Bedtime Story The Enchanted Orchard
In the quaint village of Greenwood, nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, there was an orchard unlike any other. This orchard, known to the villagers as the Enchanted Orchard, bore fruits that sparkled under the sun, each bite filled with magic and wonder. But the orchard was guarded by a fearsome creature, a dragon named Ember, whose scales shimmered like the fruits themselves.
No one dared approach the orchard, save for a young, daring girl named Lila. Lila was not like the other villagers; she was adventurous, her spirit untamed, and her curiosity boundless. She dreamt of tasting the enchanted fruits, of unlocking the magic within them.
One day, Lila mustered her courage and approached the orchard. As she stepped into the clearing, Ember descended, landing before her with a thunderous crash that shook the earth.
“Why do you come here, human?” Ember’s voice boomed, a fiery blaze flickering within its throat.
“I’ve come for the fruits,” Lila replied, her voice steady despite the fear that tugged at her heart. “I wish to understand their magic, to see the world beyond these hills and forests.”
Ember eyed Lila, a spark of interest in its gaze. “Many have tried, yet all have failed. What makes you different?”
Lila met Ember’s gaze, her resolve clear. “I seek not just for myself but for all of Greenwood. The magic in your orchard could help our village thrive.”
Ember considered this, its tail flicking thoughtfully. “Very well, human. I shall grant you a single fruit, but first, you must answer a riddle. Fail, and you shall leave empty-handed.”
Lila nodded, accepting the challenge.
Ember’s voice softened, the riddle woven into the smoky air. “I can fly without wings, I can cry without eyes. Wherever I go, darkness flies. What am I?”
Lila pondered, the answer dancing at the edge of her mind. Then, it came to her, clear as day. “The answer is a cloud.”
Ember let out a rumbling laugh, a sound that echoed through the orchard. “Clever girl. You have earned your prize.” With a graceful motion, Ember plucked a single, luminous fruit from a nearby tree and offered it to Lila.
Lila took the fruit, its skin cool and smooth in her hands. “Thank you, Ember. But I must ask, why guard the orchard so fiercely?”
Ember’s eyes glinted, a hint of sadness within them. “The magic of the fruits is potent, too potent for those who seek power over wisdom. I guard it to ensure it is used for good, not greed.”
Lila understood. She promised to use the fruit’s magic wisely, for the benefit of Greenwood and beyond.
As Lila turned to leave, Ember spoke once more. “Lila, should you ever need guidance, the orchard will be open to you. You have shown bravery and wisdom this day.”
Lila returned to Greenwood, the enchanted fruit in hand. Its magic brought prosperity to the village, healing the sick and rejuvenating the land. But she kept her promise to Ember, ensuring the magic was used with care and respect.
The tale of Lila and the Enchanted Orchard spread far and wide, a story of courage, wisdom, and the bond formed between a girl and a dragon. And though Lila embarked on many more adventures, the orchard remained a symbol of the magic that lies in understanding and respect, a reminder of the day she faced a dragon and discovered the true power of kindness.
The end.
