Chapter 3. The Noble Princess
Naruto was making his way up a tight spiraling staircase and Konohamaru was following close behind, like he alway would. Eventually Naruto reached the top of the stairs and walked through an open door.
Coming out on the other side, he found his fellow slaves filed together. All of them standing in front of a large elegant staircase; which lead to the upper floors of the mansion.
At the very peak of the stairs; at the point where it forked to the left and to the right. Kaiden was standing over his servants, looking down at them with a look of superiority.
A few feet over to his left, his son Kozan watched the slaves gather, while giving the same look as his father.
Naruto took quick notice of the two men, before he followed into the line of slaves. Who were all waiting for the announcement, that their master had for them. After a few moments of silence and all the slaves had gathered into the room. Kaiden stepped forward and cleared his throat.
"As you all my be aware of, my ancestors along with nineteen other kings formed what we know today as the World Government. All together that makes up twenty royal families, for you slower individuals." Kaiden took a pause to gather his thoughts, while letting the information he was giving sink in. "However, only nineteen of these royal families actually live in Mariejois. Like you all know me and my son are apart of one of these families. We are Celestial Dragons."
Kaiden took another pause and began to pace back and forth. "The last family chose to return to their people and kingdom. They are known as the Nefertari family and they rule over the Kingdom of Alabasta. Unlike us they are not world nobles, but that isn't important." Kaiden explained to the slaves, stopping for a moment to search the crowd of servants. "What is important is what is currently drawing near. Can anyone tell me what special event will happen within the next two weeks?"
The room remained silent, not a single soul knew anything of any special event. It wasn't like they were allowed to read the news or know the happenings of Mariejois.
Kaiden sighed and rubbed his forehead. "Kozan tell these fools what I'm talking about." The father ordered, pointing to the ground before walking a few steps back.
Kozan walked to the spot his father pointed, then took a moment to collect his thoughts. "What my father is referring to you miserable shits. Is the Reverie, or in more lame terms. A meeting between all the Kings and queens affiliated with the World Government." Kozan explained, speaking with a cocky and superior tone.
"Very well explained son." Kaiden praised, patting his son on the back and stepping forward. "But I'll finish things off from here."
Kozan gave a bow and walked behind his father.
"Now every year this event is held. One of my fellow Celestial Dragons, will open their home up to the current leader of the Nefertari family. This is a sign of friendship and an honor for the family who gets to house the king." Kaiden explained, at this point Naruto rolled his eyes.
The blond figured out what this 'big announcement' was. Kaiden had been chosen to house the Nefertari family. So now he was making this little spectacle to stroke his ego.
"This year we shall be hosting the Nefertari family!" Kaiden shouted happily, throwing his hands into the air. Waiting for his praise or any form of recognition.
"I figured as much." Naruto mumbled under his breath. Not impressed in the slightest.
Konohamaru looked over to his brother, impressed by Naruto's ability to figure things out so quickly. Though his focus was turned to Kozan who started to clap slowly for his father. Soon all the slaves, save Naruto and Konohamaru joined in.
Kaiden basked in his moment of arrogance, before holding a hand high into the air. Signaling all the slaves to hold their 'praise.'
"You are all too kind, that is why I've decided to shift your schedules around. When King Cobra arrives, he will be escorted by two guards and one assistant. I want everyone who normally tends to my garden, to assist the king and his men while they are here." Kaiden explained earning a few nods and bows from certain slaves. "Also where is young Naruto and Konohamaru?"
The sea of servants parted down the middle, to reveal the only two children within the crowd. Kaiden smiled and began walking down the stairs.
"Ahhh there you two are! I have a very special job for both of you." Kaiden spoke happily, making his way ever so slowly towards the children. "You see the King will also be bringing his daughter with him. Her name is princess Vivi and is around the same age as you two."
"So you want us to watch after some spoiled brat." Naruto interjected emotionlessly, causing Kaiden to smirk.
"And cater to her every whim of course." The world noble added in. "Can you two handle this task, because if not I could always purchase a few more children slaves for the job."
Konohamaru gave a bow of respect. "We can Kaiden-sama, we will take excellent care of young Vivi-sama when she arrives." The brown haired slave spoke up, speaking up for himself and Naruto. The latter of whom would refuse to bow to any man, let alone show his captors any form of respect.
"What about you Naruto? I didn't hear you speak up." Kaiden asked, ignoring Konohamaru completely.
Naruto eyed the man, or more importantly the keyring around his hip. Where Naruto spotted the key to unlock his Kairoseki cuffs.
'Maybe if I'm quick enough I could snatch the key. Then there wouldn't be a way to stop me once these cuffs are off.' Naruto reasoned to himself in thought, but stopped as he looked down to Konohamaru. 'No Kono could get hurt during the scuffle for the key.'
Kaiden's lip twitched in annoyance, his patients growing thin. "Boy answer me when I address you!" The noble shouted loudly, gripping his fist tightly. Preparing himself to strike Naruto.
Naruto watched the man and for a moment. Prayed that the man would strike him, because if he did. Then Naruto would snap regardless of anything else. He would kill Kaiden the next time he touched either him or Konohamaru.
"I said speak!" Kaiden shouted again in anger.
"Yes I will take care of the princess." Naruto replied in a dead voice, thinking to himself how much he'd love to end Kaiden's life here and now. But ultimately now wasn't the right time.
Kaiden nodded and then clapped his hands together, satisfied that he had finished his announcement. "Very well you all may return to as you were." The Celestial Dragon spoke up, walking up the stairs and away from the slaves.
Naruto watched the man continue up the stairs with his son. Quickly disappearing into the upper floors of the mansion.
"I'm growing sick of this place." Naruto admitted, turning towards the stairs which lead to the slave quarters. "And I really don't feel like watching over some spoiled brat."
Konohamaru ran up to Naruto's side and chuckled. "Nii-san how can you grow sick of a place that you hated from the start?" The small slave asked with a laugh. Trying to lift his older brother figure's spirit.
Naruto smiled and ruffled Konohamaru's hair. He always knew how to cheer the blond up.
"You got a point Kono, but let's go get some rest. We have a big workload tomorrow." Naruto replied with a smile. Walking down the stairs with his brother in tow.
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(Two weeks later)
Naruto stood amongst the crowd of slaves, who would all be serving the Nefertari family and all their men. Every single slave was gathered outside of Kaiden's large estate. Formed together to make a path which lead from the front gate to the door to the mansion.
Naruto was next to Konohamaru and the duo waited patiently for Kaiden to return. Well not really patiently, since Naruto didn't want to be there in the first place. Plus he had been waiting in the same spot for over an hour. So the blond haired slave was ready to snap someone's neck.
"When is that stupid bastard going to be here." Naruto growled under his breath.
Konohamaru sighed and slumped over. "I don't know Nii-san, but I'm getting tired of waiting." The small boy wined. "My legs are starting to go numb."
"Yeah I'm starting to grow sick of all this waiting around as well. Though I don't just mean waiting for that bastard Kaiden." Naruto admitted before taking a pause, so he could scan the area. Making sure no one was listening to their conversation.
"What do you mean Naruto-nii?" Konohamaru asked in a hushed voice. Already knowing his brother was going to talk about something important.
Since Konohamaru knew that Naruto would always check his surroundings. Before he would start speaking about something he felt others shouldn't know about.
"I'm sick and tired of this place, I want to escape soon. So I've devised a plan to do so." Naruto whispered in a low voice, leaning into Konohamaru and cupping a hand around his ear. "I want you to listen carefully Kono."
"Alright Nii-chan I'm listening." Konohamaru replied, starting to grow a little excited.
He and Naruto always spoke of escape, but neither of the two have actually spoke of a plan before. It filled the boy with a small amount of hope.
"Ok Kono this plan calls for a lot of work from you. So listen good and pay attention to detail." Naruto began, taking a slight moment to think of a proper way to explain his plan. "We need one thing if we want to escape. And that is to remove the k-.."
"Attention everyone!" A loud and familiar voice boomed, causing Naruto to stop speaking and jerk up straight. "Allow me to introduce you to the Nefertari family!"
Naruto cocked his head to the side and looked over to Kaiden. Who had his son and several unfamiliar faces standing behind him. Suddenly Kaiden walked forward and held his hands out wide. "Please make them feel welcome and show them to their quarters!"
Not a second less after the Celestial Dragon finished speaking. The slaves scattered about and headed to the men they were assigned to serve.
Naruto began to move towards the crowd and motioned for Konohamaru to follow him. As the duo walked several slaves escorting some of the King's guards passed by. The blond noticed two men with swords and a strange individual with an odd haircut.
"Freak." The blond mumbled under his breath, showing his distaste for Kaiden's new guests.
Konohamaru snickered at the blond's comment and looked over his shoulders. However, he quickly turned his head. When he saw one of the guards look back and stare directly at him. Wondering to himself if they may have heard Naruto's comment.
Thinking that wasn't possible unless the man had some kind of canine hearing. The small seven year old continued to follow his older brother figure.
"Where is Naruto and Konohamaru at!" An unhappy Kaiden roared loudly. His voice breaking through the crowd of slaves.
The two boys made their way into the crowd of slaves and reached the center of the group. To find Kaiden and his son standing next to an unfamiliar man.
He was around average height with a tied-off beard, and long, curly, black hair. He was dressed in long green robe with yellow edging, with an orange and beige sash around his waist, and a purple coat to finish his attire off. Though the most odd thing was the small mess of blue hair, which was hiding behind the man's back.
'Must be the King and his daughter.' Naruto mused in thought, looking up to Kaiden. Waiting for the man to speak.
"Ahh here they are your majesty. Allow me to introduce the two boys, who will be assisting your daughter during her stay her." Kaiden spoke up quickly, walking behind Naruto and Konohamaru and pushing them forward. "Bow and introduce yourself boys."
Naruto and Konohamaru stumbled forward, causing Cobra to frown. However, Naruto was the only one to catch this frown.
"Greetings King Cobra-sama, my name is Konohamaru. I shall be serving your daughter while she stays here." Konohamaru spoke up, as he was the first of the two to bow to the king.
Naruto grabbed Konohamaru by his shirt and jerked him into the air. "And I am Naruto." The blond said. refusing to bow to the man or let his brother do so. 'Come Kaiden yell at me or hit me, please make a complete ass of yourself in front of your guest.' Naruto added to himself in thought. Still remembering how he planned to kill Kaiden, the next time he struck the blond.
Kaiden silently began to shake in rage, just like Naruto thought he wanted to beat the blond. However, he didn't want to make a bad impression in front of the King.
'You'll learn some respect brat, just you wait.' Kaiden thought to himself, already planning on punishing Naruto when the king wasn't around.
"Naruto and Konohamaru I'm pleased to make your acquaints." Cobra spoke sincerely, while surprising everyone by bowing to the two slaves. "Please would you both watch over my precious Vivi."
Kaiden and Kozan both sneered and were appalled by the king's behavior. Thinking to themselves what kind of King would bow to children and slaves at that.
Naruto on the other hand was a little surprised. He was not expecting the King to greet him in such a manor. Maybe the blond had judged the man too soon.
"Yeah we shall take care of the princess during her stay." Naruto replied, speaking slowly as he watched the King rise back to a straight standing position.
"Thank you." Cobra spoke sincerely, turning around and pushing his daughter out from behind him. "Please introduce yourself to young Naruto-kun and Konohamaru-kun."
Naruto observed the young princess with a critical eye. She wasn't very tall at all, in fact she was around the same height as Konohamaru. Though from looking at her, Naruto gauged she was more around his age.
He also noticed her beautiful light blue hair. Which was a hair color, that Naruto had never seen before. Admitting to himself that her hair went perfectly with her light colored skin.
Before he knew it, Naruto found himself completely absorbed in staring into the princess's dark colored eyes. Only stopping for a moment to look at her attire. Which consisted of a simple, but beautiful light pink sundress.
Suddenly Naruto felt a sense of inferiority sweep over him. The girl standing before him was an elegant and gorgeous princess. While he was just a simple slave, dressed in old ragged clothes.
'What the hell are you doing Naruto?' The blond asked himself in thought, shaking his thoughts off the princess. 'You need to worry about escaping with Kono, not googling over some little brat. Besides she's a noble princess, don't forget you are a pirate prince. We live in completely different worlds.'
Naruto was brought from his thoughts, as he noticed the princess nervously step forward.
"Um hello it's nice to meet you, my name is Vivi." The bashful princess spoke up in a low voice, looking towards the ground for some reason. "I'm looking forward to getting to know both of you."
Konohamaru cocked a happy smile, to him the princess seemed pretty alright. She wasn't a spoiled demanding brat like he and Naruto pictured her as.
Naruto looked down to his smiling brother then the princess. His eyes lingering off to the King and his captor Kaiden.
"Let's go." Naruto spoke in a bored tone, growing tired of standing around and giving out useless introductions. So he turned around and walked towards the house. "Follow me princess, I'll show you to where your room will be."
Vivi looked up and looked back to her father, who made a motion for her to follow Naruto.
"Go on Vivi-chan I'll stop by in a little bit to check on you. Also don't forget Pell, Chaka and Igaram are here. So if you need anything don't hesitate to ask them." Said Cobra as he bent down and ruffled his daughter's hair. "Also remember everything I said before we came here."
Vivi nodded her head and smiled at her father. "Alright Tou-chan and don't worry I remember." The princess replied before turning towards Naruto and Konohamaru. "Don't leave yet I need to grab my things!"
Konohamaru froze in place, as he watched Vivi make her way towards the carriage behind her. Where the luggage carrying her belongings was.
Naruto looked over his shoulder and sighed. Kaiden was fuming as he watched Vivi dig through the carriage for her possessions. Though the King didn't seem to mind at all. In fact he didn't even look towards his daughter.
"I better go grab her shit before Kaiden loses his." Naruto mumbled to himself, quickly making his way over to Vivi.
Konohamaru saw Naruto take off after Vivi and he followed the blond's lead. Both reaching the carriage at the same time. Reaching the area right as Vivi hopped off the carriage, with her bag wrapped in her arms.
"Here princess allow me to take your things." Naruto spoke up, while reaching out for the bag in Vivi's arms.
Vivi gave a small smile and shook her head. "No it's very alright, I'm capable of carrying my own things." The blue haired princess replied, walking past Naruto. "Thanks for the offer anyhow."
Konohamaru stepped in front of Vivi, blocking the young Noble's path. "Please Vivi-sama just let us take your bag." The small salve begged, knowing Kaiden was glaring a hole into the back of his head.
Cobra noticed Kaiden's angered expression. Following the man's gaze he quickly figured out what enraged the man. 'Those poor children are just like Vivi, but look what this man has done to them.' The King thought sadly, knowing very well what was happening.
Naruto reached out for Vivi's bag and gave a hard expression. "Listen princess see the fat bastard with steam rolling out of his ears?" Naruto asked in a hushed tone, speaking about Kaiden. "If you don't let us take your bag. He will punish us for failing to take care of you. Honestly I couldn't care less what he does to me, but I won't let him hurt my brother. Just because you want to act independent."
Vivi looked down her hair over shadowing her eyes. "I'm sorry, here take my bag." Vivi replied, handing over the small suitcase.
Naruto accepted the bag and turned his back to the girl. "Now you can follow me to your room." The blond slave explained, already starting to walk away.
"You know I wasn't trying to be independent." Vivi spoke in a low voice, causing Naruto to stand still for a moment. "I was just trying to treat you two like people, not slaves."
Naruto gripped tightly onto Vivi's bag, before he continued to walk towards the mansion.
Vivi watched the blond walk away, a lone tear traveling down her cheek. Her father had told her about the slaves she would see during her stay. However, she would never imagine a child around her age suffering through such hardships. Not even truly knowing the full extent of his heartache and struggles.
"Don't cry Vivi-sama." Konohamaru spoke up with a smile, standing in front of the girl and earning her attention. "Nii-san might not show it, but he's really happy by what you said. So since you make him happy I like you."
Vivi brushed the side of her face, removing the tear from her cheek. "Alright Konohamaru-san, but why don't we follow your brother." The princess proposed, looking at the blond who was nearing the mansion's door.
Konohamaru grinned before he gestured her to walk. "Please after you Vivi-sama." The small child spoke happily, causing Vivi to nod and start walking.
As the two children walked they passed the King and Kaiden. Cobra smiled at his daughter, while Kaiden continued to scowl. He was going to have Naruto learn his lesson very soon.
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(Marine HQ)
Walking passively through the open corridors of the Marine HQ, was a single man. Who after over a month of duty, had finally returned back to report to his commanding officer.
As the man walked he was greeted by his fellow Marines. However, he ignored the men and women as he passed by. For he wasn't a man to greet others with a smile or take interest in the lives of his fellow Marines.
He was Vice-Admiral Sakazuki a cold and emotionally detached man. Who believed in his philosophy of absolute justice. In fact he had such a great deal of faith in his beliefs. That he would kill any man, woman or child to see his justice through.
To say this man was a horrendous bastard was an understatement. However, there was one man even worse than him. A man who was not only Sakazuki's commanding officer, but his mentor as well.
This man's name was Admiral Danzo Shimura. A horrible Marine who became famous during the era of Gol D. Roger.
Sakazuki had been called of his duty to report personally back to Danzo. Which is the reason behind the Marine knocking on the door to Danzo's office. Entering only moments after striking the door, not waiting for permission to enter.
As he entered the room, Sakazuki nearly bumped into a pale slender man, dressed in a white lab coat.
"My apologies Vice-Admiral-san." The man spoke with a smooth voice, before walking past Sakazuki and leaving the office.
The Marine officer raised an eyebrow, before he looked to the powerful man behind the large oak desk. The desk covered most of Danzo's body, but it still allowed Sakazuki to see the bandages around the mans face.
However, Sakazuki quickly gave Danzo a questioning look, as he was curious as to why he was meeting with a scientist.
"Think nothing of it Sakazuki, that man doesn't concern you." Danzo spoke up, moving out from behind his desk. Allowing Sakazuki to see the arm, which Danzo had placed into a sling. Due to an injury years ago, that rendered his limb practically useless.
Sakazuki then watched as the bandaged man moved to the side of his office. Where a small table with an assortment of alcohol stood by.
"Care for a drink?" Danzo asked, using his only good arm to fetch two cups.
Sakazuki walked over to a small chair and took a seat. "Why did you call for my return to HQ?" The magma man asked, wanting to get right to the point.
Danzo chuckled to himself. "So that's a no on drinks." The admiral replied, placing the cups back where they originally where. "I'd say take a seat, but you've already found one I see."
"For the second time Danzo, what did you call me back for?" Sakazuki asked rather impatiently, causing Danzo to snort. Before he made his way back to his desk.
"I can see you're still a man of patients Sakazuki." Danzo chuckled to himself, before reaching for a folder on his desk. "But in all Seriousness, I've been skimming over your report from that escort mission you carried out. You remember the one right? I ordered you to assist Kaiden and his son with any request they asked of you."
Sakazuki gave a small nod, he remembered the mission. "Yes you made me look after those Celestial Idiots."
Danzo gave a small smile, Sakazuki hated the Celestial Dragons just as much as himself. "Yes that mission, but what I'm more interested in. Is the events that transpired during your mission." Danzo explained tossing the folded onto his desk. "It says here you executed a red haired woman. While capturing her son for Kaiden to keep as a slave."
"What of it?" Sakazuki asked, showing no remorse for his actions.
Danzo's lips curled into a small smile. "You also explained that this boy was a Devil Fruit user. Who also had some form of advanced Haki training."
Sakazuki lowed his hat over his eyes and chuckled. "So the boy intrigues you I assume?" The Devil Fruit user asked, thinking back to the blond child.
Danzo spun around on his chair, turning his back to the Marine. "Maybe, but that boy does make me think back to a certain time in the past. Where a certain man with an incredible amount of Haki fought through the seas. He was known for his blond hair and his superior swordsmanship." Danzo then turned back around with a smirk. "This man has been rumored, to have been spotted in the Sabaody Archipelago. Tell me Sakazuki-kun have you heard of Silvers Rayleigh?"
Sakazuki jerked his eyes up, who hasn't heard of the first mate of the Pirate King? A man just as powerful as his captain, a man who unlike his captain is still walking the world free and alive.
"What are you getting at old man?" Sakazuki asked, with a mixture of interest and confusion.
Danzo chuckled at the question. "What I'm getting at is something you're probably already thinking. What if Rayleigh was in the Sabaody Archipelago? And just by chance he met a red haired women, who he conceived a child with. Now that would mean not only did you give his son off as a slave, but you also killed his lover in cold blood. Now I don't know much about the so called Dark King, but if I was you. I'd be fearing for that man coming for revenge." Danzo rose to his feet after speaking, then the aged Marine moved around his desk. "Though that's just silly speculation. Which in reality is nothing to fuss over. However, let's discuss something a little more important."
Sakazuki took a hard swallow, he feared no man. Though Silvers Rayleigh wasn't just any man. He was a walking legend and as the rumors say a true monster in combat.
"More important than this boy? If he really is that man's son we should take him from Kaiden. Force him to show us where his father is!" Sakazuki shouted in rage, causing Danzo to lean on his desk and laugh once more.
"What's the matter want to find Rayleigh before he finds you?" Danzo asked, rather enjoying his pupil's position. "Cause to be honest I could care less about finding that man. So don't waste your time trying to discover if that boy is linked with him."
"Why you-.."
"Please Sakazuki spare me and listen to what I have to say." Danzo spoke quickly, cutting the man off. Grabbing another folder off his desk, but tossing this one to Sakazuki. "We have something serious to discuss."
Sakazuki caught the folder and began digging through it's contents. "What the hell is this?" The Marine asked, glaring at Danzo with anger.
"It's your discharge papers, you are being kicked out of the Marines and stripped of your title." Danzo replied emotionlessly, walking over to the Marines side.
"Why is this happening!" Sakazuki yelled, magma leaking out of his body.
"We both know you're not on the best terms with Sengoku. So I may have altered your field report a little. Then showed him my edited version of what you did." Danzo revealed with a small smile, causing Sakazuki to jerk out of his chair. "Calm down Sakazuki and listen to me."
"Calm down? You're telling me to calm down?" Sakazuki roared in anger, preparing to fight his former superior. "You wrecked everything I spent my life building up!"
Danzo turned his back to the man, knowing he wouldn't attack. "Yes I guess I did do that, but not without reason. See I have a vision to change this world and the government that rules it." Danzo began, as he stopped and looked to the ceiling. "To do this I need a man of your strength and values. To work a certain angle for me. So I demolished your career so you wouldn't have much of an opportunity to refuse my offer."
"You're a bastard Danzo, but-..." Sakazuki took a pause and gripped his fist tightly. He didn't have many options to turn to, the Navy was his entire life. "I'll work for you, just tell me what I must do."
Danzo turned back around with a satisfied smirk. "My trust in you is well placed Sakazuki. Don't worry you shall be rewarded in the future for your troubles." The Admiral spoke calmly, before pulling a small envelope from his sleeve. "But for now let's talk what you will be doing for me. So tell me how do you feel about dying?"
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(With Naruto at Vivi's room)
Naruto walked into the medium sized guest room. Where Vivi would be sleeping during her stay at Mariejois. Without uttering a single word. The blond tossed the girls bag onto the large and neatly made bed.
"Welcome to your room, the bathroom is two doors down to the right and the four doors to your left. Is where your father and his guards will be staying." Naruto droned out without using any enthusiasm behind his words.
Vivi who was standing at the door frame with Konohamaru huffed in annoyance.
"What's your problem?" Vivi asked in a rather agitated tone, walking up to Naruto and tapping him on the chest. "You've been nothing, but rude to me. I've done nothing to you, so why don't you try and act a little more kind."
Naruto brushed the girl off and gave a fierce gaze. "Would you be happy living the life that I am? Would you be kind to someone who you don't know?" Naruto took a deep breath before walking off. "Just cause you aren't like Kaiden and his bastard son. Doesn't mean I'll treat you with respect, people like you have to earn my respect."
"People like me?" Vivi repeated the blond's words. Her anger slowly rising. "Me and you are exactly the same!"
Naruto stopped by Konohamaru's side, his lips forming a small smile. That's twice Vivi had proven to him, that she wasn't like the other nobles he knew. Making the blond think to himself that the princess wasn't so bad.
"Alright Spoiled-hime, don't forget dinner is in a few hours." Naruto replied, making his way out of the doorframe. "Konohamaru will take the first shift in watching over you."
Vivi's cheeks turned red before she smirked. "Alright whisker-kun see you soon!" The blue haired princess called out, earning a snicker from Konohamaru.
On the outside of the room, Naruto rolled his eyes at the princess's new name for him. However, he quickly frowned as he noticed Kaiden approaching.
The Celestial Dragon was carrying a whip in hand and a scowl on his face. Seeing this, Naruto got an idea in his head. So the blond slave started to walk closer to the man.
"Oh are we starting already Kaiden-chan? You still remember the safe word?" Naruto asked with a small grin, he wanted Kaiden to attack him. Then the blond would have a chance to finally kill the man.
"I swear brat I'm going to beat you within a inch of your life. Now come with me." Kaiden spoke in a hushed tone, not wanting the King and his men to hear him.
Naruto looked to the man and frowned, he wasn't wearing the key to his shackles. 'This complicates things.' The blond thought to himself.
"Excuse me, is everything alright here?" A strong and unfamiliar voice asked, grabbing both Kaiden and Naruto's attention.
Both slave and master looked down the hallway. To find a tall and imitating man with dark skin. With medium length black hair, garbed in a long light green tunic that was overlapped by a large dark green coat draped over him.
Naruto took an extra interest into the large blue sword attached to his hip. Thinking to himself about how much he missed his own sword.
Kaiden gave the man a false smile. "Yes everything is alright Chaka-san I'm just disciplining a slave. This boy needs some sense placed into him." Kaiden spoke smoothly, not wanting to give off the wrong impression. Even though now it was too late and Naruto knew it.
"Oh that's wonderful, discipline is always needed for our youth." Chaka spoke up, surprising Naruto and Kaiden both with his words. "In fact I heard this boy mumbled some insults at me and my comrades. Mind if I'm the one to deliver the punishment?"
Kaiden let a dark smirk slip out, he could punish Naruto without dirtying his own hands. "Please be my guest Chaka-san." The Noble replied, pointing down to the blond.
Chaka drew his sword and stalked over to Naruto. Looking down to the boy with a hard gaze. Then out of nowhere, he slowly poked Naruto with his finger. Right on the blond's forehead.
"Now see what you made me do? Promise me you'll start behaving or I'll come back to punish you again." Chaka spoke in a tone, that one would use when scolding a small child.
Naruto smirked he caught onto what the man was doing. "Yes I won't misbehave again." The future pirate replied, looking over to a fuming Kaiden.
Chaka placed his sword back into its sheath, before smiling. "Good now run along." The guard spoke, before shooing Naruto away with his hands.
"Yes Chaka-san." Naruto replied with a small bow. Pissing Kaiden off was one way to win his respect. Or so the blond thought before he ran off, leaving the two men alone.
"Where do you get off?" Kaiden growled in anger, before he noticed Chaka walk past him.
"He's just a boy." The man replied in a low voice, before he continued down the hallway. Leaving Kaiden to brew in his own anger.
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(With Vivi and Konohamaru)
Vivi sat on the guest room bed with Konohamaru. The two children were busy laughing and getting to know each other.
Konohamaru has learned many things about Vivi, like how she was eleven years old. Only one year younger than his older brother. Konohamaru also listened to Vivi tell dozens of stories about her life in Alabaster.
On the other hand Konohamaru, didn't share much with Vivi about his own life. This being not because he didn't trust the young princess. He just didn't want to spoil the mood.
However, for the entire length of the conversation. Vivi wanted to ask Konohamaru about how his life was. Or how he became a slave to Kaiden. Though the blue haired girl didn't want to cross any boundaries.
"Hey Vivi-sama-..."
"Just Vivi, remember we are friends Konohamaru-kun." The princess interjected, correcting the small boy.
"Hehe sorry about that Vivi-chan." The small boy replied, awkwardly, rubbing the backside of his head. "But I wanted to ask you something."
Vivi gave a soft smile, which in turned caused the slave to form a wide grin. "Sure Konohamaru, ask anything you want."
Konohamaru looked down to the floor and rubbed his arm. Not knowing where to start with his question. "What's... What's the outside world like? Is it really as amazing as Naruto-nii always tells me?"
Vivi frowned, she didn't know how to properly answer Konohamaru's question. After all the outside world is a pretty wide range of things. However, it suddenly hit her, why would Konohamaru ask such a question? Would it mean he has never been outside of Mariejois? And if Naruto has told him of the outside world, are they actually brothers?
Vivi quickly shook those questions out of her head. "Yes Konohamaru your brother is right. The world is a very wonderful place." The princess replied with a false smile, trying her best to keep the boy's spirits up. "Why would you ask such a question?"
Konohamaru started to awkwardly fiddle with his fingers. However, an abrupt cough grabbed his and the princess's attention.
"Hello Tou-chan!" Vivi greeted happily, waving towards the door.
Konohamaru looked over his shoulder to the king. Who was standing with his arms crossed. The small slave also took notice to the man's slight frown and felt his stomach begin to turn.
"Hello Vivi-chan, how are you and young Konohamaru doing?" Cobra asked, walking towards the bed slowly.
"We are doing fine Tou-chan, what brings you here?" The princess replied, analyzing her father. She could tell when something was troubling the man.
"Oh I just got done talking with Chaka and Ingram. So I thought I'd stop by before dinner and speak with you." The King explained, stopping at the edge of the bed. "Konohamaru-san could you give me and my daughter some privacy?"
Konohamaru nearly jumped off the bed and quickly bowed to the man. "Of course Cobra-sama, would you like anything else before I leave?"
The King sighed and bent down to the boy, placing a firm hand on Konohamaru's shoulder.
"Don't be so nervous Konohamaru-kun, I won't harm you." The King spoke in a soft voice, causing the slave to look up. "All I ask is you and your brother be at attendance for tonight's dinner."
"Of course Cobra-sama." Konohamaru spoke in a more relaxed tone, rising up and darting out of the room.
The King watched the boy leave with a slight frown. "Listen to me Vivi I'm only going to say this once." The father began to speak, still looking in the direction Konohamaru ran off in.
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(Few hours later, in Kaiden's dining room)
Naruto stood off to the side, with Konohamaru and his fellow slave's by his side. They were all holding various plates, with large mounds of exotic meats and fruits.
Unfortunately, the starving slaves were unable to eat any of the delicious food in their possession. Instead they were forced to deliver food to Kaiden and his guests. While fighting off the hungry growls of their stomachs.
"Alright slaves bring in the appetizers!" The overweight Celestial Dragon ordered, while clapping his hands together.
Naruto rolled his eyes, thinking food was the last thing the man needed. Regardless of his thoughts however, Naruto walked towards the table with his fellow slaves. One by one each person began to place down a platter of food.
Naruto placed his down between Vivi and one of her father's guards Pell.
"Enjoy your meal Spoiled-hime." Naruto whispered into her ear, before standing straight up and waiting for Kaiden's next order.
Vivi growled under her breath, she wasn't spoiled and she didn't appreciate the blond's name for her. Her father's guard Pell on the other hand. Heard Naruto's nickname and even though he knew Vivi wasn't spoiled. The name still gave the warrior a small grin.
Konohamaru was standing on the other side of the table. He was standing between Chaka and Ingram.
'I wonder if Vivi-chan and Naruto-nii will start to get along?' The brown haired slave thought to himself, giving his brother and new friend a warm smile.
Cobra who was at the end of the table, facing Kaiden who was at the opposing side. Looked around the table with an honest smile.
"This is quite a plentiful spread Kaiden-san." The King spoke in a rather off tone, he felt uncomfortable eating in front of starving slaves.
Kaiden grinned as he reached out for a piece of Sea King meat. "It's the finest food money can buy, plus you haven't seen anything yet. Wait till you see what my master chef has prepared." The noble replied, already beginning to devour the meat in hand.
While he did this, Kaiden mumbled something with a full mouth. Waving his right hand up and down.
Vivi looked towards the man with disgust, as did the rest of her family and friends. However, Kozan who was seated close to his father spoke up.
"He is trying to tell all you slaves to leave at once."
Kaiden took a hard swallow and discarded the Sea King bone; which had been picked clean. "No you fool that's not what I said. I want everyone, except Naruto and Konohamaru to leave." Kaiden explained, as he was planning to punish Naruto in someway.
This punishment was to force Naruto and the one person he cared about. To watch everyone eat while they starved.
The King watched as one by one slaves begin to bow, before turning around and walking off. Soon enough all the slaves disappeared, besides the two children.
'I don't know what this man is planning, but this could work for us.' Cobra thought to himself, giving a nod to Chaka, Pell and Ingram.
"You know Kaiden-sama I'm curious about your two slaves here." Ingram spoke up, motioning to Naruto and Konohamaru. "Tell me are they your only two children slaves?"
Kaiden reached out for a glass of wine. "It depends by your definition of children." The man spoke truthfully, taking a sip from his wine. "Though if we go by my definition, than yes Naruto and Konohamaru are the only children. We did have a few other younger slaves, but they all died."
"I'm sorry to hear of that." Ingram spoke sadly, looking down and wondering to himself. As to just how many children died while working for Kaiden.
"Don't apologize they were terrible slaves, too weak if you ask me. Nothing like young Naruto and Konohamaru here." Kaiden explained, showing his disregard for human life.
Pell raised an eyebrow. "Now these two are only children. They can't possibly be that great of slaves. Since they are too weak for any form of serious manual labor."
Chaka pointed towards his friend and nodded. "Pell has a point, why keep such weak slaves. I'm sure you could easily find some more capable replacements."
"That I could, but these boy's both have their value." Kaiden replied, continuing to eat his meal. "Besides they are not as weak as you would think. See my son's face? He used to look like me when I was young and handsome. Though after little Naruto here punched him once look what happened."
Naruto let a small smirk grace his lips, proud of his actions.
"Hmmm Naruto-kun must pack quite the punch." Cobra chuckled, earning a few nods and a grunt from Kozan. "But all this talk has given me an idea."
Kaiden raised an eyebrow. "Oh tell me Cobra-san, what exactly are you thinking?"
The King rubbed his chin, then began to survey the room. Taking only a moment to observe every person at the table.
"I would like to purchase your two slaves Naruto and Konohamaru." The King began, revealing his hidden motive. "My daughter has no friends back at my kingdom. So I believe these two would make fine companions for her."
Naruto and Konohamaru's eye both grew wide. Did he really just say he was willing to buy them?
Pell, Chaka and Ingram took their eyes away from their king. Silently gazing off to Kaiden, hoping the man would believe the lie. However, the man remained silent.
"You know Cobra-sama has a very good point." Ingram chimed in, trying to assist his king. "Vivi-sama doesn't have many friends. So two strong and dependable boys like these two could not only entertain her. But maybe in the near future protect her."
Pell nodded to his peer's statement. "And if they would need any form of training. They could work with me and Chaka."
"Yes we could mold them into fine protectors." Chaka replied.
Kaiden looked at the King, trying gauge the man's motives. "You say you want friends for your daughter. Who would also be able to protect her? That much I understand, but why do you want two of my slaves?"
"It's simple really, slavery is outlawed in my kingdom. And I'm not going to make it legal just for my daughter. I could purchase some from the slave market. However, that would look rather bad on my character." The King explained, trying his hardest to fool the Celestial Dragon.
"So you want to buy Naruto and Konohamaru. All because you can do so without anyone wondering where you obtained them." Kaiden summarized, thinking he has the King figured ok.
"Precisely." The King lied through his teeth.
Kaiden nodded and began to think to himself. "Young princess, is what your father says true? Do you not have any friends within your kingdom?"
Vivi became a little nervous, Kaiden and his son creeped her out. But she swallowed her feelings and nodded. "Yes Kaiden-sama." The blue haired princess spoke in a low voice. "That's why I would like my Tou-san to buy Konohamaru-san and Naruto."
Konohamaru became slightly happy at this development. Thinking finally he and Naruto both could be free from Kaiden. Even if they had to work for the King.
Naruto on the other hand rolled his eyes. He could clearly tell the King and his men were lying. Or at least telling Kaiden a half truth. Though the blond didn't understand their purpose behind trying to buy him and Konohamaru.
"Well if you want to buy them I shall allow it, but know neither boy comes cheap." Kaiden explained with a vile smirk.
Naruto was a little surprised by this development, not thinking Kaiden would agree to selling him.
"I'm glad you are willing to make a deal. So tell me, what is your price?" The King asked, folding his arms. "Money shouldn't be an issue."
Kaiden smirked. "Glad to hear that, now let me think. For Konohamaru I'd sell him for 350,000,000 Beli."
Everyone looked at the man with gaping mouths. That's a serious amount of money just for one slave.
"No Kaiden-sama maybe we could bargain a little bit. Surly this boy isn't worth that much money." Ingram spoke up, still a little shocked by the man's price.
"No the price will stay at 350,000,000 Beli. Young Konohamaru means too much for me to just give him away. He has been with me since the moment his mother gave birth to him." Kaiden explained, giving Konohamaru a dark grin. "And even though she died giving birth, young Konohamaru has served me well. Though it was a fair trade off, she wasn't much of a slave."
Vivi brought a hand to her mouth, while Naruto just shook in anger. Both of them upset for the same reason and that being Konohamaru. The boy who always smiled, even when a man was mocking his mother right in front of him. Had to stand and listen to kaiden's harsh words.
Cobra gripped his fists under the table. "Fine like I said money isn't an issue. Now how much for Naruto?" The King asked, trying to hide the anger in his voice.
Kaiden brought a hand to his lips. "Now that is a very good question. See Naruto-kun isn't like most slaves, his value is pretty high." Kaiden began, eyeballing the blond slave. "I would estimate 1,000,000,000 Beli, but honestly I believe that price is a little low."
At this moment everyone looked at the blond with a questioning gaze. However, not a single person could speak.
"That's outrageous, how could one boy be worth that much?" Cobra finally shouted, asking the question that was on everyone's mind.
Kaiden chuckled at the King's reaction and pointed at Naruto. "You see the cuffs on young Naruto? They are made from Kairoseki a material used to cancel out-.."
"Devil fruits." Pell gasped understanding where the man was going. This caused Kaiden to smirk.
"Yes young Naruto here has eaten a devil fruit and a Logia type at that. So this makes him incredibly rare as a slave. Not to mention the man who captured him. Said something about Naruto using Haki. Which according to him, is a skill generally reserved for people of Vice-Admiral skill or higher." Kaiden then scoffed as he waved a hand around. "Though it's not like Naruto here could fight a Vice-Admiral. Hell him and his treacherous mother attacked one. Why don't you tell everyone how that played out Naruto-kun."
Naruto looked down, his hair overshadowing his eyes. Causing Kaiden and his son to laugh.
"What's the matter brat? You normally have some witty retort!" Kaiden yelled out, slapping the table as he laughed.
Vivi looked over to the blond and was filled with compassion for the boy. Whatever happened to him pained him deeply.
'I want to help him, but I don't know how. Even though if I did he wouldn't accept my help.' The princess thought to herself
Cobra cleared his throat as he noticed Naruto's pained look. "What happened with him isn't important. What is important however, is that you come down on your price." The King spoke up, wanting to buy the boy's and take them away from Kaiden even more than ever now.
The Celestial Dragon stopped laughing and gave the King a hard gaze. "I will not lower my price either buy them or don't. I really couldn't care less."
Ingram turned to his king, knowing the man better than anyone. So he knew Cobra was still willing to buy the two slaves, but in reality they didn't have the money to do so.
"Cobra-sama I'm sorry, but this is a deal we can't make. We have to back off." The white haired man advised to his king.
Cobra bit his lips. "I know Ingram. And I'm sorry Kaiden, but we cannot make a deal with you."
The noble waved the King off, not caring about a thing. "That's fine with me Cobra-san."
Vivi jerked out of her seat and gave a bow. "Please excuse me, I'm not hungry." The small princess announced to the table. "Naruto could you and Konohamaru escort me to my room?"
Naruto pushed the girls chair back into the table. "Yes we will." The blond replied in a low voice, walking off to leave the men to their meals. Though everyone save Kaiden and Kozan didn't seem in the mood for food either.
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(At Vivi's room)
Naruto walked into the large guest room, with Vivi and Konohamaru right behind him. Then without a warning Naruto slammed the door and pointed a finger at Vivi.
"Mind tell me what all that was? Why in the world was your father trying to buy us?" Naruto asked in a low voice. "Cause I don't believe the lies he was telling Kaiden."
Vivi looked down. "Me and my family hate slavery, my Tou-san especially hates child slavery. Though there isn't much we can do about it. Slavery is everywhere, but he was hoping to at least but your freedom."
Konohamaru nearly jumped onto the girl. "Really he was going to let us go free!" The brown haired slave shouted almost too loudly.
Naruto and Vivi both quickly found their hands clapped onto the boy's mouth. Forcing them to lock eyes, causing Vivi to slightly blush. Even more so when she noticed their hands touching.
Quickly backing away, the princess readjusted herself. "Yes that was the plan, but we didn't figure he would ask such high prices."
"That's Kaiden for you." Naruto replied in an angered tone. "He's a real bastard, but tell me something Spoiled-hime. Do you really want to help us?"
Vivi's eyebrow twitched. "If you don't quit calling me that name I might just let you stay here. For now though yes I do want to help you."
Naruto smiled Vivi wasn't so bad, but getting under her skin was kind of fun. "Alright then you're going to help me and Kono escape." Naruto explained, giving the girl and his brother a grin. "And we are going to use my master plan."
"Nii-chan you mean the one you tried to tell me this morning?" Konohamaru asked with a little enthusiasm and Naruto nodded.
"Well before you tell me any plan I have two conditions." Vivi revealed holding out two fingers.
Naruto crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. "Alright let's hear your conditions Spoiled-hime."
Vivi growled and held up a third finger. "Ok three conditions. Don't call me that again." The blue haired girl more ordered than anything. Earning a snicker from Konohamaru.
Naruto rolled his eyes. "I'll think about it. What's the other two?" The blond asked.
"One you tell me about yourself and start being nicer to me. And the second one I'll tell you after you are free." The princess replied with a smirk.
Naruto grinned he didn't have a problem with Vivi's conditions. So he held his hand out for the girl to shake. "Alright Vivi, if we are going to be partners let me introduce myself. Few know my name so take pride in my trust. My name is Silvers Naruto, the Dark Prince."
Vivi cocked her head to the side. Confused by the blond's title.
"Dark Prince?" The noble princess mumbled with confusion. "What in the world is that?"
Naruto smirked. "It's a name I like to go by. Just like my Tou-san Silvers Rayleigh, the Dark King and first mate of Gol D. Roger the Pirate King."
Chapter end.
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