A large savannah was ruled by a powerful lion named "Zuberi" in the golden grasslands of "Serenya." He was unmatched in battle in terms of strength and bravery. His roar could be heard for miles, and his mane flowed like fire. Some animals feared him, but all animals respected and obeyed him. Zuberi ruled not only with strength but also with wisdom. He managed herd disputes, shielded the weak from predators, and only hunted what he needed.
He was dubbed "The Noble Roar" by the animals. **
However, power always encourages challenge. ---
The Decline A young, ruthless lion by the name of Malik arrived from the northern plains during one dry season. He challenged Zuberi for the throne out of a desire for power. They engaged in combat as the sun set. Blood and dust filled the air. Malik's unbridled, reckless strength outmatched Zuberi, despite the fact that he was older and wiser.
He was severely wounded, with a large cut across his side and a limp in his back leg. He was forced to "flee into the wilderness," his breath shallow and bloody. The animals wept. Some said Zuberi had passed away. Fearful, others bowed to Malik. However, the old lion was still alive. ---
The Outer Rim Zuberi hid in the thick forest of the "Whispering Trees," a place that few people dared venture, far from the pride lands. His spirit remained, though his body was broken. Tano, a young meerkat, found him there, weak and alone. Tano was afraid when he thought back to the time Zuberi saved his family from wild dogs. Tano provided water, food, and herbs. He enlisted the help of other animals, including a shrewd tortoise, brave hornbill, and clever monkey, who together "nursed the fallen king" back to health. Zuberi discovered something new in that peaceful forest: "Even kings need help." ---
The Resumption Months went by. The rains arrived. The savannah re-bloomed. Despite his scars, Zuberi was stronger in spirit as well as body. His hair had turned gray, but his eyes were still as bright as ever. He made his way back to the pride lands with the support of his trustworthy companions. Malik was now a "tyrant."
He ruled with cruelty, destroyed water sources, and hunted carelessly. The herds were unfocused. The land was dry once more, not because of nature but because of fear. At dawn, Zuberi entered the circle of stones. The animals congregated. He didn't scream. He merely stated: > "This land was constructed with balance." Even though I'm hurt, I still know how to lead. He was attacked by Malik, but Zuberi didn't fight alone. Malik's vision was clouded by the hornbill. His feet were tripped by the monkey. He was distracted by the tortoise. And with a single powerful roar, Zuberi dealt the final blow. Malik ran away and never came back. ---
Legacy ### Again, Zuberi ruled with humility rather than arrogance. He walked more slowly, rested more, and listened more carefully. He was beloved by the animals more than ever. They say that the mark on his side never went away, serving as a reminder that "strength is not in never falling, but in rising again," which makes one wiser, more compassionate, and more powerful. Additionally, when the young cubs inquired, "Is it true that the lion was once wounded?" * Their mothers would nod in agreement and say: > “Yes. That's how he became a real king. ---
