Theo was sitting alone in a grassy field, enjoying a moment of piece and quiet along with the setting sun. He inhaled deeply and let out a big sigh, closing his eyes when a voice called:
- Dad!
Theo opened his eyes, with raised eyebrows, and sighed, then he got up and turned around, as his younger son ran up to him.
- Dad, I need to talk to you.
- What is it, son? Theo asked, as Luca was catching his breath.
- It's about Kaleb. I think I know how to help him! Remember when I told you about my friend Baliyo at the Tree of Life? the younger lion begun, and Theo raised an eyebrow, and nodded.
- Well, his aunt, Nirmala, she's the pride's healer and she knows all about any medicine and illness.
- So? asked Theo, with a raised eyebrow.
- Don't you get it? Nirmala could probably find a cure for Kaleb, Luca explained with raised eyebrows, as his father listened to him, with an unsure expression.
- Where exactly are you going with all this?
- Well... I thought maybe I could go to the Tree of Life and meet Nirmala. I'm sure when I explain the situation, she'll be more than happy to help! Luca said with an excited tone, but unfortunately his father didn't share his excitement, instead he shook his head.
- I'm sorry, son, but that's out of the question.
- What? Why?! asked Luca with a gasp.
- It's much too far away, and it's way too dangerous, Theo explained.
- Yeah, but, I've been there before, and -
- You got there by accident the last time, when you got lost, remember? I can't take the risk of something happening to you, Theo said with a strict voice.
- But, dad... Luca tried, but Theo immidietally interrupted him:
- Not another word, Luca. You're not going, and that's final. Now, go back to the den.
Luca lowered his head in anger and disbelief. He couldn't believe his father: How could he deny him from helping his friend? He knew Theo was right, of course, the journey would be a dangerous one, but at this point, Luca was willing to try anything to help Kaleb get better.
- Did you hear me, son? Go home, Theo said with a strict tone, and now, Luca raised his head and looked at his father with angry eyes, then he yelled:
- No!
And with that , he stormed off and ran past his confused father, who looked after him with raised eyebrows.
- Luca! Luca, come back! Theo called, as his son ran into the night...
Characters (c) Me
Original images (c) Disney