Why, Hello and welcome to my little world of weirdness!

I state for the record that, while I really, really wish I did, I don't own any of the wonderful characters that will grace this story . . . they are all CLAMP's, always have been, always will be! However I do lay claim to a few of the original characters, for example . . . I own Hei-ying, and his false form, Tomodachi Yukito, I own Mystrasa Kyree, and Carolyn and Amanda Reed, I don't own The Dragon, Saurian because he is on loan from my very good friend, the ever intangible Blue Goo.

This is a Sequel to 'In This Tainted Soul . . .', which actually started out as this stories prequel . . . what can I say? I love writing!! Anyway, while it's not strictly need reading, since the first few chapters will be focus on establishing well . . . basically everything, it would still be nice if you go read up, especially if you want to know why Hei-ying is the way he is . . .

In This Tainted Soul . . . There Lies Hope . . .

By Dr Megalomania

Part Five: Old Habits, New Tricks

One Month later . . .

Ruby chuckled as Touya sank to the ground panting; he looked up at his spell-casting teacher. "For someone . . . who spends their days playing videogames . . ."

"It's hard I know," Keroberos snorted, "But you must master the basics . . . let's try it again."

Touya pushed himself to his feet; he was astounded at how hard this was. He was a fit man, very, very athletic but still . . . only four hours had passed today and they had only been tackling the most basic of basic magic. He looked at Eriol who was taking the class with him, the blue haired boy smiled encouragingly, "You will become quickly conditioned to it, I assume you . . ."

"Remember Clow's training? Yes . . . will I have to go through all of that?"

"Of course not . . ." Keroberos snorted again, "With my Keroberos' quick and painless guide to being a magician, we can certainly get it over and done with soon!"

Spinel rolled his eyes, as Ruby helped Touya, she laughed, "Don't worry . . . soon you will be able to depend on your staff to do most of the technical stuff . . ."

"But it is always advisable to be clear with the details first . . ." Spinel called cautiously, he turned into his cat form and stood in front of Touya, "Now." He growled and began to call on his strength, "Again!"

Touya braced himself as Spinel bared his fangs, the midnight blue panther drew in a deep breath, Touya held up his hand. "I command thee to---" He rolled out of the way as Spinel blew his Ruby attack at him. "Damnit!"

"You must be faster than that Kinomoto-san!" He cursed himself as Syaoran shouted, "Get up!"

Touya rolled on to his feet, and raised his hand to deal with Spinel. The panther growled and sucked in another breath. Touya's eyes widened as he felt Ruby move behind him, he spun quickly, "How can I deal with them at the same time?!"

Time felt like it slowed, as Touya glanced at Eriol. The blue haired boy was sat beside Syaoran, //You are letting your guard down . . . Concentrate, when you are clear of mind . . . then you can deal with whatever forces threaten you.// Touya blinked as he saw a woman's image overlay Eriol. Clow's mother. She had given him this very same lesson almost six hundred years ago . . .

Touya blinked as time resume, he dropped his hand, and closed his eyes. Ruby was his first threat, Spinel's growling gave away that he was just bluffing his attack at the same time. Touya jumped up, managing to land a glancing kick blow to Ruby's head. Mindful that Spinel was still behind him, he ducked as Ruby came at him for hand-to-hand combat. Holding his guard up, Touya threw a look at Spinel, keeping the panther's position in his mind at all times. He blocked a sweeping punch from Ruby, and delivered a swift kick to her stomach. She hit the wall quite hard, and Touya managed to catch a glimpse of Syaoran's face, the Chinese boy nodded and made a little mark to his book. Even without looking up, the little wolf barked, "Kinomoto-san, you will pay attention; in battle there will be no chance to observe your progress!"

Touya growled slightly as Ruby stood suddenly pushed herself up, she drew back her hand to throw her Ruby shard attack at him. He raised his hand as Ruby rushed to him, "Sleep . . ."

Her eyes crossed suddenly, and she fell instantly, he turned to Spinel Sun, "Return to your false form . . ." An ice blue magic circle drew itself around his feet, Spinel froze in the air, fighting hard against the command. Touya stared at him calmly, and raised his hand, "I command thee to sleep . . ."

Spinel's eyes closed, and the panther fought for a few more seconds before falling to the ground. Touya smiled as he looked at the two. He smirked as he turned quickly, "Sleep!"

Keroberos smiled before he too fell unconscious. Eriol clapped, "Well done!!"

"That third surprise attack always got me . . ." Syaoran smiled gruffly, "Well done, not bad for your second week of training . . ." He stood and put his sword on the wall, he was wearing his winter uniform. It was his tradition Li clan robes but since the battle with the void card, Syaoran had taken Tomoyo's hand made costume for his summer uniform, and his more traditional robes for his winter. He nodded to Touya, "Come now . . . half an hour's meditation."

Touya sighed and sank to the ground as Eriol woke each of the guardians up, "Why must I do this?"

Syaoran opened an eye, "Back straight. Inhale. Exhale."

Sakura smiled as she watched the small group, she looked up at The Shield card as it held the storm at bay so the training could be taken outside. The winter was slowly changing into spring, but still the weather put up a fight. She looked at Tomoyo as she filmed the training session; the purple haired girl shivered slightly, "Daijobu?"

"Hai!" Tomoyo shivered again, and pulled her cloak around her tighter, "It's very cool out here . . ."

Sakura nodded, "I know . . ." She pulled out the Firey card, "I would use my magic to make it warmer however Syaoran-kun prefers that Oniichan is not pampered."

"He is a strict teacher," Tomoyo smiled at her friend, "But he is a kind person."

Sakura laughed, "He is very helpful . . ." She looked at her watch; it was still the same one that Yukito had given her some five years ago. She smiled and stood, "I must start dinner . . . I'll be back soon."

Touya breath evened out, and Syaoran sank into a comfortable routine, his commands almost as soft as a whisper.

"Inhale . . . exhale . . ."

Eriol quietly sat besides them, and crossed his legs; he closed his eyes and cleared his mind of everything easily. He began to reach out with his senses; Tomoyo was sitting on the balcony of Fujitaka's former room, watching the training. Syaoran who was in overall charge of the training had insisted that it be a traditional formal session, with the only exception of Ruby Moon. He had grudgingly agreed to this because since finding out about Touya, Yue had been in scarce appearance. The Moon angel would only appear when called by Sakura or Keroberos.

He was thinking, thinking about what this meant and, as Keroberos advised, it was best to allow this to be. He smiled as he turned his attention back to the meditating group. Ruby fidgeted, she had never liked meditation and often fought giggles more than concentrating on the main goal of clearing her mind.

"Inhale." Syaoran commanded softly, "Exhale."

Syaoran, Eriol noted with great pleasure, was an excellent instructor. He was a black belt in many of his chosen arts, and being the clan head, was very capable of teaching others. Eriol was pleased to bow to him when it came to Touya's training over the last few days. Syaoran's aura was calm and utterly self possessed, but he frowned slightly, "Hiirawagizawa-san. Concentrate on your own aura. Inhale. Exhale."

Eriol smiled and retreated his probing, and turned it on his soul's new outlet. Touya had taken to the training with some apprehension, while understanding that he had to practice this gift, he wasn't so eager to leave Yue alone. He wanted to deal with everyone first, ensure that they understood, and then begin to become a trained master. Eriol smiled as he turned his attention on Touya's aura, it was still a little chaotic. Touya's own worries about Yue, and Clow's feelings were distracting him a little, Eriol directed some of his magic towards Touya again, as he had done during the training session, //Concentrate . . .//

"Ruby Moon. Please calm yourself." Syaoran sighed, "Inhale, fill yourself with calm, Ruby Moon . . . and exhale, rid yourself of all chaos."

"I'm trying to . . ." Eriol smiled as he imagined Ruby's face, contorted and trying to stay straight.

"Perhaps this exercise is too easy for you, cousin . . ." Keroberos taunted quietly, "Empting your mind and all."

There was a loud snort as Kero's comment broke Spinel's concentration, Syaoran frowned, "Guardians . . ." He said warningly. "Mediation will be extended to an hour."

Sakura paused as she stepped down the stairs, the door just shut and someone walked in quickly. She peered around the corner just in time to see Yue transform in. He looked pale and very tired, and didn't seem aware that she was there; he knelt down and started to check the grocery bags. He sighed as he picked up a half eaten apple and started to chew on it absently. Sakura blinked, "Yue?"

Yue's wings extended suddenly as if he was going to transform, then he seemed to remember himself. He glanced at her, chewing slowly, and swallowed. "Mistress Sakura?"

"I do not want that title, Yue," She frowned slightly, "Pease? I want to be a friend to you."

Yue nodded and stooped to pick up the grocery bags, "We went shopping . . ." He bit into the apple again, "It's very cold out . . ."

Sakura followed the angel as he moved into the kitchen. "Yue?"

"Hai?" Yue started to unpack the bag, he let his fingers hover over the bag of apples again, selecting a ripe green fruit. He sank his teeth into it; it was only the silence of his mistress that made him turn to find her looking at him strangely. "Nani?" He asked around a mouthful of apple.

"You are –--"

They turned as Keroberos padded in muttering to himself darkly, he looked up, "Ohayo little. . ." He slowed to a stop, ". . . one. . .?"

"Ohayo 'Niichan . . ." Yue took another bite out of his apple and turned back to his unpacking, "Expelled from the lesson again?"

"Yue . . . you're eating . . ."

"No, I'm not . . . I don't eat . . ." Yue bit another large chunk out of the apple, "You must be seeing double . . ." He looked up, and waved the apple absently, "Yukito was eating just before we switched."

"Yue . . . you are eating . . ." Sakura walked up to him and held his arm up, "See?"

Yue's chewing slowed as he stared at the hand, "This is Yukito's apple . . ."

"No, it's your second . . . you finished the first."

Yue looked at her, and felt around his mouth with his tongue. His catlike eyes widened with horror as he opened his mouth and let the chewed apple flesh drop into his free hand as if it tasted vilely. He stared at it, trying to connect the idea that it had been in his mouth. "Oniichan?!

Kero frowned, "I haven't seen you . . . eat an apple since . . ." He frowned, "It's such an old habit . . . why would you . . .?"

"Is there something wrong?" Sakura looked from the lion to the angel, Yue seemed a little disturbed by the apple pulp in his hand.

"I didn't . . ." Yue stared at Kero, seeking assurances and finding none, "I didn't chose this . . ."

The lion reversed himself slightly, and turned to head out the door. "Clow used to say that he'd find himself eating something with no memory of choosing it . . . sometimes because something was wrong and he wasn't consciously aware of it yet . . ." He stepped back to mediation circle, "Perhaps . . ."

Touya opened his eyes slowly, Ruby had gone silent. In fact so had Syaoran, the Chinese boy was no longer speaking . . . he looked around; suddenly aware he wasn't outside anymore. He scrambled to his feet, and pulled at his clothes. The loose training slacks and shirt were gone; he wore magician's robes. They were so similar to Clow's except--- he gasped as his sight was suddenly filled with a dozen images all at once, Yue's loose hair fall back onto a pillow as he came down from his clim—screaming as she beat her tiny gloved fists on the glass, begging for someone to stop his--betrayed as Sakura plunged his own sword into hi—Tears streaming down her face as she screamed revenge for her dead—eros shaking his head as he begged for Yue's—kito stumbling backwards begging he stay away from hi—rror card reach for the safety of her mistress' arms as she—ddish orange eye rolled as a tiny bloodied tongue licked up the last drops of—amera clattered out of her hand as Tomoyo fell, Eriol ran forward reaching for—Meilin's life see—He wa—they had lo—the black and gold sta—MystraSauYueTomoEriolCloSyaYulSakuYukiTomodac--Touya clutched his head, the vision's were getting out of controls, "Too much. . ." He gasped, "It's all too much. . ."

"You have let your guard down!" Touya went sprawling as someone kicked his head viciously, "How dare you live my life so piteously!" Touya felt kick after kick connect painfully with his body, he rolled as best he could, and drew himself to his feet.

Clow Reed glowered at him dangerously, his eyes . . . Touya stumbled back a bit, Clow's eyes . . . even the whites were as black as the night . . .

Clow's staff came forth and his magic circle shimmered into life . . . glowing first gold, then a deep purple . . . "Sword . . ." Clow ordered emotionlessly. The magician stepped forward, "You are living . . . I am dying . . . I intend to restore this balance to it's correct way."

Touya stared with open mouth shook, as Clow suddenly came rushing at him . . . sword poised in the air . . .

"To-ya!" Yue . . . Yukito . . . someone called out his name, "How could you . . ." Anger, fear, hate . . . "HOW COULD YOU TREAT ME LIKE THIS?!"

"Oniichan? Oniichan, wake up . . ."

Her brother's eyelids fluttered as he neared consciousness . . . Sakura breathed a sigh of relief, and looked at Eriol. Tomoyo held his hand patiently, dipping a cool cloth into the water. Syaoran nodded, to Sakura as she passed him her brother's water bowl, he quickly stepped into the kitchen to refresh the already warming water. Sakura turned her attention back on to Eriol, as he breathed in deeply. The pair had both passed out as they were meditating . . . no one noticed anything was wrong until after Syaoran realised Eriol's and Touya's breathing was far too synchronised to be natural.

Eriol groaned slightly and rolled onto his front, staring at Tomoyo's lap before murmuring softly, "Doushite?"

"Eriol-kun?" Tomoyo murmured quietly, "Daijobu?"

Ruby supported her master quietly as he struggled to sit up, Spinel quickly and carefully lifting the young magician's spectacles off the ground, and placing them gently in Tomoyo's hand. He nuzzled his master's arm slightly as Eriol leant to the side. "Master Eriol?"

Eriol stared at the same point; he didn't look like he was fully there. Tomoyo pressed the cloth against his forehead; his cheeks and lifting his chin slightly; she pressed the calm cool cloth against his throat. "Eriol-kun . . .?"

Yue and Keroberos sat with Sakura as she patted her brother's hand gently; he was falling into a light sleep. Keroberos shook his head, the two had had visions . . . he remember the visions Clow used to have, early in his lifetime. He could remember as a kitten the fear he felt when he witness Clow's first vision. One second the magician was laughing gently, the next . . . he was sprawled out on the floor, Keroberos had thought he was dead until he had jumped on the his creator's chest and felt the steady rise and fall of the man's lungs. He glanced up at Yue, to see if the angel was recollecting his first encounter of Clow's visions. The angel stared at Touya impassively, quiet as he waited for Touya to wake.

Keroberos shook his head and padded over to Spinel and Ruby, the two had obviously never experienced the vision process before, //Eriol must have been powerful enough and retained enough of Clow's memories to be able to stave off the unconsciousness// Keroberos sighed and ran his head under Spinel's chin, "Daijobu?"

Spinel frowned, "What is this?"

"It's called a vision . . ." Yue said quietly, he walked over and placed his hand on Ruby's shoulder, he bent over a bit and pulled up Eriol's chin. He was still staring into nothingness, Yue sighed and straightened, "They will be fine . . ."

"When?" Ruby fought back her tears as she pulled her master closer, she was so worried about him. Usually when he had his visions he would just fall quiet for a few seconds, then blinked and smile. Yue sighed and glanced at Keroberos, the lion nudged Spinel slightly and sat closer to Eriol. He leant forward; Eriol's face was still blank.

"Whatever they have seen it must have been very powerful if it was enough to stun them like this . . ." He looked up at Yue, "I think Eriol will be fine, and Touya will need sleep . . ."

Tomoyo stroked the lion's ears gently, "When will Eriol come out of this daze?"

"Yue . . ." Kero asked quietly, "Put your hand in front of his face, not too close . . . just enough so he can see it clearly, then direct a little bit of magic to your hand . . ."

Keroberos shuffled out of the way as Yue knelt down, and leant closer to Eriol, he paused, "How do you know this?"

Kero ignored him, "Direct only a small amount of energy there, just enough to cause a slightly glow but don't form anything . . ."

Yue did as he was told, and soon his hand glowed slightly. Eriol's eyes shifted slightly to focus on the hand, as Yue began to wave it back and forth. Keroberos turned into his smaller form and fluttered up, "Eriol-kun . . . listen to me now . . . follow the magic . . . follow Yue . . ."

Yue moved his hand and a few seconds later, Eriol's head moved into the same direction. Kero nodded, "Hai . . . do this with him until he can follow your hand . . . Spinel?" Spinel instantly transformed into his other form and fluttered up to Kero, Kero nodded and motioned Eriol, "When he starts to anticipate Yue's movements, start telling him to wake up . . ."

A few hours later, Tomoyo handed Eriol a cup of tea and knelt at his side. She watched him as he sipped at the tea slowly; he stared at Touya quietly, musing. She looked around, Ruby and Spinel, emotionally worn out, had fallen asleep against each other. Keroberos lay on the floor, and Yue simply knelt on one knee. Even though both had their eyes closed, it was almost impossible to tell if they were asleep or simply resting.

"They're asleep . . ." Eriol murmured, Tomoyo turned her head and found Eriol smiling gently at her. "That's what you were wondering, wasn't it?"

Tomoyo smiled and nodded, "How do you feel?"

"I'm fine . . ." he sat back, and patted the sofa beside him, "Sit with me please?"

Tomoyo glanced at Syaoran as he held monitor over Touya; Sakura rested her head on the small of Kero's back. Syaoran looked over at Eriol, and nodded, "Daijobu?"

Eriol nodded, "Hai . . . Touya?"

"Sleeping . . ." Syaoran glanced at Touya; the dark haired boy had fallen into a deeper sleep now. Four hours had past, and only about an hour ago did Eriol show any signs of coming back to awareness. He looked back at Eriol, "What did you see?"

Eriol shook his head, silently bidding Syaoran for time to process what he had seen, the little wolf understood, and went back to his watching. Eriol turned his attention back onto Tomoyo as she picked up her sewing again, "I asked you to join me . . ." Eriol said quietly, he raised his hand and stroked her head, "Please?"

Tomoyo raised her head slightly; gently shaking his fingers out of her violet locks, she smiled at him teasingly. "Only if you stop petting me like a cat . . ."

Eriol chuckled quietly, "It is merely a habit of mine, you are sitting where Spinel-kun usually sits with me . . ." He leant forward and whispered quickly, "And it's quite disconcerting . . . please, sit with me . . ."

Across the street, he stared at the small house on the corner. He sighed and drew his scaled wings around his body tighter, even his magic couldn't keep the cold out. The curtains shone with warm light as the snow fell lightly from the night's sky. He closed his eyes and reached out with his senses. Keroberos and Yue were both there . . . as were Clow Reed's cards . . . except . . .

"They have a new master now . . ." He whispered quietly to himself, he felt around for the new master, the Cardcaptor he would have known if he hadn't been sealed away. There, near Keroberos . . . the Cardcaptor was utterly calm and contented as she stayed close to her Sun guardian. He shivered with a realisation that had nothing to do with the cold. Her power was of the stars . . . his former source of power. He looked up and stared at the stars, his new mistress, while rebuilding his powers, gave him the Moon as his source of power . . . also as a cruel joke.

The Moon was a calming influence . . . and the source of power for his most hated of brothers, Yue. He growled quietly to himself, a long time ago . . . always such a long time ago . . . his head fell forward as he stared at the window, almost wishing Yue to feel his hidden presence and to see him. His pale lips moved without meaning to, his voice low and solemn, "Moonbeam . . . come and play with me . . ."

Yue's eyes slid open.

Someone was calling him . . . he stood and looked around.

Sakura lifted her head as her Moon guardian's long hair tickled her, "Yue?" The angel stared at her, and then shook his head; he looked at Touya, then back at Tomoyo. He shook his head slowly; as if ruling her out of his thoughts, he looked at Eriol. The reincarnation was asleep again, head in Tomoyo's lap as she sewed slowly. She looked up and met Yue's gaze, "Nan desu ka?"

Yue blinked slowly and glanced at Ruby and Spinel, who both slept on. "Who said Moonbeam?"

Sakura yawned and blinked, "No one . . ."

Kero's eyes slid open instantly, "Why do you ask?"

Yue dropped to his knees instantly, he leant close to Kero's head as it rested on his paws, "Did you say---?"

"No. Why do you ask?"

"I heard it . . ."

"You were dreaming." Kero's eyes slid shut again, and the lion quickly resumed the appearance of sleep. Yue blinked at the blunt answer, but joined his brother quickly. Sakura stared at her guardians, wondering what had just happened, and why Yue was so docile, usually he and Keroberos rarely showed the true nature of their relationship, Kero simply didn't like the idea of having to be an overbearing Oniichan to Yue, and Yue didn't seem to be the type to want to be under Keroberos. She sighed and was about to go back to sleep when she remembered something, "Yue?"

Yue's catlike eyes slid open, as he tilted his head towards her. A movement out of the corner of her eye told her that Keroberos had moved his head slightly so he could listen as well; she smiled and petted him. "Yue-kun?" Yue nodded, as she looked up at him, "Kero said that Clow ate when something was wrong . . ."

"He said that Clow used to eat something and not be aware of it when he was unaware that something was wrong."

Sakura nodded, "That's what I mean . . . before Oniichan and Eriol fell into their visions you were eating without knowing it . . ." She frowned slightly, "Is there something wrong and we can't sense it yet?"

Yue sighed quietly, "Mistr--- Sakura-sama, I don't know . . ." He frowned, "If that logic is true then why was I the only one . . .?"

"Perhaps because you are more sensitive to whatever's on it's way . . ." Yue and Sakura looked up at Tomoyo, the girl was still sewing. She glanced at them, and bit off her thread, "It's like cows . . . cows lie down, when they sense a rainstorm coming because it's easier for them in some way to get wet like that . . ." She paused again, and fiddled with Eriol's hair absently, "Or maybe . . . Yue's eating is like---"

There was a small intake of breath as Eriol woke from his light sleep, "Yue was eating?" Yue looked at him and nodded, Eriol sat up and walked over to the angel. He knelt and pressed his hand against the pale cheeks, the young reincarnation of Clow looked delighted, "How long have you been eating? What have you been eating?" Eriol stood, excitement over riding any exhaustion he felt, "Are you hungry now?"

Yue looked down, "I have no memory of actually eating . . . I do not believe it was consciously or voluntary . . ."

Sakura touched Eriol's shoulder as he sank back down again; he looked slightly disappointed. "He was eating an apple . . . in the kitchen just before you and Oniichan fell into your visions . . ." Eriol smiled slightly, as she continued, "He seemed to be utterly unaware he was doing it . . ."

"A green apple?"

"Hai . . . just like the ones from our garden . . ." Kero murmured, "That's probably why . . ."

Yue looked down at his brother, "I didn't know we had an orchard . . ."

Kero lifted his head and pushed himself up, he looked at Yue very seriously, "They died . . . a winter or two after you were created."

The angel's eyes blanked slightly, "I don't remember."

"I know." Kero lay back down again, "It's nothing important."

Yue sighed; knowing he would get nothing more from Keroberos, he looked at Eriol. "We had an orchard?"

Eriol smiled slightly and brushed his fingers over Yue's lips slowly, "You used to play there . . . steal my apples . . ." His eyes crimped, "Don't remember . . ." He nodded, "Sleep now . . ."

Yue watched as the blue haired boy stood, and pulled off his glasses. The boy rubbed his eyes tiredly, and went back to Tomoyo. Keroberos went back to sleep, and Sakura and Yue looked at each other. Sakura glanced at Syaoran who had listened to the scene with interest, she smiled, "Syaoran-kun? Tea?"

He nodded, "Please."

Sakura got up, and paused at the doorway, "Yue? Please accompany me?"

He smirked as he felt Yue hesitate, the younger angel looked for him briefly, almost sensing him. He closed his eyes, knowing Yue couldn't feel anything. "Come out and play with me, Moonbeam . . ."

Yue stopped in the corridor, "Mistress?"

Sakura paused in the kitchen doorway, "Shan't answer you if you call me mistress!" She called back teasingly.

Yue smiled slightly, "Sakura-sama?"

"Iie!"

"Sakura-san . . .?"

He fought a laugh as she poked her head around the doorway, "Warmer . . ."

The Jade eye narrowed, pale lips moved soundlessly, "Moonbeam . . ."

"I will return shortly . . ." Yue murmured as he backed down the corridor, he stared dully as turned and strode down the corridor. Sakura blinked as Yue transformed into Yukito mid-stride.

Yukito wrapped his arms around himself, and looked around. The street was empty, simply empty. The snow covered the streets; Yukito shivered again, and started to turn back to the house.

"Sumimasen?"

Yuki jumped and spun to find a tall boy standing behind him, "Uh . . . hai?" He looked around quickly; he hadn't seen the boy coming from anywhere. The boy wasn't much taller than himself; his hair was slightly longer and more orderly, pulled back into a loose ponytail slung over his shoulder gently. Yukito felt some amusement as Yue murmured quietly, //Just like Clow's//. His clothes were strict and traditional, a sharp neat white shirt and a deep jade green waist coat, a silver pocket watch slung from one pocket to the other, he had sharply creased black trousers, and a jacket cut in the same style. His floor length overcoat swished quietly as he moved closer. He pulled out a light green handkerchief and wiped a small monocle before fixing it over his right eye. Yukito blinked, even in the dim street light, the boy had bright jade green eyes, they matched his waistcoat. He stepped forward, holding forward his hand encased in a black leather glove, "Hajimemashite."

Yukito blinked at the formalness of the greeting and shook the hand, "Konbanwa . . ." He paused and frowned, "Have we met before?"

"Yes . . ." The gentleman smirked and quickly grabbed Yukito's shoulders, the snow rabbit's eyes widened suddenly as he felt the strange-eyed boy push his tongue into his mouth. He started to resist, trying to push him off, when, just as soon as it had begun, the harsh embrace ended. The boy stepped back and smiled at Yukito, his gaze slightly manic, "I missed you so much, snowy one . . ." The jade eyes slid as he fingered his lips, licking the black gloved fingers. "Mmmm . . ." He hummed, "You're just as sweet as the day I left you, youngest brother."

"Nani?!"

The boy stepped forward again, "I could kill you right now if I wanted to, and I do . . ." The dark haired boy's eyes narrowed, "I've been lusting for your blood . . ." He raised his hand to stroke Yukito's cheek, "But I think it will be nicer if you feel some of my pain first . . ." Yukito gasped as he saw a slight green glow emanating from the black-gloved hand. "Forget me . . . for now, snowy one . . . forget me completely . . ."

"How are you feeling?" The question was soft from a voice he was more used to hearing in loud, barked tones.

Touya groaned as he opened his eyes, Syaoran smiled slightly as he helped the taller boy up, "How long have I been . . .?"

"Just under five hours." Syaoran pushed some pillows behind his back, "Do you understand what happened?"

Touya looked at him briefly, the Chinese boy, still quiet, was still asking him to learn from his experience. "I had a vision . . . although . . ." He winced as he held his head, "I don't remember . . ."

"That's to be expected." Touya looked up, Eriol still lay as if asleep. A lavender-grey eye opened slightly, "This kind of vision is much more powerful that any other . . . these are important, really important . . . the details will come back later . . ."

"What use is it to us then?"

Syaoran chuckled, "You are supposed to use the feelings of déjà vu to guide your actions . . . or even determine them . . ."

Touya sighed, and looked around. Sakura sat on the armrest, her small feet just touching his; she smiled with relief. "Oniichan . . . Daijobu?"

He nodded, and looked to Ruby and Spinel, "Are they all right?"

Keroberos snorted, "It's their first visions as well . . ."

"Nani?"

Tomoyo chuckled, "It's the first time they have witness a vision of this magnitude . . ." She brushed her thumb over Eriol's lips, as he slumbered quietly. "Both of you have been drifting in and out of sleep . . ."

Touya smiled as he watched Eriol sleep, he doubted Eriol's sudden tiredness had anything to do with his vision, more likely a need to have a good reason to remain in her lap. It was evidently so late that all would be sleeping over once again at the Kinomoto house. Like the others, Eriol and his guardians returned to their homes every night, but since Touya's magic was so great, they returned every day to keep up his training.

The days spent either training in the park, or in the back garden were well spent, and the evenings were full of camaraderie as Eriol taught Touya how to read Clow's memories better. Syaoran taught him basic spells, the rules and laws of magic, as he had Sakura. Keroberos was teaching him management of magical creations and beings. Spinel and Ruby were not only willing helpers, but also Ruby taught Touya how to hide his aura better, and Spinel taught him patience and how to read the old spells and the magic language. Sakura was helping as well, just as Eriol did, she would practice with her brother afterwards, often doing the same exercises to show him what they meant.

He looked at Tomoyo as she continued to sew. Her presence was invaluable, as she took care of the less magical aspects of life, she fixed every minor injury, every rip or tear. Touya smiled as he found Eriol more than once leaning in the doorway watching her as she cooked or sewed, helping her with minor tasks. She made sure anyone too tired, especially Sakura, slept, made sure there was a meal prepared and that someone went to buy groceries. This was usually Yukito, as Yue refused to appear. He frowned, and wondered where the snow rabbit and the Moon angel were . . .

"Where's Yukito?"

Sakura blinked, "He went out briefly . . . I ---"

"Excuse me? Is anyone here?" A strange voice called out, Sakura started and instantly pulled out her key.

"TIME!"

Keroberos instantly transformed, and flew over to his cousins to wake them. Spinel transformed quickly, followed by Ruby, the Moon girl nodded quickly to Sakura, "Time release!"

Sakura twirled her staff quickly, and caught the card. She looked around quickly before opening the living room door. A tall boy looked down at her as he quickly paced in, "Gomen nasai!" He carried Yukito's unconscious body over to Touya's couch; "I was passing when I saw this boy sleeping on your doorstep!"

Touya moved out of the way, stumbling slightly. Nakuru caught him, holding his elbows gently. She looked at the black-coated boy as he lay Yukito down to rest. He quickly put a pillow securely under Yukito's head and brushed some of his hair away from his forehead. He quickly removed his black gloves and pressed the back of his hand against Yuki's forehead, "He's slightly warm . . ." He stood and turned, "But I think he's fine . . ." He ran a hand through his long dark hair quickly, and stuck out his hand.

"Hajimemashite . . ." He smiled as Touya took his hand and shook it slowly, "Watashi wa Tomodachi Yukito desu."

-----------------------------------

And Now It's Time For Leave It To Doctor Megalomania!!!

[Hitchcock-ian styling Psycho music]

DrM: EEEEEeeeeeeeeekkkkkkkk!!! Who could this Tomodachi guy be?!

Clow: [really bored] I hate it when you're sick . . . you always get carried away . . . [looks at readers] and you! I blame you lot for her hyper-ness too!! 65 reviews so quickly . . . for shame . . . you're inflating her head!!

DrM: Clow, you're mean! [To readers] but you lot aren't!! Thank you!! You don't know what it means to me, to be told my story doesn't suck!! [Hugs everyone] thank you!! Thank you!! Thank you!!!

Kaho: I think you owe someone an apology . . . [Taps foot expectantly]

DrM: oh, yeah . . . ahem, [pulls up list] Kawaii-cherrychan . . . hi, erm, about the whole KTS . . . [holds up hand] I'm afraid I'm a complete ExT-er, much as I like Kaho, 'specially with the whole blowy-hair-y effect thing she's got going, I really can't help ExT-ing this whole fic, I warn you now, that ExT will be a heavy part of this fic, but not over-ridding, more focusing on YxTxY . . . mmmm. . . Touya. . .

Kaho: You killed me!

Kyle: You Bastard!

Cartman and DrM: [whacks both Kyle and Kaho] You Will Respect My Authoritaaaaaay!!

DrM: To Clow'd9, thank you very much for all your reviews not only here, but on all my other fics! As a fellow brit, I commend her to all of ye, AND because her fic, 'A Humanising Influence' is so good, I simply must insist everyone goes and reads, I'm serious people, go, go. . . *later* and R&R!! [Pauses] which reminds me, Moon Mistress, who also has a very good fic out, and it's her first, people, go support a fellow writer, MM – your reviews rock, and Eriol has this to say in return. . . Eriol?

Eriol: why don't you love me, MM? [big ol' watery eyes] I love you. . . [holds arms out like Barney, and starts swaying] Group Hug MM!! [DrM kicks him]

DrM: Eriol! Stop scaring people!! Okay, let's see, Dark Ice Angel, [rubs back of head] whoa there, D.I. Angel, quit guessing me story lining there!! [Giggles] or am I being far to obvious again. . . hmm. . . [Glances at story] I think I may need to change a few things . . . [grins] here's another person, who must be read, go read Full Moon, and DEMAND AN UPDATE DAMNIT!!! [breathes] sorry. . . but I really like the fic. . . which, again reminds me, Saiai Johji, is another person, she writes brill TxY, I love it, and I think everyone should read up on the fics as well!! [grins] Saiai says I have a talent, [blushes] thank you.

Clow: [threatens to slap her upside the head if she starts giggling again]

DrM: ahem. . . [eyes Clow evilly] to cheese and aznwhacko I say, your reviews rock. They are simple, and straight to the point, and really uplifting after a hard day! To mz anmanjiko, I won't be abandoning this fic, not until the end, don't worry, if I don't update for a few days it's because I've come across a plot hole, or. . . [hangs head] I get lazy . . .

Yuki: for shame. . .

DrM: Forsaken Tenshi, I'm glad you're eager to read what's up next, and thank you, I do try to think of something I've never read before and put it up!! [giggles] silvertoekee, this is what's next! Thank you for noticing Touya's robes. . . [Growls and glares at Touya, who's still preening in front of the mirror, rolls eyes and continues] yes indeed, The Ravens Mark, poor, poor, Yue . . . not a single memory about Hei--- [Clow kicks DrM under the table] Ow!

Yue: what?

DrM: [scowls at Clow] nothing . . . [shrugs] Saurian wants to say a few words . . . dragon?

Saurian: Why doesn't anyone love me? I'm a dragon, everyone loves dragons . . . I mean look at me, aren't I adorable . . . why does everyone, D.I.Angel, French-fille and The Ravens Mark want me dead? I'm so nice and loveable . . .

DrM: [eye twitches] Well, putting that scary idea out of my head . . . Bluegoo, [yet another fellow brit to read up on] thank you!! And French-fille, your observations are quite right, but I've been trying to tread the line of making the fic too short and making it too long, sometimes some things which could be explained in a single conversation is done so, I doubt it'll happen again though. And finally, FlameSolo . . . [dips head gratefully] thank you.

Clow: was that possibly the longest A/N ever written? I think So!!

DrM: what? These people are kind enough to help me get to 65 reviews, and I'm not even half way through the fic! I just think it's incredible, and I still can't get over it! [Turns to readers] thank you very, very much. You really make this sick – as in ill! [Glares at Clow, who's failing to hide a straight jacket very badly] – sick little brit very happy.