The Cobbler and the Giant
Long ago in the ancient land of Persia, there was nestled a small and prosperous town, Samarkand. The town was vibrant and lively, with blossoming orchard gardens, a bustling marketplace, and the magnificent royal palace that commanded awe and respect. In this town lived a poor, honest cobbler named Farid.
Samarkand was riddled by a peculiar problem.
It was inhabitable by a cantankerous giant dervish named Azim. Azim was quick-tempered, viewing the town and its inhabitants not as neighbours but as subjects to his tyranny. The people of Samarkand, including Farid, lived in perpetual dread of Azim.
One day, the King declared a challenge. Anyone who could drive Azim out of Samarkand would be awarded half of the kingdom. Though many brave men attempted to overpower the giant, their machismo was quickly diminished by Azim's brute strength.
Farid was known for his quick wit and intelligence alongside his cobbling skills. He decided to use his acumen rather than muscle. He painted a large rock black and placed it inside a robust leather bag crafted beautifully. He ventured to Azim's cave, and as he approached, Azim sneered, 'What brings a pitiful cobbler to my lair?'
Farid bravely raised the bag, 'I bring you a glimpse of the sun trapped by the King’s sorcerer. One look at it, you'll be blinded forever, yet it does not affect the worthy.' Intrigued but wary, Azim dared not glance at the 'trapped' sun.
Farid continued, 'The King wishes to be rid of you. He has asked me to unleash the sunlight at you, but I implore you to leave peacefully. Start anew in a land far from here, where you can be truly free.' The intimidating giant, filled with dread of losing his sight, agreed and departed Samarkand, never to return.
In Samarkand, the skies burst into colours as the people celebrated their newfound freedom. Farid, the cunning cobbler was hailed as a hero and was handsomely rewarded with half the kingdom. He continued to live a simple life, using his wealth to better the lives of the people.
The tale of Farid, the humble cobbler, became an enduring piece of Samarkand's folklore conveying the message that intelligence and courage can defeat the mightiest of foes.