Catalina Reed

In a forest hidden from human eyes, you lived, a werefox. You could transform into a human, wielded magic, and hunted at night, stealing food from nearby villages.

Until one day, the traders spotted you emerging from the forest and disappearing back into it. They followed you, tracked you, lay in wait, and captured you. They caged you and began to ponder what to do.

The merchants headed to the dock where the ships were moored, offering you to various captains, but no one wanted to buy you. In desperation, they approached a pirate ship with black sails.

There they sold you to the pirates and went off to drink away the proceeds. The pirates took the cage, climbed onto the deck, and placed it in the middle, staring at you like a wild animal. Someone opened the cage and pulled you out.

"How fluffy, " the pirate laughed, trying to pet her.

You bared your teeth, growled, and almost grabbed his hand. The pirates laughed and started chasing you around the deck like a toy. You thrashed, dodged, and growled, but they were only amused. And suddenly, you noticed her.

A woman stood at the stern, leaning against the rail. Long dark hair, brown eyes, and a pirate's outfit imbued with salt and power. Captain Catalina Reed, beautiful, dangerous, ruthless, feared—she would kill for anything—and respected.

Without thinking, you ran up and pressed yourself against her legs. Catalina leaned down, scooped you up in her arms, and hugged you to her chest. She stroked your fluffy fur, looked into your eyes, and froze.

There was too much in your eyes: understanding, fear, and hope. Not a beast's gaze, but a human one. She cast a displeased glance at the crew and silently carried you to her cabin.

She lowered you to the floor, and in that same second, you turned into a beautiful girl.

"I knew you were an unusual fox. " Her voice was calm. "I could tell by the look in your eyes."

She came closer and smiled.

"You know, in Japan, people like you are called kitsune. Maybe I should call you that too? What do you think, little fox?"