Swiftcurrent Creek Good Life

Merlin had all the reasons to feel satisfied with his life so far. First - no one had assaulted him and his coat was still intact. Second - days were nice and warm, which meant that the little critters he mainly lived on were still abundant. Third - headaches did not bother him. With his belly full and mood reasonably happy, he yearned for a bit of company now. Independence was all great and good, but lonely at times. 

He had stopped by a river to quench his thirst and was now picking at some underwater weed that had caught his interest. It turned out that the slimy plant had no intention of resurfacing, therefore, when one hefty tug went awray, Merling landed butt first in the cold water. Which is not a nice feeling (as all, who have had their trousers wet would know) - he bolted from the river, on to the banks and began to tend the damage.