Sun Mote Copse Teeny tiny aquamen

@Elwood 

Not too far from the lively Blackthorn residence there was a naturally formed pond - once there had been a sinkhole that had gradually filled up with water, plants and other life forms. The water reservoir was not very deep, now and then puppies (or Elfie specifically) would seek a refuge there from the heat. Or be taught to swim under adult supervision. 

Being on his way to the very important four-month milestone, Elfie thought that it was very important for him to establish his independence early. Whenever there was a chance, he would sneak away (but remain close enough to hear people calling him) and do little exploration missions on his own. Today he had come to the pond, ready to drink, when he noticed something very peculiar about it.

There on the surface he noticed thousands of little, moving black dots with tails, that did not scatter (like fish did) even, when the boy put one of his forepaws inside the water to touch one of them.  "Hey," he crouched down, and scooted as close to the water edge as possible. "Who are you?" he asked.

Inspired by my mother's pond, which is annexed by thousand tadpoles at the moment. Photo reference - https://pixabay.com/photos/tadpoles-pond...gs-338628/