The Honest Blacksmith
In the fair town of Havershaw, on the banks of the rushing River Reor, there lived a man named Felix. Felix was renowned through the town for his extraordinary honesty. He was no nobility, nor rich, but his integrity made him unique in the eyes of the townsfolk. He led a simple life as a blacksmith, crafting the finest tools and weapons that Havershaw had ever seen.
One day, a traveller came to town with a peculiar gold statue. This statue held a ruby so brilliant, it was said to be visible from miles away during the day and it glowed in the night like a lone star. The traveller declared that only the most honest person can claim the treasure.
Upon hearing this, the people of Havershaw rallied and told the traveller about Felix. The traveller then visited Felix's smithy, observed him while he worked and interacted with his customers. Felix's straightforwardness and righteousness impressed the traveller, and he felt certain that he had found the right person.
He approached Felix and presented him with the golden statue. 'This, dear Felix, is yours. For your honesty is an example for all.' However, Felix declined. 'I have no use for such a treasure,' he said, 'It will only disrupt the simplicity of my life.' The traveller was puzzled. He had expected Felix to accept the gold statue and the fame that would inevitably follow. But Felix was content with his life. He didn't want unnecessary luxury disrupting his peace.
The traveller travelled to other towns but could find no man as honest as Felix. He kept coming back to Felix, pleading with him to accept the gold statue. But Felix remained resolute. Then one day, the traveller had an idea. He called the townsfolk in Havershaw and set up an event in the town square.
He unveiled a huge block of iron, as tall as two men. ‘This block of iron,’ he announced, ‘will be made into a statue of Felix. Given that he does not desire the treasure, his honesty will be immortalised in the form of this statue, a reminder for the generations about honesty and integrity.'
The townsfolk cheered and applauded. When they looked at Felix, they saw a man moved to tears. He had desired no honour or riches, but this gesture was something that warmed his heart. He nodded at the traveller, who then invited him to strike the first blow.
For days, Felix worked tirelessly on the statue. When it was done, the town of Havershaw had an iron smith standing proudly overlooking its streets, reminding everyone about the value of honesty. As time went by, Felix grew old and passed away. But, his legacy continued to live on through the stories, tales of the honest blacksmith of Havershaw originated, and the statue remained standing tall reminding people about the man whose simple life and honesty had won him immortal honour.