The Dragon and the Duck

"Our ancestors once faced a terrible foe. An ancient dragon once stalked our lands. Burning us as we stood; destroying our food. We sent many heroes to slay the beast and none returned. Finally, our leader cried out for aid and our saviours came: the cunning wolf, The ferocious tiger, The powerful bear, and the swift eagle. Great and powerful spirits who have protected our lands since time began. Yet one more came; The humble duck. None believed the duck would aid in or even survive this quest, but it would not be turned away. The spirits left to face the beast. The wolf was outmanoeuvred, The ferocity of the tiger was matched, The bear was overpowered, and the eagle brought low. Only the duck remained, and, in daring the dragon, it said, "You are more cunning than the wolf, more ferocious than the tiger and stronger than the bear but you have yet to match me." The dragon laughed and replied, "Then choose your battle and I will match you." Duck led the dragon to a lake and sat upon its surface. The dragon waded into the water, following it. "This is my battle," spoke the duck. "I will not move from this spot, nor shall you. The first one to do so will forfeit." The Dragon agreed to these terms while he trod the water. Hours passed, then days. The dragon began to falter; his pride not allowing him to return to shore. As the dragon slipped beneath the waves, drowning, the duck sat serenely on the surface. This is why we give praise to duck. He taught us to know our strengths and to ruthlessly exploit the weaknesses of our enemies."