The chill of winter is beginning to lessen as Spring begins to approach and even the rains have started to lessen. Today, the sun has even managed to break the cover of clouds and, with the nice day, the young Jericho is out exploring. Since the moment that the pups had been allowed to leave the den, the boy has spent much of his time studying the nooks and crannies that hide around the waterfall.

Jericho is keen to know every inch of this place and the roaring falls have captivated him since the moment he could hear. While he had not known what caused the dulled roar, the moment he had spied the curtain of water that made up the magnificent falls… well, the boy had fallen instantly in love. Paws carefully pick their way over the slick stones that line the edge of the pool the fall feeds, white eyes peering deep into the clear, crystalline depths.

It truly is picturesque but Jericho does not notice that today. The boy has wanted to plunge into the water since he had seen it but the promise he had made to his mother that he would avoid it, has kept him in check. Gaze sweeps the area quickly before settling back on the pool and the boy does not spying any adults in area. Paws creep ever closer, the slick rocks leading him down until he is almost touching the edge of the cool water. If no one sees him break a rule, that must mean he isn’t doing anything wrong… right?


"Jericho Agatsuma-Kedieo"

FENIX

"It all falls down like Confetti and you gotta let it."

He was always watching. Fenix had always been a bit more reserved since he came here. The falls had been perfect cover. Being able to hide behind the veils and roars of these glorious points of interest. He lay sprawled on an outcrop of rock that overlooked a portion of the pool below. Knowing a new litter had been born he’d met one child and his patrols included this spot. Unlucky enough for him he hadn’t met the parents yet.

Fenix had been so close to nodding off when he watched the pup began to wade himself into the water. His fuzzy train of thought snapped. Pulling himself to his paws it wasn’t his goal to startle the boy so his steps were quiet. Every careful paw step was laid with expert quality. The male calmly trotted up a few feet away. "I wouldn’t do that if I were you." he stated flatly. "Do you know the reason why you aren’t allowed in the pool yet?’ it was important that this young one new the dangers. He watched carefully even if he leapt into the water he was here to rescue… but maybe he could seek the chance to teach the boy to swim.

MADE BY MINNIE of BTN

The water is too enticing to pass by without trying it out. His white eyes find no adults nearby so it seems safe to figure out why this liquid paradise is forbidden. However, just as his paws touch the cold water, a large male appears out of seemingly thin air. Jericho freezes in place as his gaze turns up to the much bigger male, fear of being reprimanded making his mind come to a screeching to a halt. Mouth hangs open slightly as he stares dumbly at the stranger, his brain trying to process the words that have been spoken.

Finally, the meaning hits and his brows furrow in thought as his white gaze turns down to the pool before him and then returns to catch the adult’s green eyes. Head slowly shakes in the negative as the boy squeaks out, “No?” It had never really been explained why the water is off limits just that they are not allowed to enter it. Jericho isn’t trying to be difficult, his curiosity has just gotten the better of him. Being so young and the world so new to him, the boy is bound to break a few rules in the name of exploration… right?


"Jericho Agatsuma-Kedieo"

FENIX

"It all falls down like Confetti and you gotta let it."

The boy answered, Fenix gaze remained soft as he settled beside Jericho. There were ways to ease a childs curiosity. Just like his late son and daughter most times if you explained why theyd be responsible. "Well you know how you get hurt sometimes?" he asked. Turning to the water, "it might not look like it but you need training to enter the water. You're young its harder to float you can seriously injure yourself if you go in unprepared. Its called drowning." Fenix then inched himself into the water.

"You shouldnt be afraid though. Here I can help you explore. Once you can successfully float and swim theres lots to safley explore and treasures to find." Fenix turned in the pool so he faced Jericho. Offering his front paws to act as a crutch for the pup to get into the water.

MADE BY MINNIE of BTN