The Chinese Zodiac is a fascinating and ancient system, filled with myths and legends that explain how the twelve animals were chosen. The story begins with the Jade Emperor, the ruler of heaven, who decided to create a calendar. To make this calendar special, he decreed that the twelve years would be named after animals. But which animals He decided to hold a great race to determine the order.

On the day of the race, all the animals gathered at the starting line. The emperor announced that the first twelve animals to cross the river and reach the finish line would have a year named after them. The race began, and the animals dashed towards the river.

The clever Rat and the strong Ox made a deal. The Rat, knowing he couldn't swim well, asked the Ox for a ride across the river. The Ox, being kind-hearted and strong, agreed. As they neared the shore, the Rat jumped off the Ox's back and landed ahead, securing the first spot in the zodiac. The Ox, not minding the trick, came in second.

Next came the Tiger, who had struggled against the strong currents but managed to make it to the shore, exhausted but determined, taking third place. The Rabbit, who had cleverly hopped from stone to stone and drifted on a log, arrived in fourth place. The Jade Emperor was impressed by the Rabbit's resourcefulness.