In Memory of my friend Maxim Popov

Yury Zachek

THE MAGIC CAVE

A Fairy Tale

For all those who seek.

PART I

Chapter 1. Loss

By a dark, unfriendly river lived a lonely, sorrowful Hedgehog. He was grim and reclusive, a hermit who dwelled all alone in a small house on the edge of the village and spoke to no one. The other animals in the village thought him a grumpy oddball and preferred to stay out of his way.

For instance, if the kittens or puppies, while playing ball, accidentally tossed it over his fence, the Hedgehog would get irritated, stomp his feet, grumble angrily, and, after puncturing the ball with his sharp quills, throw back nothing but a deflated shell. Because of this, the villagers steered clear of his home.

And so the years passed. The path to his house became overgrown with weeds, the fence leaned and turned mossy, and the gate rusted shut. The Hedgehog was completely forgotten.

No one knew that, in truth, the Hedgehog was deeply unhappy and terribly lonely. His parents had abandoned him when he was just a child, and from that moment on, he had been alone. Deep down, he dreamed of having friends and a family, but he didn’t believe it was possible. He didn’t love himself—he was ashamed of his quills and thought life had treated him unfairly. He would often gaze into the river’s reflection for a long time, and what he saw always saddened him.

“Why, oh why do I look so awful?” he would think. “Why these terrible spikes? How did I end up being born like this? No other animal has such unpleasant, ugly, inconvenient quills. No one will ever want to be friends with me, and no one—ever—could love a prickly freak like me. Even my parents left me. Everything I touch gets hurt. I can’t even play ball with the children—my quills just pop it. Poor, miserable me… Why, why did life curse me like this?”

The years went by, and the loneliness only deepened. He grew to despise his life more and more, until eventually he began to hate himself entirely. He fell into a deep, dark depression. He even stopped eating and, in turn, grew very weak. The hardest moments were the nights, when he tossed and turned in bed, unable to sleep, listening to the eerie rustles and cries of the night birds, sobbing silently from despair.

One such night, as the rain poured in sheets and a May thunderstorm raged overhead, the Hedgehog felt more hopeless than ever.

He got out of bed and said, “I can’t go on like this. This has to end.”

He lit his lantern, took a sharp razor, and stepped outside toward the river.

Cold torrents of rain poured from the sky. The Hedgehog waded waist-deep into the icy river. In the flashes of lightning, he saw his distorted, hateful reflection swirling in the rushing water.

“Tonight, it all ends,” he thought. “Tonight, I’ll finally free myself from this suffering.”

He raised the razor, which gleamed in the lightning, and began shaving off his quills. They didn’t come off easily, but gritting his teeth, he continued. One by one, he cut them all off—until he was completely bald.

The storm moved on. Dirty tatters of cloud drifted across the sky, revealing a full moon—yellow, enormous, and perfectly round. In the moonlight, the Hedgehog looked at his reflection in the rippling water and didn’t recognize himself. A tiny, shriveled creature stared back—completely bare, frail, and pitiful.

The old rusted gate creaked and slammed shut, though it hadn’t opened in years.

“Who’s there?” asked the Hedgehog, but no one answered.

And suddenly he felt a hollowness inside, as though something—someone—who had lived within him had now left, and all that remained was a shell, like those deflated balls he’d tossed back over the fence.

A chilling emptiness spread through him.

“What have I done?” he thought. “I’m no longer me… But then, who am I now?”

Grief and fear overwhelmed him, and he broke down in tears.

Suddenly, he sensed eyes watching him and turned. On the roof of his house, silhouetted against the giant yellow disc of the moon, sat a large black Owl. She lived deep in the forest and only sometimes flew into the village at night. The Owl gazed silently at the pitiful, wet, shivering creature on the riverbank, and he stared back.

“What should I do, wise Owl?” the Hedgehog asked in despair, his voice sounding strange and wild in the moonlit stillness—he hadn’t spoken to anyone in years. “I’m completely lost, and I don’t understand what happened. Why am I so miserable, Owl? What should I do?”

The Owl tilted her head, listening closely to the sniffling Hedgehog. Finally, she spoke slowly, and her words echoed deeply in his heart:

“Poor Hedgehog. You have betrayed yourself. The one who lived within you has left,” she said, pointing with her wing toward the open gate. “You have lost yourself, Hedgehog.”

“How can I find myself again?” cried the Hedgehog, terrified. “Is that even possible?”

The Owl was silent for a moment.

“You can find yourself. But I warn you—it won’t be easy. Many dangers lie along the way. Are you willing to risk your life to become whole again?”

The Hedgehog thought for a moment.

“I am,” he said quietly, but firmly at last. “I have nothing left to lose—I’ve already lost myself. I can’t live with this emptiness inside. That’s not a life.”

“Very well,” said the Owl. “I believe you. Set out on your journey. In a far-off land, you will find a wizard with a very large nose. He can help you.”

“Which way should I go?”

“Toward the place where the Sun rises—you’ll find all your answers there,” replied the Owl. “But beware: woe to you if you go where the Sun sets. There, no truth can be found.”

The Owl spread her great wings, her moonlit shadow swept over the Hedgehog, and she vanished into the night.

The Hedgehog began packing immediately. He didn’t want to waste a single minute—who knows what his Self, the one that had fled, might be doing by now? He longed to find it, to return it, and to beg it for forgiveness. He dearly hoped he could forgive himself.

He gathered vegetables and fruits from his little garden—carrots, turnips, radishes, apples, and pears—tied them into a bundle, slung it over a stick, hoisted it onto his shoulder, and, trying not to let the gate’s rusty hinges creak too loudly, slipped out into the street. 

And so the Hedgehog set off… in search of himself.

 

Chapter 2. The Hedgehog’s Wanderings

After passing through the sleeping village, the Hedgehog stepped onto a road winding through hills and fields. For the first time in his life, he had left the village, and now, walking along the moonlit road, he was astonished to discover that he had never imagined the world could be so astoundingly beautiful.

After the rain, the air was fresh and filled with the scents of meadow grasses and flowers. Strange birds sang in the night, and as the east brightened and the Sun began to rise, their chorus grew louder and more joyful. Busy bees and fluffy bumblebees awoke, colorful butterflies fluttered about, and flowers bloomed to greet the Sun. For the first time in many years, hope filled the Hedgehog’s heart, and for the first time since he was a child, he smiled.

But soon, sad thoughts crept in again: “Where am I going? How long must I walk? Who is this wizard with the big nose? How will I find him? And will he even help me?” And so he continued his journey in worry, fear, and doubt.

The Hedgehog wandered for a long time in search of himself. Days and nights flew by, weeks turned into months. He marched steadfastly toward the rising Sun, just as the Owl had told him.

In different towns and villages, the locals greeted him in different ways. Without his spines, he looked odd and ridiculous—a skinny, pink, wrinkled little body. No one recognized him as a hedgehog, and to avoid explaining what had happened, the Hedgehog told everyone he was a desman—after all, no one knew what that creature looked like.

Many animals helped him—some gave him food, others offered a place to sleep. But at times, children mocked him, and adults dismissed him with contempt or insulted him when he asked for help.

Now, without his spines, he felt completely defenseless. He was no longer prickly, no longer able to bristle or protect himself, so he had to learn how to talk to others and negotiate.

The farther he traveled, the more strange and unfamiliar creatures he saw, but nowhere did he find the wizard with the big nose. He asked everyone he met, but no one could tell him where the wizard lived.

One hot afternoon, in a grove filled with the rich, pleasant smell of eucalyptus trees, the Hedgehog stumbled upon a tribe of unknown animals that looked like hedgehogs with very long spines. They were singing and dancing in a forest clearing by a lake, with beautiful bracelets on their paws and necklaces of white lotuses around their necks.

“Who are you?” the astonished Hedgehog asked.

“We’re porcupines,” they replied.

“How can you live with such long spines?! They’re much longer than mine were. You must not like yourselves very much.”

“No, no!” they exclaimed. “We love ourselves and our spines very much. Look how beautiful they are!” And they flared their long quills and shook them with a rustling sound. “And who are you?”

“I’m a Hedgehog. I’m looking for myself because I lost myself.”

An elderly Porcupine Chief stepped forward and said:

“You need to see Wizard Max. Many years ago, he helped our tribe learn to love ourselves, and ever since then we’ve lived in peace and happiness.”

“Where can I find him?” asked the Hedgehog.

“There, at the foot of the Tallest Mountains, you’ll find him. You’ll recognize him immediately—he has a very unusual long nose,” the Chief said, waving his paw. “But for now, we invite you to stay with us and regain your strength before continuing your journey.”

The porcupines welcomed the Hedgehog as an honored guest. He stayed with them for a whole week, and most of the time they sang, danced, and gathered exotic fruits.

Only in the mornings and evenings did all the porcupines sit still and silent for an hour with their eyes closed, which puzzled the Hedgehog greatly, though he was too shy to ask what they were doing.

When it was time for the Hedgehog to continue his journey, the porcupines packed him a bundle of various exotic fruits, walked him to the edge of the forest, and waved to him for a long time, their colorful bracelets jingling as they did.

 

Chapter 3. Max

Whether it took a long time or a short while, the Hedgehog finally arrived at the foot of the Tallest Mountains. The land around him grew barren and empty, and the air turned thin and cold.

And there, by the bank of a ringing mountain river, the Hedgehog saw a remarkable creature. This creature was the size of a house, with enormous ears and a long nose that it could use like a hand. The Hedgehog immediately knew he was looking at the Wizard, though he was surprised to see him living not in a palace but in a simple hut by the stream.

The Wizard was sitting motionless by the water, eyes closed, and seemed to be asleep. The Hedgehog coughed timidly and, just in case, stepped back — the Wizard inspired awe in him, and he couldn’t guess how he would react to a stranger disturbing his rest.

But the Wizard was not asleep. He opened his eyes, and the Hedgehog saw kindness in them, with a barely noticeable smile tucked in the wrinkles at the corners.

«Who are you, little creature?» the Wizard boomed.

«I’m a Hedgehog. Or at least I used to be… And how should I call you, Wizard?»

«Oh, I’m not a wizard at all!» he replied with a smile. «I’m an elephant. My name is Max. Other animals think I’m a wizard, but that’s not true.»

«Oh no!.. Then you won’t be able to help me…» the Hedgehog groaned in despair. His knees buckled, and he sank helplessly to the ground. «I’ve come all this way for nothing…»

Tears welled in the Hedgehog’s eyes, he covered his face with his paws and cried bitterly.

The Elephant watched him silently, then asked:

«And what kind of help do you need, little Hedgehog? Maybe I can still do something for you.»

Sobbing and sighing heavily, the sad Hedgehog told him his story. About how his parents disappeared when he was a child, leaving him alone; about how he became a recluse, how he didn’t love himself and avoided others; how he shaved himself bald, lost himself, and felt hollow inside. He spoke of the Owl, of his journey to find himself, of the porcupine tribe, and of the path to the Tallest Mountains.

The Elephant listened very attentively, occasionally swaying his trunk. When the Hedgehog finished, the Elephant spoke thoughtfully:

«Well, little Hedgehog, I think I can help you. But are you ready to face a great trial to find yourself again?»

«Yes, I’m ready,» the Hedgehog replied. «But wait, have you seen me? Did I pass by here already, and you know where I went?»

«Follow me,» said the Elephant, rising to his feet, each the size of a column. «I will take you to a cave in the mountains where you will meet yourself.»

«So I’m hiding in that cave?» the Hedgehog asked hopefully, but the Elephant was already walking toward the snow-covered peaks. Despite his size, his steps were soft and silent, like those of a cat.

For three days and three nights they climbed the mountain. It was a hard journey for the Hedgehog, as his legs were short. A single step of the Elephant equaled a hundred of the Hedgehog’s. The Elephant walked very slowly, but even so, the Hedgehog had to run to keep up.

Soon they climbed so high that all the slopes were covered in snow, and the Hedgehog was wading through it up to his belly. Sometimes the snow was so deep that he would sink in over his head, and the Elephant had to patiently wait until the Hedgehog dug his way out again.

Eventually, the Hedgehog pleaded:

«Please, wise Elephant, carry me on your back. What would it cost you? You’re so big, and I’m so light, you won’t even notice me.»

«Forgive me, Hedgehog, but I can’t do that,» the Elephant replied slowly and deeply. «Each must carry their own burden and climb their own mountain.»

And in silence, they continued toward the summit through the cold snow.

At last, they came to the entrance of a deep, dark cave.

«We’re here,» said the Elephant.

The Hedgehog cautiously peered into the cave but saw nothing.

«Are you sure I’m in there?» he asked.

«Yes, you’re in that cave — you just can’t see yourself yet,» said the Elephant. «Listen to me carefully, little Hedgehog. You must sit alone in this cave and begin to breathe — inhale and exhale. You must sit for a long, long time, without moving or getting distracted, and then you’ll be able to look inside yourself. You must sit and look inward until you see what is there. If you can pass this trial, then you will appear in this cave and return to yourself.»

«So I just have to sit and wait until I show up? And is it really possible to look inside?» the Hedgehog asked doubtfully. «And how will I stay here alone? The supplies the porcupines gave me are almost gone. I’ll starve!»

«You won’t need food if you do as I say,» replied the Elephant. «Just follow your breath and feel how life flows through your body, how warmth spreads along your back. Then you’ll be able to see yourself. Remember: no matter what happens, hold on to your breath — it will help you through any trial and protect you from any danger.»

«Ah, so the air in this cave must be magical,» decided the Hedgehog. «Well then, I’ll stay here and try to lure myself out so I can return to me.»

The Elephant said goodbye to the Hedgehog and slowly made his way back down the icy slopes, while the Hedgehog remained in the mountain cave, sat down on a stone, and began to observe his breathing.

 

Chapter 4. The Cave

At first, Hedgehog couldn’t manage anything. He kept getting distracted, and all sorts of sad thoughts filled his head. He was very cold, and soon a sticky fear overwhelmed him. «What if I die here of hunger and cold in this dark cave?» he thought. «No one will ever find out. Maybe only Elephant will remember me someday.»

And as if to confirm his fears, he suddenly heard a dangerous hissing right by his ear:

— «It’s all ussssseleessss… You’re jusssst waaaassting precccioussss tiiiime…»

— “Who’s there?!” — Hedgehog cried out in terror and trembled with fear.

— «I am Sssssnake,» replied the hissing voice. «While you ssssit here, your Sssself wanders losssst in the world. Inssstead of sssearching for it, you sssimply ssssit and fffeeze. Get up and leeeave the caaave. Trusssst meee…»

Hedgehog thought the Snake was probably right and was about to get up, when suddenly he clearly heard Max’s voice in his head: “Just follow your breath and feel life flowing through your body. Then you will be able to see yourself.”

— “No, Snake, I can’t leave. I came to the edge of the world for a reason! I trust Elephant Max. And Owl, and the porcupines said he would help me. I’m staying. I have nothing to lose anymore anyway.”

— «Youuuu might regreeeet thaaat decisssion…» hissed the Snake, and vanished.

Hedgehog resumed breathing, and, amazingly, he began to calm down and warm up. “What a strange, healing air!” he marveled, feeling warmth rising up his spine.

The cave was dark, and Hedgehog lost track of time. All he thought about was breathing in the magical air. Many hours passed when something incredible happened — a faint glow appeared in the cave. No matter how hard Hedgehog tried, he couldn’t tell where the light was coming from.

Just as he rejoiced that he could see better, icy torrents of water came rushing down the cave walls and quickly began to fill it. The waves roared and crashed against the stone, the cave filled with spray and fog, and nothing could be seen through it.

«Fog, just fog. How can I see clearly in it?» thought Hedgehog, straining his eyes.

The rock he was sitting on disappeared under water, and Hedgehog found himself in a roaring, foaming current that carried him swiftly through an underground tunnel, slamming him painfully against the walls on sharp turns. The roar of the water grew louder, and soon Hedgehog saw that he was being carried straight toward a waterfall.

Before he could react, he began to fall down with the torrents of water.

Hedgehog was terribly afraid, ready to say goodbye to life, when suddenly he heard the trumpet-like voice of Elephant in his ears: “Remember — whatever happens to you, hold on to your breath. It will help you through any trial.”

Hedgehog felt himself breathing again — inhale, exhale — and, miracle of miracles! — the roaring waves began to quiet, the current slowed, the mist cleared, and Hedgehog began to see clearly. He was floating down a river, now completely smooth, calm and gentle, past green hills and fields. Soon the river made a graceful turn and flowed into a great blue lake. The current stopped, and silence and peace settled in.

Hedgehog found himself on a golden sandy beach. He climbed out of the water, shook himself off, and looked at the lake. It was beautiful! Bright sunlight sparkled on its mirror-like surface. In the crystal-clear water, deep below, dolphins swam, visible as if in the palm of his hand.

Hedgehog looked around. It was an enchanting world — with emerald hills covered in daisies, poppies, bluebells, tulips, and daffodils, with transparent streams gurgling into the lake, and birds singing heavenly songs. The air was filled with the scent of meadow flowers.

— “Where am I?” he thought.

— “You’ve looked inside yourself,” came Max’s reply.

— “Is all this really inside me?” I never imagined there was such beauty within me, Hedgehog whispered in awe.

On one of the nearby hills he saw a castle with crenellated walls, tall square towers, and tiny round turrets with steep conical roofs.

Hedgehog set off toward the castle. At the base of the hill was a small grove. He entered and found himself in a round clearing among pine and fir trees. And then he suddenly saw something huge, black, and writhing — like a gigantic leech, the size of a bull. It crawled toward Hedgehog, breaking bushes and trees, and squealed so terribly that it made his blood run cold.

Hedgehog stepped back in fear.

“That’s your Sadness,” he heard Max’s voice. “Don’t let it attack and drain your blood — breathe!”

Hedgehog stood his ground and began to breathe.

Sadness crawled up to him and stopped — it didn’t dare touch him. The deeper and calmer Hedgehog breathed, the more Sadness writhed and screeched. Suddenly, it burst, and from it flew a swarm of bats. They circled above Hedgehog, swooping and attacking him, screeching with horrible, grating voices:

«You’re hideous!»

«Nobody loves you!»

«No one else has quills!»

«You’ll never have a family!»

«You’ll never have friends!»

«You’re a failure!»

«You’ve lost yourself forever!»

«You don’t deserve to live!»

«You’ll never be happy!»

«You’ll always be alone!»

Hedgehog felt his strength leaving him, and tears welled up in his eyes from self-pity.

“Careful — those bats are poisonous!” he heard Max’s voice. “Those are your thoughts. Don’t let them bite you, or they’ll poison your life. Breathe!”

Hedgehog closed his eyes and took a deep breath in and out.

Inhale — exhale. Inhale — exhale. Inhale — exhale…

 

Chapter 5. The Meeting

When he opened his eyes, the bats were gone. The horrible sounds had vanished too—only birdsong and the chirping of grasshoppers remained.

Across the emerald grass carpet, Hedgehog climbed the hill and approached the castle—there wasn’t a soul in sight. Before him stood tall blue gates with a large golden star in a silver circle. Hedgehog pushed them with his paw, the doors opened silently, and he found himself inside the castle.

He wandered for a long time through a maze of corridors and staircases. He tried the handles, but all the doors were locked. At last, in the final door, he saw a key in the lock. He turned it, opened the door, and froze on the threshold.

In the sunlight, holding hands, stood his Mama and Papa. Just as he remembered them on the day they disappeared.

“Mama, Papa!” cried Hedgehog and ran to them—but then suddenly stopped in his tracks.

Memories surged over him and he shouted angrily:

“Why did you leave me? Why did you abandon me all alone?!”

“We didn’t leave you, little Hedgie,” Mama replied sadly. Hedgehog only now remembered that she always used to call him that — Hedgie. “That unfortunate day, your Papa and I went to the village on the other side of the river for some shopping, but strong winds and the current overturned our boat, and we couldn’t make it out. We ended up in this castle inside you, and we’ve been living here ever since. We called out to you, but you couldn’t hear us… It made us so sad that you were all alone. We love you so much! Not a single day passed when we didn’t think of you.”

Hedgehog stared at Mama wide-eyed, not believing what he heard.

“All my life I thought you just left me because I was bad… because I was ugly and didn’t deserve your love. I never even imagined that something bad had happened to you,” he muttered in confusion.

“Do you forgive us, little Hedgie, for not keeping ourselves safe and leaving you all alone?”

“Of course I forgive you!” said Hedgehog. “Now that I know the truth, I’m not angry anymore.”

They hugged and stood like that for a long time.

“But what are you doing here, in this castle?” Papa finally asked. “And why don’t you have any quills?”

“I was so sad that I betrayed myself,” Hedgehog answered shyly. “And then I lost myself. Elephant told me that when I look inside, I’ll meet myself.”

“Then you need to go deeper,” said Papa, pointing to a stone well in the corner of the room. “To the darkest depths of this castle. We can’t help you with that—you have to do it alone. But we’ll pull you back up if you tug the rope three times.”

His parents tied a strong rope around Hedgehog, and he began descending into the well.

At last, he reached the bottom and found himself in a stone corridor lined with prison cells. Water dripped, torches flickered, spiders and woodlice scurried about, and the air smelled of dampness and mold. All the prison cells were empty, but in the very last one, he heard a faint sigh. He took a torch from the wall, walked up to the bars, and looked inside.

In the corner of the cell, curled up on filthy straw, lay a tiny baby hedgehog. He was just a little one—soft down still covered his body instead of spiky quills, like all baby hedgehogs.

The little one was emaciated and trembling from cold. Hedgehog reached out and gently stroked him. The baby opened his eyes, and their gazes met. He whispered weakly:

“I’ve waited so long for you… I’m dying… Help me…”

“It’s you?! Or rather, me…” exclaimed Hedgehog. “I’ve finally found you?! What have I done to you… Don’t die, please! I’ll help you. What can I do to keep you alive?!” he fussed.

“Feed me,” the little one whispered weakly.

“With what? What do you eat?”

“I feed on your love. That awful night, when you stopped loving me, I started to die.”

The baby was so pitiful that Hedgehog began to cry.

“I’m sorry… Please forgive me. Thank you. I love you, little Hedgehog! As soon as you disappeared, I went in search of you. I’ve crossed half the world to find you!”

“You didn’t need to go so far. I was here all along, with you.”

“I’m sorry, little one. We’ll always be together now.”

Hedgehog picked the baby up in his arms—he was very light, almost weightless. Hedgehog held him close to his chest, carried him to the well, tugged the rope three times, and Mama and Papa pulled them up.

Their joy was beyond words as they all hugged together! Hedgehog carried the little one out to the sunny meadow in front of the castle, and they basked in the sun and springtime. The little one hadn’t seen sunlight in a very long time. They were completely happy—just like in the good old days, in Hedgehog’s childhood.

“It’s a good thing you came in time, son,” Mama said. “Papa and I suspected the baby was locked away down there, in the dungeon, but we couldn’t save him—our love wasn’t enough. Only you could save yourself and give yourself love. We’re so glad you found yourself!”

“But now it’s time for you to return to the world, son,” said Papa. “We’ll always live here inside you, and you can come to visit us whenever you like—we’ll always be happy to see you.”

They hugged goodbye.

Hedgehog got into the boat and set off across the lake on his journey back, while Mama, Papa, and the Little Hedgehog stood on the shore, waving their paws for a long time.

 

Chapter 6. Max’s Farewell

Hedgehog awoke alone on a stone in the middle of the cave. The water was gone.

Inside, Hedgehog felt a deep calm and joy. He was no longer the empty and lonely little creature he used to be. He felt full. He had found himself.

Cautiously, he called out:

“Little Hedgehog, are you still there inside me?”

“Yes, I’m here. I’m with you,” replied the Little One.

“I can feel you within me.”

“I’ll always be with you. Just don’t lose me again!”

Hedgehog smiled and stepped out of the Magic Cave into the world. He felt as though he had entered it dead and come out alive. As if he had become a completely different, new hedgehog.

He descended to the foot of the Highest Mountains and saw Max by the river, gazing at the water with a mysterious look—what was he trying to see in there?

The Elephant was overjoyed to see Hedgehog, and despite his massive size and solemn manner, he trumpeted loudly three times, sending echoes rolling across the mountain slopes.

“What you’ve done, little Hedgehog, deserves a celebration!” he declared, beaming.

In the river, Hedgehog saw his reflection and was stunned—his quills had completely regrown, and he looked just like he used to.

“How is this possible?!” he asked in amazement. “How could my quills grow back in a single day? Could the magical air really do that?”

“You spent a whole year in the cave, little Hedge,” the Elephant said gently.

“A whole year?!” Hedgehog cried out in disbelief. “But how did I survive without food? I could have died!”

“Oh no, dear Hedgehog, I never send animals to their death,” the Elephant reassured him. “I wouldn’t have let you die. No one has ever died in that cave. Do you remember the Snake?”

“Yes… I think I do,” said Hedgehog. “So she really came? I thought I imagined her.”

“Yes, she helps me. I sent her to check on you. If you hadn’t been ready to meet yourself, the Snake would’ve led you out of the cave. But you were brave and determined, so you succeeded—you found yourself.”

“But how did you know I would end up in that cave? Why did I run there specifically?”

“You see, Hedgehog, you didn’t run anywhere,” said the Elephant. “You were always there—inside yourself. But you stopped seeing yourself. The thing is, to find yourself, you don’t need to go far. You just need to look within. But that’s the hardest thing to do, and it takes time and effort.”

“I see… So that’s what you taught the porcupine tribe?”

“Yes, exactly. They used to be very unhappy, just like you. But now, every morning and every evening, they watch their breath so they never lose themselves again.”

Hedgehog smiled and winked at his reflection in the river, and the reflection—now youthful and joyful—smiled and winked back.

“There’s no need to be a grumpy hedgehog just because I have quills!” Hedgehog declared cheerfully.

“Exactly!” laughed the Elephant. “Only you decide who you are and how you feel. What’s outside you doesn’t matter. What matters is what’s inside.”

Hedgehog spent several days with Elephant Max, and they talked about everything—about the Sun, the Moon, the Earth, water, air, animals and their lives, about sadness and joy. The Elephant was very wise and very kind.

But the time came for Hedgehog to head home.

Max gave him his blessing for the journey:

“Now that you’ve found yourself, protect yourself like the apple of your eye. The Little Hedgehog inside you will stay alive as long as you love him. But be warned—don’t overfeed him! Remember, Hedgehog, you must love yourself, but not worship yourself. Trouble awaits you if your love turns into adoration. Then you’ll overfeed the Little One, and he’ll become spoiled, grow too big, and turn into a monster. Don’t let him get arrogant or take control. He must remain a child. If he overpowers you, you won’t be able to manage him anymore.

Just be good friends with him, and let him be okay. Don’t spoil him, don’t indulge his whims! Feed him only love—and nothing else. The Little One is moody and naive, like all children. There are three things you must avoid—gold, fame, and power. They are harmful and destructive for the Little Hedgehog. Never give them to him, even if he begs you.

“But how can I remember all this?”

“Every morning and every evening, you must sit in silence for a whole hour and watch your breath. Silence will calm your thoughts, and it’s good for the Little One.”

Hedgehog thanked the Elephant for his wisdom and set off toward the place where the Sun goes to sleep—in that direction, far away, was his home.

 

PART II

Chapter 7. Unexpected Adventures

His journey was long. Days turned into nights, and nights turned into days — Hedgehog walked joyfully home. After all, he had not only found himself — that little hedgehog he had lost — and befriended himself, but he had also found his parents and learned that they were still alive within him and had always loved him.

He listened to the birds singing, watched the clouds and flowers, and was filled with joy and gratitude. At first, he diligently followed Max’s advice, observing his breath every morning after waking and every evening before bed. But after many weeks, he began to skip this practice occasionally, and then forgot it altogether.

After some time, Hedgehog arrived at the Great Dark Forest that lay beyond his homeland. This forest was dense and dangerous, and a dark reputation surrounded it. Hedgehog stopped to rest in a clearing by a stream at the forest’s edge.

Summer had passed, autumn had come, the weather worsened, a cold, piercing wind picked up, and rain began to drizzle. Behind a thicket of hazel bushes, Hedgehog noticed a tent from which someone was sighing sadly. He came closer.

Inside the tent lived a family of hares — father, mother, and five little leverets. The tent was very old and completely torn on one side — a huge hole in the roof let the rain in. The wet leverets huddled together, shivering from the cold.

Father Hare was unsuccessfully trying to fasten a piece of cloth flapping in the wind, and Mother Hare sighed sadly:

— Oh, if only I had a needle to sew up our tent! Then we wouldn’t have to freeze in the wind and get soaked by the rain. But strong needles are impossible to find, and pine ones can’t stitch canvas.

— Don’t be sad, Mrs. Hare! — said Hedgehog, coming closer and pulling out one of his own spines. — Here’s a sturdy needle for you.

Mrs. Hare brightened, bustled about, fetched some thread, and skillfully mended the hole in the roof. The tent became warm and cozy.

Father Hare shook Hedgehog’s paw and invited him inside to wait out the rain.

Inside the tent, he pulled out a shiny yellow coin and, holding it out to Hedgehog, said:

— You helped us fix our home, and I want to thank you. Take this coin. I found it long ago on the road and have kept it ever since. They say it’s gold and worth a lot.

Hedgehog was about to refuse, but the Little Hedgehog inside squeaked:

— Gold! I want gold! Take that beautiful coin — for me!

Hedgehog forgot what the wise Elephant Max had taught him, listened to the Little Hedgehog, and accepted the coin from the hare family.

The next day, Hedgehog said goodbye to the hares and continued on his way. He ventured deeper into the forest and soon came upon a clearing where he saw a large flock of weeping nightingales. He approached quietly.

The nightingales had gathered around a nightingale chick who lay on a bed of soft grass, delirious with fever.

— What happened? — Hedgehog asked Father Nightingale softly.

— Our little one injured his wing, — he replied sadly. — A splinter is deeply embedded in it. Now the wound is festering, and if we don’t heal it, our son may never fly again — he might even die. But we have nothing to remove the splinter with. We heard that you need a needle for that.

— Well, that’s easy enough! — said Hedgehog, pulling out another of his spines.

The mother of the chick was overjoyed, removed the splinter from her son’s wing, and applied healing herbs to the wound. The next day the fever subsided, and the nightingale chick opened his eyes. He gave a faint smile and even managed to move his wing.

The nightingales were overjoyed! They circled in the air, singing nonstop. The flock leader flew up to Hedgehog, holding something in his claws, and said:

— For saving one of our little ones, we, the Nightingale Folk, are very grateful. We made this necklace of precious gems, which in our tradition is worn only by the greatest heroes. Wear it and let us sing you a song of praise so that the whole forest will know of your deed.

Hedgehog opened his mouth to politely decline, but the Little Hedgehog inside clapped his hands joyfully and shouted:

— A hero’s necklace of jewels! A song of praise for the whole forest to hear! How wonderful! Say yes!

Hedgehog, once again, forgot the warning of Max the Elephant and agreed. Immediately, the nightingales placed around his neck a radiant necklace of diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, and the entire forest echoed with the trills of their song:

Oh Great Hedgehog
Oh Beautiful Hedgehog
You saved our nightingale chick!
Sing, sing the song of praise for Hedgehog!
Glory to Hedgehog!
Glory to the hero!

Soon the song was picked up by larks, swallows, tits, cuckoos, and even woodpeckers. The entire Enormous Dark Forest filled with birdsong — every feathered creature was singing Hedgehog’s praises.

Blushing, Hedgehog stood in the middle of the clearing, shining in his jeweled necklace, bowing in every direction. He felt a little embarrassed, but the Little Hedgehog inside was overjoyed and jumping for joy.

The next day, the nightingales sent Hedgehog off with great honor, filling his bundle with tasty mushrooms and berries.

— Turns out, spines aren’t so bad after all — if you know how to use them! — mused Hedgehog happily, striding along the path.

Soon he wandered into the deepest, gloomiest part of the forest. Sunlight could not pierce the thick canopy of tall birches, aspens, and firs. The air smelled of decaying leaves, moss, and marsh, and mosquitoes buzzed everywhere.

— Help! Somebody help! — he suddenly heard a thin voice full of despair.

Hedgehog rushed toward the sound and saw, in a small hollow, three old mangy foxes, baring their teeth as they tried to drag someone small and helpless out from under a rotting stump. With clawed paws, they dug at the earth, tore at the stump, and were ready to pounce and devour their prey.

Without hesitation, Hedgehog ran, curled into a tight ball, and rolled down the hill into the hollow. He crashed into the foxes with all his might, pricking their noses, eyes, and paws. The foxes howled in pain and leapt around the stump, trying to bite Hedgehog, but they couldn’t — they only pricked their tongues. Hedgehog kept rolling fiercely around the hollow, like a ball covered in sharp knives, and finally, the foxes, yelping and howling, fled into the forest thicket to lick their wounds.

Hedgehog made sure the danger had passed and called out:

— Hey, whoever’s under the stump — come out, don’t be afraid, the foxes won’t come back.

And then, from under the stump, came a graceful young lady hedgehog. She was elegant, with delicate spines and strikingly beautiful eyes. All hedgehogs have brown eyes, but hers were sky-blue, with long, thick lashes. Hedgehog had never seen anything more beautiful in his life.

— My name is Stella, I am a princess of this land, — she said softly, gazing gratefully and curiously at her rescuer. — Thank you for saving me, brave Hedgehog! If not for you, those forest bandits would have torn me to pieces. You are a true hero!

Stella instantly liked Hedgehog. She had always dreamed of someone strong and courageous like him. Hedgehog and Stella fell in love at first sight.

Hand in paw, they walked toward the city where Stella lived.

The Little Hedgehog inside rejoiced:

— Gold, jewels, fame, honors, and royalty — all the things I love!

— Quiet, you, — whispered Hedgehog. — Behave yourself!

— Who are you talking to? — Stella asked.

— Oh… It’s my inner little hedgehog. He’s a good kid, but sometimes naughty and always asking for toys and fun, — replied Hedgehog, embarrassed.

 

Chapter 8. King Hedgehog

The old hedgehog King, Pilopex, and his wife, Queen Berengaria — Stella’s parents — were overjoyed to see their daughter safe and sound. In honor of Hedgehog, their daughter’s savior, Pilopex held a grand feast that lasted an entire week.

On the seventh day of the celebrations, Hedgehog proposed to Stella, and she accepted. The wedding was held immediately, and the feast turned into wedding festivities that went on for another two weeks.

And so, Hedgehog married the hedgehog princess Stella and stayed to live in the palace. The old king was happy to retire and step away from affairs of state. He decided to hand over the reins of power to his young son-in-law. Pilopex’s offer came as a surprise to Hedgehog — he had never ruled anyone before and hesitated for a long time about whether to accept it. But the Little Hedgehog inside was ecstatic and convinced Hedgehog to take on the rule of the land. Thus, unexpectedly, Hedgehog became king.

Years passed, and Hedgehog and Stella had children — a son named Mick, and four years later, a daughter named Rosie, with the same beautiful sky-blue eyes as Stella. All would have been well, but over the years, Hedgehog’s character began to deteriorate. He became quick-tempered and demanded admiration and reverence from his court and his people. He adored commanding the population and was obsessed with medals — his uniform was so covered in awards and decorations that they hung not only on his chest but also on his back. Hedgehog even housed a choir of nightingales in the palace, who sang hymns of praise to him every morning.

He also loved wealth and luxury and imposed enormous taxes on his people to grow ever richer. He would often lock himself in the old king’s treasury among gold and jewels, and through the closed doors, courtiers could hear him talking to himself:

— Look, do you like this piece of jewelry? What do you want? Even more gold? Even more diamonds? Even more honors and power? Fine, have it your way! I’ll find you more!

If Hedgehog had once been empty, now one could say he was full of himself. Stella, watching this change in her husband, could only shake her head and sigh sadly.

At last, Hedgehog became utterly unbearable. He decided that the power, honors, and gold of his own kingdom were not enough for him and began a war with a neighboring realm to seize these things by force. He hired an army of bandits  — wolves and foxes — and they went off to plunder and destroy foreign cities and villages.

The war lasted several years, bringing much grief and destruction to the animal kingdom. Sadly, the old king Pilopex had passed away, and Queen Berengaria and Stella were powerless to reason with Hedgehog.

The children grew up — Rosie was nine, and Mick was about to turn thirteen. And on that thirteenth birthday, not a single friend invited to Mick’s party showed up. Upset, the boy said to his father:

— Dad, you must stop this mad, bloody war. I’m ashamed to look my friends and classmates in the eye, because they know my father started a fratricidal war. Animals shouldn’t kill animals. Please, stop!

Hedgehog flew into a rage:

— How dare you defy me?! Me, your father, the Great King Hedgehog! You little brat! I know better how to deal with that filthy rabble in my kingdom — and in the neighboring one! Soon I’ll conquer the whole world and rule it all myself!

He raised his scepter to strike the young hedgehog, but Stella stepped between them and shielded her son with her body. Hedgehog struck Stella hard across the face with the sharp scepter, drawing blood and gashing her forehead. Blood ran into her beautiful blue eyes.

— Don’t you dare touch Mik! — Stella said quietly but firmly, wiping the blood away with her paw. — We have endured your tyranny long enough, but the time has come to stop. Look at what you’ve done to us. My people are not like this. We will no longer tolerate it. Stop, I beg you!

But instead of apologizing, Hedgehog stomped his feet and shouted:

— You’re all traitors, rebels, and spies! You don’t love or respect me! No one wants to obey me! All you care about is my gold! Ungrateful beasts! I hate you all! Guards, seize them! From now on, they shall be imprisoned until they come to their senses and beg for mercy. Tomorrow we’ll extract a confession of your ties with foreign powers who dream of destroying my kingdom!

With that, Hedgehog slammed the door and stormed off to his golden chambers. The wolf guards seized Stella, Mick, and Rosie and imprisoned them in the tallest tower of the palace.

The next day, when Hedgehog awoke and ordered his wife and children brought to him for interrogation, he was told that Stella and the young hedgehogs had vanished without a trace. No one in the palace knew where they had gone, and even the most skilled royal bloodhounds could not pick up their trail — it was as if they had vanished into thin air.

In the days and weeks that followed, Hedgehog fumed and raged, but gradually he began to feel the deep loneliness left by his family’s absence. At last, a bitter realization came to him:

— What have I done?! — he cried out one day in horror and grief. — I’ve hurt my wife and children — the dearest beings to me on Earth. Woe is me!

— They got what they deserved! Serves them right, the traitors! — came the rasping, harsh voice of the Little Hedgehog from inside.

— Silence! — Hedgehog shouted. — This is all your fault! You kept demanding more and more. You made me start this war. You destroyed my family. You’re a monster! I hate you!

That very night, Hedgehog packed his bundle on a stick and, just like many years ago, quietly set off on a journey — this time to find his family.

 

Chapter 9. The Search

Hedgehog wandered the land far and wide, but he could find no trace of his family. In towns and villages, he became known as a madman, always talking to himself in different voices and flailing his paws:

“Where are you going?! Go back to the palace, you fool! Live in comfort! Give up this foolish search! Your family is surely dead and never even loved you! Gold, power, and glory await you!—
Shut up, you monster! You know nothing of love! You ruined my life! Cursed be the day I found you! You should’ve died down in that dungeon!—
Oh-ho, who’s talking now? Isn’t that the same Hedgehog who bathed in gold and started a war? Don’t you go blaming me—you’re just as guilty.”

So Hedgehog wandered, hungry, filthy, and mad, for several years. He lost track of time and slowly sank deeper into madness. One day, exhausted and frail, he found himself in a mountainous region by a river singing over the stones. He drank from the icy stream and collapsed on the hard rocks, staring half-delirious at the dazzling blue sky with clouds drifting slowly above. Some looked like castles. Some like strange, marvelous beasts.

And the longer he stared, the more he longed to turn into a cloud and drift away into the endless blue.

“Well,” he thought, “this is as good a place as any to end my earthly path. This life hasn’t gone well—maybe the next will be better.”

His thoughts turned heavy and tangled in his mind. He closed his eyes and decided he would never rise from those stones again.

No one knows how long he lay in that daze. Suddenly, he heard the faintest whisper of footsteps, like a cat walking silently over the rocks.

“Well, hello there, little Hedgehog…” came a deep and gentle voice. “Didn’t expect to find you in such strange circumstances. Still, in this valley, we don’t die without saying goodbye to our friends.”

Hedgehog opened his eyes with effort and through a blur saw Elephant Max standing before him. His deep gaze radiated kindness and calm, and the creases around his eyes held the echo of a thoughtful smile.

Hedgehog smiled faintly and whispered:

“Max… I’m glad to see you… This is goodbye, then…”

“Aren’t you rushing things a bit, my little friend?” said Max. “You’re far too young to end your journey now, and I’d bet anything there are still things left unfinished in this life. Don’t you want to see what awaits you down the road?”

“My life is ruined, wise Elephant…” Hedgehog murmured. “I ruined it with my own paws… If only I could undo it all…”

“Oh… You can’t judge your life until it’s over. So you always have a chance.”

With that, Max gently lifted Hedgehog with his trunk and laid him across his broad back. Hedgehog lost consciousness.

He woke later in Max’s hut on a bed of banana leaves. Outside, the river murmured its song. Hedgehog propped himself up on one elbow and peeked out: Max was quietly carrying water with his trunk and watering his small garden.

“Let me help you… I know how to tend a garden,” Hedgehog said weakly, trying to rise. But his head spun and he fell back onto the bedding.

“Thank you for offering,” Max smiled kindly. “I’ll take you up on it—just not yet. You’re rushing things, little one. First, care for yourself. Then you can care for others. Drink this mountain herb tea. It will help.”

And with that, Max poured a fragrant brew into a cup for Hedgehog.

For several days, Max nursed him back to health with herbs and compresses. Each morning, Hedgehog felt stronger and more alive.

On the seventh day, Hedgehog began preparing to leave. That evening, he told Max he would be setting out in the morning. They sat by the fire, their shadows dancing on the banana trees.

“May I ask where you’re going, my friend?” Max inquired.

Hedgehog frowned and answered reluctantly:

“My wife and children left me, Max. I have to find them.”

“Ah… I see,” said the Elephant and fell silent. Then he spoke again.

“You know, dear Hedgehog, you can always count on me. I’ve seen a great deal in my life—nothing surprises or unsettles me. So if there’s something you want to share, I promise to listen and not judge.”

Hesitating, Hedgehog told Max everything: what happened after their last parting, his journey home, how he gave up his breathing practice, how he saved the hare family, the nightingale chick, and Princess Stella, the wealth, the glory, the war, the suffering, the quarrel, and the disappearance of Stella, Mick, and Rosie.

Max listened silently, but his eyes no longer smiled. When Hedgehog spoke of war, they glistened with tears.

When the tale was finished, Max sat quietly for a long time. Then he said:

“I’m so sorry, kind Hedgehog. That your path has been so painful and rough. I can’t even imagine the heavy burden you carry in your heart.”

“Don’t call me kind!” Hedgehog cried in pain. “I don’t deserve forgiveness—not for all the harm I’ve done…”

“Don’t be so quick to condemn yourself. Good creatures make foolish choices. That doesn’t stop them from being good. The path we walk is crooked and strange, but sometimes it’s the hardest road that leads us to the Truth. So don’t rush to judge or blame yourself—we can’t see the full design of Nature.”

“What should I do, wise Elephant?” Hedgehog asked sadly. “How can I change the past?”

“You can’t change the past,” said Max. “But you can change the future. And the future changes only here and now. The seeds you plant today decide what harvest you’ll reap tomorrow. You can’t force a sprout from the soil—it takes time for new life to grow. I know how to help you. But I warn you, you probably won’t like what I’m about to suggest.”

“What is it?”

“You must return to the cave.”

Hedgehog jumped to his feet and backed away. His eyes flared red, his mouth twisted, and in the flickering firelight his face took on a grotesque mask of fury. He shrieked hoarsely:

“You want me to freeze in that stupid cave again?! Foolish Elephant! You always have the same answer! No way! I’m not wasting more time in lonely silence! You tricked me once with your so-called wisdom—that’s enough! I’m leaving!”

Max gave a sad smile:

“I think I know whose voice that is. Hello again, Little Hedgehog… Or whatever you’ve become.”

“Don’t speak to me like that!” Hedgehog roared. “I am King! Kneel before me, Elephant! Kiss my feet or I’ll have you executed!”

Max said nothing. He watched quietly as Hedgehog foamed and leapt about, jabbing at his legs. Finally, he shook his head and said:

“Well, I did say you wouldn’t like my proposal, little Hedgehog. But know this—the path to joy, peace, and reunion with your family leads only through that cave. If you want to see Stella, Mick, and Rosie again, you’ll have to go. The choice is always yours. Your future depends on it.”

Hearing those beloved names, the Hedgehog grew still and silent. At last, he whispered barely audibly:

“Forgive me, wise Max. Sometimes I don’t even know what I’m saying or doing—as if some demon takes control of me. I accept your challenge. I’m ready to go through the Magic Cave once more.”

“I’m glad you’ve chosen this path. Sleep well, brave Hedgehog. We set out at sunrise.”

 

Chapter 10. The Battle

Once again, two brave beasts made their way up the mountain for many days, across the eternal frost, and once again Hedgehog sank into the snow up to his ears, and once again Elephant patiently waited for his tiny friend.

At last, they reached the familiar cave. To Hedgehog, it seemed even colder and more unwelcoming than before.

Before leaving, Elephant gave him these parting words:

“Remember your breath. It will support you and guide you. And remember—whatever you see within yourself, do not look away. Watch closely. Stay present. Your breath and your gaze are your weapons. Only they will allow you to win this battle.”

“Win against who?” Hedgehog asked, shivering. “You’re scaring me, Elephant! Last time I didn’t have to fight anyone. Is it going to be different now?”

“Don’t rush, little one. You’ll learn everything in due time. I believe in you. And I wish you luck.”

With that, Elephant stretched out his trunk, exhaled a warm gust from head to toe, wrapping Hedgehog in heat, then turned and left with a soft crunching of snow.

Hedgehog was alone again. He sat down on the cold, hard stone in the middle of the cave and began to breathe. Soon, he heard once more the roar of the mountain stream. Taking a deep breath, Hedgehog plunged into the icy water.

Just like before, the raging river carried him to a lake in a valley. But this time, Hedgehog didn’t recognize the place. Gone was the peace and harmony— the lake was murky and stormy, the grass on the hills was yellowed, the flowers had withered, the streams feeding into the lake ran red with blood, and feathers and bird skeletons littered the ground. The air reeked of smoke, and atop the hill stood the ruins of a once-beautiful castle, black, acrid smoke rising from it. All the towers had crumbled—except for one, the tallest, which still stood amid the charred rubble.

“Mama! Papa! Where are you?!” Hedgehog cried in horror, racing toward the ruins. He soon reached the familiar round glade at the base of the hill, the very spot where he had once met his Sadness—and there he froze.

Blocking his path stood Something.

It was enormous—taller than the castle tower, towering over the pine trees. A monster loomed before him, its very presence radiating dread.

Its head and back were covered in purple venomous quills, like a giant hedgehog’s. A long golden-scaled tail whipped and snapped centuries-old trees. Blood-red eyes, full of hatred and fury, spun wildly. Huge clawed paws tensed, ready to strike. And above it all, leathery wings—dragon-like—beat the air, stirring a howling storm.

The monster sniffed the air, noticed Hedgehog, and fixed him with its wild gaze.

“Well, look who finally showed up,” it growled in a hoarse, guttural voice, and a blast of dark crimson fire burst from its jaws, singeing the fur on Hedgehog’s face. “Don’t you dare look at me. Your death has come, traitor!”

Hedgehog staggered back and turned away, unable to bear the creature’s ugliness and rage—but at that moment, he heard Max’s calm voice in his mind: “Whatever you see within yourself, do not look away. Watch closely. Stay present. Your gaze and your breath are your weapons. Only they will allow you to win.”

Hedgehog drew a deep breath, summoned all his courage and will, and raised his eyes to the monster.

The beast shrieked, a scream so terrible it froze the blood. It writhed under Hedgehog’s steady gaze and lunged at him. But Hedgehog did not flinch. He stood firm, staring into the creature’s eyes, saying:

“I’m not afraid of you, you vile, foolish monster—whatever you are. You can’t scare me. I will watch you. I will see every bit of your ugliness, your rage, and your hate.”

The battle lasted many hours. Hedgehog never once looked away. His breath sustained him, fed him strength.

At last, the monster began to weaken. Hedgehog stepped forward—the beast roared and shrank back. Suddenly, both of its scaly wings fell off, and then its dragon tail dropped to the ground. Hedgehog advanced step by step, his gaze locked on the creature, and it shriveled, shrank, twisted in on itself.

Then came a loud explosion, and everything vanished in smoke and ash.

When the smoke cleared and the ash settled, no one was there. Only scorched, broken trees—and a deep crater.

Hedgehog’s heart pounded as he peered inside…

At the bottom of the pit lay a tiny, unconscious Little Hedgehog. Hedgehog leapt down and gathered him in his arms. Feeling his breath, he rushed toward the castle.

At the top of the highest tower, he saw someone waving a white handkerchief. Bounding up the stairs, he lifted the heavy bolt—and there stood Mama and Papa.

“Hedgie! Sweet Hedgie! At last! We had given up hope, thought you’d never come,” Mama cried, rushing to embrace him.

“Soon after you left,” Papa explained, “Little Hedgehog started acting strange. He kept bringing home gold and jewels, grew larger and angrier and meaner by the day. We tried everything, but nothing helped. Finally, he turned into a giant, terrifying beast, destroyed the castle, and locked us in the tower. Do you have any idea what happened to him?”

“I think I do…” muttered Hedgehog, blushing deeply beneath his quills. “I spoiled him.”

Mama suddenly bustled around:

“Hedgie, darling—you must go! Stella, Mick and Rosie are waiting for you.”

“But I don’t know where they are, Mama,” Hedgehog cried in despair. “I lost them! I hoped I’d find them in the cave—but it seems Max was wrong this time.”

“You know what? Go back to Max anyway, Hedgie. He’s a good, wise Elephant. He’ll tell you what to do. But don’t delay—soon it may be too late. The day is near when Stella and the little ones won’t be able to return to your world.”

“But what about Little Hedgehog?” Hedgehog asked, nodding toward the sleeping child on the patchwork blanket. He was still unconscious, but his eyelids fluttered faintly.

“Don’t worry about him. He’s in good hands now. We’ll take care of him,” Papa said gently. “You’ve done something heroic, my son. We’re proud of you. Your life is beginning to turn around—you’ll see.”

Hedgehog embraced his parents and hurried back to the riverbank. As he glanced over his shoulder, he saw the castle towers rebuilding themselves, and the forest, grass, and flowers growing back before his eyes.

 

Chapter 11. The Return

Curled into a ball, the Hedgehog sped headlong down the mountainside. Several times he nearly tumbled into the abyss, but now he felt no fear, and so everything turned out all right.

Down in the valley, he spotted Max from afar, already hurrying toward him.

“Hedgehog!” cried Max, embracing him with his trunk (the Hedgehog flattened his quills so as not to prick his friend) and lifting him high into the air. “I waited so long for you, I believed in you! I asked Nature to guide you, and everything happened for the best. I knew it, I knew it! You can’t even imagine what you’ve done!”

The Hedgehog had never seen the Elephant so moved. But the most surprising thing was that the Hedgehog himself now felt completely calm and confident—like never before in his life.

“Max, do you know where my family is?” he asked. “Mama said you would know.”

“I don’t know, my friend, but we’ll find out soon enough.”

Max stirred the earth with his foot and gave a low rumble.

Soon the grass rustled, and a large black Snake slithered out to the river. The Hedgehog bowed to her:

“Thank you, Snake, for visiting me in the cave all those years ago.”

“Th-th-tha-a-a-nk yo-o-o-ou, li-i-i-ittle H-h-h-he-e-e-dgehog, for the le-e-e-esson in co-o-o-ourage. I tr-tr-truly val-l-lue it,” said the Snake with a bow.

“Honored Snake, have you seen my family?”

The Snake looked inquiringly at Max:

“May I-i-i tell th-th-this child wh-wh-where h-h-his family is, o-o-o wise E-e-e-lephant?”

“Yes, my dear Snake,” Max replied. “He is ready. He no longer poses a danger to other creatures.”

“Ve-e-e-ery well. Yo-o-our fa-a-a-amily is s-s-safe. Th-th-they found refuge wi-i-ith the po-o-o-rcupine tribe. But yo-o-ou mu-u-ust hurry, for a-a-at dawn on the th-th-third day, they wi-i-ill be fully ac-c-c-epted into the tribe and wi-i-ill ne-e-e-ver be a-a-able to re-e-e-turn to the o-o-o-rdinary world.”

“Thank you, kind Snake!” the Hedgehog cried and dashed off.

As he ran, he turned back and shouted to the Elephant:

“Max, I wanted to ask you—what was that? What kind of monster did I meet at the castle?”

“You met your own overgrown ego, my friend,” the Elephant trumpeted in reply. “That’s what happens when you pamper and adore yourself too much.”

Like a thunderbolt, without sleep or rest, the Hedgehog raced down from the rocky foothills—past fields and forests, rivers and lakes, cities and villages. He was rushing to his family.

At the end of the third day, he reached the familiar eucalyptus grove and collapsed in exhaustion at the feet of the gray-haired Chief of the Porcupine tribe. The porcupines were just beginning the ritual of welcoming Stella, Mick, and Rosie into their tribe. The Hedgehog’s family stood knee-deep in a lake in the midst of yellow and soft pink water lilies, preparing to become part of the tribe forever and leave behind their worldly life.

Seeing the Hedgehog, Stella and the children cried out and recoiled in horror, retreating deeper into the lake. The porcupines growled threateningly, bristling with their long quills, and surrounded them with a spiny wall to shield them from him. The Hedgehog, who hadn’t eaten or drunk anything in three days, could barely speak. Lying powerless on the ground, he reached toward his family and gasped:

“Don’t be afraid… Don’t be afraid… I won’t hurt you… Forgive me…”

“How dare you come here after all you’ve done to your people and your family?!” the Chief thundered. “How can we trust you now?”

“Please, believe me… Things are different now… Max led me to the Magic Cave, I defeated my ego… The Snake only told me about you after she was sure I was no longer dangerous…” the Hedgehog stammered.

At the mention of Max’s name, the porcupines began whispering among themselves.

The Chief looked at the Hedgehog intently.

“Well, if the Wizard Max sent you, we’ll give you a chance.”

He waved his paw, the porcupines lowered their quills and stepped aside. Stella and the children cautiously came out of the water and approached the Hedgehog, still lying on the ground.

Seeing his family, he burst into tears:

“Forgive me, please forgive me… I’m so ashamed… I searched for you everywhere. I walked the land from end to end. I’ve changed. I’ll make everything right…”

Stella silently knelt beside him and embraced him. On her forehead, just above her left brow, the Hedgehog noticed a scar—the mark left by his blow with the scepter.

“I’m so sorry… I’m so ashamed, Stella!” he cried in despair. “Now I’ll always see your scar and feel my guilt. I’d do anything to erase the past and take away that scar.”

“Oh, there’s no need for that, my dear Hedgehog,” Stella said gently, her sky-blue eyes radiating love and calm. “This scar will remain with us—not to make you feel guilty, but to remind you of who you must never become. This scar is our gift, and it will be a symbol of our happiness, of the happiness of our people and the neighboring lands. If not for this scar, everything would have continued as before—you would have conquered more lands, war would have raged, and creatures would have perished. I’m grateful to Fate for this scar, because it allowed you to become yourself again, kinder and better. So love this scar as I have come to love it—and be grateful for it.”

“Do you forgive me, Stella?”

“Anyone who truly repents deserves forgiveness. I forgive you, because your plea is sincere.”

“Thank you, Stella!” The Hedgehog turned to his children. “Forgive me, little ones, for my bad temper. Things will be different now.”

Mick and Rosie threw their arms around their father’s neck, overjoyed that their family was whole again and their father had truly changed. They took turns excitedly telling the Hedgehog about their adventures:

“That night, when you argued with us, Mama sat by the open window at the top of the tall tower where you had locked us up, and she begged Nature for help. And then a wise Owl came—the same one who once helped you and sent you to the Wizard. She carried us on her back to the porcupine tribe,” Rosie chattered breathlessly.

“That’s why no one could find our tracks!” Mick added proudly. “No bloodhound could outmatch the Great Wise Owl.”

“Oh, what a mess I made…” murmured the Hedgehog. “Now it’s time to set everything right.”

The next morning, the Hedgehog family set off on their journey.

“Thank you for sheltering and caring for my family,” the Hedgehog said, bowing to the Chief and the porcupines. “Ask anything in return—I’ll deny you nothing.”

“We need nothing. Nature is rich and bountiful, and we have more than enough,” the Chief replied. “But promise that there will be no more wars in your kingdom.”

“There will be no more wars,” the Hedgehog declared solemnly, placing a paw over his heart. “From now on, we will live in peace and harmony. And you will always be our most honored guests, whenever you choose to visit.”

The Hedgehog family journeyed on and, after many days, reached their kingdom. All along the way they saw destruction, sorrow, and the suffering of nations caused by war. Power had been seized by a gang of bandits—wolves and foxes that the Hedgehog himself had once hired to invade a neighboring country. Having ravaged that land, they turned on Pilopex’s own kingdom. They ruled through fear, imprisoning and torturing anyone who resisted. Spies and informants lurked everywhere.

Stella secretly informed her mother and old friends of their return and arranged a secret gathering. It wasn’t easy to convince the frightened animals to meet, but the memory of the great King Pilopex and the respect for his daughter Stella and the old Queen Berengaria did their work. On a moonlit night, the animal folk quietly assembled in a glade deep in the Great Dark Forest.

Stella, the children, and Queen Berengaria stood on the fallen trunk of an ancient oak. Seeing them, the animals bowed and greeted them with a loud, joyful murmur.

“Greetings, my dear creatures!” Stella bowed in return. “As you know, life in our kingdom has not been easy. You have suffered greatly. We too wandered for a long time, but at last we have found hope for a better life, and I ask you to listen to what is about to be said.”

From the shadows of the trees stepped the Hedgehog. He climbed onto the moonlit oak trunk and stood beside his wife and children. Seeing their former tormentor, the animals bristled, growled, and howled with rage and hatred.

When the murmuring quieted, the Hedgehog dropped to his knees and said:

“Greetings, creatures. Forgive me. I have caused you much pain and sorrow, and not a day goes by that I do not regret what I did. I know it’s hard to believe, but I didn’t act out of malice—only ignorance. My inner demon took hold of me, and I was too weak to resist. I took it upon myself to rule you when I couldn’t even rule myself. But now, at last, I am free. Thanks to the Wizard Max, I have been healed and I am ready to make things right. I’ve changed so much that now, for the first time, I’m truly ready to be your king. I will tell you what I learned in the mountain cave, because it may help each of you—but now I ask for your forgiveness and your help. We must free our land from the gang of bandits who have seized power, end the war, and restore our kingdom. Do you believe me? Are you willing to forgive me?”

The crowd was silent.

Then Stella stepped forward again.

“You know that the House of Pilopex has never stood for injustice or tyranny. Who better than I to know what pain and grievance feel like? Look at this scar,” the hedgehogess touched her forehead. “This is from the scepter blow of my husband. This scar reminds us how lost we can become—and how we can find our way again. In the name of my father Pilopex and the Wizard Max, I ask you to give my husband a second chance. I vouch for him. If I could forgive him, so can you.”

The animals believed Stella, forgave the Hedgehog, and stood as one—shoulder to shoulder—and within weeks, they drove the bandits from the kingdom.

The Hedgehog immediately ended the war and issued a decree banning all wars and violence. He restored the destroyed towns and villages in both his kingdom and the neighboring one. He abolished exploitative taxes, and distributed all hoarded and stolen riches to the people. He gave up the palace, dedicating it to children—it became a museum, a school, and a library.

The Hedgehog and his family moved back into their small cottage by the river. The house had grown shabby with time, but the Hedgehog and his son Mick fixed the roof and fence, painted the walls in bright colors, and carved new furniture. Stella and Rosie made the place cozy—they sewed beautiful curtains, blankets, and pillows, and molded new pottery from clay, painting it with care.

Stella planted elegant flowerbeds in the garden, and the Hedgehog planted eucalyptus and banana trees in honor of the porcupine tribe and the magical Elephant Max. He also learned to paint and spent all his free time at it—the house was covered in vivid paintings of flowers and exotic birds.

Every morning and evening, the Hedgehog and his family sat still for an hour, simply watching their breath.

Often, the Hedgehog would visit his Mama, Papa and Little Hedgehog, who still lived in his heart, in the castle among the emerald meadows.

 

Chapter 12. The Last Chapter, Where the Secret of the Magic Cave Is Revealed and the Animals Learn to Be Happy

One summer day, Hedgehog was painting irises in his garden when suddenly a deep, unmistakably familiar trumpet-like voice called out in front of the house:

— So this is where the scatterbrained Hedgehog lives, the one who keeps losing stuff, either himself or his family?

— Max!!! Elephant!!! — Hedgehog cried and dashed to the porch.

And there he was—Elephant Max in the flesh.

The friends embraced (although Hedgehog could only hug the tip of Max’s large trunk with his tiny paws, which gently exhaled warm air over him).

— How did you get here?!

— Oh, I was just passing by and thought, why not stop and visit an old friend? — Max winked playfully.

Stella came out of the house, and Mick and Rosie peeked timidly from behind her back, staring in awe and wonder at the enormous creature the likes of which they had never seen.

— Stella, kids, let me introduce you — said Hedgehog. — This is the wizard Max, thanks to whom I found myself twice over, our family was born, and the life of our kingdom changed so much.

Stella smiled and, bowing slightly, placed a paw over her heart and then touched Max’s trunk:

— It’s a great honor, Great Elephant Max. Without you, we wouldn’t have made it.

Max lowered his huge head and replied modestly:

— Oh, believe me, that’s not quite true. Each of us carries within everything we need for a happy life. Nature would’ve led you to the right path one way or another. Still, I’m glad your husband was brave and determined enough to find it much faster than expected. The cave doesn’t reveal its secret to everyone — only to those who are ready.

— Please, come in. It’s a bit tight in here, but cozy, — invited Stella.

— Our bananas are ripe! — blurted Rosie, suddenly bold.

Everyone laughed.

— Well, in that case, of course I’ll accept the invitation, — Max trumpeted cheerfully and stepped over the garden fence.

Max stayed with the hedgehog family for almost a week. One day, he and Hedgehog sat by the river, watching the water and listening to its cool murmur.

Suddenly, Hedgehog broke the silence:

— Max, can I ask you something? Something I’ve wanted to know for a very long time?

— Of course, my dear Hedgehog, ask anything.

— Do you know where the magic in the Magic Cave came from?

— What Magic Cave?

— Well… the one I visited twice.

— And who told you it was magic?

— I thought… didn’t you say so? — Hedgehog answered hesitantly.

— Did I really? — Max squinted slyly, the corners of his eyes crinkling with laughter. — Or is it just one of those illusions we build in our minds and then start believing in as the absolute truth? Like you once believed your parents abandoned you because you were bad — and that belief shaped your whole youth?

Hedgehog sat in confused silence, trying to remember when Max had told him the cave was magic — but he couldn’t recall it at all.

— Are you saying… there’s no magic in the Cave? — he asked, puzzled.

— The magic is inside you, Hedgehog. That cave is perfectly ordinary — and has no magic of its own.

— But the air! — gasped Hedgehog. — It was magic, wasn’t it? How else did I survive without food?

— Animals think they need food to sustain their bodies. But that’s not really true. Air is magic in itself — it can nourish us with life better than any food. It was you, my brave friend, who made the cave magical. You passed the test and did what most creatures cannot: you not only looked within yourself — you defeated your ego. And that’s something few ever manage. Most creatures don’t know how to look inward, and have no idea what monsters live inside them and control their lives. Ignorance, dear friend — ignorance is the root of all our troubles. That’s what makes creatures blind and cruel.

— So you mean we can look inside ourselves even without a cave?

— Oh yes, absolutely! Anyone can observe their breath, calm their thoughts, and look within at any moment, wherever they are. Breath is a great gift — our best Teacher, because it’s always with us.

— But if I could do it… then others can too?

— That’s right. Anyone can do what you did. But it takes desire, faith, and respect for the Teacher.

Max looked Hedgehog in the eyes, and his gaze was deep and long.

— You’ve become a Wizard now, my dear Hedgehog, — he said slowly and with meaning. — Now you can teach others to breathe mindfully and look within.

With those words, Max stood up, hugged Hedgehog, and began his journey back across the world — to his own home, far beyond the horizon, on the shores of the same river that winds across half the globe, ignoring borders, kingdoms, and countries.

After Max left, Hedgehog wasted no time. In the hills by the river, he set up a great tent, which he painted with whimsical patterns and landscapes, and over the entrance he wrote in big letters:

THE MAGIC CAVE
School of Mindfulness and Happiness

He spread the word across the kingdom: anyone who was sad or grieving, angry or irritated, hurt or guilt-ridden, lost themselves or their family — all were welcome to come to the Magic Cave and receive help: to learn to breathe mindfully and look within.

He helped many creatures find themselves. Many saw their inner monsters — and defeated them. He taught many to be happy. Word of the miraculous Cave spread far beyond the hedgehog kingdom. Creatures came from distant lands — and every one of them found their own answers in the Magic Cave.

Exactly a year later, as the animals celebrated the opening of the Magic Cave — a day they now called Mindfulness Day— loud drums and trumpets suddenly rang out on the edge of town. All the grown-ups and children poured into the streets and saw an extraordinary parade entering the city: smiling, fluffy tigers pulling grand wagons on which porcupines sang, danced, trumpeted, drummed, and jingled tambourines.

They wore fantastical costumes of ostrich feathers, and their quills were painted in all the colors of the rainbow — red, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet, gold, silver. The porcupines tossed colorful powders into the crowd, and everyone around became bright and joyful.

— It’s Carnival! — the porcupines trumpeted. — Rejoice and celebrate, creatures! Long live Mindfulness, long live Peace, long live Happiness!

On the largest platform sat the Elephant, the Owl, the Snake, and the Porcupine Chief, all adorned with necklaces of snow-white lotuses. They brought with them baskets full of exotic fruits and berries, which they handed out to the little ones.

It was a real festival! Everyone loved it so much that they invited the porcupines to return for the next Mindfulness Day — and the next, and the next. And so, the Carnival became a beloved tradition.

And on those days, Hedgehog and Elephant would sit side by side by the river, joyfully and gratefully breathing the healing air that warmed both their spines and their hearts, and watching the bright waters of the cheerfully murmuring river.

It was the same river as at the beginning of this story — but, in a magical way, it had become something entirely new.

THE END

Larnaca — New York
February–May 2025

 

Translation Editor (from Russian): Martin Zachek