The Lion, the Fox, and the Ass

Once, a Lion, a Fox, and an Ass formed a hunting partnership, agreeing to share equally in whatever they caught. After a long and successful day, they had gathered a bountiful pile of game. The Lion, feeling quite proud of their collective efforts, turned to the Ass and asked him to divide the spoils into three equal portions.

The Ass, being a simple and honest creature, carefully arranged the bounty into three identical heaps. He then invited the Lion and the Fox to make their choices, confident that his fairness would be appreciated. However, the Lion was not pleased. Enraged by the Ass's audacity in claiming an equal share, the Lion pounced upon the poor creature and tore him to pieces, claiming the entire prize for himself.

Having satisfied his hunger and greed, the Lion turned to the Fox and commanded him to divide what remained. The Fox, having witnessed the grim fate of his companion, was careful to avoid the same mistake. He gathered all the game into one enormous pile, leaving only a tiny morsel for himself. He then stepped back, bowing low, and waited for the Lion to take his fill.

The Lion, impressed by the Fox’s newfound 'wisdom,' asked who had taught him how to divide the spoils so perfectly. The Fox replied with a humble smile, 'The Ass, your Majesty. He taught me everything I know about the dangers of unfair division.' Having learned a valuable lesson from the folly of his comrade, the Fox went on his way, thankful to be alive while the Lion feasted alone.