A clever thief was brought before a king to receive his punishment. The king, feeling merciful, asked the thief how he would like to die. The thief told him, and the king let him go. What did the thief tell the king?

“He wanted to be executed by sword.”

This answer implies that the thief desired a quick and violent death, which contradicts the cleverness of his response and the king's mercy.

“He wanted to be imprisoned for life.”

While this option suggests a form of punishment, it does not align with the nature of the thief's clever request to avoid immediate death, as he aimed to live.

“He wanted to die in battle.”

This answer indicates a choice associated with honor and bravery, which does not reflect the cunning nature of the thief's desire for a non-violent death.