Elmer, The Brave Cobbler
Once upon a time, in the small, picturesque town of Amala, lived a kind hearted, simple cobbler named Elmer. Elmer had his small shop at the corner of the town's marketplace, where he used to make and mend shoes for the town's folk. He had been blessed with a pair of hands that could weave magic into any footwear. Despite having such an exceptional talent, Elmer was a humble man. He was loved by everyone for his honesty, kindness, and his twinkling eyes that spoke volumes about his upbeat nature.
A few miles away from Amala, across the dense forest, on a hillock, stood a majestic castle. This castle was home to the fearsome ogre, Gorgon. Gorgon was incredibly powerful and ruthless. He had a pair of boots, which were enchanted with dark magic. Legend had it that whoever controlled the boots controlled the destiny of the world. But there was a hitch. Every hundred years, the boots needed to be mended by a specially skilled craftsman.
The hundredth year was approaching fast, and Gorgon was in desperate need of a craftsman who could mend his boots. Despite his frantic search across his monstrous dominion, he couldn't find a skilled enough cobbler. With time running out, he heard about Elmer's talent from a lost merchant who stumbled into his castle.
With his magical powers, Gorgon kidnapped Elmer who was dazzled by the sudden turn of events. Elmer was terrified as he was held in the cold, gigantic palace of the ogre. Gorgon, hoping to intimidate Elmer, explained his predicament and his need for Elmer’s craftsmanship, or he would bring destruction upon Amala.
Elmer was terrified, but his love for his beautiful hometown gave him courage. He agreed to mend the boots but with conditions of his own. Elmer asked Gorgon to promise that he would free him and would never harm Amala.
Amused by Elmer's courage, Gorgon agreed. Elmer worked meticulously for three nights in a row. He mended the enchanted boots using all his skills, amending every wear and tear with great precision. His dedication and perseverance astonished Gorgon.
As soon as Elmer finished his task, he handed over the boots to Gorgon, who was overcome with joy. But a promise was a promise. Honouring his word, Gorgon sent Elmer back to Amala unharmed.
Elmer’s return to Amala brought great joy to the townsfolk. They celebrated his homecoming and his bravery in facing the fearsome ogre. But, Elmer was a changed man. His encounter with Gorgon and the responsibility given to him made him even more humble.
From then on, Elmer lived his life with more value, honing his crafts, sharing his knowledge, and helping others. His name became a well-known legend in Amala, not just as the best craftsman but as a symbol of bravery, humility, and the virtue of keeping promises.
Meanwhile, the Gordian boots remained intact for years with Elmer’s touch and thus, Gorgon remained in control of his destiny and never bothered Amala or the cobbler again. From that day forward, love, peace, and prosperity continued to reign over Amala.
The story of Elmer, the humble cobbler and his encounter with the ogre Gorgon, served as a moral for the future generations of Amala – it doesn’t matter how big or small you are, everyone has the power to be brave, keep their word, and live humbly.