Merslin sat in the quiet depths of the High Elf forest, his mind clouded by the whirlwind of recent events. While taking a moment of rest to clear his thoughts, a familiar voice once again echoed in his mind. It was the voice from the Book of Magic from the Strange Land.
"Merslin."
He listened closely. This time, something felt different. Within the voice of the magical book, he sensed the presence of another being—one not entirely unfamiliar.
"Merslin," the book spoke again, "the time has come for you to learn a vital truth. There is someone who wishes to speak to you. Someone who is you—or perhaps, someone you are yet to become."
Suddenly, a searing headache struck him. At that same moment, he became aware of another self within him. A self that resembled him, yet clearly belonged to a different timeline—a different Kim Youngmin.
"Who are you?" Merslin asked, his voice a mixture of fear and curiosity.
"I am Kim Youngmin—from the future," the voice replied.
Merslin's eyes widened. "Kim Youngmin? The one who sent me to Luminaria?"
"Perhaps. The Kim Youngmin who sent you may be another version, but I come from a different timeline altogether. Our paths do not align, yet now, we are connected."
Still reeling from the confusion, Merslin asked, "Then why are you connected to me? Why did the magical book bring us together?"
Future Kim Youngmin paused before answering. "Because it concerns the hidden truth of the universe. I've discovered a secret—one that reveals how the vibrations of language interact with matter in the cosmos. And among all languages, Korean holds a unique power. Its phonetic structures resonate more deeply with the essence of the universe. Through this knowledge, I sent you to Luminaria. I, too, have used this power."
Merslin pondered the implications. "Vibrations from language interacting with matter? Can you explain more?"
"Of course," said Future Kim Youngmin. "Think of how we define a second by the vibrations of the cesium-133 atom. That oscillation is precise—it governs how we measure time. But language, too, carries vibrations. These can interact with the material world to produce physical effects. And Korean, with its distinct phonetic architecture and ancient etymology, has a rare ability to do so."
Merslin's awe deepened. "So this hidden truth… we need to be careful how we use it."
"Exactly. And this is only the beginning," Kim Youngmin continued. "Not every word holds power. Modern vocabulary is weak compared to the forgotten words—words like 'sinabro' or 'mirinae'. These terms, long lost to common use, hold profound vibrational resonance. They're not just words—they echo the fundamental truths of the universe."
Merslin nodded slowly. "So these ancient words... if I use them, I can channel more powerful magic?"
"Correct," said Kim Youngmin. "They aren't mere expressions—they're harmonics forged in deep connection with the universe. When wielded properly, they amplify magic beyond what you know."
Now resolute, Merslin stood. "Then I will seek out these words. I'll uncover the truth behind their vibrations and use their power to continue my journey. I'll protect Luminaria with this newfound strength."
The Book of Magic remained silent for a moment, then responded once more, its voice deeper, calmer."Then it is time for us to move forward, together. Listen to the resonance of the forgotten tongue—and fulfill the purpose only you can."
***
Subtle Distrust and Intricate Politics
Elena and Serena, accompanied by Alex, made their way to the royal palace of the Kingdom of Luminaria to report urgent information regarding the followers of the Old Gods. As they arrived, an unspoken tension lingered in the air. From the king's subtle demeanor, it became clear that this mission would be far from simple.
The king greeted them with a gentle smile, but the caution in his eyes was unmistakable."You've done well. I'm glad you've returned safely," he said, though a note of suspicion tinged his voice. He clasped his hands briefly before releasing them, as if trying to conceal his unease.
Elena noticed the slight shifts in his behavior. With careful poise, she spoke."Your Majesty, the intelligence we've obtained poses a serious threat to the kingdom's stability. Immediate action may be necessary."
The king studied her for a moment, his eyes uncertain, as though weighing her words."If the matter is indeed urgent, then it must be addressed. But we mustn't be hasty. Let us examine the details thoroughly," he replied, his tone calm yet veiled with skepticism.
One of the nobles standing beside the throne cast a displeased glance toward Elena and Serena. He had long harbored discontent over Merslin's involvement in appointing a new lord to Sailandt, resenting the outsiders' growing influence in internal affairs.
"Your Majesty," the noble spoke cautiously, "can we truly rely on the information they bring?"Though framed as a question, his words were steeped in distrust.
The king nodded slowly."You raise a valid concern. That's why we must examine every angle. The situation is far from simple, and we must tread carefully."His voice, while measured, carried an unmistakable note of wariness toward the two women.
Even the court mage regarded Elena and Serena with unease. He perceived their presence—and their abilities—as a potential threat to his own authority. The recent news of Prince Alexander's ascension to the throne of Altekhna had only deepened his anxiety, as it hinted at potential challenges to Luminaria's sovereignty.
The mage approached the king quietly and whispered,"Your Majesty, while their skills are admirable, I suggest we proceed with caution. The recent developments in Altekhna may have broader implications for our realm."
The king considered his words and nodded gravely."Indeed. We must weigh all possibilities before we act."Though his voice remained composed, a deeper suspicion had clearly taken root.
Turning to Alex, the king said,"Alex, you brought them here, so I trust you value their counsel. But given the delicate circumstances, we must all exercise greater caution—especially in light of the situation in Altekhna."
Alex recognized the underlying message but responded calmly."Your Majesty, I share your concern for the kingdom's safety. We will review the information thoroughly and proceed with care."
The king offered a small smile, though the uncertainty behind it remained."Good. That would be the wise approach. Consider every possibility, and act with discernment."
As they exited the palace, Elena and Serena felt the weight of the king's unspoken distrust. While no accusations had been made, the tone and subtext of the meeting made it clear—they had not yet earned the crown's full confidence. They would need undeniable proof and decisive results to change that.
Elena turned to Serena and murmured,"I don't think the king fully trusts us yet. We'll have to bring back irrefutable evidence."
Serena nodded, her tone firm."You're right. Especially with the political situation in Altekhna, our role has become even more sensitive. We must use every resource we have."
Amid the veiled mistrust and political entanglements, the two women steeled their resolve. They would complete their mission, earn the king's trust, and uncover the truth—no matter how deeply it was buried.