DISCLAIMER: I do not own PAW Patrol, the characters, or any association of the series.
HELLO READERS! Wow, amazing replies to the last chap! Everyone is so responsive. And because of your amazing reception I have reached the 100 REVIEW MARK! This is my first story to hit that, and it's all because of this spectacular community I've been able to reach it. Happy New Years guys! (here's my present to you) AND HOLY SNAP 10 000 words this chapter! Hey, I gotta end it boss like for Marshall.
Also, want to give kudos to SkorpioPrince for letting me use your amazing drawing as the cover of my fic! Cannot appreciate it more. Guys you should check out their work. It's amazing *~*
Comments!
Guest – Haha if Champ and Chase fought it would end so quick! And we would all know who would win by a mile *wink wink*
Aura – Aww, thank you! And wow, thanks for thinking I'm part of the top dogs in the fandom. (get it? Cause the series is about dogs…*awkward crickets* ) Hehe, anyway, I'm hoping my story would eventually be the top three, (heck, number one), for reviews but thank you for reading this. I'm happy you enjoy the characterization. It's something I have heavy focus on.
PBJNachos – Yeah, there was definitely a lot of drama in this. Especially the fighting (poor Marshall never experienced fighting! Thankfully Chase was there to help). Next chapter will be out soon hopefully. I want to get the ball started on the next pup!
marcogalmich – Yeah, Misty was a bitch in this. Like, she was partly ashamed she was doing this to him, but she was too bitter to think of his feelings, and wanted to get back at him. And damn she used his feelings to get what she wanted. Shows how low she really was. And it sucks Marshall had a crashing reality that not everyone is as nice as they seem. And I'm happy I added that first fight between Marshall and Chase. Even though the get along a lot, how they think and feel are VERY different. Shows how amazing dynamic friendships can be.
mdmpinkie9088 - lol thank you! And HAHA your reaction to Misty's request. I also hate the name Misty too. (But not the one from pokemon, she has a special place in my heart). And sorry I don't update my profile too often! Thanks for reminding me to change it up. I'm actually surprised people read it lol.
enfreakomoron – LOL yup you were right. Intuition on point.
Magical20 – Yeah, Misty was playing him. And she even led him to the area where she knew Champ would show up. BUT the interactions between Chase and Marshall are super nice. They have a really strong friendship, and it's a driving force for the first arc (hint hint)
Zuma lover – yes I'm writing Skye next.
Mayor Humdinger – In time my friend. I don't have a set date when I'll start writing each pup, but for sure the next one will happen quickly after Marshall's.
Beau670 – Hmm, I would have to say Chase. Out of all the pups I feel he's the most sarcastic and mature of the bunch, and to see him in the show react to things (like the merpups) was hilarious in my eyes, since he doesn't believe in childish stuff. Hence, I wanted to create a backstory for him that would reflect his maturity, and why he can be kinda mean even when he doesn't mean it. (like the episode when Marshall ran away).
However, in terms of personality that is similar to me, it would actually be Marshall. We're both clumsy, love making jokes, and enjoy our daily dose of cartoons/comics!
Xilper 37 – I don't know if I'll add a huge fire scene, and Chase telling a story, uh, I don't either. I haven't figured out how I start each story telling or recap (because technically Marshall's thinking about his time at the academy)
Kezia – Aww thank you! Your words touch me. I do have more fanfics in store, as well I am in writing of my own original stories. I'm still debating which formatting I should make my stories though, in script or novel lol.
Guest – Haha a lot of reviews asked that question, and it's a simple reason: the story must progress. If he didn't die, then Chase would have remained at the Detmold Academy, hence never meeting Marshall, and Marshall would have never wanted to join the P.A.W. Patrol because of his lacking confidence. A very different story would have played out.
GhostEmpire – Well I'm honored! And yes I like to dive into detail, but never too much as we sometimes like good old action haha. Especially with the OCs I'm throwing in, I try to give balance between the main cast and OCs. Dude you're like a superfan! (got your latest PM) Glad I deliver.
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The next few days were strenuously awkward.
When coming back to school with a partially swollen eye and supposed bully with a bandaged arm, it was guarantee questions were gonna be thrown. All the pups were whispering with stunned eyes, commenting on the two. A few had the courage to speak to Marshall.
"Woah, what happened to you?"
"Your eye! Wow, ran into something?"
"Are you suspended?!"
"Hey, did you win the fight?"
"Is it true you beat up Champ?"
"Okay, enough pups!" Mr. Murphy exclaimed, shaking his head. "Now sit before the trainer comes in!"
Marshall quietly sat down, being discrete as possible when taking out his textbook. Eventually the pups that crowded him were now around Champ, and even he looked baffled. After another shout by the teacher, the pups sat down, and soon they resumed the lesson. After what felt like another lecture about the respect of privacy spewed by, a knock raptured at the door, and a human firefighter came in.
Marshall's mind then dimmed from the lesson, instead taking a hesitant glance at the pup who sat in the first row. Misty was there, watching the human attentively. After brief seconds of staring, her green eyes flickered to the side, as if she sensed someone was observing her. Startled, Marshall glanced away, staring at the window.
It still hurt what she did. Yeah, Champ's punch weren't the softest, but injuries heal. Marshall's eye would get better soon, cured before the final race, but his feelings…he didn't know how to deal with that. Chase knew briefly what she did, and as usual, kept his opinion to himself. Champ was different, as they both have an adamant dislike to the dog, (and Chase made it very obvious he did not like the Boxer, ever since the fight).
But… Misty was another thing. Marshall liked her. Her. Ever since the first day of Firepup Academy, her eyes, her smile, her laugh, how she carried herself…it was all so enthralling to Marshall. Before just the sheer thought of her made him blush madly, but now it was replaced with an icky sense of dread. For awhile he wanted to convince himself maybe it was peer pressure she did that, or Champ and his demanding ways made her do it, but voice of reason was being loud for the past days. He knew the truth, and to that, he tried not think of it, and focus on getting better.
That also led to another problem. Marshall and Champ were the only pups who had injuries from the fight, so automatic suspicion was directed at Chase if he was the one who drew both blows. Marshall quickly advocated speaking for his friend, but Chase strangely dismissed it and said he could handle it on his own. Thankfully, it turned out fine when he returned from the head master's office – the only downside was how he received suspension for an extra day because of the injury he inflicted on Champ. (Which made no sense to Marshall, as Champ didn't get the same punishment as Chase). Yeah, maybe Chase's bite did draw blood, but it wasn't like he wanted to fight! He only did it to help him. Marshall felt terribly guilty, but Chase said he didn't care (and quietly suggested Champ got it coming). Thus, on the day Marshall returned, he was on his own.
For once, Champ wasn't boasting about him winning the fight or such. Instead, he was grumpy and extremely snappy when approached, even by his friends. However, the few times he looked complacent was when he had to use his injured paw, which he yelped everytime if someone bumped into him (ironically Sparky). For once the smug looking dog seemed to be tamed for moment's notice, all because of the injury.
But Marshall didn't come out of this unscathed either if forgetting the eye. When he was picked up at the office, biscuits, he had never seen his mother so frantic before! It seemed she was trying to be mad, but like her son, she was incapable of doing so, worried more than anything. Guess the odd thing he had to deal with his mom was his lack of communication, how he didn't mention neither the "bullying" problem nor his involvement in the P.A.W. Patrol.
"Marshall, sweetie, you should have told me." She said on their walk home.
"I know mom."
"And why didn't you?"
Somehow, an image of an empty firehouse came into his mind, with him standing alone.
He tried to shake it off. "Uh, you know, hehe, you're all busy and all! And I was busy, so it probably slipped my mind. A lot has happened these past few days."
Pippa arched a brow, but nevertheless smiled reassuringly. "Well, please tell me next time. Even if your father and I are busy. A note would have been fine."
"Hehe, okay mom!"
She continuously asked him if he was fine, doting to his every need, despite her son's insistence of independence. It was nice, Marshall noted, even if it was only a day. Because the morning after she was left for work, and again it was with her little happy notes and prepped meals.
He didn't see his father except that time at the school, (possibly kept himself at headquarters), which left Marshall at a mixed state. On the one hand he was relieved he didn't have to face the aftermath of his father's reaction, but he knew sooner or later he would see him again. That thought alone made Marshall shrink.
The bell rang, and Marshall recoiled in shock, realizing school was over. He threw his bag over his back and headed outside.
He grazed the path he always walked on, and for a moment he wanted to go see Chief Orson. However, as kind as he was, the dog was probably busy, or would side with his mother that he should have said something earlier about his situation. Sighing, he resumed his walk back home.
"Now who do I see with my little doggy eye?"
Marshall jumped around, searching and finally spotting the voice of origin. "R-Rosco!"
The Border Collie smiled politely, who was sitting casually on a low park bench, specifically made for dogs. Marshall immediately ran to him, his grin growing happily.
"What are you doing here?!" the pup asked.
"Was doing a few errands, and decided to take a break! Are you heading home?"
"Yes I was."
"Yes? Oh no need to be formal Marshall!" he patted his back.
"Uh, r-right!" he stuttered. "I forgot."
"That's okay. It's just, oh, everyone is always so formal towards me. It's cumbersome to think no one wishes to be casual." He sighed.
"Cumbersome?"
"Ah, means unwieldy, awkward, clumsy! Look at me, saying I want to be informal yet here I am being formal." Rosco shock his head. "I sound like my father."
"Did you see Chief Orson?"
"Nope, I couldn't today. I had my business, he had his own. My father is surely too busy to see me."
"But you're a Council member!" Marshall invoked. "You're like, the top dog here! I bet everyone wants to see you."
"Haha, I wish! I'm new in this job, and the youngest member ever to join. Eyes are on me extra sternly, seeing if I do my job right."
Marshall sighed. "I know what you mean."
"Oh, don't fret Marshall! I'm sure you'll do fine with your test on Thursday. And your eye should heal nicely by then too, since they pushed the test back a week."
The Dalmatian squeaked, jittering nervously. "Y-You know about it too?!"
Rosco laughed openly. "How could I not? I know everything that happens."
Marshall cringed, catching the eye of the older dog.
"So you're, uh… disappointed too?"
"Disappointed?" Another laugh echoed through the air, and the pup was confused. "Oh Marshall not at all! In fact I am proud of you."
He was baffled. He wasn't going to get scolded? "Heh? You are?"
"How can I not be proud?" Rosco continued. "Perhaps the tactics weren't the most… elegant, but you stood up for yourself."
"Well, not really –"
"And I assume you cannot stand injustice. That's a wonderful trait to have. You will face many miscomings in our line of work. Remember to do what you can to help, and protect the peace of my fellow canines. Hopefully though you will have civil discussion with the pup so the matter can be moved along."
"Heh," Marshall glanced at his paws - tail beginning to wag. "Maybe."
"Your father and I do not always get along, but we always compromise for the greater good."
Marshall chuckled. "I don't know how you do it."
"You know what? I don't either."
They laughed, their voices booming joyfully in the park. Once it settled, they spoke briefly about what happened since they last spoke. Marshall was very animated about it, explaining his meeting with Chase, experience with the training, and even an update on the comics he's reading. Unlike Orson, Rosco knew what Apollo the Superpup was about, and was able to reply to the questions with context.
Ever since he was a newborn, Marshall loved it when Rosco came by their fire station. He reigned positively and charm, and taught Marshall the puppy games he knew so well. He had an aura you immediately wanted to tell everything, never judging your thoughts or words. Rosco always spoke up for Marshall whenever his family was coming too hard on him, and for that Marshall was grateful. The only downside was that he was as absent as his father, so seeing him was an extra sigh of relief that he was never alone. It seemed everyone around him was always busy.
While they continued to talk, Rosco chuckled lightly as he eyed in the distance. "Oh my. Looks like I've been found."
Marshall glanced to his senior's direction, and noticed a Belgian Malinois breed standing in the far distance.
He titled his head, turning back to Rosco. "Is he from the council?"
"Oh no. He's the K-9 Commissioner from Detmold."
"Detmold?!" Marshall jumped at the sound at the name. "That's where my friend comes from!"
"Really?" he looked surprised. "Well, I'll be. What a coincidence!"
They both stood on their four paws, stretching their legs contently.
"They sometimes come to our district, report their city stats and such. To be honest their visits aren't the most interesting." He added.
"Do you think he knows Chase?" Marshall asked, suddenly curious.
"I don't have the slightest idea! I could ask on your behalf."
"Uh, it's okay! I could just ask Chase myself." Marshall shook his head. "Like it's not that big of a deal hehe."
Rosco smiled. "Fine by me." He then bowed in departure. "I must be off! Good luck to you. I'll see you Friday."
"W-Wait!" he stumbled, and the dog turned back, waiting patiently. "Uh, how long is father staying on campus?"
"He's supposed to be on break," he huffed, his mouth pouting in disapproval. "But he's so stubborn, refusing to leave headquarters. I'll let you know as soon as I can pup."
"Thank you so much Rosco. You're the greatest!"
A light laugh ruffled in his throat. "I try to be."
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Friday came by too fast. Or too slow. Honestly, Marshall had no idea. His mind was barely getting the grip that the day had arrived. It was today. Not tomorrow, not next week. No, Today.
He swore he couldn't sleep the night before. He was too paranoid to get a decent rest. Throughout the night he either kept walking back and forth in his room, chewing on a toy, hugging Mr. Snuggles, partially crying, slamming his head into a pillow, ugh he was a mess.
Someone knocked. "Marshall?"
He snapped his head up. His mom was here?! Wasn't she suppose to be at the hospital?! Didn't she work the night shift?
Marshall tumbled out his circular pup bed, paw getting caught on a toy and his face falling to the floor.
"Marshall!" Pippa exclaimed. "What was that? Did you trip again?"
U-Uh, fine m-mom!" he shouted, the beating of his heart increasingly getting faster. He did not want her to come in and see how much of a mess he was right now. He couldn't relax. He actually couldn't bring himself to calm down. He knew the nerves got to him but this was disgustingly overwhelming. It wasn't going down!
"I uh, just came back from my shift. But I thought you'll be at school. It's already ten. Are you sick?"
"NO! I mean like," he cleared his throat. "N-Never felt better."
"Oh. Okay sweetie." More shuffling behind the door. "I'll make you breakfast before I go to bed. It'll be packed, so please eat before you leave. I don't think you're eating much lately."
Yeah, because of today, that's why! He wanted to shout, but he swallowed the thought. "Thanks mom."
"Want me to leave a note to Mr. Murphy? I'll explain you got up late today."
"Uh sure!"
"Alright. Get ready soon sweetie. I don't want you tired for your big day."
He gulped, the thought slamming into the center of his mind again.
Uh oh.
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Chase arrived fairly early to the testing grounds. To no surprise, there were dogs and people there already setting up the course. It was mostly completed, just finishing touches, and a bunch of officials talking to each other.
Now, ever since coming here, Chase had gotten more comfortable around authority, definitely not paranoid about them anymore, but still…he always felt a little uneasy around one, much less a group of them. So, he remained at the sidelines – talked to one official where he should go, and then they escorted him to a sitting area. He glanced to the dog seats beside him, and there in silence were three empty spots.
He didn't know where Champ was, but with Bruce he had a vague idea. Apparently he had a private trainer, a human one arranged by his parents or something. And after their general training lessons for the P.A.W. Patrol, Bruce would leave immediately with him. Guess he went with him before coming here.
Complied by the idea of training, Chase pondered about his ordeal state. Training wasn't hard, no, no, not at all, as the pup thrilled for the action. It made him more comfortable with himself, reassurance of his abilities and skills despite his young age. He trained extra hard yesterday (actually past his curfew, but tch when did he ever have a curfew?), staying up till who knew when. It was better doing that than blankly staring at the ceiling of his room, nothing by swirling thoughts clouding his judgment.
But as he wondered back to Marshall, he was curious where his friend (yes, finally Chase realized he was one) was at. He didn't see him at recess, tripping over something and shouting his name in the distance. It was really…odd, and unlike Marshall to not show up. But Chase tried not to fret over it. He'll ask him when he gets here.
His ears twitched. Someone was walking towards him.
Glancing up, he was slightly surprised at the sight of the human he was hovering beside him.
"Hey Chase." Ryder said, smiling respectfully.
"Oh." He was still reeled from Ryder's friendly approach, but thankfully Ryder didn't seem to notice. He shrugged, but nevertheless returned the good gesture. "Hi again."
"Ready for the big day?"
"I think so." He said, and it baffled him how quickly he responded. Ugh. He was probably picking up this habit from Marshall. "Well, I'm prepared. Ready as I'll ever be."
"That's good." He didn't look at Chase, rather at the course. He opted to sit on the bench near Chase. "Did you talk to Marshall?"
Ah, right. While they were ignoring each other, Ryder came to Chase while he was training alone. And made him talk. Ugh, why was everyone swaying him with talking?
"Yeah…I did." He concluded. "We're better now."
"Awesome!" he exclaimed, and Chase nearly jumped from his seat. "Oops, haha sorry pup. Got too excited. But I was worried about you two. You seemed like good friends."
He did not expect that. "We do?"
"Yeah. It must be nice. Having a friend."
His voice was gentle, hesitant yet longing, and...Chase didn't know how to respond to that. From how he was acting now, did Ryder ever have a friend before?
He snorted inwardly. Huh. Guess they had more in common than he thought.
"I wanted to thank you." Chase said, and this made Ryder turn his head. He looked funny with his human…glasses? (Honestly human culture was still weird to him). "For listening. And helping. It really did."
Ryder smiled. "I'm glad Chase."
Chase grimaced. Great. Now he regretted how he treated Ryder in the beginning. But hey, it wasn't like he did it on purpose! It's what he naturally did. It was a habit he was trying to break.
So, instead of saying a lieu of an apology (yes, he needed to built up courage to say that damn word) his posture went laxed and a semblance of a smile appeared on the pup. While Ryder was strangely nice for a human, he never invaded or forcefully placed himself in social conversations. Guess Chase could say Ryder wasn't half bad talking to. (for a human kid of course).
"Do you know who's gonna run the P.A.W. Patrol?" Ryder asked. He didn't sound confused, just curious. "The human leader?"
"Probably an old guy." Chase answered, not even realizing his pessimistic humor slipped from his tongue. "And he's gonna be weird I bet."
Ryder snorted. "You're a funny pup Chase."
Chase sighed heavily. "Why does everyone keep saying that?"
Ryder continued to laugh.
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Chase realized after an hour or so something wasn't right.
After Champ and Bruce arrived, as well spectators for the event, the last of the four still wasn't here yet. He really wondered where the heck the Dalmatian was. An official already asked Chase if they knew where Marshall was, and he lied, saying he was coming with feigned confidence, twice! Ryder realized the distressing situation, distracting the topic of Marshall if people asked. The German Shepherd noticed a lot of people were paying attention to the boy, especially high ranking officials. It made Chase wonder what role did Ryder play here.
Unfortunately, Chase couldn't leap off and start a search party, so he had to remain in the pit with his fellow competitors. Bruce was okay but Chase would rather not be with Champ. Just his scent alone annoyed him. Made it even more frustrating that the two were friends, and they kept yapping away about stupid stuff.
"Yo Chase!" Champ suddenly called.
Chase only side-eyed him in acknowledgment.
"I gotta say: the bite you did really hurt. Like, for once, I was surprised someone could actually hit me."
Chase resumed his eyes outward.
"But nah look, I'm back and feeling great. I'm not saying you'll win, cause it's Bruce you're facing, but by some smidge of a chance you do…hehe I won't feel bad."
"You won't feel bad?" Bruce said, lightly peeved. "It's my butt that'll be against him, not you."
"Yeah, yeah, but ugh, Bruce! You get what I mean." He flung the idea away. "I'm trying to say…Chase here is actually competition for you. Can't say the same for myself."
Chase slit his eyes, returning his gaze to the Boxer. "You really wanna start that here?"
"Start what?" Champ laughed out loud. "Chase, I am starting nuthin'! I'm just saying you got skill, despite no one has the smallest idea where ya come from. I'm from Trix, Bruce here is from Madley but got transferred cause of his family's connections, and obviously, Marshall flipping lives here."
"All we know is that you came from Detmold. We never had a pup transferred from there before, so I gotta assume your family knows someone here real good."
Chase continued to glare.
"Fine. I get it. You don't wanna say." He gestured with his paws up. "But heh I'm not the only one curious. A lot of the pups talk about you! I'm just saying what everyone else is thinking. You came out of nowhere, no backstory to tell…it's like you have something to hide."
"I have nothing to hide Champ." Chase answered, sharpness in his tone. "And none of your damn business what I wanna tell."
"But you'll tell Marshall out of all pups?!" Champ was flabbergasted. "What makes him different?"
He suddenly scoffed. "He ain't you. Simple as that."
"W-Well he clearly ain't you either!" Champ said. "At least his family is known for fire emergencies. What's yours then?!"
Bruce nudged his friend. "C'mon. You won't get much out of him. Trust me."
"But aren't you a bit curious yourself Bruce? He is gonna go against you."
"Of course I am, but – "
"Exactly!" Champ exclaimed, trying to use height to intimidate. "Tell us! C'mon, it wouldn't hurt. And after that, I won't bother ya about it. So let's cut to the chase, Chase. Why'd you come here from Detmold?"
Chase didn't bother replying, instead staring up at the boxer. Honestly, his threat had no merit, and Chase's face morphed into an indifferent glare at that notion. He assumed Champ was doing this cause Marshall wasn't here, and needed someone to bother. Even though Chase was the one who got punished by the teachers for apparently instigating the fight, he guessed Champ needed to reassure his position as the "top" pup, especially since Chase came out of the fight unscathed.
Ha. As if Champ was someone to get nervous about.
Perhaps a second later, Chase released a dry chuckle. Shaking his head, he then turned away.
"Well, can't say I don't try Bruce." Champ justified. "Unlike Marshall, which by the way…Chase," he sneered his name, and the German Shepherd clenched his paws roughly under him, trying to get his anger under control. "Where is he? The competition is gonna start soon. We can't go on without every pup here."
"…He's coming." Chase finally said.
"Tch? When? Tomorrow?"
"He's coming!" he snapped, and the pups were slightly surprised at his ire reaction. "Don't think you'll get to win so easily Champ."
To this, the Boxer laughed once more. Ugh. How could Marshall at one point defend this irritating pup, and think it was some misunderstanding? Chase knew his control was slipping, so he had to bite his tongue to not do something he would regret. He had to stay calm.
"Chase!" The three pups glanced up, and Ryder rushed back, looking frantic for once. "Uh, can I talk to you alone?"
He didn't need to be told twice to leave! He hopped out of the pit and instantly followed Ryder away.
"Did you find him?" he immediately asked, thankful to be away from the nosy pup. He even felt his demeanor turning cool once he left.
"No. I checked around the perimeters. But there's nothing."
And the coolness was gone.
"What? There's nothing?"
"Yeah, I tried everywhere I could think of. Even the fire station he lives in, but he wasn't there either."
Chase didn't bother question how Ryder knew where Marshall lived – there was no time. "Then where could he be Ryder? He knew this was today."
"I know Chase." He ruffled his hair in aggravation. "This is not good. I don't know how long I can stall. I spoke to a W.O.O.F. agent about it, said Marshall lost his way here, and told him to check in the pathways. He seemed to believe it."
"Has he come back?"
"Not yet. And it seems we're ready to go on in a few minutes."
"In a few minutes?!"
"Chase!" They simultaneously turned, seeing his teacher Mr. Duke rushing to them.
"Why are you out here Chase?" he quickly questioned, glancing down at his student. "You need to wait in the pit. The K-9 course is to go first."
"I know but – "
"But?" His voice edged.
Chase sighed inward. "I'll head there now."
"Good. And Ryder," he looked upward, "Your seat is the second row. Reserved. I can escort you if wishing so."
"No, that's unnecessary. Thank you." Ryder gave one more glance to Chase before they departed. Chase wanted to ask more questions, but damn he got caught. He walked back with his teacher, but quickly noted those around the pit. It included Marshall's teacher, and a W.O.O.F. agent. Oh no.
Mr. Murphy arched a brow, turning to his associates. "Did… Marshall arrive at the pit?"
"He's coming soon." Chase quickly replied. "He should be here any minute."
At that notion, Mr. Duke barked. "You! W.O.O.F. agent!"
A Mallonwah dog whose nametag stated "Odin," quickly scurried up.
"Go find Marshall! I expect positive results when you return."
"Right sir!" And he ran off.
"This is ridiculous." The W.O.O.F. agent voiced. It was a female Doberman, and she, like Marshall's father, was one of the initiators of the P.A.W. Patrol Project. Her name was Roxy, and Chase recalled seeing her once on a training day, which was an experience of itself. Not only was she was one of the co-heads for the project, but apparently, she's also a Council Member! From what Chase heard, she was intolerant to tardiness, super strict, and can be aggravated very easily. She was tough being one of the only two female members of the council, and it showed.
"We're to go on in a few minutes instructors." she continued, disdain in her eyes.
"Don't worry." Mr. Gregor reassured, trying to keep the peace. "We'll find him."
"For how long though? We need to move along."
"Just commence with introductions Roxy." Mr. Duke called. "I'll shall personally see to it that we'll find the missing pup!"
Roxy huffed, aggravation etching her face. "I'll alert my team."
The authoritative figures left, and Chase continued to internalize his anxiousness.
Dammit Marshall. Where are you?
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"Welcome humans and dogs, to the first ever trials of the Protection Ally Watchdog Patrol!"
Everyone roared. School was done for the day, for majority of pups from both schools came to spectate the event. Even the adults who worked on campus, both human and dog, attended. As it was officially 4:05, the show had begun.
"Now, I'm pleased to announce this unique event, as it's the first of its kind, designed and funded by W.O.O.F. Many pups have trained for this opportunity, and after careful selection, it has come down to four. Only two of them will gain positions on the first ever P.A.W. Patrol, working in a town as their only authority figures."
Voices of "ohh" echoed throughout.
"Yes, haha, we mean business! Pups who train at the Alpha Pups Academy, whether be for firedog or K-9, are growing up to join the field one day. This program is to ensure pups are living to their potential." The announcer smiled, being a young adult who worked alongside W.O.O.F. "Now, without further ado, let's begin!"
After the lengthy intro, the speaker began listing all those who helped with the program. Champ and Bruce were prepping themselves entering into the course. Chase, on the other hand, kept doing a double check outwards in the distance.
"Excuse me pup," a voice whispered to Chase, and the pup scanned upward, seeing a W.O.O.F. member looking hush. "I'm agent Comet. You know where uh, Mr. Newton is?"
Confusion was evident. "Who's that?"
"You know, the boy you were talking to earlier! He said he was looking for Marshall."
"You mean Ryder." Chase was suddenly focused, his tail wagging. "You found Marshall?!"
"Oh, uh no." he shook his head. "That's what I wanted to tell him."
He frowned. "Oh."
"Yeah, sorry pup. I tried." He itched his head. "I actually got lost finding the bathroom too, so I don't blame Marshall getting mixed up!"
Chase sweatdropped. What was Ryder telling these dogs? Oh geez.
"Alright, that's it!" Roxy was livid, and dogs and people froze at her barking. "If Marshall doesn't appear within one minute!" she shouted, "Then I would have no other choice than to disqualify him, and default the position to –"
"Wait!"
She stopped midst of her yelling, eyeing to her left, and everyone followed, noticing the new presence that stood among them.
It was Marshall. He was breathing heavily, but nevertheless, here and standing. In the mixture of his breath, a weak laugher came about. "Heh, sorry I'm late."
"For dog's sake he's here!" She shouted. "Get him to the pits. Chase and Bruce, you're on now!"
The friends barely exchanged glanced before Chase was ushered off to the course.
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Perhaps for a good several minutes Marshall vaguely realized he was standing outside, waiting to go on. He knew a few dogs reprimanded heavily for arriving late, but Marshall had no defense for his actions.
He just felt so lifeless right now.
Perhaps hearing that gunshot off life sprang back into Marshall, and his eyes lifted to the race. Everyone was chanting, excited, yet he was feeling panicky all over his fur. He couldn't tell if he was nervous for Chase right now, or feared for himself.
Bruce and Chase were neck and neck. They both dodged obstacles well and had an abundant speed at their legs, going through it like it was nothing. Of course, there were the actual police pup obstacles, like managing street crossings, and tackling suspects (which Marshall noted how harshly Chase attacked the dummies). Finally, after a long crawl under nets, the two were racing to the finish line.
The two seemed to be at the same speed, but then it was as if Chase had extra strength stored within him, and boom! Pup was sprinting down. Bruce tried to reach, but by a mere two seconds, Chase crossed.
"That's it! The winner of the race, and the first official member of the P.A.W. Patrol, taking membership as the K-9, is Chase of Detmold!"
The cheering roared, some surprised, but otherwise happiness sprang through the crowd. From the distance, Marshall saw Chase and Bruce talking, and then they both shook paws. The Dalmatian expected to be reunited with his friend, but W.O.O.F. members escorted the pup away to another seating area. Instead, Bruce returned to them.
Champ was utterly shocked, but he shook his head and gave a pat to his friend. They were talking in hush voices, but Marshall heard one thing.
"I'm glad he won." Bruce said. "Only the best deserve to beat me."
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.
.
It was only ten minutes later Marshall and Champ were getting prepared to enter the course. As they entered the field he saw his classmates, like Rudy, Sparky, Zeus, the twins, Owen, all of them. The rolling feeling in his stomach suddenly halted, but now it felt if the world was spinning. Oh gosh he wasn't going to pass out was he?
"To be honest, I'm surprised you showed up."
Marshall whipped his head to the Boxer beside him.
"But it wouldn't matter." Champ mumbled, readying himself for the race. "Cause you're gonna lose."
Marshall gripped his paws, focusing ahead.
The thought kept tumbling his mind. He could lose. He could lose. Oh god he could lose –
"Marshall!"
Wait, was someone calling him? His thoughts were so jumbled he couldn't even hear what was happening around him. Was something numbing his senses? His sight?
"Oomph!" Marshall recoiled from a hit at his shoulder, and the pup blinked out of his silent hysteria.
"C-Chase…?"
He looked tired, but nevertheless his brown eyes were stern. There was a voice behind him, shouting for the German Shepherd to come back, but he ignored it. "Look, Marshall, I don't know what the heck happened to make you fall back down like this, but don't let this hit you now. You gotta fight it! Believe in yourself dammit! Cause I do. Your mother does. I bet even Ryder too! You worked too hard to give up now."
"But I –"
"Dammit no buts! Just kick ass!" Marshall flinched at the curse word (if anyone was paying attention, Champ too cringed at that, as he was watching what was happening). "Prove to everyone you're more than what they believe you to be. Got that?!"
He mindlessly nodded. "Uh-huh…"
Chase nodded in approval, a dog from W.O.O.F. running behind him now. "Good. Now do your best."
"Chase!" The member shouted, getting between the two pups. "Now, don't interrupt them. Sorry." He escorted Chase out from the back, returning to the seats, but Chase shot his friend back a look – a look of pure confidence.
"You're on you two." A human said, and he signaled the pups to walk. Marshall's paws began walking on their own, but his mind slowly comprehended what just happened.
Did Chase just give him a pep talk?
Nah, he couldn't have. Chase was well, Chase! For all the weeks he had known him this pup barely said much, kept his thoughts to himself, but right now…all he was being was encouraging?
"Do your best Marshall!" Ryder shouted, and immediately the pup snapped from his thoughts to search the voice. His blue eyes widened at the benches, where he saw Ryder smiling encouragingly. There farther down was his mother and Chief Orson, waving and looking hopeful. And another angle was Rosco, a small grin at his mouth.
They were all here. All of them.
He didn't know whether to laugh or cry.
"Finally we have the two pups who will race for the firepup position! Champ and Marshall, both from Trix City!"
The crowd responded vigorously.
"Are you two ready?" Roxy the dog asked, whispering as she eyed the crowd.
Champ smirked. "Born ready."
Marshall only nodded.
"Hm. Then let's get this started." She looked onward. "Ready countdown!"
Those who sat at the table clicked a buzzer, and in giant light up headboard, ignited the time.
Beep. Beep. Beep – BEEP!
They blitzed. They leaped on the beams, but to his damn luck Marshall slipped the mark to jump, slapping his head on the sand. He heard some few "ooh", but still, he spat the sand from his mouth and continued, deciding to go a bit slow to ensure he would stay on. Getting past that, there was the usual jumping-in-tires exercise, and Marshall focused intensely to not get his paw caught on it. He passed it with ease.
Next, there was a giant wall they had to climb, which Champ was already reaching the top. Marshall with narrowing eyes of determination leaped upward, thankfully making all the posts that made it to the top. With a mighty gulp (gosh, he hated the feel of falling) he dropped down at the pads bellow.
Now, there were heading to actual firepup obstacles of the race. There were several markers for the pups to shoot with their prototype water cannons, which they received practice with once they were selected to be the top two. Marshall barked to ignite his water hose as he aimed at each one, perhaps not as quickly as Champ, but definitely with more accuracy. It fact, Champ slightly messed up at the last ones, which gave Marshall the opportunity for the lead.
The next part was the rescue portion, where both pups have to climb and essentially grab a stuffed bear from an extremely high platform, through ashes and all. The ladder stretched across, fog coming through, but with a giant breath (and not thinking of falling) Marshall treaded across. He reached the other side to grab the stuff bear, and then with another sigh went back on the ladder.
Champ, realizing Marshall was in the lead, tried to rush through the ladder portion, and in fact, made it to the teddy bear before he did. Eager to get ahead, scattered on the railings, not noticing a slip at his paw.
"Huh?" he turned, and sure enough, his paws were caught. He tried to rip it out, but with another slip his body lunched over, now hanging by his leg.
The crowd roared in fear, and the officials stood up, thinking how to help the pup if he fell. Unfortunately, no one could really see what was happening above, so judgment was uncertain.
But Marshall saw. He knew if he continued at the pace he was doing, he would easily win, become the next P.A.W. Patrol member, join Chase, make his family proud. That's what he wanted right? And his father was watching especially too. What would he think? What would he do?
Yet all he remembered was Ryder's words. "You're not him. You're Marshall! You do things your own way, and he does his."
He nodded. That's right. He was Marshall. And if he was gonna join P.A.W. Patrol, he had to make decisions for himself. Not for others.
So he did the most Marshall-like thing.
He ran back to help.
"Ah! Ugh, I…" Champ stuttered, "Dammit! Ugh!"
"Champ!" Marshall called, and the Boxer glanced over, noticing the Dalmatian. "Stay calm! I'll get you!"
His face scrunched in repulsion. "No! I can do it myself! Now go back to minding your own – woah!" his paw continued to slip, and he yelped like a pup, struggling to stay on.
Marshall knew if jumping over, he could possibly shake the ladder, making Champ fall. So, he ran straight to the ending platforms and boom! Leaped across to Champ's side. Despite slipping a bit, he stabilized himself and went to carefully climb towards Champ.
He reached to where the Boxer was hanging, and he reached out a paw.
"Take it!" he shouted.
Champ stared dumbfounded.
Marshall furrowed his brows. "Look, I know you don't want help from me, but it's either me or the ground!"
At that mention, Champ glanced down at the grass, seeing people and dogs trying to assemble a landing platform if Champ fell. However, both pups knew if he did, it would no way be a safe landing.
With a hesitant face, Champ swung himself and grabbed Marshall's outreached paw, and then he pushed himself up.
Marshall yanked as hard as his could, with Champ doing the same, and finally the Champ was able to crawl back onto the ladder. They staggered in heavy breathing, and that was when the two looked at each in the eye.
Marshall was at a complete lost what would happen. What was Champ gonna do? Was he gonna say thank you? Try and play it off that he didn't need his help? Insult him? But with that in mind...Champ didn't look like he was gonna do any cruel thing, and for a brief moment Marshall thought Champ would actually acknowledge him kindly.
But he was silently stunned when he saw the pup zipping off the ladder.
"Huh?!" Marshall couldn't believe it. Champ ran off?! He wanted to shout a million different questions why he did that, but shaking his head vigorously, he began walking off it too. Do now, freak out later.
Everyone stopped mid-action, seeing both the pups struggling to make it to the end. And as seconds counted out, the space between them got larger and larger.
It was obvious who would cross the finish line.
Champ fell over once he reached, puffing out breaths but still relieved he won the race. Marshall however didn't continue, looking tired and ashy but stopped, sagging down in the grass as he struggled to breathe. He closed his eyes, taking in the reality.
He lost.
"Uh, wow, what an ending folks!" The announcer shouted, yet he also seemed utterly confused at what transpired. "I'm happy to declare…" he side-glanced at approval, but all he got was shaking heads for the organizers. "A-Actually we're gonna take a minor break! We'll be right back."
As the crowd erupted in whispers, Marshall's closed eyes ripped open in shock, and briefly him and Champ exchanged looks before the boxer stormed off. Marshall again turned to look at his family and friends, who all looked equally confused as he.
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.
.
"That's ridiculous!" a P.A.W. Patrol executive shouted. "He can't do that."
"But he did cross the finish line first." Someone noted.
"Still! He assisted him! Does that even count as a penalty?"
"Dogs this is easy! That pup Champ should win. He crossed."
"I completely disagree."
"But we had the situation under control! Pups cannot do that!"
"Dogs! Please calm down." Rosco came strolling in, and all were in silence at the Council member in presence. "Well we're clearly in a slight dilemma. Let's just think cautiously about this." He turned, smiling in accordance with his Dalmatian friend.
"I agree with Council Member Rosco." Roxy continued. "A vote should be in order, as with myself and Rosco here, it will be recognized as final decision."
Knock. Knock.
The dogs in the room were partially confused at who was that (Rosco even counting who was here). Maximilian took the initiative to answer it.
His tone couldn't hide his slight surprise. "Pippa."
There she stood, confident and graceful. "May I have a word?"
He glanced back in the room, and gestured with his eyes they could go on. He closed the door, entering the hallway with his mate.
"What are you – "
"I'm here to state my opinion." she said simply.
His eyes remained narrowed. "You have no authority to call that."
"I know, but with you I can voice it." She justified. "Otherwise you would have ignored me."
He didn't reply, but with the silence it was his way of allowing her to continue.
"Max, I understand from a technical standpoint that other pup won, and I will take it with stride from that result. However," she said, her head raise high, "Marshall exhibited traits that make him more than worthy of earning his position, on stand on moral obligation."
"You're being biased Pippa."
"I'm not saying this just because he is my son Max." it was times like these her origins would sneak in – a voice doting a British accent. Pippa's eyes remained firm. "If you were in this situation, what would have you've done? To obtain your own success, or the success of a team?"
Staring down at his mate, very few were able to hold against him. Rosco being one, and as of now, Pippa.
"The Council will decide." He stated simply. "There is nothing I can do."
And with that, he closed the door in front of her.
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.
.
"Ah, uh Chief Orson," Marshall interrupted, raising his paw. "This is Chase, the pup from the K-9 Academy. And this is Ryder, another friend of mine."
Those in the crowd were anxiously anticipating the results, and now resorted to conversing to pass the time. Marshall and Chase ended up sitting next to Ryder, who were eventually joined by Chief Orson.
"Well I'll be! Mighty nice to meet ya both" He smiled, shaking his paw between the two. "I'm the Firedog Chief at Trix City 38th Division, or you could say, the campus location."
Ryder returned the grin. "Good to meet you too."
"And a K-9 pup! And excellent field you entered. Have a few friends on the force. Actually," he tapped his chin, "I think I knew one from long ago, grew up with him pretty much. Hard working he was."
"Oh, Chase," Marshall turned to his friend. "Thanks uh, for earlier. I kinda froze out there."
He shrugged. "Well, it's another thing a friend would do. Uh, right?"
Marshall laughed. "Haha, right! Just...nervous now. Well, not as bad as before. But I think I did my best."
"And that is what's important." Ryder patted Marshall's head. "You gave it your all. And what you did was very brave of you."
"Brave?"
"Ryder's right Marshall!" Orson added, accent running strong. "A true firedog would help whoever needs it, even if they were your opponent. Hopefully that pup you were facing would realize what ya did for him."
At that mention, Marshall quickly glanced to Champ's direction, who for once looked unsure of himself as he spoke to his friends.
As the group continued to talk, all three turned at the sounds of feet and paws scurrying on the platform. Dogs and people of the P.A.W. Patrol Project stood, with Roxy walking to the microphone.
"Despite the unnecessary action Marshall as taken upon himself when authorities had absolute control of the situation, and him risking the safely of himself and Champ, the P.A.W. Patrol Project team has concluded..."
Marshall clenched his eyes, holding his breath.
"Marshall of Trix City is the winner of this race!"
Those in the bleachers simply rippled in joy, those even jumping from the seats at the turn of events. Despite the noise, Roxy continued, "Marshall's courage and selfishness has demonstrated the attributes of a firepup. He is officially the firepup member of the P.A.W. Patrol. This decision is finalized."
Everyone was yelling, even Chase, who was howling for his friend.
"Can't you believe it Marshall?" He exclaimed, "You're in!"
Marshall didn't blink. "Uh-huh..."
Wait, he was hearing Roxy correctly? He actually won? Like win something? Earn a title? Not fail? Not get laughed at his pathetic failure? Realizing that, a huge, huge part of him wanted leap through the air, scream out, do a little dance, heck, maybe try flying!
But instead he fell over like a statue, shock still etched on his face.
.
.
.
The announcement happened the next day. Literally everyone was shocked by the winners. The battle between Bruce and Chase was a 50/50, but Champ and Marshall…everyone's bet was on the boxer!
When Marshall arrived at school, the swarm of pups overwhelmed him. Even Sparky, Rudy and the Dalmatian twins were very impressed, despite their bias toward Champ.
"Hey, guess Champ isn't as great he thought he was!" Buck exclaimed.
"Yeah, lost to a wimp!" Beck declared. She then twirled back to Marshall. "No offense."
"Uh, none taken." he nervously chuckled.
"He's not a wimp anymore!" Zeus added, joining the pup crowd. "He's gonna be part of the P.A.W. Patrol. Wow…that's so cool."
"I bet there's gonna be good food once you join the P.A.W. Patrol." Sparky spoke up. "Aww, now I kinda wish I won."
"You dork! You didn't even come to trials!" Rudy exclaimed. "You went to the free buffet."
"Hey!" Defended the pup. "It was good food."
"What are gonna do once you leave?" another pup which was Owen said. "Do you travel around? Are you stationed only at the town? Ugh, you're so lucky!"
"Haha, uh, I don't know!" Marshall replied honestly to his audience. "But I know we'll be leaving in a week."
"Wow, so soon?"
"Aww, he's gonna be out rescuing while I'm stuck here reading."
"Hey, if you wanted to leave you could have did that trip firepup conference thing weeks ago." Rudy exclaimed. "Didn't Misty and Tark do that?"
"Misty left?!" the pups flinched at the yelling, and Marshall looked positively shocked.
Sparky nodded. "Yeah! Uh, she told us awhile back. I think Champ wanted to do it too, but when he got picked, he decided to stay. Misty and Tark left yesterday! Weren't you at school when we said goodbye?"
"Uh, no..." he glanced to the floor. "I wasn't."
"Oh. Then that makes sense. But kinda sucks you'll leave when they get back!" Sparky laughed, patting Marshall's back. "Don't worry! We'll tell them the good news in your place!"
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.
.
As the week continued on, it was a definite surprise to learn how Ryder, the boy they knew for several weeks, was actually their leader for the P.A.W. Patrol. Marshall was floored, while Chase seemed embarrassed about thinking their leader was some old person. But Ryder laughed it off, saying he didn't mind. It was decision apparently he didn't know he'll take, but since coming here, had accepted the position. Apparently the P.A.W. Patrol Project was something his father worked, which he revealed that half the machines they'll be using was co-designed by him.
Marshall also learned mid-week that his father was called on mission, and wouldn't return for awhile. It was passed casually like before by his mom, but this time felt differently from the previous times.
It was funny. Through this entire process Marshall heard not one compliment from his father. Not even a note of what he thought, or heck, if he voted for Marshall to go. He remained cold as he was, and when getting home on that fateful day, only gave a sparing glance before the B.A.R.K. leader retreated to his work.
That look struck a cord in Marshall, feeling like everything he did suddenly amounted to nothing. Marshall tried to shake it off as he usually did, as he was used to his father's indifferent attitude, but something was different from this.
He always believed that if doing something great, doing something amazing, he would gain the approval he desperately wanted from him. He had visions of his father finally saying how proud he was, and maybe start speaking to him on a daily basis.
But now finally achieving something, nothing has changed from the moment he returned.
.
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.
The day they left seemed like any ordinary day. Marshall woke up, ate his breakfast, brushed his teeth. After rinsing his mouth, he took a moment to stare at the new collar on his neck, the one they were honored when officially declared. On it proudly was the flame, and behind it inscribed was their names. Oh! And the cool thing about the collars was that they act as communicators!
After that thought, Marshall collected his backpack, of course Mr. Snuggles securely inside.
The day before, on his last day of school, Mr. Murphy announced the pup's departure to the class. Shockingly, pups were sad about his leaving, and even giving him a few good luck shouts for his new life as a P.A.W. Patrol member. He smiled in goodbye, and in truth, he really would miss them. Yeah, he wasn't close with any, but he knew them for so long. It would weird not to see them everyday.
And then there was Champ.
When saying their byes, Champ remained at his desk, while the pups and Mr. Murphy surrounded the Dalmatian. Yet Marshall swore the dog looked conflicted, as if wanting to say something but forcing his words in. The bell rang, and Champ loudly announced to his friends he wanted to play at the swings, indicating them to follow. They did, and Sparky nudged Marshall.
"By the way, Champ doesn't hate you."
"Huh?"
He rushed off. "See ya!"
Now, leaving the fire station and entering the car, he glanced once more at the place he called home, feeling fuzzy all over. It wasn't long before he entered the car with his mother and began to drive off by a firefighter.
Passing the gates, Marshall couldn't help it but stand on his hind legs and stare from the back window, watching the distance between the campus and himself get farther and farther apart. It wasn't long before he was passing by the towering buildings and complexes of Trix City, something he rarely saw even as a newborn. He never realized how small a world he lived on the towering buildings that had dark shadows against the sun, and the buzzing of people rushing on city streets...while he never saw this often, a feeling pitted in his stomach that all this familiarity will not be around anymore.
Arriving at Trix City Central Station, he walked through the large building, following procedure before he arrived at platform 023, and there already was Chase, Ryder, Chief Orson, Rosco, Roxy, an F.B.I. Agent, and Chief's Orson's human partner, Mr. Sampson.
"All aboard!" The conductor yelled, shouting from his scruffy voice. People scurried on the train.
"Ah, well, this is goodbye." Roxy looked upward. "Ryder, you'll ensure us updates on progress?"
"Of course. I'll report when we enter range."
"Excellent."
Pippa decided to speak, looking between the pups. She smiled. "Be safe, do good, and oh, I made lunch, for the both of you! Hope you don't mind Chase."
He shook his head. "Uh, it's okay. Thank you."
With that, she turned to look at her son.
"Mom - oomph!" he was suddenly pulled into a hug, and his blue eyes blinked wildly in surprise. "Mom?"
"Please, take care of yourself. It worries me if you don't."
He hugged her back. "I promise mom! I'll call you."
Her face softened, and she closed her eyes, hugging her son even tighter. "Marshall, I know growing up here wasn't easy. I was at odd hours, and your father was barely home, but please remember sweetie…we love you." She pulled to look at his face, smiling proudly.
However… "Mom!" Marshall yelped, looking extremely panicked. "Why are you crying?"
Her mouth was wobbling, trying to repress the crestfallen façade. "I-I'm not!"
"Mooomm, don't cry..." He mumbled, his face bubbling from the verge of tears. "Y-You're gonna make me cry."
"But it's hard!" she hiccupped.
His heart pulled, and immediately the waterworks came out, tearing like a fire hydrant. He threw himself in his mother's arms. "Waah! I'm gonna miss you mom!"
"M-Me too sweetie!" It was a good ten minutes the Dalmatians cried in departure, and finally Pippa released her son to board the train.
"Take care you two!"
"Do us justice!"
"Goodbye Ryder!"
"Remember to eat!"
Marshall sat in one of the few carriers the train had, and from him was Chase and Ryder, who were settling themselves. Marshall turned to glance outside, seeing everything he knew waving in goodbye.
It was weird. Packing his stuff, finally departing from his room, his home, his life, he didn't think it would happen so quickly. Maybe he did rush head into this.
He shook his head with a smile. Nah. Even if he did, it was the best decision he made.
The classic sound of the chains clanking began to ring through the air, and Marshall, suddenly having a feeling of pure excitement, lunged half his body out the window and waved frantically.
"Bye everyone!" he yelled. "I'm gonna miss you all!"
His mother, still weepy eyed, dejectedly smiled, as the older fire father-son duo nodded in grinning departure.
Marshall kept waving till he couldn't see them, screaming he'll send photos when he could, or call to catch up. It was so much poor Marshall almost fell out of the train! (Thankfully, Pippa didn't see, and Chase and Ryder were there to help their friend).
Once settling down, and the sounds of puffing above them, Marshall asked: "How long till we get there?"
"Not long. It's a small community, far from here. We'll be venturing through like two more towns before reaching."
"How's it like Ryder?" Chase asked, genuinely curious. "Have you been there before?"
"Uh, once. Just to see the base where we're at. It's a nice place."
"Where will we be staying?"
He laughed. "It's a surprise."
They rode hours on end, with Marshall either reading his comics or napping loudly. Chase was occupied with reading some type of book (it looked like the K-9 manual, oh gosh), while Ryder was content being on his phone the entire ride. But other than that, there was good atmosphere, with light talk of what's to come.
It wasn't long before Ryder shook Marshall awake.
"Huh?! Uh, what? What's happening?" The pup was frantically searching, clearly snapped away from his superhero dream.
"Look, Marshall." He pointed out the window, grinning. "You gotta see."
The pup rubbed his eyes from slumber, and he noticed how Chase was also hanging outside the window, staring at something with astonishment. It was when Marshall joined he too was in complete awe.
It was rolling lands of green, stretching far beyond they could see, and a horizon of beautiful crystal blue. They were soon going to encounter the cliffs the train rode through, but what caught their attention was the giant sign in the distance.
"Welcome to Adventure Bay."
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.
.
The train rolled up onto the platform, and what the pups and Ryder noticed was the small group of people waiting. About four of them Marshall loosely counted, and judging from the uniform, they must be the welcoming party.
"Ah hello!" lady shouted happily, almost stuttering over her words. She was a tall lady with dark skin, jittering lightly in her semi-high heels. Her black curly hair was pined back neatly, and she doted a blue business jacket and pencil skirt.
"Welcome to our town. I'm Mayor Goodway." She said, straightening her posture with a bright smile.
"Hello. My name is Ryder. Ryder Newton."
"Yes! I've met you previously, when you came here to oversee the plans for your base. Very impressive I must add."
"Ah," he rubbed his head, "It wasn't much. Just based it on my father's engineering."
"Either way Newton, it is an absolutely beautiful building! A perfect piece to add to our town –" her eyes flickered in realization. "Oh! Are these the two pups we've been told about?" she said excitedly, almost shoving her face towards them for a better view. It was uncomfortably close and the pups recoiled at her astonished stare.
"Haha, yes. This is Chase, my second in command and K-9 pup. Marshall here is our firepup and paramedic."
She almost looked she would squeal on the spot. "Ah, I can't believe this is happening. When I heard about this proposal being made to us, I had no doubt in my mind we wanted to part of this initiative right away! And now they – I mean, you're all here, this is truly an honour."
"The honour is ours." Ryder said. The incomers and the Mayor's team (which consisted of two assistants and a cameraman) walked the length of the platform.
"Our town is way too small to have a proper emergency response team. The only ones we had have been from either Foggy Bottom or Orchard Fair Oaks, and even then it can be the distance when an emergency is called. But we're not too too small not have chauffeurs." She then ushered with her eyes briefly beside her, and a secretary of some sort hurriedly ran off, waving their arms at a small black car.
"Come!" Goodway exclaimed. "I'll be more than honoured to take you to your residence."
As they all settled in the car, Chase and Marshall took the opportunity to check their new surroundings. They couldn't believe it. Kids playing, adults working, animals scurrying about, everyone going about their daily lives. And the size of the town! Definitely nothing compared to their home cities of Detmold or Trix City. It wasn't buzzing, hectic, no towering buildings – it was small and quaint, with few low rise buildings and a staggering amount of houses that lived off the curb of the town central.
But the one evident element of city life was the bridge that went over the water. They drove across it.
Finally, turning into a spiral driveway, the car made a stop.
"I know today would be for you to settle in, but please drop by city hall tomorrow for your welcoming lunch." She added. "One of our chefs here, Mr. Porter, is an excellent cook. He will have you served one of our best dishes! And the tour, ah, we could schedule it tomorrow. If you want."
Ryder smiled, as the pups and himself got out of the car. "We'll look forward to it."
Her face beamed, but quickly she pushed down her excited tone and replaced it with a formal gesture of acceptance. Then quickly, the car drove away.
"This is where we live?!" Marshall gasped. Chase was dumbfounded, unable to speak.
"That's right pups." Ryder too glanced upward at the building. "I uh, designed it myself. I figured we need a good space for us."
The building was astounding. Unlike the classic styles of buildings through Adventure Bay, the base was sleek and modern, mimicking the appeal of W.O.O.F. headquarters. Ranging from a lookout post, a slide (oh my gosh a slide!), and a giant garage, it was too much to take in.
"I love it Ryder!" Marshall shouted. His tail wagged eagerly. "Can we go inside?"
Ryder laughed. "Of course!"
The pups (well, mostly Marshall) ran towards the tower, and to their slight surprise, the doors automatically opened.
And wow, even the interior was impressive. All coating a blue, and right in the middle of the building –
"There's an elevator?!"
Ryder smiled. "Quickest way to get up."
"Did W.O.O.F. provide all this?" Chase finally said, turning to glance at their leader.
"A bit from them, a bit from me." He shrugged. "It was a team effort."
"Question." Marshall added, his eyes scattering around the place. "Why is it so uh, big this place?"
"Well, we'll need the space for the other pups once they arrive. Can't have the place too cramped."
"OTHER PUPS?!" the German Shepard and Dalmatian exclaimed. "What other pups?!"
"The…other rescue pups?" Ryder itched his head. "They didn't tell you?"
Chase scoffed. "If they did, barely."
"I'll debrief us all with our equipment, exactly what we do, how we operate, and of course future pups who could join us, but it's not a huge concern at the moment. For now, let's just get settled in."
Marshall continued to look around. "Where do we sleep?"
"Either in your pup houses, or in the lounge area inside the tower. All your stuff will be in your vehicles though. That's how they were designed. The movers placed all our stuff in the garage. We just gotta go get them."
Within minutes or so Marshall and Chase checking around the tower, (have you seen the top, woah) they both went to collect their respective belongings. And their trucks made the pups' lit up. In two parking spots laid two familiar yet unfamiliar trucks, one being a police vehicle and the other a fire truck.
Marshall literally flung himself towards the red vehicle, hugging it with possession and wanting to kiss it. Finally, a fire truck! It was every firepup's dream to ride and operate one, and Marshall had finally achieved it. This all felt like some lucid dream, one that he didn't want to wake up from.
As Marshall happily hummed when he organized his stuff in his fire truck (he was still gushing over that fact) Chase simply stood in front of his, staring at it for several seconds before ripping his eyes to the grass under his paws.
Marshall paused momentarily as he noticed this. "What's wrong Chase?" he asked. "Not what you expected?"
"No, not at all." He said, continuing to crunch the green earth under his paws.
Marshall arched a brow. "Testing the grass?"
He chuckled. "Something like that. I hated the feel of grass before. But…"
"But?"
He smiled half-heartedly. "Eh, I used to it now."
"Ah, good!" Marshall beamed back before walking over to his friend. "Hey, wanna help you put your stuff – awaayyy!" He tumbled over a blanket that slipped under his paws, and he toppled in a loop somehow. Chase tried to dodge but of course he got caught in the fall, and in the end both were wrapped tightly in Marshall's blanket, back to back.
"Uh, don't worry Chase!" he called, trying to ignore the disapproving face of his friend. "I'm going to roll us out of this one!"
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.
.
When night hit, Marshall abruptly realized he couldn't sleep.
Tossing in his bed like the tenth time, the pup frustratingly rose up, holding Mr. Snuggles at one side. Yeah, Marshall might have lived in one the largest cities in the country, but it didn't mean he got out much. His entire life revolved around the campus, so being on his own now…it was slightly terrifying.
Walking out of his pup house, Marshall wondered if Chase was sound asleep, or anyone that matter.
Being the curious pup that he was, he decided to check.
"Pssh, Chase, are you in your puphouse?" he tapped the door. "Chase…"
He heard nothing.
Thinking his friend was deep in sleep, Marshall sighed as he disappointedly dragged himself back to his puphouse.
But then he heard muffling.
Using his ears, it was close, as if a struggle was happening. He scanned the area, even sniffing for other scents, but nothing foreign he detected. Oh gosh, was this their first mission here at Adventure Bay?! A night rescue?!
Yet…now he noticed how the sound was coming from Chase's puphouse.
Concerned, he knocked on Chase's door, seeing if truly his friend was asleep, but no response. His worry increased.
"Chase?" Again with his paw, harder this time. "Are you okay? Chase, open the door."
The sounds got louder, more aggressive.
Fearing the worst (oh my gosh, was he dying?!) Marshall pounded the door, and whatever power, either him or sheer luck, the door snapped open.
Chase was sleeping, but he was vigorously moving in his bed, paws thrashing violently. His face was clenched in distress, and he switched between whimpering and growling.
"Chase!" Marshall screamed, shaking his friend. "Wake up! Chase! CHASE!"
He flung open his eyes, panting with intensity. His eyes scanned his surroundings, looking disorientated yet panicked. He then noticed the pup beside him, and he glanced up. "M-Marshall?"
"Yeah, it's me." He noticed the heavy sweat dosing on Chase's face. "Are you okay? You sounded like you were in trouble!"
Chase sat on his hind legs. After calming down his breathing, his eyes knitted back to thinking. "It's nothing."
"Nothing?" Marshall was flabbergasted. He never saw anything like that before! That image struck a cord with him. "Chase, you were, like screaming and stuff."
"Oh."
"OH?! Chase, you were having a nightmare!"
Chase glanced away. "It's nothing Marshall. I have them all the time. I'm used to it."
"Have them all the – " Marshall lost his wording. "H-How could you say it like that? And all the time? How long has this been going on?"
"It's fine Marshall. Seriously. Stop bugging me about it."
Usually, Marshall would coward if someone told him to leave them alone. But no, sheer determination rang through the pup, and he did not want to back down. "Chase, I'm not gonna shrug off what I just saw."
"I said it's fine Marshall!" He snapped. "Just, stop. I don't wanna talk about it."
Marshall stubbornly stared at his friend, but it was clear nothing was gonna budge Chase from his decision.
"…Fine." He settled. "I'll leave it alone. However, as your new teammate in the P.A.W. Patrol, I need to know if there's anything bothering you. And even more than that, you're my friend. It bothers me if there isn't anything I can't do to help."
As hollow silence became the answer, Marshall realized a smile couldn't solve whatever Chase was feeling. So, he wished him goodnight and padded back into his puphouse. He curled back into his red blanket, trying to ready himself for bed.
"I never told you about my past, haven't I?"
Marshall was stumped, suddenly feeling the urge to sit up. However, he remained where he was, trying to contain his astonishment.
Chase look defeated, as a huge escaping his mouth. He resumed lying back on his stomach, as he too stayed in his puphouse.
Marshall's eyes widened. Yes, he always had questions about his friend's mysterious attitude, or background for that matter, but he never dove into asking. It didn't seem right, and even now, he realized, him demanding Chase what happened earlier suddenly seemed wrong.
"You don't have to tell me Chase." He said honestly. "If it's too personal –"
"Kinda unfair if I already know about your family dynamic." He replied.
Oh. Guess that was true…but – "It's still okay! I respect your decision. And uh, sorry about earlier. It wasn't very nice of me."
"No, you…" he paused. "You were worried. Nothing bad about that."
"Hehe," he itched his head. "Sorry I'm a worry rat."
He snorted in amusement. "If you weren't, you wouldn't be Marshall. Realized that about you since day one."
Quiet stilled between the two.
"But uh, still Chase," Marshall continued, reluctant as ever. "Don't tell me cause you think you have to." He reassured him with a hesitant smile. "Whatever is comfortable for you Chase."
The German Shepard glanced up at the moon, staring intensely at its luminescent light.
It was then Chase began his story, beginning from the moment he met Officer Archie on that fateful day till he ended up in Trix City. Even at the parts that stuck absolute terror in Marshall, he not once interrupted, instead clenching his paws into his blanket as he listened quietly on.
After that, they never spoke of it again.
.
.
.
"Yo, Marshall,"
Is someone calling me?
"Marshall…wake up buddy."
That sounded like, wait uh, that's Chase.
The Dalmatian grudgingly woke up, rubbing his eyes with his spotted paws. Blinking up, he noticed his best friend standing over.
"Had a good nap?" he asked with a laugh.
"Huh? Oh, yeah." He glanced around, noticing the sky beckoning darkness. "How…long was I sleeping?"
"No idea." Replied Chase. "But it's actually dinner time now."
"Woah?! I've been sleeping that long?" he jumped up. "Sheesh, I dozed off too long."
He shook his head in amusement. "I guess so buddy."
Marshall skimmed upward, seeing that even Fuzzy and his family had left. The trees continued to sway in the spring wind.
"You know…" he said aimlessly, "I was dreaming about the time we met."
"Really?" Chase looked quite surprised, his brown eyes blinking widely. "Wow, that seems so long ago."
"And it was crazy! Like I saw stuff when I wasn't even there! I think I'm psychic."
Rolling his eyes, Chase waited from Marshall to join him on their walk to the Lookout.
"Hey Chase?" Marshall suddenly said.
"Hmm?"
"Thanks for telling me."
He cocked a brow. " 'Bout what?"
"You know," Marshall shrugged half-heartedly. "Your past."
"Oooh that." After a moment's pause, Chase continued his usual questioning face. "Marshall you're my best friend why wouldn't I tell you?"
"But back then I wasn't. I mean, we were still getting used to each other." He stopped in his tracks, and Chase watched him. "You could have chosen not to. Or ever tell me. I wasn't like, the most uh, mature pup to tell that stuff too."
"...True," he replied, shrugging in mild agreement, but then his face had that semblance of a smile. "But I did. And hey, you were my friend back then. What did I tell you when we got in trouble at the academy?"
He laughed. "You only tell the truth."
"Exactly! And the truth was I saw you as a friend. Heck you were my only friend at the time."
"What about Ryder?"
"Meh, I was starting to trust humans." he said. "I never knew humans, so trusting Ryder took awhile for me. And besides, " he added. "I was fine with telling you. You were honest with me from day one. Like, friends are honest right?"
"Hehe, yeah..." He sweatdropped inwardly. Maybe telling Skye and Rubble was a bad idea…but they cornered me into it…
Chase inclined his head to the side as a gesture. "C'mon, we better head inside quick. Otherwise Rubble is gonna eat our bowls."
"Ah! I forgot! It's spaghetti night!" Marshall shot up in shock, and quickly he began racing. He howled as he glanced behind. "I'm gonna beat ya Chase!"
"As if Marshall!" he speeded up, and the two sprinted back into the tower. Of course, Marshall was bonded to trip over his paws, and the usual falling over his friend occurred, landing in a tangling mess at the lookout entrance.
"Heh," Marshall shrugged, glancing down at his friend who was splat on the ground. Chase shook his head from the dizziness and eyed a look to his friend. " I'm good!"
And they laughed.
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A/N: I hope ya'll notice the attribute I added with Marshall that he pretty much has anxiety disorder. I figured since he lacked self-confidence in the show and how my series is turning out it made sense for him to have that. But I don't blame my baby. He has faced a lot of pressure since he was a newborn…but obviously in origin story it would be more obvious since he is just starting to deal with it. He of course gets a better handling with it ever since joining the PAW Patrol. I actually have family members who deal with this daily, so at times it can be concerning how to calm them down. Sometimes you just gotta reassure them the best, and hold onto their hand that everything will turn out right.
Ya! We've finished with Marshall~ Not much of a spoiler I'm gonna be writing up Skye now. I actually have it halfway because I kept switching between this chapter and the next one. Actually funny note, Marshall's story is connected to Ryder's story alot. You'll see when we get there. If you notice I like to bring back characters from other stories or chapters, so everything's connected in some weird ass way. Learn this skill and you'll see the SHIT TON of easter eggs I place in my chapters.
Thank you to all those who continuously read, comment and follow my work! (critique/suggestions are welcomed!) ^_^
P.S REVIEW!
Till next time,
mokocchii