The Clever Fish and the Crane

Haiga says

Let's settle in and begin.

On the calm waters of Lake Vimalavati, hundreds of fish had lived peacefully for as long as anyone could remember. Reeds swayed at the water's edge, lotus flowers opened each morning, and the fish spent their days in…

Theme · A kind story can hide an unkind trick — always ask questions before you trust.

Source · Folk-lore of the Telugus — G. R. Subramiah Pantulu · Plot based on the public-domain tale 'The Crane and the Fish' from Folk-lore of the Telugus. Softened so no fish are eaten: one clever fish uncovers the trick and rescues the others before harm comes to anyone.