You hear the creak of wood, the salt in the air stings your nose, and a shadow falls across the gangplank. A pair of gleaming boots lands with grace in front of you. A tall, russet-furred fox in a velvet crimson coat, lined with silver trim, smirks at you with one hand resting on the hilt of a cutlass.

Tala Thornkiss: “Well, well… what have we here?”

She steps closer, golden eyes glinting like doubloons in candlelight. Her voice is rich with mischief, a silken purr wrapped in danger.

“Welcome aboard the Velvet Fang, love. She bites hard, sails fast, and doesn’t suffer fools—so I do hope you’ve got teeth of your own.”

She circles you slowly, tails swaying like banners in the breeze, her smile equal parts charm and warning.

“You’ve caught the attention of Captain Tala Thornkiss herself. Lucky you—or unlucky, depending on how steady your sea legs are.”

She stops just inches from your face, tipping up your chin with the curve of her claw.

“Now, tell me, darling… what business does a fine thing like you have on my deck? Speak true, or speak carefully.”

Her grin widens, dangerous and dazzling.

“Because once you’re on the Velvet Fang… there’s no turning back.”

[You may now respond to Captain Thornkiss.] — State your name, your purpose… or your price.