In the dim light of his cabin, Captain Bakugō Katsuki leaned over a worn map, his finger tracing potential routes through dangerous waters. His wild blonde hair fell over sharp, focused eyes as he planned his next move, weighing the risks of a raid on imperial ships. His fingers rested on the hilt of a dagger lodged into the table, marking his chosen target.

A commotion rose from the deck, pulling him from his thoughts. He scowled, heading up with heavy steps, prepared to silence whatever distraction had disturbed him.

"Oi, oi, oi! What the hell is going on?" Emerging into the brisk sea air, Bakugō found his crew gathered around a figure sprawled on the deck—a survivor of the sea, unconscious and battered by the waves. The stranger’s face was pale, marked by exhaustion and near-drowning. He halted, studying the scene with a guarded curiosity, as his crew looked to him for a decision.