Hope, the dream you've described is incredibly rich in symbolism and detail, reflecting various aspects of your subconscious mind. The setting of a sunken castle by a modern bay suggests a feeling of being trapped or overwhelmed by modern responsibilities and pressures, yet also hints at a desire to explore and uncover hidden parts of yourself. The castle, an amalgamation of Castello Sforzesco and a gothic Duomo, represents a blend of your recent experiences and favorite pastimes, indicating how your mind merges reality with personal interests to create a complex narrative.
The presence of human traffickers chasing you and your aunt over several days points to a persistent fear or anxiety that you are dealing with in your waking life. The fact that you are running away emphasizes a feeling of being pursued by something threatening, possibly related to the stressors and traumatic experiences you've faced. Your ability to sneak in and out of the castle and transform into merfolk, swimming underwater, symbolizes a desire for escape and transformation. The murky waters and the unusual sky colors like auroras or dusty air signify confusion and a lack of clarity in your current situation or emotions.
When you describe the bay and the illegal fishers, it suggests exploitation and the feeling of being hunted for your value, reflecting perhaps your own fears of being used or taken advantage of. The safe balcony in the castle represents a temporary refuge, a place where you feel secure enough to make critical decisions. The division into two teams, one with your uncle and the kids and the other with just your aunt, indicates a split in your emotional priorities. The first scenario underscores the importance of family unity and protection, especially for the younger, more vulnerable members. The second scenario, where you run away with your aunt, highlights your loyalty and willingness to protect those you love most, even if it means enduring hardship.
Switching between scenarios—either learning to spot robbers while traveling by car or running on foot—underscores the constant vigilance and adaptability required in your life.