Amber eyes looking straight at her own emerald ones.
There was a silence. Tomoyo nudged Melin and shoved the camera in her face. Melin looked at it and laughed with glittering crimson eyes. Ignoring the shout of Ms Jackal she ran straight to Sakura who was still being held by the handsome fellow. Melin stopped right in front of the scene with Tomoyo and Chiharu behind her.
"My, my. Hello cousin. I see you find my friend here quite amusing," drawled Melin.
Sakura turned her head and saw all her friends there, looking at her. She turned back to Melin's cousin, blushing.
"Kindly let me go please," she whispered.
"Are you sure?" he said, amber still looking at emerald with a wolfish glance.
"YES."
"But something tells me you don't want me to."
"Melin. Kindly ask your cousin here to let me go," said Sakura, anger rising a little.
"Let her go Syaoran. Before she takes off my neck," said Melin.
Syaoran let go, without helping her back up. Sakura landed on her bum giving a squeal.
"OW! I said let me go! Not just let me go!" said Sakura, getting up.
Tomoyo, Melin and Chiharu rolled up in laughter while Sakura blushed a furious red.
"WHAT IS GOING ON? Oh, I see. Mr. Li is meeting four of his students already?" came Ms Jackal's, not impressed voice.
STUDENTS? Sakura thought.
Syaoran bowed to Ms Jackal.
"Yes, Ms Jackal, just on my way to the fields," he said.
"Very well, be on your way," said Ms Jackal going back to the other students. "And you four better do as your told by your martial arts teacher!"
As soon as she was out of sight, Melin stared laughing madly again.
"You know how to act very obedient Xiao Lang!" she coughed up.
Syaoran glared at her.
"Melin. I'm not acting and as your teacher and older cousin I suggest for you to try and behave, I can't save you every time you get in trouble," Syaoran said sternly.
Melin stopped laughing wiping away tears of laughter.
"Right, right, now lets get on with this martial arts lesson thing!" she said.
Sakura was amazed by the two. One so stern and handsome the other so pretty and fun. She still couldn't believe the wolf was her teacher.
This is going to be so fun, she thought. NOT!
"Sakura let's go," said Chiharu tugging at Sakura's arm.
"Oh, right, let's go," said Sakura out of her day dream.
Tomoyo followed Melin who skipped after her cousin but not before stealing a glance at the handsome blue haired figure with the glasses. He smiled at her charmingly and Tomoyo turned around nose high in the air. He chuckled and followed. Chiharu and Sakura brought up the rear. They went out to the backfield of the palace. Some were deserted with only figures on them doing all sorts of things like, magic, fighting of all sorts and even gardening. The students were to assemble under a large oak tree as shelter until the teacher comes and give them instructions. Melin walked happily and coolly next to her cousin filled with pride that it was HER cousin that was teaching not anybody else.
"Melin I hope you know I can't treat you any different to any of the other students just because you're my cousin," said Syaoran walking towards the group under the tree with Ms Jackal standing before them.
"I know I know!" said Melin rather disappointed. "But you're my cousin and I'm going to show it!"
Syaoran had nothing to say and stayed cold and mysterious. Melin smiled. She knew her cousin too well and knew what he was thinking. Sakura who was at the back watched Melin and Syaoran talking.
"They can really communicate can't they?" said Sakura to Chiharu.
"Hai. Very well. I can tell Melin rather approves of him," smiled Chiharu.
"Approve? Hmph," said Sakura but giving a smile inside.
Ms Jackal turned to the group and looked at them with her stern look before heading back to the palace. Syaoran looked at his class and bowed.
"Good morning. I am your martial arts teacher Syaoran Li," he said with his charming smile. There was murmurs through the class. All the girls seem to fall into a daze. "This is Eriol Hirragizawa. He is my assistant and would help me with the lessons. Today we'll start off with small trials. Since you have finally reached this stage of your training as beginners in the palace. You should know some simple fighting. All shall pair up and I'll watch you fight each other to see how each of your fighting technique is."
"I'M GOING WITH TOMOYO-CHAN!" yelled Melin at once and ran to Tomoyo clinging onto her.
"Be quiet Melin," said Syaoran with his stern cold voice that scared Sakura. Melin rolled her eyes and stopped her talking. "You may all choose your partners as far as I'm concerned."
There was a lot of bustle as people paired up with partners. Sakura wanted to ask Chiharu but a spiked hair boy asked her before she could say a word. She paired up with a big shaped boy. He had light brown hair and a well built form. He was more then a head taller then her. She smiled sweetly up at him and he grunted.
"I never loose to a girl, just to let you know," he said quietly as Syaoran asked them to begin.
"Well. I've never lost to a boy either. Or in that case, any fight," smirked Sakura as she got into fighting position. Feet placed firmly on the ground, one in front of each other. Hand up, one close to her face to protect herself and the other out to attack.
"Stop your smart talk girly. Let's BEGIN!" he said and with swift movement charged at Sakura with his fist, but not swiftly enough.
Sakura dodged and grabbed his fist, twisting it sending surges of pain into his arm. She then kneed him in the stomach before tripping him over with her foot hooking at his ankle. He fell to the floor while nursing his hand and clutching his stomach at once. Sakura smirked at him once more as she put a triumph foot on his chest, not too hard.
"This is in your history record: The first girl that beat you was Sakura Kinomoto!" laughed Sakura arms crossed.
"Mm. That was, harsh Sakura on Mr Mills," said Eriol who was watching her fight. "I think you need a new partner. Melin, get over here."
Melin shook her head with difficulty and a pout. She and Tomoyo were neck locking each other, equal in the fight.
"Well, then you'll have to fight me or Syaoran. Since, you've sent Mr Mills to sick bay for the day," shrugged Eriol as he waved his hand and Mr Mills disappeared. "Syaoran me or you?"
Syaoran walked over and eyed Sakura.
"I'll take her. See how good she can get," he said. "Get ready Kinomoto, for anything."
"Hmph, right I'm so scared," said Sakura and got into her ready position.
To her surprise, before she even noticed anything. His sped fast, faster then anybody's she's ever seen. He did quick dashes and agility as she blocked and tried to attack. As she sent a kick at him he grabbed her leg, making her fall to the ground. Sakura gasped and twisted her body around in the air making his grip loosen on her leg. But to her dismay he grabbed her other leg and pulled harder making her fall directly, twice in one day, on her ass.
"CHARMING. On my ass twice in one day," she muttered.
"Great fight. But as you can see you need more practice," said Syaoran. By now everyone was watching them. Tomoyo and Melin could only smile and giggle. Syaoran offered a hand to help her up but his hard face was still there. "Don't worry. That's why you're here. To learn and improve."
"Hai. I know that," said Sakura with a smirk taking his hand. Before he could restrain she gave her hand a jerk and pulled him down while using his energy and him as something to pull herself up, she manage to make herself stand so the position was the other way around.
Everyone laughed making Syaoran glare at Sakura.
"Oh no," whispered Eriol.
Sakura squealed as Syaoran tripped her with his legs making her land on top of him. Sakura for that moment felt his figure and blushed. He turned around swiftly making her under him. He looked down at her. Sakura glared at him with spots of colour in her cheeks.
"Do not try to out smart me Miss Kinomoto. I'll tell you now it won't work," he said coolly before getting off her, and standing up, brushing himself off. "Back to you fighting!" he snapped. Everyone was either giggling or stunned.
Tomoyo and the laughing hysterically Melin walked up to Sakura. Chiharu couldn't tend to her mistress due to she was busily dodging punches and kicks. Tomoyo helped Sakura up who was still blushing, breathing deeply.
"Are-you-al-right-Sa-ku-ra!?" said Melin, not able to stop laughing.
"Shut up Melin," scowled Sakura.
"Don't mind her. She won't stop laughing for a while. It's hard to stop her when you set her off," smiled Tomoyo. "Your GREAT at fighting Sakura! How old are you!?"
"Arigato. I'm fourteen," smiled Sakura.
"You can't be serious! Me and Melin are fifteen and we can't fight as good!"
"Chiharu is fifteen too! Don't say that, I mean I'm sure you do better, I just probably look better but not really better then you guys! Trust me."
"Whatever Sakura. FOURTEEN. I still can't believe it. You didn't skip a year or something did you?"
"NO! Tomoyo-chan! I'm not that young! My birthday is in 4 days—"Sakura paused. No one was supposed to know. She had made up her mind she would not ever celebrate because it was no point without her mother here.
"Four days! We'll definitely celebrate with you! But, you're still the baby!" giggled Tomoyo, smiling warmly.
Sakura looked at her new friend. She sighed.
The rest of the lesson went on. They rotated partners one person always was left out. They then would fight with Eriol. Syaoran refused to fight with anybody else after his little fight with Sakura. As he said so, Sakura glanced at him. They caught each other's eye for that quick sec before turning away. She blushed endlessly. He never gave one warm smile throughout the lesson as Sakura noticed and she frowned at the thought.
A person like him, he would be very likeable if only he smiled and spoke more nicely, she thought. A pity, the way he is makes me dislike him as much as I dislike the Phoenix clan.
The morning went on with full martial arts. They taught daily, warm up flexes then did more trial fighting with comments of improvement from Li. As the lesson finished they went back to their rooms.
"That was fun," smiled Chiharu as they moved to their rooms.
"YUP! I'm going to freshen a little," said Melin, finally getting over her laughing fit. "See you later!"
"Ja," smiled Sakura. "What do we have next?"
"Lunch. One of times apart from breakfast or dinner you get to talk to the males as friends and interact," smiled Tomoyo. "I'm doing the same as Melin. See you in a few Sakura, Chiharu."
"Alright, I'm going to wash my face Chiharu. You?" said Sakura as she reached her room.
"Mhmm. I will too. See you at Lunch time Sakura-chan," said Chiharu opening her door.
Sakura nodded and disappeared into her room.
As Sakura splashed cold, refreshing water on her face her mind cleared and she felt as good as new. She wiped her wet face gently then glancing at herself in the mirror. Her honey brown hair was shiny in it's bun. Her emerald eyes glittered.
I thank you mother! For giving me the happiness I have, she thought. Her eyes dulled at the thought of her mother. I miss you, mother.........
She broke out of her thoughts as she heard loud raps on her door.
"Sakura!!!!!!! You've been in there forever! We're going to lunch now!" came the shout of Melin.
"Oh, Coming!" Sakura shouted back, rushing out quickly to her friends.
"This place is like a fort! Look at all this stone stairs winding up, up, up!" exclaimed Chiharu looking up.
"Xiao Lang said it's got tables on every level for the students to dine," smiled Melin cheekily. "Let's go on the top level shall we?"
"HAI!" giggled Sakura.
"Right after we get our food that is," said Tomoyo leading the way to the buffet like place.
"We pay good money to be in this school so the food better be worth it!" said Melin grabbing a large plate, stuffing as much as she could on it. People stared at her. Sakura giggled giving her nudge. "WHAT? I need to eat! I need to grow!"
Melin gave a cute pout and continued piling food onto her plate. After they were all finished with picking the right food for their dishes they held them carefully on a white board. They headed towards the high, winding stairs. Sakura looked up at them.
"Er, Melin. How are we going to do this?" said Sakura. "I'm sure I am going to drop something."
"You're right. We are sure to, especially you Tomoyo, you nearly drop your camera this morning and you said right after that you were going to have butterfingers probably for the whole day," said Melin.
"I didn't say you had to remember it," glared Tomoyo.
"Of course I do, then I wouldn't be your best friend," smirked Melin.
That's a Syaoran Li smirk- Wait! NANI? Why am I thinking about him! Thought Sakura rapidly.
"Having trouble girls?"
They all turned around finding Eriol giving them a charming smile, especially at the rolling eyes Tomoyo.
"Like you can help Hirragizawa," said Tomoyo. "We can do this by ourselves can't we Melin?"
"Huh? I never said anything," said Melin blinking. "C'mon Sakura, Chiharu, I'm gonna ask Xiao Lang for help. Tomoyo I'm sure Eriol can help you!"
"Wait for me Melin!" said Sakura as she ran after her with Chiharu. "Why do we need your cousin!"
"MELIN LI! YOU GUYS!" yelled Tomoyo shaking her fists (the cute anime way! You always see Sakura doing it to Touya ).
"Ahem, you needed, help?" said Eriol looking at Tomoyo, still with his everlasting charming smile.
Tomoyo just looked at him expressionless.
"I'll take that as a yes," he sighed and waved his hand.
The tray in Tomoyo's hand hovered out of her hands and floated beside her. Tomoyo crossed her arms.
"Simple spell! I bet I can do it too with practice," she said poshly. "Don't try and impress me Hirragizawa. Because it's not working!"
Eriol shrugged making Tomoyo turn on her heels and proceed her way up the stairs with her tray following her. He followed, chuckling to himself.
Not working eh? Are you sure? He thought.
Syaoran Li
Syaoran politely in his masterly and good student way put food onto his plate. He took a napkin before sighing at the one noise he has never missed and never will miss.
"XIAO LANG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Melin bounded up to him and smiled broadly. He walked on with her following, towards the stairs.
"What is it?" he said carelessly.
"Help us get our stuff upstairs," said Melin gesturing her tray.
"Do it yourself," he said before disappearing in a spark.
"COME BACK HERE SYAORAN!" yelled Melin.
Syaoran appeared again, rolling his eyes then gave Melin a glare.
"You KNOW you can do it. I just TAUGHT you how do it last time I've seen you," he said through gritted teeth.
"But I never practiced. It might end up on someone's lap. And we don't want it on your's do we?" said Melin cutely.
Syaoran sighed, waved his hand and Melin's tray disappeared from her hands.
"Up there somewhere, at my table go and get it," said Syaoran getting ready to disappear again.
"NO," said Melin grabbing his arm.
"We have two more people that you need to help," she smiled.
Syaoran turned and looked right at a familiar emerald eyed beauty.
"Kinomoto?" he said in mono tone.
Why is her eyes always shining at me? He thought. Why should I care?
Sakura went red once again, seeing his stare.
Why is he looking at me??? She thought. Wait, why am I LOOKING AT HIM?
"Yes and Chiharu!" said Melin. "NOW MR GOODY COUSIN!"
With another wave their trays were gone. And then without anther second, Syaoran Li was gone again in a spark.
"Stupid teleporting spells! I'll LEARN THEM THIS YEAR YOU HEAR ME!" said Melin pouting again. "Let's go, beat you up there."
They girls laughed as they ran up the winding steps. As they were finally on the top level, panting trying to catch their breaths, they saw the place was practically empty except for a group of guys. Among them was also the scowling Tomoyo.
"Tomoyo-chan looks like she's having fun," giggled Chiharu.
"She is! Trust me, she likes that Eriol heaps but denies it so badly!" laughed Melin. "We have to get over there, no where else to sit or we'll look too lonely. Our food is over there anyway."
Sakura nodded and they walked over. As they came into view for the table, most looked up.
"Why isn't it Melin Li?" smirked an attractive, fiery orange haired guy. "The Syaoran lover."
Melin walked over and swiftly whacked him on the head.
"I'm proud to like my cousin. So shut up Hiro," she said hands on hips.
Hiro rubbed his head as the guys laughed.
"Same old same isn't it Melin? Still so feisty," said a guy with auburn tresses, some covering his eyes which were sapphire coloured.
"Whatever Shinto. I'm definitely not into ever listening to bullshit that comes out of YOUR mouth," said Melin, walking back to Sakura, grabbing her tray on the way. "Find your tray and sit down somewhere Sakura, you too Chiharu, make yourself at home!"
Sakura nodded and Chiharu did the same. They did as they were told, everybody eyed them except for Syaoran.
"So, Melin, are you going to introduce as to your new friends? Hope you didn't ditch sweet Tomoyo for them," continued Shinto. Eriol flinched a little hearing Tomoyo being described.
"Cut the adjectives Shinto," said Tomoyo eating her food feeling the flinch.
Tomoyo and Melin never really liked Shinto. He was always flirting non-stop and was a major player. They don't know what's he actually done but knew it wasn't good. Sakura looked at them all and wondered why Melin and Tomoyo were being rather cold to this Shinto person. Being the lively, spirited girl she usually is she smiled cutely.
"I'm Sakura Kinomoto from Japan, Nice to meet you all! And this is my friend Chiharu, she's the same as me," she said bowing.
Everybody looked at her surprised and dumb folded that she was rather welcoming.
Shinto eyed her figure in what he calls, the sexy uniform of small dress that stuck to the girls' bodies. She had a perfect figure and curves, her eyes shined bright. Her smile was rather angelic.
"Would you guys give her a break, something like a reply!" said Tomoyo. "Don't worry, they're just dumbasses Sakura. This is Hiro, Shinto, Takashi, Shingo and you already know Eriol and Syaoran. They're all from China except for Eriol who's got half European blood and Takashi who's from Japan as well."
Sakura nodded looking at all the attractive males and giggled.
"It's a pleasure to meet an angel," said Shinto still looking directly at her.
"Thank you," said Sakura uncertainly.
Syaoran saw the way Shinto eyed Sakura form the corner of his own eyes. The stare when he was rating women. He didn't like it one bit.
This always just leads to trouble, he thought as he expressionlessly ate his food.
"Sit Sakura!" said Melin pushing her down to a sit which happened to be right next to Syaoran. "I'm starving!"
She sat down as well as Chiharu followed suit. They talked as they ate, catching up and learning new stuff about each other. Syaoran and Sakura mostly remained silent. Sakura only answered some questions people randomly threw at her. She would smile and reply.
"So, how's life at home?" asked Takashi to Tomoyo and Melin. (Tomoyo sits next to? ERIOL OF COURSE!)
"The Li clan is the usual. Bossy, ignorant, no fun at all," said Melin taking a bite of something squishy and green. "This stuff tastes weird. It's totally meatless too."
She poked at what looked like vegetable pasta.
"You, took the vegetarian stuff," said Shingo sweat dropping.
Sakura looked at her own plate, she'd finished most things, even the vegetable pasta. It tasted extremely foul in her mouth but because of manners, she swallowed it. She felt her stomach thriving.
Oh dear. I don't feel so well, she thought gulping, putting down her fork. I think I need to go to toilet! IMMEDIATELY!!!!
She tugged at Melin's sleeve.
"Huh?" said Melin looking at her with her crimson eyes.
"Melin, I need to go to the bathroom," she said urgently.
"Oh. The toilet's are in another building. It's small and behind the fort. Do you want me to come with you?" asked Melin.
"No, it's all right I'll go by myself," said Sakura giving an awkward smile trying to ignore the pain in her stomach.
"Hey, Syaoran, teleport Sakura to the bathroom. Urgent," snapped Melin.
Everybody looked at Sakura who blushed red as Melin's eyes.
"Melin!!!!!" bit out Sakura.
This is so embarrassing! She thought.
"If you want to be Melin Li's friend, you are going to be embarrassed by her non-stop," laughed Hiro. "Not just in front of us too. We're actually the safe ones!"
"SHUT UP. Syaoran, teleport," said Melin. "Or I'll ask someone else!!!!"
Without looking, Syaoran waved his hand and Sakura was gone.
Right outside the toilet Sakura squealed feeling a little giddy. But as soon as she spotted the toilet building in front of her she rushed in, ready to empty her bladder.
Back at the table, Syaoran didn't look up because he was still watching Shinto. He saw the lust then the glint of an idea coming to Shinto's mind.
He's up to something, he thought. And it's not a good something.
Sakura walked out of the toilet about 15 minutes later. She was a little weak on the legs but felt much better.
That food, I am keeping AWAY from those pastas! She thought.
"Finally out pretty angel?" said a voice that made her look up.
Shinto looked down at her. Sakura looked at him a little confused but backed away a little. Shinto only walked forward more.
"Ha-hai. I'm fine now, I'm just heading back," she stuttered uneasily.
"We don't need to go back yet. They'll be fine without us," said Shinto and took Sakura's hand.
"Gomen, I really want to go back," said Sakura wanting to take her hand away but he held on.
"Don't worry, I'm not going to hurt you," said Shinto with a smirk and pulled her to him. "Just a little kiss. Wouldn't you give me a kiss sweet angel?"
"IIE! G-GOMEN! PLEASE LET ME GO!" yelped Sakura as he leaned down.
She'd just met him and she was terrified off him. He seemed so nice, confusing her thoughts. She didn't understand at all. Right now she just wanted him to go away. She tilted her head away to the verge of tears but he only kept trying.
"LET GO OFF HER SHINTO HANKA," came a loud, cold voice that pierced the yelps of Sakura.
Shinto paused and looked up at the figure. Sakura took her chance and forcefully flung away, seeing the figure briefly, not knowing who he was ran at him. As soon as the figure was in reach she put her arms around his waist hard and didn't let go, sobbing endlessly into his chest, eyes shut hard. It was like she's done it before.
"Don't touch her again or you'll know the consequences," bit out the figure holding onto Sakura protectively.
"This isn't the last I'll see to her. You won't stop me," said Shinto before walking away coolly.
After that, Sakura lifted her head up and stared at her rescuer. She softly gasped but still crying.
"Syaoran Li," she said softly.
"Don't worry. He won't come again. I'll be here. I'll never let things like this happen," he said letting go of her.
Sakura didn't let go of him, in fact buried her head back into his chest.
"I don't get it! He was so nice but he did that! I don't get it! Why do people have to do this to me? I didn't do anything wrong........." sobbed Sakura.
"This isn't the first time?" said Syaoran shocked.
Sakura shook her head in his chest.
"No, but I had my onii-chan, I mean brother to help me. But he went away when he was announced as an adult," sobbed Sakura helplessly in her child state. "No one can help anymore."
Syaoran caressed her hair gently. WAIT A SEC? GENTLY? This was not Syaoran Li style. He didn't know what was wrong with him but he did so.
"Shhhh, don't cry Kinomoto. Lot's of people would protect you. Like me," he said softly.
"Arigato, 'Syaoran-kun'," whispered Sakura before falling in the pitch black world.
Syaoran felt her go limp and picked her up. His face now expressionless, he stood up straight and teleported them both to sick bay.
There was a silence. Tomoyo nudged Melin and shoved the camera in her face. Melin looked at it and laughed with glittering crimson eyes. Ignoring the shout of Ms Jackal she ran straight to Sakura who was still being held by the handsome fellow. Melin stopped right in front of the scene with Tomoyo and Chiharu behind her.
"My, my. Hello cousin. I see you find my friend here quite amusing," drawled Melin.
Sakura turned her head and saw all her friends there, looking at her. She turned back to Melin's cousin, blushing.
"Kindly let me go please," she whispered.
"Are you sure?" he said, amber still looking at emerald with a wolfish glance.
"YES."
"But something tells me you don't want me to."
"Melin. Kindly ask your cousin here to let me go," said Sakura, anger rising a little.
"Let her go Syaoran. Before she takes off my neck," said Melin.
Syaoran let go, without helping her back up. Sakura landed on her bum giving a squeal.
"OW! I said let me go! Not just let me go!" said Sakura, getting up.
Tomoyo, Melin and Chiharu rolled up in laughter while Sakura blushed a furious red.
"WHAT IS GOING ON? Oh, I see. Mr. Li is meeting four of his students already?" came Ms Jackal's, not impressed voice.
STUDENTS? Sakura thought.
Syaoran bowed to Ms Jackal.
"Yes, Ms Jackal, just on my way to the fields," he said.
"Very well, be on your way," said Ms Jackal going back to the other students. "And you four better do as your told by your martial arts teacher!"
As soon as she was out of sight, Melin stared laughing madly again.
"You know how to act very obedient Xiao Lang!" she coughed up.
Syaoran glared at her.
"Melin. I'm not acting and as your teacher and older cousin I suggest for you to try and behave, I can't save you every time you get in trouble," Syaoran said sternly.
Melin stopped laughing wiping away tears of laughter.
"Right, right, now lets get on with this martial arts lesson thing!" she said.
Sakura was amazed by the two. One so stern and handsome the other so pretty and fun. She still couldn't believe the wolf was her teacher.
This is going to be so fun, she thought. NOT!
"Sakura let's go," said Chiharu tugging at Sakura's arm.
"Oh, right, let's go," said Sakura out of her day dream.
Tomoyo followed Melin who skipped after her cousin but not before stealing a glance at the handsome blue haired figure with the glasses. He smiled at her charmingly and Tomoyo turned around nose high in the air. He chuckled and followed. Chiharu and Sakura brought up the rear. They went out to the backfield of the palace. Some were deserted with only figures on them doing all sorts of things like, magic, fighting of all sorts and even gardening. The students were to assemble under a large oak tree as shelter until the teacher comes and give them instructions. Melin walked happily and coolly next to her cousin filled with pride that it was HER cousin that was teaching not anybody else.
"Melin I hope you know I can't treat you any different to any of the other students just because you're my cousin," said Syaoran walking towards the group under the tree with Ms Jackal standing before them.
"I know I know!" said Melin rather disappointed. "But you're my cousin and I'm going to show it!"
Syaoran had nothing to say and stayed cold and mysterious. Melin smiled. She knew her cousin too well and knew what he was thinking. Sakura who was at the back watched Melin and Syaoran talking.
"They can really communicate can't they?" said Sakura to Chiharu.
"Hai. Very well. I can tell Melin rather approves of him," smiled Chiharu.
"Approve? Hmph," said Sakura but giving a smile inside.
Ms Jackal turned to the group and looked at them with her stern look before heading back to the palace. Syaoran looked at his class and bowed.
"Good morning. I am your martial arts teacher Syaoran Li," he said with his charming smile. There was murmurs through the class. All the girls seem to fall into a daze. "This is Eriol Hirragizawa. He is my assistant and would help me with the lessons. Today we'll start off with small trials. Since you have finally reached this stage of your training as beginners in the palace. You should know some simple fighting. All shall pair up and I'll watch you fight each other to see how each of your fighting technique is."
"I'M GOING WITH TOMOYO-CHAN!" yelled Melin at once and ran to Tomoyo clinging onto her.
"Be quiet Melin," said Syaoran with his stern cold voice that scared Sakura. Melin rolled her eyes and stopped her talking. "You may all choose your partners as far as I'm concerned."
There was a lot of bustle as people paired up with partners. Sakura wanted to ask Chiharu but a spiked hair boy asked her before she could say a word. She paired up with a big shaped boy. He had light brown hair and a well built form. He was more then a head taller then her. She smiled sweetly up at him and he grunted.
"I never loose to a girl, just to let you know," he said quietly as Syaoran asked them to begin.
"Well. I've never lost to a boy either. Or in that case, any fight," smirked Sakura as she got into fighting position. Feet placed firmly on the ground, one in front of each other. Hand up, one close to her face to protect herself and the other out to attack.
"Stop your smart talk girly. Let's BEGIN!" he said and with swift movement charged at Sakura with his fist, but not swiftly enough.
Sakura dodged and grabbed his fist, twisting it sending surges of pain into his arm. She then kneed him in the stomach before tripping him over with her foot hooking at his ankle. He fell to the floor while nursing his hand and clutching his stomach at once. Sakura smirked at him once more as she put a triumph foot on his chest, not too hard.
"This is in your history record: The first girl that beat you was Sakura Kinomoto!" laughed Sakura arms crossed.
"Mm. That was, harsh Sakura on Mr Mills," said Eriol who was watching her fight. "I think you need a new partner. Melin, get over here."
Melin shook her head with difficulty and a pout. She and Tomoyo were neck locking each other, equal in the fight.
"Well, then you'll have to fight me or Syaoran. Since, you've sent Mr Mills to sick bay for the day," shrugged Eriol as he waved his hand and Mr Mills disappeared. "Syaoran me or you?"
Syaoran walked over and eyed Sakura.
"I'll take her. See how good she can get," he said. "Get ready Kinomoto, for anything."
"Hmph, right I'm so scared," said Sakura and got into her ready position.
To her surprise, before she even noticed anything. His sped fast, faster then anybody's she's ever seen. He did quick dashes and agility as she blocked and tried to attack. As she sent a kick at him he grabbed her leg, making her fall to the ground. Sakura gasped and twisted her body around in the air making his grip loosen on her leg. But to her dismay he grabbed her other leg and pulled harder making her fall directly, twice in one day, on her ass.
"CHARMING. On my ass twice in one day," she muttered.
"Great fight. But as you can see you need more practice," said Syaoran. By now everyone was watching them. Tomoyo and Melin could only smile and giggle. Syaoran offered a hand to help her up but his hard face was still there. "Don't worry. That's why you're here. To learn and improve."
"Hai. I know that," said Sakura with a smirk taking his hand. Before he could restrain she gave her hand a jerk and pulled him down while using his energy and him as something to pull herself up, she manage to make herself stand so the position was the other way around.
Everyone laughed making Syaoran glare at Sakura.
"Oh no," whispered Eriol.
Sakura squealed as Syaoran tripped her with his legs making her land on top of him. Sakura for that moment felt his figure and blushed. He turned around swiftly making her under him. He looked down at her. Sakura glared at him with spots of colour in her cheeks.
"Do not try to out smart me Miss Kinomoto. I'll tell you now it won't work," he said coolly before getting off her, and standing up, brushing himself off. "Back to you fighting!" he snapped. Everyone was either giggling or stunned.
Tomoyo and the laughing hysterically Melin walked up to Sakura. Chiharu couldn't tend to her mistress due to she was busily dodging punches and kicks. Tomoyo helped Sakura up who was still blushing, breathing deeply.
"Are-you-al-right-Sa-ku-ra!?" said Melin, not able to stop laughing.
"Shut up Melin," scowled Sakura.
"Don't mind her. She won't stop laughing for a while. It's hard to stop her when you set her off," smiled Tomoyo. "Your GREAT at fighting Sakura! How old are you!?"
"Arigato. I'm fourteen," smiled Sakura.
"You can't be serious! Me and Melin are fifteen and we can't fight as good!"
"Chiharu is fifteen too! Don't say that, I mean I'm sure you do better, I just probably look better but not really better then you guys! Trust me."
"Whatever Sakura. FOURTEEN. I still can't believe it. You didn't skip a year or something did you?"
"NO! Tomoyo-chan! I'm not that young! My birthday is in 4 days—"Sakura paused. No one was supposed to know. She had made up her mind she would not ever celebrate because it was no point without her mother here.
"Four days! We'll definitely celebrate with you! But, you're still the baby!" giggled Tomoyo, smiling warmly.
Sakura looked at her new friend. She sighed.
The rest of the lesson went on. They rotated partners one person always was left out. They then would fight with Eriol. Syaoran refused to fight with anybody else after his little fight with Sakura. As he said so, Sakura glanced at him. They caught each other's eye for that quick sec before turning away. She blushed endlessly. He never gave one warm smile throughout the lesson as Sakura noticed and she frowned at the thought.
A person like him, he would be very likeable if only he smiled and spoke more nicely, she thought. A pity, the way he is makes me dislike him as much as I dislike the Phoenix clan.
The morning went on with full martial arts. They taught daily, warm up flexes then did more trial fighting with comments of improvement from Li. As the lesson finished they went back to their rooms.
"That was fun," smiled Chiharu as they moved to their rooms.
"YUP! I'm going to freshen a little," said Melin, finally getting over her laughing fit. "See you later!"
"Ja," smiled Sakura. "What do we have next?"
"Lunch. One of times apart from breakfast or dinner you get to talk to the males as friends and interact," smiled Tomoyo. "I'm doing the same as Melin. See you in a few Sakura, Chiharu."
"Alright, I'm going to wash my face Chiharu. You?" said Sakura as she reached her room.
"Mhmm. I will too. See you at Lunch time Sakura-chan," said Chiharu opening her door.
Sakura nodded and disappeared into her room.
As Sakura splashed cold, refreshing water on her face her mind cleared and she felt as good as new. She wiped her wet face gently then glancing at herself in the mirror. Her honey brown hair was shiny in it's bun. Her emerald eyes glittered.
I thank you mother! For giving me the happiness I have, she thought. Her eyes dulled at the thought of her mother. I miss you, mother.........
She broke out of her thoughts as she heard loud raps on her door.
"Sakura!!!!!!! You've been in there forever! We're going to lunch now!" came the shout of Melin.
"Oh, Coming!" Sakura shouted back, rushing out quickly to her friends.
"This place is like a fort! Look at all this stone stairs winding up, up, up!" exclaimed Chiharu looking up.
"Xiao Lang said it's got tables on every level for the students to dine," smiled Melin cheekily. "Let's go on the top level shall we?"
"HAI!" giggled Sakura.
"Right after we get our food that is," said Tomoyo leading the way to the buffet like place.
"We pay good money to be in this school so the food better be worth it!" said Melin grabbing a large plate, stuffing as much as she could on it. People stared at her. Sakura giggled giving her nudge. "WHAT? I need to eat! I need to grow!"
Melin gave a cute pout and continued piling food onto her plate. After they were all finished with picking the right food for their dishes they held them carefully on a white board. They headed towards the high, winding stairs. Sakura looked up at them.
"Er, Melin. How are we going to do this?" said Sakura. "I'm sure I am going to drop something."
"You're right. We are sure to, especially you Tomoyo, you nearly drop your camera this morning and you said right after that you were going to have butterfingers probably for the whole day," said Melin.
"I didn't say you had to remember it," glared Tomoyo.
"Of course I do, then I wouldn't be your best friend," smirked Melin.
That's a Syaoran Li smirk- Wait! NANI? Why am I thinking about him! Thought Sakura rapidly.
"Having trouble girls?"
They all turned around finding Eriol giving them a charming smile, especially at the rolling eyes Tomoyo.
"Like you can help Hirragizawa," said Tomoyo. "We can do this by ourselves can't we Melin?"
"Huh? I never said anything," said Melin blinking. "C'mon Sakura, Chiharu, I'm gonna ask Xiao Lang for help. Tomoyo I'm sure Eriol can help you!"
"Wait for me Melin!" said Sakura as she ran after her with Chiharu. "Why do we need your cousin!"
"MELIN LI! YOU GUYS!" yelled Tomoyo shaking her fists (the cute anime way! You always see Sakura doing it to Touya ).
"Ahem, you needed, help?" said Eriol looking at Tomoyo, still with his everlasting charming smile.
Tomoyo just looked at him expressionless.
"I'll take that as a yes," he sighed and waved his hand.
The tray in Tomoyo's hand hovered out of her hands and floated beside her. Tomoyo crossed her arms.
"Simple spell! I bet I can do it too with practice," she said poshly. "Don't try and impress me Hirragizawa. Because it's not working!"
Eriol shrugged making Tomoyo turn on her heels and proceed her way up the stairs with her tray following her. He followed, chuckling to himself.
Not working eh? Are you sure? He thought.
Syaoran Li
Syaoran politely in his masterly and good student way put food onto his plate. He took a napkin before sighing at the one noise he has never missed and never will miss.
"XIAO LANG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Melin bounded up to him and smiled broadly. He walked on with her following, towards the stairs.
"What is it?" he said carelessly.
"Help us get our stuff upstairs," said Melin gesturing her tray.
"Do it yourself," he said before disappearing in a spark.
"COME BACK HERE SYAORAN!" yelled Melin.
Syaoran appeared again, rolling his eyes then gave Melin a glare.
"You KNOW you can do it. I just TAUGHT you how do it last time I've seen you," he said through gritted teeth.
"But I never practiced. It might end up on someone's lap. And we don't want it on your's do we?" said Melin cutely.
Syaoran sighed, waved his hand and Melin's tray disappeared from her hands.
"Up there somewhere, at my table go and get it," said Syaoran getting ready to disappear again.
"NO," said Melin grabbing his arm.
"We have two more people that you need to help," she smiled.
Syaoran turned and looked right at a familiar emerald eyed beauty.
"Kinomoto?" he said in mono tone.
Why is her eyes always shining at me? He thought. Why should I care?
Sakura went red once again, seeing his stare.
Why is he looking at me??? She thought. Wait, why am I LOOKING AT HIM?
"Yes and Chiharu!" said Melin. "NOW MR GOODY COUSIN!"
With another wave their trays were gone. And then without anther second, Syaoran Li was gone again in a spark.
"Stupid teleporting spells! I'll LEARN THEM THIS YEAR YOU HEAR ME!" said Melin pouting again. "Let's go, beat you up there."
They girls laughed as they ran up the winding steps. As they were finally on the top level, panting trying to catch their breaths, they saw the place was practically empty except for a group of guys. Among them was also the scowling Tomoyo.
"Tomoyo-chan looks like she's having fun," giggled Chiharu.
"She is! Trust me, she likes that Eriol heaps but denies it so badly!" laughed Melin. "We have to get over there, no where else to sit or we'll look too lonely. Our food is over there anyway."
Sakura nodded and they walked over. As they came into view for the table, most looked up.
"Why isn't it Melin Li?" smirked an attractive, fiery orange haired guy. "The Syaoran lover."
Melin walked over and swiftly whacked him on the head.
"I'm proud to like my cousin. So shut up Hiro," she said hands on hips.
Hiro rubbed his head as the guys laughed.
"Same old same isn't it Melin? Still so feisty," said a guy with auburn tresses, some covering his eyes which were sapphire coloured.
"Whatever Shinto. I'm definitely not into ever listening to bullshit that comes out of YOUR mouth," said Melin, walking back to Sakura, grabbing her tray on the way. "Find your tray and sit down somewhere Sakura, you too Chiharu, make yourself at home!"
Sakura nodded and Chiharu did the same. They did as they were told, everybody eyed them except for Syaoran.
"So, Melin, are you going to introduce as to your new friends? Hope you didn't ditch sweet Tomoyo for them," continued Shinto. Eriol flinched a little hearing Tomoyo being described.
"Cut the adjectives Shinto," said Tomoyo eating her food feeling the flinch.
Tomoyo and Melin never really liked Shinto. He was always flirting non-stop and was a major player. They don't know what's he actually done but knew it wasn't good. Sakura looked at them all and wondered why Melin and Tomoyo were being rather cold to this Shinto person. Being the lively, spirited girl she usually is she smiled cutely.
"I'm Sakura Kinomoto from Japan, Nice to meet you all! And this is my friend Chiharu, she's the same as me," she said bowing.
Everybody looked at her surprised and dumb folded that she was rather welcoming.
Shinto eyed her figure in what he calls, the sexy uniform of small dress that stuck to the girls' bodies. She had a perfect figure and curves, her eyes shined bright. Her smile was rather angelic.
"Would you guys give her a break, something like a reply!" said Tomoyo. "Don't worry, they're just dumbasses Sakura. This is Hiro, Shinto, Takashi, Shingo and you already know Eriol and Syaoran. They're all from China except for Eriol who's got half European blood and Takashi who's from Japan as well."
Sakura nodded looking at all the attractive males and giggled.
"It's a pleasure to meet an angel," said Shinto still looking directly at her.
"Thank you," said Sakura uncertainly.
Syaoran saw the way Shinto eyed Sakura form the corner of his own eyes. The stare when he was rating women. He didn't like it one bit.
This always just leads to trouble, he thought as he expressionlessly ate his food.
"Sit Sakura!" said Melin pushing her down to a sit which happened to be right next to Syaoran. "I'm starving!"
She sat down as well as Chiharu followed suit. They talked as they ate, catching up and learning new stuff about each other. Syaoran and Sakura mostly remained silent. Sakura only answered some questions people randomly threw at her. She would smile and reply.
"So, how's life at home?" asked Takashi to Tomoyo and Melin. (Tomoyo sits next to? ERIOL OF COURSE!)
"The Li clan is the usual. Bossy, ignorant, no fun at all," said Melin taking a bite of something squishy and green. "This stuff tastes weird. It's totally meatless too."
She poked at what looked like vegetable pasta.
"You, took the vegetarian stuff," said Shingo sweat dropping.
Sakura looked at her own plate, she'd finished most things, even the vegetable pasta. It tasted extremely foul in her mouth but because of manners, she swallowed it. She felt her stomach thriving.
Oh dear. I don't feel so well, she thought gulping, putting down her fork. I think I need to go to toilet! IMMEDIATELY!!!!
She tugged at Melin's sleeve.
"Huh?" said Melin looking at her with her crimson eyes.
"Melin, I need to go to the bathroom," she said urgently.
"Oh. The toilet's are in another building. It's small and behind the fort. Do you want me to come with you?" asked Melin.
"No, it's all right I'll go by myself," said Sakura giving an awkward smile trying to ignore the pain in her stomach.
"Hey, Syaoran, teleport Sakura to the bathroom. Urgent," snapped Melin.
Everybody looked at Sakura who blushed red as Melin's eyes.
"Melin!!!!!" bit out Sakura.
This is so embarrassing! She thought.
"If you want to be Melin Li's friend, you are going to be embarrassed by her non-stop," laughed Hiro. "Not just in front of us too. We're actually the safe ones!"
"SHUT UP. Syaoran, teleport," said Melin. "Or I'll ask someone else!!!!"
Without looking, Syaoran waved his hand and Sakura was gone.
Right outside the toilet Sakura squealed feeling a little giddy. But as soon as she spotted the toilet building in front of her she rushed in, ready to empty her bladder.
Back at the table, Syaoran didn't look up because he was still watching Shinto. He saw the lust then the glint of an idea coming to Shinto's mind.
He's up to something, he thought. And it's not a good something.
Sakura walked out of the toilet about 15 minutes later. She was a little weak on the legs but felt much better.
That food, I am keeping AWAY from those pastas! She thought.
"Finally out pretty angel?" said a voice that made her look up.
Shinto looked down at her. Sakura looked at him a little confused but backed away a little. Shinto only walked forward more.
"Ha-hai. I'm fine now, I'm just heading back," she stuttered uneasily.
"We don't need to go back yet. They'll be fine without us," said Shinto and took Sakura's hand.
"Gomen, I really want to go back," said Sakura wanting to take her hand away but he held on.
"Don't worry, I'm not going to hurt you," said Shinto with a smirk and pulled her to him. "Just a little kiss. Wouldn't you give me a kiss sweet angel?"
"IIE! G-GOMEN! PLEASE LET ME GO!" yelped Sakura as he leaned down.
She'd just met him and she was terrified off him. He seemed so nice, confusing her thoughts. She didn't understand at all. Right now she just wanted him to go away. She tilted her head away to the verge of tears but he only kept trying.
"LET GO OFF HER SHINTO HANKA," came a loud, cold voice that pierced the yelps of Sakura.
Shinto paused and looked up at the figure. Sakura took her chance and forcefully flung away, seeing the figure briefly, not knowing who he was ran at him. As soon as the figure was in reach she put her arms around his waist hard and didn't let go, sobbing endlessly into his chest, eyes shut hard. It was like she's done it before.
"Don't touch her again or you'll know the consequences," bit out the figure holding onto Sakura protectively.
"This isn't the last I'll see to her. You won't stop me," said Shinto before walking away coolly.
After that, Sakura lifted her head up and stared at her rescuer. She softly gasped but still crying.
"Syaoran Li," she said softly.
"Don't worry. He won't come again. I'll be here. I'll never let things like this happen," he said letting go of her.
Sakura didn't let go of him, in fact buried her head back into his chest.
"I don't get it! He was so nice but he did that! I don't get it! Why do people have to do this to me? I didn't do anything wrong........." sobbed Sakura.
"This isn't the first time?" said Syaoran shocked.
Sakura shook her head in his chest.
"No, but I had my onii-chan, I mean brother to help me. But he went away when he was announced as an adult," sobbed Sakura helplessly in her child state. "No one can help anymore."
Syaoran caressed her hair gently. WAIT A SEC? GENTLY? This was not Syaoran Li style. He didn't know what was wrong with him but he did so.
"Shhhh, don't cry Kinomoto. Lot's of people would protect you. Like me," he said softly.
"Arigato, 'Syaoran-kun'," whispered Sakura before falling in the pitch black world.
Syaoran felt her go limp and picked her up. His face now expressionless, he stood up straight and teleported them both to sick bay.