The Woodpecker and the Crocodile's Toothache

A Crocodile was in terrible agony from a rotten tooth. His jaws were so swollen he could not eat. He lay on the riverbank, moaning in pain. All the other animals were too afraid to help him. Then, a small Woodpecker flew down. "I can help you, great Crocodile," the Woodpecker chirped, "for my beak is strong and sharp." The Crocodile was desperate and agreed, promising the bird a great reward. The brave Woodpecker hopped right into the Crocodile's massive mouth. He tapped and hammered at the rotten tooth until it broke free. The Crocodile felt instant relief. "Thank you, little bird!" he bellowed. "For your reward... you may fly away with your life!" The Woodpecker flew off, happy to be safe. He had learned a valuable lesson that he passed on to his children: it is wise to expect no other reward from a tyrant than to escape from his power unharmed.