The Cowardly Soldier and the Crows
Long ago a fearful soldier lived beside an old forest. He wore bright armour and carried a huge shield. But his heart raced at the smallest wind sound. His commander sent him to the hill above the valley. The sun shone brightly, but the soldier's knees were shaking. Among the tall trees he suddenly heard strange sounds.
Big black shadows moved behind the thick leaves. The cries from the branches sounded like enemy screams. The fearful soldier hid behind his shield and shouted weakly. When the crows saw him, they cawed even louder. The soldier thought a great army was attacking him. Afraid, he dropped his sword and hid in the bushes.
He closed his eyes tightly and waited a long time. Time passed, but no danger appeared around him. Slowly he opened his eyes and looked up with courage. On the high branch two black crows ate fruit happily. His terrible army was really only two harmless birds. He picked up his sword and smiled at his fear. Groundless fear turns small things into a great monster. Fear is no shield against death.