The Unsocial Swans

King Gay-Chariot protected a beautiful place called Lotus Lake. Golden swans lived there and offered one fallen tail feather to the palace every six months in return for safety.

One day a splendid golden bird arrived. The swans said, “You cannot stay. We arranged this home and paid for its protection.” Hurt by their cold welcome, the newcomer flew to the king and complained that the swans mocked his authority.

The king heard only one side and angrily sent guards to remove every bird from the lake. An elderly swan saw the guards approaching and called the flock together.

“Our unkindness began this trouble,” she said. “Arguing with the guards will make it worse. We must leave together now and explain when everyone is calm.”

The swans flew to a nearby marsh. When the king learned the complete story, he regretted his haste. He invited the flock back under a new rule: newcomers would be welcomed, and disputes would be heard from both sides.

The golden bird apologized for exaggerating, and the swans apologized for refusing even a conversation. Lotus Lake became a friendlier home because all had learned that courtesy and fair listening protect a community better than pride.