Dr. Ndaba took a look at the tools in his bag and then took out a thick rope. He tied one end securely to the jeep, his movements precise and urgent. Together, they decided to drive back to the clearing, time ticking away.
The cries of the baby elephant spurred them on. Reaching the clearing, Paul didn’t hesitate. With the ropes in hand, he jumped into the muddy pit, his feet sinking deep into the thick muck. The baby elephant’s cries grew louder as it struggled, its small body trapped by the slick mud.
Kneeling down beside the elephant, Paul quickly tied the loose end of the rope around the baby’s torso, making sure the knot was tight enough to hold. The elephant’s eyes were filled with fear and confusion, but Paul spoke softly, reassuring it. He nodded to Dr. Ndaba, signaling he was ready.
Dr. Ndaba, already seated in the jeep, revved the engine. The tension in the air was palpable as he slowly drove forward, pulling the rope taut. The baby elephant’s legs slid through the mud, but with each gentle movement of the jeep, the baby was pulled closer to safety. The rope creaked under the strain, but Paul held his ground, guiding the baby elephant carefully from behind.