In a remote, stormy, and frozen realm, there lived an emperor who despised his appearance. He was convinced that others secretly mocked his face. He sought anyone who could alter his look or punished those he believed were ridiculing him. However, all were vain attempts. Feeling powerless to change, he often felt despair. As time passed, he grew timid and withdrew into solitude, confining himself to the bedroom.

One day, a prophet emerged from the dissipating smoke, shimmering with an aurora, and an aroma spread from the prophet.

“Wh…what’s your intention?” The emperor asked, shivering.

“Harvest feathers from animals and use them to adorn your outfit. Plus, wear a veil to keep anonymous. It will convey a message that you are both graceful and cruel at the same time.” the prophet said.

The emperor found the idea splendid, especially since it was fashionable to wear clothes embellished with animal feathers. He imagined that by incorporating the colourful feather and charming pattern of every animal into his attire and donning a mysterious veil, he could demonstrate absolute authority. Overwhelmed by the delicacy of the idea, he could foresee his glamorous future. After excitement wore off, he started to puzzle why the prophet suggested without asking for any favours, but the prophet vanished before the emperor’s question and never showed up again.

Appreciated by the royal family, the nightingale used to sing for the emperor, enjoying the extravagant care from the royal servant. When he overheard the conversation, realising a choice must be made. To be or not to be, it is always destined. Leaving the opulent palace where he lived for over five years, he alerted animals to the impending catastrophe.

Animals hence called up for a meeting, discussing their actions and tactics in the warehouse. “We must unite against this unprecedented crisis.” Swan said.

The advocate from Swan quickly gained strength; everyone was clapping.

“Then who is leading this honourable quest, the graceful swan?” Duck taunted. Understanding their history, the warehouse fell silent.

“I am grateful for your nomination, especially after all we’ve endured. Let us stand side by side, wing to wing, and shoulder to shoulder. Together, we stand a chance against our adversary.” Swan exclaimed.

“I am sorry for what I have done in the past, but I know your true character.” Duck continued.

“You are paranoid. You don’t trust anyone even if they are kind to you. You are prideful; you once suffered from this injustice system: ugly-beautiful, but when your identity changed, your advocate also changed. All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others, umm?” Duck blustered.

“Boom!” Guards stormed into the warehouse. The emperor said, “Thanks for sparing me the troubles; you’re all surrounded; surrender now.”

Animals mourned, realising they could not fight in a confined space, much less fight with- out a strategy. They were doomed! In this time, Swan stepped forward; animals did not know what his plan was, but he relighted their hope.

“My emperor, I am the swan who projects the prophet in your bedroom, giving you advice on how to be confident. I propose to meet up in this warehouse so they will be defenceless. Please reward my allegiance.” Swan said, bowing his head.

“It is my vengeance for what you all did to me. It feels good to stop pretending to be one of yours. You will be condemned for what you have done to me!’ Swan said, waving his wing and laughing uncontrollably.

The hope of animals completely vanished; they regretted why they did not trust Duck earlier.

“Harvest Swan’s feathers carefully. I don’t want to miss any of his feathers; after all, he is the most beautiful animal.” The emperor said coldly.

“Why are you doing this to me? I helped you!” Swan screamed.

“You told me to be cruel. Besides, you are not the prophet. Why should I respect you? But considering your contribution, I will tell the guard to do it gently.” the emperor said.

Animals were caught with “wingcuffs,” walking desperately to the palace.

Soon, the day of the ceremony arrived; the orchestra was playing a symphony. The crowd was flooded in the street, waiting for the beginning of the ceremony. The emperor was euphoric, and he talked to his minister.

“You know what, as windy as this day is, my heart is warm like a heating sun. Tell the servant to dress me in the attire. It is time.”

The emperor glanced at the crowd, nodding his head solemnly, waving his hands to the public, and walking confidently on the stage. The masses were cheering up for the foreign royal members. The emperor was satisfied.

Suddenly, a powerful wind swept through, blowing off every feather of the clothes and mask, revealing his face and body. People were stunned. They were unaware that they had been cheering up for their emperor. They distaste his look, and yet they do not dare to tease him publicly.

The emperor was embarrassed at first. Seeing the silent crowd, he was surprised by the calm of the public. A conclusion is drawn: “The imposter tells me to dress beautifully to deceive the public. Since he is fake, the suggestion must be wrong. The authentic prophet is guiding me covertly, using the wind to reveal my appearance. The crowd’s reaction shows I need not be ashamed of my appearance. We should embrace our differences and celebrate together.”

When the emperor was pondering, the plucked duck was wandering in the street with a heavy bag. The emperor wanted to share this amazing idea with the duck:

“Duck! I just came to realise that we are all friends. We shall not discriminate against each other.” the emperor said.

“You tax heavily on your people; you strip every feather from animals. Now you claim we are one? The veil cannot mask your vile heart. Get lost! Oh, yes, you are right. While you were busy with the ceremony, the loss of feathers freed us from ‘wingcuffs.’ Then we decided to rob your palace, including your vault. It was not troublesome since the nightingale possesses all the royal family’s information. Now your palace is empty, and nature strips you to nothing. Oh, the traitor will accompany you as a consolation prize. We are more equal than you, so it is equal. Goodbye.” Duck taunted.

While the duck was talking, the emperor was shocked, standing like a dumbfounded statue before the public.

A child could no longer constrict himself, mocking at the emperor. The laughter soon echoed in the street. Shattering the emperor’s fantasy bubble. They simply did not notice the bankruptcy of the empire.*