The Tournament

by Jurei

*Ch.15!*The flight by Dragonback to Todonotsumari Island...the location of The Tournament! R&R! *AU. Syaoran is the son of the greatest warrior to ever walk the Seven Worlds. However, the Tournament decides the fate of those who compete on its own ...S+S!

15. Let the Tournament begin!

Konnyanyaichiwa, minna-san! Welcome to chapter fifteen! Amazing, ne? We're almost there! Anyway, I'm glad that all of you have actually found this interesting enough to continue reviewing! Wai! ^^ Arigato to everyone who reviewed, because your C&C were very encouraging and helpful! Insight is just so great, as I'm such a bad judge of my own work. Onegai, keep telling me what you think and how I could possibly improve this (especially since I find I've gotten a bit rusty over the last three months^^;;;)! That's what we all should look for as writers! For this chapter, I'm also going to thank everyone personally! ^^ You all deserve thanks separately!

*IMPORTANT NOTE* I'm considering the possibility of a sequel, but you guys would have to tell me if that sounds like a good idea. If not, the ending will change. If more people want a sequel, however, the ending will stay the same and tie in with the next story, kinda like the first MK movie, but not quite. (DON'T WORRY! THE SEQUEL WOULD BE GOOD! Can't have another one like the Second Mortal Kombat movie…^^;;;) Onegai, let me know in your reviews! Also, matching up of the original chara…I'm still trying to decide, and I need your guys' help on choosing who would be kawaii with who…

Arigatos:

pinkuser: Wai! I'm so happy that you like it! I'll definitely try to update faster! For the last couple months, I've been swamped with karate tournaments, homework, school projects, and an annoying colds . but that's all cleared up a bit, so I'll have more time to work on this and my other stories too! ^6 Arigato for all the reviews!

Wings of Fire: Whoa! Arigato for reviewing every single chapter! I'm glad you like it! I know you would probably like the chapters to come out faster, and they might, but I could never forgive myself for doing a half-baked job on something in order to get it done faster. (Karate law: "Never sacrifice technique for speed.") Anyway, here's chapter fifteen! I hope you enjoy it as much as the others, but I'm not really a very good judge of my own work and can't tell you whether it's good or not (you'll have to decide for yourself! ^^) Kill me? Well, you should at least wait until this fic is done, because If you didn't I'd have to come back as a ghost to finish it! Also, there'd be a lot of disappointed people… (*Sakura-chan: Hoe? GHOSTS? *Jurei-chan: ~sweatdrop~ nevermind…^^;;;)

syrupjunkie: Hai, chapter fourteen was kinda darker, but I'm glad you liked it! Originally, when I was writing it, I hadn't planned for that to happen at all, and only for some S+S signs. However, when I began that part, it just started to turn out that way and I was like *Whoa! Hey, what if…?* I'm also glad that someone remembered that people will die, and I don't really like being too predictably cliché , so there won't be any of that "their love brought them back to life" or "secret revival spell" stuff. (i.e.: when people die, they stay dead! ^^;) Yeah, I'm still deciding what fight will go for the SOE and which ones for the SOG, but I've got a couple figured out already. As for detail, well, I can't stand "barren" fics! That's why I like your ficcies! Glad you like all the original Chara, even Miroku (who isn't even that bad anymore) and as I said, Hyppoclyme hasn't uploaded in AGES! (Peeps think I'VE been taking a long time?^^;;;;) Also, M-chan told me she might be continuing Lunar, so we don't have to be sad anymore! Wai!^^ Arigato for all the reviews!

Manda-chan: Hehe, yeah, it's kinda apparent you haven't been reading for a while, but that's okay! Arigato fore reviewing all the chapters up to the latest, and so positively as well!^^ hehe, yeah…Jun Fan definitely is starting to notice Yin, and I'm still trying to decide whether or not to have J+Y as an actual couple in the story. It's really great to have you as a tomodachi online! Keep writing all your stories, cause they're all so SU-GI-OH!!! ^^ Hehe, you're not the only one that thought Sakura was dead…heck, even I thought that for a while! Arigato for all the encouragement and suggestions! I owe everything to you and your fics! (You WERE the one that got me started on actually writing and gave me so much good advice! Wai!)

Sukera: Glad to see you still like the story! Hehe, yeah…the dark part(s) were kinda scary…actually, I wasn't sure myself if Sakura was hurt for real or not…well, she won't die till at least the end, if at all. Heck, as a main chara, her death would have to be dramatic! Jkjkjkjkjkjkjk ^^;;;;;;;;;;;;;;; I don't think I would ever kill her off, cause I'd bet flamed to death! Not only that, poor Xiao Lang-kun! He'd have to live with that for the rest of his life… Sukera, instead of Sakura, ne? Well, you must have so many people get that wrong…^^;;;

Jed Jones: Hehe…yeah…^^;;;;; I guess I owe you some of the biggest apologies ever, ne? Wow, I take it you really like this ficcy! Anyway, the dream is important, so I couldn't really just take it out or change it. There's a reason why Xiao Lang-kun killed Sakura in it, and it ties in to the rest of the story. It just couldn't work any other way. I'm really glad you feel so adamantly about all of this! As I said to Wings of Fire, well, I could never ever forgive myself for doing a half-baked job. For me, there's no 'oops, I did a crappy job so I'll just update the better version' the first time is the ONLY time! If you gave me your e-mail address, though, I could tell you when I update. If not, well, that's up to you! Arson? Are you sure? Hehe, those are kinda scary…^^;

Lia Strife: ARIGATO! Wai! It's so SU-GI-OHHH that you decided to stick this through! Good thing you're at anime club now, ne? All the Inuyasha we want…BWAHAHAHAHA! Hehe, actually, Shawn-san leant me episodes 1-31, so I've been watching a little TOO much…^^;;; Nice to have you and Meg-chan there though, demo… ~Jurei-chan clamps her hand over Lia-chan's mouth~ Don't go blabbing that on the review sheet! People don't know, k? Yeah, you DO get special previews because of the circumstances, but…well…~sees other readers glaring at Jurei-chan~ I have to leave SOMETHING as a surprise, ne?

arcticflames: Ohohohohohohohohoho! I'm glad you think it was worth the wait! That's what gives me the confidence to continue writing! Wai! Arigato for reviewing, and for writing your stories! So kawaii, all of them!

Shirahana: Ahhh, don't worry about the long reviews, k? I LOVE long reviews, but I don't mind as long as I GET reviews! I'm glad you like my stuff! Your ficcy's very very cute! Wai! Arigato for all the encouraging comments! You were one of the first people to review this story, and I'm so glad you still think it entertaining enough to continue reading! Wai! I'll send you my other ficcy soon, so you can post it on your site! ^^

Sakura Scout: Yeah, I'm so glad you're still reviewing my fic! Well, as to your guess…you'll see! The dreams ARE important, though, as I've said, but there's more there than just S+S's future…well, ARIGATO FOR STICKING WITH THIS FROM THE BEGINNING! Wai! I owe this fic to you and everyone else that reviewed from the start! You've never really given up on this, and it's really through readers like you that I feel confident enough to continue writing! A lot of people have quit on this story, so it's nice to still have someone from the first review around who is still giving me C&C and impatient for the next chapter! Wai! This chapter is dedicated to you!

Sujakata: Arigato for reviewing! You're a very perceptive person, you know…Yin DOES have something to do with it all, but all will be revealed later…I do try to make it interesting, because that's the kind of story I like to read. Something that really makes you kinda look back and go 'Whoa! That was cool!' or 'I never expected THAT to happen!', but I'm not sure if I'm doing such a good job of that. I'm glad you liked chapter fourteen, and also how I wrote Sakura-chan as, because I did want her to be a little different than in other fics. (Where in other fics do you really see her fighting Otherworld demons and stuff?) Also, arigato for reviewing on Mediaminer.org! If I have time, I might upload some fanfic art, like pics of the original chara and stuff…well, that'd be WAY later. This chapter is to you!

Azalea: Waiiiii! Yeah! I'm glad you like this! Arigato for the reviews! Also, CONTINUE WRITING YOUR STUFF! It's very kawaii!

Sakura-Chan: Hai, all the fics I put in "The Asina Counterpart" are stories I have really enjoyed! Generally, I tend to read romance fics, but I love it when there's an original story and well-written action! The thing that really turns me off a fic is overused story ideas ("A new exchange student," or "CCS gang have to fight a new Evil"), bad spelling and grammar (and Sakura went 2 her dad, but he wasn't there cause he had to leve for NY), unimaginative language use ("and" "like" "went" all the time, with no description), and ENGLISH NAMES! Mind you, there are a couple decent fics with English names, but I've found the chances of finding one lower. I'm so glad you like "Foreign Destiny" cause that's my other longish chapter story. Not as long as this one, but longer than "Giving 'Training' New Meaning!" Arigato for the reviews! Wai!

Ashly: *Smiles* Yeah, I'm glad you like the ficcy! As I've said, I've been unable to write for a couple reasons…writer's block (CURSE YOU, DAMN WRITER'S BLOCK!.) bad luck (colds, computer banning, viruses, you name it! ^^;), and lack of time. All I've had lately have been five minutes here and there, which isn't enough time for me to actually get into the story and continue. Onegai, keep reading for as long as this interests you! ^^ Arigato for being so considerate, too! As to why my website has only thirteen chapters…well…not anymore! I haven't really had time to work on it either, but I uploaded chapter fourteen and am finally getting back to work! ^^;;;;;;; I was swamped completely after finishing chapter fourteen, and haven't really been able to follow through on anything! That's it! ^^

hikari: *sigh* yeah, I haven't been able to work on this for ages, and I know it's annoying! *I personally can't stand when one of my favourite stories goes five months without updates….) But, I also understand that people have things that occupy their time, and writer's block is one of the darn worst things that was ever invented! Arigato for the review!

hikari angel: Once again, I HAVEN'T HAD TIME! Gomen ne if I sound slightly exasperated, but I think I'm starting to sound like a broken record. Abuse to my fans? I'd never do that purposefully, but I've really been without an option. Arigato for the adamant reviews, anyway! Also, the writer's block has been the biggest ever for this chapter, and that isn't a good thing…Also, if you want, you can go back and read "Mirror" now and enjoy it now that I've updated, ne?^^

Sarri-chan: Hehe, you're my 220th review! Arigato! As much as I LOVE S+S, however, I don't think this will be absolutely MUSH-loaded. That really doesn't fit too well with the storyline…(they tried it in Fatal Fury, and it wasn't an effective mix) However, there WILL be some S+S. Also, ARIGATO FOR THE JOKE! I've been asking for jokes for ages, and you're one of the only people to have complied! ^^ . As to the other chara, well, Kensu IS cool, ne? I'm kinda thinking whether or not to have some of the original chara match up…(you guys would get to tell me which ones would make the best couples!^^) and am considering writing a sequel, but once again, that depends on what you guys say. Onegai, keep reading for as long as you like it!^^

Betty Mew: Hehe, I love getting e-mails about my ficcy! Arigato! Not everyone has enough patience to do that, though. I personally find it a lot easier to just use the review box, so I admire those people that actually e-mail the author with their opinion. ^^ Your positive feedback is very encouraging! Keep reading as long as it interests you! Wai! And arigato for putting up with me and my odd internet schedule. I know it takes me too long to reply to e-mail…^^

Sarah Lynas: Another e-mail reviewer! I'm so glad you like this! Wai! Yeah, the 'I am Canadian' rant is funny…I should put that in Kensu's Corner! Actually, I did! Arigato for reminding me! ^^ Also, I now have your e-mail, so I can just send you the updates! ^^

SakuraJade: ^^ Arigato for reviewing, even though it took you so much effort! Hehe, and for the jokes! It's great that FINALLY, SOMEONE has actually sent me jokes; though I'm not sure I should put some of those up…they were funny, anyway! ^^ I almost killed myself laughing… (It must be a thing with older brothers, ne?) I really appreciate that you even bothered to e-mail me with the review and jokes. LOVE THE FICCIES! It's a shame that 'Saving Sakura' is over…*cries* As to 'Foreign Destiny', well, I've got lots to write, and Jerry-kun's been too busy to do anything this last little while, too, so it might be a while. Gomen ne! ^^

Karamel: Wai! ^^ I'm soooo happy to heart that you like the ficcy! Hehe, yours is kawaii too, but I'm not sure if you've updated in the last little while…^6;; I'll read whatever you post, though as soon as I finish with this! Your best reviewer? *blush* I'd never really consider myself to be THAT good of a review, but yokatta! It really makes me happy to hear you say that! Keep up the wonderful work on your stories! ^^

Shirley Molloy: hehe, my third e-mail reviewer! Of course I'll let you know when I update! Hehe, I actually really love when people ask me to notify them, because it means that they like my story enough to be slightly impatient…^^ Here's the next chapter! I hope you enjoy it!

Peacewish: Hehe, I know that the Mortal Kombat description is what tends to turn several people off my ficcy, but it's also what attracts others and that's really what it is. I'm glad you read it anyways, though, and enjoyed it despite your expectations!^^ I don't really want this fic to go to the pointless number of 30 chapters, so it'll probably end at about chapter 20-21. I have most of this planned out, so I guess I feel comfortable with the number I've set for myself. Thank you for the wishes for luck, cause the way things have been going lately I need as many of those as I can get! ^^;;; This one's for you!

Debster-chan: Hai, I'm going to try and get chapter three of "Foreign Destiny" up as soon as possible, but that one's trickier because it's a partner effort between be and my friend Jerry-kun. I'm glad you think my fics are fun to read, and I'll try to keep writing the same way I have been! ^^ Arigato! ^^

Morgan W: Arigato for your comments, and for FINALLY following through on my request for book recommendations! ^^ I'm glad you like my original chara, because it means that someone can actually identify with them in a way (meaning that they're more realistic than a lot of the ones I've come across before). Thanks for the review! ^^

sakuragirl14: Yes, I finally updated! ^^ I'm glad you think this is a good idea, cause it means I've found a combination that works! ^^ Arigato for your comments! ^^

And now, to…THE DISCLAIMER?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? Oh, fine! Here goes.

Disclaimer: Well, kinda sums it up, ne? For colourful, original disclaimers, see the other chapters. For simple ones that get the job done, see chapters 1, 2, and 14. For an apathetic disclaimer with the least amount of effort, see previous chapters 13, 12, 11. For legal disclaimer that uses a ton of redundant language and pointlessly complicated and professional-sounding words, see the statement below.

As stated in the aforementioned word "Disclaimer" this declaration is for the sole purpose of rejecting any and all claim over the used properties of Cardcaptor Sakura, Mortal Kombat, Broken Sky, Crystalis, Dragonball, Dragonball Z, and any other series/books/movies/games (hereinafter, "the items") infringed either in whole or in part by the defendant. (Jurei-chan, hereinafter "The Author") The aforementioned "author" rejects all claims of ownership of said "items" to those (whether group or individual) included in the congregations therein, including, but not limited to companies/partnerships/corporations listed following. In the event of such occurrence/happenstance, said variety of owners (i.e: CLAMP, Midway Entertainment, Akira Toriyama, Chris Wooding, SNK, Nintendo, etc.) are entitled to any and all profits gained through the use of such "items", as well as legal rights over the aforementioned author and his/her financial situation.

Now, the translation!

Basically, the word disclaimer pretty much tells you that Jurei-chan doesn't own or pretend to own the stuff used in this fic. CCS, MK, DB, DBZ, BS, Crystalis, and all the other stuff not mentioned belongs to CLAMP, Akira Toriyama, Midway, SNK, Nintendo, and Chris Wooding. Also, all profits that might be made with this (yeah, right!^^;) belong to the owners. If the unbelievable and mystical were to happen and Jurei-chan ended up actually making money off this, they would be allowed to sue her. Yep, that's about it!

Dedication: To Sakura Scout and Shirahana, for sticking with this fic from the first chapter! As some of the only people from the first crowd still reading, I really owe them a lot! It's continuous readers like you guys that keep this one going! To Sensei Bruce and Toshi-sama, for your inspiring stories and dedication! Arigato for showing me how not to give up! And, finally, to Rumiko Takahashi, for showing how truly great a girl can be if she puts her mind to it! (As well as creating InuYasha! I love that anime/manga!^6)

Finally, TO THE STORY!

The Tournament (When Worlds Collide)

A Cardcaptor Sakura Fanfiction by Jurei-chan

"All that stands in my way is you…"

Sakura saw the striking amber eyes of Syaoran as he whispered the final words. For some reason, she found herself unable to move, unable to break the hypnotic gaze as a deep cold seemed to grow within her with each passing moment. As the whispering continued, she felt a darkness sweep through her, accompanied by an incredible pain more intense than anything she had felt before in her life. The searing feeling continued, growing fiercer and fiercer until Sakura felt as if her body was being ripped in half. Her mouth opened in a silent scream as one final flood of void, dark energy rushed into her unresponsive body…and then…nothing…

…And she woke up with a start.

'What was that?' she thought, lifting her hand to wipe the cold sweat from her forehead, 'Another premonition?'

The idea that Syaoran could kill her was frightening, especially since she would never be able to hurt him, even if it were to save herself…why? Why did she feel this way? She shook her head in frustration, banishing the feeling to the farthest reaches of her mind.

'It's probably just Tournament nerves or something,' she thought to herself, 'everyone's been on edge lately, maybe this is how I react. But the dream was so real…it was like when I had that dream on the night Syaoran and Jun Fan left for the Core World…' she shivered, pulling the blanket around her more closely. It was still dark. She needed to sleep, especially since today was such a big day.

Lying on her side, the young fighter stared at the wall opposite her with mixed feelings. Now that she was awake, sleep seemed to elude her completely. The training matches with Ryushi were still affecting her, and she felt completely exhausted, but she just couldn't seem to cross the line between dreams and awakening. Dreams…somehow, she didn't think she wanted to dream. Syaoran would never do that!…and yet…

Finally giving up altogether, Sakura sat up and pushed the blanket off of her body as she slid out of her bed. A dim light could be seen outside, telling the young female warrior that it wasn't as early as she had originally thought it to be. A moment's listening also told her that she was the only one awake as of yet in the Lookout. 'Yeah, all the lucky people are getting a good night's sleep! They don't have frightening dreams that someone who you hope is your friend will kill you at a moment's notice…'

The hallway beyond the door to the women's quarters was dim, the Enkyuuku glowing less brightly than during the day. They were sleeping too. Sakura sighed, slightly annoyed. Even the things lighting the corridors could sleep! It was almost as if everything was rubbing it in…

She stopped suddenly outside a door that was slightly ajar. Shikoku and Asina had decided that it would be best to move Yin there after she had complained of a severe headache. Odd…it had been closed when they all went to bed…

A sudden, undeniable curiosity overtook Sakura at that very moment. She found herself unable to walk away without taking a look, and the feeling seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment that she stood there in the hallway without moving on. As if by their own will, her feet seemed to guide her closer and closer towards the room…she stopped. It wasn't her business to look in on people while they slept! But the nagging sensation continued, urging her to look inside, telling her that it was something she'd regret if she ignored it's prodding…

Sakura paused, her hand already on the door. 'Well, it isn't like I'm going to wake her up…' she finally amended. With one more hesitation, she pushed against the wooden surface with soft assurance and looked into the room within only to see…

Nothing. Not even a sleeping Yin was inside. The bed was empty, and looked like it had barely been used at all. Wherever Yin was or had been, it wasn't in that room. Sakura shook her head slowly in slight confusion. That was odd…and why had she felt so compelled to take a look anyway? Yin had probably woken up early too and headed towards the showers or something. She was making a big deal out of nothing.

The Japanese fighter shrugged and continued on her way down the corridor towards the showers. 'I guess that just means more hot water for me…' she thought, making a valiant attempt to shake the dark and depressed mood the dream had left her in, 'maybe there're advantages to waking up early…'

The silence and stillness of the corridor was restored as the sounds of the awakened girl faded, following her into the distance. Once again, everything was in its slumbering state as it should be, the pre-dawn darkness surging softly back to its undisturbed condition. Nothing stirred…

Nothing except for a dark shadow slipping out from behind the door to the women's quarters. Wraithlike, it swiftly glided to the door that was slightly ajar, stopping momentarily in front of the wooden construction. Purple cloth shifted as it carefully tucked a palm-sized mirror away in the folds of its fighting uniform, returning to its original place as the figure slipped into the room. The door closed silently, and no one would have been able to tell that its occupant had ever left it at any time during the night.

********

"Whoohoo! Oh yeah! Food, food, and more food!"

Kensu ran up and down the extra table that had been set up for food at that morning's breakfast. Strangely, he wasn't the only one to share in this kind of display. Virtually every other recruit looked at the table longingly, noting that it seemed to have every possible thing they could have thought of wanting to eat at the moment.

Shikoku turned a cartwheel, his face lit up by such a big smile that you could have sworn it would have fallen off at the edges. Turning to Kensu, he clapped the fighter on the shoulder so strongly that it almost knocked the wind out of him.

"Can you believe it?" he asked excitedly, " They've really outdone themselves this time! Finally, someone appreciates us!"

Syaoran, Sakura, and Miroku watched the scene with dotted looks (Those kawaii dotted anime eyes again! ^^). Shikoku? Acting chummy with Kensu? That was the oddest thing since…well…that was the oddest thing.

"Something's wrong with this picture…" Syaoran whispered to Sakura who giggled in response, nodding her agreement. Miroku just shook his head, walking away with a confused expression.

The two warriors hooked elbows, each with a triumphant look on their face. "Score one for the Special Projects team!" they exclaimed, their hands twisting in an odd little gesture somewhat like a handshake. This merely gained them a couple sweatdrops from everyone else.

Ryushi let out a low, astonished whistle, raising his eyebrows at the amount of food. "Really, its like they know just what everyone likes," he said approvingly, "Reminds me a little of last time, though this one's different for some reason…"

Jun Fan nodded in agreement. It really looked like someone knew exactly what to cook. Oddly enough, however, some of the items were a bit…er…exotic?

"Eeeeeew! Who actually likes sashimi with teriyaki, bean paste, soy sauce, pilaf, and konnyaku all at once?" Sakura asked, looking at the odd mix with a raised eyebrow. It sure didn't look like something you could actually eat.

"That is mine," said a voice behind her. The young Japanese warrior turned around, only to see Xiu.

"Ah! Gomen ne, Xiu-san! I didn't mean to insult your tastes in food or anything, but it is a bit of an…odd…mix, you must admit! I-"

Sakura stopped blustering, however, when she noted Xiu's expression. Though his face was neutral, his eyes were once again the soft shade of blue she recognized well. In return, she smiled brightly, giving him a quick bow before turning back to the table. The corner of the elder Chinese warrior's mouth twitched upwards slightly. Nadeshiko's daughter was every bit like her mother.

Xiu's expression became serious, however, when he saw the younger Chinese fighter in forest-green uniform further ahead of him. Sakura had fallen in next to him and was talking to him, a bright smile adorning her features. The senior warrior also noted that Kwaihu's son seemed quite at ease in her presence, even allowing a small smile back at the cute-ness she displayed so openly. There was definitely something he needed to deal with…

"Sumimasen, but I must speak to Xiao Lang for a moment."

Sakura stopped her sentence short. The tone with which the sentence was spoken was different from the one he had used with her moments before. It was cold and hard, somewhat like the one he had used the night before. She shivered slightly, noticing how Syaoran seemed to tense uncomfortably the moment it was spoken. This didn't look good.

"Ah…of course, Xiu-san," she said, bowing to him courteously.

"Arigato," he said curtly, his gaze never leaving the face of the Chinese youth. Wordlessly, he motioned for Syaoran to follow him away from the group assembled around the table. Sakura's eyes followed them, giving him a pained look. This was the last thing he needed before the Tournament…didn't Xiu see that? His self-confidence had already taken a dive from the lecture he had received the night before…

She turned her back to the two, joining the conversation between Ryushi, Húmi, and Asina. Hopefully, nothing would go wrong this time.

********

Xiu turned to Syaoran as they stopped a good distance away from everyone else. His expression was just as blank and cold as before, though somehow, the young Chinese warrior found it less threatening. The senior looked at him with a grave expression, and it became apparent that something was different. Something needed to be said.

"Xiao Lang…"

Syaoran could tell that Xiu was having trouble expressing what it was he wished to say. Unfortunately, from the way that he kept his face blank and is voice without major emotion, guessing was out of the question. 'One time where warrior training from the young age of four is not helpful…' he thought, watching the older man wrestle with his thoughts.

Finally, Xiu continued. "Well…I just wished to tell you that…" he straightened, all uncertainty suddenly gone. "I wish to apologize for my words last night."

The Chinese youth barely kept himself from showing his surprise. It wasn't like Xiu to admit mistakes to one younger and less experienced than himself. Then again, the only one with more experience than him in Raiden's Lookout was Raiden himself, who needed no admissions.

"I understand the responsibilities that you, as Kwaihu's son, must bear," the senior warrior spoke again, "and I am quite impressed with how you have managed. Not many of your age and experience could deal with all the pressures we have laid upon your shoulders. Then again, you are, after all, of his blood…"

Here, Syaoran saw Xiu flinch noticeably. Then, everything became clear. As one of the last surviving fighters of the last Tournament, he still hadn't completely healed. Now, the time so close to another battle like the one ten years ago, all the fears and deaths were coming back to haunt him. 'I…I understand…'

This train of thought was cut short suddenly when an outstretched hand caught his attention. Looking up, he saw the senior's face display a fleeting grin. "I wish to tell you, Xiao Lang, that you have measured up to my standards more admirably than would be thought possible, and that…you have my trust."

At this, Syaoran felt as if a great weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Even from the first day, he had always felt afraid that he wasn't good enough to be his father's successor. Xiu's words were like a liberating sword cutting through the chains that bound him to that fear. Kwaihu's old friend thought him an asset! Not only that, he had earned Xiu's trust…Grinning slightly in return, he gripped the offered hand tightly in his own, acknowledging the gesture of alliance within fighters. He finally felt like he was home, accepted by the circle of warriors as only one of their kind can be.

********

"Spare fighting uniforms?"

"Check."

"Senzu beans?"

"Check! Whew! Hate to be without those…"

"Weapons?"

"Hell ya! Check!"

Asina wiped a hand across her forehead, brushing her lilac bangs out of her eyes in the process. "Looks like we've gotten everything…"

Jade poked her head back through the door frame from the storage area. "If we pack anything more, I don't think the dragons will be able to carry us to the island! Now let's get moving!"

Nodding complacently, the female warrior rolled up her list. "Now, all we need is to get all this stuff down to the holds. Shouldn't be a problem…"

"If we had eight arms each, that is," the Chinese girl said sarcastically.

Asina grinned slightly. "We won't have any trouble. It's Shikoku, Atami, and Kensu who'll have to deal with their lack of arms!"

Both girls giggled.

********

Sakura couldn't sit still. This was going to be her first time riding a dragon, and she was so excited that she felt as if she'd burst. Though hesitant at first, she had quickly grown accustomed to the idea of flying far above the ground on a huge, winged creature and lost all her reserve. She was even starting to see how Húmi could think them beautiful. After watching Húmi and Ryushi fly back from one of their casual air patrols over the seven worlds, she had lost most of her fear. The way that Darún had landed, curving his neck in a powerful, yet graceful arc and the rushing wind kicked up from the downward stroke of his wings had been exhilarating. Since that day, she had subconsciously been counting down to the moment when she too would get to ride.

"SAKURA!"

Looking up quickly, she saw Ryushi's blonde quills and sky blue headband at the edge of her vision. Looking down from her seat atop one of the dragon statues at the entrance to the Holds, she noted that his sea green eyes were much calmer and carefree than they had been in days.

"Sakura-chan! Meeting in the main hall!" he said, his breathing only slightly laboured.

She smiled, jumping down easily from the back of the dragon. "Hai! Let's go!" she said, almost unable to keep herself from skipping down the hall.

Ryushi grinned, following the lithe female fighter towards the main hall. Her excitement was too infectious. The way she seemed to radiate positive energy was almost enough to completely drive the seriousness of the upcoming battles out of his mind completely.

The Okinawan warrior and the young Japanese fighter were the last to appear in the hall. Slipping in as quietly and inconspicuously as possible, they made their way to sit next to Asina and Jade at one of the tables. An odd sense of nostalgia suddenly hit Sakura. 'This is the last time that all of us will be sitting together like this…' she realized, 'Some of these people who I've grown so close to might not make it through…'

Once again, she was jolted out of her thoughts, this time by a firm hand on her shoulder. Upon looking at it's owner, her own forest green eyes met with the kind hazel of Jade's.

"There's nothing to feel sad about, Ying Fa," Jade whispered quietly, "nothing can be helped, and it's better not to regret. After all, those who do not return…there will come a day when we shall see them again."

Sakura smiled in gratitude. From the kind tone of the girl's voice, she felt immeasurably better. There wasn't much time to dwell on the subject, however, because Raiden arrived merely moments later. The hall, which had previously been filled with the sounds of quiet murmuring from the recruits, grew silent as the lesser kami entered. It was apparent that he did not wish to waste time, for he seemed to glide quickly to the front of the assembly instead of his usual calm, collected stroll.

"Before we depart for the island, I wish to give you all some last words," he said, his face grave upon reaching the front of the assembly.

All the fighters nodded. After all, something like this was to be expected.

"As you all know," Raiden opened, "the Worlds Combat Tournament is one of the greatest battles of honour you will ever have the chance to fight in. However, it is also the most dangerous and deadly. Our opponents shall be strong warriors who may go to unlimited ends in order to achieve victory in the end. Though I wish with all my heart that it were not so, not all of you shall live to see the end of the Tournament…"

The lesser-kami paused, his eyes roaming the hall. On all the warriors' faces was a look of serious determination. Taking a slow breath, he continued.

"You are the only hope for those of the Earth World. Keep in mind what you fight for, and what is at stake. Some of you have lost family and friends to the Side of Evil and this tournament, so let their sacrifices and suffering not be in vain. Allow nothing to distract you from your task. The time for Training is past, and now is the moment to show the calibur of the warriors of the Side of Good. Number is insignificant. Be, in all forms, the true expression of your Spirit and do not let anyone, whether they are opponent, friend, Otherworld demon, or the Kami themselves diffuse the inner flame of spirit. Let it guide you, for only through your spirit can you battle as true warriors!"

Then, there was a brief flash of blue-white light, and Raiden was gone.

In the slightly uncomfortable and solemn silence that permeated the hall in the next few moments, Xiu stepped forward. There was no need for him to try and get everyone's attention, because no one's focus had shifted to anyplace other than the front of the room.

"As a surviving warrior of the last Worlds Combat Tournament," he began, his voice strangely calm and even, "I will now tell you to enjoy the company of your friends for as long as possible. Do not allow the upcoming battles to shadow your mind. You shape your own destiny, and this should be a happy memory for all of us!"

Talk finally resumed within the hall. The tense atmosphere which had previously been most predominant eased, and the fighters seemed to relax, laughing and joking between themselves as they headed out to finish their last-minute preparations. Xiu smiled sadly. This was what it should be like. As Ryushi had mentioned, the events schedule was the same as it had been ten years ago, but something was different, and he preferred it that way. Maybe the outcome would be different as well…

********

"Hoshikyu!"

Ryushi's face split into a wide smile as he ran forward excitedly. In reply to his call, an enormous, wedge-shaped head with sky-blue coloured scales lifted up from the ground and turned in the direction of the sound. The warrior approached the dragon easily, reaching a hand up to scratch the forehead gently. In reply, Hoshikyu's eyes half-closed in appreciation.

"Awwww, she's so pretty!"

Sakura made her way slowly towards the large, yet gentle-looking creature. "Can I pet her too?"

"Hehe, I dono," replied Ryushi with a grin, "Ask her! …But you should probably let her smell you first, cause she's not the most trusting dragon in the world. You might want to pet Darún. He's Húmi's. She's raised him to be the best behaved dragon up here, possibly in the Seven Worlds."

At this, Hoshikyu snorted at her rider with what Sakura imagined to be a slightly hurt expression. The blonde fighter merely laughed and proceeded to pet her. "You're the best girl there is…" he cooed, "…aw…come on! Don't look like that..."

Sakura shook her head slightly, walking away from the two and heading towards the orange-red shapes ahead. Húmi was already dressed in her flying gear and armor, her helmet gripped under her arm. Darún was standing complacently by as the dragonrider proceeded to buckle the flying straps onto his body. Though not as blatant about the bond they shared as Ryushi and Hoshikyu, the Japanese girl could still see their mutual affection towards each other by the caring way that Húmi checked the tightness so that the leather wouldn't rub uncomfortably against his brilliant fiery skin, or get caught underneath the edges of his scales. Not only could this be extremely painful for the dragon if the straps were to shift, but dangerous too. The scale could be ripped off, causing pain for the dragon and almost certain death for the rider. Suffering dragons were known to lose the conscious part of the mind and revert to mere instinct, which first of all was to remove the thing clinging to their back…

Darún nudged Húmi lightly with his head, stretching his enormous wings in an almost lazy gesture. When she looked at him questioningly, he jerked his head in Sakura's direction.

"Ahh, Sakura-chan!"

Húmi extracted one of her hands from the black leather in order to wave Sakura closer. "Are you riding with me?" she asked, smiling.

Sakura blinked, slightly confused. "Uhh, I guess so…" she said slowly, a tiny frown on her face.

"Sugoi! This is Darún!" the dragonrider said excitedly, waving her hand at the fiery red creature, "He's my baby!"

"Right…" the younger Japanese fighter sweatdropped as she watched Húmi croon gently, stroked Darún's head in a tender loving manner.

'Maybe all people with dragons are this…er…enthusiastic…' Sakura thought to herself. Húmi and Ryushi acted nothing like their usual selves around the great-winged creatures…well, maybe Húmi…

"We are THE CHAMPIONS! Yeah! We ROCK! Whoohoo!"

All three warriors looked up as a huge gust of wind hit them full force. High above them, riding the breeze like a surging wave, a dragon soared with almost unbelievable speed. Flying with movements as smooth as water, it passed in a swooping rush that was impossible to follow with the eyes. Another gust almost pushed Sakura off her feet as it came to land beside Darún and Hoshikyu, flapping its great wings in order to stop itself from crashing into the rocky ground.

"Konnyanyaichiwa! We…have…ARRIVED!"

Húmi groaned. "I should have known…yep, it's Yakusho alright…"

Gazing at the new dragon more closely, the young Japanese girl could finally see their colours and distinguishing features. He was a handsome bronze shade which glinted more towards copper in the odd light from the three suns of the Lookout. Large, almost as big as Darún, with long, muscular limbs and a strong spiked tail, he was truly a sight to be seen. Seated upon the back of the magnificent creature, however, were two, very familiar figures.

"Hey all! WAZZUP?????"

Kensu jumped down the fair distance from the dragon's back to the ground as if it were no more than three feet. Strolling leisurely towards the three grounded warriors with a twisted grin, the green-haired special projects team member gave them all a quirky salute.

"Awaiting further orders, oh fearless leaders! We are yours to command!" he said, bowing extravagantly.

Putting on a long-suffering face, the dragonraiser sighed tiredly. "I thought you two were helping Asina, Jade, and Yin pack all the equipment and bring it down for the transport," she said flatly, "What are you doing here? And what in the name of the seven hells is 'Wazzup?'"

Kensu waved a hand carelessly, his grin unaffected in the least by the tone used by the Kyoto native. "We were sent to prepare dragons, seeing as both you and Ryushi have your own to attend to. Also, you would agree to just about anything if you saw the size of the pile those two had waiting for us…" he gave an involuntary shudder, "As to 'Wazzup', I invented it! It's now my officially coined phrase! Kakkoi, ne?"

Sakura and Húmi sweatdropped simultaneously.

"Don't you mean "three"?" asked the younger girl curiously, "Asina, Jade, and Yin?"

Kensu gave her an odd look. "Uhhh…nope, gomen ne, only Asina and Jade were there, and THANK THE GREATER KAMI! I don't think the dragons would be able to carry any more than what they packed…" he trailed off, seemingly in deep thought before turning his head back towards Yakusho and his rider to call back.

"Yo, Shikoku! Yin wasn't with Asina and Jade, was she?"

The other figure seated atop the great bronze dragon leaped down to join the group. Now that he was close up, Sakura could easily tell Shikoku's sapphire eyes gleaming within the helmet, a rusty bronze colour to match his dragon. Giving Yakusho an affectionate pat, he strode quickly towards the others with a worried look.

"Iie. Was she supposed to be?" he asked seriously, his gaze searching.

Ryushi also joined the group, leading Hoshikyu the short distance between their previous location and where the warriors stood. "Nan desu ka?" he asked them, noting the expressions they wore.

"Yin…do you know where she is?" Húmi put in before any of the others could answer.

The Okinawan warrior smiled. "Hai, the duties were shifted. Yin was switched to last sweep instead of equipment check."

All of them breathed a sigh of relief, though for different reasons. The others were merely worried that Yin was lost, while Sakura couldn't help remembering what had happened at dawn…

'Maybe it's something completely harmless,' she said to herself, 'I'm…I'm worrying over nothing. After all, someone could have said the same thing if they saw my bed empty, and I just couldn't sleep. I've got to stop thinking everything to death.'

But she just couldn't help it. Something was bothering her, and she just couldn't put her finger on what it was.

There was a sudden sound of other voices and footsteps, and the five looked towards the darkened rock steps. Making their way down the stone passage were most of the other recruits and fighters.

"Oh, kuso!" Húmi swore softly, "I still have to get the other dragons!"

Rushing off, the Japanese dragonrider was gone moments before the group reached the small gathering in front of the Dragonholds. Sakura noted, much to her relief, that Yin was among the number of warriors, along with Jun Fan, Syaoran, Asina, Atami, and Jade. It appeared that she was helping the two in charge of the equipment checks to carry all the luggage, something which seemed to make Kensu and Shikoku look rather uncomfortable.

"Oi, minna! Ogenki?" Jun Fan waved cheerfully to them as they approached, "Everything going okay?"

"Hai!" Sakura replied, smiling in return at the black-haired youth with the customary tinge of pink on her cheeks, "Húmi just went to get the other dragons. She'll be back in a minute!"

Jade and Asina gave each other a knowing look when they saw Syaoran's reaction. The Hong Kong youth's face was contorted in the most fearsome scowl either had ever seen, and his intense amber eyes were fixed on Sakura and Jun Fan with such determination that you probably couldn't have moved it with a crowbar. Asina mouthed "jealousy" to the other, who nodded in agreement.

Unaware of Syaoran's deathglare, the cheerful young man wiped his brow with the back of his crimson fighting-gloved hand. "I hope she's going to bring quite a few," he said, "After how much Asina and Jade packed…Ow!"

Sakura giggled as the Chinese youth sat on the ground, rubbing his head as Asina put away her bo in its carrying straps. Syaoran couldn't help but smirk in a self-satisfied way.

Kensu shook his head with a frown. "Asina…you know you'll never get a boyfriend if you beat every guy that approaches you over the head with a stick…" he said, crossing his arms over his chest in a very good imitation of seriousness.

Moments later,  the green-haired youth found himself on the ground next to Jun Fan.

********

Todonotsumari Island. The location of the Worlds Combat Tournament.

Even now, ten years later, Xiu could still feel the same emotions as he had his first time flying to the mysterious island.

Apprehension, foreboding, and even…

Fear.

As much as he hated to admit it, even now he could feel the tight knots of anxiety gripping in his stomach. The same as the last time, exactly the same…

'But things will be different this time,' he told himself firmly, 'I'll make sure of that.'

The dragons slowed, hovering in the air as the recruits took a final look down upon what had been their home for the last two months. Down below, the Lookout seemed small and barren, its brown rock tinted a deeper ochre from the light of the three suns; Solaris, Armine, and Delphus.

Sakura sighed, her gaze turning sad. Though it had only been two months, she felt almost as if she had lived at the Lookout all her life. It seemed so much like home now…

Home. That word alone brought back memories that had been pushed aside by training and more dominant thoughts. Suddenly, the young warrior found herself missing Shotokan village with an intensity that caused her to gasp sharply. The small houses, the quiet mountains with their pinebrush scent drifting on the breeze, her solid duty as protector of the women and their peaceful life that had been almost all she had known for the previous sixteen years of her life. She took a breath that quivered slightly in her lungs. Would she ever be able to go back to her life?

Tomoyo…her father…suddenly, Sakura found her chest constricted in panic. 'I'm not supposed to be here! This was all wrong!' she thought in alarm, 'I don't belong in this group of fighters battling for the fate of the Earth World! I'm not meant to be here…I'm meant to be back in my village! Back in Shotokan! Back home…'

Her head dropped into her chest and she found herself crying silently. This was wrong…the darkness spiraled around her until she was all alone.

This was wrong…

She shook her head slowly. A mistake. Everything was a mistake.

The blackness became deeper, wrapping around her more tightly like the coils of some gigantic, horrible serpent. It seemed that the world was closing in, the darkness cloaking her until she felt completely lost. Lost and so alone…

"I'm not meant to do this…" she whispered quietly, "…I'm not…"

"You're wrong."

A strong wave of bright golden energy suddenly surged through Sakura, replacing the darkness with a rapidity that almost left her short of breath. Swirling around her comfortingly, it seemed to chase the black wave away as easily as  water washing away sand, leaving her person feeling calm, collected, and almost…cleansed in some way which she could not explain even to herself.

Finally, the flow subsided, the warmth ebbing away until it had faded entirely, except for her shoulder. There, she could still feel it, as well as a strange weight that definitely hadn't been there before. Pausing for a moment, she waited for the warmth to disappear from there too, but it did not. Instead, it remained until curiosity overcame the young Japanese warrior, causing her to turn her head slowly and look at the area. Her emerald-green eyes encountered something quite unexpected; a hand clad in green warrior's gloves, which led to a forest green-clothed arm…finally meeting a fiery amber gaze that regarded her with a strange burning intensity. The young Japanese girl found herself unable to move, the trance-like depths drawing her closer like a moth to a candle flame.

"You're wrong," Syaoran repeated again, his voice a husky low tone while his eyes bore deeper into the green pools opposite, "This is what you were meant do. This is your destiny…"

The Card Mistress found her breath begin to quicken as the young Chinese warrior leaned closer, unable to move. Odder still was the feeling that she didn't really wish to move away, awaiting with strange anticipation what she felt would happen next…

Then the spell was broken. The green-clad fighter woke from his trance with an audible jerk, blinking with slight confusion and mounting discomfort when he noticed what he was doing and how close he was…

Sakura quickly looked away and blushed lightly, while Syaoran removed his hand as if it had been burned. He flushed deep crimson, looking down shyly at his hands as they lay on the smooth black leather of the riding straps. It wasn't something he meant to do, he had just heard Sakura's dark comments. Once again, it was as if something had been controlling him, telling him to give her the energy flood, urging. Something that couldn't be ignored…he had experienced it before.

'Masaka…is it possible for the Kamehame no Kiai have a life of its own?' he wondered, 'Is that what I've felt all these times?'

Sakura gave the Chinese youth a sidelong glance, and noted at once the brooding frown on his features. Her own brow creased slightly; something had to be wrong. It wasn't likely that Syaoran would let something like the energy flood bother him that much…or was it?

"Uhh, Syaoran-" she began, but he spoke before she could finish.

"I'm sorry."

This took her by surprise. Turning, she looked at Syaoran squarely, but he wouldn't meet her gaze.

"Na…ni?"

"Gomen ne. I didn't mean to offend you or anything…I just heard what you said-"

"Daijobu," it was not Sakura's turn to cut him off, "I know. And arigato for pulling me out, it's just…"

Syaoran looked up, giving her an understanding and gentle smile. "You miss your family, your home," he guessed.

Sakura nodded, breaking eye contact and glancing at the ground far below. The Chinese warrior's expression softened as he continued.

"You miss the way things were, too. But keep in mind Sakura that you're fighting for your old life and everything that might be. You want them to have a future, ne? You give them hope…"

She nodded, her actions conveying a new conviction. "Wakari-masu," she stated firmly, bringing her determined gaze back to meet his "I can't let them all down, not when I've come so far. I also have reasons that need attending to."

To her flooded the memory of the vengeance she needed to enact on her mother's part. Suddenly, the rage against Scorpion and those who had killed her sprang back more fiercely than ever. Thinking back on her home, she had realized what a wonderful life she had had, one which her mother had been deprived of. Hatred coursed through her, and her hands tightened into fists. Her father, alone while she fought, and Touya kidnapped by the Side of Evil…all this was their fault, and she'd make them pay, starting with that Otherworld demon…

"I'd forgotten…" she whispered half to herself, half to Syaoran.

Back in her gaze was the burning fire that the Chinese youth remembered seeing when they had first met. This time, however, he saw something else with the intense flame, something he was sure hadn't been there before and which almost caused him to cry out in surprise.

Darkness and a seething hate...

Though she had shown such animosity before, he had never seen the burning hatred he saw now, the desire for revenge so strong. His heart ached within his chest for the cherry blossom. With such darkness driving her motives, he realized in silent desperation that she would do anything it took to fulfill her promise, even…

'Mortal men and women defending your own world? Hmm…it doesn't seem as if this Tournament what you think it to be…not about death, but life…'

The Shadow Kami's words suddenly came back to him, echoing through his mind with an eerie clarity, and he suddenly began to understand. A revelation began to take shape in his mind, though he still did not completely see what yet…

The Chinese youth sighed dispiritedly. She had something wrong, though he still couldn't see what it was…he remained silent, however, not speaking of it. To mention anything before he could breach any rational idea would have been foolish and maybe even cause the small distance between them to widen, yet he couldn't deny the sadness he felt, and the empty ache he felt from such helplessness.

"Don't worry, mother…" Sakura said quietly, more to herself than to anyone else, "I will avenge your death and free Touya even if I die trying…"

Syaoran was so preoccupied brooding over what he had seen that he almost missed her words entirely as they were whipped away by the wind. The dragons began their flight once again towards Todonotsumari island; the Tournament, the end, the final outcome.

Revenge…hate…death…the Chinese warrior stared off sadly, barely seeing the wide expanse of sky around them.

"Save your brother," he said to himself quietly, almost as if speaking to the Japanese girl whose back was now turned to him once again, "but when the time comes, will you be able to save yourself from the darkness within…from yourself?"

********

Húmi's eyes narrowed as Darún went into a controlled turn, tilting on a diagonal and his wingtip rimming the same spot as he changed direction flawlessly in mid air. Around her the other dragons moved simultaneously with her fiery red mount. The dragonraiser raised her head slightly, the tinted black visor taking in the sight of Raiden and his magnificent Ancient ahead, leading the formation. The white and ice blue robes billowed about him as the wind caused by his speed whipped at his form, yet the lesser god stood completely still with his arms crossed easily across his chest, his gaze focused ahead.

It was the first time that the Kyoto girl had ever seen an Ancient. The Lookout Holds held no such creature; it was incredibly long, the shining white body coiling and uncoiling as it moved through the sky, yet the portion upon which the Immortal stood seemed to remain absolutely immobile. Ancients were rumoured to have been the first creatures created by the greater gods, and as such were known to have great wisdom and incredibly power. They only lived in the realms Beyond, rarely ever entering the Worlds.

'Odd,' she thought, her experienced eyes roaming the scaled form, 'Raiden-sama looks like he's ridden one his entire life…'

She then shrugged, bringing her attention back to her own mount. Raiden was also a mystery. As to him riding an Ancient all his life…he probably had.

The light of the three suns spilled over the scene of the squadron as it flew higher into the swirling cloud and away from the brown rock of the Lookout, the golden-orange light causing it to turn the colour of copper as the mounted warriors looked back on the place which had been their home and issued a silent goodbye.

********

"Hold on."

Sakura and Syaoran were brought back from their deep thoughts as the armoured warrior turned back to them, speaking in a surprisingly clear voice for the speed at which they were traveling. Both of them looked at her oddly for a moment before hurrying to comply to her suggestion. It took the Chinese warrior slightly less time to obey; he had already flown with Húmi once, and the memory was enough to jolt him into action. His hands quickly found their way to the black leather straps in front of him, gripping them tightly as he half-consciously closed his eyes. Sakura swiftly followed his example.

"Here we go!" Húmi cried excitedly, gripping her oak staff tightly as she gave Darún the command through thought. All around, the others did the same.

Sakura blinked in confusion as nothing out of the ordinary happened. "Why-"

Her words were cut off as suddenly, Darún burst forward. His wings beat strongly, propelling through the air almost as if he were swimming through the sky. Instead of beating up and down, the wide limbs turned to a vertical angle, beginning to beat horizontally. Through her tightly squinted eyes, the young Japanese Amazon saw that the other dragons in the squadron hadn't fallen behind in the least, but were all flying in the exact positions they had occupied before.

'I wonder why we suddenly switched?'

The answer came faster than she would ever have thought possible. Where there had been light and open sky around them, it was suddenly inky black. The wind of their speed, however, remained, though the dragons were no longer flapping their wings, but seemed to be soaring. Through the blackness, colours branched and wove themselves into a tunnel which she recognized immediately; a portal.

"You both ok?"

Húmi's head turned towards the two, the black visor glancing them over in an almost casual way. Sakura and Syaoran nodded wordlessly.

"Good."

A few moments of silence followed in which the recruits looked around, watching the colours in the portal walls speed by. Then Syaoran broke the silence.

"So…what exactly is this?" he asked curiously, looking at the rest of the fleet around them and noting how closely all of them were flying to each other.

"This is the Fukuroami," she answered him directly and without major interest, "a net of tunnels in the area between two places, kinda like a portal, I guess. Only way to get to the island. Lot shorter, too. They can take you almost anywhere in a fraction of the time. Have to be traveling at a certain speed to enter them too, so you can only use them on dragonback."

Syaoran nodded in understanding, his eyes coming to rest on the impressive figure of Raiden up ahead. Sakura looked at Húmi, who had gone back to controlling Darún, studying the fiery red armour. In all truth, Húmi seemed like a completely different person when in her armour and flying atop Darún's back. It was hard to believe that the friendly and good humored girl with chin-length black hair was the same person as this efficient dragonrider she saw before her.

"We're through."

This was all the warning that the two passengers received before they found themselves almost blinded by the sudden abundance of light. Blinking furiously, Syaoran attempted to adjust his vision as quickly as possible. When the spots finally stopped dancing in front of his vision, he resigned himself to look on Todonotsumari Island in depth.

And what a view.

Far below them, he could see what must have been sparkling blue ocean, but his attention wasn't focused on the shimmering turquoise; before them was a far more dazzling sight.

An amazing mass of the most complicated machine he had ever seen in his life floated, unsuspended by land on any side. It merely hovered in empty space, holding up an incredible spread of a wide stretch of sandy beach surrounding an interior of dense foliage. At the very centre of the island, the green canopy abated, giving way to more severe land forms, finally coming to three rocky peaks of tanned, sandy-coloured stone.

"Whoa…"

The youth half turned in his seat, looking away from the sight of the island. Sakura had an awe-struck expression on her face, clearly amazed with what she saw. He smiled. For now, what he had seen earlier in her eyes was gone, and he couldn't help feeling relieved. He continued to watch her a little longer, enjoying the way the sunlight shone gently on her honey-auburn hair, and how her emerald green eyes lit up when she smiled, even in the slightest…

…musings which abruptly came to an end when she looked at him directly, catching him completely off-guard.

"Uhh…Syaoran-kun? Daijobu?"

'People sure seem to ask that a lot…' he thought to himself dazedly as he shifted his gaze back to the island, answering her a slightly distracted "Hai, daijobu," in reply, "It's just-"

However, Sakura never got to find out what he was going to say because right at that moment, Húmi chose to cut it.

"And there's the Side of Evil. Figures they'd get here first."

Both the younger warriors turned their attention in the direction indicated by the dragonrider. Also flying above the island was a squadron larger than their own, all riding black dragons. Except for a select thirteen dragons in the centre of the formation, all the riders were dressed in identical black armour. Syaoran shivered. It reminded him all too clearly of his first flight on dragonback.

"How come they didn't land yet?" Sakura asked curiously.

"Etiquette. A tradition that both sides reach the Island itself at the same time…and there's the signal."

Raiden had removed one of his arms from their position across his chest and raised it in the air. At the exact moment when this was happening, a tall, black robed and cowled figure performed the same action in the ranks of the Side of Evil. He too, was riding an Ancient, its scales the colour of blood. As with Raiden's mount, it was the most distinguishable creature of the overall number in which it flew.

"Yao'Xi'Liu," Húmi stated, her eyes narrowing behind her visor.

On both sides the dragons began to descend, carrying the fighters mounted upon their backs closer to the destination for which they had trained and waited…Todonotsumari Island…and the Worlds Combat Tournament.

********

Sakura straightened from her previous position, standing back and admiring her handiwork. Though not the most luxurious sleeping area, she was satisfied. After all, the Worlds Combat Tournament wasn't exactly a vacation.

"It'll do."

Glancing out the window, she allowed her gaze to drift across the picturesque scenery below. From her position, she could see the forest sweep away from the base of the rocky landscape away to the edge of the Island. She sighed. At least the view was nice…

Stepping out of the room, she began to make her way towards the central hall to see if any last instructions would be given. In something as dangerous as this, the idea of being at some kind of disadvantage wasn't very comforting. Her hands flexed slightly in her leather fighter's gloves, adjusting to the unusual feeling. She was wearing Tomoyo's fighter's uniform, complete with the soft leather boots. Once wearing it, she had found that her friend had even created a hidden case sewed into the costume for her fans; now she could draw them at a moment's notice. She grinned. The irony was not wasted on her that she would fight the side of Evil and rescue her brother in the costume designed for her by someone she cared about…almost as if Tomoyo was right here beside her. None of her opponents would have such strengths with them…Strange though that she hadn't encountered a single other fighter, considering the numbers that the Side of Evil had appeared in.

Suddenly, the female fighter stiffened as the sound of footsteps became audible in the surrounding stillness. She listened attentively as they slowed, becoming cautious and almost completely disappearing altogether. Whoever it was hadn't left however, she could feel the presence at the edge of her mind.

'Could they…has this thing already started!?' she asked herself, the possibility shaking her more than she cared to admit.

Now the presence was more distinct, though whoever it was wasn't making any noise whatsoever…

Her fist clenched as her resolve hardened. No one would have the privilege of killing her until she had killed Scorpion. Whoever it was, they were out of luck. They weren't going to get off easy, either.

The iron fans made the least audible of noises as she drew them out, and a slightly comforting metallic scraping sound as they slipped open. She hadn't noticed just how long it had been since she had used her weapon of choice, and the familiar weight in her hands caused a strange calm to spread through her. This wasn't going to be so hard…

Oddly, the unidentified fighter seemed to sense her movement, because they stopped, coming no closer. The Japanese girl's green eyes narrowed as the grip on her weapon tightened. Now what?

The last thing she was prepared for, however, occurred at that very moment as all trace of the strange presence disappeared.

Sakura's body tensed as her eyes widened in surprise. It was like the fighter had simply ceased to exist. Suspiciously, she scanned the surrounding area for any indication of life, a pulse of magic, aura, anything that could tell her what had happened, finding absolutely nothing. The fans lowered, her form relaxing slightly as a small breath of relief escaped her throat. Raiden was the only one she had ever known to be able to remove himself from an area like that. All was well.

Her footsteps sounded quietly throughout the empty passage, giving the impression of emptiness. Almost as if she were the only one to ever pass through, the only living person to walk their stone floors, alone in this ancient place.

Alone.

She shook off the unpleasant feeling immediately. There was no way she would allow herself to give in to a weakening thought such as that. She was with all the others from the Lookout. Not the only one against such a great opponent. Not alone.

And how right she was; a fact she became aware of only as she felt the cold metal of the sword press against the back of her neck uncomfortably. She tensed in both surprise and anger at herself. How…? Who had such an ability…they had certainly used it well to gain an advantage, and now she was helpless to defend herself…or was she? The Japanese girl's lips curved in a slight grin.

The Sakura Cards…and whoever held the sword to her back most probably didn't expect any kind of attack or retaliation from her…The smile turned into a small grin before her lips began to move. Which card to choose…something strong, an attack card, something aggressive…something to give whoever hoped to surprise her a challenge. The words came, so quiet that they were lost in the corridor as mere whispers of wind.

"Fiery…I, your mistress, command you. Come to my aid…form-"

"Sakura?"

The sword dropped from the steady grip which had held it to her exposed neck as her gaze widened in surprise. How? Could it really be…?

"Syaoran?"

She turned, body facing the young warrior with disbelief. Not that she wasn't happy that it was him, but how had he…she should have been able to sense his presence…

"Don't DO that to me!!!" he cried, his eyes blazing both anger and relief, "I was ready to do something drastic!"

Sakura's face finally broke into a grin. "As if you should talk! I was about to sick the Fiery Card on you! Jeez, how did you make your aura disappear?" she spoke quickly, tone both happy, pouty, and reprieved at each comment.

The fiery amber mirrored her expression, even if the lips only curved slightly. "I'm glad to see it worked. Just something I mastered last night. After Xiu yelled at me, I thought I might as well have something new to use…it's no Kamehame no Kiai, but…well, I basically draw my aura into my body and put a neutral energy shield…can't use it in battle, cause it won't protect you, but it shields you from detection."

"Wow! Never thought of anything like that…" the Japanese warrior acknowledged with an incline of her head, "you should tell Shikoku! He could definitely put it to use!" 'Finding out where the people they kidnapped are…'

Syaoran looked at her critically. 'There's something else there…' "Yeah, I guess I will. You know…this Tournament has me completely paranoid. I feel like I have to be on my guard ever moment, sleep with one eye open…that kind of thing. That's why I attacked you…"

"Same here. I was scared that the thing had already started or something…"

The Chinese youth suddenly snapped his fingers. "Speaking of, we should get going down to the main hall. Don't want to miss anything of help, do we?"

Sakura nodded, turning back in the direction she had intended to go. "Hope we don't get lost…this place reminds me of a rabbit warren!" she stated, grabbing Syaoran's hand tightly in her own, "Let's go!"

Even though only their fingers touched due to their gloves, a blush still tinge Syaoran's cheeks. 'If this weren't so serious...' he thought slightly dreamily to himself, '…I don't think getting lost would be such a bad thing…stop that. I need to concentrate on the Tournament and mastering the Kamehame no Kiai…'

But try as he might, the thoughts wouldn't go away. Her gentle scent lingered in the air around them, teasing his senses while the softness of her fingers entwined in his own turned the light flush to a deep crimson hue. Subconsciously, he found his hand tightening its grip, almost as if afraid to discover that this was all some twisted joke his mind was playing on him. 'Sakura…'

That's when it hit him, almost causing him to stop in his tracks and gasp for the air that suddenly seemed to have become of such shortage to his system. It was almost like being hit full in the stomach with the strongest Ushiro-geri Ryushi had ever sent at him. Why he was so worried…the way she affected him…how jealous (yes, he was finally admitting it to himself, if not anyone else) he got whenever she showed some kind of interest in Jun Fan…it was the only possible explanation.

He cared for her.

He, Li Xiao Lang, song of Kwaihu, had allowed this Japanese girl to become something important to him. Not that he had ever really had a chance…

His fiery amber eyes widened in both recognition and horror. This was terrible! Here they were, in the most dangerous Tournament the worlds had ever known, and all he could think about was somehow keeping Sakura from getting hurt…if anyone were to discover his feelings for her, they could use her to get to him. The worst weakness possible…not to mention she would most definitely be harmed…his stomach tightened uncomfortably at the thought. Sakura was in danger now because of him.

They had now almost reached the central corridor that connected to the main hall. The young warrior felt his pace begin to slow, his mind in a twisted jumble of confusion and despair. There had to be a way of dealing with this…the last thing he wanted was to have Sakura's death on his hands, thus his nightmares the nights previous. One false step…

He stopped completely, a faraway gaze in his eyes as the horrible images sprang unbidden to his mind. The Chinese youth found himself sinking into a deep despair unlike any he had known before. What would he do? What could he do? They were in this together, and the possibilities of failure were overwhelming. If Sakura were to die, if not at the hands of another warrior, then at his own…what would become of him then?

'I…I don't think I'd ever be able to forgive myself,' he thought dazedly to himself, 'I…I would rather die…'

And then, when the twisted beast of darkness he had seen so many times before seemed to be at its most monstrous, the golden strength and energy came flooding through him once again. The amber eyes which before had been despaired and haunted flared to life once more, their fiery depths illuminating the truth. His expression became one of determination and power as he had felt only three times previous, the golden glow surrounding his mind striking at the beast with fresh intensity. It shied back from the light, shrinking in size as its jaws let out tortured screams of agony. Syaoran's green-gloved fist tightened as he faced the newly revealed reality with fearless conviction, his back turned to the fading shadow of fear which thrashed one final time before disappearing completely.

His feelings…they went deeper than just mutual caring, as he had believed. He saw himself, reflected in the mirror of his emotion and nodded once in acknowledgement, accepting the facts he knew to be true but had sought to hide from himself for all this time.

For that was the truth, stripped of all barriers, veils, and lies and laid bare for his stubborn feet to see. He loved her.

And Kami above be damned if Xiao Lang Li would allow anything he loved to be broken.

His features relaxed, his mouth even twitching up slightly into what could almost have been a comfortable grin. His question had been answered. Whether Sakura knew it or not, she would not be alone.

"Syaoran-kun!" the sweet voice faded into his thoughts, finally spurring his body back into motion.

Looking down, he saw Sakura's worried green eyes gazing up at him, her hand on his cheek. "Syaoran-kun…" she repeated, brushing her fingers to his forehead in concern, "Daijobu? You've been like this all day…I'm getting worried about you."

Instead of his usual reaction, however, Syaoran lifted his own hand, taking hers down with a calm half-smile. "I'm fine," he answered, "just something on my mind, but I finally figured it out."

Surprisingly, Sakura flushed a light pink as she averted her gaze from his own with great difficulty. His expression…she mentally shook her head, wondering what was wrong with her. "Yokatta," she replied, smiling softly.

The Chinese warrior gripped her hand tightly once more, turning back in the direction of the Great Hall. "We'd better get going," he said evenly, despite the slight increase of his heart rate from her smile, "I think I hear talking. We might be late…"

The two set off once again, finally reaching the doors and slipping into the cavernous room. They had been right; it was crammed with fighters, most of them from the Side of Evil, though Sakura could see Ryushi's blonde quills, amongst other heads belonging to members of the Side of Good through the crowd. She cursed softly to herself as she heard the unnerving voice coming from the top of the stone stairs at the front of the room, magnified so that the words were clear even in the large crowd and echoing space. Standing atop the impressive flight was the black-robed figure they had seen before, its cowl still drawn over its head so not even the face was visible. Yao'Xi'Liu, without a doubt.

"-opponent. All breaking of these rules is punishable by death."

Syaoran frowned, his eyes narrowing as he tried to get a better look at the leader for the Side of Evil. His figure was easily near seven feet in height, cloaked from head to foot in long, black, sweeping robes of black so dark it made the night sky look like midday, and his face covered in the cowl from within which nothing could be seen, he cut a very foreboding and intimidating figure.

Then the cowl turned in his direction, its cavernous darkness facing directly at him as if Yao'Xi'Liu were studying him specifically. The unnerved young fighter heard nothing of the little that was said, the hairs on the back of his neck rising as he barely managed to suppress a shudder. Then the cowl turned away, facing the main gathering once again, but not before Syaoran saw the flash of glowing amber eyes and felt the brief, yet searing pain flash across his mind.

"Blood as death, power, strength, and conquest the claims of greatness in accordance with the sacred Martial Laws. Yao'Xi'Liu, second son of the great Emperor Kwailwong pledges the spirit of Darkness held by the Side of Evil to the conflict of this Final Tournament. All bounds are accepted, for the laws set on the First Tournament by the greater Kami shall hold to his side!"

The gaze held by the Chinese and Japanese warriors shifted, along with all of the others in the hall, to Raiden as he stepped forward in his usual solemn, graceful stride. "Blood as spirit, courage, sincerity, and victory the claims of greatness in accordance with the Sacred Martial Laws. Raiden, first son of the great Emperor Kwailwong pledges the spirit of Light held by the Side of Good to the conflict of this Final Tournament. All bounds are accepted. For the laws set on the First Tournament by the Greater Kami shall hold to his side!"

If he had been able to see the face within the hood, Xiao Lang Li could have sworn it was smiling.

"The conflict has been sealed. The spirits of Darkness and Light held to combat until one side emerges victorious. None shall leave this place except in final victory, or death. On the proclamation of both sides of the battle…"

The robed sleeves then rose, as the voice boomed out over all those within the hall, lifting with it the feelings within all, whether of anticipation or of unease, mixed with the tension and adrenaline rushing through their veins.

"LET THE SHAOLIN WORLDS COMBAT TOURNAMENT BEGIN!!!"

********

^^Hehe, well, that's it for chapter fifteen! Uhh…well, you guys can't yell at me, cause it took me long enough as it was to type this thing out. Honestly, I couldn't leave it anywhere else you know! It wouldn't be EVIL! Hehehehe, well, I hope you all enjoyed it, even though there weren't any fights. Those are all going to come in the rest of the remaining chapters, cause that's what the Tournament's about, ne? (Allie-chan, I know you're going to hate me for it…^^;;;) Well, that's all I need to say to you, so go ahead and read the sections below and ONEGAI, REVIEW! It's what has kept me going through all my bad timing, circumstance, and injuries! ^^ Wai! Ja matta till the next chapter! ~Jurei-chan

ULT

Kensu's Corner (Jokes/Funny stuff of the chapter)

Well, once again, minna, no-one's really sent me much to post so there isn't going to be a ton. I hope you enjoy it!

Once again, standard disclaimers apply. I'm not racist, or anything else. The Molson Canadian rant doesn't belong to me, that's why it isn't called the Jurei-chan's I Am Canadian rant. I just find it entertaining. It's actually better to see the video, cause the written version isn't really as funny.

Go here to see the video, though you need QuickTime. If not, they also have the MP3

Joe Canadian Rant

Hey, I'm not a lumberjack, or a fur trader…

I don't live in an igloo, or eat blubber, or own a dogsled…

And I don't know Jimmy, Sally, or Suzy from Canada, though

I'm certain they're really really nice.

I have a Prime Minister, not a President.

I speak English and French, not American.

And I pronounce it 'About', not 'Aboot'.

I can proudly sew my country's flag on my backpack.

I believe in peacekeeping, not policing,

diversity, not assimilation,

and that the beaver is a truly proud and noble animal.

A toque is a hat, a chesterfield is a couch,

And it's pronounced 'Zed', not 'Zee', 'Zed'!!!

Canada is the second largest landmass!

The first Nation of hockey!

And the best part of North America!

My name is Joe!!

And I AM CANADIAN!!!

Well, onto the actual jokes, then!

Corporation, anyone?

This is how – in cowardly terms – corporations work.

An American Corporation:

You have two cows.

You sell one, then force the other to produce the milk of four cows.

You are surprised when the cow drops dead.

A South African Corporation:

You have two cows. You go on strike because you want three cows.

A Zimbabwean Corporation:

A farmer has two cows.

You take over his farm, eat both cows, and wait for the International Community to supply more.

A Japanese Corporation:

You have two cows.

You re-design them so they are one-tenth the size of an ordinary cow and produce twenty times the milk.

You then create clever cow cartoon images called Cowkimon and market them World-wide.

A German Corporation:

You have two cows.

You re-engineer them so they live for 100 years, eat once a month, and milk themselves.

A British Corporation:

You have two cows.

Both are mad.

Q: What's the difference between a lawyer and an onion?

A: You cry when you cut the onion

Q: What do you get when you cross a snake and a lawyer?

A: Incest

Sorry, Buddy…

A man died and went to heaven, whereupon he was greeted by God.

"My son, " the Lord said to him, "because you have led a reasonably good life, you get to decide where it is you wish to spend your afterlife."

The man agreed, so he and God went off to a room with a huge screen inside. God waved a hand, and the screen suddenly lit up with images.

"This is Heaven," said God.

It was just what he had imagined it to be; angels with harps, clouds, etc. Nice and peaceful, he supposed.

Then God waved his hand again, and the screen flicked to a scene of a beach with sparkling turquoise waters, white sand, and beautiful girls running around having the time of their lives.

"…And this is hell," he said, his gaze intent on the man, "Which do you choose?"

It took the man about two seconds to answer. "I think I want to go to hell."

God looked at him questioningly. "Are you sure?" he asked.

"Yes," the man answered.

"Very well, then…" God said, waving a hand.

An elevator popped out of the floor, the doors opened, and the man stepped inside. He was then taken on a swift ride down until the doors opened once again.

Upon stepping out, however, the man realized that this wasn't what he'd seen at all. Hell was a fiery inferno where people were being tortured and looked to be in absolute misery. Exactly as all the books had always said.

"What the f***!?" cried the guy in alarm, "What happened to the beach, and the water? And the girls?"

The Devil came up and patted him on the shoulder with a slightly amused expression.

"Sorry buddy," he said looking slightly sympathetic, "that's the screensaver."

Well, that's all for this chapter, minna-san! Onto the next section!

The Asina Counterpart(Favourites from Fanfiction.Net)

This time, there will be some different anime ficcies, not just CCS. However, they're just ones I REALLY enjoyed (not everyone reads Inuyasha).

The Guiding Star

Author: Sakura Kinomoto

Genre: Action/Adventure/Romance

Well, this story has been used more progressively on Fanfiction.Net lately, but this is still a good fic. Set during the Li Dynasty (well, maybe not exactly, but anyway…) Sakura is the princess of Japan, who gets kidnapped by Syaoran's evil brother Shui Ken when he attacks her country and kills her family. Now as a concubine to the ninth son of the former emperor (he's dead), she is taken to China in order to live in the Li Palace. Upon arriving, she quickly establishes friendship with Syaoran (the fifteenth son), who decides that he's going to do whatever it takes to protect her from his evil brother…The writing style is definitive, the story is interesting, and the way Sakura-san writes S+S is very adorable to read. Definitely one of the better stories out there, though there seems to be way too many sons of the emperor…^^;;; Wonderfully done!

J-chan gives it: ********1/2 /10

Chosen Ones

Author: Cool Fire Bird

Genre: Action/Adventure

This is definitely an older fic, from the author of Phoenix Light and Purple Aura. Though this isn't her most popular story, I definitely think of it as her best. The fic takes place in a world where the people are oppressed, while a prophecy from the great Clow Reed tells of a savior. One of two twin brothers, it is said that he will challenge the dark that has cloaked the land in its shadow and wield the sword White Dragon. The two twins, Yuuku and Syaoran, live in a small village by the name of Myou at the edge of a desert once said to be a beautiful place full of life. While Yuuku is said to be the Chosen One, Syaoran therefore is the more shunned of the twins, living in his brother's shadow until the day where the King's armies attack the village, demanding the future savior…This is a really good story idea, the like of which I haven't found many of. The only problems I found were the spelling errors (usually due to fast typing, I suppose) and the pace at which the story is told (which doesn't leave a lot of room for description sometimes…) Besides those two points, I definitely recommend this story for those who like this type of Fantasy/Action/Adventure in their video games, etc.

J-chan gives it: ********/10

Only Love Can Help You Now

Anime: Inuyasha

Author: Kagome Higurashi

Genre: Romance/Humor

Well, this is one of the best humor stories with some kind of plot I've read in a long time. The plot is basically how things could have happened if Inuyasha had been human to begin with and was turned half-demon against his will. It begins in the forest surrounding a village, where Inuyasha lives and generally makes a nuisance of himself in retribution for his parentless childhood. However, he definitely does a very stupid thing when he decides to pester the resident village witch/priestess/magical person, Kikyo…Things become even more interesting when a girl from the future (our dear Kagome) falls through and old well and ends up with him and his lecherous friend/monk Miroku in a quest to return Inuyasha to his human form. Much humor and cuteness follows, amongst which is the witch Kikyo's attempts on Kagome's life, due to the strange little complication caused by two incarnations of the same soul in the same time…^^ I highly recommend this fic, even if you're not a usual Inuyasha fan. Not much knowledge is needed about the actual series, though you may want to check it out for your own enjoyment. This gets high marks for plain inventiveness and for making my day when I first read it! ^^

Inuyasha manga translations can be found here at "Inuyasha: Sengoku o-togi Zoushi"

J-chan gives it: *********1/2/10

Well, those are all the ones I'm going to post this chapter. Now, onto the newest secion!

Shikoku's Corner for the Literarily Challenged

*Cue music from "Masterpiece theatre"*

*Camera pans in on figure sitting in armchair, surrounded by classic-looking volumes. Lights brighten, and Shikoku appears in rich, velvet-red robe*

Shikoku: Hello, and welcome to Shikoku's Corner for the Literarily Challenged! Mainly, this is a resurrection of the Booklist presented in chapter five, which Jurei was just too lazy to continue-

Jurei-chan: HEY!

Shikoku: Yes, well, anyway…Since both the other Special Projects team members got sections, it's merely a delayed justification that the LEADER finally gets a corner too! The other reason for this is so that Jurei's readers have something to keep them occupied while she writes! ^^

Jurei-chan: Stick to the material, or this whole thing goes to Kensu too.

Shikoku: WHAT!? TO THAT UNCULTURED NEANDERTHAL!? He's already got a section anyway!

Jurei-chan: Then GET MOVING!!!

Shikoku, fine, fine, but you ruined the mood…

Jurei-chan: oh, for heaven sakes! Fine! You can get a restart!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

*once again, cue music from "Masterpiece Theatre"*

*Camera ONCE AGAIN passes slowly by leather-bound classic volumes, finally zooming in on the figure seated in the red velvet armchair by the fire, which we all know to be Shikoku*

Shikoku: Hello, and welcome once again to Shikoku's Corner for the Literarily Challenged! Today, we will be looking at several books which we have decided to bring to your attention! Arigato to Morgan for suggesting these books and finally carrying through with the request posted in chapter five! ^^

The group we shall be looking at today is The Time Quartet, by Madeline L'Engle, which progress in the following order:

A Wrinkle in Time

A Wind in the Door

A Swiftly Tilting Planet

Many Waters

Shikoku: The impression given from the first book is one of an excellent Science Fiction series, mixed with a great deal of inventiveness, mysticism, and originality which I found refreshing! The other three I'll have to take a look at, but I can definitely say that the first one is a good read for anyone who enjoys that kind of thing.

A Wrinkle in Time review:

This book is (from what I can remember) about Meg Murry, her little brother Charles Wallace, and how one dark and stormy night changes everything. That's the night when the mysterious stranger shows up, and the night when the search for their dad who's been gone for the last several years begins in the most unbelievable place. Though I know that isn't much of a summary, this is really one of those books you can't explain as easily as you would expect, because it takes a certain amount of understanding to make sense (which can only really be gained by reading the book). All I can say is that the rising action and final climax is wonderfully done, while the way Ms. L'Engle writes is greatly attractive and enjoyable to read. I definitely recommend you look at this book yourself if you haven't already, cause there's definitely something to be gained here.

Shikoku: Well, that's the review for this chapter, though the booklist has other books that I definitely recommend to you. I have also created a key, so that you know which genre they fall into. Just look below, and I hope you enjoy these as much as me! This has been Shikoku's Corner for the Literarily Challenged! Goodnight to you all!^^

*Key

SF~ Science Fiction

Fan~ Fantasy

Ac/Ad~ Action/Adventure

Rom~ Romance

Mys~ Mystery

Hor~ Horror

Hu~ Humor

His~ Historical

GN/M~ Graphic Novel/Manga

*

*The camera pans out as the lights dim, the light from the fire becoming more noticeable. The following list rolls as the ending credits:*

Shikoku's Corner Booklist

The Chronicles of Redwall ~ by Brian Jaques (Fan/Ac/Ad)

The Dragonriders of Pern ~ by Anne McCaffrey (SF/Rom/Ac/Ad)

The Book of Atrix Wolfe ~ by Patricia A. McKillip (Fan/Mys/Ac)

The Protector of the Small Quartet ~ by Tamora Pierce (Fan/Ac/Ad/Rom)

Kazan ~ by Gaku Miyao *GN/M* (SF/Ac/Ad/Fan)

Dragon Knights ~ by Mineko Ohkami *GN/M* (Fan/SF/Ac/Ad/Rom/Hu)

Interview with the Vampire ~ by Anne Rice (Fan/His/Hor/Rom/???)

Well, that's it minna-san! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to get some sleep! Ja ne till chapter 16! ^^

~J^^