Coyote and the Rolling Rock

One blistering afternoon, Coyote was traveling across the plains when he grew weary of the heat. Coming across a massive, smooth rock, he decided to rest. In a rare burst of generosity, Coyote took off his fine buffalo robe and draped it over the stone. 'Here, grandfather,' he said, 'take this gift as a token of my respect.' However, as the sun set, a biting chill swept over the land. Shivering, Coyote regretted his impulsive kindness. He returned to the rock and demanded his robe back, but the stone remained silent. Angered, Coyote snatched the blanket away, insulting the rock as he left. Moments later, a terrifying rumble filled the air. The massive rock was rolling after him, crashing through trees and flattening everything in its path. Coyote sought help from the bears and the buffalo, but the rock crushed their strength. Just as Coyote was about to be overtaken, the Nighthawks swooped from the sky. With their sharp cries and diving attacks, they struck the rock repeatedly until it shattered into a thousand pieces, finally saving the trickster from his own folly.