It had been many seasons since life started for the large trout that lived in the deep pool. Home territory was at the base of the series of shoals known locally as Simpson’s Falls. The trout had hatched less than a quarter mile upstream. Heavy rains had caused flooding that pushed the small fingerling downstream until the calmer waters of the pool brought the journey to an end. It was there that the trout found refuge among the large rocks and ancient logs. Teeming life in the pool and insects in the surrounding trees and shrubs provided a veritable banquet for the newcomer. Small chubs and sculpins provided nourishing fare as the trout grew larger, needing more to sustain life.
Occasionally other trout would migrate into the pool. They were quickly forced back downstream, intimidated by this imposing animal. Instinct caused this fish to keep this prime haven for itself, survival being its prime objective. The shelter offered by the pool and its environment had allowed the trout to live for several seasons. Deep gashes from the talons of an eagle had just now healed, making the trout more wary than ever. Now the trout rarely left the depths of the pool in the light of day. Darkness and shadows provided a secure feeling while allowing the trout to ambush a hapless minnow or insect. Twilight of this particular day revealed a large insect landing in the pool. The trout slowly, cautiously, floated upward to gulp down the morsel. When the trout swam downward toward safety, something strange happened. Something was pulling it away from the depths of its lair, causing its survival instincts to turn into something akin to panic.
This would be a struggle that would have only one winner.
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