In the retelling of the tale, "The Lion and the Three Bulls," the black, white, and brown bulls were the best of friends. Whenever wild animals came to attack, they were undefeatable when they banded together and faced their enemies. A frustrated lion partners with a clever fox to concoct a plan to separate the bulls; a plan he hoped would provide him a juicy meal.

The three bulls begin hating each other and end up arguing, fighting, and going their separate ways. The fox's plan nearly works, but when the lion attacks, the bulls defend each other despite their disagreements. Reunited, the bulls discover that the fox lied to them and vowed never again to listen to those wanting to destroy their friendship.