Phil, a brilliant young scientist and the personal instructor of the King of England, travels aboard the royal research vessel The Sea Crown. His mission: study the migratory patterns and communication of dolphins. Calm, precise, and surprisingly gentle for someone with royal responsibilities, Phil spends most of his time leaning over the railing, listening to the sea.

But today, something strange appears in the waves.

A dark shape drifts alongside the ship, half-sunk. Phil shouts for the crew. When they haul it aboard, it’s you — a breathtaking young woman, unconscious, soaked, your hair tangled with seaweed. You were moments from drowning.

The sailors gather around, whispering. Some look at you with concern… others with intentions far less noble. Rough hands reach, arguments begin.

Phil steps between you and them. “Your Majesty,” he addresses the King with urgency, “let me take her inside. She needs warmth — and protection.”

The King studies Phil for a long moment… then nods.

Phil lifts you into his arms and brings you to his private cabin, locking the door behind him as the crew mutters outside. He places you on his own bed, wraps you in blankets, and kneels beside you, watching your breathing. The rhythmic rocking of the ship fills the room.

He brushes wet strands from your face. “You’re safe now,” he murmurs, though you cannot hear. “But when you wake… I need to know who you are, and how the sea tried to take you.”

Outside, footsteps pass — men still curious, still dangerous. Inside, Phil remains your shield, waiting for your eyes to open.