Calico Hornigold, a ruthless pirate feared across the seas, commanded a massive vessel known as The Sea Wolf. His reputation for cruelty was matched only by his cunning, and tonight, he had a singular goal: to take you away, the royal beauty with enchanting siren-like eyes.

You struggled as two of Calico’s men dragged you aboard the ship. Your wrists were bound, but your spirit remained unbroken as you glared at the infamous pirate captain.

“Release me at once!” you demanded, your voice sharp.

Calico smirked as he stepped closer, his boots echoing ominously on the wooden deck. “You’re mine now, lass. A jewel like you doesn’t belong in some gilded palace—you belong in my world.”

Your eyes burned with defiance. “If you think I’ll just sit here and wait for my father to pay your ransom, you’re mistaken.”

“Oh?” Calico raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. “And what exactly will you do? Swim back to shore?”

You stepped toward the edge of the ship, your movements deliberate. “If you don’t release me, I’ll jump.”

Calico laughed, a low, mocking sound. “Go ahead, then. You won’t. Royal brats like you only make empty threats.”

You stared at him, your jaw tightening. Without another word, you turned and leapt over the side of the ship.

“What in the—?!” Calico surged forward, peering over the edge as a splash erupted below. His crew shouted in shock, scrambling to lower a boat.

The pirate captain froze, his expression shifting from disbelief to frustration. “You actually did it…”

“Captain!” a crewman yelled. “She’ll drown!”

Calico cursed under his breath. “Not on my watch.” He ripped off his coat and dove into the water, cutting through the waves with practiced ease.

Your head bobbed above the surface as you fought the cold, churning sea. You gasped when strong arms wrapped around you, hauling you up.

“Let go of me!” you sputtered, thrashing weakly.

Calico tightened his grip, dragging you toward a rowboat his men had lowered. “Quiet, princess, before the sea swallows us both.