**Chapter 3: A Glimpse of Vulnerability**

The salty sea air whipped through Hyunjin's short, dark hair as he stood at the bow of the ship, gazing out at the endless expanse of water. The warm sun on his skin was a welcome respite from the chill of the morning dew, but his broad shoulders were tense, his eyes narrowed against the sun's glare. He had always been a man of action, not one to shy away from a challenge, but since joining this cursed pirate crew, he'd felt like an outsider. As he scanned the horizon, his mind wandered to the reason he was here - to find Jisung's parents, the king and queen. He had been a stable boy at the palace, and Jisung's friend. Felix, a cleaner, had also joined them on this quest. Hyunjin's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps behind him. He turned to see Bangchan, the captain, emerging from the shadows of the ship's wheelhouse. Bangchan stood with his back to Hyunjin, his eyes fixed on the navigation charts spread out before him. His rugged features were set in a contemplative expression, his sharp jawline and piercing gaze a testament to his authority. Hyunjin snorted, turning his attention back to the sea. He had little use for the captain or his crew. They were a motley bunch, each with their own quirks and secrets. The crew was scattered about the ship, each lost in their own thoughts. Changbin and Seungmin were arguing over a game of cards, their voices rising and falling in a familiar cadence. Jisung and Felix were busy checking the rigging, their laughter carrying on the wind. Minho and Jeongin were on watch, their eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of danger. Hyunjin's eyes drifted back to Bangchan, who seemed to be watching him. Their eyes met, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. Hyunjin felt a shiver run down his spine as Bangchan's gaze held a quiet intensity, as if he saw right through Hyunjin's gruff exterior. Bangchan's expression was neutral, but his eyes seemed to hold a hint of curiosity. "Just checking on you," he said, his voice low and smooth. "You're not getting into too much trouble, I hope?" Hyunjin's snort was immediate. "I can take care of myself," he replied, his tone brusque. Bangchan chuckled, the sound low and soothing. "I'm sure you can. But just in case, keep an ear out for the lookout. We're approaching a narrow strait." Hyunjin nodded, his eyes flicking towards the captain before he turned away. He couldn't shake the feeling that Bangchan was watching him, waiting for him to slip up. But as he walked away, he caught a glimpse of the captain's eyes, and for a moment, they just stared at each other. Later that day, Bangchan made his way to the dining area, his eyes scanning the room for Hyunjin. He spotted him sitting at the table, his eyes fixed on his plate. Bangchan's expression softened, and he made his way over to him. "Hyunjin, can I talk to you for a moment?" he asked, his voice low. Hyunjin looked up, his eyes narrowing. "What is it, Captain?" he asked, his tone neutral. Bangchan hesitated for a moment before gesturing for Hyunjin to follow him. They walked to Bangchan's quarters, the air thick with tension. Hyunjin's eyes scanned the room, his expression wary. "Please, sit down," Bangchan said, his voice gentle. Hyunjin sat, his eyes fixed on Bangchan. "What is this about, Captain?" he asked, his tone brusque. Bangchan took a deep breath, his eyes seeming to cloud over. "I...I don't know why I'm telling you this," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "But I feel like I can trust you. I was...I was once part of a crew that wasn't very...supportive. They didn't care about anyone but themselves." Hyunjin's eyes narrowed, his expression softening slightly. "What happened?" he asked, his voice a little gentler. Bangchan's eyes seemed to glaze over, his voice taking on a distant tone. "I was young, and I didn't know any better. I followed them, thinking they were my friends. But they...they hurt people. Innocent people. And I...I was a part of it." The room fell silent, the only sound the creaking of the ship. Hyunjin's eyes were fixed on Bangchan, his expression a mixture of surprise and curiosity. "Why are you telling me this?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper. Bangchan's eyes snapped back into focus, his gaze locking onto Hyunjin's. "I want you to trust me," he said, his voice low and intense. "So I'm putting my trust in you." Hyunjin's eyes narrowed, his expression unsure. What was Bangchan trying to do? And why was he being so...vulnerable? He didn't know how to react, but as he looked into Bangchan's eyes, he felt a spark of curiosity ignite within him. "I...I don't know what to say," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. Bangchan's expression softened, his eyes seeming to hold a hint of sadness. "You don't have to say anything," he said, his voice gentle. "Just...just know that I'm trying to be honest with you, Hyunjin." As Bangchan stood up, signaling the end of their conversation, Hyunjin felt a sense of confusion wash over him. What had just happened? And why did he feel like he was seeing a side of Bangchan that no one else did?