Something new?

Kotori lead Aia carefully down sunset falls, watching that she never slipped.  Once again the wolf reminded himself she was old enough to expect her to be fine in such matters but it was hard to remember she wasn’t younger in that small body.
At the hot springs, he made his way toward a smaller pool.  Kotori had spent many a day here, occasionally while still in the armada for hunting grounds.  The springs had also been nice on his healing injuries, the warmth a pleasance comfort on an aching body.  Now he was here to watch a puppy explore with the eyes of one seeing it for the first time.  “The corner of this pool is thin but drops off.  If you wanted to step into it, you can still stand here.  You know how to swim?” If she didn’t, she’d get a great lesson now.

There were other parts of the springs to enjoy after all, and they would but Kotori imagined in the novelty of youth surely the water would be the first thing noticed right?  If not, well, he’d be learning more about her.  The water didn’t have to be first.

"Kotori Fatalis"