Ok, before I start this next chapter I would like to inform all my readers of a few things. First, although I love to get constructive criticism I do not respond well to flaming. I will not be held responsible for my actions if somebody baka insists on being an asshole.
Second this story will not be like every other war fic you've read. Sakura and Syaoran do not start out as enemies and it is not tragic lovers trying to overcome their warring families. Notice that romance is my sub category.
Third this story contains a plot twist and I challenge you all to figure out what it is. Although I'm afraid it may be painfully obvious to all you veteran readers out there.
And finally I do not now nor have I ever owned Card Captor Sakura. Although I do own this story and Syaoran is locked in my closet. (faint banging noise comes from closet) ; Enjoy chapter two!
Of War & Prophesy
The Dark Prince
Li Syaoran was a warrior, highly advanced in both physical and magical combat. Because of his skill he was reveled as the strongest man in the dark army. He fought with an unheard of ferocity, more like a cornered animal than a man. He was the prince of their nation, the first in generations to be borne and raised in a time of war. In every battle he could be found on the front line, and every time he returned with hardly more than a scratch.
To look the Prince in the eyes was unnerving. Few ever did by choice and even those who did could not bear it for more than a few seconds. They were a hypnotizing amber, beautiful, but they showed little emotion and reminded everyone of a deadly wild animal that would pounce at any moment.
Many believed that their Prince held the ancient power of shape shifting, a gift rare even among the royal family. Some swore that on his solitary treks into the forest he hunted not as a man but a lone wolf. They said that on certain nights when the moon was bright and the stars were many, you could hear his howls echoing through the trees.
Syaoran stormed into the throne room where his mother was holding a council with their generals. One of them was at the end of some speech. "If we wish to win this war we must lessen their numbers. We need to attack now!"
"No!" The entire room turned towards Syaoran who bore their stares without flinching. "We cannot lessen their numbers as we are. The only way to win is to strengthen our own."
"Of course we can lessen their numbers."
"When was the last time you were on the front lines general?" Syaoran watched the man twitch. "In every battle I watch our men die. Out there when you kill an enemy, three more take his place. Our soldiers are losing hope; we won't last much longer like this."
The general was seething by this point. "We cannot win by simply defending. We must attack!"
"The truth is we cannot survive with just defending. Our walls are crumbling and we are growing weak. At this rate the evil ones will over power us in a few months. We are no longer fighting to win, we are fighting to survive. We must retreat and seek sanctuary and help from the people of light."
The general was so angry he wanted to start ripping his hair out. "Not that stupid prophesy again! Syaoran you are suggesting that we go crawling to the cowards in the forest for aid. I will not subject my soldiers to that shame; we will win this war on our own!"
"Then you condemn us all to death!"
The general was silenced by the cold ferocity in those amber eyes. Syaoran rarely yelled and his voice echoed of the stone the stone walls of the council room creating an ominous atmosphere. A cool voice broke through the thick atmosphere. "Is this truly what you think is best Syaoran?"
"Yes mother it is."
"Then we will prepare to leave at once."
"But your Majesty…"
"Silence! Syaoran has seen more of this war than anyone else. He knows what the front lines are really like, and I trust his judgment."
"The people will not be pleased."
"You would be surprised how willingly the people will follow my son. A man who joins his soldiers on the front is trusted more than one who leads from behind."
The note of finality in her voice clearly stated that the meeting was over. Prince Syaoran was not smug in his victory over the general. He simply bowed and left the room to prepare for the long trek to the ancient forest the people of light inhabited.
Well that's it for now. Maybe I'll feel like typing again tomorrow although reviews always help to motivate me.
Syaoran: "LET ME OUT OF THIS DAMN CLOSET!"
Me: Eh he he. Gotta go. Ja ne!
