tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27731509546465326002024-02-07T18:54:02.132-06:00Ruminations of an Indomitable Canine SentinelKilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-41703628331772692762014-07-11T19:33:00.001-05:002014-07-11T19:33:21.986-05:00The spoils of conquest! I have discovered the meaning of Master and Princess' recent actions and the disappearance of their large belongings. They have conquered a new fortress! It is a large fortress with two levels. At first I was unsure about the passage between the levels. They offered no traction and I was worried that I would injure myself during my decent. However, Master and Princess have once again shown their regard for me by laying down a material that allows me to walk easily. I was still very dubious at first but they were patient and showed me that there was no danger.<br />
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This new fortress also has a large surrounding area, however I have been kept restrained while in it. Unlike our last fortress the space between the front and the back of the fortress is not blocked off. I believe that Master and Princess are worried I may become over zealous in my guarding our new fortress. I hope this is remedied soon though because I am looking forward to playing on the new grounds.<br />
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It seems that Master and Princess still have some things to transfer because they return every night with more belongings. They also seem very tired in the evenings. I have been encouraging them to play and they have joined me when I ask, but much of the time they are resting or moving belongings around the fortress.<br />
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Well, for now, I must make my rounds and ensure that all is safe. I shall keep you updated on the progress of our new fortress.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-45213758127685998312014-07-08T18:57:00.000-05:002014-07-11T19:18:10.743-05:00Extended travels There has been much traveling over the past several days. Several days ago Patriarch and Matron came to visit us with their young pup (and Rascal, though I did not encounter him). Baron (the name I have given the older male human who seems to be like Patriarch and Matron, an older member of an extended clan) also came. They and Master took many of the large belongings out of the fortress and placed them on 2 large rides. They then left me at the fortress to guard it. It was wise of them to leave me because there was much noise that night. Humans in the surrounding fortresses seemed to be exploding objects near by.<br />
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The next day, Master, Princess and I got in the ride and went to return the visit to Baron and his mate, Baroness. We have visited there before and I greatly enjoy it. Where our fortress is only surrounded by a small space and many nearby fortresses their fortress has only one nearby fortress and a lot of room to run. It seemed to be some kind of important clan gathering. We were there many days longer then we normally stay and there were several humans that stayed with us as well many that came to visit. Master and Princess came and went often but with no regular pattern as they normally do.<br />
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We have since left there and took Princess' ride and left it at an odd place with many other rides. When we arrived Princess got me out and talked with a few other humans. We then left and got into another ride that was driven by a different human. This ride did not have the space that Princess' ride does for me. I was made to ride in the very back without the luxury that Princess' ride affords. Fortunately it was a short trip. Master and Princess and I are now outside waiting. I am not sure what we are waiting for, but they seem to be enjoying some morning refreshments and have provided me water. There are also some small human pups here that have come over to meet me and are now playing nearby. I believe the other human shall return and escort us back to our ride soon.<br />
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We will be returning back to the fortress today as my humans have repacked their travel items, though I must admit I am still unsure of that situation. The bed for Master and Princess was taken as well as their large amorphous throne. I shall work on uncovering the meaning of this disappearance once we return. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-38072528391104634412014-06-29T21:13:00.001-05:002014-06-30T06:55:05.627-05:00The recent chaos of lifeReaders, you may have noticed my absence from updating about my life with my humans. I will strive to be better, however the past many weeks have been chaotic for me. I will try to do them justice with this post and then continue on about future adventures with Master and Princess.<br />
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I mentioned in my last missive that Princess and I went to another fortress-like location that smelled of other animals where I was examined and poked at by strange humans. A few days after that visit we went to another place - I shall refer to it as the Canine Fortress - which other canines frequent, and which I assume to be some sort of meeting place or lodging. It seems we were there to talk to another female human. I was very distracted because of all the other dogs I could smell and hear so I am not sure what transpired between her and Master and Princess, but she kept giving me lots of delicious food and my humans seemed at ease, so I think she is a friend. There were many dogs outside when we left but Master gave me handfuls of treats. I think they want me to ignore these other creatures, but I find this difficult because I can't be sure they aren't a danger.</div>
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After this visit we returned once more to the first fortress I mentioned where Princess talked to the same human again - I really wish I could understand more of the human language. After this, Master and Princess have been giving me a tiny, hard and foul-tasting substance in the mornings and evenings. I am not sure what it is for, maybe something was wrong when they took my blood, but whatever the reason I don't like taking it. It makes me feel able to eat less and also more worn out. I suspect it has something to do with Master and Princess noticing I don't like other dogs because they get less upset when I bark at other dogs now and just try and distract me with playing or treats. We also had another visit to the Canine Fortress to visit with the nice lady again. I was again distracted because of the other dogs, but everyone gave me lots of treats which made it better.</div>
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All of this was enough to keep me busy but what has really been the difficult part was that Master and Princess left me for several days at this Canine Fortress. I am not sure why, but it was very distressing. Princess took me there one day with my toys and my bed and my food but she didn't come back for me that day. The humans she left me with were all very nice to me, but they weren't Master and Princess. There were also many other dogs around which was even more distressing. I must admit, I faltered in my trust of my humans. I have been left at such a place before and the previous humans did not return for me.<br />
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I had no appetite, which the humans must have noticed because they gave me different food in an attempt to tempt me into eating. In fact, I think some of it was human food, which under normal circumstances I would have been delighted to eat, I just wasn't in the mood. It was the first time I had been away from my humans for an extended period of time. What if they were like my last humans and just left me?</div>
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Fortunately Master and Princess are better than that. They picked me up after several days and brought me home. I noticed that both of them, especially Princess, appeared to bear the marks of recent battles. I know my humans regularly go out on conquests, but I have never seen them return in such a state. They seemed jovial, however, and it would appear that my humans have conquered their foes once again, though it does seem to have been a hard-fought battle.<br />
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I was still very anxious after my time away from them and it took me a while to get back to playing and eating. It has been a while since we have all been back home now though, and I am feeling much better. Master, Princess and I are back to our regular games and playing. I think, however, new adventures are in store for us soon.<br />
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Master and Princess have been very busy recently removing their belongings from their places and storing them in containers. They do this on a smaller scale when we take trips by packing enough belongings for them and myself to last the trip. I would think perhaps they were packing for an extended trip, but they are packing many things which they normally do not. It could mean they might leave me in the Canine Fortress again, but nevertheless I have endeavored to assist them in the process. They have been packing many of the items with this crinkly substance which I have assisted them in retrieving:<br />
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I shall keep you updated with any further developments. Signing off.</div>
Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-60264673236619414872014-04-28T17:22:00.000-05:002014-05-10T17:23:22.188-05:00Visit to strange places Life has returned to some normalcy. The humans have returned to their normal bed chamber and the putrid smell is mostly gone. Though occasionally I still smell it coming from the cleaning rooms.<br />
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I am unsure what the humans were celebrating the other day but Princess cooked a large human meal for herself and Master. It smelled delicious and I was allowed to partake in a small part of the bounty. I asked for more but was not granted my request, much to my dismay.<br />
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The latest excitement involves a visit of Princess and I to another fortress-like location. We have been here a few times before, though this time was more eventful. It smells greatly of other animals, and though I have never seen any I have heard them. When we first arrived, Princess left me in the car and went into the building herself and then returned to retrieve me. When we went into the building, I was required to stand on a strange flat metal box and then Princess and I went into a small chamber. I could smell and hear other canines but was never able to ascertain where they were. A man came in after a while and looked at me, he seemed to be interested in examining me for unknown reasons. While he was there, he and Princess discussed things in their human language and I am unsure of what all was said, though I gather that much of it was about me.<br />
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After he left, two human females came in. They poked me several times in one paw. At first I was patient with them. Princess seemed to be okay with them doing this to me, so I do not believe they were trying to hurt me. However, after a while it began to hurt and I began objecting. After this they started poking me in my other paw. It seems that they were after blood. They also injected some strange fluids. The last time was after a short break during which Princess and I just waited in this small chamber. The last injection was cold and very unpleasant. After all this, Princess took me back out to the ride, though she went back into the fortress again for a short time. I'm not quite sure of the meaning of this visit, but I believe it was for my benefit. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-58356340856974162342014-04-07T17:31:00.000-05:002014-04-13T17:31:39.936-05:00Adventures Well, my faithful readers, there is much to catch you up on from the last several days. I must apologize, but brevity does not do the events justice. As predicted we did make a journey in the ride. We once again visited Patriarch and Matron (and Rascal). The evening there was spent uneventfully. However the following day resulted in much excitement.<br />
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Master and Princess left for a conquest of their own, and I was left to guard the fortress. I was given freedom to roam the fortress while the humans, along with Rascal were in the front grounds. At one point, Patron returned inside the house and I saw a chance to assert my dominance over that small young pup. I quickly raced through the unlatched door onto the grounds. Rascal became aware of my presence and dodged my offensive by getting under one of the rides. Before I could pursue him farther, Patriarch was on top of me and restrained me inside the fortress once again. This is all quite frustrating I can assure you. Though I do take pleasure in the fact I made the young pup wet himself.<br />
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Master and Princess finally returned while I was enclosed in the sleeping chambers. I could hear them in the main chamber of the fortress talking with Patriarch and Matron. Though I am still learning the human language, I did hear my name several times and I believe the stories of my adventures were being relayed. I was released into the main chamber of the fortress after a time. Shortly thereafter, Master noticed my paw, which I had injured while outside earlier. I do not completely understand what all happened next, but the humans conversed among themselves and Master and Princess left. They returned shortly however and began looking at my paw again. Princess poured a liquid onto it that stung a little and wrapped it in a strange stretchy cloth. It was very difficult to walk after that, but I understood that they were concerned about me so I left my paw alone. Though I was very glad that Princess removed it before we went to bed that night.<br />
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After my paw was wrapped, Master and Princess began packing the ride again and we returned home. Most of our travel home it was dark and I know my humans must have been tired. They usually retire much earlier in the evening. I too was growing tired and went directly to my bed once I knew the fortress was secured and my humans were preparing for sleep as well. What happened next I am not quite sure. We had been asleep for a short while when I heard the sound of a very large ride near the back grounds, though not close enough to be on the fortress property. I then heard the sounds of bubbling water come from the small cleansing chamber that is off the bed chamber. Princess must have heard it too because she jumped out of bed and rushed in there - I presume to stop whatever was happening. Master too got up and they conversed among themselves. We all then went to check the other cleansing chamber, which also had water flowing out of it. It was very clear by this point that my humans were not happy. And I don't blame them - the water smelled putrid.<br />
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As Princess got dressed, Master called me to go with him into the back grounds. Outside I could see the large ride that I had heard earlier and there were two men with it. They appeared to be doing something in our neighbor's back grounds. Master spoke with them tersely. Though I am unsure of what was said, I think they are responsible for what happened inside the fortress. Master went back into the fortress, leaving me outside to watch the grounds. I was okay with this arrangement for a while but I could hear Master and Princess moving around inside. They had opened up a window that faces into the back grounds. This window is very high up and I must place my paws on the fortress wall to see inside. I did this several times to make sure that everything inside the fortress was okay and to let them know that I was still watching the grounds but would like to re-join them.<br />
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After a good deal of time, Princess let me back in the fortress and put my pack on me. I knew this must mean we were going somewhere again. My humans were very agitated and yet very lethargic. We made a short trip in the ride to a fortress I have not visited before. This turned out to be the home of a pack who has visited our fortress several times. They are a male and female, and their very young pup, whose antics I enjoyed immensely when they visited. The male is the alpha of their pack, and has a large mane which extends around his face. I shall refer to him as Whiskers. But I digress.<br />
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We stayed the rest of the night at their fortress and packed up early in the morning. We went in the ride to a large fortress we sometimes visit, from which the humans usually return with provisions. This time the humans returned with foul-smelling chemicals of some sort, which when we returned to the fortress they began using to clean the mess. This process took some amount of time, during which two other humans assisted for a while. After completion a pungent odor remained, though I am not sure if my humans smelled it as their senses are not as attuned as mine. It has at this point been a night cycle and the odor remains. My humans and I slept in another chamber of the house than normal which may indicate they smelled it after all. I am not sure if this means they gave up on cleaning it or were unable to finish. Either way, time will tell if the fortress returns to normal.<br />
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Kilo, signing off.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-40144545154676305692014-04-04T17:08:00.003-05:002014-04-08T17:41:15.113-05:00Other Canines (cont) I believe I have intimidated the other canines into leaving. They have not been seen for several days now. I am still wary, however. Every time I am released into the rear grounds my first goal is to make sure that the property line is secure and the scoundrels are no longer a threat to the security of my domain. Before they left, I could hear Master and Princess talking to their human in their presence. This greatly upset me that my humans would risk encountering such dangers without my being there. Despite my vocal objections, they continued in their discussion. I am hopeful that, since humans do not have refined hearing, they simply did not hear my warnings. Regardless, this incident has left me aware of the risks my humans are comfortable taking, I must must continue to be vigilant in my work of communicating the dangers.<br />
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This morning, Princess left in her usual manner while Master stayed back for a little bit with me. During this time Master started packing his bag. This only happens when we are going on a journey, so I immediately got excited. I thought that perhaps Princess would return quickly and we would leave in the ride. Unfortunately this was not the case and I spent a relatively boring day watching the fortress. When Princess came home I greeted her excitedly and she too started packing. My suspicion of a journey was confirmed when she retrieved my pack from its normal storage spot. My pack only goes with us when we are going on an overnight adventure and, similar to the humans bags I assume, houses my food and toys for my entertainment. I immediately started helping Princess by making sure she had all the essentials. After she completed that task I signaled I was ready to leave by sitting by the door. She allowed me to go with her into the front grounds of the fortress but then required me to rejoin her back inside despite my protest. For now it seems as if we wait for Master. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-66364379010941387062014-03-27T08:47:00.000-05:002014-03-30T08:47:26.111-05:00Other Canines Our fortress is in row of many other fortresses. For the most part, the humans that inhabit the other fortresses come and go with little disturbance in our day. Occasionally Master and Princess will converse with these local humans and it appears they are on friendly terms with them. Only a few of the fortresses around us seem to have fellow canine sentinels and the ones that do are not directly next to us. I'm not sure if this is a fault of the humans not desiring companionship or of their former canines not being alert to the dangers of the outside world. Alas, not all canines are worthy of the title "Sentinel".<br />
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Because there are no other canines close to the fortress I rarely have the need to assert my authority over my domain. Occasionally I will have to give warning barks - and several days ago a small, young fluffy canine attempted to approach the fortress while I was inside with Princess. I quickly alerted Princess and loudly proclaimed to this little canine that she needed to leave. However, two days ago, Princess and I went in to the rear grounds to play and there were two large canines in the fortress next to us! I immediately raised my guard and we had a heated discussion about the property line before Princess pulled me away. Their master was occupied with also pulling them away. I do not think my humans understand the need for me to protect our property from the dangers of these untrustworthy newcomers. Since this initial encounter, Master and I have been outside several times. While I give warning barks, I know that Master does not want me to engage these scoundrels and I am trying to be respectful of his wishes. I am still wary though. Especially at night when I can hear them about outside their fortress. I do not trust them to keep to their fortress.<br />
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Signing off.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-14609425455583774052014-03-24T17:26:00.000-05:002014-03-24T17:26:12.775-05:00More travels and taking care of Master The last many weeks have been boring at times but have had some exciting moments. We once again traveled in the new ride to visit Patriarch and Matron. While I never saw Rascal during this visit, I was ever wary of his presence. I believe that the humans are having us "take turns" in guarding the main chamber of the fortress because I often hear him while I am confined to my human's sleeping chamber. I do not understand why they trust the young pup. He is both young as well as small and I have no faith that he would be much threat against an enemy.<br />
While I never saw the spoils, I believe that Master, Princess and Patriarch went on a great conquest during our visit. I have<a href="http://lifeofkilo.blogspot.com/2013/10/on-guarding-my-humans.html"> previously mentioned </a>that Master has an odd device that emits light and a loud bark. Princess also carries on of these tools with her. They left with these devices as well as one that is much longer in nature (and I presume to be more proportionally more intimidating to an enemy). They returned after a time and, as I said, while I never saw their spoils, I am sure they must have had a great victory as they were in high spirits.<br />
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We have since returned to our fortress and life had been fairly normal. I am ever on guard against evil (I believe that the feline I once saw is still lurking in the area). A few nights ago my humans retired to their sleeping chamber later than normal, however, Master awoke not long after and seemed to be in distress. I attempted to comfort him but it did not seem to help. He awoke Princess and they left in quite a hurry. I am unsure of where they went, but I believe they may have gone to seek help from other humans. When they returned Master seemed to be in less distress, though both appeared very fatigued. Both were at home for their normal two day reprieve from conquests but seemed to be less interested in playing. I believe Master to still be recovering from what ever distressed him that night. While we still play, he has been less enthusiastic the past several days and today, while Princess left for her conquests, Master remained at home to rest. I have done my best to entertain and take care of him.<br />
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Now I must return to my duties. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-2212165101337109162014-02-22T14:35:00.001-06:002014-02-22T14:35:51.470-06:00Sleeping quartersOur fortress is made up of many smaller chambers. Most of my time with the humans is spent in the large chamber that contains this inter-pack communication device as well as the area for human food preparation. A smaller chamber houses our sleeping quarters and another one is where my humans hone their combative skills.<br />
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There is one small chamber that is usually blocked off to me. Occasionally Princess will go there, allowing me to go with her to protect her. However, the other night the chamber was open to me. In this chamber is a large mat that sits low to the ground. It resembles my human's bed in its size, but is not elevated, so I assumed with it being low to the ground that it was for my sleeping comfort. I went to bed with my humans to make sure they were okay and reclined upon the smaller mat they have provided for me until they fell asleep. I then went and tried out this new mat. It was very comfortable and I slept well through the night without being disturbed by any evil. It was so comfortable that when Princess awoke the next morning I was loathe to escort her around the house as I normally do. But alas, a sentinel's job is never done.<br />
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Since that time the chamber has again been blocked against me. I think my humans are uncertain of my ability to guard them if I am not in the chamber with them. I completely understand their caution - one can never be too cautious. So until such time as I assure them of my diligence, I will await my opportunity to return to the large mat.<br />
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Speaking of diligence against evil....I have seen a feline creature stalking the premises. Just yesterday it had the audacity to sit out by the lane where the rides travel. I believe it is trying to find weaknesses in the fortress' security. I will be ever vigilant against this creature and any accomplices.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-27151603587688765732014-01-31T20:36:00.000-06:002014-02-12T20:36:44.290-06:00Return to normal lifeThe human festivals seem to be over now. Princess and Master and I have remained at the fortress for several days now and they seem to be back to their normal routine of daily conquests and returning to my care.<br />
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At our most recent visit to Patriarch and Matron I had hoped to again be able to partake in their feasting. Shortly after we arrived the humans prepared their meal and it smelled of delicious treats and I was in high hopes of being able to partake. Since Master and Princess had brought with us my disc squeaker for my enjoyment and it has become a favorite, I decided to see if my humans would respond to a trade. I retrieved my squeaker from the chamber and brought it to Matron since I felt she would be kindest and would quickly recognize my sacrifice. Alas, she refused to comply with my request for a trade when I placed it on her lap and sat. I attempted to win Patron over with my politeness in sitting before him, but he too was unwilling to allow me to share in the feast. I believe that my humans have communicated with Patriarch and Matron that they do not want me to have human food. I trust them to make good decisions for me, however I am not sure I agree with this one.<br />
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This last trip down to Patriarch and Matrons also allowed me to experience the new ride. It is very nice and I have more room than in the previous ride. Instead of entering from the side I now my enter from the back and then the entire back section of the ride open for me. My only complaint is that in the new ride I cannot sit between my humans as I once did. The old ride allowed me to sit between them looking behind us to guard against evil. This new ride has an odd covering between my humans seats and my section. It is short enough for me to look over and observe them and I am able to bend it and sit on it in my former fashion but every time I attempt to do so Princess makes me move. I suppose I will have to be content with the extra room I have been given. Since this trip I have had a few shorter trips and have found them to be quite enjoyable. I approve of the spoils of Master and Princess' conquest.<br />
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<br />Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-85363432311999150442014-01-01T06:56:00.000-06:002014-01-03T09:45:34.239-06:00Human Festivals and a New RideWe have returned to the fortress. I have decided that I enjoy human festivals. While I am rarely allowed to partake of human food, my humans made an exception and allowed me small bits of the large meal that they prepared. It was fantastic and I hope the humans have another festival soon so I may partake in their celebrations again. Master and Princess also gave me a new squeaker when we arrived back at the fortress. It is a disk with an open center and is quickly becoming a favorite. <br />
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Prior to leaving, I was forced to interact with Rascal. This was the first time I had seen him since our arrival. Every other day he was restrained away from my presence, though there were times when the humans confined me to the chamber and I heard Rascal out among them. While this made me very unhappy, I suppose it is understandable. Even fiends need some time to exert their energy.<br />
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While I still have no love for this small pup, I know my humans want me to tolerate his company. So after protesting his presence, I silenced myself and was then allowed to engage with him in closer quarters. I attempted to greet him in usual canine fashion but he did not appear amiable. While he caused no harm he did snap at me multiple times. I let these minor affronts go with little response. I do not like him, but I am capable of taking the high trail. We shall see what becomes of this in time.<br />
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While at the fortress of Patriarch the humans went on one of their usual excursions. I am not always sure of the exact nature of their trips, but this one must have been quite the victorious conquest, as they returned with a new ride! This one is a bit larger than the small ride we usually take trips in, but smaller than Master's veritable mobile fortress.<br />
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I was allowed to inspect the exterior upon arrival of the ride, but was not allowed to enter in. I know little of the workings of these beasts of burden, but perhaps they are similar to the equine species and require breaking. Master still drives his mobile fortress, but Princess' previous ride has gone by the wayside in favor of the new one. I can hardly blame her. My humans must have defeated quite a large and powerful enemy to secure such a prize. I hope to partake in the spoils of their victory soon.<br />
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For now I will resume my place guarding the fortress. I have heard rumblings of the enemy which made the loud noises outside the fortress recently. I shall be waiting, should they ever return. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-34909042422243026702013-12-25T10:18:00.000-06:002013-12-28T13:22:00.063-06:00Under attack during travels and human festivals We have traveled to Patriarch and Matron's again. As soon as we arrived, Master and Princess left the fortress, though they returned after a time and we engaged in what I assume will become a ritualistic engagement with Rascal. I believe I have succeeded in making this young pup understand that I am going to guard my humans from any evil he is planning.<br />
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When my humans retired to their chamber for sleep I was still on alert. I could hear Patriarch and Matron and Rascal in the adjacent room and frequently alerted to let Rascal know that he should not approach my human's chamber.Shortly after my humans were in bed, there was a movement of the earth. I am not sure if this was Rascal's doing or from the enemy that was attacking our own fortress the other night. Master did not seemed pleased at my constant warning barks, but I do not think he felt the shaking. I have decided that humans are not as adept at understanding dangers and my job is even more important than I once realized.<br />
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Early this morning I heard movement within the fortress walls and was concerned for what this movement meant. Master and Princess had yet to stir from their slumber and I did not want them to be taken unawares. After some time of letting Master know about the potential danger, he got up and we embarked from the chamber to discover what was amiss. It was only Patriarch. It seems that today is a festival day for humans and Patriarch had risen early to prepare the human meal. I am hoping to be able to partake in this food. I was also given a new toy that was covered in an odd paper covering. I am unsure of the meaning of covering it in paper but I quickly removed it to find a new artificial bone which my humans quickly filled with deliciousness.<br />
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For now, I am logging this from the confines of the chamber. Though I have not seen Rascal today, I can hear him and the humans in the main portion of the fortress. I will continue to warn Master and Princess of my concerns and will keep you updated to my progress.<br />
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Signing off.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-58421937791092589982013-12-21T19:40:00.000-06:002013-12-21T19:40:16.991-06:00Under Attack The fortress was under attack today! I am still unsure of what this danger is, but I know that it is close and I must be on guard. Master took me out many times today - I believe to scare away the unseen attackers.<br />
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This morning Master and I went outside for the first time and all seemed well. However, it appears to have rained overnight and the cold weather has covered the ground in ice. Later in the morning we returned again to the outdoors and as soon as we were outside I heard a large cracking noise coming from the neighbors tree. I immediately was on alert and sprang into action. I ran furiously up and down the perimeter of the fortress property, barking to let any attackers know that I was on guard. Master quickly ushered me inside but I was still cautious of what lurked outside. I heard this noise a second time from a different direction the next time we went outside and again alerted to the danger.<br />
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While I have not heard this noise again, each time we go out there is a creaking from the areas surrounding the fortress. I am vigilant for any intruders. However I believe that I have made the enemy aware of my presence and they will avoid a direct attack. <br />
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Returning to my post now.<br />
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<br />Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-32309296674599159162013-12-20T08:42:00.001-06:002013-12-20T08:48:36.721-06:00Snow days, Rascal and human visitors The past many days have been very busy but I shall attempt to get you up to speed on my most recent adventures.<br />
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It has been colder and colder and my humans, particularly Princess, have been less and less apt to spend time outside with me. They allow me to go outside but do not always join me for our typical play time. In my time I have experience a couple of cold seasons but this one brought a new experience. One morning before my humans went on their conquests, they seemed more excited then normal about our outdoor play time. They open the door of the fortress and as usual I patiently sat and waited for the "all clear" from Master. Upon exiting the fortress I discovered that a bright powdery substance coated the ground. My humans called it "snow".<br />
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They seemed very excited about this "snow" and, in contrast with their recent behavior excitedly joined me outside. I think Princess, for her seemingly dislike of the cold weather even enjoys it. Being as of yet unsure of the nature of this "snow" I sniffed and scratched at the substance and determined that it was a sort of fluffy ice. That first morning we did not spend a lot of time outdoors as Master and Princess had to leave for their conquests. However, the next day, being one of their days of rest, we went outside on many occasions to play in this snow. As I played, they were using the snow to build a facsimile of a human form.<br />
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A few days after the snow disappeared, we went to visit Patriarch and Matron and, apparently, Rascal. I still have reservations about this young pup, however it seems he may become a fixture in the Patriarch fortress. Since we visit this pack frequently I will keep you up to date on my opinions of the shifty-eyed ne'er-do-well. We spent much time together but closely watched and it would seem the humans wish us to trust each other. He is a young pup and perhaps I was harsh towards him at our first meeting, however, I still hold little love for him in my heart and he must yet prove himself.<br />
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The most recent adventure involves another pack visiting us. This is the first time another human pack has come to the fortress and stayed overnight. This pack had an Alpha and his mate that appeared similar in age to my humans. My humans recognized their coming and welcomed them so I too granted them my trust. They brought with them a young male human pup who seems to be developing many of the human skills. While the adult humans talked, I engaged the pup with my squeakers and ball. The pup does not have the agility and strength of the adult humans but what he lacked in skill he made up for in enthusiasm. Both packs seemed to encourage my engagement of the human pup so I took it upon myself to train him as best I could. Their stay was relatively uneventful, however they proved good company.<br />
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Signing off. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-30987056487416746412013-12-03T09:18:00.000-06:002013-12-08T09:19:16.386-06:00Indoor trees and other canines My apologies readers for my long absence. Up until the last several days the on goings of the fortress have been benign. Master and Princess leave for their conquests of a morning and return home to me of an evening. The temperature outdoors has began to cool down which delights me greatly and I have been asking to go outside more of late, however Princess especially is reluctant to join me in my frolicking. I suppose I cannot blame her since she does not have a thick coat like myself and must supplement with imitation fur. It must be far less efficient at keeping her warm.<br />
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The happenings of the last several days are worth noting. Starting with several days ago, my humans put up a tree in the main den. I am not sure of the reasoning. It is not a real tree, in fact Princess had to add each branch individually. To add to the oddity of it, she also added little bright lights and hung odd shaped ornamentations. They added boxes under this fake tree, like it is some kind of center for storage. I am still trying to discover the purpose of this odd behavior.<br />
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The main adventure I wish to tell though occurred today. We had spent several days with another set of human elders, not Patriarch and Matron, though they shall enter the story soon. The pack we visited also seems to be of some relationship to Master and Princess. Their fortress is on a large bit of land on which I was able to run and play with Master. I could tell many stories of our stay there but I have not the time now. Upon leaving this pack, we got into the "ride" and soon stopped in a large group of other rides that were surrounded by large buildings. Usually Master and Princess do not let me out of our "ride" when we stop at a place like this but they disappear into one of the buildings (which greatly distresses me as I do not know what danger they could be in), however they are always quick to return. On this occasion they let me out with them and we walked into one of the large buildings. I was very excited, there were many new smells to take in and I was aware that may other dogs had been there. Princess quickly disappeared around a corner of one of the large passages that housed many ledges. This made me nervous but I was still taking in my new surroundings. I quickly realized however that there were other dogs in the area and Princess was no where to be seen! I am sure you can imagine my anxiety. Master did not seem to share this anxiety and was displeased at my letting the other canines know they should leave Princess and Master alone. Princess returned to my sight, which calmed me a little but while she remained in my sight for the rest of this particular adventure she often walked away from me to look at the things on the ledges. I was glad when we left that place. How little did I know yet another adventure was to occur.<br />
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We traveled a little farther in the "ride" and arrived at Patriarch and Matron's fortress. Instead of going in as we usually do, Master made me stay in the front. A few minutes of being out there, Patriarch came out with a small, young canine. I was immediately on guard! Master did not appreciate my barking at this pup but I believed I achieved my goal of letting him know that I was not to be trifled with. I later heard them call this canine "Rascal" which I will refer to him as from this point on. We spent a very long time outside the fortress in the presence of Rascal and even longer inside the fortress. Master would not let me bark at him, in fact he never let me close enough to it to make sure it couldn't harm Master and Princess. Rascal may be small but that does not mean he can be trusted. I am very anxious about my humans' associations with other canines. I have sworn to protect them from danger and not all of my species are to be trusted despite their insistence to the contrary. Since they are so naive to the danger I will continue to be vigilant. Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-66487761186076308172013-11-06T20:44:00.000-06:002013-11-06T20:44:06.054-06:00Squeakers This morning my humans awoke very late. When they finally did get up they let me outside as they usually do. While they were fixing their meal (humans seem to require frequent eating schedules) I requested to go back outside. Princess was kind enough to open the door for me and leave it so I could move freely in and out of the fortress.<br />
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Usually the humans do not let me take my squeakers outside. I do not know why they are so particular, but this morning when they were distracted I took both my squeakers outside. They say things like "outside toys" and "inside toys". I am still learning their language but I think "toys" refers to objects that can be used for training and honing wilderness survival skills and hunting. If this is the meaning I don't know why it would matter if they are inside or outside. <br />
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Alas, after my humans finished their meal, Princess came outside to call me in. She saw the squeakers and told me to bring them to her and come inside. I assumed she wanted to play/train so I picked up the one nearest to me, trotted inside and dropped it. She looked at me and said "bring me your toy". So I picked it up again. After she made an unhappy noise, I realized she was pointing outside and she wanted me to bring in my other "toy". Of course, happy to please the Princess, I went outside pawed at my other squeaker, she indicated her assent, so I picked it up and went back inside. Master and Princess both seem very happy with me. I believe they are trying to condition me to leave my squeakers inside. I must figure out why.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-26130396731747692552013-10-26T19:05:00.003-05:002013-10-27T10:17:01.160-05:00Taking care of PrincessThe past many days have been odd ones for my humans, or at the least, it has been strange around the fortress.<br />
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Starting with several days ago, Princess returned home from her conquests earlier then usual. As always, I was elated to see her and quickly retrieved my squeakers to share with her. She greeted me, but seemed more subdued than normal and she did not follow her usual routine of returning to the fortress. I gathered from her behavior that she was not feeling well. She collected some objects that I assume are important for her entertainment and comfort and placed herself on the large amorphous throne in the main chamber of the fortress.<br />
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At first, I tried to entertain her with my squeakers. After all, they give me so much enjoyment, I could not think of a reason why Princess would not derive as much pleasure. Normally she will enter into a game of keep away with me, but she must have been feeling particularly ill because she only once or twice attempted to obtain possession of the squeaker. After some time, she appeared to be resting comfortably, but as I know she was not feeling well, I felt it my duty to take care of her. I, as gently as I could, approached her and nuzzled her face with my nose. She responded so I knew she had not fallen into a coma. She must have been delirious though for she pushed me away as she sat up. She sat for some time with a device that displays writings of their language. After a time she laid down again and I, again, felt my duty to ensure her continued health. It was unusual behavior for Princess. Again I nuzzled her face, this time she responded but then fell back into her stupor. I decided at this time to allow her to rest some, since I at least knew her to be responsive. She awoke again, read her device, and again fell asleep. After some time of her not stirring, I checked on her yet a 3rd time. This time she awoke. She seemed unhappy with my care. ....<br />
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The following day, Master left as he normally does but Princess remained home. She spent most of the morning on the amorphous throne sleeping. This time I decided that she was not in any danger and took my post by the fortress door to watch for any unwanted guests. After she awoke, I was in hopes that she would want to play, but she still must have been feeling ill, so I passed the time until Master returned in silence (with occasional warning to other dogs that I could hear outside the fortress - they must not be allowed to approach). <br />
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The days since have been spent in relative normalcy, though perhaps a tad boring. While Princess has still not wanted to engage in active play, Master and I have exchanged numerous games of keep away. At one point my squeaker escaped under the long chair in the main chamber of the fortress. Of course I tried to retrieve it but I cannot move the chair and I do not fit under it. I finally had to give up and ask Master to help me. Master seems to understand my need for help when this happens. Of course I try to help him retrieve my squeaker because he needs me to tell him where it is. So I sit until Master realizes I need help, then as soon as he reaches to get my squeaker I get alongside him and indicate the location of the squeaker. I then express my thanks to Master by engaging in another game of keep away. And so we pass the time in the fortress. Princess seems to be feeling better.<br />
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Signing off.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-1386797717607520332013-10-12T15:56:00.001-05:002013-10-12T15:57:10.287-05:00Visiting another packMaster and Princess and I have returned to the fortress from visiting a different pack for a few days. This is not the first time we have visited this pack, and I presume them to be some relation to Master and Princess. Our travels are done in a large machine that the humans control. I believe they call it "a ride", or at least that is what they refer to it as when they are speaking to me before we all enter this contrivance (I am not sure the humans understand that I am still in the process of learning their language). We travel in this "ride" at a very fast speed. Since Master and Princess appear to have control from the front, I sit and guard us from behind so nothing can sneak up on us. Many other "rides" traverse the pathway but most seem oblivious to us.<br />
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Upon our arrival we were met by a group of human pups that appeared to be playing in the buildings next to the fortress of the allied pack. A few of these pups seemed interested in meeting me, though one seemed dubious. I could tell they were discussing me with Master and Princess. The dubious pup kept looking between me and Master and Princess, appearing nervous. He made an aggressive kicking motion at one point, and spoke in their language - I certainly hope he did not have intentions of attacking one of us, because of course that would require me to intervene on my humans' behalf. After he made this motion, Master and Princess seemed stupefied, spoke in return, and the pup ran away. I presume the crisis was averted.<br />
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The allied pack consists of three humans, an older alpha and his mate, who I shall refer to as Patriarch and Matron and a younger female human, Pup.<br />
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The days at the allied fortress are spent mostly in a large den. Master and Princess often leave me with our allies during which time I rest, train Pup and, as always, keep a watchful eye out for any evil. During one of my training sessions with Pup, I had to teach her a valuable lesson of speed and knowing where her enemy is. She had obtained one of the squeaky things my humans have given me for my entertainment, and was attempting to keep it away from me. She was holding it in her paws behind her back. Quickly, I circled behind her, and as she did not move fast enough, I went for the squeaker. Her lax speed caused her to be turning at the time I grabbed for the object and I nipped her in her hindquarters. She dropped the squeaker and loudly objected. She then refused to train anymore for a while. Maybe next time she will be faster - it is an important skill for surviving in the wild.<br />
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<br />Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-47523596338373236862013-10-03T19:48:00.002-05:002013-10-03T19:48:33.843-05:00On guarding my humans As I mentioned in my last missive, I have pledged my allegiance to Master and Princess and as such take my duty to protect them seriously. However, I am not sure they understand my resolve and dedication. <br />
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Starting with the other evening. Master and Princess were sleeping. Per usual, I sleep on my bed next to theirs so I can be ready at any moment should they need me. I was awakened from my slumber by an odd sound coming from outside and went to investigate. I heard humans moving about at the building next to ours and the movement of large objects. I felt that this was a concern that Master should address so I gave a warning bark. A few minutes later I repeated my call as Master did not respond.When he still did not respond, I decided to resume my post in their sleeping chambers to be closer to them. Shortly after settling back in, I heard a much louder noise, which Master must also have heard. He leaped from him bed grabbing his small stick that casts light as well as another curious device which emits a flash of light and an astonishingly loud bark. (I believe he carries this device to artificially elevate his bark above that of other humans. Crude, but effective.) I quickly followed him to check out the danger. He determined the new humans were no threat. I still do not trust them, and will continue to alert my humans to their presence in the future.<br />
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A more recent example. Princess often takes me when she leaves the fortress and we run together. Tonight Master joined us. At one point, Master started running ahead of Princess and me. It was quite concerning to me, as of course I cannot be aware of dangers around him if he is not with me, or secure within the walls of the fortress. I tried to encourage Princess to run faster to no avail. She must have understood my concern for Master though, because she called to him and he finally came back to us. He allowed me to run ahead with him, but then I realized that we were leaving Princess behind. I had to signal to Master my concerns for Princess and we waited for her and then continued together. <br />
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I regularly alert them to dangers outside the fortress and they sometimes respond by investigating them with me, other times ignoring them. I have not decided if they are naive to the dangers of the world or simply confident in the ability of the fortress to hold them at bay. I believe the latter is true, however I cannot afford such complacency, considering the responsibilities I have taken upon myself. My humans are kind to me, and provide everything I could want for. They deserve my utmost vigilance, and I will continue to provide it.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2773150954646532600.post-5860318437560151822013-09-24T20:15:00.003-05:002013-09-24T20:48:32.439-05:00Day 143: The Genesis of the Chronicles of KiloIt has been 143 days since this new pair of humans rescued me from what I can only describe as an asylum for dullards and slack-jawed lunatics. My previous "benefactors", if you can call them that, abandoned me there on a whim. These new humans have integrated me into their small community as an equal, instead of a curiosity and plaything, and for this I am grateful. They have provided me with adequate food and lodging, spectacular entertainment and exercise, and an equal share in their expansive dominion. I have in turn pledged my guardianship and affection. <br />
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I have decided to chronicle my adventures with my new compatriots here on this device the humans seem to use for inter-pack communication. I shall begin with today. Life here in the fortress, while comfortable, has been lacking in excitement the past few days. I decided to rectify this by introducing a small prank. The male human, whom I shall refer to as Master (he fancies this title), had left as per usual, on what I can only assume are ventures to conquer new territory. The Princess, as Master calls her, remained here later than usual. I waited until she was distracted and took the opportunity to place two of the soft, white human foot-coverings into the water bowl.<br />
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The Princess discovered the fruits of my trickery shortly after. She retrieved the bowl and took it to the chamber where the humans perform their daily cleansing ritual. She placed the foot-coverings in the cleansing area and emptied the contents of the bowl. She replenished the bowl and replaced it in its proper place, all the while eying me. I believe she suspects me, but is unsure of my motives. I smiled and did my best to assure her that nothing was out of the ordinary. She left on her own conquests soon after.<br />
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The Princess returned home first, and we spent the afternoon building camaraderie, as usual. Upon the Master's return I noticed that he was less jovial than normal. I did my best to console him and it seemed to help some, though he did unleash all the fury of Hades on the large bag they use to hone their combat skills. I then brought him one of the noisemakers they have given me for entertainment and we engaged in the usual battle of keep-away.<br />
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The humans entered the cleansing chamber and it was then that the Master discovered the foot-coverings. They discussed the event in their nigh-unintelligible dialect of which I have only been able to learn a few phrases. I couldn't understand them, but they both eyed me suspiciously. The Master looked at me for a moment, then scratched my head and took the coverings away. He seemed amused, and I believe I have achieved my goal.<br />
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I must return to the business of guarding the fortress from the perils of the outside world. I must also remember to document the events of two nights ago. For now I return to my duties.Kilohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10322340136734258032noreply@blogger.com0