A tortoise and a scorpion had formed a deep friendship, becoming inseparable companions.
One day, they needed to move and traveled together. Upon reaching a wide, deep river, the scorpion stopped and said to the tortoise:
"My dear friend, you are well-suited for this challenge, but how shall I cross the water?"
"Do not worry, my friend," replied the tortoise. "I will carry you safely on my back."
Without hesitation, the scorpion climbed onto the tortoise's back, and they entered the water. However, halfway across, the tortoise heard a terrible rumbling on his shell.
"What are you doing?" he asked.
"Doing?" replied the scorpion. "I am whetting my sting to see if I can pierce your hard shell, which protects you like a cuirass."
"Oh, ungrateful wretch!" cried the tortoise. "While I am demonstrating my friendship, would you really try to pierce my natural defense with your venomous sting and take my life? Fortunately, I have the power to save myself and give you the reward you deserve."
So saying, he submerged his back, threw off the scorpion, and left him to drown as punishment for his monstrous ingratitude.