Notes at the bottom
Between the Devil and the Deep
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Chapter Seven
Unlikely Alliances
*The Age of Kings*
It had been many years since families had become clans, and the clans became nations, as different as the Land that had formed them.
The Uzumaki with their especially strong life-forces and longevity.
The Yamanaka with their elven roots and powerful magics, and their blood-allies, the Nara and Akimichi who populated the forests and mountains around them.
The Aburames, the Inuzkas, the Sarutobis – all renowned for their unique talents and strengths.
But of the clans, the two that stood out the most were the Senju and the Uchiha.
Magic ran swift and sure in the veins of the Senju, glowing green with strength and healing and life. They eventually settled on the island Evergreen - a place with enchantment rich in the fertile soil and lush forests. Their leader became known as the Fox King for his ties to the Guardian Fox.
The Uchiha had grown into a proud, seafaring folk with strong ties to the Sea and her people. Their kingdom was as much on the water as it was on land, and it was often said that the sun had never seen a sea without an Uchiha upon it. Hashirama of the Senju and Madara of the Uchiha were the two of the most powerful beings of their generation, and the unlikeliest of friends.
Hashirama was lighthearted and warm and often let his emotions dictate his actions.
Madara was serious and reserved, and relied on his intellect to guide his decisions.
Madara tempered Hashirama's impulsive nature, and Hashirama warmed Madara's rationale to include compassion. Together, they were the best possible version of themselves, their efforts uniting the Kingdoms on land, and ensuring prosperity and peace for their people.
They began the tradition of holding summits every five years where the different Kingdoms would take turns hosting the others, espousing an exchange of ideas and solidarity. Just two years after the second of these meetings, Yugito arrived at Madara's court with the word that an unlikely clan was asking not only that another summit be called immediately, but that they be allowed to host. Hashirama had been visiting at the time, and was the first to react.
"The Otsutsuki?" he asked, eyes wide. "The Hyūga I might understand, but the Otsutsuki?" he'd turned to Madara, who was sitting back, listening.
"That they would not have contacted us without reason," he rubbed his chin. "But their request comes with complications. They will not want all of us in their court, nor will all of the delegates be comfortable in a palace under the ocean."
"Now there," Hashirama's eyes were bright, "I think I have a solution - that is, of course, if you are willing to have your birthday present early this year."
Madara knew better than to guess what Hashirama had in mind, and had doubts until the day the Comrade first crossed the horizon of the Northwaters, where the other delegates had assembled their ships. She was a massive vessel, hewn from the wood of Evergreen and wound together by Hashirama's magic. Hashirama welcomed Madara on board, clasping his forearm.
"Been planning on this for a while," he admitted with a broad smile. "Made it a bit larger than I had originally figured, but I think it suits you, Old Friend." He clapped a hearty hand on his back. "May it serve you well."
The wood of the ship was warm under Madara's palm, and the barest hint of a smirk with the anticipatory gleam in his eye was more thanks than Hashirama had expected.
"Knew you'd like her," he winked. "Ah," he turned to the lithe woman approaching, her long blonde ponytail tugging in the wind. "Yugito! Kurama sends his regards to Matatabi. Sadly, he felt it better he stay in Evergreen while we are away."
"More like he wanted to keep you away from his Vessel," Madara snorted and Hashirama looked mildly sheepish.
"He might not yet fully approve of my courtship of Mito…"
"Unsurprising" Madara said dryly.
"Oh, well, enough about me," he laughed awkwardly and rubbed the back of his neck. "Have the other delegates arrived?"
"Yes," Yugito dipped her head. "They have asked that I alert them when we are all assembled."
"Then by all means," Hashirama clapped his hands together. "Let us assemble!"
With less than a thought, the wood of the ship arced out and created walkways to the other vessels, allowing the delegates to all make their way on board. The commotion was indescribable as so many moved to the massive ship, and were guided to their quarters. The bulk of the passengers were given time to rest before the evening meal, but the heads of each faction gathered and exchanged polite greetings. When they were ready, Matatabi's magic engulfed them all, and they were transported to the Otsutsuki's royal court.
The King was waiting to greet them - a tall, proud man with skin and hair the pale pearl of moonlight. As a show of courtesy to his guests, he adapted a more human form, standing on legs while several men that could only be his sons stood nearby. The magic of his court allowed them all to stand and breathe comfortably, despite being many fathoms below.
The throne behind him was empty, and emanated a powerful magic. Both Hashirama and Madara noticed the smaller figure standing to the side of the dais, and the subtle magic flowing from her.
"A woman," Madara murmured to Hashirama as he sized up the graceful, veiled figure. Her attendant caught his stare. She had a sharp, curious face, and he thought she might be one of those children of the sea similar to merfolk, but not of quite the same bloodline. She did not turn away from his gaze, either, offering him an eyebrow lifted in challenge even as the formal introductions droned on around them.
"Making friends already?" Hashirama asked innocently.
"Doubtful," Madara smirked. "She appears to be vastly unimpressed."
"And now for why we are here," the King turned, and motioned the woman forward. "The Goddess saw fit to bless us with her Oracle."
"An oracle?" The Nara asked, eyebrows raised. "I thought the Sight was a gift to your kinfolk the Hyūga?"
"It is," a gentle voice answered from behind the king. "I was called here by the Goddess," she lifted her head and pushed back her veil. "To unite Hamura's children, and receive her prophesy."
Madara tried not to stare at the black ink of her hair or the pale moon of her eyes. Although her transformation allowed her to stand on two legs, her hair drifted in a long cloud of black around her. He blamed the uneasiness in his chest as being a reaction to the magic allowing him to move deep in these waters. He attempted to ignore the thrum of something in his ears as her eyes met his.
Time might have stopped – he was not sure – but in that instant he was certain he had never felt so instantly connected to anyone or anything.
"We have never had an Oracle in these waters," the King announced. "Please, Lady Hina," he knelt on one knee. "Please take the throne and share the Goddess' wisdom with the travelers."
She gave a single nod and climbed the stairs to the throne. She sat, her legs shimmering into a long, flicking tail, and when her eyes opened, they glowed with starlight and magic.
And her words would follow Madara for the rest of his days.
*Sixteen Years Ago*
Hinata
The Grand Summit was a massive event, and Hinata was in awe. This world was so different from her own, where life was constantly in motion all around her. The land felt curiously flat and solid under her, and she was glad for her hours of training with Neji.
Merfolk were capable of spending time on land – albeit not for very long. The Royal bloodline, however, could extend their time on land if they trained and adhered to certain protocols. "You have to practice it," Neji assured her while they trained on a beach safe from prying eyes. "It does get less difficult. The coastlines are kinder," he brushed his fingers over the sand. "Barring that, places with water are the best. All waters flow to the sea," he stood and looked out over their homewaters. "You can draw strength from water."
She'd followed him many places to practice – on outcroppings of rock, to the far north to rest on ice and run through snow, even once or twice to the deep forests, and hillsides with the rolling grass and gorse.
And now she was grateful for every exercise, for the land felt sure and welcoming underfoot, even if her heart swam high above her.
The boy on the hill said he'd be at court – but save for a name, she had no idea who he was. Or at least she hadn't, until the Son of the Fox King had been too excited to get to shore, and nearly fallen in the ocean. Hinata had stretched out her magic without a thought, and delivered him to shore, looking very, very confused, but dry and safe.
And then he'd turned the warmest smile she'd ever seen on her. Her heart stuck in her chest as he beamed – eyes bluer than the bluest summer sky, with hair as yellow as the sun that had kissed his skin into a golden tan.
"Wow," he blinked at her, impressed. "That was almost really embarrassing just then – thanks so much!"
"Almost?" Neji snorted, coming quickly to her side. "Did you think all and sundry didn't see you almost go headfirst into the water."
"Almost," the boy said pointedly. "But I didn't. I'm Naruto," he stuck out a hand.
"H-Hinata," she hesitated, offering her own hand in the unfamiliar gesture, only to have him envelop it in his own, sending a cascade of warmth shooting up her arm, and fanning across her face.
"I've heard about you," He pumped her arm a few times. "Neji's cousin, right?"
"Right," she agreed.
"Her name is Princess Hinata," Neji batted Naruto's hand away, "and you will address her as such."
"Princess!" Naruto's smile widened. "Wow – I've never been saved by a princess before! This your first time to the Harbor?"
She nodded mutely.
"Well, I've been here loads of times," he held out his elbow. "C'mon. I'll introduce you to everyone."
Neji might have interjected, but Hinata had allowed Naruto to tuck her hand in his arm – if only out of a baffled sense of obligation, or perhaps she was hypnotized by the friendly magnetism. Neji glowered and followed, relieved when others met them at the end of the gangplank.
"Naruto!" the girl with the pink hair flushed. "What on earth were you thinking?!"
"Hey, Sakura," he said cheerily. "Where are the others – I want them to meet our new friend!"
Sakura turned intelligent, bright green eyes to Hinata. "I am so sorry he is an idiot," she said flatly. "Thank you for saving him from his own stupidity."
"It…it was no trouble," Hinata offered, put off balance by such frank and unfettered conversation.
"I'm Sakura," she offered with a bow. "And you are?"
"Hinata."
"Oh!" Sakura's eyes widened. "Hyūga Hinata?"
"Yeah," Naruto beamed. "I got saved by a princess!"
Sakura looked between them with a new mortification before putting her head in her hands.
"You are an even bigger idiot than even Sasuke thought," she muttered. "Let the poor girl go – she isn't used to being on land, and you are practically dragging her."
Naruto adjusted his hold as Sakura gently took Hinata's other elbow.
"Come with us," she invited. "We have some friends for you to meet."
Hinata nodded, but her sharp ears had definitely heard the name 'Sasuke.' Was it a common name on land?
Hinata tossed a glance over her shoulder, but her Uncle gave her a friendly nod, even as her cousin moved to follow. Thus assured, she allowed Sakura to steer her to where their friends had gathered. Hinata met Sakura's best friend, and heir of the Yamanaka clan, Ino. She recognized Shikamaru of the Nara, although neither mentioned it. Chōji, was a new face, as were several of the various older relatives and chaperones lingering about. Something about the quiet boy with glasses was very assuring, and she was positively captivated by the small, furry creature perched on the head of another boy. She'd never seen a dog before, and was thrilled when his handler declared that it liked her.
"Akamaru is an excellent judge of character," he'd winked, and grinned a sharp, fanged grin, that did not make her uneasy. "If he says you are alright, then you are alright by me."
Hinata's smile was warm, and real then, as she felt that first flicker of inevitability: these were to be her friends.
"Now where is the Bastard?" Naruto looked around, startling Hinata.
"Naruto," Sakura hissed, while Ino rolled her eyes.
"He means Sasuke," she drawled Naruto tried to placate Sakura. "And his family is hosting this," Ino said over her shoulder. "I doubt he has time to meet us at the docks. We'll see him this evening."
"Well, the important thing to remember, Hinata," Naruto said, eyes sparkling, "Is that I am way cooler than Sasuke. This one time –"
The series of stories that followed had lightened Hinata's heart, as the friends chimed in in turn to curtail or downright refute some of Naruto's more elaborate details. Hinata thought she had never had such a lovely afternoon, and couldn't imagine anything to make it better. Her father and Uncle had to report to the King directly with the other leaders of the Summit, and she was taken with the other children to their shared quarters. Hinata was delighted that she would be allowed to room near the other girls, and Neji (who was decidedly less delighted) near the other boys. Her eight-year-old heart beat wildly with joy.
She looked out of the window, beyond the castle walls to the harbor and the shining sea.
"It looks so beautiful from here," she breathed. She closed her eyes and let the sea breeze weave through her hair, and the sun caress her skin. She opened her eyes to the blue of the sky and smiled up at the sun. "I am having an adventure," she whispered, her cheeks flushed with pleasure. "And I am sharing it with friends."
*Sixteen Years Ago*
Sasuke
The Great Summit was unlike anything Sasuke had ever encountered. There was a social component to the event, but the attending adults spent hours in meetings and going to different locations to speak of Great Things. Luckily – or unluckily, depending on how you looked at it – there were as many activities planned for the children of the delegates as there were meetings for the delegates.
Sasuke hadn't been able to join the other children that first day; not until that evening's banquet. Each of the children was introduced and presented to the court, in a fairly informal way – not at all like what would be expected in a few years when the courts would all convene for formal introductions.
King Hiashi stood to introduce both his nephew and his daughter – and something inside Sasuke fluttered strangely. Having seen the ship rise from the water, he knew she had to be a Daughter of the Sea; but he had never guessed she was the King's daughter as well.
Itachi told him that Merfolk could walk on land, and that the ones attending this event would use powerful magic to sustain that transformation.
"Normally, Merfolk don't stay on land for more than a day or so," he'd explained. "The ones that train like Lord Hizashi can manage for a few days – perhaps even a week – but they need to return to the Sea to replenish their magic."
Sasuke had kept a careful watch on Hinata after learning that. Once, on an excursion with the rest of the children, she'd gotten a little too pale for his liking. Before he could suggest they get her to the water, Sakura had noticed, and Naruto had come over to place a hand on her shoulder. Orange light engulfed him and transferred over to her, sinking under her skin. She gave a small sigh of relief, and looked up at him with eyes wide and adoring.
"Thank you," she murmured, bowing her head, and allowing her hair to hide the flush of her cheeks.
"No problem!" Naruto grinned. "Mom told me to keep an eye out in case you got tired. She taught me that trick especially for this trip!"
Hinata blinked up at him. "Really?"
"Yeah!" Naruto beamed. "Sakura practiced some of her magic, too," he nodded to the girl behind him. "That's part of what we have to do – we take care of each other, don't we?"
"Yeah," Kiba snorted. "Hinata was already doing that before she got on shore when she saved you from taking a swim."
"Just shows she belongs with us," Naruto shrugged. "Right, 'Nata?"
"R-right," she stammered only slightly, as happiness washed over her.
"The sun is high," Neji frowned at the sky. "Lady Hinata – we should rest for a bit."
"Not a bad idea," Shikamaru called from his place, sitting against a tree. "Chōji – get the picnic."
The arc of shadows under the trees thickened, and the air became pleasantly cool.
"Come into the shade," Ino took Hinata's arm. "Shikamaru will make sure that we have cover from the sun."
"Troublesome," Shikamaru muttered, eyes closed as he leaned against the tree, his fingers in a steepled configuration.
Sasuke followed all of this mutely, inwardly chastising himself for not having done something sooner.
The day they toured the gardens, though, he had his chance. Their group had filtered into the maze, and Sasuke stayed nearer to Hinata than the others. Neji was in a meeting that day, so Sasuke had taken it upon himself to keep a closer eye on Hinata. The sounds of the others echoed through the garden – a distant riot of sound in the comparative quiet of their corner of the world.
Hinata looked up at a particularly enthusiastic "Whoop!" that could only have come from Naruto.
Sasuke reflexively shook his head and muttered "Idiot," under his breath.
It must not have been as quietly as he thought, since Hinata's eyes darted to him, and then hastily back to the flowers.
"What?" Sasuke frowned. "He is."
Hinata glanced up at him with a shy smile. "I was confused by how you speak of one another, but Sakura tells me this is because you are friends."
The sight of those large, pale eyes gazing so innocently on him mellowed the acid retort on the edge of his tongue.
"Yeah, I guess," he shoved his hands in his pockets.
There might have been more to say, but Hinata gasped in wonder as a large butterfly took to the air between them. Entranced, she followed after it, and Sasuke followed after her. Hinata stood still in wonder, gazing at the riotous array of flowers, and the butterflies flitting about, and the buzz of bees and hummingbirds, and the flutter of wings in trees high above.
"What is this place?" she asked in wonder.
"The Queen's Garden."
"Oh!" she stepped back. "I didn't mean to intrude."
"That's just its name," he shrugged one shoulder. "It's really old; I think it is made up of plants from all over, brought here to the first queen."
Hinata's eyes were wide as she entered the garden with a bone-deep reverence. "The magic is old here," she whispered, pausing to listen. Something caught her eye, and she moved deeper to the heart of the garden, as if beckoned.
"There," she whispered, stopping in awe.
Sasuke sauntered up behind her.
"Just more plants," he shrugged.
"No," Hinata shook her head. "That is a garden of offerings. See?" she brushed her fingers across the petals of a vibrant flower, only to watch them shimmer and pale before reforming. "These flowers have been planted elsewhere, with pure intentions. These blooms are reflections of the offerings made."
"Oh," Sasuke said, lamely. "How do you know that?"
"We have such gardens back home," she explained. "I-… Sorry," she ducked her head and blushed.
"Sorry?" Sasuke quirked an eyebrow. "For what?"
"Naruto and the others… they told me you don't like talking very much. Or when people talk too much."
"Who can get a word in with Naruto around?" Sasuke muttered. "You aren't bothering me."
Hinata looked doubtful. "Are you sure?"
He gave what he hoped was a careless shrug. "So. About the garden?"
They sat on the bench in the shade of the willow tree, and spoke for quite some time, until Hinata looked up at him, puzzled.
Sasuke raised his eyebrows in expectation, and watched her hesitate before she ventured: "Are we…. are we friends?"
His shrug was nonchalant. "I suppose so."
"Do…do you have to all me an idiot?"
"No?" Sasuke returned her puzzled look.
"Oh…," she looked bewildered and possibly a tad disappointed. "I thought that was what Land Walkers did when they were good friends. Like you, and Naruto? Or even Ino and Sakura? Although I am still not sure why Sakura calls Ino a pig…?" she trailed off with a pretty frown.
"Different friends do different things," Sasuke said simply. "That doesn't have to be our way."
"It doesn't?"
"No."
"Oh," her smile was shy and bright. "I am glad. I don't like calling people names."
"Wait until you've known Naruto for a while," he snorted. "Then see what you think."
Hinata's smile was gentle. "How did you two become friends?"
Sasuke was going to shrug off the question, but soon found himself telling her all about Naruto. When Itachi found them and summoned them back to court, it was nearly time for the evening meal. He waited while Hinata paused at the offering garden, and murmured a few words in her own native tongue, before pushing something small into the soil. Happy with her work, she followed.
The next day a new and rare bloom joined the others – this one substantial to the touch.
"Powerful magic," his mother murmured as she studied the bloom. "That comes from the intention of a pure and grateful heart.
And Sasuke felt a swell of pride for his new friend.
*One Week Ago*
She waved him forward, moving quickly as she explained.
"The original enchantment allows for several interception points," she said, keeping her voice low. "We are tracing one of the routes down to the heart of the brig. Once we are there, though, it won't afford us any protection, so I'll talk fast."
She chanced a glance over her shoulder, and Neji nodded, listening.
"First, there is Jirobo, the jailer," she grimaced. "Really big guy; short temper, thick skull. The kitchen sends the meals down to him, and he delivers them to the prisoners before tending to some other duties. There are guards at the fore and aft entrances. Kidomaru is waiting at the fore, ready to strike down anyone that attempts to escape. At the other end, Sakon and Ukon – the blood-thirstiest set of twins you'd ever want to meet – are keeping watch. Tayuya sits in the crow's nest, and can alert the other four with her whistle."
"And we can't get out the way we are getting in?"
"Doubtful," she shook her head. "Once we free the prisoners, the enchantments will shift. We can't count on a safe way out."
"Of course not," he muttered, and she tossed him a rueful smile before hurrying forward. They did not speak as he followed her past several barriers and heavy enchantments that prickled against his skin. There was no doubt about it; they were crossing into the most heavily guarded and dangerous parts of the ship.
The sound of a heavy key in a lock creaked down the hall, and she pulled him more deeply into the shadows. There was a muffled conversation, and she listened for a moment.
"That's Jirobo getting the meals," her voice was low, and her breath warm on his ear. "He'll put his down and then bring a tray to the prisoners."
A large shadow preceded the rumbling steps and heavy gait of the jailer. He lumbered past their hiding place and paused to place a heavily laden tray on a low, squat stool. The remaining tray was far less full, and clearly held the prisoner's rations. He disappeared down a short hallway, the sound of his jangling keys giving way to the groan of a heavy lock.
"Chow time," Jirobo sneered as the thick door closed behind him, the lock tumbling back into place.
Before Neji could ask "What now?" His guide was slipping through the shadows to the tray of food. Her back was to him, so he could not see how she tampered with the contents, but whatever she did, she finished it just in time to rejoin him as Jirobo emerged into the corridor before going farther down the hall.
Waiting until he was out of sight, she motioned for Neji to follow her to the door the jailer had just exited. He arrived at her side just as she ghosted fingers over the metal lock and the tumblers slipped into place.
"Useful trick," Neji noted.
They pushed open the door to find several individual cells, each containing a single prisoner. Neji scanned them quickly, pleased to note that they were in better condition than was to be reasonably expected.
"Here," she pressed something cool and metal into his hands. "That will open the locks on their restraints."
"How can you be sure?"
She didn't bother answering his question, moving quickly from door to door, repeating the trick she'd used to get them into the cell. Neji followed her, releasing the shackles binding the prisoners. In record time, five prisoners were freed.
"Please," one of the men spoke up. "There is another prisoner on this ship. His name is Gai; I don't know what they did with him, but the jailer made taunts about taking him somewhere special."
Neji looked to the man that spoke. "He was from your village?"
"No," he shook his head. "He was a prisoner in the mines – but he helped our people. We can't leave him behind."
"We won't," the saboteur assured them. "We don't have much time," she said, eyes meeting Neji's.
He nodded. "Hurry," he urged them. "Against the wall." He placed a paper tag against the wall for each of them and instructed them each to line up against it in turn.
"This will take you to safety. The Captain will explain everything when you arrive. Let him know I am going after the last of the prisoners." Neji activated the tags before they could object, stepping back as the ship warped around them and absorbed them away.
"Useful trick," she quipped.
Neji would have commented, but she put a hand on his arm. "The last prisoner is someone special to me," she admitted. "The fortifications around his cell are stronger than anywhere on this vessel. Once we get to him, you both need to get out of here. I'll bring down the ship."
Neji frowned.
"Those aren't my orders."
"Listen," she stepped in front of him, all traces of levity gone. "I've been at this a long, long time. I know better than just about anyone how desperate Madara is to find a Child of the Sea. I'm not going to risk handing one directly to him."
He blinked at her, instinctively knowing Kakashi had not shared this information with their allies.
"So, you know."
"Yeah," she gave a small, sad smile. "I know. And I promised myself as a child I'd never watch another Child of the Sea fall to Madara."
"Another," his breath caught in his chest. "You've seen others?"
She looked away.
"Not for a long time."
The spark of fear in Neji's chest subsided, as did the vague spark of hope that perhaps she had seen Hinata. He swallowed his disappointment as she pressed her ear to the door, tapping her on the shoulder lightly as he activated his eyes once again.
"The Jailer is eating – most grotesquely, I might add – and with gusto."
"Excellent," she breathed. "I give it two – three minutes tops."
"For?"
The sound of something clattering to the floor drew his attention back to the guard. "He dropped his wine," he frowned. A strange sound met their ears – a jagged buzzing. "Is… is he snoring?"
Her grin was sharp.
"Works every time."
In seconds they were on the other side of the now-locked door, and she was swiftly going through the Jailer's clothes, and relieving him of his keys.
"Now," she slid a scroll under one of his beefy feet. "For the tricky part."
With a rapid succession of hand signs, she activated the scroll, and the large man disappeared.
"Much easier to seal the big ones when they are sedated," she offered, swiftly tucking the scroll away. "We have to hurry; another guard will come by soon, and will think he is in with the prisoners."
Neji followed as she hurried down the corridor, the magic growing dense on their skin, and the air cold. They went through several twists and turns before he spotted the faint flicker of life. Neji suspected it was good that they had the key, as the door was heavily enchanted. The metal door swung open, revealing a single prisoner, chained at the ankles and wrists in the heaviest, thickest chains Neji had ever seen.
The shaggy head lifted, eyes struggling to focus.
"What trickery now, Madara?" he asked in a surprisingly patient tone.
Neji watched as his partner crossed to the strange man, determination making her back rigid. She knelt and sat on her heels, looking up into the dark eyes under bushy brows and above an unruly beard. "I-" the words stuck in her throat, but she met his eyes unflinchingly. "I come to you in the springtime," her voice was gentler than he'd heard it, but her resolve was unchanged. "To search out the beauty of youth while the crocus blooms and the lark sings."
Neji thought the lines were vaguely familiar – like something he'd overheard and not thought important enough to commit to memory. They didn't mean much to him.
Clearly, however, they meant something to the prisoner. His dark, intense eyes glazed with the sheen of tears.
"Tenten," he raised a shackled hand to her cheek, reverently. "It is you." Despite the dark and gloom of the cell, his smile was radiant, and his bark of laughter tinged by only happy tears. He drew her into a fierce hug, yanking her to him with less than no effort and probably crushing her against his ribcage. Neji's eyes widened but she – Tenten, as he now knew her to be – took it in stride. "I knew my little Lotus would be more than a match for anything Madara had to throw at her."
"You can say that once we get you out of here," she stood and motioned to his chains,
"No good," he shook his head. "As soon as these chains are released, everyone on board will know. The other prisoners will be dead before you can escape the ship."
"They're already gone," Neji said easily. "And we can be gone before they find us."
"I tagged the ship," she assured him. "Once the two of you are gone, I'll take it down."
"I am sorry," he shook his head again. "But Madara knows the seals I taught you – it could lead him to me, which means it could lead him to you. I won't let that happen," he said seriously. "It is too dangerous."
"Madara can't track this," Neji held up a slim piece of paper. "Yamato's magic will take you directly to our ship, a safe distance from here."
Gai blinked.
"Did you say Yamato?"
"I did," Neji agreed. "Also, I was asked to pass on a message. Our Captain is waiting to welcome you; he said he's looking forward to seeing his Eternal Rival with his good eye."
Gai slapped his leg and laughed.
"I knew he must have escaped that final battle," he beamed. "And he is well?"
Neji gave a single, solemn nod, the corners of his mouth tilting up.
"But the ship," Gai frowned. "The moment you free me, you will have enemies upon you. I am afraid," he held up his arms, "that even without these chains I would be of no use to you."
"We have a plan," Tenten assured him. "We won't have to hold out for long – just long enough to keep them busy and get you out of here. I will bring the ship down, and rejoin you in no time."
Gai looked between them both.
"And you?" he looked to Neji. "You will help her?"
Tenten might have protested, but he spoke up first.
"I will stay," he agreed.
"No," she retorted sharply. "That is not the plan."
"Those are my orders," Neji continued to face Gai. "From my Captain, and hers," he nodded toward a glowering Tenten.
"You?" Gai raised a heavy eyebrow at her. "You have a Captain?"
"Of sorts," she admitted.
Gai furrowed heavy eyebrows. "My Rival is a clever man. If he has sent you – knowing all the risks – then we must follow his plan." Tenten began to protest, but Gai stilled her with one hand. "I am familiar with his clan," he nodded to Neji, "and I know what you would say. Trust me, my Lotus. It is better this way. Work together – I sense the power of Youth is strong in both of you." When Tenten wavered, he put a heavy hand on her shoulder. "Madara can not be allowed to have any Child of the Sea, Tenten," he said emphatically. "Merfolk or otherwise."
She swallowed thickly, clearly battling with her conscience. With little more warning than a decisive nod, she pulsed magic along Gai's chains and they fell away. There was a second of dead silence, and then the alarms began.
She wrapped Gai in a fierce hug before turning to Neji.
"Get him out of here."
Neji slapped the seal on the wall, and the two of them helped Gai lean against it.
"I shall see you both soon," his eyes glinted, and then he was gone.
Tenten fisted her hand on her hips.
"Last chance," she said tightly. "Because it's about to get really ugly."
"Where the hell is Jirobo?!" a voice called down the hall. "Secure the main prisoner!"
They both looked at the door – the decision made for them.
"Here," she unsealed a cloak and tossed it to him. "Put that on and stand back."
He pulled the shimmering material around himself, clasping it around his neck.
"Pull the hood over your face," she said, her voice deepening. "It will conceal you."
He did, watching in awe as her spritely form flashed into Jirobo's hulking mass, just in time for the door to slam open.
"Jirobo!" a man skidded to a halt. "What happened?"
"You tell me, Kidmomaru," he glowered. "Looks like someone slipped past you or the twins while I was tending to the other prisoners."
Kidomaru bit off a curse.
"They couldn't have gotten past me on my way here– must've gone the back way."
"I'm going to secure the others," he held up his keys. "Get your ass back above deck and look for the prisoner and whoever is helping him!"
Kidomaru and the others rushed away as 'Jirobo' lumbered back to the other cells. He left the door open long enough for Neji to follow before locking it.
"Quick," she pulled out several scrolls and put one in each of the cells. "Lock these up."
Men appeared in the cells – one was the jailer, the others were copies of the escaped prisoners - and appeared to be sleeping.
"Those aren't real," she assured him. "Fairies use them as decoys; they have just enough magic to be sensed. The others will expect Jirobo to be locked in with the remaining prisoners. We need to get above deck and signal my Captain."
"Is that all?" Neji asked, adjusting the hood on the cloak.
"Captain wants them alive," she sighed. "Otherwise, I'd just sink this ship and go." She locked all the cell doors and tucked the keys into Jirobo's belt.
"One more thing," she glanced at them, hesitantly before taking a deep breath. "I've seen another of your kind. Recently. A girl."
"What," he breathed. "When? Where?!"
"Long story," she shook her head. "Not safe to get into it right now, but as far as I can tell, she is well concealed and protected. Once we get out of here, I'll help you get to her."
"You will?" he blinked his surprise.
"Family is everything," she said simply, meeting his eyes. "And you just saved half of mine. I'll repay the favor - but for now we have to focus. There are some ugly customers between us and signaling the captains."
Neji wanted to thank her - to ask more questions, but the sudden pounding on the door cut their conversation short.
"JIROBO! Did you secure the others?"
Tenten quickly transformed as Neji stepped into the shadows.
She cracked the door open.
"They're in here," he grumbled. "What about my other prisoner?"
"Nothing," Kidomaru spat. "If you are so concerned get out here and look!"
"And risk losing these ones?" He jerked a head to the cells. "No way. Get Tayuya to go with you; check the treasury; she can sound the alarm from there."
Kidomaru raced away, and Jirobo closed the door with a sigh.
"We have to go," Tenten said, shedding the illusion. "It's now or never."
Neji nodded and pulled the hood back over his shoulders.
"How will you hide?"
"I joined the crew under an illusion," she explained. "Just another lackey. Follow me and get to the crows' nest. If things go south, get in the water. Dive deep and go north. Understand?"
"I won't leave you behind."
"Are all Merpeople this stubborn?"
"Neji."
She blinked at him, "Pardon?"
"My name," he said easily, as if there weren't enchantments alerting their enemies to come tear them to bits. "It's Neji."
"Are you crazy?" she hissed, covering his mouth with her hand, looking around nervously. "Madara has spies everywhere, you can't just go giving names – names have power, they-"
"I trust you, Tenten," he took her hand in his own and pushed up her sleeve with his free hand as her heart stilled in her throat. "You're one of us."
"No," she shook her head. "I'm a Pirate - and if you know anything about that mark, you know why you think you trust me."
"Merfolk are immune to magic that beguiles," he met her eyes evenly. "Even when the caster is a selkie-halfling who likes to masquerade as a troublesome seal before sinking a ship."
"That didn't take you long," she snorted. "I was kinda hoping you wouldn't figure it out."
"Your eyes," he said, tipping her chin up to study them. "They gave you away."
A smirk tilted her lips. "Look who's talking."
He felt himself drawn to her – to the curve of her smile and the line of her jaw.
She stepped back and cleared her throat.
"So, you've seen my work. If things go wrong, get out of here. Dive deep, go north, and leave the sinking to the professionals." She met his eyes. "Trust that I will meet up with you after."
She stuck her hand out, and he accepted it reluctantly (and tried to ignore the sparks racing up his arm to jolt his chest). "Alright. I will leave on your signal."
She nodded in satisfaction, stepping back to morph into a forgettable lackey from the ship. She made a final adjustment to his cloak, and met his eyes, words hovering on her lips.
She finally settled for "Try and keep up," and they slipped into the fray.
*Three Days Ago*
Hinata woke with a gasp, clutching her hand over her racing heart.
"A dream," she had told herself shakily. "Just a dream."
"But it isn't."
She turned quickly to see the pale man standing in the water a short distance from her garden. His hair and clothes were moonlight white, and his eyes were closed.
"The castle is calling out for you, Byakugan Princess. The time for the final prophesy draws near - you must be in the Goddess' throne to receive it two days hence."
"Castle?" she stammered. "What castle?"
"You know the way," he chided gently. He reached into one of the niches on the shrine wall and selected a boat Sasuke had carved. He drifted over to her and gently placed it in her hands. "Follow the path to the Northwaters, and find the home of our people waiting for you. The boat will guide you."
With that, he disappeared.
As soon as the boat had touched water, her journey had begun. After nearly two full days of barely resting, and definitely not dreaming, she sensed she had arrived. The boat drifted more, now, as if after hurrying all this way it suddenly had second thoughts about intruding.
Hinata didn't think she blamed it; the waters here were stark and cold and sharp. When they crested the final ridge and she saw the large castle, however, something in her mind jerked painfully.
"No," she whispered, eyes wide. "There should be light."
The castle was dark, less like it had been abandoned, and more like it was holding its breath. She swam through the main gates as they were open, following the boat through the winding rooms.
"It must have been splendid," she murmured, taking in the majesty around her. The magic here was heavy and latent and ancient. It called out to the very center of her being, and drew her onward until she was staring at an abandoned throne.
"You must take your place on the throne," the voice startled her, and she spun around to see the man sitting on an attendant's chair at the foot of the dais. "It is your birthright, Lady Hinata."
She visibly startled then, and he smiled even though his eyes remained closed. "I suppose it has been some time since anyone has called you by name?" He shook his head. "Madara has taken so much from us all."
"We...we know each other?" she ventured.
"We are distant cousins," he agreed.
"And you are?"
"Toneri."
"Toneri," she repeated, and her heart raced in her chest as her thoughts whirled in her head. "I know that name."
"Then I think it is best if I assure you i am nothing like the fifteen-year-old you met when you were twelve," he gave a small, reassuring chuckle. "But I am no less delighted to see you. The castle is overjoyed," he remarked, looking around with his closed eyes. "We have waited these twelve, long years."
Hinata looked around the empty room as the magic swirled against her skin. Echoes of a time long past - long before her remembering - echoed in the silent song of magic. With a final nod from Toneri, she took her seat at the throne.
And that is when the world fell away.
And we are back! Thank you so much for returning to this one! Probably the last update for 2018, but a good note to go out on. Wishing you a wonderful 2019, everyone! - GL