Recall, the tale of the King and his counsel – they who stood by his throne in unwavering loyalty, and in return, earned his affection and grace.
One day, the King decided to seek the desires of his people, and their acts of devotion. His servants, cloaked in duty, ventured beyond the palace walls to find out.
Among the masses, a prevailing notion for reciprocity was unveiled. "What will be our reward?” they pondered aloud, eyes alight with hopes of recompense. The counsel spoke of treasures untold — gems, new lands, a life of splendour as they yearned.
Many revered in the thought, their hearts caught up by the lure of rewards. Yet, amidst this thinking, a small group stood apart, unswayed by the charm of these rewards and riches.
"What shall sway your hearts?" the servants probed, with curiosity. “Not jewels nor lands do we seek," they replied. "Our sole wish, is to dwell in the King’s grace, to serve at his side – a testament to our gratitude for his boundless benevolence. His nearness is our only humble desire.”
Upon their return, the counsel narrated the range of desires before the King. "Let those who pledge their service in hope of reward receive their due, should their vows hold true," the King decreed.
"And of those untempted by the glitter of reward, Your Majesty?” inquired a servant. A moment of silence, then the King spoke, "Bid them return, well pleased as my faithful servants. Draw them near, into my court, into the sanctuary of the breeze in my garden."
"They seek nothing but to offer their love, their service, without the chains of rewards and expectation. They gaze through my eyes, and don’t confine me within my own kingdom. For their love, loyalty, and for their service, they are sheltered under my love glance – within them, my watchful eye resides."
– NS
Note: the image above has been created with Midjourney.