Hola people! By popular request (more like demand) I am reposting this fic with some major refinement done. I'm putting up chapter one for now because I'd like to know what you think before I put up the rest. I really enjoyed starting this fic from scratch and writing it in my present style; I think I can actually bring out the plotline better this way, so I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as you did reading the older version. Sorry I got it out later than intended though *sweatdrop*

Rating: T for now, M for later chapters…maybe…if I feel like heating things up =P

Warning: Some changes when compared to the older version, duh. Mild fluff between Sakura and someone who is NOT Syaoran xD

Disclaimer: I didn't own Cardcaptor Sakura and Co when I started this fic five years ago and guess what? I still don't own them! *grumble*

I present to you, the new and improved 'A Pact of Love'. Please enjoy xD

…

CHAPTER 1: THE PROPOSAL

"Sakura-hime! Where are you? The king is looking for you!" The near-frantic cry slit through the serene atmosphere that hung over the majestic Kinomoto kingdom castle.

A young maiden, twenty-two years of age, ran frenziedly through the gardens like a kid let loose in a candy shop, albeit less happily, with waist-length purple-black waves of hair whipping around her like a distorted halo. The ends of her pale lavender kimono got snagged in the thorns as she tore through the rose bushes but she paid the damage no heed. Her feet were bare, having forgotten her sandals in her hurry, and they padded softly across the lawns, stopping when she stood to look around the area and then running again when her eyes didn't find their target. The tenders to the garden bowed to her but she was blind to them, engrossed in her search.

"Kami where did she go?" She panted, widening her amethyst eyes as they did another three-sixty degree search. "Where the hell—gah I just cursed!—did she run off to this time!? Argh she's driving me mad!"

"Tomoyo-san? What are you doing here?"

Tomoyo whipped around at her beckoner, a young brown-haired girl who looked at her confusedly as she watered the begonias. "Sayuri-chan!" The panicking maiden clutched the other's shoulder, shaking her hard. "Do you have any idea where the princess went? Oo-sama asked me to fetch her but I can't find her anywhere! I've searched every inch, EVERY INCH of this castle and the gardens but I still can't find her! What am I going to do!?"

"T-tomo-yo-s-san p-please ca-calm dow-own—

"Do you think she went outside the castle? No, that's an absurd thought but what if—gasp—what if she did? What if she got kidnapped! I haven't seen her since lunch and that's when the supplies cart comes in from the marketplace. What if someone slipped in then and kidnapped her and then sold her off at the slave market! Oh my God what am I going to say to the king!? I'm supposed to be with her at all times so if she got kidnapped then so should I but I'm still here then that means I've been lapsing in my duties and that's unforgiveable for which the king'll sure have my head and—"SPLASH! Tomoyo coughed and spluttered as her lungs got filled up with the wrong natural element. She blinked the droplets out of her eyes to see Sayuri smiling at her, holding up her water can.

"Gomen Tomoyo-san, you were almost hyperventilating. Now take a deep breath and calm down."

Tomoyo did as told, coughing some more when a few stray water droplets went in along with the oxygen. Sayuri cocked her head to the side. "Calm now?" the other nodded. "Good. Did you check the cherry blossom grove?"

Tomoyo slapped her forehead. "…I forgot about that."

Sayuri smiled, placing a hand on her friend's shoulder and turning her towards the general direction of the grove. "Run along now."

Tomoyo gave her a sheepish smile and a mumbled "Arigatou" before obeying.

'To think I missed such an obvious place!' the purple-haired beauty berated herself as she ran to the grove. 'I probably looked like an idiot back there. Darn Sakura, this is all your fault!' She slowed down to a walk when a soft melodious song infiltrated her ears. Looking up she saw the fully-flowered branches swaying lightly, as if dancing to the sweet tune. Tomoyo smiled to herself as she followed the beautiful voice, and her smile widened when she found its owner.

Brilliant doe-like emerald eyes were closed in rapture. Soft petal pink lips parted to let the song flow from within them. Long straight auburn hair wrapped themselves like silk around the lithe slender body cocooned by a white floral printed kimono. Her dainty face was framed by soft bangs that flitted across her forehead in time with the wind. Hands clasped in front, feet folded underneath, back resting against a cherry tree, she was the perfect image of a God-sent angel; white wings the only thing missing from making the picture complete.

Tomoyo almost went into starry-eyed mode before she remembered what she'd come there for. Hands on hips, she put on her best glare as she called for the princess's attention. "Sa-ku-ra-hi-me~!"

Green eyes snapped open. "Tomoyo-chan!" They showed surprised happiness, before switching to exasperation. "How many times have I told you not to call me 'hime' in private?" and then confusion. "Ano, why are you wet?"

Tomoyo leered down upon her royal cousin. "Ne Sakura, what have I told you about running off without informing me?"

Sakura blinked at her before giving a sheepish smile. "That I shouldn't do it again?"

Tomoyo glared harder. "But you did it anyway didn't you?"

Sakura gulped.

"You have anything to say for that?"

"…oops?"

"Wrong answer." Sakura yelped when the latter pulled at her ear. "Do you have any idea how long I've been searching for you!? I looked everywhere and got so frantic I must have scared half the people in the castle!"

"Hoeee Tomoyo-chan I'm sorry! Ow!"

"Sorry doesn't cut it! Mou Sakura you always do this to me, I thought you got kidnapped and sold as a slave to an evil doctor who would use you as a guinea pig for his mad experiments!" Tomoyo let her go with a huff.

"…" Sakura ignored her throbbing ear in favor of giving the other a deadpan look. "Tomoyo, you seriously need help with your wayward imagination. It's getting the better of you."

"Hey you would have thought so too had you been in my place!"

"I would have stopped at the 'kidnapping' part."

"So I tend to freak out a little more, sue me!"

Sakura shook her head, smiling. Her cousin slash best friend's habit of imagining the worst and weirdest scenarios when in panic was no secret. She nodded at her. "Hai hai I give up. So? Why were you looking for me?"

Tomoyo blinked. "Oh right, Oo-sama wants to see you—

"Tomoyo if I have told you not to call me 'hime' in private that goes for calling Father 'oo-sama' too."

Tomoyo rolled her eyes in good humour. "Fine fine, Oji-sama wants to see you. He said he has something to tell you so let's get going Sakura-chan."

Sakura ignored her friend's jibe as she got up and dusted her kimono. She smiled at the other, eyes twinkling. "Yeah, we wouldn't want Otou-san to wait any more than he has already right?" She laughed at Tomoyo's growl.

…

If there was one thing Kinomoto Fujitaka was proud of in his entire castle, it was the garden. Standing by the large window in his private study, the king smiled to himself as he sipped his tea and look down at the colourful row of assorted flowers. He loved flowers, it reminded him of his late wife and if he let his memories have a free run he could almost see her twirling among the flowers and splashing water from the large mermaid fountain, laughing her happy laugh. He turned to look at the portrait that hung above his desk, at the woman who seemed to smile down at him from within it. Except for her gray-black wavy hair and misty charcoal eyes, she was the splitting image of Sakura, well an older version per say. Fujitaka smiled fondly. He wished she could see in person how much their children have grown.

A sharp knock snapped him out of his reverie and Fujitaka acknowledged the person to enter. His eyes twinkled when they landed on his sheepish niece and his amused daughter. "Finally found her I see, Tomoyo." He teased. "I was wondering if I should have sent out a search party."

Tomoyo blushed, sending Sakura a light glare when the latter giggled. "Gomen Oji-sama, she ran off without telling me again.

Fujitaka chuckled. "It's alright. I just wanted to tell you both that we will be leaving for the Duke's ball a little earlier than planned."

"How early Otou-san?"

"In about two hours." Fujitaka glanced up at the clock. "Touya and Yukito are running a little late, so they said they would meet us at the Duke's place."

Sakura frowned slightly. "Oh. I hope they didn't face any trouble coming back."

"He didn't say anything about trouble in the note he sent." The king picked up the paper that the messenger pigeon had flown in earlier. "But it seems that Yukito ate a bit too much and got sick so Touya's taking a pit stop at an inn till he recovers."

Tomoyo and Sakura gaped at him. "The Yuki-niisan got sick? From eating!? I wonder how much he ate for that to happen." Tomoyo asked.

Fujitaka glanced at the note again. "Says here he wiped out the entire pantry of the inn they originally stayed at."

The girls sweatdropped. "Typical Yuki-niisan."

Fujitaka chuckled. "Anyway you girls better get dressed soon. I have an appointment at the ball so I don't want to be late." He smiled at his daughter. "I also heard the Tanaka-kun will be there."

Sakura blushed bright red. "What? Kenichi-kun is going to the ball too?" Tomoyo gasped out. When the king nodded, she immediately tugged the princess towards the door. "Kami! Come on Sakura, I only have two hours to make you look droolworthy!"

Sakura, if possible, blushed harder. "H-hoe Tomoyo-chan, there's no need for—

Tomoyo whirled on her, eyes wide. "What do you mean there's no need? You want to look good for your boyfriend don't you?"

Sakura swore she felt steam come out of her ears. "A-ano well h-he's not really—

"We'll take your leave now Oji-sama."

Fujitaka laughed as he watched his niece drag his blushing, spluttering daughter to her room. Turning to look at his wife's portrait his smile slowly faded as he thought about the upcoming ball and the person who had asked for an audience with him. Considering their past differences, he wondered what they could possibly want from him now.

…

"Sakura if you pull at your dress straps one more time I will chop your hand off!"

"But Tomoyo-chan~! The neckline is too low!"

"Oh boo, I can barely see your cleavage! Now stay still else I'll poke you with this brooch."

"Demo, is this even necessa—Ow!"

"Told you I'd poke you." Sakura glared at her smirking cousin as she rubbed at her chest. "And of course this is necessary, don't you want to see Kenichi-san's jaw drop when he sees you?" Tomoyo asked, securing the brooch firmly.

"Well…y-yeah…"

"Then this is totally necessary." Tomoyo nodded firmly, stepping back to look at her work. Her eyes went starry and she squealed. "Eek you look so cute, I could squish you to death!"

Sakura sweatdropped. "You and your reactions Tomoyo."

"Just turn around and you'll know what I mean."

Sakura did as told and gasped when she saw her reflection in the large mirror. White satin wrapped around her body, flaring slightly at the hips to flow down like a glossy liquid, allowing her silver and white shoes to peek out from underneath. A dark green sash hugged her waist, coming together into a large bow at the small of her back. It brought out the green in her eyes and made them shine brighter than before. Her long hair was wrapped up in a beautifully braided bun on top of her head, with its stray tendrils framing her face in loose curls. Sakura brought her hand up to her slightly dipping neckline. Tomoyo was right, it didn't question her modesty but it was enough to provide a tease. Her fingers travelled to the gold plated cherry blossom brooch that lay on her left bosom. It was a gift from the man she loved and she blushed lightly as she thought of meeting him tonight. "Tomoyo-chan." She breathed out, turning to her cousin.

Tomoyo flicked her hair smugly. "Yeah I know, I'm awesome. And that's exactly why I'm your personal fashion designer."

Sakura laughed. "Tomoyo, you're my personal everything. I don't know what I would do without you." She nodded to her cousin's attire. "But it looks like I'm not the only one who looks droolworthy."

"What this?" Tomoyo looked down at her off-shoulder purple gown and laughed. "This is just something I put together at the last minute."

"Doesn't make you look any less gorgeous though." Sakura teased, though she meant it. With her wavy hair curled and let loose and her porcelain pale skin she looked like a china doll. "You'll be breaking many hearts tonight Tomoyo-chan."

Tomoyo waved off her comment. "Doesn't matter, I'm only interested in your epic love life Sakura!" she exclaimed, going starry eyed again. "Nothing screams romance like a love affair with a knight from the enemy kingdom. It's like a story straight out from a book!"

Sakura sighed, fingering her brooch. "It does seem unreal doesn't it? I know father and Onii-chan have no problem with it but if other people found out—

"Stop right there!" Tomoyo commanded, holding up a hand. "I know where this thought is going and again I tell you so what? Just because he works for our nemesis does not make him our enemy. Tanaka Kenichi is a wonderful man who is totally and irrevocably in love with you. You shouldn't doubt your feelings just because you are afraid of what other people will think about you both. I'm sure that if worse comes to worst and Kenichi-kun gets thrown out of the Hyuuga empire he will be welcomed into ours. So no more such thoughts ok?" she scolded lightly.

Sakura smiled. "Arigatou Tomoyo-chan. You're the best."

"I know." Tomoyo said smugly, causing the latter to laugh. "But you know what else would make this love story awesome? If by some twisted sense of fate you ended up getting married to a prince of another country and both he and Kenichi-kun fought for your affections. Now that would be drama! Ohohohoho!" she clasped her hands together, lost in her fantasies.

Sakura sweatdropped. "You really should restrain your imaginations Tomoyo. Such a thing won't happen. And even if it did, Kenichi-kun would win hands down."

"Uh-uh, you say that because you haven't met the 'prince' Sakura-chan." Tomoyo smirked, wagging her finger at her cousin. "He could be an extremely handsome fellow, with a sexy voice to boot, and could sweep you off your feet. You can never tell. It happens every time in novels."

"Novels, yes. In real life, I don't think so." Sakura said, turning to the mirror. She ran a finger over her brooch, smiling slightly. "My heart is already taken Tomoyo-chan, I don't think I have enough of it to share."

Tomoyo laughed, wrapping her hands around the blushing woman. "Fair enough. Love wins in the end. But I wonder who I would root for." She mused.

"It better be for Kenichi-kun." Sakura mock-glared at her, causing her to laugh again.

"Hai hai, whatever you say princess." She giggled when Sakura punched her lightly.

"Hime-sama, Tomoyo-sama, the carriage is here." A maid servant informed them. She bowed at the two women. "The king is waiting for you."

"We'll be right down Keiko." Tomoyo said and the servant bowed and left the room. She picked up their satin shawls and offered the green one to Sakura. "Ready to knock Kenichi-kun off his boots with your sexiness?" She winked. Sakura laughed and nodded, taking the shawl and draping it around her shoulders. They left to the entrance, finding the king waiting for them by the door.

"You both look lovely." Fujitaka smiled, laughing as they giggled and gave him a bow. "I think I should get someone as escorts for you, just so you don't get swamped by the men at the ball." He teased.

"Oh Sakura has an escort, but he'll be waiting at the ball." Tomoyo winked.

"Tomoyo-chan!" Sakura nudged her friend, blushing.

Fujitaka chuckled as he opened the door of the carriage. "Indeed. Let's get going then."

The ball they were going to was held by Duke Earnshaw, who also acted as the British ambassador for Japan. He had his own mansion in Tokyo, and though it was nowhere near as majestic as the Kinomoto castle, it was still big and grand enough for him to hold his annual ball there each time he visited Japan. It was an excuse for the ladies to gather and gossip and for the men to have a smoke while they discuss their various political issues without any hindrance, which, in this case, benefitted Fujitaka for his meeting.

As the carriage rode up the driveway of the Duke's mansion, Tomoyo and Sakura stuck their head out slightly. "No matter how many times I come here, the decorations always amaze me." Tomoyo said, staring in awe at the wonderful lighting done over the place.

Sakura nodded at her cousin. "I love the Duke's parties; he and his wife are wonderful hosts." She frowned down at her dress. "Though I wish I could have worn a kimono instead. I don't really like gowns." She tugged at her straps again, only to have Tomoyo smack her hand away.

Fujitaka smiled at his pouting daughter. "It's a traditional ballroom party and since the Duke is from England, gowns and tuxes are part of the deal. It also gives us a small taste of their culture." His eyes twinkled. "Don't worry, when we have a party of our own, we'll make them wear kimonos." Sakura giggled at her father's comment.

The carriage came to a stop in front of the entrance and Fujitaka stepped out. He turned to help the two girls down and nodded at the driver, who saluted him and drove away. Sakura held Tomoyo's hand as the three made their way up the porch steps. The girls gasped as the large, beautifully decorated hall came into their view. Soft music flitted to them and they could see a few couples already on the floor, swaying to the tune as the rest of the crowd were scattered in groups here and there. Two sets of staircases connected the hall to the upper floors. Buffet tables lined with rows of assorted delicacies were placed on either side of the stairways. A large crystal chandelier hung from the center of the roof, its stones catching and reflecting the colors of the people underneath. Flowers, some real and some artificial, decorated the arch of the door and the many windows inside the hall. To the right was the smoking room, which was already half full and they saw the Duke emerge from within it. He locked eyes with them and his face split in a huge smile. "King Fujitaka, you came!" he boomed, his large belly jiggling lightly as he hurried over to them.

Fujitaka smiled and bowed slightly. "I wouldn't miss your ball for the world Duke Earnshaw."

The Duke laughed his booming laugh. "Indeed. I see the lovely princess and her lady-in-waiting are here as well." The girls bowed, holding out their hands for him to kiss in greeting. "You both grow lovelier by the minute. You should start looking for suitors Fujitaka-sama."

Tomoyo and Sakura blushed as Fujitaka smiled down at them. "All in good time."

"Ano, where can we find Mrs. Earnshaw?" Sakura asked.

"She should be in the parlor with the other ladies. Please, make yourselves comfortable my dears." The girls bowed again before leaving the two men. The duke turned to the king. "Prince Touya hasn't arrived yet? I thought he would come in with you."

Fujitaka nodded, grabbing a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. "He intended to, but something came up so both he and Yukito are running a little late. I apologize for their tardiness."

The Duke shook his head, waving off the apology. "No matter, no matter. You are here after all. Come; let us move to the smoking room for some privacy."

"In a minute Duke. There is someone I need to meet first."

…

"And then, when I was busy trying to keep the vase from falling, he snatched the piece of fish right off my plate and ran away!" Tomoyo finished with a small huff as the her listeners laughed. "I swear that cat thinks like a human sometimes."

"Which is why Kero-chan is so special." Sakura said, smiling at the memory of the brownish-orange stray cat that would visit them from time to time. "I wish I could keep it."

"I love cats. My house in London is swarming with them; Mama thinks we may have to move out if I kept bringing in more." The Duke's daughter Matilda laughed.

"We could have kept Kero, if Prince Touya was not so allergic to cats." Tomoyo said. "He doesn't do well with any animals."

"I can sympathize." Another of their friend, a brunette nodded. "My parents won't let me have a pet either; they say it's too much of a work to take care of them. Especially dogs."

"That's true."

"Girls, if you stay holed up in the parlor all night the men won't have anyone to dance with." Mrs. Earnshaw smiled from the doorway. "Matilda, help them mingle won't you?"

"Yes Mama. Come on everyone, let's grab us some men." The blonde heiress winked, causing the others to laugh. Sakura passively listened to her cousin babbling away with the others as she let her eyes roam across the crowd. She could see many people, men especially, smiling at her appreciatively and she blushed. She hoped no one would ask her to dance. She would hate to turn them down.

"Don't worry Sakura-chan." Tomoyo whispered to her. "I've got you covered till Kenichi-kun gets here. Ohohohoho." At her trademark laugh, all eyes turned to her in amusement.

Sakura giggled. Trust Tomoyo to help her out in the weirdest ways possible.

"Ne Sakura-hime." Kimiko, the brunette from earlier looked at her excitedly. "Did you hear? The Lis are in Japan this year. I heard that they will be staying at their Hokkaido castle this summer."

"The Lis? As in Queen Yelan Li and her family?" Sakura asked, confused. "She's the Queen of China isn't she? Then why are they in Japan?"

Tomoyo rolled her eyes. "Seriously hime-sama, you should be updated with the current affairs you know?" Sakura blushed sheepishly at that. "The Hokkaido and Osaka provinces are under their rule; well Osaka is partly under theirs and partly under ours. And they have a castle in Hokkaido, but they never really stay there. Maybe something important came up for them to stay in Japan."

"Yeah I think it's some political dispute, but that's not the point." Kimiko said, wiggling in excitement. "I heard that the young prince will also be staying here!"

Matilda's eyes widened. "What? You mean the Prince Li? Is staying in Japan!?" When Kimiko nodded, she shook her head in disbelief. "You're kidding."

"She's not. He really is staying here with his family. My parents and I went to visit them last week." The finance minister's daughter Ayame said.

The other two rounded on her. "Then you met the prince?" When she nodded they squealed. "What was he like?"

"Drop dead gorgeous as always." Ayame fanned herself. "And the perfect gentleman too, though he was a little quiet at times. But that just adds to his mysterious sexiness." She giggled along with the others.

Sakura and Tomoyo cocked their heads confusedly at their friends' antics. "Is this 'Prince Li' that popular?" the princess asked her cousin.

"Saa~" Tomoyo shrugged. "I've heard stories about him but I've never met him in person."

Matilda turned to them, face glowing. "Prince Syaoran Li is Queen Yelan's son and the next in line for the Li throne. And he is by far the hottest man in all of China and Japan! And I mean the HOTTEST!"

"And to think Ayame-chan saw him in person!" Kimiko pouted, flailing her arms. "Mou I want to see him too!"

"You can, now that he's staying here for the summer. He's never stayed back in Japan before, only coming with the Queen occasionally to her meetings." Ayame told them.

"I think the Queen has come to the ball. I remember Papa writing out an invitation for her." Matilda said, looking around at the crowd. "I wonder if the prince is with her."

"I doubt it. None of the other men would have dancing partners if he was here. All the girls would be around him!"

"That's true!"

"Ne, is this prince really that good looking?" Tomoyo asked her giggling friends.

"He's far from good looking, he's an Adonis!" Ayame said, stars misting over her eyes. "No one would say he's Chinese, he's like one of those Greek Gods straight out from a book!" Tomoyo giggled as her friend practically drooled over this so called prince.

"Haven't you guys met the Lis?" Kimiko asked.

Tomoyo shook her head. "No we aren't what you would call acquaintances, not since they conquered the Hokkaido province. Our kingdoms have been in a sort of cold war since then."

"Yeah I heard about that from my father." Matilda said. "But you'll forget your animosity once you meet the prince; he's too hot to stay mad at. I've only seen him once from afar but that was enough to get me hooked!" She sighed dreamily.

Tomoyo giggled. "I thought you were all over Prince Touya before, Matilda-chan?" she teased.

Matilda blushed and waved her off. "I was but then he got married. And now I'll drool over Prince Li until he too decides to tie the knot."

"I hope he doesn't do that soon, he'd leave us all heartbroken if he did!" Ayame exclaimed. The other two nodded in agreement. Tomoyo laughed. "You guys are hopeless."

Sakura tuned out of the conversation as her friends continued to gush over this 'Prince Li' character. She wasn't particularly interested in talking about someone she didn't know. Instead, she returned to anxiously scourging the crowd again; fingering the brooch in nervous apprehension. Was he not here yet?

"But you know who I'd think would make the perfect match for him?" Ayame said.

"Who?"

"Princess Sakura!"

Sakura blinked at the mention of her name. "…hoe?"

Matilda stared at the red head, eyes sparkling. "Ah you're right Ayame-chan! They would make the perfect couple!"

"I agree!" Kimiko exclaimed. "He's so tall, dark and handsome and she's so soft, sweet and gentle. It would be a match made in heaven!"

Sakura backed away a little from her starry eyed friends. "Hoe guys, I think you're getting a little carried away."

Tomoyo giggled, wrapping her hands around the princess. "Yeah, besides, hime-sama already has someone else in mind." She sing-songed.

"What!?"

Sakura blushed. "Tomoyo-chan…"

"Who is it hime?" Matilda asked her, eyes wide in curious excitement. "You have to tell us!"

"A-ano…I—

"Is he a prince too!?"

"What's he like!?"

"Do we know him!?"

"TELL US!"

Sakura sweatdropped. "Hoe!"

"Sorry guys, but you will have to find that out for yourself later." Tomoyo came to her rescue, winking at them. "Ohohohohoho!"

"Mou, Tomoyo-chan, you're being mean!"

"Yeah, at least give us a clue!"

"No can do~!"

Sakura sighed as the attention shifted away from her again. She didn't mind telling her friends, but she doubted they would take it in the same open minded manner that Tomoyo and her family did. It wasn't easy falling in love with someone from the enemy kingdom, especially in a politically centric world as theirs. Her shoulders slumped slightly as she turned to look at the entrance for the umpteenth time. He must have gotten busy again, she thought sadly. And she had been so looking forward to seeing him.

"Princess Sakura, may I have this dance?"

Green eyes went wide as Sakura whirled around to meet the very person she had been searching for. She glanced down at the outstretched gloved hand, slowly letting her eyes travel up the arm to the strong uniform clad torso, up the neck and strong jawline to the charmingly grinning lips, sharp nose and finally resting to gaze into deep twinkling pools of blue, framed by golden yellow strands of windswept hair. The grin grew wide, bringing out a small dimple on the left cheek, as a light blush covered the princess's face. "Ken—Tanaka-san!" she breathed out.

Tanaka Kenichi bowed, one hand folded behind while the other still stayed outstretched. "Goodevening hime-sama, ladies."

Matilda and the others bowed back. "Tanaka-san, what a pleasant surprise! I didn't think you would come tonight."

Kenichi rubbed at his nose. "I came as a stand-in for Hyuuga-sama since he is out of the country. And the Duke's invitation cannot be ignored after all." He smiled as the girls giggled. Turning to look at Sakura from the corner of his eye, he said. "Besides, I have my reason to be here." Sakura blushed harder.

"We are glad you could make it too. It's not always we get to dance with a high ranking knight." Ayame giggled.

Kenichi bowed at them. "I'm flattered. But I must offer the first dance to the princess." He held out his hand again, smiling at her. "If she would grace me with the honor." Sakura blushed as she took his hand and curtsied. "I would love to, Tanaka-san."

Tomoyo and the others watched as Kenichi smiled and led her away to the dance floor. The purple haired woman squealed inside as she saw her cousin's blushing face. 'You go Sakura!' she rooted mentally.

"Come to think of it, don't you think they both look good together too?" Matilda nudged at her friends, nodding at the slow dancing pair.

"Yeah they make a lovely couple." Kimiko agreed, laughing. "Tanaka-san is a knight after all, and a handsome one at that. He'd make a perfect pair for the princess." Tomoyo nodded at her happily.

"Maybe so, but I still think Prince Li is a better match for Sakura-hime." Ayame said. "They would make the cutest couple ever!"

Tomoyo turned to her friend. "You don't think Tanaka-san is good enough for her?"

Ayame shook her head. "Oh no, he is very good looking too but…you'll understand what I meant when you see the prince."

Tomoyo turned to the dancing duo and shook her head slightly. She didn't think that would make much difference.

…

Fujitaka frowned slightly as he read the note a messenger boy had brought to him. Touya had decided against coming to the party, not wanting to risk bringing Yukito anywhere near food for another twelve hours. The king sighed. It couldn't be helped; he would apologize to the Duke later.

"Fujitaka-san."

Fujitaka turned to see a woman smiling warmly at him. Fifty years of passed time had put in a few lines on her still beautiful face and a few lines of gray in her otherwise pitch black long hair that was now put up in an elegant bun. Her long red gown wrapped her body in a way that made her appear taller, though she did not require the added height advantage. Her black eyes smiled at him as she held out her hand to him.

"Yelan-san. It is good to see you again." Fujitaka smiled, taking the offered hand and kissing her knuckle.

Yelan Li smiled back at him. "It's good to see you again Fujitaka. I was afraid that, after the Hokkaido incident, things would not remain the same."

Fujitaka waved off her concern. "You earned the right to rule that land and you do it so well. It would have been childish of me to throw a tantrum over it. Besides, Nadeshiko would never forgive me if I picked a fight with her best friend."

Yelan laughed melodiously, eyes misting over in remembrance of her late friend. "That she would. I don't see Touya anywhere, has he not come?"

The king shook his head. "He couldn't make it. I should apologize to the Duke for that. But first." He turned to Yelan, getting serious. "About that thing you wanted to discuss…"

Yelan sighed gravely and nodded. "Let's head up to the west side balcony. I think we may get some privacy there."

Fujitaka nodded at one of the waiters. He replaced his empty champagne glass with two full ones and thanked him. Giving one glass to Yelan he nodded at her. "After you, please."

They went up to the balcony and Yelan sighed as she leaned over the low wall, overlooking the patio. She took a sip of her drink, closing her eyes as the liquid washed down her throat. Turning to the patiently waiting man she let out another sigh. "You are well aware of what Hyuuga Kaname's moves, aren't you?"

Fujitaka pushed back his spectacles, frowning slightly. "Well considering he has been cooking up some problems over at the Osaka province I can't say I am ignorant. Although I am not sure just what he is after."

"He wants Hokkaido."

The auburn haired man snapped his eyes up at his companion. "Hokkaido? But, does that mean…"

Yelan nodded. "He is after my land. He wants to throw me out of Japan completely and use my land for his trading business. He has already gained control over my share of Osaka."

Fujitaka stared at her. "But…that's impossible! Are you telling me Hyuuga defeated your army with his small battalion?"

"He's not the only one involved." Yelan shook her head. "Two days back, Hyuuga Kaname signed an alliance with Hayate Gorou. Together they managed to overthrow my rule over Osaka last night."

"Hayate Gorou? The one who's head of the underworld trade operations?"

"That's right. Hayate himself does not possess the scheming mind necessary to defeat us, but he has a big army working for him, probably as big as my own. With the increase in his military strength, taking Osaka from us was child's play for Hyuuga."

Fujitaka let her words sink in. "But what could he benefit by driving you out of Japan? His is a nameless independent kingdom that rose in a revolution against me, but he has never had the strength to defeat us. If they stole Hokkaido and Osaka from you, it would only be a matter of time before we took it back from them."

"That span of time is all he needs to come up with a strategy to overthrow you." Yelan told him. "His plan is to drive me out first. Hokkaido was where Hayate first operated before I shut his business down and forced him to move. I have not been able to capture all of his underlings yet. By driving me out of Hokkaido and gaining control of it, Hyuuga can use Hayate's men to increase his own military strength and then they can advance to you. The only thing standing between you and him is my kingdom. If this were China things would be different. As it stands, in Japan, you are in charge. Even if I wish to, once he's taken Hokkaido from me, I cannot fight him back without your support."

"So you want me to help you out."

"I want us to help each other out." Yelan corrected him. "He is ruthless Fujitaka; he won't stop at anything to get back at you. He has gone insane with his want for power and revenge that he fails to see all this was his fault in the first place."

Fujitaka mulled over her words as an onslaught of past memories flowed into him. He closed his eyes and grit his teeth, willing the sadness to go away. "I understand. He needs to be stopped. But if what you said is true, then I cannot do it by myself."

Yelan put a hand on his. "We can stop him together. If we combine our army forces and our intellect we can stop him."

Fujitaka looked at her. It was not a bad idea but "How do you propose we do that? I understand we are not enemies but we are not allies either. Questions will arise if we suddenly decide to become partners overnight."

Yelan frowned in slight apprehension. "I understand that, which is why I have come up with a proposal."

"A proposal?"

"A simple one really, but one that could impact both our futures as rulers." Fujitaka frowned at her slightly nervous smile. "All that remains is to convince our children."

…

Sakura sighed as she leaned onto the muscular chest in front of her. She felt it rumble slightly as Kenichi chuckled. "Careful princess, someone might see us cuddling." He teased as he swayed them both in time with the soft music.

"Let them see." She sighed, smiling happily. "I could care less right now."

"Ah but you would care when morning comes and the rumors spread like wildfire." Kenichi said, pulling her up so that he could see her face. Sakura blushed under his scrutiny and he smiled at her. "What do you say we go for a stroll in the gardens? I'd like to get away from this crowd."

Sakura nodded eagerly and let the knight lead her outside. The sky was cloudless but the radiance from the full moon prevented her from seeing the stars. Moonlight lit their path as they weaved their way through the sleeping flowers, walking quietly as to not disturb their peace. Reaching a small clearing, Sakura gasped when she saw a large swing and immediately ran up to it. "This is so beautiful." She gushed as she tried to take her seat, pouting when the swing wiggled.

Kenichi chuckled as he caught the swing and steadied it. Sakura gave him a grateful smile and hoisted herself up. She giggled when the blond man pushed the swing lightly, watching as she swayed to and fro. "How old are you again? Five? Six?" He teased.

Sakura stuck out her tongue at him. "I'm turning twenty-two in two months." She laughed as she removed her sandals with her feet and wiggled her toes.

"Really? Now why do I find that hard to believe?" Kenichi smirked at her antics.

"Come on Kenichi-kun, higher."

Sakura squealed when Kenichi gave a particularly strong push and sent her soaring. She laughed hard and mildly wondered if anyone had heard her. "Higher! I want to reach the moon."

Kenichi laughed as he pulled at the swing, causing it to stop mid swing, and leaned over her. "You would fly away and leave me behind?" he whispered, ghosting his lips over her forehead.

Sakura blushed from the exhilaration and the nearness of the other's face. "No." She shook her head and scooted over. Patting the small space next to her she smiled at him. "Let's fly together."

Kenichi grinned as he lifted her off the swing and placed her on the lawn. Bending down on one knee, he picked on of her sandal, blew at it and held it up to her. "Won't you be mine for the night my Cinderella?"

Sakura curtsied and took the sandal. "Why certainly, my dear Prince Charming." She giggled.

Kenichi straightened up and smiled down at her. "You might want to change that title to knight instead of prince." He cupped her cheek, brushing his thumb against her lips. "I missed you Sakura." He whispered.

Sakura blushed and lowered her eyes. "So did I, Kenichi-kun. I'm glad I got to see you tonight."

Kenichi smiled and place a small kiss on her forehead. Pulling back, he looked deep into her eyes. "I may have to go out of town for a while princess, we are recruiting new soldiers and I'll be heading their training for a few weeks."

"Is that so? Then it is a good thing I could meet you tonight."

Kenichi nodded, brushing the tendrils of her hair away from her face. "What wouldn't I do to take you with me right now? To put a ring on your finger and show that world that you are mine."

Sakura smiled, clasping his hand in both of hers. "All in good time. You still need to win over Oniichan." She teased.

Kenichi groaned. "And that is the hardest task of them all." He smiled when the princess laughed. "I'll wait as long as it takes. Because you are worth it." He nuzzled her nose with his. "And because I love you."

Sakura smiled back, blushing as his lips descended on hers. "I love you too."

…

Fujitaka had not slept a wink that night.

He kept thinking back to what Yelan had told him. It was a very reasonable proposal and she had been very courteous when offering it, but to ask his daughter to do such a thing…the auburn haired man closed his eyes, sighing. He lived to see that smile on her face and by telling her to do something like this; he was risking wiping it off completely.

"You're fretting over it again Fujitaka." Daidouji Sonomi, Tomoyo's mother and the palace's royal advisor came up to him. "Stop worrying, this is Sakura we are talking about, she will understand."

"Which is exactly why I am hesitating to tell her Sonomi." Fujitaka sighed and rubbed his eyes. "Knowing her, she will agree to it even if it tears her heart."

"That is how a princess should be. She should place the kingdom before her own desires." Tsukishiro Yousuke(1), general of the Kinomoto army, told him. "Here have a drink Fujitaka, you look pale."

"Thank you Yousuke." Fujitaka accepted the wine and drank a small sip. "I just…I wish there was another way—

"There is no other way." Yousuke told him. "Queen Yelan is right; you can't just shake hands and join forces without having a valid reason to. This proposal is a good idea; it will help strengthen the bond between the two kingdoms as well. We can't always have things go our way Fujitaka, if we want to give our people a better future then certain sacrifices have to be made."

"Yousuke-san is right." Sonomi agreed. "She is a princess Fujitaka, she will someday help Touya in ruling this land. And she's Nadeshiko's daughter, her will lies in her. Sakura is strong, give her some credit before you judge her reaction."

"Give me credit for what?"

The trio looked up to see Sakura enter the throne room, followed closely by Tomoyo, Touya, his wife Kaho and Tsukishiro Yukito, Touya's best friend and Yousuke's son.

"Oye kaijuu, move." Touya yawned, scratching his head and making a bigger mess of his wild black hair.

Sakura glared at her brother before stomping his feet. Hard. "Sakura no Kaijuu!" she exclaimed over his howl of pain.

"Touya stop teasing your sister." Yukito pulled at his friend's ear with one hand while the other brought an apple to his mouth. "And Sakura-chan, you're still blocking the way."

"Ah gomen Yuki-niisan."

"Ow! Yuki, leggo!"

"Sometimes I wonder who the younger sibling is." Kaho shook her head at her husband's antics as she maneuvered around him, shielding her six-month old belly. "Please don't take after your father ok my little baby?" she cooed to her stomach, causing Tomoyo to giggle.

Yousuke cleared his throat loudly, catching everyone's attention. "Settle down guys, the king has something important to say to you all." They took their seats and turned their gaze eagerly to Fujitaka, who paled a little when he looked at his daughter. A warm hand landed on his shoulder and gave it a gentle reassuring squeeze and he took a deep breath. "Yesterday I met with someone at the Duke's party." He started. "Queen Yelan Li of the Li kingdom."

"The Li Queen? What did she want with you?" Touya frowned.

"She had a proposal for me. The reason being she wanted my help to thwart Hyuuga Kaname's attack against her kingdom and, possibly, ours." Fujitaka said, proceeding to tell them what Yelan had told him about Hyuuga and his evil plans.

"They took Osaka!?" Yukito exclaimed, turning to his father. "But the Hyuuga kingdom is smaller than ours. How did they—

"The added strength of Hayate Gorou's kingdom helped him defeat the Li army." Yousuke told him. "They are targeting Hokkaido next, intent on driving the Lis out of Japan."

Silence followed his explanation. "So?" Touya broke it. "Yelan-sama wants your help to defeat Hyuuga and his men?"

"Yes and no." Fujitaka told his son. "Hyuuga's target is our kingdom; he will stop at nothing to get it, even if he has to destroy other empires in the process. The Li kingdom is powerful but they are not strong enough to face Hyuuga and Hayate's men alone. Yelan suggested a way that would help her save her province as well as help us get rid of an age long nemesis."

"Damn that Hyuuga. Snarky bastard!" Touya growled. Kaho put a hand on his arm.

"And what is this proposal that she made?" Yukito asked the king.

Fujitaka turned to his two friends who nodded at him. "Well, personally I think it is a good proposal and if we adhere to it, we can not only combine both our forces but we can also make China an allied country, which would help immensely in our trades. But…"

"But what, Oji-sama?" Tomoyo asked.

Fujitaka sighed and turned to his daughter. "It all rides on Sakura's consent."

All eyes turned to the princess. Sakura blinked. "My consent?" she pointed to herself.

"That's right my child." Fujitaka nodded. "If you do not agree, then this alliance will never form."

Everyone looked worriedly at the king. He seemed reluctant to tell them what the proposal was. Sakura gave him a reassuring smile, hoping it would comfort him. "Don't worry Otou-san. If it is for the kingdom's and our people's future, then I am willing to do anything you ask of me."

Those words made Fujitaka all the more distressed. The hand on his shoulder squeezed again and he looked up at Sonomi. "Tell her Fujitaka."

"There is no use in delaying the inevitable." Yousuke nodded at him.

Fujitaka nodded sadly as he turned to his daughter again. "Forgive me princess." He whispered, causing Sakura to frown at him, confused. "That proposal, or rather the pact, is for you Sakura to be married to Prince Syaoran Li of the Li kingdom in a month's time.

…

TBC

A/N: Like I said, I won't be changing the flow of the story although I will be adding some scenes here and there to help develop the plotline better, so it would be better if you read the first five chapters again. Sakura, Tomoyo and the rest of the characters will undergo a major development from here on, so I hope you will still like them. Tell me what you think about the revised version and I'll have the next chapters out soon for you to enjoy. I won't be posting them together, maybe chapters two and three will come out before the others since the wedding chapter and the chapter after that requires some major refining work. But don't worry, I'll have it out as soon as I can, pinky swear! xD

(1) Yes I'm aware his name was Tsukishiro Sasuke in the previous version but I'm reading 'Naruto' now and somehow using Sasuke's name for a character who is not…well, Uchiha Sasuke seems kinda awkward to me *sweatdrop* So yeah, his name is Yousuke from now xP

Don't forget to review! They are the fuel to my brain xP Until next time then.

Kaijuu signing off.