The Unexpected Prince • Yang Jungwon

☆

In a dimly lit chamber adorned with ornate tapestries, the royal physician stood by Jungwon's bedside. The flickering light of candles cast shadows on the physician's furrowed brow as he meticulously assessed Jungwon's weakening pulse. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead, a testament to the gravity of the situation. With a sense of urgency, he barked commands to the attendants, swiftly ordering rare herbs and potent elixirs. The air was heavy with anticipation as the physician worked feverishly, his skilled hands moving with precision, administering treatments with unwavering focus. Meanwhile, Jungwon lay pale and motionless, his breaths shallow and labored. The courtiers and advisors stood at a respectful distance, their hushed whispers echoing off the opulent walls, their eyes filled with worry and uncertainty. Outside, the night deepened, stars twinkling silently in the sky, oblivious to the unfolding drama within the palace walls. Time seemed suspended in that chamber, every passing moment critical in the battle between life and death, hope, and despair. While they were working on his, Jungwon's eyes slowly fluttered open. He looked around at where he was. Beneath a boundless sky painted with hues of dawn, the World Tree stood tall and majestic, its colossal trunk adorned with intricate carvings depicting ancient tales. Its immense branches reached skyward, stretching towards the heavens like outstretched arms, adorned with vibrant leaves that rustled in a harmonious dance with the gentle breeze.At the base of the tree, an aura of tranquility enveloped the surroundings. A mosaic of flowers carpeted the ground, their vibrant colors contrasting against the deep green of the lush grass. Creatures of the forest, both magical and mundane, congregated in reverence, their presence adding to the ethereal ambiance.The air was charged with a sense of reverence and serenity, as if time itself slowed within this sacred grove. Wisps of sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled patterns on the moss-covered roots that spiraled around the tree's base like ancient guardians. Jungwon was surprised. He was looking straight into the World Tree in the tales. "The world tree..? Why am I here?" Jungwon walked towards the world tree. The leaves flow along the calm breeze as it spins around Jungwon. "Welcome to Aeloria, my dear child." The world tree spoke to him. Jungwon was surprised when the world tree had spoken. As the tales said, the world tree will only speak to those who are worth and granted with a miracle. Jungwon bowed to the world tree. "It's a great honor to be with the mighty world tree." Jungwon looks at the world tree. He was confused. Why was he here? Wasn't he on the Forest of Greens when he fell? How did he come to Aeloria? A realm where the world tree stood? "You have lots of questions, and there are lots of answers to your questions. But now isn't the time to answer them." The world tree spoke again. "I do indeed have lots for questions. But why am I here? Why did you summon me?" Jungwon was genuinely confused and curious. "Jungwon, you are from another world. This world isn't yours. You know that, don't you?" Jungwon nodded, as expected from the world tree. "Well, you've been here for quite some time, and you know that I will have to return you back to your world and let the real Jungwon back here. But, I won't do that." Jungwon's head shot up with a look of confusion plastered on his face. "But why? Why is the reason for you to let me stay here? I already know what will happen to me, well, to this body." The world tree's leaves were rustling through the soft wind. "You can change destiny." Jungwon didn't expect that. "How would I do that?" Jungwon was still confused, "change destiny?" Change what destiny? "You will have to find that out yourself. Now, go back." Jungwon opened his eyes, looking around. He found out that he was in his chamber. "What does it mean by change destiny?" Jungwon pondered. He really wanted to know what does the world tree meant by it. He was confused. The world tree was never mentioned in the novel. What changed? He was ready to find out the truth, one way or another.

Tips:

The World Tree is a symbol of resilience and interconnectedness, embodying the essence of life and wisdom. Its presence seemed to whisper secrets of forgotten ages and mysteries of the universe to those who dared to listen, creating a sanctuary where the pulse of existence thrived in harmony with nature's embrace.