The Land Beyond the Sea
Once upon a time, in a small village by the shore, lay a kingdom named Percifal. The kingdom was known far and wide for its serene beauty, bountiful harvest, and compassionate inhabitants. The townsfolk, though living simple lives, were genuinely happy and contented. However, what made Percifal truly unique was the legend of the 'Land Beyond the Sea'.
The legend said, a land existed far beyond the boundaries of the endearing waves, a land overflowing with unimaginable riches, where people lived life king-size, and happiness knew no bounds - a land called Nova.
A young fisherman Dante, always enchanted by this folklore, decided to venture on this journey to find Nova. He was not driven by the greed of wealth but was purely consumed by his curiosity and desire to explore. Dante had no family to leave behind, the sea was his home, the fishermen his family, and Percifal, his motherland.
After weeks of preparations, Dante set sail one fine morning. As his tiny boat disappeared on the horizon, the people of Percifal prayed for his safe return. Dante's journey was filled with beautiful days and terrifying nights. There were days when the sea’s calmness gave him hope, and there were nights when the roaring tides tried to overpower his boat. Despite the threats, Dante sailed, his spirit undeterred.
After weeks of sailing, Dante found an island. It was breathtaking, with its golden beaches, lush green forests, and a vibrant rainbow arcing in the sky. He was sure this was the long-lost Nova. As he landed ashore, the sight was unbelievable. The land was filled with prospering businesses, palatial houses, gold-paved roads, and exotic foods, all just like the ancient tales.
Dante was welcomed warmly, and he assimilated quickly into their culture. He was indeed living a life of the gods, just as the legend had prophesied. But soon, Dante realized something amiss. He noted the people, despite their material wealth, looked sad and discontented. Their laughter lacked warmth, and their smiles were void of genuine happiness.
Dante saw that the Nova people were so engrossed in the race for material possessions that they forgot to live. They were wealthy but not content, alive but not living. Dante decided it was time for him to return to Percifal.
When Dante returned, the people were overjoyed. He narrated the tales of Nova and pointed out the glaring difference between the two lands. Percifal, though simple, was filled with love, communal harmony, and contentment, while Nova, despite its richness, was devoid of happiness.
With Dante's story, the people of Percifal understood that true wealth lies in love, community, and a sense of contentment. They were not just happy anymore; they were contented, they were prosperous, they were rich.
The tale of Dante served as a lesson, as a story of wisdom for generations to come. It made the people realize that sometimes the search for wealth leads one away from the true treasures of life, which are peace and happiness. From then on, the legend of Nova remained as a reminder of true richness, and Percifal always prospered in its wealth of happiness!