The Castle Within The Pencil

Thanks to @mchhmje for the prompt.

A breathtakingly intricate and magical photorealistic 8K render capturing an extreme macro close-up of a classic wooden pencil. The sharpened graphite tip transforms into a magnificent miniature gothic castle, complete with delicate spires, glowing windows, and microscopic balconies carved directly into the graphite. The pencil’s wood forms the cliff on which this castle stands, its texture resembling ancient stone. At the pinnacle, a single star-like light glimmers, revealing the infinite creativity hidden within everyday tools. The scene embodies micro-world realism, surreal elegance, and the awe of discovery.