4th Feb 2025
In the heart of a big, green forest, three friends gathered under an old oak tree. Sammy the squirrel chattered excitedly, "Did you know there's a hidden treasure in the forest?" Ruby the rabbit's ears perked up. "Really? What kind of treasure?" Sky, the bright blue bird, chirped in, "I soar high and have seen it! It's a golden acorn! But we must hurry before the wind hides it away!" They decided to set off together, with Sammy leaping from branch to branch, Ruby hopping energetically on the ground, and Sky flying overhead to scout the best path.
As they journeyed deeper into the forest, they encountered a thick thicket of bushes. Ruby looked around nervously. "What if we get lost?" Sammy reassured her, "Don’t worry! We’ve got each other!" Just then, Sky spotted a glimmer through the leaves. "Look! It must be the acorn!" they all rushed towards it, only to find it guarded by a wise old tortoise. "To claim the treasure, you must answer my riddle," he said, and they listened closely, ready for a challenge.
The tortoise's eyes twinkled as he recited his riddle, 'I am not alive, but I grow; I don't have lungs, but I need air; I don't have a mouth, but water kills me. What am I?' The friends huddled together, whispering and pondering. Sammy scratched his head, Ruby tugged at her ear, and Sky fluttered nervously. Finally, Ruby hopped up with a bright smile, 'It's fire!' she exclaimed. The tortoise nodded slowly, 'Wisely answered. The golden acorn is yours to find and cherish.'
With a triumphant cheer, the friends thanked the tortoise and continued their journey, now with a clearer path ahead. Sky flew ahead, guiding them through the maze of trees, while Sammy and Ruby raced below. Suddenly, Sky called out from above, 'There it is! The golden acorn!' It lay nestled at the base of a great cedar, glowing softly in the afternoon sun. Together, they reached it, each touching it gently, feeling the thrill of their discovery.
As they headed back home, each carrying a part of the golden acorn's magic in their hearts, they talked eagerly about their next adventure. 'Imagine what other secrets the forest holds!' Sammy chattered. Ruby giggled, 'As long as we have each other, we'll find them!' Sky swooped down in agreement, 'Yes, and I will always help lead the way!' With laughter echoing through the trees, the friends knew their bond was the true treasure they had discovered.
