Swiftcurrent Creek from the mouths of babes

He listened carefully as Bazi explained what a snake was, then told him what he should do if he ever saw one. She charged him with the responsibility of keeping his siblings safe from this threatening creature. Relonikiv swallowed. He wasn't the strongest or bravest of the bunch; he felt felt shy about being responsible for his brothers' and sister's safety. But it seemed he would hold the title of smartest. He nodded his head, feeling the weight and the honor of being tasked with such.

"O-kay. Me thmart. Me thafe," he promised with a bob of his little head, unaware that his speech impediment was chafing his aunt's pale ears and that there was a distinct chance his lips might not make it into adulthood. "Bad thnake!" he added for good measure, reaching out and striking her sketch with an off-white paw to show her he meant business.