Loss of Gains

Raktamukha, a clever monkey, lived on a Jamun tree by a river, spending his days eating the sweet, purple fruits. He befriended a crocodile named Karalamukha, sharing the delicious harvest with him. The crocodile took some fruit home to his wife, who, upon tasting them, grew greedy. She reasoned that if the fruits were so sweet, the monkey’s heart, which processed them daily, must be the sweetest meat of all. She feigned illness and told her husband only a monkey’s heart could cure her. Torn between friendship and his wife, Karalamukha eventually invited the monkey to his home for dinner. As the monkey rode on the crocodile's back across the deep river, the crocodile confessed his dark intent. Raktamukha didn't panic. He laughed and told the crocodile that monkeys keep their hearts in the hollows of their trees for safekeeping. Foolishly believing him, the crocodile swam back to the shore. The moment they reached the bank, the monkey leaped onto the tree, mocking the crocodile for his treachery and stupidity. Through his presence of mind, the monkey saved his life and ended a false friendship.