The Queen of the Pirates

Prologue

The ship glided gracefully across the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, its sails billowing in the gentle breeze. On the deck, a lively dance of steel echoed through the air as William, an imposing African man with short black hair and skin as dark as rich mahogany. His jaw was sharp, and his eyes glistened with an intensity akin to a lions. Years of sea travel had etched lines into his weathered face, giving him a rugged, experienced look. His blue captain's jacket, worn proudly, showcased a physique honed by countless voyages, his muscles rippling beneath the fabric. He smirked as he attacked his daughter Sabrina with his sword.

Sabrina was a striking beauty, her long dark brown hair intricately braided down her back to keep it out of her face. She shared her father's sharp jawline and possessed high, elegant cheekbones. Her dark brown eyes were filled with determination and focus as she engaged in a playful yet skillful sword fight with her much more powerful father, matching his moves with grace and agility. The sun shone down, casting a golden hue on the father-daughter duo, their laughter mingling with the rhythmic sound of the waves.

"Watch your left! Center yourself!" William called out, his voice filled with pride and joy. He parried a swift strike from Sabrina and smiled broadly. "Incredible... Can't believe how far you've come. How are you already thirteen?"

Sabrina grinned, her eyes sparkling with determination. "Don't know. I guess I wanted to be as tall as you!"

William chuckled, shaking his head. "Cute... not happening, squirt. I have a gift for you. Put your sword up and come with me."

Together, they descended below the deck, leaving behind the bright open sky for the cool, shadowy interior of the ship. William led Sabrina to an old wooden chest, its surface worn with age and stories untold. He opened it with a reverent touch, revealing a delicate necklace nestled within. It was a simple piece, held together by a thin black cord, with a stunning purple shell at its center.

"This was your mother's necklace," William said softly, lifting the jewelry and handing it to Sabrina. "She belonged to the sea, just like you..."

Sabrina cradled the necklace in her hands, her expression wistful. "I wish I could have met her. She sounds incredible... what was her name?"

"Well, I called her Cally. She was amazing, and so are you," William replied, his voice full of love and conviction.

Their tender moment was interrupted by the urgent arrival of a crew member, Mitch, who appeared at the doorway, his face pale with worry.

"Captain, ship off the starboard bow," Mitch announced, his voice tense.

William's demeanor shifted instantly, his eyes narrowing with concern. "Flag?"

"Black, sir."

William's jaw tightened. "Then may the sea help us." He turned to Sabrina, his expression fierce yet tender. "Remember where I said to hide when the pirates come?"

"Yes, Father, but—"

"No!" William's voice was sharp, allowing no room for argument. "No, Sabrina, you must hide."

"But Father, I can help!" Sabrina pleaded, her eyes wide with desperation. William's gaze softened momentarily. He crouched down so he was at her level, his expression tender yet urgent.

"Listen to me, there's something I never told you." Sabrina looked at her father, confused, as he continued. "You know how I always say your mother was of the sea?" She nodded slightly. "Well, that's not all. She wasn't just of the sea. She came from the sea. She was a sea witch, able to command the water and all its creatures. When you were born, she told me this necklace would teach you her ways." He placed the necklace around her neck, the shell cool against her skin. "With this, you'll learn the ways of the sea. But you have to learn as you grow."