Also gonna use this for exploration if possible~

Seeing as it was that he now lived somewhere – had, if for the moment, planted himself someplace – Nagendra figured it would be beneficial to explore the immediately surrounding areas. He could go farther later, to the East and West. He needed to know the South now though. So it was that sometime before midday that he set out, intending on both exploring and bringing something nice back with him. He wandered for a while, enjoying the warm morning sun on his dark back. The seasons were changing but for the time being the weather was clear and pleasant. Eventually, the sound of rushing water would draw him in one particular direction.

Curiosity grew as the wolf drew nearer. Another minute of walking, and he set his gaze upon the Rio Grande. A large river wound its way to the right up ahead, a pale blue ribbon. Nagendra inhaled deeply, drawing in the fresh scent of moisture peppering the air. A grin spread across his handsome face. This was quite lovely! He stood still atop a small hill overlooking the river for a moment, and then proceeded down to the waterside. There was a good spread of flat rocks in the more shallow areas of the water nearby, and he quickly obeyed the urge to hop across them. They were already beginning to get warm from the morning sun. How wonderful it would be, to sunbathe here! he thought. His grin grew wider, and then vanished for a moment as surprise took over. His attention had been stolen by a silvery flash in the water. Ears leaning forward with interest, the charmer would peer into the water with wide eyes to observe what he now noted to be a small cluster of fish. ”Oh!” he hummed to himself with sudden joy. Even better! He could practice his skills here, and bring some fish back for the pack (but mostly Valentine – he hoped Valentine liked fish). Fishing was one of his favorite ways to hunt. He hoped he hadn’t gotten rusty in his travels.

With narrowing eyes and an enduring grin, the lithe creature crouched down at the edge of his rock, watching a moment longer. Then he would slowly slip his front paws in, and then the rest of himself. The fish would scatter for a moment, but would’ve been more thoroughly spooked if he had made too much of a commotion. Now came the waiting. It was alright though – the water felt nice.

Though he hadn't settled down permanently in one place - and honestly, it was doubtful that he ever would - Áki often found himself wandering alongside the wide river that he'd grown familiar with. He was thankful that summer was beginning to fade, and with it brought the quite welcome coolness of autumn. The air near the river seemed somehow fresher, too, and he was grateful for the constant source of water.. and the occasional swim didn't hurt either.

Today, he'd decided, was a good day for one of those swims.

The flow of water down the river was perfect. It wasn't too fast, certainly not rapid enough to be dangerous, but it wasn't slow enough to keep him from floating downstream. The late morning sun had begun to shine down upon his dark coat, and the promise of a cool dip in the river was tempting. Without much inhibition, he would crouch down to the river's edge before sliding forward and into the shallow stream with ease.

He'd float for awhile, content to paddle near the edge of the river while also allowing the water to carry him further downstream. He'd keep an eye out in the distance for any danger, knowing he could likely scramble up onto the shore quite quickly if he saw any rapids or dangerous rocks in the distance. A small grin played upon his lips as he paddled more, briefly letting his eyes close as he basked in the feeling of the gentle autumn sun upon his back and the cool water whisking around him.

Only when he opened his eyes again, feeling his body floating slightly to the side as the river curved, did he notice someone up ahead. Someone seemed to be perched on a rock, eying the water quite intently. Were they fishing? It certainly seemed like it.. Not wanting to ruin the fun, he'd paddle to the river's edge before clambering somewhat awkwardly from the water, attempting to dry his thick coat with a fierce shake. He'd amble forward curiously, only noticing who it was when he'd gotten a lot closer. His head would tilt in curiosity and he found himself grinning at his friend. "I told you I'd find you," he greeted him with a chuckle. Perhaps it hadn't been intentional, but oh well!