Toshi wo Totta Wani

In a world where age grants immense respect, an ancient crocodile, burdened by failing health and dwindling hunting ability, faces a difficult decision from his family. Rather than accept a dignified end, he chooses exile, venturing away from the familiar waters of the Nile. There, he encounters an unusual companion in an octopus, who offers him sustenance and unexpected friendship. However, the crocodile's long life has instilled habits hard to break, leading him down a path of escalating dependence on his newfound friend, blurring the lines between gratitude and exploitation. The story explores themes of aging, familial obligation, and the complexities of companionship found in unlikely places, set against a backdrop of serene, yet potentially perilous, natural landscapes.