The King Returns

Once there was an enormous kingdom ruled by a kind but just king. One day the king departed his kingdom assuring his subjects he would be back and that time would usher in a great time peace without war or strife.

“I will return,” he said, “to take you to a better place than this, where the people will never grow hungry and we will all live in peace and harmony. In the meantime, love and be kind to one another and pass these things on to the people you meet… Treat them as I have always treated you.”

For many millennia many of the subjects forgot the king’s parting words and war, famine and violence and other atrocities ravaged the kingdom. There were only a few the loyal subjects who remembered the King’s promise and commands, quietly and dutifully they carried out his orders; though they spoke to others when needed.

One day, when a new generation was growing up in the kingdom they heard the distant blare of trumpets; the fanfare of a ruler returning to their native land.

There coming towards them, was the king looking the same as the day he left, his regal white horse and steadfast as ever. The loyal subjects came running to meet him while others stayed behind still still arguing amongst themselves. So the king came down he vanquished the enemies that had overrun areas of land particularly his beloved palace which was in disarray. He dealt with his enemies swiftly and with justice though many did not think this was fair. They were banished from the kingdom to the furthest reaches of the land.

When the battle had subsided he dismounted and smiled down on his loyal subjects.

“My loyal subjects, well done, I am pleased you. Now I take you to the place I have prepared for you. Together we will live in peace just as I have promised.”

So the king brought them to a new land which was unlike any they had seen. It was brighter and there was not a flaw in it. There was always plenty of food and everyone was was happy. The subjects were given anything they asked and there was no more sickness. A great river from this land, and it was around this river the king fashioned his new city.

This new city was glorious! There were houses and castles as far as the eye could see, each for a member or family within the kingdom. The city was bedazzled with glorious jewels, more spectacular than anything the people had ever seen, The long winding streets paved with shimmering gold. The city was surrounded by 12 jeweled gates each set with large pearls; these gates were guarded by the king's most loyal soldiers which had proudly defended the kingdom for many years.

Everyone was safe there was no more harm, no more tears, and no more crying. It was as if the kingdom itself was immortalized along with those who live there.

So they lived on forever, forever and ever. Happy, and at peace.