The forest pond shimmered beneath the late-morning sun, its surface rippling softly as a light breeze brushed across it. At the edge of the water stood Miko, a young monkey known for his endless curiosity and fearless spirit. Today, however, he eyed the pond with unusual determination. He had watched fish dart beneath the surface, seen turtles sunbathe lazily on half-submerged logs, and listened to the gentle splash of falling leaves. Now he wanted to know the pond himself—from the inside.
With a quick gulp of courage, Miko stepped forward. First one foot, then the other, then a cautious slide deeper until the water reached his belly. His eyes widened with surprise at the cool embrace, but he didn’t stop. Soon the water rose to his chest, then his shoulders, until finally only his head poked above the surface—round, alert, and bobbing like a little coconut adrift on an adventure.
From the bank, other young monkeys chattered in excitement, cheering him on. Miko paddled awkwardly at first, splashing more than swimming, but each attempt pushed him a little farther. Beneath him, he saw flashes of silver fish looping gently through the greenish water. He felt weeds tickle his legs, tiny bubbles brushing against his fur, and the soft rocking of the pond carrying him like a leaf.
For a moment, Miko imagined himself a great explorer—charting unknown waters, discovering secret realms hidden below. Though he did not dive, he felt the deep calling him, telling stories only a brave heart could hear.
When he finally paddled back to shore, tired but glowing with pride, the troop welcomed him with excited squeaks. Miko shook off the droplets clinging to his fur, feeling lighter, braver, and somehow wiser.
Today he had not just touched the water—he had entered its world, even if just with his tiny head above the surface.
