In a prosperous kingdom, King Vikram ruled with wisdom and strength. He was surrounded by many advisors who always spoke with respect and agreed with his every word. However, a quiet doubt began to grow in the King's heart. He wondered, 'Do these men truly care for my kingdom, or are they only loyal to my crown?'
To find the truth, the King devised a clever plan. He invited his advisors on a long journey through a dense, mysterious forest. The trees were thick, and the shadows were deep. "Stay close and be alert," the King warned, "for this forest is unpredictable and dangerous."
As they rested near a rocky clearing, the King intentionally dropped a heavy silk pouch. The pouch burst open, and dozens of shimmering gold coins spilled onto the forest floor. "Oh no!" the King cried out with feigned distress. "My precious gold is scattered! Please, gather as many as you can; they are yours to keep!"
Immediately, the advisors scrambled toward the gold. They knelt in the dirt, ignoring the King, their eyes gleaming with greed as they stuffed coins into their pockets. Only one advisor, named Soman, remained standing by the King's side. He did not reach for a single coin.
"Soman," the King asked, "why do you not take the gold?"
Soman looked the King in the eye and replied, "Your Majesty, the gold is nothing compared to your safety. The forest is dark, and we are vulnerable. I would rather watch your back than fill my pockets."
The King smiled, knowing his doubt was finally answered. He realized that while others sought his wealth, Soman sought his well-being. The King appointed Soman as his Chief Advisor, trusting him with the kingdom's future.
Moral
True loyalty is shown through care, not through greed.
