The Moondrop: Tale of Greed and Humility
There once lived a humble merchant named Abdussamad who resided in the heart of the coastal city, Samarkand. The merchant was known throughout his city for his vast collections of exquisite antiques, rare jewels, and precious metals from different parts of the world. However, among his dazzling collection, a unique, luminescent blue stone named the 'Moondrop' was the most prized possession of Abdussamad. The tale spoke of the 'Moondrop' being the last of its kind, directly extracted from the heart of the moon. It was indeed a captivating display of mystery and elegance.
One evening, the Emperor, Haydar, visited Abdussamad's shop. The sight of the 'Moondrop' stirred an irresistible longing for its possession in the Emperor's heart. Haydar offered the richest of riches, but to his disappointment, Abdussamad refused. The 'Moondrop' was more than a stone to Abdussamad; it was a symbiosis of his sweat, blood, and endless dedication. It was the last memento of his grandfather, who had passed it down in his lineage.
The refusal only served to escalate the Emperor's desire for the jewel. He grew restless pondering over his failure to obtain what he wished, a feeling so alien to him. Before long, a sinister plot rushed through his mind. The command was passed, and under the Emperor's order, Abdussamad was thrown into the dungeons with false accusations of treason.
Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Abdussamad, trapped in the cold, damp abyss, found solace in the idea that the 'Moondrop' was out of the Emperor's reach. However, unfortunately, as conditions became unbearable, he was left with no option but to disclose the secret hiding place of the 'Moondrop.' Desperate for his release, Abdussamad was left powerless.
The 'Moondrop' was now in the hands of Emperor Haydar. But a peculiar incident occurred that night as the Emperor held the jewel in his palms. He became blind. This sudden affliction caused uproar in the palace. Many believed it to be the curse of the 'Moondrop,' punishment for Haydar's unjust actions. However, the Emperor, blinded by his desire, refused to part from his beloved possession.
Fearful for their ruler, the royal council arranged a meeting with the kingdom's wise seer. The seer, upon hearing the tale, declared that the 'Moondrop' had neither a blessing nor a curse. Its power lay in the heart of the possessor. If held with greed, it could become a lethal curse, but if owned with humble intentions, it could bestow upon its owner immense power and prosperity.
Recognizing his mistake, Haydar released Abdussamad and humbly returned the 'Moondrop.' He pleaded for forgiveness to Abdussamad and his people. Accepting the plea, Abdussamad reclaimed the 'Moondrop,' and surprisingly, the Emperor regained his lost vision.
The tale of Abdussamad and the 'Moondrop' became folklore, reminding generations about the power of humility, love, and respect towards what one possesses. It was a lesson that not all things can be bought by power or wealth, some things are priceless and demand respect and love.