Two hippos breach the water and take a look around, their massive bodies breaking the surface with a splash. Their eyes and nostrils emerge first, scanning the surroundings before the rest of their bulky forms follow. The stillness of the river is momentarily disrupted as ripples spread outward, reflecting the muted colors of the early morning sky. The hippos’ ears flick attentively, alert to any signs of movement nearby, while their powerful jaws occasionally part, revealing large teeth beneath thick, wrinkled skin. After a careful pause, they submerge once more, returning to the calm depths of their watery habitat.