A Kismet Misconstrued

by EmCeeBi WashuEl

A famous author's novel turned TV Series will bring them back together thirteen years after the card chasing days. Amidst the production, a curse is about to befall, and two unlikely characters might just make or break themselves through it all.

1. Prologue Grace Period

Title: A Kismet Misconstrued

Author: EmCeeBi WashuEl

Fandom: Cardcaptor Sakura (AU)

Disclaimer: I don't own CCS. CCS is owned by CLAMP. As for the other characters appearing in this work, they are all fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living, and dead or even in other fanfics and/or anime is purely coincidental unless otherwise specified. But, Oh well, the plot is surely mine! ^_^

Pairing: Eriol Hiiragizawa and Tomoyo Daidouji

Rating: T

Summary: Whilst everyone is struggling in their chosen fields, a famous author's novel turned TV Series will bring them back together thirteen years after the card chasing days. Amidst the production, a curse is about to befall, and two unlikely characters might just make or break themselves through it all. EriTomo pairing

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A Kismet Misconstrued

~Prologue~

Grace Period

VII

"Unbelievable!" His voice is hoarse but he didn't mind it all. He'll just blame it on the ever unpredictable weather and his ever low immune system. It's probably just sore throat brought about by the sudden shift of the temperature from a 29°C to a 20°C three times in one day. Yes, this is just one of the effects of global warming. And, no, this is not important. Definitely not important compared to the document he is reading at this very moment. A document he had already read for several times that he'd already forgotten how many times exactly, but he still kept on reading as if the type written information changes every time he read it, afraid he'd missed any vital information. Thus, he read it yet again-

Knock. Knock. Knock.

The twenty eight year-old project manager of the Daidouji Corporation of two years carefully dropped the paper on his very expensive mahogany office desk and sat up straight, his grey eyes turned to his door.

"Come in" There's that hoarse voice again.

The door opened and a man in a powder blue long sleeved shirt crossed the distance and stopped in front of him.

"You called for me sir?"

"I did. Please take a seat Mr. Yamada" The seated man replied and gestured his guest to take the nearest couch in front of him.

"Sore throat sir?" Yamada inquired "must be the ever changing temperature then" he continued.

"Yes I will agree." The seated man replied "However, that is not the reason why I called you on this Monday morning." He added quickly ending any unnecessary conversation that may lead to exposing his fragile immune system.

"Right. So how can I be of service to you Mr. Schneider?" His voice's emotionlessly straightforward.

Schneider collected the papers from the top of his desk then took the seat in front of Mr. Yamada and handed it over to him. Yamada's black irises focused on the document as he carefully read the information. A hint of something akin to recollection flashed through his eyes after a couple of minutes and after exactly seven minutes his ebony irises focused on the other man's amber ones. Confusion and wariness were exactly reflected from it, coupled with a questioning gaze.

"I take it that you recognize the mentioned property?" an assumptive question delivered through that ever becoming familiar hoarse voice.

"Yes Sir." Yamada stared his superior's eyes as if that action alone with bring forth answers to his concealed questions. The document is a piece of A4 white bond paper that really doesn't say much for his personal benefit or so he thought. He stole another quick glance at the header that's neatly type written on the paper-Property for Auction located at Bogaty Avenue corner Evighet St.-

The rest of the information vaguely re-read as his brain work its way in remembering details not even mentioned on this paper. Yes, this property is something he's very familiar with indeed though, yet again not very beneficial for him. He looked at his superior once again.

"If I remember correctly, that's a sought after property for more than 50 years, but unfortunately hasn't been put into use." Yamada continued and his superior just raised one brow encouraging him to spill more of the details.

"The location of that property is very advantageous especially if one would construct an establishment for commercial use. I'm sure you get the idea, the traffic of people passing that particular street is very profitable indeed not to mention it's somewhere in the middle of a busy district." Yamada sighed as he added. Surely he doesn't need to state these facts anymore, he's superior must have already known all of these. Definitely there's something else that he wished for him to say or answer it's just probably his sore throat stopping him that or he's just a patient man. 'Where is this going?'

"Five years ago we tried to acquire the property through a clean real state negotiation but failed." Schneider started crossing his arms to his chest and crossing his right leg over his left. "Can you tell me more about this transaction? I was informed that you're the best person to ask." His amber orbs narrowed ever so slightly at his subordinate daring him to continue. 'Ah! So we are finally getting somewhere.' Yamada inwardly sighed.

"Exactly." Yamada confirmed with a clipped tone. Who else is better to be questioned other than the assistant of the previous project manager assigned to that particular supposed to be purchase? No one else but the person himself right? Given the fact that the project manager is not available anymore nor will ever be since his untimely death, there'll be no one to give more accurate information than him. Although he's still wary, as to what purpose that he need information, they did everything they could five years ago to close the deal-

"Mr. Yamada, our big boss wants another commercial building in place by the time her daughter turns twenty five."A raspy voice cut through his contemplation and he saw him looking directly at him. "It gives us about two years to work on this. The function, details, and architectural design are on schedule and the building already has its skeleton blue print as we speak, however the location where it will stand is still under evaluation. Under the list of possible locations given, I find this very property the most lucrative and you've already specified why earlier." He heard his superior continued while poking his point finger on the document lying on the table between them and eyes never leaving his as if daring him to disagree, which he had no plan in doing given the facts already stated. Yamada stared at his superior this time with gauging eyes.

Michael Ajikko Schneider is a Japanese-British citizen by blood but American by culture, his physique set him apart from the rest every time he walks or even just stand among other local dwellers. Twenty eight of age, amber eyes, blonde hair, and white complexion. He stands 5'9 feet tall and with a medium built. He was hired two years ago thus making him the overall project manager for Site Planning Development. His department is one of the branches of Marketing sector which mainly deals with researching, locating and acquiring land property for the Corporation for whatever purpose it may serve them. Additional responsibility is maintaining sites and infrastructures already acquired or improving them. His upbringing gave him a very straightforward, competitive and confident character. Surely a combination of such nature would bring someone somewhere: like him. His amber eyes sternly looking at one of his subordinates who is clearly older than him. His gazed unyielding and mask with eagerness to learn the answers to his query. His aura depicts determination and assurance that he'll get what he wanted here and now.

"What exactly do you wish to know?" Yamada's voice calm in surrender and he swore that he saw his superior's eyes twinkle in victory if only for a brief moment.

"Everything you know that will be useful and I expect nothing less."

Yamada sat at ease, scratching his chin with his right thumb and forefinger, more of a gesture of thinking than anything else. His brain automatically doing wonders for him as he ponders and recollects the necessary memories and information his superior need.

"The original owner of the property is the Shinito Clan, they're a powerful religious family that was well known and handled religious related business. The 200,000 m² land was just part of their owned estate; they say it was a favorite of the last heir so it was given an utmost care" he started as if a story teller exposing a legend; his hand clasp open then close soothing his aching joints.

"Unfortunately 50 years ago something very tragic happened, two thousand fully pledge member of the clan died at the same day not sparing kids and women, everyone died—." Schneider was startled his stare obviously meant inquiry with a hint of sadness.

"It caused such uproar back then, according to records we found. And until now, no one really knew what happened and no one had been accused and imprisoned."

"That's crazy!" Schneider exclaimed obviously bewildered "How come? Surely the government wouldn't take this lightly right?" He asked and Yamada just shrugged.

"The manner of their deaths isn't forgivable as well, it was as if they were massacred by a beast, blood everywhere and most of them sort of amputated—." Yamada clearly heard his superior gulped hard and loud.

"However, there were nothing that the authorities could find out; it was like a perfect planned massacre. There was supposedly a survivor, the last and sole heir at that time Nishiki Shinito, he was found almost lifeless at the very property that we are discussing today." Yamada glanced at his superior and continued

"If not for the keeper of the estate forgetting something at the green house there, no one would have seen Mr. Shinito half dead; he was also covered in blood with a lot of gashes and was bleeding internally, he was brought to the hospital but never woke up. He was in coma for the longest time; he had no one but his best friend Shintarou Hage the heir of the Hage Clan."

"Did they investigate this Hage person?"

"Un. However, nothing related came up; there weren't anything they could find that would lead to anything or anyone, as if it's a curse or plague. Mr. Hage devotedly took care of Mr. Shinito up until the day he finally died; he also didn't say anything when the government took ownership of the Shinito's estate except for the his best friend's favorite land"

"You mean the one we are talking about?"

"Yes sir. Mr. Hage didn't ask to own the property; he just asked to be the caretaker of it. He also requested that the property be unchanged as it is. The court released an order granting that request, so for the longest time even after when the property was owned by someone else, Mr. Hage took care of it, until the day he went missing."

"Missing?" Schneider's hoarse voice seemed even hoarser, this story keeps getting creepier every second much to his distaste. Yamada paused and furrowed his eyebrow before he continued.

"Yes, missing, he just disappeared and never found; the last location he was reported was his home but even when the authorities searched the house's every nook and cranny nobody still found him." Yamada answered stretching his back.

"That was twenty years ago, and the owner of the property at that time is someone named Jurou Matsumi; he was the owner up until five years ago."

"Don't tell me this person died as well?" Schneider's already too freaked out internally but he had a goal so he needs to continue. It wouldn't be wise if his subordinate would find him such a coward.

"Well, no sir" there was an audible sigh from Schneider upon hearing this "however—." Now that got his attention again, he didn't have a choice but to look at his subordinate as he waited for the rest of the facts.

"However, he is mentally incapacitated as we speak; that's the main reason the deal wasn't close five years ago. Apparently, he was in good condition when he made the announcement however later found out that he is in no sound mind to be making such business deals. His condition was also what triggered our company to do intensive research on the origins of the property, since it is really such a waste not to utilize it properly." Yamada ended and leaned over taking another glance at the document.

"It seems that the government took ownership of it again, huh?" this time it was him asking his superior.

"Yeah, and it'll be a waste if we'll not have it, it's just too good to pass up." Schneider replied glancing at the document as well. "I just hope that the order not to change it can be amended, otherwise we won't be able to benefit from it."

"Well, from what I know Mr. Matsumi already had that part of the job done even before he made the announcement to sell the property." Yamada replied back

"When he was not yet mentally unstable you mean?" Schneider asked and earned a nod from Yamada; that put a grin on his face indeed.

"Great!" Schneider half shout as he stood and made his way back to his oak desk. Yamada stood as well, his gaze following his superior. "I thank you so much for the information you provided today, I think I more or less have an action plan in mind so that we could better make use of that property" he said with a practiced smile.

"Is there anything else?" Schneider inquired when he noticed that Yamada seemed not to move from his spot.

"I don't have anything against us acquiring the property; however I do hope that before we do some modification on that property, we make necessary preparations." Yamada answered with an earnest gaze.

"I would only want what's best for this company sir, and I hope that we would be able to achieve this success at the very minimum expense." He added solemnly with an underlying additional message 'Much more at the expense of life'

"You don't need to fret with regard to that matter, Mr. Yamada. I assure you we both have the same thoughts and definitely similar belief. I will make sure to make necessary precautions before we do anything. We wouldn't want to end like the previous owners of this property now, would we?" Schneider retorted with gleam of sincerity and something else Yamada couldn't quite define. Had he known what that meant, he wouldn't put so much trust on this person and didn't leave as calm as he did that day.

Once again, Schneider stared at the document, his eyes filled with anticipation and excitement. He will close this deal and by the end of the week, the Daidouji Corporation will own this land. Starting next week, construction will be starting or at least the demolition of the estate would, the earlier the better. This will definitely put a good record in his performance and another feather on his cap, his dream position seemed closer by a foot this time. Truth be told he just wanted to know whether there was some legal problems that hindered them from acquiring the property or perhaps a relationship issues between the owners; now that he is sure that no such conflicts exist it'll be easier to proceed with the job at hand.

He started outlining the action plan he had in mind so he can be sure to acquire the property in no time. The disturbing tale behind the property seemed forgotten; caution appeared to be thrown aside. Had he taken the time to listen or at least take the story into some consideration, Michael Ajikko Schneider would have prevented being a catalyst of a plague.

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VI

The intercom in her office beeped, using her left hand, she pressed the flashing button.

"Ma'am, Mr. Yamazaki is on line 2…" Naoko Yanagisawa's attention was completely taken by the voice of her secretary coming from the device. She stopped writing and she vaguely heard her secretary asking whether she should put him through or not.

"It's alright Yuna, put him through please…" she heard a soft ok then a click—

"Naoko-chan? Hello? Hello?" The male voice at the other hand abruptly shouted even before she could greet her caller.

"Sheesh! Yamazaki ! I'm here" she finally replied after hearing a thud and a smack at the other end cutting her caller's unending greeting of hello. 'Must be Chiharu hitting him' her suspicion proven when she heard a female voice on the other line.

"Will you stop saying hello Takashi, jeez! That must be really annoying." Naoko chuckled inwardly upon hearing Chiharu scolding Yamazaki. 'They never change…'

"I'm sorry Naoko-chan, were you saying something?" the female voice dominated the other line obviously taking control, Naoko audibly chuckled.

"Nothing Chiharu-chan, it seemed the two of you never changed, how do you keep up with him?"This time it was Chiharu who chuckled. "I wonder sometimes too. Honestly!" both of the female let out a hearty laugh.

"Oh! Wait! Wait! That's not why we are calling… Jeez! Leave it to Takashi to ruin everything." Chiharu's voice seemed annoyed "You must be busy—." She added and before Naoko could reply she heard Chiharu talking to Yamazaki again, telling him she's going to give him the phone back but he must act accordingly and refrain taking so much of Naoko's time. Naoko could only picture in her mind how they must looked like at the other end and she couldn't help another warm smile from creeping at her lips.

"I'm sorry Naoko-chan" finally it was Yamazaki sounding almost serious.

"Well, I have a business proposition for you…"

"Uh-huh! What kind of business proposition?" Her tone a bit apprehensive, knowing Yamazaki anything from the origin of mushroom to the presence of extraterrestrial is a serious business with him. She really didn't have any idea how Chiharu manages his out of the box ideas, it did came a great surprise to everyone when he landed as one of the highest earning producers in the entertainment industry. The last she heard, his TV series about bizarre events is hitting of the charts and unrivaled. 'Jeez! Who would have thought that people would such peculiar taste when it comes to TV shows'

"Are you listening Naoko-chan? Isn't that such a great news? We'll be working together! If you accept that is…" now that caught her off guard. 'Wait! What working together? Great news?'

"Um. Sorry I was out for a while, what were you saying?" she embarrassedly replied。

"Now, now, you should control spacing out, do you know—." Thwack! "Takashi!" Chiharu's voice boomed from the other line halting another obvious lie Yamazaki was about to spout. "It's because Naoko-chan's not listening" Yamazaki's pouting voice reasoned. 'Great! I wonder if we will ever get to business. I shouldn't have spaced out, now I'm not sure if I'll be able to finish my to do's for today' Naoko sighed as she looked at her desk calendar. It's Tuesday.

"Um. Sorry about that Naoko-chan, can we discuss my proposition now? Not really mine but—."

"Sure. Shoot!" Naoko immediately ceased whatever minor unnecessary details she felt Yamazaki would bring up. They had to go down to business and now, should she ever want to finish her deadline for the day.

"You know one of the big bosses in Clamp TV station heard about your upcoming book." Yamazaki started explaining Naoko's attention rose from seventy five to a hundred percent.

"The one I announced in my website?" she heard a mumble of reply from the other end. "What about it?"

"You posted a very interesting prologue, I read it as well. It is very fascinating indeed." Yamazaki sounded proud.

"Thanks. And?" Naoko prod, she honestly didn't have any idea what to think of this, a good or bad news? Her gut tells her it's something good, she can't help but anticipate Yamazaki's answer.

"They wanted to make a TV series out of it! They have been trying to reach you but you seemed out of reach all the time, when they found out we keep in touch, they contacted me instead—."

"Wait!" Naoko cut through the conversation. She needs to breathe and think about this. She had been a very successful author, known throughout the industry since her first book when she was just eighteen. Now at twenty three, she had written three standalone books all of which successful and her latest work is a trilogy and third part will be out this Friday and there were already thousands pre-ordered, needless to say it's another success. But, for her next project she wanted it to be longer than the latest, she's aiming it to be five part or even more.

"Naoko-chan? Are you alright?" Yamazaki's concerned tone reached her dreamlike stance.

"Uh, Yes I'm thinking this through—."

"But, I thought your next story will be more than a three part book?" Yamazaki's tone seemed that of confused.

"Yeah, I was planning at least five—." she sheepishly replied twirling the phone cord.

"See? If they'd make it into a series, there's a lot of opportunity for more chapters and episodes right?" Yamazaki pointed out.

"There's a lot of room for the plot to evolve or be as complex as possible!" she added as if finally realizing something good, her voice dreamy.

"Your characters will also be seen on TV!" Yamazaki added and Naoko contemplated that instead of her reader's just imagining how her characters look like, they will be given form.

"More room for character development as well if there will be a lot of episodes …" she urged further and she heard her caller agreed 'So many possibilities!'

"If you want to know the details of the contract, we can meet up with you. If all goes well, I'll be one of the producers" Yamazaki pushed further.

"Really?" Naoko exclaimed "we'll work together then!"

"Exactly. So when will you be available?" Yamazaki inquired. Naoko looked through her organizer and immediately scan through the pages. She needs to reschedule this and that—. Who knew that this Tuesday would prove to be a very exciting one?

---

V

The University bell rang loud and clear indicating another thirty minutes has passed. A population from all walks of life, with different hairstyles, wearing different clothing design and taking different subjects heard the booming echo signaling a lot of different things for them; a number of them rushed out from different rooms to take snacks, others to shift to their next subjects while others just stayed waiting for their next professor. But, there are others that were very fortunate because that sound indicated the end of their final period for the day.

Sakura Kinomoto stood straight at the middle of the class, all fifty pair of eyes on her, anticipating something she knew very well and she smiled.

"Well, that's the bell. Class dismissed." She turned her back and made her way back at the podium located at the far most corner in front of the room. Almost instantly, the room turned into an orderly chaos of entities preparing to leave the room.

"Don't forget! Next meeting I need to see the Chapter 2 of your research papers and will check the take home quiz!" her loud, clear and amiable voice bellowed throughout the large room overthrowing the whispers and giggles of her students as they prepared themselves to leave.

"Yes Ma'am!" a collective noise replied as she turned off the projector.

"Well done Ms. Kinomoto, there're only a handful of people who can teach Archaeology classes with as much enthusiasm that this class had shown. I'm grateful to have you as one of our professors here." Sakura heard an old sounding voice and saw a tall slender man made his way to her.

"Oh! Mr. Hideki, thank you so much for the compliment. How long have you been here?" Sakura replied with a blush, her tone back to being soft and lively as she courteously bowed to him.

"Long enough to observe and be impress with your prowess." With that Sakura turned even redder.

"I really didn't realize, I was so caught up with the topics and the students were very cooperative. They probably knew I'm still an Intern and wanted to help me out." Sakura jovially uttered

"I'm afraid that isn't the case Ms. Kinomoto, believe me, I've been carefully observing the class. You have successfully found a way to rouse their interest in one of the dullest topics in Archaeology." Mr. Hideki countered with a humorous grin that made Sakura smile as well.

"You flatter me too much Sir, thank you again." Sakura's voice sounded shy as she bowed again.

"Just stating facts Ms. Kinomoto and you have a responsibility to keep it up if not get even better." Mr. Hideki said as she patted Sakura's head as what you'd do to a little child. "See you around." He added as he made his way out with one last fleeting look at her.

Sakura stood spaced out for a few seconds, smiled plastered on her face. When she remembered that she got to go home soon, she hurriedly fixed her table and gathered her books.

"Ugh, these are really heavy books" Sakura muttered as she reached the building's lobby, she contemplated whether she should go to her locker first or go straight to the bus stop, both have almost the same distance which isn't really near. She heaved and gave out a sigh.

"Need help?" a figure blocked her way whose calm, deep and gentle voice she'd recognized even when miles apart.

"Syaoran!" she exclaimed beaming beautifully as Syaoran immediately graced her a chaste kiss on her forehead and gathered the books from her hand with only his left then he used his right hand to grasped Sakura's free hand. Sakura flushed but squeezed it tighter and smiled.

Syaoran lead her just few steps from the entrance of the building. His black Porsche Panamera parked few meters away from the landing and engine still on. Everyone who passed by can't keep themselves from gaping at it, even Sakura.

"Why that car?" she knew that car would catch attention and she just wanted to melt as everyone looked at them as they neared it.

"I didn't have much choice, it's either that or the red Ferrari, and if I wait for the usual Lexus that we use; I wouldn't be able to pick you up in time" he explained as he put her books at the backseat and opened the passenger seat for her. Sakura just wanted to get it over with so she immediately got in thankful that it's tinted.

"So how's your day Prof? You didn't break any artifacts while tripping down the aisle now did you?" Syaoran jested as they made their way through the exit gates, "We don't want to exhaust my clan's fortune would we? Our future generation will suffer."He continued with an amused tone.

"Excuse me? That is not so the case!" Sakura's defiant voice rang in the air. "And that has never happened before; I haven't even slip during class, not even once!" Sure she is a bit a clumsy; somehow she was able to finally accept that fact even if she is athletic. Her feet and the floor are inversely proportioned if she's not running, that's why she tried harder to be careful when walking. She's especially careful when she's carrying artifacts, she knew they are priceless. They're history itself for heaven's sake!

"As a matter of fact, I was even praised by the college department head earlier!" she huffed crossing her arms and stare at the view outside her window.

"Wow! Isn't that great? Congratulations!"Syaoran beamed glancing at her, he meant to be sincere but it seemed that the words came out differently. Sakura continued her rant defending herself as she narrated the events of her final period with much accuracy as she can. By the time she finished, her mood's change from that of irritated to confident and happy.

"I knew you'd be great, about time they realized that too." Syaoran uttered proudly and earned a gauging stare from Sakura since they got into the car. He heard she mumbled a "thank you" and he smiled, his free hand reaching for her hands and gave it a squeeze and she squeezed it back.

"I'm excited with our excavation next week; it's going to be my first time outside the country!" she announced energetically not letting go of his hands; her voice sounding heartfelt.

"I'm grateful that you are enjoying." She heard her boyfriend replied and she felt him rub his thumb over her hands. That simple sentence meant a lot; looking back almost five years ago it was a struggle for Sakura what course to take in college and in life in general. She wasn't the brightest; she's always above average but never at the top. She's like a jack of all trades but a master of none in her scholastic record; if only you could put in your resume that she's the master of the cards, it would have been easier. She isn't like Syaoran and Tomoyo who already had a path to take, after all they are heirs of their family's fortune, not to mention very talented. Although she excelled in sports, she never was fond of competitions to be devoted enough in being an athlete. She had even contemplated in being a PE teacher; she might have been if she hadn't discovered the fun in what her father does.

Archaeology brought the answers to her prayers, somehow the two just clicked, a perfect puzzle fit. Many probably were astonished, but a number of people half expected it as well, given the fact that her father's a professor in Archaeology. But, Sakura never love history, there were just so many names, places, dates and so confusing events that needed her complete attention so she half expected that she'd land in a field of study related to it. Along the way, she learned the difference as to why, while history is already a written record of past events, archeology studies history thru artifacts, bio facts and cultural landscape. It explores human society, evolution and culture. Somehow the constant quest for answers excites her; although some theories were already proven, new discoveries of any of these artifacts may change what's already written. It's thrilling and somehow links her through a past that's so rich and mystifying that she can't help but thirst for more. Her magical powers or at least her cards seemed elated as well, it's as if every discovery that she studies brought her closer to their origins. She can't be any happier than knowing that she pleases them as well.

It wasn't easy as well, but she was blessed with people that never failed to support and encourage her. Her family, Syaoran and Tomoyo, together with her friends back in elementary and more people she met and befriended along the way. She just can't help but be grateful as well. After graduating two years ago, she spent the previous couple of years attending seminars for additional experience and background. The recent three months, she got into one of the most prestigious University in the country as an intern professor. She couldn't be happier.

"Yeah me too, Syaoran." A solemn smile graced her lovely face.

"I wouldn't be surprised if you'll also be invited in some conventions and universities just like your father as a speaker in no time!" Syaoran added somehow managing to drive in one hand for his other hand never leaving that of Sakura's.

"Now that sounded a fluke!" Sakura chuckled "it would still take years and years of experience for sure"

"But one day for sure it will happen; I have no doubt about it." She heard his voice firm and sure; she nodded with a grin. "I'd probably be able to join my father in excavations or seminars!" She exclaimed, her words died at the roaring sound of the ambulance that passed their car going opposite their direction.

Their car passed thru a number of establishments, ranging from well known boutiques to generic drugstores. The aisle adorned with well maintained trees and bushes; their colors already depicting the nearing end of summer. The sun gleamed throughout all the existence, representing the four o'clock afternoon. The car's internal clock glared in red digital numbers. Wednesday – 4:01PM; Sakura felt somehow something is out of place.

Syaoran? Isn't it just Wednesday?" Sakura inquired as a realization doomed. She felt him nod, her eyes never leaving the digital clock. "Then, how come you're here?" her voice straining in utter confusion. Shouldn't he be in Hong Kong? He should be doing whatever business slash clan related matter he was assigned to finish. Did she mishear it last time when she was told that it was supposed to be a month long thing?

"Why, can't I pick up my girlfriend if it's Wednesday?" Sakura froze, cheeks turned to a different hues of red. She didn't see her companion's smirk.

"I-it's not like that. Umm I was expecting you on Friday; I thought you're still overseas." She replied playing with the hem of her dress shirt; she can't be wrong, the one month should be ending two days from today. She even marked that in all her calendars. Syaoran stifled his chuckle obviously enjoying his girlfriend's baffled state.

"I finished my overseas load ahead of time, I decided to surprise you" he sincerely said observing Sakura's reaction from the corner of his eyes. When he felt her gaze and warm smile radiating he glanced at her with a debonair beam.

Beep! Beep! Beep! The two of them almost jumped out of the car in surprise. Sakura rummage around looking for her phone as she felt it continuously vibrate.

Cook dinner! That's the message on her screen and she remembered that she had set up an alarm for it.

"I'm the one assigned to cook dinner; I guess it's time to cook!" she cried out with a sheepish grin.

"You don't need to." Syaoran calmly said as he maneuvered the car to a curve. The road is an uphill slope. "I called your house earlier and asked you to be freed from the task. Though, I said that we'll join them with dinner." He continued, eyes never leaving the road, his senses sensitive to his girl friend's reactions.

"Wow! You planned this all along!" he heard her amuse tone as she replied.

He grinned inwardly. "Yes and no." Sakura turned her gazed from the view to his grim features.

"I originally plan to take you out. Unfortunately I was somehow force to compromise." There was silence urging him to continue, he can still feel her eyes on him.

"It was Touya-nii who answered the phone" there was a melodic laughter from his passenger seat as he finished the sentence. "He didn't really say anything like I can't take you out; it's just— it just seem the right thing to do."

Sakura didn't hear the rest of the story; she couldn't stop from giggling imagining the scene, like a picture perfect view. Touya probably didn't even say anything negative at all. His silent treatment would be enough to lead anyone to think so, much more Syaoran. She still doesn't get how his brother and Syaoran seemed to have the exact same relationship even though thirteen years had already past. Thirteen years.

"I figured that probably it's been rare that you all get to eat together with everyone being busy and all—." That, she heard perfectly, she couldn't help but feel thankful at how thoughtful her boyfriend is.

"Yeah. It's rare nowadays. Nii-chan doesn't really have a fixed schedule, it depends on his projects" Sakura started as she shifted in her seat. "But, he seemed to be really good at his job, his projects seemed to triple. It makes me really proud every time I see his drawings—err – designs." She continued trying hard to remember the exact word her brother uses every time they talk about his work. 'Plates? Did he call them plates? I give up!'

"Well, technically he's really making a name in the architectural industry. I think he's designs are really unique, If I remember correctly one of which was featured last month in a business magazine. I forgot the name though" Syaoran's calculating tone cut her train of thoughts. He didn't sound annoyed neither proud, just serious enough like he's saying something related to the sun being a star; simple and a fact.

"I'm sure you're proud of him. I'm also sure that you wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to dine with him given that it gets rarer nowadays." He grinned looking at her and she smiled back in agreement. "Yes you're right." Thoughts of her family enveloped her consciousness; things have change, gone were the days when she was chasing magical cards in her roller blades. But, her family tie's stronger than ever, even though sitting in one table to share meal proved to be a challenge now more than ever. Her brother still teases him, calls her kaijuu at every given opportunity and still sticks with Yukito—

"Will Yukito be there?" she heard her companion inquired as if reading her own thoughts. Yukito will always be someone special to both of them in so many ways. Wasn't he the one thing they both have in common thirteen years ago? He's the one thing that sort of brought them together; whether because they used to have unrequited feelings towards him or the magical aura that pulled them both towards him, whatever it was about him, it brought Syaoran and Sakura together in an endless bliss they are now. They could never be thankful enough to him being the catalysts.

"Hopefully— while Touya-nii's schedule depends on his project, Yukito's always on call." Pause. "I guess that's expected since he's a surgeon. I can't help but admire him and all the doctors in the world, living in servitude."

"It's mind-boggling how both of them landed on a type of job that doesn't really have a fix work time, ne?" she smile fondly as she heard the inquiry.

"And while Touya-nii chose a field where in he can create and design things, Yukito chose to save or fix not technically things—."

"Whoever made that comparison, I'm sure it's not you—." Thwack! He felt the pain of Sakura's jab before he was able to finish the rest of the sentence. "I was just about to say that it came from Tomoyo. And thank you so much for the vote of confidence." The sarcastic and playful pout's evident in her tone as she exclaimed. Laughter ensued afterwards that lasted a few long seconds.

The car halted after a few more minutes and before Sakura could unfasten her seatbelt, Syaoran's already opened the door for her. She graciously accepted the hand that was held out towards her and made her way out of the car. She was momentarily stunned when she noticed where he brought her and she can't help getting excited. It was a place both of them found when they were in college, a clearing at the outskirts of Tomoeda; it's elevated and standing there you could see the whole town like a life size map. It was a balcony made by nature itself. The air's fresh and the view breathtaking.

"It's been awhile hasn't it Syaoran?" She managed to utter as memories flooded her brain reaching back from five years ago. She didn't see that he nodded in consent as she visited memory lane.

It was the day when all of them graduated from high school, most of them determined to pursue an even higher education. Indeed, a fateful day of separations and beginnings. Rika migrated somewhere in North America; Tomoyo, Chiharu, Yamazaki and Naoko decided to take something related to Arts; she couldn't remember the details but it was something about baking for Chiharu, creative writing for Naoko, researcher for Yamazaki and fine arts for Tomoyo. Syaoran took a business course and minored in economics. Due to the different courses they had to take, they were separated in college. Though, Syaoran is in constant communication with her even though they didn't study in the same schools and Tomoyo's never been out of reach, it was totally difficult for all of them to just see each other. It was a day that filled her with such mix emotions she wasn't sure how to handle, that's why Syaoran drove her around town to cheer her up. They stumbled upon this same spot and ever since then, they visited it once a week. They just idle away there; have a picnic or just simply watch the view. Soon once a week becomes twice a month, then, twice every quarter until they failed to visit it altogether—

"It's almost eight months since we last came here." Syaoran's voice pulled her back from memory lane. She didn't know how long it has been since she stood at the edge of the hill or how long was Syaoran standing beside her. She just nodded in consent. They both sat on the rock looking bench near the edge of the hill, their favorite spot always.

"Has it really been five years since we discovered this place? It was just like yesterday" she tilted her head in reflection.

"Well, considering where and who we are now. I'd say it has really been five years" he replied, eyes focusing to everything and nothing at the same time, his voice serious and calm. She then smiled as she stole a glance at him.

"Who would have thought that Yamazaki will be ending as one of the highest earning producers in the entertainment industry?" Sakura chuckled, earning an amused expression from her companion.

"I was even reluctant back then when he said that he'd pursue his quest for truth and origin of all things imaginable by being a researcher. I half expected that all his research papers would consist of lies expertly fabricated that it would seem true." She continued to giggle at hearing that and he couldn't help but let out an audible chuckle.

"Let's admit that he turned out alright. Although we really wouldn't find out how his research papers faired." She was finally able to reply amidst her giggle.

"I'd bet we have Mihara-san to be thankful for" he retorted glancing at her.

"Hmm I guess I'll have to agree. It has always been Chiharu-chan who'd kept Yamazaki-kun at bay." She agreed with a smile as her mind made a picture of the past consisting of a Chiharu smacking Yamazaki.

"He didn't seem to complain though, it must be her cakes." With this Sakura's head snapped at Syaoran's direction with an unbelieving glare. They had been made aware that Chiharu was able to open her own café and produce her own brand of confectionery. She has two major branches and it is well received by the upper class.

"You surely don't mean that, if there was something with those cakes or sweets, I'm sure she'd already be Kero's master by now, given that we received monthly supply of her cakes since the beginning" she retorted amused which caused Syaoran to chuckle audibly.

"Whatever it is, I'm just glad that they are still together, I really wonder how Mihara-san can keep up with him, but then again she had never failed to do so." He uttered soon as he was able to stop chuckling.

"Yeah me too…" a light breeze passed creating such a wonderful scene in front of them. The leaves and flimsy branches of the surrounding trees immediately swayed as if dancing in tune to a universal music. The colors of the sky continuously played tricks to human eyes as if shying away. The clouds puffy big and white, its shape varies to whoever is looking at it.

"It looks like a dragon! Look!" Sakura exclaimed like an excited child pointing at one of the particular clouds at her far left, urging her companion to look and agree with her.

"I can't imagine it being a dragon, looks like a crocodile to me…"

"Hmmp! You lack imagination Syaoran, I'm sure everyone else will agree with me!" she adamantly convinced him. When he failed to see the same she huffed again. Syaoran's baffled state went unnoticed to her.

"I'm sure if Naoko were here, she'd say that's a dragon…" she mumbled. A recollection of something that happened more than a decade ago flashed her mind. A fire breathing dragon brought to life by the Create Card that went to Naoko's possession and she smiled.

"Well Yanagisawa's imagination is really on an upper level compared to anyone, she sure have a lot considering she was able to write such great fantasy novels. She wouldn't be one of the best authors if her imagination's just at par with us. I guess creative writing courses that she took helped her improved, although she was already a great writer even before she took it" he retorted back defending himself from not being able to see the cloud in a dragon shape. She agreed with him, after all not many people can become an internationally acclaimed author at age of twenty three right? Indeed, all of them chose a different path and slowly making their own existence known to the field that they had selected. Everyone including her, Syaoran, Chiharu, Yamazaki, Naoko and Tomoyo are all striving for their dream.

"I miss Tomoyo" she sighed and it didn't go unheard to Syaoran.

"I thought she's back in the country? You two still haven't met?"

"Un, she kept going in and out of the country, we really can't schedule a day to meet up. And it's going to be her birthday in two weeks and by then I'll be the one out of the country due to the excavation. We just don't seem to meet these days" she sighed again. Her relationship with her best friend is still as the same as it was since the time she handed her the eraser, though they really haven't met each other that much since five years ago. It was gradual but at present they haven't seen each other for almost a year.

"You know how busy she can get; a famous fashion designer handling 20 different branches of her clothing line internationally wouldn't really get much time in her hands." She heard Syaoran attempting to soothe her.

She understand that perfectly, but there's something inside her nagging that she must and needed to see her precious cousin and only best friend or else. This sensation just started last couple of months. She just couldn't get it, years of practicing her magical powers helped her immensely in controlling and taking care of the Magical Cards, but she just confuses her instincts with clairvoyance. Every time she feels like this she just can't help but get frustrated. Uncertainties plague her like ants aiming for sweets and she needed to fight feeling all itchy. She knew she needed help if she wants to deduce this accurately, however the only entity that could help her, seemed to hide himself from the world, that or he had lost all his magical ability because she couldn't feel him anymore, anywhere for some time now.

"Do you have any news where Eriol is?" his head snapped her direction the moment he heard her question.

"What is this about?" he inquired instead.

Silence.

All these years mastering her magical powers, she never once asked Eriol's assistance. It wasn't really a completely peaceful thirteen years that the magical world had gone through, but never did they need the help of the reincarnation of Clow Reed himself. He might have some personal skirmish with that bespectacled guy from eons ago but if Sakura needed him, what can he do? He cleared his throat and heaved a sigh before he answered.

"He's in the country right now; he had been in and out as well." His answered earned an anticipating gaze from Sakura.

"I think something big is about to happen, but I can't be sure. I think he'll be able to help me." He immediately looked at her and paused. He instantaneously made some connection to what the elders had told him days ago. Although Syaoran Li is the heir to the Li Clan's estates, properties and business; he is also the next head of their secret service organization that aides the government during times wherein the catastrophe seemed to be supernatural in nature. Given the information that something is about to happen from two powerful sources, Syaoran contemplated at how much could he really tell Sakura. It isn't that she doesn't know about his other job, it just seemed too early to relate the two events that may likely be different. He inwardly sighed again.

"The elders told me something about that too, although I'm not sure if it's the same phenomena or not. Anyway I did my research awhile ago and I know I have the data accurate, he's been here since the beginning of spring this year." He started as he gathered his thoughts and willed himself to sound in business tone.

"He's profile is not exactly discreet, although you needed to be part of the upper business class in order to get a wind of him. He's a software tycoon; the owner and president of ReTech Corporation. The company's the number one in providing technological advancement in catering to three different markets, the mass, the business class and the government." He paused and still found Sakura's intention focused on him.

"They provide Internet security program to the mass known as Cerberus—." He felt Sakura's eyed widen in realization, she too is using that program as suggested by her brother. "They created an operating system named RMOs that specifically catered to business organization, banking on the feature that it's more secured and a lot easier to use. They also have developed Y-soft; it's a program use in aiding the government since it's a program that can be use in forensics; it generally assists the Forensic criminalistics and Forensic archaeology fields. There's also a report that they were able to design a hacking program labeled as Spinelock code." Sakura couldn't help but gape, she isn't a tech savvy but the information was enough for her to understand that this company is a big shot.

"How sure are you that this is indeed Eriol's company?" She couldn't help but inquire to assure herself. If Eriol wanted to hide assuming that he is really hiding considering he's cloaking his supernatural aura, why would he create such an enormous corporation? It surely wouldn't go unnoticed. How long has been handling the company? Is he still going by the same name? Is his age still same as them or had he gone back to his original one? She didn't even know his original age to start with.

"Yes, although no magic was used in creating the products, the owner's profile clearly indicates someone named Eriol Hiiragizawa, age twenty three, with grey eyes¹ and navy blue hair. He is currently residing somewhere in Gunma." Syaoran replied with that same business tone. "Additionally the full name of the Corporation is Reed Technological Corporation, if you dig deeper, you'll find that the names of the products are familiar names, Cerberus the internet security program and the hacking program named Spinelock code." He looked at Sakura's face, her thinking face indicated realization. "Kero-chan and Spinel-kun!" he heard her gasped and he continued.

"RMOS stands for Ruby Moon Operating System and the Y-soft is Yue software. From what I heard he had a logical explanation as to why he named the products as such during its marketing presentation but if we just connect the dots, he simply wanted to name them in honor of the guardians created by Clow."

"I can't believe it." Sakura uttered in disbelief as she herself connected the puzzle.

"You better; I've seen the original profile information. It is none other than him." Did she hear sound of disgust as he replied? Sakura couldn't tell but still she feel amused.

"Looks like a well researched answers, considering the topic is someone you particularly don't like, though I can never be sure as to why?" Syaoran's face flushed.

"It's not like that at all!" he immediately barked "The elders wanted me to make sure and keep an eye on him, so I had to do my job. We really have to always keep watch of powerful entities you know; besides you know I can't really forget what he had done to you last time"

She couldn't believe she's still hearing this even after thirteen years. "That was ages ago and he had to do that, mind you."

"Whatever. Come on lets go, I don't particularly want us to be late for dinner especially when I promised your brother otherwise." He said face flushing as he stood and grabbed Sakura's hand dragging her along with him to the car.

True to his words, it was getting late. She didn't get to watch how the scenery changed from afternoon to an early dusk. She was so absorbed with the discussion. The next thing she knew they were driving away from their secret place. But, even so, she still enjoyed every moment spent with Syaoran. She's happy for the surprise and the recollection, she's also thankful that somehow she'll be able to find needed assistance in her latest predicament with regard to her premonition. She wasn't even sure if that's what you call it. Her eyes dragged from looking outside the window since there's not much to see anyway to the digital clock in the car glaring red;

Wednesday— 5:59 PM.

---

IV

Thursday

2:00 PM

The technologically advanced yet antique looking grandfather clock in the room read as she entered.

She didn't know there was that type of a clock to begin with, well that's not the only object that she had seen for the first time since entering the establishment, that's probably the twentieth if she had counted right or more if she didn't. She wasn't sure if she really entered a fashion related company and not technological related one given the number of gadgets she had already seen. "It must be a Daidouji's Corporation influence… –." She muttered as she was ushered by another lady wearing pink. It was probably the thirtieth person wearing such color since she entered. Unexpected things just keeps getting even more well- peculiar for her taste.

"Please make yourself comfortable, Miss President is on her way." The lady in pink cut through her train of thoughts and she could only courteously bow as she replied her thank you. She seated herself on the most comfortable couch she had ever experienced sitting on.

2:01 PM. A minute passed and her mind just couldn't help but observe more like examine the room she was in. She didn't know how pink, yellow and violet could just go together but it just look well- flawless in this room. She was sure that the mismatched set of furniture and gadgets shouldn't really look as gorgeous as they look in this room. She really needed to revise her personal vocabulary on what looks good with what and what not. It must be because she's inside a fashion house, one of the most prestigious at that; that's probably why even those things that in an ordinary person's eyes can't fit together just perfectly match up. Walls are adorned with stunning paintings and photos of beautiful people wearing signature clothing that the company produces. She recognized the life-size poster encased in glass located in the middle of wall, the advertisement is featuring a certain auburn haired girl with green eyes; according to the news, the president personally designed the attire that the model has on. The company's brand name and logo is artistically written on it in monotype corsiva; Nadeshiko ™ Designs Corp.

"She really looks familiar" she mumbled as her eyes stared on the auburn haired model. Even after seeing that poster almost everywhere in the country, she can't still figure out why the model looked so familiar. Before she could contemplate, the door opened and the lady in pink entered ushering the person she'd been waiting for.

"I apologize Naoko-chan, I was held up on my way here." Naoko vaguely heard the apology; she didn't hear herself replied no problem at all; she was looking at her more like ogling. Tomoyo Amamiya Daidouji looked very regal in her simple black dress. Her hair exquisitely styled forming a semi-crown just above her nape and the rest of her long wavy tresses cascading down reaching just the middle of her back. She vaguely heard the heiress asked the lady in pink to get them some refreshments, she couldn't remember standing and courteously bowed in greeting, all she could think about is how good looking her long time friend is in a wrap around black dress that has two inches thick of pink cloth around the waist line that looks like an obi only it's part of the dress. The dress hem reached just above her knee, tight enough to hug her curves from her ample bosom to her generous buttocks. She definitely had known the Daidouji heiress is beautiful beyond doubt but seeing her after several years, Naoko just couldn't refrain herself from gawking at her. Yes she is definitely gawking at her even owning two x-chromosomes and all.

'I can't remember her being this beautiful. Is she really the same Tomoyo Daidouji that I know?'

She didn't know when but when Naoko came to, Tomoyo's already sitting beside her with a worried expression. "Naoko-chan, are you alright?" and that worried voice made her feel really guilty.

"Of course! Sorry Tomoyo-chan, I spaced out. It's really been a long time and I guess you look more beautiful than the last time; my brain wasn't ready to process the information seeing such a beautiful being" her mouth started and she couldn't stop it from babbling things and when she realized what she had said she couldn't avoid another relapse.

"That just didn't sound right! I'm sorry I didn't mean to say it that way—I mean—I meant that you're beautiful but it—." She heard a melodious giggle and saw Tomoyo concealing her mouth as she suppressed her laugh. There was nothing she could do to stop herself from reddening.

"Thank you so much Naoko-chan, it has really been awhile and I almost didn't recognize you as well." Tomoyo mouth, her hands reaching Naoko's and gave it a comfortable squeeze. Immediately, the author's embarrassment dissolved as if it wasn't there. It must have been because of the gentle smile she had on her face or the gentle squeeze that the heiress gave her. No one would really know, Tomoyo's presence always has that effect. No matter how intimidating at first, her simple gestures never failed to let everyone feel at ease.

There were three knocks at the door and the same lady in pink entered, there were refreshments on a tray in her hand. Tomoyo graciously smiled as the lady in pink put it on the table in front of them.

"Thank you so much Melissa. That's it for now; I'll call you should there be anything else." The heiress said. Melissa just bowed and retreated out the door.

"Well, how you've been?" The heiress started as she handed the glass of fresh mango juice to her visitor, who politely accepted it with a smile. She carefully observed her visitor making sure that she's comfortable and feeling well. She was really anxious when Naoko didn't seem to respond to her earlier. It was like she was in trance or something.

"I've been alright Tomoyo-chan and looking at you and all of this—I can assume you've been more than alright…" she replied eyeing at almost everything and nothing in particular in the room.

With a pleasant smile never leaving her face, Tomoyo affirmed "I've been really blessed."

She didn't want to believe it first when she heard Melissa, her personal secretary, inquired whether if she was available to meet the celebrated author, Naoko Yanagisawa at two in the afternoon; but seeing her now and sitting beside her sharing a glass of mango juice, there's no way she could have denied it anymore. It is indeed a pleasant surprise.

"So, to whom do I owe the pleasure of the presence of one of the best and youngest internationally acclaimed author today?" the heiress started inquiring. "And did I mention you look very attractive, Naoko chan…" Naoko could only blush.

"I tidied myself up since I'm supposed to meet the world renowned fashion designer Tomoyo Daidouji. I figured I could at least look decent enough to be seen beside you." The author's voice had a hint of amusement as she retorted. "If you can recognize, this attire is your gift to me last Christmas" she added and take another sip of her cold drink and Tomoyo giggled again.

Indeed, the white silk sleeveless blouse and the black cashmere blazer on top of it looked familiar to Tomoyo. Even the tight fitting denim jeans and the boots that her visitor is wearing belonged to Nadeshiko ™ Designs Corp. signature clothing. Tomoyo's gazed settled on Naoko's face, she couldn't remember how long it was since they've seen each other. Has it been two or three years? Is that the reason why she almost didn't recognize her long time friend? It must be because of her short bob haircut and her stylish eye glasses.

"You do realize Naoko-chan that you didn't need to go through the red tape just to see me right?" She inquired as she took a sip in her drink. She was sure that she had given her private number to her and a handful of people just in case they needed to see her. They do not need to go through the usual setting appointment routine.

Naoko nod and replied "Yes." Then she cleared her throat "but, I'm not here today entirely as a friend" Tomoyo's eyebrows rose just a little and Naoko continued. "I'm here because of a business proposal"

"Business or not, my private number is for you to make use of for whatever purpose it may benefit you." Tomoyo uttered as she elegantly placed her glass on the table. She then turned her gaze to her visitor "And I would really like to hear this proposal of yours."

Naoko didn't know how to start, she had a general idea what to say but she wasn't able to go through all the details on how to tell her friend. Wouldn't it sound conceited if she just blurt out the good news? so she held out the folder, although a little surprised the heiress took it and began to read it.

All too familiar with the heading Tomoyo stopped when she read the names indicated in the contract. "Naoko-chan this is a contract, should you really be allowing me to read this?"

The author nodded in response. "I really don't know how to start telling you but once you read that, I can help myself with the rest." It's not that she wasn't sure about involving the heiress in this project; she just couldn't contain it so she didn't prepare herself not that there's much to prepare at this point and time. She just wanted to ask the heiress' assistance, so as soon as she had the time, she ran directly to her office. She carefully watched the change from her friend's facial expression, from a serious and calculating it slowly turned into a cheerful one.

"Oh! Congratulations Naoko-chan! Isn't this great news? A contract with Clamp Broadcasting Corporation for your novel! I'm so happy for you!" she exclaimed and hugged the author; she didn't need to finish the ten-page contract she got the gist of it.

Naoko-chan returned her hugged with as much enthusiasm and replied. "Well as you can see it's just a draft of the contract we are still working on some of the stipulations, but according to them they are pretty much on the go and they are just waiting for my signature." She hugged the heiress tighter. "I'm pretty much into it as early as now; I just need to review certain things."

"I'm really so happy for you and proud! Tell me how can I help and I'll be more than glad to do so." The heiress said as she released herself from the embrace but still held her the author's hand.

Naoko fidgeted and clasped Tomoyo's hand in a prayer like position. "Canyoudesignthecustomesforme? It'snotyetsurewhetherifit'."

"Sure!" The heiress didn't get everything except the word costume and she could see how difficult it was for her friend to ask so she didn't prod anymore, she just agreed.

"Really?" Naoko exclaimed with a looking at the heiress like she had grown three heads.

"Yes I would love to design the costumes for you Naoko-chan" the heiress reiterated. The author didn't have any idea how this request brings back old times for her.

"I know majority of your designs are for ready to wear- if it will be any trouble let me know—"

"It'll be no problem at all Naoko-chan, it's not like I can't design if it's not ready to wear kind. It's just a preference, but I do design haute couture and other stuff as well, depends on the client, so this will be no trouble at all." The heiress cut as she squeezed the author's hand. "I might just need to ask you for the details—."

"Oh! Thank You! And yes we'll definitely discuss that!"" Naoko hugged her tight her voice obscured by the act.

"I figured that we wouldn't have much trouble if it's animated but should it be not, do you need to know who would play the characters to design the costumes first?" the author continued.

"Um. It still depends on the story I guess, I need to know the feel of the novel so I can answer that." The heiress replied as they both straightened their posture.

"Don't worry! I'll send you a copy of the prologue and the finished stuff soon as I can." Naoko replied with a smile. She then take another sip on her drink, it's still as cold as it was minutes before and squirmed in her seat. The heiress did the same delicately watching her visitor.

"What is it Naoko-chan?" the author couldn't refrain herself from looking surprised. The sixth sense of "the Tomoyo Daidouji" is still in effect. How the heiress managed to read people mind's by simple gestures, she wouldn't know, but at present this uncanny knack is working for her. She exhaled and said

"Could-you-also-the-series?" more like blurted out. As much as Tomoyo wanted to avoid asking her what she meant, she didn't understand anything that the author blurted.

"I beg your pardon?" Naoko exhaled again and inquired at a much understandable phase.

"Could you also sing the opening and closing song of the series?"

Pause.

"Naoko-chan, are you sure? I mean this is your first debut in the wide screen-shouldn't you choose a professional-." The heiress inquired with carefully chosen words. The author just looked at her with shining determined eyes and shook her head in response.

"It has been a dream Tomoyo-chan." She started. "Since we were kids— I always loved to hear you sing, I thought you are going to be a professional singer." Her voice fading little by little as she finished the sentence."

She hastily added "I'm not saying that being a fashion designer is not cool or something, in fact it fits you as well." The heiress just smiled in understanding and so the author continued.

"Um. Well I always thought that if I will be given a chance to make it big like what's happening now, I would like you to sing the soundtrack of my story…" with a sheepish grin.

"But of course I understand that you're busy and also—I'm not really sure—I just figured that if this is the only chance I will have better make it something I really wanted it to be. If I got lucky and I will have another project then they could decide whatever but since this is the first. This is very special…" the hem of Naoko's blazer would have been torn apart if it's not made by the finest quality of fabric with the way she's gripping it.

The hands of the heiress tenderly reached for hers and tilted her head urging her to look at her. What the author saw is a supportive smile, so gentle, so considerate and so Tomoyo.

"It'll be my honor, Naoko-chan." The author squeezed the heiress hands back and tears of happiness started to form in her eyelids as an appreciative smile graced her lips. Tomoyo soothingly wipe it away for her.

"Why don't we talk more about this outside? My treat!" The heiress offered and the author could only nod in assent.

They reached the main lobby after few minutes of walking and there they met up with Melissa as she handed a pink blazer to Tomoyo. The authoress vaguely heard as the heiress thank and give some final instructions to the assistant for she's deciphering something else.

"You're probably the thirty first person that I've seen in pink. What's up with that?" she inquired as the heiress put the blazer on. She noticed that the shade of it is much lighter compared to the obi-like cloth in Tomoyo's dress.

The heiress chuckled. "You should be seeing a total of one hundred people wearing pink in here." She replied, earning an even more confused gaze from the author.

"You see, I didn't come up with a specific uniform for my employees. I figured that they will all have different styles and all so I just assigned color for each day." The heiress answered with a knowing smile.

"Seriously!" the author cried out and both the ladies just laugh. "If you'll drop by here tomorrow, everyone should be in something checkered. It's really fun seeing how each of them dressed up to their personality; it gives me inspiration to my designs." The heiress added as the automatic doors opened for them leading them to the main entrance of the ten-story building.

"That model really looks familiar." The author muttered as her eyes turned and focused on the same poster with the auburn haired girl. This time the poster is painted on the transparent door.

The heiress giggled. "She should be familiar Naoko-chan. That's Sakura silly!"

"WHAaaaaT?" everyone present looked at her as she half shouted-half exclaimed, which she didn't notice. She ran more like teleport to the nearest poster and examined it like a specimen under a microscope.

"When did she become a model? I thought she's an archaeologist slash professor?" her eyes glued to the now familiar figure on the poster wearing a simple green spaghetti strapped sundress that's walking on the runway with a big summer hat.

"You're right; she's not a model-not professional anyway. But, she's my personal model." The heiress answered as she too gazed at the poster with a quiet smile. "After all, the name of the company is in memory of her mother and my mother's favorite cousin. I got her to model for me."

"Ah…" the author uttered in understanding and the expression in the heiress face that she saw seemed like a very wistful one.

"We better go, Naoko-chan," the heiress said as she led the way.

"You sure have a lot of odd gadgets here as well, Tomoyo-san" the authoress' inquired as she noticed another technologically advanced yet antique looking grandfather clock as they made their way out the entrance-exit automatic doors.

"Well, it's a prototype from my mother's company. I figured they're cute so I agreed to use them. They give off that tech savvy yet stylish aura." The heiress said with an amused sort of airy tone.

"I figured that much."

The two were gone in a matter of seconds as the doors slid closed. At the top of the doors, the techie clock reads; Thursday – 3:45 PM.

---

III

Tap. Tap. Tap.

The sound of fingers typing away in a hundred words per minute dominated the enormous dark room. The room wasn't void of light but the light present is only a glimmer from several fifty-two inches LED monitors; occasionally the blinking lights from several massive mainframe computers and supercomputers were visible. But, the owner of the fingers typing away doesn't seem to mind the lack of brightness; he just kept typing away grey eyes focused on the largest monitor and his fingers never leaving the keyboard.

#include stdio.h

#include stdlib.h

struct tnode

{int data; struct tnode *left; struct tnode *right;};

/* insert, swap, search value, search minimum and search maximum values */

struct tnode *tnode_insert(struct tnode *p, int value);

struct tnode *tnode_swap(struct tnode *p);

struct tnode *tnode_search(struct tnode *p, int key);

struct tnode *tnode_searchmin(struct tnode *p);

struct tnode *tnode_searchmax(struct tnode *p);

/* destroy, count tree nodes */

void tnode_destroy(struct tnode *p);

int tnode_count(struct tnode *p);

Knock. Knock. Knock.

Click. The door opened. His slender fingers stopped typing.

Click. The lights turned on.

The dark room suddenly veiled in an amount of light it wasn't used to. The room diagonal in shape, revealed to be surrounded by five mainframe computers and another five supercomputers alternately located at all corners. The middle of the room has another cubicle in the same diagonal shape. Fifteen fifty two inches LED monitors enclosed the said cubicle and the sixty inch monitor is situated on the large table in middle of the booth. This office desk and chair is elevated and it's in the middle of the room where he was seated.

After his grey eyes had adjusted, the intruder had already made its way to his table.

There was a very heavy sigh. "Master, it seems that you unintentionally forgotten your phone in your study room and you accidentally unplugged your phone here as well. Again." The intruder eyed the unplugged phone cord on the table and its dark brown orbs met that grey of its master. A vein is visibly popping out from its head as it saw the Cheshire smile that formed on the said master.

"Oh is that so? I'm sorry Nakuru, I failed to notice, I was—busy" the baritone voice replied with a hint of amusement as he clasped his hands together and placed it on the table.

The intruder named Nakuru looked feminine indeed, as she flipped her long dark brown haired and crossed her arms to her chest. Her bosom's barely noticeable. "hmmph" she sounded female as well.

"Master Eriol! Is there any day that you aren't busy enough to make sure that you always bring your phone with you? You're defeating the main purpose of cellular phones being portable! Jeez! Poor gadgets…" her high pitched voice loomed over the entirety of the room as she made gestures the same to that of a mother scolding her stubborn child.

"…and if I remember correctly, which I know I am, I plugged that phone cord back the last time you accidentally disconnected it for the—I can't tell for how many times this month!"

Eriol cringed, Nakuru huffed and that's when he decided to intervene.

He brushed his navy tresses that obscuring his eyes. He needed a haircut soon. The act made an ample amount of his hair swept to the left side of his head. The effect would have been something a majority of the female population and some of the male would swoon over. With that act alone, the charming bachelor's English genes were highlighted, he looked like any half blood prince would look like. Unfortunately it was an act shown to one named Nakuru, no matter how she drool and chase cute boys like bees to honey; her master is an exception. And he's thankful at that.

"Nakuru? Is there anything I can help you with?" he inquired. He had already ceased listening to Nakuru's lectures for a while and aimed to put things back to a state of normality he's allowed to.

Blink. The guardian looked at her incredulously for a second. She clenched her fists when she felt something there.

Blink. Her eyes turned to the mobile gadget in hands and eyes went wide as the largest throwing disc available in the market.

Friday

09:15 PM

On line : Kaho

00:10:59

… seconds and counting. She read and turned white; she saw his master's face form a knowing and sly grin. She gathered herself up and spoke through the phone.

"Miss Mizuki…" darn! She's not supposed to call her that anymore, she just can't let go of the habit even when years had passed."Umm. I finally found Master Eriol. I'll give you to him now. Good night." She said glad that her voice is not cracking. She heard buzzing sound coming from the phone; she assumed it was Kaho saying her thank you, as she passed the phone to her master.

Eriol looked at the mobile screen and his expression formed a wistful expression. He knew even before his guardian knocked at his door that he got a call. He barely heard his guardian said good night and an apology. He waited for the click sound of his door and put his ear next to the device.

"I thank you for your patience Kaho and good afternoon." The caller on the other line obviously is having the time of her life, she didn't hide the fact that she was laughing hard. He pressed something under his table and the lights turned off. He was once again basked in darkness.

"Glad that I can be a source of your amusement today" he added when his caller failed to stop giggling.

"Oh Eriol! I didn't need your magic mirror to see how exactly that went. It was like radio drama with a comedic genre! Good evening to you there…" the former priestess was finally able to reply amidst of giggling. Eriol could just picture her wiping her tears of happiness. "Seriously, for a moment, I thought you should be calling her master instead of her doing so." Eriol couldn't help but grin.

"I'd say, call her mother instead of master…" the priestess chuckled again. He arched his body as he stretched his back; his chair automatically bent itself to accommodate his body. Click. His chair locked in its position; he looked like sun bathing inside his office.

He pressed another button under his table, the wooden ceiling opened and revealed glass canopy hovering above him. The night sky clearly visible from where he sat and he mused; he loved star gazing like this. He vaguely heard his caller telling him to listen to Nakuru about usage of mobile gadgets.

"Really Eriol, that's why they are invented, do I need to remind you that not everyone has telepathic abilities as you do?"

"How long have you been trying to reach me?" he asked instead, even if he knew the answer just to change the topic. He just had enough being a villain on this gadget's life. "Do you really need to ask?" yes, he knew that the priestess knew that he knew the answer to his own question.

"Oh well. I guess not. So you win this year." He uttered with a smile. He magically produced a glass of wine on his free hand swirling the glass in thought.

"I guess I should be thankful that you have been extremely busy these last weeks or you would have beaten me again." He can hear that she's smiling. He chuckled "You do that then" the other line paused as he replied.

"Unless—unless you purposely did this…" her voice strained in a disbelieving tone. "Y-You Eriol Hiiragizawa!" she sounded frustrated. She knew him all too well and he inwardly grin.

"You wound me Kaho, what makes you say that?" he smoothly mouthed. "I don't think my pride would allow me to be beaten, even if that may be a most chivalric act indeed." He sipped his wine, it tasted bittersweet but enough to ease him.

He heard a defeated sigh from his caller. He decided to get on the main topic after all isn't this why she called?

"Happy Anniversary—should I say Anniversaries?" Pause. "Ten years and counting right?"

For ten long years, they had been doing this, like a game and the winner is whoever calls the other first, greeting him/her. So far, he's the undefeated champion, not that he really wanted to win. He felt it was a promise that should be kept for her and not his sanity.

"Yeah—that – is ten years however I don't think we should really be celebrating that…" her voice faltering on the other line, tone filled with guilt and pain.

"But of course, you'd rather celebrate the one that's going to be eight years soon." He cut with a genuinely amused tone.

He heard another defeated sigh from the other line "E-Eriol…"she uttered and it sounded almost heartbreaking.

Almost. He licked his lips and took another sip from his glass. "How are the twins?" he decided to tread a much lighter topic. Kaho sighed again knowing what Eriol was doing, but played along with it anyway.

"They're sleeping. After stuffing themselves full at lunch" she started.

"They missed you so much. You had better not put them under any of your spell Eriol, It'll be difficult for me to discipline them in the future especially when your job requires you to gallop around the world." Her tone change from longing to irate to helpless and to concern in that one sentence that she uttered.

Eriol chuckled. "Can I not spoil them?"

"You know I'm thinking of amending the extent of your influence on them." She said with a straight tone. "They're three years old, for the love of heavens—Eriol! Three! And just yesterday they were reciting the planets included in Milky Way galaxy and the name of other galaxies I'm not even aware existed!" her voice a pitch higher and Eriol's chuckle was drowned in her next statement. "I don't know if I will be proud or scared. I know I have to thank you for that. They kept telling me it was you who taught them."

"They probably learned it from one of the educational toys I bought them. They are really intelligent kids Kaho, I don't think I need to do anything extraordinary for them to be. It's all in their genes."

"Sometimes it's difficult to believe that considering how much you took care of them, they even learned your name first before anything else! How frustrating is that?" Kaho added with another frustrated sigh and Eriol laugh aloud, remembering that day as clear as if it happened a second ago. It was such a precious memory much to the twin's parents' annoyance.

"What? Are you going to evict me as their Godfather?" Eriol prod in between sniggers.

"You know I would never do that!" defiant voice rang from the other line. "After everything that has happened…" she added with voice turning into a whisper in each word.

"Kaho…" he called her name after a defeated sigh. Didn't he bring up the twins as a topic to avoid this scenario? Why does it always end this way? Every freaking year.

"How many times do we have to talk about this?"

Silence.

"That was past Kaho. Aren't you happy now?" he started hoping he could illicit a response from his caller.

When none came he continued. "Look, what we had was great but we both knew it wasn't meant to be. Though it took you a while to accept that, you did eventually and now you're where you're supposed to be. With the right person you should be with. Isn't that what matters most?"

"I can't help but feel guilty Eriol, I—I was the one who made all the fuss. Now, I'm the one that's in euphoria while you…" she trailed off.

"That's what you should think about, just stay happy Kaho. I will be fine. Just think of your family and I'm going to be happy as well." His voice earnest and pleading.

This is what he hated the most in this never ending conversation, how could he convince her that it's fine to live her life and just let him be. But he knew Kaho wouldn't really be at peace that's the reason why he stayed close to her even after everything. He had wanted to let her see that he's fine and enjoying his chosen path. Somehow it doesn't seem enough—

"You know that I wouldn't feel completely happy until I see that you are." Her reply just an affirmation of what he thought.

"I don't know what kind of happiness you wish me to be into. Is it having a family the same as you are? I'm fairly young in this lifetime Kaho, that might take a while and if you wait for it you must just miss so much out of your life." His reply filled with strength and determination.

"I know that, it's just weird—you could at least have a g-girlfriend…" she stuttered as if unsure how to continue and beseeched. "Someone should be taking care of you Eriol"

"My, my, Nakuru and Spinel would really be wounded should they hear that. They are very much taking care of me mind you." He retorted with a playful tone.

"You very well know what I mean Eriol, you aren't the type to lag behind right?" she retorted incensed.

"Kaho, you know it's never easy with our kind, finding someone like that, unless you like to see me change girlfriend as easy as I changed clothes." He's definitely smiling as he challenged. "I'm sure many would be more than happy to oblige should I make a request" he grinned twirling his glass of wine.

"I'm sure your pride wouldn't allow you to break innocent hearts, if not your chivalric bearing." She sighed wondering how many times had she already sighed just within the span of this phone conversation.

"You let me know, fair lady. I might just take up that offer; I wouldn't mind indulging such a special person." He smirked and Kaho could clearly her it over the line and she rolled her eyes.

After a comfortable silence, she decided to break it. "How long will you be away?"

"For a while, I'm not certain. I'm working on a huge project here—needless to say it is undetermined as to when it'll be completed." He solemnly replied pinching the bridge of his nose with his right hand.

"Fancy how a powerful sorcerer came to be a technology guru; it just seemed ironic." His caller mused. "Had 'technology' has life source same as human and possessed two-x chromosomes I guess the two of you would have been married by now" she pondered.

Eriol would have rolled his eyes, had it been his character but it isn't, so he didn't but he huffed. "Sadly that weren't true. I seriously would have taken her into consideration, given that 'technology' fascinates me to no end" he sarcastically countered.

"Are you sure that you're staying there mainly because of your job and not because you want to get away from me?"

'…and that's the one million dollar question ladies and gents' he cringed as he heard the inquiry. Sometimes her knowledge of him is a pain.

"Why would you think that Kaho? I surely didn't want to separate myself from my favorite godchildren." He retorted in a casual manner. Too casual.

"You don't have any other godchildren Eriol! …I don't know, I guess I'm being a pain and you must be getting too weary from it all—." She replied ever so softly.

He shut his eyes tightly and furrowed his brows. "I just felt something big is about to happen and it's leading me back here" that wasn't a lie.

"Is it dangerous?" his caller's voice wrapped in concern and he dearly hope she wouldn't ask the question he's been dreading to hear again. He just wouldn't admit that she's right. But, Eriol had already decided. If after thirteen years of close proximity to her didn't convince her that he would be fine then there's no use keeping it like that. He deduced that distance would probably do the trick.

"Still undetermined as of now. The Li clan is already on the move, my little descendant even made sure to keep tabs on me." There was obviously a hint of amusement in that tone.

"Let me know if there is something I can do then and please do be careful."

He decided to bring the call to its close. "I will. Give my regards to Charles and to the twins my love." He gently uttered. "Happy 8th Wedding Anniversary again— Mrs. Daichi." He trailed off and pressed the end button, not wanting to hear the reaction of his caller may it be positive or otherwise.

He placed the phone on the table together with his glass of wine that seemed to have an unlimited amount of supply. He straightened his back as he lied himself comfortably grey eyes still focused on the beautiful night sky as his mind wonder to a different world.

It had already been ten years since they separated. No, since he broke it off with her. It was the same day she met her real other half only she still didn't know. Two years after, the priestess got married to that same person, named Charles Daichi and another eight years after, they had twins identical in features but fraternal in gender. These same twins are now his godchildren.

He didn't lie when he said that they would both have a happy ending should she join him thirteen years ago. They would eventually have their happy endings but not necessarily together.²

"She definitely already had hers, but for me, I still have to wait and see" he muttered to no one as a falling star crossed the night sky.

---

II

"Didn't I just sign the document permitting you to use the Corporation's name to participate in the auction last Monday for this estate? Now I'm signing another permit to allow construction for tomorrow…" Sonomi Daidouji in all her grandeur inquired her subordinate, her grayish-purplish orbs meeting amber ones. "Isn't this a little too fast?"

Schneider stood straight with all his confidence gathered. "It may seem so Daidouji-sama but the acquisition of that estate has long been delayed. The process was expedited because the documents have already been prepared five years prior, I merely revised it."

The president raised an eyebrow, placed her elbows on her table and clasped her hands under her chin but remained silent urging her subordinate to continue.

"I'm merely stating that we have already spent five years to acquire this which is already a huge time of investment. I simply wanted to put an end to that wait and make a better use to the estate." Schneider continued his voice laced with the most courteous yet firm tone he can manage.

"You are aware that the more effort, money and time we dedicate to something the better the results we acquire in the end, thus it is an investment right?" The president retorted unflinching, her intentions concealed. No one could tell whether if she's satisfied or bored with that kind of unreadable gaze that she held. In all fairness if Schneider had known the president for more than a decade, he wouldn't be able to see much of physical difference. Only her closest friends and relative could differentiate that, not that there are really much to begin with. For no one could come more than four feet near her except people she considered important to her or her business.

"I certainly wouldn't oppose that Daidouji-sama, because I have personally proven that to be a fact. And with the same knowledge as well that I can guarantee that it is high time we start reaping the fruits of our endeavors" he answered with the same confidence eyes never leaving that of his employer.

The President's eyes remained locked on the amber once of her subordinate as her mind processed a series of things. In her mind, she knew that the confidence shown by her overall project manager for Site Planning Development is indeed a good sign of his character. There are only a number of people that can stand a staring match with her and most of them if not someone she dearly values, they are her top executives. She had no doubt that this Michael Ajikko Schneider will be someone big someday given the appropriate guidance. Frankly, the feedback on this young man's performance had been nothing but positive though he merely joined the Corporation these past two years.

The president took another glance at the document she's supposed to sign. Something in her gut tells her that she should not take this matter lightly though she could not quite pinpoint the reason for her hesitation. It must be because Michael Ajikko Schneider is a newbie in her corporation or something related to that. However, there's something else that's much bigger nagging her about this estate— Shinito Estate located at Bogaty Avenue corner Evighet St.—her mind read. Sheknew that this property is quite familiar to her, but it has been five years ago and there were several properties that they've been eyeing at some may have been longer than a decade, so she couldn't really be specific as much as she'd like to.

She picked up her pen and scribbled her exquisite signature over the document. "Fine I'll leave this to you. Don't fail to send me reports as to its progress." She decided that she'll take a chance at this, after all hadn't her business been all about taking risks?

"Please do expect real time and accurate reports from me, Daidouji-sama" Schneider assured the President as he retrieved the document from her hands and graciously bowed in respect. He glanced at the signature written in fine print and smiled.

Sonomi Daidouji

Saturday 10:00 AM

August 25, xx

Sonomi Daidouji didn't watch as her subordinate left the room. She was already preparing for her next appointment. Had she given much thought to her gut feeling that day, she would have found out why she had felt the way she did. She would have known better than to decide so easily. For if she had prod a little more she would have known that the risk that she had taken that day was one of the risks she would have never taken even in her next lifetimes.

---

I

Passerby of the busy street of Evighet along Bogaty Avenue was surprised one early morning of the second to the last Sunday of the month of August as the usual vacant property that they pass through is bordered by manmade white wall which indicated that it's under construction. Majority of them was sure that it was done only the previous night for it wasn't there the recent afternoon. That might indeed be the case, but one could only be sure if they knew one Michael Ajikko Schneider for he's the one who orchestrated everything.

Michael Ajikko Schneider was personally present that morning at the site overseeing the clearing up that was being done by their hired contractors. Wearing a simple black branded shirt and faded yet still branded jeans he stood firm to where the project head was standing.

"Everything is on schedule Mr. Michael Schneider" he heard the plump man said amidst the sound of the engines and tractors that they have.

He mused that it should really be on schedule after didn't he put an all-nighter this past week for this? The moment Yamada left his office; he had put all his time and effort as to making sure that they would come to this point, albeit he almost lost hope when his employer seemed to hinder it just the previous day. But, to his utter surprise and happiness he was given the approval. His eyes wondered the entirety of the property and true to the reports it was a huge piece of land too good to just abandon. He didn't take the time to really tour the place before the construction he had given that responsibility to whomever it was assigned to. In addition to his absolute satisfaction everything was already taken care of. The whole place is barricaded as how any construction site is supposed to. The billboard where the standard caution sign and building permit information is neatly painted to the white manmade walls, and yes everything was done overnight. He stayed there for a couple of hours making sure that everything is going smoothly and gave final instructions to some tasks he needed to revised and then he left the site. He decided that he could catch up to a much needed rest he denied himself with this recent week.

Northeast corner of that site, an old wine cellar has been buried. There could have been an entrance once but at present nothing of sort existed. If one would be given a privilege to see the mentioned place, he would see a sole skeleton sprawled on the ground, once owned by someone who took care of the place. If one would be able to observe, the skull seemed to be looking toward a certain structure, a manmade shrine which currently is slowly crumbling down with each shook created by the giant vehicles and machineries brought there to aid humans with the construction.

Unbeknownst to all, an entity far more powerful than whoever were present at that site and far more darker than anyone there could have imagined resides more like was imprisoned in that shrine. And as the ground quaver with each thrust of the modern machineries the seal that kept it there crumbles as well.

More! It cried with a voice wrapped with menace and excitement. The voice alone could not reveal either gender or age of the creature should there'd be such.

More!The ground shook again and the creature emanated a dark aura no ordinary person could aura wrapped itself to the seal trying to destroy it

Just a few more! The voice much more excited and even more exhilarated as the seal cracked with every tremble the ground exhibits.

Crack! The seal finally broke and the entity in a form of black smoke immediately made its way up the ground using the existing smallest nook and cranny as a passage out.

Whilst the world seemed undaunted by this happening; a number of people surely took noticed and tapped their powers to sense the disturbance further. The release disappeared soon as it begun; the Li Clan together with the new master of cards wasn't able to track it down. Even the reincarnation of the most powerful sorcerer failed to determine the source of the disturbance, all that they can only do now is to wait until more clues come around.

Yes! Yes!Yes! Words were uttered louder each time as the creature took form upon freeing itself. It seemed to be female and petite with a voice that's laced with sheer happiness and disgust at the same time.

She hovered above the entire estate the once was her prison and now at long last she's free. She couldn't comprehend what kind of big moving metals that seemed to be digging the ground is, she couldn't recognize the noise that they are making. She has been confined for far too long.

"I'm free! At long last! It's time for me to carry on what I was originally set to do" her eyes depict mixture of relief and apathy, then it turned into something gleeful and with a dark smirk she said "Let the collation begin"

TBC

---

1. Eriol's description here is based on CCS wiki try to look for it online; I had wanted it to be as near as possible to the real one.

2. According to the same site "In the manga, Kaho remarks how kind Eriol is, but he explains he's grown to care more about one person than anyone else. Kaho asks if he already knew she loved him and he did and says 'if your feelings are the same as mine, we'll have a happy ending.' She is last seen holding hands with Eriol discussing their future together."—I sort of tweak this to adapt it to my plot if you noticed.

A/n: I've been around but haven't really publish anything, somehow this story kept bugging me as if wanted to be written and this time publish and I wish you could tell me whether if it's tolerable or horrible (GASP!)So that I may continue ^_^

-this should take a while and several chapters and while I was writing this the character took a life of their own so I don't know if I did justice in their personalities hopefully you can tell me

-should you have questions about the chapter I'll answer it to the best of my knowledge should you inform me

-next chapter is titled Ambiguous Encounter so see yah there after you made your reviews! Thankies!

peace out

EmCeeBi WashuEl