NARRATOR 1: Four animals sat gazing at the ruins of ancient Angkor Wat.
TIGER: Look at those old stone carvings of kings. Kings in parades. Kings at feasts. Kings fighting battles. I would have been a fine king, with my amazing strength.
GIBBON: Muscles are not always the answer. I would have been a finer king than you because I would rule with compassion and kindness.
WATER BUFFALO: What makes a fine ruler is strength of character. If I were king, nothing could make me give up.
GECKO: What about bravery? I would have been a great warrior who was fearless in battle.
ELEPHANT: Many qualities are necessary to be a good king—including strength, kindness, diligence, and bravery.
GIBBON: Where did you come from, Elephant? I did not see you sitting there.
ELEPHANT: Never mind. Go to the temple on that hilltop to find out if you are truly worthy to be king.
WATER BUFFALO: What temple? Do you mean that ruin over there?
GECKO: I have been all over this jungle, but I have never seen that ruin before.
TIGER: No matter. I shall beat you to the hill!
GIBBON: You will not get there before me!
WATER BUFFALO: I am determined to win!
GECKO: I will see you at the top!
This story is from the September 2020 edition of Faces - The Magazine of People, Places and Cultures for Kids.
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This story is from the September 2020 edition of Faces - The Magazine of People, Places and Cultures for Kids.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
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