In the dense, emerald canopy of a sprawling jungle, a troop of monkeys thrived. Among them was Mira, a devoted mother monkey, and her curious baby, Chiku. Mira was known for her vigilance, never letting Chiku out of her sight.
From the moment Chiku was born, Mira understood her role. The jungle was beautiful but dangerous. Predators lurked in the shadows, and even the towering trees could be treacherous for a little one still learning to balance.
Chiku, like all baby monkeys, was full of energy and mischief. He loved to swing from vines, chase colorful butterflies, and explore every nook and cranny of their home. But no matter how much he tried to venture off, Mira was always there, her watchful eyes following his every move.
One day, while the troop rested near a sparkling stream, Chiku spotted a group of older monkeys playing a game of chase. Fascinated, he tried to join them, hopping excitedly toward their direction. Mira quickly intercepted him, pulling him back with gentle but firm hands.
“Not yet, little one,” she murmured in her own way, grooming his fur to calm him.
Chiku pouted but stayed close, his tiny hands gripping Mira’s fur. Moments later, a hawk swooped low, its shadow slicing through the trees. The troop scattered, but Mira held onto Chiku tightly, leaping to safety in a dense patch of leaves.
The hawk flew away empty-clawed, and Mira sighed in relief. She nuzzled Chiku, who now clung to her neck, wide-eyed.
From that day on, Chiku understood why his mother never let him play alone. As he grew older, he admired her unwavering care and promised himself he’d one day watch over others as she had watched over him.
