The Enchanted Mirror
The Enchanted Mirror — an illustrated stories story. 10 illustrated pages, free to read on Wonder Books.
Page 1
In a kingdom veiled in perpetual twilight, stood a castle of obsidian and silver. Within its walls lived Queen Mirelle, a woman of unmatched beauty, yet cursed with an insatiable vanity. Her most prized possession was an enchanted mirror, crafted by a sorcerer of immense power. Each morning, Queen Mirelle would stand before it, her heart pounding with anticipation, and ask the fateful question: 'Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?' The mirror, bound by ancient magic, was forced to answer with unwavering truth, fueling the Queen's fragile ego.
Page 2
For years, the mirror dutifully proclaimed Queen Mirelle the fairest. Her heart swelled with pride, solidifying her reign, and securing her perceived superiority. However, in a quaint village nestled at the foot of the Shadow Mountains, lived Elara. She was a maiden of sixteen with hair like spun moonlight, eyes the color of the summer sky, and a heart filled with kindness. Her beauty was not of jewels and silks, but of laughter and grace, and gentle compassion. Her days were spent tending her garden, helping the villagers, and radiating warmth and light to everyone she met.
Page 3
One fateful morning, Queen Mirelle posed her ritual question. The enchanted mirror shimmered, its surface rippling like water. Then, in a voice that echoed with unforeseen power, it declared: 'Fair Queen, though your beauty is undeniable, Elara, in the village below the mountains, possesses a grace that surpasses all others.' The Queen's face contorted in disbelief and fury. Her reign, her identity, her very worth were threatened. She could not fathom that someone of simple means could eclipse her royal magnificence. Jealousy, a venomous serpent, coiled around her heart, poisoning her thoughts.
Page 4
Consumed by envy, Queen Mirelle summoned her most trusted huntsman, a man known for his unwavering loyalty and merciless efficiency. He was a grizzled warrior, hardened by years of service, his heart unyielding to compassion. With icy resolve, she commanded him: 'Find this Elara. Take her deep into the Shadow Mountains, and bring me proof of her demise.' The huntsman, bound by duty, bowed his head in silent acceptance, and departed into the twilight, his heart heavy with the burden he was about to bear. He knew the Queen's wrath was a force to be reckoned with, and disobendience was not an option.
Page 5
The huntsman found Elara in her garden, surrounded by the vibrant colors of her flowers. He was immediately captivated by her innocent beauty and the radiant kindness that emanated from her. He could not bring himself to carry out the Queen's cruel decree. Instead, he revealed the Queen's treacherous plot, his voice filled with remorse. Elara, though frightened, did not despair. Her heart remained pure, her spirit unbroken. She understood the huntsman's dilemma and offered a solution that would spare both their lives. She would flee the kingdom, and he would return with a token to appease the Queen.
Page 6
With a heavy heart, the huntsman procured a wild animal's heart as proof of Elara's demise. He presented it to the Queen, who, blinded by her own vanity, did not question its authenticity. She reveled in her perceived victory, believing that she had once again secured her place as the fairest. Meanwhile, Elara ventured deep into the enchanted forest, seeking refuge from the Queen's malice. The forest was a realm of ancient trees and hidden paths, a place where magic thrived and secrets whispered on the wind. She knew dangers were lurking, but her spirit did not waiver.
Page 7
Lost and alone in the depths of the enchanted forest, Elara stumbled upon a hidden cottage. It was a small, unassuming dwelling, but warmth radiated from its windows. She cautiously approached and knocked on the wooden door. It creaked open, revealing seven diminutive figures with twinkling eyes and beards that reached their knees. They were dwarves, guardians of the forest, and masters of ancient lore. They welcomed Elara into their home, offering her food, shelter, and protection from the Queen's wrath. They were immediately charmed by her kindness and grace, vowing to protect her.
Page 8
Time passed, and Elara found solace and happiness among the dwarves. She helped with their chores, tended their garden, and filled their home with laughter and light. However, the enchanted mirror continued to reveal the truth. Queen Mirelle, consumed by her unyielding vanity, once again consulted the mirror. To her utter horror, it proclaimed that Elara was not only alive but had grown even more radiant in her kindness and purity. The Queen's fury knew no bounds, and she vowed to destroy Elara herself, employing dark magic if necessary.
Page 9
Disguised as an old peddler woman, Queen Mirelle ventured into the enchanted forest. She carried with her a poisoned apple, its skin shimmering with an alluring crimson hue. She sought out the dwarves' cottage and offered the apple to Elara, claiming it was a gift of friendship. Elara, unsuspecting of the Queen's treachery, accepted the apple. With one bite, she fell into a deep, death-like sleep. The dwarves returned to find Elara lifeless, their hearts filled with grief. They placed her in a crystal coffin, hoping for a miracle.
Page 10
A prince, valiant and true, traversed the enchanted forest. He was captivated by Elara's beauty, even in her slumber. Moved by her plight, he knelt beside the coffin and gently kissed her. The power of true love broke the Queen's wicked spell. Elara awoke, her eyes filled with wonder. The Queen's disguise shattered, revealing her true form. Enraged, her own dark magic backfired, causing the Queen to vanish, her reign of vanity forever ended. Elara and the Prince returned to his kingdom, where her kindness and grace brought light to all. They ruled with compassion and wisdom, creating a kingdom where true beauty was valued above all else.
About this story
- Audience: kids (ages 6–12)