The Eyes of the Dragon
Long ago, in a kingdom nestled between towering mountains and boundless oceans, lived a wise and noble king named Leonard. He was adored by his people, revered for his knowledge of mythical beasts and magical artefacts. However, as the years wore on, he became obsessed with a legend that whispered about a dragon living atop the highest peaks of the kingdom.
The dragon was said to possess a pair of eyes made out of priceless gemstones: one of shimmering blue sapphire, and the other of radiant ruby. Intoxicated with the idea of these magical eyes, King Leonard embarked on a quest, leaving his beloved Queen Martha in charge of their lands.
Carrying nothing but his courage and an old dragon rune staff, King Leonard climbed the unforgiving mountains, braving frosty winds and terrible snow to reach the dragon's lair. Rumours whispered that the dragon's eyes had the power to grant a single wish, no matter how impossible. Some said it could defy reality, change fates, or even overturn death itself.
Inside the dragon's lair, it slept soundlessly, basking in the warmth of its own flame. It was majestic, its scales resembling the galaxies, its breath a plume of hazy mist. Taking a deep breath, Leonard stepped forward, his voice echoing. 'Dragon, I come seeking your eyes,' he declared.
The dragon opened its mesmerising eyes, regarding him with interest. 'And what would you do, O King, with such power?' it asked, its voice shaking the very stones around them.
Leonard swallowed. 'I wish to bring prosperity and everlasting peace to my kingdom.'
The dragon stayed silent, its gaze never leaving the king. 'Many have come before you, seeking the eyes and their magic. But none desired such a noble cause. For this, your wish shall be granted.'
As the dragon closed its eyes, the ruby and sapphire dislodged from their sockets, transforming into dust that swirled in a spiral before landing onto the dragon rune staff. Then, in a blink, the dragon vanished, leaving Leonard alone in the empty cave.
Upon his return, vast changes swept across the kingdom. A mystic aroma filled the air, discarding all traces of despair. Disease and famine became words of the past, and peace, a cherished reality. Leonard's kingdom flourished like never before, humming with prosperity and happiness.
The tale of the selfless king who wished for his people's well-being travelled far and wide. The story hummed in the corridors of the regal castle, woven into the songs of the minstrels and etched onto the heart of every citizen. The Eyes of the Dragon and King Leonard's altruistic desire for peace became a legend, a benchmark for the generations to follow.
As for the dragon rune staff with its gemstone dust, it was preserved as a holy relic, a reminder of a king's sacrifice and a dragon's generosity. King Leonard ruled his stress-free kingdom for many years, leading with wisdom and continued love for his people. When he died, he left behind a prosperous and peaceful kingdom that would continue to flourish and a tale that would forever live in the hearts of his people, serving as a reminder of the essence of true leadership.