Empathy Under the Full Moon🔊

Once upon a time, nestled in the verdant foothills of the mighty Symphony Mountains, was a small quaint village, Banbec. Its inhabitants were simple, hardworking people who earned their bread through farming. The heart of the village was the golden field of wheat stretching to the infinity. Yet, there was a dark shadow cast upon the serene tranquility of Banbec: the treacherous beast, Moros, who lurked in the mountains.

Every month, the villagers offered a basket of golden wheat as an appeasement to Moros under the full moon's light. One particular month, as the full moon approached, a calamity befell Banbec. A massive locust storm swooped down, reducing the thick golden fields to a desolate landscape.

The villagers were devastated, not only for their ruined livelihood but also out of fear for Moros. With no wheat to offer, they feared Moros’ wrath. As the full moon approached, gloom settled over Banbec, striking fear and anxiety into the villagers' hearts.

In the midst of this despair, a young lad, Theo, decided to stand against the village's deeply rooted custom. Theo proposed braving the dangers of the mountains and venturing into the lair of Moros to broker peace. He believed that the villagers and Moros could co-exist without fear or appeasement. However, his suggestion was met with disdain and ridicule. Fired up by the resistance, Theo decided to take matters into his own hands.

The day before the full moon, Theo embarked on his perilous journey. He scaled the steep slopes, crossed treacherous ravines, and navigated through dense forests. After a long, exhausting journey, he finally stood before the dark cave which marked Moros’ den. As Theo made his way down the murky interiors, he felt the encompassing darkness dissolve into an eerie glow, revealing Moros’ massive, hulking form.

Moros, taken aback by this unexpected visitor, growled menacingly. Unfazed, Theo stepped forth, his determination outshining his fear. He offered Moros a proposal - the villagers would stop living in fear, and in return, Moros would receive their respect and protection.

Moros, surprised yet intrigued, listened as Theo spoke passionately. The beast, solitary and forlorn, had long yearned for companionship. He regretted the fear he instilled, yet he knew no other way of communication. Touched by Theo's bravery and empathy, Moros agreed to the peace treaty, promising never to harm the village.

Triumphant, Theo returned to Banbec, recounting his incredible encounter with Moros. The villagers greeted his tale with disbelief. But the following full moon, when no harm fell on the village, they realised the truth. A newfound peace settled over Banbec, a peace that came from understanding and empathy rather than fear and appeasement.

Years later, Theo regaled the tales of his encounter to the children of Banbec. They listened with rapt attention, their eyes wide with wonder, as the light of the full moon cast long shadows on their awestruck faces. Moros, the once-feared beast, had become the village's protector, and their conditioned fear made way for respect and companionship.

And thus, under the persistent glow of the full moon, Banbec blossomed into a symbol of harmony and unity, a testament to the power of empathy and understanding.