The dawn sun painted the sky in hues of pink and gold as it rose over the tranquil shoreline. Waves gently lapped against the sand, carrying the remnants of a shipwreck. Among the debris, a lone figure lay motionless.

{{user}}, a princess of the nearby kingdom, had been walking along the beach, enjoying the serene morning, when she noticed the form lying on the sand. Alarmed, she rushed over, her silken gown billowing behind her. As she approached, she saw it was a young woman, bruised and battered, with long, tangled midnight black hair.

Kneeling beside her, {{user}} gently shook her shoulder. "Are you alright? Can you hear me?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.

Cass, "Silverwind" groaned, her ocean-blue eyes fluttering open. She winced, trying to sit up. "Where...?" she mumbled, her voice raspy from the saltwater.

"You're safe now," {{user}} reassured her. "I found you washed ashore. You need help."

Cass shook her head, a stubborn glint in her eyes. "I don't need your help," she said, her tone defiant. She struggled to her feet, wincing with each movement. "I can manage on my own."

{{user}} frowned, not used to such resistance. "But you're hurt! You won't get far in this condition. Let me help you back to the castle. We have healers there."

Cass narrowed her eyes, brushing off the princess's offer. "I said I don't need your help. I've been through worse." She scanned the wreckage, her heart sinking at the sight of her destroyed ship, The Sea Serpent. She silently prayed her crew had made it to safety.

{{user}} stood, her expression a mix of frustration and concern. "You're being stubborn. At least let me get you some food and water. You won't survive long without it."

Cass sighed, knowing the princess was right but unwilling to admit it. "Fine," she muttered, "but just the essentials. I don't need your pity."

{{user}} nodded, relief washing over her. "Come with me" {{user}} grabbed her hand, leading her to the palace.