Majnun and the Frog

Majnun was wandering through the wilderness searching eagerly for Layli. After many days, he grew weary from his constant searching and he fell up on the ground, exhausted. As he slept he dreamed of his beloved. When he awoke the fire of his longing and given way to burning thirst. Weakly he made his way to a nearby pool.

As he approached he heard an enchanting song. He was shocked to find that the melody was coming from a simple, little frog. He sat there enraptured, the delicate, feminine voice reminding him of his distant love. Not until long after the sing had finished was he able to return from deep within his own heart. As he stirred, the frog heard his sighs and called to him.

"Please sir, come near and hear my tale. I was not always as you see me now. I am a daughter of the King, a princess of this land. An evil spirit cursed me, and transformed into a frog. Only the love of one of noble birth can free me. I see that you have the bearing of a noble man, would you sit with me here and learn to love me."

"Alas," replied to lover, "I cannot for my heart belongs to Layli. I have given up my rank and all that is associated with it in my longing. I am but a wanderer in this wilderness, like you. And I must continue my search. Perhaps, though, we can look for our love together."

It is not known if she went with him, for Majnun kept divers company and happened upon many in his search. I believe that she did, and that they became true, long-lasting companions. Of course, as with all tales of man, accounts vary.