he was being – he gulped – being bullied? No, that's silly! He wasn't being bullied. They just bother him a lot. Especially Champ. Besides, it wasn't like they bother him outside of school time, so it wouldn't be considered full time bullying!
Marshall was content with his silent verdict, and glanced back to Chase, who had an arching brow, looking a bit skeptical. The Dalmatian's eyes lit up, his ears poking up.
"Oh, we're here!"
Chase followed Marshall's pointing paw, gazing the large structure.
"This is your pup house?" Chase asked as they approached the fire station. It seemed Chase decided to drop their previous conversation.
"Oh, uh, not all of it!" the Dalmatian laughed. "I live downstairs. Other firefighter dogs live upstairs."
"Are they home?"
"Sometimes they are. It depends on how busy they get."
"And what about your folks?"
He shook his head, entering the garage. "My parents are barely home. They're busy like always."
"So they won't mind you having someone over?" Chase quirked another inquiry.
Marshall chortled awkwardly. That…was a good question. What would they think? He never thought he had to deal with that issue, and probably his parents too.
He placed his paw on the pad and the door beeped open. The Dalmatian ventured in, while Chase waited self-consciously at the front doggy door. Marshall then popped back in view.
"Uhhh, not at all! My father is always working, not coming back till late. And mom…um, she probably won't be home for awhile, which means we would have the entire place to our-"
"Marshall!"
The said pup blinked dumbly, gawking as he twirled around. "Moooom?"
She smiled, jogging lightly over. "I know, I'm never home on Tuesdays." She giggled.
"Why you look so surprised?"
"I-I thought you were gonna be at work!"
"I was training a new EMT pup today. It was short, so I came back at noon."
Marshall was floored. He wasn't prepared for anyone to ask him about –!
"Marshall love, who's this?" Pippa's eyes went straight to the door, noticing the extra pup.
Her son began panicking. "Um, this is, uh…Chase."
Pippa's smile was infectious, as if the sun was beaming down at her. "Marshall! Why didn't you tell me you were going to invite a friend over?"
"I didn't know – "
"Oh, this is exciting. I didn't even prepare snacks." Suddenly her eager composure cooled to a professional yet friendly stance. "My name is Pippa, Canine Doctor and EMT trainer at Trix City Central Animal Hospital. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Chase nodded. "Nice meeting you too ma'am."
She laughed, turning to Marshall. "He's so polite!" She snapped back her eyes to the German Shepard. "It's a delight for you to be at our house. I didn't even know Marshall had friends from the K-9 school."
Chase looked surprised. She must have noticed his police tag.
"Marshall, go take your friend to your room while I clean up a bit. I'll even make some snacks for you both! Do you mind puppy treats Chase? It's what we have while I make some proper dog food."
"Uh, it's fine with me ma'am." Marshall looked extremely paranoid. He eye-glanced at Chase, silently indicting him to follow, which he clearly understood. The two ventured to a room down the hall.
"Hehe," Marshall had a nervous laugh, once closing the door. "Sorry about that. But!" he smiled. "This is my room. Uh, welcome!"
The room walls were entirely made out of red brick. There was a large red pup bed in the corner, and a toy chest across from it (Ironically all the toys were scattered across the floor). Nearby was a hook with several things on it, like collars, a winter suit, and strangely a worn out firefighter helmet. Yet, the most striking thing was the endless array of posters placed on the walls, harbouring images of cartoon characters and comic book heroes. Apollo was among them.
Chase took a look around the room, and Marshall silently wished he cleaned up earlier (he never lets his father come in, biscuits forbid he did), but it wasn't like he knew he was having a friend over today. It was also worrying that Chase had a neutral face observing his room. Oh gosh was his room too puppyish? Chase was cool after all. Thankfully Mr. Snuggles was tucked away somewhere hidden.
"Sorry about the mess." He lamely said, itching his head. "I uh, it's not that messy…most of the time."
Chase shook his head. "It's fine. I just never saw so much stuff before. It makes your room feel…real. Like someone lived in it before."
"What about your room?" Marshall asked. "Is it...uh, messy or neat?"
"Dunno. Guess neat. There's the standard stuff they give us: A bed, your bowls, and a chest to hold your stuff in."
"Do you have to share a room?"
He nodded. "But it's pretty big, so I guess it's fine. My roommate has a lot of books about K-9 dogs. I think he said his dad was a K-9 too… Lend me a few stuff to read."
"Whoa…that's nice of him."
"I guess."
"Can you decorate your side of the room with personal stuff? Or just the stuff they gave you?"
"You can decorate," he added, "But I don't."
"Why?"
He shrugged. "I'm okay with the stuff they gave me."
"Really?" He cocked his head to the side.
Chase nodded.
Marshall wasn't content with that answer. "Hey! I know! I'll give you something to add to your room!" He began digging into his chest, carelessly throwing out toys.
Chase walked up behind him. "Uh, you don't have to Marshall. Really."
"But Chase..." shuffle. "You gotta have something fun in your room. Oh! I think I have a poster somewhere –"
Squeak!
The two pups looked down, and Marshall's face embarrassingly lit like a flame at seeing what Chase stepped on.
The German Shepard blinked, picking up the toy with his paw.
"I'll put it away!" Marshall lunged for the teddy bear, and Chase didn't fight over it, giving it to him calmly. The Dalmatian began shoving the toy into a chest.
"I don't play with him. Hehe, Mr. Snuggles is just something I was a little puppy when I got scared!"
"Mr. Snuggles?"
Marshall face-pawed, groaning in dismay. So much for subtly.
Chase appeared to chuckle, grabbing the Dalmatian's attention. "Nothing wrong with it." I…actually have a toy myself."
"Y-You do?"
"Yeah. A doggy bone. Looks a bit cartoony, and it even squeaks." Then a very brief smile. "But I like it."
"I never thought you would play with toys."
He snorted. "Me either."
"But…you didn't play with the ones I brought to recess."
"To be honest I didn't know how to play with them. I mean, you already knew so many games. I was just getting used to Apollo."
Marshall jumped up, his tail wagging. "D-Do you want to grab more? Because I can! Oh! My newest comic is in the living room." He opened the door, not bothering to see in front of him. "I'll go grab it and – "
And the Dalmatian bumped into something sturdy.
He stood there dumbly for a few seconds, slowly taking in the situation that…huh, his father was right in front of him. That's odd.
Oh biscuits, his father was here?!
Marshall immediately bounced away as if his father's fur burned him, then stiffening like a rock, nervously keeping gaze away from the dog.
"H-Hi father. I didn't realize you were gonna be home today."
Almost a deprecating façade dotted the dog, and he side-glanced at the scene behind his son. A frown appeared immediately.
"Who is this?"
"Oh, Max," Pippa came around the bend, her head poking out. "This is Chase. Marshall's friend from the K-9 academy."
His brow rose slightly at that mention.
"They're having a pup playdate today. They'll be in his room for the majority of it." A reassuring smile was on her face. "Hope you don't mind."
His face remained aloff and Max turned away.
"One cacophonic sound, and he leaves."
Marshall nodded vigorously.
Once the dog left, and moments of silence ensured, Marshall sighed a large breath of relief, his form sagging.
"…That's Maximilian?" Chase said, his voice showing no inflection.
Marshall shrugged half-heartedly. "Heh, yeah. My father alright."
Chase looked like he was contemplating, but ultimately said, "You look like him."
The Dalmatian drew a weak laugh. And that's all I have from him, Marshall bitterly thought.
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"So the project is a go?!"
"Yes," A Mellonwah dog commented, rubbing his head with his paw. "And stop yelling."
"Sorry!" The Beagle gestured, laughing. "I'm just excited to be a part of this project. This is my first time assigned on something so…experimental. I have expressed interest in the project, but it to finally become a reality…"
"Well straighten up." He hushed, "Top agents will be overseeing this W.O.O.F., FBI. I don't want them thinking we're goofing off."
"Of course!"
"Okay, now that's settled..." The dark-fur dog pulled a large metal box with his teeth, and then gesturing towards it with is head. "These are prototypes for all the positions the future P.A.W. Patrol members will have. We need to transfer these to the Lab immediately."
"Wow…" The Beagle, known as Comet, had wide eyes, observing them overhead. "These are the final products?"
"Of course not. These are prototypes. The finals are still in progress."
"But still, these are amazing…can't believe pups will be operating such advanced machinery. And we're only selecting two positions right now?" Comet then pulled the box with his colleague, eventually dragging it all the way to the hauler. He sighed after the slight struggle. "Strange."
"Well, I figured it's only the beginning of the project." The other dog said. His name revealed to be Odin. "They'll expand when needed."
As the two continued their task, the Beagle's eyes noticed something peculiar happening across the atrium. A boy was there, probably around the age of eight or nine, wearing a red v-neck vest with a collared shirt underneath. His hair was wild, wearing slacks, runners, and a pair of thick-rimmed glasses.
"Who's the runt?"
Odin looked pleasantly surprised. "Wow, he's here. Didn't think he'll show up."
"What? Who? The kid?"
The Mellonwah rolled his eyes. "You don't know who that is?"
"No…?"
"That's Newton."
The W.O.O.F. agent grimaced. "But…I thought Professor Newton was taller. And more of a human adult.
"No you bucklehead that's his son. Mr. Newton himself has already passed."
"Ah. I see."
"Weren't you at the funeral?"
"Actually, I wasn't. On mission."
They pulled another box, prepping it for transport.
"Say, Agent Odin,"
"Yes?"
"Is his son finishing the projects?"
"No idea. His son is a genius just like the Professor, so perhaps. But he hasn't been at this base for several years. I doubt he knows the running of this place."
Comet continued to stare at the boy, and at that moment, the human's eyes turned to him.
"Um, Agent Odin?"
"What now Agent Comet?"
"The kid is looking at me."
Odin was flabbergasted. "D-Don't just stare back! Look away!"
"I can't! It's obvious! This is an awkward stare contest!"
Odin with a huff pushed the dog behind some boxes, forcing his comrade to continue walking.
"Hm. Thank you."
Odin rolled his terse eyes and grumbled to himself.
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.
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"Pass the ball Chase!"
"Are you sure you can reach far?" it became a habit of his to question the Dalmatian.
"Yeah," he wagged his tail, "C'mon!"
"Alright. Here goes." Chase with a small growl pounced at the ball, and the object flung into the air. Marshall barked and rushed to grab it, his legs crossing each other closely without any attention to where he was going.
"I got it! I got it! I got – " his eyes blinked in sheer surprise, peering down at the hill that was just under him. "Whoa, whoooaaa!"
"Marshall!"
Oh boy how the Dalmatian was rapidly tumbling down. He felt like a bullet, speeding out of control.
Then suddenly, he was catapulted into the air.
He was flying through the sky for several seconds, and he thought he was gonna land hopefully on a bush somewhere, out of harm's way. But of course, in a blur, he noticed a semi-tall figure standing where he was landing.
"Watch Oooouuuuuuut!"
Marshall crunched his eyes, ready to endure the impact, but for the oddest of reasons, he felt no brash force eliciting on his fur.
Instead he felt as if something holding him.
Peeking open one eye, he suddenly realized that indeed something was holding him. "Huh?" His eyes widened, scrambling around to see where the heck he was, and when he glanced up, saw confused brown eyes gazing down.
Oh biscuits, a person was holding him!
"Arf!" he barked. "Sorry! I uh, didn't mean to hurt you! Did you get hurt?"
The person laughed. It was a boy, probably no older than ten, smiling. "It's okay pup." The ball suddenly bounced right into Marshall's paws. "It was strangely unexpected." He put Marshall down, and the Dalmatian began wagging his tail. It was always easier talking to a human who understood dog.
Marshall cooked his head in a curious fashion. "I never thought children would be allowed here. Are you a Firefighter's son? Police's? Oh, someone's owner?!"
"Marshall!" Chase was speeding towards him, looking partially concerned. "Are you okay?"
"Hehe, yup! I'm good."
Chase nodded at that confirmation, seeing the pup standing and acting nonchalant, but when his eyes flickered to the boy beside Marshall, his face morphed into his usual impassive stare.
"Oh, it's you again."
The boy didn't betray any emotion in his voice, laced with formality, but smiled. "Hello Chase."
Marshall darted his head between his friend and the boy. "Uh… you guys know each other?"
"Not really." The boy continued, shrugging, his face remaining calm. "Just circumstances."
Marshall was beyond confused, especially with slight tension somehow in the air. Yet, he felt it coming more from Chase than anything.
So, with his usual friendly self, decided to break it.
"Do you want to play catch with us?!"
Chase immediately recoiled at that.
The boy was caught off guard. "Play?"
"Yeah! It would be more fun with three instead of two." He turned to Chase, smiling a cheerful glow, and adding another look of silent approval. "Is that fine with you Chase?"
The German Shepard opened his mouth for a response but sealed it back shut, quietly debating.
Marshall waited, but the boy waved his hands in dismissal. "It's okay. I don't want to bother you pups playing. I bet you don't get much free time, especially with training."
Marshall's shoulders sagged in awareness. Oh right. He was Marshall, the clumsy can't-do anything right pup at campus. This boy probably knew about his reputation of not being the most…efficient pup. Especially after his enormous falling introduction minutes earlier, he actually wasn't surprised the boy didn't reject him earlier. "Oh, uh hehe, that's…okay. Sorry to bother. I thought it would be fun to play with three instead of two, and um, yeah, it wouldn't be a bother if you played with us! We actually do get a lot of free time, like we get an hour to play, and wow, it could fly by so quickly now, especially if you have someone to play with it– "
"Okay."
Marshall snapped his head back, surprise etched on his face.
Eyes were on Chase, shrugging his shoulders as he looked towards the human and eventually Marshall. "It…it's fine. I just figured...he had other things to do."
The boy chuckled lightly. "I actually don't have much on my schedule. But…I'm glad I'm invited to play. Haven't explored this base in a...very long time."
Marshall didn't bother asking what he meant by that, as the prospect of a new playmate (even if he was human) was exciting. "Okay! Since you, uh, have hands, you can throw the ball. Me and Chase will race to catch it."
"Okay." He shoved his hands into his trouser pockets. "The name's Ryder. What's yours?"
"Oh! It's Marshall. And uh, I'm guessing you met Chase already haha."
Ryder nodded, picking up the ball. "Ready?"
"Arf! We are!" Marshall began jogging off, and Chase stood where he was, his eyes still lingering on Ryder before joining the pup.
Ryder darted his eyes between the pups, and then with a strong lift threw the ball far. Marshall decided to get it, running wildly before gripping the ball. He staggered but smiled nevertheless.
He blitzed back to Ryder, giving him the ball.
"Ready for the next one?"
They nodded.
Ryder threw it far, and Marshall bounced to reach it, but missing the ball by a snag. The ball was heading to the pound.
"Chase! You got – !"
The pup was racing before he finished, and with a mighty jump, clenched it with his teeth.
The German Shepard returned the ball back to Ryder, dropping it in his hand. "Good throw."
"Not really pups," Ryder replied, smiling in politeness. "You guys are the great catchers."
"Hehe, Chase is better though!" Marshall added, laughing. "Even the first time, he was speedy."
"Well, you both did a great job. Academy's training you well." his brown eyes turned to the sky, and the pups watched him in sight curiously at what he was going to do next. He then looked down, smiling vaguely. "Let's have another round."
Despite the shaky start, the three played till the bell rang. Perhaps even a little after that.
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"Class," Mr. Murphy smiled in sheer pride, with his class being in full attendance. "W.O.O.F. has proposed an extremely special project for pups like yourself." He waited for a dramatic pause, looking over his notes sprawled across the dog table.
"Anyone has an idea?"
A pup raised his paw.
"And it does not include expanding the cafeteria menu."
The paw went down.
He cleared his throat. "A select few will have the opportunity to become one of the first members… of the P.A.W. Patrol!"
"The P.A.W. what now?" Ruby grimaced in confusion. "P.A.W. Parol?"
"P.A.W. Patrol, my dear pup. It means the Protection Ally Watchdog Patrol. The first of its kind to only be operated by pups."
Every single pup was wide in disbelief. Marshall blinked in awe, sitting from his pup desk from the third row.
"Yes, I see you're all shocked. And you should be! Getting into this will boost your career stupendously. Only the best of the best will get in. You will, of course, receive a human leader, who is still being currently selected. You'll be redistributed into a new location, being the only law enforcement there is to test your abilities continuously. And of course, having the opportunity to use new advanced rescue equipment designed for this group."
He continued. "And the amazing news is that it's open for all pups to sign up on. I must warn though, getting in won't be easy. It will be extremely hard. Guarantee half who will sign will not have their application looked at a second glance!"
Sparky asked, "So they'll check our grades and skills? What if it's not the best?"
"Doesn't hurt to apply. Like I say, trying is never failure."
"Is it offered just to us?" Waltz questioned.
"No, the K-9 school is offered this as well. So, the first members will consist of one pup from this school, and the other from theirs."
The class howled in anticipation.
"Here's the process…"
As Mr. Murphy continued to talk, Marshall's mind was reeling the information. The P.A.W. Patrol huh? He never knew W.O.O.F. was creating something so…so uh, out there! Already performing rescues at their age was something a pup like himself could only daydream about. He would be doing what he wanted to do for so long.
And how Mr. Murphy was explaining this, it seemed this program would be hard to get into. Marshall knew he couldn't handle pressure too well, but to become a Firedog, he knew he needed to overcome it someday. Even like his fear of flying. (but he shuddered – that is to be handled for another day).
Marshall then briefly thought of his father, and wondered if signing up for this would make him proud. Maybe…if he got in, his father would be proud of him! Then finally Marshall could clear his name.
His thoughts then suddenly trailed to Chase. He wondered if the German Shepard would want to join too.
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.
.
"Honestly, Marshall…No. No way."
"What?!"
The German Shepard pointed his paw down on the comic. "There is no way Apollo will win the fight with Fang Wolf. He's way too strong."
"You forgot about his sidekick."
Chase frowned. "He's not even in the same country as him. I think he's toast. Unless Cat Eye wonder will help him, which I doubt since she was the one who trapped him, he's a goner."
"Hey, but with the medicine he got from Professor Dog, he can totally power up. And Cat Eye Wonder will change! You'll see."
Chase rolled his eyes. He was still in denial.
Marshall laughed at the sight. He never had conversations like this. It was nice, for someone to have similar interests with you. He could debate about the plot and characters for hours.
As Chase began explaining carefully how Apollo was definitely going to lose, Marshall interpreted. "Uh, Chase?"
He stopped, his focused glance becoming a reply.
"Did you hear, uh, about that thing? About the P.A.W. Patrol?"
"Oh, that." A brief pause, and Chase kept his face neutral. "What about it? You wanna join?"
"Uhhhh, yeah. Kinda, kinda not…." Chase quirked a brow, and Marshall suddenly felt nervous. "Yeah, I think. Ugh! No! Maybe!" He slugged to the ground, his paws on his head.
"What's making you unsure?" Chase asked.
"I'm…I'm confused, I think."
"You think?"
"Yeah, I…" he sat back up, his head low and sighing before uttering his feelings. "Like, what if I mess up? Or if I fail miserably? I don't want to disappoint anyone. And besides, there's a lot of other pups who could probably do the job better."
He continued to listen.
"But…it sounds amazing! Like I could learn so much, do more, than what I'm doing here. I can start rescuing people, pups, cats, everyone! I'll be making a difference. And… I don't think there's a better feeling than that."
Chase's eyes were stunned in silence, and Marshall, finally getting out of his musings, noticed his friend's startled face."Uh, what?"
Chase shook his head. "Nothing."
"C'mon! Tell me."
"…Well," he cleared his throat, almost nervous. "I was uh, thinking about joining too."
"NO WAY!"
Chase's fur stood up straight.
"Sorry, hehe uh, I'm just so shocked. B-But that's great!" he bounced up on his paws. "I was hoping you'll wanna do it too."
"You were?"
"Uh-huh! If we both sign up, then maybe we can both get the spots together!" he laughed. "Can you image? It'll be fun to have a friend part of it!"
Chase visibly flinched, and oh Marshall suddenly felt like he did something terribly wrong.
"I'm your friend?" Chase said plainly, and Marshall sweatdropped profusely.
Oh no. Maybe he should have thought it through better. He realized for awhile Chase wasn't exactly open as he was, never stating what their relationship was, but he didn't think saying friend was gonna ignite such a horrible reaction! His fears were creeping into his head again, those little tormenting thoughts were bubbling inside him.
Was Marshall really that bad of a pup that no one wanted to be friends with him?
His mind was spinning out of control, and he stuttered out, "If you wanted to! Like, if you don't want to be friends that's okay. I-I always say things without thinking clearly –"
But to his surprise, he saw Chase smile. Smile! "…Okay."
"And I know I'm not the coolest that – WHAAAT?!" he gasped. "Y-Y-You wanna be friends with m-me?"
"I kinda figured we were already." Chase for once seemed to relax his posture. "But it sounds weird to me when someone actually says it." He looked to the Dalmatian, his mouth still reeling in shock.
"Why do you look so surprised?"
"It's just well," he rubbed his head bashfully. "Didn't think you wanted to be friends with me. I never had a friend before."
"Me neither."
Another gasping moment. "B-But you're so cool Chase! When I first met you I thought you had a lot of friends!"
"No. Never had one. And uh, I don't think I'm cool or anything."
Marshall leaned against the tree. Chase never had a friend? That was impossible. Granted, Chase said he wasn't necessarily close to the other K-9 pups, but Marshall figured he had friends back at Detmold. Did it have something to do with his life as a street pup?
He shook his head. No, that's a silly reason! Maybe Chase simply had no time. Besides, a pup as cool as him wouldn't have trouble making friends like he had.
It was still baffling why the German Shepard was still hanging out with him.
"So…uh, Chase?" Marshall had a small smile. "I can call you friend?"
Chase looked content at that notion. "Yeah."
"So you wanna join with me?! Wanna join P.A.W. Patrol together?"
"It'll be hard…" Chase pondered, and the pup was watching him curiously. "But I think we can do it. We did kill it with the last obstacle."
"We did, didn't we?!" Chase nodded. "Okay!" Marshall jumped up, determination and excitement ready to burst. "Let's promise to make to the end together!"
"Yeah. Let's do this Marshall!"
The Dalmatian barked, and he lifted his paw up, extremely high, which the German Shepard stared briefly in question. Yet, with a tiny smile, returned the good gesture and lifted his own paw, slamming it with his.
It was the first time either of them ever gave a high-paw to someone.
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"Wow, pup," Orson drawled. "So ya'll really doing it then?"
The Dalmatian beside him nodded. Marshall came by after school to visit the senior dog at the station, which thankfully wasn't as busy as he thought it was going to be. The two were at the usual spot, a view of the little garden, sitting at the edge of the station's platform. "I really want to. I was unsure at first, but after talking to Chase about it, I realized it's what I wanna do."
His grey eyebrows knitted together. "Ahhh, the friend you mentioned! The one at the K-9 acad'emy?"
"Yeah! He was debating too, but we agreed we'll try together."
"Ah, shucks, that's real nice, friends tryin' together." Orson crinkled a tired smile. "But I'm glad for yah Marshall."
Marshall looked genuinely confused. "About what Chief?"
"About you finding a friend. Told yah it would happen. Even Rosco was glad you got a new friend. And yah mom, oh my," he chuckled. "She be prancing around like a little bunny. Guess we're tryin' to say, we're happy."
"I told her it wasn't a big deal." Marshall laughed.
"I know, I know, but hey, you're the pup in your family. Well, on your father's side." His eyes suddenly brightened. "Did yah tell her about trying for the P.A.W. Patrol?"
"Uhhhh, hehe, no. Not yet."
The senior was baffled. "Why not?"
"Well, uh I'm… planning to make it a surprise! Hehe, yeah! Surprise! And for my father too." He began waving his paw away. "They don't need to know right away."
Orson shock his head. "Ah pup, well…I can't force yah. But they'll find out eventually."
"I know."
"But good luck though."
"Thanks Chief!"
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Only two weeks later, the pups heard who was accepted into the first round.
Marshall's teeth were chattering in anxiousness, fearful that for some terrible reason, his name wouldn't make the cut. He wasn't the top student, but he was in the top class. Granted, he was in the bottom of the class… but still! That had to mean something.
Yet to his dumbfounded surprise, his blue eyes saw his name on the list.
"Pups, welcome to the honour of the first P.A.W. Patrol Tryout!" The dog stood tall, accompanied by three dogs and two humans. "After careful examination, we decided your group was the most successful for the position of the Firepup."
Marshall peered his eyes around the field. Most pups were in his class he recognized, and of course, Champ was sitting smugly at the awaiting orders. What he didn't expect was Misty being there. He didn't even know she signed up.
"Okay, we'll begin with drills. Let's see how much you can keep up!"
As the trials began, Marshall swore he and his classmates became meat to the teachers. No matter what they did, eyes were heavily watching them, scrutinizing every gesture and movement they did. It made Marshall feel like they statues, or paintings people had to look at in museums.
The sessions took place four times a week, immediately after school, for three straight hours, and biscuits, that was hard. Chase had the same experience, and for once his German Shepherd friend looked tired from the training when the met up after. It was a struggle to even get home without feeling an ache on their puppy body.
He remembered his mom asking what he was doing that was so tiring, and Marshall kept excusing it was playing. For some reason he couldn't tell her, and he honestly didn't know why. He knew she'll figure it out eventually. Perhaps that was it.
With his father it was easy. He never questioned Marshall's behaviour, never once inquired about it. (In fact, Marshall doesn't even remember when he actually said anything besides correcting him). Besides, his father was B.A.R.K. 's leader. He'll know soon.
Oh biscuits, he'll know soon.
Uh, he'll think about it later.
"Marshall."
The pup's ears bolted up, recognizing that voice from anywhere. He turned and was stunned she was walking towards him. "Uh, Misty! Hi!"
She jerked her head to the side, watching him, and Marshall felt his face flaming. "Hehe, what?"
"Your face is red. Must be tired from the workout I see."
Oh that's what she was looking at! Thank goodness. "Y-Yeah! It really works out a sweat."
"True." She giggled. "Or you think I'm cute." She laughed even louder, seeing the pup becoming flustered. "You're funny Marshall. Very…nice."
"Huh?" that stalled him, blinking, but he had a bashful smile. "Really?"
"Yes Marshall."
"Heh, uh, t-thank you Misty. I think you're nice too."
"I am, aren't I?" She sighed, drawing out concern from the Dalmatian. "If only the world would be as nice as you."
"Why do you say that?"
"Well, this P.A.W. Patrol thing." She continued, her green eyes gazing outward. "I really, really want this. I think I'll burst from happiness if I get it. Only two will move on, compete for the position. I already know who's gonna get it one of them."
"Uh, Champ?"
"Of course!" she bellowed. "That Boxer always does. So obviously there is one spot left."
"Yeah…" he quietly whispered, realizing the importance of it.
He suddenly flinched when she swerved her head extremely close to his, their muzzles almost touching. "You like me, don't you Marshall?"
It was if lightning struck him! He couldn't move, freezing and for sure his face skipped blushing and went into a flustering purple. "I-I-I-I –"
"It's okay, you don't have to say anything." She continued, her eyes remaining where they were. "If you like me, would you do something for me?"
He gulped, his heart beating louder by the second. "O-Okay."
She got impossibly closer, edging near his ear. "Drop the P.A.W. Patrol."
Any warmth radiating within him immediately dried out. "What?"
"Marshall, understand. I truly feel like I'm meant to do more, and if I could do this…it would mean the world to me. I know I can beat Champ if I do so. I just need the opportunity."
"W-Why are you asking only me?" he staggered back, giving small space between them.
"Because you're nice!" she exclaimed, her green eyes hopeful. "And as I said, the world isn't as nice as you."
Marshall was stumped. He was pretty sure his face was looking very stupid right now. Out of all the things she asked, she wanted him to do this? For sure, if asked him this request several weeks ago, there would be no qualms about it! He would have easily given up on his dream for her.
But why was he hesitant now?
Well, he was more uh, determined now. And a bit more confident too. Was that it?
Did a small part of him believe he could be more than a failure? An actually somebody?
"Marshall," he blinked in surprise, and her gaze was sturdy at him. "Well? Will you help me? Defeat Champ?"
"Misty…"
"I have never asked anything before from you. If you do this…I would never forget it. I'll owe you."
Why, why did Misty have to ask him? Ask him anything else! And her eyes...oh they looked so hopeful!
"I…I would love to help you Misty, really I would…"
Her smile brightened.
"But I…can't." he stumbled over his words, his eyes widening at what exactly he was saying, to the girl of his dream of all pups.
She sounded genuinely surprised. "You-You won't?"
Oh how he hated her disappointed look, but with another gulp, he forced himself to continue. "I want to try this Misty. As much as you want this, I want it too. And I don't wanna give up! Even if I fail, at least I know I gave it my all."
He instantly cringed. Great, he rambled too! He honestly didn't know how she would respond. He never saw Misty upset, (he didn't even believe she had one cruel bone in her body!) but nevertheless was anxious about her outcome. And scared. Definitely scared.
"Okay."
Marshall flung open one eye. "Huh?"
"I said okay." She continued, and she was oddly calm. "I…think I understand."
"Misty!" a voice called in the distance, a pup from their class from Marshall's recognition. "Where are you Misty?!"
"I better get going now." She turned on her back paw and began walking back.
"Wait! Misty!" she paused, side-glancing at the Dalmatian who exclaimed her name. His paw was out, but he retreated it, giving a timid smile. "Don't be mad. Please. W-We can still be friends. And besides, you're amazing. Y-You'l probably beat me anyway."
"Then why won't you quit?" she replied, voice levelled yet curious. "If you know you're gonna lose, then why continue?"
"Because like I said…" he took a deep breath, having an encouraging smile. "I want to try. And I won't give up till I do."
(And he actually believed what he said was true).
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A/N: Thank you to all those who continuously read, comment and follow my work! (critique/suggestions are welcomed!) ^_^
P.S REVIEW!
Till next time,
mokocchii