How Ali and Leyla Found the Tear Pearl — A Sahara Legend for Children

On the shores of the great lake stood a quiet village, where summer was especially magical. Here, among high mountains and dense forests, lived two siblings, Ali and Leyla. They often helped their parents carry water from the nearest source and dreamed of embarking on a grand journey through the ancient lands of Egypt. One day, their dream became a reality, but not quite as they had expected.

On a hot midday, when the sun was melting the sands, the children set out for the oasis to fill their jars. But as they approached, they saw an unusual sight: near the water stood a woman in dazzling white garments. Her eyes sparkled like stars, and around her neck shone a necklace made of pearls. It was Isis, the great goddess of ancient Egypt.

The children froze, but Isis smiled gently and said, "Do not be afraid. I have come to you with a request." Leyla cautiously asked, "What can we do for you, goddess?" Isis explained that her pearl necklace holds the power of her tears, which she shed mourning her husband Osiris. "Each pearl symbolizes love and compassion. But one of them has been lost, and now the balance is disrupted. Will you help me find it?"

Ali nodded, "We are ready. But how will we know where to look?" Isis handed them an ancient golden amulet. "This amulet will guide your way. Follow its light, and it will lead you to the pearl."

The children set off on their journey. The amulet shimmered with a golden light, directing them through the sandy dunes. The path was challenging: the wind whipped up sand clouds, and the sun blazed mercilessly. But Leyla and Ali did not give up, knowing that their help was needed by the great goddess.

After several hours, they reached an ancient temple, half-ruined by time. The amulet began to glow brighter, pointing towards the entrance. Inside, it was cool and quiet. The walls were adorned with frescoes depicting Isis and Osiris. "It's so beautiful here," Leyla whispered.

In the center of the hall was a large pool of clear water, and at the bottom of the pool, something was shimmering. "There it is!" Ali exclaimed. But as he approached, the temple's guardian emerged from the water—a massive catfish with shiny scales. His eyes were full of wisdom, but he did not look friendly. "Who dares to disturb the peace of the temple?" he asked in a booming voice.

Leyla stepped forward, "We are here at the request of the goddess Isis. We are searching for her lost pearl." The catfish pondered, then replied, "Prove to me that you are worthy. Answer my question: What is more important—strength or compassion?"

Ali and Leyla exchanged glances. "Compassion," Leyla said. "Without it, strength becomes destructive." The catfish nodded, "You are right. Take the pearl, but remember, compassion must reside in your hearts."

The children took the pearl, and it shone brighter than the sun. As they left the temple, the lake shimmered even more brightly. The seal appeared again, "You have saved our home. Now return to the spirit of the lake." They returned to the spot where the woman was waiting for them. "You have shown wisdom and bravery," she said. "Now Lake Baikal will be protected once more."

The spirit gave each child a small crystal that glowed in their hands. "This gift will remind you how important it is to care for nature and maintain its purity." The children thanked her and rose to the surface.

Back home, Misha and Anja looked long at the lake, which was peaceful and clear once again. They understood that they had become part of a great story and vowed to always protect nature, wherever they might be.