The Golden Swan of Zaravanza
A long time ago, in the kingdom of Zaravanza, lived a king whose wisdom was known across all 7 continents. This king, named Regulus, was famous for promoting peace in his kingdom and for his innate ability to resolve any conflict. Yet, regardless of all his traits, what made him famous was his mythical Golden Swan.
The Golden Swan was the king’s most prized possession. It was the symbol of prosperity, and the citizens believed it to be the heart of Zaravanza's richness. But it wasn't the glimmering gold, nor the flawless craftsmanship that made the swan. The actual charm was in the mystical music the swan played at midnight, calming down angry hearts and spreading bliss throughout the kingdom.
The king, while a great leader, had a flaw. He was getting older, and he had no heir who could continue his work. He was burdened with the thought of what might befall his beloved kingdom and the golden swan after his demise.
In a neighboring kingdom, lived a cunning and ambitious king, Betelgeuse, known for his deceit and greed. His eyes were firmly set on the Golden Swan. He dreamt of owning the golden swan, using its magical music to dominate other kingdoms.
Back in Zaravanza, King Regulus was informed by his trusted advisor, Rigel, about Betelgeuse's wicked intentions. Rigel, a wise wizard, suggested a plan to protect the swan.
To test the true intentions of people around him, King Regulus announced a grand feast. Invitations were extended to royalties far and wide, with the Golden Swan displayed prominently for everyone. As predicted, King Betelgeuse, transfixed by the swan, attended the feast.
As the night grew dark, the swan played its mystic music, mesmerizing everyone in its harmonious trance. Right then, Regulus announced his intention of bestowing the swan to the most deserving one after his demise. Instantly, Betelgeuse stood up and insisted that he should be the one.
King Regulus proposed a challenge. Whoever could fetch the 'Stone of Ampara' from the heart of the Forbidden Jungle would be deemed worthy. The ambitious Betelgeuse took the challenge. The Forbidden Jungle was known for its deadly creatures and was a place where even the bravest dared not venture.
Defying the risks, Betelgeuse embarked on his journey with an entourage of his best men. The journey through the Forbidden Jungle was full of harrowing encounters. Still, his greed for the swan overpowered his fear. After a week-long trek, he spotted the 'Stone of Ampara'.
As soon as he picked the stone, he was surrounded by the ancient guards of the jungle. An epic battle commenced, which resulted in heavy casualties, but ultimately Betelgeuse emerged victoriously.
With the stone, a victorious Betelgeuse returned to Zaravanza, where a crowd awaited him. He arrogantly threw the stone at Regulus's feet. In response, Regulus merely congratulated him and asked him to wait for the night when the swan would play its midnight music. But as the swan started its harmonious music, something unexpected happened. Instead of the sweet symphony, the sound turned into an ear-piercing shriek sending everyone into a frenzy.
The golden swan had identified the negative aura emitting from Betelgeuse’s greed, and it was retaliating. Betelgeuse was struck with intolerable pain and fell to the ground, the swan's music reducing his ambition and arrogance to ashes. It only when he realized his mistake and genuinely repented that the music turned back into the calming tune, and Betelgeuse was released from his agony.
King Regulus used this as an opportunity to teach everyone that greed and deceit might lead a person to great lengths, but the desire would only bring about their downfall. Everyone needs to earn their prizes through sincerity, humility and rightful deeds.
Months later, a humble, changed King Betelgeuse stood in front of the Golden Swan, asking for forgiveness again, this time a different man, stripped of ambition and greed. The magnificent swan played its music, enveloping him in tranquility, symbolizing forgiveness. The story of King Regulus and King Betelgeuse spread across continents, reminding everyone of humility and the true value of fortune.