Disclaimer: I believe there is actual intelligent life somewhere else out
ther- Oh, CCS belongs to CLAMP.
I think everyone here understands the normal drill. =P
pinklover: You just happen to be the first reviewer...again. =O I smell a conspiracy in the air, but a good one. ;D Thanks for reviewing again and keep writing your stories! :)
me: Thanks. (:
Azi: I'm very slow, I'm aware of my sluggish ways. X.x Thanks for your review, do you think you know why Chin wants Mei-Fa? =O
fireangel: Was that phrase used in American Idol or something? O.o Thanks for your review! =D I'm honoured you added me to your favourites. :)
Pochacco: Thanks a lot for your review. Really? I think this is how Li would act if he were ever older; cool and confident. :) He's great like that. ;)
RuByMoOn: My first ever reviewer! =D Thanks, and I'll try to add more S+S, just because everyone loves S+S. ;)
Rhiannon Faylinn: It's you. :) No, I must insist on thanking you. =D It's the least I could do.
apol: Good question, what does she want? Dun, dun, dun! Thanks for reviewing again! ^.^
sweet-cookie: I need to thank you for always reviewing. :) And I'm glad you like it so far.
meinien: Thanks for reviewing, meinien-san. :) Whoa there, I don't think we're on the same train. O.o Chin's evil, I admit... but she's not THAT evil. Or is she? =O Read on, oh great reviewer. =P
carol: Thanks carol-san. :)
Treeleaf: Thanks for both reviewing and for the luck on my exams. =D
Sweet Madison: Is your idea correct? =O Thanks for always reviewing Sweet Madison. =D
cOnFuSeD: 'Cause I'm evil and I want you to wait. =O Lol, thanks for reviewing and liking the fic. :)
Peonygt1004: Thanks for the review. :) A little short? Okay, this one will be a hundred million pages long. =O
sweet_chocolate_angel: You know, I'm really dying to read your story. =P Thanks for reviewing my story, and keep up yours. =)
Pink Cherry Blossom: Thanks for the review. :) And I hope you did well on your exams. =D
Izanami: Thanks for the review and the input. Although I don't think I've made them act THAT lovestruck. =P You ain't seen nothing yet. =O *Evil cackle* Um, I mean thanks. O.o
siuying-430: Your name's Fiona too? =O Thanks for the review, and if you don't want that to be her name anymore, just give me a shout. e_e
beth: More S+S. Gotcha. You want fries with that? =O Thanks for the review, and I'll be glad to put in some more S+S. =D
gaea: Thanks! =D Are you an Escaflowne fan too? =D
Ewokia: It was clear? =O I'm glad. =D Thanks for the review!
Janice: Hey, you're nameless no more. =P Thanks for the reviews, Janice- san. =D
Blue Heaven: Hehe, I love mystery! I just have a tough time writing it. X.x Thanks for the review! :)
nadja: Thanks for your wonderful review. =D
sylversuicune-88: Thanks a lot. :)
snooopy: It's you again! =O I'm glad you're still reading after all this time. :) Thank you.
d: Thanks! =D And yes, what does she want? =O *Eerie music in background*
Rumiko: Lol, yep. Sakura's a lawyer. :) Thanks for reviewing. =D
Distant Moon: Thank you for liking my story and for the luck. =D
Kan-chan: Thanks for the review and the luck. :) What does Mei-Fa have? =O
embattledcurve: Thanks for the review. :) And it should come along nicely soon, like a puzzle coming together. ;)
icicle: I need to thank you for constantly reviewing, it's very appreciated. =D
SakuraBlossom`101: Thanks for the review. ;)
Sakura-jr17: Thanks for your review. =D
j: Thanks for giving it a chance. :)
red cherry blossom: Thank you for the nice review. =D
Cherry-Blossom-Sakura: Thanks a lot. =D
kirei crystal: Thank you very much. =D
Okay, I just thought it was enlightening that some people knew why Chin was after Mei-Fa, while others were still a little in the dark. =P Okay, thanks for reviewing everybody. :) 'Tis muchly appreciated. Here's the next chapter.
Trial of Fate
By Ash Night
Chapter Seven
Sakura Kinomoto stared at all the paperwork on her desk as she tucked a loose strand of hair that had fallen out from her ponytail behind her ear. "Ugh," She tossed aside some of the papers and sighed. "Sometimes I wonder whatever possessed me to take up a career in law."
"Sakura?"
The lawyer turned around at the sound of the little voice. "Mei-Fa," She smiled. It must have been the first smile since she started with all the paperwork early this morning. "Hey."
Mei-Fa noticed her frustration, it was pretty obvious. "May I sit down, Sakura?" She asked politely.
"Of course, little fairy." Sakura pulled up a chair beside her, she was working on the dining table.
The little amber eyed girl smiled widely at the nickname Sakura had given her. She sat down right beside Sakura. "You look frustrated, Princess."
A little smirk made way to the twenty-three year old's lips. "Didn't I tell you not to call me that?"
The little girl nodded and grinned innocently. "Sorry Sakura, but why do you look so irritated?"
Sakura laughed a little at Mei-Fa's words. She sure knew her vocabulary. "Hmm, let's just say being a grownup is hard work."
Mei-Fa scratched her hair. "Are you sure, Sakura?"
"Well, not all the time. Just sometimes." She added.
"'Cause I can't wait to be all growed-up!" Mei-Fa declared excitedly.
Sakura smiled, amused at the little girl's words. "How old are you now, Mei-Fa?"
Mei-Fa lifted up four fingers. "I'm four years old."
"You have a long way to go," Sakura looked at the little girl. "Growing up is fun, but so is being young."
Mei-Fa nodded her head in agreement. "That's very wise, Sakura."
Sakura smiled. "Someone very wise told me."
"Who told you?" Mei-Fa asked curiously.
"Her name's Ms. Elena," Sakura said thoughtfully. "She was my guardian growing up."
Mei-Fa put her elbows on the dining table and rested her head above her hands. "What was Ms. Elena like?"
"Well," Sakura thought for a few seconds. "Ms. Elena was kind, caring and very smart."
"She sounds a lot like you, Princess."
The twenty-year old smiled at Mei-Fa's words.
"Sakura?" Mei-Fa spoke up when she saw Sakura smiling.
"Yes?"
"Will you help me with something?" Mei-Fa kept her eyes on the stack of papers in front of her.
"Sure," Sakura smiled. "I'd love to help you. What do you need help with?"
"It's about my daddy..." Mei-Fa trailed off.
"Okay," Sakura looked up. "What's wrong with your dad?" Besides being both obnoxious and rude... Sakura kept the last part to herself.
"He's going to kiss this girl and I really don't want him to!"
Sakura didn't know what to say. "Your father actually told you that he was planning on kissing someone?" Her green eyes were wide with surprise.
The chestnut browned haired little girl shook her head.
"Then how do you know?" Sakura was both curious and amused at the same time. She watched as Mei-Fa played with the tablecloth.
"Umm," Mei-Fa let go of the tablecloth and looked straight into Sakura's deep green eyes.
The lawyer waited patiently for an answer as the little girl gazed intensely into her eyes. "Mei-Fa?"
"I dreamed it, Sakura."
"Dreamed it?" Sakura repeated, surprised once again.
Mei-Fa simply nodded her head. "Just yesterday at night, I didn't really catch a good look at her though. It was a complete nightmare, Sakura."
Sakura tilted her head. Mei-Fa was being one hundred percent serious, she could hear it in the way she spoke.
"So we can't get her 'cause I don't know what she looks like." Mei-Fa added.
Sakura couldn't help but laugh at how the little girl wanted revenge.
"What's so funny?" Mei-Fa demanded. "I know you believe me, so why are you laughing?"
The auburn haired girl stopped her laughter reluctantly. She knows I believe her? Do I believe her? Well, I have no reason not to believe her. "How do you know I believe you, Mei-Fa?" Sakura challenged, raising a brow.
Mei-Fa giggled before answering. "Daddy does that too, he raises one of his eyebrows, just like what you just did." She smiled. "And that's easy! I saw it in your eyes. Daddy doesn't believe me, I've tried to tell him but there's no point. He just doesn't believe me, I didn't see the flame in his eyes."
Sakura sat back, letting everything sink in by itself. "So you're saying you saw Li kiss some girl in your dreams, right?"
Mei-Fa nodded happily. She was glad Sakura understood and believed her.
If she is telling the truth, how can I help her? "Do you dream a lot, Mei-Fa?" Sakura asked.
"Only sometimes."
"Does everything you dream of happen in reality?" Maybe if she says no, then the case may be solved.
"I guess so, Sakura."
Great. "Mei-Fa," Sakura looked at the little girl. "If your father really likes someone, don't you think he should go for it and be happy?"
"But I know he likes someone else, Sakura!" Mei-Fa's voice was urgent. "And she's perfect for my daddy! And my daddy loves her very much!"
"Someone else?" Sakura looked puzzled. "Another dream?"
"I saw them together in one of my dreams."
Sakura saw a sly smile play on the little four year old girl's lips, Li's sly smile.
"Plus I've met her too. She's REALLY kind, caring and very smart." Mei-Fa smiled cheerfully.
The honey-haired girl smiled at Mei-Fa's choice of words but shook her head lightly. "I want to help you, Mei-Fa... Except it's not my place to decide who your dad falls in love with."
The little girl had an expression of sadness on her face.
Now you've done it, Sakura. Good job there. "Love is never wrong, Mei- Fa." Sakura lifted the little girl's chin gently. "Have you heard of that saying?" I can't believe I just said that... If Tomoyo could just hear me now.
Mei-Fa shook her head and smiled a little. "Well now I have."
"I'm sorry I can't help you, Mei-Fa." Sakura said sadly.
"It's okay," I'll just have to help myself. "I'm glad you believe me though." She smiled fully this time.
Sakura was curious and suspicious as she thought of something. "Does anyone else know about this?" Mainly someone like Jin-Jin Chin...
"Nope," The little girl shrugged. "No one else believes, although I haven't told many people. Only daddy, if daddy doesn't believe me, who would?"
No one else? Great, another dead end. What could Chin possibly want Mei-Fa for? "I believe you, Mei-Fa." Sakura smiled.
"I know you do, Princess." She threw her arms around Sakura and hugged her warmly.
Tomoyo came jumping down the huge staircase. "Sakura-Chan! I can't wait to show you some of my new designs!" She stopped and grinned when she saw Mei-Fa hugging Sakura. "Aw! That's so cute!"
Sakura looked up as Mei-Fa finally let go. "Hey Tomoyo, I think almost ran out of air there." She smiled.
Mei-Fa giggled. "Hi Tomoyo!"
"Hi Mei-Fa." Tomoyo smiled warmly in return.
"You haven't been around lately," Sakura started teasingly. "Is Hiiragizawa-san really that interesting?"
Tomoyo flushed bright red. "How did you know I was with Eriol?"
"Oh! First name basis already?" Sakura grinned.
"Actually, we did have a good time together." Tomoyo declared. "But we're just friends, honest."
"I think Uncle Eriol likes you too." Mei-Fa helped.
Sakura gave Mei-Fa a wink. "Where did he take my best friend?"
"There was this museum, it's absolutely fabulous!" Her amethyst eyes lit up.
"I'm glad you had fun, Tomoyo." Sakura grinned. "That's probably because Hiiragizawa was there, right?"
"Mainly," Tomoyo admitted. "But the museum is his favourite place, there's even a fortune teller there!"
"Fortune teller? How ironic..." Sakura looked over at Mei-Fa. She had a puzzled look on her face.
"Ironic?"
Sakura shook her head. "It's nothing." She smiled.
"Well, I'd love to show you. Sylvie is absolutely great!"
"Sylvie?"
"The fortune teller, that's her name. Are you free? I really want to show you the museum and introduce you to Sylvie."
Sakura beamed. "I'm always free for a best friend."
"Great!"
"Would you like to come, Mei-Fa?" Sakura asked. "I need a break from all this work anyways."
"Yes!" Mei-Fa jumped up and down. "I wanna come!"
Sakura laughed. "Let's go then."
***
"Good afternoon, Li cooperation. Judy speaking." The secretary picked up the ringing phone for an unpleasant surprise.
"Get Li on the phone! And hurry up!"
Judy scrunched at the bitter voice. "Who may I ask is speaking?"
"None of your damn business! Just get him on the phone!"
"I'm sorry Miss, but you must state who you are first. Orders from Li, himself."
"God damn it! I was his wife! Now get him on the phone!" The women on the other line growled.
"Hold on, Miss." Judy rubbed her ears and knocked on Li's office door.
"Come in."
"Mr. Li?" The brunette walked in. "Phone for you, your ex-wife. Line 101"
The amber eyed man frowned at the mention of his ex. "Thanks Judy." He muttered.
The secretary left the room.
Li reluctantly picked up his phone and punched in the three digits. "What the hell do you want?"
"You really should fire that stupid secretary."
Li winced at her annoying voice. "Just tell me what the hell you want, Chin."
"Is that anyway to treat a lady and a former wife?"
"You're anything but a lady." He huffed.
Chin growled on the other line. "Whatever, Li. You think I wanted to phone you?"
"Spare me the torture of listening to your monstrous voice, just tell me what in blazes you want this time."
"I don't want anything, you know that." She whispered into the phone. "I only want my daughter."
"And that's the last thing you'll ever get from me!"
"The trial's been postponed long enough, do you even have a lawyer who's willing to lose yet?" She mocked.
"I have a lawyer alright. A lawyer who'll kick your ass and put you where you belong." Li's voice was full of anger.
Chin was beginning to lose her temper, something she did a lot. "If you really care about Mei-Fa, you'll meet Zing Cheng and I at the local cafe today, at four o'clock. Business matters."
"I'll be there, even if it means seeing your ugly face." Li slammed the phone down angrily. You don't deserve Mei-Fa, you don't deserve anything.
***
"What's a fortune teller?" Mei-Fa looked up at Sakura as the entered the museum.
"A fortune teller is someone who has the ability to see into the future." Sakura winked.
"Oh!" Mei-Fa winked back.
Tomoyo looked at the two strangely. "Is there something I don't know about?"
"Nope!" Mei-Fa answered quickly. "No secrets here!"
Tomoyo laughed. "Somehow I doubt that."
Sakura put on her innocent look.
"Whatever," Tomoyo shook her head. "This way, I can't wait for you to meet Sylvie."
There was a long line in front of the booth.
"Wow, I guess it's more crowded in the daytime than it is in the afternoon." Tomoyo pushed them into the line.
"It's a tent," Mei-Fa smiled. "Is she in there, Tomoyo?"
Tomoyo nodded and smiled back. "I told you this rocked."
Sakura looked up at the sign.
FORTUNE TELLER SYLVIE
WHAT LIES IN YOUR FUTURE?
TEN DOLLARS PER PERSON
"Ten dollars!?" Sakura turned to her friend.
Tomoyo nodded. "It's all worth it, Sakura."
"I wasn't thinking about that, Tomoyo."
"What is it, Sakura?"
"I guess Fortune tellers make a lot of money." The lawyer turned to the little girl. "Especially if they fall into the wrong pair of hands... That's just twisted!"
"Sakura, what's wrong?" Tomoyo asked worriedly.
The auburn haired girl snapped out of her thoughts and realized she was thinking out loud. Sakura looked up. "I was just thinking. It's nothing."
"What's twisted?" Tomoyo demanded, something was going on... And she intended to find out what.
"Let's talk at home, okay?" It was very crowded, people could eavesdrop easily.
"Sure." Tomoyo reluctantly replied.
Mei-Fa had been listening the whole time, she tried to understand what Sakura was getting at. But mom, I mean Chin doesn't know... "Sakura, Chin doesn't know!"
Mei-Fa understood? Sakura bent down and put her hands on Mei-Fa's shoulders. "We'll talk when we get home, okay?"
"K."
Sakura smiled and ruffled her hair. There's going to be a lot to talk about. Sakura noticed Tomoyo had a worried look upon her face. "Remember the fortune teller at the fair back home, Tomoyo?" Sakura asked, trying to change the subject.
Tomoyo nodded. "How could I forget? She said you would fail your math test, didn't she?" Tomoyo laughed.
Sakura frowned. "Yes, she did. And the next day I failed." This was partly why she had believed Mei-Fa, she had no reason not to. Who was she to decide if Fortune tellers were liars or not.
Mei-Fa laughed. "Fortune telling sounds fun!"
"It must be cool to be able to see ahead of time." Tomoyo said thoughtfully.
Not that cool. Sakura thought of Mei-Fa and her dreams. She saw something she didn't want to happen. It was definitely not what people make it out to be.
Mei-Fa pulled on Sakura's skirt. "It's our turn, Princess!"
Sakura smiled. "Great!"
"It's one at a time, Sakura." Tomoyo stated. "But I'm sure Sylvie will let Mei-Fa go in with you. I'll wait out here."
Sakura nodded and followed Mei-Fa inside the fancy tent. It was dark inside, with a small glowing light.
"Good afternoon, children." The women smiled. She had a purple bandana around her head. In her ears were silver hoop earrings with stars attached to them.
"Good afternoon." Sakura smiled back.
"Hi! I'm Mei-Fa, and this is Princess Sakura." Mei-Fa said eagerly.
Sylvie chuckled. "And I'm Sylvie."
"It's nice to meet you, Sylvie."
"You know," The women in her early forties looked up from her crystal ball. "I've been waiting a long time for you two."
"You have?" Sakura said, shock in her voice.
Mei-Fa was looking at the colours that swirled around in the crystal ball.
Sylvie nodded. "A lot will happen, Sakura Kinomoto."
"At least I won't fail a math test, right? What could be worst than that?" Sakura joked.
The fortune teller smiled wryly. "He's close by, Sakura."
"Who's close by?" Mei-Fa asked curiously, taking her gaze off the ball.
"Be patient, little one. You'll see for yourself soon."
"He?" Sakura repeated.
"That is correct, Sakura. A warmth like no warmth."
Why did all fortune tellers have to speak in puzzle format? Sakura smiled. "Is that all you'll tell me?"
"Deceit and treachery are close as well, be careful. Not everything is what it seems, but everything will end well if you'll just listen to your heart."
Well that's sure good advice. Sakura thought sarcastically to herself.
"It is good advice, child." Sylvie chuckled.
The lawyer jumped a little in her seat. So she reads minds too, talk about talented. Sakura smirked. "It is, isn't it? Thank you Sylvie."
"And just for the record, love does exist, Sakura." Sylvie's deep violet eyes flashed with happiness. "But I'll let you figure that out for yourself."
Fall in love? I wonder what it feels like to be in love. Sakura smiled warmly at the Fortune teller.
"What does that do?" Mei-Fa pointed to the crystal ball.
"Normally I wouldn't share this information but kindred should know, correct?"
Mei-Fa nodded. She just wanted to know what it did.
"Nothing."
"Nothing?!" The little girl asked. "How could it do nothing!?"
"It's all in here." Sylvie brought her hand up to her heart. "Tell me, do you use a crystal ball?"
Mei-Fa shook her head. "No."
"It's what happens on the inside that counts, Mei-Fa."
Sakura watched as Mei-Fa nodded. "But I guess it does make a nice decorative piece though."
The all laughed at Mei-Fa's words.
"And Mei-Fa?"
"Yah?"
"What you really want will come true." Sylvie grinned. "They're just both really stubborn."
Mei-Fa grinned widely.
"Here," Sylvie reached into the pockets of her long flowing robe. "I want you to have this, Mei-Fa."
"For me!?" Mei-Fa was awed as she took the miniature crystal ball Sylvie held out to her. "Thanks!" She turned to show Sakura the ball.
"Think nothing of it." Sylvie said warmly.
"Thank you, Sylvie." Sakura bowed politely.
"Oh, Sakura?"
The lawyer was about to leave but turned at the voice.
"Don't give up on him, ok? He's an arrogant one."
Sakura looked confused, but she nodded.
"Take care, you two."
"Bye!" Mei-Fa waved.
"So?" Tomoyo stood up from the bench as she saw the two girls walk out. "How was it?"
"It was so cool! Look what Sylvie gave me, Tomoyo!" Mei-Fa held out the little crystal ball.
"Wow, does it really work?"
"Nope!" Mei-Fa grinned cheerfully.
Sakura laughed. "It was a very interesting experience, I'll say that much."
"See?" Tomoyo say triumphantly. "I never steer you wrong."
"You? Never." Sakura smirked.
"So spill! What did she say?"
"Not much." Sakura lied.
"Aw, come one Sakura! You can tell your best friend." Tomoyo pouted.
"Okay, can we get some late lunch, first?"
"Yah," Mei-Fa shook her little ball. "I'm hungry too."
"Fine." Tomoyo sighed. "There's a cafe around here, let's go there."
"A cafe, you say?" Sakura smiled slyly. "Another place Hiiragizawa took the pleasure of showing you?"
"Maybe." Tomoyo muttered quietly, which made Sakura and Mei-Fa laugh.
***
Li Syaoran drummed his fingers on the counter of the table impatiently. Be there at four, she says. God.
"Wow, this place sure is fancy!"
The amber eyed man looked up at the familiar female voice. There was only one women he knew with that sweet sing-song type of voice.
"Wait 'till you try their coffee, it's even better." Tomoyo closed the entrance door.
"Sakura?" Li stood up from where he sat and walked over to where they stood.
"Li."
"Hi Daddy!" Mei-Fa said gleefully.
"And Mei-Fa, hey kiddo." Li smiled and turned to the emerald eyed girl in front of him. "What are guys doing here?"
"What do you think people come to a cafe for?" Sakura asked sarcastically.
"Very funny." Li muttered. "Well, come sit down. I have a table in the corner over there."
"So what are you here for?" Sakura asked Li as they sat down. "Don't you have work at this time?"
"Business matters, Kinomoto." Li said casually. "Actually, it's a good thing you're here."
"I have to use the restroom." Mei-Fa cut in.
"Okay, well I can take you." Sakura smiled. "Let's go."
"That's okay, Tomoyo can take me." Mei-Fa turned to Tomoyo. "Right, Tomoyo?"
Tomoyo grinned as she realized what Mei-Fa was trying to do. "Of course."
Sakura watched as they both got up and left.
"Why are you so eager to get away from me?" Li asked, grinning slyly.
"I'm not." Sakura bit her bottom lip.
"You sure could have fooled me, your majesty."
"Sakura."
"Why not Princess? Or how about your royal highness?" Li continued teasingly.
"This hardly qualifies as business matter, Li." Sakura retaliated.
"Relax, the other party has yet to arrive." Li slid her a menu. "Why don't you order something, you look hungry."
"Thanks." Sakura mumbled.
"Princesses should mumble like that, it's not good behaviour."
"You're right, Li." Sakura smiled superficially. "Good thing I'm not a princess, right?" She groaned and pulled the menu up.
Li chuckled and shook his head.
"Li?" Sakura put the menu down.
"What is it, highness? I live to serve you, and only you."
Sakura realized he wasn't going to stop, ignoring him would be best. Maybe then he'll back off. "Who's the other party?"
The chestnut haired man frowned. "I guess you'll be meeting Chin for the first time today."
"Chin?" Sakura exclaimed. "But Mei-Fa's here."
"Don't you think I know that?" Li said, frustrated. "It's okay, Daidouji can sit with her in that back."
"Sounds good to me, I guess."
"Naturally, it was my plan." Li said proudly.
"All your ideas are always so well thought out, how do you do it?" Sakura rolled her eyes.
"It's among my many talents, like I already told you the other day."
Sakura had to laugh, even if it was egotistical. "Is Chin really as bad as you all describe her out to be?" She asked curiously, it was a stupid question, for she was already aware of the answer.
"Why don't you find out yourself?"
Sakura followed his glance to the entrance of the cafe. A women and a man entered.
"I can't wait to find out..."
To be continued...
That's all for this time, folks. Next chapter will be the encounter. Dun, dun, dun! And the aftermath, of course. Hope you enjoyed this chapter. I have a whole week off so I'll be sure to update a lot quicker this time around. Thanks for reading everybody! =D Ja ne! -Ash
I think everyone here understands the normal drill. =P
pinklover: You just happen to be the first reviewer...again. =O I smell a conspiracy in the air, but a good one. ;D Thanks for reviewing again and keep writing your stories! :)
me: Thanks. (:
Azi: I'm very slow, I'm aware of my sluggish ways. X.x Thanks for your review, do you think you know why Chin wants Mei-Fa? =O
fireangel: Was that phrase used in American Idol or something? O.o Thanks for your review! =D I'm honoured you added me to your favourites. :)
Pochacco: Thanks a lot for your review. Really? I think this is how Li would act if he were ever older; cool and confident. :) He's great like that. ;)
RuByMoOn: My first ever reviewer! =D Thanks, and I'll try to add more S+S, just because everyone loves S+S. ;)
Rhiannon Faylinn: It's you. :) No, I must insist on thanking you. =D It's the least I could do.
apol: Good question, what does she want? Dun, dun, dun! Thanks for reviewing again! ^.^
sweet-cookie: I need to thank you for always reviewing. :) And I'm glad you like it so far.
meinien: Thanks for reviewing, meinien-san. :) Whoa there, I don't think we're on the same train. O.o Chin's evil, I admit... but she's not THAT evil. Or is she? =O Read on, oh great reviewer. =P
carol: Thanks carol-san. :)
Treeleaf: Thanks for both reviewing and for the luck on my exams. =D
Sweet Madison: Is your idea correct? =O Thanks for always reviewing Sweet Madison. =D
cOnFuSeD: 'Cause I'm evil and I want you to wait. =O Lol, thanks for reviewing and liking the fic. :)
Peonygt1004: Thanks for the review. :) A little short? Okay, this one will be a hundred million pages long. =O
sweet_chocolate_angel: You know, I'm really dying to read your story. =P Thanks for reviewing my story, and keep up yours. =)
Pink Cherry Blossom: Thanks for the review. :) And I hope you did well on your exams. =D
Izanami: Thanks for the review and the input. Although I don't think I've made them act THAT lovestruck. =P You ain't seen nothing yet. =O *Evil cackle* Um, I mean thanks. O.o
siuying-430: Your name's Fiona too? =O Thanks for the review, and if you don't want that to be her name anymore, just give me a shout. e_e
beth: More S+S. Gotcha. You want fries with that? =O Thanks for the review, and I'll be glad to put in some more S+S. =D
gaea: Thanks! =D Are you an Escaflowne fan too? =D
Ewokia: It was clear? =O I'm glad. =D Thanks for the review!
Janice: Hey, you're nameless no more. =P Thanks for the reviews, Janice- san. =D
Blue Heaven: Hehe, I love mystery! I just have a tough time writing it. X.x Thanks for the review! :)
nadja: Thanks for your wonderful review. =D
sylversuicune-88: Thanks a lot. :)
snooopy: It's you again! =O I'm glad you're still reading after all this time. :) Thank you.
d: Thanks! =D And yes, what does she want? =O *Eerie music in background*
Rumiko: Lol, yep. Sakura's a lawyer. :) Thanks for reviewing. =D
Distant Moon: Thank you for liking my story and for the luck. =D
Kan-chan: Thanks for the review and the luck. :) What does Mei-Fa have? =O
embattledcurve: Thanks for the review. :) And it should come along nicely soon, like a puzzle coming together. ;)
icicle: I need to thank you for constantly reviewing, it's very appreciated. =D
SakuraBlossom`101: Thanks for the review. ;)
Sakura-jr17: Thanks for your review. =D
j: Thanks for giving it a chance. :)
red cherry blossom: Thank you for the nice review. =D
Cherry-Blossom-Sakura: Thanks a lot. =D
kirei crystal: Thank you very much. =D
Okay, I just thought it was enlightening that some people knew why Chin was after Mei-Fa, while others were still a little in the dark. =P Okay, thanks for reviewing everybody. :) 'Tis muchly appreciated. Here's the next chapter.
Trial of Fate
By Ash Night
Chapter Seven
Sakura Kinomoto stared at all the paperwork on her desk as she tucked a loose strand of hair that had fallen out from her ponytail behind her ear. "Ugh," She tossed aside some of the papers and sighed. "Sometimes I wonder whatever possessed me to take up a career in law."
"Sakura?"
The lawyer turned around at the sound of the little voice. "Mei-Fa," She smiled. It must have been the first smile since she started with all the paperwork early this morning. "Hey."
Mei-Fa noticed her frustration, it was pretty obvious. "May I sit down, Sakura?" She asked politely.
"Of course, little fairy." Sakura pulled up a chair beside her, she was working on the dining table.
The little amber eyed girl smiled widely at the nickname Sakura had given her. She sat down right beside Sakura. "You look frustrated, Princess."
A little smirk made way to the twenty-three year old's lips. "Didn't I tell you not to call me that?"
The little girl nodded and grinned innocently. "Sorry Sakura, but why do you look so irritated?"
Sakura laughed a little at Mei-Fa's words. She sure knew her vocabulary. "Hmm, let's just say being a grownup is hard work."
Mei-Fa scratched her hair. "Are you sure, Sakura?"
"Well, not all the time. Just sometimes." She added.
"'Cause I can't wait to be all growed-up!" Mei-Fa declared excitedly.
Sakura smiled, amused at the little girl's words. "How old are you now, Mei-Fa?"
Mei-Fa lifted up four fingers. "I'm four years old."
"You have a long way to go," Sakura looked at the little girl. "Growing up is fun, but so is being young."
Mei-Fa nodded her head in agreement. "That's very wise, Sakura."
Sakura smiled. "Someone very wise told me."
"Who told you?" Mei-Fa asked curiously.
"Her name's Ms. Elena," Sakura said thoughtfully. "She was my guardian growing up."
Mei-Fa put her elbows on the dining table and rested her head above her hands. "What was Ms. Elena like?"
"Well," Sakura thought for a few seconds. "Ms. Elena was kind, caring and very smart."
"She sounds a lot like you, Princess."
The twenty-year old smiled at Mei-Fa's words.
"Sakura?" Mei-Fa spoke up when she saw Sakura smiling.
"Yes?"
"Will you help me with something?" Mei-Fa kept her eyes on the stack of papers in front of her.
"Sure," Sakura smiled. "I'd love to help you. What do you need help with?"
"It's about my daddy..." Mei-Fa trailed off.
"Okay," Sakura looked up. "What's wrong with your dad?" Besides being both obnoxious and rude... Sakura kept the last part to herself.
"He's going to kiss this girl and I really don't want him to!"
Sakura didn't know what to say. "Your father actually told you that he was planning on kissing someone?" Her green eyes were wide with surprise.
The chestnut browned haired little girl shook her head.
"Then how do you know?" Sakura was both curious and amused at the same time. She watched as Mei-Fa played with the tablecloth.
"Umm," Mei-Fa let go of the tablecloth and looked straight into Sakura's deep green eyes.
The lawyer waited patiently for an answer as the little girl gazed intensely into her eyes. "Mei-Fa?"
"I dreamed it, Sakura."
"Dreamed it?" Sakura repeated, surprised once again.
Mei-Fa simply nodded her head. "Just yesterday at night, I didn't really catch a good look at her though. It was a complete nightmare, Sakura."
Sakura tilted her head. Mei-Fa was being one hundred percent serious, she could hear it in the way she spoke.
"So we can't get her 'cause I don't know what she looks like." Mei-Fa added.
Sakura couldn't help but laugh at how the little girl wanted revenge.
"What's so funny?" Mei-Fa demanded. "I know you believe me, so why are you laughing?"
The auburn haired girl stopped her laughter reluctantly. She knows I believe her? Do I believe her? Well, I have no reason not to believe her. "How do you know I believe you, Mei-Fa?" Sakura challenged, raising a brow.
Mei-Fa giggled before answering. "Daddy does that too, he raises one of his eyebrows, just like what you just did." She smiled. "And that's easy! I saw it in your eyes. Daddy doesn't believe me, I've tried to tell him but there's no point. He just doesn't believe me, I didn't see the flame in his eyes."
Sakura sat back, letting everything sink in by itself. "So you're saying you saw Li kiss some girl in your dreams, right?"
Mei-Fa nodded happily. She was glad Sakura understood and believed her.
If she is telling the truth, how can I help her? "Do you dream a lot, Mei-Fa?" Sakura asked.
"Only sometimes."
"Does everything you dream of happen in reality?" Maybe if she says no, then the case may be solved.
"I guess so, Sakura."
Great. "Mei-Fa," Sakura looked at the little girl. "If your father really likes someone, don't you think he should go for it and be happy?"
"But I know he likes someone else, Sakura!" Mei-Fa's voice was urgent. "And she's perfect for my daddy! And my daddy loves her very much!"
"Someone else?" Sakura looked puzzled. "Another dream?"
"I saw them together in one of my dreams."
Sakura saw a sly smile play on the little four year old girl's lips, Li's sly smile.
"Plus I've met her too. She's REALLY kind, caring and very smart." Mei-Fa smiled cheerfully.
The honey-haired girl smiled at Mei-Fa's choice of words but shook her head lightly. "I want to help you, Mei-Fa... Except it's not my place to decide who your dad falls in love with."
The little girl had an expression of sadness on her face.
Now you've done it, Sakura. Good job there. "Love is never wrong, Mei- Fa." Sakura lifted the little girl's chin gently. "Have you heard of that saying?" I can't believe I just said that... If Tomoyo could just hear me now.
Mei-Fa shook her head and smiled a little. "Well now I have."
"I'm sorry I can't help you, Mei-Fa." Sakura said sadly.
"It's okay," I'll just have to help myself. "I'm glad you believe me though." She smiled fully this time.
Sakura was curious and suspicious as she thought of something. "Does anyone else know about this?" Mainly someone like Jin-Jin Chin...
"Nope," The little girl shrugged. "No one else believes, although I haven't told many people. Only daddy, if daddy doesn't believe me, who would?"
No one else? Great, another dead end. What could Chin possibly want Mei-Fa for? "I believe you, Mei-Fa." Sakura smiled.
"I know you do, Princess." She threw her arms around Sakura and hugged her warmly.
Tomoyo came jumping down the huge staircase. "Sakura-Chan! I can't wait to show you some of my new designs!" She stopped and grinned when she saw Mei-Fa hugging Sakura. "Aw! That's so cute!"
Sakura looked up as Mei-Fa finally let go. "Hey Tomoyo, I think almost ran out of air there." She smiled.
Mei-Fa giggled. "Hi Tomoyo!"
"Hi Mei-Fa." Tomoyo smiled warmly in return.
"You haven't been around lately," Sakura started teasingly. "Is Hiiragizawa-san really that interesting?"
Tomoyo flushed bright red. "How did you know I was with Eriol?"
"Oh! First name basis already?" Sakura grinned.
"Actually, we did have a good time together." Tomoyo declared. "But we're just friends, honest."
"I think Uncle Eriol likes you too." Mei-Fa helped.
Sakura gave Mei-Fa a wink. "Where did he take my best friend?"
"There was this museum, it's absolutely fabulous!" Her amethyst eyes lit up.
"I'm glad you had fun, Tomoyo." Sakura grinned. "That's probably because Hiiragizawa was there, right?"
"Mainly," Tomoyo admitted. "But the museum is his favourite place, there's even a fortune teller there!"
"Fortune teller? How ironic..." Sakura looked over at Mei-Fa. She had a puzzled look on her face.
"Ironic?"
Sakura shook her head. "It's nothing." She smiled.
"Well, I'd love to show you. Sylvie is absolutely great!"
"Sylvie?"
"The fortune teller, that's her name. Are you free? I really want to show you the museum and introduce you to Sylvie."
Sakura beamed. "I'm always free for a best friend."
"Great!"
"Would you like to come, Mei-Fa?" Sakura asked. "I need a break from all this work anyways."
"Yes!" Mei-Fa jumped up and down. "I wanna come!"
Sakura laughed. "Let's go then."
***
"Good afternoon, Li cooperation. Judy speaking." The secretary picked up the ringing phone for an unpleasant surprise.
"Get Li on the phone! And hurry up!"
Judy scrunched at the bitter voice. "Who may I ask is speaking?"
"None of your damn business! Just get him on the phone!"
"I'm sorry Miss, but you must state who you are first. Orders from Li, himself."
"God damn it! I was his wife! Now get him on the phone!" The women on the other line growled.
"Hold on, Miss." Judy rubbed her ears and knocked on Li's office door.
"Come in."
"Mr. Li?" The brunette walked in. "Phone for you, your ex-wife. Line 101"
The amber eyed man frowned at the mention of his ex. "Thanks Judy." He muttered.
The secretary left the room.
Li reluctantly picked up his phone and punched in the three digits. "What the hell do you want?"
"You really should fire that stupid secretary."
Li winced at her annoying voice. "Just tell me what the hell you want, Chin."
"Is that anyway to treat a lady and a former wife?"
"You're anything but a lady." He huffed.
Chin growled on the other line. "Whatever, Li. You think I wanted to phone you?"
"Spare me the torture of listening to your monstrous voice, just tell me what in blazes you want this time."
"I don't want anything, you know that." She whispered into the phone. "I only want my daughter."
"And that's the last thing you'll ever get from me!"
"The trial's been postponed long enough, do you even have a lawyer who's willing to lose yet?" She mocked.
"I have a lawyer alright. A lawyer who'll kick your ass and put you where you belong." Li's voice was full of anger.
Chin was beginning to lose her temper, something she did a lot. "If you really care about Mei-Fa, you'll meet Zing Cheng and I at the local cafe today, at four o'clock. Business matters."
"I'll be there, even if it means seeing your ugly face." Li slammed the phone down angrily. You don't deserve Mei-Fa, you don't deserve anything.
***
"What's a fortune teller?" Mei-Fa looked up at Sakura as the entered the museum.
"A fortune teller is someone who has the ability to see into the future." Sakura winked.
"Oh!" Mei-Fa winked back.
Tomoyo looked at the two strangely. "Is there something I don't know about?"
"Nope!" Mei-Fa answered quickly. "No secrets here!"
Tomoyo laughed. "Somehow I doubt that."
Sakura put on her innocent look.
"Whatever," Tomoyo shook her head. "This way, I can't wait for you to meet Sylvie."
There was a long line in front of the booth.
"Wow, I guess it's more crowded in the daytime than it is in the afternoon." Tomoyo pushed them into the line.
"It's a tent," Mei-Fa smiled. "Is she in there, Tomoyo?"
Tomoyo nodded and smiled back. "I told you this rocked."
Sakura looked up at the sign.
FORTUNE TELLER SYLVIE
WHAT LIES IN YOUR FUTURE?
TEN DOLLARS PER PERSON
"Ten dollars!?" Sakura turned to her friend.
Tomoyo nodded. "It's all worth it, Sakura."
"I wasn't thinking about that, Tomoyo."
"What is it, Sakura?"
"I guess Fortune tellers make a lot of money." The lawyer turned to the little girl. "Especially if they fall into the wrong pair of hands... That's just twisted!"
"Sakura, what's wrong?" Tomoyo asked worriedly.
The auburn haired girl snapped out of her thoughts and realized she was thinking out loud. Sakura looked up. "I was just thinking. It's nothing."
"What's twisted?" Tomoyo demanded, something was going on... And she intended to find out what.
"Let's talk at home, okay?" It was very crowded, people could eavesdrop easily.
"Sure." Tomoyo reluctantly replied.
Mei-Fa had been listening the whole time, she tried to understand what Sakura was getting at. But mom, I mean Chin doesn't know... "Sakura, Chin doesn't know!"
Mei-Fa understood? Sakura bent down and put her hands on Mei-Fa's shoulders. "We'll talk when we get home, okay?"
"K."
Sakura smiled and ruffled her hair. There's going to be a lot to talk about. Sakura noticed Tomoyo had a worried look upon her face. "Remember the fortune teller at the fair back home, Tomoyo?" Sakura asked, trying to change the subject.
Tomoyo nodded. "How could I forget? She said you would fail your math test, didn't she?" Tomoyo laughed.
Sakura frowned. "Yes, she did. And the next day I failed." This was partly why she had believed Mei-Fa, she had no reason not to. Who was she to decide if Fortune tellers were liars or not.
Mei-Fa laughed. "Fortune telling sounds fun!"
"It must be cool to be able to see ahead of time." Tomoyo said thoughtfully.
Not that cool. Sakura thought of Mei-Fa and her dreams. She saw something she didn't want to happen. It was definitely not what people make it out to be.
Mei-Fa pulled on Sakura's skirt. "It's our turn, Princess!"
Sakura smiled. "Great!"
"It's one at a time, Sakura." Tomoyo stated. "But I'm sure Sylvie will let Mei-Fa go in with you. I'll wait out here."
Sakura nodded and followed Mei-Fa inside the fancy tent. It was dark inside, with a small glowing light.
"Good afternoon, children." The women smiled. She had a purple bandana around her head. In her ears were silver hoop earrings with stars attached to them.
"Good afternoon." Sakura smiled back.
"Hi! I'm Mei-Fa, and this is Princess Sakura." Mei-Fa said eagerly.
Sylvie chuckled. "And I'm Sylvie."
"It's nice to meet you, Sylvie."
"You know," The women in her early forties looked up from her crystal ball. "I've been waiting a long time for you two."
"You have?" Sakura said, shock in her voice.
Mei-Fa was looking at the colours that swirled around in the crystal ball.
Sylvie nodded. "A lot will happen, Sakura Kinomoto."
"At least I won't fail a math test, right? What could be worst than that?" Sakura joked.
The fortune teller smiled wryly. "He's close by, Sakura."
"Who's close by?" Mei-Fa asked curiously, taking her gaze off the ball.
"Be patient, little one. You'll see for yourself soon."
"He?" Sakura repeated.
"That is correct, Sakura. A warmth like no warmth."
Why did all fortune tellers have to speak in puzzle format? Sakura smiled. "Is that all you'll tell me?"
"Deceit and treachery are close as well, be careful. Not everything is what it seems, but everything will end well if you'll just listen to your heart."
Well that's sure good advice. Sakura thought sarcastically to herself.
"It is good advice, child." Sylvie chuckled.
The lawyer jumped a little in her seat. So she reads minds too, talk about talented. Sakura smirked. "It is, isn't it? Thank you Sylvie."
"And just for the record, love does exist, Sakura." Sylvie's deep violet eyes flashed with happiness. "But I'll let you figure that out for yourself."
Fall in love? I wonder what it feels like to be in love. Sakura smiled warmly at the Fortune teller.
"What does that do?" Mei-Fa pointed to the crystal ball.
"Normally I wouldn't share this information but kindred should know, correct?"
Mei-Fa nodded. She just wanted to know what it did.
"Nothing."
"Nothing?!" The little girl asked. "How could it do nothing!?"
"It's all in here." Sylvie brought her hand up to her heart. "Tell me, do you use a crystal ball?"
Mei-Fa shook her head. "No."
"It's what happens on the inside that counts, Mei-Fa."
Sakura watched as Mei-Fa nodded. "But I guess it does make a nice decorative piece though."
The all laughed at Mei-Fa's words.
"And Mei-Fa?"
"Yah?"
"What you really want will come true." Sylvie grinned. "They're just both really stubborn."
Mei-Fa grinned widely.
"Here," Sylvie reached into the pockets of her long flowing robe. "I want you to have this, Mei-Fa."
"For me!?" Mei-Fa was awed as she took the miniature crystal ball Sylvie held out to her. "Thanks!" She turned to show Sakura the ball.
"Think nothing of it." Sylvie said warmly.
"Thank you, Sylvie." Sakura bowed politely.
"Oh, Sakura?"
The lawyer was about to leave but turned at the voice.
"Don't give up on him, ok? He's an arrogant one."
Sakura looked confused, but she nodded.
"Take care, you two."
"Bye!" Mei-Fa waved.
"So?" Tomoyo stood up from the bench as she saw the two girls walk out. "How was it?"
"It was so cool! Look what Sylvie gave me, Tomoyo!" Mei-Fa held out the little crystal ball.
"Wow, does it really work?"
"Nope!" Mei-Fa grinned cheerfully.
Sakura laughed. "It was a very interesting experience, I'll say that much."
"See?" Tomoyo say triumphantly. "I never steer you wrong."
"You? Never." Sakura smirked.
"So spill! What did she say?"
"Not much." Sakura lied.
"Aw, come one Sakura! You can tell your best friend." Tomoyo pouted.
"Okay, can we get some late lunch, first?"
"Yah," Mei-Fa shook her little ball. "I'm hungry too."
"Fine." Tomoyo sighed. "There's a cafe around here, let's go there."
"A cafe, you say?" Sakura smiled slyly. "Another place Hiiragizawa took the pleasure of showing you?"
"Maybe." Tomoyo muttered quietly, which made Sakura and Mei-Fa laugh.
***
Li Syaoran drummed his fingers on the counter of the table impatiently. Be there at four, she says. God.
"Wow, this place sure is fancy!"
The amber eyed man looked up at the familiar female voice. There was only one women he knew with that sweet sing-song type of voice.
"Wait 'till you try their coffee, it's even better." Tomoyo closed the entrance door.
"Sakura?" Li stood up from where he sat and walked over to where they stood.
"Li."
"Hi Daddy!" Mei-Fa said gleefully.
"And Mei-Fa, hey kiddo." Li smiled and turned to the emerald eyed girl in front of him. "What are guys doing here?"
"What do you think people come to a cafe for?" Sakura asked sarcastically.
"Very funny." Li muttered. "Well, come sit down. I have a table in the corner over there."
"So what are you here for?" Sakura asked Li as they sat down. "Don't you have work at this time?"
"Business matters, Kinomoto." Li said casually. "Actually, it's a good thing you're here."
"I have to use the restroom." Mei-Fa cut in.
"Okay, well I can take you." Sakura smiled. "Let's go."
"That's okay, Tomoyo can take me." Mei-Fa turned to Tomoyo. "Right, Tomoyo?"
Tomoyo grinned as she realized what Mei-Fa was trying to do. "Of course."
Sakura watched as they both got up and left.
"Why are you so eager to get away from me?" Li asked, grinning slyly.
"I'm not." Sakura bit her bottom lip.
"You sure could have fooled me, your majesty."
"Sakura."
"Why not Princess? Or how about your royal highness?" Li continued teasingly.
"This hardly qualifies as business matter, Li." Sakura retaliated.
"Relax, the other party has yet to arrive." Li slid her a menu. "Why don't you order something, you look hungry."
"Thanks." Sakura mumbled.
"Princesses should mumble like that, it's not good behaviour."
"You're right, Li." Sakura smiled superficially. "Good thing I'm not a princess, right?" She groaned and pulled the menu up.
Li chuckled and shook his head.
"Li?" Sakura put the menu down.
"What is it, highness? I live to serve you, and only you."
Sakura realized he wasn't going to stop, ignoring him would be best. Maybe then he'll back off. "Who's the other party?"
The chestnut haired man frowned. "I guess you'll be meeting Chin for the first time today."
"Chin?" Sakura exclaimed. "But Mei-Fa's here."
"Don't you think I know that?" Li said, frustrated. "It's okay, Daidouji can sit with her in that back."
"Sounds good to me, I guess."
"Naturally, it was my plan." Li said proudly.
"All your ideas are always so well thought out, how do you do it?" Sakura rolled her eyes.
"It's among my many talents, like I already told you the other day."
Sakura had to laugh, even if it was egotistical. "Is Chin really as bad as you all describe her out to be?" She asked curiously, it was a stupid question, for she was already aware of the answer.
"Why don't you find out yourself?"
Sakura followed his glance to the entrance of the cafe. A women and a man entered.
"I can't wait to find out..."
To be continued...
That's all for this time, folks. Next chapter will be the encounter. Dun, dun, dun! And the aftermath, of course. Hope you enjoyed this chapter. I have a whole week off so I'll be sure to update a lot quicker this time around. Thanks for reading everybody! =D Ja ne! -Ash