The King's Test

Once upon a time, a kingdom was ruled by a wise old king who had no son to succeed him. As age crept upon him, the king decided it was time to choose a worthy successor—someone who could rule not just with strength, but with compassion.

He issued a royal decree throughout the land, inviting every qualified young man to come to the palace for an interview. The only requirement? The candidate must possess immense love for his fellow human beings.

The kingdom buzzed with excitement. Ambitious young men from cities and villages began preparing for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sit before the king.

In a small, remote village lived a poor young man. Though he had nothing of wealth, he was known for his kind heart and selfless spirit. When he heard the king’s call, something stirred deep within him. Could he—someone with so little—truly be worthy of such a great task?

Despite his doubts, he began to prepare. He worked tirelessly, doing odd jobs and saving every coin he earned. Eventually, he scraped together enough money to buy a clean set of clothes and food for the long journey.

With hope in his heart and little else in his bag, he began the trek to the palace. After many days of walking, he was just a few miles from the capital when he saw a frail, shivering old beggar sitting by the roadside.

The beggar’s clothes were torn, and his hands trembled from the cold. Without hesitation, the young man stopped.

“Sir, are you alright?” he asked.

The old man shook his head. “I’ve had nothing to eat for days. And this cold... I fear I won’t last the night.”

The young man knelt down and without a second thought, **took off his own warm cloak and wrapped it around the beggar**. He also handed him most of his food and a small coin from his pocket.

“But what about your journey?” the beggar asked weakly. “You’ll need these.”

“I’ll find a way,” the young man said with a soft smile. “Your life is more important than my comfort.”

Then, with his clothes slightly torn and stomach nearly empty, the young man continued his walk to the palace, uncertain if he would be presentable for the king—but confident in his heart.

When he finally arrived, the guards were hesitant. “Are you sure you’re here for the king’s interview?”

“Yes,” he replied. “I know I don’t look the part, but I’ve come a long way.”

The young man was allowed in. When he entered the grand hall, he looked up—and froze in shock.

Seated on the throne was not just a king in royal robes, but **the same beggar he had met on the roadside.

The “beggar” smiled. “Do you recognize me?”

The young man nodded slowly, speechless.

“You have shown the very heart I was seeking,” the king said warmly. “You passed the true test—not with words, but with action. The crown is not for those who chase it, but for those who serve without expecting a reward.”

And so, the poor young man who had nothing—except a heart full of love—became the next king.

Moral of the Story:

True greatness lies not in wealth, titles, or appearances—but in how we treat others when no one is watching.