-6- An Old Man's Information

Ikuto stared down at the old man; he couldn't be deceived by his looks, the way he just sat there obediently like a child that didn't even dare to escape made him look pathetic. However, this man, Clover was once known to be the best schemer there ever was. Ikuto lifted the old man's chin with the tip of his sword; with a little more force, the blade would cut into his flesh but Ikuto held it steady, making sure unnecessary blood wasn't drawn. "I'm a greedy person," Ikuto taunted, "I'm also very bad when it comes to keeping rules."

Unfazed by Ikuto's taunting, Clover simply chuckled, ignoring the sharp sensation that brushed against his flesh dangerously as he did. "Who am I to complain? I can't keep rules either. But still it's no fun to just tell you everything."

"What are you suggesting?"

Clover stopped his laughter and he stared Ikuto in the eyes, serious and with so much intent that it confused Ikuto and made him felt as though he was the one at a blades end. Clover gently moved the sword away from him with the tip of his finger. "I'll answer both, tell you all I know. The only catch is, whether what I tell you is the truth." Clover stood up now so he was level with Ikuto, "both the things I tell you may be the truth but in the worst case scenario, everything I tell you may be nothing but lies. Which piece of information is to be relied upon is for you to decide in the end."

Ikuto smiled, putting his sword back, "I like the sound of that. As long as you speak I'll listen. Go on Clover, inspire me."

"Then, I'll start with your father," Clover began, unable to shake the image of Aruto from his mind. The young boy here resembled his father so much that staring at him made Clover think he was looking at Aruto, however, he was much tamer than Aruto ever presented himself. "I'm sure you're much more aware of Aruto's craze 10 years ago, you were with him. However as everyone in the world knew, he mysteriously disappeared after that incident, only leaving one message…" Clover clenched his fists as he recited Aruto's words, "I will return for more revenge."

There was a few minutes silence as the words sunk in deeply. Those mere six words had once caused the entire world to panic and frantically search for Aruto. When after a few years, it didn't seem as though Aruto would show up and no one could find him, those last words of his died away with his presence. Aruto simply became a taboo subject, never spoken off again.

Clover took a breath, "of course up until now, no one knows where he is. So what I'm telling you is merely my own opinion. I knew your father well. My guess is, he is still looking for that person. Where better to find that person than in a place filled with that person's kind."

"You're saying my father will show himself where there are witches present."

"Correct," Clover simply said, "but not just any old place where witches gather. You probably won't know but for every 700 years, there will be what is known as a Magic Duello."

"Magic Duello?" Ikuto repeated, perplexed.

"It's a duel, between witches for the throne and title as the Queen of all witches. I do believe this year hits exactly the 700th year and such an event is to occur. Being Aruto, do you think he would miss this grand event where the person he is seeking would most certainly be there? That is all I've to offer about your father."

"How do you know so much about witches?" Ikuto questioned Clover, eyeing him with suspicion. "Surely, you would want to find my father as well. If you can so confidently predict that he'd appear in a silly witches duel then surely, years ago, you should've already found him?"

"That is beside the point isn't it?" Clover retorted, "by all means, doubt what I tell you. My knowledge of witches simply comes from personal experience. As for between me and your father, let's just say circumstances kept us apart and out of each other's way. Shall we move on?"

"Please do, I was starting to get bored."

"I presume you came to find me regarding the seventh treasure," Clover went on, "what sorts of rumours did you chase after me for?"

"The locket," Ikuto said straightforwardly, "a locket that you took directly from the place holding the seventh treasure, or more dramatically, the locket is an asset of that treasure. Whether it's true or not, there are more benefits for me to confirm it than not to. Plus, it's been awhile since I last saw the faces of those connected to my father. It brings back fond memories."

"It's amazing how the seventh treasure has become such a big hit amongst pirates of this era. It was merely a myth. I don't think I could've ever imagined someone like you chasing after a myth," Clover stated bluntly, his gaze never shifting away from Ikuto's, "it is the truth. I was once at the entrance to the place holding the seventh treasure and that locket was taken by the captain from a statue outside."

"A Statue, you say?"

"The locket hung on the outstretched hand of a crying mermaid that was right outside the iron doors, where the treasure is believed to be kept. There was another statue on the other side, but nothing we could take from it," Clover recalled, closing his eyes to see a quick flash of that enchanted place.

"If you and your crew made it all the way to the entrance, why didn't you enter?" Ikuto questioned directly.

Clover frowned, "we couldn't get in. We attempted only once to open those iron doors but as soon as we touched it, everything…everything including the statues disappeared. We found ourselves on a strip of sand, surrounded by the sea. All that was left is the locket, we and our ship anchored near us."

"Impossible," Ikuto began, "you're telling me that…"

"Is it really impossible?" Clover probed, "remember sometimes powerful magic exists."

There was silence again as Ikuto simply didn't respond to Clover. Was it a waste of time after all, coming to Clover for information? So far, nothing Clover has said had made Ikuto feel like he's gained anything from his time spent in the Tower. The only thing he confirmed was that Clover's locket is a genuine part of the seventh treasure he's been seeking. Even so, what he needed to know was the location of the treasure. Originally Ikuto thought that if he entered the subject through the locket, it would be easier to get Clover to talk about the location, but as their conversation seems to go, it may be pointless getting anything from this tight-lipped old man. Ikuto turned away from Clover, ready to leave, I've wasted enough time here…

"The locket is your compass to finding the treasure," Clover said catching Ikuto's attention, "that locket is a magical item, a memory container. The locket will slowly but eventually fuse with its owner and when it does, it will give the holder memories."

Ikuto stared at Clover, excited now. This was what he came for…

"The owner of the locket will remember the locket's memory. Images and voices will randomly show to the holder. Those memories are most certainly trying to lead the person to where the treasure is. The closer one gets to the treasure, the stronger and more frequent you will experience the locket's memory," Clover explained.

"Then your crew had a second chance at the treasure with the locket…" Ikuto began.

"The captain was the one holding the locket at the time. He never mentioned anything until he was murdered," Clover said biting his lips, "I was the first to find him and he had the locket clenched in his hands. I took it from him secretly. Then I started to experience all those memories."

"Why didn't you go back for the treasure?" Ikuto questioned directly.

Clover had a light smile now, "at that time, what I wanted the most wasn't the treasure. At the start, I experienced the locket's memory but they slowly faded. Eventually the locket just stopped fusing with me." Clover let out a sigh, "it was as if, the locket realised I wasn't the one to find the treasure. I don't know the location."

"Where's the locket now?" Ikuto asked, although he already vaguely knew its whereabouts.

"I gave it to a girl," Clover answered, "a witch and a young pretty pinkette."

Confirmed, Ikuto thought, the witch who was with Yoru before had the locket as he assumed. He clenched his fists, that other witch got in the way and now, Amu, was that her name…she's gone.

"Good Bye Aruto's son," Clover whispered, breaking Ikuto's thoughts.

Ikuto held in a gasp, now desperately looking around him in that small prison cell. It was silent, only Ikuto's own breathing could be heard. That old man, he vanished. "Doesn't matter," Ikuto muttered, finally making his way to catch up with Yoru who was waiting for him.

"Brother," a delighted Yoru cried out as soon as Ikuto entered the tiny attic or storage space. "What took you so long?"

Ikuto ignored Yoru's question and immediately climbed onto the rooftop. He stared down at what seemed like a bottomless landing if they were to jump. A small pair of hands grabbed onto his trousers and he looked down at the little girl.

"Yoru," Ikuto began, "how comfortable are you jumping off this tower?"

Yoru forced on a brave face, "I can jump."

Ikuto smiled at his little brother and picked up the small girl who he named after the witch, "Yoru, cling onto me and don't let go no matter what."

Yoru nodded and clung himself to Ikuto, his hands gripping Ikuto's shirt with all his strength. Ikuto began to move towards the edge of the roof.

"Err…wait," Yoru stammered, glaring downwards where he couldn't even see the ground. He gulped a few times, legs shaking. How could he possibly be ok to jump? Sweat started falling down Yoru's forehead and he felt blood rush to his face, damn, my heart, its beating too fast, it's too excited… Yoru tugged at Ikuto's shirt who took another step forward. "Brother….maybe…just…wait I mean…L-let me PREPAAAAAAAARRRRREEEE…."

Yoru's feet was dangling in nothing, body slanted as though he was laying on a bed and his chest faced forward as he felt the strong pull of gravity beckoning him to his death. He jumped, Yoru screamed in his mind, his eyes almost popping out as his body rushed towards the ground, wind slapping at his face. "AHHHHHHHH," Yoru screamed, unable to feel his hold on Ikuto any more as the green grass in his vision rapidly became clearer and clearer and…..BANG!

"Landed," Ikuto said, his knees slightly bent as he stood back up straight. He smiled at little Amu who smiled back at him. "You're a brave girl, you didn't even scream." Ikuto lightly kicked Yoru who was lying flat on his face on the grass, "Yoru what happened? Did you let go?"

There were several minutes of silence as Yoru slowly lifted his pale face upwards, his eyes lost and mouth gaped wide open.

"Are you ok Yoru?" Ikuto asked.

Slowly, ever so slowly, Yoru felt his heart slow down a little, blood flowing back around his body as he uttered, "y-yeah."

Ikuto smiled, "shall we get going? We've got plenty of things to do."

On wobbly legs, Yoru stood up, like a walking corpse followed after Ikuto as he recovered from the shock. I thought I was going to die, Yoru recalled the frightful experience. He shot the back of Ikuto's head a glare; at times like this I hate that inhuman side of yours, idiot brother.

Ikuto felt a sudden chill run down his back and he turned to look at Yoru who had an unidentifiable expression upon his face besides the awkward smile. He held in his laughter, perhaps he should've prepared Yoru for small jumps like this. Ikuto put down Amu and the three quietly walked away, unnoticed by anyone. The riot and searing shouts, the clanging of swords and metals that now filled the tower slowly faded as they got further and further away. Yoru acting like an older brother held Amu's hands as they made their way into the town.

The sky was a little brighter now; that meant the sun was going to rise very soon, putting an end to a long and chaotic night.

"Yoru," Ikuto called out, "have you got a map of this place?"

Yoru grinned retrieving the piece of paper in his pocket with all his notes on. "I've marked down everything here. What shops are located where, who owns it and other useful information."

Ikuto took the paper from Yoru and patted his head, "well-done." He studied the notes carefully before scrunching up the piece of paper. "Yoru, can I rely on you to run a few errands?"

Proud of having being praised by his own brother, Yoru was more than delighted to accept more tasks. "Is it the usual?"

"Yes," Ikuto simply answered, "Go and grab as much food as you can. Afterwards, meet me by the old stables. There's a wagon we could steal and use to travel with."

"Do we need a wagon? Our destination isn't very far. We can get there in a day and a half's time if we're quick on foot."

"We might as well get some supplies from this town," Ikuto explained, "plus do you really want to make a lady walk all the way without stopping or rest?"

Yoru took a glance at Amu. "She's not a lady yet? I'm no gentlemen either brother. I'm not like you."

"Ah I'm sorry, I'll rephrase it…"

"Fine," Yoru said, "I only wanted to meet up with the others sooner."

"Don't worry about those idiots," Ikuto smiled, "I'll rely on you for the food Yoru."

"Aye Captain," Yoru said already running off.

"And remember to get some fruit and vegetables," Ikuto shouted after Yoru.

Ikuto took hold of Amu's little hands, making their way over to a garment store. With his sword, Ikuto swiftly slashed an opening in the door, taking care not to make too much noise. They entered and already Ikuto was grabbing some clothes to change. After getting comfortable in his new casual attire, he looked around for something Amu could wear. A cream coloured dress with a rose pinned at the shoulders and small golden chains dangling off had caught his eye. He took it from the shelf and walked over to where Amu, who seemed occupied before a mirror was. "Amu," Ikuto whispered. The little girl didn't respond. Did she not hear? Ikuto wondered, then again, we just named her Amu after the witch; Amu isn't her real name. It's normal she wouldn't respond. Ikuto stared at the girl who seemed to be attempting to tie her hair. He clenched his fists, a feeling he knew he shouldn't have suddenly taking over him; a nostalgic yet dangerous feeling. His hands outstretched towards the girl. Further, a little further and I can touch her again, Ikuto thought, NO, SNAP OUT OF IT. He bit his lips, trying to compose himself and slowly he calmed down. What was I thinking? Ikuto breathed, I had an urge to hug her…this girl isn't her… Clearing his emotions, Ikuto approached Amu again. "Hey little princess…I've got you a present…"

Amu turned around beaming at Ikuto before hugging the dress. "Pretty…" Amu said but then she frowned, "too big."

Ikuto smiled, taking the scissors on the counter and began to work on the dress, trimming, shredding and altering it so now it would fit Amu's little body. When she finally put it on, she was so frilled she did a little dance which again triggered Ikuto's inner emotions. If she was still here, would I still pamper her? Ikuto questioned as he was lost in his own gaze of the little girl, I probably would spoil her and then she would grab my hands and say...

"Iku, let me pat your head."

Ikuto dropped whatever he was holding in his hand, eyes wide opened. Those words, what did Amu just say?

The little Amu was holding Ikuto's hand now and desperately jumping up and down, trying to reach and pat his head. She obviously wasn't anywhere near her goal but she kept trying and she began to pout her lips in frustration. "Iku, let me pat your head..." she repeated sounding a little upset now as she was still unable to reach.

"PRINCESS," Ikuto painfully said, collapsing down to hug Amu tightly. "Your here..."

Amu patted his head with a smile, "thank you Iku..."

The same words, the exact same words she would say all the time to him after he had done something nice for her or helped her. It was her alone that would call him Iku, she's back, Ikuto thought, his arms wrapping tighter and tighter around Amu's small body. And all those years, he had assumed the worst.

"H-hurts..." a trembling voice squeaked.

"Sorry," Ikuto said pulling away and then he felt his heart stopped beating for a second. It was as though something had punched him in the face, waking him up from his pleasant dream. Pink hair, Ikuto gasped, pushing Amu away from him. Her hair was brown not pink. Furthermore unnatural or vibrant hair colour meant vile blood. This little girl was probably a daughter of a witch. He even named her after a witch he barely even knew. How could he, even for a second take this girl to be her. Besides after all these years that has passed, she's no longer a little girl either. Something was wrong with him tonight.

Amu trembled on the floor, scared and unsure what to do. She realised she had angered this man before her but she didn't know what she had done wrong.

Ikuto looked at her in a way now that was almost a glare and with a very cold tone, he ordered Amu to simply follow him. He forbade her to speak or hold his hand. If she felt she was falling behind, she could hold onto his clothes. He felt better this way. He should keep a fair distance between them; they shouldn't get personal or become too familiar in anyway. At most, this girl was just here to make Yoru feel better, a good decoy so they appeared vulnerable and harmless whilst they travelled. I'll forget...my past sins, Ikuto swore, I'll bury her away inside me.

The two of them arrived at the old stables in silence after Ikuto had grabbed two barrels of weak ale and some blankets from other nearby stores. Yoru was already sitting on the wagon, the food he stole neatly placed in a corner.

"Brother," Yoru called, "little Amu…and a pretty dress…"

Ikuto left Yoru and Amu to talk to each other whilst he attached the wagon full of supplies to a horse. As soon as the two kids got on, Ikuto whipped the horse and they were off. He took one last look at the distant Tower, recalling his conversation with Clover. Putting his father aside, what he needed the most was the seventh treasure. How on earth was he going to find that witch Amu? "The Magic Duello," Ikuto remembered, "Amu should be there. Old Man Clover, I'll place my bet that you told me the truth on this one. I'll find that witch and get the locket at all cost."

Far to the north of the Tower, across three seas and land, the Queen of Northster was as lifeless as ever. Her gaze simply did not leave the tiny round window in where vines and roses had already grown over a sufficient amount of the glass. From that narrow space though, she still could glance at her subjects who she realised was suffering. With every second that passed, her Kingdom would be shrouded in more darkness, her family would cripple more than it can, yet there was nothing she could do.

"It's time your majesty to enter the courtroom," a familiar voice spoke. "You have many decisions to make today on behalf of the sleeping king."

The queen sighed. "Decisions to be made yet this kingdom will remain unchanged."

"It is your duty. You are the Queen of Northster."

"A queen in name only," the queen suddenly shouted, unable to bottle up her emotions any more. She stood up and ran over to that person, grabbing hold of their clothes. "Have you not used me and my kingdom enough? Release us...I-I..."

"You can't say it can you?" the person taunted, removing the Queen's desperate grip on the clothes. "Midori Hinamori, you can't say you will give up searching for your daughter."

Queen Midori fell to her knees, "it was my fault...it was my fault that man kidnapped her. My daughter, my princess..."

The person stroked Midori's cheeks gently but their touch chilled the Queen. "Don't worry Midori Hinamori. As promised, whilst I can exert influence over this kingdom I will fulfil your two desires. I will bring you the man who stole your daughter 10 years ago. If your daughter lives, I'll reunite mother and child."

Midori kept her gaze on the stone floor. Alive, my daughter must still be alive, Midori convinced herself, bare with it, I have to continue to bare this until I find her.

The person, feeling Midori's hopelessness let out a chilling laugh that echoed through the castle. The Kingdom of Northster would soon be in their control and little did this foolish Queen know, the man who took the young princess 10 years ago was a man that long ceased to exist in the world; the man that is a forgotten taboo.