The Last King's Treasure
In the grand kingdom of Arania, adorned with high sturdy walls and lush green fields, a tale of the last king's treasure was often whispered among the townsfolk.
In the heart of Arania stood a majestic castle, belonging to the last ruling king, Alaric. Born into royalty, King Alaric was a benevolent ruler, revered and loved by his people for his noble heart and just rule. Despite the kingdom’s splendor, it was a fabled treasure that held everyone in perpetual fascination.
King Alaric was the guardian of a hidden treasure, composed of an inconceivable amount of gold, precious gems and magical artifacts inherited from his predecessors. It wasn’t the mere wealth it symbolised that had everyone enamored. Alaric often told tales of the treasure's unique power - the power to grant a single wish - to whoever laid their hands on it, making it a beacon of hope for the hopeless, the destitute, and power-seekers alike.
One day, the kingdom was invaded by a neighbouring ruler, King Conrad. As fierce battles were fought, the castle was infiltrated, and King Alaric was mortally wounded. On his deathbed, Alaric entrusted the secret of the treasure to his loyal knight, Sir Ethan, passing on the burden to protect it.
Sir Ethan, a man of unshakeable loyalty and courage, was born a commoner. He rose to prominence in Arania because of his immense skill, quick wit and strong moral compass. He held the King in the highest regard, not only as a ruler but also as a dear friend. With a heavy heart and firm determination, Ethan promised to uphold the trust invested in him.
After King Alaric's demise, King Conrad ruled Arania, and the kingdom plunged into despair. The once vibrant city lost its life, while its people lost their hope. Amid the chaos and misery, Ethan remembered Alaric's last words, the promise of hope symbolised by the treasure.
For many years, Ethan had been misleading Conrad and his men about the treasure's location, fighting a silent war to protect it. He embarked on a covert journey, travelling around Arania to find potential leaders equipped with courage, strength, and most importantly, the heart to rule with justice.
Eventually, Ethan found a young maiden, Althea, in the rustic parts of Arania. Althea possessed an indomitable spirit and a strong sense of righteousness. Ethan was deeply impressed by her bravery and ability to inspire others. Sensing in her the potential to change Arania's fate, Ethan revealed to Althea the secret of the hidden treasure and King Alaric's legacy.
With Ethan’s guidance, Althea embarked on their quest. Together, they faced perilous paths, riddles, and magical creatures guarding the treasure. Her courage never wavered, and her resolution only strengthened, further convincing Ethan that he had chosen correctly.
After many trials and tribulations, they finally reached the treasure. True to the legend, it granted a wish to Althea who, without a second thought, wished for freedom and prosperity to return to Arania under just rule; her rule.
Barely had she spoken her wish when a blinding light enveloped her. She emerged, transformed into a queen with a golden crown on her head and the spirit of a true ruler glowing in her eyes. The kingdom of Arania was freed from Conrad's oppressive rule and began thriving under Queen Althea whose reign reflected the benevolence of King Alaric's rule, only fairer and kinder. The story of the last king’s treasure did not just remain a legend, but became a story of hope, perseverance, and the rise of a righteous queen. And the memory of Alaric lived on, his legacy beautifully culminated not in hidden treasures, but in the form of Arania's much-loved Queen Althea.