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Chapter 6: Aesop’s Clever Trick to Fix a Fight

Xanthus’s wife had a big personality. She liked things done her way and wasn’t shy about saying so. If something annoyed her, she’d huff and declare, “I’m leaving!” just to shake things up. Xanthus usually tried to keep the peace with kindness, but one day, he decided to be firm instead. That didn’t go well. She got so upset that she grabbed her things and stormed out of the house for real.

Even though she could be a whirlwind, Xanthus missed her. She meant a lot to him, and he worried about what she might say around town. Her words had a way of sticking with people! He wanted her back, but he didn’t know how to fix it. Luckily, Aesop, his wise and clever helper, had an idea.

“Don’t worry, Master,” Aesop said with a twinkle in his eye. “I’ve got a plan to bring her home—and she’ll come back with a smile!”

Aesop dashed to the market like he was on a grand adventure. He picked up all the best treats—fresh meat, tasty fish, sweet cakes—everything for a big celebration. Then he stopped by her family’s house, pretending he’d lost his way. “Oh, silly me, wrong door!” he said loudly, making sure everyone heard.

Before long, the town was full of whispers. “What’s Aesop up to?” people asked. He told them, “My master’s wife left, so he’s marrying someone new! We’re throwing a giant party—come join us!” The story raced through the streets, growing wilder with every telling.

When Xanthus’s wife heard it, she couldn’t believe her ears. “A new wife?!” she exclaimed. She jumped into her chariot and sped back home faster than the wind. She burst through the door, eyes flashing, and pointed at Xanthus. “You’d better not dream of replacing me while I’m still here!” she said firmly.

Xanthus bit back a grin. It was all Aesop’s clever trick! Her return showed she cared, and for now, the house felt whole again—thanks to Aesop’s quick thinking

Chapter 7: The Tongue-Tastic Supper

A few days after Xanthus and his wife made peace, he invited some wise friends—philosophers—to share a meal. “Aesop,” he said, “make it the best supper you can!” Aesop, who loved a good twist, smiled to himself and got busy.

The guests settled at the table, eager for a treat. Xanthus clapped his hands and called, “Bring the food!” Out came the first dish: slices of cow tongue. The philosophers nodded. “Tongues are special,” they said. “They help us share our smartest thoughts.”

Then the second dish arrived—more tongues! The third? Tongues again! The fourth? You guessed it—tongues every time! Some were boiled, some fried, some in soup. Xanthus’s face turned as red as a ripe berry. “Aesop!” he shouted. “I said the best supper, not tongues over and over!”

Aesop didn’t flinch. “Master,” he said calmly, “you told me to make the best meal I could think of. These philosophers love talking and teaching. What’s better for that than tongues? It’s a feast for their minds!”

The philosophers laughed and clapped for Aesop’s idea. Xanthus shook his head but couldn’t argue. “All right, you’re too clever,” he said. “Come back tomorrow, friends. And Aesop—next time, make it the worst things you can think of!”

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