Nine Tailed Fox and The Dragon (joongdunk fanfic)

Guardians of the Realm

Shortly after, they transferred Dunk to Joong's chamber, as Joong insisted on taking care of Dunk himself. Hours later, Dunk slowly stirred from his unconsciousness.

Dunk: "Joong?"

Joong, sitting nearby, immediately perked up. "Dunk? You're awake?"Dunk nodded his head weakly and slowly sat up. Joong quickly helped him, propping a pillow behind his back.

Dunk scanned the chamber, taking in his surroundings. "This is your room, isn't it?"

Joong nodded. "Yes, it is. You told us not to inform your family because you didn't want them to worry about you."

Dunk sighed, a look of relief on his face. "Thank you. I just woke up from my long coma. They worried for a long time. I don't want them to worry about my injuries again."

Joong smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry. Your secret is safe with us. You can stay here until you get better."

Dunk managed a small smile in return, feeling a wave of gratitude. "Thank you, Joong. I appreciate it."

Joong: "It's no trouble at all. Just focus on getting well. We're here for you."

Dunk settled back into the pillows, feeling a mix of exhaustion and relief. Joong stayed by his side, a comforting presence in the dimly lit room. The soft glow of moonlight filtered through the window, casting gentle shadows across the chamber.

Joong: "Do you need anything? Water? Food?"

Dunk shook his head slowly. "No, I'm fine for now. Just... tired."

Joong nodded understandingly. "Rest then. I'll be here if you need anything."

As Dunk closed his eyes, trying to relax, his mind wandered back to the fight with the beast. He opened his eyes again, curiosity getting the better of him.

Dunk: "Joong, what was that monster? Why was it in the mortal realm?"

Joong's expression grew serious. "It's from the Demon Tribe. They've been getting bolder, venturing into places they shouldn't. That beast was probably scouting or hunting."

Dunk frowned, his concern evident. "We need to be more vigilant. If they're bold enough to enter the mortal realm, they could cause a lot of harm."

Joong: "I agree. We'll need to inform the other clans and strengthen our patrols. But for now, you need to focus on your recovery. We'll handle the rest."

Dunk nodded, his eyes growing heavy again. "Alright. Just... be careful, Joong."

Joong gave him a reassuring smile. "I will. Now rest."

As Dunk drifted off to sleep, Joong stayed by his side, keeping a watchful eye on him. He couldn't help but feel a strong sense of responsibility for Dunk's well-being. The room was quiet, save for the soft sounds of Dunk's breathing.

Pond and Phuwin quietly entered the chamber, checking on Dunk's condition.

Pond: "How is the fifth prince?"

Joong: "He's resting. He woke up for a bit, but he's still very weak."

Phuwin: "That's expected. It will take some time for fifth prince to fully recover from the venom."

Joong: "Thank you, both of you. For everything."

Pond waved it off with a smile. "It's what we do. Besides, we couldn't let you handle this alone."

Phuwin nodded in agreement. "We're in this together, Your Highness."

Joong felt a surge of gratitude towards his friends. With Dunk in his care and his friends by his side, he felt a renewed sense of determination. The challenges ahead were daunting, but together, they could face anything.