Disclaimers: Winged Guardian: Card Captor Sakura does not belong to me.
People: Yeah, that's right. *cheerily*
Winged Guardian: *glare*
People: *gulp and laugh nervously* Aheheheheheh...
Note:
"..." stands for speech
[...] stands for thoughts
stands for author's comments
'...' stands for the chapter's title
Battle of the Two Arch-Rivals
By Winged Guardian
Chapter Ten: 'A Reputation to Uphold'
Syaoran's POV
Syaoran was kneeling on the marble floor, panting heavily as he used his sword to
support him.
Without his sword, he would have fallen long since; now, he was still struggling to
regain control of his body as his vision darkened and threatened to black out.
[No.]
Syaoran blinked and shook his head to clear his vision.
His breath came in heavy gasps as his jaw was clenched tightly, as Syaoran tried to
ignore the screaming pain in his muscles and the fire on his skin.
Syaoran's eyes were closed and his face was covered with a shiny sheen of sweat. Burns
covered his abused body and his hands were gripping the hilt of his sword so tightly that
his knuckles turned white with the pressure and force.
His body wanted to collapse on the floor but his pride refused to do so. He would not
look weak in front of the famed Kinomoto kingdom and Sakura.
Sakura...he had not realized the extent of Sakura's powers and now he saw why his
mother insisted that they went to the Kinomoto kingdom to train this 'weak', or so he
originally thought, girl.
His mother had warned him of the princess's reluctance to go with them and her famed
stubbornness was known to all. His mother had also hinted that she would resist them and
he had smirked and arisen to the challenge of getting the Kinomoto princess to return
with them to the Li Kingdom.
He had wanted to learn more of what the Kinomoto princess was like, and so, he paid
the kingdom a visit secretly. He had been severely surprised to find the Kinomoto
princess engaged in a fight with the snobby Prince of La Aries. He never expected a
princess to have the guts to take on a full man in a fight; although that prince was rather
pathetic, he at least had learnt the necessary lessons as a knight and prince. He was
stunned at the level of skill Sakura had shown in that battle. She had fought with such
grace and expertise and she had easily disposed of that piece of trash. Even then, he could
tell that Sakura had been holding back. Syaoran was even more interested when he learnt
the reason for the fight which had taken place.
And so, he had come with his mother willingly, without a single protest.
Sakura was even better than his clingy cousin, Meiling Rae, and he had wanted to see if
she was as good as him or even better.
Meiling had known how to fight as all the women of royal blood in the Li Kingdom
were required to learn some fighting skills for self-defense.
However, he had never expected that princesses of other kingdoms would learn too; and
judging from his experience with the many princesses that had tried to catch his eye, they
weren't interested and were giggly and air-headed.
Sakura was an exception.
Her attitude and mannerism were so different from other princesses...she wasn't
interested in flirting with men or flaunting her wealth – she would care less about such
insignificant things...Sakura judged people by their character, not looks and status...she
did not see things only on the surface, but wisely looked deeper and past appearances and
what riches they possessed............and she was beautiful, intelligent, determined and
dangerous.
The more he knew about her, the more he wanted to learn about her.
And somehow, she had managed to evoke strong and unknown feelings which were
stirring and awakening in his heart.
The intensity of these mysterious feelings had shocked and disturbed him and somehow,
he had the feeling that Sakura had also glimpsed them unconsciously and that was what
made her distance herself from him even more. The depth of these feelings had shaken
her as well.
Both of them were not ready to accept these feelings just yet, and so, they shoved them
into the back of their minds and hid them in packages which they labeled "Untouchable".
By mutual agreement, this matter shall never be spoken of.
Winged Guardian: If you think that I'll allow that to happen, you are sorely mistaken. *evil grin*>
Still, Syaoran had a sinking suspicion that there was something his mother was not
telling him. She was hiding something, he was sure of it.
Winged Guardian: Ha! I shan't tell you guys yet and you shall murder me when you
all find out. *smirks* >
There was something that didn't quite add up.
True, he had been warned that Sakura might resist him, but he hadn't expected her to
fight him hand, foot and toe.
Why did she object so violently???
And she had seemed to take him as an enemy on sight. Sakura acted as if he was her
mortal enemy.
He could tell that she wasn't one to make hasty judgments, so something must have
caused her hostile and defensive behavior.
A thunderous and familiar "NANI!?!?!? That Chinese Gaki KISSED my Sister?!?!?!?"
echoed down the halls from the other end of the castle.
Syaoran groaned mentally upon hearing the furious bellow.
[Touya.]
Things were not looking good.
Normal POV
"Sakura. Control yourself." an authoritative voice broke through Sakura's fog of anger.
The obvious command in that prominent voice awoke Sakura from her magical trance
and slowly, the cloud in her eyes cleared as the crimson streaked gold in her eyes faded
and returned back to her normal brilliant shade of sea green.
It was Queen Yelan who had spoken.
Sakura blinked her emerald doe-like eyes innocently; a slightly lost and confused look
on her face as she looked around.
Despite himself, a smile tugged at Syaoran's lips as he gazed at her cuteness.
This side of Sakura was rarely seen, her barriers and walls of defiance and
wariness down.
A soft "Kawaii..." was heard from the doorway at which Tomoyo and Eriol stood
together.
Sakura caught sight of Syaoran's haggard figure and let out an involuntary gasp. Bright
green orbs widened and Sakura's face turned a shade of ghostly white as what she had
just done dawned on her.
She stared at Syaoran, unable to take her eyes off him.
Syaoran watched her reaction, carefully concealing his surprise and the warm, pleasant
feeling that filled his bones.
[She cares!!!] he thought, elated.
Given a choice, he would have willingly gone through that again just simply if it meant
receiving Sakura's concern.
A smile tugged at the edges of his mouth as he gazed at the concerned girl in front of
him.
Sakura seemed to be rooted to the spot, totally frozen; She had lost the ability to move at
all.
Then, she found herself; and suddenly, she was by his side, anxiously examining his
injuries and apologizing profusely.
Syaoran watched her flustered face in hidden amusement.
She was biting her lip in apology and concentration, her expression a mix of guilt and
regret; and Syaoran observed that the red flush in her face suited her – it brought out the
green in her eyes and gave her cheeks a healthy glow.
Luminous green orbs peered at him worriedly and Syaoran smiled, a soft light in his
amber eyes.
Sakura blinked, surprised. [Li?? Smiling???]
And slowly, the corners of her mouth drew upwards unconsciously in a natural gentle
smile in response.
Sakura was smiling back at Syaoran.
A gentle breeze stirred up and brushed across the two, and a golden lock of honey
brown hair fell over her eye. Without thinking, Syaoran reached up and brushed it away
gently, impulsively.
The angel blinked at the tenderness of the action and a deep red stained her cheeks,
immediately averting her eyes.
Then, Syaoran too suddenly realized what he had just done and its......implications...
Syaoran instantly withdrew his hand, blushing furiously.
The pair was unaware that the room had fallen into a deep silence and all eyes were on
them, observing this curious exchange with a great deal of unholy interest.
Things were going to be *livened up* for the young warrior and the lovely sorceress,
with the......interference...from the onlookers.
And, the innocent emerald-eyed girl in question, was, for some strange reason, feeling
slightly disappointed at Syaoran's withdrawal of his hand.
Sakura shook away the strange feeling, which was suddenly replaced by a mysterious
one. She was strangely compelled to look into Syaoran's eyes, to see what he was feeling;
And shyly, brilliant green orbs met golden ocher ones.
Sakura was mesmerized with those mysterious dark amber orbs. They spoke of secrets,
unknown to anybody and they seemed to hold a silent promise, a sacred promise, never to
be broken.
Syaoran had let his shields down, and beneath the surface, Sakura saw someone,
someone who cared. Sakura gazed at those depthless amber pools, unable to look away.
Syaoran looked wonderingly at the girl who had raised so many questions for him, the
delicate and yet dangerous flower who had caught his attention out of so many others.
He longed to reach out and gather her into his arms.
Suddenly, Sakura winced and backed away dizzily, breaking the mood.
Seeing the question in her friends and family's eyes, she stated calmly, "Touya is
coming."
Just when she completed the sentence, the door behind Eriol and Tomoyo was flung
open violently and a fuming Touya stomped in.
Touya was opening his mouth to holler abuse at the Chinese Gaki when he was stopped
short by five pairs of glaring eyes.
Touya opened his mouth and shut it again, momentarily speechless under the deadly
threatening glares he was given.
Fujitaka and Yelan [If he tries to disrupt their relationship, he will not go very far.]
Eriol [My cousin is finally falling in love and this baka brother has to try to hinder him in
his courtship of Sakura. This won't do at all.]
Tomoyo [How could he have interrupted such a kawaii moment!?!?!?!]
Syaoran [Argh! How could he have destroyed *our* moment!?!? Wait, what am I
thinking??? Argh!]
And the innocent green-eyed Sakura just blinked at the weird behavior of her friends.
[Okay, I know Touya has offended many people, but what has he done this time to incur
such wrath??? They're usually very calm and understanding people...]
Touya took a step back under the heated glare of five people and said defensively, "That
Gaki kissed my sister!!!"
At that, Sakura's head suddenly snapped up and she was glaring daggers at Syaoran, a
slight blush evident in her face. "Ah yes, we still have a score to settle. I must thank
Touya for reminding me." Her voice was laced with ice.
Syaoran stared at her in slight disbelief and gestured at his body which was covered by
several burns. He gave her an incredulous look which clearly said "Isn't this more than
enough?!"
A slightly sheepish look crossed her face but was quickly replaced by her usual
defensive look she had on whenever Syaoran was around.
"You humiliated me and insulted my pride." she pointed out coolly.
Syaoran caught the sheepish look and grinned before covering it with his usual smirk.
"What?? Can't handle my kisses?" Syaoran taunted her, smirking.
Syaoran could barely contain his laughter when he saw the expression of pure rage and
chagrin cross her delicate features as she blushed a deep crimson.
"NANI!?!?" Sakura nearly shrieked, her cheeks burning.
Sakura coughed and spluttered, [What sort of question is that?!?!], before giving him a
venomous glare.
If looks could kill, Syaoran Li would have dropped dead ages ago.
Both Kinomoto siblings were throwing him ferocious glares dripping with poison which
could have turned the bravest soldier into stone.
However Syaoran, simply because he was Syaoran Li, was not in the least bit intimidated.
He continued smirking, serving to infuriate the siblings further.
"That's it! I had enough! You're leaving! Out!! And I hope never to see you
again!!!" the Kinomoto brother and sister roared/shouted in unison, losing control.
Thunder roared with them.
"Tsk, tsk, temper, Kinomoto." Syaoran said composedly, smirking at the two who had
turned an interesting shade of purple.
"Get out!!!" Sakura yelled.
Lightning flashed across the sky.
"And whilst you're at it, never come back!!" Touya hollered.
"I'm afraid I can't do that. Your sister needs training." Syaoran replied calmly, clearly
enjoying himself at their expenses.
"I don't care!!! Get lost!!!!!!" Sakura shouted.
The wind howled with her.
"Is that how you treat guests???" Syaoran asked, with a one-sided smirk.
"You're uninvited, Gaki!!!" Touya bellowed, "And I'll be glad to escort you out!!!"
Saying that, Touya threw the young man at the window.
And I said at the window, not out the window.
On impact, the glass shattered, splinters of the wooden frame and pieces of sharp and
broken glass flew in every direction as Syaoran took flight out the window.
"And good riddance!!!" Sakura added contemptuously.
A low rumble of thunder sounded, as if in agreement.
Tomoyo and Eriol exchanged looks, forgetting about their enmity for the moment. Was
it them, or did the weather agree with Sakura's moods???
The two adults exchanged knowing and scheming looks.
"Touya." Fujitaka said sternly.
"Father..." Touya protested.
Fujitaka continued, heedless of his protests, "You are not to hurt or attempt to drive
away Prince Syaoran. You have not given him the respect due as prince. You have
shamed me."
"But Father, that Gaki kissed Sakura!!!" Touya said, desperate.
"I understand that this is part of courtship." King Fujitaka replied calmly.
"Courtship??? What courtship...??? Flirt..." Sakura muttered darkly.
Queen Yelan heard that and the corners of her mouth twitched upwards in amusement.
"Fine!! Have it your way!! But, if Sakura comes to me for help, I'm definitely not
refusing her!!!" Touya said and stomped out of the room, scowling ferociously.
"Sakura." Fujitaka addressed his daughter.
Sakura froze.
"You have acted inadequately. You behavior was unacceptable."
Sakura protested, "But Father..."
Fujitaka cut her off, "You are to go after Prince Syaoran and apologize for your
unseemly actions."
All color drained from her face and a look of pure horror appeared on her face.
"What? Did I hear wrongly?? Apologize to that smug, over-confident, arrogant,
conceited jerk?" Sakura asked, her voice a dangerous calm.
It was the deadly calm before a storm.
"Yes." Fujitaka replied firmly, adamant.
Sakura looked absolutely livid. She was going to explode any minute.
A restraining hand was placed on her shoulder.
Sakura turned to see her best friend and cousin. Tomoyo spoke gently, "Sakura...you
have seen what your uncontrolled magic had done to him. He barely survived it. He is
magically drained and physically wounded. Look at that weather. There is a storm. How
do you think he will fare out there with all his injuries??"
Sakura's hard emerald eyes softened to a lighter shade of green. Sure, that Gaki was
very annoying, but she did not really want him dead. It was against her nature to be mean
to anyone or bear grudges and Tomoyo knew it.
Tomoyo continued, seeing the effect of her words, "How would you feel if he perished
in the storm??"
"He can rot in hell for all I care." Sakura muttered darkly.
"Liar." Tomoyo said, amusement evident in her twinkling blue eyes.
Sakura just scowled and crossed her arms, "Tomoyo, I resent it that you know me far
too well."
Tomoyo laughed, a peal of bell-like laughter which entranced Eriol.
She said warmly, "Sakura, Sakura. What kind of best friend would I be if I didn't know
these things??"
Despite herself, Sakura smiled. Tomoyo always knew how to calm her down when she was upset.
"I have my *reputation* to uphold, Tomoyo." Sakura said, smiling.
"Hai, I know; but you'll never fool me." Tomoyo replied, giggling slightly at the
"reputation" Sakura had spoken of.
Sakura was actually a sweet and gentle girl. All the distrust, stiffness and hostility were
forced; and her violent behavior was merely an act to discourage suitors. The martial arts
she learnt was to drive suitors away at first, but slowly, she started to enjoy and
appreciate the time she spent training as it took her mind off things and focused her
energies. Thus, Sakura delved deeper into martial arts, ardent in her learning. However,
Sakura never enjoyed hurting others and only fought whenever necessary or when
someone challenged her pride. Sakura was also determined, strong-willed, defiant and
proud. She was a rare gem among many women. Tomoyo smiled. She could use Sakura's
pride against her.
"Well, if Li died in the storm, how would you feel, knowing that you could have saved
him but you did not? Knowing that you were the one to injure him to such a state that he
could not fend for himself in that storm. How could you live it down, knowing that you
could have prevented his death and that you were the main cause for it. You would be
cursed with guilt for the rest of your life." Tomoyo chided Sakura gently.
The slight anger at Syaoran which remained dimmed, faded and vanished altogether.
Sakura lowered her head in consent. Sighing, she said, "Fine, I shall go after him.
Tomoyo, I hate it when you are right..."
Tomoyo giggled, saying, "Then you would have to hate me a lot, then."
Sakura frowned at her playfully and said teasingly, "It would be my turn soon, seeing
how well you are getting along with Hiiragizawa, dear cousin. Have you found the one
you had been looking for all this while???"
Tomoyo gasped and her cheeks turned a red color. "Sakura!!!" she wailed.
Sakura laughed and relented, "Fine, I shall not say more of this for now, seeing that the
subject of our discussion is here as well. Sorry, but I couldn't resist it."
Tomoyo blushed, looking at the ground.
Sakura winked at Eriol and Eriol smiled. [I see now why Syaoran loves this girl, though
he would never admit it. And I doubt Sakura would either. Both of them are so alike in
many ways. They both are as stubborn as a mule.]
Looking at the pale violet-haired girl, no, woman, at his side, Eriol lifted her chin to face
him. "Tomoyo..."
Tomoyo looked into his azure eyes, seeing the eternity of love in them, and she smiled.
Turning formal, Eriol bowed and offered his arm to Tomoyo, "If your highness would
honor me with your presence during dinner."
A Sakura-like grin appeared on Tomoyo's face and she flashed Eriol an attractive smile,
saying in a low and seductive voice, "Why, I'll be honored, Eriol."
Eriol could barely hide his grin of elation. Tomoyo had addressed him by his first name!
Tomoyo took his arm and the pair strode out of the room, leaving a grinning Sakura
behind. [Cousin's in love.] Sakura thought happily as a fond smile lighted up her face.
=====================================================================================
Winged Guardian: In the last chapter, the storm and the wild magic signified the
beginning of the prophesy as Sakura's true power is only starting to
be released. Does that answer the questions?? ^-^
Winged Guardian: Sheesh...I think this is too much focused on S+S. It's time I moved on
with the story, otherwise this fic would take forever to finish... ^-^"""
*sweatdrop* I mean, they're STILL at the same setting!!
Winged Guardian: Either way, I kept my part of the 'deal', so people...*grins*
Please REVIEW!!!
Thanks for all the reviews and hope you enjoyed reading my fanfic!
~ Winged Guardian ~
Heart_given_Wings@hotmail.com
People: Yeah, that's right. *cheerily*
Winged Guardian: *glare*
People: *gulp and laugh nervously* Aheheheheheh...
Note:
"..." stands for speech
[...] stands for thoughts
stands for author's comments
'...' stands for the chapter's title
Battle of the Two Arch-Rivals
By Winged Guardian
Chapter Ten: 'A Reputation to Uphold'
Syaoran's POV
Syaoran was kneeling on the marble floor, panting heavily as he used his sword to
support him.
Without his sword, he would have fallen long since; now, he was still struggling to
regain control of his body as his vision darkened and threatened to black out.
[No.]
Syaoran blinked and shook his head to clear his vision.
His breath came in heavy gasps as his jaw was clenched tightly, as Syaoran tried to
ignore the screaming pain in his muscles and the fire on his skin.
Syaoran's eyes were closed and his face was covered with a shiny sheen of sweat. Burns
covered his abused body and his hands were gripping the hilt of his sword so tightly that
his knuckles turned white with the pressure and force.
His body wanted to collapse on the floor but his pride refused to do so. He would not
look weak in front of the famed Kinomoto kingdom and Sakura.
Sakura...he had not realized the extent of Sakura's powers and now he saw why his
mother insisted that they went to the Kinomoto kingdom to train this 'weak', or so he
originally thought, girl.
His mother had warned him of the princess's reluctance to go with them and her famed
stubbornness was known to all. His mother had also hinted that she would resist them and
he had smirked and arisen to the challenge of getting the Kinomoto princess to return
with them to the Li Kingdom.
He had wanted to learn more of what the Kinomoto princess was like, and so, he paid
the kingdom a visit secretly. He had been severely surprised to find the Kinomoto
princess engaged in a fight with the snobby Prince of La Aries. He never expected a
princess to have the guts to take on a full man in a fight; although that prince was rather
pathetic, he at least had learnt the necessary lessons as a knight and prince. He was
stunned at the level of skill Sakura had shown in that battle. She had fought with such
grace and expertise and she had easily disposed of that piece of trash. Even then, he could
tell that Sakura had been holding back. Syaoran was even more interested when he learnt
the reason for the fight which had taken place.
And so, he had come with his mother willingly, without a single protest.
Sakura was even better than his clingy cousin, Meiling Rae, and he had wanted to see if
she was as good as him or even better.
Meiling had known how to fight as all the women of royal blood in the Li Kingdom
were required to learn some fighting skills for self-defense.
However, he had never expected that princesses of other kingdoms would learn too; and
judging from his experience with the many princesses that had tried to catch his eye, they
weren't interested and were giggly and air-headed.
Sakura was an exception.
Her attitude and mannerism were so different from other princesses...she wasn't
interested in flirting with men or flaunting her wealth – she would care less about such
insignificant things...Sakura judged people by their character, not looks and status...she
did not see things only on the surface, but wisely looked deeper and past appearances and
what riches they possessed............and she was beautiful, intelligent, determined and
dangerous.
The more he knew about her, the more he wanted to learn about her.
And somehow, she had managed to evoke strong and unknown feelings which were
stirring and awakening in his heart.
The intensity of these mysterious feelings had shocked and disturbed him and somehow,
he had the feeling that Sakura had also glimpsed them unconsciously and that was what
made her distance herself from him even more. The depth of these feelings had shaken
her as well.
Both of them were not ready to accept these feelings just yet, and so, they shoved them
into the back of their minds and hid them in packages which they labeled "Untouchable".
By mutual agreement, this matter shall never be spoken of.
Winged Guardian: If you think that I'll allow that to happen, you are sorely mistaken. *evil grin*>
Still, Syaoran had a sinking suspicion that there was something his mother was not
telling him. She was hiding something, he was sure of it.
Winged Guardian: Ha! I shan't tell you guys yet and you shall murder me when you
all find out. *smirks* >
There was something that didn't quite add up.
True, he had been warned that Sakura might resist him, but he hadn't expected her to
fight him hand, foot and toe.
Why did she object so violently???
And she had seemed to take him as an enemy on sight. Sakura acted as if he was her
mortal enemy.
He could tell that she wasn't one to make hasty judgments, so something must have
caused her hostile and defensive behavior.
A thunderous and familiar "NANI!?!?!? That Chinese Gaki KISSED my Sister?!?!?!?"
echoed down the halls from the other end of the castle.
Syaoran groaned mentally upon hearing the furious bellow.
[Touya.]
Things were not looking good.
Normal POV
"Sakura. Control yourself." an authoritative voice broke through Sakura's fog of anger.
The obvious command in that prominent voice awoke Sakura from her magical trance
and slowly, the cloud in her eyes cleared as the crimson streaked gold in her eyes faded
and returned back to her normal brilliant shade of sea green.
It was Queen Yelan who had spoken.
Sakura blinked her emerald doe-like eyes innocently; a slightly lost and confused look
on her face as she looked around.
Despite himself, a smile tugged at Syaoran's lips as he gazed at her cuteness.
This side of Sakura was rarely seen, her barriers and walls of defiance and
wariness down.
A soft "Kawaii..." was heard from the doorway at which Tomoyo and Eriol stood
together.
Sakura caught sight of Syaoran's haggard figure and let out an involuntary gasp. Bright
green orbs widened and Sakura's face turned a shade of ghostly white as what she had
just done dawned on her.
She stared at Syaoran, unable to take her eyes off him.
Syaoran watched her reaction, carefully concealing his surprise and the warm, pleasant
feeling that filled his bones.
[She cares!!!] he thought, elated.
Given a choice, he would have willingly gone through that again just simply if it meant
receiving Sakura's concern.
A smile tugged at the edges of his mouth as he gazed at the concerned girl in front of
him.
Sakura seemed to be rooted to the spot, totally frozen; She had lost the ability to move at
all.
Then, she found herself; and suddenly, she was by his side, anxiously examining his
injuries and apologizing profusely.
Syaoran watched her flustered face in hidden amusement.
She was biting her lip in apology and concentration, her expression a mix of guilt and
regret; and Syaoran observed that the red flush in her face suited her – it brought out the
green in her eyes and gave her cheeks a healthy glow.
Luminous green orbs peered at him worriedly and Syaoran smiled, a soft light in his
amber eyes.
Sakura blinked, surprised. [Li?? Smiling???]
And slowly, the corners of her mouth drew upwards unconsciously in a natural gentle
smile in response.
Sakura was smiling back at Syaoran.
A gentle breeze stirred up and brushed across the two, and a golden lock of honey
brown hair fell over her eye. Without thinking, Syaoran reached up and brushed it away
gently, impulsively.
The angel blinked at the tenderness of the action and a deep red stained her cheeks,
immediately averting her eyes.
Then, Syaoran too suddenly realized what he had just done and its......implications...
Syaoran instantly withdrew his hand, blushing furiously.
The pair was unaware that the room had fallen into a deep silence and all eyes were on
them, observing this curious exchange with a great deal of unholy interest.
Things were going to be *livened up* for the young warrior and the lovely sorceress,
with the......interference...from the onlookers.
And, the innocent emerald-eyed girl in question, was, for some strange reason, feeling
slightly disappointed at Syaoran's withdrawal of his hand.
Sakura shook away the strange feeling, which was suddenly replaced by a mysterious
one. She was strangely compelled to look into Syaoran's eyes, to see what he was feeling;
And shyly, brilliant green orbs met golden ocher ones.
Sakura was mesmerized with those mysterious dark amber orbs. They spoke of secrets,
unknown to anybody and they seemed to hold a silent promise, a sacred promise, never to
be broken.
Syaoran had let his shields down, and beneath the surface, Sakura saw someone,
someone who cared. Sakura gazed at those depthless amber pools, unable to look away.
Syaoran looked wonderingly at the girl who had raised so many questions for him, the
delicate and yet dangerous flower who had caught his attention out of so many others.
He longed to reach out and gather her into his arms.
Suddenly, Sakura winced and backed away dizzily, breaking the mood.
Seeing the question in her friends and family's eyes, she stated calmly, "Touya is
coming."
Just when she completed the sentence, the door behind Eriol and Tomoyo was flung
open violently and a fuming Touya stomped in.
Touya was opening his mouth to holler abuse at the Chinese Gaki when he was stopped
short by five pairs of glaring eyes.
Touya opened his mouth and shut it again, momentarily speechless under the deadly
threatening glares he was given.
Fujitaka and Yelan [If he tries to disrupt their relationship, he will not go very far.]
Eriol [My cousin is finally falling in love and this baka brother has to try to hinder him in
his courtship of Sakura. This won't do at all.]
Tomoyo [How could he have interrupted such a kawaii moment!?!?!?!]
Syaoran [Argh! How could he have destroyed *our* moment!?!? Wait, what am I
thinking??? Argh!]
And the innocent green-eyed Sakura just blinked at the weird behavior of her friends.
[Okay, I know Touya has offended many people, but what has he done this time to incur
such wrath??? They're usually very calm and understanding people...]
Touya took a step back under the heated glare of five people and said defensively, "That
Gaki kissed my sister!!!"
At that, Sakura's head suddenly snapped up and she was glaring daggers at Syaoran, a
slight blush evident in her face. "Ah yes, we still have a score to settle. I must thank
Touya for reminding me." Her voice was laced with ice.
Syaoran stared at her in slight disbelief and gestured at his body which was covered by
several burns. He gave her an incredulous look which clearly said "Isn't this more than
enough?!"
A slightly sheepish look crossed her face but was quickly replaced by her usual
defensive look she had on whenever Syaoran was around.
"You humiliated me and insulted my pride." she pointed out coolly.
Syaoran caught the sheepish look and grinned before covering it with his usual smirk.
"What?? Can't handle my kisses?" Syaoran taunted her, smirking.
Syaoran could barely contain his laughter when he saw the expression of pure rage and
chagrin cross her delicate features as she blushed a deep crimson.
"NANI!?!?" Sakura nearly shrieked, her cheeks burning.
Sakura coughed and spluttered, [What sort of question is that?!?!], before giving him a
venomous glare.
If looks could kill, Syaoran Li would have dropped dead ages ago.
Both Kinomoto siblings were throwing him ferocious glares dripping with poison which
could have turned the bravest soldier into stone.
However Syaoran, simply because he was Syaoran Li, was not in the least bit intimidated.
He continued smirking, serving to infuriate the siblings further.
"That's it! I had enough! You're leaving! Out!! And I hope never to see you
again!!!" the Kinomoto brother and sister roared/shouted in unison, losing control.
Thunder roared with them.
"Tsk, tsk, temper, Kinomoto." Syaoran said composedly, smirking at the two who had
turned an interesting shade of purple.
"Get out!!!" Sakura yelled.
Lightning flashed across the sky.
"And whilst you're at it, never come back!!" Touya hollered.
"I'm afraid I can't do that. Your sister needs training." Syaoran replied calmly, clearly
enjoying himself at their expenses.
"I don't care!!! Get lost!!!!!!" Sakura shouted.
The wind howled with her.
"Is that how you treat guests???" Syaoran asked, with a one-sided smirk.
"You're uninvited, Gaki!!!" Touya bellowed, "And I'll be glad to escort you out!!!"
Saying that, Touya threw the young man at the window.
And I said at the window, not out the window.
On impact, the glass shattered, splinters of the wooden frame and pieces of sharp and
broken glass flew in every direction as Syaoran took flight out the window.
"And good riddance!!!" Sakura added contemptuously.
A low rumble of thunder sounded, as if in agreement.
Tomoyo and Eriol exchanged looks, forgetting about their enmity for the moment. Was
it them, or did the weather agree with Sakura's moods???
The two adults exchanged knowing and scheming looks.
"Touya." Fujitaka said sternly.
"Father..." Touya protested.
Fujitaka continued, heedless of his protests, "You are not to hurt or attempt to drive
away Prince Syaoran. You have not given him the respect due as prince. You have
shamed me."
"But Father, that Gaki kissed Sakura!!!" Touya said, desperate.
"I understand that this is part of courtship." King Fujitaka replied calmly.
"Courtship??? What courtship...??? Flirt..." Sakura muttered darkly.
Queen Yelan heard that and the corners of her mouth twitched upwards in amusement.
"Fine!! Have it your way!! But, if Sakura comes to me for help, I'm definitely not
refusing her!!!" Touya said and stomped out of the room, scowling ferociously.
"Sakura." Fujitaka addressed his daughter.
Sakura froze.
"You have acted inadequately. You behavior was unacceptable."
Sakura protested, "But Father..."
Fujitaka cut her off, "You are to go after Prince Syaoran and apologize for your
unseemly actions."
All color drained from her face and a look of pure horror appeared on her face.
"What? Did I hear wrongly?? Apologize to that smug, over-confident, arrogant,
conceited jerk?" Sakura asked, her voice a dangerous calm.
It was the deadly calm before a storm.
"Yes." Fujitaka replied firmly, adamant.
Sakura looked absolutely livid. She was going to explode any minute.
A restraining hand was placed on her shoulder.
Sakura turned to see her best friend and cousin. Tomoyo spoke gently, "Sakura...you
have seen what your uncontrolled magic had done to him. He barely survived it. He is
magically drained and physically wounded. Look at that weather. There is a storm. How
do you think he will fare out there with all his injuries??"
Sakura's hard emerald eyes softened to a lighter shade of green. Sure, that Gaki was
very annoying, but she did not really want him dead. It was against her nature to be mean
to anyone or bear grudges and Tomoyo knew it.
Tomoyo continued, seeing the effect of her words, "How would you feel if he perished
in the storm??"
"He can rot in hell for all I care." Sakura muttered darkly.
"Liar." Tomoyo said, amusement evident in her twinkling blue eyes.
Sakura just scowled and crossed her arms, "Tomoyo, I resent it that you know me far
too well."
Tomoyo laughed, a peal of bell-like laughter which entranced Eriol.
She said warmly, "Sakura, Sakura. What kind of best friend would I be if I didn't know
these things??"
Despite herself, Sakura smiled. Tomoyo always knew how to calm her down when she was upset.
"I have my *reputation* to uphold, Tomoyo." Sakura said, smiling.
"Hai, I know; but you'll never fool me." Tomoyo replied, giggling slightly at the
"reputation" Sakura had spoken of.
Sakura was actually a sweet and gentle girl. All the distrust, stiffness and hostility were
forced; and her violent behavior was merely an act to discourage suitors. The martial arts
she learnt was to drive suitors away at first, but slowly, she started to enjoy and
appreciate the time she spent training as it took her mind off things and focused her
energies. Thus, Sakura delved deeper into martial arts, ardent in her learning. However,
Sakura never enjoyed hurting others and only fought whenever necessary or when
someone challenged her pride. Sakura was also determined, strong-willed, defiant and
proud. She was a rare gem among many women. Tomoyo smiled. She could use Sakura's
pride against her.
"Well, if Li died in the storm, how would you feel, knowing that you could have saved
him but you did not? Knowing that you were the one to injure him to such a state that he
could not fend for himself in that storm. How could you live it down, knowing that you
could have prevented his death and that you were the main cause for it. You would be
cursed with guilt for the rest of your life." Tomoyo chided Sakura gently.
The slight anger at Syaoran which remained dimmed, faded and vanished altogether.
Sakura lowered her head in consent. Sighing, she said, "Fine, I shall go after him.
Tomoyo, I hate it when you are right..."
Tomoyo giggled, saying, "Then you would have to hate me a lot, then."
Sakura frowned at her playfully and said teasingly, "It would be my turn soon, seeing
how well you are getting along with Hiiragizawa, dear cousin. Have you found the one
you had been looking for all this while???"
Tomoyo gasped and her cheeks turned a red color. "Sakura!!!" she wailed.
Sakura laughed and relented, "Fine, I shall not say more of this for now, seeing that the
subject of our discussion is here as well. Sorry, but I couldn't resist it."
Tomoyo blushed, looking at the ground.
Sakura winked at Eriol and Eriol smiled. [I see now why Syaoran loves this girl, though
he would never admit it. And I doubt Sakura would either. Both of them are so alike in
many ways. They both are as stubborn as a mule.]
Looking at the pale violet-haired girl, no, woman, at his side, Eriol lifted her chin to face
him. "Tomoyo..."
Tomoyo looked into his azure eyes, seeing the eternity of love in them, and she smiled.
Turning formal, Eriol bowed and offered his arm to Tomoyo, "If your highness would
honor me with your presence during dinner."
A Sakura-like grin appeared on Tomoyo's face and she flashed Eriol an attractive smile,
saying in a low and seductive voice, "Why, I'll be honored, Eriol."
Eriol could barely hide his grin of elation. Tomoyo had addressed him by his first name!
Tomoyo took his arm and the pair strode out of the room, leaving a grinning Sakura
behind. [Cousin's in love.] Sakura thought happily as a fond smile lighted up her face.
=====================================================================================
Winged Guardian: In the last chapter, the storm and the wild magic signified the
beginning of the prophesy as Sakura's true power is only starting to
be released. Does that answer the questions?? ^-^
Winged Guardian: Sheesh...I think this is too much focused on S+S. It's time I moved on
with the story, otherwise this fic would take forever to finish... ^-^"""
*sweatdrop* I mean, they're STILL at the same setting!!
Winged Guardian: Either way, I kept my part of the 'deal', so people...*grins*
Please REVIEW!!!
Thanks for all the reviews and hope you enjoyed reading my fanfic!
~ Winged Guardian ~
Heart_given_Wings@hotmail.com