Do You Remember Me? I Remember You
By Rainbow Dreamer
*Dedicated to all those who have helped me in any way possible to make this story possible. If it weren't for the support of all you, I couldn't have done this. Thank you.
DISCLAIMER: I do NOT, I repeat, I do NOT own CCS. It belongs to Clamp! I think you all know though, that this story is my own and every idea is of my own. Yep.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hey! Thanks to all those that have been reviewing. I'm cutting slack here and I'll try to get the chapters updated faster. I'll make them longer to make up for being really slow at updating however. Hope it is enough to compensate. Hehe. I sound so formal here. Hehe.
Hm. I'm estimating about three more chapters including the epilogue, that is if you guys want one. I'm assuming most people do. Hehe. I love epilogues in stories. Hehe.
Up with the chapter. Oh, this one's a bit sadder and not much fluff. Some important decisions are made and most of it is told from Sakura's POV. Yep.
Rainbow Dreamer.
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Sweet Madison: Hey smiley girl~! Thanks for everything!
Keetra: Sorry, have been quite busy lately. Have a competition coming up and I need to practice. Yep. I'm glad you though the chapter was kawaii however! :)
SK: I'll update as soon as I can.
Sweet baby gurl: Thanks. And SATs? BLAH. LoL.
Idiot1988: Thanks for you compliments! I'm really glad that it was worth the wait.
Ash Night: THANKS for all those songs you gave me. I'll listen to them and who knows? Maybe I'll use your song!
Montserrat T: Sorry that I took forever for updating. Gomen. And as for if Sakura and Syaoran are together, you'll just have to read on about that.
RPG Hui: CCS fanfiction rule! LoL. I'm glad you liked it.
Cherry Princess: Arigato!
Kawaii Cherry Wolf: LOL. Thanks for the wonderful warm welcome back. Hehe. Hm? Are Syaoran and Kali broken up? Hmmmmm.....
Animefanrk2k: Hehe. Thanks for reading my story!
Usgai yf: Yeah, fanfiction always has some stupid problem. No worries. THANK YOU for all the times you reviewed but I didn't get them. Hehe. I'm just glad that you're reading.
Sakura potato: Hehe. Thanks. I'm glad that it was worth the wait. I hope this chapter is as well. And as for chapters being long? It doesn't have to be. It all comes in inspiration. It's the content that counts, not the length :)
Kan Chan: Your one guess is Kali? Hehe. I guess my love for flower meanings is spreading all to my readers (who read my other fic). Hehe.
Mysticalia: Thanks for reading my fic! I'm so glad new people are reading it. And yeah, junior year is pain in the butt. Senior year is nervous; the question of being accepted for rejected. Creepy.
Sakura Blossom: THANKS.
Cryst: Long time no see girl! I've emailed you, which reminds me to check my mail. Thanks for reviewing for all those chapters you haven't read yet. Hehe.
Cherryz Angel: Hehe. Sorry for not updating soon enough. Will try to update faster in the future because I really want everyone to keep reading this! Hehe. Glad you liked the chapter. And you had two messages? Oh dear. I wonder whom I missed.
Mystress Tate: First off, thanks for all the well-rounded review. Sorry about the confusion with hair color. And I'll try to be more descriptive; it's just that I find some descriptions like housing kind of boring. No offense of course. Thank you for your compliments as well.
DID I MISS ANYONE? THANK YOU IF YOU REVIEWED AND IF YOU'RE READING THIS.
Rainbow dreamer.
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR: Decisions
*** Sakura's POV ***
Where was I?
What had just happened?
It's so dark here, where is everyone?
Why am I alone?
Where was everyone?
The battle.
I remembered a battle in front of the Li mansion. There was another unknown person. Blue, I think.
What had happened? Where am I now? It seemed like a huge open area that vaguely seemed familiar and all was dark except for some multicolored lights in the far distance that seemed to belong to some city.
"It depends on what your definition of here is," A light female voice answered that sounded quite familiar, yet I couldn't pin point who it was exactly.
"What?" I asked out loud, whirling around to try to locate where the voice was coming from.
"You heard me," The voice replied. "You're just registrating it in your mind. Take your time, I'm not going anywhere."
I frowned. "Who are you?" I questioned, puzzled.
"Oh, I can't say that yet." The voice replied delighted. "You can just call me the little voice inside your head. I've always wanted to talk to you. You know, in a friendly way." The voice giggled. "Mind you, I'm not your consciousness though."
I had so many ideas spinning in my head that I only had the energy to say one word. "Hoe?"
The voice giggled. "Don't worry Sakura. Things were turn out okay, I promise you that."
"What are you talking about?"
"The war, battle, fight, whatever you want to call it." The voice replied kindly. "I don't like wars in general, but since it came to you, I guess it's inevitable."
"War?" I heard my voice squeak at the word.
"Yes, Sakura. The war." The person or whatever was talking to me, paused for a bit. "Believe in yourself, Sakura."
"Believe in myself?" I heard my voice crack with uncertainty.
"You're going to make choices in your life that is going to make all the difference. You have to believe in yourself that what you have chosen is what you really want." The voice explained, seriously. There was no trace of laughter the voice had before. "This battle is different from all the others you've fought with the cards. No, this one is more like a test, not like the one Yue gave you, but your own. If this is going to be only yours or with others, that all depends on what you choose."
"What choices are you talking about?" I cried out, wanting to know.
"You have to follow your heart," The voice sternly told me. "Promise me you will." The voice continued as it slowly faded off into the darkness I was surrounded in.
"Wait!" I yelled, bolting from the bed, panting hard. I felt sweat drops sliding down my forehead.
"Sakura?" Tomoyo's worried face immediately was in my view. "Are you okay?" She asked, wrapping an arm around me. She used a handkerchief and wiped the sweat from my head.
I was shaking hard and seeing my own hand shake that hard made me scared. "I had a dream, at least I thought it was," I whispered in a small voice.
"Drink some tea," My best friend urged gently, pushing a mug of steaming tea into my cold shaking hands. I slowly wrapped my fingers around the warmness. She watched me carefully as I sipped, warming up with each gulp.
"Better?" Tomoyo asked, smiling at me. I smiled back feebly and nodded.
"Arigato, Tomoyo." I whispered.
"Anytime. What are best friends for?" She responded, hugging me tightly. "Now, you might want to talk to Eriol about the dream though," She suggested. "Should I call him?"
I laughed. "You two really were meant to be together,"
Tomoyo blushed. "Yeah, but you and Syaoran are perfect together."
I shrugged and looked at my empty mug. "I don't know, Tomoyo. I used to think that all the time," I confessed. "But maybe we're meant to be just friends. Jiang isn't a bad person."
Tomoyo looked at me, not knowing what to say. "Sakura, if Eriol ever ran off with another lass, I don't know what I would do," She started. "I don't think I'd ever settle with the fact that we'd be just friends."
I giggled. "Never thought you'd be so violent, Tomoyo. I remember you used to tell me that all you wanted was the person you loved to be happy. I admired you so much for it then."
"That's so long ago; I was in fourth grade, what did I know?" Tomoyo gave me a lopsided smile. "But it's because I love Eriol, Sakura-Chan. And you love Syaoran. Aren't you going to fight him back into your arms?"
I didn't know what to say. I didn't dare meeting Tomoyo's amethyst eyes, for I knew I would probably break down crying. I needed to be strong now and as they say, time heals all things. "But then, that's just me," Tomoyo amended, patting my shoulder comfortably. "I'll call Eriol and you can tell him this dream of yours, okay?" She looked me in the eye when she said it.
I nodded, meeting her eyes briefly. Tomoyo gave me one more worried glance before walking out to find Eriol. I was so in deep of thought of what the voice had told me and what Tomoyo had told me that I didn't even hear Eriol come in the room. He simply sat down in the chair Tomoyo had and waited for me to come out from my thinking.
I blinked when I saw him finally. "Eriol?" I asked.
He grinned. "Ready to tell me now? The others are getting quite worried, especially Touya who is about to kill Syaoran for not knowing anything. "
I smiled wryly at his words. When would Touya ever forgive him? "It was about the dream." I started to explain, trying to picture everything that had happened.
Eriol's face was serious yet calm when I finished. "All that you can do know is follow her advice, and it is quite good advice you know."
"I know that!" I protested, exasperated, tossing my arms into the air." But what war is she talking about?"
"The war we are in the middle of. After you were hit unconscious, I teleported everyone to inside the Li mansion. A barrier of magic surrounds the mansion currently, keeping those who have attacked us from getting in," he explained lightly to me, knowing I was upset.
"What? Why didn't you tell me earlier?" I demanded furiously, struggling to get out of bed. This whole battle was because of me. I didn't want ANY one hurt more than they were.
"Is anyone hurt?" I cried desperately. "How is Kero?"
Eriol smiled lightly, pushing his glasses back on his nose. "Iie. Kero is quite fine. I fixed his wounds and as we talk he is eating his heart's desire of strawberry shortcake."
I knew he was trying to cheer up but I felt so depressed. I was harming everyone around me. I didn't know what they wanted and it made me feel so useless. And I fainted! I should have been more careful!
"Don't blame yourself. We're all involved in this because we're your friends and we love you." My friend scolded lightly. When he saw my eyes widen from surprise, he continued, "You still need to rest, Sakura." Eriol commanded, gently pushing me back in bed. "You are the only one who can defeat them, yet you must not do this alone. You have to believe in yourself like the voice said and follow your heart. I can't give any better advice than that."
I frowned stubbornly. I had more questions I wanted to ask. "Good, sleep now." Eriol cut in before I could ask any more question. "Questions later, okay?" He knew me too well. Standing up, he tucked me in kindly. "Sweet dreams." I watched him walk out quietly and shut the door behind him.
When I woke up from a dreamless state, I felt much better despite the fact that the sleep was quite dull. I tried to get up but I felt someone near me. Looking to my left I saw Syaoran sleeping in his chair with his head on the bed. In his right hand clutched his pendant that turned into a sword. I smiled seeing this and gently wrapped a blanket around him. I just sat there and looked at him, admiring his innocent sweet face as he slept like an angel.
Then Tomoyo's words played in my head again. "Aren't you going to fight him back into your arms?" I frowned, wondering.
Syaoran stirred lightly and woke up to my frown on my face. "Sakura?" He asked lightly.
I blinked and quickly smiled. I was just thinking."
Syaoran frowned suspiciously, but didn't question me any further. "Eriol told me about your dream." He stated. I looked at him, wondering what he was going to say. "Are you ready to battle again?"
He looked me in the eye when he said it. I met those eyes with difficulty. "I don't know," I confessed. "The voice told me that this fight was unlike every other and it was more of a test. She said that I had to choose to battle myself or with others."
"And your choice is?" He prompted.
I shrugged, my eyes watering. I stubbornly decided to not let them fall. I would not cry in front of Syaoran. I had to be strong. Who else could defeat this evil? I really did not want anyone else involved in this battle. Wasn't it bad enough that I failed the first time?
"You don't have to put all the fight on your shoulders Sakura. I'll always fight with you. We're partners, remember?" Syaoran's voice stated. I looked at him with blurry eyes and before he could react or what I knew I was doing, I threw myself into his arms and the tears started to pour. He was surprised at first, but he slowly wrapped his arms around me. I wanted to feel his arms around me once last time, to show me how much he cared. I don't have much time left.
"Here, dry your tears. I don't want your Oniichan to see you in tears or else he'd threaten to kill me for making you cry," He teased softly. I smiled through my tears and took the handkerchief he was offering. I stared at the blue tattered cloth and I could feel my tears start to well up again. Syaoran saw and gently closed my fingers around the cloth.
"I ...... I want you to have this back." He started, not looking at my eyes. "I don't want to see you cry." A faint blush stole upon his cheeks.
I bit my lip and nodded, wiping my tears with the soft cloth. "Arigato, Syaoran." He nodded and stood up.
"I'll call Meiling or Tomoyo in with some hot tea and food okay?" He put his pendant away. I smiled weakly. "Don't cry." He told me once more before walking out the room.
Meiling was the one who came to see me. She pounced on me and almost suffocated me with a huge hug. "I'm so happy you're all right, Sakura!" She declared. "I was so worried when I saw you unconscious." Then she giggled. "Your brother almost died of a heart attack when he saw it was Syaoran holding you. He walked over to him and demanded you back. What could poor Syaoran do? Touya carried you to this room himself."
I laughed lightly. She saw the cloth in my hands and she turned her soft ruby eyes on me. "What have you decided?" She asked.
I shrugged. "I don't know. I do want him to be happy, you know Meiling."
Meiling nodded. "Yeah I know that." She said bluntly. "Do you really think he's happy without you? Think about it Sakura. You love him!"
"I know that." I echoed. "But he doesn't love me back. He loves Jiang and, and maybe I'm willing to leave it that way." I whispered, getting teary eyed.
"Are you?" My friend asked me worriedly. Then she smiled. "I won't pester you any more about him. You can think and choose on your own." She offered me a bowl of warm soup, which I gratefully took. "Eat and rest. The battle is still happening, Sakura."
I could only nod to that. I was certain of my choice now. I didn't want to lose any of my friends. They were so sweet and caring to me.
Tomoyo, my best friend from fourth grade. Her sweet disposition that always managed to support to me through my up and downs. Her camera filming obsessions. Her word: Kawaii. That angelic voice of hers always made the worst days sunny. Those clothes she stitches all by herself makes me feel so special when I wear them.
I would never be able to live without her.
Meiling, my greatest Chinese friend ever. The way she talks in that sarcastic and witty manner makes everything so lively around her. Those sparkling ruby eyes twinkling when she's up to mischief. The way she's willing to sacrifice anything to support her friends amazes me.
I care so much about her.
Kero, my faithful guardian and best friend that's always nearby. Those sweet dotted eyes and voice begging for more food. His crazy love for Nintendo and admiring how handsome he is when he turns back into his real form.
I can never part from that yellow "stuffed animal."
Yue/ Yukito, my first crush. He's like a second brother to me and I can tell from those light blue eyes how much he enjoys me being his mistress even though I'll never replace Clow.
I'll miss his kindness.
Touya, my one and only brother. He's so protective of me, but I love him so much. The way he calls me "kaijuu," and the way I stomp on his foot is like a ritual, a tradition. He takes care of me so much.
I'll never forget him.
Eriol, my wise friend. He knows me so well and knows exactly what to say to comfort me. Those glasses conceal those twinkling eyes that shine so much for Tomoyo. He taught her to be strong.
I would hate to see him gone.
Otosan, who played both roles of the parents. His constant smiles and thorough support and loving care for me is endless and I don't know how much I'd cry if he, too, were to be part of this war I'm in.
I love him for the great parent he is.
Chiharu, Yamazaki, Rika, Naoko and every single one of my best friends. I love how they're such great friends. I'll remember all of those silly lies Yamazaki told me in elementary and the ones he still says. And Chiharu for her constant laughter with him. Rika, her smart and pleasant personality. Naoko for her love of ghost stories.
I can't bear to throw away such good friends.
Wei, who was always quite patient with me. He was the one who helped me to realize how much I loved Syaoran. Those "accidental" meets in the streets and treating me to tea were not so accidental now that I think of it. He was helping me all along to realize that I love Syaoran.
I'll remember those comforting words he always gave.
And Syaoran, the one perhaps that I love most in that special way. He carries that special place in my heart. Those quick smiles that he shows just for me. Those sweet autumn orbs that twinkle with life every time he laughs. Those simple words that make it all the difference for me. Those warm embraces that make my heart all fluttery. The love he gave and the love I have for him. I know that my feelings will never end for him.
I love him and I always will. Aishertu.
That's why I have to face this battle by myself. I don't want anyone to be hurt. This isn't like those past battles where actually, maybe no real harm would come to them. I don't want to see their pained expressions. I don't want them to worry for me. I don't want to make them cry. But most of all, I don't want them to die.
Because I love them all too much.
Perhaps this is why I'm leaving. No one is on duty watching me currently and I have to go when I can. I don't want them to stop me for I know if I stay any longer my strong looks will collapse and I won't be able to protect them.
I open the large windowpanes quietly. A slight breeze blows in and the sparkling stars above somehow give me some comfort. I close my eyes and call out mirror to pretend that I'm still here. When she comes out, she gives me a shaky smile and hugs me tightly. I then call out fly and wings like an angel's sprout out on my back. I smile to mirror and soar into the midnight sky.
*** Third POV ***
Mirror walks back to the bed and gets in, but she's smiling towards to the closed door. Eriol leans on the door, a small smile playing on his lips. He knew Sakura would be leaving by herself, it was expected with her personality that others come before she does. He took off his glasses and cleaned them before opening the door and entering.
"Hello, mirror." He greeted with a small smile.
Mirror smiles. "I thought I felt someone." She replied.
Eriol grins. "Sakura's left?" He asked as goes up to the window and shuts it tightly, latching it. Mirror just nodded, not knowing what to do. "I should tell everyone then. You know we can't just sit here and let her go by herself."
Mirror sighed and nodded. "You should turn back into your card form though. Sakura may be needing you."
"But," Mirror started to protest. It was her mistress's order; she could not disobey even if it was the recarnation of Clow Reed.
Eriol smiled lightly. "Oh, right. Your mission." Eriol rubbed his temple. "Then you might as well stay here and tell us if anything happens here. The rest of us shall be going now."
"Be careful and watch over out mistress for us." Mirror asked. Eriol smiled and promised he would before walking out the door again.
"NANI?" Meiling shouted. "SHE LEFT?" After Eriol told them that Sakura left.
"Why?" Tomoyo cried. "Why couldn't she tell us?"
"She doesn't want any of us hurt. You know Sakura. Those she care come before she does." Syaoran answered bitterly for not noticing it sooner. "Dam." He cursed, punching the wall and making a few cracks. Touya was observing him quietly. He knew that this gak--, um Li, cared for is sister. But he didn't want to give her away. Not yet.
"Yue, we're going." Cerberus told the moon guardian. "We're her guardians." Yue nodded and the two prepared to fly off.
"I'm going too." Syaoran stated bluntly and forcefully. Cerberus looked at him hard for a while and nodded. Syaoran slid onto Cerberus's back.
"Me too!" Tomoyo and Meiling cried. But when the two guardians did not reply, they turned their attention to Eriol. Eriol's face was grim and serious.
"You know that this is dangerous, that's why Sakura left by herself. She, too, knows this is unlike any other battle. These people aren't just going for Sakura you know. They will attack anyone that will weaken Sakura. Before, the cards only had interest of Sakura and Syaoran because of their magic. This is different." He said seriously. There was no trace of a smile in those deep dark eyes of his. Tomoyo shuddered to see him so serious.
"We know that." Surprisingly it was Touya who spoke up. "I care for Sakura and I too want to be there." He paused and looked at Tomoyo and Meiling. "But I don't want to hinder Sakura." His expression was serious and pained as he admitted that he might hurt Sakura in the process of protecting her this time. He had promised Okaasan to watch over Sakura but this time he would have to ask her to watch over Sakura.
"He's right, Tomoyo dear." Eriol spoke gently, not wanting to hurt the person he loved most in the world. "Sakura's strong; she's the card mistress." He tried to comfort.
"But how will I know you'll be all right?" His girlfriend cried desperately. She was on the verge on crying yet she held them back. She didn't want to act all weak in front of everyone who, also like her, was worried. "I'm worried for all of you!" She didn't meet his gaze. "I love you," She whispered silently, looking at the wood floor, a tear making its slow path down her cheek.
Eriol placed a finger under her chin and forced her to look him in the eye. Then he reached out a hand and gently brushed the tear away. "Tomoyo, I promise I'll do my best to come back alive to you. I love you, Tomoyo. But I worry for Sakura, for she is by herself. We all know we can't live without her."
Tomoyo bit her lip from letting more tears flow down her cheeks. "You promise?" her voice cracking with vulnerability.
Eriol smiled softly. "I promise, sweetness." He kissed her softly and briefly on the lips. Then he turned towards Meiling.
"I know, I know!" Meiling cried, her arms crossed. "I'll stay here and kick any butt that cross my lines."
This made Eriol and Syaoran grin. "Watch yourself," Syaoran warned. "You are my favorite cousin, after all."
Meiling laughed. "NOW I'm you favorite cousin, eh?" She joked. "What are you waiting for? Sakura needs your help, now get before I kick all your butts!" She demanded crossly.
Her friends laughed lightly, yet it wasn't a happy cheerful laugh. Instead it was empty and full of worry. Worry for Sakura and their own futures. They didn't know what was happening or what was in store for them. All they knew was that they had to help Sakura and defeat this evil. How they did not know.
But they would solve that. They were friends. And friends did things for each other and nothing was going to change that.
*** Sakura, her POV ***
I knew they knew by now that they knew I was gone. Having mirror there pretending to me I knew, was only to get me some time. I knew Eriol was bound to notice, if not sooner or later. And the others would as well.
But I had a head start and that was all I wanted. I sighed and placed a hand in my pocket where my cards were and they gave me some comfort that I wasn't facing this all by myself. Below, the bustling city of Hong Kong seemed so lively, so happy that they were totally unaware with the fact that a danger was lurking in more hidden shadow.
I flew high up, feeling a rush as I swept through the hazy clouds and felt the magical aurora getting stronger. Some how it seemed different to the two I encountered the other day. This one seemed harsh and angry. This one was the real danger I knew. The two were probably helpers or something. I winced; this was going to be a bloody long battle.
I flew down lightly to an open plain behind the noisy city of Hong Kong. Fly turned back into its card form and flew back to me. Just as I caught it, a strong rush of wings blew at me. I shielded my eyes to see what was coming.
It was big.
Black.
Powerful.
And dreadfully bad.
I was starting to loose all confidence that I had of myself. But still, I held my staff in fighting position though it was wavering. I closed my eyes from fear, but when I opened again my hands were no longer shaking.
"So you've come alone in the end, mistress." The voice stated icily. "I was planning to have more fun, but if this is your choice, I'll end you off quickly and head for the Li mansion."
"Stay away from them!" I yelled, challenging this huge shape that I couldn't see. All I was blackness.
Blackness.
This was like my dream. The sparkling lights were in the distance just like I pictured.
"I always admired girls to be feisty. More fun." The voice replied smoothly, giving my goose bumps on my arms.
What was going to happen next?
The voice did not say anything about this.
If it was like my dream, where was the voice?
Why was the evil here?
I shook my head from the thoughts. I couldn't think of these now. All I could do now is fight till the end and I've promised to myself I'd conquer this evil for all those I love and want to protect.
Kami help me, I prayed. Okaasan, watch over me.
"Light!" I summoned, tossing the card into the air. Light came out and shinned everything with a soft pearly glow. I could not see the evil, yet I could picture it vaguely.
What I saw made me cringe. It was a panther of some sort with black ebony glassy eyes that were blazing with fire and the desire to kill. It grinned, barring its sharp teeth. "I'm told that I'm quite handsome, don't you agree?" The panther asked.
I started to take a step back. "Don't leave yet, card mistress. The fun's just about to begin." Again it smiled, but this time it made its move.
Suddenly a black cloud enveloped around him and from the shadow, I could make out an image of a tall man.
It was a tall man with midnight black hair with those same lustful eyes. In his hands laid a staff that had a panther design etched on it. His clothes were black and easy to move in and blended easily into the background of his surroundings.
"Where are the rest of you?" I asked, my eyes darting around to see two more figures. "That girl and guy of yours?" I demanded.
To my surprise, the man laughed, yet the laughter contained no happiness. It was a hollow laugh and made me shiver from the creepy sound that echoed in my ears. "I have none, little princess. I work alone to seek revenge that is ultimately mine in the first place."
His answer through me off guard and I wondered who those two were. "Enough questions. You're blocking my way." The man's voice was no longer conscendingly arrogant but down right commanding and powerful.
"No." I replied, my firm voice surprising myself.
"If that's what you wish, don't tell me that I didn't give you a chance." The man replied and uttered a spell under his breath. I rose my staff in a blocking position now, all my senses alert of what was to come.
It came so fast that I almost had no time to react. Ghost like creatures in the shape of panthers came rushing out from the staff, charging at me. I immediately called upon shield to my aid. The ghosts attacked the shield merciless and I could feel the shield weakening against the strong power. Yet I knew not to take the shield back like my other encounter. I would have been dead if not for Syaoran and I had been foolish to play with my life.
"Sakura, damnit, do you always have to run off by yourself?" A familiar voice scolded. "It took me forever to locate your aurora." I smiled lightly at the masculine voice.
"Gomen Syaoran." I apologized with a sheepish grin as he walked up from behind me and strengthened the barrier. It turned to see Kero, Yue, and Eriol all with him to help. "Arigato, you guys."
"Ah! How touching the power of friendship." The man loudly told, calling back his ghosts. Sakura took down her shield. "Believe me, I did have friends once."
Syaoran snorted in contempt. "Do not cross me, Li Xiao Lang." He voice threatened. Syaoran looked at the man in the eye.
"Who are you?"
"Have you forgotten me? It really hasn't been that long ago." The evil replied in mock hurt.
Suddenly Syaoran clapped, in a mocking way. "Oh, now I remember you Panther. It really was quite a long ago."
"Do not mock me!" The voice demanded. "I was much stronger than you, yet the council chose you instead. And to make you win, you all did the worst thing alive."
"King's death was an accident that night, we told you. The Elders were trying to convince him to let me become leader. King wouldn't hear of it so the Elders left. They couldn't stop him from jumping in front of the car and killing himself."
"That's the sweet innocent version, Li! I know that you guys pushed him there." Panther's voice screeched. "He came to me in a dream that night and told me everything. You guys were plotting to kill him in the first place so that no one would dare go against you being leader!"
"Syaoran, what is this all about?" Eriol asked wisely when the two had stopped fighting.
"This is Panther, the other one who was suggested to be the leader of the clan I told you about. His death of his friend, King, obviously has made him so full of vengeance." He replied simply.
"Do NOT insult him!" Panther screamed, attacking full force on Syaoran with his ghouls, galloping on full speed, much faster than when he attacked Sakura.
I frantically called out shield to protect him, but I knew I was much too slow. I watched fearfully as Syaoran did not even dodge at the ghosts coming towards him.
"Stop this." Eriol growled, stepping in front of Syaoran calmly with this staff raised and stopped the ghouls from attacking. Panther glared and called the ghouls back yet they glided around him. "What do you want?"
Panther laughed crazily. "What do I want?" he repeated. "What do I want?"
Eriol met this gaze squarely. "I ruin your lives as you have done to mine. Li you know that I'm just as qualified as you are for leader. But no! I'm not a direct son of Li and thus I was cast out like my family was nothing! Curse you!"
"You're nothing," Syaoran spat furiously.
"Syaoran!" I cried, shocked.
"Curse you for eternity!" Panther roared, calling upon his greatest power and aimed it at Syaoran.
*** THIRD POV***
It was like everything was going at slow motion and there was no sound. Only movements.
A huge panther sprinting towards Syaoran with a sense of killing.
Kero and Yue dashing over to protect him, crying their battle cries.
Eriol spinning around on his heels as the panther dashed past him.
Syaoran's wide eyes in shock as he raised his sword as to find some way to protect himself.
Sakura was brining out her shield card once more and hitting upon it in hopes to protect him.
The man was laughing manically that he had won. He had gotten his revenge.
Syaoran looked at Sakura fearfully, his expression sad and mournful. He mouthed, "Gomen" at her.
Then suddenly as if someone turned off the mute button, sound came blaring back. Things were moving in regular pacing once more.
"SYAORAN!" Sakura screamed, running over to him, but could not for someone was holding her back.
It was a girl. Familiar. "Don't Sakura," The voice pleaded. I turned to meet Kali in the eye.
"KALI?" I shrieked. I spun around to see that Ryoko had blocked the panther from harming Syaoran.
But what scared me was that he had magic.
And it was orange.
*** CLIFFHANGER! Okay, I'm evil. I just haven't had a cliffhanger in so long, so I decided to have one.
So, the two have been revealed. One is Ryoko and the other is Kali. SURPRISE, SURPRISE eh? Hehe. No, really, were you guys surprised? Okay, maybe it's just me. LOL.
Review, I want to know how this chapter was. I know my description skills suck when it comes to battles, so forgive me. I tried my best. The panther guy was a little weird, not what I was planning actually. It just came out. But does it make sense? I know it's a bit weird and all that.
Hope this was a good chapter however! I'll try my best at updating soon, but don't expect one really soon. SORRY FOR THE INCONVIENCE.
REVIEW, PLEASE! *puppy eyes.* LOL.
Rainbow dreamer.
By Rainbow Dreamer
*Dedicated to all those who have helped me in any way possible to make this story possible. If it weren't for the support of all you, I couldn't have done this. Thank you.
DISCLAIMER: I do NOT, I repeat, I do NOT own CCS. It belongs to Clamp! I think you all know though, that this story is my own and every idea is of my own. Yep.
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Hey! Thanks to all those that have been reviewing. I'm cutting slack here and I'll try to get the chapters updated faster. I'll make them longer to make up for being really slow at updating however. Hope it is enough to compensate. Hehe. I sound so formal here. Hehe.
Hm. I'm estimating about three more chapters including the epilogue, that is if you guys want one. I'm assuming most people do. Hehe. I love epilogues in stories. Hehe.
Up with the chapter. Oh, this one's a bit sadder and not much fluff. Some important decisions are made and most of it is told from Sakura's POV. Yep.
Rainbow Dreamer.
IF YOU REVIEWED FOR THE LAST CHAPTER, LOOK FOR YOUR NAME UNDER SPECIAL THANKS BELOW!
SPECIAL THANKS TO: Sweet Madison: Hey smiley girl~! Thanks for everything!
Keetra: Sorry, have been quite busy lately. Have a competition coming up and I need to practice. Yep. I'm glad you though the chapter was kawaii however! :)
SK: I'll update as soon as I can.
Sweet baby gurl: Thanks. And SATs? BLAH. LoL.
Idiot1988: Thanks for you compliments! I'm really glad that it was worth the wait.
Ash Night: THANKS for all those songs you gave me. I'll listen to them and who knows? Maybe I'll use your song!
Montserrat T: Sorry that I took forever for updating. Gomen. And as for if Sakura and Syaoran are together, you'll just have to read on about that.
RPG Hui: CCS fanfiction rule! LoL. I'm glad you liked it.
Cherry Princess: Arigato!
Kawaii Cherry Wolf: LOL. Thanks for the wonderful warm welcome back. Hehe. Hm? Are Syaoran and Kali broken up? Hmmmmm.....
Animefanrk2k: Hehe. Thanks for reading my story!
Usgai yf: Yeah, fanfiction always has some stupid problem. No worries. THANK YOU for all the times you reviewed but I didn't get them. Hehe. I'm just glad that you're reading.
Sakura potato: Hehe. Thanks. I'm glad that it was worth the wait. I hope this chapter is as well. And as for chapters being long? It doesn't have to be. It all comes in inspiration. It's the content that counts, not the length :)
Kan Chan: Your one guess is Kali? Hehe. I guess my love for flower meanings is spreading all to my readers (who read my other fic). Hehe.
Mysticalia: Thanks for reading my fic! I'm so glad new people are reading it. And yeah, junior year is pain in the butt. Senior year is nervous; the question of being accepted for rejected. Creepy.
Sakura Blossom: THANKS.
Cryst: Long time no see girl! I've emailed you, which reminds me to check my mail. Thanks for reviewing for all those chapters you haven't read yet. Hehe.
Cherryz Angel: Hehe. Sorry for not updating soon enough. Will try to update faster in the future because I really want everyone to keep reading this! Hehe. Glad you liked the chapter. And you had two messages? Oh dear. I wonder whom I missed.
Mystress Tate: First off, thanks for all the well-rounded review. Sorry about the confusion with hair color. And I'll try to be more descriptive; it's just that I find some descriptions like housing kind of boring. No offense of course. Thank you for your compliments as well.
DID I MISS ANYONE? THANK YOU IF YOU REVIEWED AND IF YOU'RE READING THIS.
Rainbow dreamer.
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR: Decisions
*** Sakura's POV ***
Where was I?
What had just happened?
It's so dark here, where is everyone?
Why am I alone?
Where was everyone?
The battle.
I remembered a battle in front of the Li mansion. There was another unknown person. Blue, I think.
What had happened? Where am I now? It seemed like a huge open area that vaguely seemed familiar and all was dark except for some multicolored lights in the far distance that seemed to belong to some city.
"It depends on what your definition of here is," A light female voice answered that sounded quite familiar, yet I couldn't pin point who it was exactly.
"What?" I asked out loud, whirling around to try to locate where the voice was coming from.
"You heard me," The voice replied. "You're just registrating it in your mind. Take your time, I'm not going anywhere."
I frowned. "Who are you?" I questioned, puzzled.
"Oh, I can't say that yet." The voice replied delighted. "You can just call me the little voice inside your head. I've always wanted to talk to you. You know, in a friendly way." The voice giggled. "Mind you, I'm not your consciousness though."
I had so many ideas spinning in my head that I only had the energy to say one word. "Hoe?"
The voice giggled. "Don't worry Sakura. Things were turn out okay, I promise you that."
"What are you talking about?"
"The war, battle, fight, whatever you want to call it." The voice replied kindly. "I don't like wars in general, but since it came to you, I guess it's inevitable."
"War?" I heard my voice squeak at the word.
"Yes, Sakura. The war." The person or whatever was talking to me, paused for a bit. "Believe in yourself, Sakura."
"Believe in myself?" I heard my voice crack with uncertainty.
"You're going to make choices in your life that is going to make all the difference. You have to believe in yourself that what you have chosen is what you really want." The voice explained, seriously. There was no trace of laughter the voice had before. "This battle is different from all the others you've fought with the cards. No, this one is more like a test, not like the one Yue gave you, but your own. If this is going to be only yours or with others, that all depends on what you choose."
"What choices are you talking about?" I cried out, wanting to know.
"You have to follow your heart," The voice sternly told me. "Promise me you will." The voice continued as it slowly faded off into the darkness I was surrounded in.
"Wait!" I yelled, bolting from the bed, panting hard. I felt sweat drops sliding down my forehead.
"Sakura?" Tomoyo's worried face immediately was in my view. "Are you okay?" She asked, wrapping an arm around me. She used a handkerchief and wiped the sweat from my head.
I was shaking hard and seeing my own hand shake that hard made me scared. "I had a dream, at least I thought it was," I whispered in a small voice.
"Drink some tea," My best friend urged gently, pushing a mug of steaming tea into my cold shaking hands. I slowly wrapped my fingers around the warmness. She watched me carefully as I sipped, warming up with each gulp.
"Better?" Tomoyo asked, smiling at me. I smiled back feebly and nodded.
"Arigato, Tomoyo." I whispered.
"Anytime. What are best friends for?" She responded, hugging me tightly. "Now, you might want to talk to Eriol about the dream though," She suggested. "Should I call him?"
I laughed. "You two really were meant to be together,"
Tomoyo blushed. "Yeah, but you and Syaoran are perfect together."
I shrugged and looked at my empty mug. "I don't know, Tomoyo. I used to think that all the time," I confessed. "But maybe we're meant to be just friends. Jiang isn't a bad person."
Tomoyo looked at me, not knowing what to say. "Sakura, if Eriol ever ran off with another lass, I don't know what I would do," She started. "I don't think I'd ever settle with the fact that we'd be just friends."
I giggled. "Never thought you'd be so violent, Tomoyo. I remember you used to tell me that all you wanted was the person you loved to be happy. I admired you so much for it then."
"That's so long ago; I was in fourth grade, what did I know?" Tomoyo gave me a lopsided smile. "But it's because I love Eriol, Sakura-Chan. And you love Syaoran. Aren't you going to fight him back into your arms?"
I didn't know what to say. I didn't dare meeting Tomoyo's amethyst eyes, for I knew I would probably break down crying. I needed to be strong now and as they say, time heals all things. "But then, that's just me," Tomoyo amended, patting my shoulder comfortably. "I'll call Eriol and you can tell him this dream of yours, okay?" She looked me in the eye when she said it.
I nodded, meeting her eyes briefly. Tomoyo gave me one more worried glance before walking out to find Eriol. I was so in deep of thought of what the voice had told me and what Tomoyo had told me that I didn't even hear Eriol come in the room. He simply sat down in the chair Tomoyo had and waited for me to come out from my thinking.
I blinked when I saw him finally. "Eriol?" I asked.
He grinned. "Ready to tell me now? The others are getting quite worried, especially Touya who is about to kill Syaoran for not knowing anything. "
I smiled wryly at his words. When would Touya ever forgive him? "It was about the dream." I started to explain, trying to picture everything that had happened.
Eriol's face was serious yet calm when I finished. "All that you can do know is follow her advice, and it is quite good advice you know."
"I know that!" I protested, exasperated, tossing my arms into the air." But what war is she talking about?"
"The war we are in the middle of. After you were hit unconscious, I teleported everyone to inside the Li mansion. A barrier of magic surrounds the mansion currently, keeping those who have attacked us from getting in," he explained lightly to me, knowing I was upset.
"What? Why didn't you tell me earlier?" I demanded furiously, struggling to get out of bed. This whole battle was because of me. I didn't want ANY one hurt more than they were.
"Is anyone hurt?" I cried desperately. "How is Kero?"
Eriol smiled lightly, pushing his glasses back on his nose. "Iie. Kero is quite fine. I fixed his wounds and as we talk he is eating his heart's desire of strawberry shortcake."
I knew he was trying to cheer up but I felt so depressed. I was harming everyone around me. I didn't know what they wanted and it made me feel so useless. And I fainted! I should have been more careful!
"Don't blame yourself. We're all involved in this because we're your friends and we love you." My friend scolded lightly. When he saw my eyes widen from surprise, he continued, "You still need to rest, Sakura." Eriol commanded, gently pushing me back in bed. "You are the only one who can defeat them, yet you must not do this alone. You have to believe in yourself like the voice said and follow your heart. I can't give any better advice than that."
I frowned stubbornly. I had more questions I wanted to ask. "Good, sleep now." Eriol cut in before I could ask any more question. "Questions later, okay?" He knew me too well. Standing up, he tucked me in kindly. "Sweet dreams." I watched him walk out quietly and shut the door behind him.
When I woke up from a dreamless state, I felt much better despite the fact that the sleep was quite dull. I tried to get up but I felt someone near me. Looking to my left I saw Syaoran sleeping in his chair with his head on the bed. In his right hand clutched his pendant that turned into a sword. I smiled seeing this and gently wrapped a blanket around him. I just sat there and looked at him, admiring his innocent sweet face as he slept like an angel.
Then Tomoyo's words played in my head again. "Aren't you going to fight him back into your arms?" I frowned, wondering.
Syaoran stirred lightly and woke up to my frown on my face. "Sakura?" He asked lightly.
I blinked and quickly smiled. I was just thinking."
Syaoran frowned suspiciously, but didn't question me any further. "Eriol told me about your dream." He stated. I looked at him, wondering what he was going to say. "Are you ready to battle again?"
He looked me in the eye when he said it. I met those eyes with difficulty. "I don't know," I confessed. "The voice told me that this fight was unlike every other and it was more of a test. She said that I had to choose to battle myself or with others."
"And your choice is?" He prompted.
I shrugged, my eyes watering. I stubbornly decided to not let them fall. I would not cry in front of Syaoran. I had to be strong. Who else could defeat this evil? I really did not want anyone else involved in this battle. Wasn't it bad enough that I failed the first time?
"You don't have to put all the fight on your shoulders Sakura. I'll always fight with you. We're partners, remember?" Syaoran's voice stated. I looked at him with blurry eyes and before he could react or what I knew I was doing, I threw myself into his arms and the tears started to pour. He was surprised at first, but he slowly wrapped his arms around me. I wanted to feel his arms around me once last time, to show me how much he cared. I don't have much time left.
"Here, dry your tears. I don't want your Oniichan to see you in tears or else he'd threaten to kill me for making you cry," He teased softly. I smiled through my tears and took the handkerchief he was offering. I stared at the blue tattered cloth and I could feel my tears start to well up again. Syaoran saw and gently closed my fingers around the cloth.
"I ...... I want you to have this back." He started, not looking at my eyes. "I don't want to see you cry." A faint blush stole upon his cheeks.
I bit my lip and nodded, wiping my tears with the soft cloth. "Arigato, Syaoran." He nodded and stood up.
"I'll call Meiling or Tomoyo in with some hot tea and food okay?" He put his pendant away. I smiled weakly. "Don't cry." He told me once more before walking out the room.
Meiling was the one who came to see me. She pounced on me and almost suffocated me with a huge hug. "I'm so happy you're all right, Sakura!" She declared. "I was so worried when I saw you unconscious." Then she giggled. "Your brother almost died of a heart attack when he saw it was Syaoran holding you. He walked over to him and demanded you back. What could poor Syaoran do? Touya carried you to this room himself."
I laughed lightly. She saw the cloth in my hands and she turned her soft ruby eyes on me. "What have you decided?" She asked.
I shrugged. "I don't know. I do want him to be happy, you know Meiling."
Meiling nodded. "Yeah I know that." She said bluntly. "Do you really think he's happy without you? Think about it Sakura. You love him!"
"I know that." I echoed. "But he doesn't love me back. He loves Jiang and, and maybe I'm willing to leave it that way." I whispered, getting teary eyed.
"Are you?" My friend asked me worriedly. Then she smiled. "I won't pester you any more about him. You can think and choose on your own." She offered me a bowl of warm soup, which I gratefully took. "Eat and rest. The battle is still happening, Sakura."
I could only nod to that. I was certain of my choice now. I didn't want to lose any of my friends. They were so sweet and caring to me.
Tomoyo, my best friend from fourth grade. Her sweet disposition that always managed to support to me through my up and downs. Her camera filming obsessions. Her word: Kawaii. That angelic voice of hers always made the worst days sunny. Those clothes she stitches all by herself makes me feel so special when I wear them.
I would never be able to live without her.
Meiling, my greatest Chinese friend ever. The way she talks in that sarcastic and witty manner makes everything so lively around her. Those sparkling ruby eyes twinkling when she's up to mischief. The way she's willing to sacrifice anything to support her friends amazes me.
I care so much about her.
Kero, my faithful guardian and best friend that's always nearby. Those sweet dotted eyes and voice begging for more food. His crazy love for Nintendo and admiring how handsome he is when he turns back into his real form.
I can never part from that yellow "stuffed animal."
Yue/ Yukito, my first crush. He's like a second brother to me and I can tell from those light blue eyes how much he enjoys me being his mistress even though I'll never replace Clow.
I'll miss his kindness.
Touya, my one and only brother. He's so protective of me, but I love him so much. The way he calls me "kaijuu," and the way I stomp on his foot is like a ritual, a tradition. He takes care of me so much.
I'll never forget him.
Eriol, my wise friend. He knows me so well and knows exactly what to say to comfort me. Those glasses conceal those twinkling eyes that shine so much for Tomoyo. He taught her to be strong.
I would hate to see him gone.
Otosan, who played both roles of the parents. His constant smiles and thorough support and loving care for me is endless and I don't know how much I'd cry if he, too, were to be part of this war I'm in.
I love him for the great parent he is.
Chiharu, Yamazaki, Rika, Naoko and every single one of my best friends. I love how they're such great friends. I'll remember all of those silly lies Yamazaki told me in elementary and the ones he still says. And Chiharu for her constant laughter with him. Rika, her smart and pleasant personality. Naoko for her love of ghost stories.
I can't bear to throw away such good friends.
Wei, who was always quite patient with me. He was the one who helped me to realize how much I loved Syaoran. Those "accidental" meets in the streets and treating me to tea were not so accidental now that I think of it. He was helping me all along to realize that I love Syaoran.
I'll remember those comforting words he always gave.
And Syaoran, the one perhaps that I love most in that special way. He carries that special place in my heart. Those quick smiles that he shows just for me. Those sweet autumn orbs that twinkle with life every time he laughs. Those simple words that make it all the difference for me. Those warm embraces that make my heart all fluttery. The love he gave and the love I have for him. I know that my feelings will never end for him.
I love him and I always will. Aishertu.
That's why I have to face this battle by myself. I don't want anyone to be hurt. This isn't like those past battles where actually, maybe no real harm would come to them. I don't want to see their pained expressions. I don't want them to worry for me. I don't want to make them cry. But most of all, I don't want them to die.
Because I love them all too much.
Perhaps this is why I'm leaving. No one is on duty watching me currently and I have to go when I can. I don't want them to stop me for I know if I stay any longer my strong looks will collapse and I won't be able to protect them.
I open the large windowpanes quietly. A slight breeze blows in and the sparkling stars above somehow give me some comfort. I close my eyes and call out mirror to pretend that I'm still here. When she comes out, she gives me a shaky smile and hugs me tightly. I then call out fly and wings like an angel's sprout out on my back. I smile to mirror and soar into the midnight sky.
*** Third POV ***
Mirror walks back to the bed and gets in, but she's smiling towards to the closed door. Eriol leans on the door, a small smile playing on his lips. He knew Sakura would be leaving by herself, it was expected with her personality that others come before she does. He took off his glasses and cleaned them before opening the door and entering.
"Hello, mirror." He greeted with a small smile.
Mirror smiles. "I thought I felt someone." She replied.
Eriol grins. "Sakura's left?" He asked as goes up to the window and shuts it tightly, latching it. Mirror just nodded, not knowing what to do. "I should tell everyone then. You know we can't just sit here and let her go by herself."
Mirror sighed and nodded. "You should turn back into your card form though. Sakura may be needing you."
"But," Mirror started to protest. It was her mistress's order; she could not disobey even if it was the recarnation of Clow Reed.
Eriol smiled lightly. "Oh, right. Your mission." Eriol rubbed his temple. "Then you might as well stay here and tell us if anything happens here. The rest of us shall be going now."
"Be careful and watch over out mistress for us." Mirror asked. Eriol smiled and promised he would before walking out the door again.
"NANI?" Meiling shouted. "SHE LEFT?" After Eriol told them that Sakura left.
"Why?" Tomoyo cried. "Why couldn't she tell us?"
"She doesn't want any of us hurt. You know Sakura. Those she care come before she does." Syaoran answered bitterly for not noticing it sooner. "Dam." He cursed, punching the wall and making a few cracks. Touya was observing him quietly. He knew that this gak--, um Li, cared for is sister. But he didn't want to give her away. Not yet.
"Yue, we're going." Cerberus told the moon guardian. "We're her guardians." Yue nodded and the two prepared to fly off.
"I'm going too." Syaoran stated bluntly and forcefully. Cerberus looked at him hard for a while and nodded. Syaoran slid onto Cerberus's back.
"Me too!" Tomoyo and Meiling cried. But when the two guardians did not reply, they turned their attention to Eriol. Eriol's face was grim and serious.
"You know that this is dangerous, that's why Sakura left by herself. She, too, knows this is unlike any other battle. These people aren't just going for Sakura you know. They will attack anyone that will weaken Sakura. Before, the cards only had interest of Sakura and Syaoran because of their magic. This is different." He said seriously. There was no trace of a smile in those deep dark eyes of his. Tomoyo shuddered to see him so serious.
"We know that." Surprisingly it was Touya who spoke up. "I care for Sakura and I too want to be there." He paused and looked at Tomoyo and Meiling. "But I don't want to hinder Sakura." His expression was serious and pained as he admitted that he might hurt Sakura in the process of protecting her this time. He had promised Okaasan to watch over Sakura but this time he would have to ask her to watch over Sakura.
"He's right, Tomoyo dear." Eriol spoke gently, not wanting to hurt the person he loved most in the world. "Sakura's strong; she's the card mistress." He tried to comfort.
"But how will I know you'll be all right?" His girlfriend cried desperately. She was on the verge on crying yet she held them back. She didn't want to act all weak in front of everyone who, also like her, was worried. "I'm worried for all of you!" She didn't meet his gaze. "I love you," She whispered silently, looking at the wood floor, a tear making its slow path down her cheek.
Eriol placed a finger under her chin and forced her to look him in the eye. Then he reached out a hand and gently brushed the tear away. "Tomoyo, I promise I'll do my best to come back alive to you. I love you, Tomoyo. But I worry for Sakura, for she is by herself. We all know we can't live without her."
Tomoyo bit her lip from letting more tears flow down her cheeks. "You promise?" her voice cracking with vulnerability.
Eriol smiled softly. "I promise, sweetness." He kissed her softly and briefly on the lips. Then he turned towards Meiling.
"I know, I know!" Meiling cried, her arms crossed. "I'll stay here and kick any butt that cross my lines."
This made Eriol and Syaoran grin. "Watch yourself," Syaoran warned. "You are my favorite cousin, after all."
Meiling laughed. "NOW I'm you favorite cousin, eh?" She joked. "What are you waiting for? Sakura needs your help, now get before I kick all your butts!" She demanded crossly.
Her friends laughed lightly, yet it wasn't a happy cheerful laugh. Instead it was empty and full of worry. Worry for Sakura and their own futures. They didn't know what was happening or what was in store for them. All they knew was that they had to help Sakura and defeat this evil. How they did not know.
But they would solve that. They were friends. And friends did things for each other and nothing was going to change that.
*** Sakura, her POV ***
I knew they knew by now that they knew I was gone. Having mirror there pretending to me I knew, was only to get me some time. I knew Eriol was bound to notice, if not sooner or later. And the others would as well.
But I had a head start and that was all I wanted. I sighed and placed a hand in my pocket where my cards were and they gave me some comfort that I wasn't facing this all by myself. Below, the bustling city of Hong Kong seemed so lively, so happy that they were totally unaware with the fact that a danger was lurking in more hidden shadow.
I flew high up, feeling a rush as I swept through the hazy clouds and felt the magical aurora getting stronger. Some how it seemed different to the two I encountered the other day. This one seemed harsh and angry. This one was the real danger I knew. The two were probably helpers or something. I winced; this was going to be a bloody long battle.
I flew down lightly to an open plain behind the noisy city of Hong Kong. Fly turned back into its card form and flew back to me. Just as I caught it, a strong rush of wings blew at me. I shielded my eyes to see what was coming.
It was big.
Black.
Powerful.
And dreadfully bad.
I was starting to loose all confidence that I had of myself. But still, I held my staff in fighting position though it was wavering. I closed my eyes from fear, but when I opened again my hands were no longer shaking.
"So you've come alone in the end, mistress." The voice stated icily. "I was planning to have more fun, but if this is your choice, I'll end you off quickly and head for the Li mansion."
"Stay away from them!" I yelled, challenging this huge shape that I couldn't see. All I was blackness.
Blackness.
This was like my dream. The sparkling lights were in the distance just like I pictured.
"I always admired girls to be feisty. More fun." The voice replied smoothly, giving my goose bumps on my arms.
What was going to happen next?
The voice did not say anything about this.
If it was like my dream, where was the voice?
Why was the evil here?
I shook my head from the thoughts. I couldn't think of these now. All I could do now is fight till the end and I've promised to myself I'd conquer this evil for all those I love and want to protect.
Kami help me, I prayed. Okaasan, watch over me.
"Light!" I summoned, tossing the card into the air. Light came out and shinned everything with a soft pearly glow. I could not see the evil, yet I could picture it vaguely.
What I saw made me cringe. It was a panther of some sort with black ebony glassy eyes that were blazing with fire and the desire to kill. It grinned, barring its sharp teeth. "I'm told that I'm quite handsome, don't you agree?" The panther asked.
I started to take a step back. "Don't leave yet, card mistress. The fun's just about to begin." Again it smiled, but this time it made its move.
Suddenly a black cloud enveloped around him and from the shadow, I could make out an image of a tall man.
It was a tall man with midnight black hair with those same lustful eyes. In his hands laid a staff that had a panther design etched on it. His clothes were black and easy to move in and blended easily into the background of his surroundings.
"Where are the rest of you?" I asked, my eyes darting around to see two more figures. "That girl and guy of yours?" I demanded.
To my surprise, the man laughed, yet the laughter contained no happiness. It was a hollow laugh and made me shiver from the creepy sound that echoed in my ears. "I have none, little princess. I work alone to seek revenge that is ultimately mine in the first place."
His answer through me off guard and I wondered who those two were. "Enough questions. You're blocking my way." The man's voice was no longer conscendingly arrogant but down right commanding and powerful.
"No." I replied, my firm voice surprising myself.
"If that's what you wish, don't tell me that I didn't give you a chance." The man replied and uttered a spell under his breath. I rose my staff in a blocking position now, all my senses alert of what was to come.
It came so fast that I almost had no time to react. Ghost like creatures in the shape of panthers came rushing out from the staff, charging at me. I immediately called upon shield to my aid. The ghosts attacked the shield merciless and I could feel the shield weakening against the strong power. Yet I knew not to take the shield back like my other encounter. I would have been dead if not for Syaoran and I had been foolish to play with my life.
"Sakura, damnit, do you always have to run off by yourself?" A familiar voice scolded. "It took me forever to locate your aurora." I smiled lightly at the masculine voice.
"Gomen Syaoran." I apologized with a sheepish grin as he walked up from behind me and strengthened the barrier. It turned to see Kero, Yue, and Eriol all with him to help. "Arigato, you guys."
"Ah! How touching the power of friendship." The man loudly told, calling back his ghosts. Sakura took down her shield. "Believe me, I did have friends once."
Syaoran snorted in contempt. "Do not cross me, Li Xiao Lang." He voice threatened. Syaoran looked at the man in the eye.
"Who are you?"
"Have you forgotten me? It really hasn't been that long ago." The evil replied in mock hurt.
Suddenly Syaoran clapped, in a mocking way. "Oh, now I remember you Panther. It really was quite a long ago."
"Do not mock me!" The voice demanded. "I was much stronger than you, yet the council chose you instead. And to make you win, you all did the worst thing alive."
"King's death was an accident that night, we told you. The Elders were trying to convince him to let me become leader. King wouldn't hear of it so the Elders left. They couldn't stop him from jumping in front of the car and killing himself."
"That's the sweet innocent version, Li! I know that you guys pushed him there." Panther's voice screeched. "He came to me in a dream that night and told me everything. You guys were plotting to kill him in the first place so that no one would dare go against you being leader!"
"Syaoran, what is this all about?" Eriol asked wisely when the two had stopped fighting.
"This is Panther, the other one who was suggested to be the leader of the clan I told you about. His death of his friend, King, obviously has made him so full of vengeance." He replied simply.
"Do NOT insult him!" Panther screamed, attacking full force on Syaoran with his ghouls, galloping on full speed, much faster than when he attacked Sakura.
I frantically called out shield to protect him, but I knew I was much too slow. I watched fearfully as Syaoran did not even dodge at the ghosts coming towards him.
"Stop this." Eriol growled, stepping in front of Syaoran calmly with this staff raised and stopped the ghouls from attacking. Panther glared and called the ghouls back yet they glided around him. "What do you want?"
Panther laughed crazily. "What do I want?" he repeated. "What do I want?"
Eriol met this gaze squarely. "I ruin your lives as you have done to mine. Li you know that I'm just as qualified as you are for leader. But no! I'm not a direct son of Li and thus I was cast out like my family was nothing! Curse you!"
"You're nothing," Syaoran spat furiously.
"Syaoran!" I cried, shocked.
"Curse you for eternity!" Panther roared, calling upon his greatest power and aimed it at Syaoran.
*** THIRD POV***
It was like everything was going at slow motion and there was no sound. Only movements.
A huge panther sprinting towards Syaoran with a sense of killing.
Kero and Yue dashing over to protect him, crying their battle cries.
Eriol spinning around on his heels as the panther dashed past him.
Syaoran's wide eyes in shock as he raised his sword as to find some way to protect himself.
Sakura was brining out her shield card once more and hitting upon it in hopes to protect him.
The man was laughing manically that he had won. He had gotten his revenge.
Syaoran looked at Sakura fearfully, his expression sad and mournful. He mouthed, "Gomen" at her.
Then suddenly as if someone turned off the mute button, sound came blaring back. Things were moving in regular pacing once more.
"SYAORAN!" Sakura screamed, running over to him, but could not for someone was holding her back.
It was a girl. Familiar. "Don't Sakura," The voice pleaded. I turned to meet Kali in the eye.
"KALI?" I shrieked. I spun around to see that Ryoko had blocked the panther from harming Syaoran.
But what scared me was that he had magic.
And it was orange.
*** CLIFFHANGER! Okay, I'm evil. I just haven't had a cliffhanger in so long, so I decided to have one.
So, the two have been revealed. One is Ryoko and the other is Kali. SURPRISE, SURPRISE eh? Hehe. No, really, were you guys surprised? Okay, maybe it's just me. LOL.
Review, I want to know how this chapter was. I know my description skills suck when it comes to battles, so forgive me. I tried my best. The panther guy was a little weird, not what I was planning actually. It just came out. But does it make sense? I know it's a bit weird and all that.
Hope this was a good chapter however! I'll try my best at updating soon, but don't expect one really soon. SORRY FOR THE INCONVIENCE.
REVIEW, PLEASE! *puppy eyes.* LOL.
Rainbow dreamer.