Expensive meal for a character

In the heart of Grumeti Reserves, a majestic rhinoceros named Eric roams the hills covered with thorny bushes. Unlike other animals that graze on tender grasses, Eric has developed a taste for the thorny acacias dotting the landscape. His fascination with these uninviting trees comes from his ancestors, who skilfully tore down branches to reveal the sweet, succulent leaves hidden beneath the thorns.

One cloudy morning, while on a game drive, we were fortunate to spot Eric. While other herbivores munched on easier meals, he approached a towering acacia, its branches heavy with green foliage. As he reached out with his strong, flexible lips, he pondered the whispers from other animals: “Why choose thorns when there are so many easier meals?”

Eric smirked. “Because I’m not just any rhino. I’m a connoisseur!” he thought, carefully grasping a branch and tugging it down. The thorns pricked his tough skin, but years of practice made him a master at navigating the tree’s defences. He knew that beneath the thorns lay a treasure trove of nutrition few dared to seek.

With each bite, he relished the unique flavour of the acacia leaves - sweet and rich, unlike anything else in the savanna. Other animals often stared in disbelief as he feasted, wondering why he would risk injury for such a daunting meal. For Eric, the thrill of the hunt was part of the experience, and his diet made him stronger and more resilient.

As the clouds began to clear, Eric felt a sense of pride. He had become the king of the acacias, a true gourmet in a world that often settled for the ordinary. While his friends called his meals "expensive," Eric knew they reflected his adventurous spirit.

That morning, as he lay in the shade, Eric realized that the most rewarding paths are often the hardest. The thorns were not just obstacles; they were what made his meals special—an expensive taste that set him apart. In the grand tapestry of Grumeti, he was not just a rhino but a pioneer, savouring the rich flavours of life, one thorny acacia at a time.