Long ago, Lion was not only the strongest animal in the forest—he was also the most handsome. His eyes were large, bright, and admired by every creature.
But Lion became proud.
Whenever he met another animal, he laughed at their appearance.
He mocked Hare’s ears, Hyena’s laugh, Elephant’s trunk, and most of all, Mbe the tortoise.
“Look at your cracked shell and tiny legs,” Lion roared. “No creature in this forest is as magnificent as I am.”
Mbe smiled.
“Great Lion,” he said one day, “I have heard of a rare tree deep in the forest. Its sweet sap makes beautiful eyes even bigger and brighter. Surely a king like you deserves such glory.”
Lion’s pride blinded his wisdom.
“Take me there!” he commanded.
Mbe led him to an ancient tree where wild bees had built a massive hive. Thick golden honey dripped from its branches.
“There,” whispered Mbe. “The magical sap is hidden inside. Strike the tree with all your strength.”
Without thinking, Lion leapt forward and slammed both paws against the trunk.
The forest exploded with buzzing.
Thousands of angry bees poured from the hive, stinging Lion’s face again and again. He ran through the forest roaring in pain, but the bees chased him until he plunged into a river.
Days later, the swelling disappeared.
When Lion looked into the still water, his once large, proud eyes had become small and narrow.
The animals did not laugh.
Instead, they remembered that pride had robbed the king of the very beauty he boasted about.
From that day, Lion ruled with more caution than arrogance, while Mbe quietly returned home, reminding his children that wisdom is stronger than pride, and humility protects what pride can destroy.
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