[Closed Log] Only The Strongest Will Survive

[maliciouslegacy]

Character(s): Kisame (Blue), Gaara (Red), Sai (Purple), Hidan (Deep Pink), Itachi (Green)
Date: Early Autumn
Setting: Dock & Streets of Port Royal
Summary: Kisame is ready to escape with the help of Gaara and Hidan but the Royal Navy is on hand to intervene
Warning(s): R for lots of blood, violence, language, death, stabbing, package references

Shades of deep crimson and royal sapphire flashed past the hazed glass to be followed every so often by the blur of cream and white, the clacked of raised heals against the rough wooden floorboards with the impatient steps of four men pacing in wait for the return of another. Time passed by painfully slow causing tensions to rise, each one of them antsy for their own reasons but all wanting action for the same purpose. The quiet muttered circled amongst the group of men under the watchful eye of another relaxing back in his wide armed wing back chair, leg hitched over his knee tapping his finger in a pendulum rhythm patiently listening to the footsteps behind closed eyes. Two hours they had been there, maybe three. The purpose of their visit into the harbour of Port Royal not being one of leisure but more of a business, a task that was being held for them to perform of a grand scale despite the small group that had gathered for it.

"How much longer do we have to wait?" "We should be out there instead of sitting around twiddling our thumbs" "This is ridiculous Sir!" Each tone different pitched from the other, thick with the language of the Queen all hailing from the same place of residence. Wasted efforts were going in painted movements across the floor in their mind an unreasonable time of delay.

"It will do you well to bite your tongue and conserve your energy gentleman. This is not going to be the simplest of tasks that have been handed to us" The older more defined pepper streaked man finally spoke up to instantly silence the others, taking his word as law keeping their place as instructed. Youth did not have the diligence needed, too hot headed and wanting to draw swords against the first suspicious individual they came across, it might work well for the ones sitting back on their cushy asses in the East India Trading Company but here, he worked different.

The door over in the far right of the room creaked open slowly, half a body pushing through the tight gap with attire that did not come close to matching their own. Drab browns overlaid with musty off white, tattered rather than the neatly pressed, peaked brimmed cap tilted low concealing the eyes of the newly arrived person entering their lodging. "Please forgive my lateness but I felt it was necessary" The young man spoke different to all of them, the vocabulary pronounced slower catching his words on the deep husky tone with no twang of the common English language whatsoever. The brim of his hat shifted off his eyes removing it slowly, catching the flicking light of the dimly lit lantern's, resonating red over the deep onyx encased in its almond setting to dip down removing the direct contact it had momentarily received. "I have word on the one we seek"

Brushed off hand movements signaled the other impatient males to retreat out of earshot, the elderly man rising to his feet ushering the young foreigner into the adjoining room with the door closing behind them. This time there were no place to rest besides the bed perfectly positioned in the middle of the room, taking that as a temporary place to comfort his weary bones frail from age that was creeping up on him. "Please explain everything that you witnessed" he spoke with firm attention.

"Yes Commander. There were three men and a young boy, unfortunately I could not get close enough to hear the exact words spoken between them, only catching part of the conversation. The big one was Kisame of the Black Sea" That name he had come to know all too well, being the only one who had gotten out of his sights due to the elements working against them but that was no excuse in his mind. He shouldn't have been so careless. "The second, Gaara Sabaku that hails from the land of Trinidad if I remember correctly" This one he wasn't overly sure about, word had traveled throughout the land in passing about the young adult that held is own in the sandy deserts supplying and distributing bootleg rum to pirates and other villains but still a minor participant that flew under the radar of most enforcement. "The last two I am not sure of but one was of slave descenders which is nothing to worry about but the other... he is someone to keep a very close eye on" As soon as he laid eyes on that one his blood quivered feeling the sensation of relentless blood lust that stirred something deep down inside his soul, a feeling that kept locked away.

Understanding all that was told, the Commander signified that he had heard every word leaving the young man to prepare alone while he spoke to the others to inform them of the preparations that were needed. As soon as the door clicked shut he moved over to the freshly pressed uniform handing proudly on a hook, removing the dirty rags dressing himself in the stunning blue and whites that always drew attention wherever they were seen, final adjustment of his long black hair into a loose ponytail just as the knock came from behind the door asking for permission to enter.

Once granted the Commander joined him again, studying his silent nature while rubbing his chin contemplating the mood that his subordinate was in. "You are awfully quite Lieutenant-Commander. Is something ailing ya?"

Itachi's permanent arrogant glare moved to the nearby window that held a marvelous view of the docks, gazing at the ship that had been commissioned for the task that had been assigned them to, smaller in size compared to the grand scale of the HMY Mary but incognito was what they were looking for. "Nothing Commander" he spoke in a silent flat tone. This was the moment that he had been waiting for since that day, tracking him down with all resources that were available for use but to no avail, finally within his grasp as well as other's that were felons that deserved to be captured. Something however wasn't sitting right in his gut, intuition saying that this was something to well planned as if they knew they were onto them. "I am ready and awaiting orders Sir"

"Very good. We leave soon. Be ready"

Move at first Cannon fire, 2 hours from that time head back to the ships or those who remain will be left behind and fear hanging to their death in the gallows Gaara stood tall on the forefront of the lead ship, the night air was cool and dark almost hollow with the events to come. Recalling back what he had told his officer before hauling anchor and casting off for the short voyage into the town that was to be their play ground for the evening. The men itching and ready, wanting nothing more than to finally get their filthy paws on whatever riches they could before having to cast off and leave chaos in heir wake. The British settlement would be something of a prize to the men of this crew having spoken of doing such a dangerous raid for sometime, But Gaara not falling into that trap without a good reason or good pay at least. Putting the life of his own and his crew on the line for such a foolish move, but for the pirate lord Kisame this would defiantly spread the name of the young red heads name and crew, not only throughout the Caribbean but the pirate world to which they know.

He felt the black sea air brush cool against his face, the gusts causing an up lift in crimson red hair, his arms sternly as usual across his chest in waiting as the faint lights from the Port became more clear in the distance. The street lights were still burning even though much of it's inhabitants had gone to sleep, leaving only a handful of drunks and whores to their own business. Far to preoccupied with their own self satisfactions to not the 3 dark ships moving soundlessly into the harbor, the main with red sails matching the the color of blood to match the young man's thirst for it as the other two not far behind with black.

"Drop anchor." He said as he passed the husky man at the wheel, his pale eyes turning down to the young boy whom was given to him by the great pirate lord Kisame. He would know who this Navy pig looks like, he would come with Gaara when they left to raid the town. He half wondered if the boy was capable of doing just that, the way he acted was like talking to a damn monkey at times, but he could not expect anything less from a servant who was willing to be passed around pirates like a whore. A shift in his gaze fell upon the stranger who had that same demented look in his eyes as Gaara when an open opportunity arose, and he willingly (with a slight mock in his tone) had taken the offer of a pirate, a brave move if Gaara had to say so himself. His end will be here if he is as careless as he comes off, to introduce yourself to a pirate lord and one of Gaara's known blood thirst would have been suicide if they had not had been in a mind of elsewhere.

"Wait for my signal." The red head paused, drawing a sword from his side, his fingers gripping the handle tightly in excitement. The mood was calm and collected almost eerie in a sense to the bay that cradled them like a welcoming bosom, the ships undetected using the thick of the night to pass through with the greatest of ease. All three awaiting for the loud rumble of the first cannons to fire before continuing openly on this poor unsuspecting town of port royal, now they WILL know the wrath that is Gaara Sabaku.

"Raise the colors." Turning his concentrated expression to the young servant boy, to do his bidding. "Then we ready, hurry." As the men that were not below decks manning the cannons began to gather into smaller life boats to make a swift make to shore. 2 hours, be back. With that final thought the sword raised in the air to give the final call to begin their attack.

Being passed off from one person to another was something that he had adjusted to as his time serving in slavery, his brother had passed him off onto them originally to settle a debt that had escalated offering his body in exchange for the slate to be wiped clean. He served out his punishment for gambling taken one step too far which he held no real thoughts on the matter except the one thing that managed to get into his way was the language barrier, not the different languages spoken throughout the lands but the one of slang with the universal language of English easy to understand.

Colours? How can you raise that? They are a blend of everything around... The young boy's head darted around the ship, shuffling from port to starboard trying to find the mysterious colours that had been referenced to, shivering crossing his arms across his chest from the squally wind that chilled him to the bone. Perfect warm rays of light during the day and terrible deathly cold at night from the gails. Neither less, this was something that Sai was demanded of him so he had to find it quickly, the deep gaze threatening to tear limb from limb if he was not hasty in his actions.

A quick peer over the edge of the ship caused a grimace of pain, tumbling back onto his butt, the smell of scorched flesh and temporary hearing loss from the canon fired searing his pale skin to a raw red off the heat of the cannon ball being forced through the exit quickly heating the chamber up to the extreme. Cover was going to be needed for that before he was subjected to infection from poor treatment like he had seen so many others, gangrene would result in a loss of limb or in most cases, life after losing usefulness.

Leaning his head back from his seating position looking towards the sky, the bright flash of colours past by whipped around from the wind that made Sai react with a jump to his feet and a point. "Colours?" he questioned thinking that he had stumbled upon the order he was given. A glance over at Gaara looking for any signs that pointed to yes... gradually tilting his head to the side looking for that confirmation further not too sure if that was a yes, no or a damn it I am going to stick a dagger in you.

Red eyes watched the cannon ball soar across the dark walls and then blending into the night before it made its location known again by forcing the windows of a residence to shatter. It was too soon to hear anything worthwhile, only the whistling of the iron balls sailing through the air and the occasional burst of flames caused by the gunpowder. All of this, and it still wasn't enough. His sword was out now, its ridiculous length whistling in the air, in sync with the iron balls like a composer's baton, each successful hit met with a closed-eye nod. Only when the bare shrill of panic and screams erupted did Hidan allow his eyes to open, pupils dilating with each new accent to this sick symphony.

Although the question was directed towards the red-head, Hidan could not help but fill in the gap that the slave had created, which was annoying him as much as the fact that he was not already in a boat heading for the port yet. With a silent prayer to the Dark Lord, Hidan eyes snapped open fully, his boots thudded heavily against the wooden planks as he made towards the descending lines of the lifeboats. "Flags, you idiot boy!" Hidan yelled over the din of the cannons at Sai as he passed him, a strong distaste lining the pale ridges of Hidan's face. He moved wordlessly past Gaara as he rounded the rail and moved swiftly over it, feet moving swiftly with the ropes to reach the boat that would take him to the hunt. Only when the boat was pushed off and rowed a little way away from the mothership did Hidan turn around to face Gaara's fading black silhouette on the ship with a hideous grin that made the other sailors around him look away in fear.

Too soon did the boat hit the beach, spraying sand everywhere as the sailors clumsily clambered out of the wooden structure; but Hidan wouldn't have had it any quicker. The stench of gunpowder and flames only urged Hidan's long legs to move faster than those around him, the urge to feel that metallic liquid on his skin, to see the whites of the eyes of those about to die by his hands. A loud and shrill laugh ripped through the air as Hidan feasted on the chaos before him as his boots hit the crumbling pavement of the streets, already ruined by stray fragments of the cannon balls beforehand.

The hunt had begun.

A deep growl of annoyance rumbled deep in the young captains' chest. an intolerable bread this Hidan was, swiftly making his way to the shore on his order but yet before Gaara had a change to jump the rail himself. He found himself in an angered stun as the white haired man faded into the thick of the cannon smoke and the black curtain shrouding the nigh Sky's. HE could not help but feel an overwhelming since of ungratefulness from the man after giving him such a offer, to give him what his eyes had screamed for, blood. He curled his lip in a scoff following the actions of most of the crew already on their short pilgrimage for riches and blood. The voices already screaming to the first falls of the attack in a panic a smirk poised the boys lips as it was very much music to his ears.

"SAI, COMON'!" He snorted casting a hard icy glare over his shoulder to the servant boy. "I need you to show me this Navy pig."

His arms hoisted the flag up to his boundaries, securing it in place with a few twisted loops knotting around the bars, leaning his body back to tighten the worn in ropes making them taunt to display the flag for all to see and maybe fear but how a flag can do that he would never know. Cautiously once the task had been completed Sai scurried over to the side of the captain, towering over him having a quick look around before moving closer to the edge scanning the nearby area to see if he could find who he was supposed to point out.

Lookout before had come in handy remembering what he was told before, white pants, strange jackets and hats. If he could spot that now then it would make the process so much simpler but life was not that easy, leaning over the ledge hands firmly rooted in place narrowing his dark eyes looking at all the faces around. "No one out there yet" he said finding nothing but scurrying people from the scene. He would have to find someone that resembled them soon or else that freaky looking one who's eyes tracked his movements would have something to say about it, he always had something to say about it. He didn't even work for him.

To catch a pirate was normally a harder task than one would think possible, they didn't always run out swords blazing looking to charge everyone that came in their direction. Most of them were discreet except for the fools that decided that Port Royal was going to be the place they were taking for the night, the sounds of chaos ringing through their ears sending the men of the Royal Navy scattering throughout the crowds searching for the ones they were after. The lead was given by the Commander, his most trusted taking point while the others readied the ship in case a chase was going to take place, rushing around for preparations on guard and waiting for as soon they were needed.

Itachi pushed through the people in long hard strides holding his head up high and hand poised on the hilt of his sword ready for a moments notice to slice at anyone, many of the locals to the area were in affiliation with the pirates, anyone could be working for them. "Listen to the loud sounds, that should be enough to give away where they are" he yelled back at his Commander, the thought alone was a given being that there were no celebrations for today.

To take out a town was a very bold move and he was going to make sure it was the last that they would be making.

Kisame planted both of his feet over the ground as he made his way towards the southern port, but the vibrating ground had him halt. he turned his head towards where Gaara and Hidan and Sai had been left last and he cursed. Too soon. And what was it that they were doing?
They would destroy the entire city in the stance they were taking.

He looked at a few running animals; cats and a few chickens. There were young boys running to their houses after their fun by the beach had been ruined and Kisame sighed, moving against the crowd, so eager to see what was happening on their island. Kisame had to hurry and make it to his ship- Here was hoping his good man had done his job and prepared for sailing.

Kisame's strides were quite quick as he crossed the large port to the neck docking area, where his colours had indeed been removed and the wind that blew his dark jacket also was heading for the direction of his retreat. There was a sullen thought in mind- he had intended to say a goodbye to the young boy who had served him- but it was just as well that he did not.

But now... there was the difficulty of passing the empty, quiet streets to his ship while the population was crowded and tipping the port towards Gaara. His plans were half foiled now, Gaara was supposed to storm the island itself, not cannon it from distance.

A glance up over the crowds over to the Commanding officer watching him break off onto his own direction, while respect he had for the man being out in the line of action was not a wise choice given his age and how frail he was. The coot was going to get himself killed at that rate and Itachi was not going to be there to pick up the pieces nor willing to take over the official roll in his place. Huffing he ducked off down one of the quieter streets slowly moving step by step over to the last direction that he had spotted the men in, leaving nothing unsighted, the smallest detail standing out bright as day with a keen eye for the insignificant things.

Sounds of heavy footsteps ran passed that made him freeze temporarily, the sounds of company issue boots looking like they weren't the only ones out for the pirates, the arrogant breeze boasting superiority over the regular enforcement officers of the Royal Navy with the EITC on the prowl, stalking right passed them. Hmph another group he despised as much as the pirates, corruption was the middle name of every single one of them. Once they had all passed Itachi finally emerged from the darkness taking gradual steps one after another eyeing off the impending ship just off land, twilight skies blazing echoing the thunderous sound of a canon shot off into the buildings scattering debris in front of his boots. Shifting his eyes down he kicked a piece of driftwood across the cobbles, pushing them aside turning his nose up in distaste having to take a second look when something caught his attention. It was that kid against that he been watching over, pale skin standing out with every flash of light glowing like a homing beacon in the distance.

That was confirmed as them, which means if they were working together... Itachi turn on the sole of his boot dashing back down between the rows of buildings, around loose piles of trash knowing that he was close by, his foul stench stood out even over the rotten waste.

"There..." the young slave pointed almost leaning over too far and into the water. "That is the guy there" There was a distance between them might have been closing in but still at a distance the colours of the man stood out predominately, moving back and crossing his arms nodding firmly at his job well done once again.

"Good work." Gaara praised the young man in his low flat tone, feeling the rush of what was to come pass over his body the lust of excitement awaiting for him at approaching shore. But something was wrong, as eyes scanned the shore line falling upon a tall figure that was suppose to have been gone already. He scrawled clenching his jaw tightly at the sight of Kisame STILL at port.

"Idiot!" He followed with a bark jumping over the boat in eagerness, his feet finally hitting the firm ground advancing forward to the man pointed out. "For a damn Pirate Lord he is slow moving." He grumbled under his breath. Drawing a small dagger that had been secured to his thigh ready for use once in range. His short legs carried him swiftly like a ghost, stepping to the side and taking out any brave Navy soldiers that would dare challenge him, that had willingly threw their lives in front of him. Effortlessly he had cut his way down, making a bloody path to the target ahead feeling the tingle of battle tickle this spine, building up to the greatest prize this raid had to offer, to take out a man of Itachi's position would give the satisfaction the young man needed to sky rocket his already swelling ego. With one easy move, the dagger was released with a force to be felt from the other end finally making contact as the small blade ripped through thick navy uniform piercing a shoulder blade, just enough to distract this commander Kisame was so afraid of.

"WELCOME TO MY CHAOS!" An impish, demented smile painted the boys pale lips as he drew a second sword upon his continuing advances. Hopefully now Kisame would have enough sense to haul ass and leave before things had gotten worse for him. Honestly, was there any bit of knowledge in that damn head of his he should have been gone already. must have gone back to that dirt hole of a pub to give a proper farewell to that lady friend he had mentioned.

Sense wasn't the word for it, but true enough, Kisame had best high-tail it out of the port especially after paying so kindly to have himself with distraction. He kicked the ramp and looked up at the officer who was finally dressed, hair still askew, and no doubt did he smell like vomit and alcohol after plenty of time to clean himself up to at least prevent illness while they sailed from the Caribbean islands.

Not to say the other colonized countries and regions wouldn't have navy dripping from their maws but Kisame wanted to avoid this battalion specifically- the young Lieutenant seemed to have harbored a great hatred for people of his kind, lord or not the fate would result to the same.

Kisame never did dream about his end being at the steal bounded noose owned by the whore of the law. His freedom would redeem him a much more fitting end; Which would not come until all opportunities had been taken or ignored because of pride- a man was a man and not a boy which he was sure to have his opinions dead set and not sway for realities reason.

He bounce up the loggers and over the deck which had been tended to kindly. "Ho!" He called and looked at both officers who watched him with intent, hunger and fatigue. He frowned. "Go." He said and grinned out at the dismayed isle where the screaming babes and animals and falling men were quite audible. Kisame's attraction to adventure was outweighed to his lust for blood, it was best that they set sail now rather when he wanted a fight.

Especially with the Lieutenant so near-by.

In the midst of this newborn chaos, Hidan could be found kneeling over a slain body at this particular moment, his eyes closed and his lips moving wordlessly. A lone finger drew a heathen sign over the deceased's forehead, using their own blood that was spilling out from their neck. The white-haired man was open to any danger that might've came along and now with growing number of the Navy filtering through the streets, Hidan could only be labeled as a fool to expose himself like this. But it was the Will of Jashin that came first before his own life.

A close triumphant cry of a charging Navy soldier with his bayonet drawn made Hidan's lips pause for a millisecond in his flawless prayer. Red-eyes snapped open as soon as the uniformed man's blade came about one foot away from Hidan's head, making the strange preacher scowl heavily at this interruption before snapping his head forward instantly, allowing the blade to slice through empty air only a hair's breadth away from the pale skin of his neck. Rolling out from under the rifle, Hidan snatched up his abandoned blade that was next to him on the ground and speared the metal point right through the stunned man's stomach and with another burst of energy, the blade smoothly slid sideways, neatly cutting the man in half, the blood spraying the ground and ruining anything that Hidan was trying to do before.

"Wait your bloody turn!" Hidan roared at the twitching corpse, furious to see the sign on his previous victim to have been washed away with the new wave of blood pouring out of the Navy man's split torso. The ritual had gone on flawlessly until up to the point where the man had bursted in and it would take forever to construct a new one. Like hell, he would allow the annoying man to take the place of the slain woman he had fallen on. Wiping the blood out of his eyes, ignoring the fact that it made his wiry ghost-like hair to turn into a dark shade of brown, Hidan moved away from the two wasted bodies to continue his hunt for more victims.
The pub that the group had met earlier caught his eye, standing untouched to his right. The cannon balls must've gone past its range, leaving it untouched. Remembering the swarm of unclean rats that littered the place earlier, Hidan changed his course as he rested his blade against his shoulder, an unusual way of carrying one's weaponry, but it suited him fine. The door offered no resistance as he kicked it open, the window glass shattering against the impact, making quite a few of the remaining customers jump at the sound. Pairs of eyes moved from the broken window to stare wide-eyed at the blood-covered image of the insane man standing in the doorway, who's lips were stretched impossibly wide with a grin. It made each individual stand immediately from their seats and scramble for the windows, the stairs, anything to move the hell away from Hidan, who's eyes were glinting with delight as his sword whistled happily through the air, sinking through the clothes of those who were not quick enough and then through their necks, arms, and torsos; spilling every ounce of life that ran through their impure bodies.

Most of the slain were men, many needing the unique baptism only Hidan offered. But there was one warm, living body that caught Hidan's attention as he hacked the screaming bodies right and left. A flash of red hair of the maiden in the corner of his eye, who's face was rather composed compared to the cowards howling to stay away from Hidan's sword. It intrigued Hidan a bit as to why she wasn't screaming and crying like those he had taken before. Moving a man away by smashing the hilt of his sword in his face, Hidan waded through the sea of bodies that separated him from the woman.

Why wasn't she running?

The girl stared at nothing in particular, the stench of blood filling her nostrils, disabling her senses. Unbelieving the sight before her, she stood dumbfounded, unable to comprehend just what was happening. She could hear screams in the distance, but could not comprehend exactly where those dreadful cries were coming from, her mind being swallowed up by the images presented before her, the visuals overwhelming anything she heard.

Perfectly stiff and unable to move, the red-haired girl glanced at a blurred image before her. A figure which appeared to have white hair seemed to be approaching her, and rather swiftly at that. Unable to show any sign of fear, for her facial features were frozen in place, she simply stood still, deciding it was too late to turn back now anyway. Besides, it was not like she could really run anywhere. She was usually the type to simply face her fears anyway, so she just allowed the face of danger to approach her.

The tip of the blade was swung downwards to clean itself of the excess blood dripping down its metal edge before rising again to rest against the shoulder of the young maiden, who to Hidan's surprise (and amusement) did not move at all. A look of fear seemed to be frozen on her face which only made Hidan's smile work into a wider line. The edge of the metal slid along the shoulder of the girl until it was a hair's breadth away from the girl's neck; Hidan could already envision the gaping line that would open for him once he was done, giving him enough blood to satisfy Jashin's hunger for the night. Being the bastard sadist he was, Hidan tilted the girl's head with his gloved fingers, appreciating the smooth transition of the different degree of fears on her pretty face caused by his physical touch.

"Mademoiselle, you look terrified. Do not fight me and this will all be over soon. Then when you open your eyes, you will be in the presence of all you have ever dreamed of. Shhh..," Hidan soothed with a light kiss to the corner of her mouth as a whimper escaped from her lips from the cold touch of the metal against her skin. Thin lines of crimson blood dripped down her neck and to her blouse as the metal bit deeper into her skin, any sound and movement silenced by Hidan's firm grip and cruel thin lips.

Itachi's strides grew faster breaking out into a quick dash following the steps of the famed Kisame, only a name without the skills to back it up with the sloppy attempt of the escape for port that he had been planning. A ship coming into dock firing off weapons wouldn't last that long with the ones back on their vessel knowingly going to retaliate to ensure the safety of the people but without the distinguishing blasts from the cannons from their end, it stopped anyway. Temporarily maybe for restocking but that was not for him to worry about, that scum was getting away from him and he wasn't going to let that happened for the second time. Screeching of a cat dashing off the roof bounding down onto the ground taking flight in the opposite direction phased him enough to slow his steps down catching the golden glowing eyes staring back at him for that split moment, narrowing his own death glare homing in on him ready to take that last stretch towards capturing him when suddenly another noise echoing closer became a more immediate threat.

His head adjusted to the direction of the stalking footsteps scraping along the cobbled street most likely an accidental step being how he had managed to get the upper hand on him without being heard until that moment, Itachi missed no one but this one's uncanny ability to move between the shadows was truly exceptional, the silhouette revealing the outline that would have been a teenager, thirteen, fourteen maybe not yet hitting that growth spurt. But in this game, height did not matter.

Highlighted fiery hair illuminated with a passing flash revealing enough of the identity of the teen that was needed, a swift hand grabbing the hilt of his sheathed sword didn't reach the mark fast enough, that split second thrown off in the process of removing his weapon was enough for a temporary pause from the sharp jab penetrating his shoulder. All grip on the handle dropped causing Itachi to stumble back a few steps into the clearing of the main alley, sharply inhaling in biting down on his lip, spinning back behind the blocking wall following it around to the other side just to get away from for the time needed. Minor injury that wasn't going to hinder his performance at all except under prolonged conditions but that he wasn't going to allow it to get to that point, peaking around the wall for a quick check, biting down embedding teeth into his bottom lip, firmly grabbing the dagger callously tearing it from his body spraying a trail over the ground from the swift exit of the blade.

"Chaos is fleeting... so is your freedom" Corners of his lips half turned up in a sly smirk, the newly claimed dagger protectively clutched against his chest with one hand while the other lifelessly dangled readily short notice to strike, at least he would be a challenge.

"Death will be my only freedom, you will not lock me up." His stalking steps drew the shorter man closer and closer to his desired pray. The thirst for blood seen plain in his demented features, the excitement overwhelming to the point of fluttering nerves in the very pit of his stomach. Baring his teeth in a cynical grin of sheer blood lust for a navy officer's life was clear in his intent. His nearly soundless graceful stride carried him close enough to raise his blade for the first strike, the means of piercing through that cleanly uniform now tainted with a tail of blood from the insertion he had already made upon grasping the elder man's attention. to feel a sharp blade ease though a mortals flesh was something the young man was all too familiar. this navy trash would be no different than the royal military ships he had come across on his travels all over Caribbean waters. leaving nothing in the young man's wake only a few to ass on the story of his growing popularity among most wanted.

"I will make you kill me before that happens, I would love to see you try!" He grunted leaning his weight from the back foot to the front in a heavy thrust of one of the dual wielding weapons he had in each hand. The sparks flew as metal came into contact with metal, and the smooth sound of the blades making a jaded sound dragging along the length in a hard push against his pray.

Daggers aren't the weapon of choice at your side when involved in close combat with the threat beings of a longer range, most people would have lost their life in the first blow but either he hadn't been informed yet but Itachi wasn't like one of those common Navel officers with his heritage deeply rooted in utilizing varieties of bladed weapons and the different uses no matter what the given situation was. Blow for blow each one was countered in sweeping movements keeping Gaara at bay taking a larger step back each time than what the younger male was doing trying to widen the distance between them knowing that quickening motions were only going to tire him quicker. "Either way it goes you will not be escaping this battle" he stated confidently. One had already got away from him tonight, he would not make it a second.

Short glances around noting every small detail around him picking out anything that would help in his situation, Itachi spotted the first true thing that worked in his advantage, ducking down against the wall watching the sparks off the sword dragging across the metal piping of a drain pipe, lowering his stance enough to make the first offensive move. A swift time kicked to the gut knocked him back, discarding the dagger in a hard flick aiming at his chest. If it connected or not was not his concern, it was only a decoy to get out what he was really after. The sound of his own sword being released from his holding echoed down the alley held out at arms length with an arrogant smirk, no rapier for him at all, his countries weapons will always be his one of choice. Stiffly raising his arm up hitched at the elbow from the almost immobile arm, Itachi motioned his hand towards Gaara inviting him to do the same for him. If he wanted him, the only way he would win would be standing over his dead corpse.

A swift maneuver casting his upper body back slightly preparing himself for the potential impact that would sure pierce through the hardened boned cage that sculpted the young man's chest. in a release of one sword to the dirt he snatched his fingers catching around the handle just in time, flipping the blade between his fingers to return it to it's owner. the forceful release sent a little off balance as it whisked by the elders mans ear, catching a few strands of long black hair in passing. The smirk grew wider at this pathetic navy bitch underestimating a man of Gaara's size and speed, what the boy lacked in weight and height made up in swiftness and knowledgeable strikes combined with his own matter of strength.

"Since when do midshipman show such signs of bravery to one that has clearly out matched them." His cocky return was in similar rebuttal, feeling the hard pound loud in his already throbbing ears of his heart racing with excitement. Following with a long stride forward drawing his sword at the ready once again, surly this arrogant idiot knew the fate that was in store if his foolish taunts continued. Even as his form this navy pig had taken on shown somewhat of a skill Base to alert Gaara of potential danger, in that knowledge is what was found to be exciting of the whole ordeal. Again the blade came in contact, and the battle had begun again, Gaara stepping in time with is opponent and metal coming into contact with each swing intent to kill the other.

Shit! That retaliation came close feeling the breeze rush past his hair, the coolness of the metal caressing his flesh, floating strands of hair tainting the complexion of his uniform. Exchanging hands regardless of how much pressure it put on the wound, Itachi's hand reached across his chest, capturing the handle before it had a chance to escape into the unknown, huffing at the deadly accuracy he was displaying.

The child surely had the audacity to refer to him as such a lowly class and it was doubted that his eyesight was hindered except from the swelling in his head thinking that he could stand to face someone like him. He wasn't his role because it was bound by the forgetfulness of promotion... this was where he chose to be, on the front line was more exhilarating than being cooped up in the lower decks telling others what to do, worrying about the bureaucracy of it all. While he was a tender age himself by the standards on the Navy, he was not naive like some damn midshipman!

A few people ran past the two of them catching the quick glimpse of the battle of the swords gasping noticing the blue uniform that stood out in the darkness, making a hasty retreat not to get caught up in it leaving just the pair once again to sort out their differences. Each move matched, responded, offense and defence changing radically neither one getting the upper hand on each other, what was that to say for Gaara being that he was keeping the pace with one injured arm and the fleeting blood loss from the open wound that needed to be closed. Still why was he here? What kind of alliance could the Pirate Lord offer him that would bring him to facing off with the officers of the Royal Navy? Suicidal tendencies maybe.

Dropping the tip of the blade pointing directly down at the ground, Itachi's neck circled outwards missing the strike that threatened his jugular opening the red-hair's body up to him, rising his sword up between the gap thinly slicing the centre seam of clothing on the male, barely scrapping across his chin on exit, enough of a call that he wasn't dealing the an amateur, backing up with a return of the weapon travelling between the two, wanting to return to his owner hoping it would taste his blood.

A husk grunt escaped the red heads throat at the tilted awkwardness to avoid deep incision of the blade in passing the pale flesh under his chin, instantly feeling the cool breeze rushed in against his exposed chest from where the thick layers of fabric were cut away. Swiftly reaching under upon the elder boys retreat to discover any damage done, none. Noting in an almost immediate reaction the dagger flying back in his direction, a smirk stepping to the side reaching over his stomach with a free hand and grasping the blade once again in this endless tag of toss the dagger.

"You are better than expected of a low class midshipman." He mocked, noticing the stunned irritated expression he had received from the navy superior from his fist attempt of calling him down in order to get under his skin. Obviously worked since his objective seemed to now turn from it's initial pursue to the young red headed distraction. Kisame would be well out of range by now, giving the Pirate lord a good head start on the royal navy that was after him for so long. It would seem the ego of these two fine men had gotten the better of them both (not that it matter too much to Gaara, this was his job and was succeeding at it well). Even as the clash of swords clashed loud against one another, the rise in excitement rushing through the pirate captains veins he had accomplished his mission, the thoughts did not dawn to retreat for safety and call it well done. No... this was far too exhilarating to allow slip through his thin fingers.

He stepped forward again and again, clashing swords with his enemy over and over as the dagger used back and forth to aid. What little weight the boy had mustered pushing the taller frame of the navy officer to back against the stone wall of the building behind. The dagger raised to his throat applying the slightest of pressure, ready to slice through the flesh of the man's neck the moment their swords had eased off one another in the heat of battle. That impish grin, the shortness of breath the exercise from the crossing blades and light foot work from both parties in a dance of life and death, perhaps a moment the young man awaited. to live and be remember or to die and be remembered, the same passing thoughts for this... Itachi... they called him. A well known, well respected member of the royal navy brought to his end by a pirate no older than 18.

"HOW FITTING!" He followed in a demented chuckle.

Mixtures of men growled loudly pointing their aims on the short one by one running past knocking the young boy back and forth not allowing him to grab his footing almost landing flat on his face, thankfully his hands stopped him looking up wondering what was going on. It has been a while since Gaara had left the ship and without the concept of time he didn't know if it was a long time or short but whatever was meant to take place was now doing so. Someone was nice enough to give him a helping drag to his feet by the shoulder, the huge muscular man towered over his size, head tilted back to get to face level with a small smile quickly returning to stoic receiving a scowl that didn't seem in place.

Something was thrusted into his hands with a hearty slap on the back that almost send his below weight body flying across deck, wincing with every knock until he stopped. "Make yourself useful" he was told, left to look down at what the hell he had given him. Huh? Two fingers hooked around the loop of the pistol holding it at a distance like it was some diseased piece, staring wondering what he was meant to do with this. Slow plodding steps one after another down the loading ramp onto the docks, still staring at the weapon paying no attention to direction or anything in his path following it along blindly loosing sight of all the men. "How is this meant to make me useful?" he questioned, long strayed from the group into the dank alleys completely lost.

Each breathe taken in burnt his lungs down to the core feeling as if they were to collapse in on themselves in a quickened paced, drawing the blade deeper into his neck and back out again with every chest movement. Underestimated maybe that was what he did, foolish for letting him catch him with his guard down but was it worth it? Definitely yes, feeling alive from the coursing of adrenaline through his body, exhilaration of the battle of each connecting swords, close calls brought on by the implemented dagger, feelings that he had lost such a long time ago. Kisame was wise to recruit this one into helping him make his escape, still firmly sticking by the fact that it was too well planned to be a coincidence. But now he was trapped without enough strength to keep his head hovering above the blade let alone counter attack, energy draining from his body just like the blood staining halfway down his arm and chest pumping out faster from the rapid beats.

"I am surprised that you can reach that position, are you on your tippy toes?" Itachi mocked taking one last swing at his ego before the blade would be plunged into his neck, chuckling deviously. Death was nothing to fear being invited for a long time, no one worthy enough to step up to the plate to take it away and unfortunately this one wouldn't be the one to do it either.

Foolishly to leave his hands unguarded being the issue sword that the Navy carried around wasn't the only thing that they held in their arsenal, the man's gloating instead of taking the final blow was the time needed for Itachi to move his hand discreetly to his belt, shuffling the thin blade stiletto concealed within his clothing. Under normal circumstances it was a useless weapon minus the sharpened blades for cornered situations was exactly was it was designed for. His body reactively stiffened unconsciously preparing to take the retaliation the hand drew back, plunging the blade into his abdomen, off course from blinded directions but firmly hitting the mark, embedded in Gaara's side, twisting the handle tearing the flesh open wider open the wound up for more than a small puncture, exerting all that he had to give but still just not that deep enough to get it near the point of fatal.

"And that's Lieutenant-Commander" the raven haired male sneered correcting the previous mistakes with the last of his energy.

Gaara had not known whether it was the sheer excitement coursing through his veins or the unimaginable intent to kill this man after his mocking statement regarding his height. "I might be short you navy pig, but many woman would tell you I make up for it in my pants"

Gaara was a small man , but he more than made up for it in speed and strength. His years on the merchant ship, trapped with the monster he called father taught the boy necessities for survival, to duck and hide swiftly to avoid the brutal beating that would no doubt take place without reason. In turn giving his young son a threshold for pain beyond what a normal man would be able to take, which proven rightfully as the lazy smug grin on the officers face was someone satisfied with something Gaara did not come to know until the ripping of fabric caught his ears and the sharp pain of a blade slicing across his stomach.

In a moment of panic, pale eyes widened to the rushing pain rising to the open wound now spilling over with crimson liquids. He was frozen in place for a moment in time in a stunned shocked expression staring back into the elders dark eyes. With the last of his strength, being as growing exhausted from the loss of blood now pouring like a fountain staining his white shirt the color of bright red, even notable in the darkness of the chaotic streets, he applied pressure from his own sword to he one in battle pushing himself from reach. It was not before the small dagger he had held at the dip of his opponents neck diced through the first couple of layers of epidermis making his second visible mark on the young captain... lieutenant... commander... midshipman.... his rank held no specific value to the red head, as his only concern was the open slice across his belly a hand reaching up to determine the damage but his mind and body falling in to stunned shock. His grip releasing the blood stained dagger in hand allowing it to finally fall to the ground with a clattering thud against the dirt and pebbles at his feet.

"....." He snarled snapping his eyes back into a harsh glare in rising his sword ready his other arm closed over his stomach, waiting to plunge back into battle and ready to give this damn navy pig his death.

What exactly was this thing for? Okay he knew that you are meant to shoot people with it why did they give it to him? He really didn't want to have it but if he discarded it now then there might be hell to pay when he didn't return it to the rightful owner... whoever that was. Sai had been paying so much attention to the weapon in hand that he lost his bearings, somewhere in town and no chance of getting back. Most slaves would have loved the chance to escape from their oppressors at that point but not him, he liked the fact that he got to sleep somewhere that wasn't a pile of rocks.

Pausing temporarily he pulled the pistol closer to him peering down the barrel to see what secrets it held inside, carelessly sticking his finger inside the hole wanting to get that glittering marble inside only to get his finger stuck, shaking it a few times to get it to drop off but it wasn't budging from the air inside cause a vacuum trapping the digit firmly in place. Shaking his hand around some more with permanent eyes fixated on the ground Sai started off again on his journey, skillfully missing every obstacle along the way, the trash piles were no match for him at all. A turn down an alley was the direction he started off in next toddling down the path reactively trying to shake the heavy metal off his finger, gripping onto the trigger for leverage pulling back in opposite directions really trying hard to get it off but teetered close to blowing off something that he really needed.

The tension gave way in a single moment just as the hammer clocked back to fire, one pistol came flying off his finger rebounded on the ground a couple of times only to fire the chambered ball bearing into the pitch black darkness of the alley, shattering glass of nearby windows overlooking the area and one cat screeching out followed by a sickening thud against the paved road. At least now he was free. Stepping forwards to find out where it had bounced off to the shape of bodies drew in closer except unknown to Sai that there were actually people there, focusing hard on the littered ground to find where that weapon has gone to, rolling the sleeping cat back with his foot and bending over to pick up his pistol once again, glancing up rising back to stand.

"Oh, what are you doing here? We need to go back now since Kisame as escaped" Sai smiled valiantly at his current owner, shoving the pistol into his pocket dragging his pants halfway down in the process. Sitting on that ground mustn't have been hygienic at all so he would at least get him to his feet. He might have looked weak but he could drag around full grown men, using all those shoulder muscles that had developed from years of being on his knees scrubbing decks, he wrapped his arms around Gaara's chest, hooking under his arms locking his own fingers into place putting the light man up to stand hugging tightly to his back, shifting direction to walk backwards, dragging him along with him.

Gaara's sunken sockets grew larger feeling the tight hold he was now being bound in, a set of anger and panic as his pale eyes did not waver from his initial target to kill that arrogant navy pig was the ONLY thing he desired. But, judging from the way he could not struggle free from the hard binds against him; Gaara was far from his usual strength from loss of blood and would not last much longer against an equal opponent such as him. The passing thoughts only made him grow even more angry to the slumped figure of the man against the building where he had left him. How he delivered a second visible scar to his flesh, this one will defiantly remain for years to come as the one that imprinted the boys face.

"I'M NOT DONE!" He snarled casting a swift glance at the moron strong enough to pull the struggling shorter male away farther and farther away from his target.

"SAI!" He barked, yet in all honesty, and as much as he had not wanted to admit it the buffoon was right in their retreat. The two hours had passed, they had caused enough damage and havoc to keep the navy off the pirate lords tail for at least awhile. But the young red head still had not felt the satisfaction of bringing down a man that brought the thrill of battle as Itachi had done, to feel the excitement course through his veins.

"PRAY WE DO NOT CROSS PATHS AGAIN!" His voice echoed through the still chaotic streets, before being dragged off into the darkness by a servant whom was just following orders.

Instant hand blanketed his throat compressing to stop the bleeding also serving the purpose to survey the damage that the retaliation blow had caused, he was still alive that was good enough for now but warmth seeping down into the white ruffled collar of his uniform drained his energy along with it. He would have been a fool to try and stop the attempts of escape but he couldn't stay concealed in the darkness of an alley, his death would have been ensured if he did.

Each stepped saw him travelling at snail pace, tiny steps towards the exit rather than normal giant strides, each movement sucked the life out of him but still Itachi was not prepared to die there like a mutt... he had just met someone else who was worthy to be on his list of ones that he would take down. No one had ever gotten a blow on him let alone two, not even the Pirate Lord got in a strike, a small respect for the talent the red head. The end drew closer opening up the exit from the lighting of the street, his head pounded rhythmically to the sounds of his heart beat that blurred out all sounds of anyone close by only the haze of shadows indicated that someone was about, at least Itachi thought there was with the mind playing tricks when in distress.

"Next time... it will be your... life" the Uchiha smirked, not hearing any previous statements made only talking to himself in a whisper through parched lips induced by the dryness of his throat from blood loss.

Next time... he would...

And then there was nothing but darkness.

Boots skidded to a halt as Hidan rounded the corner, presenting himself to the darkness in all his own bloody glory, a strange reward poster clenched in his hands. From head to two there was not an inch of clothing that was splattered with some sort of blood, only staining his high collared black cloak into a color deeper than the deepest pits of the ocean. But instead of the cocky look that always adorned his pale face, there was instead an air of annoyance and uncertainty (it wasn't anything new). It was this lack of concentration that made Hidan trip over a body in the middle of the road, something the skilled killer would've avoided if he wasn't so absorbed in trying to figure out where exactly he was at the moment. A sharp curse was given at the fault and kept on going until a soft groan of the body alerted the white-haired man again. The fallen figure caught Hidan's eyes as he sprinted back over to the body, not even caring for the slightest that the man was wearing a uniform of a distinguished rank, or that this was a Navy officer.

None of this made Hidan stop as he reached down and shook the man by his collar, ignoring the bloody makeshift gauze around the man's neck. "Terribly sorry about that, mate. Can you tell me where the ship port is?"

No response.

After a couple seconds of waiting, Hidan cursed sharply again and gave up hope on the unconcious man. Hidan was never the type to wait patiently for a response. The Navy was never reliable in giving directions anyways, they had their asses stuck to far up their powdered behinds to tell north from south. Quicker than you could say "Jashin's armpits" the white-haired killer dropped the officer ungracefully on the ground before leaping over the wounded man and continuing towards the direction where he could've sworn he had saw the short red-head from earlier.

Killing off the entire island was the plan, but not when you were in danger of dying with it, too.

From where he was, leaning against the port side of his filed down ship, Kisame could see the coast line where they would use as their guide for direction before birthing into the open waters. However he could also see the smoke rising from the island that did not belong to pagan bonfires or even that of chalet chimneys. There were a few buildings which had caught with the first blast and more so the blood drained bodies that acted as kindling for the flame. Hidan would be sure to keep the island burning beautifully, as would Gaara- and maybe even Sai if he could figure out how to use a pistol or a machete.

His smile faltered as he looked upon the island with contempt. There was a bittersweet tug inside of him; He had a few ties to the island. He had grown fond of Sai, but no more than he enjoyed the company of his second officer- and their relationship spoke enough for that- and Kisame vaguely recalled his drunken promise to a young woman with a rapid mouth. He shrugged and fixed his belt so the holster of his gun was snug against his waist and so the scavard of his two swords were not too loose so they would not be apparent to eyes that would discreetly look over him.

Kisame shrugged and looked over to the plain mast, not being dressed in his colours and only midnight toned sails. Not black, but a very deep shade of blue which blended nicely with the wide and beautiful ocean. With the dark sails, his ship could not be recognized by fisherman boats or navy or other pirates unless they were close enough to notice the sepia tone that was vibrant off the hull.

His eyes turned back towards the coast and then the port they were abandoning and a smug smile tugged at his lips. It was a shame that he could not fight, but it was just as well that he was not clouded by it- fighting now meant almost certain capture. And certain captivity was certainly certain death. He sighed out and walked up the steps of his deck towards the vantage point where he could look over the grate of the belly of his infested ship. The men were crawling out of the beneath hull stairwell(where he had found Sai once drunk and with a few bottles of freshly stocked rum) and were all working hard and quick enough.

The cannons were not loaded but they were prepared to invade their way through the wooden flap shutters if there were incognito convoy ships that would come after them.

Kisame left well-enough alone and turned towards the wide ocean with a sigh. There was very much to see. "Sir?" came a voice from behind him where his second officer was looking distraught. "We'll have to stop again in half a months time."

Kisame frowned. "Why is that?" And then his officer handed him a board of paper. He blinked at it.

The food. "For Christ's sake..."