Golden Whimsy

The two riders promised the kingdom they would return with a golden miracle. They searched mountains, markets and abandoned theatres, collecting anything that glittered. Their rhinoceroses knew most of it was coloured glass, but said nothing; hope made the journey lighter. When they finally returned, the crowd demanded the miracle.

One rider opened the chest. It was empty. The smallest follower had quietly given every bright object to lonely people along the road. The riders expected disgrace.

Instead, letters began arriving from villages they had passed, each describing a room made warmer by one ridiculous, shining gift. The kingdom never saw a golden miracle. It discovered something better: wonder loses nothing when it is shared.