The Least Beast

In a land where mighty lions rule,
Where it's hot by day and the night is cool,
A lion looked over his vast domain
While the sunrise reflected on his golden mane.
"Yes," he thought, "no one challenges me.
Why I'm called the King of the Beasts
Is easy for all to see."
As he stood on the river's edge,
Looking at his reflection in the water below,
He asked the river a question,
The answer of which he already seemed to know.
"Tell me, River Spirit, before the sun rises
Over the sand,
Who is the mightiest creature in the land?"