The Song of the Scorpion

In the heart of a kingdom where music floated in the air like magic, there lived a young opera singer named Ida-Marie. Her voice could move mountains and warm even the coldest hearts. Ida-Marie's closest friends were Elena, Laura, and Lauge, each of whom shared a special bond with her.

One fateful day, as Ida-Marie practiced her scales in the castle gardens, a mysterious figure emerged from the shadows. It was the Witch, known for her tricks and schemes. With a wicked grin, the Witch cast a spell upon Ida-Marie, transforming her into a scorpion. She then handed Ida-Marie a scorpion costume that she could never take off.

Confusion and anger swept through Ida-Marie as she tried to comprehend her new form. Her heart filled with bitterness, for she believed her friends Laura and Lauge had betrayed her by falling in love with each other. Unbeknownst to Ida-Marie, Elena had also been transformed into a scorpion by the same curse. However, unlike Ida-Marie, Elena found peace in her friends' love, yet she kept this hidden, fearing Ida-Marie's wrath.

As the days passed, Ida-Marie's scorpion form became a burden she could not bear. She longed to feel the warmth of the sun on her skin and sing her melodies once more. Despite her anger and jealousy, Ida-Marie discovered a newfound strength within her, a resilience born from her love of music and friendship.

One moonlit night, a melody floated through the castle walls, a song of sorrow and hope. It was Elena, playing a haunting tune on her tiny scorpion violin. The music stirred something deep within Ida-Marie, and she realized that her friend had never stopped caring for her.

With newfound determination, Ida-Marie sought out the Witch, confronting her with courage and grace. She pleaded for the curse to be lifted, not just for herself but for Elena and all those affected by the Witch's wicked deeds. Moved by Ida-Marie's sincerity and love, the Witch relented, undoing the curse that bound them.

As the first rays of dawn illuminated the castle, Ida-Marie, Elena, Laura, and Lauge stood together once more, their friendship stronger than ever. The experience had taught them the power of forgiveness, empathy, and the enduring bond that held them together.

And so, the castle echoed with laughter and song once more, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring magic of true friendship.

**The End**