The Elephant and the First Man

When the first man, Fam, was created, the forest was a terrifying place. He was small and weak. He saw the Elephant, a mountain of flesh, tearing down trees with ease. Fam was afraid, but he was also wise. He did not run. He sat down and began to sing a song about the Elephant's greatness, his strength, and his magnificent tusks. The Elephant, who had only ever known fear from other creatures, was charmed by the man's song. He came closer and listened. Fam then spoke to the Elephant, not as a master, but as a younger brother. "Great Elephant," he said, "you have the strength to master the forest. I have the voice to sing of your deeds. Let us walk together." The Elephant agreed. The Elephant would clear paths for Fam, and Fam would warn the Elephant of hidden traps set by spirits. This alliance between the first man's intelligence and the first elephant's strength is how the Fang learned to survive and master their forest environment.