Nine Tailed Fox and The Dragon (joongdunk fanfic)

A Night in the Mortal Realm (1)

Dunk: "Joong, let's go to the mortal realm tomorrow."

Joong looked at Dunk, puzzled.

Joong: "Mortal realm?"

Dunk nodded, a small smile forming on his lips as he tried to lighten the mood.

Dunk: "Tomorrow is the lantern festival in the mortal realm. There will be lots of food and decorations."

Joong's eyes widened with interest, a rare spark of curiosity breaking through his usual composed demeanor.

Joong: "Sounds interesting."

Dunk's smile grew as he saw Joong's reaction.

Dunk: "You've never been to one?"

Joong shook his head, his expression returning to one of quiet resignation.

Joong: "I am burdened with the duties and responsibilities of the crown prince. I never really had time for fun."

Dunk felt a pang of sympathy, seeing the weight of responsibilities that had always rested on Joong's shoulders since he was young.

Dunk: "Let's go together tomorrow. I'll show you all the pretty lanterns."

Joong's face softened, and for a moment, the burdens seemed to lift.

Joong: "All right then."

The next evening, under the veil of darkness, Joong and Dunk quietly snuck out from Joong's chamber. With a subtle cast of power, Dunk transported them both to the mortal realm. As they materialized amidst the festivities, Joong took in the surroundings with wide eyes.

The mortal realm was aglow with the soft radiance of a thousand lanterns, their warm light dancing against the night sky. Lanterns of all shapes and colors adorned the streets, creating a whimsical atmosphere that enchanted Joong.

Dunk couldn't contain his excitement, his eyes alight with joy as he grabbed Joong's hand.

Dunk: "Come on, Joong! Let's join the fun!"

He pulled Joong towards a lantern booth, where they each selected a lantern for the other. Dunk chose a majestic dragon-shaped lantern for Joong, while Joong opted for a playful fox-shaped lantern for Dunk.

Next, Dunk led Joong to a nearby food booth, where the sweet aroma of candied fruits filled the air. Dunk eagerly picked up a stick of candied fruit and offered it to Joong.

Joong hesitated for a moment, looking uncertainly at the treat in Dunk's hand. Dunk noticed and encouraged him with a gentle smile.

Dunk: "Come on, Joong. It's delicious. Give it a try."

With a small nod, Joong opened his mouth and took a tentative bite. His expression transformed as he savored the sweetness, his eyes brightening with delight.

Dunk grinned triumphantly.

Dunk: "See? I told you it's good."

He then took a bite himself before his attention was caught by something else.

Dunk: "Joong! Joong! Let's go over there!"

He pointed to a small stage where performers were setting up for a traditional dance. Joong followed Dunk, his heart lightening with each step. They stood among the crowd, watching the dancers move gracefully to the music. Dunk's eyes sparkled with joy, and Joong found himself mesmerized not only by the performance but by Dunk's unrestrained happiness.

Dunk: "Isn't it beautiful, Joong?"

Joong nodded, his voice soft.

Joong: "Yes, it is."

The night was filled with laughter, music, and the warm glow of lanterns. For the first time in a long while, Joong felt free from the weight of his responsibilities, lost in the magic of the festival and the company of Dunk.