A/N- all of you guys have been good to me giving me reviews that encourage me to keep writing. I know a few of you want Syaoran to be at the ceremony...but it can't happen. It's a hidden Kingdom, so he doesn't know about it. Also, he doesn't know that she was a princess when she told him her name including the last name, ' Kinomoto'. I'm sorry!!! But I promise that they will meet.


Chapter 15- Syaoran's Return

Syaoran's Chambers…

" Xiao Lang?"

Syaoran heard the familiar voice calling out his name in a kind, sisterly tone; yet, he could not wake up his drained body.

" Syaoran, wake up." Fuutie said as she gently shook Syaoran out of slumber. Syaoran finally opened his eyes, seeing well-known people, crowded around his bed, each person splashed with solemn faces. Fuutie's arms support Syaoran's back as he tried to sit up. He blinked away the blur from his sleepy eyes. Eriol was right beside his bedside; he was always there for him. Tomoyo was next to him, gripping onto Eriol's arm for reassurance and his three other sisters occupy the remainder space around the bed.

" Syaoran, what happened?!?" Femei, Xiefa, and Fanran all cried while Fuutie stayed silent.

Syaoran frowned.

" I think Xiao Lang should have time alone with his close companions first." Fuutie whispered. The girls grimly nodded and exited the room along with Fuutie behind them.

I continued wandering aimlessly, all alone
A faint sigh painting a stroke of white
In the ephemeral nature of the changing seasons
Tears overflowed without any reason
"Even now I love you..."

---

" S-Syaoran, are you okay?" Tomoyo asked. " I-I mean Prince Syao-

" IT'S...okay, Tomoyo, no need to be so formal." Syaoran said. " I feel fine, just a few bruises here and there. I think I will go take a walk now." Syaoran pulled himself up, flinching slightly from the echoing sting around his wounded area.

" I'm-I'm fine..." Syaoran panted. He fell backwards and Eriol caught him by the shoulders.

" Careful, take things slowly. Don't be so impatient, Syaoran. You must take care of yourself." Eriol scolded. He slowly lowered Syaoran's head against the pillow. " So, I guess you never found Sakura, huh?"

Syaoran shook, his face grimaced.

" I did for awhile. I held her in my arms. It felt nice." Syaoran whispered in a soothing voice, " I admit my love to her. We were going to marry if we come back to this castle. I was excited" His expression turned angry and his voice cracked "...Then that bastard Kira came back and pushed Sakura down a trap hole. After I killed Kira for good, I searched for Sakura down that hole and she was gone. I went everywhere! She was nowhere in sight! I don't know how else she could have vanished. Maybe I have mistaken myself...maybe she fell somewhere else."

Syaoran turned his back onto Eriol and Tomoyo. " I don't think I would ever see her again. I don't have the strength, the will to carry on."

" Don't say that!" Eriol said in a stern voice. " You love her! I'm sure you will find her someday. I will help you search for her after you regain your strength. I miss her too, you know."

Tomoyo moved uncomfortable in place, she had a question that she needed to ask. Her curiosity was too much to bear that she just let it out, " Who is Kira?"

Syaoran turned back around, his eyes steadying with Tomoyo's. His mouth wavered and he scowled. " A man from my past is all I can say for now. I don't want to remember all this pain. I will explain everything later. Please, please guys, I wish you guys to leave me in peace for now. I beg of you." Syaoran said as he felt a headache brewing up.

" I almost forgot," Eriol said and paused near the door, " your mother requested your appearance in her chambers after you had your dinner. She is dying of an unknown illness and want to say some words to you."

" I don't care for that wench." Syaoran said in a stiff voice. He folded his hands over his stomach and leaned his head deep into the pillow like an ignorant child. " She was never a real mother to me. I'm sure you know of that Eriol...but...she is my mother, and I will present myself for I am her son."

Eriol nodded and grabbed Tomoyo's hand lightly as they both left Syaoran's room.


Outside Yelen's Chambers...

" Eriol, it's alright. I can walk on my own. I don't want my mother to be suspicious of my whereabouts those last few days ago." Syaoran panted in pain. " I will walk bravely."

" Are you sure, I wouldn't want you falling, dear cousin." Eriol said.

" Just knock the door for me...(knock, knock)...thanks, I appreciate it."

" Come in..." A faint voice mumbled.

" Well, here goes nothing." Syaoran limped into the room, hiding any sign of pain. He came across an armchair and sat himself down awkwardly. He looked around the area for he never saw the inside of his mother's room before. He admitted to himself, it sure was a nice room. It has, long, silk curtains, the color of sand that starts from the top of the window and glides down to the floor like a smooth, flowing river. The room is maroon color with a few antiques here and there. It was a comfortable resting place for Syaoran's eyes are already failing to stay awake. This room relieved him so much because this room still lingers his father's smell and the crisp feel of his undying presence. Syaoran took a sharp breath.

" Syaoran, is that you?" Yelen said weakly.

" Yes, it is me, mother." Syaoran said in a low tone.

" Well, come here up to my bed, can't you see that I'm near death here!" Yelen could of screamed at the top of her lungs if she weren't in weak condition. Syaoran got up from the chair and took slow steps towards his mother, wincing in pain from each step he took. Tears would have welled from his eyes but he would not shed tears in front of his mother, the woman who made him unaware of life. Moments later, he was by her bedside, looking down at his mother's old face. He was wrapped up in so much emotion and regret. Honestly, he felt bad. She lay there on the bed as if she was paralyzed and she looked so skinny with her flesh tightening around her bone. He had look away, unable to set his eyes on his dying mother. He felt sad and his dispassionate face turned to forlorn glances. There are some things that have to be resolved to put peace in the world. Syaoran needs to communicate with his mother. It is something that has to be done for her to exit to the afterworld.

" Mother, I never truly hated you for all the things you've done to me. I know you will never love me; you will never love me as your son. I don't understand why...but I know that's true." Syaoran said with trembled vocals as if chilled air passed through him.

" Urgh...Syaoran, I loved your father so much, you know that. The thought of him being around someone else just hurts me so much. I just want to apologize for everything I caused to you. I won't lie to you, but I regret everything I've done to you. You are my boy." Yelen said, her tone becoming weaker and weaker.

" Before I die, you are to be engaged to the daughter from the Rae Kingdom."

" WHAT! No mother, I will marry Sakura if I ever find her. I will never marry Meilin." Syaoran said in a hoarse voice.

" You can never marry Sakura." Yelen said.

" AND WHY NOT?!?!" Syaoran said in an outraged tone.

" Besides, I already promised you to the Rae Kingdom. It is too late. Also, a prince can never be with a servant….

" Mother, what…please, I'm sorry! I don't want to be with Meilin. Mother, wake up!" Syaoran looked down at deathly pale skin. " Mother...

The continually falling sadness, changes into pure white snow
Through it all, I raised my head to the sky
Before this body disappears now, if my wish reaches you
Please hold me tight just once more


Kinomoto Castle…

Sakura carefully slip on her ashen colored gown, with patterns of small-encrusted jewels. The gown was simply lovely. It has a light pink ribbon around the neckline, the bodice and the bottom of the dress. It hugged every curve on her body perfectly. She looks absolutely adorable having her hair pulled smoothly in a perfect bun with a few strands of honey-brown hair falling over her face portraying gorgeous structures. Two white and pink cherry blossoms were woven into her hair. Her grateful servants did everything so Sakura would glow for tonight ceremony. Sakura insisted that she could prepare herself, but they said, ' A princess shouldn't go through all this trouble. She shall be made perfectly from top to bottom!'

" Lovely!" Rika squealed. Rika was Sakura's new assistant who helped Sakura remember her place around the Kinomoto Kingdom. After all, she was Sakura's childhood friend from back then. Rika clapped her hands to dismiss the servants.

" So are you ready to go to your party?' Rika said with eyes gleaming. Sakura smiled gawkily.

" I'm a little anxious in meeting old friends and relatives but I'm also excited." Sakura said. " You sure look amazing in that blue dress."

" Why thank you! Come on, let's go. We wouldn't want to be late for your homecoming!"

" Hai, " Sakura breathed, she had butterflies in her stomach. She felt like a wreck. " I can't believe that I'm finally home."

" Oh dear, I have to go now, I'll meet you downstairs with everyone else, your father would announce your entrance and that's when you'll go downstairs." Rika rushed through her words, running them together. She looked at Sakura and smiled, " Don't worry, you look fine and everybody will treat you right." She hugged Sakura and left.

We didn't understand each other and hurt each other over and over again
Even at those times you were always kind
I cut myself on the suddenly surrendered ring
As our promises to each other were not granted
"Even now I remember..."

---

" Everyone! Please quiet down! SHOOSH!!! Okay, I said shush!!! Okay, al right now, all of you may be wondering about why this ceremony took place at such short notice. Well, this is a ball for the long, lost princess. All of you probably wonder what happen to that princess…she disappeared without a trace, leaving all of us here, grieving over her departure and for Queen Nadeshiko as well." Fujitaka said, with a shaky voice at mentioning his late-wife's name. " People here tonight! Your princess has return..." King Fujitaka exclaimed, covering up his pain with a smile. The ballroom suddenly quieted down and many gasps and whispers were heard throughout the room

' The princess is back?'

' She is alive?'

Sakura slowly walked down the long, marble staircase. People in her kingdom looked up at her with widen eyes. Some were shock with disbelief. Some were happy in finally seeing her in person. Sakura hesitantly waved, making the crowd applaud.

" Princess Sakura Kinomoto everybody!!!" King Fujitaka yelled, " My daughter has return!!!"

So, the party has begun and many people came up to greet Sakura.

" Princess, you look lovely tonight." A tall boy with light brown eyes said. His eyes held lust and mischievous. Sakura smiled, uneasy with his eyes fixed on her.

" T-Thank you." Sakura whispered. The boy moved closer to her. Sakura looked around, hoping that someone standing near would help her but everyone were either dancing or eating.

" Would you like to dance?" He asked in a hot breath as he placed his hand on her shoulder.

" Um-

Suddenly, a hand grasped the boy's wrist tightly and thrust them away from contact with Sakura's shoulder.

" Leave my sister alone! Obviously, she does not want to dance with you." Touya roared. He turned the boy around and pushed him back into the crowd of dancing people.

" You little gaki!" He muttered. " Sorry Sakura, he's a bad kid and I don't want you socializing with that fool. Be careful, okay." Touya warned.

Sakura nodded and watched him walk to a girl to ask for a dance.

The fading memories are too brilliant as always
I wanted to be closer by
We can't meet again but you were always close to hold me up
Just you, don't change yourself

Sakura inwardly sighed as she played with her bangs. ' I feel so out of place.' Sakura thought. ' Where is Rika?' Sakura felt eyes on her and she looked up to a very handsome boy gaping at her. He was tall and very lean, wearing a white, flawless suit. His eyes were the lightest, fierce blue and looks so intense behind those glasses. He has snow-white hair that masked part of his face. He looked very striking. The boy smiled lightly at Sakura and walked towards her. He bowed to her.

" Good evening, Princess Sakura." He whispered and grabbed her hand to place a light kiss upon the soft skin. Sakura blushed.

" My name is Yukito Tsukishiro." He said in a smooth voice. Sakura looked into his eyes, with her small hand still in his long, slender ones.

" Nice to meet you, Mr. Tsukishiro." Sakura replied; a tint of color grew across her cheeks.

" Would you care to dance with me?"

Sakura left his eyes to scan for her brother if he's anywhere in sight. Then she looked back to the angel-like man.

" I-I love to." Sakura stammered. Yukito gently pulled Sakura onto her feet and led her into the dancing floor. He curled his fingers into her fingers and gently placed his hand on her back and pulled her closer to him. He smelled of sandalwood and spices. There was also a slight scent of primrose. Sakura put her free hand on Yukito's broad shoulders as she drowned into his angelic eyes and grew faint of his intoxicating perfume. He took her across the floor, dancing in rhythm with the music.

" You're a wonderful dance." He whispered elegantly.

" Thank y-you, you are too." Sakura breathed.

The song finished and a slow song replaced it.

I can't erase those last tears you showed me

Even if I disappear along with this white snow
I want to always bloom in your heart

" Would you like another round?" Yukito asked kindly. Sakura nodded, feeling very light and drowsy. She placed her head against Yukito's hard chest as he glided her around the room, sweeping her off her feet. Some people would stop and looked on for they dance ever so beautifully.

Fujitaka was sitting in his throne as Touya walked up beside him.

" Father, do you approve of this match?" Touya asked as he took a sip of dark wine.

" Hmm...w-who?" Fujitaka asked as he turned to his son.

" Sakura and Yukito."

Fujitaka raised an eyebrow. " Son...why aren't you having fun? You should go out and dance with these lovely ladies tonight. I see some of them has eyes for you."

" I'm a little tired right now and I already dance with a few of them."

Fujitaka sighed. " Don't worry boy, I'm sure Yukito would be perfect for Sakura. He is a good man and comes from a good family, which I know of. You know, they were meant to be before Sakura disappeared. Now please, let Sakura dance with the man, don't cause any trouble."

" Yes..." Touya groaned, " I understand."


In The Balcony…

Yukito took Sakura away from the noisy guests and loud music and guided her into an empty balcony with a glass table and a couple of seats. Sakura skidded down the rough path of the balcony and placed her hands on the rough, cold railings.

" It's beautiful, isn't it Yukito. I mean, look at the stars." Sakura gasped as she held her head high.

" Beautiful, I know." Yukito ushered, his eyes, contently gazing at Sakura's perfect rounded eyes, small pointed nose, and full, pink lips. She turned around, bright green eyes flashing at him.

" I had such a good night!" She smiled, playing with the beads of her gown. Yukito walked up to her.

" You're more beautiful than when I last saw you." Yukito said with half opened eyes. Sakura raised an eyebrow.

We held each other close, don't forget that warmth
Even if you love someone else
I'll never let go of the sound, the last I heard of your voice
I want to fall into a deep sleep
The continually falling sadness, changes into pure white snow
Through it all, I raised my head to the sky
Before this body disappears now, if my wish reaches you
Please hold me tight just once more

" Don't you remember how close we were when we were younger?" He smiled and cupped her face. " Even though I was young back then. I was ten. You were five. I held feelings for you. I was devastated when I heard news of your kidnapping; I supposed that's what happened. Every night, I prayed for your return. I am so happy that you finally came back." He whispered with dazed features.

" Sakura, you and I were to be engaged those many years ago. We both wanted it. I just want to know that I still held this feeling very dear for you close to my heart even now. I hope you feel the same."

Yukito bent down and gently placed his lips above Sakura's. Sakura's eyes widen. It was a warm kiss but nothing more. Yukito broke the kiss and smiled weakly.

" I want to know if you'd like to remain engaged and marry soon."

Sakura looked up at him. His eyes contained hope and much triumph. Sakura didn't want to hurt him and she did remember that day when she wanted to marry him but that time, she was just a little girl. She couldn't believe that he still remember that and held her close to his heart. Sakura doesn't know if she still loves him after all this time but she doesn't' want to hurt him either. He's been so good to her when she was young and still today.

' I will just learn to love him. My feelings for him are sort of coming back.' Sakura thought.

" I-I want to marry you." Sakura stammered. Yukito smiled brightly. He wrapped his arms around her waist and lowered her to place a small kiss once more under the starry night.

"Please hold me tight just once more..."


I guess I'll be getting flames for this chapter! (Sob') Please everyone, bear with me and don't rush me! I promise that this will be SxS in the end. They will meet! Don't forget to review. I offer suggestions too. Also, some of the words in the poem aren't mine. I don't really use rich words and I want to spice up my story, so I use part of these words from another source, more like different sources and put them together, lol. I can't seem to find rhymes anymore, but it's okay because poems don't have to have rhymes. If people are confuse about this story, I would be happy to explain things after the story is finish. Yeah I know, long time, but please be patient with me. I probably won't be able to do my normal update because I'm sick. I hate getting colds and cough every winter. It sucks! Anyway, don't forget to review.