The seventh of chapter of my story is now posted!! Ryo has gone of to the hidden Sanctuary of the Guardians, but in the meantime Syaoran and the guys have a little tournament in his dojo!! What happens when they return to school the next day?? And what's this? Syaoran going shopping?? What problems will Sakura and her friends encounter the week of her birthday????

It also looks like I failed to mention in other chapter that everyone close to Sakura knows about her and the Clow cards. I case you didn't get the gist already.

I would personally like to thank Terra, Zenin, and Evening Star for keeping me interested in this.

He Has Returned

Chapter Seven- It's All Fun and Games

After about two hours, Syaoran's injuries had healed. He finally woke up about twenty minutes later and was escorted back to the main house. Ryo insisted everyone stay at his hidden refuge for the rest of the night, saying it would be too dangerous right now to go back to Tomeoda. He had managed to conjure up sixteen more beds out of nowhere, and was about to prepare dinner for everyone.

"Ryo, really, you have been so hospitable towards, us" Fujitaka started

"At least let us help you prepare dinner" Syaoran finished for him

"I couldn't, you're all my guests"

"We don't want you to be doing all the work for us," Tomoyo said, "I mean you saved all of our lives, are protecting us by letting us stay here, gave us nice comfortable beds to rest in, and you won't let us help you cook dinner?"

Ryo looked at the eleven faces in front of him, eager to assist him. He sweat-dropped when he thought of how funny they looked, asking to help cook.

"Go sit down on those nice comfy couches and let us make dinner." Fujitaka said, pushing Ryo out of his own kitchen, "Touya and I will be finished making dinner in no time. You deserve to rest."

Ryo finally gave in and walked over to the sofa, sitting down. Meilin plopped down next him, snuggling close. Her entry was followed by Sakura and Syaoran, Tomoyo and Eriol, Yamazaki and Chiharu, Naoko and Shen, and Rika and the four guardians. Yue transformed into Yukito and sat himself next to Rika, who started blushing. (A/N Do I sense some sparks??? Wait I know whats gonna happen!! That's for you to guess!). Everyone was chatting about different things, not even watching the television, when Shen brought up something everyone wanted to know.

"What do we do tomorrow Ryo?" Shen asked

"I need to leave in the morning and visit the Guardian Council to discuss some things. I will be back in the afternoon then tell you what's going on."

"Well what do we do?"

"I'll unlock my training house in the back so you can use it."

"That would be great! I haven't exercised in while." Yamazaki said

"I think the field behind the training area is fairly large as well, you can use it to brush up on your soccer skills while I'm out. The soccer ball is in the closet over there."

"Great!" Syaoran said.

"Can I go with you to the Guardian Council?" Meilin asked

"I'm sorry Meilin, you can't", Ryo said, looking at Meilin, starting to regret what he said. "I have to discuss classified matters with them, you can't be there, but don't worry, I'll be back in the afternoon."

"Okay"

"EVERYONE!! DINNER'S READY!!!" Fujitaka yelled out

While everyone was registering the information Yukito had already dashed out of the room in superhuman speed. Everyone sweat-dropped when they found him waiting at the table for the food. Ryo had brought in a table from his training house so everyone could eat together.

"This is great Fujitaka-san!! I'm very glad you convinced me to let you cook!" Ryo said appreciatively

"Thank you Ryo." Fujitaka responded

Everyone had finished their meals, but Ryo had insisted on cleaning up himself, threatening to use his powers on them if they didn't leave voluntarily. However, it was Meilin that forced him to let them help again, using her womanly charm against him.

Meilin was brushing up against him, giving him the sad puppy dog eyes, but Ryo still, but reluctantly resisted. Meilin then added the quivering bottom lip, making Ryo give in. He threw his arms up in defeat.

"How can I resist that look?!?!"

Meilin smiled happily then called everyone to help, giving him a kiss on the lips. Ryo deepened the kiss, and proceeded to wrap his arms around her slender waist. Meilin wrapped one arm around his neck but let the other wander down, stroking his muscular back, then pinching his well-toned butt. At this point everyone that was standing there started either saying Way to go Ryo, Get a room, or KAWAII!!!

"You two are getting a little intimate aren't you? Why don't you guys get a room?"

Ryo smirked at him, "Good idea Syaoran, why don't you clean the dishes while I sweep my princess of her feet."

Ryo then proceeded to pick up Meilin then carried her to his room.

"Good going Syaoran, now we have to do the dishes," Yamazaki said

"Calm down Yamazaki, they're only dishes. Anyway I think it's the least we can do for Ryo." Chiharu said

Everyone agreed and began the cleaning process.

~*****~

Meilin, while in the arms of her beloved, was kissing him passionately. He set her down on his bed then walked away.

"Ryo, where are you going?"

No response came, but instead he walked out of the closet, carrying a velvet box.

"Meilin honey," Ryo began, "I've loved you ever since I laid eyes on you, when Syaoran introduced us. I knew you were the right one for me." Ryo took in a deep breath "You don't have to decide right now, and I know we're both a little young, but will you marry me?"

Meilin was speechless. Here he was, the most perfect guy any girl could want, asking her if she would let him be hers forever, to protect her, comfort her, and love her. But so early? There was only one choice.

She looked up, awakened from her thoughts, seeing a distressed Ryo who was very interested in the plush rug beneath him. Meilin smiled and lifted up his chin, taking him into a deep kiss.

"You think I would ever refuse a question like that Ryo? Of course I will marry you."

Ryo's once distressed face lit up, and he smiled. He swept up Meilin once again and drew her into a loving kiss, and headed for the door.

(A/N Just for everyone Sakura and company are all 17, Sakura is about to turn 18. Ryo, Syaoran, Eriol, and Meilin are 18. They are all seniors. If I wrote otherwise in a previous chapter than this is a correction.) ~*****~

Everyone's heads perked up, they could feel to auras dancing around excitedly. Just then, the door to Ryo's burst open.

"I'M GETTING MARRIED!!!"

This statement was greeted by several different reactions. When Ryo put Meilin down and jumped down the stairs hand-in-hand with her he was greeted by a pat on the back from all the guys. Meilin was quickly surrounded by her girlfriends, all of which were saying things like Kawaii and when's the wedding?

The rest of the night was filled with excitement centered mostly around the newly engaged couple.

~*****~

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU LOST TRACK OF THEM YOU INCOMPETENT FOOL!!!" Mangkukulam yelled out.

The servant who was unlucky enough to tell the dark magician this was actually peeing his pants.

"I'mm so, so so.sorry my lo.lord, but they were heading so.south from japan, when we lo.lost them," He said, trembling with fear, all the while you could hear the dripping of urine coming from him.

Other warriors and servants were amused by this, and pitied the fool. Mangkukulam waved him off, but before he turned around Mangkukulam blasted him, leaving a pile of dust in a puddle of pee.

"someone clean this up" Mangkukulam ordered

The black sorcerer walked to the balcony.

"You musn't blame them my lord, they are only second-rate trackers after all." Demonyo Unawa said.

"Those pathetic fools, how could they lose them?? I mean how can one lose sixteen powerful auras???"

"The Guardian must have blocked them out."

"That meddling pest. I want him removed from this equation Unawa. Immediately. Then kill the Clowmistress."

"Yes my lord" Unawa said, before disappearing.

~*****~

~~ Ryo

I woke up, my beloved next to me. I can't believe she accepted my proposal. I mean she deserves much more than me. Much more. I have to tell her the truth about me before the wedding. I might as well cook breakfast for them before I go.

~~

Ryo carefully left the bed, carefully so he wouldn't wake Meilin. He promptly and quietly traveled downstairs, not waking anyone else. He looked over to the living room, where he found that four beds were unoccupied. He saw that Sakura was sharing a bed with Syaoran, Tomoyo with Eriol, Naoko with Shen, and Chiharu with Yamazaki. He smiled when he thought about how they were all probably end up like Meilin and him. He cooked a quick breakfast for himself, then cooked a large breakfast for the others, making sure to cook a lot extra for Yukito. He scribbled down a note for Meilin then left the house.

~*****~

Syaoran was the first to wake up. He glanced at the clock on the wall, which read 9:00 AM. He walked to the kitchen surprised to find a full scale breakfast prepared for everyone, it was still hot, so he assumed Ryo had left only a little earlier. He woke up everyone. After regaining their bearings they all walked back to the dining room, then sweat-dropped and fell over anime-style when they found Yukito already prepared for eating, sitting at the spot where a large pile of food was sitting.

"I was wondering when you guys would get here." More sweat-dropping and anime-style falling.

Meilin walked over to the seat with a note. She read it aloud.

Dear Meilin,

I hope you guys like the breakfast I prepared. I left the dojo and library open if you guys want to use them. I also set up the soccer nets in the field behind the little house in the back. If you want, there is a lake east of my house. I believe I have something to make swimsuits somewhere inside my house Tomoyo, and there are extra swimsuits for the guys in my closet. Whatever you do, don't leave the island or go offshore. I should be back around 5:00. I love you all, especially you Meilin.

Love

Ryo

"This was very nice of him." Sakura said as she took a seat next to Syaoran.

"It really was" Tomoyo said

"Well let's start the meal!" Yukito said, smiling

More anime-style falling and sweat-dropping.

~*****~

Ryo walked through the beautifully adorned entrance halls of the Guardian Sanctuary. It was, in actuality, a large castle. It was built in a style unrecognizable, but you could see different styles in it. It had a pagoda look, combined with the traditional style of the European castle, along with certain Spanish aspects. It was very beautifully decorated with all sorts of plant life. He passed the statues of past Council leaders and walked to the front desk.

"Master Yamamoto, you are here for your appointment no doubt?"

"Yes"

"Very well, go on in."

He passed by two Guardian watchmen into a large council chamber. Twelve men dressed in silver robes, much like the white robes Ryo was wearing, were the highest ranked Guardians of the Force, the twelve Councilmen. Their silver robes represented their position in the Force almost as much as their age did.

"Master Yamamoto, welcome back, you are here to discuss your mission no doubt." Said Master Lakas, the most powerful and the leader of the Guardian Council.

"I require the use of my battalion after next week." Ryo said

"Why? You know we can't launch any major operations right now. It would draw too much." Master Lee said

"Attention? I know, but I only need three squads, then I need the rest on- call."

"Again, we ask what for?" Master Shenpo inquired

"I am going to transfer Sakura and her friends to Hong Kong, with the Li clan. It has become too dangerous to keep them in Japan. Mangkukulam's followers have been attacking almost everyday since his escape."

"But is she any safer at the Li clan?" Master Abu Qwafi asked

"I believe it will be safer for them there. I have already contacted the LI clan, requesting their assistance. It will be more secure for her, since the magicians there have great power and experience."

"But the magicians of the Li clan could become corrupt, some might already have become swayed by Mangkukulam's influence and may already be on his side." Master Smith said

"Then where do you suggest we keep her? Here, at the Sanctuary? That is no more safer than in Japan. Once Mangkukulam gets wind the Clowmistress is at the home base of the Guardians I have no doubts he will launch a full scale attack. Right now, can we survive one? With several of the main armies scattered across the globe dealing with frequent attacks from Mangkukulam's forces, and only a few of the special battalions ready to go, we cannot put up any sort of good defense, not to mention a successful counter-assault. Once he gets past the Guardians he can take on the Clowmistress, a fight he will undoubtedly win. Take out two birds with one stone. With the rest of the Guardian force in disarray, and the only person that potentially has enough power to stop him gone there will nothing stopping him from taking over the world."

"Indeed, you are correct in your analysis, Master Yamamoto, I agree that the Clowmistress should be kept at the Li clan." Master Lakas said.

"But what about all the problems involved, like her schooling, and their families?" Master Gaea asked

"I have already taken care of it. They are all participating in a year long exchange program, and Syaoran and Meilin are going back home due to family problems. The school has already signed the papers, as have their parents. Sakura's family is not a problem, they are moving temporarily to Hong Kong, because of Fujitaka-san's job."

"But what about transport?" Master Raphael asked

"That is why I need my battalion involved. I will separate them into two groups. Sakura, Touya, Fujitaka, Meilin and Syaoran in one group and the rest in another. Each of these two groups will be escorted by their own squad. A third squad will be patrolling their routes, making sure it is clear. The rest of my battalion shall be on-call, ready to deploy if any problem should arise."

"Why are bringing all of them, shouldn't you only need to bring the Clowmistress?" Master Piccard asked

"My spies have reported that Mangkukulam intends to kill all of the people that had interfered, that includes her family and friends. I cannot simply leave them to be tortured then murdered."

"What about her friends' families?" Master Blackthorn said

"I have several agents watching and guarding their homes. If I find that they have become targets I will be forced to evacuate them as well."

"But why the Li clan? Why not another organization, like the Medjiah or the Mages of Dalaran?" Master Psi asked

"Sakura will feel more comfortable in the environment Li Yelan can provide. I also require the seclusion, so I can train them all properly. The Dalaran Mages, although more trustworthy than the Li clan, are in a far too open area. The Medjiah are just scary, even if they would do a better job of protecting Sakura."

"Why not keep them at your island?" Master Crystal asked

"Then the schooling problem arises."

"You have thought this out carefully Master Yamamoto." Master Schwarzkopf said

"It is my mission sir, to protect the Clowmistress and her friends at all costs. I shall accomplish it." Ryo said bowing.

"Indeed, then it is settled. You may use your battalion on this part of the mission Master Yamamoto." Master Lakas said.

"Thank you Master" Ryo replied, walking out of the chamber.

~*****~

The group of teenagers decided to hang out, down by the inland lake near Ryo's haven. The water was absolutely beautiful and crystal clear. The only problem was that none of them had brought their swimming clothes. Somehow, Tomoyo was able to find materials, enough to make the girls' swimsuits. Syaoran was able to find extra swimming clothes for the guys in Ryo's closet.

"I feel real bad nicking his clothes." Syaoran said

"But did you see the note he left us?" Shen asked

"What note?" Eriol questioned

"It said they were gifts from him, look"

Shen showed them the note left on Ryo's dresser. It read that the swimsuits were theirs to keep. It was surprising since these swimsuits were very expensive, they were purchased at Abercrombie & Fitch, Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica, and American Eagle.

"He didn't need to spend that much on us though." Yamazaki

"We might as well go downstairs and meet the girls." Syaoran said

All four of the guys traveled downstairs to meet the five girls. When they got their all of their mouths dropped to the ground. Tomoyo had, against Touya's wishes, created rather revealing bikinis for all of them. All four of them, as a result, almost fainted, and Syaoran came out with a nosebleed. Tomoyo and the girls giggled when they saw the guys' reactions.

"Yukito, Touya, Ryo left some swimsuits for you too." Syaoran said

"I'm going!! I have to make sure that gaki doesn't make a move on Sakura!!!" Touya said, dashing upstairs

"I might as well go too." Yukito said.

"I'm going to come later, bring you guys some food to eat. I want to check out his library, he told me he has some interesting articles on ancient artifacts." Fujitaka noted

The group waited For about ten minutes, until Touya and Yukito came downstairs again, dressed and ready to go.

"Have fun!! I'll be there around four!!" Fujitaka called to the retreating group.

~*****~

The group had not expected to find the lake that easily. When they did though, it was breathtaking. The sand on its shores was absolutely perfect, neither to fine nor too grainy. The water was absolutely crystal clear, and the it was beautifully complimented with a small waterfall on the west side, towards the house.

"I'm soooo envious that Ryo lives here!" Tomoyo squealed. "It's so pretty!!"

They all nodded in agreement. Yamazaki and Chiharu were the first to venture into the water, but it was only voluntary for Yamazaki, who had thrown Chiharu into the cool refreshing water. Chiharu was expecting it to be freezing, but it was the perfect temperature, cool enough that you could get used to it in a few moments.

"Come on in guys!! The water's great!!" Chiharu and Yamazaki called out.

The teenage group ventured into the water, forgetting about their troubles for a day. For one of them in their ranks however, the logistical problem of protecting the Clowmistress was getting a little stressful.

~*****~

"COMMANDER, HAVE THE SQUADS BEEN ASSEMBLED YET???" Ryo called out

"Not yet sir! The alpha squad is still getting their group together!" The commander called out.

Several veins began popping out of Ryo's head. He had called the lieutenants of his battalion squads an hour ago, requesting they assemble immediately. After five hours of preparation and planning, his stress had reached its braking point. Ryo was known for keeping a cool head, and was one of the calmer battalion commanders, but this past week had just made his head boil. When he heard that his orders hadn't been carried out yet he just exploded.

"WHAT THE HELL!!!!!!!!! I CALLED OVER AN HOUR AGO!! WHAT THE HELL DO YOU MEAN THEY ARE NOT ASSEMBLED YET???"

The commander was surprised at Ryo's outburst; none of them had ever seen him this angry.

"They should be here in about five minutes sir."

"THEY SHOULD HAVE BEEN HERE AN HOUR AGO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"I'm sorry sir it's just that."

"Once Mangkukulam finds them you damn well better be sorry!! It won't take long for him to realize what island Sakura is hidden on!!"

"SIR, The alpha squad has just arrived!"

"It's about bloody time, Okay commanders you have your orders. This operation should take no longer than one day. Any longer and Mangkukulam will notice the movement, got it?"

"SIR!" The 15 commanders said at the same time, saluting

"Good, let's move out." Ryo said

Two groups were heading towards the island, including Ryo. A third began patrolling the skies, making sure the path for the Clowmistress was clear. A fourth group was heading back to the Tomeoda airport, to pick up all of their belongings. The other eleven groups went to the Japanese Guardian base, ready to move out at Ryo's orders.

Ryo's head was just filled with thoughts.

'I hope we can get them to Hong Kong safely, before we face Mangkukulam or his stronger followers I must train Sakura.'

The large group of angel-like warriors headed towards Ryo's small island.

~*****~

'So they are transporting them to Hong Kong, away from master's home.' Unawa said, as he watched Ryo and his battalion move out.

'Smart move Guardian, excellent strategy, but you'll need to be one more step ahead to fool me'

"Death Knights!! Assemble at our Chinese fortress! Dark Gryphons! Attack at once!"

Several cloaked figures nodded and disappeared into the darkness.

"I, unlike my unfortunate brothers, like to toy with my prey before I kill them." Unawa said, as he let out an evil laugh, on that resounded into the hearts and minds of our heroes.

~*****~

The large group of teenagers, sunbathing on the sandy beach of Ryo's private island, could not help but feel a sense of foreboding. They looked at each other warily then looked to the sky, surprised at what they saw.





FINALLY!! Not what I expected, but I don't think it was that bad.tell me if you think otherwise!!!

REVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I again would like to acknowledge the support of three people, Evening Star, Zenin and Terra, all three of whom have followed my advice and REVIEWED!! Thanks!!!!

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