Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the baby elephant’s head broke through the waterhole. With one last strong pull, the baby was freed from the pit. Dr. Ndaba quickly reached for the baby, guiding it to the edge of the pit. The elephant stood unsteadily, mud caking its skin, but it was no longer trapped.
Dr. Ndaba threw a rope toward Paul, helping him climb out of the pit. They stood together, breathing heavily, as the baby elephant wobbled on its feet, its eyes wide with confusion but safe at last. The two men shared a look of relief, but there was concern etched onto their faces.