Once upon a time, in a lush valley nestled between two towering mountains, there lived three Billy Goats Gruff. The valley was rich with green grass and sparkling streams, but the best grazing land lay on the other side of a bridge. This bridge, however, was guarded by a fearsome troll who would not allow anyone to cross.

First, the smallest Billy Goat Gruff decided to try his luck. He bravely approached the bridge, his tiny hooves clattering on the wooden planks. As he started to cross, the troll leaped out from under the bridge, roaring, “Who’s that trip-trapping over my bridge?”

“It’s only me, the smallest Billy Goat Gruff,” the little goat replied, trembling.

“I’m going to gobble you up!” the troll threatened.

“Please, don’t eat me,” the little goat pleaded. “I’m too small, but my brother is coming soon. He’s much bigger and tastier.”

The troll considered this and finally agreed. “Very well, you may pass,” he grumbled, retreating back under the bridge.

Next, the middle Billy Goat Gruff approached the bridge. His hooves made a louder clatter than his brother’s. Again, the troll sprang out, demanding, “Who’s that trip-trapping over my bridge?”

“It’s only me, the middle Billy Goat Gruff,” said the second goat.

“I’m going to gobble you up!” the troll bellowed.

“Please, don’t eat me,” the middle goat begged. “I’m not very big, but my brother is coming after me. He’s the biggest and juiciest of all.”