The Cunning Hare and the Greedy Crocodile

 The Cunning Hare and the Greedy Crocodile

Introduction

Long ago, in the heart of the African jungle, where the trees stretched tall and the rivers flowed endlessly, lived a wise hare named Kito. Kito was known for his cleverness and quick thinking, always finding ways to outsmart danger. However, in the same jungle, there lived a powerful and greedy crocodile named Nundu. Nundu was feared by all the animals because he always demanded more than his fair share of food and controlled the river, which was the main source of water for the entire jungle.

As time passed, Nundu's hunger for power grew. He no longer hunted for food like other animals but instead forced the smaller creatures to bring him offerings before they could drink from the river. Those who refused were threatened with his powerful jaws. The animals were desperate, but they were too afraid to stand up to him.

The Crocodile’s Trick

One scorching summer, the sun blazed in the sky for days without relief. The jungle became dry, and the smaller waterholes disappeared. The only water source left was the great river, which Nundu now controlled completely. The animals gathered in the shade, murmuring their frustrations. “This is unfair,” cried the antelope. “We all share this land. Why must we beg for water?”

But no one dared to challenge Nundu.

One day, as Kito watched his thirsty friends suffer, he decided enough was enough. “Nundu is strong, but he is not wise,” Kito thought to himself. “I must use my wits to outsmart him.”

Kito’s Clever Plan

Kito hopped to the riverbank, where Nundu lay half-submerged, his eyes glinting in the sun. “Great Nundu,” Kito began, bowing low, “I bring news of something truly magnificent.”

Nundu’s curiosity was piqued. “Speak, little one,” he commanded.

Kito leaned closer and whispered, “Beyond this river, deep in the forest, there stands a magical tree. Its fruit is said to grant eternal strength to the one who eats it.”

Nundu’s eyes widened with greed. “Eternal strength?” he repeated. “Where is this tree?”

Kito pointed toward the other side of the river. “But only the pure of heart can reach it,” he added. “If one who is selfish or greedy tries, the tree will disappear before their eyes.”

Nundu was too blinded by his desire to question Kito’s words. “Take me to it!” he demanded.

The Crocodile’s Greed

Kito nodded and led Nundu down the river, away from the usual crossing points, toward a deep and treacherous part of the water. The current here was strong, but Nundu, confident in his strength, followed without hesitation.

As they swam, Kito guided Nundu farther and farther until they reached the middle of the river. Suddenly, Kito stopped. “Oh, Great Nundu,” he said, feigning sadness. “I fear we may never reach the tree.”

Nundu frowned. “Why not?”

“The tree is only for the pure of heart,” Kito said. “Have you ever shared the river with others? Have you ever shown kindness to those in need?”

Nundu’s pride made him scoff. “I am the strongest! Why should I share? Strength belongs to those who take it!”

Kito sighed. “Then I fear the tree will never let you find it.”

Realizing he had been tricked, Nundu roared in anger and tried to lunge at Kito. But Kito was quick. With a mighty leap, he jumped onto a floating log and used the strong current to carry him swiftly back to shore. Meanwhile, Nundu, now exhausted from swimming so far, struggled against the river’s force. He had swum too far from the shallow banks and had no strength left to chase after Kito.

The Lesson Learned

Back on land, the animals gathered, cheering for Kito’s cleverness. “The river belongs to all of us!” Kito declared. “No one should hoard what is meant for all creatures.”

From the middle of the river, Nundu heard the cheers and realized his mistake. His greed had not only cost him his control over the river but had also left him stranded, fighting against the relentless current. He struggled for hours before he finally reached the shore, exhausted and humbled.

Defeated, Nundu slunk away, no longer the tyrant he once was. From that day on, he never again claimed the river as his own. Instead, he learned to live like the other creatures, hunting his own food and drinking alongside them without demand.

Conclusion

Kito’s wisdom had saved the jungle, proving that intelligence and fairness triumph over greed and brute strength. The animals rejoiced, for they were free once more. And so, the great river continued to flow, offering life to all who called the jungle their home.

And as for Kito? He remained the cleverest of them all, always ready to protect those who could not protect themselves. His story was told for generations, a reminder that true strength lies not in power, but in kindness and wisdom.

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