The Winged Princess of Coramonde
Once upon a time, in the city of Coramonde, nestled between the shadowy mountains and wild seas, reigned a benevolent King named Basil. King Basil was known for his just rule, kindness, and was adored by all his subjects. His wife, Queen Ariadne was equally loved for her generosity and wisdom. Yet, their kingdom was shrouded in sorrow, for they were childless.
One day, a wizard named Zephyr arrived at the royal court. Known for his divine skills in magic, he offered help. He prophesied that a child would indeed be born to them, but, the couple must promise to raise the child with love and kindness, devoid of any prejudice. The joyful couple agreed without a second thought, unaware of the twist of fate that lay ahead.
Time flew; a beautiful princess, Ailith was born. However, she wasn't like the other royal offspring; she had magnificent wings, iridescent in the sunlight. The people of Coramonde were startled by her unusual appearance. Nevertheless, driven by the affection for their rulers, they accepted and loved the princess.
Ailith was raised like any other princess except for her ability to fly like no other human could. She was indicative of an incredible amalgamation of an eagle's strength and a sparrow's dexterity while in flight. Her parents kept the promise they had made to Zephyr and raised her with immense love. She grew up to be a kind-hearted, fearless, and resilient individual.
Years passed, and news of Ailith's uniqueness spread far and wide, eventually reaching Zenon, an evil wizard residing in the Foggy Mountains. Intrigued and desirous of her abilities, he decided to abduct Ailith and utilize her powers for his wicked intentions.
One gloomy night, under the guise of a powerful thunderstorm, Zenon kidnapped Ailith and confined her in the highest tower of his dark castle. He cast a spell that blocked Ailith's powers and imprisoned her. The kingdom of Coramonde fell into a deep sorrow. Despite their relentless efforts, the king's army found no trace of the princess or her captor.
Meanwhile, in the secluded tower, Ailith didn't lose heart. She remembered the values she was raised with - courage, resilience, and hope. She remembered her father's words, 'Wings don't make you powerful, your spirit does. So, even in times of despair, search for the strength within you.'
Empowered by this, she decided to use her wit and intelligence.
The only person she saw in the castle was Zenon's housemaid, an old woman named Yara, who served her meals. Ailith, using her kind nature as a tool, befriended Yara, who was, in fact, another captive of Zenon. Together, they plotted an escape.
After meticulous planning, the day for their escape arrived. Ailith wisely tricked Zenon into believing that she is giving away her powers to him. While the wicked wizard jovially prepared for the ritual, Yara sneaked into the wizard’s chambers and stole his magic staff. She rushed back and used the staff to break Ailith's confining spell.
Suddenly, Ailith could feel her wings flutter with strength. She, with Yara clasped on her back, soared high from tower's window into the moonlit sky, leaving the stupefied Zenon behind.
With her kingdom in sight, Ailith descended into the royal courtyard, where upon seeing her, the people rejoiced, and joyous cries echoed throughout Coramonde. King Basil and Queen Ariadne held their daughter, overcome with joy. From that day forth, Ailith’s bravery became legendary, resonate in the heart of every man, woman and child of Coramonde. Zenon was later dethroned and punished by Zephyr, restoring peace to all corners of the land.