A thundering roar shook the exceptionally tall trees, raining green leaves onto Chatur's head. The arrogant lion stomped into the clearing, snapping his heavy jaws at the fleeing monkeys. Chatur dropped his carrot into the dirt, thinking of a very daring plan.
Chatur hopped directly into the lion’s path and tapped his foot against a hollow log. "Oh mighty king, I was bringing you a fat berry pie, but another lion stole it!" he squeaked, pointing toward the trees. The lion snarled, demanding to see this terrible thief at once.
Chatur led the giant beast through thick, damp vines toward the edge of the jungle. The lion snapped at every shadow, roaring into the heavy air. Chatur stayed perfectly silent, following the fresh smell of wet moss until they reached the crumbling edge of a deep stone well.
"He is hiding right down there," Chatur whispered, pointing into the cool, dark water. The lion shoved the little rabbit aside and glared over the stone edge. He let out a furious bellow that bounced off the deep walls. A fierce, watery replica roared right back!
The arrogant beast lunged over the stones, claws extended to bite his watery rival. Splash! Cold water sprayed high into the air as the lion hit the bottom with a massive belly-flop. Chatur giggled behind his paws as the wet, confused lion thrashed in endless circles.
Chatur dusted off his paws and hummed a quiet, happy tune. He hopped back to his favorite dirt patch and picked up his carrot for a snack as the monkeys swung back into the sunshine. The jungle was finally peaceful, filled only with the distant, cranky splashing from the well.