Journey of a Wish
Once upon a time in a humble town named Lindale lived a brave and sprightly boy, Johnny. He was not particularly outstanding in any field but had a unique talent for dreaming the impossible. One clear night, under a burning blanket stitched with words, when stars fell like crystals scattered across the sky, he made a wish: 'If only I could be a king for a day!'
The tale of Johnny’s wish began on the morning he woke up to find he was no longer in his house, but in the grandeur of a castle. He was royally dressed, and servants bowed before him. The charming spectacle was overwhelming. Jokingly, he ordered a feast in his honor, and no sooner did the servants scurry to prepare a banquet fit for a king.
His initial wonder soon faded into unease as hours tick-tocked away. He was met with hundreds of scrolls, royal decrees and dispatches concerning wars, trades and alliances. His eyebrow furrowed perplexedly upon seeing the pile of regal responsibilities. He first tried to handle them single-handedly, but it was like attempting to climb a mountain within a day. It made him realize that a king is not just about the glittering crown, rather the enormous responsibilities and judgments he carries for his kingdom.
Meanwhile, news of a pirate raid reached the castle. The king was supposed to devise a war strategy. Johnny's heart pounded in his chest at the prospect of war. He requested right then, 'Can you call the general?' An old man entered the room. Johnny, after discussing the strategies, revealed he was but a boy. He confessed his wish and asked for the general's guidance. The general, initially indignant, finally agreed to guide him in his defense plan. Armed with the general's wisdom, Johnny set about crafting a defense.
The hostage situation posed another issue. The pirates demanded a hefty ransom to release the children. Johnny felt a pang of fear and guilt. He wondered if it was his rash decisions that led to this event. He once again consulted the old general. Together, they devised a plan to rescue the hostages, assuring no harm befell anyone.
Despite his maddening fear, Johnny led his soldiers onto the battlefield. When he saw the enemy, his heart pounded fiercely, but he held his ground, remembering the millions of people relying on his bravery. With a cautious scheme, his troops attacked the pirate stronghold, freeing the captives, and capturing the pirates.
Once everyone was back safely, Johnny felt a wave of relief wash over him. His stern face melted into a wide grin, realizing what they had achieved. The town echoed with cheers, admiration filling the eyes of every soldier and every servant. Johnny thanked the general, understanding the real strength of a king lies not in his crown but in his courage and wisdom.
As night fell, Johnny yearned for his brand-old bed and cluttered room. As if granting his longing, the castle retreated gradually, replaced by his room's familiar corners.
Next morning, the rooster's crow welcomed Johnny back to his life. He woke as a boy again, with dream-spattered eyes and mud-stained clothes. But within him lingered the courage of a king. The wish had changed him, not into a king, but into someone who could empathize, strategize, and bravely fight when required. A true king in spirit.
The town of Lindale never got any King. However, as years passed, they witnessed the journey of a boy turning into a just and brave-hearted man, fostering a kingdom of dreams and values within his heart.