The Strength Within

By: Firefly.Tenshi

Full Summary:

Syaoran comes to Japan searching for the cards 1 year too late. Sakura went through a traumatic event while becoming the Cardmistress. She takes a leave of absence before Syaoran came. Syaoran becomes best friends with Eriol, they were inseparable at school, but when Sakura came back that all changed. Eriol spent all his time with Sakura and she clung to him for support. She too weak, quiet and feeble for the cards to choose her as the master or so Syaoran thought. What happens when he discovers her identity?

Syaoran – 14 years old

Sakura – 13 years old

Eriol – 14 years old

Tomoyo – 13 years old

Touya – 19 years old

Yukito – 19 years old

Chapter 2: Sakura's Surprise

Syaoran led Sakura to their next class, their elective. He took his seat, he watched as Sakura stepped into the classroom. He didn't let her catch up with him on the way to class. She walked over to him and bowed. She said a small thank you before going and taking her seat. That surprised Syaoran, he had practically ditched her and she thanks him. He couldn't understand that girl. This was his favourite course this term, Ancient History and Archaeology. Syaoran loved history, he held great appreciation for the ancient cultures and customs of the world. He could see these customs dying in today's society. Even though he didn't practice these customs, he didn't want the knowledge of the ancient cultures to disappear. They were more than halfway through the course which made him wonder why it was also called archaeology. He was actually surprised because the years before it was just ancient history. He didn't care, he didn't have any special interest in archaeology but as long as it would touch upon history which was fine with him.

It was already five minutes into the class and the teacher hadn't arrived yet. Normally she was punctual, in fact she punished student for their tardiness even if it was just a minute late. She was pregnant and looked like she was ready to burst but that didn't stop her last week from coming. The class knew she was at least another 2 or 3 weeks away from actually giving birth.

Suddenly the door burst open and gave everyone a start. The man who entered was apologizing profusely for being late while walking to the desk. He put his brief case on the table then turned and faced the class. Syaoran heard Sakura gasp and then he heard many whispers going through the class; many of the girls gushing over the new teacher. Syaoran had to admit the teacher was rather good looking. He had reddish brown hair and big round glass. His eyes were closed and his mouth seemed to be in a permanent smile.

"Again, I apologize for being late. I'm not setting a very good example for you all. Perhaps that's why my daughter is always late for school," he laughed. "Anyways, your teacher contacted me in the beginning of the term about her pregnancy, saying that she couldn't complete teaching this course this year. She knew I was much more knowledgeable in archaeology so she offered to make this a combined course. Of course I couldn't refuse, so here I am. I'm your new teacher, my name is Kinomoto, Fujitaka."

"Kinomoto? Are you related to Kinomoto, Sakura?" one student asked.

"Yes, she's my daughter. I believe she's shocked by this sudden turn of events," Fujitaka smiled, sending the class into a soft murmur. Syaoran looked at Sakura. Her shoulders were tensed up and she was visibly shaking. She looked like she was ready to burst and not a minute later she stood up.

"I can't believe you didn't eve tell me about this Dad. I just can't believe it," Sakura said before running out of the class. Everyone including Fujitaka seemed quite surprised at her outburst. He started to go after her, before realizing that he had a class to take care of.

"Um, well, I didn't expect that. Do you think I could have a volunteer to go make sure my daughter is alright?" he asked. All the girls in the class put their hands up, the wanted to make a good impression on the teacher. Syaoran knew none of them would actually go and find Sakura, they actually could care less about her. Syaoran grudgingly raised his hand. Fujitaka's smile seemed to grow then picked Syaoran. Syaoran knew where Sakura was, she always went to the same place every time she ran out of class. He walked toward the largest Sakura tree and jumped onto one of the branches. Sakura was on the branch beside him. He sat down and sighed.

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