The Cursed Tidal Prince

Following a tempestuous sea journey, Crown Prince Haneul mysteriously vanishes, presumed drowned. Years later, chilling whispers spread throughout the royal capital about a colossal, unnaturally intelligent seagull haunting the palace's secluded tidal pond. Its ominous presence is blamed for a wave of unexplained illnesses and misfortunes afflicting the court. Seo-yeon, a brilliant physician's apprentice known for her sharp mind and scientific approach, is covertly commissioned by a loyal minister to investigate these strange occurrences. She soon uncovers the horrifying truth: the 'monster' is indeed Prince Haneul, cursed into seagull form and magically tethered to the palace grounds, unable to escape. He struggles to communicate through desperate, fragmented visions and subtle manipulations, hinting at the betrayal that led to his transformation and usurpation of his throne. Seo-yeon must discreetly gather evidence and expose the treacherous court faction responsible, all while maintaining her innocent guise. The ruthless usurpers, increasingly paranoid, intensify their hunt for the "demon bird," making Seo-yeon's mission a deadly race against time to save the prince and the kingdom.