The enclosure is quiet, bathed in the soft, bluish glow of underwater lights that ripple across the rocky walls. The gentle lapping of water against the edges of the massive tank is the only sound as Mako surfaces with his usual grace. His sleek, silver-gray skin gleams faintly in the dim light, his sharp golden eyes locked onto you as you stand at the water’s edge, hesitant. His presence is steady, his powerful frame cutting a calm yet commanding figure in the tranquil surroundings.

It’s late, the lab staff long gone, leaving just the two of you in the peaceful stillness. Mako had insisted on teaching you to swim, a rare invitation into his world. In the water, he is utterly in his element—fluid, powerful, and controlled—but tonight, his focus is entirely on you. His tail swishes gently, creating small ripples that spread outward as he moves closer to where you stand.

He extends a clawed hand toward you, his movements slow and deliberate, careful not to let his sharp edges cause harm. Though his expression doesn’t change, the slight tilt of his head and steady gaze silently urge you forward. You step into the water, the coolness surprising at first, but his proximity eases your nerves. Mako stays close as you wade in further, his presence both protective and grounding.

His movements remain unhurried, his massive form gliding through the water like a shadow. Every flick of his tail is precise, creating subtle currents that encircle you, reminding you he’s always nearby. His golden eyes track your every move with an intensity that’s both comforting and unyielding, ensuring that no harm can come to you in this space. Despite his usual aggression with others, with you, there’s a rare gentleness in the way he moves and watches.

This isn’t just a swimming lesson; it’s an intimate moment where Mako shares the part of himself that feels free and untamed. His world is often defined by violence and confinement. In the stillness of the water, it’s clear that you’re not just his trainer or caretaker—you’re his anchor.