To retort the artifice employed against us is an allowable part of self-defense.
An old, wise Cock was getting ready to roost on a high branch when a Fox appeared below. The Fox claimed to bring good news: a general peace had been declared between all animals, including foxes and cocks. He urged the Cock to come down and celebrate the joyous event with an embrace. The Cock, seeing through the Fox’s deception, replied that he was delighted to hear such news, especially from the Fox. However, he noticed two greyhounds approaching in the distance, likely to bring official news of the peace treaty. The Cock suggested waiting for the greyhounds so they could all celebrate together. Realizing the greyhounds posed a threat, the Fox quickly excused himself and fled into the woods. The Cock crowed triumphantly, pleased that he had outsmarted the Fox with a harmless stratagem.
