A Fortified Perch

I set my flippers against the lower shelf and gave a determined heave, wriggling up onto the dark wood beside a thick row of encyclopedias. Coo... In the quiet evening glow of the room, these tall clothbound spines looked just like towering fortress walls. Right at the corner sat a heavy brass compass, cool to the touch. I pressed my snout against its smooth edge, rolling it slightly until the glass face caught the amber lamp glow. Bark! A proper soldier requires a high observation deck to watch the borders. Tucking my round chin comfortably between two volumes, I settled into my cozy post for the evening watch.