Willow Wisdom

From the eldest sons of the noble houses, the Wisdom Willow chooses the king. So it has always been. I was not a kingly figure, but no one could deny my choosing.

"He has the heart of a leader," they convinced themselves. "After all, what is the discernment of men to that of the Wisdom Willow?"


When the neighboring kingdoms fell to the Corsairs, I assembled my advisors.

"We must become strong on the sea to deter attack," counseled my Minister of Defense.

"We are a rich prize," advised my Minister of Commerce. "The Corsairs believe in plunder, not trade."

I walked to the Wisdom Willow and asked, "Should I meet these Corsairs with a posture of war or peace?"

War would require building many ships. A great sacrifice. An offering of peace is the wiser course.


When the Corsairs came, it was not in peace. They threatened to build siege engines and dam the river that supplied our water if we did not yield the city.

"They cannot be trusted," cautioned the Foreign Minister.

"We have wells and stores of food to withstand a siege," offered the Minister of Defense.

I snuck out to the Wisdom Willow and asked, "Should I yield the city or risk a siege?"

A siege would invite unconscionable destruction. It is wiser to yield.


The city was looted. Many were taken as slaves. In despair I wandered to the Wisdom Willow. "What is wisdom?" I wailed.

Wisdom is the best means to a desired end.

I came to an understanding that night. Perhaps to wisdom as well.

Heart of a leader? No. I had a willowy heart, easily swayed, and so I was chosen to lead. I no longer seek counsel from the Wisdom Willow. For what is the wisdom of willows to men?