*Disclaimer: Takeru, Hikari, Daisuke, and Taichi don't belong to me. And just to be safe, Digimon doesn't belong to me. If it did, there would have been a different ending written. The story Nicholas Pipe doesn't belong to me either. T_T So don't sue! .

By the Seashore

By: RaspberryGirl

"Father, you're back!" Hikari cried as she caught sight of Mr. Yagami's cart rambling towards the cottage. Laughing, she ran out to greet him.

"Hikari." Mr. Yagami got out of the driver's seat just in time to let Hikari embrace him. "Glad to see your old father, aren't you?" he chuckled. "I was only gone three days."

"It seemed like forever," Hikari said.

Mr. Yagami smiled.

Mrs. Yagami appeared in the doorway. "You've returned, husband." She went over and gave him a peck on the cheek. "How did you do?"

"Very well." Mr. Yagami patted the leather money pouch that hung from his belt. It made a jingling sound, like bells.

A loud quacking sound came from the cart just then. With a cry of delight, Hikari ran to see what it was. "A duck!" she cried excitedly. "You've brought back a duck, Father! Is it going to be a pet?"

"No, my dear," Mr. Yagami said. He tapped his belly. "It's going to be a meal."

"We're going to eat it?" said Hikari, horrified. "Then why didn't you just buy a dead one?"

"If I did, it would have spoiled on my journey back. It is a day's travel to the capital you know, even on horseback."

Hikari sighed. "It'll be hard eating it, now that I've seen it alive. It's adorable!"

Mr. Yagami smiled warmly at his daughter, then turned to his wife. "Taichi's out fishing, isn't he?"

"Yes, with Mr. Motomiya," Mrs. Yagami replied.

"With Mr. Motomiya? For God's sake, wife, he's eighteen! He doesn't need to be watched like a newborn babe!"

"It's not that," Mrs. Yagami began hesitantly. "Our boatit was damaged."

"Then why didn't he take the spare?"

"The spare one's gone."

"Gone?" He looked suspiciously at Mrs. Yagami. "What do you mean 'gone'? What happened when I was away?"

Mrs. Yagami opened her mouth to speak, then hesitated.

Mr. Yagami looked at Hikari expectantly. "Well?"

Hikari refused to meet his eyes. She didn't want to be the one to tell the story.

"Hikari, you go on and take the horse back to the Motomiyas'," Mrs. Yagami said quickly. "I'll explain to your father."

"All right," Hikari mumbled, but she was thankful. Without looking at her parents, she went over to the horse and unhitched it from the cart. She patted it on the side of the cheek, murmuring comforting words into its ear. She took up the reins and led the horse towards the Motomiyas'.

When Hikari arrived, she knocked on the door to announce her presence, but didn't enter the cottage. "Mrs. Motomiya!" she called. "It's me, Hikari! I've brought the horse Father borrowed back to you! I'll go on ahead and take it to the stables!"

Without waiting for an answer, Hikari led the horse around the cottage. Not many people in Kent owned horses and Mr. Motomiya was one of the few that did. Whenever Mr. Yagami had business out of town, he just borrowed a horse from Mr. Motomiya.

Gently, Hikari led the steed into its stable. "Good girl," she murmured. Hikari stepped back, admiring it. The horse was a lean, elegant bay mare with a beige colored mane and tail. "I wish we had a horse. You're a beauty."

The horse in the next stable snorted. It was a black stallion with a mane and tail the color of a storm cloud. It was the Motomiyas' only other horse.

"You're beautiful too," Hikari laughed. She spotted a pail of carrots propped up against the mare's stable. The girl took a few and began feeding the mount.

"Hikari?"

Hikari ignored the voice and concentrated harder on her task.

"Hikari." The voice called louder.

"Daisuke." With a sigh, Hikari turned around, not wanting to be rude.

Daisuke jogged up to her, frowning. "You don't seem happy to see me."

Hikari shrugged. "What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be out at sea with your father?"

"Mother's sick so I stayed home to take care of her," Daisuke answered. "I think it's the same illness that you had. Anyway, Hikari, are you still mad at me forfor what happened last night?"

Hikari shrugged again and was about to turn back to the mare when Daisuke stopped her by taking her by the shoulders and peering insistently into her eyes. "Hikari, listen to me. What I wanted to say is that I'm sorry."

"Sorry for what?" Hikari snapped. "You shouldn't be apologizing to me. After all, it wasn't me that you punched in the nose."

"Fine, then, I'm sorry for what I did that toTakeru." Daisuke said the name with some difficulty.

Hikari looked surprised. Daisuke had seemed so sincere. "Well, that's a first from you, Daisuke Motomiya."

"Well, I thought that if I became nicer, more considerate" He flashed a smile.

Hikari flushed. He was doing this for her? "We'll see if it lasts." She returned his smile. Maybe he wasn't so immature after all. "I've got to get back to my home now," Hikari said. "Tell your mother that I hope she gets well."

"I will," Daisuke said enthusiastically.

Hikari walked away, but then turned around, feeling she owed Daisuke something. "See you." She waved.

"See you," Daisuke repeated, his smile growing larger. His eyes trailed after Hikari's retreating back. Silently, he gloated to himself. She had fallen for his trick so easily! Why hadn't he thought of it before? He was one step closer to winning Hikari's heart, he was sure. And soon, Takeru would be out of the way and Hikari would be his completely.

Hikari walked home, thinking about what Daisuke had said. Could it actually be true? As far as she was concerned, Daisuke had always acted like a spoiled child. Could he possibly grow up? She smiled at the thought. That would be nice

"Ah!" Hikari hadn't been noticing where she was going, and had walked rightinto someone. "I'm sorry." She looked up and gave a startled cry. "Takeru!"

The boy looked just as surprised, but then he smiled. "Hikari."

For a moment, the girl was speechless, but then stammered the first thing that came to mind, "How's your nose?"

He raised a hand and touched it slightly. "Fine. Thank you."

Hikari shook her head. "You don't have to thank me. I guess it was partly my fault that Daisuke attacked you." Suddenly, her promise to Taichi and her father surfaced in her mind. Now, she had broken it twice. "S-sorrybut Ihave some errands I need to run, so I really can't talk," she lied. "Hope you don't mind."

"Not at all."

Quickly, Hikari turned around and began walking away, as fast as possible. When the girl reached her cottage, she entered almost hesitantly. "I'm back."

A hammering sound from the yard answered her. Hikari walked through the house until she reached the very back of the cottage and stood in the doorway to the yard. Her father was kneeled down, fixing the boat and making a new spare one. Planks of wood, and some metal tools lay scattered on the ground. "Your mother's out." Mr. Yagami said, not looking up from his task.

"Oh," Hikari said. "Well, in that case, I guess I'll go make dinner." She started to turn back into the cottage, but Mr. Yagami interrupted her.

"Hikari, you shouldn't have done that."

"Done what?"

"Gone after Taichi when you were sick."

"Oh," Hikari said again. She flushed.

"I know you thought it would be very brave and heroic, but both of you could have been killed. Think how worried your mother was! It was bad enough that Taichi was out there, but then having you go after him when you were not well? And at a time when a storm might be approaching?" Mr. Yagami shook his head in disappointment.

"I'm sorry," Hikari whispered.

Mr. Yagami sighed. "I guess it's not all your fault. Some of it was Taichi's as well. I'm going to have a talk with him when he gets back."

Hikari nodded.

"Now you go on and do whatever you're supposed to do."

Hikari nodded again, then retreated inside the house.

* * *

The girl had a nice fish and parsley soup boiling in the pot when Mrs. Yagami returned.

"Hmmsmells good," Mrs. Yagami said pleasantly. "Here, let me help you." She took off her shawl, grabbed an apron and entered the kitchen.

"Where were you?" Hikari asked.

"Oh, I was just over at Anna Leonard's," Mrs. Yagami replied. "I think she said she wanted your help tomorrow."

"Can I go?"

"Of course," said Mrs. Yagami. "And you might not be interested in this, but I ran into Bethany just now when I stopped at the Motomiyas' cottage."

"Mrs. Motomiya's sick," Hikari informed her mother.

"I know." Mrs. Yagami looked worried. "It was the same cold you had. Of course, it's not as bad as yours since she had the sense not to run around in the rain when she's ill." She shot her daughter a disapproving look. "Anyway, Bethany was there helping Daisuke take care of Mrs. Motomiya, I think."

"Helping" is one way to put it, Hikari thought.

"Bethany told me that she might stay at the Motomiyas' for a while until her father gets back. He left very suddenly today."

"Oh?" Hikari was surprised because Luorke—being rather lazy and disliking travel—hardly ever left the town.

"Yes," Mrs. Yagami said. "I thought it was strange, too. It seems he departed early this morning and didn't tell Bethany where he was going or when he'll be back. Sometimes, I feel sorry for that poor girl."

"What if he's left for good?" Hikari wondered.

"Without taking his daughter?" Mrs. Yagami said, aghast. "I don't think even Luorke would do that!" She bit her lip. "But suppose he hasWhat is this world coming to?" She shook her head. "Enough. We'll worry about other people's affairs later. Right now, you get the soup into bowls and I'll make some garlic bread. Your brother should be back any minute now."

__________

Dawn had arrived, but it was still a little gray outside. Two days had passed since Luorke's abrupt leave from town, and the Yagami family were having a quiet breakfast when someone suddenly pounded eagerly on their door.

"Now who could that be?" Mrs. Yagami mused, getting up.

As soon as Mrs. Yagami opened the door, the person on the other side began talking rapidly to her. The words were too fast and slurred together by excitement for Hikari to hear clearly, but she knew something had happened.

"What was that all about?" Taichi asked as his mother returned to the table.

"Some soldiers of the King arrived just now," Mrs. Yagami said. She looked like she was in shock. "The best, in fact."

"Here in Kent?" Mr. Yagami asked. "Are you sure?"

"Yes," Mrs. Yagami said. "They're here on some kind of business, on behalf of the King. The fishermen are supposed to stay in the town today, to greet them. And to pay respect."

Mr. Yagami frowned. "And I was going to test the new spare boat today." He sighed. "But I guess it'll have to wait."

"Well, I could use some rest," Taichi said. His eyes sparkled with interest. "Where are they staying, Mother?"

"I don't know."

"They're probably staying at one of the inns," Hikari said. "Or maybe at one of the elders'. But, if you ask me, they probably dropped by the Golden Trout Tavern," Hikari said. "It is the best tavern in town and the townsfolk are sure to recommend it to them."

"Now, Taichi," Mr. Yagami said sternly. "I don't want you barging in there and making a fool of yourself."

"I won't," Taichi said innocently. "Besides, shouldn't you be worrying about Hikari? I mean, these are the King's best soldiers. Tall, dashing, handsomemaybe Hikari will even fall in—"

"Taichi." Mrs. Yagami frowned.

Hikari blushed and glared at her brother. "There will be no such thing!"

Mr. Yagami laughed, loud and hearty. "No, I think you've got it wrong, Taichi. It's more likely that one of them will fall in love with our Hikari."

Hikari flushed even redder and shot a dark look at her brother who refused to meet her eyes.

"Well, Hikari's going over to Mrs. Leonard's today to help," Mrs. Yagami said. "So she won't be meeting the soldiers any time soon." She turned to Hikari. "You're still going, aren't you?"

"Y-yes." Hikari stood up, scraping her chair on the floor. "Which reminds me that I ought to be leaving right now."

"Too bad," Taichi said. "You're going to be missing the fun."

Hikari ignored his remark. She took off her apron, and left the house.

When she passed the Golden Trout Tavern, she saw some of their serving boys running to and from the building hastily. Raucous laughter drifted outside. So the King's best soldiers were actually here. This was the first time anything like it had ever happened before and that was why the town was so excited. It was a kind of honor to them.

What do they want? Hikari wondered. Mother said that they were here on business. But I wonder what kind? She shook her head. This wasn't for her to ponder over. The sky was fully light now, and she had to get to Mrs. Leonard's.

* * *

"Hikari!" Mrs. Leonard cried when she opened her door. "I'm so glad you're here! Today's going to be a busy day. Come in."

Hikari entered and looked at Mrs. Leonard quizzically.

Mrs. Leonard answered Hikari's silent question. "You know the soldiers that just arrived?"

"Yes." Mrs. Leonard's back was turned to Hikari. She seemed to be looking for something on a shelf.

"Well, they're over at the Golden Trout right now and oh! Where is that last bottle?"

"May I help?" Hikari asked.

"No, no it's all right," Mrs. Leonard said quickly. "Anyway, the Golden Trout carries some of my apple cider and those soldiers have taken a liking to it. They want more, but the tavern ran out. One of the serving boys came over just now requesting more along with some fresh fruits. That's why I'm in such a hurry."

"What can I do to help?" Hikari asked.

"Well, I don't think the four bottles of cider I have is enough, but I'm sure I have a barrels full of it in the cellar. Hikari, will you take this basket to the tavern for me?" Mrs. Leonard gestured to the table. A large basket rested on top, filled with apples, oranges, and four bottles of cider. "They also want pears, grapes, and peaches, I'm in such a rush! And the cider too!" Mrs. Leonard brushed some strands of hair from her face. "Why did men have to be blessed with such appetites?"

Hikari smiled at the flustered woman. "I'll take the basket to them, Mrs. Leonard."

"Thank you, Hikari!" Mrs. Leonard said distractedly. She headed towards the cellar, feeling into her apron and dress pockets. "The key, the keyWhere did I put the key?"

Shaking her head and smiling, Hikari took the basket and headed out the door. "I'm leaving," she called.

"The keywhere is the key?" Mrs. Leonard was still muttering.

Hikari stifled a laugh. These soldiers were causing quite a stir. She shifted her weight and managed to push the door open. The basket was surprisingly heavy, since it was laden with so much stuff.

Walking as quickly as possible, Hikari made her way to the Golden Trout Tavern.

When she arrived, she had trouble with the door again, but one of the serving girls helped her.

"Thank you," Hikari mumbled. Her hands already felt numb. Quickly, she scanned the room for the tavern-keeper. There were about twenty soldiers in the room, all dressed in chain mail and leather. They were scattered about, sitting at the tables, in chairs, or on the benches. Most had a jug of apple cider or ale in their hands. Hikari spotted the tavern-keeper's daughter, flirting with a few of the soldiers, which wasn't surprising. Not too far away was the tavern-keeper himself, talking to another soldier wearing a dark red cloak.

Hikari hurried to them. "I have theand fruitsfrom Mrs. Leonard," she gasped.

"Thank goodness," the tavern-keeper muttered. "And thank you." He reached into his pocket and paid Hikari a purse full of coins.

"The cider of this 'Mrs. Leonard' is marvelous," the soldier with the cloak said. He seemed to be in his late twenties, and had brown hair and brown eyes. He was very handsome. "Give her our compliments."

Hikari nodded and left with the money.

When she returned to Mrs. Leonard, Hikari was at once given the task of filling bottles with cider. When enough bottles were filled, she was sent back to the Golden Trout once more.

"Well, if it isn't the little delivery girl again," the cloaked soldier said as soon as Hikari stepped into the tavern.

Hikari ignored the comment and gave the bottles of cider to the tavern-keeper. She turned to go with her empty basket when the soldier spoke, "Don't be so hasty to leave. I want to talk to you."

Hikari froze. She considered walking out and pretending that she didn't hear him, but then decided not to. Dutifully, she turned around and went over to the table where the cloaked soldier sat. He was the only one there. "Please, sit," he said pleasantly, gesturing to a seat across from him.

Hikari sat.

The soldier grinned and introduced himself. "My name is Brennan. I'm the captain of the guard at the King's castle and in charge of this small unit of the King's soldiers."

Hikari was somewhat impressed. So the King did indeed send his best men to Kent. But why?

"Please to meet yousir," Hikari said politely.

"And your name?"

"Hikari. Hikari Yagami."

"Hikari, I have something to ask you. This is nothing personal, but a question I've asked all the townspeople I've met so far. It concerns the quest my men and I are on for the King."

Hikari looked at him with interest. "And your question is?"

Brennan's eyes looked distant. "There have been rumorsabout a race of people called the 'Mer Folk'" He looked at Hikari. "Do you recognize the name?"

The Mer Folk? Hikari felt a sense of dread in her stomach. How could she not recognize that name?

"Well?" Brennan locked his eyes on hers.

Hikari swallowed hard. "Yes, sir," she whispered.

Brennan smiled encouragingly. "So I've been told by others, which doesn't surprise me since this is a fishing town and the Mer Folk are people of the sea. But listen closely, I have another question." He added, "And you don't have to call me 'sir'."

Hikari nodded.

"I have been 'informed' that one of these 'Mer Folk' was sighted on the shore near this town seven years ago. Is that true?"

Hikari's thoughts instantly flew to Takeru. She tried to look away from the captain, but couldn't. He had an uncanny air about him that made it hard to lie. "Yes," she managed.

"And I've also been told that the samemerman, shall we saywas sighted again three years ago? Is that correct?"

Hikari could only nod her head. She was sure he was talking about Takeru.

"And that around the same time, he began living among the people of this town?"

Where was Brennan getting all this information? Once again, Hikari managed a nod.

"Do you know how?"

Hikari had some idea, from what Takeru had told her, but she forced herself to shake her head.

Brennan looked momentarily disappointed. "Ah well, no matter. He's probably able to live on land because of some sort of enchantment, I'm sure."

Which was exactly right.

"But, Hikari, answer me this," Brennan continued, "have you seen this merman? If he is a merman, like I am told?" Brennan's eyes sparkled.

"Yes, he is a merman and yes, I've seen him around the town," Hikari answered before she could stop herself.

"Interesting." Brennan rested his chin in his hand thoughtfully. "Enough people have told me this that I'll believe it is the truth." He murmured to himself, "So he does existthat sulking coward wasn't lying. The King will be pleased." An amused smile spread across his face, "Unless, of course, the whole town is in on this scheme togetherbut no, the tales of the merman must be true. They wouldn't continue a hoax like this, not under the threat of the punishment."

Hikari listened intently to Brennan, not sure if his words were meant for himself or for her. But from what Brennan had muttered, Hikari guessed that someone from Kent had told the King about Takeru. Hikari felt an uncontrolled anger rise within her.

"Who told you about the merman?" she demanded, even though she knew she was of no rank to yell at someone of Brennan's status. "Who?"

Brennan looked at her for a moment, surprised. "You are a brave lass, I must say," he said admiringly. "Very well, I will tell you. It makes no difference to me. You might know the man, his name's Luorke."

"Luorke?" Hikari gasped. He was the one who betrayed Takeru? But then, he had always wanted ill for the merboy anyway. Hikari clenched her fist until the knuckles turned white.

"Are you all right?" Brennan noticed her expression and laughed. "I see you do not show fondness towards this Luorke. Well, neither do I. I only tolerate him because of this quest. Anyhow, you are free to go. Thank you for answering my questions."

Numbly, Hikari got up and hurried out the door, the choked air of the tavern making her queasy. Her thoughts were troubled and on the verge of panic. She had to warn Takeru, no matter what. He had to know of this danger. But where would she find him?

The answer came to her and she set off.

When she came to the rickety old cottage, she knocked on the door. "Mrs. McFlintock?"

"Who is it?"

"Hikari, Mrs. McFlintock."

"Ah, Hikari. Come in, come in."

Hikari entered. The cottage was completely dark. Mrs. McFlintock sat in a chair in her heavy dress, a shawl around her shoulders and a cane in her hand. "What do you want?" she asked.

Hikari had only seen Mrs. McFlintock once or twice this year. Both times had been on occasions when Mrs. McFlintock's old servant girl was away on some family business and there had been no one to take care of the old lady. Mrs. Yagami had taken pity on the old woman and had sent Hikari to deliver some food now and again.

"I was wondering if Takeru was around," Hikari said.

"Takeru? I haven't seem him since yesterday," Mrs. McFlintock muttered.

"All right, thank you," Hikari said politely. "I'll be going now." Hurriedly, she left the cottage and her mind went through new places for her to look. Hikari checked Takeru's shed, just in case Mrs. McFlintock had been mistaken and he was there.

He wasn't.

In desperation, Hikari almost went to the shore, but then stopped. She'd already been gone a long time and Mrs. Leonard needed her. Takeru would have to wait.

* * *

"Hikari, what took you so long?" Mrs. Leonard asked when the girl returned.

"The soldiers' captain stopped me for questioning," Hikari gasped. She had run all the way back.

"Questioning?" Mrs. Leonard sounded confused. "About what?"

"Aboutthe Mer Folk."

"The Mer Folk?" Mrs. Leonard paled a bit. "Whatever do they want with the likes of the Mer Folk?"

"I don't know," Hikari replied. But whatever it was, she had to warn Takeru.

But she never got the chance.

All morning and all afternoon, Hikari helped Mrs. Leonard. First, she picked vegetables and fruits from the garden, then she baked pies and tarts, and of course, she gathered apples to make cider.

It was nearly sunset when Hikari set out for home.

"You know, with all the hard work you did, I think I should pay you, Hikari," Mrs. Leonard laughed.

"No, no," Hikari said. "I'm the one who offered my help. You don't have to, Mrs. Leonard. You don't have to do anything."

"But I should." Without another word, the woman retreated into her house and came back a few moments later with a cloth sack. "Fresh cabbages. Enjoy."

Hikari took the bag hesitantly. "Thank you."

"No need. Good-bye."

"Good-bye."

When Hikari returned to her cottage, Mrs. Yagami began issuing tasks to her daughter at once. The first thing Hikari had to do was pluck the duck, which Mrs.Yagami had already slain.

Hikari sat down on a small stool in the yard, a metal pan at her feet. She grimaced at the carcass in her hands, glad that the faint light of the setting sun didn't let her see much. This duck had only been alive this morning and nowHikari concentrated on her task. The feathers kept on floating up into the air, sticking to her hands and clothing instead of staying in the pan.

When she was finally done, Hikari took the duck carcass inside and gave it to her mother. She set the tin pan on a counter, putting a wooden lid over it.

"Are those the feathers?" Mrs. Yagami asked as she began cleaning the insides of the duck.

"Yes," Hikari answered.

"Good," Mrs. Yagami said. "Once I have time to sew a pillowcase, we'll have a nice, new, fluffy pillow."

"Where's Taichi and Father?" Hikari asked.

"Gone to the Golden Trout," Mrs. Yagami snorted. "With the rest of the town."

"Oh." Hikari's heart pounded. Were Brennan and his men going to question everybody about the Mer Folk and Takeru? If they did, things weren't going to look good for the merboy at all.

Around dinnertime, Mr. Yagami and Taichi came back. Taichi looked flushed and excited and Mr. Yagami smiled heartily.

"Well? How was it?" Mrs. Yagami asked.

"It was wonderful, Mother!" Taichi exclaimed. "All the stories about battles, chivalry, questsI wish I could—" He stopped short.

"Well, it's time to eat and I want to hear no more of it until supper's done, is that clear?" Mrs. Yagami said. "We're having lemon pepper duck and cabbage."

"Sounds like a wonderful meal, wife," Mr. Yagami said. "Absolutely wonderful." With a quick prayer, the Yagami family began their dinner.

After the meal, Hikari was washing the dishes when someone knocked on the door. Wiping her wet hands on her apron, she went to get it and gave a cry of surprise when she realized who it was. "Brennan!"

"Hikari!" he seemed just as surprised.

"That's her, that's her! The Mer Folk tamer!" a voice beside the captain cried.

"Luorke!" Hikari took a step back in disgust. The red-haired man seemed to be jumping up and down with excitement. "What do you want?"

"Hikari, who is it?" Mrs. Yagami peered out behind Hikari. "Oh, Luorke." Her tone didn't show pleasure, but her eyes lit up as they fell on the handsome captain. "And who may you be?"

"The captain of the King's guard," Brennan said. "I'm in charge of the soldiers here."

"Oh, we're honored." Mrs. Yagami seemed a little flustered. "How may we help you?"

Brennan glanced at Luorke, then at Hikari. "May we borrow your daughter for just a moment?"

"Hikari?" Mrs. Yagami looked confused. "I suppose"

"Don't worry, nothing's going to happen to her. I swear by my honor as a guard for the King," Brennan said sincerely. "We just want to ask her a few questions."

Again? thought Hikari.

"All right." Mrs. Yagami went back into the house, leaving the door slightly ajar.

Like a wolf pouncing on his unsuspecting prey, Luorke went over and shut the door immediately. He grabbed Hikari's arm. "This way, witch."

Hikari yanked her arm free. "I'm not a witch."

Luorke snorted. "That's what you say."

"Luorke, we didn't come here to harass the girl," Brennan said sternly. "And we can talk right here, just fine."

Luorke muttered something inaudible. "Suit yourself, Brennan, but like I was saying, this girl is the key to our quest. She can tame the merboy and—"

"I still don't believe she's the one," Brennan said, crossing his arms. "How is she able to do what you claim while others cannot? I want proof."

"How?" Luorke cried. "You expect me to know? She's a witch, I tell you! She probably used some spell andI don't know how. I am not one who meddles in those sorts of things."

Brennan raised an eyebrow as if to say he didn't believe it.

"If you want your proof, Brennan, just go over and ask the Motomiya boy, or better yet, ask the girl's own brother!" Luorke's eyes twinkled with a nasty light. "I'm sure they'd know."

Hikari gasped. How did Luorke know that Daisuke and Taichi were the ones who first saw her talking to Takeru? But, then again, rumors could spread

"All right. Fine," Brennan said, his arms still crossed. "Even though I think just any girl would work, and the only reason you're picking her is because you dislike her, suppose we do use Hikari, what next?"

"Well, we get her to lure the merman into the woods that lead to the cliff. You see, the girl knows him somehow, and he trusts her, so his guard will be down. Also, if we do it in the woods, it'll be easier to hide your men and none of the townspeople will notice what has been done. Not that they would care." Luorke smirked.

Hikari had been listening and was now very, very angry. "You two want to use me as bait to lure Takeru into a trap? Well, I'm not doing it!" She whirled around, but Brennan grabbed her wrist.

Luorke gave a crow of delight. "You see, you see! The girl even knows his name! Is that proof enough for you, captain?"

"No," said Brennan.

The look of glee fell from Luorke's face and the red-haired man resumed his usual scowl. "Well, we have to use her and according to the King, you have to do what I say."

"For the time being," Brennan said through clenched teeth. He looked extremely displeased.

"And I say we have to use this girl. If we don't, we're never going to get our hands on the merboy."

"Luorke, you had better be serious," Brennan said, glowering. "Because if I find out that this is just some petty revenge of yours, I'll see to it personally that you're thrown into the King's dungeon for life." The threat rang clear in Brennan's voice. "The King is not one to be toyed with. And I have yet to see this 'merboy' for myself."

"You will see him," Luorke insisted confidently. "Tomorrow, when we send this girl to call for him."

"Wait, I never agreed to any of this!" Hikari interrupted.

Luorke growled at her. "You will agree. If you don't, the penalty is death."

"I don't believe you!" Hikari cried.

"No, Luorke's right," Brennan said apologetically, almost shamefully. "The King has commanded that Luorke and I work as equals. We must find and capture the merman at all costs. If there was someone who could help us, yet they refused"

"They will be tried for treason against the King and hanged," Luorke gloated. "One word from me, and you and your family are dead."

Brennan started to object, but then held his tongue.

"You" Hikari felt her anger boil within her like scalding water, "traitor! You went to the King and told him about Takeru! Why?"

"I'm just a man trying to make a way of life in this harsh world," Luorke said innocently. "And if it weren't for Daisuke and this clever little plan of his" He chuckled.

"What did you say?" Hikari couldn't believe what she was hearing. Daisuke?

"Enough," Brennan interrupted. "Stop goading the girl." He turned to Hikari. "You have until dawn to make your decision. If you decide to work with us, meet us at the White Seagull Inn tomorrow morning after the fishermen have left." He looked at Hikari's pained face. "I'm sorry."

"And you had better agree," Luorke warned. "Or else—"

Brennan grabbed the older man's arm angrily and trudged off.

In shock, Hikari slowly went into her house. What could she do? How could she betray Takeru? But thenhow could she not? Her family's and her own life were at stake. Did she really have a choice?

"Hikari?" Mrs. Yagami asked. "What's wrong, sweet?"

"What did they ask you?" Taichi inquired curiously.

Hikari bowed her head, unable to face them. Slowly, she began to retell what Brennan and Luorke had asked her to do. And the consequences if she did not.

"What should I do?" Hikari whispered when she finished.

Mrs. Yagami took her daughter by the shoulders, forcing the girl to look at her. "Do as they say." The older woman's eyes had become round and fearful.

"But—"

"Do as they say, Hikari," Mr. Yagami commanded, repeating his wife's words. "It's not a lot. Do it and we'll pretend it never happened. Do you understand?"

"Yes." Hikari could hardly hold back the tears.

"I knew that thing was bad luck," Taichi muttered.

Hikari had had enough. "It wasn't his fault!" she yelled, and burying her face in her hands, she ran to her room.

__________

Hikari awoke to a sunny day, contrary to her feelings. Sunlight poured through her window, warming her face, but she wished she could push it all away. Her eyes felt tired and puffy from crying all night, and her cheeks stung from the salt of her tears.

Slowly, she got out of bed. Someone had put out a pan of water and a towel on the table at her bedside. Sluggishly, she soaked the towel in the water, which was still fairly warm, and wiped at her eyes and face.

Feeling as if a year's worth of grime had been wiped off, she left her chamber and entered the main room of the cottage.

"Don't forget breakfast, dear." Mrs. Yagami's voice trembled slightly.

"Where is Father and Taichi?"

"Gone. The fishermen have resumed their work today."

Hikari went into the kitchen and took one of the freshly baked muffins. "I'll eat it on the way."

"Be careful," Mrs. Yagami said.

"I will," Hikari answered.

On her way to the White Seagull Inn, Hikari took small nibbles of the muffin, but found that it was practically tasteless in her mouth. She was not hungry; nervousness overpowered her usual appetite. She found herself absent-mindedly breaking off crumbs of the muffin and leaving a trail of food. A dog had begun to follow her and she fed the remains of the muffin to him.

Soon after that, she arrived at the inn.

Hikari did not see Brennan or Luorke standing outside. She stared up at the wooden board hanging above her head, cut and painted in the likeness of a white seagull. Then she went in.

A hand instantly grabbed her arm when she entered. It was Luorke. "Glad that you're finally seeing things our way," he said. "Maybe you do have some sense after all."

Hikari recoiled from him, tensing at his touch. "I'm only doing this because the alternative is death," she hissed. Violently, she wrenched her hand from him.

"Smart girl," Luorke purred. "You really would have been a fool if you had thrown away your life, not to mention your family's as well, for that merboy."

Hikari was about to snap at him, when Brennan laid a hand on her shoulder. "Let us go," he said quietly. He began explaining things to her in a hushed tone as they made their way to the shore. "What you have to do is lure the merman out of the sea and into wood where my men are waiting. Talk to him, keep him occupied, make sure you do everything to keep his guard down. Let him suspect nothing."

"Or it'll be the worse for you," Luorke jeered.

"And about the location," Brennan added. "Just go straight into the heart of the wood and find the tree with the white ribbon. It'll be in the center of a grove."

Hikari nodded. "When did you do all of this?" After all, Brennan and his men had only been in Kent one day.

"Last night," Brennan said. "We can't afford to waste time."

Suddenly, Brennan and Luorke stopped walking. The trio had reached the end of the woods. "Go," Luorke commanded. "And don't even think about betraying us."

Hikari ignored him and strode out of the woods quickly, glad to get away from him and Brennan. At the stone stairway, she slowed down, her heart dreading what she had to do. When she reached the shore, she almost considered turning back, but then Luorke's threat rang clear in her mind. For a few moments, she stared out into the sea, and at the seagulls that glided freely in the air. Finally, she cupped her hands to her mouth and called Takeru's name.

Please don't comeshe thought. PleaseTakeru, stay awayjust this once

Suddenly, a flash of gold appeared on the water's surface. Takeru had come. The merboy caught sight of Hikari and dove back into the water, swimming swiftly towards her.

Hikari's heart sank. She had tried to call his name as softly as she dared, but he had still showed up. Takeru was now pulling himself onto the sand. He stood up after his fish tail had changed and walked towards the girl.

Hikari's heart ached to see the happiness on his face, knowing that because of her, he might never see the sea again. She stared at her feet when he reached her. "Ineed to talk to you, Takeru," she said very softly.

There was a moment of silence. "You sound sad. What's wrong?"

Hikari could have kicked herself. Hadn't Brennan told her to let Takeru suspect nothing? "No, no, nothing's wrong," she amended hurriedly. "It'sgood news, actually."

"Good news? What good news?"

"I don't want to talk about it here." Hikari pretended to look around. "Remember three years ago with Daisuke and Taichi?"

"But they're out fishing today, aren't they?"

"Yes, but other people might be spying on me. Let's talk in the woods, all right?" She forced herself to look up—not at his eyes, but at his nose—and smile.

"Does it have anything to do with you being able to talk to me all of a sudden?" Takeru raised an eyebrow at her.

Hikari could have kicked herself twice. She hadn't really thought about what the "good news" was going to be, but now, it seemed that he had provided her with the perfect answer. "Yes, yes," Hikari said. "It does have to do with that."

"Really?" There was hope in his voice.

"Yes," Hikari said. "Come into the woods with me, and I'll tell you everything. Iwant us to be alone." Impatiently, she began walking at a quick pace towards the stone steps. She didn't want to drag this out any longer than it had to be. The faster she got it over with, the better. At the base of the steps, she paused before continuing on; satisfied that she could hear Takeru's footsteps behind her.

When she reached the trees, Hikari walked straight into it and sure enough, near the heart of the wood, there was a grove. "Over here." Hikari motioned to Takeru to tell him to keep following.

After another few strides, Hikari stepped into the grove. She had seen no trace of Brennan's men and the only sounds she'd heard were from the woodland creatures. There was a large oak in the center of the grove and on its lowest branch trailed a white ribbon. Trees of many different kinds surrounded this place; it was perfect for hiding.

"This will do," Hikari said, trying to sound careless. She had her back turned to Takeru; she didn't dare look at him. But when there was still no sign of Brennan, his soldiers, or Luorke, Hikari turned around to try and keep Takeru distracted like she'd promised. The girl gave a cry of surprise when she almost banged into Takeru, she hadn't realized he was that close. Instinctively, he steadied her by putting his hands on her shoulders.

"Are you okay?" Takeru asked.

Hikari could only nod. She had made the mistake of looking into his eyes and now she couldn't look away. All thoughts of Brennan, Luorke, and her task vanished as she stared up into his face, which was now so very close to hers.

"Hikari, I" Takeru began.

But that was when the net fell on them.

Author's Note: Bwahahahaha! Another cliffhanger! I love cliffhangers! It keeps the reader interested!