~ok guys, heres ur xmas special lol. U'll get part 1 on now and part 2
later. Just 2 let u noe, Sakura s older than touya in dis fic and its set
in the late 30s or so. Girls still had to wear corsets and things lol. I
hope u guys really like dis cuz I thot it was kinda cute an it's based on 1
of my fav xmas stories: The Nutcracker. ENJOY!!!
Special thx 2 my new beta reader, Lark! (Now u can blame her if dere r mistakes mwahahaha)
Disclaimer ~ da characters r not mine and da basic storyline isn't mine but I've added my own little twist!
~*~ The Nutcracker Prince ~*~ ~*~ Part I - The Party ~*~
Sakura Kinomoto sighed as she looked at herself in the mirror. She hated these dull parties her parent loved to put on because there was no one her age around except for that prissy bitch, Meiling. She always found a way to ruin Sakura's mood no matter what. And nobody else seemed to notice. Both Sakura's and Meiling's parents thought they were the best of friends when really there at each other's throats.
Meiling was jealous of Sakura because she was so pretty and talented. She was also very popular and so that automatically made her competition. Meiling was always trying to compete with Sakura in everything she did and it got on Sakura's nerves. Sakura had tried talking to her but Meiling would always throw it back in her face.
In reality, Sakura was very lonely. She may have been popular at school but she had no really close friends. There was no one she could really talk too or share secrets with. Sakura didn't even have a boyfriend, which she didn't need anyways. Sakura didn't mind being by herself sometimes, it was easier to get work done. But she longed for just that one person who could make her feel welcome.
Sakura sighed again and looked at her reflection. Her long, honey coloured hair was piled on top of her head in many curls and had a small tiara sitting in front of it. Sakura longed to just let her hair flow free but her mother never allowed it. She always wanted Sakura to look like a princess at the parties, so she made Sakura get her hair specially done for each occasion. Sakura could smell the sent of cherry blossoms coming from her hair; it was the only thing she tolerated when her hair was done up like it was tonight. The stylist used special cherry blossom scented pomade and Sakura secretly loved the smell. She would never tell anyone though, because she was always saying how much she despised these parties and how she had to get dressed up for them.
Sakura's dress was a pale pink that went all the way down to her toes. The sleeves stopped at her elbows but about six inches of lace was attached to the ends. The top of the dress went straight across her breasts and luckily enough Sakura didn't have to wear a corset. She had seen her mother struggle into those things and she shuttered at the thought of wearing one herself. Sakura was skinny but old enough to have acquired a few curves. Being seventeen had allowed her to blossom but she had never lost her girlish innocence. It was that trait alone that made her different from Meiling.
"The dress is okay," Sakura thought loud, "But I wish I could get rid of these stupid petticoats." She lifted her dress and frowned. Sakura would rather have petticoats than a corset but they were still uncomfortable. She longed to be able to wear a dress that had only one layer. One that didn't make her look like a bell; one that she could dance in. Sakura twirled around and sighed. She had been doing that a lot lately; she never seemed to be able to make herself happy. Sakura knew that many had tried but it was no use. She smoothed out her dress and was about to leave her room when she heard a sound.
Sakura whirled around and her emerald eyes searched her room. The sound was soft; almost like it didn't want to be found. She walked around her room, trying to locate where the sound was coming from. Sakura got to her closet and stopped. The sound was coming from inside. Taking a deep breath, Sakura reached out her hand to open the closet door. She clasped the handle and quickly swung the door open. Sakura looked inside the dark closet and listened. Nothing. The noise had stopped.
"I must be imagining things." Sakura said, shaking her head. She went to close the door when a ball of golden fur sprang at her. Sakura screamed before landing on the floor, hard. The golden furball made a small squeak before moving to Sakura's face and licking her.
"Kero!" Sakura scolded, "So that's where you've been. You bad puppy." The small golden retriever looked up at his mistress with big round eyes and Sakura laughed.
"Don't give me that look. You've probably been playing with my shoes again, haven't you?" Sakura smiled and got up off the floor. She brushed herself off and bent over to pick up her puppy. Kero yipped in reply and Sakura laughed again.
"I'll have to give you some credit." Sakura said and she held Kero in her arms, "You're the only one who is able to make me laugh." The golden puppy yipped again and licked her face. Then he nestled down into he arms and yawned.
"Oh no you don't." Sakura brought Kero up so his face was inches from hers, "If I have to endure another one of Okaa-san's parties then so do you." She rubbed her nose against his and smiled. Then Sakura took one last look in the mirror before heading downstairs.
*
"Oh good, you're already dressed." Nadeshiko said, looking at her daughter. Sakura nodded as she reached he bottom of the stairs. Her mother looked like a queen in her dark red dress and her long, dark hair was in a messy bun. A few ringlets framed her face and the way she moved looked as if she glided instead of walked. Sakura looked around the living room and saw that the servants had already laid all the food. Two long tables had been pushed together and the food had been arranged in a buffet style. Sakura's mother always went all out for Christmas and this year was no exception. Sakura crossed the room and noticed that her mother had used red and gold decorations.
"Doesn't she ever get tired of those colours?" Sakura asked Kero. Kero just cocked to head to one side as if to shrug. Sakura knew that red and gold were traditional Christmas colours but she longed to see something different. Like green. Sakura had always like the colour green, especially the dark, mysterious shade of the forest near their house. She loved to take long walks in the forest; just to listen to the sounds and smell the trees.
"Sakura?" She turned towards the voice that was calling her name.
"Hai?" Sakura watched as her father walked into the room. He was tall and had short brown hair that was a little darker than Sakura's. His thin rimmed glasses gave him an intelligent look and he always had a warm smile on his face.
"Sakura, I need you to greet the guests when they arrive, okay? They shouldn't be here for another half an hour or so but just make sure you're by the door when they arrive." Sakura nodded her head but headed into the next room. She wanted to see the Christmas tree before she had to go play guest greeter.
Sakura's favourite part of Christmas was the Christmas tree. She loved how the candles lit up the room and twinkled within the branches. Each person in her family had their own ornament along with the many different coloured bobbles that were hung up every year. The tree was in the corner of the room but the light from the candles reached every part of the room. Sakura encircled the tree, looking for her personal ornament.
She found it hanging on the hidden side of the tree. It was a glass ballerina that hung on a small branch with its hand. It had been given to her by her godfather, Clow Reed. Sakura loved her godfather because he was so mysterious. He was the owner of a toy store in town and so he was always bringing Sakura and her younger brother, Touya, wonderful gifts. Clow Reed also knew many magic tricks that he used to entertain people at her mother's parties.
'I wonder what he'll bring this year.' Sakura thought as she delicately touched her ballerina, 'I hope he does another magic show for us, I love how unexplainable his magic is.' Sakura pulled up a small bench and sat behind the tree. She lay Kero down on her lap and slowly ran her hands through his soft, golden fur. Kero put his head down his front paws and yawned in content. Sakura stared out the window that was positioned beside the tree and sighed. If she could have one wish this Christmas, it would be for it to snow; or to find someone to talk too.
"I don't know why I bother." Sakura told Kero, "I wish for the same thing every year but it never comes true. Is the world against me Kero?" Kero didn't respond and Sakura knew he was asleep. She smiled and looked back out the window. The forest looked dark and foreboding but it was still green.
"It should be white!" Sakura cursed. She felt her eyes fill with water and she blinked. Sakura refused to cry. She had cried enough today and she didn't want to have to redo her makeup. It had taken her long enough and she knew her mother would tell her off for creating a scene. A single tear fell down her face and she quickly wiped it away.
"Stop it." She scolded herself.
"Talking to yourself again, kaijuu?" Sakura jumped and whirled around to find herself staring at her younger brother.
"What do you want?" She snapped. Kero felt her stiffen and woke up with a start.
"Nothing. Just wanted to tell you that our guests are going to be arriving soon and Otou-san said you have to greet them." Sakura jumped her feet, forgetting that Kero was on her lap. He rolled off and landed on the carpet with a thump.
"Shit! How long have I been sitting here?!" Touya rolled his eyes.
"About half an hour. You been day dreaming again, kaijuu?" Sakura didn't wait around to reply. She rushed out of the room and towards the front door. She was barely able to catch her breath before the doorbell rang, announcing the first guest.
"Here we go again." Sakura grumbled, putting on a fake smile and opening the door.
"Welcome."
*
After about forty-five minutes of opening doors, taking coats and smiling like a china doll, Sakura was finally able to join everyone in the dining room. She moved slowly through the massive hordes of people, trying to get something to eat. For last fifteen minutes, Sakura had been fighting her starvation. She hadn't eaten anything all day and now it was almost six o'clock.
"You've certainly gotten taller since I last saw you, Sakura."
"Arigatou Mrs. Robushi." Sakura pushed her way through the crowd.
"You look very pretty tonight, Sakura."
"Arigatou Mrs. Iaki." Sakura finally made it to the table and picked up a plate. She looked at the spread and tried to decide what she wanted to try first.
"Oh look, it's the village slut." Sakura's face darkened but she didn't raise her head. She knew exactly who was standing in front of her and she was too tired to deal with her right now.
"Hello Meiling." Sakura said.
"Hey bitch, you're supposed to look at someone when they're talking." Sakura smirked, still not looking at her.
"I know very well how to act around people, Meiling. But considering I think of you as being less than the dog shit I have to wipe off my shoes, I don't think I need to look at you when you insult me." Sakura could feel the anger radiating of the girl in front of her and she struggled not to laugh.
"Besides," She continued, "I may turn to stone if I look at your butt ugly face." Sakura moved own the table and was about to put a half a sandwich on her plate when Meiling grabbed her arm. Sakura cringed as Meiling dragged her into the hallway and slammed her into the wall.
"You little whore. How dare you speak to me like that." Meiling hissed. Sakura finally met her gaze and smiled when she saw how red it had become.
"Oh so you're allowed to insult me but I'm not allowed to insult you?" Sakura raised her eyebrow, "Some how that doesn't seem very fair." Meiling's eyes narrowed and she stepped back a bit. Then without warning, her hand flew out and Sakura felt a burning sensation on her cheek. Meiling had slapped her! Sakura's eyes widened in shock as she stared at the raven haired girl in front of her. Meiling's ruby eyes flashed with anger as they stared at each other. Sakura slowly raised her hand to her face and felt where Meiling had hit her. It hurt to the touch and Sakura knew it was already red. Meiling smirked as Sakura lowered her head so her bangs covered her face.
"How does it feel slut? Can't say much about you but that made me feel great." Meiling laughed. Sakura had tormented her with her damn innocence for long enough and now, finally, she had been able to get some revenge. She was still laughing when Sakura spoke.
"Bitch." Was all Sakura said before she grabbed Meiling and threw her against the wall. Meiling was in such shock that she didn't have time to react. Then Sakura grabbed her by the neck and pinned her against the wall. She squeezed and Meiling tried to pry her hands away in order to breathe, but Sakura was too strong. Sakura glared at Meiling as she struggled to break free.
"Don't you ever touch me again." Sakura's voice was barely above a whisper but filled with venom. The hatred in her eyes shone brightly and for once in her life, Meiling was scared. She had never seen Sakura this mad before. She tried to speak but Sakura's hand was clasped so tightly around her neck that all that came out was a muffled sob. Sakura glared at her one more time before letting her go. Meiling slumped to the floor, gasping for breath. She massaged her throat with her hand and looked up at Sakura.
"If you ever touch me again Meiling," Sakura hissed, her fists clenched at her sides, "I will not be responsible for anything I do to you. Understand?" Meiling nodded but didn't get up. Sakura turned on her heel and walked back into the dining room. Luckily, no one had noticed Meiling drag her out of the room. Sakura's emerald eyes searched the room for her beloved pet but she couldn't find him.
"I wonder where that little devil went." Sakura wondered aloud. She walked over to the dinner table and picked up her plate. She began to pile things on when she heard a whimper from underneath the table. Sakura set down her plate and kneeled down. She lifted up the red and gold tablecloth to find Kero sitting on the floor with his tail between his legs.
"Kero, there you are." Sakura reached under the table and grabbed her puppy. He immediately recognized his mistress and proceeded to lick all the makeup off her face. Sakura pulled him away and scratched his nose.
"Come on Kero, I'll give you a treat." Sakura shifted the golden retriever into her right arm, grabbed her plate with the other and walked into the living room where the Christmas tree was. Many adults were standing around talking, some with wine glasses, others with plates of food. They were all dressed in their Sunday best as it were and Sakura marvelled at all the different colours. The ladies were dressed in long, flowing dresses with frills and lace while the men wore fancy suits that included a shirt, a vest and an overcoat.
Sakura wondered if they were really hot as she made her way over to her bench behind the tree. The ears and necks and wrists of the women sparkled with jewels that matched their outfits and Sakura felt very self conscience. She never liked wearing large pieces of jewellery because it made her feel like she was showing off. Sakura was content with were a pair of little diamond studs in the shape cherry blossoms that matched the pendent around her neck. It had been a gift from Clow Reed and she had never taken it off.
Sakura sat down on her bench and placed Kero beside her. He sat and waited while Sakura cut up a piece of cake and fed it to him. As he chomped on it happily, Sakura started on the half a sandwich she had taken before the whole incident with Meiling. Kero finished his cake and sat up, begging for more.
"It's a wonder why you never get sick, Kero." Sakura said before offering him some more cake off of her plate. Kero loved sweets, even though he was a dog and he had never gotten sick, no matter how much Sakura gave him. She looked at the tree and watched the candle light flicker. They were more visible now because the sun had almost set and Sakura wondered how long it would be before her godfather made his appearance. She was looking forward to seeing him and felt the excitement rise up within her.
Suddenly Sakura heard the front door open with a bang. She jumped to her feet and turned towards the doorway that lead into the hall. A cold gust of wind blew through the room and everyone looked around to see where it had come from. The wind swirled around the Christmas tree until it had blown out every single candle. The room grew dark except for the faint glow from the fireplace. Sakura moved towards the light and watched in wonder as it began to grow. The embers burst into flame and the light reflected in Sakura's emerald eyes.
Then the flames exploded into a rainbow of coloured fireworks and flew about the room. Sakura smiled secretly and watched as the other people in the room tried to escape the path of the multicoloured sparks. Suddenly they all flew towards the center of the room and collided with each other. The lights disappeared in a large cloud of smoke and Sakura tried to control her delight. There in the middle of the room stood her godfather, Clow Reed. He looked around the room before taking a bow and everyone burst into applause. He looked up and winked at Sakura as the candles came back to life. Sakura smiled and ran to her godfather.
"That was fantastic, Uncle Clow Reed." Sakura said as she hugged him, "Even better than last year." Clow Reed looked down at his goddaughter and smiled. Both Sakura and Touya had been calling him uncle every since they could talk. Everyone knew that they weren't really related but it didn't matter because they were so close.
"Arigatou, Sakura. I aim to please." He gave her a final squeezed before she pulled away. He took off his long, navy cloak and top hot and handed to a maid. She curtsied and hurried away to hang up his things. Clow Reed was immediately bombarded by people congratulating him on his entrance and Sakura slipped into the background once again.
"That was amazing! How do you do it?" Someone asked.
"A magician never reveals his secrets." Clow Reed replied with a smile. Touya came bounding up to his uncle and gabbed his arm.
"What'ja bring me Uncle Clow Reed? Huh? Huh?" Touya had never had any patience.
"Touya! Your godfather doesn't have to bring you something every time he comes over." Nadeshiko said. She reached the two men and pried Sakura's little brother off Clow Reed's arm.
"Demo, it's Christmas Okaa-san!" Touya whined. Nadeshiko just rolled her eyes and wrapped her arms around her friend.
"Welcome, Clow Reed. I'm so glad you could make it."
"You know I never miss any of your parties Nadeshiko." Clow Reed smiled. Then he turned to Touya and brought a large package out of his coat.
"Merry Christmas Touya."
"Arigatou Uncle Clow Reed!" Touya said before rushing over to group of his friends to inspect his new gift. Sakura was back at her bench but she still had a clear view of Touya and his friends. They looked so happy as Touya ripped off the wrapping paper to reveal a set of toy soldiers. There was also a set of small canons that fired small metal marbles. Sakura's heart wrenched because she had never known what it felt like to be surrounded by friends. She felt her eyes fill with tears again and turned towards the window. Kero climbed into her lap and was soon fast asleep.
*
"Going to sit there all night?" Sakura looked up to see her uncle standing next to her. She forced a smile and nodded.
"No point in hanging around out there." She said pointing to the middle of the room where couples had started to dance. Clow Reed chuckled and sat down beside her.
"Not much a people person, are you Sakura?"
"I am a people person!" Sakura retorted, "I just haven't found the right people yet." She looked down at her lap where Kero was still sleeping trying to fight the tears that were forming in her eyes. Clow Reed put his arm around her and she rested her head on his shoulder.
"You'll find them soon enough, Sakura. Maybe even by tomorrow." Sakura looked up at her uncle a questioning look and he smiled innocently. Then he reached into his coat and pulled out what looked to be a wooden figure.
"What's that?" Sakura asked.
"It's called a Nutcracker. It's my Christmas gift to you Sakura. Merry Christmas." Sakura took the doll and hugged Clow Reed.
"Arigatou. You always bring the most unusual gifts." Clow Reed kissed the top of Sakura's head as she gazed at the gift in her hands.
"Clow Reed, come try the punch! Nadeshiko added a special ingredient this year." Sakura's father, Fujitaka called from across the room. Clow Reed looked at Sakura and just shrugged his shoulders. Sakura smiled as he walked away and then turned back to the gift he had given her.
The Nutcracker was made completely from wood but was beautifully crafted. He looked like a soldier; his uniform was a deep green that reminded Sakura of her beloved forest. It was lined with gold that sparkled in the candle light. Sakura's gaze rose to the head and she almost laughed. The head was little to big for the body. His white hair and moustache was as pure as snow. But it was his facial expression that caught Sakura's eye. His mouth was stretched into the biggest smile Sakura had ever seen but she could see sadness in his eyes. They were black as coal with hints of a colour Sakura had never seen before. There was also a small silver wolf pendent hanging from his neck. Sakura fingered the tiny decoration and smiled sadly.
'It's almost as if he was once a real person.' Thought Sakura, staring at the doll, 'He looks so lonely even though he's smiling.' She took a walnut off her plate and using the lever in the Nutcracker's back, opened his mouth. She stuck the nut into his mouth and pushed down on the lever. His jaw closed with a crack and the shell fell to the floor in crumbs. Sakura opened his mouth again and took out the edible walnut and plopped it into her own mouth.
"Arigatou." She said to the doll, not realizing someone had snuck up behind her.
"Hey cool! Lemme try!" Touya grabbed the doll from his sister's grasped and ran over to his friends.
"Touya, get back here! Uncle Clow Reed gave that to me!" Sakura yelled at her brother. She jumped to her feet and followed him across the room in anger. Touya looked around but he couldn't find any walnuts on his friend's plates. So instead he picked up one of the metal marbles that came with the toy canons. He placed in the Nutcracker's mouth and yanked down hard on the lever coming from his back.
A resounding crack ricocheted off the living room walls.
Sakura felt her heart break as she looked at her Nutcracker. His front two teeth were now missing and they were lying on the floor.
"Baka!" Sakura screamed, "What the hell were you thinking?!" She burst into tears and grabbed the Nutcracker back from her brother. Everyone looked over at the two siblings as Sakura continued to chew out her brother.
"You're so stupid Touya! Do you ever think before you act?!" She bit out through her tears. "You have your own stupid toys, why do you have to break mine?! You're the worst brother anyone could ever have!" Sakura bent down, picked up the Nutcracker's two wooden teeth and ran out of the room. She ran up the spiral staircase to her room and slammed the door. Then she flung herself onto her bed and cried her eyes out.
It just wasn't fair. Why was it always her who had to go through these things? She didn't think anyone could be as miserable as she was right now and that just made her cry harder. Sakura buried her face into her pillow as enormous sobs wracked her body. She couldn't stand it. After a while her sobs lessened but she still kept her face hidden in her pillow. When her breath had slowed, Sakura turned her head to look at her Nutcracker. He lay sideways on her bed with his missing teeth beside him.
Sakura wiped her eyes with the back of her hand and sat up. Her head throbbed and when she went up to massage it she cringed. Her hair was still piled on top of her head but had hardened with all the pomade the stylist had put in it. She got up from her bed and walked into her bathroom. Sakura looked at herself in the mirror and began taking out all the bobby pins that had held her hair up. Her mascara was smeared al around her eyes, making her look like a zombie. Once she had gotten the final bobby pin out, Sakura stepped out of her dress and turned on the water in the bathtub. She let the water almost fill to the top before turning it off and stepping into the tub.
Sakura sighed in contentment as the warm water flowed over her skin. She allowed the water to wash away her tears as she submerged herself. Sakura stayed in the bath until it got cold before getting out. She had thought she had heard someone enter her room at one point but dismissed it quickly.
"Probably just Kero." She said to her reflection. Sakura dried her hair and brushed out the tangles. The long honey coloured strands flowed down her back and Sakura wished she could be like her hair was right now. Free. After she finished drying herself off, Sakura wrapped her towel around her and opened the bathroom door. She walked over to her dresser and pulled out a long, pale pink nightgown. It was sleeveless and a ribbon criss-crossed itself across the front, moulding itself tightly around Sakura's body. It showed off her curves even though it was just a nightgown and it was her favourite.
Then she walked over to her bed but found her Nutcracker was gone! Sakura was ready to throttle Touya's neck when she saw a note lying in the space where her Nutcracker should have been.
~ Your Little Wolf has been fixed and is in the cabinet downstairs. Merry Christmas Sakura! May your wishes com true. ~
Sakura smiled and put the piece of paper on her bed side table.
"Arigatou, uncle." She said. Sakura quietly walked towards her door and turned the handle. She then slipped out of her room and down the stairs just as the grandfather clock struck midnight.
*
Dere ya go, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Special thx 2 my new beta reader, Lark! (Now u can blame her if dere r mistakes mwahahaha)
Disclaimer ~ da characters r not mine and da basic storyline isn't mine but I've added my own little twist!
~*~ The Nutcracker Prince ~*~ ~*~ Part I - The Party ~*~
Sakura Kinomoto sighed as she looked at herself in the mirror. She hated these dull parties her parent loved to put on because there was no one her age around except for that prissy bitch, Meiling. She always found a way to ruin Sakura's mood no matter what. And nobody else seemed to notice. Both Sakura's and Meiling's parents thought they were the best of friends when really there at each other's throats.
Meiling was jealous of Sakura because she was so pretty and talented. She was also very popular and so that automatically made her competition. Meiling was always trying to compete with Sakura in everything she did and it got on Sakura's nerves. Sakura had tried talking to her but Meiling would always throw it back in her face.
In reality, Sakura was very lonely. She may have been popular at school but she had no really close friends. There was no one she could really talk too or share secrets with. Sakura didn't even have a boyfriend, which she didn't need anyways. Sakura didn't mind being by herself sometimes, it was easier to get work done. But she longed for just that one person who could make her feel welcome.
Sakura sighed again and looked at her reflection. Her long, honey coloured hair was piled on top of her head in many curls and had a small tiara sitting in front of it. Sakura longed to just let her hair flow free but her mother never allowed it. She always wanted Sakura to look like a princess at the parties, so she made Sakura get her hair specially done for each occasion. Sakura could smell the sent of cherry blossoms coming from her hair; it was the only thing she tolerated when her hair was done up like it was tonight. The stylist used special cherry blossom scented pomade and Sakura secretly loved the smell. She would never tell anyone though, because she was always saying how much she despised these parties and how she had to get dressed up for them.
Sakura's dress was a pale pink that went all the way down to her toes. The sleeves stopped at her elbows but about six inches of lace was attached to the ends. The top of the dress went straight across her breasts and luckily enough Sakura didn't have to wear a corset. She had seen her mother struggle into those things and she shuttered at the thought of wearing one herself. Sakura was skinny but old enough to have acquired a few curves. Being seventeen had allowed her to blossom but she had never lost her girlish innocence. It was that trait alone that made her different from Meiling.
"The dress is okay," Sakura thought loud, "But I wish I could get rid of these stupid petticoats." She lifted her dress and frowned. Sakura would rather have petticoats than a corset but they were still uncomfortable. She longed to be able to wear a dress that had only one layer. One that didn't make her look like a bell; one that she could dance in. Sakura twirled around and sighed. She had been doing that a lot lately; she never seemed to be able to make herself happy. Sakura knew that many had tried but it was no use. She smoothed out her dress and was about to leave her room when she heard a sound.
Sakura whirled around and her emerald eyes searched her room. The sound was soft; almost like it didn't want to be found. She walked around her room, trying to locate where the sound was coming from. Sakura got to her closet and stopped. The sound was coming from inside. Taking a deep breath, Sakura reached out her hand to open the closet door. She clasped the handle and quickly swung the door open. Sakura looked inside the dark closet and listened. Nothing. The noise had stopped.
"I must be imagining things." Sakura said, shaking her head. She went to close the door when a ball of golden fur sprang at her. Sakura screamed before landing on the floor, hard. The golden furball made a small squeak before moving to Sakura's face and licking her.
"Kero!" Sakura scolded, "So that's where you've been. You bad puppy." The small golden retriever looked up at his mistress with big round eyes and Sakura laughed.
"Don't give me that look. You've probably been playing with my shoes again, haven't you?" Sakura smiled and got up off the floor. She brushed herself off and bent over to pick up her puppy. Kero yipped in reply and Sakura laughed again.
"I'll have to give you some credit." Sakura said and she held Kero in her arms, "You're the only one who is able to make me laugh." The golden puppy yipped again and licked her face. Then he nestled down into he arms and yawned.
"Oh no you don't." Sakura brought Kero up so his face was inches from hers, "If I have to endure another one of Okaa-san's parties then so do you." She rubbed her nose against his and smiled. Then Sakura took one last look in the mirror before heading downstairs.
*
"Oh good, you're already dressed." Nadeshiko said, looking at her daughter. Sakura nodded as she reached he bottom of the stairs. Her mother looked like a queen in her dark red dress and her long, dark hair was in a messy bun. A few ringlets framed her face and the way she moved looked as if she glided instead of walked. Sakura looked around the living room and saw that the servants had already laid all the food. Two long tables had been pushed together and the food had been arranged in a buffet style. Sakura's mother always went all out for Christmas and this year was no exception. Sakura crossed the room and noticed that her mother had used red and gold decorations.
"Doesn't she ever get tired of those colours?" Sakura asked Kero. Kero just cocked to head to one side as if to shrug. Sakura knew that red and gold were traditional Christmas colours but she longed to see something different. Like green. Sakura had always like the colour green, especially the dark, mysterious shade of the forest near their house. She loved to take long walks in the forest; just to listen to the sounds and smell the trees.
"Sakura?" She turned towards the voice that was calling her name.
"Hai?" Sakura watched as her father walked into the room. He was tall and had short brown hair that was a little darker than Sakura's. His thin rimmed glasses gave him an intelligent look and he always had a warm smile on his face.
"Sakura, I need you to greet the guests when they arrive, okay? They shouldn't be here for another half an hour or so but just make sure you're by the door when they arrive." Sakura nodded her head but headed into the next room. She wanted to see the Christmas tree before she had to go play guest greeter.
Sakura's favourite part of Christmas was the Christmas tree. She loved how the candles lit up the room and twinkled within the branches. Each person in her family had their own ornament along with the many different coloured bobbles that were hung up every year. The tree was in the corner of the room but the light from the candles reached every part of the room. Sakura encircled the tree, looking for her personal ornament.
She found it hanging on the hidden side of the tree. It was a glass ballerina that hung on a small branch with its hand. It had been given to her by her godfather, Clow Reed. Sakura loved her godfather because he was so mysterious. He was the owner of a toy store in town and so he was always bringing Sakura and her younger brother, Touya, wonderful gifts. Clow Reed also knew many magic tricks that he used to entertain people at her mother's parties.
'I wonder what he'll bring this year.' Sakura thought as she delicately touched her ballerina, 'I hope he does another magic show for us, I love how unexplainable his magic is.' Sakura pulled up a small bench and sat behind the tree. She lay Kero down on her lap and slowly ran her hands through his soft, golden fur. Kero put his head down his front paws and yawned in content. Sakura stared out the window that was positioned beside the tree and sighed. If she could have one wish this Christmas, it would be for it to snow; or to find someone to talk too.
"I don't know why I bother." Sakura told Kero, "I wish for the same thing every year but it never comes true. Is the world against me Kero?" Kero didn't respond and Sakura knew he was asleep. She smiled and looked back out the window. The forest looked dark and foreboding but it was still green.
"It should be white!" Sakura cursed. She felt her eyes fill with water and she blinked. Sakura refused to cry. She had cried enough today and she didn't want to have to redo her makeup. It had taken her long enough and she knew her mother would tell her off for creating a scene. A single tear fell down her face and she quickly wiped it away.
"Stop it." She scolded herself.
"Talking to yourself again, kaijuu?" Sakura jumped and whirled around to find herself staring at her younger brother.
"What do you want?" She snapped. Kero felt her stiffen and woke up with a start.
"Nothing. Just wanted to tell you that our guests are going to be arriving soon and Otou-san said you have to greet them." Sakura jumped her feet, forgetting that Kero was on her lap. He rolled off and landed on the carpet with a thump.
"Shit! How long have I been sitting here?!" Touya rolled his eyes.
"About half an hour. You been day dreaming again, kaijuu?" Sakura didn't wait around to reply. She rushed out of the room and towards the front door. She was barely able to catch her breath before the doorbell rang, announcing the first guest.
"Here we go again." Sakura grumbled, putting on a fake smile and opening the door.
"Welcome."
*
After about forty-five minutes of opening doors, taking coats and smiling like a china doll, Sakura was finally able to join everyone in the dining room. She moved slowly through the massive hordes of people, trying to get something to eat. For last fifteen minutes, Sakura had been fighting her starvation. She hadn't eaten anything all day and now it was almost six o'clock.
"You've certainly gotten taller since I last saw you, Sakura."
"Arigatou Mrs. Robushi." Sakura pushed her way through the crowd.
"You look very pretty tonight, Sakura."
"Arigatou Mrs. Iaki." Sakura finally made it to the table and picked up a plate. She looked at the spread and tried to decide what she wanted to try first.
"Oh look, it's the village slut." Sakura's face darkened but she didn't raise her head. She knew exactly who was standing in front of her and she was too tired to deal with her right now.
"Hello Meiling." Sakura said.
"Hey bitch, you're supposed to look at someone when they're talking." Sakura smirked, still not looking at her.
"I know very well how to act around people, Meiling. But considering I think of you as being less than the dog shit I have to wipe off my shoes, I don't think I need to look at you when you insult me." Sakura could feel the anger radiating of the girl in front of her and she struggled not to laugh.
"Besides," She continued, "I may turn to stone if I look at your butt ugly face." Sakura moved own the table and was about to put a half a sandwich on her plate when Meiling grabbed her arm. Sakura cringed as Meiling dragged her into the hallway and slammed her into the wall.
"You little whore. How dare you speak to me like that." Meiling hissed. Sakura finally met her gaze and smiled when she saw how red it had become.
"Oh so you're allowed to insult me but I'm not allowed to insult you?" Sakura raised her eyebrow, "Some how that doesn't seem very fair." Meiling's eyes narrowed and she stepped back a bit. Then without warning, her hand flew out and Sakura felt a burning sensation on her cheek. Meiling had slapped her! Sakura's eyes widened in shock as she stared at the raven haired girl in front of her. Meiling's ruby eyes flashed with anger as they stared at each other. Sakura slowly raised her hand to her face and felt where Meiling had hit her. It hurt to the touch and Sakura knew it was already red. Meiling smirked as Sakura lowered her head so her bangs covered her face.
"How does it feel slut? Can't say much about you but that made me feel great." Meiling laughed. Sakura had tormented her with her damn innocence for long enough and now, finally, she had been able to get some revenge. She was still laughing when Sakura spoke.
"Bitch." Was all Sakura said before she grabbed Meiling and threw her against the wall. Meiling was in such shock that she didn't have time to react. Then Sakura grabbed her by the neck and pinned her against the wall. She squeezed and Meiling tried to pry her hands away in order to breathe, but Sakura was too strong. Sakura glared at Meiling as she struggled to break free.
"Don't you ever touch me again." Sakura's voice was barely above a whisper but filled with venom. The hatred in her eyes shone brightly and for once in her life, Meiling was scared. She had never seen Sakura this mad before. She tried to speak but Sakura's hand was clasped so tightly around her neck that all that came out was a muffled sob. Sakura glared at her one more time before letting her go. Meiling slumped to the floor, gasping for breath. She massaged her throat with her hand and looked up at Sakura.
"If you ever touch me again Meiling," Sakura hissed, her fists clenched at her sides, "I will not be responsible for anything I do to you. Understand?" Meiling nodded but didn't get up. Sakura turned on her heel and walked back into the dining room. Luckily, no one had noticed Meiling drag her out of the room. Sakura's emerald eyes searched the room for her beloved pet but she couldn't find him.
"I wonder where that little devil went." Sakura wondered aloud. She walked over to the dinner table and picked up her plate. She began to pile things on when she heard a whimper from underneath the table. Sakura set down her plate and kneeled down. She lifted up the red and gold tablecloth to find Kero sitting on the floor with his tail between his legs.
"Kero, there you are." Sakura reached under the table and grabbed her puppy. He immediately recognized his mistress and proceeded to lick all the makeup off her face. Sakura pulled him away and scratched his nose.
"Come on Kero, I'll give you a treat." Sakura shifted the golden retriever into her right arm, grabbed her plate with the other and walked into the living room where the Christmas tree was. Many adults were standing around talking, some with wine glasses, others with plates of food. They were all dressed in their Sunday best as it were and Sakura marvelled at all the different colours. The ladies were dressed in long, flowing dresses with frills and lace while the men wore fancy suits that included a shirt, a vest and an overcoat.
Sakura wondered if they were really hot as she made her way over to her bench behind the tree. The ears and necks and wrists of the women sparkled with jewels that matched their outfits and Sakura felt very self conscience. She never liked wearing large pieces of jewellery because it made her feel like she was showing off. Sakura was content with were a pair of little diamond studs in the shape cherry blossoms that matched the pendent around her neck. It had been a gift from Clow Reed and she had never taken it off.
Sakura sat down on her bench and placed Kero beside her. He sat and waited while Sakura cut up a piece of cake and fed it to him. As he chomped on it happily, Sakura started on the half a sandwich she had taken before the whole incident with Meiling. Kero finished his cake and sat up, begging for more.
"It's a wonder why you never get sick, Kero." Sakura said before offering him some more cake off of her plate. Kero loved sweets, even though he was a dog and he had never gotten sick, no matter how much Sakura gave him. She looked at the tree and watched the candle light flicker. They were more visible now because the sun had almost set and Sakura wondered how long it would be before her godfather made his appearance. She was looking forward to seeing him and felt the excitement rise up within her.
Suddenly Sakura heard the front door open with a bang. She jumped to her feet and turned towards the doorway that lead into the hall. A cold gust of wind blew through the room and everyone looked around to see where it had come from. The wind swirled around the Christmas tree until it had blown out every single candle. The room grew dark except for the faint glow from the fireplace. Sakura moved towards the light and watched in wonder as it began to grow. The embers burst into flame and the light reflected in Sakura's emerald eyes.
Then the flames exploded into a rainbow of coloured fireworks and flew about the room. Sakura smiled secretly and watched as the other people in the room tried to escape the path of the multicoloured sparks. Suddenly they all flew towards the center of the room and collided with each other. The lights disappeared in a large cloud of smoke and Sakura tried to control her delight. There in the middle of the room stood her godfather, Clow Reed. He looked around the room before taking a bow and everyone burst into applause. He looked up and winked at Sakura as the candles came back to life. Sakura smiled and ran to her godfather.
"That was fantastic, Uncle Clow Reed." Sakura said as she hugged him, "Even better than last year." Clow Reed looked down at his goddaughter and smiled. Both Sakura and Touya had been calling him uncle every since they could talk. Everyone knew that they weren't really related but it didn't matter because they were so close.
"Arigatou, Sakura. I aim to please." He gave her a final squeezed before she pulled away. He took off his long, navy cloak and top hot and handed to a maid. She curtsied and hurried away to hang up his things. Clow Reed was immediately bombarded by people congratulating him on his entrance and Sakura slipped into the background once again.
"That was amazing! How do you do it?" Someone asked.
"A magician never reveals his secrets." Clow Reed replied with a smile. Touya came bounding up to his uncle and gabbed his arm.
"What'ja bring me Uncle Clow Reed? Huh? Huh?" Touya had never had any patience.
"Touya! Your godfather doesn't have to bring you something every time he comes over." Nadeshiko said. She reached the two men and pried Sakura's little brother off Clow Reed's arm.
"Demo, it's Christmas Okaa-san!" Touya whined. Nadeshiko just rolled her eyes and wrapped her arms around her friend.
"Welcome, Clow Reed. I'm so glad you could make it."
"You know I never miss any of your parties Nadeshiko." Clow Reed smiled. Then he turned to Touya and brought a large package out of his coat.
"Merry Christmas Touya."
"Arigatou Uncle Clow Reed!" Touya said before rushing over to group of his friends to inspect his new gift. Sakura was back at her bench but she still had a clear view of Touya and his friends. They looked so happy as Touya ripped off the wrapping paper to reveal a set of toy soldiers. There was also a set of small canons that fired small metal marbles. Sakura's heart wrenched because she had never known what it felt like to be surrounded by friends. She felt her eyes fill with tears again and turned towards the window. Kero climbed into her lap and was soon fast asleep.
*
"Going to sit there all night?" Sakura looked up to see her uncle standing next to her. She forced a smile and nodded.
"No point in hanging around out there." She said pointing to the middle of the room where couples had started to dance. Clow Reed chuckled and sat down beside her.
"Not much a people person, are you Sakura?"
"I am a people person!" Sakura retorted, "I just haven't found the right people yet." She looked down at her lap where Kero was still sleeping trying to fight the tears that were forming in her eyes. Clow Reed put his arm around her and she rested her head on his shoulder.
"You'll find them soon enough, Sakura. Maybe even by tomorrow." Sakura looked up at her uncle a questioning look and he smiled innocently. Then he reached into his coat and pulled out what looked to be a wooden figure.
"What's that?" Sakura asked.
"It's called a Nutcracker. It's my Christmas gift to you Sakura. Merry Christmas." Sakura took the doll and hugged Clow Reed.
"Arigatou. You always bring the most unusual gifts." Clow Reed kissed the top of Sakura's head as she gazed at the gift in her hands.
"Clow Reed, come try the punch! Nadeshiko added a special ingredient this year." Sakura's father, Fujitaka called from across the room. Clow Reed looked at Sakura and just shrugged his shoulders. Sakura smiled as he walked away and then turned back to the gift he had given her.
The Nutcracker was made completely from wood but was beautifully crafted. He looked like a soldier; his uniform was a deep green that reminded Sakura of her beloved forest. It was lined with gold that sparkled in the candle light. Sakura's gaze rose to the head and she almost laughed. The head was little to big for the body. His white hair and moustache was as pure as snow. But it was his facial expression that caught Sakura's eye. His mouth was stretched into the biggest smile Sakura had ever seen but she could see sadness in his eyes. They were black as coal with hints of a colour Sakura had never seen before. There was also a small silver wolf pendent hanging from his neck. Sakura fingered the tiny decoration and smiled sadly.
'It's almost as if he was once a real person.' Thought Sakura, staring at the doll, 'He looks so lonely even though he's smiling.' She took a walnut off her plate and using the lever in the Nutcracker's back, opened his mouth. She stuck the nut into his mouth and pushed down on the lever. His jaw closed with a crack and the shell fell to the floor in crumbs. Sakura opened his mouth again and took out the edible walnut and plopped it into her own mouth.
"Arigatou." She said to the doll, not realizing someone had snuck up behind her.
"Hey cool! Lemme try!" Touya grabbed the doll from his sister's grasped and ran over to his friends.
"Touya, get back here! Uncle Clow Reed gave that to me!" Sakura yelled at her brother. She jumped to her feet and followed him across the room in anger. Touya looked around but he couldn't find any walnuts on his friend's plates. So instead he picked up one of the metal marbles that came with the toy canons. He placed in the Nutcracker's mouth and yanked down hard on the lever coming from his back.
A resounding crack ricocheted off the living room walls.
Sakura felt her heart break as she looked at her Nutcracker. His front two teeth were now missing and they were lying on the floor.
"Baka!" Sakura screamed, "What the hell were you thinking?!" She burst into tears and grabbed the Nutcracker back from her brother. Everyone looked over at the two siblings as Sakura continued to chew out her brother.
"You're so stupid Touya! Do you ever think before you act?!" She bit out through her tears. "You have your own stupid toys, why do you have to break mine?! You're the worst brother anyone could ever have!" Sakura bent down, picked up the Nutcracker's two wooden teeth and ran out of the room. She ran up the spiral staircase to her room and slammed the door. Then she flung herself onto her bed and cried her eyes out.
It just wasn't fair. Why was it always her who had to go through these things? She didn't think anyone could be as miserable as she was right now and that just made her cry harder. Sakura buried her face into her pillow as enormous sobs wracked her body. She couldn't stand it. After a while her sobs lessened but she still kept her face hidden in her pillow. When her breath had slowed, Sakura turned her head to look at her Nutcracker. He lay sideways on her bed with his missing teeth beside him.
Sakura wiped her eyes with the back of her hand and sat up. Her head throbbed and when she went up to massage it she cringed. Her hair was still piled on top of her head but had hardened with all the pomade the stylist had put in it. She got up from her bed and walked into her bathroom. Sakura looked at herself in the mirror and began taking out all the bobby pins that had held her hair up. Her mascara was smeared al around her eyes, making her look like a zombie. Once she had gotten the final bobby pin out, Sakura stepped out of her dress and turned on the water in the bathtub. She let the water almost fill to the top before turning it off and stepping into the tub.
Sakura sighed in contentment as the warm water flowed over her skin. She allowed the water to wash away her tears as she submerged herself. Sakura stayed in the bath until it got cold before getting out. She had thought she had heard someone enter her room at one point but dismissed it quickly.
"Probably just Kero." She said to her reflection. Sakura dried her hair and brushed out the tangles. The long honey coloured strands flowed down her back and Sakura wished she could be like her hair was right now. Free. After she finished drying herself off, Sakura wrapped her towel around her and opened the bathroom door. She walked over to her dresser and pulled out a long, pale pink nightgown. It was sleeveless and a ribbon criss-crossed itself across the front, moulding itself tightly around Sakura's body. It showed off her curves even though it was just a nightgown and it was her favourite.
Then she walked over to her bed but found her Nutcracker was gone! Sakura was ready to throttle Touya's neck when she saw a note lying in the space where her Nutcracker should have been.
~ Your Little Wolf has been fixed and is in the cabinet downstairs. Merry Christmas Sakura! May your wishes com true. ~
Sakura smiled and put the piece of paper on her bed side table.
"Arigatou, uncle." She said. Sakura quietly walked towards her door and turned the handle. She then slipped out of her room and down the stairs just as the grandfather clock struck midnight.
*
Dere ya go, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!