The Tale of the Lost Guardian
'The Kingdom of Verità was among the most prosperous kingdoms situated in the mid-region of Terrestria. The kingdom's lush green fields provided a livelihood for many farmers, its vast woods were home to a multitude of wildlife, its majestic mountains masked hidden treasure and its crystalline rivers were brimming with sparkling fish. Yet, fantasy records the glory of the kingdom not for its natural bounty but rather for the wise and noble dragon, Etoile. Etoile was no ordinary fire-breathing dragon. She was the guardian of Verità, the cherry-topping of the kingdom's prosperity. Her sacred duty was to protect Verità and maintain its peace. It was prophesied by the Old Magus that only the heart that harbors the Golden Light and a spirit noble and right could be the Guardian.
Etoile faithfully and ardently watched over Verità for millennia until darkness fell upon her soul one grim day. Her light dimmed, and her spirit waned. This sudden descent into darkness sparked fear in the hearts of the people of Verità; for they knew their havens would now be unprotected from dark forces looming in the shadows. They also knew the Old Magus' prophecy 'till the dragon loses the Golden Light, chaos and darkness shall ascend'. The king sent emissaries to the farthest ends of the world, seeking a solution to the dilemma destroying his kingdom's peace.
Meanwhile, an orphan boy named Apolo lived on the fringes of the kingdom. Though young, he was wise, kind, and spirited. He had often heard stories of the great dragon Etoile and dreamt of meeting her. The onset of darkness and Etoile's demise stirred a strong urge within Apolo to help. He found courage and embarked on a journey to solve the mystery.
His journey took him over mountains, across rivers, and through the forests. He was tested at every corner with hurdles that only strengthened his determination. Apolo's spirit was his guide, leading him to the Old Magus's hidden abode.
The Old Magus saw Apolo’s golden heart. He divulged that the Golden Light which once resided within Etoile had transferred to Apolo with the dragon's fall into darkness. The boy, with his shining heart and noble spirit, was now the Guardian.
Apolo received this news with humbleness, hope, and fear. He returned to Verità, carrying the heavy burden and commitment of his newfound position as the Guardian. Apolo was initiated in the sacred temple of the kingdom, and as he stepped forth after the ceremony, he felt a new power within him.
Now armed with the power of the Golden Light, Apolo sought Etoile. Darkness had consumed her completely, turning her anger towards the kingdom she once shielded. Apolo stood steadfast, the Golden Light emanating brightly. He looked into Etoile's eyes, speaking words of empathy and assurance. After a fierce verbal battle, Apolo managed to calm Etoile and rekindle her lost spirit.
Peace returned to the kingdom. Apolo, the new Guardian, and Etoile, the faithful adviser, ruled and protected the Kingdom of Verità together. The tale of Apolo, the orphan boy turned Guardian, was told across Terrestria and reminded each soul that the power to conquer darkness lays within a heart of gold and spirit of nobility.