The Unbreakable Blade
In the fringe lands of the kingdom of Alaria, there lived a poor blacksmith called Arius. Despite his adverse circumstances, he was known far and wide for his kindness, generosity, and the quality of his work.
One day, Arius received a visitor from the capital. Out of breath and trembling, she revealed herself to be Princess Elara, the only heir to the throne. She was fleeing from Lord Darcion, her uncle, who had seized the throne. She explained that Darcion desired the enchanted gauntlet, a powerful artifact handed down through generations of Alarian royalty. Elara alone knew its whereabouts, miring her in peril. She implored Arius to forge her a sword, the only way she could defend herself against her uncle's relentless soldiers.
Touched by the princess's plight and courage he agreed, even though he had barely enough iron for a sword. To create something worthy of a princess, he would need to pour all of his skill into this task. He worked meticulously, heating, pounding, folding, and cooling the metal until a fine blade emerged. He used the last of his gold to embed a tiny star-shaped ruby into the hilt, as a symbol of hope for Elara.
Presenting the sword to Elara, Arius explained, 'This is no ordinary sword. This sword reflects the heart of its wielder. If your heart is pure and your cause is just, this sword will never break, no matter the strength of your opponent.' Touched, Elara thanked Arius for his labor and goodwill.
With Elara armed, she began her journey back to the capital. She fought Lord Darcion's soldiers with ferocious bravery and the sword remained unbroken, a testament to her rightful claim to the throne. Word spread of Princess Elara's determination and bravery and a swell of supporters began to assemble.
Back in the capital, Elara challenged Lord Darcion to a duel. Realizing she had won the heart of the people, Darcion agreed to the duel, certain he could defeat her. They clashed, with Elara's sword dancing in the air against Darcion's own. Their fight was fierce, echoing across the land. Despite Darcion's power and experience, Elara's sword did not break.
With a final, determined sweep, Elara disarmed Darcion. From the crowd came cheering, erupting across the city. Elara had proven true to her promise and rightful claim over the throne. She banished Darcion, bringing an end to his tyranny.
The first decree Princess Elara proclaimed was for Arius, promoting him to the Royal Blacksmith, moving him and his family to the city where they lived comfortably, and where Arius worked passionately at his craft. Thus, the tale of a blacksmith's skill, a princess's bravery, and the sword that wouldn't break echoed across Alaria for generations to come, inspiring countless others.