In the beginning, Serval used to be the same tawny color as Lion but he was much smaller and nowhere near as strong. The other animals teased him, calling him “Lion’s little cousin. ”Serval dreamed of having a magnificent coat like Leopard or Zebra. If he could not be big and strong, he wished he were at least handsome.
One day, when Serval was going on his daily hunt, he met Puff Adder. “Oh kind, Serval,” pleaded Puff Adder, “I am feeling ill and none of the other creatures will help me.” “No wonder!” exclaimed Serval,”You are such a nasty creature that all animals go in fear of you.” But Serval feeling sympathy for Puff Adder exclaimed, “Because you are so ill, I will help you just this once. In return, you must promise to keep your fangs to yourself!”
Puff Adder agreed, willing to be on his best behavior, so Serval took him home and looked after him. It took a long time for Puff Adder to get better for indeed he was very ill. Thanks to the Serval’s care and attention, Puff Adder eventually recovered.
Before Puff Adder left, he thanked Serval for his kindness. To show his gratitude, he said, “I will give you anything within my power in return for your kindness.” Serval replied, “There is nothing I would like more than a beautiful coat.” “That, I can do.” hissed Puff Adder. “However, I will have to bite you. Do not fear that my poison will harm you for it will only be a small amount.”
So, Puff Adder bit Serval carefully and though Serval did fall ill but he quickly recovered. After his skin broke out in a rash, a strange thing happened, his once tawny coat changed to a golden color, with black spots. Serval was overjoyed. He was now one of the most handsome creatures in the bush!
As a sign of respect for each other, Puff Adder and Serval do not trouble each other to this day.
Then again… things happen?
