The mighty god Jupiter often found the tranquility of Olympus somewhat monotonous. From time to time, he longed to escape the celestial realm and personally visit the mortal world, experiencing the lives of ordinary people. This time, he brought along his most trusted messenger, Mercury, and together they descended to the distant land of Phrygia. Jupiter’s purpose was to observe whether the people there possessed the virtue of hospitality, for as the protector of travelers, he always paid close attention to human kindness and generosity.

Disguised as wandering beggars, the two gods knocked on doors throughout the land, humbly requesting shelter and a small meal. “Please grant us a place to rest, just for a short while, and a little food,” they pleaded. However, after hundreds of attempts, they were met only with cold indifference and rejection. Some villagers even drove them away harshly. The gods’ disappointment grew, but Jupiter remained hopeful—somewhere, there must be a kind heart waiting for them.

At last, after a long and weary journey, they arrived at the most dilapidated hut in the village. The thatched roof was in disrepair, and the flickering light inside was weak, making it clear that the occupants were far from wealthy. Yet, when Jupiter and Mercury knocked once more, the door quickly opened. An elderly couple welcomed them warmly. Despite their own poverty, they did not hesitate to share what little they had with these two weary strangers. The couple had never sought riches; rather, they found happiness in each other’s company, cherishing the many simple yet joyful days they had spent together. Their smiles were sincere, and their words were filled with warmth. In that moment, Jupiter and Mercury felt a rare and long-lost sense of comfort.

The couple continued to pour wine for their guests, sharing stories of their youth, their dreams, and the hardships of life. As the evening passed, they noticed something astonishing—the wine in their cups never diminished, as if by some divine magic, it flowed endlessly. Realization dawned upon them: their guests were no ordinary travelers, but gods in disguise. Jupiter and Mercury’s true identities had been revealed.

Deeply moved by the couple’s kindness and generosity, Jupiter decided to reward them. Though they were poor in material wealth, their hearts were rich with warmth and virtue. As for the selfish and unkind villagers, Jupiter resolved to punish them for their cruelty. With divine power, he summoned a great flood, washing away the entire land of Phrygia. Yet, miraculously, the couple’s humble hut remained untouched. Instead, it transformed into a magnificent temple, a sacred gift from the gods.

Jupiter then asked the couple if they had any wishes he could grant. The two exchanged a loving glance before responding gently, “We have spent so many years together and have never been apart. Our only wish is to stay by each other’s side for eternity. If it is possible, we would be honored to serve as guardians of your temple, for as long as time itself endures.”

Jupiter smiled and granted their heartfelt request, bestowing upon them the gift of immortality.

In the years that followed, the couple lived peacefully, tending to the temple and reminiscing about their humble yet fulfilling past. One day, they felt a sudden change within themselves. Their bodies grew warm, their breaths heavy. Hand in hand, they understood that their moment had come. The vow they had made—to remain together forever—was about to be fulfilled.

As divine magic embraced them, their bodies transformed. One became an ancient bodhi tree, the other a towering oak, their trunks fused as one. Their branches intertwined, inseparable for eternity. As time passed, people adorned the sacred trees with garlands, offering prayers in admiration of their unwavering devotion.

Pilgrims from distant lands came to honor this legendary couple, whose love had transcended the mortal realm. The entwined trees stood as a sacred monument, forever engraving their unbreakable bond into history.

Watching over them, Jupiter felt joy and reverence. He knew that this couple’s love had surpassed the boundaries of life itself, becoming an eternal legend. If love in the mortal world could be as steadfast and pure as theirs, it would endure beyond time, creating the most beautiful of myths.