The Playful Eight

Chapter 1

One day, trailing behind their mother, out of wilderness they came; feebly following along the path. With the morning sun shining off their furry coats, their tiny eyes were closed to keep the brightness away.

Finding a dune of sand, they settled down on it to bask in sunshine. Snuggling around their mother for comfort and safety, they stretched in the sand playfully. Some yawned as if they were sleepy, some licked their paws and some rolled over for fun.

Soon they were hungry and nudged their mother for food.

“Wait a bit,” she said. “I didn’t sleep a wink last night. Let me rest.”

“Oh Mamma, I am hungry,” said Two.

“Me too,” cried Four.

Others joined in with their hunger pangs, whimpering around their mother.

“Stop that,” she said. “Let me rest for a while.”

They then sat down to patiently wait for their mother to show kindness. She saw their pleading eyes and being a mother she forgot her discomfort. She sprang up, ready to go hunt for food to feed.

“Now listen. Be good and stay here. I’ll be back soon with goodies for you all,” she said. “And One, I leave you in charge. Make sure that everyone sticks to the sand.”

With these words she left and they all looked her way till she disappeared around the bend, out of sight.

“What should we do now? Do we follow her?” asked Five.

“No,” said One. “She told us to stay put and so shall we.”

“But I already miss her,” said Six.

“Me too,” said Seven and Eight together.

“We must stay here because that’s what Mamma wanted us to do,” said Two.

Five purred; Seven and Eight joined in.

“Oh be quiet you three,” said One. “Don’t make a fuss. Mamma will be back soon.”

Missing their mother and controlling their hunger, the playful eight started to roll in sand. Four dug up a tunnel to pass through and Two followed.

“Watch out,” yelled Three, sliding down from the top; over the tunnel he went; trapping Two in it.

Two made it out and started chasing Three. They both bumped into One, who was lying quietly.

“Hey you two, don’t you have anything better to do?” said One, frowning and scratching ears to get the dirt out.

Four, Five and Six decided to pick a friendly fight. They playfully brought each other down, springing the sand all around.

Seven and Eight were keeping it straight, sniffing around lazily to pass the time.

They then heard a shout, which brought all of them to their paws. “What are you all doing here?” said a gruff voice.

They hadn’t met someone this rough and gruff, so they huddled together.

“We are waiting for our mother,” replied Seven, meekly.

“This is my place. Get going,” he said.

“We won’t. At least not before Mamma comes back,” said One.

Seeing One holding courage in the chest, Two, Four and Five joined in. Three, Six, Seven and Eight took the cue and stood behind them.

“I am Big Max,” he said. The burst of courage had clearly unsettled him. “What’s your name buddy?” he asked.

“It’s One and I am not your buddy,” replied One.

“One?” Big Max laughed out loud. “That’s a name I haven’t ever heard, and I suppose the rest of you are Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven and Eight.” He counted.

“Yes we are and there’s nothing to laugh about,” said Three.

“Who would name their children One to Eight,” said Big Max, still laughing.

“If you don’t know Mister, she’s our mother,” said Two.

“And we are proud of her, and we love our names the way they are,” said Five.

“So stop making fun of us for you will have to dearly pay if she hears you talking silly to us,” said One.

“My, my. Look at the eight of you,” said Big Max. “So small yet so sound.”

Not to be outdone, he said, “Well, I think she’s long gone and maybe left you here for good.”

“Speak for yourself Mister. She’s our mother and she’ll be back sooner. Just you wait,” said Six.

“Maybe I can tempt them,” thought Big Max, and out aloud he said, “Very well, as you say; but I know a place not far from here, where a lot of goodies are there to share. Why don’t you follow me and I will show you the world of glee.”

Seeing their watery mouths and hungry eyes, Big Max continued, “Come with me. There are heaps of chewy stuff. You will have your fill in no time. You can eat as much as you want to for as long as you want to.”

The playful eight felt too tempted to resist it. They lined up, ready to follow the piper.

Just when the clever Big Max thought he had won, out of the blue he heard a shout, “Get away from my children.”

And the next moment stood a mother between her children and Big Max.

“You should be ashamed of yourself, picking on small children like this,” she said.

The playful eight were overjoyed to see their mother. They littered around her and the bag of goodies she had dropped for them.

“Now if you are left with some sense, leave at once without an offence,” said the mother.

All of eight joined their mother to growl. That was enough for Big Max to tuck his tail between the legs and run.

And the playful eight being foodies dug in the bag of goodies. They have surely grown wise with some motherly care and advice.

Chapter 2

The eight were panting, trying to keep up with their mother. Two rounds, three rounds, and they were huffing and puffing.

“Can we stop now Mamma?” asked Four.

“Oh please let us take some rest,” cried Six.

“I am about to fall. I can’t go on any more,” said Seven.

“I can’t feel my legs,” said Three.

“Stop whining. It’s not that tough. The ground is small, not even half of what I used to run in when I was your age,” said their mother. She seemed to barely break a sweat as she led them.

“But we are not as strong as you Mamma,” said Eight.

“If I can do it at thrice your age, you can at least try,” said their mother, slowing down a bit.

“Mamma’s right. We ought to try our best,” said One picking up pace.

“But…” said Two.

“No buts. It’s for your guts. Give whatever your legs have got and in another two rounds you will get a break,” said their mother.

And round the ground the eight went running; huffing, puffing and grunting. When they finally stopped, the eight lay flat on the ground.

“I am dizzy,” said Three.

“I am thirsty,” said Seven.

“I can’t feel a thing,” said Six.

“Even I can’t move a limb,” said Eight. They were panting badly with tongues sticking out.

“Well, you all did a good job. And for this you do deserve a treat,” said their mother.

“A treat?” asked Two, somewhat excited.

“Yes, a treat. For the next hour or so, you are free to do whatever you want to, before I set you off for another task,” said their mother. “Now let me go and rest. These old legs need some care too.”

The eight lay on the ground. Not in a mood to lift even a finger, they looked at each other.

Finally Seven spoke, “I am thirsty. Anyone wants to join me for a watery drink?”

Five said, “Bring some for me.”

“And me,” said Six.

“And me,” said Four. And before others could join the ‘And me’ chorus, One interrupted, “Hey you lazy bones. Get up, and get your own water to drink.”

“Yes, I am not bringing water for anyone,” said Seven.

Four looked cross as Three, Five and Six got up to join Seven. So did One, Two and Eight. But Four didn’t move.

“Oh please show some mercy; bring your fainting fellow some water,” begged Four.

Others ignored the plea and went off to drink water.

Alone, Four lay there, feeling the rising Sun. “Oh! I better move under some shade or this Sun will bake my back,” murmured Four. Still not ready to get up, Four dragged and crawled to get under a bush to escape the heat; and in no time was fast asleep, snoring like a tiny bear on its belly.

The Sun was high up when Four stretched and rolled to one side. Feeling the heat and thirst, Four opened the sleepy eyes. Still dreamy, hearing a growl made Four aware of the surroundings.

Blinking a few times, Four got up. It was Four’s tummy that was growling. Hungry and thirsty, Four looked around but there wasn’t a soul in sight. Gathering some might, Four went around searching for the rest of the eight.

Finding no one, Four grumbled, “Oh! They have left me behind. Even Mamma’s nowhere to be seen. What should I do now?”

Four went running and searching, with growing hunger and thirst.

“Help! Help!” yelped Four, hoping others would hear the cries. But the pricked ears caught no familiar sound.

“Wait. I will sniff them out,” thought Four getting an idea. With nose to the ground, Four went sniffing around. Picking a scent or two only to lose it, Four was in panic again without any gain.

About to break into tears, Four heard a chirpy voice, “What are you searching for?”

Looking left and right, Four saw no one. “Who’s there?”

“It’s Birdy, up here,” said the chirpy voice.

Four looked up, saw a bird perched on a tree and said, “I am searching for my family.”

“Are you playing hide and seek? I quite like that game,” said Birdy.

“No, we are not playing hide and seek, and I don’t like that game at all,” said Four.

“But you must. It’s a nice exciting game.” Birdy insisted.

Four was very annoyed. “Shoo off and play what you like.”

Birdy ignored Four’s comment and went on, “You know what else I like. I like to ride and once I rode on a buffalo’s back and on a horseback too. It was fun. But I have never been on the back of someone as small as you. Can I take a ride on your back?”

“No, you can’t. I can’t have your sharp claws pricking my back,” said Four.

“But I promise to be careful. I won’t hurt you,” said Birdy.

“Still no, you can’t. Besides I am busy looking for my family,” said Four, forcefully.

“I can help you with that,” said Birdy.

“How?” asked Four.

“I can fly high, see far and wide to find your family,” said Birdy.

Four got excited. “Oh please do. I will be very grateful of you.”

“Yes I will but for that you will have to give me a ride on your back,” said Birdy cleverly. “I am your friend in need here.”

Birdy’s offer was indeed tempting but then Mamma’s words rang loud and clear in Four’s head, “Friend or no friend, anyone asking for a favour in return of offering help is never a friend in deed nor someone you should be seeking help from.”

“Go away Birdy. You are not my friend and you can’t sit on my back,” shouted Four.

“Suit yourself. It’s your loss. You will never be able to find your family,” said Birdy.

“I might not, but I am never going to let you put a scratch on my back,” said Four.

Seeing that there was no way of getting a ride, Birdy hovered over Four and sneered, “They have left you for good. You are going to be very alone.” Croaking a laugh, Birdy flew away.

Four was alone once again; sad, hungry thirsty and tired.

Lying on the ground, tears trickled down Four’s cheeks. Eyes closed, a sobbing Four wondered about taking Birdy’s help. But a promise is a promise and that too to mother.

“But why haven’t they come looking for me?” Four wondered. “Maybe they really have left me for good.” The more Four thought, the more tears rained down the cheeks. And Four started to wail like anything.

“Stop that,” a voice shouted.

Four stopped wailing and saw a beaver crawl out of a burrow.

“You are disturbing my sleep. Go and cry somewhere else if that’s all you want to do,” said the beaver.

“I am sorry. I didn’t know you lived here,” said Four.

The beaver looked at Four’s tear filled face and accepting the apology asked, “Why are you wailing like a baby?”

“I can’t seem to find my family,” said Four, between sobs.

“Have they left you behind?” asked the beaver.

“I hope not. I definitely hope not,” said Four.

And Four narrated the whole episode of falling asleep under the bushes.

“So, you don’t remember where they have gone,” said the beaver.

Four nodded and then it clicked. Remembering that they all were thirsty after running and everyone except Four had decided to go to drink water, an excited Four asked, “Do you know where I can find water to drink nearby?”

“Why, yes of course. It’s just a few hundred hops through that gap in the hedge; straight down the path you will see and then take a right turn when you come across a big sign post,” said the beaver.

“Thank you. How can I repay you for your help? Is there something I can do?” asked Four.

“You don’t have to repay me but please don’t come here disturbing my sleep during the day. You see, we beavers are nocturnal creatures. But you are most welcomed to visit me at night,” said the beaver.

“I’ll keep that in mind. Thanks for the help,” said Four, bidding goodbye to the beaver.

The beaver slid back to sleep and Four ran off towards the gap in the hedge. Coming across the big sign post, just like the beaver had said, Four turned right.

There, Four saw a pool of water encircled by stones. Four went round it but there was no one around it. It was almost dry. Four drank some gulps and felt a little better.

A puzzled Four wondered, “Where could they be if not here?” Noticing paw marks all around, Four grew excited once more. “They were here after all and these marks are fresh, so they shouldn’t be far at all.”

Making some head and tail of the trail, Four set out to follow the marks.

Following the trail with a wagging tail, Four walked slowly and surely not to miss a hint. Up the path and down a small hill went Four.

Coming to an end, Four saw them gathered around their mother getting an earful. Four let out a happy yelp and ran full speed ahead. Seeing Four, the rest of the eight rushed to greet.

“Where were you?” asked Three.

“We searched and searched but couldn’t find you,” said Six.

“Yeah, and what a scolding we were getting for leaving you behind,” said Eight.

“Had you not turned up we sure would have been grounded for good,” said Two.

“I am sorry. I fell asleep under a bush. I should have come along with you all,” said Four sheepishly.

“Yes, you should have. Look at all the fun we had in the pool,” said Five.

“It wasn’t a pool, it was a spring you fool,” said Seven.

“You both are wrong. It was a fountain that went high up like a mountain and rained down to make a pool,” said One.

“Anyway, we had a blast. Swimming, splashing and almost drowning,” said Seven.

“Oh yes, we got a real fright when Six bumped Five down under,” said Three.

“We sure missed you Four and we have got tales to tell you,” said One.

“Well, I have got one of my own to tell you too,” said Four, thinking about the annoying bird and the kind beaver.

“Stories can wait,” said their mother, “But empty tummies can’t.”

“Yes Mamma.” Everyone replied in chorus.

Four rubbed against mother’s leg and said, “I am sorry Mamma for making you worry.”

“You did well to find us. Next time stay with the pack,” said the mother.

“Yes Mamma,” said Four.

“And the rest of you, make sure you never leave anyone behind,” said their mother.

“Yes Mamma.” They all cried out together.

And off they went chatting and wagging their happy tails to munch some food.

Chapter 3

Thunder crackled. Lightening lit up the dark sky once more. Cold and afraid, the eight were huddled around their mother for safety under the thick growth of vegetation.

Pouring rain had drenched them from head to tail and the ground around them was slushy. Nothing was dry and nothing could be heard except the platter of heavy rain drops.

“Oh, when is this going to stop,” cried Seven.

“I am so sleepy but this sound of thunder is keeping me awake,” said Three.

“I am feeling hungry,” said Six.

“How can you feel hungry in this monstrous weather,” said Five.

“Be quiet and give me some room,” said Four.

“You already have enough space,” shot back Two.

“Hey, stop pushing you two,” said One. “And can’t you all think of something else besides whining.”

“O great thunder, I wonder | When will you stop this plunder | So that we can sleep sounder,” sang Eight.

“Nice thunderous rhyme,” giggled Three.

“Here is one that I just made up,” said Six.

“Lightening don’t you dare | Give us a scare | We might huddle | And we might cuddle | Though we are tender | But will never surrender.”

“A good one,” said Five.

“I like it too,” said Seven.

“Oh, stop singing silly rhymes. The weather is already bad enough and you all are making it worse,” said One, snottily.

“Don’t be a snob, One. In fact, if you keep yourself busy this terrible weather won’t bother you,” said their mother.

“Snobby little One | Why don’t you make one | We all want to hear one | From the snobby little One,” broke out Five, singing another made up rhyme.

They all laughed. Even One couldn’t help smiling. They all had pretty much forgotten about the foul weather they were caught up in when lightening flashed and a deafening thunderous clap reminded them of their miserable condition.

Silence followed. No whispers could be heard. Just the sound of pouring rain; splashing in puddles all around; making the water rise above the ground.

The eight were really scared and they moved closer to comfort each other.

Then in a tiny sweet voice, One jingled out,

“Big drops of rain | You are giving us pain | We are small little wonders | Don’t scare us with thunders | Please show some care | Hope you hear our prayer.”

And the rest joined in to sing the prayer. They sang and sang till sleep took over.

Only their mother lay awake, for she knew if their prayers weren’t answered soon, her little ones could fall sick or worse, they wouldn’t survive.

Dawn broke but it was still raining. The sky was thick with grey black clouds. The eight were all wet and cold. Some were shivering and some lay still.

Their mother looked up and then at the eight. “This weather is not going to clear up any time soon. It might be too late for my little ones if I wait. I must do something,” she thought.

She got up slowly so as not to disturb the sleeping eight. Then she pulled each one to higher ground, away from the rising water.

She sat there for a while with loving sad eyes. One couldn’t tell whether her eyes were wet with tears or rain. When she couldn’t bear it any longer, she left them before breaking down in a wail.

One by one the eight began to wake up. First it was Five, who nudged Seven. One budged Three and Four. Eight rolled over Two and Six woke up hearing the moaning Two.

“Where is Mamma?” asked Three.

Everyone looked around. Their mother was nowhere to be seen. They tried to make out her tracks but there was water everywhere. The eight stood huddled, wondering in the pouring rain.

“Well, at least there is no thunder any more,” said Two.

They listened for a while. “Yes, you are right Two. There’s no thunder and no lightening too,” said One.

“But this rain is falling like it won’t stop,” said Five.

“My tummy is growling,” said Six.

“You’ve been hungry since last night,” said Seven.

“I am hungry too,” said Eight.

“No Mamma, no food. What are we to do?” asked Five, sadly.

“Is this to be our end?” lamented Three.

“Stop being such cry babies. Mamma’s taught us to be tough, to use resources to do our best,” said One.

“One is right. There’s no point in crying,” said Four.

“Then what should we do?” asked Five.

“Before Mamma left, she pulled us to higher ground. The water is beginning to rise again and will reach us soon. So, our first step should be to stay safe,” said One.

“I see a place that is higher and seems to be drier. If only we can wade through the water…” said Seven.

“Good spotting, Seven,” said Two.

“Let’s make a chain and hold on to each other to cross. I will go first,” said One.

With One in front, they formed a line. One stepped in the water slowly and surely to test the depth. The water rose to One’s neck though the paws barely touched the ground.

“OK. The water is neck deep but it might get deeper further away. Now follow me steadily and don’t panic,” said One.

One after the other, the eight went in the water to cross over. By the time they all were inside, One was struggling to remain above water.

They were halfway through when One shouted, “The water is deep here. Everyone hold your breath, you might have to swim underwater for a while.” With that, One took a deep breath and went under the water. Others followed the same way, taking deep breaths when they reached the spot where One had gone under the water.

It was the turn of Three when things went wrong. Three dipped under water but got frightened. A terrified Three felt lost and started to splash around to keep from drowning.

Five, who was behind Three, panicked too. Going down under with Three, both got tangled with each other.

By this time One was almost out of water. Seeing the splashes, One yelled, “Be calm everyone. Seven and Four, help them fast and bring them up.”

Seven and Four, who were last in the line, dived and with great effort pulled Three and Five out. Eight and Six had turned back to help too. Soon they all were steady once more. Finally, they made it to the other end and everyone heaved a sigh of relief.

Tired from the swim they lay down in the rain, cold and hungry. After a while, One called out to Two, “Let’s go and see if we can find something to eat.” To the rest, One pointed out, “There’s some shelter under those shrubs. It will keep you out of the pouring rain. Go, take cover there.”

The two left to search for food and the rest of the eight marched off to escape the rain.

Two sniffed. “I think there’s a strange strong smell in this damp air. Could be food or could be something else.”

“We will have to go and see. Can’t take a chance or we might miss a meal,” said One.

Two led the way and One followed. Soon they found the source of the smell and saw three pigs munching.

“Hello piggies, can you share some food?” asked One, politely.

One of the pigs looked up and grunted, “Go away. This is our food and we won’t share it.”

“Don’t be rude. We just want a little bit for us eight,” said Two.

“Eight? But we got none spare for even one,” said the pig.

“I see that there’s plenty to spare. Please help us. We are hungry,” said One.

“Go away,” said the other grumpy pig. “This is our find and finders are keepers.”

“Our Mamma says that you can always share what’s spare with someone who’s needy but not greedy,” said Two.

“But how do we know you are needy and not greedy?” asked the third pig.

“We haven’t eaten since yesterday. If you don’t believe us, come have a look at us,” said Two.

The pigs whispered among themselves and one of them said, “Your looks can’t fool us. This food is just for us.”

“Oh you silly pigs, why can’t you see that we are really telling the truth. Please let us have some food,” said One, getting angry.

“Stay calm, One. Don’t loose your cool,” said Two.

Then a thunder boomed, making them jump out of their skins and left their ears ringing. The three pigs got so scared that they ran off to hide.

One and Two weren’t that scared because they had heard the thunder all night long. With the pigs gone, the two hurried to collect as much food as they could.

They ran back to the rest. Others seeing the goodies forgot about their misery and ate till their bellies ached.

When One and Two told them about the pigs, they thanked the thunder for the wonder. Once more they lay down under the skimpy shelter to rest and wait.

“I wonder where Mamma is?” said Three.

“I hope she finds us soon,” said Six.

“It’s going to be dark and I don’t like it here without her,” said Four.

“I’ll go and look to see if she’s come back to the place where she left us,” said Two.

“I will come too,” said Five.

“We all are coming along,” said Seven.

The group of eight strolled to the shore. They saw the water level had gone up since they had crossed over. Their old place across the channel was almost submerged.

“We did well to come here,” said Eight.

“Yes, you indeed did well,” said a familiar voice behind them.

They turned around and saw their mother. Overjoyed they clamoured around her.

“I was worried that I might have lost you for good. By the time I came back, the water level was too high for me to reach where I had left you sleeping. It took me quite a while to find a way to get to this side,” explained their mother.

“I am so happy and glad to find you safe and sound. You did good and I am proud of you,” she continued. Her eyes were wet and this time it wasn’t the rain.

“Oh Mamma, don’t cry. We made it because you taught us how to,” said One.

“We were worried for you too,” said Three.

“Worried and you? You gave us a real fright when you and Five almost drowned,” said Two teasingly.

“Drowned? Oh my, I shouldn’t have left you,” said their mother.

“It was scary crossing the channel but we managed to stick together and we really are fine,” said One.

“Good that you are fine. Now follow me. I have found a new home for you. A place to stay safe and dry till this dreadful weather passes away,” said their mother.

So they followed their mother. It took them a long time in the muddy slush but they made it, slipping and flipping on inclines.

They reached an old ruin. It was made of stone and remarkably stood strong. Half the roof was gone but the rest kept the place completely dry. There was soft grass to sleep on where no thunder or rain would rattle them.

“Oh Mamma, it’s a lovely place,” said Five.

“It feels so cosy,” said Six rolling on the grass to dry the wet coat. Everyone was happy and Eight broke into a song,

“None could call this a home | Because it takes a family | To call a ruin, home | You might wonder | But neither lightening nor thunder | Can steal this home | Because all it takes is a family | To make a ruin, home.”

They all cried, “O’ what a lovely way to end.”

But wait, this is not the end but just another bend.

Chapter 4

The eight were waiting in line to be groomed. Their mother was getting them ready for the morning before she went out to collect food for the day.

Seven pushed aside Four, Five and Six. “It’s my turn next.”

“No, it’s not. After Three, it’s Four in the line,” said Five.

“Yes, fall back in line. Mamma is almost done with Three,” said Six.

One and Two were ready and waiting. They sat patiently, waiting for others to join them.

“Don’t push Seven or I will groom you last,” said their mother sternly.

“But I want to be next. I can’t wait any more,” said Seven.

“You will have to,” said their mother.

“No, I won’t,” said Seven, rather stubbornly.

“It’s OK Mamma. Let Seven take my place. I can wait,” said Four, who didn’t like being groomed at all.

Without waiting for a nod, Seven took Four’s place and Four moved behind Six.

“It’s not fair,” said Five.

“Why? Tell me why it always has to start with One and end at Eight? Why can’t I go first?” asked Seven.

Before a quarrel could start, their mother said, “Next time onwards we will rotate the lineup so that everyone gets a chance to be first in the line. And since Four is ready to swap places, let Seven be next.”

Everyone agreed and their mother felt relieved. Seven came and sat in front when Three got up.

The mother first checked Seven’s feet. Finding them clean, she lifted Seven’s ears to inspect. She scratched them to clean some dirt and made sure there weren’t any bugs hidden. Next, she tucked Seven’s hair over the head with a few quick licks.

“There you are. Now go sit with Three,” she said.

But Seven didn’t move. “What’s wrong?” asked the mother.

“I can see a flick still not tucked. Can you make it stick?” Asked Seven pointing to the one right on top of the head.

So the mother gave it a good strong lick to make it stick. But the flick again curled back up.

“Well that’s the best I can do and you are looking lovely,” she said.

“No Mamma, it’s not looking good. Please do something,” pleaded Seven.

“There’s nothing more to be done. That flick is just too short to be tucked. Let it grow a bit longer and it will stick,” said the mother.

“But it’s not looking nice,” said Seven, refusing to move.

“Oh Seven, you are looking fine. Don’t be such a fuss,” said Five.

“Yes you are indeed looking good. Now move. Don’t hold the line,” said Eight.

“But…” said Seven.

“The flick is giving you a different look. It makes you stand out from the rest,” said the mother.

“But…” said Seven again.

“Yes, you are really shining with all the whining,” said Six. The rest giggled.

“No teasing,” said the mother. “You are looking sweet. Now get up. I haven’t got all day to groom and I’m not running a parlour here.”

“But it’s not sticking,” said Seven.

“If I hear one more ‘but’, I’m not going to groom you ever again. At your age you shouldn’t be bothered about looking smart but learn things that will help you become smarter,” said the mother.

Reluctantly Seven got up, still worried about looking out of place.

“Look how much time you wasted,” said Three.

“Yes. We could have been off by now to explore the place we had decided to visit yesterday,” said Two.

At last they all were groomed and ready. Their mother said, “I’m going now and will be back as soon as I can. Be good, don’t wander off too far and no fighting or teasing each other.”

After waving their mother bye, the eight grouped together.

“What should we do now?” asked Four.

“Remember the place we wanted to to go exploring yesterday? How about going there?” suggested Two.

“That’s an exciting idea,” said Eight.

“I don’t know. Mamma said not to go too far away,” said Seven, trying to fix the curled up flick with a paw.

“It’s not too far,” said Three, “And stop playing with your hair.”

“I am not playing with my hair,” said Seven, getting annoyed.

“Yes you are. And if you don’t, we will name you ‘Flicky, the Seven’,” said Six.

“Flicky, the Seven,” repeated Three, laughing.

“Oh stop it or else I will tell Mamma that you have been calling me names,” said Seven.

“No teasing Three and Six, and Seven stop worrying about your looks. We are not wasting any more time. It’s decided that we will go explore the place we saw yesterday,” said One, taking command.

With One leading, the rest of the Eight marched like a small army. They walked on a path patched with grass till they came to the place where a trail branched off and led towards wilderness.

“This is it. Now everyone stay close. We don’t want anyone getting lost,” said One.

“Yes, don’t fall behind and be careful,” cautioned Three.

“I don’t think this is a good idea,” said Seven.

“Seven’s worried about spoilt looks,” said Five laughing.

“Don’t be a flick,” teased Four.

“I am not,” said Seven annoyed. And just to prove that, Seven trotted past everyone and went in the direction of the trail. Others quickly fell behind Seven.

The trail was narrow and rocky, through tall tress. They heard birds chirping merrily and saw butterflies dancing around flowers, and insects hovering over the grass.

“What a wonderful place this is,” exclaimed Four.

“I like it too,” said Eight.

“Except for this rocky path,” grumbled Seven, who was taking utmost care to avoid sharp edged stones.

“Don’t be so grumpy. It’s not as bad as you make it sound,” said Two.

“And where’s your sense of adventure,” said Six.

“Adventure? Look at my paws. They are all dirty. And look at my hair, it’s all messy and dusty,” said Seven.

“Oh Seven, for heavens stop complaining and stop bothering about your looks. You are looking absolutely like Seven to us,” said One.

The path took a turn and began to form an incline. The eight except Seven grew excited as they began to walk higher and higher, going round and round, like a spiral.

“Look down,” said Three, “How far up we have come.”

They looked down from the side of the trail. Three was right. They had climbed quite a bit.

And Six looked up and exclaimed, “It seems we are climbing a hill.”

They looked up and saw the hill top high above. One looked far and wide, and said, “Look, I can see the path we left behind to take this trail.”

Others looked in the same direction and they could see well beyond the tall trees.

“We should head back now. It’s been quite a while and this trek has been tiring,” said Seven.

“I vote we head on a little more to see where this trail ends. If someone is too tired they can rest here,” said Five.

But no one wanted to be left behind, not even Seven. So they started to walk again. A few round turns later the path grew very rough and narrow. It was barely walkable.

“I think this is far enough. We should turn back,” said Seven.

“Just around that bend and then we will return,” insisted Two.

They agreed. Round the bend they went and then they stood still in their tracks; for that was the end of the trail itself. There was no further way to go.

“Well now that we have reached a dead end, let’s turn around,” said Seven, relieved.

One by one they began to turn around when One excitedly said, “I see an opening in the hill.” They looked and saw that there was indeed an opening at the end of the trail. To inspect they went closer.

Three said, “It’s and entrance to…”

“A cave,” completed Two.

“Wow a cave. I have never been in one before,” said Five.

“Neither have I,” said Four.

“As far as I can remember none of us has ever been in a cave,” said Eight.

“And before anyone gets an idea of going in, I propose that we start our journey back,” said Seven.

But others had already made up their mind to go inside and a reluctant Seven followed them in.

The cave was cold and dark but dry. A strange odour hung in the air inside. The walls were very rough but the floor was layered with big, well rounded stones. They had to be very careful so as not to slip and fall.

It wasn’t too deep for they hit the back wall soon. It was dark at the end. They could barely make each other out in the light coming from the entrance.

The cave was empty. There were no bats hanging upside down from the ceiling and there weren’t any cobwebs either. In fact, the cave appeared to be clean.

“This can our secret hideout. We can come here to play and even bring some snacks to store,” suggested Two.

“That’s a clever idea. It can be our nest perched on a hill top,” said Four.

“I don’t know. This is too far away,” said Seven, trying not to sound afraid.

“Be a sport Seven. And there’s nothing in here to spoil your looks,” said Six.

They laughed and their voices echoed off the walls of the cave. It startled them. When they realised it was just an echo, the eight began to make all sorts of noises for fun.

Soon they were exhausted from playing around in the cave. Panting, they lay down to rest.

It was Three who noticed the appearance of a shadow. It covered the light coming in from the entrance of the cave. Seeing it enter the cave, Three alerted the rest and they quietly and quickly moved to one corner at the end of the cave. They all grew very still, pinning themselves against the wall.

What they saw next made them freeze and sweat in fear. A huge bear had entered the cave. It settled down, blocking the only way out. There was no way to escape without being caught.

The eight didn’t even dare to breath. Neither did they move a muscle nor did they abated an eyelid. Soundless, the eight could do nothing but wait. And waiting was what they did for a chance to sneak out. They waited and waited looking at each other with fear in their eyes and panic in their minds.

Soon loud snores filled the cave. The eight felt a bit at ease seeing the bear sleeping soundly.

“What should we do now?” whispered Four.

“See, I told you not to come in here,” said Seven.

“Shhh! Not so loud. You might wake the bear up,” said One.

“What’s done is done. No use starting the blame game. Now we have to think of getting out of here without turning into dinner,” whispered Three.

“But the only way out is blocked. There isn’t any room to sneak out without going over the bear,” said Six.

“Maybe we should just wait till the bear leaves,” suggested Eight.

“We could do that, but what if the bear catches our scent and hunts us down,” said Five.

“We have to find a way out before the bear wakes up,” said Six.

So the eight thought and thought while they remained still in the dark cave.

And it was Seven who came about an escape plan rather accidentally. At the end of the line, pinned to the corner, Seven without giving much thought pushed a leg to stretch out. It hit the wall of the cave. A loose stone tumbled out with a soft thud.

Everyone froze once more. The bear was still sleeping soundly, engulfed in loud snores.

“What are you doing Five? Be quiet,” said One.

“That wasn’t me. It was Seven,” said Three who was lying next to Seven.

It was dark but Seven could make out seven pairs of eyes staring back. “What am I supposed to do? I am not enjoying being here any more than you are.”

“Just don’t move,” said One.

They had hardly settled down, when the sound of another stone dropping made their skin jump. “I didn’t do it this time,” said Seven equally frightened.

Catching a whiff of fresh air against the stale smell in the cave, Seven felt around the gap. Scratching it, a few stones rolled down.

“What are you up to Seven?” Are you planing to get us caught,” said Two.

But Seven ignored Two and scratched, and pushed around the gap. Some more stones rumbled down.

“Seven are you nuts?” said Four, barely being able to keep the voice down.

Seven said nothing and didn’t stop fiddling with the gap. Out came more stones and gravel.

“Stop at once Seven,” commanded One, keeping a low tone.

“We are done for, if Seven doesn’t stop,” said Eight.

“You are getting dirty Seven,” said Five, trying to make Seven quit.

“Yes, you are spoiling you looks,” said Six, joining in.

But Seven continued without replying.

“Let’s pin Seven down,” said Two. “Yes, let’s do it. Three roll over Seven,” said Five.

Three had been keenly watching. “Hold your horses everyone and tie them up in your stables. Now isn’t the the time to let them loose. Seven is onto something,” whispered Three strongly. Seven grinned.

“There better be a good reason. A loud sound can wake the bear up,” said Two.

“I need some help Three. Can you push this big stone with me?” asked Seven.

“Sure,” said Three. And they pushed and pushed till the stone fell down with a clang. The sound ringed in the cave muffling the loud snores. The bear stirred, shifting its weight around.

But the eight weren’t looking at the bear. They were staring at the hole in the wall that Seven had managed to make. It was big enough for them to crawl through one by one.

Fresh air had filled the cave. It made the bear sniff in sleep. The scent of eight was making the bear uneasy.

“Hurry Seven. Don’t waste any more time,” said One, realizing the bear might wake up any moment.

Seven wasted no time in sneaking out through the hole. Next were Three and Five. And one after the another they crawled out. Two was last and managed to just disappear as the bear woke up with a roar.

“Sniff, sniff. Someone’s in my cave. Wait till I catch you.” They heard the bear loud and clear.

But the eight were already sliding… rather tumbling down the hole. It was a small tunnel that went down hill and rolling they went in their hurry to escape.

They popped out of the other end one after another, falling on the same rocky track several rounds down from the hill top. They didn’t even stop to brush themselves off because they heard the bear roar once more and heavy thumps of feet falling on the track.

“Run, run,” shouted One. But the shouts weren’t needed. Everyone was already running down the hill at top speed.

Stopping at the foot hill, they took a moment to catch their breath and count that everyone was safe. They ran again to get off the track still thinking the bear was behind, not knowing that they had lost the bear halfway down the hill.

Only when they reached home, the eight felt safe.

“Where have you all been?” Covered in dust and dirt, I barely recognised you. And what’s the use of grooming you if you are going to get so dirty,” said their mother in a stern but worried voice.

“I told you not to go too far. I have been waiting, not even knowing where to go looking for you,” she said.

The eight were happy and relieved to see their mother but none had the courage to narrate their adventure or rather misadventure.

“Will someone speak up and Seven, look at you. A hundred flicks on you and looking the dirtiest of all, you are grinning as if I am telling a joke,” scolded their mother.

The rest giggled too upon seeing each other. Finally One spoke. “Mamma we met a bear.” And on went One to narrate their escape as their mother stood perplexed listening to the tale.

“You should have stayed clear of that place. I am happy you are back safe and sound. What’s done is done but next time don’t anyone of you ever go to meet that bear. Let this be a warning and only fools keep repeating their mistakes,” said their mother.

“We will be careful Mamma and promise never to go near the bear,” they said together.

“Well Seven, you did very well. With some clever thinking you helped save everyone without bothering about your looks,” said their mother. “So you earned some extra time to get groomed.”

“Seven will require lots of glue to tuck and make all that hair stick,” said Six with a chuckle.

“I don’t know Mamma. I like these looks,” said Seven, “Let me keep them for they will remind me of this adventure.”

Chapter 5

“Now all of you listen. We are going to enter a highly crowded area. Therefore I want you to be extra careful and sharp. Do you understand?” said their mother.

The eight nodded, “Yes.” For the very first time they were visiting an animal fair and were pretty charged up.

They entered from one end and saw the vast expanse filled with all sorts of animals. There were horses, cows, buffaloes, goats, camels, and even hens and sheep, and some pigs too.

“I have never seen so many animals gathered at one place,” said Six.

“So much noise and buzzle. It’s making my head spin,” said Four.

“We have just entered and your head is already spinning?” Eight mocked.

“Well, hold your head Four and don’t let it spin off.” Seven giggled.

“Hey, Mamma is already off. Let’s go,” said Two, leaping ahead. To keep up, others started to walk fast too.

“Don’t get too close to the large animals, especially behind them. They could hit you with their hind legs,” warned their mother.

They went under a camel. By the time it bent its neck down to look, the eight were gone.

“Did you see how tall that camel was,” said Three, amazed.

“Yes, really tall,” said Five.

They went under a few more camels and each bent their necks down but failed to catch them.

“Too bad we can’t go under the cows,” said One when they reached a row of cows munching grass.

“Let’s go around them. But remember, not behind them,” said Seven.

So they all crossed the lined-up cows. The cows looked at them amused. Some were too busy chewing and when one of them moored loudly, it scared the wits out of the eight.

They all ran where the goats were sitting quietly.

Seeing the eight, the goats began to stir. Some stood up and began to berate while others tried to get away from them.

“I never knew the goats would be afraid of us,” said Eight.

“Why not. After all we are the mighty eight,” said Two.

“Mighty eight? Haha, let me see you go scare a camel or a horse,” said a goat.

“Well, we just came that way and we are not going back. But you can see us scare some hens,” said One without a blink and a chink.

The hens were peacefully pecking on the ground. Seeing the eight, they fluttered around. The eight had fun chasing them but soon gave up when they couldn’t catch any.

They were about to go where the sheep were sleeping when Seven said, “Wait a minute. Where is Mamma?”

Everyone looked this way and that way. They jumped and they sniffed.

Unable to spot her, Five said, “I am afraid our Mamma is lost.”

Aghast, Three uttered, “Mamma is lost.”

“How could we lose her? I thought she was around us all the time,” said Eight.

“So careless of us,” said Four.

“What should we do now?” asked Three.

“What else there is to do but go find her,” said One, annoyed at Three’s silly question.

“Let’s go back the way we came and see if we can find Mamma,” suggested Two.

“But what if she was ahead of us,” said Six.

“Hmm, then let’s ask the sheep,” said One.

So they woke the sheep up and asked, “Have you seen our Mamma pass this way?”

“We were sleeping and couldn’t have seen anyone walk by,” said a sheep.

“What are we to do now?” Three repeated.

“We don’t know whether we left her behind or she is ahead of us,” said Seven.

“So what should we do now?” asked Three again.

“Stop repeating like a parrot and instead use your head to come up with an idea or two,” said One feeling annoyed.

Three was cross and sat down.

Five said, “Since we don’t know which way Mamma went, let’s split up. Half of us can go back the way we came and rest, the other way to trace her.”

“I think we should do as Five has suggested,” said Eight.

“No, we should not. Mamma is lost and we can’t afford to lose more of us,” said Seven.

“What should we…” began Three but One cut in and said, “Then let’s all go back first. If we can’t find Mamma we will come this way again.”

Three grew very cross. “I will stay here and wait. You all can go,” said Three.

“Three we can’t leave you behind. Stop being stubborn and come along,” said Four.

“No I won’t,” said Three.

“Are you sure? It’s your last chance,” said Two. Three said nothing and turned the other way.

One signalled the rest and they all pounced on Three to tickle.

Soon they were walking back to search for their lost mother along with Three.

Seeing the approaching eight, the hens fluttered again. “Wait, wait. We are not trying to catch you. We want to know if you saw our Mamma,” said Two.

“We were busy saving ourselves. How could we see who went where,” said a hen.

“It’s your fault. If you hadn’t chased us we might have seen your mother walk past us,” said another hen.

The eight next went to ask the goats. Seeing them, the goats scattered again.

“Wait. Have you see our Mamma,” asked Six.

“We haven’t. You made us run thinking it was fun. We barely got out of the way so how could we see if your mother came this way or not,” said a goat.

Disappointed, the eight walked to the cows.

“Have you seen our Mamma? She is lost and we don’t have a clue where to find her,” said Seven feeling sadly.

“Are you sure it’s not the other way round?” said a cow.

“What do you mean by ‘The other way round’,” said Five.

“Maybe it’s you who are lost and your mother is looking for you,” said the cow.

“How can that be. We are all here except Mamma. She is lost, we are sure,” said One.

“If you say so. I haven’t seen your mother. Has anyone?” The cow asked others. But no cow had. So the eight went on to see the camels.

“Did you happen to see our Mamma? She is lost and we are trying to find her,” said Eight.

The camels looked down and one of them said, “Are you sure it’s not you who are lost? Maybe your mother is searching for you.”

“No, no. It’s our Mamma who is lost. The rest of us are here,” said Four.

“Then we are sorry. We haven’t seen her. We were busy looking at you run under us that we failed to spot whether your mother was here or not,” said the camel.

“Oh, what are we to do now?” asked Three. And for once no one minded the question. They sat down, sad and worried.

“Shouldn’t we head back and go beyond the sheep to search?” said Seven.

“What’s the use? None of the animals saw Mamma,” said Four.

“But that shouldn’t be the reason not to go. They didn’t see Mamma because they were not looking out for her,” said Eight.

“Eight is right. We shouldn’t give up,” said Two.

“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s go,” said One.

Once more they crossed the camels, the cows, the goats and the hens to reach the sleeping sheep. This time they didn’t disturb anyone along the way.

Past the sheep they met the horses. They stood neatly brushed, waving their hairy tails to and fro to ward off flies.

“Hello there, have you seen our Mamma come this way?” asked Two, politely.

The horses looked down. “Are you lost?” asked a horse.

“No, it’s our Mamma who is lost,” said Five.

“This is the first time I have heard someone losing their mother in a crowd. Usually it’s the mother looking for her lost babies,” said the horse amused.

The eight gave each other a puzzled look. “Are we in fact the ones who are lost?”

“So, did you meet our Mamma?” asked One.

“We indeed met someone looking for her children. She was just like you but bigger,” said the horse.

“We are the ones who are lost,” exclaimed Three. “What are we going to do now?”

“Which way did she go?” asked Six.

“We don’t know. We hadn’t met you when she came here, so we couldn’t tell her where you were. I suppose she went towards the sheep to look for you,” said the horse.

“But the sheep were sleeping. They didn’t see her,” said Four.

“This is turning into a mystery. First Mamma was lost and now we are lost,” said Eight.

“We should go and ask the pigs. They are next to the horses. Maybe they saw our Mamma,” said One.

They went past the horses to ask the pigs. The pigs told them that they had seen their mother. “She went towards the horses,” said a pig.

“But we have already asked the horses,” said Four. The pigs shrugged and got busy smelling the ground.

The eight without losing hope went to meet the buffaloes next. “Have you noticed our Mamma,” asked Two.

“Yes we have. She was here a while ago searching for you,” said a buffalo.

This brought some cheer to the eight. “Which way did she go?” asked Five.

Some buffaloes said to the left and some to the right. The eight began to despair again and before Three could repeat, One said, “Hey, next are the camels. We have covered the whole ground and back to where we started from.”

But this didn’t stop Three from asking, “So what are we going to do now?”

No one replied. They just kept looking around.

It was Three who broke the silence. “Let’s go talk to the camels.”

“We have already asked them. There’s no point in talking to them again,” said Five.

But Three was already off to meet the camels again. The rest had no choice but to follow Three so that they might not lose another one.

“Hello again,” said a camel.

“Hello. We need your help to find our Mamma,” said Three.

“But we already told you, we didn’t see her,” said the camel.

“Yes, we know. But you have such long necks. Can you stretch high and spot our Mamma for us?” asked Three.

“What a clever idea Three. For once you have used your head instead of repeating that question,” said Seven.

“Please help us.” They pleaded. The camels obliged and stretched as high as they could.

It was not long before one of them spotted their mother. “I see her. I see your Mamma. She is looking around the sleeping sheep,” said the camel.

“Thank you for helping us,” shouted the eight joyfully before running across the ground.

Spotting the running eight, their mother too ran to meet them.

“Oh dear, where have you all been. Getting lost in this crowd, I thought I would never find you again,” said their mother. She hugged each one of them.

“Mamma, we thought you were the one who was lost. We went round and round searching for you,” said Seven.

“Lost and me? Well, I should have kept a better eye on you,” said their mother and laughed. The eight joined in sheepishly.

Chapter 6

“You all have to come and see this,” said Two, who was trying to wake up the rest.

“Go away Two,” said a sleepy Five without bothering.

“Don’t disturb us,” said Three, rolling to the other side.

The Eight were taking an afternoon nap under the shade of a tree except for Two.

Restless, Two had decided to go play alone since the others weren’t interested.

“You will miss it if you don’t come now,” said Two again.

“It’s such a hot afternoon. What can be more interesting than sleeping with bellies full,” said Six with eyes shut.

“Yeh, shoo off. We don’t want to come,” said Four, waving a paw to dismiss Two.

“But you really really should see this. If it wasn’t out of this world, I would have never bothered you,” said Two trying again.

One stretched, got up and said, “It better be really really good or else you are going to get an earful from all of us.”

“Yes, and out of this world too,” said Eight getting up slowly.

“I hope it’s not a waste of our time. It’s too hot an afternoon to go wondering around,” said Three.

“I was sleeping so peacefully,” said Six.

“And I was dreaming. What a lovely dream it was. Too bad I couldn’t finish it,” said Five scratching one ear.

They all got up yawning and stretching and scratching, reluctantly.

“So what do you want to show us?” asked One.

“For that you will have to come along and see it for yourself,” said Two cheekily.

“Why can’t you tell us what it is?” asked Five.

“Because even I don’t know what it is. I just happened to come across it while playing,” said Two.

“I hope for your own good you are not making this up,” warned Seven.

“No, I am not,” said Two, “and if you aren’t willing, then don’t come. It will be your loss.”

No one wanted to be left behind and miss seeing what Two was trying to show them. So they got ready to come along.

Soon they were walking beside each other with Two in lead.

“At least tell us where this thing is,” said Eight.

“It’s beyond Rock Field,” said Two.

“What? You went all the way to Rock Field? It’s too far,” said Three.

“No, it isn’t,” said One, “I can easily go there too.”

“I think it’s far,” said Five.

“Don’t be so frail,” said Seven, “it will be fun.”

They were divided on the issue of it being too far or not.

“But under this hot sun and that too walking across Rock Field. It will burn our paws,” said Four.

“And our backs,” added Six.

“And there’s not a spot of shade there,” lamented Three.

“It will be a challenge. But if Two can do it so can we,” said One. Two just smiled.

“Well, let’s enjoy the shade while it lasts then,” said Five looking at the trees they were walking under.

They still had some distance to cover through the vegetation before they reached Rock Field.

Once they emerged from the vegetation, the trees were left behind. Sand and gravel greeted them. The sun shined over their heads. Their tiny shadows were the only spots of shade.

They walked slowly on the sand and gravel to reach the edge of Rock Field. It was covered with all sorts of stones of all sorts of sizes. Some were big, some round and others sharp edged.

It was a dried up river bed. Their mother had told them that a long time back, Rock Field used to be a gushing and flowing river. Now it was just a wide bed of rocks and stones stacked upon each other.

The Eight looked across the vast expanse of rocks. They could barely see the other side. Left or right, there were just stones and stones as far as their sight went.

“It’s going to be a tough trek,” said Four.

“Tough? Very tough. The stones will be hot and our paws will sizzle on them,” said Six.

The sheer thought made them perspire more.

“Yes, it’s going to truly be a test of our mettle,” said Eight.

“I think we should go back. There is no point in burning our paws for something we don’t know even exists,” said Three.

“It does exist and once you see what it is, you will be glad that you came,” said Two, insistingly.

“Well, we have come this far. There’s no point in going back without seeing what Two wants us to,” said One.

“I too don’t want to turn back without having a look,” said Seven.

Since most of the Eight were willing to cross Rock Field, it was decided that they would proceed as planned.

“Let Two go first,” said Four.

“Yes, Two has been here before,” said Six.

Two hesitated for a moment and said, “Fine, I’ll go first.” Jumping on the stones lightly, Two entered Rock Field. “Aww, aww,” Two cried, stepping on the hot stones.

Next went Seven crying, “Ouch, ouch,” while stepping on the baked stones.

One by one they entered Rock Field. Every time they stepped on a hot stone, they cried.

Some yelled loudly and some softly as they began to cross Rock Field.

“My paws are burning,” said Three.

“Mine are on fire,” said Five.

“It isn’t that bad. Just hot,” said Eight.

“The trick is to keep moving. Don’t stay still for too long on a rock,” said One, taking lead. “And remember to make a sound footing. A stone could be loose and you might twist an ankle.”

But the warning came a little too late. Six howled, “I am stuck. My paw is trapped.”

Everyone rushed to help. Six had stepped on a loose stone and slipped, getting the paw stuck in a gap between the stones.

“Try to pull it out slowly,” said Four.

“I can’t. It hurts,” said Six in pain.

Three tried to move a stone away but could not. “Four and Two hold this stone back,” said One, pointing to the one covering the gap. “Three and I will push away the one under it. And Seven and Eight, when I give you a signal, try taking out the leg slowly. Five keep Six steady.”

Four and Two did as they were told. Three and One then pushed away the stone to loosen its grip.

“Now,” said One. Seven and Eight gently pulled Six’s leg out.

“Ouch!” Six cried while Five held Six steady.

As soon as the leg was clearly out, the others let go off the stones they were holding back and with a clang the stones banged together to close the gap. Six sat down to lick the hurt paw.

“No scratch. Just a bit swollen,” said Five.

“Lucky that you escaped unhurt,” said Three.

“Try to walk,” said Eight.

Six got up and took a few steps carefully limping so as not to put pressure on the paw.

“We are almost at the end. Let’s walk slowly and give Six some time to recover,” said One.

Without any other mishaps they crossed Rock Field. Reaching the other side, they sat under the shade of trees to cool their paws and backs.

“What a gruelling trek this was,” said Seven, panting.

“It’s not finished yet. We have to go back the same way too,” remarked Three, equally exhausted.

Five groaned. “No thanks for reminding.” Others smiled.

“It will be four times for Two,” said Four. “How are you doing?”

“Eh well, It’s the first time I crossed Rock Field too,” said Two, cheekily.

Everyone stared as Three. “What? But you said you had crossed it and wanted to show us something out of this world across it,” said Eight.

“I never said that I went across Rock Field,” said Two.

“You did,” said Four, fiercely.

“I did not,” shot back Two.

“You did,” said Eight, joining in.

“I did not. You assumed I did,” said Two, with equal force.

“Wait a minute,” said One. “Two is right. It was us who thought Two had crossed Rock Field.”

“So you brought us all the way here on a wild goose chase,” said Three, angrily.

“No, I didn’t,” said Two.

“Then where is the thing you wanted to show us,” said Five.

“Well, when you all went off to snooze, I saw Mama leave. I couldn’t sleep so I decided to follow her. She came to Rock Field and crossed over. I too tried to but wasn’t sure if I could on my own. Mama disappeared on the other side,” said Two.

“And then you made things up to bring us along so that we could help you cross over,” said One.

Two nodded.

“Oh, how peacefully I was dreaming,” said Five.

“What a waste of time,” said Seven, feeling angry.

“And I wouldn’t have hurt my paw,” said Six.

“We could have got burnt in the scorching sun,” said Three.

“Haha. That’s taking it too far Three,” said Eight. “But I must say this has been the toughest test of of endurance we have faced so far.”

“Very true Eight. We never know what things we are capable of achieving unless we try,” said a familiar voice.

They all looked in the direction of the voice and saw their mother standing tall and proud. Leaping on their feet they greeted their mother, forgetting the pain.

“You all crossed Rock Field on your own?” she asked.

“Yes, we did Mama,” they said.

“And may I ask what you all are doing here?”

When they told her the whole story, she laughed. “Two you shouldn’t be making things up. But you all did fine to help each other. I never had the courage to go across Rock Field at your age.”

The Eight smiled.

“Now if you had you rest and are feeling fine, let’s return,” said their mother. They all nodded and fell behind her to cross Rock Field once more.

“Didn’t I tell you that you would be seeing something out of this world once you crossed Rock Field,” whispered Two to the rest.

Walking happily behind their mother, the Eight were indeed with someone out of this world.