The Lunar Vanguard (SunSun)

chapter 15: A journey

The next morning, Sunoo, Sunghoon, Jungwon, and Heeseung prepared to depart for the witches' territory. The mood was tense but determined, everyone aware of the importance of the journey ahead. Sunoo could feel the weight of the upcoming confrontation with Jungwon's mother, the queen of witches, pressing down on him, but he tried to keep his nerves in check. Sunghoon, sensing his unease, stayed close, offering silent support as they made their way through the forest.

The journey was relatively short, but the atmosphere grew heavier as they approached the witches' territory. The dense forest began to give way to an otherworldly landscape, the air shimmering with magic. The trees became taller, their leaves glowing faintly in the early morning light. Sunoo could feel the magic in the air, a tingling sensation that made the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

As they neared the heart of the witches' territory, they were met by a group of witches who had clearly been expecting them. Their leader, a tall woman with silver hair and piercing green eyes, stepped forward, her gaze immediately locking onto Jungwon.

"Prince Jungwon," she greeted him with a respectful bow, her tone warm yet formal. "The queen has been eagerly awaiting your return."

Jungwon nodded, his expression betraying a mix of emotions. "Thank you, Elyse. It’s good to be back."

The witches led the group through the territory, the landscape shifting around them as they moved closer to the queen's palace. The structure was magnificent, a towering castle made of gleaming white stone, surrounded by lush gardens that seemed to pulse with life. As they approached, Sunoo couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and trepidation.

Inside the palace, they were led through grand hallways adorned with intricate tapestries and glowing crystals until they reached a large, ornate door. The witches stopped and opened the door, revealing a grand chamber that was as beautiful as it was intimidating.

Sitting on a throne at the far end of the room was a woman whose presence commanded attention. She was regal and ethereal, her long dark hair cascading down her back like a river of midnight. Her eyes were sharp and wise, holding centuries of knowledge. This was the queen of witches, Jungwon’s mother.

As they entered, the queen’s gaze immediately fixed on her son. A moment of silence stretched between them before her expression softened slightly.

"Jungwon," she said, her voice holding a mix of affection and reproach. "You’ve been away for far too long." She rose from her throne and approached him, her movements graceful and deliberate.

Jungwon smiled sheepishly, looking almost like a child caught in mischief. "I know, Mother. I’ve been busy with the pack, but I’m here now."

The queen reached out and gently slapped his arm. "You know better than to stay away this long. Your magic is tied to this place—staying away weakens you." Her tone was stern, but there was no mistaking the underlying care in her words, "Where is that mate of yours I need to teach him better than to keep you away all this time.".

Jungwon rubbed his arm, a small grin on his face. "He didn't come, he is busy and he didn’t keep me away."

Before the queen could respond, another figure entered the room—a young woman with striking features and an air of confidence. She was Jungwon’s twin sister, Wonyoung, and the moment she saw her brother, she smirked.

"Well, well, if it isn’t the prodigal prince," Wonyoung teased, crossing her arms. "Decided to grace us with your presence, have you?"

Jungwon rolled his eyes, clearly used to his sister’s banter. "Don’t start, Wonyoung. I’ve been busy."