Redhawk Caldera AQUACULTURE

It wouldn't take long for others to join them. In the meantime, Fox tried to capture the restless pups' attention by plunging into some rules. Peregrine bobbed his head, then added, "Rule number one point five: never, never, never swim alone. Always use the buddy system!" He swiped a broad black forepaw through the air to emphasize his point. Swimming alone was dangerous for anyone, regardless of age.

Speaking of buddies, a trio of pack members arrived on the scene, starting with Elwood. Peregrine woofed at the Beta, shooting him a look that questioned, Where's Finley? In her place, a wild Tiger appeared to stand beside Elwood. The Alpha male returned her grin, then shot her the same inquiring look. How could the kids' godmother miss out on such an important lesson?

The last to join the group was Pan, who hung back. Peregrine wanted to go over to him but he couldn't budge. Instead, he called, "Hey, Pan! Thanks for joining us," in the hopes that it encouraged the subordinate to come in a bit closer. Then something occurred to him and he added brightly, "You love water, don't you? Would you help us show the pups how to swim safely?" Perhaps Pan would feel put on the spot, though this would give him a wonderful opportunity to prove himself, bond with his leaders and nurture the pack's pups all at once.

Speaking of which, all but Nightjar seemed reluctant to greet the strangers openly. "Kids, you remember Elwood and Tiger. This is Pan," the Alpha male introduced, using his snout to point at the pale wolf at the gathering's rear. "He's going to help us learn how to swim. Pan, these are Nightjar, Wildfire and Raven. Now, where were we...?" His jade eyes found Fox's. He smiled at her, urging her to continue with rule number two.