Once upon a time, at a blessed wedding ceremony in the Wheelbehelm mansion, excitement filled the air. It was a grand celebration — flowers everywhere, laughter, music, and the rich scent of roasted meats.
Veronica and Kristoff were tying the knot. Kristoff, the only son of the wealthy Wheelbehelm family, marrying Veronica was the best thing that had ever happened to them — or so it seemed.
"I'm glad to see everyone present," said the chairman of the occasion, raising a glass.
After the couple exchanged vows and the party began, wine flowed freely. In fact, the wine cellar was soon emptied. Guests drank and ate to their heart's content.
"It is time to open the gifts!" the chairman announced.
The couples smiled as guests approached with boxes wrapped in silver and gold. But then came a peculiar moment — a man, dressed in a purple suit, approached the bride and groom silently. He carried no box, only a strange object wrapped in deep violet cloth.
He handed it to the bride and whispered,
"Mrs. Veronica Wheelbehelm, this I give to you as a gift — one that must never be passed on or returned. Should you try, it will find its way back... to you."
Veronica frowned, confused. "Who are you?" she asked.
The man smiled calmly. "Do you believe in God the Creator, Veronica?"
She hesitated. "He left me when I was little."
"I am the one who comes for those who wish to fulfill their deepest greed," he said. "When you lost your family, you prayed for much — wealth, comfort, revenge. This gift... it hears such prayers."
Veronica stared at him, chilled.
"With this gift," he continued, "all you desire will come to pass — not just for you, but for generations."
Without another word, the man turned and walked briskly to a sleek black car. He opened the door, entered, and drove off into the night.
Veronica stood stunned, wondering what kind of man he was — and what sort of gift she'd just received.
She stared at the object in her hands, wrapped tight. A shiver ran through her as she felt it pulse.