In the heart of the forest, there lived a tortoise. He was known for his wisdom and patience. His shell was as smooth as a pebble, without a single crack.

Tortoise was friends with all the animals in the forest. He loved listening to their stories and sharing his wisdom, always content to take things slow and steady.

One day, Tortoise met an eagle at the edge of the forest. Eagle was known for his quickness and strength, and was respected and admired by all.

Eagle told fascinating tales of the world beyond the forest. Tortoise, filled with curiosity and desire, wished he could see these wonders himself.

Eagle, seeing Tortoise's desire, offered to carry him on his back and show him the world beyond. Tortoise, although scared, was too excited to refuse.

So, Eagle carefully picked up Tortoise in his talons and flew high into the sky. Tortoise was filled with awe and wonder as he saw the world from above.

However, as they flew higher, the air became colder and thinner. Tortoise began to shiver and his grip on Eagle's talons started to loosen.

Suddenly, Tortoise slipped from Eagle's grasp. He tumbled through the air, his heart filled with fear as he fell towards the ground.

As he fell, Tortoise curled into his shell, hoping it would protect him. He closed his eyes, bracing for the impact.

Tortoise hit the ground with a loud crack. When he finally uncurled himself, he was relieved to find that he was still alive.

Although he was still shaken, Tortoise examined his shell. He was surprised to find that it was not shattered, but was covered in a pattern of cracks.

Despite the pain and the fear, Tortoise felt a sense of gratitude. His shell, though cracked, had saved him from certain doom.

When the other animals heard about Tortoise's fall, they rushed to his side. They were relieved to see that he was safe, but were shocked by the cracks on his shell.

Tortoise shared his adventure with the other animals, and although he was still in pain, he managed to smile. He told them that he had learned a valuable lesson.

He told them that curiosity and desire for the unknown is natural, but one must also understand and respect their limitations.

The cracks on his shell were a reminder of his adventurous spirit, but also of the importance of staying grounded and appreciating what one already has.

From that day on, Tortoise carried his cracks with pride. They were a part of his story, a testament to his courage and wisdom.

The other animals, inspired by Tortoise's story, learned to appreciate their own strengths and weaknesses. They admired Tortoise even more for his bravery and wisdom.

And so, life in the forest continued. The animals lived in harmony, their lives enriched by the lessons they had learned from Tortoise.

Tortoise, with his cracked shell, continued to be a beacon of wisdom and patience. He was content, knowing that he had made a difference in the lives of his friends.

And that, dear children, is how the tortoise got the cracks on his back. They are not just cracks, but symbols of courage, wisdom, and the beauty of staying true to oneself.

So whenever you see a tortoise, remember his story. Remember the lessons he taught us and let them guide you in your own adventures.