Whispers of the Underworld (SunSun)

chapter 9

July 3rd, 2024

I stood by the window, gazing out at the sprawling city beneath me. The lights below twinkled like distant stars, a stark contrast to the darkness that I felt within. It's a strange thing, looking out at the world you once felt so small in, only to realize how much you've changed. I adjusted my tie, my reflection in the glass a reminder of just how far I had come from the person I used to be.

Three years ago, I had been a fragile, helpless omega, a victim of circumstances that seemed beyond my control. I had lived in shadows, hiding from a world that I couldn't understand and was constantly trying to escape. But that was then. Now, I was no longer that scared, broken soul. The trials and pain had forged me into something else entirely-something stronger, colder, and more formidable. The power I wield now is a testament to the agony I endured and the resolve I built.

Tonight was different. Tonight, I would step out of those shadows and make my presence known. I was no longer the unknown figure hiding away. Tonight, I was ready to show the world exactly who I had become.

A sharp knock on the door jolted me from my thoughts. Jake's voice, tinged with impatience, filtered through. "Sunoo! Hurry up, would you? Heeseung's going to kill us both if we're late to his first ball as a married man."

I smirked, shaking my head as I grabbed the cufflinks from the dresser. "I'm coming, hyung," I called out, securing the final piece of my attire before giving myself one last look in the mirror. Satisfied with my reflection-a polished, commanding figure-I turned and exited the room, my footsteps echoing in the quiet hallway as I made my way to the grand ballroom.

Descending the grand staircase, I could already hear the hum of conversation, the clinking of glasses, and the soft strains of classical music. The massive chandelier above cast a warm, golden glow over the room, highlighting the opulence that marked every gathering of the elite. The sheer luxury was almost overwhelming, a testament to the power and wealth of the Lee family.

As soon as I stepped into the ballroom, I felt it-the weight of dozens of eyes turning toward me. The crowd parted subtly as I walked, whispers and hushed conversations rippling through the room. I maintained a neutral expression, my sharp, fox-like eyes scanning the room with cold precision. I knew the effect I was having. Every step, every detail of my attire, had been meticulously calculated to project an aura of power and confidence. I was no longer an unknown entity lurking in the darkness. Tonight, I was a force to be reckoned with.

The room was alive with activity. Lavish decorations adorned every corner-intricately carved marble pillars, velvet drapes framing the tall windows, and the scent of expensive perfumes mingling with the aroma of gourmet hors d'oeuvres. The elite of the underworld were gathered, their faces masked by polite smiles that concealed the danger lurking beneath.

I felt the sharp gazes of the attendees on me, some filled with curiosity, others with envy, and a few with outright hostility. I recognized a few familiar faces-old allies and enemies alike-each of them appraising me as if trying to measure the change that had occurred over the years.

One of the first to approach me was a tall man with graying hair, dressed in a sharp suit that spoke of old money. He was the head of one of the smaller families, but his influence in the underworld was significant. He greeted me with a sly smile, extending a hand.

"Lee Sunoo, it's been far too long," he said smoothly, his tone laced with subtle condescension. "I must say, you've been quite the enigma these past few years. I wasn't sure if we'd ever see you again."

I took his hand, my grip firm and unyielding. "I've had my reasons," I replied coolly, meeting his gaze with a steady one of my own. "But I'm here now, and I'm not going anywhere."

The man's smile faltered for a moment before he recovered, chuckling lightly. "Indeed. I'm sure the rest of us will have to watch our backs a little more closely from now on."

I released his hand, my expression impassive. "It would be wise to do so."

As the man excused himself, I continued through the crowd, each encounter a carefully measured exchange. I noted how people either tried to engage me or avoid me altogether, the latter more frequent as the night wore on. My reputation had preceded me, and that was exactly what I wanted.

I paused near the edge of the room, taking a moment to survey the scene. The orchestra played a lively waltz, and couples twirled gracefully on the dance floor, their laughter blending with the music. But beneath the surface, I could sense the tension, the undercurrents of rivalry and ambition. This was the world I had been kept from for so long, but now it was mine to navigate.

A woman with dark hair and a dress that shimmered like liquid gold approached me. She was one of the few female heads of a mafia family, known for her cunning and ruthlessness. Jang Wonyoung offered me a glass of champagne, her red lips curving into a smile.

"You've become quite the enigma, Sunoo," she purred, her eyes raking over me appraisingly. "Everyone's talking about the ghost that haunts the underworld. But tonight, you're very much alive, aren't you?"

I accepted the glass, raising it slightly in acknowledgment. "Alive and well, as you can see," I replied, my tone polite but distant. I took a sip of the champagne, its taste tingling on my tongue.

"And yet, you've kept to the shadows for so long," she continued, stepping closer. "What brings you out into the light tonight?"

I met her gaze, my expression unreadable. "Sometimes, it's necessary to remind people of who you are," I said simply, my voice carrying an edge of warning.

Her smile widened slightly, but there was a glint of respect in her eyes. "Indeed. Welcome back, Sunoo. I have a feeling things are about to get very interesting."

With that, she moved on, leaving me to continue my observation of the room. As the night progressed, more and more people approached me, each interaction a subtle game of power and influence. I handled each one with the cold, calculating demeanor I had honed over the years, never letting my guard down.

As the evening went on, Heeseung-hyung appeared at my side, his expression a mixture of relief and pride. "You're making quite an impression, Sunoo," he said quietly, his voice warm despite the coolness of the room.

I glanced at him, a small smile playing on my lips. "That is the plan," I replied, my voice low.

He chuckled softly. "Well, I'd say you're succeeding. Now, let's get you something stronger than champagne. I think you've earned it."

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New Strong Sunoo☝🏻✨️

I'm so excited right now, because this is where the story becomes more interesting.

Also let me ask, would you like it if I put chapters in the future from Sunghoon’s POV?