Sơn Tinh and Thủy Tinh

Long ago, there was a powerful king who ruled a peaceful kingdom. He had a beautiful daughter, Princess Mỵ Nương, who was kind and intelligent. When the princess grew up, the king decided to find her a worthy husband.

Two strong and magical men came to the palace. One was Sơn Tinh, the Lord of the Mountains. The other was Thủy Tinh, the Lord of Water.

Sơn Tinh could control mountains and forests. He could raise hills, move rocks, and make trees grow wherever he wished. Thủy Tinh ruled rivers, seas, and rain. He could create storms, floods, and powerful waves.

The king could not choose between them.So he made a decision. He said, “Tomorrow morning, whoever brings these gifts first will marry my daughter.” The gifts were rare and difficult to find.

Sơn Tinh arrived early the next morning with all the gifts. The king kept his promise and allowed Sơn Tinh to marry Princess Mỵ Nương.

When Thủy Tinh arrived later and learned the truth, he was filled with anger. He raised the rivers and sent heavy rain to attack the land. Water covered villages, fields, and roads.

Sơn Tinh fought back by raising mountains and building high walls of stone. No matter how high the water rose, the mountains rose higher. The battle lasted for many days.

In the end, Thủy Tinh became tired and retreated. However, he never forgot his anger.

Every year, Thủy Tinh returns with storms and floods to challenge Sơn Tinh again. And every year, Sơn Tinh continues to protect the land.

This story explains why floods still happen every year in Vietnam and teaches people about strength, patience, and resilience.