I am supposed to be going to Young Life some time soon, but until then.
I'll type! ^_____^ Hee hee hee! Well, I think I'll start now so that I
won't run out of time too quickly. And PLEASE read Mirror Images, by Geldyn
Eyes. It's an Inu-Yasha story, and I LOVE Inu-Yasha! (and uh.I kind of AM
Geldyn Eyes)You have to check it out in your free time. It's PG right now,
but it will be PG-13 in a bit. Read it if ya can! ^-^
And I have something very important to say: *clears throat* I'M SO SO SO SO SORRY FOR NOT TYPING FOR ABOUT A *YEAR*! I'M SOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYYYYY!
Disclaimer: I-I-I-I Do-do-do-do not-not-not-not own-own-own-own these-these- these-these characters. [AN: I'm NOT Typing that out four times!] Or or or or C-C-C-C C-C-C-C S-S-S-S. (CCS) On with the show! Or should I say. legend??? *grin*
**Special thanks to:
Fantasy KrystalKat390 Amber Dream Helen ryoumicherryblossom A-chan lozza-pilgrim SeXyChiCk Cyster lilyflower Kawaii-sakurasyaoran Lucifer Aznfiregoddess Angel of the stars ^_^ StarJade JessiChi kawaiipup maria Danielle Ngo d ^______^ Aeris Tsukiyono Yukimi chibicherri xomoonlitox Aleris again Someone Lady Neko-of-Light Feyla - KittyKat KuteSakura Akane SeXyChiCk Kura-chan J Eriol's bear Pnaixr0se8 Erin Blazing-moon -Blaze Crystal Kittyangel Silvermoon maru Little Blossom Kim Rosie Jinko Kawaii odango Kan-chan Syaorana Silverwing Cherry Tenshi Aleris The Dark Shadow Mystress Cutie Blossom Joey Tainted Goddess Cev HoOkEd-On-SuGaR
CHAPTER 27 MELTING A STONE HEART (finally! ^_______^)
What's gone on before: "You heard me. What's she like?" Now Meiling was glaring. "And you better tell the truth!"
"She-s the most kind and gentle human being on this planet. She's my sister, and no matter what, I will protect her. She can make anyone smile by just being her normal, happy self. Why do you want to know?"
Meiling looked down at her hands which were wringing the table cloth. This time she wasn't able to hold the tears in any longer. "I just had to know.who I lost my loving cousin to. I needed to know that she really truly isn't like the rest of those air-brains. I also needed to know.the truth. And now I do.
Ch.27
*****Sakura*****
After Defense was over I said my farewell to Syaoran. Tomoyo insisted that Naoko, Rika, and Chiharu came to our room and try on the gowns she had finally finished sewing for the Festival of Flowers for our Nature's Song class before dinner. We ambled up the stairs, all of us sweat dropping as she ran around us in circles as she tried to tell us in detail what all of our dresses looked like. The stars in her eyes were so big and bright that I didn't know whether she could actually see or not.
After ushering us all inside she sat us down on the couch, waiting for her to retrieve the dressed from her closet. She was back in no time at all. We didn't even have time to exchange glances, let alone words.
"Naoko, this pale yellow one is for you. I think I want to add some white ribbons around the sleeves and waist though. Chiharu, this soft blue is for you. Rika, yours is the pink one, and Sakura, yours is white with pale pink ribbons. I'm almost through with making mine. It should be done by today or tomorrow. It's lavender, as all of you most likely have guessed." Tomoyo tilted her head to the side and folded her hands together, bringing them up to her cheek while sighing. She looked positively serene and peaceful, savoring that moment. Then she blinked and snapped out of her reverie. "Well, what are you all waiting for? Try them on!" She urged, a large smile crossing her face.
We did as she bid silently. Of course, once they were on they fit us perfectly, and looked absolutely ravishing. I smiled, then twirled, loving the flow of the white satin and the feel of it as it brushed lightly against my skin. I looked at Tomoyo with wide eyes and she smiled back, noticing the thanks that was deep inside them but with no words that could explain how thankfully I truly was. It was the most beautiful gown I had ever worn, and not only that, but she had been slaving away making Naoko, Rika, Chiharu, and even herself gowns as well.
I turned to look in my friend's direction. Chiharu's sky blue dress had tiny pale flowers along the waistline. The skirt flowing out to end just at her knees. Rika's pink gown had long flowing sleeves and a long skirt with only enough room to walk in. Pale pink material covered the midsection of her body from just above the waist to just below her collarbone. Naoko's light yellow gown had a little bouquet of flowers to the left of her waistline, two long white ribbons flowing almost to her knees from the exact same spot. Her skirts went to the middle of her shins, rippling every so often. I smiled at them and they smiled back, even more awed than I was. They didn't know Tomoyo's creative side like I did. It would take them a lot longer for them to find their voices than it would be for me.
I cleared my throat, hoping to brake the ice and also help them find their voice boxes. "Tomoyo," I breathed, not sure if I could say much more, "These are GORGEOUS!"
She positively beamed with joy when the others spoke their agreement. I looked in the mirror, finally able to take my own gown wholly into view. It was made of the most white material I had ever seen. It flowed in a way I thought wasn't possible. It cascaded to my ankles in heaps, so when I twirled the whole gown would fan outward. There were woven pink and white ribbons at my neckline and at the ends of my sleeves, pale flowers and ribbons also wound around my waist, a pale pink bow tied behind me, not too big, nor too small. It was perfect. Just for me.
We all threw our arms around her at the same moment, laughing and giggling and smiling, not able to stop if we wanted to. I had never before felt so close to my friends. It wasn't until I came to the Li Kingdom that I even HAD any friends. I felt as if I truly belonged. For the first time in many long nights, I felt calming wash over me. I might not even have nightmares tonight.
*****Syaoran*****
Tomorrow. No classes. That was the only thought that kept racking through my brain. He might make his move. That baka Tokurashi might try to make his move, again. There was no way to prevent it, no was to find him in the meantime, and definitely no way to stop him. At least not yet. But there was this nagging feeling in the back of my head. It was something he said to me while we were battling. Something even the devil, Eriol stated. Something about a curse. Was it true then? Long ago, when I was just a tiny baby, a powerful sorcerer placed a curse on me? Not just any sorcerer, but that darn Tokurashi guy HIMSELF?!? I thought it was just a stupid tale to scare me, but when I was little, I do remember hearing the servants talking about it when they didn't think I was listening. My mother always did give me worried and forlorn glances. So it must be true then mustn't it?
I was the one with the Stone Heart. The one whom would never- could never- love. I knew all along, I suppose. I just didn't want to admit that fate would do such a thing. But do I believe in fate? I'm not so sure. One thing is for certain. Mother is definitely hiding something from me. She hopes that some girl will break the curse. Is it possible though? Probably not. Not if it was made by a lunatic sorcerer who wanted to take over the world. But. what about Sakura? If I don't love her, then what is this feeling deep inside of me? I've never felt it before. I've never really loved before either, so it has to be that. Doesn't it?
I knew what I had to do. Confront my mother and have her tell me everything she remembers about that day. But first, I have something even more important to do. That legend. I don't like it one bit. I know now. The girl in it IS Sakura. It has to be. And the guy.the Prince with the stone heart.was me. I couldn't deny it any longer, though I don't think I ever have. Not until Sakura came into my life anyway.
After Defense class I strolled casually to the library, extremely grateful for Tomoyo rounding Sakura and their other friends up and practically shoving them into the castle to her room. I was even more grateful to find that Meiling had mysteriously vanished without a trace, and wouldn't be following me or clamping onto my arm asking tons of questions and pouting if I didn't answer. Now that I thought about it, she had been acting strange lately. She wasn't so bossy or pushy, and she hadn't been as annoying as usual. She did seem angry a lot, but that was her usual self when others were around. Why had she seemed so distant lately though?
I pushed the thoughts aside, saving them to think about with all the other problems that needed handling tonight. I jogged to the library, quickening my pace with a feeling of urgency. When I came upon the shelves where they were I skidded to a halt, nearly colliding into someone. I gasped, and stared with wide eyes. What was HE doing here? He looked over at me, not the least bit perturbed, and gave a sad-like grin. I noticed the book he was holding open happened to be one of the Melting A Stone Heart series. I took a double take. Not only was it that book, but it happened to be the very last one in the legend.
Hinruku stepped toward me, not a word was spoken. I was about to tell him that it was my book by right and he had to hand it over but what he did was so unsuspecting I actually took a backwards step. He closed the book and handed it over to me, understanding in his eyes. I blinked, but accepted it none-the-less.
"You will need it more than I," he admitted, and turned back to the shelves of books, picking a different volume up and began reading its contents.
I finally found my voice. "Thanks," was all I allowed myself to mumble.
He glanced up at me, his dark purple eyes shimmering slightly. "Use it well," was all he said, and it made me wonder who-or what-exactly he was. I picked up an aura from him, it was only a slight whisp, but it was a magical aura none-the-less. And it was powerful. And it was blue. I narrowed my eyes. Here was another person to be aware of. I couldn't let my guard down. Not once.
I turned on my heel and went straight to my room, placing the book in a safe spot. I wondered how far he had gotten through it. About a third by the looks of where he book-marked it with his finger while reading. Could he be Tokurashi though? He didn't SEEM dangerous. Then again, most things were never as they seemed.
After the book was safely hidden under my pillow I headed to my mother's study. I never before realized how much time she spent there until now. It must be because father had passed away so long ago, leaving her the only royalty and the single Queen to rule. She had a lot on her shoulders, but when I become King it will ease until there is nothing, or very little for her to worry about. That is.. If I marry, if I love, and if I produce an heir. I shivered at the thought, reminded of the curse and my destination.
I knocked lightly at the door, waiting to hear her beckon me in.
Xiao Lang, what brings you here?" Came mother's calm voice, with just a hint of surprise. "Come in, come in."
I entered, then slowly and delicately closed the door. I was used to mother knowing me by my aura, and was never surprised when she knew it was me without even seeing my face.
"I didn't think I'd see you so soon, after the Elders spoke with you and everything," she said, motioning me to sit across from her.
I did so gratefully, almost slumping into the soft cushioned chair.
"You want information," she mused, breaking the almost uncomfortable silence. "What might it be?"
I looked up from her, for once not trying to hide it. "Mother, what happened to me when I was little? What was the curse that was put upon me? Can it ever be cured? What is it you are hiding from me?" I let it flow out in a rush of currents, and was only vaguely aware when I heard her take a sharp intake of breath.
"Little Wolf," she started, as if to reassure me.
"The truth," I stated firmly. "And soon, if you please."
She sighed and looked not at me, but to my left, out the window, as if remembering the long and fateful day. "It all began on the day you turned one," she started, slowly, as if in a trance, and tonelessly, as if void of all emotion, or perhaps trying to hide all emotion. "I insisted that everyone be present. A foolish thing on my behalf. I was just so proud, so happy. I finally brought a son out into the world. The perfect heir to inherit the throne."
Her eyes fell downcast, yet never wavered. "That was the day when HE came. Tokurashi is his name I believe. He used his powers to ensure that this Kingdom, the book of Clow, and basically every living being would be his. That was the day that he put the curse on you. He vowed that you would never love anyone but family, and even then your love would draw thin. You would never truly be happy if you married because you wouldn't love who you married, and he promised that you would never produce an heir as long as he lived." Queen Yelan shuddered, as if the room had suddenly gone cold. "The only way to be rid of the curse is to destroy him. He must pay for what he did. He must die."
I tensed. I had never heard her speak so ill of a person in my life! He did deserve it, and certainly I wanted him dead, but I wasn't letting this get the better of me! Then again, maybe I was taking this too lightly. Maybe I should be more angry about the whole thing. Why was I taking this so calmly though? Was it because I DID love someone? A certain emerald-eyed girl that always had a smile that graced her lips and a light in her eyes? Maybe. Maybe.
The corner of mother's mouth twitched, as if she were about to smile, then it stopped. "I did what he would never suspect though. I sent the Clow Cards away, to a friend that I trusted like no other. Nadeshiko. I knew that she possessed magic, and so did her little girl."
"Sakura," I breathed.
She nodded her head. "Yes, the cherry blossom. I knew that the future was in their hands now. Only they could help. Sakura HAD to become the cardmistress. Things would be too hectic for her to NOT be. And there was something about her. Even as a baby I could sense that she was special. I just knew. She had an air of majesty and love and passion around her. I figured that if she couldn't melt that cold heart of yours, then who could?"
I bit back a nasty comment, angry that mother had gone off and started matchmaking for me when I could barely even walk, and blushed, hanging my head. She was right. If Sakura couldn't, who could? I knew that I was already in love with her. How had mother been so right though? How could she possibly know?
"Queen Nadeshiko thought along the same lines as I. She knew that if it wasn't for Tokurashi, you would be able to love everything and anyone. I think she saw though your curse to who you really were, and she liked what she found. Believe me, if she didn't think this was worth it, that it would work, she wouldn't sacrifice her own daughter's feelings. She took pity on you. On us. And even though I don't like to admit it, I am very thankful. I appreciate it more than you could imagine."
I was silent for a long time, we both were. I thought she was done but she surprised me. "Then something happened that almost made me loose hope." I was startled by that, and stared. "Nadeshiko told me that something bad was about to happen, but I didn't know what, or how bad. She told me that she needed a safe place for Sakura to go, and it was too far for her to venture to her cousin's. She could have been killed along the way. So I offered her to come here. But then we thought you two would be too suspicious, so I invited all of the heirs to come and stay here, and meet the future rulers of the throne. It was risky. We both knew it, with all the other handsome princes and beautiful princesses, but I wasn't too worried. I arranged it specially so that you and Sakura would have as many classes together as I would dare. I would have even put you in her embroidery class if neither you nor anyone else suspected anything, but I knew that would just give everything away and we spent too much hard work over everything else already that I had to be extra careful. I was already treading on ice far too thin for MY comfort."
I raised an eyebrow. I didn't think 'Desperate times call for desperate measures' quite fit into this category. "So what happened?" I asked, barely keeping a sarcastic comment from slipping through my lips.
"Queen Nadeshiko died, and all of our plans along with it, it seemed. I probably felt just as bad as poor Sakura when I heard the news. When she ran through the classroom door with tears in her eyes I knew something must have been wrong. My heart wrenched for the girl. Only now can I understand why. I thought everything went down the drain from there, but you both surprised me. I'm telling you this for your own good Xiao Lang. Only you and she can decide your fates. You both have to be willing, and you or she might change your minds. I'm not saying that she is your only hope, but she's very close to it."
It took a moment for all of that to register. It was more than I thought possible. There was too much to digest, yet not enough at the same time. I wanted to ask her so many questions, know the answers to so many things, yet I couldn't decide which questions to ask or which answers I wanted most. I was at a point that was almost beyond confusion, but at the same time, it filled in so many empty gaps that I actually understood.for the most part.
"I will let you think all of this through now, little wolf. If you have questions, you may come at any time. You know that. Now go. If I am not mistaken, dinner takes place in five minuets, and it might just take you that long to get there with all of this on your mind."
I simply nodded and stood silently, walking to the door as if in a daze. I closed the door behind me with a little click, the words, "I'm not saying that she is your only hope, but she's very close to it," echoing throughout my mind. Who would have thought? Would it change how I felt about her? No. If anything it would only draw me nearer. But still, there was so much I didn't know. There were too many things going on at once, and too many horrors to worry about already that I felt as if one more piece of bad news or information and my head would split open, pouring it's contents to the ground. I winced and shuddered at the idea, not liking the image in my mind's eye.
I scurried to the dinning hall so I wouldn't be late and was one of the last to enter. As I carefully sat down and made sure I didn't reveal anything from my facial expressions I saw Sakura smile at me from the corner of my eye. I gulped and quickly plopped into my seat, blushing furiously. Nope. Nothing my mother said made me think even less of Sakura. She still had the same affects on me. Thank goodness that she didn't notice.
Tomoyo did though, by the sly smile that crossed her face and the knowing glance in her eyes. As did Eriol, who smirked and made sure that I saw his smirk. Yeesh. Why did everyone butt-in on other people's business? I snuck a quick peek at Sakura and watched as she unconsciously tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. She laughed, tilting her head back slightly, her eyes sparkling brighter than the emerald sea with the sun beating at its surface. She leaned toward her friends, as if sharing a good joke, then smiled and nodded. She reached over to her glass and gently picked it up, bringing its rim to her soft pink lips. I shook my head as if to clear it. What was wrong with me? Why was I THINKING this way? She may be beautiful, and have a lively spirit, and a welcoming heart, but that didn't mean I had to THINK all of that stuff about her! I blushed, turning as red as the cranberry juice they were serving this morning. I must have still been gazing at her because the next thing I knew, I was hypnotized, caught in the depths of two large pools of green. They softened, and I sensed more rather than saw her smile. I gave a half, almost hesitant smile back, and her eyes shone more brightly than the sun with all of her happiness shining through. I quickly averted my gaze, as if I would be blinded if I stared for too much longer.
*****Sakura*****
When dinner was over I walked back to my room with Tomoyo, ready for a good nights rest. I was still weak from the previous day and needed to catch up on sleep as well as regaining my magical abilities. I'd need every ounce of my strength if Tokurashi decided to attack again, but hopefully he would be catching up on his rest and reserving his power also, not that it NEEDED to be reserved. I sighed as we entered our bedchambers. I could have fallen asleep at dinner!
After changing into my nightgown and Tomoyo was in hers I was about ready to crawl into bed. Tomoyo picked up her sewing and I noticed the lavender fabric. It must be her gown she was working on. I hoped that she had enough time to finish it. She was constantly putting others before herself. I was just moving the sheets back so I could crawl in bed when I felt it. A strong magical aura. I gasped, frozen in place. Tomoyo stopped what she was doing to stare in my direction.
"What is it?" She asked quietly, her eyes worried.
"I feel a strong magical presence," I whispered, hoping beyond hope that no one else heard me also.
Knock, knock, knock.
I jumped, my head snapping in the direction of the door. I felt the blood draining from my face as face as sand threw my fingers. I gulped before answering. "W-w-who is it?" I stuttered, shaking from head to foot.
"It's Eriol," a masculine, yet familiar voice stated.
I breathed a sigh of relief. Tokurashi couldn't change his looks now, could he? Or voice? I certainly hoped not! Not if I wanted to live for very long anyway!
"Coming!" I called, dashing toward the door.
I opened it a crack and then flung it open with a sigh of relief. "Hello, Sakura. May I come in, or were you just going to bed?"
I shook my head. "No, it's alright, you can come in. I was just going to go to sleep, but I can hold off for a little while longer."
He nodded in understanding. "This will only take a bit."
"Hey Eriol!" Someone shouted from down the hall. There came the sound of running feet and then Syaoran leaned against the wall opposite of the door. He panted, as Eriol and I just stared, his look of amusement, mine of confusion.
"Yes?" He asked conversationally.
"Don't you-" pant, gasp, "dare have-" cough, "Sakura change any more-" pant, pant, "Clow cards," he finished.
Eriol's smirk widened. "Don't worry, I won't have her use up the rest of what's left of her energy. I was going to.but I decides against it when I saw her condition. She will tomorrow."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Syaoran and I asked in unison.
He grinned. "May we come in?"
I nodded and moved aside for them to enter. I barely saw the look Eriol gave Syaoran. He looked as confused by that as I was but then turned his gaze to me. His eyes slowly wandered down my body and I fidgeted, he quickly made eye contact again, his face very red for some reason. I felt heat rise up on my face as well.
"I-I'm sorry," he stuttered, more like mumbled. "I didn't know you would be ready for bed! If you want us to leave-"
"No," I assured him. "Really, it's okay. And I'm sure this will only take a minute."
He averted his gaze. "I-If you're sure." He didn't sound too sure himself.
Finally I coaxed him inside and we all sat on the couch and chairs, waiting for someone to break the awkward silence. More like waiting for ERIOL to break the silence.
"I just wanted to see how everyone was faring," he said slowly at first, looking to each one of us in turn. "I see that you all need your rest, but I want to warn you to never let your guard down. We still don't know who he is, or if he is in disguise. We don't know his exact location either. He may make a move any time soon, so we have to be prepared. All I want from you Sakura is for you to get some rest. You'll need it. Syaoran, be aware of his aura. If you sense anything out of the ordinary, come and find Sakura immediately. I will do the same."
"Is that really necessary?" Tomoyo asked, even more worried than before. "Do you think Sakura is in that much danger?"
"I could go away," I volunteered. Everyone turned to look at me in shock, but I sat up straight and looked at them defiantly. "I'm serious. I could leave. Go somewhere far away as a servant or something, so he'd never find me, let alone know where I was."
"No!" Tomoyo and Syaoran burst out at the same time, then looked ashamed and sat back in their chairs, but not taking back their sudden outburst.
I gave them a weak smile, glad to have friends that cared.
"No," Eriol agreed, drawing my attention.
"But-" I started, not realizing the relieved and thankful expressions on my two friend's faces.
"No," he stated more firmly this time. "You are needed here, and it is more safe for you to stay. Not only do you have your guardians, but you have Syaoran and I as well to look after you. We won't let you down. I'm sure of it."
I looked at him uncertainly and then over at Syaoran. He gave a firm nod of the head, agreeing with Eriol for once. I gave the tiniest of smiles, but nodded my agreement as well.
Tomoyo let out the long breath she had been holding in. "Sakura, I don't want anything to happen to you. If you were alone, everything would be much worse. I already had to go with out seeing you for years on end, I couldn't handle it again; not knowing. So promise me you won't sneak away if you think any of us are in danger, because I know you, and that's the first thing you would do."
I stared. "Tomoyo, I-"
"No. I know you Sakura, better than you think. You'd do it too; sacrifice yourself to save others. Believe me, it wouldn't work. You have to understand this! Once you're gone, there will be no hope. No hope what-so- ever. You have to live, or I'll never forgive myself."
"But- it wouldn't be your fault!" I persisted.
She looked away, crystalline tears in her eyes.
"She's right Sakura. Think before you act." I turned toward Syaoran. Him too? "We have to do this together, alright? Don't do anything you wouldn't want someone else to do."
I pressed my lips together, then finally nodded, giving him my consent. I hadn't even thought about going away by myself to save everyone else, but now that I thought about it, it was something I might do. If things got even more out of hand, or if someone got hurt, I probably would have left, trying to save those who were dear to me. Now that was out of the question.
"Do you promise?" Tomoyo half whispered.
I gave her a smile, a real smile. "Yes. I promise." She smiled back, thoroughly relieved.
Eriol stood. "Alright. We better be leaving now. You two deserve a good night's rest."
We all followed pursuit. "Alright. I'll see you in the morning, I called after their retreating bodies, as they headed to the door. I grinned. "Don't worry too much!" I tried to lighten the mood. "We don't have any classes tomorrow!"
Little was I aware of the thought running through Syaoran's head. 'That's what I'm afraid of.'
*****Syaoran*****
I kept tossing and turning in the middle of the night. I kept seeing Sakura take that blast from Tokurashi, her eyes wide in horror, and me helpless to do anything. It was the worse feeling in the world. Then I heard her scream, a heart-wrenching, agonizing scream one after the other, as I watched her suffer in pain and die hundreds of thousands of times. I woke up, drenched in a cold sweat, panting heavily. The worst part was, that any of those could happen the very next day. I knew something was going to happen the next day, I could feel it in the stillness of the air, of the soundless night.
'Little wolf,' A voice said into my head. I must have jumped ten feet in the air, because I remember hitting my head on the ceiling. The first thought to go through my mind was Tokurashi, but then I knew it was the stupid pipsqueak Eriol, up to his no good again.
'What do YOU want?' I silently called, or more like growled.
He chuckled, which was even more infuriating. 'I see you've been having bad dreams.' It wasn't a question. 'You'll use up all of your strength before tomorrow, then who will protect the little Cherry Blossom?'
'I will!' I growled, sounding protective even in my own mind. I blushed when he chuckled once again.
'Never the less,' he stated, 'You still need your rest. I have given you time to think about this, and now I must take action. Good-night Syaoran Li, pleasant dreams.'
I couldn't tell if he was mocking me or not, but then I felt a flare of magic and knew that this was another one of his sleeping spells. I sent one last rude thought toward him to contemplate before the darkness enveloped me.
'What if something happens to Sakura in the middle of the night, huh?!? And you.put.me.to.sleep.'
The last thing I remember was his short chortle, and then I fell asleep.
***TIME GAP***
In the morning, right when I awoke I sent my power out, searching for Sakura to make sure nothing happened while that darn Eriol put me to sleep, leaving me helpless to help her. [AN: lol! That's kinda funny if I don't say so myself!] I felt her aura flickering as strong as usual, and could tell that she was still asleep. I sighed, relaxing slightly. At least nothing happened that I wasn't aware of last night.
I rose to my feet and dressed quickly and silently in my practice clothes. I rushed out of the secret passageway and into the castle halls, then exited to the outside practice courts. I couldn't be rusty, not on a day like this, but I couldn't overdo it and use up too much of my strength either. I'll just have to start with slow easy kicks to loosen up. Stretching wouldn't be a bad idea either.
*****Sakura***** I woke up with the sun shining in my face through the large glass window. I sat up and stretched, yawning widely. Tomoyo was still asleep so I let her rest, trying to quietly dress myself so I wouldn't wake her up. When I was done she had awoken and was deciding what gown to wear that day. We both chose something semi-casual since we would probably be outside all day. There weren't any classes, and I could use a good carefree day. Then I remembered what happened last time and my shoulders slumped. Things just hadn't been going my way lately, but thankfully this time Eriol wouldn't be 'harming' us in any way, shape, or form.
Tomoyo and I went to breakfast shortly after and found Syaoran slightly sweaty and in practice clothes. He must not have had time to change yet. But he did look GOOD! I blushed furiously, wondering why I thought something like that. Maybe it was the was his hair fell into his eyes, or his muscular shoulders heaving up and down as he brought oxygen into his lungs. Then again, maybe it was the lazy grin he gave me when he noticed I was looking directly at him. I turned away, face burning. I was DEFINITELY going crazy!
After breakfast we met in our usual group under our favorite cherry blossom tree. Everyone was moseying about, appreciating the beautiful sunny day, and accepting a day without classes with open arms.
"So, what should we do today?" Rika asked everyone.
Yamazaki pointed one finger in the air and opened his mouth, about ready to say another one of his lies when Chiharu bopped him on the head, shutting him up. "Oh, no you don't," she commented, or more like warned. "And you were doing so good too."
"We could go horseback riding," I said, not really sure of what I was getting myself in to.
"Yeah!" Chiharu agreed enthusiastically. Tomoyo smiled and nodded her head.
"That's a good idea." Eriol said casually.
"Alright," Syaoran agreed. "I'll show you where the stable is. Follow me."
We all walked to the stable and chose horses that would best suit us. Naoko chose a blue roan, Chiharu chose a white gelding, Yamazaki a gray mare, Rika chose a golden-brown one, Tomoyo chose a gentle cream-colored mare, Eriol chose a black gelding that had a white star on it's forehead, and Syaoran chose his red mare, leaving behind his frisky ebony gelding since it would rather trot or canter instead of walk or jog at a slow and easy pace. He helped me pick out a horse that would best suit me since I hadn't been out a lot, and found a calm yet lively mare that was white, but had big red-brown spots on it that made it look as if she already had a saddle on her. She had soft amber-brown eyes that I fell in love with right away when they sparkled once she saw me. They reminded my of Syaoran's.
Once our mounts were saddled and ready we brought them out of the stable and into the warm sunlight. We all mounted up and began on our journey, with little bread rolls tucked away for provisions when we arrived at a little stream or some pretty landscape. It wasn't so bad, since I've only been ON a horse three times. You could say I was almost a natural. I let the others get ahead incase they wanted to set out at a faster pace and was surprised when Syaoran fell behind, coming side-by-side with me and my mare, Peaceblossom.
"Have you ever ridden on a horse before?" He asked, trying to be casual and not offend.
I smiled. "Yes," I said proudly, then giggled and added, "but only three times."
He looked at me questioningly and I laughed out loud at the confused expression on his face.
"With the rebellion going on and all of the Kingdoms taking slaves of people who weren't of their origin you could say that I never really got out much."
"Oh," he stated simply, and looked ahead. Then he turned his gaze back to me, "What did you do for all those years then? Weren't you bored? Being shut up in the castle anyways?"
I gave a little laugh. "No, I was plenty busy. Mother taught me all of the dances of all of the other Kingdoms, hoping to bring peace one day. She made certain that I knew every step to the dances from your Kingdom though. I always wondered why. I thought it was just because they were so time consuming and that the steps were harder to master though. I'm glad I know them now." [AN: Syaoran and Sakura's mother's match making already! ::grin:: he he he!]
"Did you do anything else?" He asked, almost skeptically.
I nodded. "Of course! I learned how to use weaponry of almost every kind. I used to always have to practice with my older brother. And-" I looked at the others to make sure no one was listening, and realized that they were too far ahead to hear anyway so I continued, "and that's also when I set the Clow Cards free. Believe me, it took a LONG time to capture all of them!"
He grinned ruefully. "Seeing that it took you even until you arrived here, I'll believe it."
"Hey!" I defended. His grin only widened and I saw a sparkle of mischief in his eyes. I narrowed my eyes suspiciously and gripped a tighter hold on the reins.
"Oh, don't worry. I would tip you off of your horse when you have such little experience," he said teasingly. "But once you're off, THAT is where the fun begins. Don't let your guard down."
I looked mock-offended when he said I had very little experience and then pretended to glare when he basically said he was going to 'get' me. I grinned and held my head high. "Oh yeah?" I asked. "Well you just better watch your back!"
He grinned. "I will. Oh, I will."
DUN DUN DUN!!!!!!! That will be where the fun begins! AND when they will be attacked most likely if you catch my drift. ^_____________^ Fun for the whole family! Yay! I can't wait! And I want to thank those of you who actually e-mailed me! -_-;; I know I should have gotten this chapter out more soon, but I can't. I have play practice every day after school until 6:30, which barely leaves any time for homework! Boy am I glad it's Winter Break! And today is Christmas Eve! YEAH! I can't wait! Happy Hanukah and New Year and everything like that! ^____________^ And MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
By the way, have any of you seen Spirited Away? It is SOOOOOOOOOOOO SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good! Kohaku is the coolest! But Sen or Choriko or whatever her name is at the time is really neat too! And I fixed my e-mail so you can send me things again! -_-` Sorry about before if you tried to send something and it wouldn't go through. Well, gotta go. I'm going to try to up-date to all of my OTHER stories now too! E-mail me as fast as you can if you get this or write in a review which one you want me to up-date next, then I will. ^______________________^ Sooo..... I'll talk to ya soon! ^___________^ HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And sorry again that it took me about a YEAR to up-date. -_-;; You are all SUPER if you are still reading this!
And I have something very important to say: *clears throat* I'M SO SO SO SO SORRY FOR NOT TYPING FOR ABOUT A *YEAR*! I'M SOOOOOORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYYYYY!
Disclaimer: I-I-I-I Do-do-do-do not-not-not-not own-own-own-own these-these- these-these characters. [AN: I'm NOT Typing that out four times!] Or or or or C-C-C-C C-C-C-C S-S-S-S. (CCS) On with the show! Or should I say. legend??? *grin*
**Special thanks to:
Fantasy KrystalKat390 Amber Dream Helen ryoumicherryblossom A-chan lozza-pilgrim SeXyChiCk Cyster lilyflower Kawaii-sakurasyaoran Lucifer Aznfiregoddess Angel of the stars ^_^ StarJade JessiChi kawaiipup maria Danielle Ngo d ^______^ Aeris Tsukiyono Yukimi chibicherri xomoonlitox Aleris again Someone Lady Neko-of-Light Feyla - KittyKat KuteSakura Akane SeXyChiCk Kura-chan J Eriol's bear Pnaixr0se8 Erin Blazing-moon -Blaze Crystal Kittyangel Silvermoon maru Little Blossom Kim Rosie Jinko Kawaii odango Kan-chan Syaorana Silverwing Cherry Tenshi Aleris The Dark Shadow Mystress Cutie Blossom Joey Tainted Goddess Cev HoOkEd-On-SuGaR
CHAPTER 27 MELTING A STONE HEART (finally! ^_______^)
What's gone on before: "You heard me. What's she like?" Now Meiling was glaring. "And you better tell the truth!"
"She-s the most kind and gentle human being on this planet. She's my sister, and no matter what, I will protect her. She can make anyone smile by just being her normal, happy self. Why do you want to know?"
Meiling looked down at her hands which were wringing the table cloth. This time she wasn't able to hold the tears in any longer. "I just had to know.who I lost my loving cousin to. I needed to know that she really truly isn't like the rest of those air-brains. I also needed to know.the truth. And now I do.
Ch.27
*****Sakura*****
After Defense was over I said my farewell to Syaoran. Tomoyo insisted that Naoko, Rika, and Chiharu came to our room and try on the gowns she had finally finished sewing for the Festival of Flowers for our Nature's Song class before dinner. We ambled up the stairs, all of us sweat dropping as she ran around us in circles as she tried to tell us in detail what all of our dresses looked like. The stars in her eyes were so big and bright that I didn't know whether she could actually see or not.
After ushering us all inside she sat us down on the couch, waiting for her to retrieve the dressed from her closet. She was back in no time at all. We didn't even have time to exchange glances, let alone words.
"Naoko, this pale yellow one is for you. I think I want to add some white ribbons around the sleeves and waist though. Chiharu, this soft blue is for you. Rika, yours is the pink one, and Sakura, yours is white with pale pink ribbons. I'm almost through with making mine. It should be done by today or tomorrow. It's lavender, as all of you most likely have guessed." Tomoyo tilted her head to the side and folded her hands together, bringing them up to her cheek while sighing. She looked positively serene and peaceful, savoring that moment. Then she blinked and snapped out of her reverie. "Well, what are you all waiting for? Try them on!" She urged, a large smile crossing her face.
We did as she bid silently. Of course, once they were on they fit us perfectly, and looked absolutely ravishing. I smiled, then twirled, loving the flow of the white satin and the feel of it as it brushed lightly against my skin. I looked at Tomoyo with wide eyes and she smiled back, noticing the thanks that was deep inside them but with no words that could explain how thankfully I truly was. It was the most beautiful gown I had ever worn, and not only that, but she had been slaving away making Naoko, Rika, Chiharu, and even herself gowns as well.
I turned to look in my friend's direction. Chiharu's sky blue dress had tiny pale flowers along the waistline. The skirt flowing out to end just at her knees. Rika's pink gown had long flowing sleeves and a long skirt with only enough room to walk in. Pale pink material covered the midsection of her body from just above the waist to just below her collarbone. Naoko's light yellow gown had a little bouquet of flowers to the left of her waistline, two long white ribbons flowing almost to her knees from the exact same spot. Her skirts went to the middle of her shins, rippling every so often. I smiled at them and they smiled back, even more awed than I was. They didn't know Tomoyo's creative side like I did. It would take them a lot longer for them to find their voices than it would be for me.
I cleared my throat, hoping to brake the ice and also help them find their voice boxes. "Tomoyo," I breathed, not sure if I could say much more, "These are GORGEOUS!"
She positively beamed with joy when the others spoke their agreement. I looked in the mirror, finally able to take my own gown wholly into view. It was made of the most white material I had ever seen. It flowed in a way I thought wasn't possible. It cascaded to my ankles in heaps, so when I twirled the whole gown would fan outward. There were woven pink and white ribbons at my neckline and at the ends of my sleeves, pale flowers and ribbons also wound around my waist, a pale pink bow tied behind me, not too big, nor too small. It was perfect. Just for me.
We all threw our arms around her at the same moment, laughing and giggling and smiling, not able to stop if we wanted to. I had never before felt so close to my friends. It wasn't until I came to the Li Kingdom that I even HAD any friends. I felt as if I truly belonged. For the first time in many long nights, I felt calming wash over me. I might not even have nightmares tonight.
*****Syaoran*****
Tomorrow. No classes. That was the only thought that kept racking through my brain. He might make his move. That baka Tokurashi might try to make his move, again. There was no way to prevent it, no was to find him in the meantime, and definitely no way to stop him. At least not yet. But there was this nagging feeling in the back of my head. It was something he said to me while we were battling. Something even the devil, Eriol stated. Something about a curse. Was it true then? Long ago, when I was just a tiny baby, a powerful sorcerer placed a curse on me? Not just any sorcerer, but that darn Tokurashi guy HIMSELF?!? I thought it was just a stupid tale to scare me, but when I was little, I do remember hearing the servants talking about it when they didn't think I was listening. My mother always did give me worried and forlorn glances. So it must be true then mustn't it?
I was the one with the Stone Heart. The one whom would never- could never- love. I knew all along, I suppose. I just didn't want to admit that fate would do such a thing. But do I believe in fate? I'm not so sure. One thing is for certain. Mother is definitely hiding something from me. She hopes that some girl will break the curse. Is it possible though? Probably not. Not if it was made by a lunatic sorcerer who wanted to take over the world. But. what about Sakura? If I don't love her, then what is this feeling deep inside of me? I've never felt it before. I've never really loved before either, so it has to be that. Doesn't it?
I knew what I had to do. Confront my mother and have her tell me everything she remembers about that day. But first, I have something even more important to do. That legend. I don't like it one bit. I know now. The girl in it IS Sakura. It has to be. And the guy.the Prince with the stone heart.was me. I couldn't deny it any longer, though I don't think I ever have. Not until Sakura came into my life anyway.
After Defense class I strolled casually to the library, extremely grateful for Tomoyo rounding Sakura and their other friends up and practically shoving them into the castle to her room. I was even more grateful to find that Meiling had mysteriously vanished without a trace, and wouldn't be following me or clamping onto my arm asking tons of questions and pouting if I didn't answer. Now that I thought about it, she had been acting strange lately. She wasn't so bossy or pushy, and she hadn't been as annoying as usual. She did seem angry a lot, but that was her usual self when others were around. Why had she seemed so distant lately though?
I pushed the thoughts aside, saving them to think about with all the other problems that needed handling tonight. I jogged to the library, quickening my pace with a feeling of urgency. When I came upon the shelves where they were I skidded to a halt, nearly colliding into someone. I gasped, and stared with wide eyes. What was HE doing here? He looked over at me, not the least bit perturbed, and gave a sad-like grin. I noticed the book he was holding open happened to be one of the Melting A Stone Heart series. I took a double take. Not only was it that book, but it happened to be the very last one in the legend.
Hinruku stepped toward me, not a word was spoken. I was about to tell him that it was my book by right and he had to hand it over but what he did was so unsuspecting I actually took a backwards step. He closed the book and handed it over to me, understanding in his eyes. I blinked, but accepted it none-the-less.
"You will need it more than I," he admitted, and turned back to the shelves of books, picking a different volume up and began reading its contents.
I finally found my voice. "Thanks," was all I allowed myself to mumble.
He glanced up at me, his dark purple eyes shimmering slightly. "Use it well," was all he said, and it made me wonder who-or what-exactly he was. I picked up an aura from him, it was only a slight whisp, but it was a magical aura none-the-less. And it was powerful. And it was blue. I narrowed my eyes. Here was another person to be aware of. I couldn't let my guard down. Not once.
I turned on my heel and went straight to my room, placing the book in a safe spot. I wondered how far he had gotten through it. About a third by the looks of where he book-marked it with his finger while reading. Could he be Tokurashi though? He didn't SEEM dangerous. Then again, most things were never as they seemed.
After the book was safely hidden under my pillow I headed to my mother's study. I never before realized how much time she spent there until now. It must be because father had passed away so long ago, leaving her the only royalty and the single Queen to rule. She had a lot on her shoulders, but when I become King it will ease until there is nothing, or very little for her to worry about. That is.. If I marry, if I love, and if I produce an heir. I shivered at the thought, reminded of the curse and my destination.
I knocked lightly at the door, waiting to hear her beckon me in.
Xiao Lang, what brings you here?" Came mother's calm voice, with just a hint of surprise. "Come in, come in."
I entered, then slowly and delicately closed the door. I was used to mother knowing me by my aura, and was never surprised when she knew it was me without even seeing my face.
"I didn't think I'd see you so soon, after the Elders spoke with you and everything," she said, motioning me to sit across from her.
I did so gratefully, almost slumping into the soft cushioned chair.
"You want information," she mused, breaking the almost uncomfortable silence. "What might it be?"
I looked up from her, for once not trying to hide it. "Mother, what happened to me when I was little? What was the curse that was put upon me? Can it ever be cured? What is it you are hiding from me?" I let it flow out in a rush of currents, and was only vaguely aware when I heard her take a sharp intake of breath.
"Little Wolf," she started, as if to reassure me.
"The truth," I stated firmly. "And soon, if you please."
She sighed and looked not at me, but to my left, out the window, as if remembering the long and fateful day. "It all began on the day you turned one," she started, slowly, as if in a trance, and tonelessly, as if void of all emotion, or perhaps trying to hide all emotion. "I insisted that everyone be present. A foolish thing on my behalf. I was just so proud, so happy. I finally brought a son out into the world. The perfect heir to inherit the throne."
Her eyes fell downcast, yet never wavered. "That was the day when HE came. Tokurashi is his name I believe. He used his powers to ensure that this Kingdom, the book of Clow, and basically every living being would be his. That was the day that he put the curse on you. He vowed that you would never love anyone but family, and even then your love would draw thin. You would never truly be happy if you married because you wouldn't love who you married, and he promised that you would never produce an heir as long as he lived." Queen Yelan shuddered, as if the room had suddenly gone cold. "The only way to be rid of the curse is to destroy him. He must pay for what he did. He must die."
I tensed. I had never heard her speak so ill of a person in my life! He did deserve it, and certainly I wanted him dead, but I wasn't letting this get the better of me! Then again, maybe I was taking this too lightly. Maybe I should be more angry about the whole thing. Why was I taking this so calmly though? Was it because I DID love someone? A certain emerald-eyed girl that always had a smile that graced her lips and a light in her eyes? Maybe. Maybe.
The corner of mother's mouth twitched, as if she were about to smile, then it stopped. "I did what he would never suspect though. I sent the Clow Cards away, to a friend that I trusted like no other. Nadeshiko. I knew that she possessed magic, and so did her little girl."
"Sakura," I breathed.
She nodded her head. "Yes, the cherry blossom. I knew that the future was in their hands now. Only they could help. Sakura HAD to become the cardmistress. Things would be too hectic for her to NOT be. And there was something about her. Even as a baby I could sense that she was special. I just knew. She had an air of majesty and love and passion around her. I figured that if she couldn't melt that cold heart of yours, then who could?"
I bit back a nasty comment, angry that mother had gone off and started matchmaking for me when I could barely even walk, and blushed, hanging my head. She was right. If Sakura couldn't, who could? I knew that I was already in love with her. How had mother been so right though? How could she possibly know?
"Queen Nadeshiko thought along the same lines as I. She knew that if it wasn't for Tokurashi, you would be able to love everything and anyone. I think she saw though your curse to who you really were, and she liked what she found. Believe me, if she didn't think this was worth it, that it would work, she wouldn't sacrifice her own daughter's feelings. She took pity on you. On us. And even though I don't like to admit it, I am very thankful. I appreciate it more than you could imagine."
I was silent for a long time, we both were. I thought she was done but she surprised me. "Then something happened that almost made me loose hope." I was startled by that, and stared. "Nadeshiko told me that something bad was about to happen, but I didn't know what, or how bad. She told me that she needed a safe place for Sakura to go, and it was too far for her to venture to her cousin's. She could have been killed along the way. So I offered her to come here. But then we thought you two would be too suspicious, so I invited all of the heirs to come and stay here, and meet the future rulers of the throne. It was risky. We both knew it, with all the other handsome princes and beautiful princesses, but I wasn't too worried. I arranged it specially so that you and Sakura would have as many classes together as I would dare. I would have even put you in her embroidery class if neither you nor anyone else suspected anything, but I knew that would just give everything away and we spent too much hard work over everything else already that I had to be extra careful. I was already treading on ice far too thin for MY comfort."
I raised an eyebrow. I didn't think 'Desperate times call for desperate measures' quite fit into this category. "So what happened?" I asked, barely keeping a sarcastic comment from slipping through my lips.
"Queen Nadeshiko died, and all of our plans along with it, it seemed. I probably felt just as bad as poor Sakura when I heard the news. When she ran through the classroom door with tears in her eyes I knew something must have been wrong. My heart wrenched for the girl. Only now can I understand why. I thought everything went down the drain from there, but you both surprised me. I'm telling you this for your own good Xiao Lang. Only you and she can decide your fates. You both have to be willing, and you or she might change your minds. I'm not saying that she is your only hope, but she's very close to it."
It took a moment for all of that to register. It was more than I thought possible. There was too much to digest, yet not enough at the same time. I wanted to ask her so many questions, know the answers to so many things, yet I couldn't decide which questions to ask or which answers I wanted most. I was at a point that was almost beyond confusion, but at the same time, it filled in so many empty gaps that I actually understood.for the most part.
"I will let you think all of this through now, little wolf. If you have questions, you may come at any time. You know that. Now go. If I am not mistaken, dinner takes place in five minuets, and it might just take you that long to get there with all of this on your mind."
I simply nodded and stood silently, walking to the door as if in a daze. I closed the door behind me with a little click, the words, "I'm not saying that she is your only hope, but she's very close to it," echoing throughout my mind. Who would have thought? Would it change how I felt about her? No. If anything it would only draw me nearer. But still, there was so much I didn't know. There were too many things going on at once, and too many horrors to worry about already that I felt as if one more piece of bad news or information and my head would split open, pouring it's contents to the ground. I winced and shuddered at the idea, not liking the image in my mind's eye.
I scurried to the dinning hall so I wouldn't be late and was one of the last to enter. As I carefully sat down and made sure I didn't reveal anything from my facial expressions I saw Sakura smile at me from the corner of my eye. I gulped and quickly plopped into my seat, blushing furiously. Nope. Nothing my mother said made me think even less of Sakura. She still had the same affects on me. Thank goodness that she didn't notice.
Tomoyo did though, by the sly smile that crossed her face and the knowing glance in her eyes. As did Eriol, who smirked and made sure that I saw his smirk. Yeesh. Why did everyone butt-in on other people's business? I snuck a quick peek at Sakura and watched as she unconsciously tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. She laughed, tilting her head back slightly, her eyes sparkling brighter than the emerald sea with the sun beating at its surface. She leaned toward her friends, as if sharing a good joke, then smiled and nodded. She reached over to her glass and gently picked it up, bringing its rim to her soft pink lips. I shook my head as if to clear it. What was wrong with me? Why was I THINKING this way? She may be beautiful, and have a lively spirit, and a welcoming heart, but that didn't mean I had to THINK all of that stuff about her! I blushed, turning as red as the cranberry juice they were serving this morning. I must have still been gazing at her because the next thing I knew, I was hypnotized, caught in the depths of two large pools of green. They softened, and I sensed more rather than saw her smile. I gave a half, almost hesitant smile back, and her eyes shone more brightly than the sun with all of her happiness shining through. I quickly averted my gaze, as if I would be blinded if I stared for too much longer.
*****Sakura*****
When dinner was over I walked back to my room with Tomoyo, ready for a good nights rest. I was still weak from the previous day and needed to catch up on sleep as well as regaining my magical abilities. I'd need every ounce of my strength if Tokurashi decided to attack again, but hopefully he would be catching up on his rest and reserving his power also, not that it NEEDED to be reserved. I sighed as we entered our bedchambers. I could have fallen asleep at dinner!
After changing into my nightgown and Tomoyo was in hers I was about ready to crawl into bed. Tomoyo picked up her sewing and I noticed the lavender fabric. It must be her gown she was working on. I hoped that she had enough time to finish it. She was constantly putting others before herself. I was just moving the sheets back so I could crawl in bed when I felt it. A strong magical aura. I gasped, frozen in place. Tomoyo stopped what she was doing to stare in my direction.
"What is it?" She asked quietly, her eyes worried.
"I feel a strong magical presence," I whispered, hoping beyond hope that no one else heard me also.
Knock, knock, knock.
I jumped, my head snapping in the direction of the door. I felt the blood draining from my face as face as sand threw my fingers. I gulped before answering. "W-w-who is it?" I stuttered, shaking from head to foot.
"It's Eriol," a masculine, yet familiar voice stated.
I breathed a sigh of relief. Tokurashi couldn't change his looks now, could he? Or voice? I certainly hoped not! Not if I wanted to live for very long anyway!
"Coming!" I called, dashing toward the door.
I opened it a crack and then flung it open with a sigh of relief. "Hello, Sakura. May I come in, or were you just going to bed?"
I shook my head. "No, it's alright, you can come in. I was just going to go to sleep, but I can hold off for a little while longer."
He nodded in understanding. "This will only take a bit."
"Hey Eriol!" Someone shouted from down the hall. There came the sound of running feet and then Syaoran leaned against the wall opposite of the door. He panted, as Eriol and I just stared, his look of amusement, mine of confusion.
"Yes?" He asked conversationally.
"Don't you-" pant, gasp, "dare have-" cough, "Sakura change any more-" pant, pant, "Clow cards," he finished.
Eriol's smirk widened. "Don't worry, I won't have her use up the rest of what's left of her energy. I was going to.but I decides against it when I saw her condition. She will tomorrow."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Syaoran and I asked in unison.
He grinned. "May we come in?"
I nodded and moved aside for them to enter. I barely saw the look Eriol gave Syaoran. He looked as confused by that as I was but then turned his gaze to me. His eyes slowly wandered down my body and I fidgeted, he quickly made eye contact again, his face very red for some reason. I felt heat rise up on my face as well.
"I-I'm sorry," he stuttered, more like mumbled. "I didn't know you would be ready for bed! If you want us to leave-"
"No," I assured him. "Really, it's okay. And I'm sure this will only take a minute."
He averted his gaze. "I-If you're sure." He didn't sound too sure himself.
Finally I coaxed him inside and we all sat on the couch and chairs, waiting for someone to break the awkward silence. More like waiting for ERIOL to break the silence.
"I just wanted to see how everyone was faring," he said slowly at first, looking to each one of us in turn. "I see that you all need your rest, but I want to warn you to never let your guard down. We still don't know who he is, or if he is in disguise. We don't know his exact location either. He may make a move any time soon, so we have to be prepared. All I want from you Sakura is for you to get some rest. You'll need it. Syaoran, be aware of his aura. If you sense anything out of the ordinary, come and find Sakura immediately. I will do the same."
"Is that really necessary?" Tomoyo asked, even more worried than before. "Do you think Sakura is in that much danger?"
"I could go away," I volunteered. Everyone turned to look at me in shock, but I sat up straight and looked at them defiantly. "I'm serious. I could leave. Go somewhere far away as a servant or something, so he'd never find me, let alone know where I was."
"No!" Tomoyo and Syaoran burst out at the same time, then looked ashamed and sat back in their chairs, but not taking back their sudden outburst.
I gave them a weak smile, glad to have friends that cared.
"No," Eriol agreed, drawing my attention.
"But-" I started, not realizing the relieved and thankful expressions on my two friend's faces.
"No," he stated more firmly this time. "You are needed here, and it is more safe for you to stay. Not only do you have your guardians, but you have Syaoran and I as well to look after you. We won't let you down. I'm sure of it."
I looked at him uncertainly and then over at Syaoran. He gave a firm nod of the head, agreeing with Eriol for once. I gave the tiniest of smiles, but nodded my agreement as well.
Tomoyo let out the long breath she had been holding in. "Sakura, I don't want anything to happen to you. If you were alone, everything would be much worse. I already had to go with out seeing you for years on end, I couldn't handle it again; not knowing. So promise me you won't sneak away if you think any of us are in danger, because I know you, and that's the first thing you would do."
I stared. "Tomoyo, I-"
"No. I know you Sakura, better than you think. You'd do it too; sacrifice yourself to save others. Believe me, it wouldn't work. You have to understand this! Once you're gone, there will be no hope. No hope what-so- ever. You have to live, or I'll never forgive myself."
"But- it wouldn't be your fault!" I persisted.
She looked away, crystalline tears in her eyes.
"She's right Sakura. Think before you act." I turned toward Syaoran. Him too? "We have to do this together, alright? Don't do anything you wouldn't want someone else to do."
I pressed my lips together, then finally nodded, giving him my consent. I hadn't even thought about going away by myself to save everyone else, but now that I thought about it, it was something I might do. If things got even more out of hand, or if someone got hurt, I probably would have left, trying to save those who were dear to me. Now that was out of the question.
"Do you promise?" Tomoyo half whispered.
I gave her a smile, a real smile. "Yes. I promise." She smiled back, thoroughly relieved.
Eriol stood. "Alright. We better be leaving now. You two deserve a good night's rest."
We all followed pursuit. "Alright. I'll see you in the morning, I called after their retreating bodies, as they headed to the door. I grinned. "Don't worry too much!" I tried to lighten the mood. "We don't have any classes tomorrow!"
Little was I aware of the thought running through Syaoran's head. 'That's what I'm afraid of.'
*****Syaoran*****
I kept tossing and turning in the middle of the night. I kept seeing Sakura take that blast from Tokurashi, her eyes wide in horror, and me helpless to do anything. It was the worse feeling in the world. Then I heard her scream, a heart-wrenching, agonizing scream one after the other, as I watched her suffer in pain and die hundreds of thousands of times. I woke up, drenched in a cold sweat, panting heavily. The worst part was, that any of those could happen the very next day. I knew something was going to happen the next day, I could feel it in the stillness of the air, of the soundless night.
'Little wolf,' A voice said into my head. I must have jumped ten feet in the air, because I remember hitting my head on the ceiling. The first thought to go through my mind was Tokurashi, but then I knew it was the stupid pipsqueak Eriol, up to his no good again.
'What do YOU want?' I silently called, or more like growled.
He chuckled, which was even more infuriating. 'I see you've been having bad dreams.' It wasn't a question. 'You'll use up all of your strength before tomorrow, then who will protect the little Cherry Blossom?'
'I will!' I growled, sounding protective even in my own mind. I blushed when he chuckled once again.
'Never the less,' he stated, 'You still need your rest. I have given you time to think about this, and now I must take action. Good-night Syaoran Li, pleasant dreams.'
I couldn't tell if he was mocking me or not, but then I felt a flare of magic and knew that this was another one of his sleeping spells. I sent one last rude thought toward him to contemplate before the darkness enveloped me.
'What if something happens to Sakura in the middle of the night, huh?!? And you.put.me.to.sleep.'
The last thing I remember was his short chortle, and then I fell asleep.
***TIME GAP***
In the morning, right when I awoke I sent my power out, searching for Sakura to make sure nothing happened while that darn Eriol put me to sleep, leaving me helpless to help her. [AN: lol! That's kinda funny if I don't say so myself!] I felt her aura flickering as strong as usual, and could tell that she was still asleep. I sighed, relaxing slightly. At least nothing happened that I wasn't aware of last night.
I rose to my feet and dressed quickly and silently in my practice clothes. I rushed out of the secret passageway and into the castle halls, then exited to the outside practice courts. I couldn't be rusty, not on a day like this, but I couldn't overdo it and use up too much of my strength either. I'll just have to start with slow easy kicks to loosen up. Stretching wouldn't be a bad idea either.
*****Sakura***** I woke up with the sun shining in my face through the large glass window. I sat up and stretched, yawning widely. Tomoyo was still asleep so I let her rest, trying to quietly dress myself so I wouldn't wake her up. When I was done she had awoken and was deciding what gown to wear that day. We both chose something semi-casual since we would probably be outside all day. There weren't any classes, and I could use a good carefree day. Then I remembered what happened last time and my shoulders slumped. Things just hadn't been going my way lately, but thankfully this time Eriol wouldn't be 'harming' us in any way, shape, or form.
Tomoyo and I went to breakfast shortly after and found Syaoran slightly sweaty and in practice clothes. He must not have had time to change yet. But he did look GOOD! I blushed furiously, wondering why I thought something like that. Maybe it was the was his hair fell into his eyes, or his muscular shoulders heaving up and down as he brought oxygen into his lungs. Then again, maybe it was the lazy grin he gave me when he noticed I was looking directly at him. I turned away, face burning. I was DEFINITELY going crazy!
After breakfast we met in our usual group under our favorite cherry blossom tree. Everyone was moseying about, appreciating the beautiful sunny day, and accepting a day without classes with open arms.
"So, what should we do today?" Rika asked everyone.
Yamazaki pointed one finger in the air and opened his mouth, about ready to say another one of his lies when Chiharu bopped him on the head, shutting him up. "Oh, no you don't," she commented, or more like warned. "And you were doing so good too."
"We could go horseback riding," I said, not really sure of what I was getting myself in to.
"Yeah!" Chiharu agreed enthusiastically. Tomoyo smiled and nodded her head.
"That's a good idea." Eriol said casually.
"Alright," Syaoran agreed. "I'll show you where the stable is. Follow me."
We all walked to the stable and chose horses that would best suit us. Naoko chose a blue roan, Chiharu chose a white gelding, Yamazaki a gray mare, Rika chose a golden-brown one, Tomoyo chose a gentle cream-colored mare, Eriol chose a black gelding that had a white star on it's forehead, and Syaoran chose his red mare, leaving behind his frisky ebony gelding since it would rather trot or canter instead of walk or jog at a slow and easy pace. He helped me pick out a horse that would best suit me since I hadn't been out a lot, and found a calm yet lively mare that was white, but had big red-brown spots on it that made it look as if she already had a saddle on her. She had soft amber-brown eyes that I fell in love with right away when they sparkled once she saw me. They reminded my of Syaoran's.
Once our mounts were saddled and ready we brought them out of the stable and into the warm sunlight. We all mounted up and began on our journey, with little bread rolls tucked away for provisions when we arrived at a little stream or some pretty landscape. It wasn't so bad, since I've only been ON a horse three times. You could say I was almost a natural. I let the others get ahead incase they wanted to set out at a faster pace and was surprised when Syaoran fell behind, coming side-by-side with me and my mare, Peaceblossom.
"Have you ever ridden on a horse before?" He asked, trying to be casual and not offend.
I smiled. "Yes," I said proudly, then giggled and added, "but only three times."
He looked at me questioningly and I laughed out loud at the confused expression on his face.
"With the rebellion going on and all of the Kingdoms taking slaves of people who weren't of their origin you could say that I never really got out much."
"Oh," he stated simply, and looked ahead. Then he turned his gaze back to me, "What did you do for all those years then? Weren't you bored? Being shut up in the castle anyways?"
I gave a little laugh. "No, I was plenty busy. Mother taught me all of the dances of all of the other Kingdoms, hoping to bring peace one day. She made certain that I knew every step to the dances from your Kingdom though. I always wondered why. I thought it was just because they were so time consuming and that the steps were harder to master though. I'm glad I know them now." [AN: Syaoran and Sakura's mother's match making already! ::grin:: he he he!]
"Did you do anything else?" He asked, almost skeptically.
I nodded. "Of course! I learned how to use weaponry of almost every kind. I used to always have to practice with my older brother. And-" I looked at the others to make sure no one was listening, and realized that they were too far ahead to hear anyway so I continued, "and that's also when I set the Clow Cards free. Believe me, it took a LONG time to capture all of them!"
He grinned ruefully. "Seeing that it took you even until you arrived here, I'll believe it."
"Hey!" I defended. His grin only widened and I saw a sparkle of mischief in his eyes. I narrowed my eyes suspiciously and gripped a tighter hold on the reins.
"Oh, don't worry. I would tip you off of your horse when you have such little experience," he said teasingly. "But once you're off, THAT is where the fun begins. Don't let your guard down."
I looked mock-offended when he said I had very little experience and then pretended to glare when he basically said he was going to 'get' me. I grinned and held my head high. "Oh yeah?" I asked. "Well you just better watch your back!"
He grinned. "I will. Oh, I will."
DUN DUN DUN!!!!!!! That will be where the fun begins! AND when they will be attacked most likely if you catch my drift. ^_____________^ Fun for the whole family! Yay! I can't wait! And I want to thank those of you who actually e-mailed me! -_-;; I know I should have gotten this chapter out more soon, but I can't. I have play practice every day after school until 6:30, which barely leaves any time for homework! Boy am I glad it's Winter Break! And today is Christmas Eve! YEAH! I can't wait! Happy Hanukah and New Year and everything like that! ^____________^ And MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!
By the way, have any of you seen Spirited Away? It is SOOOOOOOOOOOO SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO good! Kohaku is the coolest! But Sen or Choriko or whatever her name is at the time is really neat too! And I fixed my e-mail so you can send me things again! -_-` Sorry about before if you tried to send something and it wouldn't go through. Well, gotta go. I'm going to try to up-date to all of my OTHER stories now too! E-mail me as fast as you can if you get this or write in a review which one you want me to up-date next, then I will. ^______________________^ Sooo..... I'll talk to ya soon! ^___________^ HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And sorry again that it took me about a YEAR to up-date. -_-;; You are all SUPER if you are still reading this!
