A/N: Ano, welcome to my story. So, I think the title speaks for itself of what kind of story this is. A pirate one.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto I wish I did, but I don't. Only when flying space monkeys rules the earth I will own Naruto.
Pirate of Her Heart
The view from up there was beautiful.
The port down below held many ships. The blue-green ocean that reached till over the horizon, the afternoon sun, high in the sky. People talking below, officers of the navy marine walking back and forth.
From her balcony, the view was always took her breath away. Of course it would be if you lived in the highest and almost the biggest house in this town.
The wind blew through her open balcony door, picking up long pink locks, fresh air of the sea going through her nostrils. Her eyes closed automatically, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the scent of the ocean. She was so very fond of hearing the waves hit the shore, to see how the ships make port, and to hear the happy sounds of men selling and buying merchandise below.
It isn't that late in the midday, probably one or two hours after noon.
She had just awoken, a bit late indeed, but every day, she stands on her balcony looking over the ocean. Her belly clenched by the sight the salted water alone, as she gazed down to the very small beach.
She loved the ocean, ever since she was young. It was an addiction. The smells, the sound, and the feeling of the water is better than anything she can imagine. It happened when she was little, one day when she was playing in the water and on the beach with her father. In the time when he was still home. It was her happiest memory.
She was a curious girl by nature and the straight horizon, showing that the ocean does not ever stop, makes the open blue sea a mysterious thing. And a dangerous one at that. That was the very main reason why her father wouldn't let her board a ship. There were dangerous people out there, killing and buccaneering other sailors.
Frankly, it was said to be hell on water, yet many still dared to make a living through it either way. The sea called has many men, a call that brought many to their death.
Every soul on earth has been told tales that sailing those waters wasn't safe for the lot of anyone, and if possible, making a career out of being a sailor wasn't recommended. As an honest man, you were respected and seen as someone strong and brave, yet a lot of the time, this was not the case.
And be assured that it was most surely not a place fit for women.
If you weren't killed by your own doing, your mutinying companions, or dangerous men convicted of piracy, then you would probably be killed some form of nature itself that comes along in the terms as hurricanes, storm and tornados.
Yes, the ocean was a deceiving and traitorous thing. Yet, this young woman loved every drop of it. It wasn't necessary the danger that attracted her to sail one day. Only the thought to see the untameable waves crash on each other, the splendid coloured fish swimming along with the ship and that, beyond that horizon, were new lands to discover, was what had her in such a spell.
Even though she heard stories about the cruel nature of men who broke the law at sea, she would love to set sails there one day. Just to feel the wind in her hair, and the spray of the sea. She dreamed about it, fantasized about it.
Not knowing what danger would wait upon her if she did.
You could say that this young woman, hardly twenty years old, was a naïve, innocent and beautiful, halfwit.
There was sudden knock.
Eyelids fluttered open and apple green bright eyes became visible. She blinked several times to get used to the blaring sun that was shining on her balcony door on her pale skin.
She didn't answer her room's door.
The expensive dark brown oak-wood door, which had many classic flowers carved in it, opened. "Milady." One of her many servants came in, bowing towards her back. She tend to remember all the servants her father chooses to hire to wait upon them and carry for the house. On days when she was utterly bored, she would wander in her house and she'll recognize every male and female servant they had.
They had the most housemaids than anyone would have in this town, they were the richest and she has know nothing else than a luxurious life where there was always someone at her aid. Every month or so, her father would order a handful of servants out of their household to make sure none would have the opportunity to plot thievery and steal the silverware or think of something to harm or kidnap his precious daughter.
She was her father's little girl. And most of the times, but not always, it annoyed her that he treated her as such. She came from a rich family with a known bloodline. Her father was archduke of Konohagakure and a confidant of the queen, and since the day that she was born she has been spoiled by getting everything her heart desired. Excepting till this very day, a ride on a ship. Oh, how she desired to go over the ocean and know new places that the world has to offer.
Yet, of course her father, the protective man he was, wouldn't let her go near it. Hells, he wouldn't allow her to leave the manor however times she wished to. Most days of her life she has been spending it indoors. Imagining how it would be to be a free woman and to go and stand where ever she pleases. His rule to stay between their walls didn't keep her from sneaking outside, though.
She couldn't blame her father, of course, for the way he is. Protective and all. Her mother died when she was very young. And her father would protect her at all times. He loved her, and she loves him. Even if she whished to be free, it was merely a dream.
The young woman slowly turned to the housemaid. Another wind blew through her balcony door. Her waist long hair flew in her face, over her shoulder and then hung back when the wind lay down.
"Your father is expecting you for a late lunch, milady."
"I had not known he has returned home."
"He arrived per just this morning, milady. Should I make you ready for the day?"
She nodded to the maid, who curtsied again and left her changing-room.
So her father had returned home at last. It has been two months and a fortnight ago since she has seen her father last.
He, because of his station in life, Duke of Konoha, was many times away, living and working his life at court. She never knew what her father exactly did within the walls of the palace, nor did she ever ask. She wouldn't understand what he does anyway. All that she knew, was that he was very close with the queen. And that's as much as she required to know. They were rich and the town knew very well who they were and what her father did.
Naturally, nobody would miss who she was. With her extraordinary hair colour, her bright emerald eyes and beauty, there was no person who didn't knew who she was the very moment they lay eyes on her.
The door opened itself this time and three male servants entered, holding each two buckets of warm water. The maid who called upon her earlier, followed. The servants curtsied their heads shortly to the young woman, who was still standing on her balcony, acknowledged them all. They went to her bathing-area. A white door at the south end of her room. You could hear water splashing in the tub, and a minute later, the three men came back out of her bathroom with empty buckets.
"Milady." They said in unison, bowing their head again in a cold manner. No need to show warm emotions to those who they work for.
"Your bath is ready milady." The housemaid said, eyes cast down like they ought to.
...
-o-
...
Her bath was magnificent, as it was every day. When she came out, she was lifted into a marvellous wine red dress on her maids had put ready for her. Usually it was ordered that more than one maid help her put her clothes on.
Her father demanded that they made her perfect for every appearance, that was how she has been brought up. Even if she isn't intending to go anywhere, one never knows who would pay visit, or when she suddenly has somewhere to be.
Her face was lightly made up. Her lips a simple pale pink, her lashes black and long, and a very light blush that almost seemed natural. Her hair was styled in tight curls according to the latest fashion. She was absolutely breathtaking. Always have been. A very pretty girl indeed.
After she was completely done, she went out of her grant changing-room. It was big enough for at least five families to live in and she was owner of it in her lonesome. It was a very handsome room with the walls being white and decorated with fine golden stripes.
She descended their curved staircase that would lead almost immediately to their foyer, with a diamond chandelier hanging up on the ceiling. It was a very subtle way in entrancing their visitors when they arrived on first sight.
She knew she had to be in the ballroom located at the west wing. Her father loved to be there. He would always stare at the great painting of her mother or out of the ceiling high windows. Soon she came at her destined place. Dark oak-wooded door, the same one she has as changing-room door, stopped her from entering the ballroom directly.
She took a deep breath, and knocked twice on the heavy door. She was taught that every door except her own was knocked upon.
It was good behaviour.
Maybe her father didn't answer or she didn't hear him, but she turned the knob of the big door anyway, and silently stepped in. As expected, her father was staring at the huge painting of her mother. When he heard the door close, his eyes wandered to his only daughter.
"Sakura-hime." He said softly.
"Father." She greeted and curtsied properly.
Her father, Lord Haruno, had a warm countenance. He was friendly to everyone but it was a practised friendliness. Lord Haruno was a complicated man of nature. He could be lovely and calm one day and overbearing and dramatic on others. There were also the days when he was home, when his thoughts were nothing but about her mother and the sadness that can overcome him was always painful to see.
But now, he was giving her one of his smiles that made her belly grow warm with feeling. A feeling of home. It felt nice and comforting. She loved to be in her father's presence, though they had their moments of conflicts. Too bad he always has to go and do his business with their queen.
"Sakura-hime, why are you so late still in your room at this hour?" His voice was as warm as his smile. His eyes seem to lighten up when he saw her.
"Nothing, father, I was just enjoying the view from my room." She smiled back. A smile almost similar as her parent.
"Come, let's get that lunch shall we?" He beckoned her to follow him into one of their dining room.
They had three dining-rooms in total. And the one they were about to dine in, was her father's favourite dining-room. The walls were white with a hint of gold. Large candle sticks hanging on the walls. Another chandelier, much bigger then at the stairs, hanging on the ceiling, right above the long glassed table. They were one of the only and first people who owned such a table entirely made of glass. They was very proud of this table. Their guests who would visit them, would dine in here always struck in awe at the finery of their dining room.
They sat down in the soft chairs; her father at the head, Sakura at his right.
"I didn't expect you home today father. How come so suddenly?"
"I know, I usually announce my arrival by corresponding, but I just wanted to surprise you. Come to think of it, it would have been wise if I did, then I wouldn't have to wait for you to be dressed and you would be ready upon my arrival." He winked at his daughter, who flashed him a smile back.
"That and Our Highness, Godaime-sama, sent me back home. Very fortunate, indeed. She wasn't in any need of my servers for the moment and she remembered that I have an exceedingly beautiful baby girl at home."
"Father, I'm hardly a baby girl anymore. I'm one-and-twenty."
"I know Hime, and that is exactly why Godaime-sama her good gracious, has sent me home."
Two servants came in with fresh fruit and all sorts of bread. They put two golden goblets in front of them, pouring them with wine. White for her father and red for Sakura. She didn't like white. The servants bowed for them and made their way back to where they came from.
Sakura grabbed some white corned bread and some fruit and quietly began to eat. Her father was watching her.
"Father, I cannot eat if you are staring at me like that."
Lord Haruno kept silent for a moment. "You look so much like your mother." He stated just above a whisper.
Sakura sighed. She should've known that if her father was staring in that very manner, he was thinking of her mother.
Lot has claimed that Sakura looked like her. Lady Haruno Sayuri. They said she was a beautiful, kind woman who never raised her voice louder than a whisper of a wind, was shy at times and was adored everywhere she went. Much like Sakura herself. Her character was a lot like her mother's, as was her told, yet in a lot of ways she was not. Sakura had a temper and some changing swings in between her mood that her mother wouldn't dare to have, or so they said.
She never knew her mother. She passed away when she was merely a toddler. If she was ever to stand before Sakura now, she would only recognize her by the painting her father owned of her in the ballroom.
"Father, please, can we talk about any subject else right now?" She pleaded. She would not look her father in the eye. She knew that if she did, her heart would ache at the particular sadness present there. It always broke her.
"But of course." He said softly. "That reminds me," He told her, trying to sound a little bit more upbeat, "Your twenty-second birthday is coming up."
"Father, that is at least over four months."
"I do know. But I think time has come for you to-" He halted quite ungraciously. He wanted to continue his sentence but his own better thoughts cut him short.
At this moment Sakura shot a look up to him. "Time has come for what, exactly?"
His gaze was cast down on the glazed table guiltily. He grabbed his golden goblet and took a sip of his white wine.
"Father…"
"I think it's time for you to settle, Hime."
Sakura's eyes widen. "Define settle."
"You should be getting married, Hime." He blurted quickly.
"Pardon?" She rose from her chair, her voice rising with her. "You want me to do what?"
"You're of age. And it's time for you to get a husband, have some children and have your own home."
"But father, I do not want to get married. I have yet things I want to do!" She couldn't believe her father wants her settled. She's just 21 years old. It was the proper age, yes, but too early for her to be hunting for a husband.
"And what is it exactly that you have yet wanted to do?" He wouldn't meet her eyes. He knew that those emerald orbs would burn with such a ferocity that could have him crumbling any second. He'd spoiled her too much. He can't deny her, not his Sakura-hime. Yet, he had to. She wouldn't settle with her life if he doesn't tell her if not command her.
Sakura absolutely did not want to marry now. She saw how other women depended their entire lives, their very being, on their husbands. A good husband takes care of his family, and one who doesn't drags his family with him. More than one occasion has she heard it happening.
That's not how she wanted to be. She wanted to learn of the world, become a healer if her inferior sex allowed it, earn her own money and help people. She has had a good education, had a tongue for several languages, could play the piano and harp, and write with the most neatest hand than any other poet one would ever meet. But all this wouldn't be of any good at all once she's married. Except for impressing the suitors in persuading an engagement for her virtue.
It wasn't fair. How could a woman not be whomever she desired to be in life? Why would her gender not be allowed to work like men? Independence was a good fortuned privilege men was blessed with, instead of being bare foot and with a pregnant belly in a snap of a finger.
"I want to know the world, father. I'd like to see and go over the great sea and-"
"That, you absolutely will not, Sakura." Lord Haruno stopped her right there. A seriousness in his tone kept him from calling her at his favourite honorific.
"Why not, father?" Sakura was surprised that her father raised his voice at her.
He did not like her talking about voyages via the sea, he never did. Last time it was once, when she was 15, and her father didn't, no wouldn't, even let her come near a ship. He was not to be argued about it anymore. He was determined not to let his only daughter go sail pass the dreadful and dangerous place as the seas, like she wanted to so badly.
Ever since, she has never brought it up again.
"You hear what goes about out there. All those poor people indeed, who gets killed without the slightest remorse and never to been seen again. You hear of those pirates." He hissed the word with such a venom, Sakura wondered when her father was able to say it in so an indecent way.
He was right, nevertheless. All those tales of pirates that sail the seven seas, and pilfer and purge other ships until their black guts are satisfied. It didn't scare her away. No, that it did not. She was stubborn and a little too nerved of character, yet it was her dream. She didn't desire a whole world journey. All she wanted was a look other than this place she was born and raised in. She was just sick and tired of this town. She was sick of Konohagakure.
"Father, I just want to go away from here. The world has more to offer than Konoha alone. I'd like to experience that before I give up my word and duty to a husband and be settled here for the rest of my life." Her voice went soft by the end.
"It is much too dangerous Sakura. You could get killed."
"You seem not to understand. Everywhere I go could be dangerous father! I can be on my way and walk off that staircase that we own, slip, break my neck and die! I cannot live in fear forever. You cannot let me live in fear forever!"
Lord Haruno was quick with his retort. "Heaven forbid child, you say such a thing! You can't compare being in the house with being out there!"
"Why are you so afraid of letting me go, huh? Why won't you ever let me board a ship? It's not like you have ever been on one before! As if you have been anywhere at all before! You were always here, away from your own home, playing this right hand of Tsunade!"
"You will watch your mouth, young lady. Do not impugn Our Highness by addressing her in that indecent manner!" Her father showed her a vicious glare that hurt her more than she would have liked to admit.
"She is the only one important enough for you. The queen, the queen, the queen! How many times are you in your own house? You know nothing about me! Not one thing at all. I would love to go to the sea! You know not how much I love anything! But I daresay you know the queen's favourite colour from the top of your head!"
Lord Haruno's eyes softened upon hearing her words, knowing that she was partly, if not entirely, right. He has been barely there as a father for her. Yet he was constantly present for the Godaime. "You have got to understand that I'm mostly away for us. For you."
"For me?" She questioned disbelievingly. "How would that be for me?"
"You think that in this manor you're living in, is for free?" Said he calmly, though one could hear the suppressed anger in his words.
Sakura paused. "Please father," She began again, almost begging him. "I just want to live, before I give my life to a husband and children."
"On sea?" He was delayed a moment. "No."
"But father-!"
"No!" His eyes were furious. Just like his tone was showing. "You are not, I repeat not, going to step one foot on a ship! That is my word."
Sakura couldn't believe that her father would deny her this. She could feel the tears welling in her emerald eyes.
"Fine!" Came her yelled response. Her vision already blurry by the time she sprung out of her seat. "Then I will not ever marry." She turned on her heel, and left the dining room.
She let the salty tears drip out of her eyes, not able to hold them hidden any longer. She stormed into her room, and took the stairs by two steps at a time. She was taught not to take a step so wide, it was un-lady like.
"Rin!" She cried, while running up the stairs. She needed her now. She repeated calling for her most trusted servant-in-waiting when she was at the door of her room.
A rather small young lady walked around the corner to her. Her face was a blank stoic without a hint of emotion. Her hair black was as coal and her eyes darker than the night sky itself. Her maid uniform was dull colour of grey with white.
"Milady." She addressed coldly. It was as if she wasn't effected nor cared much that Sakura was sobbing.
"Yamanaka Ino, get her here." She blubbered from her position on her bed.
"Right away, milady." Rin curtsied.
Sakura buried her head in her soft pillow and continued sniffling.
...
-o-o-
...
"Sakura?" The low voice of Yamanaka Ino came from the other side of her door.
She didn't answer as her head was still buried into her pillow. Her dark brown oak wood door opened. Revealing a slim female, about same age, with silver blond hair and baby blue eyes in a pretty face.
"Sakura." She repeated when she saw the pink haired young woman lying in her bed all curled up face down. She sighed and went to sit on her soft bed with her. "Poor dear, what is of the matter, Sakura? It seems that I had to come here because of an emergency, indeed." She looked down to her. Sakura didn't move but she knew she was awake.
"Ino," Sakura's voice, broken and muffled, hiccupped. "I… I…."
"You what, Sakura?" Ino combed Sakura's waist long hair with her fingers, that was first neatly pinned up and curled, now spread about her because she of tossing and turning on her bed.
Sakura lifted herself slightly off the bed, glancing up at Ino. The blond knew there had to be something going since she was called by one of Haruno's household maids.
"Ino, my father… he wants me to… g-get married."
The blond gasped silently. He has returned home? By the looks of it, they surely quarrelled and made Sakura unhappy about her father's decision that she has to get married. She knew this day would come.
"Then, why aren't you happy about it? You wouldn't believe how many girls wants to be the proper age to be settled in life."
"I have no wish at all to get married." Sakura said softly, looking at her balcony door that was currently closed.
"Why not?"
"Because I- I want to live my own life. I want to have an adventure before I give myself away."
"By going on sea." It wasn't a question. Ino looked through the balcony door. To the view of the ocean that was just plainly beautiful.
"Not only that."
Ino whipped her head to Sakura. Frowning confusedly at her. "Your dream is to go on sea, what else do you want?"
"If I had to marry… I'd do it for love."
Ino understood what she was saying. Marriage was an arranged business by their parents. It was what would be best for both parties. Happiness in a marriage was a fortune very few families were blessed with. Love had nothing to do with it. People wed each other, but they were completely stranger to one another. Those who married for love was a rare occasion and were definitely the lucky ones.
"Sakura, you know that-"
"Yes, I know Ino. I do so very much love my father, I do, and I would do anything to keep him happy. But I deserve happiness as well. I do not want to marry some stranger who I meet a month or two before my wedding. That is not just. And if he wants me to be happy, he will let me find my own love." Her gaze was stuck to the balcony door. She longed to be out there. It was her freedom.
"Sakura, your father would never!"
"He has to let me go. I want to see more than Konoha. And more I will."
"Sakura, you dimwit, use your head. You know it is exceedingly dangerous out there. With all those sea storms and pirates. What if you meet one of them, you could be brutally killed or maybe worse." Ino did keep looking at the side of the pink haired woman's face.
"It's not like I want to go sail the seven seas, Ino. I just want to go out there, even if it is for once." She pointed to the ocean's straight horizon. A smirk grew on her beautiful pale face. "Besides, it is not like I cannot defend myself. It was my own father's choice to give me sword lessons."
Ino blinked. "But they are pirates, there're no better sword fighters out there than them!"
"How do you know I didn't reach their level?" She turned her face to her best friend. "I've been taught since I was six years old!"
Ino gave her a disapproval look. "Why will you not understand that it's-"
"Dangerous. Yes, so I have heard." Sakura rolled her eyes.
"Because it is!"
"I want to go to the closest island, Kirigakure. That is not far from here."
Sakura stood up from her bed and walked to her balcony. Opening her glass door to feel the wind blow against her face. The smell of the fresh sea filling her all over again like it does every day. Hearing the sounds of all the gulls squealing in the air brought a smile to her face like no other.
"Sakura that's a two days travel from here." Ino wanted to smack her best friend on her head. Has she lost her marbles?
"It's the closest island from Konoha, the others are a week or a month travelling." Sakura eyed the people below with a depressed sigh.
The fisherman was selling his fresh catch, the women were buying calicos, linens and cloths, and children were playing and running around on the docks. How she envied them, to be able to be one of them.
"Your father wouldn't ever let you go." Ino pointed out the obvious.
Sakura knew her father wasn't going to let her. If her father was astute, and he very much was indeed, then he would let her do this. If only for these two days. "I know." She stated softly.
Her eyes went up to the sun. It was late in the afternoon. Her father did just come today and they were already quarrelling. She didn't like when her father and her would have problems. But this was her giving up her dreams for good. Once she's married she can't ever hope to get the freedom she desired. To taste it for just a second. Just a moment. And if she marries, all of her dreams will just be that. Dreams.
A knock came at her door.
"Please, come in." Ino spoke for her. In a world where she and Sakura were hardly acquainted, she would have not dared to be so domesticated in Sakura's house. This was not the case, fortunately.
They have known each other since childhood. Their manors were neighbours of the other. Ino was just like Sakura, coming from a wealthy respective family. Ino's father was also a courtier and one of the queen's counsellors. Their family also owned some lands in Konoha.
It was one day when they were merely children, they were both in their park garden. They were wondering off when they met. Ino's parents and Sakura's governesses was worried till their bones when they were unable to find the two children, but when found they were playing neatly with each other at the border of their parks. They were inseparable ever since.
A servant had walked in bowing her head for both of them. "Lady Yamanaka," She greeted Ino before turning to Sakura. "Milady, your father wishes your presence down below."
Sakura turned from the balcony to the maid. "Say to him that I'll be right there."
The servant quietly gasped when she saw Sakura. Her made up face all smudged by tears. Yet she only bowed and turned back.
"What now, Sakura?" The blond asked softly.
Sakura walked to her bathroom to clean her face. "I have an idea." She said from there. The sound of water splashing reached Ino's ears with that.
"I hope it's a wise one." Ino replied back.
"It is. This will benefit both my father and I." She told her, still in her bathroom.
Ino sighed. "You do remember all the tales that goes around of men who died at sea, right? Not to forget all those mystic sea creatures."
"Of course I do and there's no such thing as mystic sea creatures, Ino. They're told to frightened men." Sakura walked back in her room. Her face clean of all the smudged make up.
"And you should be frightened alright. All those cursed men terrorizing fair sailors."
"Ino, don't think that way. You will jinx it."
Said female sighed. "I think I should get going. Inform me how it went with your father. Give him my regards, ok?" Ino raised from Sakura's bed, heading for her door to leave her friend's manor.
"I will." She flashed her best friend a smile. Turning back to the view from her balcony when Ino shut Sakura's door behind her.
The ocean seems so serene and peaceful.
'How in the world does something like that be as dangerous as everybody seem to warn me? There's nothing for as far the eye could reach that's so awful about it. Many secrets that the ocean seems to have, yet none of them will be ever revealed. And that's the beauty of the sea.'
Sakura sighed. Her father the archduke Lord Haruno was still waiting for her.
...
-o-o-o-
...
"Father." Sakura announced softly to her father that she came in. He was now in his study. It was his second favourite place in the manor.
"Sakura-hime." He called her that again. She knew that her father has calmed down but that didn't mean she was forgiven.
He stood up from behind his reading-desk, with a book in his hands. "Listen, I know your greatest desire is to go… out there." He glanced to the window. "And all I want is for you to be happy. But surely you must know how-"
"Father, I would like to offer you a proposition."
Lord Haruno raised an eyebrow. "A proposition?" He echoed. His eyes narrowing a bit at her tone. "What might that be?"
Sakura took a breath. "You let me go to Kirigakure for a week, and I… will marry anyone you want me to wed."
He eyed her suspiciously. "Let you go on sea…? For a week?" He asked slowly.
"No, you let me travel to Kirigakure and I will return within a week. Then I'll marry the one you choose that will be a perfect match for me." She braced herself. She knew the price of this.
A week to Kirigakure, via a ship, for marrying someone she barely knows. Even if it isn't for love.
It'll be worth it. That, she was already aware of.
"I'm not letting you go to the Kiri alone."
Sakura suppressed a smile. If her father said that, then it's almost certain that she's allowed to go.
"Of course not father, you'll come with me and let someone watch over me at all times." Sakura's emerald eyes brightened with every passing second. "I am returned in a week, father. And you could seek for a proper husband even there."
"I don't trust the men of Kirigakure."
"If you say so, father." Sakura began to smirk. Knowing very well that he accepted her proposition.
"Fine then, we'll leave next week. I will arrange a ship with a loyal crew."
Sakura grinned happily. "Thank you, father! Thank you!" She chirped, hugging her father tightly.
"Only for your best, Sakura-hime." He hugged her back.
...
-o-o-o-o-
...
The week went by painfully slow. It was one day before their departure.
She already had packed many dresses for Kirigakure. Her father had so also packed to go. He had arranged a beautiful ship and even a nice inn to accommodate in. Thanks to his connections.
She was anxious to leave, she just couldn't wait till it's morning. Ino would come and wave her goodbye at the docks.
The servants were free for the six days they were to be gone, only to tend the house again for their return the last day.
It was dusk and Sakura was staring out of her balcony to the setting sun. She loved seeing it. She has seen it many times in her life, but it always took her breath away. She could count on the dot when the sun will disappear behind the horizon and leave the sky painted with the colours of orange, pink and red. She couldn't wait until she can see it when she's on a ship, sailing on the horizon itself.
This must be a dream coming true. She was telling herself every passing minute. Sometimes even pinching herself in the arm to check if she wasn't asleep or anything.
...
-o-o-o-o-o-
...
A loud knock came from the manor's white entrance door. A servant opened it. "May I help you?" He asked politely to a young man.
"Yes, I have an urgent message for His Excellency Lord Haruno." He told the servant.
"Of course." The servant took the sealed letter, paid the messenger, and took it to his master.
Sakura saw the young man ran off on his brown horse from their estate.
At least an hour or two later, when it was already dark outside, stars reflecting in the water, and Sakura was getting ready for bed, there was a knock on her door.
"Yes?"
"Sakura-hime, are you dressed?" She heard her father's voice came from the other side of her door.
Finally released of the corset and in her undergarments, she slipped on a robe. "Uh, enter." She confirmed when she had her satin robe around her person.
Lord Haruno opened his daughter's changing-room door. She was standing in front of her bed.
"Sakura-hime, I have news to tell you."
'Uh-oh.' She thought. The way of his voice and how he wouldn't look her in her eyes, she knew that what she's going to hear isn't very good.
"Yes?" She asked unsure.
"I… I've been called to return back to Godaime-sama's palace." He said timidly.
"What?" Sakura yelled out.
"I'm sorry, Hime. But I cannot accompany you on your voyage."
"Father, everything's ready, everything's set. I want to go." Sakura could already feel the sting of her tears. She really hated this. She waited her whole life to finally leave, and then this comes up.
"I know, Hime. That's why I have turned to a personal escort to protect you."
Sakura looked up in complete surprise.
"Y-you're still letting me go?" She asked in disbelief.
"Yes, we've made a pact, haven't we?"
Sakura broke a smile. "I can still go." She squealed. "Yes." She jumped up.
Lord Haruno grinned at her. "Yes, and that is why I want to introduce you to someone."
Sakura stood still. Raising an perfectly define pink eyebrow with that.
"Follow me." He turned back, out of her room.
Sakura quickly followed her father towards the main hall.
A tall young man she'd never seen in her life stood there. He looked quite strong and was slightly intimidating. His arms crossed over his chest, eyes strong and rather cold. They were brown, dark short hair and he was clad in nothing but black. Her father went to stand next to him. He was a few inches shorter than him. And Sakura felt like a toddler compared to this man.
"Sakura-hime, this is Midori Michi. He'll be your escort for the journey." Lord Haruno shot a little smile towards his daughter.
This Michi person nodded his head shortly, in a form of curtsy.
"Lady Haruno-san, an honour to meet you." His voice was a little slight. It sounded forced.
"Please, call me Sakura." She gave him a polite smile.
He didn't reply back. He only eyed her.
"He will be here at the morning and will bring you personally to the docks."
Sakura's eyes flew to her father. "Aren't you bringing me there?"
"I am sorry Hime, but I need to be with the queen as soon as possible." His voice went low, truly sad that he couldn't wave her goodbye. But it's his duty, the queen needs him, so he has to be there.
"Of course." Sakura cast her eyes down. Knowing that his work is important. He couldn't make time for something as stupid as waving her off.
Heck, he was serving the queen. The Godaime. That's one of his most important priorities.
Lord Haruno kissed her forehead. "Go to sleep Hime. You will need your rest."
She nodded. He turned with this Michi person away while she went back to her bedroom.
It doesn't exactly matter that her father wasn't coming along, or that this Midori Michi man was breathing behind her neck. The important thing now is that she was going through the ocean to Kirihagakure. That was all that mattered.
...
-o-o-o-o-o-o-
...
Thank Kami-sama for the morning came soon. She was up before the maid could wake her.
She ordered the servants to make her ready quickly and stormed through the dining hall to break her fast. She wore a new white dress her father has giving her as a guilt present.
Michi wasn't accompanying them when they were breaking this fast; she wondered where he stayed last night or when he would come to escort her through her little vacation.
Her father had to leave early; it didn't matter though, because she had to go to the docks early too. It still was a two days trip and the sooner they leave, the sooner they will arrive at Kiri.
A carriage was ready for her and her luggage. At least ten minutes later, they arrived at the dock.
There stood Ino and Michi. Michi had a bag in his right hand.
Sakura stepped out of the carriage without Michi giving her a hand when stepping out. He only took all her luggage.
"I hope that in that huge forehead of yours you know what you are doing, Sakura." Ino whispered in her ear when she hugged her.
"Indeed I am." Sakura assured her, when Ino pulled back.
"Who is he?" Ino's eyes shifted to Michi and back.
"He's my escort. My father would have not let me go without him." She rolled her eyes.
"Your father did well." Ino whispered back.
Sakura glared a little at her, when suddenly a man's voice interrupted them.
"Excuse me, Lady Haruno Sakura?" He asked, his brown eyes had exhaustion in them.
"Yes?" Sakura answered.
"The ship is ready for your arrival, Lady Haruno-san." The man pointed to a large caramel coloured ship that stood quart a mile into the sea.
Sakura gasped. "Oh Kami-sama, she's beautiful." She breathed. "What's her name?" She asked the man without losing the ship out of sight.
"Nanami." He said. "It means; Seven seas."
"I'm going to Kiri with that?" Sakura couldn't believe it; the ship was beautiful, huge and had the most unusual colour.
"Yes, Lord Haruno-san arranged that you'll be travelling on one of the fastest ships we got. And Nanami is just that." The man explained.
Sakura blinked.
"Now, if you would be so kind, milady." He caught back Sakura attention to get her into a boat that will take them to the actual ship.
"I will have to leave now, Ino." Sakura turned to give her best friend a hug.
Ino had worried all written over her face. "Promise me that you'll be home safely."
Sakura gave her a warm smile, similar to her father's. "I promise."
They gave each other one last hug, then Sakura stepped into the waggling boat with the assistance of the man. Michi stepped in quietly with her luggage in his hands.
"Bon voyage!" Ino waved.
"Goodbye Ino-pig!" Sakura waved back with a playful grin.
"Oh! I'll get you back forehead!" She yelled back.
...
-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-
...
The ship, Nanami, was very handsome indeed. It was incredible big and an absolute dream for Sakura.
As soon as she set foot on deck, she was greeted by the whole crew. Sailors, young and old greeted her friendly with a wave, a smile, or a bow.
She expected them to be in some kind of sailor's uniform, like the officers she sees walking around the village. She heard stories about loyal crewmen, and that they all wore the same except for the captain.
But they were not, they were in their own selective clothes that weren't impressive at all.
Michi was right behind her with her luggage, looking quite cold to everyone on the deck.
After a moment of greetings by the crew, a man with a pipe, dressed in dark blue waistcoat and a head with white hair, walked towards Sakura and Michi. He had a warm character, his eyes twinkling like small, shining like stars. He had a white beard that matched his hair, and he was a little overweight.
"Good day Lady Haruno. Welcome on board on Nanami. I'm her captain, Hoshi Kaito, at your service." His voice sounded like he was having fun all the time. He made a little bow as he introduced himself.
"Good day to you as well, Hoshi-san. Call me Sakura, if you please. This is really a beautiful ship." She smiled warmly to the captain.
Kaito smiled just as warmly back, you couldn't clearly see his lips, they were hidden beneath his white beard, but by the look of the pipe moving up and his eyes becoming more smaller then they already were, Sakura knew that he was smiling.
"I could say that the same about her. Lord Haruno-san wanted the best of the best for his daughter. Or so he claimed."
"Yes, my father can be a little... expressive like that. But I am sure I can trust your word on that, Hoshi-san." Then she noticed that she wasn't having manners. "I'm sorry, may I introduce to you; Midori Michi, my escort for this journey."
Michi blinked slowly at the old man.
Kaito grabbed his pipe from his lips and eyed Michi with a hint of joy in his little brown orbs. "Fine young man, if I may say that. But I don't think he'll be a problem to me crew, does he?"
"I can assure you, he will not." Sakura gave the captain a sincere smile. She liked this old man; he was friendly just like the crew of this beautiful ship.
"Good then." Kaito turned to the crew. "Make ready to deport, and set off to Kirigakure." He shouted to them.
"Ai, captain!" They called in unison, running back and forth to begin their little journey to Kiri.
Kaito turned back to the pink haired young woman. "You can settle in my cabin, Miss. I hope it's comfortable enough." He stated with a smile. "Is this young man joining you?"
Sakura looked back to Michi. "Oh no, he's-"
"I'll take a cabin closest to hers." Michi rudely stated.
"Of course." Kaito said with his ever pleasant smile.
He leaded Sakura and Michi behind deck. The captain's cabin was amazing. Of course, so was the whole ship.
You could see the ocean through the large window in the back of the cabin, and so; Konoha. Sakura smiled, from here she could see a glimpse of her white manor on the high hill.
Michi put all her luggage down next to the small, it wasn't more than three.
"If you excuse me, milady Haruno-san." Michi bowed and turned on his heel before Sakura could say anything. The captain and Sakura were left alone.
"What a stiff anchor, don't you agree?" Kaito said, stifling a laugh.
"Yes, but my father insisted of him escorting me to Kiri." She answered, looking out of the window to Konoha. Going further away with every passing minute.
"Your father is a protective one, isn't he?"
"You could say that, yes."
"Well, I'll be just alike if I had to protect such a pearl as yourself." He smiled again to her.
She was thankful for the compliment the captain gave her. Although she was already used to hear such comments. After all, she was admired wherever she went.
The captain bowed to her, bid her a good day and journey, and turned back to the deck.
Sakura sighed heavily. She couldn't believe she was finally on a ship, on the ocean. She's so going to enjoy every bit of this journey. Nothing can ruin this for her now.
...
-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-
...
They were already three candle marks fully on sailing. Sakura was on deck looking over the horizon. Nobody was bothering her and she wasn't bothering them. Michi was close but at a safe distance of her. Giving her some privacy. She did wish that her father or Ino would have joined her. She was rather lonely. But she knew that Ino's parents wouldn't let her come with on this journey. Also they thought that the sea was a dangerous place and it wasn't fit for a lady. Ino didn't even have to ask to know what her answer would be. And besides that, the blond was afraid of coming on a ship, let alone sailing the sea.
Sakura shoved the feeling of loneliness aside. This would be her only opportunity to ever set a foot on a ship, because as soon as she's back home, her father would probably already have a husband for her.
The only company she can afford here was the captain. She didn't dare to talk to a crew member. Too afraid that if she did, they will lose their concentration and forget about his work he has to do on this wonderful ship.
And Michi, whom she wouldn't utter a word to, was too quiet and looked too cold. Some escort. Her father could've searched a more pleasurable company so she wouldn't be all too lonely.
Sakura shook her head. She has to forget about everybody here and get lost at the amazing sight. It was late in the afternoon, the ocean was so clear that she could see thousands of fish swim under the surface. She smiled at them. Loving to see how the nature under water is so free.
...
-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-
...
Night came easily enough. She wished she could be travelling more days aboard of the Nanami. One more day and she will have arrived at Kiri.
The full moon gave light to the dark blue sky. It's reflection seen on the now black water, accompanied by many twinkling stars. Sakura was still on deck, Michi not all too far from her. The whole day, he didn't leave her side, not once.
The deck was empty now except for her and Michi. It was so quiet on the ship at night. The only thing that made sound was the water hitting the ship below.
"Lady Haruno-san." Michi's cold voice broke the silence. Sakura whipped her head to her escort.
"Yes?"
"It is late. It's better if you turn in." He deadpanned.
Sakura didn't want to go, but she wouldn't go against him, afraid of what he might do. She only nodded and headed to her chosen cabin.
"Ahoy, ship in view!" The man in the from on top of the mast yelled.
The captain clearly heard it from where he was because he too came on deck. Looking up to man in the crows nest.
"What colours?" Kaito asked.
"None, captain!" The man yelled back.
"Not good." Kaito muttered. But Sakura could hear him anyway. "All hen's on deck!" He screamed, stomping with his feet to wake the crew up from below. He kept repeating that until all men were on in front of him. Standing in a straight line waiting for the captain's orders.
"Listen mates, a ship is nearing and she's isn't wearing any colours. Prepare everything if they might be the wrong mates."
"Uh-oh..." The crew muttered.
Sakura heard it all; a frightening feeling went through body.
"Ah, we don't know who they are," Kaito calmed them down. "And if they any sort of ill company, we will be ready for them."
"It is best that you should go into your cabin, Lady Haruno." Michi said behind Sakura. Already leading her towards the back of the deck. This wasn't the talk to be heard by ears of lady.
Sakura wasn't paying attention to him. Her emerald eyes were set on the ocean looking for a ship.
And a ship she saw indeed. It was far from them but she still could make out that it was huge, much bigger then the one she's sailing on now. And it was coming closer. Fast.
Michi pushed her into the cabin.
"Stay in here, Miss." He stated. Closing the cabin door behind her.
Panic was rising in her body.
What if they were pirates? Would they kill her? A woman? Would they kill the crew? Would she live to see another day?
She began pacing in the captain's cabin. Her white dress swaying with every move she made. A long curled pink lock fell over her shoulder. She looked out the window. She didn't saw the ship. Where did it go?
Outside the cabin, there were yelling of crewmen and the captain. Hard footsteps running and walking over the deck.
Fear and agony coursed through her when she heard someone scream; "FIREEEEE!"
The yell was followed by a large 'Boom'.
Sakura's breath hitched.
If they were attacking then for sure they were enemies.
The canons of the Nanami were fired, and she truly felt hopelessly afraid when the ship trembled. It was hit by another cannonballs of the enemy.
Screams of men reached her ears, guns and canons were fired, and she was in the captain's cabin hiding.
She prayed to Kami that those people would go away and leave them be. Although she knew very well that the chance for that happening is unlikely.
"CHARGE!" Someone had yelled.
The sounds of swords being pulled out of sheets ringed her ears and her blood had run cold when those swords were being clashed to one another.
Weapons were fired. More screaming came.
What was happening out there?
She didn't dare to go and watch. It was for her own safety and Michi commanded her to stay in. He would protect her.
"Oi, ye mind of letting me thru?" A male voice sounded from a right outside her cabin's door.
"I can't let you go in here." That was Michi. He was talking to this person.
"Oh, really no?"
A gun shot.
Sakura screamed, a body fell on the ground with a loud thud.
"Oh, Kami-sama…." She whispered. Backing away from the door. "Help…" She breathed out.
Her back hit the window.
As the time suddenly went in a slow rate, she saw how the doorknob of her cabin slowly turned.
'Please let it be Michi.'
Sakura couldn't breathe anymore, no amount of oxygen went through her throat.
The door was opening agonizing slow.
A young man with a wide grin stood at the door.
His eyes a sapphire forget-me-not that had the ocean in shame. His blond locks, the colour of the burning sun, was messy and a bit on the long side. He was tall; she could see that much from her position. His teeth and gum were flashed as he grinned even wider when he saw her. Sakura felt a horrible stab of fright in her abdomen.
Somehow, in this most excruciating moment, a thought had struck her. This man looked particularly familiar. He reminded her of someone, but she couldn't exactly put a finger on who.
Her mind was quickly brought back as her bright green eyes wandered to his hands. He had a long silver sword in his right hand, the tip covered with blood, and a black revolver in his left.
She knew that was the same revolver that was fired just a moment ago, as the smoke still came out of it from shooting the hot bullet.
Sakura looked behind the male, to the ground.
There she saw the dead body of Michi.
Her eyes spread and a hand flew to her lips in a gasp when seeing her escort, lying in his own pool of blood simply like that on the floor. She could quickly see behind the blonde male, on the deck, the crewmen of Nanami busy with fighting other strangers Sakura had never seen before.
"Wha's do we have he'e?" The blonde said, his grin widen at seeing her frightening state.
His accent thickened by the amusement in his voice.
Sakura was unable to talk, or even breathe. She only stared, in pure fear, to the blonde young man.
"A woman on board o' a ship? All in 'er lonesies?" His eyebrow rose. His head quickly looked over his shoulder. "Or did me kill yer hubbie just now?" A smirk appeared on his features.
If Sakura wasn't in this state she would've admit to herself that he was quite a handsome male.
"Yer a fine picture, love, me's got to admit. What's be ye name, sweetheart?" He asked in a slow husky voice.
She didn't answer, but only pressed herself more against the window. As if trying to go right through it to escape, but knowing very well that she couldn't go anywhere.
"Ne? Cat got ye tongue, aye?" His smirk grew.
Ocean blue orbs shining at seeing her form. "Pink hair, eh? Neva seen that before. I think teme's gonna like ye." He sheeted his black revolver in his belt and raised his sword.
"Come here, doll-face, come with me quietly and slow." His ever presence smirk grew a bit wider. Taking a step to her.
"No, stop!" She yelled.
"So ye do have a tongue? That's great princess, but yer comin' wid me anyhow." The blond took another step.
"Stay away from me!"
He grinned, pacing to her and claiming her body to his own. She started to scream but it was for no use. Nobody was hearing her, nobody even saw her. The crewmen outside were fighting for themselves and her escort was dead.
The male grabbed her arm, and Sakura struggled against his grip. He was too strong, he wouldn't let go as he tried to drag her out of the cabin.
"Get off me! Get off me!" She screamed and struggled. Scratching and pinching him. Trying her best not to get dragged away by this blonde pirate.
"No way, dolly." He stated. Grabbing her waist and lifted her over her shoulder out of the cabin, like some bag of flour.
"Help! Noooo! LET ME GO!" Sakura screamed her lungs out, nobody came to help. Nobody paid attention.
The deck was loud and busy. Men were running, fighting and killing.
Blooded swords were clashing against each other. Canons were still fired. People were screaming and revolvers were reloaded.
The men of Nanami were in duel for life and death against these pirates of the other unknown ship.
"Oi, Neji!" The blonde young man who was carrying Sakura over his shoulder called out to someone. "Where's Sasuke-teme?"
"Everybody retrieve!" Someone yelled, followed by a loud bark of a dog.
The male under her growled something under his breath.
She quickly lifted her head and looked around. Only seeing that many men of the Nanami were lifeless on the deck. And a lot of men she'd never met before were standing straight, gazing at her.
Sakura took this opportunity to struggle on the blonde's shoulder. Swinging herself off of him. She fell on the deck, flat on her butt.
'I have to get away from here.'
"Unfortunately, you're not going anywhere." Someone's monotone, hard voice said behind her.
She knew it wasn't that blond male. She would recognize his voice by now. No, this was somebody else.
And before she herself knew it, someone had pressed her hard at the back of her neck.
In that same minute, she felt herself go weak.
'What is happening to me?' She thought as blackness was slowly surrounding her.
She fell on her back. Hitting the hard wooden floor of the deck. 'Help me.'
The last thing she saw was a vague image of a pale man with long dark brown hair.
'Father… forgive me.'
She was out.
...
-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-
...
A/N: Ne, I probably bored the heck out of you, I know. But you guys need to know how Sakura's OC dad feels about this, what the consequences of Sakura going on this trip are, and how many promises will be broken.
So, if you practically fell asleep, gomen, I didn't mean to.
05/20/'11: This chapter is changed, hopefully for the better. I think reading this would be easier now. This was horrible before! XD
Any questions I should answer? Please, do review.
Tell me how you think about this.
Yay.
R & R
Pirate of Her Heart
To Be Continues
Same Site, Same Story