Sibiu, a city in Transylvania, Romania, is home to a famous folktale that circles around the figure of the Pied Piper. It’s a story immersed in mystery and magic. The legend tells of a man in colorful attire who, by playing a charming tune on his flute, led the children away from the city, and they were never seen again.It is said that in the 14th century, Sibiu was experiencing a massive rodent infestation. This situation was devastating, with the rats causing monumental damage to the city’s provisions and health. The city council was desperate to find a solution. In the midst of this crisis, a stranger arrived in the city, dressed in bright multicolor attire with a flute in his hand. He promised to rid the city of its rat problem in return for a hefty sum of gold. Desperate, the council agreed to his terms.True to his word, the piper began to play a hypnotic melody that lured all the rats from their hiding places. Transfixed by the music, the rats followed him out of the city and into the nearby river, where they all drowned. Having done his part, the piper went to collect his payment. The city council, however, reneged on their agreement and refused to pay him fully.Enraged by their dishonesty, the piper swore to take revenge. The next day, he played his flute once more. This time, however, it wasn’t the rats who followed him but the city’s children. The piper led them away from the city, and they were never seen again. The only child who did not follow was a lame boy lagging behind, who became the sole witness of this terrible event.This story became a cautionary tale about the importance of keeping one’s promises while also serving as a poignant reflection on the consequences of dishonesty.