The Bug and the Flea
Mandavisarpini, a delicate white flea, lived comfortably within the soft folds of the luxurious silk sheet that adorned the king’s bed. She had spent her days unnoticed, quietly sipping the king’s blood while he slept, ensuring her survival without drawing any attention.
One evening, a wandering bug sneaked into the king’s lavish bedroom. As soon as the flea spotted him, she whispered urgently, “O Bug, you do not belong here! This is the king’s bed, and if you are discovered, you will bring danger upon us both. Leave at once!”
The bug, however, was unfazed and replied smoothly, “Dear Madam, is this how you treat a guest? Hospitality is a virtue, and a guest should always be welcomed with kind words, good manners, and a generous offering.”
He continued, “I have tasted the blood of many, but never that of a king. Surely, his blood must be the richest and most exquisite, for he feasts on the finest meals. Won't you grant me the honor of experiencing such a delicacy?”
The flea hesitated and warned, “O Bug, your bite is sharp like a needle, unlike mine which goes unnoticed. I feed on the king only when he is deep in slumber. If I allow you to stay, you must promise to wait until he is fast asleep before you take even a drop of his blood.”
The bug nodded eagerly, “I swear to wait until you have finished your feast before I take my turn.”
Just then, the king entered his chamber and lay down to rest. The flea waited patiently as always, but the impatient bug could not resist temptation. Ignoring his promise, he bit the king before he had fully fallen asleep.
Startled by the sharp sting, the king sat up in alarm and shouted, “Something has bitten me! Search the bed at once!”
Before the servants arrived, the cunning bug quickly scurried into a dark corner and hid. The flea, however, remained unaware of the danger she was now in. The king’s attendants meticulously searched through the sheets and soon discovered her nestled within the folds. Without hesitation, they crushed her on the spot, ensuring the king could sleep in peace.
Meanwhile, the bug remained safely hidden, escaping the fate he had brought upon the flea.
Moral of the Story:
Beware of false promises from both friends and strangers—trusting them blindly may lead to your downfall.