Part of Her World | Park Sunghoon

The Forbidden Dream

In the depths of the ocean, beyond the reach of sunlight, lay the magnificent underwater kingdom of Atlantica. This was a realm of vibrant coral reefs, bustling aquatic life, and grand palaces built from gleaming pearls and precious shells. The kingdom's architecture was a blend of natural formations and merfolk craftsmanship, with structures that shimmered and sparkled in the light that filtered through the water. Coral gardens filled with vibrant anemones and seagrass stretched as far as the eye could see, while schools of colorful fish swam through the currents, bringing life and movement to the scene.

The kingdom was ruled by King Junho, a stern yet fair monarch who commanded respect from his subjects. His trident, a symbol of his power, glowed with a soft, ethereal light that mirrored the strength and wisdom of its wielder. Junho's seven sons, each unique in their own way, played a vital role in maintaining the harmony of Atlantica.

Prince Sunghoon, the second eldest of Junho's sons, swam gracefully through the azure waters of Atlantica. With his sleek silver tail and striking features, he was admired by many, yet he often felt a pang of loneliness that his brothers couldn't understand. While they reveled in their underwater lives, Sunghoon harbored a secret longing for the world above.

Sunghoon's eldest brother, Heeseung, was the heir to the throne, a natural leader with a strong sense of duty. Heeseung often bore the weight of the kingdom's responsibilities on his shoulders, and his wisdom and bravery were revered by all. Despite his busy schedule, he always made time to offer guidance and support to his younger brothers, ensuring they stayed on the right path.

Jay, the third in line, was adventurous and always eager to explore uncharted waters. With his bold and daring nature, Jay often led his brothers on thrilling expeditions, discovering hidden caves and forgotten shipwrecks. His sense of humor and quick wit made him a favorite among the kingdom's inhabitants, and he had an infectious energy that drew others to him.

Jake, the fourth prince, had a heart full of compassion and often cared for the creatures of the sea. He was known for his gentle nature and his ability to communicate with marine animals, healing the sick and injured with a touch of his hand. Jake's empathy and kindness extended to his brothers as well, always offering a listening ear and a comforting presence.

Sunoo, the fifth, was known for his charm and wit, always able to lighten the mood. His playful personality and infectious laughter made him the life of any gathering. Sunoo had a talent for music, often composing enchanting melodies that echoed through the palace halls, bringing joy and solace to those who heard them.

Ni-ki, the youngest, was a bundle of energy, full of curiosity and mischief. His insatiable thirst for knowledge and adventure often led him into trouble, but his brothers were always there to help him out. Ni-ki idolized his older siblings, especially Sunghoon, and often followed him around, eager to learn and experience everything the world had to offer.

Together, they formed a close-knit family, each brother bringing his own unique strengths to the kingdom. However, despite their bond, Sunghoon often found himself at odds with their father. King Junho had forbidden any interaction with the human world, a decree that stemmed from a tragic event many years ago.

When Sunghoon was just a child, their mother, Queen Nayoung, had ventured to the surface to observe a human ship. She had been fascinated by the humans and their world, much like Sunghoon was now. But her curiosity led to her untimely demise when the ship's crew, fearing what they didn't understand, attacked and killed her. King Triton's heart had hardened that day, and he had forbidden any of his children from ever visiting the surface.

Despite this, Sunghoon's fascination with the human world only grew stronger over the years. He spent hours in his private grotto, filled with artifacts he had collected from shipwrecks—human trinkets, books, and instruments. Each item told a story, and Sunghoon yearned to experience the world they came from firsthand.

One day, during one of his solitary explorations, Sunghoon discovered an old, abandoned shipwreck. The vessel lay tilted on its side, covered in seaweed and barnacles. The wooden structure had been worn down by time and the relentless ocean currents, but it still held an aura of mystery and adventure.

Curiosity piqued, Sunghoon swam inside the ship. The interior was dark, the only light coming from the bioluminescent algae that clung to the walls. As his eyes adjusted, he began to make out the shapes of various human objects scattered about. There were crates filled with strange, shimmering fabrics, and metal instruments whose purpose Sunghoon could only guess at.

He picked up a delicate music box, its once vibrant paint now faded. He carefully turned the tiny crank, and a soft, haunting melody filled the water. Mesmerized, Sunghoon closed his eyes, letting the music wash over him. In that moment, he felt a connection to the human world that was as strong as the pull of the tides.

As he continued to explore the ship, Sunghoon found a tarnished mirror. He gazed at his reflection, wondering what it would be like to look at himself with human eyes. He imagined walking on two legs, feeling the sun on his skin, and breathing the air above the water.

Lost in his thoughts, Sunghoon didn't notice Jay entering the shipwreck behind him. "Sunghoon, what are you doing here?" Jay's voice echoed through the hollow interior.

Startled, Sunghoon quickly hid the mirror behind his back. "Jay, I was just...exploring."

Jay swam closer, his eyes narrowing as he noticed the human artifacts. "You know this is dangerous. If Father finds out..."

"I know," Sunghoon interrupted, a hint of frustration in his voice. "But I can't help it, Jay. There's something about their world that calls to me."

Jay sighed, his expression softening. "I get it, Sunghoon. I do. But you have to be careful. We've already lost Mother because of them."

Sunghoon nodded, the weight of his brother's words settling heavily on his shoulders. "I just wish things were different," he whispered.

Jay placed a hand on Sunghoon's shoulder. "Come on, let's head back. We have a council meeting with Father."

Reluctantly, Sunghoon followed Jay out of the shipwreck, casting one last longing glance at the treasures within. As they swam back to the palace, he couldn't shake the feeling that his destiny lay beyond the ocean.

Later that day, the seven princes gathered in the grand hall for a council meeting with their father. The grand hall was a magnificent chamber, adorned with intricate mosaics depicting the history and legends of Atlantica. King Junho sat on his throne, a commanding presence with his trident in hand.

"We have much to discuss today," Junho began, his voice echoing through the chamber. "There have been reports of increased human activity near our borders. We must remain vigilant."

As his brothers engaged in the discussion, Sunghoon's thoughts drifted to the surface. He knew that disobeying his father's orders could have severe consequences, but the pull of the unknown was too strong to ignore.

That night, unable to resist any longer, Sunghoon made his decision. He would find a way to the surface, to experience the human world for himself. He would be careful, he told himself, and he would return before anyone noticed he was gone.

With a determined heart, Sunghoon swam towards the edge of the kingdom, his mind set on the adventure that awaited him above. As he neared the surface, the water grew warmer, and the light of the moon began to penetrate the depths.

Taking a deep breath, Sunghoon broke through the surface, his eyes wide with wonder as he gazed at the night sky filled with stars. The land lay just ahead, and with it, the promise of new experiences and untold stories.