The Crystal of Chunhae
Once upon a time, in the far-off land of Gongjil, nestled between towering mountains and emerald forests, a majestic city, Chunhae, flourished in peace and prosperity. The secret of this harmony lay within the heart of the city—a magical crystal known as Chunhae's Tear. This crystal blessed the land with fertility and the inhabitants with formidable strength and longevity. However, these gifts were not innate powers of the stone but were bestowed by a benevolent dragon, Hwon, who offered it perpetual protection.
Legend narrated Hwon's eternal companionship with the crystal. This celestial being emerged from the cosmos and descended upon the Earth when it was nothing but a barren realm. Pitying the wasteland, Hwon shed a tear that crystallized and gave birth to life. Over the centuries, around this crystal, Chunhae took its form, a city where peace was a religion, and harmony was the language.
However, across the borders of Chunhae, the evil king Gukjong coveted the power of the Tear. Unaware of Hwon's existence, he, with his massive army, marched upon Chunhae to usurp the crystal. The usually serene people of Chunhae were defenseless against a violent army.
Gukjong wrested control of the crystal and attempted to harness its power. As he touched the Tear, Hwon felt the disturbance. Enraged at the affront, Hwon soared into the skies, and his mighty silhouette blotted out the sun. Torrential rain and thunderstorms erupted, reflecting the celestial creature's ire at the violation.
As Hwon beheld Gukjong, the wretched King cowered under the majestic sight. Hwon's fiery gaze seared into Gukjong, who shouted, 'I demand the power hidden within this crystal! I wish to become the mightiest ruler of all realms!'
'Your desires corrupt your heart, Gukjong,' Hwon roared, his voice resonating with the tempest. 'The power of my tear shall never be used for greed and malice.'
In the ensuing cataclysm, the crystal exploded, bathing the land in an ethereal light. The power surged through Gukjong, overwhelming him. The power he so desired consumed him, leaving nothing but dust. The vestiges of his army fled, carrying the tale of the dragon's wrath.
Having destroyed the threat to Chunhae, Hwon set to undo the harm. As the people watched, Hwon swooped down and cried a tear upon the ruins of the city. This tear crystallized and pulsed with life. Slowly, but surely, the land regained its fertility, the city rose from its ashes, and the people found their strength returning.
However, the second crystal differed from the first. It was not filled with power but wisdom. It taught the people of Chunhae that true power lies not in strength but in the hearts of men who wish for peace, not in the hands of those who desire it for dominance.
Under the guidance of the crystal's wisdom and the watchful eyes of Hwon, Chunhae regained its prosperity. The tale of Hwon and the crystal was etched in every corner of the city, reminding people of the sanctity and purpose of real strength.
The once mighty city has now transformed into a haven of wisdom and peace. The story was shared from generation to generation, strengthening unity and fostering peace as the Chunhae people lived under the benevolent semblance of the celestial Dragon.