The Unexpected Prince • Yang Jungwon

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Riding on horseback through a lush summer forest is enchanting, the sun filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The scent of pine and earth fills the air as they listen to the rhythmic hoofbeats echoing amidst the tranquil sounds of nature. The trail winds through a tapestry of greenery, where birdsong accompanies the gentle rustle of leaves. The horse's steady gait carries them along the winding paths, revealing glimpses of wildlife and vibrant flora along the way. The experience is a harmonious blend of serenity and adventure, immersed in the beauty of the natural world. The cool breeze hit his face. Everything was perfect. Jungwon took a turn and noticed something in the middle of the forest. In this clearing stands a monumental fountain, adorned with intricate carvings, moss-covered stones, and shimmering water cascading from multiple tiers. The sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow around the fountain's tranquil beauty. Wildlife gathers nearby, drawn to the oasis amidst the greenery. "A fountain in the middle of the forest?" Jungwon asked Sir Martin, who rode up beside him. "This is the Longing Fountain, Your Highness." Jungwon and Sir Martin hoped off their horses and walked towards the fountain. "The Longing Fountain? Isn't that just a fairytale thing?" Jungwon looked at the fountain. The base is a wide pool shimmering in the sunlight, reflecting the sky and surrounding greenery. Water gracefully spills from the topmost tier, cascading down through smaller levels, each adorned with intricate carvings and motifs. The sound of flowing water creates a serene atmosphere as it trickles down, forming delicate arcs before rejoining the pool below. Moss-covered stones line the edges, adding a touch of ageless beauty to this mesmerizing centerpiece. "Yes, it is. But that was in the past now. The Longing Fountain was found in the Forest of Greens the day you were born, Your Highness." Sir Martin looks at Jungwon with a smile plastered on his face. Jungwon looks at Sir Martin and back at the fountain. "The day I was born?" Jungwon didn't know about this information. It was never mentioned in the novel. "Yes, Your Highness. The Empress's room was able to look down to the area the fountain is in right now. The moment your crying sound filled the room, there was a sudden burst of light that appeared in this area, and the Longing Fountain appeared. It was a miracle that day." Jungwon was surprised. "But still, the Emperor and Empress still treat me like an outcast." Jungwon sat the rim of the fountain. Sir Martin sat beside him and out his hand on his shoulder. "I know Your Highness. But, you are more special than you know." Jungwon looks at Sir Martin and smiled slightly. "Thank you, Sir Martin." He smiled back at Jungwon, "Your most welcome, Your Highness. Now, shall we continue our ride?" Jungwon nodded. The both of them stood up and went back onto their horses while riding through the Forest of Greens. The both of them rode through the forest, gallantly mounted on a magnificent steed. As they traverse the regal grounds, Jungwon's horse suddenly startles, reacting to a loud noise nearby. In the ensuing chaos, the horse bucks wildly, throwing Jungwon off balance. With a swift and forceful impact, Jungwon is unseated, tumbling heavily to the ground. The commotion halts abruptly as Jungwon lies motionless, having lost consciousness from the fall. Sir Martin rushed over to Jungwon's side and picked him up as he placed him on his horse. He rode back to the palace as quickly as the horse could ride. Panic ensues among the servants as they reach the palace. The royal physician was called as he rushed to Jungwon's side, assessing his condition while the surrounding crowd of servants ushered away. Concern and hushed whispers fill the air as Jungwon remains unconscious, lying still amidst the opulent surroundings, his well-being now the focus of the empire's worried attention. The newest soon passed to the ears of the Emperor and Empress. They were surprised and shocked by what happened. Prince Kyungsu was listening to what the Emperor's aide was telling the Emperor and Empress. He stood outside the throne room with a smirk plastered on his face. "Sweet dream, Jungwon. I hope you never wake up."

Tips: 

The Longing Fountain appeared the moment Jungwon was born. It was a sign of a miracle from legends. The Longing Fountain was known in stories and fairytales to possess magical powers of wish making.  The Longing Fountain will make ones wish come true in their most hopeless moments. As everyone knows, "Where dreams converge and hopes take flight, this fountain whispers your heart's delight." The Imperial Covenant House, also known as a royal church, submitted a form to give full authority to Jungwon for the Longing Fountain which was suppose to be a church's property for something that possesses magical powers.