The Carpenter's Masterpiece
Once upon a time, in a bustling town named Aylesford, there lived a shabby looking carpenter, Thomas. However, beneath his humble appearance was an exceptional talent - he could craft the most intricate of items with exceptional precision.
His fame had spread far and wide, even reaching the haughty ear of the King. Intrigued and eager to see his craft, the King summoned Thomas to the royal court. A sense of anxiety and thrill filled Thomas, and he reached the court with a hand-carved, beautiful miniature castle. The King was highly impressed with the carpenter's work.
With an appreciative nod, the King assigned Thomas a task. He desired a grand throne, a piece of artwork that would exude his regal aura. Seeing an opportunity to prove his skill, Thomas graciously accepted.
Working tirelessly day and night, with utmost dedication and perseverance, Thomas brilliantly laboured for weeks on this project. His hands caressed the wood like a painter fabricates his masterpiece, transforming a rough log into a symbol of grandeur.
After several weeks, the masterpiece was brought to the court. The royal crowd hushed, as the curtains were drawn back to reveal the throne. Glistening in the candle's flicker was an impressive regality emanating from the throne. Carved vines spiralled upward, reaching for armrests embellished with royal symbols, and the backrest was an intricate portrayal of a victorious King riding a colossal warhorse.
A silent admiration spread across the court. The King, however, wasn’t so easily impressed. Squinting at the throne, he suspiciously asked why the mightily carved King was helmetless, showing vulnerability. Before Thomas could answer, the King dismissed him, holding his reward until his query was answered.
Desolate, Thomas returned home. He sought the wisdom of his aging mother, who overtime had become his grounding stone. His mother listened, then softly whispered that humility was a potent strength. It suddenly dawned on Thomas. The following day he hurried to the castle, taking with him a handcrafted helmet.
Standing before the stern King and his court, Thomas explained, 'The helmet represents the King's willingness to show his vulnerabilities and his humanity to his subjects, bearing the truth of being human before being a King.' He gently placed the helmet in the hands of the carved King on the throne.
The court fell into a thoughtful silence. The King, touching the smooth surface of the added helmet, acknowledged the wisdom hidden behind the conceived flaw. His stern expression softened into a smile, proclaiming Thomas' remarkable craftsmanship and wisdom. As promised, Thomas was rewarded lavishly, and his name echoed with respect in the kingdom henceforth.