Paradox – The essence of creation

In an ancient city of perfumers, Aaina, a young apprentice, hears tales of a fabled attar called ‘The Essence of Creation,’ rumoured to reveal the universe’s secret. Made from ‘Saffron & Black Pepper,’ it is said that those who smell the alchemy are granted glimpses of infinity—but warned never to seek it lightly.

Guided by curiosity, she distils Saffron, feeling its golden warmth flood her senses, sparking ideas and hidden memories., then she captures the fiery, bold essence of Black Pepper, feeling its sharpness slice through her thoughts, revealing shadows she didn’t know she harboured.

When Aaina combines the essences in right proportion, she finally inhales it. Aaina feels herself dissolve, soaring across stars and timeless realms. She glimpses galaxies, the clash of light and dark, questions within answers.

Suddenly, she understands: the universe’s secret is its unknowable beauty. The fragrance fades, leaving her wiser. Some mysteries, like scents, are meant to be savoured, not solved.