Chamroeun was earning quite the reputation. While other baby monkeys relied heavily on their mothers for every little thing — food, protection, even grooming — Chamroeun had started to do things his own way.
This morning, he woke up earlier than the rest of the troop. The air was crisp, the sun warm, and the village unusually quiet. With a determined little hop, Chamroeun left his cozy nest and went exploring on his own.
Not far from the troop, beside a wooden bench where the villagers often sat, Chamroeun spotted a banana that had fallen from a basket. His eyes lit up. Jackpot!
Without waiting for help or backup, he stood up — tall and proud — balancing on his two legs like a little human. He picked up the banana carefully and hugged it to his chest. It was heavy for his size, but Chamroeun didn’t stumble. Step by step, he walked upright, proud as ever, making his way back toward his troop with his prize.
But trouble was waiting.
Three nosy chickens that roamed the courtyard clucked their way toward him. One spotted the banana, flapped its wings, and charged.
Chamroeun froze for a second, gripping his food tightly. Then, something fierce and funny came over him. He stood his ground, chest puffed out like a guard on duty. When the chicken got too close, he raised his little hand and gave a warning wave. “Eeeek!”
The chicken backed off, but only for a moment. Its two friends circled from the sides, pecking at the ground, getting bolder.
Chamroeun’s instincts kicked in. He spun around quickly, turned his back to the chickens, and protected the banana with his whole body, crouching slightly but keeping a firm grip. When one chicken lunged forward to peck, Chamroeun let out a sharp squeal and swiped the air — missing, but just enough to scare the chicken into hopping back.
He wasn’t just a baby monkey now — he was a banana bodyguard.
Finally, the chickens gave up and wandered off, grumbling in defeat.
Chamroeun sat down in the shade with his banana still in hand, peeled it with care, and took the first victorious bite. Around him, the older monkeys watched in surprise — and a bit of pride. He had fed himself, stood up for himself, and defended his food like a grown-up.
From that day on, Chamroeun was known not just for his independence, but for his fearless spirit — especially when food and chickens were involved.
