Finally, with incredible effort, he dragged the animal to the shore. The lion lay motionless, its chest not rising.

In desperation, the man sat down next to it and began a cardiac massage.

His palms hit the beast’s strong but lifeless chest, again and again.

Blood pounded in his ears, his hands were cramping from the tension, but he continued, gritting his teeth.

Several agonizing minutes passed.

And suddenly – a barely noticeable breath.

Then another.