Cherish || A Chase x Sweetie Fanfiction ||

(S3-C22) • Cursed Lineage •

The Kingdom of Barkingburg was known to be the most peaceful. However, from Maria's eyes, it was like they were preparing for a world war. Dozens of men were stationed by the castle from the outside and many more on the inside, though it paled in comparison to the armies that swarmed the kingdom streets, starting to overflow beyond their territory.

"I told you to stay behind, Maria. I don't need dead weight," Chase whispered in a hostile tone, checking to see if the hole in the back of the castle walls was still there. Unfortunately, it was cemented. The Princess had everything planned.

"I am worried about you, Sweetie, and Beatrice. If there's anyone who could bring peace to our connections it'll be me. Besides, everything's just becoming stranger and stranger. How are your wounds?" she added.

As Chase listened to the reply, he held a paw up his ear, scratching the once infected area that looked like it was rotting. It appeared to be even better than before. The doctors said it would heal back up, yet it was supposed to take two weeks. Somehow, Chase healed up in less than one. Upon removing his bandages to wear a coat, his body wounds and tail were back to normal like nothing happened. Chase was no biologist but he was sure pups weren't related to starfishes in any shape or form throughout history.

"Everything is fine. I don't feel any different," he said. "Now come on, I know another path."

Chase led them around the wall, going to the side of the castle that connected to the outer perimeter of the building. The same place where he went through to meet Sweetie once more after leaving Adventure Bay.

As they headed over, they were alerted from Coraline making a speech inside. Among what she said were how the armies she controlled had to stand tall and brave, for the world will become a better place. Trust in her just as before, knowing she won't fail them since she never did. What caught Chase's ear, though, was when Coraline mentioned about invading Princess Diane's kingdom soon. There wasn't a date, but from the clanking of metal from inside it seems like the deadline was near. Everyone was ready to battle.

After a moment, Chase opened the window into the bathroom, turning his head to Maria. "Get in!" However, her expression was uneasy and lost focus. "What's wrong?"

"I have to warn Princess Diane about what's coming. I know we already have a plan but I cannot just let my people face the unknown."

Chase stood up straight and stared at the Shiba Inu, who lowered her eyes down to the brown grass, for the world was still altered.

"I understand your concern, Maria. If that is your wish, go scout the area and return. Take the hidden trail in the forest and use the same path we walked through to get here. Learn everything you can about them, because if I were to fail, we need those who would face the birth of a monster. You're our last line of defense, because as Princess Diane told us before we left, once the magic grows out of our country, nothing can stop it."

After a small nod, Maria opened her arms and embraced the Shepherd, who hugged back with care, his eyes closed as to pray for both their safety. Although, he immediately faked a cough and separated, acting hostile.

Chase opened the window, hesitating before he looked towards Maria, who had a smile. "Go now," he said. He watched Maria sprint away, confident in her ability to hide considering she probably knows the outer place better than he does—being Sweetie's friend and all (not to be confused as mapping every cranny and secret passages).

Entering, it was a deathtrap for Chase. Guards were everywhere and there wasn't any way for Chase to actually reach Sweetie's floor, assuming she was still there.

"Pst! Chase!"

The loud whisper forced Chase's paw to gently close the bathroom door, throwing his head to turn in surprise. He was sure no one was with him.