The Legend of Xien
Chapter: Three
"The Battle Begins"
Sakura carefully closed the latch on her knapsack and swung it over her right shoulder. She walked behind her desk and neatly tucked in her chair as she waved goodbye to her teacher. Syaoran did the same when the teacher passed him by. Smiling, Sakura walked towards the door where Syaoran waited for her, as he had always been at the end of each school day for the past week. Ever since her dream, he had always been with her. He never seemed to mind, or complain about this extra duty in fact he seemed to be growing into his new routine. Sakura didn't mind a minute she spent with her partner, or bodyguard rather. Sometimes they would tease each other on their way home about their new safety buddy rule. Luckily this past week had been quiet, and there had been no sign of danger so they spent most of their time socializing and working on the play together.
"I heard rehearsal was cancelled today," Syaoran informed as he shut the classroom shut behind them.
"What? Why?" Sakura replied in shock looking at Syaoran.
"I heard Ko-san was away today, but I didn't hear about him being ill. Or at least, that's what another member of the cast told me," Syaoran shrugged and shoved his hand into his pockets as they walked down the hallway towards the lockers.
"Hmm.. that's too bad.." Sakura mumbled a little disappointed. Syaoran glanced down a bit to look at Sakura; he was slightly confused but sighed. Before he could say anything Tomoyo greeted the pair as they approached her.
"Where are you two off to?" Tomoyo teased with a slight grin.
"Nowhere, just walking around," Sakura smiled missing the meaning behind Tomoyo's question. Syaoran on the other hand sighed loudly and rolled his eyes. When the group went out to the street markets over the weekend Tomoyo couldn't help but accuse Syaoran of liking Sakura. He had explained that he was just doing his best to ensure that Sakura was safe, especially since Eriol had arrived. Tomoyo accepted his point, but insisted that deep down he was falling in love with Sakura.
"Where's Meiling-chan?" Syaoran asked quickly changing the subject.
"She has rehearsal for her play," Tomoyo reminded them as she swung her knapsack over her left shoulder. "Wait.." as said slowly and shut the door of her small locker. "Don't you two have rehearsal as well?"
"Syaoran-kun heard that Ko-san was away today," Sakura answered looking slightly disappointed. Tomoyo looked back and forth between Sakura and Syaoran trying not to smile.
"Mmm Hmm.." Tomoyo nodded trying to keep her comments to herself as she began to walk towards the exit. Behind her, she heard Syaoran groan slightly, obviously reading her mind. "Shame, you two should honestly practice anyway. I mean it would really help your brother and Ko-san if he really is ill.." she could feel Syaoran's eyes burning through the back of her head and she tried not to laugh as she opened the door.
"You're right Tomoyo-chan! That would help him wouldn't it?" Sakura replied excitedly walking out after Tomoyo. Syaoran held the door open for her from behind and closed the door after himself.
"What do you think Syaoran-kun?" Sakura asked turning to him. He was staring at the ground, kicking the pebbles along the floor.
"Uh.. what do I think of what?" Syaoran asked lifting his head up to look at her.
"We can practice at my house, and my brother might be there to direct us too," Sakura smiled and placed her hand on the straps of her bag to support the weight.
"Ah.." Syaoran lifted his left hand out from his pocket and scratched the back of his head in thought. In front of Sakura he saw Tomoyo smiling back at him, of course Sakura didn't see for she was facing him. He grumbled inwardly but let a small smile curve at the corner of his mouth.
"Sure, that sounds like a good plan.." Syaoran shrugged and tried his best to smile and not to walk ahead of Tomoyo and punch that smile of satisfaction off her face as she began to strike up a conversation with Sakura. He slowed down and walked behind the two girls. He didn't mind going to Sakura's house, I mean, they'd be working and he'd be able to keep an eye on her as well. It was odd though, it didn't seem as if she needed protecting. Nothing was happening. There were no signs of danger through dreams, feelings during the day or night. Then again, it may be too early to tell, for all he knew this Miao character could be cooking up a plan to kill them all, he could even be around that corner they were approaching; he wouldn't take any chances, not yet.
"Well, I have to leave you two now," Tomoyo sighed with a smile that was directed at Syaoran. "I have to go home and work on your costumes for the play."
"Oh, that's too bad. Oh well, I'll see you tomorrow then okay Tomoyo-chan?" Sakura said sadly and hugged her friend goodbye.
"Don't you need our measurements Tomoyo-chan?" Syaoran asked insisting that she come along with them. Tomoyo smiled.
"I already have Sakura-chan's, I suppose I can get yours some other time because I'm still working on Sakura-chan's anyway," She replied smartly. Syaoran frowned at her quick answer.
"Well, I should get going now. Bye!" Tomoyo waved and walked in the opposite direction. The two watched as she walked down the street and eventually turn the corner. At that point Syaoran gently placed his left hand over Sakura's lower back, urging her to walk ahead. Sakura smiled as she noticed Syaoran take his usual position on her left side, the side closest to the road. He claimed that he only did this to protect her, in case a car came by and hit them, he'd be able to protect her easily. He slowed down a bit so he was slightly behind her, so she could have her space. She had already warmed up to the idea of Syaoran being her bodyguard, and had taken it as her job to keep things on a comfortable level. Grinning slightly, she reached for the pink flower clip that kept her hair up in a neat bun throughout the day and pulled it out. Her soft auburn hair fell down from its wrap hold and bounced slightly before resting on her shoulders. Syaoran could smell the faint scent of her shampoo and he smiled taking in a deep breath. He shoved his hand into his pockets and lowered his head to look at the ground, in case she were to turn to look at him. Sakura shook her head so that her hair loosened up and swung left and right, she smiled as she ran her hands through her thick hair for she could hear Syaoran breathing in her hair's fruity scent. She quickly moved closer to him and swung her hair into his face and laughed when yelped in shock. When he heard him groan she took it as her cue to run, but before she could, Syaoran grabbed her wrist and held her back. Laughing she shook her hair on his face again so he would let go and then she ran. She heard him scream her name knowing that he was running after her but she didn't look back and continued to run and turn the corner towards her house. She giggled to herself and noticed a tall cherry blossom tree to her right and quickly climbed it. As if on cue Syaoran came dashing around the same corner and stopped to look around for Sakura. She watched from above as he placed his hands on his waist in annoyance, as he looked left and right. Trying to hold in her laughter, she quietly took her pink hairclip out of her pocket and angled it right above Syaoran's head and dropped it. Syaoran grinned and swiftly caught the clip without looking up. He slowly brought his hand down to look at the object in his possession and sighed.
"I believe this is yours," He spoke glancing up at Sakura in the tree.
"Hoee..how did that get there?" Sakura replied nervously feeling the pink rise on her cheeks. Syaoran grinned trying not to laugh at her attempts to cover up her embarrassment of being caught in her own game but cleared his throat and decided to start another game of his own.
"I believe an angel dropped it, have you seen her?" Syaoran asked with a slight smile, which seemed to have forced a smile out of Sakura as well and she laughed.
"Alright alright, stop acting sweet Syaoran-kun, you caught me," Sakura sighed in defeat and began to make her way down the tree.
"I'm only getting into character," Syaoran smiled with a shrug as he walked towards her.
"You're not supposed to fall in love with me yet," Sakura reminded with a sweet tone. Syaoran laughed a bit and held out his hand to support her down, but she slipped and fell the rest of the way down. She let out a quiet shriek but Syaoran caught her in his arms just before she could hit the ground. The safe feeling in his arms forced her to slowly open her eyes again and she noticed that he was smiling.
"But, how could I resist such a person?" Syaoran answered in half a tease. Sakura couldn't help but laugh at his slightly sarcastic remark and she helped herself stand up.
"You're starting to get too comfortable with your charming role, I don't like it," Sakura shook her head suspiciously at him.
"Who says I'm acting?" Syaoran asked as he moved closer to Sakura, and as anticipated he saw the cute light pink nervous blush rise in her cheeks. It was then that he walked ahead to her house, trying not to laugh. Sakura remained motionless as she watched Syaoran walk calmly towards her home. She couldn't believe he had just done that! He beat her at their game again! Everyone at their school was convinced that they were in love, especially since they were assigned as the two main characters that so happened to be in love in the play they were performing in. Ever since then, they had been pretending to be in love with one another, but for some reason he had always beat her, leaving her speechless. She didn't now why or how he had that affect on her, but he did and it was annoying.
"Oh here, you might want this back," She heard Syaoran speak as he turned around and flicked an object to her and turned back around to walk further ahead. She quickly snapped out of her thoughts and caught the flying object; she slowly opened her palm and saw her pink hairclip. Grinding her teeth annoyed that she had been out smarted again, she stomped along after him.
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She knew that she should cry, but as hard as she tried no tears seemed to form in her eyes. He had fought for her she told herself, but nothing happened. He had died for her, she reminded herself, but again there was nothing. She hadn't been able to tell him, those feelings that had been haunting her, and now it was too late. Why couldn't she cry?
"Return to me.." She whispered against his ear. Silence filled the room. She hugged him closer to her heart and continued. "I wish I had told you.. now it's too late.. you're gone.. and I'll never be able to tell you how much you meant to me.. how much I.. I loved you.." she said stumbling over her words. She breathed in deeply, trying her hardest to cry, or at least make it sound as if she were crying, but it was useless.
"Syaoran.." Sakura whispered sadly. Then there was a groan of irritation.
"Ryuuzaki!" Syaoran corrected and opened his eyes. "His name is Ryuuzaki!" he groaned and rubbed his eyes as if there was an itch bothering him.
"I'm sorry, it's just that I was looking at you and I forgot!" Sakura apologized and sighed. Syaoran took in a deep breath as well and lifted his head off her lap shaking his head to wake him up.
"You're hopeless.." Syaoran mumbled and reached for his glass of water on the table hear them. He leaned against the wall and closed his eyes once more.
"Hey! C'mon, we've been working awhile. Maybe, we should take a break.." Sakura suggested and lay down on the floor, staring up at the ceiling. Syaoran eyed her and rolled his eyes.
"What do you think we're doing?" He said sarcastically.
"I know you're a perfectionist, but we can do this without your sarcasm Syaoran-kun.." Sakura pointed out and glanced over at him. There was a pause then he sighed.
"I hate the ending," Syaoran complained.
"I'm sorry I can't get it right, but it's easy for you since you're dead!" Sakura backfired.
"I'm not talking about that," Syaoran shook his head.
"Oh.. sorry.." Sakura said quietly and bit her bottom lip. Syaoran smiled at the fact that she was once again embarrassed for over-reacting.
"I dislike the ending in general," He explained. "It's.. too.. well uh.. how do I put this lightly? Corny?"
"Corny?" Sakura frowned in confusion.
"Yeah, it's like a Pokemon Movie or something," Syaoran replied in slight disgust.
"Hey! I like Pokemon!" Sakura protested.
"Exactly! You like Pokemon! I rest my case," Syaoran waved his hands in the air as if the world had miraculously solved its own problems.
"I resent that.." Sakura muttered to herself forcing a small chuckle out of Syaoran.
"It's just that the ending doesn't seem, well, all that sincere.." Syaoran pointed out. "I mean, I know you're trying to cry, but you can't, am I right?" he asked raising an eyebrow. Sakura remained silent and just turned her head.
"I'm just not all that good at acting.." Sakura said quietly. Syaoran glanced over at her and sighed moving over towards her.
"I'm sure it's not that Sakura-chan, you're a good actress," He reassured her and shook her shoulders.
"Then why can't I cry?" Sakura signed sadly.
"It's not you're fault the script's corny," Syaoran smiled letting a small laugh out of her. Her reaction made him want to laugh, but his smile just spread further across his lips. She turned over to her side to face him, and rested her head on her hands smiling up at him. He was sitting up beside her with his knees bent, and his forearm on his knees; letting his hands dangle loosely at the ends. Her emerald eyes sparkled happily up at him, and it felt good knowing that it was because of him, that she was happy. A small strand of her auburn hair fell across her forehead and almost out of instinct he reached down and carefully placed her hair behind her ear. His fingertips ran past her ear and along her jaw line. Her skin was soft and smooth, and he felt a smile tug at the corner of his lips. Sakura remained motionless, and he watched as her eyes blinked for a second, and then opened only to find them still staring back at him. He felt an unfamiliar lump in his throat and he swallowed.
"It's becoming a real habit now, ne Syaoran?" Sakura asked with a grin. He frowned slightly.
"What is?" he asked in confusion.
"You've been guarding me for a little more than a week now, and now it's even become an instinct to put my hair back into place," she teased trying not to laugh. He smiled and tilted his head slightly to the side.
"Like I said.." He began with a low charming voice. "How could I resist?" he finished. Sakura frowned for a moment, feeling a deeper meaning to his response this time, but smiled anyway. It was then they heard the front door open and shut.
"I'm home!" Touya called out.
"I'm here!" Sakura yelled snapping out of her thoughts and quickly sat up on the floor beside Syaoran.
"Uh.. I think I should get going now," Syaoran signed and began to stand up.
"Huh? Why?" Sakura asked in shock and began to stand up as well.
"Well, the sun should be setting soon, I should be getting home.." Syaoran replied and picked up his script from the table.
"Won't you stay for dinner?" Sakura asked in confusion. There was a short pause but then they heard footsteps coming towards the family room and Syaoran picked up his knapsack and swung it onto his back.
"I'd love to but-" He began apologetically.
"But I'm booting him out of the house," Touya finished for him and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Exactly.." Syaoran nodded slowly. He really didn't like bowing down to the wrath of Touya, but ever since he became Sakura's body guard he didn't really see a sense in wasting his energy on him, especially since he was now one of his directors. He wasn't going to let a past feud be the reason for his failure in drama, although his pride was constantly shot for it. But he had learned to control it, and vowed to someday repay Touya for the damage to his ego.
"Onii-chan.." Sakura pleaded.
"It's okay Sakura," Syaoran smiled looking back at her. "I'm expected home anyway," he informed glancing back at Touya who looked satisfied with his clear victory.
"By whom?" Touya asked curiously. Sakura shot a glare at Touya for not minding his own business.
"My cousin, he's been staying with me for this past week," Syaoran unwillingly explained. There was a pause, as if a nonverbal questioned had been asked. Syaoran rolled his eyes in annoyance. "You remember my cousin Eriol-kun, don't you?"
"Riiight.." Touya nodded with a slight frown. Syaoran groaned.
"Well, I guess I'll be on my way then," Syaoran shrugged and began to walk to the front of the house.
"I'll walk you to the door," Sakura spoke and followed him.
"He knows his way out," Touya interjected.
"Only because you've showed it to him more than a few times," Sakura shot back and continued to follow Syaoran leaving her brother alone in the family room.
"Look I'm sorry abou-" Sakura began when she had caught up with Syaoran.
"It's okay Sakura-chan, I'm used to him," Syaoran smiled with a short sigh. Sakura nodded and opened the door for him. He slowly stepped out of the house with his head hanging down low; he slipped his left hand into his pocket and turned around.
"Thanks for having me over," He said quietly bowing his head slightly.
"Thanks for putting up with my brother," Sakura smiled and leaned against the door. Syaoran shook his head with a small smile curving at the corner of his lips and then began to walk backward away from the house.
"Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow then," Syaoran sighed and made his way to her gate.
"Yeah, tomorrow," Sakura waved. "Night, Syaoran-kun!" she called out after him. He just turned around to face her and did a small wave with his right hand before shoving that into his pocket and fading into the distance. Sakura slowly closed the door and locked it before making her way up the stairs.
"Does he really have to be over all the time?" Sakura heard a voice ask from the kitchen as she was making her way up the stairs.
"Do you always have to be so rude to him?" She asked stopping on one of the steps awaiting an answer.
"I don't know.." Touya began as he scratched his chin, as if thinking of the perfect explanation for his actions. He moved to the entrance of the kitchen and leaned against the wall so he was now in Sakura's view. "I think it's his face, it attracts my fist somehow."
"You're hopeless," Sakura grumbled and stomped angrily the rest of the way to her room.
"What did I say!?" She heard Touya laugh before she slammed her bedroom door. She flung her body onto the bed and stared at the ceiling as her hands made their way behind her head.
"You're home," Kero smiled as he flew through the bedroom window and onto the corner of her desk.
"I've been home for a while Kero-chan," Sakura replied as she turned on her left side to face her fluffy guardian. "Where've you been?"
"In the little tree house the Create Card built me," Kero yawned as he stretched his tiny arms into the air.
"I didn't know you it make one for you," Sakura frowned and sat up on the bed. "Can I see?"
"Sure, not like you'd fit in it, but you can see it from your window," Kero shrugged and pointed outside the window. Sakura stood up and slowly walked over to her window and peeked outside. A small smile fell upon her face when she laid her eyes on the tiny tree house sitting in her tree. It was perfect for Kero. It actually looked like a miniature house; it was quite cute.
"Kawaii ne!" Sakura laughed and sat back onto her bed. "I guess I haven't been spending that much time with you huh?" she sighed.
"What do you mean?" Kero asked in confusion and flew onto one of Sakura's pillows. He stretched his little body onto the pillow and snuggled his head into its silky softness.
"Well, there hasn't been any problems concerning the Cards, and I've been quite busy with the play that I haven't had much time to actually sit and talk with you like we used to," Sakura replied and laid down on her stomach with her face a few inched away from Kero. They stared at each other for a few moments, just blinking in silence until a grumbling sound interrupted them. Kero's face flushed a light pink.
"I guess you haven't been paying much attention to my stomach either," Kero laughed nervously as he scratched the back of his head. Sakura laughed and rolled over onto her side before standing up.
"Well, it is getting close to dinner time, I'll get you some food, okay?" Sakura smiled and began to walk towards her bedroom door.
"TAKO YAKI!?" Kero pleaded and quickly flew up into the air with stars in his eyes. Sakura laughed and grabbed the doorknob.
"I'll see if we still have some, okay?" She smiled and shut the door behind her. She heard Kero cheer through the door, and she could just picture him flying around her room until he was all worn out. The thought brought a smile upon her face; things were really looking up.
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They stood quietly on top of one of the trees several feet away from the building, awaiting the guard to make another round before making a move. Neither of them were worried, for the plan was easy, swift, straight forward, there was no way they'd be caught. The guards, the security of the building had no chance, it was all too easy.
"Remember, you only have the power of your cards and without your guardian to help you the cards aren't even at their full power, so watch your back," She whispered sensing that the guard would turn the corner of the building any moment now.
"For what? They're merely human beings.." He scoffed slightly disgusted at the thought.
"It's not the humans I'm worried about," She snapped in annoyance.
"Then what? What could possibly worry you.." He asked quite irritated by her cautious attitude.
"I don't know, just trust me and watch your back," She ordered. He glanced over at her; she was concentrating on the museum before them. Turning his head back to the task at hand he realized that the guard was already half way through this side of the building. He slipped his black hood on his head and waited for him to turn the corner. Once the guard was out of sight, and Kadalea whispered for him to begin he slowly floated his way to the ground and disappeared from her sight. He quickly dashed to the side of the building, sticking to it like glue. He walked a little farther, passing by various glass windows revealing the priceless pieces of arts within the building. He his shadow reflected into the museum and onto its walls within. Not wanting a guard to see his shadow, or make another round the outside of the building he swiftly jumped up high and onto the roof of the museum, landing as quietly as a cat. Keeping as low as possible to the ground, he carefully crawled his way across and towards a glass window on the roof of the museum. He could hear the sound of gravel crunching between the sole of his black shoes and the roof, he groaned inwardly but knew that nobody would hear him. He knew that with his magic, nothing could possibly go wrong. His five senses was enhanced ten times than the regular human being, not to mention any of the other powers he had within his grasp. Such as speed or the ability to fly, nothing could stop him from this mission. He quickly peeked down through the glass window and the coast was clear. The guard was probably on the other side of the floor, but that didn't scare him. Closing his eyes he slowly felt his body sinking, sinking into and through the roof. He floated for a few moments, just long enough to look around for any movement and when there was none, he dropped to the floor like a cat, landing on all fours. Remaining in this position he quickly lifted his head and looked left and right before dashing to a dark corner. He observed his surroundings quickly, everything looked as if it belonged to the 17th century; he was in the wrong era. Pressing his body against the wall, he peered into the next room.
"..16th century artifacts.." He whispered to himself. "The museum organizes their rooms by century.." he continued to think aloud. It was then that his left ear twitched and soon after he heard a faint pair of shoes walking around in the room before him. Looking around for somewhere to hide or merge with, he swiftly dashed across the room keeping his body parallel with the walls as to not make a noise when his body slides across the wall. He heard the footsteps getting louder, and he saw the light shine on the floor just a few inches away from his feet, knowing that when the guard came in, he was sure to shine the light on all the objects and corners of the room to make sure everything was there. He looked left and right for something to help him hide, but there was nothing, and the clack of the guard's heels got louder and louder. Finally he had an idea and quickly jumped into the air just as the guard entered the room. He looked down, and the guard was right below him, perhaps a few feet below his own shoes. Slowly he floated higher and higher above the guard, letting him walk deeper into the room and scan the various objects with his trusty flashlight. As the guard walked farther and farther he slowly floated his way down and closer to him. When his feet almost touched the ground, and he was standing a few meters away from the guard, a small grin fell upon his face. He concentrated his energy once more, but it was harder without having to close his eyes, he could feel his body disappear and become one with the guard. He continued to walk behind him, until finally their shadows began to merge into one. The guard quickly turned around sensing a body moving ever so closely behind him, but there was nothing. Then from the side of his eye he saw something black move, its shadow reflect onto the wall on his left and he turned once more, pointing his flashlight at it. The guard sighed in relief.
"It's just your shadow.." The guard mumbled to himself and turned back around forward to walk into the next room. He flashed the light around the different paintings, potteries, swords, and anything else that belonged to the museums 16th century collection. A feeling of good and evil seemed to lurk in this particular room, and the guard knew this for every time he passed by a particular object he knew that it was once part of something evil. Every artifact in this museum was once part of something, but researchers had yet to discover what the purpose of some artifacts were. This particular object was one of them. He continued to make his way across the room, but stopped when he reached his mysterious artifact. Shining the light upon the dark tiny moon shaped object, he shook his head. The small artifact could fit in the palm of your hand; it was fairly heavy compared to its appearance though. The object was navy blue, and it had silver lining. It did look fairly old though, beaten up as well. It was believed that this artifact had survived many battled, maybe even wars for its condition showed that it had been through harsh conditions. But there weren't any traces of nuclear chemicals on it, which are usually found on artifacts that did go through some sort of war or battle; but there was something different about this artifact's history, something unexplainable. The guard took one last look at the object and moved on into the next room. Little did he know that his shadow had stayed behind. The shadow remained motionless on the wall for a moment, but then turned it head, as if staring at the mysterious artifact. Slowly the shadow stepped out of the wall, and transformed back into the dark figure. He looked around for the guard; he was already half way through the next room, where he would turn the corner for another floor round. The tall figure slowly stepped towards the artifact that was covered by a glass box. Lasers guarded the small artifact, for he could see what any other naked eye couldn't see. As if he had all the time in the world he circled the glass box containing what once belonged to him. He observed it, and grinned slightly for he enjoyed the feeling of being close to it again. Unable to keep his hands to himself, he finally began to reach towards the artifact. His hand began to glow a deep ocean blue and he hand drew closer and closer to the object, his hands once again fell right through its case. He slid his hand easily through the glass and cautiously continued forward to reach for his key. He could feel its energy; he could feel its familiar power and the hunger for them to be united again grew within him. As soon as he made contact with his key once more, he felt a rush a surge of power and magic race through his body, his veins and he felt whole again. Unable to control the rush of energy he quickly flew up into the air and through the roof of the museum until he was high in the night sky. His body glowed a deep blue and he tightened his hands into a fist, his head tilted back as he arched his back towards the sky. His eyes rolled to the back of his head, and all that was left for the next few moments was the lifeless white. His body tightened and he closed his eyes, finally his muscles let loose, and he had control over his body again. He remained afloat, with his head hanging down as if he were asleep in amid air. He could hear someone coming towards him at a great speed as to not be seen by anyone with normal senses. The figure came to a sudden halt before him and remained motionless as well.
"Are you alright?" Kadalea asked. There was a pause. A small grin curved at the corner of his lips and he slowly raised his head. When his head was at her eye level he suddenly opened his eyes revealing a bright blue, a stunning blue that glowed with pure magic. Kadalea was taken aback by this new change, but couldn't help but grin as well. The glow in his eyes slowly faded back into a Prussian blue.
"The moon is full, we must summon him now.."
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Surges of unfamiliar power rush through Sakura's body, forcing her to awaken in cold sweat. She looked around her room with her right hand over her chest, grabbing her nightshirt tightly; her breathing was uneasy and hard. The colors of pink, blue, and green flashed through her mind and she shut her eyes in pain. She could feel the power calling her; she could see their light. Looking outside her window she had noticed it to be a full moon out, and that the leaves in the trees were swaying back and forth; it would be a bit chilly outside. She jumped out of bed, quickly opened the first drawer and reached for her Cards and shoved them into one of her pockets. She held onto her key that still acted as a pendant on her necklace and closed her eyes; it had been awhile since she used it.
"Key that holds the power of stars, reveal your true form to me! I, Sakura, order you under our contract. Release!" She commanded quickly for she could feel the outside power grow stronger and more confident within itself, she didn't want to waste anymore time. She ran to her window and quickly opened it. She looked down at the ground below her, and the night sky above her, closing her eyes tightly to gather up her dormant courage and strength and jumped.
"Fly!" She yelled and almost instantly a pair of wings grew on her back, with determination glowing brightly in her eyes she soared through the night sky towards the source of this evil magic; she just hoped it wasn't too late.
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"Arrrrrggghhhhh!!!" He screamed in pain as if something had just been pierced through his arm. The blood trickled down his arm and onto his chest, slowly dripping onto the solid rock floor. The cut on his forehead was beginning to sting and he was starting to lose his vision; but he wasn't going to give in.
"I ever remember you being this stubborn, it's sad," Xien sighed as he walked back and forth in front of this past stranger. "I don't like seeing you tied up either.. shame.."
"Then why don't you make us all happy and let me go..?" He groaned trying to keep his head up. Xien laughed.
"I would, gladly.." Xien nodded then slowly walked closer to his prisoner's face and whispered. "Just bow to me.. and I'll restore you to full health."
"I'd rather die," He snapped back.
"You're already dead you idiot! I created you! Have you no respect for your master?" Xien yelled and punched him again in the stomach forcing blood out of the victim's mouth.
"I.. belong.. to no one.." He coughed quietly as he tried to breath.
".. and what of Sakura?" Xien questioned and crossed his arms. There was a short pause and the silver eyes met his blue.
"If you touch her, I swear-" He began trying to fight the chains that kept him standing against the wall. Xien laughed once more.
"You'll what? Kill me?" Xien laughed even louder and placed his right hand against the wall and leaned towards him. "I gave you life, you can't kill me.."
"Watch me.." He threatened. Xien winced and high kicked the man's left side.
"Ahhhh!!!" He cried in pain feeling a rib or two break in half. He breathed in hard; for fear that one of the loose bones would pierce through a lung. He swallowed hard to suck in the pain.
"Listen, we can do this the hard way, or the easy way," Xien began seriously and walked towards the other end of the room near the book of cards. "You either give into my power, or you painfully get your soul stripped from you and replaced with your old power," he continued and turned around to face him. "It's your choice, Yu-"
"Go to hell, you bastard.." He groaned with his head still hanging low, for he was quickly losing the blood he needed to stay awake. Xien clenched his hands into a fist and grabbed hold of his book.
"I tried to be nice to you, and now you have to face the consequences!" Xien screamed angrily and opened the book and held up the light and dark cards. "You will be mine!"
"What are you.. what are you going to.. to do with those.." He asked weakly as he coughed up another clot of blood.
"They'll only help me, what I really need is my key.. and.." Xien began with a grin and then closed his eyes to teleport them onto the roof of the castle. The prisoner closed his eyes to the brightness of the moon and began to breathe even harder.
"The moon's power.." Xien finished waving his hand towards the moon. "Clow stole you from me, but you'll soon be mine again.." he grinned and held out the moon key. He slowly closed his eyes and concentrated all his energy to the task at hand.
"Key that hold the powers of the Moon and Stars, release thy true form to me; as I Miao command. Reveal your power!" He chanted, as a dark blue light seemed to have surrounded him, encase him with his powers. Slowly the key began to transform, stretching expanding into a long wand. The wand was thin; a dark navy blue with what looked like a golden pentacle at the top, except instead of a star there was a moon with rays shooting from it until it touched the circles circumference. He held his staff with pride, for it had been so long since he had felt its power, controls its power. He held the wand before his prisoner and grinned when he saw the fear in the other man's eyes.
"So you remember?" Xien asked with a slight smile. There was no response; he looked as if he was in a trance. "Well, let's not keep you waiting any longer, the moon won't wait forever.." he continued and held the wand in front of him in a fighting stance. "This may hurt.." he warned with a grin.
"By the powers of the Moon and Stars, I command you Moon Guardian to surrender your powers to me and be reborn! Ying Shen!" He chanted firmly. Almost instantly the prisoner began to scream in sheer pain. He arched his back towards Xien, as if a string had been attached to his chest and Xien was now pulling it, pulling him towards him. His hands went into a tight fist as his head tilted back with his eyes tightly shut to help control the pain. He felt as if someone was trying to turn his body inside out, sucking his insides dry and trying to get it all to come out through his skin. The pain was unbearable.
"ARGHH!!!" He yelled almost in tears. "STOP IT!!!" he pleaded. Blood was beginning to come out through his eyes and slide slowly down his pale cheeks and down onto his chest. A white aura began to form around his body, and he could barely see what was going on, but he could feel Xien's power. The light and dark card floated before Xien were glowing a bright white as well, everything seemed to be falling into place.
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Sakura soared swiftly through the night sky. The wind blew violently through her hair as she picked up speed. She cut through a forest a few miles back so she wouldn't be noticed as easily and since then she had been traveling twice as fast. The forest was dark, and little light from the moon was emitted through. She felt the power growing closer to her and she began to feel nervous. This power, this feeling, was so familiar and yet more evil than anything she had ever known. She could hear the ruffling of leaves against her as she went under and over tree branches dodging them left and right. One of the branches caught her arm, leaving an open gash in her right arm and she winced at the pain. Looking farther ahead she noticed a field clearing with the light coming from the moon reflecting on it. Rushing out past the last few pairs of trees she zoomed out and up high into the clear night sky to see exactly where she was. Below her were miles and miles worth of clear green land. The grass glowed from the moons light, and she continued to fly forward following the great power she sensed. Her hair swayed back and forth with the wind as she noticed a tall castle in the distance and she swiftly fell low to the ground, flying so close that she could feel the tall grass touching her hands as she rushed through the fields. She kept as low as possible in case the castle was being guarded, she knew the strange aura she was feeling was coming from there, for she could feel its power growing closer as she neared the old building. As she came within a mile from the castle she flew up towards the sky to fly over the building, but she noticed two figures, but wasn't able to see their faces for they were up against the light of the moon. She zoomed on quickly towards the two, holding her wand tightly in her right hand. One of the figures must have felt her coming for they turned around giving Sakura a deep glare, she felt their blue eyes burn through her and she flinched slightly. The man flew up high into the air, and Sakura noticed that he too had wings growing out of his back but before she could think of it any further she felt something coming at her with great speed. Quickly dodging to her left and spinning onto her back for a moment the dark light passed her by.
"Shot card?" Sakura thought aloud in shock. More blue lights of energy came shooting at her from the dark figure against the moon. Swiftly dodging up down, left and right, spinning wildly in the night sky she was able to dodge the cards shots. As she flew closer and closer to the figure, the shots came faster and Sakura soon found herself having a hard time anticipating where they were being shot. Then there was the piercing pain on her right leg. She screamed loudly as she felt the shots impact into her leg, the stinging feeling spread throughout her body and throbbed in her thigh. Wincing in pain she quickly took out another one of her faithful cards and flashed it against the moon before letting it fly into the air.
"Arrow!!!" Sakura commanded and almost instantly an arrow appeared in front of her and began to divide until they reached about twenty arrows and then soared through the air towards the opponent. Sakura watched in horror as the dark figure used what looked like a transparent shield to absorb the light blue arrows. As if realizing something the evil magician fled the scene, flying with immense speed down the other side of the castle. Not waiting for an invitation or a signal Sakura instinctively followed him. With determination and fire in her eyes as zoomed across the roof of the old castle. She flew up towards the moon, so when she reached the end of the building she could make a steep drop and zoom right down along the side of the castle wall. The round bright moon seemed to glow brighter as she flew higher and higher above the castle, she saw the end of the castle approaching and she was about to make her steep drop until something soared past her and made her come to a halt. Floating before her was another tall figure, except he was familiar. The white wings attached to his back were about nine feet in width each, meaning that his flying powers didn't come from a card. He had a silver, white, gray, and blue battle costume on. His grayish white long hair fell loosely down towards his feet. He was young, for he had fair skin and a strong youthful appeal to him. Sakura gasped recognizing the man, it was his eyes she recognized those serious azure blue eyes. Although the moon was against him, revealing very little features on his face and body she knew it was him, it had to be and yet it couldn't be.
"Yue-san..?" Sakura said in quiet shock. He grinned slightly and held his palm up towards the sky letting a bright ball of light form above his palm. It flickered for a few seconds before growing bigger, without saying a word he quickly threw the ball of light at Sakura and with that ball of light formed many of what seemed to be icicles. In too much of a shock to dodge Yue's attack, and too slow to call upon shield Sakura was easily struck by his swift move. Feeling tiny sparks of pain attack her body from head to toe she screamed and closed her eyes tightly, feeling blood rush out and through her skin. Falling quickly towards the solid ground below her she struggled to call upon another card and almost instantly the wings upon her back disappeared allowing her to fall uncontrollably towards the earth. Yelling in fear and in pain she waved her hands around trying to grab onto something anything even though she herself knew that there was nothing to grab onto. Tears formed in her eyes and fell down her face and onto the ground; she knew she was nearing her death because she noticed trees nearby through her peripheral vision. A few moments later her head whipped back almost breaking her neck and she felt the ground, or was it something else? The blood rushed toward her head and the pain throbbing throughout her whole body, she was completely drained. She began to feel light headed; her eyelids began to feel a bit heavy and she could taste blood in her mouth. She turned to look around and she saw a familiar pair of amber eyes glow at her, it was then that everything turned black.
~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~
Well, this chapter took awhile, and it's fairly different from what I'm used to writing so take it easy! But yeah I hope you liked it, because i kinda do, for once. So let me know how you felt about it, and if you have any suggestions on how to make it better then tell my in your review! Or if you like something, tell me what it was, then I can do more of that! Well I hope to hear from all of you from your reviews!
Ja ne mato de!
Chapter: Three
"The Battle Begins"
Sakura carefully closed the latch on her knapsack and swung it over her right shoulder. She walked behind her desk and neatly tucked in her chair as she waved goodbye to her teacher. Syaoran did the same when the teacher passed him by. Smiling, Sakura walked towards the door where Syaoran waited for her, as he had always been at the end of each school day for the past week. Ever since her dream, he had always been with her. He never seemed to mind, or complain about this extra duty in fact he seemed to be growing into his new routine. Sakura didn't mind a minute she spent with her partner, or bodyguard rather. Sometimes they would tease each other on their way home about their new safety buddy rule. Luckily this past week had been quiet, and there had been no sign of danger so they spent most of their time socializing and working on the play together.
"I heard rehearsal was cancelled today," Syaoran informed as he shut the classroom shut behind them.
"What? Why?" Sakura replied in shock looking at Syaoran.
"I heard Ko-san was away today, but I didn't hear about him being ill. Or at least, that's what another member of the cast told me," Syaoran shrugged and shoved his hand into his pockets as they walked down the hallway towards the lockers.
"Hmm.. that's too bad.." Sakura mumbled a little disappointed. Syaoran glanced down a bit to look at Sakura; he was slightly confused but sighed. Before he could say anything Tomoyo greeted the pair as they approached her.
"Where are you two off to?" Tomoyo teased with a slight grin.
"Nowhere, just walking around," Sakura smiled missing the meaning behind Tomoyo's question. Syaoran on the other hand sighed loudly and rolled his eyes. When the group went out to the street markets over the weekend Tomoyo couldn't help but accuse Syaoran of liking Sakura. He had explained that he was just doing his best to ensure that Sakura was safe, especially since Eriol had arrived. Tomoyo accepted his point, but insisted that deep down he was falling in love with Sakura.
"Where's Meiling-chan?" Syaoran asked quickly changing the subject.
"She has rehearsal for her play," Tomoyo reminded them as she swung her knapsack over her left shoulder. "Wait.." as said slowly and shut the door of her small locker. "Don't you two have rehearsal as well?"
"Syaoran-kun heard that Ko-san was away today," Sakura answered looking slightly disappointed. Tomoyo looked back and forth between Sakura and Syaoran trying not to smile.
"Mmm Hmm.." Tomoyo nodded trying to keep her comments to herself as she began to walk towards the exit. Behind her, she heard Syaoran groan slightly, obviously reading her mind. "Shame, you two should honestly practice anyway. I mean it would really help your brother and Ko-san if he really is ill.." she could feel Syaoran's eyes burning through the back of her head and she tried not to laugh as she opened the door.
"You're right Tomoyo-chan! That would help him wouldn't it?" Sakura replied excitedly walking out after Tomoyo. Syaoran held the door open for her from behind and closed the door after himself.
"What do you think Syaoran-kun?" Sakura asked turning to him. He was staring at the ground, kicking the pebbles along the floor.
"Uh.. what do I think of what?" Syaoran asked lifting his head up to look at her.
"We can practice at my house, and my brother might be there to direct us too," Sakura smiled and placed her hand on the straps of her bag to support the weight.
"Ah.." Syaoran lifted his left hand out from his pocket and scratched the back of his head in thought. In front of Sakura he saw Tomoyo smiling back at him, of course Sakura didn't see for she was facing him. He grumbled inwardly but let a small smile curve at the corner of his mouth.
"Sure, that sounds like a good plan.." Syaoran shrugged and tried his best to smile and not to walk ahead of Tomoyo and punch that smile of satisfaction off her face as she began to strike up a conversation with Sakura. He slowed down and walked behind the two girls. He didn't mind going to Sakura's house, I mean, they'd be working and he'd be able to keep an eye on her as well. It was odd though, it didn't seem as if she needed protecting. Nothing was happening. There were no signs of danger through dreams, feelings during the day or night. Then again, it may be too early to tell, for all he knew this Miao character could be cooking up a plan to kill them all, he could even be around that corner they were approaching; he wouldn't take any chances, not yet.
"Well, I have to leave you two now," Tomoyo sighed with a smile that was directed at Syaoran. "I have to go home and work on your costumes for the play."
"Oh, that's too bad. Oh well, I'll see you tomorrow then okay Tomoyo-chan?" Sakura said sadly and hugged her friend goodbye.
"Don't you need our measurements Tomoyo-chan?" Syaoran asked insisting that she come along with them. Tomoyo smiled.
"I already have Sakura-chan's, I suppose I can get yours some other time because I'm still working on Sakura-chan's anyway," She replied smartly. Syaoran frowned at her quick answer.
"Well, I should get going now. Bye!" Tomoyo waved and walked in the opposite direction. The two watched as she walked down the street and eventually turn the corner. At that point Syaoran gently placed his left hand over Sakura's lower back, urging her to walk ahead. Sakura smiled as she noticed Syaoran take his usual position on her left side, the side closest to the road. He claimed that he only did this to protect her, in case a car came by and hit them, he'd be able to protect her easily. He slowed down a bit so he was slightly behind her, so she could have her space. She had already warmed up to the idea of Syaoran being her bodyguard, and had taken it as her job to keep things on a comfortable level. Grinning slightly, she reached for the pink flower clip that kept her hair up in a neat bun throughout the day and pulled it out. Her soft auburn hair fell down from its wrap hold and bounced slightly before resting on her shoulders. Syaoran could smell the faint scent of her shampoo and he smiled taking in a deep breath. He shoved his hand into his pockets and lowered his head to look at the ground, in case she were to turn to look at him. Sakura shook her head so that her hair loosened up and swung left and right, she smiled as she ran her hands through her thick hair for she could hear Syaoran breathing in her hair's fruity scent. She quickly moved closer to him and swung her hair into his face and laughed when yelped in shock. When he heard him groan she took it as her cue to run, but before she could, Syaoran grabbed her wrist and held her back. Laughing she shook her hair on his face again so he would let go and then she ran. She heard him scream her name knowing that he was running after her but she didn't look back and continued to run and turn the corner towards her house. She giggled to herself and noticed a tall cherry blossom tree to her right and quickly climbed it. As if on cue Syaoran came dashing around the same corner and stopped to look around for Sakura. She watched from above as he placed his hands on his waist in annoyance, as he looked left and right. Trying to hold in her laughter, she quietly took her pink hairclip out of her pocket and angled it right above Syaoran's head and dropped it. Syaoran grinned and swiftly caught the clip without looking up. He slowly brought his hand down to look at the object in his possession and sighed.
"I believe this is yours," He spoke glancing up at Sakura in the tree.
"Hoee..how did that get there?" Sakura replied nervously feeling the pink rise on her cheeks. Syaoran grinned trying not to laugh at her attempts to cover up her embarrassment of being caught in her own game but cleared his throat and decided to start another game of his own.
"I believe an angel dropped it, have you seen her?" Syaoran asked with a slight smile, which seemed to have forced a smile out of Sakura as well and she laughed.
"Alright alright, stop acting sweet Syaoran-kun, you caught me," Sakura sighed in defeat and began to make her way down the tree.
"I'm only getting into character," Syaoran smiled with a shrug as he walked towards her.
"You're not supposed to fall in love with me yet," Sakura reminded with a sweet tone. Syaoran laughed a bit and held out his hand to support her down, but she slipped and fell the rest of the way down. She let out a quiet shriek but Syaoran caught her in his arms just before she could hit the ground. The safe feeling in his arms forced her to slowly open her eyes again and she noticed that he was smiling.
"But, how could I resist such a person?" Syaoran answered in half a tease. Sakura couldn't help but laugh at his slightly sarcastic remark and she helped herself stand up.
"You're starting to get too comfortable with your charming role, I don't like it," Sakura shook her head suspiciously at him.
"Who says I'm acting?" Syaoran asked as he moved closer to Sakura, and as anticipated he saw the cute light pink nervous blush rise in her cheeks. It was then that he walked ahead to her house, trying not to laugh. Sakura remained motionless as she watched Syaoran walk calmly towards her home. She couldn't believe he had just done that! He beat her at their game again! Everyone at their school was convinced that they were in love, especially since they were assigned as the two main characters that so happened to be in love in the play they were performing in. Ever since then, they had been pretending to be in love with one another, but for some reason he had always beat her, leaving her speechless. She didn't now why or how he had that affect on her, but he did and it was annoying.
"Oh here, you might want this back," She heard Syaoran speak as he turned around and flicked an object to her and turned back around to walk further ahead. She quickly snapped out of her thoughts and caught the flying object; she slowly opened her palm and saw her pink hairclip. Grinding her teeth annoyed that she had been out smarted again, she stomped along after him.
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She knew that she should cry, but as hard as she tried no tears seemed to form in her eyes. He had fought for her she told herself, but nothing happened. He had died for her, she reminded herself, but again there was nothing. She hadn't been able to tell him, those feelings that had been haunting her, and now it was too late. Why couldn't she cry?
"Return to me.." She whispered against his ear. Silence filled the room. She hugged him closer to her heart and continued. "I wish I had told you.. now it's too late.. you're gone.. and I'll never be able to tell you how much you meant to me.. how much I.. I loved you.." she said stumbling over her words. She breathed in deeply, trying her hardest to cry, or at least make it sound as if she were crying, but it was useless.
"Syaoran.." Sakura whispered sadly. Then there was a groan of irritation.
"Ryuuzaki!" Syaoran corrected and opened his eyes. "His name is Ryuuzaki!" he groaned and rubbed his eyes as if there was an itch bothering him.
"I'm sorry, it's just that I was looking at you and I forgot!" Sakura apologized and sighed. Syaoran took in a deep breath as well and lifted his head off her lap shaking his head to wake him up.
"You're hopeless.." Syaoran mumbled and reached for his glass of water on the table hear them. He leaned against the wall and closed his eyes once more.
"Hey! C'mon, we've been working awhile. Maybe, we should take a break.." Sakura suggested and lay down on the floor, staring up at the ceiling. Syaoran eyed her and rolled his eyes.
"What do you think we're doing?" He said sarcastically.
"I know you're a perfectionist, but we can do this without your sarcasm Syaoran-kun.." Sakura pointed out and glanced over at him. There was a pause then he sighed.
"I hate the ending," Syaoran complained.
"I'm sorry I can't get it right, but it's easy for you since you're dead!" Sakura backfired.
"I'm not talking about that," Syaoran shook his head.
"Oh.. sorry.." Sakura said quietly and bit her bottom lip. Syaoran smiled at the fact that she was once again embarrassed for over-reacting.
"I dislike the ending in general," He explained. "It's.. too.. well uh.. how do I put this lightly? Corny?"
"Corny?" Sakura frowned in confusion.
"Yeah, it's like a Pokemon Movie or something," Syaoran replied in slight disgust.
"Hey! I like Pokemon!" Sakura protested.
"Exactly! You like Pokemon! I rest my case," Syaoran waved his hands in the air as if the world had miraculously solved its own problems.
"I resent that.." Sakura muttered to herself forcing a small chuckle out of Syaoran.
"It's just that the ending doesn't seem, well, all that sincere.." Syaoran pointed out. "I mean, I know you're trying to cry, but you can't, am I right?" he asked raising an eyebrow. Sakura remained silent and just turned her head.
"I'm just not all that good at acting.." Sakura said quietly. Syaoran glanced over at her and sighed moving over towards her.
"I'm sure it's not that Sakura-chan, you're a good actress," He reassured her and shook her shoulders.
"Then why can't I cry?" Sakura signed sadly.
"It's not you're fault the script's corny," Syaoran smiled letting a small laugh out of her. Her reaction made him want to laugh, but his smile just spread further across his lips. She turned over to her side to face him, and rested her head on her hands smiling up at him. He was sitting up beside her with his knees bent, and his forearm on his knees; letting his hands dangle loosely at the ends. Her emerald eyes sparkled happily up at him, and it felt good knowing that it was because of him, that she was happy. A small strand of her auburn hair fell across her forehead and almost out of instinct he reached down and carefully placed her hair behind her ear. His fingertips ran past her ear and along her jaw line. Her skin was soft and smooth, and he felt a smile tug at the corner of his lips. Sakura remained motionless, and he watched as her eyes blinked for a second, and then opened only to find them still staring back at him. He felt an unfamiliar lump in his throat and he swallowed.
"It's becoming a real habit now, ne Syaoran?" Sakura asked with a grin. He frowned slightly.
"What is?" he asked in confusion.
"You've been guarding me for a little more than a week now, and now it's even become an instinct to put my hair back into place," she teased trying not to laugh. He smiled and tilted his head slightly to the side.
"Like I said.." He began with a low charming voice. "How could I resist?" he finished. Sakura frowned for a moment, feeling a deeper meaning to his response this time, but smiled anyway. It was then they heard the front door open and shut.
"I'm home!" Touya called out.
"I'm here!" Sakura yelled snapping out of her thoughts and quickly sat up on the floor beside Syaoran.
"Uh.. I think I should get going now," Syaoran signed and began to stand up.
"Huh? Why?" Sakura asked in shock and began to stand up as well.
"Well, the sun should be setting soon, I should be getting home.." Syaoran replied and picked up his script from the table.
"Won't you stay for dinner?" Sakura asked in confusion. There was a short pause but then they heard footsteps coming towards the family room and Syaoran picked up his knapsack and swung it onto his back.
"I'd love to but-" He began apologetically.
"But I'm booting him out of the house," Touya finished for him and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Exactly.." Syaoran nodded slowly. He really didn't like bowing down to the wrath of Touya, but ever since he became Sakura's body guard he didn't really see a sense in wasting his energy on him, especially since he was now one of his directors. He wasn't going to let a past feud be the reason for his failure in drama, although his pride was constantly shot for it. But he had learned to control it, and vowed to someday repay Touya for the damage to his ego.
"Onii-chan.." Sakura pleaded.
"It's okay Sakura," Syaoran smiled looking back at her. "I'm expected home anyway," he informed glancing back at Touya who looked satisfied with his clear victory.
"By whom?" Touya asked curiously. Sakura shot a glare at Touya for not minding his own business.
"My cousin, he's been staying with me for this past week," Syaoran unwillingly explained. There was a pause, as if a nonverbal questioned had been asked. Syaoran rolled his eyes in annoyance. "You remember my cousin Eriol-kun, don't you?"
"Riiight.." Touya nodded with a slight frown. Syaoran groaned.
"Well, I guess I'll be on my way then," Syaoran shrugged and began to walk to the front of the house.
"I'll walk you to the door," Sakura spoke and followed him.
"He knows his way out," Touya interjected.
"Only because you've showed it to him more than a few times," Sakura shot back and continued to follow Syaoran leaving her brother alone in the family room.
"Look I'm sorry abou-" Sakura began when she had caught up with Syaoran.
"It's okay Sakura-chan, I'm used to him," Syaoran smiled with a short sigh. Sakura nodded and opened the door for him. He slowly stepped out of the house with his head hanging down low; he slipped his left hand into his pocket and turned around.
"Thanks for having me over," He said quietly bowing his head slightly.
"Thanks for putting up with my brother," Sakura smiled and leaned against the door. Syaoran shook his head with a small smile curving at the corner of his lips and then began to walk backward away from the house.
"Well, I guess I'll see you tomorrow then," Syaoran sighed and made his way to her gate.
"Yeah, tomorrow," Sakura waved. "Night, Syaoran-kun!" she called out after him. He just turned around to face her and did a small wave with his right hand before shoving that into his pocket and fading into the distance. Sakura slowly closed the door and locked it before making her way up the stairs.
"Does he really have to be over all the time?" Sakura heard a voice ask from the kitchen as she was making her way up the stairs.
"Do you always have to be so rude to him?" She asked stopping on one of the steps awaiting an answer.
"I don't know.." Touya began as he scratched his chin, as if thinking of the perfect explanation for his actions. He moved to the entrance of the kitchen and leaned against the wall so he was now in Sakura's view. "I think it's his face, it attracts my fist somehow."
"You're hopeless," Sakura grumbled and stomped angrily the rest of the way to her room.
"What did I say!?" She heard Touya laugh before she slammed her bedroom door. She flung her body onto the bed and stared at the ceiling as her hands made their way behind her head.
"You're home," Kero smiled as he flew through the bedroom window and onto the corner of her desk.
"I've been home for a while Kero-chan," Sakura replied as she turned on her left side to face her fluffy guardian. "Where've you been?"
"In the little tree house the Create Card built me," Kero yawned as he stretched his tiny arms into the air.
"I didn't know you it make one for you," Sakura frowned and sat up on the bed. "Can I see?"
"Sure, not like you'd fit in it, but you can see it from your window," Kero shrugged and pointed outside the window. Sakura stood up and slowly walked over to her window and peeked outside. A small smile fell upon her face when she laid her eyes on the tiny tree house sitting in her tree. It was perfect for Kero. It actually looked like a miniature house; it was quite cute.
"Kawaii ne!" Sakura laughed and sat back onto her bed. "I guess I haven't been spending that much time with you huh?" she sighed.
"What do you mean?" Kero asked in confusion and flew onto one of Sakura's pillows. He stretched his little body onto the pillow and snuggled his head into its silky softness.
"Well, there hasn't been any problems concerning the Cards, and I've been quite busy with the play that I haven't had much time to actually sit and talk with you like we used to," Sakura replied and laid down on her stomach with her face a few inched away from Kero. They stared at each other for a few moments, just blinking in silence until a grumbling sound interrupted them. Kero's face flushed a light pink.
"I guess you haven't been paying much attention to my stomach either," Kero laughed nervously as he scratched the back of his head. Sakura laughed and rolled over onto her side before standing up.
"Well, it is getting close to dinner time, I'll get you some food, okay?" Sakura smiled and began to walk towards her bedroom door.
"TAKO YAKI!?" Kero pleaded and quickly flew up into the air with stars in his eyes. Sakura laughed and grabbed the doorknob.
"I'll see if we still have some, okay?" She smiled and shut the door behind her. She heard Kero cheer through the door, and she could just picture him flying around her room until he was all worn out. The thought brought a smile upon her face; things were really looking up.
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They stood quietly on top of one of the trees several feet away from the building, awaiting the guard to make another round before making a move. Neither of them were worried, for the plan was easy, swift, straight forward, there was no way they'd be caught. The guards, the security of the building had no chance, it was all too easy.
"Remember, you only have the power of your cards and without your guardian to help you the cards aren't even at their full power, so watch your back," She whispered sensing that the guard would turn the corner of the building any moment now.
"For what? They're merely human beings.." He scoffed slightly disgusted at the thought.
"It's not the humans I'm worried about," She snapped in annoyance.
"Then what? What could possibly worry you.." He asked quite irritated by her cautious attitude.
"I don't know, just trust me and watch your back," She ordered. He glanced over at her; she was concentrating on the museum before them. Turning his head back to the task at hand he realized that the guard was already half way through this side of the building. He slipped his black hood on his head and waited for him to turn the corner. Once the guard was out of sight, and Kadalea whispered for him to begin he slowly floated his way to the ground and disappeared from her sight. He quickly dashed to the side of the building, sticking to it like glue. He walked a little farther, passing by various glass windows revealing the priceless pieces of arts within the building. He his shadow reflected into the museum and onto its walls within. Not wanting a guard to see his shadow, or make another round the outside of the building he swiftly jumped up high and onto the roof of the museum, landing as quietly as a cat. Keeping as low as possible to the ground, he carefully crawled his way across and towards a glass window on the roof of the museum. He could hear the sound of gravel crunching between the sole of his black shoes and the roof, he groaned inwardly but knew that nobody would hear him. He knew that with his magic, nothing could possibly go wrong. His five senses was enhanced ten times than the regular human being, not to mention any of the other powers he had within his grasp. Such as speed or the ability to fly, nothing could stop him from this mission. He quickly peeked down through the glass window and the coast was clear. The guard was probably on the other side of the floor, but that didn't scare him. Closing his eyes he slowly felt his body sinking, sinking into and through the roof. He floated for a few moments, just long enough to look around for any movement and when there was none, he dropped to the floor like a cat, landing on all fours. Remaining in this position he quickly lifted his head and looked left and right before dashing to a dark corner. He observed his surroundings quickly, everything looked as if it belonged to the 17th century; he was in the wrong era. Pressing his body against the wall, he peered into the next room.
"..16th century artifacts.." He whispered to himself. "The museum organizes their rooms by century.." he continued to think aloud. It was then that his left ear twitched and soon after he heard a faint pair of shoes walking around in the room before him. Looking around for somewhere to hide or merge with, he swiftly dashed across the room keeping his body parallel with the walls as to not make a noise when his body slides across the wall. He heard the footsteps getting louder, and he saw the light shine on the floor just a few inches away from his feet, knowing that when the guard came in, he was sure to shine the light on all the objects and corners of the room to make sure everything was there. He looked left and right for something to help him hide, but there was nothing, and the clack of the guard's heels got louder and louder. Finally he had an idea and quickly jumped into the air just as the guard entered the room. He looked down, and the guard was right below him, perhaps a few feet below his own shoes. Slowly he floated higher and higher above the guard, letting him walk deeper into the room and scan the various objects with his trusty flashlight. As the guard walked farther and farther he slowly floated his way down and closer to him. When his feet almost touched the ground, and he was standing a few meters away from the guard, a small grin fell upon his face. He concentrated his energy once more, but it was harder without having to close his eyes, he could feel his body disappear and become one with the guard. He continued to walk behind him, until finally their shadows began to merge into one. The guard quickly turned around sensing a body moving ever so closely behind him, but there was nothing. Then from the side of his eye he saw something black move, its shadow reflect onto the wall on his left and he turned once more, pointing his flashlight at it. The guard sighed in relief.
"It's just your shadow.." The guard mumbled to himself and turned back around forward to walk into the next room. He flashed the light around the different paintings, potteries, swords, and anything else that belonged to the museums 16th century collection. A feeling of good and evil seemed to lurk in this particular room, and the guard knew this for every time he passed by a particular object he knew that it was once part of something evil. Every artifact in this museum was once part of something, but researchers had yet to discover what the purpose of some artifacts were. This particular object was one of them. He continued to make his way across the room, but stopped when he reached his mysterious artifact. Shining the light upon the dark tiny moon shaped object, he shook his head. The small artifact could fit in the palm of your hand; it was fairly heavy compared to its appearance though. The object was navy blue, and it had silver lining. It did look fairly old though, beaten up as well. It was believed that this artifact had survived many battled, maybe even wars for its condition showed that it had been through harsh conditions. But there weren't any traces of nuclear chemicals on it, which are usually found on artifacts that did go through some sort of war or battle; but there was something different about this artifact's history, something unexplainable. The guard took one last look at the object and moved on into the next room. Little did he know that his shadow had stayed behind. The shadow remained motionless on the wall for a moment, but then turned it head, as if staring at the mysterious artifact. Slowly the shadow stepped out of the wall, and transformed back into the dark figure. He looked around for the guard; he was already half way through the next room, where he would turn the corner for another floor round. The tall figure slowly stepped towards the artifact that was covered by a glass box. Lasers guarded the small artifact, for he could see what any other naked eye couldn't see. As if he had all the time in the world he circled the glass box containing what once belonged to him. He observed it, and grinned slightly for he enjoyed the feeling of being close to it again. Unable to keep his hands to himself, he finally began to reach towards the artifact. His hand began to glow a deep ocean blue and he hand drew closer and closer to the object, his hands once again fell right through its case. He slid his hand easily through the glass and cautiously continued forward to reach for his key. He could feel its energy; he could feel its familiar power and the hunger for them to be united again grew within him. As soon as he made contact with his key once more, he felt a rush a surge of power and magic race through his body, his veins and he felt whole again. Unable to control the rush of energy he quickly flew up into the air and through the roof of the museum until he was high in the night sky. His body glowed a deep blue and he tightened his hands into a fist, his head tilted back as he arched his back towards the sky. His eyes rolled to the back of his head, and all that was left for the next few moments was the lifeless white. His body tightened and he closed his eyes, finally his muscles let loose, and he had control over his body again. He remained afloat, with his head hanging down as if he were asleep in amid air. He could hear someone coming towards him at a great speed as to not be seen by anyone with normal senses. The figure came to a sudden halt before him and remained motionless as well.
"Are you alright?" Kadalea asked. There was a pause. A small grin curved at the corner of his lips and he slowly raised his head. When his head was at her eye level he suddenly opened his eyes revealing a bright blue, a stunning blue that glowed with pure magic. Kadalea was taken aback by this new change, but couldn't help but grin as well. The glow in his eyes slowly faded back into a Prussian blue.
"The moon is full, we must summon him now.."
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Surges of unfamiliar power rush through Sakura's body, forcing her to awaken in cold sweat. She looked around her room with her right hand over her chest, grabbing her nightshirt tightly; her breathing was uneasy and hard. The colors of pink, blue, and green flashed through her mind and she shut her eyes in pain. She could feel the power calling her; she could see their light. Looking outside her window she had noticed it to be a full moon out, and that the leaves in the trees were swaying back and forth; it would be a bit chilly outside. She jumped out of bed, quickly opened the first drawer and reached for her Cards and shoved them into one of her pockets. She held onto her key that still acted as a pendant on her necklace and closed her eyes; it had been awhile since she used it.
"Key that holds the power of stars, reveal your true form to me! I, Sakura, order you under our contract. Release!" She commanded quickly for she could feel the outside power grow stronger and more confident within itself, she didn't want to waste anymore time. She ran to her window and quickly opened it. She looked down at the ground below her, and the night sky above her, closing her eyes tightly to gather up her dormant courage and strength and jumped.
"Fly!" She yelled and almost instantly a pair of wings grew on her back, with determination glowing brightly in her eyes she soared through the night sky towards the source of this evil magic; she just hoped it wasn't too late.
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"Arrrrrggghhhhh!!!" He screamed in pain as if something had just been pierced through his arm. The blood trickled down his arm and onto his chest, slowly dripping onto the solid rock floor. The cut on his forehead was beginning to sting and he was starting to lose his vision; but he wasn't going to give in.
"I ever remember you being this stubborn, it's sad," Xien sighed as he walked back and forth in front of this past stranger. "I don't like seeing you tied up either.. shame.."
"Then why don't you make us all happy and let me go..?" He groaned trying to keep his head up. Xien laughed.
"I would, gladly.." Xien nodded then slowly walked closer to his prisoner's face and whispered. "Just bow to me.. and I'll restore you to full health."
"I'd rather die," He snapped back.
"You're already dead you idiot! I created you! Have you no respect for your master?" Xien yelled and punched him again in the stomach forcing blood out of the victim's mouth.
"I.. belong.. to no one.." He coughed quietly as he tried to breath.
".. and what of Sakura?" Xien questioned and crossed his arms. There was a short pause and the silver eyes met his blue.
"If you touch her, I swear-" He began trying to fight the chains that kept him standing against the wall. Xien laughed once more.
"You'll what? Kill me?" Xien laughed even louder and placed his right hand against the wall and leaned towards him. "I gave you life, you can't kill me.."
"Watch me.." He threatened. Xien winced and high kicked the man's left side.
"Ahhhh!!!" He cried in pain feeling a rib or two break in half. He breathed in hard; for fear that one of the loose bones would pierce through a lung. He swallowed hard to suck in the pain.
"Listen, we can do this the hard way, or the easy way," Xien began seriously and walked towards the other end of the room near the book of cards. "You either give into my power, or you painfully get your soul stripped from you and replaced with your old power," he continued and turned around to face him. "It's your choice, Yu-"
"Go to hell, you bastard.." He groaned with his head still hanging low, for he was quickly losing the blood he needed to stay awake. Xien clenched his hands into a fist and grabbed hold of his book.
"I tried to be nice to you, and now you have to face the consequences!" Xien screamed angrily and opened the book and held up the light and dark cards. "You will be mine!"
"What are you.. what are you going to.. to do with those.." He asked weakly as he coughed up another clot of blood.
"They'll only help me, what I really need is my key.. and.." Xien began with a grin and then closed his eyes to teleport them onto the roof of the castle. The prisoner closed his eyes to the brightness of the moon and began to breathe even harder.
"The moon's power.." Xien finished waving his hand towards the moon. "Clow stole you from me, but you'll soon be mine again.." he grinned and held out the moon key. He slowly closed his eyes and concentrated all his energy to the task at hand.
"Key that hold the powers of the Moon and Stars, release thy true form to me; as I Miao command. Reveal your power!" He chanted, as a dark blue light seemed to have surrounded him, encase him with his powers. Slowly the key began to transform, stretching expanding into a long wand. The wand was thin; a dark navy blue with what looked like a golden pentacle at the top, except instead of a star there was a moon with rays shooting from it until it touched the circles circumference. He held his staff with pride, for it had been so long since he had felt its power, controls its power. He held the wand before his prisoner and grinned when he saw the fear in the other man's eyes.
"So you remember?" Xien asked with a slight smile. There was no response; he looked as if he was in a trance. "Well, let's not keep you waiting any longer, the moon won't wait forever.." he continued and held the wand in front of him in a fighting stance. "This may hurt.." he warned with a grin.
"By the powers of the Moon and Stars, I command you Moon Guardian to surrender your powers to me and be reborn! Ying Shen!" He chanted firmly. Almost instantly the prisoner began to scream in sheer pain. He arched his back towards Xien, as if a string had been attached to his chest and Xien was now pulling it, pulling him towards him. His hands went into a tight fist as his head tilted back with his eyes tightly shut to help control the pain. He felt as if someone was trying to turn his body inside out, sucking his insides dry and trying to get it all to come out through his skin. The pain was unbearable.
"ARGHH!!!" He yelled almost in tears. "STOP IT!!!" he pleaded. Blood was beginning to come out through his eyes and slide slowly down his pale cheeks and down onto his chest. A white aura began to form around his body, and he could barely see what was going on, but he could feel Xien's power. The light and dark card floated before Xien were glowing a bright white as well, everything seemed to be falling into place.
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Sakura soared swiftly through the night sky. The wind blew violently through her hair as she picked up speed. She cut through a forest a few miles back so she wouldn't be noticed as easily and since then she had been traveling twice as fast. The forest was dark, and little light from the moon was emitted through. She felt the power growing closer to her and she began to feel nervous. This power, this feeling, was so familiar and yet more evil than anything she had ever known. She could hear the ruffling of leaves against her as she went under and over tree branches dodging them left and right. One of the branches caught her arm, leaving an open gash in her right arm and she winced at the pain. Looking farther ahead she noticed a field clearing with the light coming from the moon reflecting on it. Rushing out past the last few pairs of trees she zoomed out and up high into the clear night sky to see exactly where she was. Below her were miles and miles worth of clear green land. The grass glowed from the moons light, and she continued to fly forward following the great power she sensed. Her hair swayed back and forth with the wind as she noticed a tall castle in the distance and she swiftly fell low to the ground, flying so close that she could feel the tall grass touching her hands as she rushed through the fields. She kept as low as possible in case the castle was being guarded, she knew the strange aura she was feeling was coming from there, for she could feel its power growing closer as she neared the old building. As she came within a mile from the castle she flew up towards the sky to fly over the building, but she noticed two figures, but wasn't able to see their faces for they were up against the light of the moon. She zoomed on quickly towards the two, holding her wand tightly in her right hand. One of the figures must have felt her coming for they turned around giving Sakura a deep glare, she felt their blue eyes burn through her and she flinched slightly. The man flew up high into the air, and Sakura noticed that he too had wings growing out of his back but before she could think of it any further she felt something coming at her with great speed. Quickly dodging to her left and spinning onto her back for a moment the dark light passed her by.
"Shot card?" Sakura thought aloud in shock. More blue lights of energy came shooting at her from the dark figure against the moon. Swiftly dodging up down, left and right, spinning wildly in the night sky she was able to dodge the cards shots. As she flew closer and closer to the figure, the shots came faster and Sakura soon found herself having a hard time anticipating where they were being shot. Then there was the piercing pain on her right leg. She screamed loudly as she felt the shots impact into her leg, the stinging feeling spread throughout her body and throbbed in her thigh. Wincing in pain she quickly took out another one of her faithful cards and flashed it against the moon before letting it fly into the air.
"Arrow!!!" Sakura commanded and almost instantly an arrow appeared in front of her and began to divide until they reached about twenty arrows and then soared through the air towards the opponent. Sakura watched in horror as the dark figure used what looked like a transparent shield to absorb the light blue arrows. As if realizing something the evil magician fled the scene, flying with immense speed down the other side of the castle. Not waiting for an invitation or a signal Sakura instinctively followed him. With determination and fire in her eyes as zoomed across the roof of the old castle. She flew up towards the moon, so when she reached the end of the building she could make a steep drop and zoom right down along the side of the castle wall. The round bright moon seemed to glow brighter as she flew higher and higher above the castle, she saw the end of the castle approaching and she was about to make her steep drop until something soared past her and made her come to a halt. Floating before her was another tall figure, except he was familiar. The white wings attached to his back were about nine feet in width each, meaning that his flying powers didn't come from a card. He had a silver, white, gray, and blue battle costume on. His grayish white long hair fell loosely down towards his feet. He was young, for he had fair skin and a strong youthful appeal to him. Sakura gasped recognizing the man, it was his eyes she recognized those serious azure blue eyes. Although the moon was against him, revealing very little features on his face and body she knew it was him, it had to be and yet it couldn't be.
"Yue-san..?" Sakura said in quiet shock. He grinned slightly and held his palm up towards the sky letting a bright ball of light form above his palm. It flickered for a few seconds before growing bigger, without saying a word he quickly threw the ball of light at Sakura and with that ball of light formed many of what seemed to be icicles. In too much of a shock to dodge Yue's attack, and too slow to call upon shield Sakura was easily struck by his swift move. Feeling tiny sparks of pain attack her body from head to toe she screamed and closed her eyes tightly, feeling blood rush out and through her skin. Falling quickly towards the solid ground below her she struggled to call upon another card and almost instantly the wings upon her back disappeared allowing her to fall uncontrollably towards the earth. Yelling in fear and in pain she waved her hands around trying to grab onto something anything even though she herself knew that there was nothing to grab onto. Tears formed in her eyes and fell down her face and onto the ground; she knew she was nearing her death because she noticed trees nearby through her peripheral vision. A few moments later her head whipped back almost breaking her neck and she felt the ground, or was it something else? The blood rushed toward her head and the pain throbbing throughout her whole body, she was completely drained. She began to feel light headed; her eyelids began to feel a bit heavy and she could taste blood in her mouth. She turned to look around and she saw a familiar pair of amber eyes glow at her, it was then that everything turned black.
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Well, this chapter took awhile, and it's fairly different from what I'm used to writing so take it easy! But yeah I hope you liked it, because i kinda do, for once. So let me know how you felt about it, and if you have any suggestions on how to make it better then tell my in your review! Or if you like something, tell me what it was, then I can do more of that! Well I hope to hear from all of you from your reviews!
Ja ne mato de!