The Bear and the Two Travelers

Two travelers were walking along a dusty road, sharing stories to pass the time. They had promised to stand by each other through thick and thin, no matter what dangers they might encounter on their journey. Suddenly, a massive, snarling bear emerged from the thicket, blocking their path with terrifying speed.

Terrified, the first traveler, who was quick on his feet, scrambled up a tall tree and hid among the thick branches, completely forgetting his companion. He did not look back to see how his friend fared, nor did he offer a hand to help him climb. The second traveler, realizing he could not outrun the beast, threw himself flat on the ground and held his breath, playing dead.

The bear approached the man, sniffing at his ears and face with its wet, cold nose. The man lay as still as stone, for he had heard that bears will not touch a lifeless body. After a long, agonizing moment, the bear seemed satisfied that the man was indeed deceased and lumbered back into the woods, disappearing into the shadows.

Once the coast was clear, the traveler in the tree slid down, brushing the dust from his clothes. He walked over to his companion, who was just beginning to stir, and asked with a nervous laugh, "I noticed the bear whispering quite closely in your ear. What exactly did he say to you?"

The second traveler looked at his companion with a cold, steady gaze and replied, "The bear gave me a very wise piece of advice. He told me never to trust a friend who deserts you in the moment of danger."

Without another word, the second traveler stood up and continued his journey alone, leaving his fair-weather friend behind to contemplate the weight of his betrayal. The silence of the road was the only answer the first traveler received, a harsh reminder that true courage is found in loyalty.