"So we just move this over here..."

"Are you sure? What If need need need...."

"Captain. It will be fine. It isn't going anywhere."

Arrby carefully maneuvered Sid's barrel of marbles to one part of the cave. It was between that, his VR, and his ceramic statues of cows, at least that's what Arrby thought they were. In either case, Sid choose the later, content with where it sat. Their secret island hideout was looking much better than it had over the past few weeks. Nothing was just thrown in different places. Safe to say Arrby and Sid's long talk did the trick. They worked out a compromise. Now their shared home was clean enough to walk around in. With only the occasional "treasure" added.

"Yar, Gotta say, This place is looking a lot more...."

"Cleaner?"

"I was gonna say empty but I'll go with that too."

Arrby playfully nipped at his pant leg. Sid laughing aloud and lifting his pup up. It had been a turbulent few days, so this was a nice change of pace for Dachshund. Anything to take his mind off the offer he had given his friends. He'd already known that Moby was on board but Claw and Sweetie had some doubts. Which was fair. So he gave them their space. Claw had occasionally reached out via his pup tag but it was radio silence from Sweetie. Arrby tried his best not push or pry at any of them. Having to leave their decision to themselves. No matter how long it took. The pirate was content to just leave it be for now up till his vibrating pup tag jumped scared him. His paw trembled at pressing it to answer. He'd have no idea which of the three it could be. He couldn't help but feel that the universe was playing with him at this point. He steadied his paw and pressed it.

"He...Hello?"

"Sup cutie?"

Arrby felt some slight relief at hearing the familiar voice of Moby.

"Hey! How are you doing?"

"Well better now that I've gotten some proper sleep."

"Aww, Something keeping you up?"

"Just a certain little surprise I've been cooking up! Wanna check it out? Bring Sid along too if ya want."

Arrby raised an eyebrow at that, surprised at how inviting he seemed to be.

"Meet you at Seal Island!"

"Actually, You're gonna want to make your way towards Trash island instead. It's gonna be a very big surprise."

--

Sweetie was a spoiled pup. She was used to getting what she want. She knew that. Despite everything though, She just couldn't get exactly what she wanted this time. Arrby wasn't a toy, not something to be used and tossed aside. He was a friend, someone she trusted, and ultimately fell in love with. Now in order to get what her heart truly desired, she would have to compromise with with two other pups. The idea overwhelmed her. She rolled over, Her nose pressing against one of her half eaten burgers that she took no interest in it. She has been cooped up in her pup house for the most part. With Busby guarding her make shift self pity fortress. No one had bothered her, Not the earl, not the help, not even the guards. She could only abstain from interaction for so long though. She knew one person in particular would eventually come on by.

"Sweetie! Oh Sweetie!"

Sweetie let out an audible burp in response.

"Over here..."

Busby spun around the princesses legs as she leaned down to check on her friend. The normally posh house was kind of a mess. Burger wrappers and half eaten biscuits laid scattered about. Sweetie lazily rolled over to look at her. Her fur ruffled up. Her signature fluff on the top of her head falling to one side with a strand of it flicked up in a cow lick. She looked as degraded as her pup house did.

"What on earth are you doing?"

"Sulking. Professionally if I may add."

"Sweetie, this isn't healthy for you."

"Probably." She shrugged. Reaching one paw over to grab at a scattered biscuit. Plopping it in her maw, the treat far too stale to be consumed.

"Sweetie, I really think you should go and talk to Arrby."

"Ugh...that sounds hard and awkward. I'd rather stay here."

Sweetie had already gone into tremendous detail about everything that happened between her and Arrby. The princess agreed that Arrby's proposal was was unusual to say the least but she didn't think it was unreasonable. She had given her precious dog some space and time to think but she could no longer bare seeing her act like this. The princess leaned down and crawled further into her pup's dour home.

"It might be, but it won't do you any good to keep him waiting. He's a kind pup."

"Kind? Of course. Reasonable? For the most part. This idea though, wanting to be with more than one of us is so different and unexpected."

"Something different could be good for you. Are you afraid he might favor the others more than you?"

"It's not specifically about him or the other two boys I don't trust." Sweetie rolled her head back, Her snout pointed up to the roof of her pup house.

"I don't trust...myself."

"What do you mean?"

"When I get emotional, I tend to go a little over board with obtaining attention. As I'm sure you have noticed"

"Maybe on one or two occasions" The princess said with a laugh.

"I went through tremendous effort just to get you to notice me. From simple deception to blatantly trying to steal the throne. Even if I do agree to this proposal, How do you know I wouldn't resort to such under handed tactics to keep my dear Arrby's attention?"

"I think you are more than capable of doing the right thing when it comes to it."

"If you say so."

Sweetie didn't seem entirely convinced so the princess elaborated.

"I think you have changed for more than you think you have. Sure, He has clearly had an impact on your behavior recently but it wasn't entirety him. You are a lot more honest now. Far more kind and courteous than you have been before."

The princess put her hand to her mouth, realizing that might have sounded like an insult.

"Not that you haven't been! For the most part..."

"Oh come now, We know what a brat I've been sometimes. I can't help it."

Sweetie was aware of her past actions and accepted it.

"True but when the pirate asked for your help, you took Claw in. When Claw bravely led the Duke away, you went back for him. The Sweetie I know wouldn't have done that before."

"Hah, To think me and Claw could some how actually be capable of being...friends."

The princess squeezed herself as much as she could into the tight space. Leaning over to pet one of Sweetie's ears.

"Most of all, you finally talked to me about how you were feeling. Letting me know what was bothering you this whole time. The fact you are even considering this proposal shows how much you have changed. Sacrificing a tiny bit of your happiness for others. Don't let your doubts keep you from pursuing your love."

Busby squeezed himself between the two. Leaning into Sweetie's neck. Giving her his equivalent of a hug. The terrier bit her lower lip, Grateful for both of their support. Sweetie rolled over and pulled herself up.

"I suppose you do make a point, I can be civil. I can even be calm. Long as the other two are calm too."

"If they are willing to put in half the effort that you are willing too, I'm sure this will all work out. Don't be afraid to put up some boundaries though. It's important to set some expectations from the three of them."

Sweetie leaned her head onto the Princess's knee.

"'m going to need a bath and some proper grooming. Then I'm going to make a call. I think I know exactly what I'd like to do now."

"There's my girl! Oh, you have a little something...on your...allow me."

She reached towards her back, removing a sticky burger wrapper that clung to her tail. Regardless, Sweetie kept her dignity.

"Right, Thank you."

--

Arrby was nervous, not so much at Moby's surprise but Trash Island was exactly as it was described. Full of trash. Not exactly the first place he'd think of meeting up at. Worst of all, what ever he'd consider trash, Sid might consider treasure. He worried that the pirate would fill up the boat.

"I won't take a thing." Sid told his first mate. Seeming to read his mind.

"I wasn't saying you were going too..."

"Yar, you had a look on your face. I'll resist what ever glorious temptation there be on that sand bar! Pirate's honor!"

Sid put gave a salute in good faith and Arrby wondered if the captain had picked up that honor bit from Claw. Before he could question him further, the sloop arrived by Trash Island. Only it's name sake did not much it's look. There were no abandon tires, or wet cardboard boxes, or loose circuit boards. Almost the entirety of the island was spotless.

"What in the world?"

"There's nothing here! Not a speck of treasure...Uh, I mean trash!"

The pirates parked their ship and walked along the shore. There was absolutely nothing there. Besides some shells and random beach ball. Though they did notice two vessels parked by the other side of the island. The pair recognized Rocky's tug boat and Coral's seahorse sub. Though Arrby didn't see Moby's sub anywhere.

"Yarr? What exactly is this boy?"

"Beats me. He said to come up here. I wonder where..."

A sharp horn sent Arrby flying into Sid's arms.

"What the heck was that?!"

"Arrby! Language! I taught ya better tha...What the heck is that?!"

Sid pointed a finger towards the bend around Trash Island. A ship had slowly made it's way towards them. It exteriors decked in a shiny dark red. It's sails a mix of pink, blue, and purple. Unusual sails for a ship like that, but fitting for the pup that drove it. From the wheel. Arrby spotted Moby, using his mechanical arms to steer the vessel. McSquidly clung to his shoulder. Giving a multi-armed wave towards the pirates. To their surprise, they had also spotted Coral and Rocky from the bow. Each of them giving a howl in response.

"Hey there guys!"

"Do you like your surprise?! Yip yip!"

Moby parked right next to Sid's skip. The vessel was about half the size of Sid's Sloop but impressive non the less. A mechanical ramp drew up from the side of the boat, with a whirl, it laid flat against the shore. Letting Moby, Rocky, and Coral slide on down with ease.

"All aboard"

Arrby squirmed from Sid's grasp and quickly scampered towards the older pup, giving him a tight hug.

"Moby! It's amazing!"

"Just a little something I've been working on for the past few days. No biggie"

Moby seemed so proud of himself though Rocky and Coral raised an eyebrow towards him.

"With some help with a few friends of course. I couldn't have gotten it done without them"

"Like you said, It was no biggie!" Rocky said with a wink.

"Oh yes it was! Moby was sooo particular about it looking just right for you Arrby."

"No I wasn't." He said with a blush.

Arrby leaned up and nuzzled his nose. Moby shrunk a little at the display of affection in front of others. Trying to seem neutral. His wagging tail said other wise

"Do...Do you want to take it out for a spin? "

"Heck yeah. If it's alright with Sid..."

Sid really really really wanted to join his first mate but he had the feeling that this was between him and his partner. He smiled and tilted his hat down in a greeting.

"Ah don't ya worry about me Arrby. You go enjoy yourself. Don't go getting into any trouble."

"Where's the fun in that?" Moby asked.

Before the pirate could agree, his pup tag went off.

"What the?"

His tag chirped again, a slight wave of static filled the speaker. The group listened close. They could sort of make out a few words. Something about "High...Land.." and "Barking...burg." It was followed by silence before in static unison every pup heard to royal voices boom out a response.

"Would you stop talking while I'm talking! UGGH!"

The signal was dropped but Arrby recognized those jumbled snobby voices anywhere.

"Claw and Sweetie!"

"Who would have guessed. Ya think they want to meet up?" Rocky asked.

"Looks like they might have come to a decision about your little proposal. Might be best to go see them directly." Sid inquired. Moby took one of Arrby's paws.

"What do you think? Should we go and see what your...Our friends are up too?"

Moby had prepared for this. That was what this ship was built for. It wasn't just made for the pirate and him, It was to be shared and if those two did not want to come along. That was fine too. Means more space for him and Arrby. The dachshund shook his head up and down quickly.

"Let's go! Oh wait!, One thing though."

Arrby quickly jumped up and tackled Sid down into the sand. Giving him another hug. Though the air was knocked out of him, He returned the affection. Arrby picked himself back up before wrapping his paws around Rocky and Coral. Giving them a friendly goodbye.

"Thanks ya'll. This was such a nice surprise!"

"No problem bud."

"Go on then, don't leave those two waiting!"

Arrby scampered up on the smaller ship. Moby followed close behind with McSquidly still clung to his back before pointing towards the wheel.

"Why don't you steer? See if I need to make any sort of adjustments for you."

"With pleasure!"

Arrby lifted up on his back paws and grabbed the wheel. With the anchor pulled up and the ramp back in place, the pirate took the lead and steered the vessel out in open water. Rocky and Coral gave them another wave goodbye, content with their hard work being paid off.

"Well, about time for me to head home. Wanna tag along? I'm sure Skye would love it if you stopped by!"

"Yip! Absolutely!"

Coral was ready to ship off but was distracted by the sound of soft sniffling coming from Sid. The normally brash pirate stood looking towards the red sloop as it sailed away. Coral couldn't help but ask.

"Sid? Are you okay?"

"Yarrr...I'm good. It's just nice to see how happy my first mate is. He's really made so many new friends. Maybe even even something more than friends"

Coral put a paw against his leg. Seeming to tear up a little too.

"I get what you mean. I was Moby's only friend for a while and he's change so much since coming up to the surface. It's nice to see them grow, isn't it?"

Sid's lip began to stammer and the boy fell to his knees, Wrapping his arms tight around the cockapoo. He began to bawl dramatically.

"Our boys are growing up soooo fast! Wahhhh!"

Coral awkwardly patted a paw against his back, Turning to Rocky for direction on how to gently break off this wet embrace. The recycle pup simply shrugged in response.

--

Moby had to admit. It was beautiful out here. The grassy plains of the dragon highlands were massive. Especially from the point where the two of them stood. He actually couldn't believe the former knight would trade this quiet land for a big and pompous castle. Though he'd prefer to have the ocean near by at least. Instead of this massive cave right behind him. He was getting tired of caverns at this point. Though Arrby seemed confused as he walked out of the massive structure.

"Weird...Nothing in there. Not even his horde."

"Horde? Did he take a page out of Sid's book?"

"Hahaha, Nervous Moby?"

"Of Claw? Hah! Not even a little."

"No, I meant of Dragons. Don't think I didn't notice you hesitating on checking the cave with me mister. I know you haven't seen one in person before."

"Ehh, I doubt they would show up now. You said you haven't seen one since you've met Claw right?"

Moby didn't seemed too bothered. McSquidly on the other hand, fearfully clung to his back. The squid looking every which way towards the sky for any sight of them.

"I only seen Sparks. Though I'm not sure if we'll ever see him again."

The wind had suddenly picked up, dirt and leaves torrent upwards. The debris clinging to their ears and fur, The up draft was followed by a massive red creature that flew above the boys. McSquidly squeaked in horror and clung to Moby's face.

"McSquidly! Wait! Ahhh! Stop! I can't see nothing!"

Moby furiously worked to pry his friend off his head. Arrby on the other hand, looked up at the familiar beast that landed in front of him.

"Sparks!"

The Dragon roared loudly in a proper greeting. From his back, a purple cladded knight slid down his back and around his massive tail. Hitting the dirt before tripping forward. Flipping over a few times before landing hard in front of Arrby. A bouquet of blue flowers in his mouth that were now bent. A few petals missing here and there. Claw quickly got to his paws and shook it off.

"I uh...meant to do that!"

"Claw, you little dummy!"

Arrby quickly wrapped a paw around him and gave him hug. Taking what was left of the bouquet. Before approaching Sparks.

"I see Sparks came back! So good to see you!"

The dragon leaned down and took a sniff of the flowers. His face scrunched up into a sour look. Claw recognized that face and quickly pulled Arrby to the ground.

"Get down!"

They ducked just as Sparks sneezed. A ball of icy fire rocketed into the plains towards Moby. McSquidly let out a scream and used his tentacles to pull Moby and himself off the dirt path. Causing them both to tumble over the grassy plain. Rolling all the way down

"MpppH...What! The! Heck! is going OONNNNN?!!" Moby growled under his muffled snout as they rolled down the hill. Arrby and Claw jumped up and giggled.

"Should we get him?"

"Nah, He'll be fine. Besides, I've got some other folks you have to meet."

"Huh? There are others?"

"Oh yes. Sparks and I have been catching up on a few things while he was away. That's why I wasn't reaching out to you so often. Well, that and other reasons..."

A smaller and more delicate roar caught the pirates attention. A larger blue dragon and two smaller ones flew on in and landed next to the trio. She eagerly nuzzled Sparks while her babies fluttered next to Claw and Arrby.

"Whoa! Well howdy there little ones!"

"Soooo funny thing. Dragons migrate when it's time for them to...uh...ya know."

"Find their buddy! Their very close buddy!"

"Right! Exactly! Sparks has a whole family now! Safe to say he's gonna be preoccupied for a while. So I figure it was time to take a page out of his book and make a decision."

Claw took one of Arrby's paws, leaning down slightly.

"I thought I'd need more time but I already knew what I wanted when I saw Sparks and his family. I needed the few days to prepare because where ever you go, I'd want to be there too. I'm...I'm willing to give this proposal a shot, With Moby and Sweetie tagging along. If you would have me still."

Claw nervously looked up at Arrby. The pirate biting his lower lip in delight. Claw didn't have to use his puppy eyes on him but he was all the more satisfied to see his cute face again.

"Ohh Claw."

Arrby leaned down and licked his forehead. Claw let his ears flick in delight. The knight could feel Sparks give him a confident nudge in approval. The Doberman leaned over to nuzzled his massive head.

"Sparks, I'm so happy you've come back but...I'm leaving the den to you for the time being. You and your family can make it your home and...and...."

Claw tried to keep himself composed, even as tears clouded his vision. Arrby squeezed one of his paws in reassurance.

"It's time for me to make my migration. With a pup I love very much. I will return at some point, I promise."

Sparks let out a low growl and leaned into Claw and Arrby, seeming to understand. Both pups held each other close, even as Moby made his way up the grassy hill. Dragging McSquidly with the base of his tail. Out of breath and panting. His mouth fell open at the sight in front of him.

"Freaking Dragons...Bow Wow Wee!"

Arrby nuzzled his newly acquire boyfriend. Now there was one more pup to visit next. He only hoped their reunion would be better than where they left off.

"Hey, Could I ask Sparks for one tiny favor?"

"Might need a marshmallow or two but...I'm sure he'd be up for it. Right Sparks?"

Sparks panted in response, wanting his treat and direction from the pirate.

--

With a careful pull, Sweetie got her fur just the way she wanted it. Her jumpsuit snug and her gear all in place. She might have gone with a more traditional look but if Arrby was going to come see her, It was going to be how she saw herself. Beautiful and dastardly. Not so much as a queen but as her usual mischievous self. She wondered out towards the massive parlor, showing herself off to the princess and the Earl.

"Now there's the much more proper Sweetie I know."

"Not exactly as proper as you used to look but fitting none the less." The Earl huffed. Not seeming too please but Sweetie took the half compliment in stride.

"I should get ready for him to arrive. Perhaps go into the garden or something."

"Wait! One more thing before you go!"

The princess clapped her hands, The Earl walked up with a box which the princess eagerly took. leaning down, she opened the package promptly. Pulling out a small, pink, and very shiny new tiara. Sweetie marveled at it before the princess placed it on Sweetie's head.

"It's perfect." Sweetie complemented.

"Perfect crown for a perfect pup."

The princess wrapped her arms around Sweetie. Giving her a reassuring hug. Sweetie returned the gesture with a nuzzle into her neck.

"Thank you Lynn."

"Good lord! AHHHH!"

The Earl practically fell over at the sight of a massive dragon's head poking towards the stain glass parlor doors.

"Call the guards! We are being invaded!"

"One moment Earl. I recognize that dragon."

Sweetie motioned to have the doors unlocked. She rushed out to the balcony where Sparks gave a friendly roar to the royals before dipping down towards the railing. Letting a familiar dachshund slip off his head and landing in front of Sweetie.

"Howdy!"

Sweetie bit her tongue.

"How...Hey."

Arrby looked passed Sweetie's shoulder and gave a nod towards the princess and the Earl."

"Sorry for the surprise dragon visit!"

"Oh, it's not trouble. The Earl and I will leave you too it."

She reached an arm around the Earl, Dragging him along. Leaving Arrby and Sweetie to talk. Though a dull silence hung over them. The pups didn't really know where to start. They waited for the other to speak.

"Thanks for inviting over."

"No problem. Sparks came back I see."

"Yup."

"I assume Claw is near by then?"

"By our ship. With Moby and McSquidly."

"Our ship?"

"Moby made a vessel for us but I didn't meant to imply that I...that you would..."

Arrby let his head fall.

"I'll shut up now. You're the one who called me here for a reason, So I'll let you talk."

"Yes, Quite. If I may."

Sweetie cleared her throat and kept her composure.

"I have given it some thought and....I think we can work something out."

Arrby held back his excitement. Trying not to display how happy he was right now.

"I'm really...really glad to hear that."

"There's going to be some rules and some stipulations."

"Name them."

"Later, I have to discuss it with the others as well but to keep it brief. We will honor our agreement from before. We will behave with each other."

"Sounds good to me."

"Most of all, I want you to know. Despite my selfish desires, intentions, and schemes. I am willing to give this a shot because you have stolen my heart."

Sweetie walked up and nuzzled the pirate. Arrby returned the affection, Nuzzling his snout close towards Sweeties. Letting out a few needy whines.

"I've missed you...so so much."

"I've missed you too. I'm sorry to keep you waiting."

"No no, You had every right too. I'm just so happy you'll still have me after all this..."

"I'll always have you Arrby. Silly boyfriend. Is it...okay that I call you that?"

"Oh yeah...you can call me whatever you want."

"Come here."

Sweetie pressed her lips into Arrbys. The pirate fell into her embrace. Finally glad to be with her once again.

--

"Ugh! There! Finally done. Fourteen inches. Just like my precious cousin instructed."

From the royal gardens, The Duke of Flappington had finally finished digging a hole. His seventh one today. It was his punishment after spreading that nasty rumor about Sweetie and Claw. Now the royal member of the family was forced to plant some azalea bushes. A job reserved for the gardener but the princess thought the Duke was more than capable of handling it. As he slowly lugged the potted azalea bush towards it's final destination, His trusted eagle sat by the grass, letting his master do all the work. The Duke gave a pitiful look towards him.

"I don't suppose you'd lend a claw Jean Claude? Ka? Kaka?"

He pouted toward his feather companion but he did not return he affection. The bird flared his feathers, seeming distracted by something. Before the Duke could inquire further, a gust of wind over took the pair. Causing the Duke to fall backwards into the hole, The bush falling straight on top of him. He poked his head out of the foliage and noticed a familiar dragon flying by and out of the castle.

"What?! Whaaaaat?! That filthy Dragon...and that pup...I...I....KAAAAAW!"

The royal guards got quite the view of the Duke throwing a massive tantrum in the garden. If a bird could blush, Jean Claude would have died of embarrassment.

--

"Dude, How long have you been dealing with this?"

"Hmmm, probably since my knighthood was taken away."

"This would drive me crazy!"

Moby worked one paw in Claws pack, flipping the power back on before stepping back.

"Alright, Give it a shot."

Claw rolled his eyes, expecting the same results as before.

"Ruff! Pincers!"

On command, his once troublesome pincers came out without hesitation. The knight couldn't believe it. He barked them out a few times. Making sure he wasn't dreaming.

"Their fixed! Their finally fixed!"

"Careful now! You'll wear out the motor if you keep doing that."

Claw stopped his shenanigans before giving a genuine smile towards the water pup.

"Thanks Moby."

He shrugged it off but couldn't hide his own smile.

"Oh, it's nothing. We're gonna be hanging out more often now right? Better to make things more efficient"

"Agreed. Now let's just hoped we're getting two passengers on board instead of one."

"You're seriously hoping she will say yes? I'm surprised."

"What can I say? I'm a changed pup. Plus some dog has to put some class on this ship."

"Uh huh, and definitely not because she's your friend now?"

"I have no idea what you are talking about!"

Moby could tease the Doberman further but they had notice Sparks flying by towards the ship, that was their signal to get ready to sail out. Claw watched as the Dragon flew right above the sails before flipping over. Two occupants stumbling out. He pranced in place as he watched Sweetie swing down the sail and walk along the mast before jumping all the way down to the deck with grace. Arrby followed less fluently than her. His stubby paws causing him to roll over the sail. Moby giggled at the sausage roll that worked his way down towards the deck, landing in Sweetie's open paws.

"Thanks babe."

"No worries love." She put the pup down before greeting the boys.

"Moby, Claw."

"Well well, welcome on board princess."

"Hmmph, I'm afraid that's not title I share but....if anyone asks. By all means use it."

She gave snort and curt laugh which got smirk out of Moby. Busby poked his head out of Sweetie's pack. Landing on the deck. The pups watched the small robot whirled around the deck before quickly greeted by McSquidly. The two seeming to understand one another through a series of whistles and squeaks. Sweetie marveled at the vessel. Loving the colors and sleek design.

Excellent handy work Moby."

"Thanks."

"I'll send for my things at a later date. We can fit twelve suitcases in here right?"

"Uh..."

"Well well, Looks like you finally came to your senses." Claw remarked.

"Oh yes, I guess for the sake of my love for Arrby, I can deal with Moby and a multi-armed sea creature. Oh, McSquidly is fine too."

She snorted again with Claw rolling his eyes towards her.

"Pompous brat."

"Stubby mutt"

Both pups stuck their tongues out towards one another. Arrby and Moby were sure they would have to break it up but to their surprise, the pups immediately began to laugh with one another.

"Soooo, I take were all on board for this relation-ship right?"

"Aye aye!" Claw remarked.

"There's some boundaries and such I'd like to discuss but...yes."

"Alright. How about we talk about where we head from here?"

"I hear the alpines are quite lovely this time of year." Sweetie commented.

"The isle of pupsiles seems like the perfect spot for adventuring!" Claw spat out.

"Yeah yeah, what about this Adventure City though? It's closer and has some serious tech I'd want to check out!"

Arrby sat and pondered. Looking out towards the bow. The open sea waiting for them.

"Why don't we do a quick sail by the castle then head south. Honestly, I'm okay with where ever we go. Long as we're all together."

Per Arrby's command, He steered the ship towards the castle. Sweetie could see the princess from the highest point. She blew a kiss towards her companion. She could already feel her eyes begin to water. With Arrby putting a reassuring paw on her shoulder. For the briefest of moments, Claw and the princesses eyes met. It had been sometime since they had any sort of encounter with one another. Claw hadn't exactly been the most gracious in front of her since she took his knighthood. Part of him wanted to sneer but at the same time, he didn't really hold any grudge against her anymore. His fury had all but gone. Instead, he gave a courteous nod towards her which she returned just as kindly. Moby flicked his paw towards the human he never met and Arrby enthusiastically waved his paws. Once they had rounded around the castle, they made for the open sea.

--

It was the early evening, Dusk had began to settle along the sky. The quartet of dogs had had a proper discussion on what they expected out of each other. No jealousy, no tricks, just proper communication. Plus, Arrby could not play favorites. He had to do as he promised and love them equally. Which he was more than happy to obliged. Just like that, every one had settled in. Arrby steered the wheel while Moby navigated, using his tentacles to chart a map. Claw was busy chasing Busby about for fun, the smaller knight remarking at the coordination the chew toy had. While Sweetie laid by the bow, soaking some of the remaining rays of a setting sun. McSquidly hanging just above the mast above them. It was quiet, Arrby didn't mind the quiet but the overwhelming emotion he had felt at having all the boys and girls he loved in one place just made him want to shout. He decided on a much more subtle way of expressing his happiness. He began with a low hum. A sea shanty he had heard a few times, then turned that hum into a whistle. Moby raised an eyebrow towards him. Knowing exactly where he was going with this.

"Arrby..."

The pirate gave him his famous puppy eyes. A look that begged his boyfriend for one sea shanty. Moby couldn't say no. He raised his robotic appendage, Indicating he gets one and only one. With that, Arrby howled out loud. Claw and Sweetie bolted up right and the wiener dog began to sing.

"Yo hohoho! Yohohoho!"

"Gather up all of the crew!

It's time to ship out puppy's brew!

Sea wind blows. To where?

Who knows?

The waves will be our guide!

"O'er across the ocean's tide

Rays of sunshine far and wide

Birds they sing of cheerful things, in circles passing by!"

Arrby marched towards the center of the deck. Sweetie and Claw snickering at the sight.

"Bid farewell to Barkingburg!

We take along the things we learned!

Sing a song, it won't be long, before we're casting off!"

Sweetie leaped from her spot he danced with the pirate and sung along.

"Cross the gold and silver seas! The salty spray puts us at ease!

Day and night to our delight

The voyage never ends"

She spun the pup a few times before flinging him towards the Claw. Who caught him with ease before dancing along, taking the next verse.

"Gather up all of the crew!

It's time to try out something new!

The cunning queen, and knight who be, and Moby dragged along!"

"Hey!"

"With the waves to rest our heads,

Ship beneath us as our beds!

Hoisted high upon the mast our love will surely fly!

Arrby hopped along with Claw around the deck, The knight courting him towards McSquidly and Busby who danced with the pirate. Till Arrby felt two paws grab his waist. Moby had stepped up and took one paw in Arrby's. He began to slow dance with him. Sweetie raised in eyebrow. Impressed that the former merpup knew how to waltz. No wonder where the pirate learned to dance. Moby paid no mind and made up the lyrics as he went. If they could do it, so could he.

"Somewhere in the endless sky,

A tiny pirate sailed on by!

He danced along and sung a song

smitten we were...we?"

Moby felt his entire face go red at saying that but Arrby simply nuzzled his nose. Taking over the next verse.

"From the deepest of shiny depths

a beautiful pup came and went

above the shore

he longed for more

and now has friends galore!"

Moby laughed out loud.

"You're just making this up as you go aren't you?! Hahaha!"

"Yup yup! Come on, All of you!"

With that, the four pups gather around one another and sung, in surprisingly decent sync

Gather up all of the crew!

It's time to ship out puppy's brew!

Wave good-bye, but don't you cry

Our memories remain!

The four of us were once divide

Now partnered in glee and stride.

'A pirates tune and side kicks too!

Our love will carry on!"

Arrby was in his element and surrounded by the pups he loved. In his merriment, he hadn't noticed the three each giving each other a reassuring nod of approval. Without a word. They surrounded the pirate pup. Sweetie planting a kiss on his forehead while Claw and Moby got both sides of his snout.

Arrby's face turned a brought crimson. In that blissful moment, He felt like he was on top of the world.

Their ship blared a loud warning as something cut their boat off. Each pup slid to one side of the ship. Almost falling overboard. They picked themselves up.

"What the heck was that?!" Claw barked.

"Something cut us off!"

"In the middle of the ocean?"

The four pups peered over and noticed an obnoxious luxury boat that floated right in front of their vessel. Completely purple in color. From the bow, the pups could make out a set of cats sneering and making funny faces towards them. Only to be met by a purple cladded mayor who pouted at them.

"Hpmmph! Watch where you are going! Silly pups! Can't you see me and my kitties are enjoying our vacation!"

Arrby felt himself begin to apologize but Sweetie quickly interrupted.

"Excuse me, but you're the one who cut us off Humdinger!"

"Hah, I don't know what your talking about. Why don't you tell it to someone who cares?"

He blew a raspberry towards Sweetie, making her scoff. Arrby felt a tinge of anger and leaped forward.

"Hey! That's not nice.!

"Oh, What are you going to do about it? You're not much of a pirate last time I checked."

Claw stomped his paw.

"How dare! This dishonor will not stand!"

"What the knight said, You better back up big guy" Moby threatened.

The boys wanted nothing more than to show that jerk who's boss but Sweetie stepped up next to the both of them.

"That's enough you two."

"But he..."

"I know, but we need to consider everyone's feelings. Not just our own."

She looked towards Arrby. The boys realizing he'd probably wouldn't approve of any mischievousness.

"We have to behave ourselves, right love?"

Arrby scratched his chin for a moment before blurting out.

"With each other. Not Humdinger. Who are we? The Paw Patrol?"

Claws eyes lit up

"Are we plundering?!"

Arrby wrapped his paws together.

"Just a little! Sweetie! Arm the water canons! Moby! Get a tracker on that boat! Claw, can you make trebuchet?"

"Can do! I can board that that vessel no problem if we get close enough!"

"I call his jewelry! Hahahah" Sweetie snorted

"McSquidly wants his dumb purple hat!" Moby barked. McSquidly chirping in agreement.

"Full speed ahead pups!"

The quartet howled in unison. Mayor Humdinger realized that he was in a load of trouble.

"Wait, Wait!! I didn't mean it! Kitties, lets get out of here!"

He floored his ship forward, Desperately calling out for some help over his radio. The pups right on his tail.

From there, rumors had began to spread along the ports of different towns. There came talk of a small vessel. On board were a dachshund pirate, a royal queen, a devious knight, and a brilliant inventor. Sometimes they were good pups just wondering by place to place. Sometimes they were mischievous pups who got into trouble. No matter what path they took, they were always together. United by one pup who listen, who was patient, and who understood them. His choice to be there for the three of them wasn't by no means perfect, but it was his to make. That choice was worth any treasure he could ever discover.

Arrby's choice made all the difference. For better or worse or something in between. And for those once villainous pups. It gave them something they all needed.

A little love from a little pirate.



THE END