Once upon a time, there was a king whose rule was limited by the constitution to a mere five years. During this time, the king wielded unlimited power, facing no enemies, no challenges to his throne, and no elections. However, as per the rules, at the end of the five-year period, the king had to leave and live in a forest on the other side of the river, where unfortunately, wild animals took the king’s life.
The first king lived a lavish life for five years, indulging in every luxury. However, when his time was up, he was cast into a forest teeming with wild animals. Subsequently, a new king ascended to the throne.
The second king, aware of the fate of his predecessor, couldn’t fully enjoy his reign. Filled with worry and occasional relief, he suffered a heart attack and died when the time came for his exile.
The third king chose to revel in luxury for a while and worry about the consequences later. After a lavish life until his teenage years, he spent the remaining time in anxiety and met the same fate as the previous kings.
Then came the fourth king, a bright and wise ruler who pondered deeply on the fate of those who came before him. Treating his subjects kindly, he enjoyed the royal amenities, and everyone loved him. When his five years ended, despite the people’s reluctance to see him leave, he abided by the rules.
In fact, he had the boat, which was to carry him to the other side, beautifully decorated. During the journey, the boatman asked, “Oh king, why are you so happy? All the others I took before you were miserable. Do you know what horror awaits you on the other side of the river?”
The cheerful king explained that in the last year of his rule, he had devised a plan to clear the jungle and build a new, vibrant kingdom, and he had already sent people to carry out the task.
