The Merchant’s Gift
Once upon a time, in the bustling port city of Marseille, there lived a wealthy merchant named Edouard. Edouard was known throughout the city not only for his vast wealth but also for his prodigious generosity. He spent liberally, paid his workers well, and always had a coin for those less blessed. However, he was as lonely as he was rich, having no family to share his life with.
One day, a powerful sorcerer came to the city. He was poor and weary from his journey, so he knocked at the door of the most magnificent house in the city - Edouard's mansion. The merchant welcomed him warmly, offering food and a bed for the night. Grateful for Edouard's kindness, the sorcerer revealed his true identity and offered to grant him a single wish.
Edouard faltered. He had enough gold and properties but lacked companionship. 'I wish to share my life and wealth with someone who understands the value of kindness and generosity,' Edouard said.
The sorcerer agreed and imbued a small ruby pendant with an enchantment. 'This pendant will glow in the presence of a person with a kind heart. When you find that person, give this to them as a gift.' He advised before disappearing into the night.
Edouard travelled all over, meeting dukes and barons, princesses and countesses. Although they liked him, none caused the ruby to glow. Disappointed, he returned home.
Upon his return, he noticed a young woman, Anne, who worked as a humble maid in his mansion. Anne was kind-hearted and generous despite her own poverty. She often helped the other workers, shared her meagre meal with stray animals, and provided comfort to those in need. Edouard was struck by her generosity and to his amazement, the pendant began to glow.
In her, Edouard saw someone who understood the importance of kindness and generosity, just like him. Over time, they became good friends and later, fell in love. Edouard, remembering the wizard's words, gave Anne the enchanted pendant. Their bond grew stronger.
On a beautiful sunny day, Edouard proposed, Anne accepted, and they were married with great joy. From then, their life was filled with laughter and companionship. Over time, Edouard's mansion became a place of warmth and happiness, known throughout Marseille not just for the merchant's vast wealth, but also for the couple's benevolence and undying love.
Years passed, and one day, the sorcerer visited Edouard again. He was impressed at the change and commended Edouard's choice. 'You truly understood the value of kindness. You and Anne have created a treasure far greater than just riches,' the sorcerer mused, and then vanished again, leaving Edouard and Anne to continue their life of love and generosity, rich not just in gold, but in kindness and happiness.