Ride the Wild Surf

by Adri Mars

AU:: In a small beachside town of Nijibe, here is a story of a girl named Lucia, a boy named Kaito, and a surfboard... and everything else in between. #16 up--- NEED REVIEWS, THANKS!

12. Surf Sweethearts

RIDE THE WILD SURF
a Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi Pitch Fanfiction

by Adrimarie

Surf Sweethearts

The clock stroke at six o'clock, which was the beginning of the busy peak for the volunteer staff of Pearl Waters. The original employees proceeded their jobs at the night shift while the volunteers ended their day shift. Nicola had not returned to Pearl Waters, which rose a bit of concern for the more veteran employees. Taro proceeded with his role as the associate manager of Pearl Waters so Maki and the aunt, Taki, continued to work at the kitchen for dinner.

Lucia, Rina, and Hippo arrived back at Pearl Waters at about three o'clock in the afternoon. They had a rather interesting lunch picnic at the library's park. The reason why it was interesting because of the young surf instructor Subaru Shibatani having his very lucky day when his library-volunteering girlfriend Misao Koshiki packed a whole lunch meal complete with salad, soup, main course of traditional curry stew and grilled teriyaki fish, thermal-heated cooked brown rice (for health reasons), and a thermal bottle of fresh white tea. Luckily for Kaito, Rina brought a picnic basket with chicken and tri-tip sandwiches enough to feed four people. After their lunch, the group parted to their own ways with Hippo holding on to the box filled with information he retrieved from the archives. Kaito made his way to the S-Cube at a different route on a moped (without a license) thanks to Subaru. Misao was brought home by Subaru before he and Kaito headed back to the S-Cube to continue on with his surf training hours after he waited for his lunch to be completely digested.

Tonight at Pearl Waters, Lucia, Rina, and Hanon were taking their rest at Lucia's bedroom for their usual girl talk with Hanon sitting at the edge of Lucia's bed next to Lucia while Rina sat at Lucia's desk chair facing the other two girls. Hanon missed out so much on the ongoings with her OC-5 female buddies that she looked desperate for the latest news. Tonight would be her lucky day for girl talk as so many things had happened at the library. Lucia told the story to Hanon but left off one small detail. She felt that neither Rina nor Hippo had seen the almost-kiss moment with her and Kaito earlier before those DJs from the morning show Nijibe Youth Talk Corner and a huge mob of Kaito Doumoto fan girls interrupted their moment. She did mention about Kaito choosing her to be his tandem surfing partner, which made Hanon a lot more excited than ever.

"I'm no longer alone with tandem surfing!" Hanon cheered happily and embraced Lucia tightly to her. "We're gonna kick ass at tandem surfing, Lucia! I know so because you've got the champion surf-master Kaito as your partner!"

Lucia blushed, still thinking about her short, brief, yet special moment with the boy she still hoped was the mysterious Kaikane from her childhood past. Sure, she was chosen as his tandem surfing partner from the pressure of the media and his fan club, but what mattered the most to her was the almost kiss moment she had with him. She was sure he was going to kiss her and somehow she did not care why he would. Just the thought of it made her heart beat a lot faster than her normal rate.

"Yeah! I... I'm not very good with gymnastics but I'll seriously do my best. I'm one of the best swimmers in school so I shouldn't have a problem recovering if I ever fall from the surfboard." Lucia answered with a huge happy grin on her face. "I... I never expected he would choose me, though I did intend to volunteer for it. He seemed so confident when he asked me to be his partner; like he has complete trust in me, you know? That's why I'm going to work so hard to perfect those acrobatic lifts and not going to let him down!"

"Aww..." Hanon gave a slight frown. "Don't you know what it means when a particular surfer boy asks a certain girl to be his partner? It's a sign that he's seriously interested in you. He wants to share his wild rides with you, and when you do fall in love with those rides, he'll make sure he'd share more than just his ride with you, you know?"

Rina snickered and became intrigued with Hanon's explanation. "So, you're falling for Nagisa Shiroi too?"

"Hey!" Hanon exclaimed right out at Rina, unaware that her cheeks were beginning to blush. "Nagisa and I are like comrade buddies of the surf, you know? We paired up so we can win, baby!"

"Oh come on, Hanon, why is it that you don't apply your preaching to yourself? If you think Kaito wants to share more than his board and his rides with Lucia, wouldn't that apply the same with you and Nagisa? I think Nagisa Shiroi is a sweet kid and quite mature for his age. In fact I think he's even a lot more mature than you..."

"Oh quit it, Rina!" Hanon stuck her tongue right at Rina and quickly turned to Lucia. "So, what are you gonna do, Lucia?"

"Well, Kaito said he's gonna talk to Rihito and Taro about it so we can set some time to practice while I continue with the OC-5 rehearsals. Oh man, I have never seen him so pumped with tandem surfing earlier today! It's like... his smile just brightened up like the sun right when I accepted. I feel so honored that I get to be the lucky partner, Hanon!" Lucia sighed in bliss and placed her hands on her rapidly beating heart. "He was so sweet when he asked... he wasn't like all forceful and all that and he didn't sound reluctant too. The way he approached it is like... it's like..."

"Like Kaito actually wanted to ask you to be his partner?" Hanon completed Lucia's sentence. "Oh come on, Lucia! That's a major sign there! He wants you, girl, and it's not just to surf together either. He wants you... as in... really bad! What happens if you guys take first place at the tandem surfing contest at the tournament next month? He's gonna want more from you than just the championship trophy, Lucia!"

Lucia fell silent and could not help herself but to blush and sigh in bliss some more. Rina smirked while shaking her head. "Hanon, don't encourage her like that..."

"What the heck, Rina, I'm going to be tandem surfing too! I even saw a few documentary DVDs and short videos from YouTube about tandem surfing before I started practicing with Nagisa. My gosh, I have to look beautiful for the competition. I mean, there could be talent agents over there who may want to check me out so I have to look best!"

"Right," Rina responded with her expression unchanged. "Beauty ain't the only thing that counts, girl. You won't get any beauty points if you flop your acrobatic lifts and get wiped out along with Nagisa. Now that would be embarrassing!"

"Hey! We're working hard here, Rina! Nagisa's like... desperately trying to get in shape and build strength so he'll be strong enough to carry little ol' me... He's so sweet and determined!"

"Hanon, it'd be easier if you do your fitness part too by losing a bit of weight. Then Nagisa won't have a hard time carrying you and break his back..." Rina made his statement while Hanon glared right at the tomboy.

"Says who, Rina? I've got a perfect, standard-sized body here! I've had my last checkup with my doctor not too long ago and he said to just keep maintaining this very beautiful shape I possess!"

"Oh..." Lucia began to worry and lowered her head in shame. "I... I'm gonna have to wear a bikini too... and... I'm not exactly comfortable with bikinis especially when the boys..."

Hanon giggled and nudged Lucia on the side. "You know I can help you with the bikini problem. I'll even pick you the hottest bikini out there too! You also know that Kaito loves looking at the wildest bikinis. Once you reveal yourself with those hottest bikinis, Kaito's seriously going to jump you and get all hot and heavy---"

"No, Hanon... I'm too young to think about all that!" Lucia exclaimed and grabbed her pillow to cover her face. "Besides... he... he wouldn't do such a thing... I know he wouldn't."

Hanon continued to insist. "How can you be sure, Lucia? He's dated several girls for a few years now. You'd never know all the activities he's done with those girls, hm? And another thing, what makes you think that Kaito is inexperienced, hm?"

"... Inexperienced?" Lucia began to quiver, seeing some random images appearing in her mind regarding the deadly attractive surfer boy. "I... um... well... I know he wouldn't... because... because... he's way too busy perfecting his rides and taming the surf! He's first and foremost a top-notch professional surfer. His second priority would be the surf tribe--- meaning his fellow surfers. Not every surfer boy in this town actually compete in major tournaments, you know. Some of them, like Subaru Shibatani, are more interested in promoting and spreading the sport of surfing to those who are interested. Others, like Rihito Amagi, only surf as a recreational sport. Most of them are kooks and posers, using the sport of surfing to get girls."

"Why don't you ask Kaito about that, Lucia? I mean you two are like close now and you guys like... share everything now. I'm sure he wouldn't mind answering if he's experienced or not!" Hanon gave a wink at her nervous friend.

"Hanon, we all know he's experienced with dating and dealing with girls," Rina answered. "Asking for his experience with somewhat other related things is a little too much, you know? Besides, Lucia has no experience with dating, no guy has ever asked her out, and another thing, I'm pretty sure Kaito wouldn't make certain... uh... unexpected moves... on a girl like Lucia. Sure he's a pervert but if what he and Lucia have is true love he would give so much respect to Lucia and take things slow."

"... Unless Lucia wants to experience it early on, hm?" Hanon giggled.

"No! No way!" Lucia exclaimed in opposition. "I'm not that kind of girl... I'm not!"

"Well, speaking of Kaito," Hanon giggled while gently nudging Lucia on the side. "He and the surf tribe are coming over here for dinner tonight, so you have a chance to spend some more time with him to... uh... you know... discuss your competition battle plan in tandem surfing!"

"Hey, I have a better idea!" Lucia exclaimed happily once she remembered Kaito looking very hungry during their lunch picnic earlier that day with Subaru having a complete meal while the rest had sandwiches from Rina. She thought of Misao working so hard to make the entire lunch meal for Subaru during daytime. Because the surfer boys will be here in a moment for dinner she thought of Kaito. "Are any of you girls on waitress duty or juice bar duty?"

"I'm on waitress duty tonight," Rina answered. "What's your plan, Lucia?"

"Is there anything I can do to help too, Lucia?" Hanon asked curiously with a grin on her face.

Lucia asked the two to huddle up and explained her plan for tonight.

The hour struck at seven o'clock and Nicola finally arrived home. When she entered the restaurant she looked a little different from the eyes of Maki, Taro, and the rest of the Pearl Waters staff. Though she still appeared in her usual manager attire her hair looked a little flat. In addition to that, a few could even catch a rather distinctive smell just as Nicola walked in to the kitchen area.

"I'm home!" Nicola announced to everyone at the kitchen area, which made Taro and Maki sigh in relief. Aunt Taki appeared at the door and embraced her niece. "How's business going, everyone?"

"You smell like sea water, Nicola," Taki reminded her bluntly after she embraced her niece. "Where have you been?"

"Well... I just had to get away for a bit to think of a few things. I even braved myself to hang out at the more secluded beach area and wade by the shore. I tripped on a log and fell, which was why I smell like sea water right now. But I'm alright!"

Those present gazed at each other, looking rather both curious and suspicions at the same time. Taro turned to his cousin with an opening statement. "Where on earth did you go, Nicola? Secluded beach?"

"Oh come on you guys," Nicola chuckled nervously. "You know--- the secluded beach at the S-Cu---" before she can continue she stopped herself quickly, realizing she was going to reveal the exact location.

Maki and Taro quickly dragged Nicola back in the kitchen to prevent anyone from eavesdropping. Taki stayed by the door to be sure no one would come to the door and walk in the three during their serious talk. Nicola looked rather curious at Maki and Taro of their concerns.

"What is it?" Nicola changed her voice tone back to her usual manager self.

"You drove all the way to the S-Cube?" Maki asked with a slight surprise on his expression. "You said you braved yourself by wading at the shore, that we believe. But of all places--- the S-Cube? Was anyone there?"

"Probably," Nicola shrugged. "But I don't think anyone saw. On the other hand... I had the best, pumped up ride I've ever ridden in my life, man! I'm like in total alchemy hour now, yo!"

Maki and Taro turned to each other again, realizing what Nicola expressed herself. The Nicola Nanami they knew as manager of Pearl Waters did not speak the way the local surfers would speak. They knew right away that something must have came over Nicola that made her brave the beach and surfed out at the ocean.

"I went to the S-Cube chamber cave to pay my respects," Nicola continued, this time in her soft, usual speech. "I think it's about time to actually pay respects to Mom and Dad more appropriately by heading out at the S-Cube and heading out to the sea. As you know, the sea is their grave, and somehow when I got to the beach, I heard serene voices from the sea calling out to me. It seemed to be telling me to come and visit their spirits and ride their waves again. When I rode out there it felt so... heavenly."

Maki gasped and placed his arms on Nicola's shoulders. "After seven years of quitting, you rode the waves? What surfboard did you use?"

"One of my old ones that I found from the storage, Maki," Nicola answered promptly, blinking her eyes. "It wasn't the GG board but the GG Jr. board--- my shortboard."

"How'd you do, Nicola?" Taro asked curiously.

Nicola grinned and gave the two boys a thumbs up. "I still got it, dudes! I was so happy after I kicked out from the wave that my special skills are still intact! My signature triple spinner aerial? I still got it! Too bad I didn't get to do that at the regionals seven years ago, but still... I owned that competition!"

"Whoa! That sounds awesome, girl!" Taro chuckled as he and Nicola gave each other a pump fist like the local surfers always did.

The atmosphere around the kitchen fell silent when Maki changed his tone of voice. "Well... it looks like you have found your true self again, Nicola. I'm glad you have. We've missed the one we always knew. Good for you."

Nicola gave a nod towards Maki and gave a faint smile. "I... I don't know what came over me... but you guys are right. Who am I kidding? I can't get rid of my old self at all."

"And eventually you will have to talk to your siblings about what really happened those seven years ago," Maki also reminded Nicola regarding Lucia and Hippo. "It's not worth messing with their heads about all this. They have the right to know too. I know you are being protective of them, but they're growing up now and one day they won't need you anymore to watch over them. One day they'll find someone they'll fall in love with and would want to spend the rest of their lives with that someone. You know as much as the rest of us here know that Lucia is very close to finding that someone."

"What are you talking about, Maki?" Nicola asked humbly. "Lucia's too shy to confess her feelings to a boy if she's ever secretly in love with someone. And if she is I'm sure he's a sweet, fine boy who would be willing to take care of her once they come of age."

"Question," Taro interrupted with his arms crossed. "What if that sweet, fine boy turns out to be a surfer dude?"

Nicola burst in to laughter and responded. "Lucia in love with a surfer dude? Crushes are one thing, but falling in love is another! My heart's been crushed by a certain surfer dude when I was her age and ever since then I've never fallen in love with anyone ever again! Lucia is way smarter at age fourteen than I was back then and there's no way in hell she's going to fall in love with a surfer dude just like that! She has a bigger heart than I do and it'd be a miracle if this surfer dude also happens to have a bigger heart who is actually ready and willing to fall in love with a girl who doesn't fall in to the beach bimbo category!" She turned to Maki, still preventing herself from laughing further. "What about you, Maki? It's been what... three years? Three years since you lost Saori and even until now you haven't moved on."

Maki crossed his arms with a slight frown on his face. "This isn't me we're talking about here, Nicola... or should I call you by your surf nick? Look, I'm just saying that eventually you will have to talk to your siblings about what really happened because if you don't tell them, someone else will."

Nicola fell silent and sighed deeply, lowering her head. Just at that moment, Lucia arrived at the kitchen area with a huge smile on her face, startling Nicola, Maki, and Taro then. Taki followed her from behind and shrugged her arms, softly apologizing to the three for letting Lucia in.

"I'm ready to cook tonight's dinner, everyone!" Lucia excitedly cheered as she grabbed her bandanna to wrap it around her hair and wore her white apron that had her name sewn on the top left corner. "Hey, what's with the sad, long faces here?"

Nicola noticed her sister and gave her an embrace. "It's nice to see you happy and pumped up for tonight, Lucia!"

Lucia quickly pulled herself away from Nicola once she detected a certain smell. "Nicola? You smell like sea water... did you brave the beach and took a swim or something?"

"Ack!" Nicola shrieked and covered her mouth. "Um... I... tripped and fell while I was wading around the shore... yeah..."

"Like big sister, like little sister!" Lucia chuckled, recalling her little accident with Kaito at her first trip at the S-Cube a week ago. "Anyway, I want to take the night shift at the kitchen tonight because Kaito and the Rainbowside surfers are gonna be here tonight!"

"Hm?" Nicola raised an eyebrow, looking very intrigued. "Let me guess... you want to cook dinner for the dudes, right?"

"Well... um... actually... Rina, Hanon, and I planned this little bit. Rina's gonna be the dudes' waitress and she's gonna convince Kaito to pick tonight's special and... I want to cook the entire meal just for him... you know?"

"Oh... I see!" Nicola gave a slight humble smile but deep inside she shivered in nervousness. "Any special occasion?"

Lucia giggled softly and turned to Taro, who just remained silent but smiling at the same time. Then she turned to Nicola. "You see... Kaito asked me to be his tandem surfing partner!"

Nicola's eyes widened in shock and placed her hands on Lucia's shoulders. "What--- you mean the older Doumoto Twin, right?"

"No! The younger twin!" Nicola almost lost her balance in quite a surprising news. "The champion kahuna himself!"

"Well... you can't surf, Lucia! I mean... you barely even get near the water yourself! You did tell him you can't do it, right?"

"Are you kidding, Nicola? I said yes to him!" Lucia giggled happily. "He said I didn't need to know how to surf just to be his tandem surfing partner. He picked me because he knows my awesome swimming skills in school! I'm part of the school swim team in case you forget!"

Nicola turned away and lowered her head. "That's the swimming pool, Lucia. We are talking about ocean water. It's a whole different ballgame because the ocean never stays still."

"Still! Swimming is still swimming. Lifeguards are required to learn how to swing in order to save lives of people drowning out there! Also, Kaito and all the other surfers there said that before you learn how to surf, you have to know how to swim! I'm not as helpless and wimpy as you think, Nicola."

"There is a huge, obvious reason why there are no lifeguards at the beach across from us, Lucia. Tandem surfing at Sector 7 Beach is treacherous and deadly! It's not as easy as you think it is! Why on earth did you accept his offer when you barely even know what the heck tandem surfing is?"

Lucia felt a sense of anger within her, knowing that Nicola was disapproving of her participation in tandem surfing. "Nicola, I've seen videos and DVDs about tandem surfing long time ago thanks to Hippo. I know exactly what tandem surfing is! I think it's a beautiful yet challenging sport but still a worthy sport for someone like me to get in to. Besides, Kaito is the one who's going to surf. I'm just riding along with him and try to look graceful with the lifts, so please, just chill!"

Nicola shook her head and gazed right at her younger sister. "Lucia, I have not seen Kaito show his experience in tandem surfing. I know he's a very talented, highly-skilled surfer. His championship titles for the past five years or so already proved to me that he is a true, worthy kahuna. Even if that was the case he's inexperienced with tandem surfing, most especially when he's dealing with girls! I'm told of his reputation with girls in general, Lucia."

"Nicola, you don't know him for you to judge him, plus Kaito and the rest of the Rainbowside really need help. They really want to be in this tournament and if they don't complete all of the requirements then they'll never qualify to compete. He asked me to be his partner, Nicola. If I said no then it'd be the same as putting the entire town down because Nijibe isn't in the tournament competitors' list! Plus, Kaito and I are friends and despite of his flaws with other girls he was friendly and down to earth to me. He hasn't made any moves on me if that's what you're wondering..."

Nicola approached his sister and embraced her. "Oh Lucia... Kaito isn't the reason why I'm concerned about your participation in tandem surfing. I'm a little uncertain about him dealing with girls, but I have mad respects for him as a surfer. Well, if you really want to participate that much, Lucia, then I'll support you all the way. At the same time I'll make sure Kaito actually takes care of you and not run around fooling around with other girls."

Lucia smiled hearing what her older sister just said and returned the embrace. "Kaito is... no longer the boy you've heard from those crazy rumors. He's changed so much, even the rest of his dudes say the same too. I don't know what made him change but... I have complete trust in him."

"And like I said, I'll make sure he actually does take care of you. Tandem surfing isn't just about pairing together with some random person who may be cute or hot or whatever... mutual trust is major key to a successful tandem ride. It's like the two of you are deeply in love with each other except you aren't. Since he asked you to be his partner instead of you volunteering to be his partner for some hidden reason, that's telling me that he has complete trust and faith in you, not just as a person or as a friend but as someone who would help him score the highest points in the contest." Nicola released Lucia from her embrace and continued. "Although I have to warn you, Lucia. About ninety-nine point nine nine eight percent of tandem surfing couples do fall in love, get married, and have children. You better be careful with Kaito, Lucia. I don't want him taking advantage of your feelings and then hurt you at the end. That's all I want to tell you."

Though Lucia's real hope was to win Kaito's heart, she went along with her sister's warning. "I promise I'll be careful."

Nicola patted Lucia on the shoulder and then turned to Maki, Taki, and Taro. "Well, I need to do some things at the office. Carry on, kitchen crew!" She waved at everyone and exited the kitchen.

Maki, Taki, and Taro turned right away towards Lucia with curious expressions on their face while the fourteen-year-old blonde just returned the smile at them. "Well then, let's get cookin'!"

Taro patted Lucia on the shoulder with a wink on his face. "Looks like you're on your path to true love, little cousin!"

Lucia blushed when her aunt Taki stood right next to her with a grin on her face as well. "You know, quite coincidental, I must say. I actually did a tarot reading about you earlier today. It turned out that sometime today that the one who truly loves you the most will show himself to you."

Her niece stared at her blankly and confused. "... And?"

Taki chuckled nervously and shrugged her left arm. "Sorry, Lucia. That's all what that reading says."

"But Aunt Taki..." Lucia began her response while she washed her hands at the sink. "The only guy who was always there for me was Kaito. How do I know he's the one who truly loves me when he didn't even show any signs?" Right after she said the latter, flashbacks began to appear in her mind of what happened earlier today. Kaito wanted to kiss her, she thought. What if Kaito really is the one who truly loves me? But I can't ask him that question... it'd be too embarrassing and it'd be too sudden... It's too early for me to figure out.

"You're still in to that Tarot reading stuff, Aunt Taki?" Taro chuckled and rested himself against the closed door. "Aunt Taki, you actually believe in that stuff?"

"My readings are accurate, nephew," Taki gave a slight glare towards her assistant manager nephew. "Well... most of the time. I used my old tarot cards to do Lucia's reading. I still haven't figured out my new one yet because I did a reading for Nicola the last time and I still can't figure it out."

Taro shook her head and crossed his arms. "What type of reading did you do on Nicola?"

"Oh, just a general, standard reading, that's all. I'll figure out what the reading meant soon!" Taki nodded, looking very confident.

"Well, thanks for the tarot reading, Aunt Taki," Lucia chuckled as she began slicing up ingredients for an upcoming dinner meal while Maki did most of the cooking procedures for the dish alone. "Maybe next time you can do tarot reading about me and Kaito as a possible couple!"

Taki laughed along with her niece. "Sure thing, Lucia. Maybe tomorrow."

Taro decided to head back out at the dining area and the juice bar to assist the staff at work there. Just as the three kitchen crew members head to their tasks, Rina and Hanon passed by the kitchen window and hung on their order slips at their rotating slip hanger. "Lucia!" Rina called through the window.

Lucia, still dicing potatoes in to squares, looked up to see her waitress friends waving at her. "Hey, what's up, ladies?"

"Your man and his tribe are here... and he's looking dang hot tonight, Lucia!" Hanon answered followed with soft giggles. "I really think you've won the love battle, girl! You're his tandem surfing partner now as of today, and I bet you he decided to look so deliciously hot is because of you!"

Kaito! Lucia's smile widened quickly with her heart beginning to beat faster like earlier. She covered her heart with her hand and turned to Hanon. "Oh Hanon... Rina... I really want to see him now..."

"Make your surprise special first, Lucia," Rina reminded her. "Hanon and I are ready to serve the Rainbowside table and I'll be sure to convince Kaito to order the special since it's your best dish to cook, right?"

Lucia grinned happily. "And never forget his bottle of cola and water! He can't survive eating without his cola!"

"Right!" Hanon winked. "You really are excited about this, aren't you, Lucia?"

"Well this is Kaito we're talking about here, Hanon, so why wouldn't Lucia be excited?" Rina snickered and turned her head through the kitchen counter window again. "Anyway Lucia, we're on it!"

Lucia gave her two friends two thumbs up as Rina and Hanon headed back at the dining area to serve the Rainbowside surfers' table, most especially Kaito. Taki and Maki overheard the conversation as the aunt turned to the younger niece. "What's tonight's special?"

"Tish's Seaside Chicken Pot Pie," Maki grinned as he continued his cooking at the stove. "It's Lucia's best dish inherited from her mother's old recipe notebook. Alongside Nicola's Seven Seas Coconut Shrimp Stew, Tish's Seaside Chicken Pot Pie is also a major favorite, most especially with surfers and swimmers. It's got all the nutrients surfers and swimmers need to power up and able to perform their sport efficiently. Lucia would always eat that pie during her lunchtime whenever her swim team has a meet that day after school."

Taki chuckled as she watched Lucia getting the ingredients and the pie's batter prepared for their special. With Lucia's motivated look, Taki began to slice some more vegetables required for the pie to speed up Lucia's preparation.

Meanwhile at the Rainbowside surfers' table, Rina and Hanon approached them, ready to take their orders. During that point, there was a small chat between the surfers and the waitresses. "On waiting duty tonight, Rina?" Masahiro began the open chat. "You're usually at the juice bar."

"We rotate once in awhile." Rina answered while Hanon began her role.

"Well, anyway, welcome to Pearl Waters, you guys! I'm Hanon and this is Rina and we'll be your servers for tonight!" Hanon recited her usual line like what a waitress would do.

"Awesome! First time you ladies get to serve us fine, manly, hot, and cool surfer dudes. Totally awesome!" Nagisa exclaimed happily, winking at Hanon at the same time.

"Oh jeez, as if!" Hanon glared at Nagisa in disgust while Rina snickered at her.

"Well then!" Rina interrupted, getting in to business. "What can we get you start with? An appetizer? Any drinks?"

Gaito cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "Well then, Miss Rina and Miss Hanon. We'll get the usuals, but I'm afraid you're going to assist my twin brother here. He's a little... dazed today."

"Dazed?" Hanon giggled and turned to Kaito. "What's the matter, Kaito? Not hungry?"

"Not hungry--- more like in love!" Kengo snickered, nudging at Kaito on the side. Quickly Kaito slapped Kengo at the back of his head again. "Ow--- what?"

"Man, shut up!" Kaito exclaimed with a glare on his face and turned to the two waitresses. "Um... I was wondering... I don't see Lucia anywhere..."

"Oh, Lucia? She doesn't work as a waitress," Hanon giggled happily. "She always works at the kitchen regularly. Sometimes she would do the waiting when one of the regulars are off that night. I'm not sure exactly what she does in the kitchen though since Mrs. Nanami and Maki are the cooks there."

"Oh, I see," Kaito nodded, not exactly in a smirking mood at the moment. "Well, she never really told me her regular role at Pearl Waters. All I know is that she lives here with her family."

Hanon giggled happily and answered. "You wanna see Lucia?"

Kaito found himself blushing a little, but once again he turned back to his usual self again. "Yo, I just asked her where she was, Hanon. I didn't say anything about wanting to see her. You read too many josei manga or whatever the hell you weird girls read lately. Why do you always assume a lot of stuff about me?"

Hanon glared and shouted: "You're so mean, Kaito! You better be happy that the reason why I still want to be friends with you isn't so I can hit on you again like the last time unlike the rest of your other one-week exes as of late!"

"Ahem!" Rina cleared her throat to change the subject. "We have a special for tonight's dinner meal--- a very simple meal known as Tish's Seaside Chicken Pot Pie. This very simple yet very tasty meal has a perfect blend of herbs and spices mixed in a very special sauce with diced pieces of tender white chicken meat and an array of vegetables. The ingredients provide a very good source of nutrients perfect for ocean athletes, especially swimmers and surfers."

The surfer boys gasped in surprise to hear the new special and became completely enthusiastic. Kaito nodded with a smile on his face. "Thank you, Rina. I'd like tonight's special then. This Tish's Seaside Chicken Pot Pie thing. The way you described it, even if it's just brief, really made my stomach growl. I'm sick of eating soggy microwave TV dinners, man. I'm not eating another soggy pancake in the morning!"

"Same here!" The rest of the boys answered as Hanon wrote their orders on her invoice pad. Looks like Lucia would be baking more Tish's Seaside Chicken Pot Pie at this point.

"Anything else?" Rina asked before they take their orders to the kitchen crew. The other surfers provided their other requests as Hanon listed them all down. When they were finished the two waitresses took their orders to the kitchen crew.

Once they got to the window and Hanon hung the order slip on the rotating slip hanger, Lucia grabbed the slip and read the order. She blushed and smiled happily knowing it was not just Kaito who wanted the special but the entire table as well.

"At least Kaito ordered the special." Lucia said with motivation. "I'll get to it right away!" She took the slip and showed it to Taki and Maki and began their cooking.

Meanwhile at the table, the surfer boys talked amongst themselves while Kaito remained silent during the usual chatter. His usual heart was not in to the conversation today. In fact, he truly hoped he would see Lucia anywhere at Pearl Waters that night. At the same time he was trying to determine his mixed-up feelings between the mysterious Leolani and Lucia herself. He hoped to look for Leolani's whereabouts at the archives and records floor of the library but instead he found Lucia present at the same place and at the same time. He thought at first that she was there to look for her mysterious love, but Hippo did most of the work, so that thought was immediately ruled out.

He already had high suspicions of who Lucia really was to him and why her appearance or even her single hello would make his heart leap. Such a feeling never happened to him ever since his near death if it were not for the brave rescue by Leolani and her trusted gun board. After a few years of dating almost every pretty girl for one week per girl the sudden leaping of his heart never occurred until this particular time with his first communication with Lucia.

After an almost special moment earlier at the library the media--- particularly from the morning radio show Nijibe Youth Talk Corner--- had to interrupt his already open book life by asking questions regarding his mysterious true love and his candidate to be his tandem surfing partner. Lucia was already there with him and protected her from being identified by these media-savvy people from the nosy talk DJs to the rabid fangirls. He had to make sure that he had backup on his claims whenever the media would ask him that particular question in case these individuals become nosy again.

"Yo, Kaito!" The surfer became startled when he heard Nagisa interrupting his contemplation. "You're quiet tonight, dude. You okay?"

"Alchemy hour, dude," Kaito answered promptly. "Best ride I ever had this afternoon, man..."

"Right..." Gaito interrupted their conversation and invited himself in. "Your so-called alchemy hour consists of two things: five percent best ride this afternoon, ninety-five percent Lucia."

"Shut up, G!" Kaito glared towards his older twin brother, who looked like he was in a teasing mood at that time. "I had no choice but to pick Lucia for my tandem surfing partner. It was the only way for me to back my claim up so those nosy media would leave me alone. I don't mind sports media since all they cared about was my surfing and my victories, but the local radio show wanted to barge in through my life!"

Gaito patted his younger twin on the shoulder. "And you made a very heroic deed by shielding Lucia from everyone else to keep her identity a secret. I remember back in the days when you were always seen with a different girl every week and pretty much the entire town knows who that girl was with you and you didn't seem to care."

"Then again," Daichi joined in the conversation, "most of the girls want popularity and attention once they get to hang out with you--- and even date for one week..."

"But Lucia Nanami is special!" Kengo exclaimed happily. "Sure, she's erm... not that exciting to look at but... well... there must be something in her that really turned Kaito on!"

Kaito quickly glared towards Kengo as the goofy surfer hurriedly placed his hands behind his head to prevent anyone from slapping him at the back of his head once more. "Jeez, will you dudes stop talking about her already? So what if I picked her as my tandem surfing partner? Unlike most of the girls I dated in the past she can actually swim and likes the sport itself. If she volunteered right away when those jerks at that crap radio show announced that leaked info about me competing in the tandem surfing tournament then obviously she would be another fan girl pretending to be an enthusiast. But she hasn't said anything because she already knew I was looking for a tandem partner way beforehand."

"And she said she will help you look for a partner," Gaito added. "Look what happened--- you weren't able to look for a partner and she wasn't able to help you because you were concentrated on your individual surfing and she was concentrated on her band rehearsals with OC-5 for the surf bands contest. Neither of you had the time to actually look for the perfect tandem surfing partner for you and after the little pressure you had from those DJ people and those fan girls you immediately picked Lucia for your partner."

Masahiro cleared his throat to get everyone's attention at the table and provided his opinion. "Well, we all know that as a general rule that in order for you to learn how to surf successfully, you need to know how to swim. Most of the chicks I see at the beach just wade around the shore, splashing water at each other like a bunch of giggly airheads, and most of all, showing up with the kinkiest pair of bikinis to get dudes to look and drool at them. Personally, I think I've seen too many for the last seven years of my whole life."

"And Lucia Nanami," Nagisa added along, "shows up at the beach not wearing any form of swimsuit. I mean, would be nice if she'd be wearing a tankini and boyshorts and she'd still look hot in it!"

Daichi raised an eyebrow in suspicion towards Nagisa. "Wait... how'd you know the anatomy of a girl's swimsuit style, Nagisa? Have you been reading too much Cawaii! magazines again? You naughty kid you!"

Nagisa glared towards Daichi and gave his response: "You idiot! I kept getting distracted by that dumb magazine because you and Kengo kept staring at them every time we're resting at the beach!" Right then Masahiro and the Doumoto Twins snickered at the other two.

"Besides," Kaito began his statement. "After getting to know Lucia Nanami more, it's very unlikely you'll see her wear those types of clothes you see in that stupid magazine. She has her own style that makes her likable."

"You mean, Kaito," Gaito attempted to refrain from bursting in to laughter but continued on, "Lucia Nanami has her own style that turns you on."

"Shut up, G. I'm not kidding about that!" Kaito retorted in annoyance.

"Which one, Kaito? The part where Lucia's own style makes her likable or the part where Lucia's own style turns you on?" Kengo joined in the teasing with the older twin. He forgot about protecting his head's back that Kaito immediately slapped him on the head again. "OW! Dammit, Kaito!"

"Next time, be sure you cover your head with your hands before you start messing with me, Kengo." Kaito snickered, feeling victory at this very short period. Slowly he lowered his head and murmured softly. "Then again... her style sorta... well... a little... just a little bit..."

"Just a little bit, he says." Masahiro whispered softly, smirking at the same time.

"Okay already, jeez!" Kaito exclaimed in irritation, making the rest of the table fall silent. "Lucia is my tandem surfing partner! There's nothing else you all can do about it--- except making fun of me for it!"

Gaito answered after a few moments of silence. "I apologize, dear brother. I ended up teasing you because I'm really happy for you, you know?"

"I'm not exactly sure what the hell do you mean by that, G."

"I'm saying I'm happy for you because you're finally opening up and dare to be different from majority of the dumbass surfer dudes all around the region where they only go for airhead bunnies, like Hamasaki mentioned earlier. About time you're finally settling down with a nice girl of your own---"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! G! Just because I picked Lucia to be my tandem surfing partner, that doesn't mean I'm in love with her. I have a good relationship with her as friends, enough for us to trust each other. I know what I said before about tandem surfing, but I never said that you and your partner have to be in love with each other for you to be a good tandem surfing team."

Gaito gave a slight disappointed look but quickly changed his reaction. "Oh well. At least you already accomplished your part of the assembly. We can finally submit our entry to the officials. By the way, whatever happened to the ideal name change?"

"Um... haven't really focusing on that too..." Kaito answered with a slight trembling voice and a humble smile with it.

"How about The Surf Coasters? We're surfers and we coast around beach at times to look for the wildest surf around!" Nagisa provided a suggestion. "It sounds cooler than Rainbowside, you know?"

Kaito shook his head. "Kid, we don't want to get sued for stealing a very well-known name in this country, so no."

"How about..." The rest of the surfers began to contemplate of a new name that would represent them at the tournament. Moments later none of them were able to come up with a good name.

"We'll get to that later." Gaito snickered and spotted Rina and Hanon arriving with two trays of dishes and drinks ready for their dinner. "Wow, this is awesome! Thanks, ladies!"

"Always welcome!" Hanon winked and served the chicken pot pies and the drinks to the boys. After she was done, Rina placed a rather larger-sized chicken pot pie compared to the rest of the table. The boys moaned at the size knowing this particular one belonged to Kaito.

"And here is yours, Kaito." Rina grinned and placed the larger-sized chicken pot pie and his drink at Kaito's spot. At the corner of Kaito's large plate was a small folded note. "Hope you enjoy because a certain someone is counting on it!"

Kaito first unfolded the note at the corner and read what was written to himself as Rina and Hanon left to wait at other tables:

To My Awesome Dominating Tandem Surfing Partner named Kaito Doumoto -

Thank you for choosing me as your tandem surfing partner! I'm not really counting on it or anything but you know you could trust me with whatever help you need. I know I'm not a surfer and it will take me awhile to get used to those air lifts, let alone riding on a board with a second person, but I'm a fast learner. You'll see! As my small thank you, I baked you this. This is a major favorite of mine. My late mother made up the recipe when I was a kid--- or maybe before that. She called it "Tish's Seaside Chicken Pot Pie." It's also a big hit here at Pearl Waters but you get the larger size for free, courtesy of me! ^_^;

Let me know what you think of the pie. If there's something you don't like about it, please tell me honestly. In that way I can improve and perfect this pie for our future menu.

Well, gotta head back to cooking some more at the kitchen! Hope to see you later after closing hours or something. I know you want to talk about a lot of stuff about tandem surfing, strategies and all that. I'm ready to listen and willing to learn.

From Your Noob Kook Tandem Surfing Partner named Lucia Nanami

Kaito laughed at Lucia's short note and folded the note to himself. There was a postscript at the end of the note but decided to read it later. Let's see how your chicken pot pie tastes like, Lucia...

"Dude, how come you got a larger-sized chicken pot pie, man!" Kengo gave a complaint while he stared at his regular-sized chicken pot pie.

"Because it's Lucia's thank you gift to me for choosing her to be my partner." Kaito said with a grin on his face. "She had a little note with it, so yeah. She knows I'm special." He continued the grin and winked at the same time. He took a fork and knife and began to feast on the pie.

"Hey, this is really good!" Daichi chuckled after he made his first bite.

"That's because it's real food, Daichi," Kengo frowned as he sliced his first piece. "No longer will we starve from soggy and gross frozen TV dinners, man!"

"Daichi's right." Gaito agreed with Daichi's first impression of the pie. "This is delicious!"

Masahiro and Nagisa gave their two thumbs up at the pie as Kengo ate his first piece. "Dude! No way! This chicken pie rules!"

Kaito saw the expression on his dudes' expression, which can only mean one thing. He ate his first piece of the pie. The first thing he noticed was the very distinctive, flavorful taste of the sauce and seasoning blend that provided a stronger flavor for the rest of the ingredients, most notably the chicken. "Whoa! This is good! Hell yeah, now this is real dinner!"

The entire table feasted delightfully at their dinner. Kaito, on the other hand, could not help himself but smile and enjoy the chicken pot pie. You're perfect, Lucia... No wait--- I mean the pie is perfect! Yeah--- the PIE is perfect! He shook his head right then and continued to eat his pie. While eating he had another thought in this mind. I wonder if you're planning to make me lunch one day--- like how Misao Koshiki made that huge, tempting lunch basket for Subaru earlier at the library today...

In the meantime, Rina and Hanon arrived at the kitchen window to post up more of their order slips while Lucia passed on more dishes for them to serve to the customers. While the three were doing their tasks, they also exchanged brief chatter.

"Seriously Lucia, I now have confidence that victory is yours." Hanon began the chat.

"What are you talking about?" Lucia asked curiously while placing the dishes on to their trays.

"I think you've completely won Kaito's heart!" Hanon giggled cheerfully. "I know what you're gonna say about all those technical surfing reasons but just watching from where I'm standing Kaito's really enjoying your chicken pot pie!"

"Oh I'm happy!" Lucia gave a huge smile while blushing at the same time. "Though it's actually my mom's chicken pot pie."

"Still!" Rina laughed. "You baked it for him. You even made the size larger than the rest of the dudes over there. I'm pretty sure he'll get the hint right then!"

Lucia gave a smaller smile as her reaction and sighed deeply. "What if Kaito freaks out if he finds out that the reason why I made his bigger isn't just because I wanted to thank him for picking me for his tandem surfing partner but because of...?"

Hanon shook her head as she took her tray from the counter. "Lucia, seriously girl, one of these days you need to be more positive about things. Sure, sometimes you and Kaito get in to minor squabbles, but you guys always work things out. And in all honesty, Kaito doesn't get really angry that easy either. You haven't exactly annoyed him yet." She leaned over the counter and whispered softly: "In fact, I'll let you in on a little secret. Kaito was looking for you before Rina took their orders!"

Lucia blushed and placed her hands over her cheeks. "He... he was looking for me?"

"Hell yeah, Lucia!" Rina winked with a smile on her face. "He looked kinda sad when he saw us but you weren't present anywhere at the dining area." She slowly took her tray from the counter as they were ready to head out to serve the dishes. "Well, we better get these to the customers now. There are hungry mouths to feed today!"

The three friends headed back to their usual tasks with Lucia feeling nervous right at that moment. Kaito... was looking for me? He doesn't usually expect me to be around... but... why?

Lucia turned around and headed back to the hot iron grill panel and continued to grill various kinds of meat, seafood, and vegetables. There were no more chicken pot pie orders and decided to work on the grill. Just as she concentrated on the food she was grilling she began to come up with more thoughts. Oh no... what if Kaito figured out my real feelings for him? I mean, I even wrote him a Thank You note! What if he gets all freaked out with me and then he'll dump me for his partner and look for another one? I'm going to lose him forever if that's gonna happen. Oh, what am I to do now...?

As she continued to feel more panic within, her nose detected a smoky smell as if something was burning. She sniffed her nose a little, wondering what the smell was coming from when her aunt startled her from behind.

"Lucia! Pay attention! Your meats are burning!" Taki exclaimed, pointing her finger towards the grill in front of her.

"Ah!" Lucia shrieked in shock and began to flip the burned meat over. "Oh no..."

Maki chuckled as he brought out two more bowls of marinated chicken and meat to replace the burned ones. "It's still too early for you to sleep and dream the night away, Lucia! Good thing our grill's top of the line and can cook meat that fast. Pay attention next time, alright?"

"Oh man..." Lucia lowered her head in shame and quickly replaced the burned meat with fresh new ones at the grill.

It was business as usual at Pearl Waters that night. Taro was managing the dining area while Nicola did more paperwork at her office. Rihito remained at the rehearsal room still composing a few more songs for the band to play for the surf bands contest. Hippo excused himself to do more personal research on his family's history and their relevant connections to the legendary surfer girl Cole Seahart and the Dainami-Oni incident that killed his parents and the two popular tandem surfing couples that ended the hot tandem surfing scene in Nijibe. He had what he was looking for thanks to Misao Koshiki of the archives and records department of the public library. He even locked the door to be sure no one, especially Nicola, would just barge through the door and interrupt his secluded research.

Hippo turned to the large cardboard box with a label on it. The label included the following information: Hippo's full name, the library name, the date these archives and records were retrieved, and the code numbers of the files these particular items were retrieved from. The strangest detail Hippo mentioned while Misao dug up these archived items that anything and everything related to both Cole Seahart and the Dainami-Oni only came from two particular archived files: the Nanami Family Archives and the Doumoto Family Archives.

This is really weird... why are all of the most secret archived items stored under both my family archives and the Doumoto Twins' family archives? Don't tell me the Doumotos have a strong connection to Cole Seahart and the Dainami-Oni incident too...

With his handy Swiss knife, Hippo sliced through the cellophane tape that sealed the box so he can uncover the items Misao dug up for him. Once he opened the box, he was surprised to see two notebooks, one red and one blue, and two friendship bracelets cased in small boxes: one white and shades of red, the other white and shades of blue. Hippo became more intrigued and aimed for the notebooks first. He picked the red notebook first.

The notebook was secured with a decorative garter band, which Hippo easily removed. He opened the cover and saw the following handwritten information at the first page:

You have stumbled upon...

THE RAINBOWSIDE TANDEM SURF COUPLE #1:
Tack and Tish Seahart

WARNING NOTES:
DO NOT flip this page forward if you are NOT any one of the following...

Cole, Leolani, Gen and Kim Doe, the Doe Twins,
Deadhead and Tick-Tock, Sea-Moon, or T-Mack

If you happen to see this journal, please give it to our son...
Hippo Seahart

"What the... Hippo Seahart?" Hippo's eyes widened in shock to see this particular name. That's just weird... there's another 'Hippo' here in Nijibe? He paused at first, thinking what would happen if he did flip the page. On the other hand, most probably many of these individuals were no longer present, therefore it would not hurt for him to flip the page. After a few seconds of contemplation, Hippo flipped the page and began reading the first page.

05.09

Dearest Hippo,

Guess what! I already got you a surf nick and you still haven't existed yet! That is, as of the date and time I'm writing this first entry in this journal log.

I already have high beliefs that you're going to be a boy once you break free from me 7 months later. Why? Because your Auntie Tick-Tock said so! She did this crazy tarot reading about me not too long ago and she predicted that you're going to be a HE. Your Dad thinks you're going to be another girl, but despite that you already have two big sisters, little Cole and little Leolani, we both hope and pray that you will be born a boy...

Hippo's widened with a peculiar feeling and skipped the entire entry and skimmed some more. The first pages were not as relevant as he thought they were until he found an entry with a different handwriting:

09.17

How's it going, little man? By the time I'm writing this, you just had your 2-year-old birthday. Happy Birthday, Hippo!

Hippo quickly lifted his head from the notebook with a slight frown on his face. Why is it that every single entry written in here has my name--- or rather the name Hippo--- in them? The Seaharts have a son with a surf nick called Hippo. Coincidence? Then again, 'Hippo' is a surf nick too, at least that's what Aunt Taki and Maki told me before...

He turned back to the notebook and continued to read:

Today at the S-Cube, the entire Rainbowside seriously experienced the biggest swell for the past ten years, or so the rest of the tribe say. Everyone thought this particular swell was the real deal of all the real deal surf we've experienced here at the Nijibe beaches. If a swell this huge as this were to occur here at the S-Cube, so can the public beaches, most notably the Sector 7 Beach, across from our house. Out at the surf were just the four of us--- your mother and me and the Does.

Things were seriously perfect, dude. The day itself, the sun, the atmosphere, the coastline, and the surf were seriously hypnotic. We had just seen the most incredible, clean, and glassy set we've seen ever! It was the biggest call for the entire Rainbowside and we were already paddling out to the ocean to stake claim of our waves. Today after we celebrate your birthday it was also another training session for the "junior" tandem couple of the Rainbowside--- Gen and Kim Doe (NOTE – NOT their real names!).

You know, it's true with what surf experts say about tandem surfing couples. Many of these couples do end up falling in love and get married. Though that wasn't the case with your mother and I, it was definitely the case for Gen and Kim Doe. They were childhood sweethearts since they were 5-years-old! Don't you think that's crazy? I guess true love can be found in all places with all people no matter what age they may be. Your mom and I were really happy to see those two grow up and their love for each other just grew stronger and stronger.

They struck luck when they ended up having twin boys for their first children. Kim wanted a daughter and hoped that one day they will bear a girl once they win their first championship trophy at a major tandem surfing competition, which for me will take awhile. In our case we are very satisfied with our family once you came to our lives...

As Hippo continued to read more of the excerpts, somehow something touched his heart that somehow bore a tear at one of his eyes. He quickly wiped it as he flipped the pages and read more of the excerpts. After Tack Seahart ended his first series of excerpts the next few entries were written by his wife, Tish Seahart.

03.15

Dearest Hippo,
By the time I am writing this entry, you're just some months away until you turn 4-years-old, so just in case, Happy (Advanced) Birthday, Hippo!

I wonder if Cole would ever tell you some secrets she would never tell us? She had been acting strange as of late and I just couldn't figure out why. Was there a boy she met and was already experiencing her first heartbreak? That shouldn't happen. She should have her first love, even if it may not probably last long. But she's becoming a major top-notch surfer girl, Hippo! Seriously, I hope and pray that when Cole gets older that she would be the first female crewmaster of the Rainbowside. Your dad and I are seriously counting on her for that to happen and even if he and I are no longer around by the time that happens at least we knew that our hopes were fulfilled.

But moments ago, Cole was happy and giggling when she began talking about little Leolani! At such a young age and she was already interested in boys. Cole said she wanted to be friends with one of the Doe Twins. I don't understand why Gen and Kim Doe would give their twins surf nicks that were hard to pronounce! But you know what I learned though? Both the twins' surf nicks begin with "Kai" and their real names also begin with "Kai" (although the older one was "Gai", they pretty much have the same meaning). In both Japanese and Hawaiian, "Kai" means ocean or sea. Their names really made them worthy since the Does had been teaching the twins how to surf.

Auntie Tick-Tock made another tarot reading for me. She said that your future will not be of a surfer, but the one who will tell the entire world stories of surfing, most especially our dedicated surfers of the Rainbowside. I don't know how you're going to tell the entire world these stories of surfing, but I would like to let you know that your dad and I will always support you no matter what interest you may end up with. Not all surfers' children become surfers and we don't expect you to be one, just because we're surfers and your big sister Cole is also a surfer, so don't feel pressured whenever you hear our names out in the open.

Hippo gulped nervously once he realized that his surf and ocean photography hobby was pretty much a form of telling the entire world stories of surfing, most especially the dedicated surfers of the Rainbowside. He was beginning to feel that this mysterious Auntie Tick-Tock was none other than the aunt herself: Auntie Taki Nanami. He also figured the Seaharts but decided to read more.

After he went through more pages up until he reached the last few pages he found a very short entry with yet another ironic date...

08.28

To our beloved son,

The mighty "kai" called to us and threw a challenge. Right then and in our minds we already knew what type of challenge that was going to be. There aren't too many pages left in this journal, so this may possibly be the last entry that we're going to write to you. Once we are finished with this journal notebook we will bury this at the sands of the S-Cube Chamber, just underneath the names of all the Rainbowside surfers since its foundation. We have trust in Cole to bring you and Leolani to the S-Cube Chamber because we want you and Leolani to read this journal. Why? Because we want you to tell the entire world our story so the sport of tandem surfing continues to stay alive.

The live surf forecasts on the radio warned the entire surfing community of Nijibe to postpone the tandem surfing championships tomorrow because of the forecast. That particular forecast was something you may have heard already. You guessed it--- "the giant wave demon," or in short, Dainami-Oni.

Tomorrow is another prediction that the Dainami-Oni will be rolling in to our shores and ruin the fun-filled sunny summer day. Your mother and I, as well as our close friends, Gen and Kim Doe, had gone through long hours of discussion regarding our decision to compete tomorrow or not. Though it was wise to listen to the surf forecasts, we were deep heart-filled surfers. What do you think we were going to say to that?

That's right. We decided to take the Dainami-Oni challenge. Your mother and I, as well as Gen and Kim Doe, will compete and take on the Dainami-Oni. It wasn't just us who would be facing the Dainami-Oni. It's also possible that Cole will also be facing the Dainami-Oni during the girls' surfing championships. Hopefully things will be the better after tomorrow and hopefully we can have a Seahart sweep and go down in surfing history. The Does were doing the same too, except they were doing it to boost the reputation of their twin sons. Aunt Tick-Tock also made a prediction regarding the Doe Twins. Both of them will be very skilled and very recognized surfers, but only one of them will be the champion. We wonder who it'll be—- older twin Kainehe or younger twin Kaikane?

While the two of us are away taking on the Dainami-Oni, you are officially the man of the Seahart Clan. Take care of both Cole and Leolani should anything happen to us. Be sure both Cole and Leolani grow up to be happy and find their true love.

There is also a secret that I want to share with you and this is important. The four of us discussed about a possible "arranged marriage," even if we personally don't like arranged marriages in general. We thought about Leolani and one of the twin boys. After hearing Cole's stories about Leolani's lovey-dovey behavior at one of the twins we thought we would make her happy by having her play with one of the boys so that when they grow up their feelings will change from friendship and may blossom in to true love.

We both know it's crazy to ask our youngest son who's barely 3-years-old. However, Aunt Tick-Tock's tarot prediction was read that you will find this journal at around the age of 11 or 12--- most probably 12-years-old...

Hippo's eyes opened wide in shock as he felt his heart beating fast. He saw himself being lost regarding the true identities of the Seaharts and their connection to their family. He was beginning to think that the Seaharts' youngest son "Hippo" and himself may be one in the same. He determined that because the entire journal brought a few tears on his eye as he went through. He quickly flipped the pages to see where the last entry was going to be. He found the passage that reached all the way towards the last page of the notebook:

I can see Cole carrying over Pearl Waters when she decides to retire. We do hope she lasts long in surfing, whether riding the wild surf or teaching others how to ride the wild surf.

Leolani will definitely win the heart of a Doe Twin when she gets of age. The only problem now was which one...

But you, on the other hand, you have a special duty to serve the surfing community and the surfing enthusiasts all around the world. Show the world our story and show everyone our story in your own unique, sincere way.

Please keep in mind that we'll always love you, Hippo--- you, Cole, and Leolani. Whether we're right next to you or whenever we're out somewhere for a tournament, your thoughts will always be with us.

Lots of Love,

Mom and Dad

Hippo closed the journal, still looking rather confused. "Then this journal... I was meant to find this journal... my task to tell the world their story? What the heck am I going to tell the world about them? How am I going to tell them? And... why would they want me to pass on their story to others?"

He placed the red notebook at the side and reached out for the second notebook. Just as when he opened the front cover, a disc slipped down and the top portion landed on to Hippo's lap. Using the plastic ring at the center he picked it up and read the label in legible handwriting.

The Annual Regional Surfing Tournament – Tandem Surfing Championships

The Pacific Heart and The Blue Crush

As Hippo read the label he saw the date right below it. It was dated seven years ago. Right when he saw the date he dashed to his laptop, ready to pop in the disc in to his drive. He had a feeling that this was a video taken at the day the Dainami-Oni incident occurred.

The media player automatically turned on his laptop and the disc began to play. The first thing he watched on the clip was a few random shots and clips of a young Nicola posing by a huge rock structure while the ocean currents clashed against the rocks, splashing here and there. Just by the way she wore her hair, the way she smiled, and the way she giggled at the camera he already knew that was indeed Nicola. To him, she had not changed a bit, maybe except she was rarely seen smiling by anyone coming by Pearl Waters today.

After the small scene, Nicola was at the camera now, speaking. "Yo Rainbowside! Today, we're at the S-Cube cave with the senior surfers--- well, my parents and the Does and all the other tandem surf couples in the tribe that is--- having their little meditation prayer thing, giving each other blessings that they may have a safe and successful ride at the championships tomorrow, 'cause from what I heard, there's going to be massive-sized swell coming in, probably as high as sixty-five feet! What was it that they called it? Dynamo... um...?"

"It's Dainami-Oni, Cole. Get it right!" The male voice who spoke from behind the camera was none other than the young Taro Mitsuki. Though his voice was deeper now as an adult, the way he spoke truly sounded like his musically-minded cousin.

Quickly he paused the video when he caught Taro calling Nicola with a different name. He rewound the video again to the part where young Taro said "It's Dainami-Oni, Cole. Get it right!" and repeated the small scene.

Cole Seahart... so you really are Cole Seahart, Nicola... that's why you forbade everyone at Pearl Waters to mention her name. People would be talking about you. But even if that was the case, I still want to know why you don't want others to talk about yourself to everyone else when the entire town knows you are a true legend!

As Hippo was about to continue with the video he heard a voice calling out to him through the doors. Once he recognized the voice he quickly closed his laptop and cleared all the things from his bed and back in the cargo box. Right at his closet he hid the cargo box inside.

"Hippo, are you busy?"

"Uh, what's up, Nicola?" Hippo gulped nervously and ran to the door and opened it. "Nicola! You look tired... um... need any help downstairs?"

"Well, Rihito is still at the rehearsal room and I just happened to pass by there when I overhead a little sibling argument between him and his sister Michal. I know siblings argue from time to time but Michal was just in rage!"

Hippo closed the door behind him. "Well, we can't really eavesdrop about that..."

"Well anyway. Rihito needs your help. It's got something to do with some of his song compositions or something."

"Oh! Alright. Thanks, Nicola!" The two siblings climb down to the second floor with Hippo's suspicious eyes stared right at her older sister.

… Or should I just call you 'Cole'...?

It was almost near midnight and the night shift staff of Pearl Waters were at the dining area cleaning up the mess from sweeping the floor to wiping the tables. The kitchen crew were finished cleaning up and kept a few of their favorite untouched surplus from their cooking covered and placed in the fridge for dinner tomorrow. Lucia decided to give aid to the waitresses cleaning up the dining area in hopes that she would still catch Kaito at the dining area. Once she revealed herself, apron and all, at the dining area there were no one else present except for the Pearl Waters staff.

"Aw..." Lucia moaned sadly once she did not see any of the Rainbowside surfers present. "I was hoping I would get to catch Kaito before we close Pearl Waters. I guess he got tired waiting for me..."

Hanon patted Lucia on the shoulder after she swept a part of the floor with a smile on her face. "Nah. I think he probably went home really quick so he can get himself a lot hotter than he was earlier... and he'll come back for you!"

Lucia slightly frowned. "He didn't have to make himself look... hot... I don't care about all that! I just want to see him since you guys said that he was looking for me... and all..." She lowered her head with a sigh, holding tight on her broom.

Just as she was about to start sweeping the floor they hear a knock on the entrance door. Rina went to the door to see who was outside. She stuck her head through the door opening to see who it was, then brought it back inside and turned to Lucia. "Lucia... someone here to see you!" Along with that statement she gave a wink.

"Oh?" Lucia blinked curiously as Hanon took her broom and gently pushed her on her back. "W-wait!"

"Oh come on, Lucia... you don't want to make that someone special wait longer for you now, are you?"

"But..."

"Just go! I'll sweep your side of the floor!" Hanon giggled and continued to push Lucia forward towards the door. Lucia knew there was nothing to stop Hanon when it comes to somewhat embarrassing yet blissful moments such as this. She admitted defeat and headed for the door. On her way, Rina headed to her and gave her a pat on the shoulder.

"This is it, Lucia. Here's your moment!"

Lucia gave a faint smile and made her way to the door. She exited Pearl Waters and found the particular boy she wanted to see standing right in front of her. He appeared on a collared dark blue Hawaiian shirt with his buttons slightly open, showing off a bit of his manly chest. "Kaito! I thought you went home already..."

Kaito gave a faint smile and shook his head. "I wanted to see you before I head home, Lucia."

"Aw... I feel so honored even more..." Lucia blushed and smiled as her answer. "I always get all happy whenever I spot the dudes together at a place nearby. It just means that you're nearby..."

"Lucia, forget about the dudes!" Kaito chuckled and then cleared his throat. "Are you busy?"

Lucia shook her head. "I was going to sweep the floors at the dining area but the waitresses gave me a break again after Rina told everyone you're here."

"Whoa..." Kaito continued to laugh. "Those waitresses gave you a break, just because of me? That's quite generous of them!"

"They're weird... but weirdness can make a world colorful, you know?" Lucia joined the laughter, trying not to embarrass herself or her fellow waitresses.

"Well, since you're not busy anymore... wanna have a walk at the beach with me?"

"Wow, would I?" Lucia cheered happily as Kaito offered his left arm to her, which made the young girl aware at what may happen. "Wait... Kaito, are you... offering me your arm?"

"You tripped several times at the beach in the past, Lucia, so if you stick with me, you won't fall."

Wow... if I hooked my arm around his then it'd feel like... we're a couple... Lucia could not help but to smile unconsciously while turned her eyes directly at Kaito. She was tempted to jump with joy, even if it was just an arm around another arm, but at the same time she had to stay calm and not be too conspicuous. "Well, if you say so... I'll take your word for it."

Moments later, walking barefoot with their shoes on their hands, Lucia had her arm locked around Kaito's while he had his hand in his pocket. Just as always they talked about the tournament, from who among the world's top surfers would be competing, what type of events, basic rules and regulations, and of course, tandem surfing. Afterwards they spoke about their families regarding their parents. It was at that time that Kaito became curious about what she and Hippo were looking for in the archives and records at the library earlier today.

"Hippo was anxious about our family's connection to the Seaharts. Well, I am too, sorta. I have heard of the name Cole Seahart but for some reason, all this time, I just couldn't remember a thing. But after I had a little meet with Hippo earlier before I began working at the kitchen for the night shift we did discover a few things. And you know what's weird? Part of the source that Hippo stumbled upon about our family connections to the Seaharts also ended up in your family's archives too."

Kaito's eyes widened in a startle and turned to Lucia. "What... my family records? What's my family got to do with yours? I do know that our family are very close to the Seaharts. My parents were close friends with Tack and Tish Seahart, you know, Cole's parents. Gaito and I were one of the big Cole Seahart fans back then. I mean, if my family has some connection to your family, then why is it that you and I have never met in the past?"

But Kaito... we have... you're Kaikane! I know I'm probably delusional right now but my heart still kept telling me that you and my Kaikane are one in the same! And you called me Leolani... maybe Leolani was my second name or something... but the way you mention that name and the way you looked at me... Can't you see me as the girl you've always thought about? Lucia sighed, keeping herself calm before she burst in to tears again, and lowered her head.

"I... I don't know... maybe we did meet at one point... but you know, everyone was friends with other people and... you know how it goes. But... but I do think... I have seen you. That is to say... there's this boy I always dreamed of since I can remember. He looked somewhat like you, but he was always looking away. He was looking away to somewhere else... or even another girl. It was always the same pose he had whenever I have dreams about him. It's like... he would rather be with someone else better and not to do anything with me..."

Kaito walked in front of Lucia, facing her, and placed his hands on to her shoulder. Just by the touch Lucia's heartbeat began to run rapidly again. "Hey, don't say that, Lucia. Who wouldn't want to get to know you like that? Hell if that dude was really like that then he's obviously a heartless prick. I know you'll find someone who'd appreciate you for who you are."

What about you, Kaito? I always wondered what you think of me. I know we get along so well, even if we do petty arguments here and there, but other than that...

Lucia fell silent, thinking of what to respond to him. As they continued walking by the shore they found another rock formation where they can sit and rest at. For both, this looked too familiar from the first time they walked together at the beach just to talk, get to know each other, do strange things such as making up songs about the moon, just hanging out, or what some surfers say, just kicking it. They climbed up the stone structure again and found another flat surface where they can sit. Once again, the surfer boy was prepared with his usual backpack. Out came a beach blanket they used to sit on it.

"Kaito... have we been on this rock thing before...?" Lucia forgot her worries and giggled softly at this familiar scene.

"Oh hell, all rocks look the same to me!" Kaito shrugged while Lucia continued to giggle softly. Few seconds later, Kaito grinned, knowing he succeeded in making Lucia laugh at this somewhat critical moment.

Lucia's laughter faded and turned to the sea once more with a slight breeze blowing through her hair. "Remember the first time we hung out together at the beach like this?"

Kaito chuckled softly and answered while lying down on the beach blanket. "How the hell could I forget? That Surfer Moon song was still in my mind... and we haven't even finished it."

"Yeah." Lucia gave a faint smile and turned her head at Kaito, now lying down on his back. "But I have to admit... that song was pretty good. I mean, it's an appreciation song, somewhat. And of course, it's about the effects of the moon!"

"Too bad there's no full moon tonight." Kaito made his statement while staring up the clear, starry sky as well as the rather small white ball of light known as the moon. "Oh well, at least the moon never left. No more moon songs to sing."

"Silly!" Lucia giggled. "You want to make up another song?"

Kaito slightly shook him head but had a smile on his face. "You know, Lucia, you're like my rescuer."

"Hm? Rescuer?"

"I don't know how to explain it. It's like... whenever I'm with you... Your antics helped me remember the things I used to love when I was younger. Like the singing about random stuff and all... I was a composer when my parents taught me all about music. Maybe I would've been like your cousin Taro or Rihito even... I would have been more of a nerdy musician than a hotdoggin' surfer dude if it weren't for..."

That's right... Lucia thought to herself while listening to Kaito's statement. His parents died... The same year my parents died... He changed a lot ever since their deaths. But I always wondered if I changed too ever since Mom and Dad died.

"Kaito? I know this is kinda sudden to ask but... do you miss your parents? I mean... do you sometimes think of them from time to time?"

The young surfer boy got up from his spot and sat up next to Lucia. "I do. I may not look like it but I do--- everyday."

"Everyday?"

"Yeah. When I'm out riding my surf, they always come in my mind. Hell I was depressed when the sea decided to take them from us, but thanks to Gaito I got over my melancholy. My parents are like my guardian angels when I'm out there. When you're out there, you feel like you're not alone. The surf you're riding is having a duel with you. You want to conquer that surf and the surf wants to wipe you out in defeat. But when you're out there you've got your guardian angels with you, and when you felt the power to conquer your surf, there's music that only you can hear--- right here." He placed his fist on to his heart as he explained the real feeling of a surfer riding his wave.

Lucia found his explanation helpful for tandem surfing. Sure, she had never surfed before ever in her life but at the same time she can't feel nervous when she rides that wave with Kaito next to her. She was already nervous with just being with Kaito itself, but at the moment, she felt that she was getting used to being with him.

"Then that would mean that I'll feel safe when I'm out there riding the surf... because I'm not alone."

"That's right." Kaito smiled and slowly scooted herself closer to her. "What about you, Lucia? Do you think about your folks?"

"Nicola takes good care of us; Hippo and me. But sometimes I think she's also lonely at the same time. I remember her being the happiest, carefree girl ever when I was little. She was always so cheerful, so happy, and so hyped at anything that she can seriously make people smile anytime. I miss that old Nicola. My parents taught me music too, mostly singing. They loved the ocean as if they ruled it. Nicola said one time that they were the King and Queen of Sector 7 Beach at one point because they lived across it."

Kaito nodded in acknowledgement. "Guess you and I were both raised under the same influence, huh?" He chuckled nervously after that statement while Lucia joined in the laughter. Few moments later, silence fell.

Both were contemplating what they were going to say next or what subject they can talk about at this point. Deep in their minds and hearts, however, both are still anticipating that their first loves they lost when they were at their young age may be each other. The only problem was which one of the two will mention about the dream they coincidentally had together, not to mention the names of those mysterious lost loves.

During the silence, Kaito noticed Lucia's expression on her face while she stared out at the ocean. Sure, there was no full moon tonight for them to sing their Surfer Moon song, but the night at the ocean itself was still hypnotic even without the moon. Her heart still pined for Kaito, still making herself sure that he was the young boy Kaikane, whom she rescued and fell in love with for the first time. Just looking at the expression somehow made him feel the same way without even realizing it at that point, except it was more of an answer to that particular expression. When he found her happy, it made him smile. When he found her angry, he would either confront her or ignore her until she was cool enough to talk. When she was sad and melancholic, he felt tempted to just take her in his arms, letting her cry on his shoulder, and simply keep her safe, knowing she was not alone. At the same time though, he did not want to scare her at the same time. He already confirmed to himself that if Lucia ended up hating him and would not want to deal with him anymore he knew he would be heartbroken. Why, he would ask to himself at times. The answer was simple. Lucia was the first girl who cared more about himself and the things he loved rather than doing anything to get his attention or attract him to her regardless of what he thought of her. He felt a lot more free when he was with her and felt that he can talk to her about anything he wanted. Even if they were not much interest to her, he knew he would still listen.

"Lucia?" Kaito called for her while she continued to display her melancholic expression while watching the ocean rolling in and out.

She turned her head once she heard him call her name. "Oh! Sorry about that, Kaito. I... I was just thinking... that's all."

"Are you okay? You don't look too happy right now..."

She gulped nervously, feeling as if he was on to her right at that point. She thought it was too early to confess how she truly felt for him, though they had been speaking to each other for three weeks in to the summer season. She began to think about the concept of a summer love. Sure, she would love to have Kaito for her summer love, but when they head back to school, what then? Would they go back to their usual selves in school where she and Kaito never spoke to each other and that she would continue to swoon and admire him from afar while Hanon continued to pester her for it?

"I... I don't know how to say this, Kaito..." Lucia bit her lip to keep herself from getting her eyes watery. "It's just... I can't stop thinking about... well... I..."

"Was it about that dream that you dreamed when you fell asleep at the library?"

"I know it's nothing and it's only a dream but how could you dream the same exact dream that I was when..." She stopped herself at that point and tightened her fist. "I can't... I can't... do this..."

Kaito shook his head and turned his head slightly away. "You're still trippin' about that dream? It's only a dream, Lucia. Not like it's for real or anything..."

"But Kaito, it is real!" Lucia exclaimed from out of the blue and immediately closed her mouth.

"Real...?" Kaito raised an eyebrow of suspicion. "You mean the dream?"

"It's real, Kaito!" Before she knew the same mistake was going to happen again she gave herself in to her runaway emotions. "It's... it's real... it wasn't just a dream, it was a past memory I had when I was little. It was the time I met him... he was my first love..." Right then she could not hold herself much longer that tears appeared on her eyes and one trickled down her cheek.

"Hey Lucia..." Kaito attempted to reach for her when Lucia shook her head and continued to ramble on.

"He's the reason why I couldn't stop singing! I was always horrible at singing when I was little until I met him that night... He was singing his sadness away and somehow his song really touched me... so much that I wanted to sing along with him. When he disappeared from me the day after somehow the night we first met and the night we stayed together to be safe inspired me to sing. It was like magic when all the people I'm close with who know how horrible my singing was became startled when they heard me sing again afterwards. I guess I thought... I thought if I kept on singing that he would hear me and find me. It was the only way for me to find him, but..."

Just as Lucia trailed off she felt arms around her waist and began to feel warmth behind her. She turned her head to her left to see Kaito's face leaning over her shoulder, also a few inches to each other's lips. She felt a jolt within her and her heart began to beat faster. "Kaito... what are you..."

"You still owe me a song, girl." Kaito spoke with a grin on his face. "When are you going to sing me a song, Lucia? It's been three weeks and you've been torturing me by not singing!"

"Torturing?" Lucia's eyes widened in shock and found herself completely stunned at her position. "Kaito... I... I do have a song for you... it's just that I'm... waiting for... the perfect time to sing it..."

"Perfect time?" Kaito slowly released her as they sat back to their original spots again. "What would that perfect time be?"

"Kaito, you're so mean... you really want answers to everything, do you?"

"Perfect time, eh? Now you really are making me feel tortured! I wonder if that perfect time would be the time that you and I are doing a bit of somethin' somethin' all alone for the first time or ..."

"Pervert!" Lucia shrieked but at the same time her body began to shiver while Kaito burst into laughter as his reaction. "You're making fun of me!"

After the laughter and the frowns, short silence fell between the two. Lucia found herself looking out at the ocean again while Kaito found himself gazing at the girl next to him. He was tempted again to do something at this moment, like placing his arm around her, just to keep her safe and secure. Right when he saw Lucia's expression going back to what it was before with another tear about to fall he decided not to hesitate. He made his first move by placing his arm around her waist, which made Lucia gasp softly.

"Kaito?" Lucia called his name in a curious tone.

"If you want, you can pretend..."

"Pretend... what do you mean?" Kaito felt slightly nervous at first at this move he was making, but decided to go through the slight fear within him.

"Look, I gotta side with reality and all but I don't think you'll ever see him again. I gotta admit too... I'm close to giving up hoping for her myself..."

Lucia lowered her head, knowing that despite of her hopes of searching for her Kaikane and Kaito searching for his Leolani that time flew and new memories were made and new people as well as the old appear and settle in Nijibe everyday. On the other hand on Lucia's case, she was with her new love this night, assuming that he and Kaikane were not the same person. She began to realize that Kaito truly cared for her regardless of the imperfections he may possessed. Sure, he was some kind of a player and dated the town's hottest girls for one week, but he had his own reasons why.

"You're right... who am I kidding? Maybe I was hallucinating... but I can't be... because I know that was real... and he was real... He was real because I felt his warmth when he held me close so I won't die of the cold that night... He kept me safe, secure, and alive that night. I mean sure, we're kids and we're not that strong enough to keep another alive, but when he held me it felt like we were really meant to be; that we would never part no matter what happens."

Kaito, still with his arm around her waist, answered her: "If it makes you feel better, you can pretend..."

"Pretend? What do you mean?" Just as she asked the question she never felt so much and secure once she felt Kaito's body completely close to her.

"Pretend that I'm him."

Lucia's eyes widened in shock to hear him make that answer. She felt as if he was reading her mind. "Are... are you sure, Kaito? I mean... I wouldn't want to do things you wouldn't feel comfortable and—-"

"Ahaha..." Kaito burst in to laughter and then whispered on her ear. "You have no idea how many types of girls I've dated in the past even if it was just for a week. They've done so many things to me it isn't funny, but I've gotten used to it! If I can stay unaffected from their kissing and caressing for that long, I'm sure whatever you do to me isn't going to affect me a bit."

She turned immediately to him with a more concerned look. "But Kaito... it's me. I'm not like them. I... I'm not a one-week girlfriend material at all... and I don't want to be... that kind of a friend too. I wouldn't do anything that would make you feel uncomfortable... unaffected or not. I wouldn't do anything that you wouldn't be pleased with. I mean... it's hard for me to pretend that you're him..."

"I just don't want to see you sad anymore because of some dude you happen to fall in love with when you're a kid and then disappear like that. I mean if he knew your name he would be out there somewhere looking for you. If he's a resident of Nijibe then it'd be easy for him to find you, right?"

Lucia nodded, knowing that he was correct with the latter. Why didn't this Kaikane boy even made an attempt to look for her, she wondered. Assuming Kaito and Kaikane were one in the same, Lucia would feel a lot more heartbroken to see Kaito not even recognizing her as the girl he inspired to sing. She could not help herself but to feel her eyes shed more tears again.

"And another thing," Kaito continued, lowering his voice in a slight whisper. "You can't always be like this in tandem surfing. Your main focus in this sport is to open yourself and show the world you're as strong to open yourself in different forms as well as you're graceful and beautiful. You have a part as important as my part, Lucia, and you thinking about him a few weeks away from the tournament worries me as your tandem surfing partner."

Lucia sighed and lowered her head. "I'm sorry, Kaito. Maybe I'm the wrong person to be your partner. I don't even know why you chose me in the first place anyway. I mean, how do you know that I'm actually going to play a part that would be a guaranteed win for that competition? I mean, I've never surfed, let alone posing gracefully on the air while I'm being held up high like a trophy or something."

"I picked you because I feel more connected to you, Lucia, right from the first time we saw each other at the beach that last day of school... when I was chased by those crazy fan girls and I found your hand so you won't get run over by them... when we found a railing small enough to jump over and you jumped along with me without question. Your love of surfing also caught my attention--- no other girl had ever talked about my sport the way you do. And that silly Surfer Moon song that we made up too. Who would have I thought I'd end up making up a song with you in a few minutes like that? And despite of the dumb arguments we had we still got along."

"Kaito... I'm sorry... again... I feel such a total kook now... a total poser..." Lucia shook her head, sighing in guilt, thinking she made a fool of herself rather than sharing what she knew and loved about the sport to someone who obviously knew and lived the sport more than she did.

The handsome surfer boy shook his head and turned her face gently to him with his finger under her chin. "Besides, your enthusiasm really got to me, but I still think you don't understand enough about the sport until you actually experienced it. For some reason I can see how much you want to have one good ride at the waves someday but you're either scared or shy. Either way, I thought you being my partner in the tandem surfing competition would be a good way for you to experience the sport itself. And..."

Lucia gave a small smile, looking more curious than happy at his reasons. "And... what else?"

"Well... I'd be delighted and honored to share my ride and my board with you, Lucia. Sometimes it gets lonely out there surfing by yourself. Sure, it wins me championship titles, but it's getting repetitive sometimes. I want to win more titles with other events too, not just the usual shortboard competition. I mean... if I can win by myself, I'm pretty confident that I can win the same with someone on the same board with me."

"Kaito... I... I feel so overwhelmed..." Quickly Lucia covered her face to hide the constant blushing. "I don't know if I'll be able to fulfill the things you are aiming for, but I want to do my best with... whatever it is that I need to do."

"Don't worry about that now. You haven't really experienced the importance of winning in a surfing competition yet, so don't think about that. Remember, if we win the tandem surfing competition of the tournament, we win it together and we share the prize together."

"Mm... you're right." Lucia sighed in relief with a smile on her face. Unconsciously, she leaned her head on Kaito's shoulder, simply relaxing herself with him. "Just teach me what I need to do and I'll be sure I get things right."

Kaito found himself blushing when he felt her head on his shoulder. From his skin he could feel how smooth and silky her hair was and how warm her cheeks were. With his arm still around hers he slowly held his grip slightly tighter, forcing Lucia's entire body to move completely next to his.

"I'll call you tomorrow morning to wake you up. We start early tomorrow. Don't think about what you need to wear during our first day of practice. Just wear your wetsuit if you're concerned about bikinis and all that--- though I'd be excited to see you in a two-piece... I bet you'd look really hot in it..."

Lucia blushed even more and gulped nervously. "'Hot' and me don't mix..."

"You'd never know until you try," Kaito softly chuckled. "But like I said, don't worry about that. Deal with that later when it's nearing the tournament already. Most important thing is that you feel safe and comfortable while you learn the basics. Okay?"

Lucia nodded, still with a smile on her face. "I'll wait for that phone call..."

"Well... unless you want to stay here at this very rock formation, overlooking the mighty sea, while we snuggle, cuddle, and sleep together..." Kaito snickered while Lucia shrieked and lifted her head from his shoulder.

"Pervert!" Lucia exclaimed, tightening her fist while Kaito began to laugh.

"I've slept overnight at the beach before several times--- sometimes by myself, most of the time with the dudes. And hell, I'd even admit I had a few girls I dated sleep with me here--- but none of that somethin' somethin' ever happened during those nights 'cause that ain't my style."

"Oh! Well... that is... I used to camp out here with the family sometimes and sleep just so we can enjoy the sounds of the peaceful sea and watching the stars twinkle and all of that."

"Then again," Kaito began to snicker again, "if you and I actually slept right here at this spot... well... we may never know what can happen..."

"Kaito!" Lucia shrieked again in a startle. "Why do you always make fun of me like this?"

The alluring surfer stuck his tongue, still grinning at her reaction. "I have no reason to make fun of you. I just like making you blush."

"Oh!" Lucia shrieked and spanked Kaito on the side of his arm.

"Ow--- hey!" Kaito burst in to laughter again, rubbing the pain from his arm.

"I feel like a fool actually thinking you really want to... oh I don't know what I'm babbling about!" She crossed her arms and turned her head away from him.

"Aw, don't be like that, Lucia. If you really want me that much, why don't you say so? I don't mind doing it with you... I like you, you know." Right then he winked right when Lucia gazed at him blushing even more.

Why do you always toy around with my feelings like this, Kaito? It makes me wonder if you ever think of me more than just someone you'd like to play around with...

Kaito placed a hand on her shoulder, calming her down. "Hey, come on, Lucia. You know I was half-kidding!"

"Half... kidding?" Lucia shifted her eyes right to him without turning her head.

"About you and me doing it in a casual manner? That, I was kidding. I don't believe in that casual stuff. If you're wondering about me... I've never done it--- despite of whatever the hell rumors and gossip Hanon and those other weird fan girls have been feeding your mind. Sure, I fooled around in the past but I got morals too!"

"Y-yeah... of course... why didn't I think of that...?" Lucia sighed in relief and curled herself with her chin resting on her bare knees.

"Another reason why I date girls I could be interested in for a week--- We'd just hang out at the nearest coffee shop and go home that day and then the next day I'm hearing from the dudes that we went all the way to the hotel going hot and heavy while reminding all the other chicks how good of a lover I was. Like what the hell was that all about? I haven't even touched a single girl anywhere else other than her face, her hand, her arm, and her hair..."

Lucia shook her head, now it was confirmed that whatever ideas Hanon tried to plant in to her head was nothing by hearsays from the other one-week exes in the past. She knew to herself that Kaito would rather spend most of his free time surfing and catching the perfect wave to conquer than to fool around with other girls all the way to a one-night stand. Sure, Hanon was still one of her best friends, but sometimes she would have to make herself cautious and find out more about Kaito herself than listening to one of his one-week exes.

"You're a completely different person when you're in total surfer mode, Kaito." Lucia answered to Kaito's previous statement. She remained curled up but turned her head to him. "And when you're just a regular guy dealing with girls you're also different. I think it's like that with everybody. I see you more as a competitor than someone who's in love with love itself... unlike me."

"And my question to you is--- do I care?" Kaito answered with a grin on his face. "You're different from all the girls I got involved with. I don't know how to describe it, but I wasn't kidding when I said that I like you."

"I... I like you too, Kaito." Lucia smiled and slowly leaned herself on to him again. Kaito still had his arm around her waist and tightened a little so she can reach him. While she had her head on his shoulder she had one more thought to add to herself. No... I love you, Kaito Doumoto. I really do.

Silence fell again but this time the two were in good company with each other, smiling to themselves and to each other all at once. Kaito broke the silence and continued. "So, Lucia... it's getting late. I should take you home."

"Can we stay here... just for awhile?" Lucia whispered unconsciously, still making herself comfortable with her head on his broad shoulder. "Just for awhile...?" I don't want to go and say goodnight just yet... I mean we're tandem surfing partners and all... I thought we should have a special connection for us to win in that sport? I don't want you to go... I can't wait to spend more time with you tomorrow so... why not spend more time tonight...?

Kaito fell silent at first, wondering if it was a good idea to stay longer, possibly until the next day, right at that spot with Lucia. It was not as if he did not want to spend the entire night at all, but his main concern was the reaction of her older sister and her younger brother when they learn that their middle sister spent the entire night out at the beach with the champion surfer with a not-so-chaste reputation with the females. He was tempted to stay with her, but just for the precaution he would have to decline.

"Not tonight, Lucia. I don't want your family to worry about you." Kaito said with a smile and took her hand and gently squeezed tight, which Lucia blush even more. "But I'll call you in the morning--- or maybe come over and wake you up when you're still asleep. We start very early tomorrow and we both need our sleep. Okay?"

Lucia sighed sadly and deeply, hoping she would do whatever she can to make him fall in love with her. She was also tempted to call him by his other name, just to see how he would react. Unfortunately, that moment will have to come later. "You're right. We need a fresh start."

Though the second night they spent together at the beach had not much of a conclusion they both knew that their second night would end in a good light. They knew they would not make the same mistake again as the first time. Once they arrived at the Pearl Waters doorstep Lucia threw her arms around Kaito as her way of saying thanks.

"Thanks for having me again tonight at the beach. I had a lot of fun, even if we're just talking."

"Well... you didn't want to do anything so we just ended up talking. We could've done more you know..."

Lucia felt her cheeks blushing again when Kaito quickly patted her on the head gently. "Kaito..."

"Goodnight, Lucia." While her arms were still around his neck he placed his around her waist, slowly pulling her close to him. At that moment Lucia realized one thing. This was the first time that they embraced each other--- in friendly terms, that is.

Gosh... we're... we're holding in each other's arms... It's like we're girlfriend and boyfriend... Oh man, I feel so nervous... my heart won't stop beating so fast! Lucia found herself blushing once more and could not control her arms to let go of the boy she had been in love with for the longest time. Just as she continued to hold him around his shoulders she felt a warm breath on her ear and a whispering voice.

"I look forward to tomorrow, Lucia."

Lucia continued to stay in the same position just so she could hide her heavy blushing face from the boy who seemed to enjoy making her blush. "M-me too, Kaito. I can't wait to actually surf for the very first time!"

Slowly she felt herself being released, which forced her arms to release him as well. Right then she found herself facing the surfer boy's captivating smiling face. "Don't worry about time. Unlike some desperate surfers, I like to take things slow so you can learn at your own pace. Just don't think about the tournament for now, alright?"

Lucia nodded and flashed a huge smile. "You can count on me, Kaito! Just you wait and see!"

"Heh, that's the spirit."

"Goodnight, Kaito. Um... sweet dreams, sleep tight... and all that!"

"Haha... I'm gonna need it, but same to you."

The two waved each other goodnight as Kaito made his way back home. Lucia slowly backed away until she reached the door with a huge smile on her face. She placed her hand on her heart to keep it cool and calm. She began to have more thoughts as she pushed the door open using her back.

I feel like we're going to go on a major date tomorrow--- except it'll be at the water--- surfing... Oh man... and he says he likes me! Although I wonder if that type of 'like' is the friendship like or the 'more than friendship' like. Oh well, since he says he likes to take things slow, then I'll go along with his pace. Man, I wish he'd give me a goodnight kiss or something...

She finally entered Pearl Waters, making her way to her room. Before that and with the first embrace she shared with Kaito, right at the second floor balcony was her overprotective younger brother Hippo, who still was not impressed with Kaito's meaningful kind gestures on his middle sister. At the same time, not only did he finally learn the truth about his family and their connection to the Dainami-Oni incident, but he also learned about the mystery of the Doumoto Twins.

Damn... Mom, Dad... I can't believe you and the Does actually made a deal to get Lucia to fall in love with and even marry a dude like Kaito Doumoto. I still don't trust him when it comes to girls. What if he gets tired of Lucia right after the tournament? By the time we all get back to school it'd be the same all over again like normal, with Kaito hanging with the most popular girls and Lucia back as a wallpaper again with Rina.

Right at that point Hippo heard footsteps climbing up the stares. His lovestruck middle sister arrived on curfew time, even if there really was no curfew for the Nanamis in the first place. He headed to the hall to meet Lucia right there.

"Oh, Hippo!" Lucia exclaimed once she found the lanky blonde boy standing before her. "Well, I'm home--- before eleven!"

"So what's up with you and Kaito? Did you two confess your love to each other or something?" Hippo asked curiously with his arms crossed.

"I wish..." Lucia sighed deeply and walked through the room where the balcony was located. "We only discussed about tandem surfing and how he was going to make me comfortable surfing out at the sea." She headed for Hippo's bed and sat there while Hippo sat on his desk chair.

"I'm assuming Kaito actually has a tandem longboard for you to practice on." Hippo answered in a rather strict tone. "I'm still kinda unsure about his experience in tandem surfing, let alone how strong he really is to actually carry you---"

"Well, I'll work out and lose some weight so I'll be lighter, Hippo! I don't want him to do any more workouts because he's got more surfing to practice like his usual individuals!"

Hippo shook his head. "You look fine, Lucia. I don't want you going through those crazy crash diets or something so you can look like a toothpick. Besides, you'd be more fragile when you look like a stick figure at tandem surfing than how you look now and that would also be a disadvantage. Usually in tandem surfing, the one who has more responsibility is the surfer himself. If he loses his balance on the board, you're both eliminated. If he drops you, you're both eliminated and he'll be the one to blame because you can get injured if he drops you. Then again, I do know that Kaito as a surfer is a whole different person from Kaito as a player, so tomorrow when you and he go out there at the sea I expect him to be the surfer, not the player that most of these idiot fan girls are fawning over."

"Hey, I know Kaito knows what he's doing. He proved it to me earlier. He's aware of the safety precautions and all of that. And if you still think that he's a player, then he wouldn't suggest for me to wear a wetsuit tomorrow for surfing!"

"Lucia, you're gonna have to wear a bikini one way or the other anyway," Hippo made his statement. "I know how much you hate them, but when you're out there on an actual tandem surfing competition you're required to look really attractive to the spectators and to the judges and most likely wearing the hottest pair of bikinis can be a factor."

"Unless if the water's temperature is cold," Lucia added, "safety precaution too--- wear a swimsuit on a cold temperature ocean. You don't want to die of hypothermia."

"You've got a point too... sometimes the waters at the beach across can get cold. Let's just hope that won't be a factor at the tournament."

Lucia nodded and then curled herself on to her brother's bed, smiling happily while thinking about what happened earlier. Hippo already noticed her reaction right after he mentioned Kaito in the conversation. He began to be more curious than ever. "Why are you all looking goofy like that, Lucia? I've never seen you like that before. Did Kaito kiss you or something?"

"Sadly, no..." Lucia sighed deeply and lowered her head. "He... he was teasing me... he made me think that he was going to... and all other things too... I guess he really does see me more as a friend than anything else... what am I gonna do, Hippo? What if he gets sick of me and finds another girl to talk with? Hippo, you have no idea how that is going to break my heart so much. If he gets tired of me and rejects me then I'm seriously going to die!"

Hippo sighed and shook his head. "You're not gonna die of heartbreak, Lucia, unless if you actually decide to kill yourself, which I do hope you don't because that'd be just stupid. If that happens, you move on and find a really nice guy you really deserve... you know... guys like Rihito---"

"Rihito?" Lucia sighed. "He's nice, mature, and handsome and all, but I just don't see him that way. Plus it'd be illegal for me to date an adult anyway. And knowing Rihito he's not gonna go for middle school-aged girls like me anyway. He hung out with Kaito before he went to college and he also told me that he's a really nice guy once I get to know him."

"I said guys like Rihito, not Rihito himself, stupid." Hippo rolled his eyes while Lucia gave a slight humph at the bitter younger brother.

"Why don't you hang out with Kaito one of these days, Hippo? Spend at least one day with him. In that way you'll get to know more about him instead of you making prejudices like that. People talk too much about other people you know? They're not necessarily true unless you experience those hearsays yourself. That was one of the things we talked about and Kaito is really bitter about all the dumb gossip all these stupid fan girls have been passing along to anyone. Even Hanon gave me strange ideas about him when they're not even true!"

"Fine... fine..." Hippo sighed deeply, still shaking his head, then began to change the subject. "Anyway... I found something shocking about our family thanks to the archives we gathered earlier at the library today."

"Shocking? Like what?"

Hippo reached inside his closet and dragged out the box where the items were stored from the archives department at the library. He opened and reached for the red journal notebook that belonged to their parents under the names of Tack and Tish Seahart.

"We are the Seahart Family, Lucia. The Seahart name was one of those elaborate surf nicks that surfers back then used to name themselves and their fellow surfers in the Rainbowside. The premiere tandem surfing couple of that time were Mom and Dad--- Tack and Tish Seahart, a.k.a. Takerou and Chisa Nanami."

Lucia's eyes widened as Hippo handed the journal notebook to her. "Wait... are you saying that we're actually a family of surfers?"

"Yes, we are, Lucia! That's why you and I got in to the sport in general so easily. We got easily connected to the sport one way or the other even if we don't actually surf ourselves. Surfing runs through our blood, Sis."

Lucia gasped in shock as she began to skim through the first page when she read the warning note. She read the names mentioned and gasped even more to find two particularly names that she had in her mind as of late. "What...? Did I just read... Leolani and Kaikane?"

Hippo nodded. "You're Leolani, Lucia. That's your surf nick. You may not be a surfer yourself but Mom and Dad were. In the Rainbowside, if any surfer has a family, each family member has a surf nick. Hippo isn't just some family nickname Mom and Dad gave me. It's also my surf nick too."

"Hippo... about... about Kaikane... please tell me you found something about him... He's the boy whom I saved those seven years ago and all this time I've been looking and waiting and hoping he would return to me one day..." Lucia felt desperate for answers, begging her younger brother to provide any information regarding her first love.

The younger brother turned to the box and reached for the second notebook. He handed it to her and she took the second notebook from him. She opened the cover and read what was on the first page. Everything was handwritten, not printed, which meant that this was some kind of a journal.

The SURFER LOG of the RAINBOWSIDE TANDEM SURF CREW
Gen and Kim Doe
(Genrou and Kimiko Doumoto)

WARNING! This journal belongs to the eyes of
The Entire RAINBOWSIDE SURF TRIBE of Nijibe
The Doe Twins – Kainehe and Kaikane

"Kaikane--- Doe?" Lucia read the name on the first cover. She also took note of what was written in the parenthesis underneath the names of Gen and Kim Doe. Right then her suspicion of seeing Kaito and Kaikane being one in the same was finally confirmed. She gasped happily and suddenly embraced her brother tightly to her. "I love you so much, Hippo! You're my hero!"

Hippo blinked curiously and patted his older sister on the shoulder. "Uh... okay...?"

"I want to thank you for doing all this archives thing about our family and the Seaharts and the Does and... that means I really was meant to be with Kaikane... no... Kaito..."

"Hold it, Lucia!" Hippo exclaimed and took the notebook away from her. "How do you know that Kaito is Kaikane?"

"Well isn't it obvious? When people write the names of siblings they usually write them in order--- from the oldest to the youngest. Since Kaikane was written second, then it's obvious that's Kaito's surf nick!"

"What if they wrote it by mistake? It could be his older twin Gaito, you know?"

"No!" Lucia shrieked in shock, refusing to believe Hippo's theory. "Gaito and Sara belong to each other! And it's Kaito who I want to be with, not him. I'm not gonna barge in their love and declare to Gaito that our late parents wanted us together and stuff like that... Sure, they're twins and they pretty much look like each other, but I can easily tell who's who. Gaito is a lot calmer and he's not much of a flirt with random girls. Kaito is a bit more open and has more experience with girls than Gaito does!"

"Right, and Gaito is the one who has the girlfriend." Hippo snickered and leaned himself against the cushion of his desk seat. "Lucia, you're being too hopeful. You can't just make assumptions like that. Okay, so you're in love with Kaito and this kid with the surf nick of Kaikane from seven years ago. You're wishing and hoping and praying that Kaito and Kaikane are the same guy. Sis, you're the only one among us three siblings who never dated or even experienced being in love. Nicola--- or should we call her Cole--- had a few dates with Maki's younger brother, only to find out later that he had no interest in her being a girlfriend. Me, on the other hand, well you know already. But seriously, Lucia, you can't just say that Kaito and that Kaikane kid from seven years ago are the same person. You need more proof than that and the Does' journal you're holding now doesn't have much to prove it."

"Oh Hippo..." Lucia sighed deeply and sadly and lowered her head, preventing herself from getting teary-eyed again. "It's not fair... what am I gonna do? I feel so desperate now. I had such a wonderful time with Kaito, just talking while watching the ocean rolling in and rolling out and even count the stars that we see up the sky. Hippo, how am I going to talk to Kaito now? I mean he's so hyped about tandem surfing that I don't want to just start to... um... you know... flirt... with him... just because he was my true love for seven years. I mean, what if he's forgotten about me as Leolani? What if he was talking about some other girl that he was looking for? That's what I'm really scared of happening. Sure, I'm his tandem surfing partner for the tournament, but what if that's all I'm going to be with him? What if when we go back to school we'd just be classmates who never spoke to each other like we were before? I guess everyone's right about him getting interested in a girl and dates her for one week and that was it. I'm just going really nuts thinking about all this!"

Hippo grabbed Lucia by her shoulders and began to shake her abruptly. "Get a hold of yourself, Sis! Look... if you really want to know if Kaito has a surf nick and if he says it's Kaikane, then go from there."

"I can't do that! I don't want to scare him! I don't want him to say that our parents made a deal or something that they're going to hook us up. I mean what if he doesn't know that? And... and I can't believe we even have the possession of the Doumoto Twins' parents' surfing journal... I think we should give it to them or bring it back to the archives---"

"Not right now. I need to read more of their journal. I want to know more about these two tandem surfing couples. We already know too much about Cole--- Nicola! Only thing we need to do is confront her about her hiding around and trying to brainwash us as being normal Nijibe kids who were never involved with the Rainbowside."

"Maybe... maybe Nicola had an argument with Mom and Dad or something before they died and she felt so guilty about their death. But I can't even remember because you and I always hung out with Taro more than with Nicola. She was always busy surfing and from what I recall it wasn't until Mom and Dad died of a boat accident that we finally got closer to Nicola, you know?"

"Lucia!" Hippo began to correct her. "Mom and Dad didn't die of a boating accident like Nicola warped us in to thinking when we were kids--- they died at the regional championships when they got swallowed by the Dainami-Oni that day! And here's the interesting part too, Lucia. The interesting part is how the Doe Couple died."

"Kaito said they drowned from what I can remember, but I don't remember how they drowned..."

Hippo chuckled and reached for the box and out came some newspaper article clippings. "Our parents were taken away by the Dainami-Oni first. The Does came next when they attempted to find and rescue our parents from drowning. It wouldn't make sense for the officials to continue on with the competition after that major accident. Though they were swallowed down the sea first, the Dainami-Oni did not stop there. It still continued to roll in numerous times that it really did scare the entire spectacle. Both Gen and Kim Doe--- or shall we say Mr. and Mrs. Doumoto--- headed out to the sea to look for the Seaharts even when they were advised not to--- but they valued the lives of their teammates. It was the Rainbowside Code of Honor, you know, as well as the Surfing Etiquette Bills too."

Lucia fell silent, still was in disbelief what she was hearing, however the more they spoke about the Seaharts, the Does, and the Dainami-Oni the more she was beginning to recall the memories lost, or rather forced to erase, by her older sister. Nicola's intention as to why she did that to her younger siblings was still a mystery and the only way to find out was to finally confront her about this whole thing. She was beginning to remember her childhood at the S-Cube and the people present during those times. And right at that point she began to visualize the kids who were there. She began to remember her days hanging out with older cousin Taro along with the younger Hippo. She also remembered how Taro and Sara met before they began dating. It was even at the beach where Taro was holding hands with her and Hippo and Sara holding hands with both the Doumoto Twins (or in this case, the Doe Twins). She remembered that both Taro and Sara loved children and had a few things in common and the rest was history.

"Oh... oh... now I'm beginning to recall now, Hippo. I think... I think have seen Kaikane before... but I can't remember which one was which because they looked so much alike when they were younger." It was not until that night seven years ago when she met Kaikane and her discovery of her love of singing, thanks to him. She remembered how much kindness he showed her even if they were strangers then, plus in the dream she had earlier at the library when she accidentally fell asleep even made it clear how much kindness the boy had for her. She felt that the boy Kaikane also fell in love with her the same way she fell in love with him.

"Sorry, Sis... I'm too young to remember. I was only five when Mom and Dad died." Hippo shrugged and then placed his arm around his older sister. "Lucia, cheer up. I can already see with your reactions that you've got it real bad for Kaito because of that Kaikane kid from seven years ago. Just be happy that you're very close to finding that boy of your dreams that night seven years ago. In fact, just say that you already found him. The only thing you need to figure out is which one of the two is Kaikane."

Lucia sighed and shook her head. "And you're calling me an idiot, Hippo? It's obvious, don't you think? If Kaikane was Gaito then he wouldn't be dating Sara--- that is, he would give me some sort of equal attention even if he didn't have the same feelings for me. Kaito doesn't have a permanent girlfriend and he also told me that the reason why he was having these one-week girlfriend was because he was looking for his first love--- the girl who rescued him from drowning those seven years ago--- the same exact event as what I had at that day. Hippo, I still believe in my heart that Kaito is Kaikane. It's not because I love him, but it's because my instincts are telling me so. And not just that--- didn't Mom and Dad write in their journal that they made a deal with the Does about Kaikane and me?" She sighed and began to blush again when she began to think about everything related to Kaito and Kaikane. "He was so kind and gentle... and earlier tonight Kaito was being kind and gentle too, even if he made fun of me and tease me a lot... He couldn't wait for tomorrow... oh Hippo, I would be so nervous around him tomorrow because I know I'd be tempted to call him Kaikane when I have no proof and... and... I don't know what else to say anymore..."

"Jeez, Lucia..." Hippo shook his head once more. "You'll be fine tomorrow. If you want I'll hang out with you dudes and betties if you want. I need some fresh shots for my collection anyway."

"Hippo, I still feel that Kaito is Kaikane... because he's the one I'm in love with, not Gaito. If Kaikane really was Gaito then I would've known and I would be falling head over heels on him instead of Kaito, but I don't. Sure, they both look a like in many ways that anybody would have a hard time figuring out which one is which, but to me I can see that they're two different people."

"Well, you're right about the twins being different from each other. Even I can tell them apart from each other because as an aspiring surf photographer I've been keeping an eye on those two. Gaito is the crewmaster, manages the surfers in the tribe in both recreational and in competition, giving them advice and the pep talk in to making them champs. Kaito is the kahuna of the tribe, the one who holds the championship title for around four consecutive years--- maybe even more, I lost count. Gaito focused more on --- you know Kaito more than I do, so I'll take your word for it."

Lucia gazed at the two notebooks and reached for the red. "Can I borrow this for awhile? I wanna read what Mom and Dad wrote in here."

"Go ahead. I'm done with Mom and Dad's journal anyway." Hippo reached for the blue notebook, belonging to the Doumoto couple. "I'll start reading the Doumotos' journal."

"Hippo, I think it's wrong. I don't think we should read it. It belongs to Kaito and Gaito..."

"I know it's wrong but it said that the entire Rainbowside tribe can read it."

"But we're not part of the tribe, Hippo. We're not hardcore surfers like Mom and Dad--- and even Nicola--- seven years ago."

"We're family of the Rainbowside, which automatically makes us tribe members."

Lucia sighed with a frown. "Fine... Just please don't think of Kaito in the wrong light after reading that journal."

"Hey, I don't know him personally as much as you do, so don't worry. You're the only one who knows the truth about him."

Lucia nodded and clung on to the red notebook to herself as she stood up from the bed. "Well... I'm heading to bed now. I need to wake up early."

"Good," Hippo said with a nod. "Real deal surfers do start their practice very early morning when the surf's are up. And since you're partnered up with last year's champ, you're gonna have to work hard to be on his level."

"I know, I know... I trust him with however he's going to teach me how to surf or what to do when we're out there."

The two siblings wave each other goodnight as Lucia made her way back to her bedroom. She made sure she did not disturb anyone who was already asleep and not be seen by Nicola with their parents' journal in her hands. Once she made it to the door of her room she entered, locked her door, and placed the journal on her bed. She changed to her usual pink pair of PJs and headed to the restroom to wash herself. Once she headed back to her room she jumped on to her cozy bed and turned on her bedside radio to see if there were anything interesting on air.

That particular radio show was the Young Lovers' Night radio show, meaning that the period's most popular and memorable love songs, ballads, and anything else with a deep romantic meaning were aired at this particular radio show. Though this was yet another teen and young adult-related radio show like the Nijibe Youth Talk Corner morning radio show, this particular radio show was quite popular with many of Nijibe youth, boys and girls, simply because there were no gossip talk about the town's most recognized youth around. In addition to playing favorite love songs on the air, there were many teenagers around Nijibe, mostly young girls, would call in to say their special dedications to the ones they loved, the ones they were secretly in love with. Because the night was just beautiful and she still could not get over the moment she spent with Kaito awhile ago she was truly in the mood to listen to late night shows.

As Lucia continued to listen to the show while reading the first few pages of the Seahart Couple journal she listened to many of the listeners calling in and declaring their dedications to their special someone on air. Many of them were heartfelt and a few even brought the blonde girl to tears. When more dedications were being announced it was at that point where she had an idea.

She closed the journal and placed it underneath her pillows and reached for her cellphone. She dialed the phone number announced on the air hurriedly, hoping she would get a chance to say something on air.

In the meantime at the Doumoto Twins' classy and stylish beachside shack, the surfer boys of the Rainbowside were having their usual late night card game at the completely spic and span living room while the very high-tech, flashy stereo system was tuned in to the Young Lovers' Night radio show. Though Kaito was not exactly a fan of this particular radio show--- in fact, he was never much of a fan to any radio shows that was Nijibe teen-related--- he gave the exception of letting the rest of the boys including his older twin to tune in and listen anyway. He watched Masahiro, Nagisa, Kengo, and Daichi play a good game of 13-Card Poker on the sides while Gaito arrived from the kitchen with a bag of potato chips, a small bowl of French Onion dip, and a box of freshly refrigerated pack of Coca Cola.

"Alright dudes," Gaito called to them while placing the bowls on the very clean and tidy glass coffee table and opening the box of Coca Cola cans afterwards. "Late night grub's here!"

"Awesome!" The boys placed their hands down as they gathered around the coffee table to take their late night snack break.

Gaito took out the cans and tossed them gently to the rest of the boys, with Kaito being last. Once Kaito caught his can he sat at the wall side sofa and rested himself against the cushion with his legs over the sofa.

As the rest of the surfers made their munching, Kaito opened his can, hearing the familiar fizzle of freshly ice-cold cola waiting to quench his personal thirst. When he began to sip his cola, he caught the radio show airing something that intrigued him.

"RNBW FM here and welcome to the Young Lovers Night show!"

"H-hi... Cupie, was it?"

"That's right, sweetie. Cupie's the name! What's yours?"

"I'm... I'm... Leolani..."

Just when Kaito heard the particular name he choked on his cola and accidentally spilled it right out from his mouth. His accident caught attention from the rest of the surfers, most particularly his twin. Gaito stood up from his spot and glared at Kaito.

"Kaito, you better clean that mess up, man."

"Sorry..." Kaito shook his head and felt embarrassed for that accident. But before he was going to head to the cleaning closet to grab an all-purpose cleaner and a sponge he continued to listen. He hushed at the rest of the boys and they followed suit.

"So, what can I do for you and for all the listeners, Leolani? Beautiful name, by the way..."

"Th-thank you... Cupie..."

"Now don't be shy now... I can tell your voice is trembling. Did you want anything?"

"I... I... I want to send... a message... and... I want to sing a song... for him..."

Kaito's eyes opened wide in shock, knowing that there can only be one Leolani existing in the town of Nijibe. This was Japan, of course. A name like Leolani was obviously not common in these foreign grounds, especially on beach side towns such as Nijibe. The rest of the boys began to wonder what this particular scene of the show intrigued their kahuna.

"Well, if you don't speak up, this someone special will never know what you want to say to him. Go ahead, the air waves are all yours now."

"Um... okay... here goes..."

"Hey, turn it up, will you?" Kaito asked politely to the boys as Nagisa ran to the stereo and turned up the volume.

"If you are here in Nijibe, Kaikane... this is me, Leolani... I hope you still remember me. If you don't, well, I'm the one who rescued you from drowning seven years ago and... it's been so long that we've been apart. I've been thinking about you everyday, hoping and praying that you would come back in my life again. I'm sorry I had to speak up for so long because I didn't know what to do but to be patient until your return. I just want to say how much I've missed you and even if we're fourteen--- or some other age if you happen to be older or younger than me--- and I just wonder how you have been these days. I know I may sound like an idiot doing this over the radio because I don't even know if you even listen to this show at this hour or not. Then again, I don't even know if you live here in Nijibe or not, but in case... It's you, Kaikane. It's always been you and no one else but you. I really wish we would meet again because I know in my heart--- and I've always felt like this ever since we first met--- that... that I love you..."

"Leolani!" From out of the blue Kaito shouted her name, which startled the rest of the surf tribe. Gaito hushed them all as they continued.

"Kaikane... if you really are listening right now... please call this station at this hour... and answer me... that is... if you want to. Well, what I mean to say is... please look for me. I don't know how you look like now since we all change as we grow up and I don't know how else I can reach you except through here. If you are listening now... please... please... at least, just answer me, even if you're probably with someone else now. Please let me know how you're doing and... please let me know if you still want to meet me. If not, then I appreciate you taking the time to listen to what I have to say..."

Kaito fell silent, knowing his heart was completely absorbing every single world the mysterious girl Leolani spoke on the radio show. The rest of the surfers turned to each other with confused and curious looks as Nagisa whispered on Masahiro's ear.

"Hey... I dunno about you, but don't you think that Leolani girl sounds a lot like Lucia?"

"Shh..." Masahiro hushed as Nagisa shrugged his arms. They continued to listen on.

"... But before I go, I want to dedicate you this song that I wrote a long time ago. It pretty... um... sums up how I've always felt about you ever since that fateful night where we first met..."

Without any background music since this was a personally-written song, the trembling voice began to sing on the air:

Blue dreamer

That's what they call me

Just a blue dreamer

Dreaming of you

And I hear them say

I'm dreaming my life away

Blue dreamer

I guess I'll always be

A blue dreamer

Until the day

That I hear you say

You'll make my dreams come true

Why can't you see that it's breaking my heart

To have you only in my dreams

For just as long as we are apart

My life is empty, it seems

Blue dreamer

That's what they call me

Just a blue dreamer

Dreaming of you

And I hear them say

I'm dreaming my life away

Blue dreamer...

The girl on the air sang this particular song with all her heart and that was shown with a few of the sniffs that was heard. That indicated that the girl was crying at the same time on the background while she was singing that song. Even if that was the case, the song itself was quite mesmerizing to some listeners' ears. For Kaito and the Rainbowside surfers, the song really did get to them while at times also sent chills down their spine.

Kaito reached in the pocket of his sweatpants for his cellphone, knowing he just had to respond to the mysterious Leolani. He was still free despite of his past history and like the desperate girl he also felt the same way for her in secret. He continued to listen for the radio station's phone number again so he may dial and answer.

"That was beautiful, Leolani. So you wrote this song all by yourself?"

"I... I have... when I was seven-years-old. That was how old I was when I first met him."

"Even that special boy had that really cool name too! Hopefully your message is heard by every single boy throughout Nijibe and one of them could be the boy you've been yearning for! Let's just hope he would call in and identify himself and he will answer you. I'm glad to help you, hoping I can connect and unite the two of you at this beautiful romantic summer night."

"Th-thank you... for giving me this chance. Goodnight Cupie and goodnight to all of you in Nijibe."

"Well, that's Leolani from... oh my... she didn't even mention what part of Nijibe she was from! Maybe her dream lover Kaikane would be able to identify his location so maybe the poor girl may find him there! So dudes, if one of you is Kaikane, at least do the poor girl a favor and call in and respond to her--- girlfriend or not! At least hearing from you would definitely make her happy..."

The DJ, a deep-voiced male nicknamed Cupie, provided the phone number to dial, in which Kaito began to dial. The boys gathered around the sofa area, looking concerned towards Kaito while Gaito gave in and began to clean the mess Kaito made earlier.

"Dude..." Daichi spoke first. "So... that girl... she really does exist!"

Kaito shook his head as he waited for someone at the other line to answer. "I can't believe it... Leolani is here! Why did she wait so long to say something? Oh man... this is wrong timing... I was looking forward to seeing Lucia tomorrow and then Leolani just had to call in!"

"Dude, relax!" Masahiro patted Kaito on the shoulder. "It's not like you and Lucia are already dating or anything. You still got a chance with Leolani, but I'm not recommending you dumping Lucia for Leolani as your tandem surfing partner."

"Man, I'm not gonna do that! Lucia would still be my partner of course, but I also want to see Leolani after all these years..."

"Dang, Kaito, this is just--- dang!" Kengo exclaimed in shock. "I just hope that this ain't one of those stupid leaks that those fan girls accidentally overheard because I swear to you I never mentioned her name!" The rest of the surfers answered the same as Kengo right then.

"I don't care if those stupid fan girls would start talking about it. Besides, no one knows, not even the media or those idiot fan girls, know about Kaikane." Kaito snickered as he continued to wait until someone picks up his call.

"But aren't you Kaikane, Kaito?" Kengo asked curiously to confirm when Masahiro suddenly spanked him on the head. "What? I just asked a simple question!"

"Well duh!" Daichi exclaimed while rolling his eyes at Kengo. "That's what makes it cool! Anyone can say anything and I'm sure this whole Leolani and Kaikane thing would be the biggest subject to gossip starting tomorrow."

"Which is also to our advantage too," Masahiro joined in the conversation. "Those crazy fan girls will be more focused on the on-air love story of Leolani and Kaikane, which gives Kaito and Lucia more time and open privacy to train in tandem surfing and prepare for the tournament."

Kaito became a bit more impatient as the phone on the other line kept on ringing and ringing. "Pick up... come on... pick up!"

Gaito finished cleaning up the mess and sat right next to Kaito. "Let's just be sure that this whole Leolani and Kaikane love story doesn't escalate too much. It's bad enough Kaito was the main subject of this morning's Nijibe Youth Talk Corner show. Let's not make a big deal about this one because if everyone finds out that Kaikane is actually Kaito, we're dead! That means the rest of you--- do not mention anything about Leolani and Kaikane to anyone in public!" He turned to Kaito with a concerned look and spoke. "Kaito, don't be too obvious about your identity when you speak your words on air, okay?"

"Don't you think I know that, G? I'll be careful, I promise."

Just as the conversation was about to continue, the phone on the other end was picked up.

Back at Pearl Waters, Lucia cried herself to sleep after her long dedication to her beloved Kaikane. Unfortunately for her she fell in to a deep sleep just as she finally got her answer from the radio show, still playing on her bedside radio.

"RNBW FM and Welcome to the Youth Lovers' Night show! What's your name?"

"Uh, yeah. Um... I'm calling because I got a message from one of the girls who called in earlier today..."

"A message, you say? What's your name?"

"This is Kaikane..."

"Oh! Whoa! Dude, you've got some voice chicks seriously dig! That poor girl's gonna be happy once she finally heard your more mature voice in today's show!"

"Yeah... I guess. Right."

"Well then! The airwaves are yours! Speak away, my man!"

"Okay. Check it... Leolani, it's me, Kaikane, and I heard your message. I just want to say that I'm very happy to hear from you again. You have no idea how much you've occupied me every single day, and like you, I've been counting hours and days until the time comes for you and I to meet again. I don't know how else I can keep in touch with you except here so I'm doing the same you did earlier. There's so much I want to say to you, Leolani, but I'd rather tell you face to face and in person rather than revealing them in public. I... I hope you'd understand. I don't know how you look like now, but I'll be looking for you. I'll search high and low and all over Nijibe from downtown to the beaches until I find you. I know this may sound strange but somehow in my heart you are very close. Give me time and give me a chance to find you, Leolani, or else I've wasted my time saving my heart for you these past seven years. I know you're calling for me too, and since I noticed that you didn't even mention what part of Nijibe you are right now, I'll tell you one location where you can easily find me. I hang out a lot at the Sector 7 Kaigara Beach, just across from Pearl Waters. It's a pretty small beach but with serious awesome waves, you can't miss it. As long as you make yourself present at Sector 7, I will find you. I love you too much to let you go like this, Leolani..."

Though Lucia seemed to have slept through the entire message she did catch the location he gave to her. She could not believe that her long lost beloved was just right there across the street from her. She ran to the balcony of her room and gazed right towards the beach. That was not the only thing she noticed throughout that message. She immediately recognized the dreamy, sultry young voice of the boy on air.

Kaito... Lucia's smile widened in pure happiness while she listened to her beloved Kaikane's message on the airwaves. I was right! I know that gentle voice anywhere... Kaito... you are Kaikane!

She ran back to her bed and clung on to her elongated pillow, still smiling to herself. Oh Kaito... I love you so much... you're not just my one and only love but you're even my tandem surfing partner too. Now I truly will look forward to see you tomorrow morning! And since I know your voice everywhere I sure do hope you'd recognize mine too... We're finally together, Kaito... my Kaikane!

The boy's message ended with the following...

"I have a song for you, but I've forgotten the words. Please forgive me for not responding with a different song, but I do have a song for you... but I would sing it directly to you in person. That's all for now."

"Well then! Just one single location--- Sector 7 Beach. I sure hope that you two find each other. If you do, I'm very sure that your legendary love story would be a memorable one throughout Nijibe."

"Thanks for letting me speak, even if it's short, Cupie."

"No problem, dude. You and Leolani have some major sweet dreams!"

Lucia turned off her radio after the message was over and turned off her bedside lamp. She tucked herself in bed and closed her eyes with that same gleeful smile on her face.

---

Mermaid Melody Pichi Pichi Pitch is © 2003 Pink Hanamori and Michiko Yokote. All songs used are © respected songwriters/owners. No copyright infringement intended.

RATED T for the VERY mild language and slight adult situations.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: (PLEASE READ! VERY IMPORTANT MAJOR NOTE INCLUDED!)

Man, I feel like I haven't written as much due to my new job. I've only got a few nighttime hours to write fanfics as of late, and right now is very crucial due to next week (Holy Week – important week for Catholics, Orthodox Christians, Anglicans, Protestants, and other Christian groups who follow Holy Week – the week of major abstinence and fasting before Easter), since I'm part of my (Catholic) church choir. Anyway...

Just one major note here. I know some of you don't even bother reading my AUTHOR'S NOTES, but they're pretty important too. I've given clear explanations regarding my usage of things within the fanfic. Lately based on the reviews I've been receiving there are a few who are pointing things out in which I already explained in my AUTHOR'S NOTES. I appreciate leaving reviews or comments and such but it does get annoying and irritating for me to reply to each and every one of you giving you the same explanations and then mention that all of that is in the AUTHOR'S NOTES. I'm not being mean or anything, but as a reader it's best if you read the entire document first (when I read other people's fanfics I also read the author's notes/A/Ns or whatever you call them) before you ask the author questions. So please, a major favor--- please read the AUTHOR'S NOTES first. If there's something in there you don't understand or if you got some discrepancies, then that's when you start sending me PMs or leave a review with questions. Thanks!

#1 – Cawaii! is an actual popular Japanese teen fashion magazine. It's kind of like CosmoGirl (teen girl version of Cosmopolitan – already out of circulation as of 12/2008), except it's in Japanese. That also includes a bit of the kogyaru trends(the "not-so-clean teenybopper" trend; less elegant than the Gothic Lolita trend), fashion tips, and anything else you may usually see in a teen fashion magazine. You can purchase an issue at online Japanese and/or Asian stores such as CD Japan or YesAsia. There's a few back issues of this magazine at Kinokuniya Bookstore (if there's one near your area that is) but they're generally more expensive than the ones you can purchase online.

#2 – The Surf Coasters are a 3-member Japanese surf rock band who made a huge name since 1994, not just in Japan, but many parts of the world as well. They had a few U.S. tours back in the mid-2000s, primarily in the West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Hawaii). The band hasn't been performing since 2005 and no news of the band already broken up, but hopefully one day we'll hear from them again. They just rock the house like that!

I put up a poll in my profile regarding any "possible" ideas to increase my fanfic count (and to entertain you readers!) for MMPPP. I can't guarantee that I'm really going to go for these ideas, but it would help a bit. If you're a follower of my fic, please help me out and vote! ^_^