Hey Mom, just wanted to let you know I’ve been quite the hero today! Helped a lost kitten find her way home and even convinced Mr. Johnson to share his lunch. All in a day’s work for your favorite tail-wagging wonder! 🐾

– Perss

### The Dogfather Part II: Percy in the Land of Pawsburg

When I awoke, the world was as it always was: filled with the soft murmur of my human’s snores. Mom’s the caretaker here, but she knows nothing of the adventures that lie beyond her dreams. My esteemed friends in Pawsburg often hear me say, “Every dog has its day, and today is mine.”

Slipping quietly through the doggy door, I felt the night air on my black fur and the gentle spot on my chest that marks me as different. My paws hit the cobblestones of Affenpinscher Avenue with the confidence of a seasoned wanderer; the lights of Pawsburg had an unmistakable emerald hue, casting playful shadows and whispers of hidden escapades.

A playful, energetic, and, yes, stubborn Labrador mix with a hint of bullmastiff, I had a reputation here. They call me “Perss,” but I prefer Percy. “Percy3867” to my followers on PawWord. A message buzzed on my collar: “Meeting tonight at Fido’s Feast. Bring the usual.”

My loyal crew awaited. Apollo, a hound dog mix of strategic brilliance, was pacing under the glowing sign of Fido’s Feast. His nose twitched as I approached. “Percy, you’re late,” he barked, half-annoyed, half-relieved.

“Fashionably, Apollo. Let’s eat first, plot later.”

We gorged on chicken, our favorite. Apollo munched thoughtfully, his tail flicking in the rhythm of his thoughts. “The crates of plush soft blankets have arrived at Diamond Doberman Dunes,” Apollo said, “perfect contraband for our expanding territory.”

Eyes twinkling with mischief, I replied, “Excellent. Pawsburg needs more comfort. We’ll stash ’em before sundown.” I tore into my meal, savoring the taste while planning our next maneuver.

We swung by Pawlished Pets Salon—the perfect cover. Curiosity might have caused a few nicks, but confidence is never overrated. Bella, the Collie with a penchant for style, greeted us. “Percy! Aren’t you a sight? Here for the usual?” she said, winking.

“Strictly business, Bella. But we’ll take the ‘usual’ grooming, just in case.”

After a quick brush, we were sleek, mysterious shadows against the moonlit sands of Diamond Doberman Dunes. With a snappy tug-of-war and some purposeful digging, we unearthed the stash and relocated it under the watchful eyes of the Pawsburg Patrol. Apollo’s nose worked overtime, checking for any signs of trouble.

“Socks, Percy!” Apollo whimpered softly. “Every time with the socks!”

“Socks are the best toys, Apollo.” I defended my love slightly stubbornly.

Next up, a visit to Barky’s Book Nook, a favorite haunt of mine. We needed information on the latest turf wars brewing over at Emerald Eskimo Estuary. The old Basset Hound behind the counter, Growler, always had the best scoops between the shelves.

“Evening, Percy,” Growler mumbled. “Heard a rumor that the Golden Retrievers are sniffing around our estuary. Be careful.”

“Always guarded, Growler. Our loyalty keeps Pawsburg safe.”

We wrapped our tails with intelligence and made our way to Critter’s Couture. To the outside world, it appeared we were just fashion-minded pups. In reality, under those piles of designer collars were coded messages. Our mission clear, we returned to Affenpinscher Avenue, the hustle and bustle of Pawsburg dimming as every good dog settled into nighttime routines.

Back at home, I nestled into my favorite soft blanket. Mom would wake soon, and I would be all dog again, chewing socks and playing fetch, casting away the night’s escapades.

Pawsburg was ours, a magical realm that danced with mystery, adventure, and canine camaraderie. No carrots in sight, thank goodness. It’s good being Percy—the dog, the myth, the legend. Yet somehow, it’s even better knowing another night of adventures awaits.