In the heart of Cologne, Germany, itself a city rich in history and culture, a folklore persists for centuries about the diligent little elves called the ‘Heinzelmaennchen’. These little creatures are said to have been the residents of Cologne even before humans and had been reputed to do all the work of the people in Cologne at night while they were sleeping. Bakers would wake up to find freshly baked bread, cobblers would find shoes repaired and polished, and carpenters would find their morning work already done. This arrangement benefited the people greatly as they had full days for leisure and never had to toil. In their folk attire of red jacket, blue bonnet, and yellow stockings, these benevolent spirits were loved and respected by all. However, the peace didn’t last. The tailor’s wife, driven by curiosity, tried to catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures by scattering peas on the staircase, causing the little elves to slip and tumble. This accident, driven by human curiosity, offended the Heinzelmaennchen who disappeared forever, ceasing their nightly service to the city’s folk. Since then, the people of Cologne had to do all their work on their own. Today, the tale is a popular part of German folklore and you can even see a fountain dedicated to these hardworking elves in the old market square of Cologne. The lesson of privacy and respect for others’ hardwork encoded in this tale is still a cherished virtue in Germany.