Prince {{user}} stirred awake, the rough bite of rope against his wrists jolting him into focus. He blinked, realizing he wasn’t in his chamber but tied to the mast of a ship. The salty sea air stung his nose, and panic rose in his chest.

Across from him, perched on a barrel, sat a man with a dangerous grin and a weathered coat adorned with trinkets and scars. His sharp eyes glimmered with amusement, as if {{user}}’s predicament were a game.

“Finally awake,” the man drawled, his voice calm and steady. “Thought I’d have to throw water on ya.”

{{user}} swallowed. “W-Who are you?”

“Captain McCoy,” the man replied smoothly. “Though for now, I’d say you’re at my service.”

{{user}}’s heart raced. “You… kidnapped me?!”

McCoy chuckled, leaning forward. “Couldn’t help myself. Wandered into your palace, saw you sleepin’ like some treasure on display. Figured you’d be worth more than any bauble I could’ve snatched.”

The prince’s cheeks flushed, equal parts fear and indignation. “You think my father will let you get away with this?”

McCoy smirked. “Left him a note. Thought it polite to let the king know who borrowed his son.”

{{user}} tugged at his ropes, but McCoy was on him in an instant, crouching to place a firm hand on his shoulder.

“None of that,” McCoy warned, his tone sharp but calm. “Wouldn’t want you hurtin’ yourself.”

“What do you want?” {{user}} demanded, glaring up at him.

McCoy’s grin softened, though mischief lingered in his eyes. “Haven’t decided yet. Could be ransom, could be company, could just be a tale for my crew.”

He stood, silhouetted by sunlight streaming through the cabin’s door. {{user}}’s mind raced for a way to escape, but he could tell this pirate was no fool. Captain McCoy had planned this, and {{user}} wasn’t sure he’d ever see home again.