The Enchanted Candle
In a far corner of the kingdom known as Surrey, located just past the Elven woods, was a little candle shop. Established in the midst of beautifully cascading waterfalls and towering oaks, it was run by the jolly old man, Winston. Winston, a cheerful and hearty artisan, was renowned across the kingdom for one thing - making the most exquisite candles that one could imagine. However, there was one candle in the shop that was exceptional. It was not for sale and was known as the Enchanted Candle.
The Enchanted Candle was a thing of beauty. Standing tall and grand, it was magnificently adorned with jewels of all types - shimmering emeralds, fiery rubies, and most majestic of them all, an enormous sapphire that was so vaguely blue, it was like looking into the sky itself. The enchanting scents emanating from it filled the room, captivating the senses of anyone who even glanced at it. But the Enchanted Candle had a secret. It was said to possess the power to grant one wish.
One day, a poor young woman, Ada, came to Winston's candle shop, motivated not by the exceptional craftsmanship of the candles but by the legend of the Enchanted Candle. In the treacherous world, Ada's life was a struggle. Her sole desire was to acquire the necessary means to provide for her sick mother. So, she decided to request Winston to let her light the Enchanted Candle.
Gazing tenderly at her desperate eyes, the old man sensed her sincerity and pureness of heart, deciding to allow her this indulgence. However, he warned her, 'Remember, the candle may grant your wish, but it often fulfills the deepest desire of one's heart. Ensure your intentions are pure.' Nodding, Ada lit the Enchanted Candle with trembling hands.
As she lit the candle, it flickered vibrantly, radiating an enchanting light that filled the room. The scent it emanated was divine, like a blend of heavenly blossoms. Almost instinctively, Ada closed her eyes, focusing her every being onto her wish. The air seemed to hold its breath, the only sound was the soft crackle of the Enchanted Candle.
After an intense moment, the candle went out abruptly, and the room plunged back into semi-darkness. Ada opened her eyes, a faint sparkle lurked there, full of expectation, and yet, nothing seemed to have changed. She muttered a silent prayer and thanked Winston for his kindness. However, as she turned to leave, she found a bag full of gold coins lying by the door, enough to take care of her mother and live a comfortable life. She realized then, her deepest desire was not wealth but her mother’s well-being, which the Enchanted Candle understood and granted.
Word spread about Ada’s encounter, bringing scores of people making their way to the candle shop. They yearned for their wishes to be granted, only to realize the Enchanted Candle fulfilled the wish of the most deserving, teaching the power of intention, purity, love, and sacrifice. The candle shop wasn't just a shop anymore; it had become a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of pure intent.