Original form

Wasim was the fifteen-year-old son of Tufail Rabbani, a prominent industrialist. Unlike most boys his age, Wasim had an adventurous spirit. He loved exploring ruins, searching for hidden treasures, and collecting antiquities. Money was never a problem for him. While his father was busy managing the business, his mother ran a non-governmental organization and was often occupied with her work.

A few days earlier, Wasim had met Professor Najmi, a scholar who shared his passion for collecting rare artifacts. Wasim frequently visited him to discuss treasures and relics.

One day, while Wasim was chatting at Professor Najmi’s home, the professor suddenly said, “Inside the Navila forests lies an ancient fort. In its back chambers are priceless antiques, buried long ago. If we manage to retrieve them, our lives will change forever. The value of these treasures is beyond imagination. If we sell them to any foreign museum, we will be counted among the richest people in the world.”

Wasim listened in amazement. But Professor Najmi’s next words gave him pause: “There is one important point. The Navila forests are infested with snakes. At every step, you will encounter them.”

A shiver ran down Wasim’s spine, yet the professor’s enigmatic presence also thrilled him.

“What’s wrong? Afraid already?” the professor asked, studying him carefully.

“No! Not at all! I’m not afraid of anyone,” Wasim said eagerly.

“Well done, my brave boy!” the professor replied, visibly pleased. “Now, I’ll tell you about a shop where you can get protective gear against snakes. It’s a bit expensive, but it will keep you safe.”

“I’ll buy it today!” Wasim replied.

“Good. Prepare yourself. Tomorrow, you leave on the expedition.”

Wasim, consulting Google Maps for the Navila forests, set off in his car. His parents were away, so he informed the family’s old servant, Khan Baba, about the forest. Wasim’s heart raced with excitement. He imagined a treasure-filled chest waiting for him, ready to be carried off, but he knew the journey would be dangerous.

At the edge of the forest, a blue snake slithered toward him. Wasim had never seen such a snake in his life. He remembered the professor’s warning: blue snakes are highly venomous. Questions flooded his mind. He tried to aim at it with a spark gun, but even sparks couldn’t harm it. Panic urged him to flee, but thoughts of Professor Najmi and proving himself stopped him.

Suddenly, the “rope” he thought he had seen wrapped around his neck. He struggled violently, only to realize it wasn’t a rope—it was another snake! Darkness clouded his vision as fear overtook him.

Meanwhile, at home, Tufail Rabbani was frantic. “Where has Wasim gone? It’s nighttime, and he hasn’t returned. How can a mother not know where her son is?” he shouted at his wife.

“He’s not only your son; he’s mine too,” Mrs. Rabbani replied sharply.

“Khan Baba! Where is Wasim?” Tufail asked.

“He went toward the Navila forests,” Khan Baba revealed.

Tufail cursed under his breath. “That boy and his adventurous streak will be the death of us one day.”

Meanwhile, tracking devices in Wasim’s car allowed the family and Inspector Jami to locate him near the forest. Tufail, panicked, rushed toward the forest. Just then, his phone rang. A stranger demanded twenty crores for Wasim’s release. The inspector quickly analyzed the situation. The number couldn’t be traced, but it was clear Wasim was in danger.

Authorities surrounded the forest. Announcements were made repeatedly: “Come out safely, or severe action will follow.”

Amid the rustling of leaves, Professor Najmi appeared wearing protective gear, guiding unconscious Wasim on a stretcher. He was rushed to the hospital.

When Wasim regained consciousness, Tufail ran to him. “How are you, my son?” he asked, his voice trembling.

“Papa… I… the forest… Professor… treasures… snakes…” Wasim stammered.

“It was all a trap, my son! Professor Najmi tried to lure you with stories of treasure and danger. He was after twenty crores! Thanks to the police’s timely action and God’s mercy, you are safe. Forgive me, my son. I forgot my duty in the pursuit of wealth,” Tufail said, tears in his eyes.

“Forgive me too, my son,” Mrs. Rabbani added, ashamed.

“No, no, Mom, Dad! Don’t be sorry. I also let my curiosity take me too far,” Wasim said, smiling weakly

Tears of relief, joy, and regret flowed from all three. In the end, the ordeal taught both father and son that bravery must be tempered with caution, and curiosity must never outweigh safety.