The Pearl of Eyes
Once upon a time, in the lustrous city of Athens, lived a skilful jeweller named Arion. Known for his intricate designs and enchanting jewels, Arion was the choice jeweller of the Greek aristocracy. The shop was brimming with patrons from all corners of the kingdom buying his pieces as a status symbol and gifting them to their loved ones.
One day, a patron named Cassiopeia came across a mesmerising pearl pendant in the display. She was so captivated by its beauty that she decided to buy this for her daughter, Olympia. Little did she anticipate the series of events this purchase would set into motion.
Blessed with an angelic beauty and gracious heart, Olympia was the city's sweetheart. The moment she wore the pearl pendant, it glowed magically, accentuating her beauty even more. It seemed as if the pearl resonated with Olympia's inner beauty. Soon enough the news of the glowing pearl around Olympia's neck spread across Athens, attracting the attention of the capricious Ocean God Poseidon.
Intrigued by Olympia's fame, Poseidon decided to see her for himself. He took the disguise of an old hawker and visited Olympia's house. The moment he saw Olympia and the pearl pendant around her neck, he understood that this was no ordinary pearl. It was ‘Eye of the Ocean,’ a magical pearl that Poseidon lost during a fierce battle centuries ago.
Poseidon decided to claim his lost pearl. In an attempt to persuade Olympia, who was unaware of his true identity, Poseidon offered her a golden box that could produce an endless amount of gold and precious gems in exchange for the pendant. Not desiring material wealth, Olympia politely declined his offer.
Aghast by her refusal, an angered Poseidon decided to forcefully take the pendant on his next visit. This time, he disguised himself as a large eagle and successfully snatched away Olympia's pearl pendant. Luckily, Arion, who was passing by, saw everything.
Armed with his bravery and determination to help Olympia, Arion immediately began his quest to retrieve the pearl. He was aware that his pursuit of Poseidon would not be an easy task, but his courage never waned. After a long and arduous journey, Arion reached the ocean's bed, Poseidon's abode.
Despite the mortal danger he was putting himself into, Arion negotiated with Poseidon, surprising the God with his audacity. He challenged Poseidon to a contest of creating the most beautiful jewel. If Arion won, he would get the pearl back; if Poseidon won, Arion would become one of his servants forever. Against his better judgement, Poseidon accepted the challenge.
The contest began, and the entire ocean gathered to witness this unprecedented event. Poseidon presented a gemstone so vast and sparkling that everyone was certain of his victory. However, Arion revealed his creation, and all were left breathless. He placed a simple polished stone next to a large seashell. The reflection created by the stone in the shell was so serene and captivating that it outshone Poseidon's diamond.
Defeated and impressed by Arion's wit, Poseidon stood by his word and returned the magical pearl to Arion. He also pledged to not cause trouble for Olympia or Athens again. Arion returned as a hero, and the pearl pendant was back to its rightful owner, radiantly glowing around Olympia's neck. The tale of Arion's bravery and Olympia's humble nature was told in every corner of Athens, leaving a moral imprint on everyone's heart.
This story does not only narrate the enthralling battle of wits between men and gods but also underlines the strength of humility and the power of wisdom in facing any adversity in life.