The Elephant’s Promise Deep in the heart of the jungle, there lived a wise old elephant named Kavi. He was the largest and strongest in his herd, but he was also known for something even greater—his kindness. One day, a terrible drought swept across the land. Rivers dried up, and the trees withered. The animals grew weak from thirst. The herd decided to travel far in search of water, but Kavi remembered a hidden oasis his mother had once shown him as a calf. Leading the way, Kavi marched for days, guiding his herd through scorching heat and barren land. Along the journey, they met a small, injured bird lying helplessly on the ground. The other elephants urged Kavi to leave it behind—they were too weak to carry extra burdens. But Kavi gently lifted the bird with his trunk and placed it on his back. As they traveled, the little bird sang to keep the elephants' spirits high, even as exhaustion threatened to break them. Finally, after days of struggle, Kavi found the hidden oasis—a paradise of fresh water and green trees. The elephants rejoiced, drinking deeply and resting in the shade. But before Kavi could rest, he turned to the little bird and said, "I made you a promise, little one." With great care, he carried the bird to a tree where its injured wing could heal. Days later, when the bird could finally fly again, it circled above Kavi and chirped, "You saved me, and one day, I will return the favor." Seasons passed, and Kavi grew older. One day, hunters came to the jungle, setting traps. Kavi, now slow and weary, stepped into one. He struggled, but the ropes were strong. Just when he thought all hope was lost, a sharp cry echoed above. The little bird had returned, and not alone—it had brought a flock of birds who swooped down, pecking at the ropes until Kavi was free. With tears in his wise old eyes, Kavi whispered, "Kindness is never forgotten." From that day forward, the jungle animals knew: no act of kindness is ever too small, for it may one day return when you need it most. --- Would you like another elephant story or a different kind of tale?