The Water of Life

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s a classic ‘journey’ story that ends with healing and justice. The structure is reassuring: challenges, helpers, then a safe return—great for older kids who enjoy adventure before sleep.

Story Synopsis

A powerful king grows gravely ill, and no medicine can help. At last, a wise word spreads: only the Water of Life can save him. The king’s three sons promise to search for it. The oldest two set out first, confident they will succeed, but along the way they meet strangers who ask for help—and they refuse, impatient and proud. Their refusal has consequences. They become lost in confusion and temptation, and the path closes to them. When the youngest son sets out, he meets the same requests for kindness, and he chooses differently. He helps where he can, speaks respectfully, and stays humble. Because of these choices, he receives guidance: directions, warnings, and the knowledge of how to reach the Water of Life. He must pass tests, enter hidden places, and move with care through danger. He also learns that the quest is not only about finding a magical water—it’s about becoming the kind of person who can carry it home. At last, the youngest finds the Water of Life and returns in time. The king is restored, and the court rejoices. But jealousy rises in the older brothers, and they attempt to steal the credit or ruin the youngest’s success. In the end, truth comes to light. The youngest is recognized for what he truly did, and the tale closes with healing, rightful honor, and the quiet lesson that kindness is often the real magic.

Story Excerpt

There was once a king who grew terribly ill. Wise doctors came and went, and costly medicines were tried, but nothing helped. The king lay pale and tired in his great bed, and the whole palace felt quiet, as if it were holding its breath. The king had three sons. They loved him dearly, and when they could not bear their worry any longer, they went down into the garden. Under the trees they wept, trying to be brave, but feeling small against such a heavy fear. As they stood there, an old man with a bent back and bright, watchful eyes came walking along the path. “Why are you grieving so?” he asked. “Our father is ill,” the princes told him. “No one can make him well.” The old man nodded slowly. “I know one more remedy,” he said. “The Water of Life. If the king drinks it, he will recover. But it is hard to find.” At once the eldest son lifted his head. “Then I will find it,” he declared. His tears dried quickly, and pride rose in their place. He hurried to the king’s chamber and begged, “Father, let me go. Only the Water of Life can save you.” The king shook his head. “The danger is too great,” he whispered. “I would rather rest than lose you.” But the eldest pleaded so long that at last the king gave a weak nod. The prince left at once, thinking, If I bring it back, my father will love me best, and I will inherit the kingdom. He rode out quickly, barely noticing the wind in the trees. Not far from the palace, a little dwarf stepped into the road. He was small as a child, with a beard like gray moss. “Where are you going so fast?” the dwarf called. The eldest prince did not even slow his horse. “Silly shrimp,” he said sharply, “that is none of your business.” The dwarf’s eyes narrowed. He said nothing more, but his face hardened like a stone. Soon the prince reached a ravine where the mountains pressed close on both sides.

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