The Story of the Steadtree

There were two trees. The first spread wide its branches that the Light's creatures may rest thereupon. The other bore thorns so that no respite could be found among its bows. The first yielded fragrant flowers pleasing to the eye, and many gathered to bask in their aroma and admire their diverse hues. The second tree oozed loathsome sticky tar, soiling paw and matting fur, that no creature dare climb it if not pressed by danger. The first tree grew plump fruits, and all the creatures partook of its bounty. The second bore hard bitter seeds that sickened those that ate them. The Light saw the first tree and said to it "For your kindness, you shall be multiplied upon the earth." But to the second It said "Slowly shall you grow, and even slower shall you yield saplings, for you drive away all that seek your aid."