Its eyes glowed like candlelight with its small flickers of mystery but get too close and it can start a fire.
Once upon a time, in an oasis, there was a castle filled with stories, legends, and myths guarded by Salve. With its beastly wings and flickering eyes, he was the master of the castle and placed judgement upon those wishing to enter.
One day there was a man who went by the name of Garvish. He had heard of this mysterious castle and ventured off for its knowledge. Coming up to the castle, Salve said hello. Garvish told the dragon, “I have come from miles away searching for your books. I wish to enter.”
To that the dragon replied, “And for what is it that you are searching for?”
“I am searching for the book that will make me the wealthiest man in my town. I wish to have pockets filled with jewels, so heavy I need carts made of diamonds to carry my riches!”
Salve’s eyes glowed and flickered. He said, “I have come across many people in my lifetime but not one as greedy as you! People can learn from you!” and in an instant, the man was transformed into a book!
The next day a woman, named Baysan, approached the dragon and his castle. “Hello”, Salve said.
“I have come from miles away searching for your books. I wish to enter.”
To that the dragon replied, “And for what is it that you are searching for?”
“I am searching for the book that will make me the most powerful in my town. I am the best in my town and deserve such a title! No one is better than me!”
Salve’s eyes glowed and flickered. In response Salve said, “I have come across many people in my lifetime but not one as prideful as you! People can learn from you!” and in an instant, the woman was transformed into a book!
On the third day, another person weary from travel had approached the dragon’s castle. “Hello”, said Salve.
The child asked the dragon if he could enter. “What is it that you are searching for?”
“Something that cannot be found but rather created from within: happiness.” The dragon asked the child if they were interested in the richest jewels in the world. The child said no, he simply wanted happiness. Then, the dragon asked if they wanted the greatest title in the world, to hold power and glory. But, to the dragon’s surprise he said no, only happiness.
Finally, Salve said, “Child, I have an infinite amount of books and knowledge within my castle. Many come looking with greed and pride but you have come looking to fulfill the soul. You have come looking to create happiness. You may enter.”
This is such an amazing story! I love the hidden message behind it. You could have all the riches in the world and the highest title, but not reach fulfillment. It is when you reach true happiness that you acquire the most wealth.