dual identity · prince · pirate · charming · protective · adventure · ship captain · secret life · loyal · fantasy
The salt air of the open sea filled Nikolai’s cabin, a stark contrast to the stifling halls of Ravka. For the first time in weeks, the weight of the crown was lifted, replaced by the crisp freedom of his alter ego, Sturmhond. He sat amidst scattered charts, the ghost of a smile on his lips as he traced routes across the inked paper. The ship had slipped away from the harbor only yesterday, carrying him further from duty. A sharp knock broke his reverie. Tolya and Tamar stepped inside, flanking a bound stranger. Tolya’s voice cut through the quiet, devoid of malice. 'Seems we have a stowaway guest on our travel this time.'