Spacedawg and Ed were making their way down a shaded path on Henry Weedmonger’s Camping Planet, the sounds of nature humming gently around them. It was a perfect day for a hike—until they encountered a bustling family coming from the opposite direction. The group was lively, with five boys ranging from pre-teens to about eight years old, all full of energy and curiosity.
The youngest boy, tugging at his older brother’s shirt, pointed excitedly at Spacedawg and Ed. His wide eyes sparkled with recognition.
“Look who it is!” he exclaimed.
“Spacedawg Pauly
Birth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the...?!” the oldest, about twelve, said with awe as he turned to his father. “Could I take the boys to go meet Spacedawg?”
The mother, trying to keep the peace and perhaps a bit of privacy for the famous hero, interjected gently, “Leave the poor man alone.”
“There’s no harm in trying,” the father countered with a smile.
“Awesome!” cheered the eldest boy, leading his brothers towards Spacedawg and Ed.
Spacedawg, spotting the group of young fans approaching, was quick to respond with his usual grace. He knelt down to be at eye level with the boys, all smiles and open arms.
“Well, who do we have here?” he asked, his voice warm and welcoming.
“Are you Spacedawg PaulyBirth Name: PaulyCurrent Alias: Spacedawg PaulySpecies: Human-Canine HybridDate of Birth: February 22, 1973Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States, Earth, Sol SystemOccupations: Former Chef, Brewer, Distiller, Garden Worker, Apprentice Cobbler; Current First Mate on the Mandoleer's Folly, Lieutenant in the Royal Canadian Space Cavalry (RCSC) Overview Spacedawg Pauly is a unique entity whose life story spans both Earth and the...?” piped up the youngest, his voice a mix of disbelief and excitement.
“That I am,” Spacedawg chuckled. He gestured towards his companion. “And this is my old friend, Captain Ed Alvis
Biographical Information Also Known As: Captain Ed Alvis, Dr. Ed AlvisProfessions: Scientist, Musician, AdventurerAlma Mater: University of MarylandNotable Achievements: Ph.D. in Physics, Expertise in Structural Engineering Overview Ed Alvis is a renowned figure in both the scientific and musical communities, celebrated for his dual expertise as a physicist and a musician. His remarkable journey spans academic achievements, a profound musical....”
Ed gave a friendly wave, which was met with enthusiastic waves back from the boys.
“Is it true you used to be human with a pet dog?” another boy, curious and bold, asked.
“It is indeed,” Spacedawg replied. He leaned in, as if sharing a great secret, “Ed, Spacedawg and I were trapped inside sleeper pods, lost for centuries until our good friends Maelstrom
Origin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... and the Alchemist found us on an asteroid.”
“How did you become Spacedawg then?” asked another, his eyes wide with wonder.
“Well, I’m not entirely certain myself,” Spacedawg explained, his tone thoughtful. “I was in my pod with Spacedawg, we were exposed to Udath radiation, I guess my hound and I got turned into a genetic goo and then put back together as one.”
“We’re saving up for the playset,” the youngest chimed in proudly.
“Oh?” Spacedawg raised an eyebrow, amused.
“We have all the figures,” the boy continued, “and a bunch of pirates.”
“I’ll let you in on a little secret,” Spacedawg whispered, drawing the boys closer. “I only have one action figure, and it was given to me by a little boy. I cherish that thing, not because it has my likeness, but because of his kindness.”
“Why did the boy give it to you?” another eager voice asked.
“Because Spacedawg saved his life,” Ed added, patting Spacedawg on the back with pride.
By then, the parents had caught up, and the mother apologized, albeit with a proud smile, “I’m sorry if my boys are bothering you on your vacation.”
Spacedawg stood, shaking their hands with genuine respect. “They are no bother at all. Some fine boys you have.”
Ed, ever the generous soul, fished something out of his pocket and handed it to the youngest boy. “Next time you’re near a toy store, give them this.” He handed over a coupon for a free Mandoleer’s Folly playset.
The boy’s eyes widened with delight as his father expressed his gratitude. “That was very kind of you,” he said. “We really appreciate everything you’ve done for the Canadian Expanse. My eldest here is going into pre-RCSC training when he starts high school next year.”
Spacedawg nodded, impressed and somewhat reflective. _The recruitment campaign is working,_ he thought.
As the family resumed their walk, raindrops began to patter softly on the leaves above. The mother turned back, calling over the growing drizzle, “We have a cabin down the path, come dry off and join us for dinner.”
With a shared look, Spacedawg and Ed silently agreed, following the family down the path to warmth and an unexpected dinner invitation.
