The Lost Diamond of Elderglaze
Once upon a time, in a kingdom far away, nestled in the heart of the mighty Elderglaze Mountain, lived a humble gem-cutter named Orlin. Though he was skilled beyond belief, he was never truly recognized for his superior craftsmanship. Orlin had spent his life amongst sparkling stones and shining metals.
One day, word from the King’s herald spread throughout the kingdom. King Yorick, a man known for his love of vagaries and mysteries, had lost his precious gem – the Diamond of Elderglaze. This diamond was the core of his kingdom’s prosperity and holder of immense magical properties. It was rumored that whoever possessed the diamond could gain eternal life. The King felt desperate and offered half his kingdom to whoever returned the diamond safely. This challenge caught the attention of every being in the kingdom - from the gentillia fairies that lived in bluebells to the dank clods casting their weathered eyes from under the bridges. Orlin, with his love for gems, felt he was the most deserving of this quest and thus set forth to find the lost Diamond of Elderglaze.
Orlin started his journey navigating Elderglaze’s labyrinthine paths that he knew so well. He reached deep within the mountain’s belly, whose serpentine passages flickered with veins of silvery minerals. The gloom was broken occasionally by bio-luminescent fungi, casting an eerie yet enchanting glow. Each passing minute felt like years as Orlin spent days and nights flipping stones, delving into crevices, and examining every nook. His heart however, remained undeterred. He knew the magnitude of his quest, and his unwavering spirit allowed him to brave the challenges ahead.
One evening, while basking under the undulating glow of the Aurin fireflies, Orlin was visited by an old, hobbled fairy, Ethelinda. With her silver hair cascading below her feet, she was known to be the oldest inhabitant of Elderglaze, old enough to remember when the Diamond was first discovered. Pleading for her guidance, Orlin explained the significance of his quest not only for him but for the entire kingdom.
Touched by his earnest determination, Ethelinda shared a legend. The Diamond of Elderglaze was no ordinary stone, but a test of the worthy. It was rumored that only a heart pure with intention and brave enough to face the mighty Verndrago, a fire-breathing beast guarding the diamond, could reclaim it.
Equipped with this knowledge, Orlin decided to face Verndrago. He climbed to the dragon’s lair, atop Elderglaze's tallest peak. Here, braving the icy gusts and baffling heights, faced the angered Verndrago, who eyed him with suspicion and malice. Despite his fear, Orlin stood his ground, mirroring the dragon's gaze unflinchingly. He spoke to it not with hostility, but with a plea, explaining to him the kingdom's peril and his quest's righteousness.
In lieu of an answer, the dragon revealed the Diamond of Elderglaze, its radiance matching the flames dancing in Verndrago's gaze. He then posed a question to Orlin, challenging him to choose between the diamond and his life. Without the diamond, he would live a long, peaceful life, but the sorrow of a dying kingdom would linger. With the diamond, he would die, but his kingdom would thrive.
Choosing selflessly, Orlin took the diamond. Verndrago, true to his word, released a mighty fire. Instead of incinerating him, the pure intentions of Orlin transformed the flames into a dazzling firework that descended onto the kingdom. The fireworks enthralled the kingdom, whose glory woke the slumbering King Yorick. Upon being presented with the diamond and learning of Orlin's deeds, he named Orlin his successor, acknowledging his bravery and selflessness, thereby not only did Orlin become a king, his craftsmanship was also recognized throughout the kingdom.
Such is the tale of the humble gem-cutter who became King. Even today, the tale echoes through the bedchambers of Elderglaze, instilling faith and courage amidst its people.