Hello! Yes, I understand that it has been a long time. A very very long long time. I'm sorry, it was life (lame excuse I know). Things just get so hectic during my academic year, I never find the time to write. Too busy writing about Diabetes and why health inequalities suck. So it's been a lovely change to go back to writing this story. I have to say, it was the recent reviews I'd received that really got me to knuckle down and bring out another chapter… so thank you to you! It's late and I've read through this one, and I really can't be bothered to re-read it again (such bad practice!) and more than anything, I just want to get it out and share it with you lovely people.
And seriously, this story was published like years ago… so if you're and old reader, and still willing to read this after all this time, I am in awe of you. Thank you very much. Please Read, enjoy and review :')
Chapter 6: Women
The party moved through vast corridors, led by Touya till they reached an archway that descended to castle library.
The Library was a colossal hall that consisted of three balcony levels as well as the marble paved ground floor. Wide marble columns ascended to exquisite ceiling frescos, passing seemingly endless rows of book on gilded shelves. Several frescoed archways either side of the hall lead to various rooms containing artwork collections, ancient to modern records of the Clow's history, legal records, specialised collections of books and rare artefacts. One led to a large meeting room, which was where the party entered. It was a modest and well-lit room with the scent of wood, candles and leather-bound tomes heavy in the air. A heavy dark-wood table dominated the room.
Touya pulled out a chair at one end of the table for the Empress, whilst everyone settled into their seats, before taking a seat in his own chair at the opposite end to her.
Amaterasu signalled towards a pretty young maid to come forward, "My personal guard Soma will be along tomorrow, I needed her to pick up a few things for me. Would you please make preparations for her arrival?"
"They have already been taken care of your highness."
"How efficient! Thank you. What is your name?" She beamed at the young maid, who blushed and bowed deeply.
"Ilaria, and it is a pleasure, your grace."
"Ilaria, could you please hold off the tea, this will be a brief meeting. Can you make sure the rooms and baths are ready for our guests and any refreshments prepared available in our guests rooms." Touya's voice carried across the room as he removed his cloak and rolled his sleeves up to his elbows.
"Of course your highness." The young Ilaria moved away from the Empress and bowed in the direction of the King before scurrying away.
Touya looked over to his younger sister's best friend, "Tomoyo-chan, I apologise for calling this meeting as soon as you have come into the palace, I understand you must be tired. However I will be busy untill dinner, and this matter needs to be agreed upon so that we can set things in motion."
"It is no problem at all. Please don't apologise, I'm just so glad to be here"
The young King could not help but smile at the Princess. After taking in her responding smile, he made himself comfortable in the chair before addressing the room. "Now, let's begin. My lady?" Touya gestured towards the Empress, prompting her to rise elegantly out of her chair. All eyes turned toward her.
"Thank you, dear Touya. Yes, I have an announcement. I understand that what I am about to propose is a little unorthodox. Usually the person who proposed the nominated Knight takes this responsibility. Nonetheless, it's not prohibited and, as King Touya alluded to, time is of the essence. And so," Amaterasu turned to face Syaoran, "I would like to Champion the young Syaoran. I wish to be responsible for his welfare during this endeavour."
A ripple of surprise spread thought the room. Sakura turned her gaze towards Syaoran who was clearly confused. No one spoke. "Well... why are you all just staring? This is a good thing!" Amaterasu clapped her hands together and swept her gaze across the room, trying to encourage a more positive reaction.
"Your highness, that is very generous." Yukito spoke up.
"What can I say, I'm a giver." She smiled, however everyone around the table remained unsure about how to react. " Oh for goodness sake, King Touya and I have already discussed it and he is happy for me to Champion. Kurogane?" She looked over towards the Knight, "As his trainer, I feel your support is needed."
Without hesitation Kurogane raised his arm to his chest and inclined his head, " It is unusual, but of course you have my full support your grace."
"Wonderful!" Clapping her hands together again, she turned her attention to Syaoran.
"Well, Syaoran-kun, are you happy with this arrangement?" Amaterasu folded her hands beneath her chin and smiled sweetly at him. Blushing deeply and jumping to his feet, he bowed several times and stumbled over his words.
"Y-your highness! I'd- I would be honoured. Thank you! But-" he was bright red, "May I ask why, your highness?"
"Oh little wolf, because I desire it to be so, and so it shall." she spoke the words so pleasantly, yet there was something behind her words. He simply nodded and bowed again, not willing to ask her for a little more clarity.
"If that is decided, then perhaps we should quickly discuss the nomination ceremony?"
Yukito stood and placed a number of scrolls on the table. "As this would be the first nomination I have presided over, I've been through the scrolls and studied the traditions." Pushing his glasses up his nose, Yukito spread the ancient and faded papers open. "Now, it is traditional to have at least have a nominated Knight at a much earlier age, but as you are not the first-born, before the age of nineteen is recommended." He spoke to the room, but was looking at Sakura. She nodded to show her attentivness.
"Pardon the interruption, but may I ask why it was left so late for Sakura-chan to be appointed a Knight?" Amaterasu asked, her eyes darting from Yukito to the King. "Or were you just waiting for this one to return?" She giggled, paying no attention to Syaoran's furious blushing.
Touya's eye twitched at the Empress who was seated directly across from his own seat at the head of the table. "Actually, she had no need for a Knight up until now. Lady Chii, and myself have been more than enough for her protection. However, she will debut into society soon, so now is the right time."
"And Syaoran is the right person, yes?" She pressed, an enigmatically happy smile on her face.
Sakura felt as though her face was on fire. Since her arrival, the Empress had been so favourable towards Syaoran. Why? She seems so happy about all of this. What's going on?
"Out of all the candidates considered, he was the most adequate." Touya's reply was curt.
"I see. Apologies for interrupting you dear Yukito, please continue."
"Not at all your majesty," he replied, smiling at her. "Well, as tradition states, the ceremony will be conducted in the temple, by myself, in six days time. It is my recommendation that the tasks are done within the summer if Princess Sakura wishes to be a representative of Clow for the Autumn debuts. Therefore, I propose that at least the first task is accomplished by the Princess's birthday."
"Forgive me Yukito, but that is quite soon." Lady Chii spoke up, "We haven't even chosen a trial master."
"Fai and I have been on the case," Yukito smiled at her and sat down. "Fai had a feeling you'd be anxious about the organisation and, more specifically, the trials. So he suggested the best."
Grinning, Fai cupped Chii's hands, but looked toward Sakura and Syaoran, " I understand how important these two are to you my dearest, and all of us, so I have been in touch with Yuko-San and she has agreed to travel to Clow and be the Trial Master!" Turning back towards Chii, he smiled more modestly, "I knew you wouldn't be happy with anyone else, so I called in a favour." Fai saw the emotion in her large blue eyes and felt her hands tighten. He squeezed back an acceptance of her silent gratitude.
"Yuuko San...?" The table's attention turned towards Sakura, "As in, the Dimensional Witch?"
"The one and only!" Fai stood up and strolled over towards Kurogane, "She's a very good friend and definitely the best person for the job. She's powerful and good natured." Patting Kurogane on the shoulder, he looked over at Syaoran, "Yuuko brought out the best in our Kurogane here with her last set of trials. She is one of the most powerful people in the realm. The trials she designs will be tough. However, if something were to go wrong she would be able to intervene."
Yukito nodded in agreement, "The last thing we want are poorly designed trials. It would endanger the both of you. Yuko is also known to be quite… creative in her trials. So it will be interesting to see how she wishes to test you."
Syaoran felt his heart sink. Kurogane was the youngest ever Knight. The greatest swordsman in the land. A legend. If those trials brought out the best in him then they must have been exceptionally tough. He felt his heart sink. 'I'm not like Kurogane.'
"So, what is the payment?" Once again, Sakura's gentle voice caught the attention of the room.
"Payment?" Syaoran was confused. He turned to look at her, "There's a payment?" She nodded,
"Yes, from everything I've heard about the Dimensional Witch, everything has a price. Something of equal value. So what is it in this case Yukito-san?"
"Actually your highness, this situation is quite different. With this kind of deal you have to look at the big picture. These trials are being carried out effectively to confer, for you, a lifetime of protection. In this case it's in the form of a person. Hence, the price of a lifetime of protection is the life of that person, in this case Syaoran. A lifetime of dedication is price enough for the tasks being undertaken. He will be branded with the Mark of the Knight upon completion of the Trials and, from that moment on, bound to you till death."
Sakura felt a deep ache in her chest as she processed his words. Her throat went dry and she found all she could do was nod and stare at her hands in her lap. A lifetime.
"Well, that sounds fair enough to me." Sakura's head snapped up as Syaoran spoke. There was a smile on his face directed at her. She stared back at him incredulously. "So, what exactly do I have to do?" He held her eyes, before returning to Yukito's attention.
"Such a mighty spirit!" Amaterasu thumped a fist onto the table, "You, young Syaoran, will be a joy to work with!" Touya rolled his eyes at her boisterous enthusiasm.
"Well I think, for now at least, that's enough discussion. Syaoran and Sakura have both agreed. Syaoran now has a champion; we have a trial master and a deadline for the first task. The nomination ceremony, as Yukito said, will take place in six days. Yukito, walk with me now to the temple. I wish to see what space we have to work with. And tell the Lord Chamberlain to come along too. Lady Chii, as Mistress of the Robes you will at some point organise a meeting with Sakura's Ladies-in-waiting and the Master of the household's department, please. Invitations need to be sent out too. Six days isn't really a lot of notice for an event like this, but it's too important for people to miss, so it should be fine. Also, a menu needs to be approved for the ball after the ceremony. I need to meet with the Royal treasurer too. Ilaria?"
Amaterasu watched the young maid hurry into the room to the Kings side and bowed. Her silky blonde hair spilling out of the white cap she wore. The girl had a pretty figure, she could tell, even under the black and white uniform. Her blue eyes, too large for her face, watched the king nervously. She bit her lip and spoke quietly. "Yes, your majesty." Her voice was pleasing and Touya turned to face her, making eye contact. His legendarily handsome face broke into a smile.
"Would you please inform the Royal Treasury to thoroughly prepare those accounts I asked for? I'll be up there in about two hours."
"Yes of course, your highness."
"Thank you. We've finished our meeting too, so I wonder if you would please escort all the ladies upstairs. I'm sure the Empress and Tomoyo-Hime want to freshen up and relax this afternoon. See to it that they have everything they need." He stood up and smiled at her once again. "Ladies, Illaria and Lady Chii will see to it that you are all made comfortable. Thank you all. Yukito, let's go." Touya grabbed his cloak and swept out of the room.
Yukito stood up and tidied his scrolls away. "Ladies enjoy your afternoon. Your majesty-" He held Amaterasu's hand and planted a kiss softly on her skin, "It really is wonderful to have you here with all of us."
"Why don't you stay and hang out with us. Forget that boring King, he demands your time too much. He needs to learn to share you." Amaterasu pouted playfully. Yukito laughed.
"Yes, he's very demanding isn't he? Unfortunately, duty calls. I expect he'll want to work late into the night after dinner too. Speaking of which, I will steal you for a dance after dinner tonight."
"I can't wait." She smiled sweetly at him, and he swiftly kissed her hand again. Straightening up, he looked over at the two young princesses and winked, "I'm sure you both will have a good time catching up. Enjoy." The young girls beamed at him.
"Gentlemen, I expect I'll see you all at dinner?" The males all exchanged nods, and Yukito strode out, humming a jaunty tune to himself.
Chii was next to stand, prompting Syaoran, Kurogane and Fai to rise, "Right then Ilaria. Let's take these ladies upstairs. Gentlemen." She inclined her head and the other ladies rose and followed Chii out.
The three young men were left standing in silence.
"So, how about a bath then some lunch?" Fai said brightly.
…
The female bathhouse was located in the West wing of the castle. It was a large room, composed of white marble and tall columns that held up a second storey balcony that wound all around the room. In its a centre was a large body of heated water in which Sakura, Tomoyo, Amaterasu and Chii were bathing in. Sakura sank deeper into the water and closed her eyes. Amaterasu was having her long raven hair washed by one of the maids and Chii and Tomoyo were discussing the spring agriculture in Japan. Sakura smiled. She felt utterly blissful at being surrounded by so many friends. However, the situation with Syaoran kept interrupting her happy thoughts. She frowned and sank deeper into the water till only her closed eyes were above the water.
I can't let Syaoran go through with this. He's a man, so he may not have even thought about that side of things. Love, marriage and kids. Maybe I should speak with him. He needs to know exactly what he's getting into…
"What are you thinking so hard about my sweet?" Amaterasu's voice pulled Sakura out of her thoughts and she straightened up.
"Oh, nothing. Just thinking."
"Anything troubling you?"
"Mmh… no"
"My, that wasn't very convincing." Amaterasu stood up; the small towel wrapped around her barely covered her assets. Sakura wanted to look away, but couldn't help admire how beautiful she was. The curves of her body were similar to the illustrations found in the romantic literature. Her white skin appeared even more snow-like as her dark wet hair clung to her. She was almost as tall as Touya but not quite. Sakura had always had a secret wish of her brother and Amaterasu falling in love. However much to her disappointment, there was a great history of animosity between the two. The Empress agitated the King. She loved to tease him and he never responded to teasing very well. Touya had also never shown an interest in any woman. He was always too busy dealing with affairs of state and spent more time with Yukito and his council than with the ladies at court.
Amaterasu thanked the maid for washing her hair and asked her to have her red dress laid out for dinner. She waded through the water and settled next to Sakura. "Come here, let me wash your hair." She shifted the young girl in front of her, poured a sweet-smelling solution onto her hair and began to lather it gently. Sakura closed her eyes and relaxed.
"Ama-chan… that feels great."
"Aww, 'Ama-chan'! Now that's more like it." She turned Sakura's head gently and planted a kiss on her cheek. " I swear if you were able to come live with me and Tomoyo I would just be the happiest woman in the world. The three of us could spend every day together!" Sakura giggled.
"Don't you have a country to run?"
"I'm a woman!" She announced proudly, "Men can't multi-task like we can. For them it's the job, food or women, but never all at the same time. They can't handle it," She laughed, and poured water over the princess's auburn hair, rinsing the foam out. "Your brother's a classic example! Don't you long for a sister-in-law Sakura-Chan...?"
"I really would love one. I've begged Onii-chan over the years and he always used to tell me to be quiet and stop talking about things I didn't know about. But once he said to me-" Sakura shifted in the water and relaxed into Amaterasu's arms, " 'you can't change what the heart wants no matter how complicated it is. But what we do have is control over timing… if the timing isn't right, then love will have to wait. But it's ok because if it's love, real love, it will resist the pressure of time, the pressure of anything.'… Or something like that. I didn't really know what he meant, but it sounded sweet enough that I haven't forgotten it. Anyway, I just want him to marry and have beautiful babies that I can spoil…" Sakura spoke with a lazy happiness. "He would make a great husband, and he would be so good and loyal to his wife. I just wish he'd hurry up and find the woman of his dreams." Amaterasu made eye contact with Chii. Chii said nothing and simply stared back at the Empress.
Amaterasu remained silent and focused on Sakura's hair again. 'Well, I guess he hasn't told her.'
…
Sakura and Tomoyo had spent the last three hours chatting and laughing together as they pampered each other with facials, manicures and dressing up. Tomoyo, who was eighteen months older than Sakura and had already debuted into society, updated her on the scandalous happenings of the Japanese court and in return Sakura relayed the snippets she had heard of Clow's own court from her ladies-in-waiting. It wasn't until she realised how much fun she was having, that it dawned on her how truly lonely she had been before.
"Can I borrow that nice pink lipstick of yours? The one you wore to my birthday party?" Tomoyo asked Sakura as she finished sliding in the last hair ornament.
"Of course." Sakura opened a box on her vanity, rummaged around and threw the gold tube of lipstick over to Tomoyo who was sat on Sakura's bed. Sakura watched Tomoyo in her movements.
The way she was sat on the bed, so elegant and beautiful. Her pose was graceful, and even the way she held the mirror up to her face, stroked a loose curl of hair behind her ear or tilted her face as she looked in the mirror was delicate. When had she become such a woman? There was something about her that had changed, it was small, very small, but Sakura could tell. Something had happened in the last three months since they'd seen each other.
"Why…" Tomoyo spoke slowly, her mouth in an 'O' shape as she applied the lipstick; "Are you staring… at me…?" she put the lipstick down, checked her lips in the mirror and turned to face her best friend.
"I don't know. There's something different about you Tomoyo-chan and I can't quite put my finger on it. You just seem different to me." Tomoyo's facial expression morphed into one of panic. "Tomoyo –chan? What's wrong?" Sakura hurried over to the bed, gathering the skirts of her yellow and white lace dress into her arms so that she could sit close to Tomoyo.
"Oh gods, you can tell?" Sakura held her friends hand, Tomoyo's eyes wide open and her voice barely audible. "I didn't think people could tell these kinds of things? Do you think Onee-chan knows? She'd be so disappointed!"
"Tomoyo-chan, what are you talking about?" Sakura gripped her tighter, "What might she know?" Tomoyo took a deep breath in and turned to face Sakura.
"Ok, I have to tell you something Sakura. I need to tell someone, and I was going to wait because it's not as important as your situation with the nomination, and the ceremony."
"Tomoyo-chan you know you can tell me anything. I'm always here for you." Sakura shuffled closer to her friend, still holding her hands. "Tell me what happened."
"Two months ago I went to visit Kurogane. We hadn't seen each other in so long- oh Sakura I was so happy-" There were tears welling up in her eyes. Sakura squeezed her hand and nodded her head in understanding. "We were talking, and I just became so upset. I had been missing him so much. Sometimes the distance really takes its toll on us. I was meant to be staying in the guest room, but I'd snuck into his room around midnight. I just didn't want to be alone, knowing I was so close to him. I didn't want to be apart from him and I couldn't stop crying, but he stayed with me. Comforting me, reassuring me that his feelings were as strong as ever. Soon he would be done with training Sayoran and then it would be easier for us. He just held me. He was so sweet, but I couldn't take it anymore and…" She hung her head, not wanting to face Sakura, "That night I gave myself to Kurogane... completely."
Sakura was speechless. "Tomoyo-chan…" Sakura went silent as she tried to absorb the information.
"Say something please!" She looked up again and held Sakura's face desperately, "I know it's not…traditional. We're not married, but … oh please don't say you think badly of me Sakura, I couldn't bare it…"
"Tomoyo no! Not at all! If anything -and this might sound strange- but I'm… happy for you. Is that strange? Yes, I think it is, but listen," she gently placed her hands on Tomoyo's face. "I've known you both my entire life, and I don't know anybody who deserves true love more. No, it's not traditional for us royals, but it's ok. He's the one." Sakura smiled, and Tomoyo laughed through her tears and nodded furiously, "What you did, was something that should happen between two people who love, but more importantly, trust each other. How can that be wrong? You have nothing to feel guilty about. Everyone knows that you two will only ever exist for one another." she smiled, gently wiping the tears from her best friends face.
Tomoyo sniffed, "I thought you'd be disappointed in me Sakura-chan..."
"Never! In fact I..." she paused, hesitant to ask. Tomoyo composed herself and leaned closer towards her.
"Sakura, what is it?"
" I'm curious. What... What's it like? " She saw Tomoyo smile a little, and felt her face go red hot. " I don't mean details or anything! I just-" Sakura held her hand out and shook them in panic.
Tomoyo grabbed a hold of Sakura's flailing hands, "It's ok Sakura-chan I understand. There's not really anyone we can talk to about things like this. We can talk about it, but perhaps another time, Syaoran will come for us soon, so we need to finish getting ready. We'll have some more us time ok? From what I've seen anyway, I'm sure you need to talk to someone."
Sakura stared confused, "What do you me-"
A loud knock on the door startled them, and Sakura shuffled off the bed and walked over to the door. Mochii began to bark wildly and scratch at the door. "Moochi, what are you doing?" Sakura scooped him up into her arms and called through the door, "Who is it?"
"It's Syaoran, Sakura-hime. Are you and Tomoyo-chan ready? Dinner will be served soon, but the rest of the party are already in the music room having drinks."
Sakura looked over to Tomoyo, who had been fixing her makeup, removing any trace of tears. She signalled that she'd finished, and Sakura opened the door.
"We're almost ready, I just need to put my shoes on. Come in."
" Err…" Syaoran leaned his head in slightly scanning the room, then took a step back. "That's ok, I can just wait out here for you both." There was an awful lot of feminine products and clothes scattered all over the room, and he didn't feel the need to step any closer to it all.
"Don't be silly, come in. These shoes will take a while. Chii-chan insists I wear the correct shoes for my dresses." She had walked away while she spoke, but turned to see he was still stood on the threshold, unsure. Allowing Moochi to leap out of her arms, she sighed and walked back to the door. Taking his hand, she shut the door, "You're letting a draft in." She guided him to the stool next to her vanity, and took her own place in front of the mirror. Bending down, she produced a box. However, upon opening it, all Syaoran could see was a box full of ribbons.
"Hello Syaoran-kun. Have you had a nice afternoon?" Tomoyo's voice chimed, and Syaoran sighed placing his elbows on his knees and rubbing his face.
"Ahh you know how it is when Kurogane and Fai get together. Fai won't let up and Kurogane won't stop swearing and threatening him. But yeah, it was good to catch up with Fai. His research seems to be going pretty well by the sounds of things. He says he's glad to be having a break and staying in Clow for a while though."
"I never tire of Fai-sama. He really is a delight. His public adoration for Lady Chii also makes me laugh. He is very sweet." Tomoyo suddenly jumped up from the bed. "I just remembered." She walked over to him, turned away, and knelt down. "Do you like my hair ornament?" Syaoran leaned forward to observe it. It was a beautiful clip in the shape of a wolf, made entirely of jewels. He beamed,
"Is that for me?" he held a hand out for her to take and spun her around to face him.
"Yes, do you like it?"
"It's very beautiful Tomoyo-chan. I'm flattered. Thank you." He kissed her hand and she beamed back at him.
Sakura observed quietly, the joy swelling with each passing moment. The two continued to chat as she slipped the heels onto her foot. Chii! These shoes are a nightmare! Sakura needed to tie the ribbons in a criss-cross fashion up her legs till just above her knees, however, the weight of her multi-layered yellow skirt was getting in the way. After a few minutes, the other two seemed to notice her trouble.
"Sakura-chan, are you ok? Can't you get the shoes on?" Tomoyo approached her and laughed, "Oh no! I hate those kinds! You have to put the shoes on before the dress to manage those, turn and face me." Sakura did as she was told, "We're going to be late for dinner, so let's hurry up. Hold up your skirts." Sakura began to gather the material and Syaoran stood up,
"I'll just go wait outside shall I?"
"No no, come here, you need to do one shoe, otherwise it'll take too long. Come, hurry." Tomoyo had already begun to wrap the ribbons expertly up Sakura's calve. Syaoran pulled a face.
"I'm not sure I can do that…"
"Don't be silly, just do as I am."
Hesitantly, Syaoran knelt down in front of her, avoiding eye contact. Sakura watched his head disappear below the sea of yellow material in front of her. She felt him gently grab her heel and slip the shoe on. Next, she felt him place her foot on his thigh and then nothing. He must've been trying to make sense of the length of the ribbons. Sakura started to readjust her hair upon realising she hadn't fixed it for dinner. Tomoyo stood up,
"Done! Oh let me, you're not facing the mirror." Tomoyo moved behind Sakura and started to briskly run a brush through her hair and insert pins and slides here and there. The sensation of having her hair brushed was the best feeling and she relaxed at Tomoyo's touch.
There was a sudden electric sensation passing all the way through her body. Her abdomen contracted and she stopped herself from gasping out loud. Syaoran's fingertips were grazing against her skin. The alternating sensation of silk and then his gentle fingers sliding along her skin was electrifying and she tried her utmost to show no reaction. What is he doing?! She groaned internally as she realised his touch had only passed her ankles. This is torturous! Why is he taking so long?!
Syaoran's eyes kept flicking from 'his' leg to 'Tomoyo's'. Gods, being a girl is so much effort...! …After wrapping one ribbon around, he kept comparing to the other, ensuring they were pulled tight enough to not slip and were equal to the pattern on her other leg.
The movement of his fingers were slow and relentless. The cool silk provided a fraction of a second of relief, but then his warm fingers would hold the ribbon, smoothing it down and making contact with her skin. He was almost half way up her calve and she could not bare it anymore and the leg he held kicked reflexively.
'Oh… am I hurting you Sakura-hime? Are the ribbons too tight?"
"Ahh, yes I think they are. Tomoyo would you please finish these up. We really are going to be late if he carries on at this pace."
"Well," Syaoran stood up, a frown on his face. "I didn't claim to be a professional at this." He mumbled quietly. Tomoyo sighed.
"Honestly Syaoran-kun" She finished with Sakura's hair and dropped down in front of Sakura to finish up.
Still frowning, and expecting a glare and perhaps and tongue poke from the Princess, Syaoran made eye contact with Sakura. Instead, he observed a pink blush across her soft cheeks, her eyes were slightly wide, and her cherry lips were parted. She averted her eyes from him. Syaoran felt himself go hot in the face. Realising he had just been running his hands all over her legs, and was still stood in front of her whilst her skirts were hiked up to her knees, he felt all the blood rush to his face and he moved away immediately. Clearing his throat, he walked over to balcony,
"I'm just going to lock this up before we leave." He said, but took the opportunity to suck in a deep breath of fresh air and exhale. Syaoran felt his blood boiling, and a feeling he recognised brewed in his stomach. 'Come on…!'
Tomoyo stood up and smoothed down Sakura's skirts. "Ok all done! It's a good thing this type of work isn't in a Knight's job description." Tomoyo laughed and held a hand out for Sakura. "Let's get downstairs, we're late!"
…
The dinner was a private affair, organised by Chii so that all the food was laid out and then the staff were excused for a few hours so that the reunited group of friends could enjoy a relaxed and informal environment.
As the youngest three of the group entered the music room, the party turned to greet them.
"Ahh there they are! What took you all so long? Come drink!" Amaterasu grabbed a bottle of wine and began pouring the dark red liquid into three small glasses. Touya rolled his eyes.
"Sakura is underage."
"I'm giving her an underage glass." She replied innocently, "Look!" She moved towards him and held the smaller glass against his own, "See! Let her enjoy a sip or two, ok?" She pinched his cheek and went back to pouring the other two.
"Please don't touch me like that again." He seethed at her.
"What's wrong with me touching you like that? You can't tell me you don't like it." Giving him a sideways glance from under her long thick lashes. The off shoulder strap of her ruby red dress fell further down her arm, and he noticed her lips part ever so slightly as the corners turned up in a smile. She really was beautiful.
Touya couldn't help but smile, "You're being quite forward you know. It's very inappropriate, especially in front of our younger sisters. What kind of example are you setting?"
"Well, I think eventually we all have to be forward and open. Honest about our feelings." Amaterasu saw the smile disappear from his lips. He looked over to the crowd and saw Sakura laughing with Yukito and Fai. He swallowed and turned to look back at her, his voice low,
"Amaterasu. I can't do that yet."
" You are overthinking it Touya." She put the glasses down. "She deserves to know. She'll be so happy for you. You need to stop thinking of her as a little girl who won't understand." She placed a hand on his shoulder, " At the end of the day, she loves you and only wants you to be happy. You promised me you would tell-"
"Stop it. We will speak about this later. But for now, this discussion is over." He removed her hand. His gaze cold. She matched it.
"Oh we're definitely talking about this later" She spat back venomously and stalked off.
Touya sighed. Women. Definitely too much trouble.
…
"The poor boy had no idea what to do! I mean, I was trying my best to be gracious and polite and not laugh, but he was a disaster! Even my sweet-natured sister here was struggling to contain her giggles!" Amaterasu had the table in stitches.
"It's true. You should've seen the way he pushed the maid out of the way just so he could pour Onee-chan her tea!"
"He was so tall and slim, but he moved like a bull! In the end, he went and poured the tea all over me! I can't-!" She paused to catch her breath from the laughter, "I cannot describe the look on his face!" The table started to recover slowly from her infectious laughter.
"Well, it seems you've had quite a few potential suitors this year alone your highness?"
"I have indeed my sweet Yukito. However, I think you'd agree none were very agreeable. Why doesn't someone like yourself come walking through my door and sweep me away…" She pouted, her chin resting elegantly in his direction.
Yukito blushed, "You're too kind, your highness."
"Ahh well, I guess it's all about timing. Right, Sakura-chan?" Touya, who had not been laughing, and instead was focused on his wine, snapped his head up to glare at the Empress who was sat beside the young princess.
Sakura was still recovering from her giggles. "Yes… I believe so. Although," Sakura composed herself, " I can't wait for you to find someone Ama-chan. He will be such a lucky man."
"Yes he will be won't he?" she winked, "But then, a man is lucky to have any woman in his life."
"I sense a toast!" Fai jumped out of his chair, raising a glass to the ceiling; the table happily raised their glasses. Touya, once again, couldn't help but smile as Fai wobbled on his feet, steadied by Chii who kept a hand at his back. "To the women in our lives. The men here could not be closer to paradise with all these beautiful faces that dine with us tonight. Be they our cute little sisters," He blew a kiss towards Tomoyo and Sakura who giggled, "Dearest friends who really know how to bring a party to life,' He winked at the empress who blew him a kiss, " Or…" And he turned towards Chii, "The love of our lives. The ones who make us real men." The table cooed and erupted into a loud chorus of cheers and laughter as Fai leaned into kiss Chii. She resisted at first, laughing at him and playfully pushing him away, before eventually giving in and allowing him to plant a chaste kiss on her lips. She pulled away first and stood.
"Right, I think this one has had enough to drink. I am retiring you now, say good night Fai."
"Good night everyone! Hope it's as good as mine." The table erupted into laughter as Chii shoved him away from the table. He pouted and moaned at her to be gentler.
The tipsy dinner table conversation continued for another hour, till Yukito stood up.
"I think I will retire for the night now, before the Empress's game of Truth or Dare takes off."
"Boo! Yukito, don't leave! It was just getting interesting…!" She whined causing a vein to pulsate on Touya's forehead.
"Onee-chan you're too wild! It's late," Tomoyo admonished as she stood up, "I'm going to bed also. Sakura, shall we retire?" Sakura who was half asleep, stirred in the chair.
"Yeah, ok…" She mumbled and slid further down her seat.
Tomoyo laughed, "Kurogane, would you please?"
Kurogane rose from his seat beside Tomoyo and sighed, "What a little lazy monster." He grumbled. Leaning down, he scooped Sakura easily into his arms, she wrapped her arm around his neck and he smiled. "So lazy. Hey kid, let's go, you'll have to carry her through the wing." Syaoran finished sipping his water and stood up. Bowing quickly to the King and Empress, he bid them and Yukito good night, as did Kurogane and Tomoyo. The three and the sleeping Princess left the room.
Yukito tried to stifle a yawn as he watched the group leave. "Well, tonight was wonderful. Your highness, dancing with you earlier was delightful." He kissed her hand again.
"Well for a man of the temple you are quite an exquisite party guest. You dark horse." She teased him playfully.
"Well you know how it is in Clow, we like to throw a party for any occasion, so my skills don't get a chance to dull."
"And we are all better for it!" She smiled, "Good night Yukito."
"Sleep well your highness." He turned and walked towards Touya, "My Lord, I expect I shall see you early tomorrow morning. Good night." He inclined his head sleepily, and Touya smiled.
"Forget that, it's been a long night, we'll meet at midday. Good night Yukito." Yukito shrugged, his eyes still closed,
"If you're sure…" He spoke slowly as he left the room, "Night!" he called once again and disappeared. Touya watched him leave; laughing at the dazed and tipsy state he was in. A few moments later, he felt burning eyes on him. He sighed and turned to look at her, all the way at the other end of the table.
"I take it you still want to continue our earlier discussion?"
Amaterasu's eyes were narrowed, and she stood up, "You bet I do, but not here."
…
"Here Kid, be gentle." Kurogane stood at the large ornate doors that were the entrance for the West Wing. "Careful not to wake her up," he handed Sakura over to Syaoran. "Her maids will have all gone to bed, so just lie her down and leave her. Make sure you check her windows. Take her key and lock it from the outside, she has plenty spare, so she'll be able to let herself out."
Syaoran nodded, "I'll leave you both now. Good night." Syaoran inclined his head.
"Oh careful," Tomoyo came forward to gather up Sakura's train, which was trailing the floor, "Don't want you to trip when you're holding such precious cargo, it wouldn't bode well for the future." Tomoyo spoke amusedly as she finished carefully moving the material till it all rested in Sakura's lap.
"Thank you. See you both tomorrow."
"Good night Syaoran-chan."
"Night Kid."
The two watched Syaoran walk down the corridor slowly and turn the corner.
Tomoyo turned to face Kurogane. "Please don't say you want to say good night and leave me?" She spoke quietly, her eyes pleading with him. "We haven't had a chance to talk today." She took a step closer, placing her hands up to his chest. " You don't know how happy I am to see you." She gazed into his eyes. They grew soft as he looked at her, the corners of his lips turned upwards. Without warning, he enclosed her in his arms and brought his lips to hers, kissing her deeply and passionately. Without another word, he lifted her into his arms and strode through the West Wing doors towards her room.
…
Kurogane lay back into the pillows, hands behind his head as he watched her sat at the mirror. She noticed but continued to brush her hair, "Aren't you worried about getting caught?"
"Do you think I'll get caught?" She put the brush down and walked over to the bed. He held out his arms and she smiled gratefully as she lay down and eased onto his chest.
"Kurogane, I'm sorry but I really am quite tired from the travelling today..."As he pulled down the straps of her camisole and exposed the bare skin of her shoulders, he shifted her so he could gather her into his lap, wrapping one arm around her tightly, and the other he ran through her long soft hair, massaging her scalp. She closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth and tenderness of his touch.
"Don't say another word, you know I don't mind about that. I just want you close, I don't want to let go of you tonight, as long as your skin is on mine, I'm the happiest I could be." his hand moved down her neck and onto her shoulder, she moaned as his fingers kneaded her muscles. She turned her head to face his, one eye open and biting her lip.
He laughed as he read her expression, "You want a full massage?" she nodded enthusiastically. And he couldn't help but smile at how beautifully adorable she was. "Turn around then." She grinned and kissed him swiftly before spreading his legs so she could sit in front of him. Pulling down the zip of her camisole so that her back was exposed, he began to rhythmically knead her muscles; with a force he knew she was comfortable with.
"Mmm,Y so... good" he smiled and kissed her shoulder blade. Working his fingers expertly, he knew exactly where she liked to feel him be a bit rougher, and where she was sensitive. Feeling bold, he slowly worked his fingers from her hips, and up higher and higher on her sides. Moving them forward ever so slightly, he let the tips of his fingers graze the edge of her breasts, before quickly returning to her lower back. He heard her sigh deeply and couldn't help but grin.
" You did that on purpose didn't you?"
" I have no idea what you're talking about." he couldn't help but grin wider.
Tomoyo abruptly turned around, grabbed his hands and placed them on her sides. The candlelight flicked and he could see a faint blush across her cheek. The camisole clung enticingly to her breast, almost exposing everything. " Well, I am wide awake now." she said quietly. Pushing him down, she lay on top, clinging on tightly and kissing him desperately. He kissed her back with equal fever, but eventually pushed her face away gently. Stroking her cheek, he gazed at her. She smiled shyly back.
"I missed you so much," she whispered.
"I missed you too. But listen, I meant what I said before. This is enough," he ran a hand along her spine, making her shiver and giggle softly. He smiled again at her beauty. "You lying here with me is more than enough. I just want you in my arms."
Tomoyo gazed back at him. Strong and kind, he was everything she could have ever asked for. "I know that's enough for you, and that just makes me want you more." She brought her lips to his again, gently kissing him, moving her mouth from his to his chin and down his neck. " Now will you finish undressing me please?"
"Are you sure? You said you were tired, you've travelled far." he asked still gently stroking her back, making eye contact as her lips returned to his.
"Yes, I'm sure." She giggled, exasperated. "Now please stop being such a gentleman!" she whispered eagerly against his mouth. Grinning, he flipped her over onto the mattress as she squealed with delight.
…
After a few minutes, Syaoran managed to open the door to her bedroom. Kicking it gently so that it swung open, he walked into her room. The air was permeated with her perfume, jasmine and wild violets with a hint of white musk and wood. It was subtle and instantly triggered thoughts of her. He was sure she wore the same scent every day. Careful of the train of material that was slipping, he walked over to her bed and gently eased her onto it.
"Right, windows." Walking over to her balcony, he checked the doors and windows were sealed before drawing the heavy curtains. "Ok…" He looked around the room.
It hadn't really changed. He remembered the room, but had not spent much time in it as a child, as he and Sakura preferred to play outside in the sunshine with the other children, or in the vast palace library when the weather was bad. It was elaborately decorated. The bed was much larger than his; covered in luxurious cream and gold pillows that matched beautiful silk covers, and a canopy of thick and heavy curtains surrounded the bed itself. Towards the centre of the room were two chaise lounges, both facing a glass coffee table. There were vases of flowers on pedestals, small statues and famous pieces of artwork. To the one side was her large vanity desk and close to that, the large wardrobe that he was all too familiar with. There was also a large writing desk which was where he imagined she had written all her letter to him. Moochi was fast asleep on his own little bed in the corner of the room.
Syaroan walked over to the bed, unsure of whether or not she liked the curtains drawn. Sitting down at the bottom of her bed, he very carefully moved his hands up her leg to the knot of the ribbon and began to untie her shoes. As he slipped off the first shoe, she stirred slightly, but remained fast asleep. After removing the second shoe, he carefully put her leg down and stood up, arranging her skirts over her exposed calves. He was just about to leave when something caught his eye. Looking at the clock and noting that it was just after half one, he quietly walked over to the frame that had attracted his attention.
It was a picture of the late King and Queen. Sitting down on the chair next to the bed, he held the picture close to his face, the faint light from her dim bedside lamp illuminating it. It wasn't one of the official portraits, but rather an informal, family photo. The King was a tall and handsome man, with kind eyes and strong hands, was stood at the bottom of a wall. His arms were around the waist of the beautiful queen Nadeshiko who was stood on top of the wall. Her eyes were wide with panic, but her mouth was open in laughter, one hand firmly on his shoulder, the other holding a large peach. The look on the King's face as he stared up at her was one of adoration as he helped his wife down.
They had been so kind to Syaoran; treated him like their own. Queen Nadeshiko was not shy to smother him with kisses and insist that he sit on her lap so that she could play with his unruly hair. She would love to steal Syaoran and Sakura away from their studies so that they could explore the grounds, pretending that they were adventurers in a different world. His lessons from the King were also cherished memories. The King Fujitaka was enthusiastic about education. Science, history, mathematics. Anything that challenged the mind and triggered debate were passions of the King, and even though he had only spent a few years with the King, his own interests had been instilled in Syaoran who had continued his studies during his training years.
Syaoran felt his heart grow heavy with a sad longing. If only they were still here. Would they be proud? He dwelled on their loss, sad that they had blessed him with such a fortunate life, only to have their own end too soon. Leaning back into the chair, he continued to gaze at the photo and allowed all the wonderful memories of the late King and Queen come flooding back.
...
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