Harrison had always been fascinated by animal intelligence, but this was beyond anything he had ever imagined. The hippo’s distress was palpable, stirring an overwhelming urge in him to assist. He took a cautious step forward, his mind racing with questions, while the creature nudged him gently with its snout and began to move along the riverbank as if to ensure he was following.
As they ventured deeper into the wilderness, Harrison noticed clear signs of disturbance trampled vegetation, discarded ropes, and the unmistakable scent of humans. His heart sank when he realized that poachers had been in the area, especially upon reaching a small clearing where a makeshift cage held a young hippo calf, its eyes wide with fear.