A/N: This is a story I started working on awhile back but didn't continue because my plot fairy ran out of pixie dust. Through reading ozhawk's wonderful stories, I remembered why I began the story in the first place. :) Hence the story. I've already got 4 chapters written, and am working steadily to continue. My hope is to be able to post a chapter every Tuesday and Friday, life schedule permitting. :)

Chapter 1

Merry sat down as her breath slowed. Her pursuers would be in any minute. She glanced around the coffee shop, scanning in turn the faces of those present. Her breath returned to normal as she started formulating what action to take next. Her hair was styled in a braid, and her jacket was tied around her waist, as she had been walking in the park nearby when she spotted the men who wanted her back. She quickly brought her hair down and brushed through it with her fingers. Her jacket she untied and put on, making sure not to bring too much attention to herself.

She decided to buy a coffee so as to not look out of place. Rising slowly, she walked over to the counter, with her order already in her head.

"Hello, what can I get you this morning? Are you ready to order?" The cheerful barista waited for Merry to order.

"Yes, I am. A white mocha regular, please." Merry started to bounce lightly on her toes, something she did when she was nervous.

"Sure, no problem. That'll be $3.25, miss."

Merry handed over the money she had with her, then accepted the change from the barista, nodding her thanks. Before she could turn away, the door banged open and the very men she was trying to escape boldly walked in, scanning the cafe for Merry. Merry adverted her face, away from the ringleader who walked up to counter, causing the barista to unintentionally take a step back.

The man's green eyes gave no indication of his dubious intentions that were evident in his manner. His voice was rough, as he barked out his question.

"Have you a woman come in named Meredith Wrangler? About yea high, hazel eyes, brown hair in a braid?

"N-n-no", The barista managed to get out.

"Hmph" The man muttered to himself, as one of his men came up to him.

"Sir, she's not here. She must have doubled back somehow."

"Fine. We'll search for her along the route. Gather the men and start scanning everywhere." The man turned towards the door, ignoring the barista and the girl waiting for her coffee. Merry silently gave thanks to the heavens, grabbed her available coffee, and headed towards the back entrance, with a bit of hurry to her step. Right as she walked through, she heard the front door bell ring as someone walked in.

The man searched for the girl he had foolishly looked over the first time he was in. Glancing toward the back of the shop, he caught a glimpse of the jacket heading around the corner. Cursing under his breath, he shot towards the back, bumping into a few patrons along the way.

"Hey! Watch it! A young writer blurted as his chair was bumped toward his table. His voice died off as he caught a look at the man who rushed by. He muttered a few choice words and resumed typing.

Merry raced down the alley, looking for a shop to duck into. She reached the end and momentarily debated which way to turn. She heard a shout behind her and instinctively turned left, her heart racing as fast as her feet pounding the street. I've got to get out of here; how the hell am I supposed to get away from him? Somebody please help me! Her breath became ragged, and she gasped at the knot forming in her stomach. She lost track of how many turns she took, trying to lose the man on her trail. Glancing back at her pursuer, she found an extra burst of speed as she saw him catching up slowly. She turned forward, and-

"Oof!" Her head snapped back as the ground rose to meet her. Her head hit the ground hard, sparking dark spots crossing her vision as she struggled to stay alert. A man seemed to be standing protectively over her, his hands out in blasting position, but nothing seemed to be happening. She gave up on trying to stay awake and resigned herself to whatever this new arrival wanted with her.

A/N: Who do you think the new arrival is? ;) Would love to know what you think about the story, please comment/review! I'd love to hear from you!