The Hawk's Reward

Once upon a time there was a ferocious hawk, who ruled the world (or at least his part of the forest). In return for not attacking the animals as much as he normally would, he would receive an annual payment. But this amount was never enough, and the hawk saw fit to charge additional amounts for certain transactions.

* For flying, especially ducks, an additional payment.
* For running too quickly, especially rabbits, an additional payment.
* For being too loud, especially chicken and geese, an additional payment.
* Other discretionary infractions, an additional payment.

Needless to say the hawk also ruled over a very lazy empire, with no one willing to do any work. Most animals were happy to be told what to do, and nothing more. No sense incurring another fine! "That's fine", the hawk thought to himself, "As long as they obey me. There is a more vexing problem however, which I must put my mind to."

His problem was this. The hawk could not demand payment from the insects under the earth or fish in the sea, despite his continuing efforts. He grew more and more frustrated because he could hear all their commotion, but could do nothing about it while they hid under the surface. All previous attempts, even using spies, did not work and he grew discordant. Eventually, he flew away to another area where he thought he could have more control, and where the animals would be more motivated.

And strangely, after awhile, without payments or threats, everyone became more productive and eventually prosperous - even though they didn't have anyone to manage their affairs. The insects and fish even came to the surface and began to enjoy a part of the world they'd not been able to fully explore.

"How strange!" they all thought.