Hunted

Chapter 10 - Luseal

Hello readers! Zilin here with the second author's note in this book. I just wanted to let you guys know that Lucia who was writing Luseal's parts is on a hiatus at the moment and won't be writing for some time. We're not sure when she will be back and if she wants to do it once she is back. For now, Yong and I will be writing her parts for her. This is the first part not written by her - it's written by me - and I hope you're enjoying this book. Also, you may know if you follow Yong (the person writing Diana's parts) we are doing Newsies for our school production. If you don't know already, she has been writing Newsies One Shots herself. If you are interested, go check it out!

(This is Yong now)

Aww, thanks Zilin! Also, she and Juline are in Newsies too, but only in the ensemble and DEFINITELY not as obsessed as me with Newsies!

Luseal had always felt like an outsider, spending most of her time with the sea creatures in the stables rather than mingling with other merfolk. But now, as she stood with Diana, Theodore, and Elizabeth, she felt an unexpected sense of belonging. The gravity of the situation hung heavily in the air, and Luseal knew that she couldn't stand on the sidelines any longer. Listening to their conversation, Luseal's heart ached for Diana, who had lost her parents, and for the kingdom that was now under threat. The tears welled up in her eyes as she looked at the trio, who were grappling with grief.

She stepped forward, her voice shy but steady, Luseal began, "I may not have the royal blood or the skills of a warrior," Luseal began, her voice soft, "but I would like to offer my help and my connection with the sea creatures. They can provide us with information, act as our eyes and ears, and perhaps even help us locate allies within the kingdom."

Theodore and Elizabeth exchanged glances, and Luseal could see a flicker of hope in their eyes. The trio had been struggling to find a way to gather information discreetly, and Luseal's offer seemed like a ray of light in the darkness.

"We appreciate your willingness to help, Luseal," Theodore said, his voice sincere. "Your connection with the sea creatures could be invaluable in our mission."

Luseal smiled, she felt a sense of validation that she had never experienced before. She had often felt underestimated or overlooked due to her quiet nature, but now she realized that her unique ability had the potential to make a difference.

She gazed at Diana

"We need to be cautious". Elizabeth said, her gaze focused, Jasper is dangerous, and we can't trust anyone until we're certain of their loyalty."

"Speaking of loyalty," Diana interjected, her face strained but voice filled with determination, "we need to explain our situation to someone we can trust, someone outside the kingdom. Someone who can help us."

Theodore's brows furrowed as he considered Diana's words. "But who can we trust enough to involve in this?"

Diana shrugged before moaning in pain. She slumped back down onto the marble bed and consciousness slipped.

Luseal's mind raced as she listened to their conversation. She had an idea, a risky one, but it might be their only chance. She hesitated for a moment before speaking up.

"I know this might sound crazy." she began, "but what if we reach out to someone from the human world?"

Elizabeth and Theodore looked at her in surprise. Luseal continued, "There's a legend among the sea creatures that some humans are allies of the ocean. They understand the importance of protecting the underwater realm. If we could find someone like that, they might be willing to help."

The idea hung in the air, a mix of hope and uncertainty. Elizabeth's eyes sparkled with intrigue, while Theodore looked thoughtful.

"We have no other options," Theodore said finally. "Our backs are against the wall, and we're running out of time. If there's a chance that a human ally could aid us, we have to take it."

Written by Zilin