A Tale of Wit and Wisdom
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O nce upon a time, on the enchanting islands of the Seychelles, there lived a venerable giant tortoise named Trompé. Renowned for his immense strength and unwavering determination, Trompé was a respected figure among the island’s inhabitants. One day, feeling particularly self-assured, he issued a challenge to Zouti, a nimble and astute monkey known for his cleverness and agility. Trompé proposed a race, confident that his steady and relentless pace would ultimately surpass Zouti’s quick but unpredictable movements. Zouti, ever the strategist, accepted the challenge with a knowing glint in his eye, already plotting a cunning plan. The race route would weave through dense forests and across open plains, ending at the tallest tree on the island—a landmark visible from great distances. That night, Zouti gathered several of his monkey friends, instructing them to position themselves at different points along the route. Each one was to impersonate him, creating the illusion that the real Zouti was always ahead, no matter how far Trompé had progressed. At dawn, the race began. Trompé moved methodically, his massive legs propelling him forward with deliberate consistency. He kept a steady rhythm, certain that persistence would secure his victory. However, as he approached the first checkpoint, he was startled to see ‘Zouti’ waiting for him, lounging casually as if he’d been there all along.
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