Azoth: I wonder what this river hides
Azoth walked down a winding path The sun was bright and warm The small wooden box at his side bounced lightly with each step The sound of water running reached his ears before he saw the river
Azoth: It looks calm but maybe it is not
When he reached the riverbank he saw a boy sitting on a rock skipping stones The boy looked sad and alone
Azoth: Hello are you okay
Boy: I lost something very important It fell into the river
Azoth: I can try to help [careful step into shallow water]
Boy: Really you would do that for me
Azoth: Yes everyone deserves help
The river was cold and the water flowed quickly He stepped carefully on the slippery stones [balance and careful step]
Azoth: Steady Azoth steady
He reached the spot where the boy's small wooden toy had sunk The current was strong but he could see it glinting under the sunlight
Azoth: I will get it
He reached down slowly and grabbed the toy with his hands The water pushed against him but he held tight [rescue pull]
Azoth: Here you go
Boy: Thank you you saved it I thought it was gone forever
Azoth: You are welcome
The boy smiled for the first time that day and skipped a stone across the river His laughter echoed softly and Azoth felt warm inside
Azoth: Maybe happiness is small things like this
He walked along the river He saw a small bridge broken in the middle
Azoth: This bridge is dangerous
Old woman: Who is there
Azoth: I am Azoth I can help fix your bridge
Old woman: Few care about these small things now
Azoth: I like helping
He collected wood and stones from the riverbank He tied the planks carefully with rope [repair work] The bridge was not perfect but it could hold someone safely
Old woman: Thank you young man You are very kind
Azoth: It is no trouble
She smiled and watched him as he continued down the river path
Azoth: I wonder what is ahead
Suddenly a loud splash came from the water [unexpected danger]
Azoth: What is that
A small boy was struggling in the current He tried to hold a log but it was too fast
Azoth: Hold on I will help you [rescue swim and pull]
He jumped into the water and grabbed the boy pulling him carefully to the shore The boy coughed and shivered
Boy: Thank you I thought I would be lost
Azoth: You are safe now
The boy smiled faintly and hugged his chest He watched Azoth dry himself by the sun
Azoth: Maybe I am stronger than I thought
He continued walking along the river The water sparkled and reflected the sky It was peaceful but he stayed alert
Azoth: I will keep going slowly
He noticed a small cave at the edge of the river Its mouth was hidden behind hanging vines
Azoth: I wonder what is inside
He stepped carefully inside The air was cool and damp He could hear water dripping softly
Azoth: Hello anyone here
Voice: Who enters
Azoth: I am Azoth I mean no harm
A small figure appeared It was a girl her hair wet from the river and eyes wide
Girl: I was looking for something and got stuck here
Azoth: I will help you [careful climb and pull]
He held her hand and helped her climb out safely She smiled faintly
Girl: Thank you I was scared
Azoth: You are safe now
Girl: Can I come with you
Azoth: I will be walking for a long time but you can stay until you find your family
She nodded and followed him to the riverbank They watched the water together
Azoth: I wonder why the river whispers
Girl: Maybe it wants people to listen
Azoth: I will listen
They continued walking The river guided them and the sunlight shone through the trees The forest nearby seemed quiet but alive
Azoth: Maybe nature talks in its own way
Girl: I like that It makes me feel safe
Azoth: Me too
As the day passed they reached a small village by the river The houses were old but the people looked kind
Azoth: Maybe I can help here too
He saw an old man struggling with a fishing net
Azoth: Can I help you [untangling net]
Old man: Thank you young man Few help anymore
Azoth: I like helping
They worked together The net was untangled and ready for fishing The man smiled openly for the first time in days
Old man: You have a good heart
Azoth: Thank you
The girl watched and smiled softly She ran to fetch some food for Azoth and the old man
Azoth: You are very kind
Girl: I just want to help too
Azoth: Then you already do
When night came they rested by the river The girl slept safely beside him and the box felt warm against his chest
Azoth: One day I will understand why you are here
The river whispered softly and the stars reflected in the water Its light was gentle and calm
Azoth: Tomorrow I will walk again
The dog he found earlier rested beside him and the river's soft sound filled the quiet night He closed his eyes feeling peaceful and ready for another day