The Cistern

The telltale signs of life betrayed the presence of water, which came in spurts and must be stored. The Gulf Stream long ago reached a more polarized erratic equilibrium and the rain either came and stayed or left for long stretches. It hadn't rained for 62 days. This was Drought time. Life finds a way and Jericho noticed the turkey vultures from afar, using the currents to save energy soaring while scanning the receding water line for struggling remnants of life. As he reached the top of the gully and looked down on the dry gulch and the ironically still wet overflow channel, he could see through the clear water the top of the life preserving cavity that would soon be accessible only to those with the tapkey. Looking around quickly to make sure he was safe, Jericho shifted his shoulder pack to the front and placed an eye on his two very worn canteens, each 2 gallon. Over 16 lbs of water to lug back and a trip made daily.