The Peasant and the Tengu

The Tengu is a mythical creature with a long nose that dwells in the mountains.
A long time ago, there was a peasant walking along a deserted path when suddenly he encountered a Tengu. It should be noted that the peasant only knew the Tengu from pictures. Upon seeing the peasant, the monster bellowed in a thunderous voice:

"Hey, you, human! Know this—no one has ever escaped from me, so don’t even think about running! I’m going to eat you right now! Get ready!"

The peasant trembled all over but gathered his courage and replied:
"I’ve heard so much about you, Mr. Tengu! So, you really are the Tengu? This place is so remote that there’s no way I can escape from you. I’m ready—do with me as you will. But would you agree to hear my request first?"

"Well, what’s your request? Speak quickly!" shouted the Tengu.
And the peasant said:
"People say that the Tengu can take on any form. Before you eat me, I’d like to make sure that you are truly the Tengu."

The Tengu laughed heartily.
"That’s nothing for me. Tell me, what should I turn into?"
"Become a giant cryptomeria tree." (Cryptomeria is an evergreen coniferous tree that can reach heights of 45-60 meters.)

"The tallest one among those around us," said the peasant.
In an instant, the Tengu transformed into a towering cryptomeria tree that seemed to touch the sky.

The peasant touched the tree trunk and said:
"Of course, this is the Tengu! I barely had time to think, and such a magnificent cryptomeria appeared!"

"Now are you convinced of my power? Is that enough for you?" asked the pleased Tengu.

But the peasant made another request:
"I really want you to become a big rock!"
The Tengu immediately transformed from the cryptomeria into a massive rock, almost as big as a mountain.

The peasant once again praised the Tengu in every way and finally added:
"You easily transformed into two enormous things I wished to see. But can you become something very tiny? Please show me your skill once more. Turn, for example, into a tiny bean on my palm."

"Hmph, is that all?" laughed the Tengu, wrinkling his long nose.
And in an instant, he turned into a tiny bean and landed on the peasant’s palm.

At that moment, the peasant popped the bean into his mouth, crushed it, and swallowed it.
From then on, it became customary to call anyone who boasted too much a "Tengu."

More fairy tales

• The Rejuvenating Lake
• I Know It Myself
• The Great Celebration of the White Fox
• The Boastful Gambay
• The Liver of a Living Monkey