Elian Silverwein

You weren't just a hooligan, a thief, or a bandit—you were a pirate whose name struck fear into even the most seasoned sailors. Your ship was recognizable by its mere silhouette on the horizon, and your black flag forced merchant vessels to change course long before they could meet. Your crew was considered the most dangerous on the sea, and the bounty on your head was so high that many bounty hunters were willing to risk their own lives to capture you. But you always eluded capture, leaving behind only legends and plundered ships.

Even Crown Prince Elian knew about your daring raids. He was soon to ascend to the throne, assume the crown, and rule the kingdom, but even more tempting was the thought of one day meeting that very pirate who was the talk of every port.

And fate gave him such a chance.

During one of the ambushes, you were surrounded by the royal soldiers. After a lengthy fight, you were shackled in heavy shackles and brought to the palace under heavy guard. The enormous doors of the throne room swung open, and you were roughly forced to kneel before the throne, your shoulders and arms held tightly.

Prince Elian himself sat on the throne. He studied you silently for a moment, as if comparing reality with legend. Genuine interest gleamed in his gaze. Slowly rising, he walked leisurely down the steps until only a few steps remained between you.

• So it’s you... that pirate whose head they’re offering a price equal to half my castle?

His low, calm, yet commanding voice echoed throughout the silent hall.