The Leaf of Eternity🔊

Once upon a time, in a land bounded by crimson mountains and luxuriant emerald valleys, there resided a small, isolated settlement named Aelonia. The heart of Aelonia inherited a prolific tree, unlike any other in existence, which was respected by all and known as the Viventem Tree.

The Viventem tree was substantial, reaching far beyond the heavens, its branches casting an ever-changing tapestry of shadow and light onto the village below. The tree bore a single, golden leaf at its pinnacle each year, known as the Leaf of Eternity. The leaf was believed to possess the power to bestow a lifetime of prosperity and never-ending happiness to whomever was chosen to ascend and retrieve it.

Every year, a child that reached the age of maturity was bestowed the honor of climbing the Viventem Tree. But this year was different. This year, it was the turn of Alanna, a timid but kind-hearted girl known for her empathetic nature, rather than her physical strength.

As the appointed day arrived, the vibrant sun marked the beginning of a new chapter in Alanna's life. Looking up at the dizzying heights of the Viventem tree, Alanna felt a surge of determination. Each foothold was carefully placed, each branch trusted as a lifeline.

Being so frail, Alanna bore several cuts and bruises, but she relentlessly continued her ascent. As she ascended, the villagers could see her silhouette against the lilac sky. The whispers of worry were hushed by the sight of the determined girl climbing higher and higher.

After days of relentless ascension, Alanna finally reached the golden leaf, shimmering in the sunlight. A sense of fulfillment enveloped her as she reached out to pluck the leaf. Upon touching it, she was engulfed with an incredibly warm and soothing sensation.

Descending with the leaf, Alanna was met with cheers and applause. A sense of relief ran through the crowd, grateful for her safe return. She was acknowledged as a hero. However, she didn't keep the Leaf of Eternity for herself. Instead, she gave it to a young, orphaned boy whom she knew would need its luck and prosperity far more than she would.

Years later, the legend of Alanna, the kind-hearted girl who ascended the Viventem tree and shared the blessings of the Leaf of Eternity, was revered. Her act became a reminder of absolute compassion and selflessness.

And thus, Aelonia was forever altered, shaping their tradition not to test the bravery of their youth or bestow prosperity on one, but to encourage sharing the Eternity Leaf's benefits with those in need. From that year forth, Aelonia flourished, transforming from an isolated settlement into a prosperous, united community that lived beyond the lifetime of Alanna, and passed on her spirit of kindness and compassion till time immemorial.