Just a brief note to say that this chapter is involved and may be long. All I ask is that you bear with me and it will all add up in the end. And a footnote just to say that I'm no lawyer and I have no idea how courtcases and such work, so please don't yell at me if I made a mess of this. Just humour this humble writer ok?
Chapter 10
Four Months Later . . .
The winter had gone and after its passing came the beauty of Spring. The land was renewed and it was time for new beginnings.The court trial had been frustratingly pushed back and back, until Li and several others had fought back and obtained a secure date for it.
In that time, Sakura had healed and was left with only a few scars, nothing serious and nothing that bothered her. She had gone back home to stay with Aiden and Tori. Since then, she hadn't heard a word from Li. Thinking about it sadly, Sakura knew that it was probably for the best.
Meanwhile back in Shanghai, Li had worked endlessly on the case, despite the fact that he wasn't supposed to. There was so many links missing that it frustrated the hell out of him. He knew that the answers lay with the trio - Ying Fa, Touya, and the girl Luna. But then, what did Professor Avalon himself play in all this? It just didn't add up.
When he fianlly got time to continue on with the search, because he was always busy with new cases he found that any files circulating around Professor Avalon had been restricted, and only the people with the password could access it.
Then oneday, he realised that the court case was upon them and he was no where near preparred for what lay ahead. Mika helped him prepare what he had already gathered and concluded and then when he came back from his lunch break, Mika handed him his phone.
" Your mother. " was all he said as he got up and walked out.
Taking the phone he greeted Yelan.
Hello Xiao Lang. You know why I have rung you.
" Perhaps. Is it because of the case? "
Yes. I need you to come home. There are some lose ends that we need to tie up before the case. It might help you with your statement.
" Come home? " he repeated frowning. " How could you help me? "
Because you need to go back to where it all began. Yelan said.
" Tomoeda? " Li asked thoroughly confused.
No. Here. See you later. and with that she hung up.
Li replaced the phone and starred at it. Mika walked in shrugging on his jacket.
" You coming? " Li looked up.
" You're going to? "
" Apparently so. " Mika said and shrugged. " I told you all those months ago I didn't want to get caught up in all of this, and look what happens. " he grabbed his keys ad walked out of the door.
" I did warn you. " Li said as he locked the door to the office.
Li pulled up behind Mika and got out, shutting the door closed. He starred up at the huge mansion that had once been his home where he had learnt discipline, been terrorized by his annoying sisters, and been constantly admonished by his mother for his mistakes. She had been hard, but he knew it was only because he was the only boy in the family and her only son after the death of his father. But still, he sometimes hated coming back here. This was one of those times.
Wei greeted him and Mika at the door and they stepped inside. It was late afternoon now and the sun was only an hour away from setting. They walked towards the tea room and when they stepped inside, Li stopped dead.
Meilin was engaged in a converstaion with the dark haired man, Touya. The girl, Luna was beside Meilin listening, another girl, that had short black hair to her shoulders was sitting beside Luna, and the Professor was sitting next to his mother and drinking tea. Professor Avalon was in his tea room talking to his mother! He shook his head but the image did not go away.
Yelan looked up and saw them and stood up.
" Thank you Wei. " she said smiling. " Welcome home Li. "
" Huh? " he asked snapping his attention away from the scene before him.
" Honestly Xiao Lang, " she said shaking her head. " Is that anyway to greet our guests? "
" What the h- " he cut himself off and cleared his throat. " Why are all the involved in our tea room? "
Yelan smiled.
" All your questions will hopefully be answered, but for now, there is someone waiting for you in your study. "
" My study? " he asked.
" Yes. You don't want to keep them waiting. When you are finished, you may join us for dinner. "
Li scanned the small crowd and then turned around and headed towards his study.
He opened the door and peered inside. There was someone sitting in his leather chair behind his desk. The remaining sunlight poured through the huge glass window that revealed the huge garden outside and crowned the person's head. They turned to watch him as he closed the door behind him. As he walked across the floor he watched as the chair swung around fully revealing a figure sitting in the chair with her legs crossed. It was hard to see because of the light coming in, but he knew.
" Ying Fa. " he smiled. " How are - " he stopped as the girl he thought he was looking at peered back at him.
She was wearing a chinese style dress cut low at the front, split high enough to reveal shapely legs, high heels on her feet and her long honey brown hair flowed down along her arms as she watched him. He swallowed wondering why this goddess would want to talk with him when she suddenly uncrossed her long, slender legs and stood up revealing a tall young woman, but not as tall as himself.
She walked forward a little taking her away from the blinding glow of the sunset and he starred at her. It was Ying Fa and it wasn't.
" Hello Xiao Lang. " she bowed respectfully, the bracelets she wore on her wrist clinking together musically as she crossed them in front of her. Li bowed back confused.
" I know you. " he said frowning. " You look like Yi- someone I know. " he quickly amended.
She laughed softly and he was amazed at the grace and beauty of this young woman. When she smiled, it lit up her whole face and the sunlight behind her seemed to dull. Slowly the smile left her face.
" I remind you of the one you call Ying Fa don't I? " she murmured and Li balked. How could she know that?
Stepping forward and lifting her chin he gaped in shock. The eyes! They were exactly the same! He let go her chin and stepped back starring at her. That was not possible.
" Who are you? "
" Allow me to introduce myself. I am Sakura Avalon. Professor Avalon's daughter. "
Li starred at her in shock. This beautiful woman was Professor Avalon's daughter? Mika would never believe him.
He watched as a small smirk appeared on her lovely face.
" Charmed huh? " she said and he felt like he had been slapped. It was happening all over again. He felt like a drowning man. He needed air.
She started forward reaching out to help him and he waved her away. He shook his head and met her gaze. She smiled ruefully.
" I must apologise, " she said. " It was not the way I wanted us to meet, but there was no way of getting around it. When the shock wears off, I know that intelligent mind of yours will work through the kinks and you'll recover. "
Li held up his hand silencing her.
" Ok, ok. What are you babbling about? And what do you want with me? "
She frowned confused as she lifted her hand to flick her hair over her shoulder.
" Well I thought that was obvious, but it seems that I was mistaken. " she looked at him warily. " You don't recognise me at all do you? "
" I think we've established that. " Li replied looking her over once more. No he certainly did not know her.
She arched her brow in an all too familar way and he looked closer at the young woman standing in front of him. She starred back at him with those emerald eyes and waited. He thought of every possibility and came up blank. Who was she?
" May I be of some assistance? " she inquired softly reading his expression and his gaze flew back to hers.
She smiled faintly and then took a breath. She looked him straight in the eye when she said:
" It's me Syaoran; Ying Fa. "
Yep. He had definitely been socked in the stomach. He could have been annouced employee of the year - that would have surprised him. He could even win a million dollars when his chances were a hundred to one and that too would have shocked him, but nothing, nothing, would ever compare to the way he felt when he heard those words.
" What! " he choked. She raised her chin proudly.
" I knew it would be a surprise when you found out about it all, but - "
" A surprise? " he demanded some of the pieces clicking into place. " You're Professor Avalon's daughter! An heiress to a fortune and to a wealth of knowledge beyond reckoning! All this time - and here I thought you some skinny kid from the wrong side of the tracks with an attitude and family problems to boot! " She cringed at his tirade .
" I never meant to lie to you. I hated doing it - "
" But it never stopped you. " Li said anger coming to his rescue.
" Will you stop intrrupting everything I say! " she shot back angrily, fire coming to her eyes.
She turned away from his shocked face and rubbed at her temples.
" This is and was never easy for me Xiao Lang. That you have to believe. " she looked over her shoulder at him.
" If it hadn't been for your mother - " she sighed and looked back out at the darkening sky. " I don't know where I'd be. "
" My mother knew? " Li asked walking up beside her, watching her.
" Why do you think I ended up on your doorstep? " she asked meeting his gaze.
" I think you better start at the beginning. " Li said and she nodded looking out the window.
It all began one day when my father sent us an email telling us of his previous find in Moscow - A rare and valuable diamond in the dig that he was doing. He told us that since he was the one to make the find, it was going to be left in his hands to study it and write the report that was necessary. He was absolutely estactic.
Meanwhile, things were going missing from the University and no one could explain what was going on. Nothing had been disturbed, no prints were left and there was no footage on the cameras. No one knew.
Anyway, my father brought the diamond home and he showed it to us. I had never seen anything like it. It was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. Tori was telling my father about the latest missing artifact when my father grew concerned. He was afraid that the diamond would end up missing like the latest artifacts. So he petitioned the head office and they granted him the safety of the diamond due to his respectful record.
" Ok wait a minute. " Li cut in and she looked up at him. " Before this starts getting detailed, answer me one question. Who are the people down in the tea room? " She nodded and kept his gaze.
" Touya, the dark haired man that met me at the airport is Tori - my brother. The woman that was with him is Luna, a friend and a traitor, but more on that later. The other dark haired woman is Madison or Tomoyo. My best friend. "
Li nodded taking it all in. So much more was making sense.
From what Luna sharred with me, I concluded that this is what hapened since I had no idea at the time what was going on. Tori had become suspicious about the missing artifacts and so he enlisted to work at the University alongside my father for a few weeks. As Luna told me, my brother snooped around until one night he accidently stumbled upon Morimoto working one of his operations. Moto nearly caught my brother, but Tori managed to escape. He ran home that night and nearly scarred me half to death. He said that they were after him and that he had to leave until it was safe. I was to stay unless he told me otherwise and to be ready if he gave the word.
I didn't think much of it until I realised several months had passed and there had been no word from Tori and artifacts were still disappearing. Then the imagineable thing happened; my father started getting the blame for things going missing. I was devastated. My poor father would never have done such a thing. But no one would listen. They tried to get proof of him doing it, but of course, they never got anything, because he wasn't doing anything wrong.
Then one night, Tori sent word that I was to run and not leave any evidence of where I was going. He said to get out as quickly as I could and take the box that he had stashed in tou-san's wardrobe that night so long ago that I had forgotten about until that moment. I did as I said and managed to hitch a ride to the airport. From there I caught a taxi down to the warf and even to this day I don't know how I managed to get into China. I stowed away on a boat and hoped it got me as far away from Tomoeda as possible.
I was in luck. I docked at a familar place in China that I had visited back in Elementary school and from there, I made my way to here. I was being followed, but I managed to lose them - barely. Yelen-sama is an old friend of my father's you see. They haven't seen each other in over twenty years. I begged their help and well you know the next part.
She looked up at him smiling faintly. Memories of their first meeting flashing in both of the minds, as well as what had followed after.
It was so hard to keep the truth from you. I wanted to tell you to be able to trust the person that was going out of his way to let me stay and take care of me, although believing he was taking care of a sixteen year old. But it was impossible. I couldn't trust anyone. Not even myself at times.
" Exactly how old are you? " Li cut in making her look up at him again.
" I turn nineteen in a few months. " she replied and she saw his jaw tighten. She smiled.
" Not so much the child you thought me to be am I? I told you I knew how to take care of myself. "
" Clearly. " he muttered and she lost her smile.
Li tapped his finger against his chin absentmindedly.
" I basically know everything up until you mysteriously disappeared. " he shot her a meaningful look and she had to smile.
" Li, you will find out where I went. There is no need to hide it from you anymore. "
" Good. " he shot back. " But before you answer that I want to know something. You were forever going out when I had told you to stay home. I assume you had an allowance, so where did you go? " She bit her lip and avoided looking at him.
I did have an allowance, but it was very small. Father didn't know where I was and I couldn't put him at risk by contacting him and making the connection. So for money I worked. I found a job in a club and served behind the bar. The money I recieved help me replenish my dwindling cash flow. You were always gone when I came home in the morning, and usually I arrived home seconds before you did. she felt him stiffen angrily and continued on
All the while, I kept in contact with Tomoyo She told him about the phones she had given them and she searched for Tori. I needed to find him Li. I needed to know what or who I was running from. Then one day when everything was going ok and we were getting along, I arrived home and there was a message on the answering machine. I thought that it might have been from you or Yelan, so I listened to it. It was for me, but it was my worst nightmare. They had found me. They had somehow tracked me down, made the connection to Ying Fa and inquired after Sakura Avalon on the tape. They wanted me to ring back, but I refused. I freaked. I packed all I could take and deleted the message and took out the tape.
When we had had the fight here that time, Takeshi offered me a place to stay. He said that if you ever mistreated me or needed to get away, I could depend on him to set me up. That's where I was Li for all that time. I was staying with Takeshii. She met his furious gaze and smiled sadly. I tracked down his apartment and watched him a few days. I soon learnt that he was arranging a trip to his ranch in America and I took myself off to his storage and ducked inside one of the crates. They nailed me in and several hours later, I was in America undetected.
Takeshii totally hit the roof when he and Seth uncovered me. But I used my charm and I was allowed to stay. Seth took care of me and taught me so much and I learnt how to ride a horse and how to use the whip. I sure showed him! We were great firends and I have to make a trip back over there while I think of it, I think it is only fair that I reveal my true identity to them too. But back to the story, I stayed there for three months hoping that it would draw the trail away from you.
Then one day, Madison called me telling me she had a trace on Tori in Santa Rosa. I left as soon as I could and tracked him down, But I had no idea at how good Tori was at keeping his trail cold. I couldn't find him anywhere. We nearly had a family reunion, but we both were too cautious and so we lucked out.
" So you decided to try and find him another way with the only thing you could think of? " Li cut in.
" Hai. " she nodded. " You were the only one that I knew could find him. You exceede at being a detective Xiao Lang.
There is no other way for me to say it. You were my only hope. By this time, everything was starting to drag me down and I was fighting to live everyday as I could and try to put what was really happening around me out of my mind. "
Li nodded seeing the lost and lonely girl he had tracked down on many occassions when she had tried to run.
" So I tracked down Tori and you used that pathetic excuse of a story on me expecting me to believe it. "
Li recieved an angry glare and he smirked.
" So let me guess, " he continued. " When you took off with Touya a.k.a your brother, you were given the necessary details to keep you safe right? "
" How did you figure? " Sakura asked.
" Your brother is a smart man. " Li said giving her the look. " He knew what he was doing. "
" Oh not you too. " she groaned and rolled her eyes.
Yes Tori, gave me the necessary details and left it at that. Then we had the big fight when I got home and I -
There was a knock on the door and they turned around as Wei opened the door.
" Dinner is being served Master Li. Are you and Mistress Avalon coming? "
" Yes. " Li said and he nodded and left. He looked at her. " We'll continue this later. " Sakura nodded and followed him down the hallway and down the stairs to the first floor.
Mika sat down beside Meilin with the girl Madison on his right. He had just taken a sip of his drink when Li and a gorgeous woman walked into the room. Mika watched as she walked over to the Professor and hugged him tightly.
" Meet Ying Fa. " Li whispered in his ear from behind and he choked.
" Your kidding right? " Mika gaped, looking from Ying Fa to Li and back.
" Nope. " Li smirked at the look on his partner's face. " Her real name is Sakura Avalon. "
" The Professor's daughter? " Mika choked again. Well that explained a lot. Li nodded and walked on saying a greeting his sisters and mother.
Madison patted him helpfully on the back smiling her secret smile.
They had just finished desert when Mika piped up.
" So all this time. You were really just pretending to be a sixteen year old brat with an attitude problem? "
Sakura blushed and nodded.
" Yes, " Madison piped up. " Who would think to find Sakura Avalon - a kind and caring woman, inside a young, arrogant disaster? " Mika listened and nodded seeing the logic.
" As Yelan-sama once said, " Wei spoke up getting their attention. " Who would expect to find a rabbit inside a wolves den? "
They all nodded.
" Forgive me Sakura-chan, " Yelan spoke up. " I know that it was a delicate situation, but I could not help but find the constant humour of the whole thing. To see my son run around after a way-ward child, " she smiled brightly. " I never thought to see such things in this old life of mine. " Sakura laughed nervously.
" When I think of all the things I did to maintain my identity I almost die of mortification. "
" Believe me, " Mika spoke up shaking his head. " We both nearly died when you took off for a joy ride in the company car. I can still see it now; sirens blarring and that perfect 360. You'll have to teach me how to do that. "
" She did what! " Tori cut in shocked, starring at his sister. Sakura coughed nervously and turned her red face away and fanned her face with her fan avoiding all eye contact.
Madison smiled and took up her tea and started drinking. Discussion soon picked up and Madison watched as the others talked away happily. She picked up the tea pot and sat down beside Li. She offered it to him and he nodded. She poured and he thanked her sipping at the hot tea.
" Sakura-chan looks very beautiful doi de kimeta? " Agreed? Li choked and she patted him worriedly on the back. The others were too busy talking to notice them. He starred at her as if she were crazy and she smiled.
" You like Sakura-chan very much don't you? " she asked quietly and he merely starred at her, so she continued.
" When you look to Sakura-chan your eyes are friendly and filled with warmth. You care deeply for her, and when Sakura-chan looks to you her eyes are filled with kindness. She looks to you for courage and strength. "
" You're very observant. " Li replied sipping once again at his tea.
" She would make a perfect bride. " Madison sighed tilting her head to the side, a vision of satin and white lace coming to mind.
" What are you trying to say? " Li said his cheeks burning. She blinked the vision of the church and the setting disappearing.
" What do you think I am saying? " she asked instead and he paused not wanting to give voice to what he thought.
" Allow me to ask you this; do you care for Sakura-chan? "
" I - What! - I - " he stuttered and she laughed softly. She smiled brightly and he settled back, his feathers well and truly ruffled.
" You like the direct approach don't you? " Li snapped put out. She smiled once again.
" As a designer, I have to be. " she replied.
Meilin's ears twitched as she heard the 'D' word. She turned around and looked at the young woman.
" You design your own clothes? " that caught the others attention. Madison sipped her tea.
" I use some of my designs hai, " she replied smiling at Meilin. " But I design my clothes for Sakura-chan. She is my model. "
" WHAT! " came from several startled people.
Tori, Aiden, Sakura, Madison and Yelan smiled at each other at the shocked expressions.
" You're a model? " Li asked finally starring at her in a new light. She blushed shyly and nodded.
" You see, " she shot Tori a look and continued. " Tori got the brawn and I got brains and beauty. "
Madison giggled and the adults smiled at the joke.
" What the monster really means, " Tori shot her a mild, irratated glare. " Is that I got the brains and all she has is beauty. "
" ONI-CHAN! " echoed through the room as she pegged a beautiful chinese pillow at her annoying brother. " I AM NOT A KAIJUU! "
" And here I was worried she was upset with the beauty instead of brains comment. " Tori muttered and Luna giggled.
With a glare of smouldering fire, she pegged another pillow at him.
" Baka. " she muttered and turned her back on him.
" Sisters. " Tori shrugged. " You can't live with them, but you can enjoy the taunting and the few moments of peace and quiet that they allow - when they aren't stomping around like a dinosaur. "
" ONI-CHAN! " irrupted once again through the large room amongst the laughter.
It was later that night when Sakura sought Madison out. She took the other woman's hands and her emerald eyes lifted up to look directly into violet.
" Tomoyo, " she whispered. " I ask for your help once more. " Madison nodded and Sakura smiled.
" Follow me. " Sakura said and she led her up to one of the rooms on the top floor.
They entered a room and Madison noticed a small item on the desk. Sakura let go of Madison's hands and picked it up. She sighed as she looked at it remembering all the trouble that had come to pass because of this.
" Tomoyo, I need your editing skills. " she handed the tape over to her best friend. " Can I trust you to do a good job? " The other woman nodded and looked down at the tape.
" You can count on me Sakura-chan. " she replied softly.
The next day
The courtroom was filled with the murmurs of the waiting people as they all waited for the young woman to take the stand. So far there had been the testaments of the famous Professor and several of his collegues from the university. They had answered the questions given to them and then told parts of their story as far as they knew it. Now it was turn for the young woman to make the stand. They all watched as she walked gracefully toward the stand and made her pledge on the bible; nodding to the judge when he asked her if she was ready.
The lawyer came forward and bowed to the judge. He turned his dark eyes on Sakura and she lifted her chin proudly. She would find justice here. If not for her brother but for her father. She would make sure of it.
" Could you please state to the court who you are? " he announced. She nodded and her emerald eyes swept the court.
" My name is Sakura Avalon. " she said clearly and several people nodded. She met Tori's gaze.
" And Miss Avalon what is your part in all this? " Sakura turned towards the man standing in front of her.
" I am here sir to right a unjustice done to my father, my brother, to myself and others as well. I am here to make sure that justice is served and that Morimoto pays for his crimes and that the reputation of all involved is restored. "
At the desk unnoticed, a young man nodded in agreement, amber eyes watching silently.
" Objection. " the other lawyer stood up and all eyes turned to him. " Your Honour, I'd ask Miss Avalon to remember that my client has not been found guilty as yet, and that she would kindly remember not to name my client in a sentenced meant for the accused. "
Sakura's jaw clenched and the judge nodded taking in what he had said. " Continue. "
The dark eyes of the lawyer found hers and cleared his throat.
" Would you tell us in your own words what happened on the he read out a date. "
Sakura rose her chin as she begin to tell the court what she had sharred with Li only the night before. They listened as she told them of her strange message from her brother and how she had followed his orders and managed to get into China to arrive on Yelan's door and how she had taken her in and helped her. She answered questions when the lawyer broke in and then continued on with her story. She told them of her narrow escape with the answering machine, her flight to America and how she had stayed out there for 4 months until Madison had contacted her and told her that she had found Tori.
With each passing moment that she continued to tell her story, Morimoto's face darkened with hatred and fury. Li watched him and nudged Mika beside him. Mika blinked and turned his attention from Sakura and looked at Li. Li indicated Moto and Mika looked passed his partner and watched Moto with resentment. Mika turned back to his notes in front of him and scribbled away.
" . . . And then what happened; after you and Mr. Li had the arguement? "
Sakura couldn't prevent herself from meeting Li's gaze. He starred back at her and she swallowed and turned back to he man standing in front of her.
" I left. " she replied, reaching for the glass of water given to her and listened as murmurs continued around the room.
" And where did you go? "
" I went back to Hong Kong, to stay with Yelan Li. " Sakura replied. " I told her that I had fought with Li and that it was time for me to go back home to try and help Tori. I knew that he was going to try and get evidence against Mr Morimoto - "
" Objection. " came from the other side of the courtroom and Sakura clenched her fists. " Same reasons as before Your Honor.
Sakura took a deep breath and continued.
" As I was saying - He was trying to get evidence against Mr Morimoto - "
" Objection! " the other lawyer said angrily, shooting a glare at Sakura.
" Your Honor, " Sakura said angrily, turning her emerald fire on him. " May I please state that it is almost impossible to to continue with my story for the good of this case if I am constantly interrupted because I have no way of getting through it WITHOUT mentioning Mr Morimoto's name. "
" Sustained. " the judge said and the lawyer sat down angrily. " Please continue Miss Avalon. "
" Thank you Your Honor. " she said bowing and shooting the irratating lawyer a irratated glare.
' That's the way Ying Fa. ' Li thought unable to contain the smirk on his face. 'Fight back.'
" As I was saying, " she began. " Tori was going to go after the evidence and I knew that it was dangerous and I wanted to help him. I arrived in Tomoeda during the night and was re-united with my father there. I mentioned nothing to him of what I was planning and spent the next few days trying to get my wits about me.
" Then, on the third day that I had come home, I was walking down the street and I was approached by Luna, err - Miss Mikazukigata, " she shot Luna a look and smiled ruefully. She hated bringing her into this. " And she informed me that Tori had indeed been captured and was being held hostage by Mr Morimoto's men and that he was going to be shipped out with the pilfered goods and that I would never see him again. "
" And what did you then do? " the good lawyer asked.
" I went in search of my brother. Luna and I stole into the University through the air vents and made our way into the building from there. Luna went to the control room and I went to the storage room where she had said my brother was. "
" And was he? In the storage room? "
" Yes. " she nodded. " Tori was in there, chained to the radiator, bruised and battered but still as overprotective of me as always. " she threw her brother a loving smile and Tori nodded in return, Luna beside him.
" Hmmm. . and then what happened? " Sakura frowned looking at Li and then Tori.
" The rest gets a little blurry from there. I'm not sure what happened. " she continued to frown. " I know that I managed to free Tori and that we were running down the hallway trying to get out, we were nearly found, but I managed to get us out of it, then we rounded a corner and then - " she looked at Tori and she shrugged. " Gomenasai, everything from there is black. "
The lawyer nodded knowingly. He had read the medical reports of his client's condition.
" But - " she began again and everyone listened intent. " The last thing that I remember is that I was struggling and Mr. Morimoto's voice - gloating and malevolent . . "
Her voice trailed away into the quiet room and Sakura blinked and looked around.
" Thank you, " the lawyer said and she nodded. " If that is all -? " he looked up at the judge.
The judge nodded and she stepped down from the stand and took her seat next to Madison. SHe started when she looked up and met amber eyes watching her. She smiled wanely and looked back up at the judge.
" We'll take a hour break and return in here at two. " the judge banged his gavel and everyone started to file out of the courtroom.
" Oh Sakura-chan you were wonderful. " Madison hugged her shaking friend tightly. " Everyone was listening. "
" Thank you Tomoyo. " Sakura smiled shakily. She looked over as her father and Tori talked with their lawyer.
" I was so nervous, and the way Morimoto's lawyer kept interrupting - " she said angrilly.
" I glarred at him for you. " Madison said firmly and Sakura laughed.
" Always the one to defend me aren't you Tomoyo? " she replied using her nickname for Madison.
" In a heart beat Sakura-chan. " Madison replied and squeezed her hands comfortingly.
" Sorry to interupt, " Mika cut in startling them. " But I just wanted to congratulate you on what you said in there Miss Avalon. "
" Oh Mika, " she hugged him. " Thank you. " she leaned back and smiled. " I tried. "
" It's not over yet, " another voice said. " Not by a long shot. "
Sakura looked past Mika to Li. She nodded knowing that what he said was true.
" May I speak with you for a moment? " Li said softly when Mika started talking to Madison. Sakura looked around and nodded.
He led them off to the side and she looked down at her clamped hands.
" Moto was not happy with what you said. " he finally said and she nodded.
" I guessed as much. I could feel his gaze on me the whole time. "
" I wanted to warn you. " Her head snapped up and met his gaze. " Moto is desperate Avalon. " he said. " I wouldn't put it past him to make some kind of move against you. Take you out of the picture. "
" You don't think he could - " she said fear choking her throat.
" I wouldn't put it past him. " he said gravely and she looked around her quickly. She found Moto's hateful gaze pinning her from across the hallway.
" What can I do? " she whispered.
" Don't go anywhere alone. " he said immediately. " Stay where Mika and I and your brother can keep an eye on you. It will make it harder for him to make a move. " She nodded and then looked up at him.
" Thank you Li. " she said and placed her hand on his shoulder. " Where would I be without you? "
He smiled gravely and she let her hand fall to her side.
" Sakura-chan? " She turned and saw Mika and Madison waiting beside them. " Are you coming for lunch? "
" Hai. " she said and her gaze flicked back to Li. " I'll keep in mind what you said. "
" Good. " he replied and they walked off.
Mika came to stand beside him and placed his hands into his pockets of his jeans.
" Did you tell her? "
" Yeah. " Li replied as he watched the two young women disappear out the glass doors out into the sunshine.
Mika sighed and scanned around them quickly.
" Who's up next? "
" The brother. " he said.
" That's something I want to see. " Mika smiled ruefully. " Moto will probably blow a necessary vein. "
" I honestly hope the kusoyaro does. "
" Well, lets go get some lunch. " Mika said and Li murmured something unintellible.
" Huh? " Mika asked turning around. Li snapped back to the present and looked at Mika.
" You go ahead, I want to go get something from the office. " Mika frowned and then shrugged.
" Sure. See you later. " Li walked out without a backward glance.
" Well here we go. " Tori said and started walking inside.
" Avalon, Mikazukigata. A word please. " Li said and the two females turned to look as Li approached them.
" Is something wrong Li? " Sakura asked.
" No. Here. " he pushed something into her hand and she looked down.
" What's this? "
" If something happens, push it. I'll know, and either me or Mika will come ok. "
" T-Thank you. " she said. He nodded and turned to Luna.
" You can go inside now Miss Avalon. We'll be inside soon. "
Sakura frowned and then nodded and walked inside obviously dismissed.
" What can I help you with Detective? " Luna asked warily.
" I want you to take the stand and give them the real story on Morimoto. "
" What! " she gasped. " I can't. "
" Because of the agreement between you and Moto? "
" Yes, " she said fear in her eyes. " I've come too far to go back on that. He'd kill me. "
" And if he walks free today? " Li asked quietly. " He will hunt you down for just being here. I guess you didn't think of that did you? "
" I still can't. " she whispered.
" So you'll let down Sakura and her brother and their father?" Li asked.
" Don't you dare. " she snapped. " Don't you manipulate me. I lived with Moto doing that with me all the time. "
" Than stop it. " Li snapped back. " Fix it so he can't get to you. "
" Don't you understand. " she said tears in her eyes. " No matter where you go or what you do, he is always there. He find ways to find you. I will never be free of him unless I keep quiet. I wish I could help, but I won't. "
" It's a little late for that. " he said as she started to walk away and she stopped.
" Sakura has already mentioned you. They'll want to know what part you played in all this. You have to take the stand. "
" I already knew that Detective. " she said. " But I will only be telling them what I have to and nothing more. Nothing of what you want. My past is my own. " and with that she walked in and he had no choice but to follow.
" . . and then the last thing I remember was that someone clubbed me in the back of the head and stuffed me in the truck at the loding bay after they had taken Sakura-chan away. I woke up when it was all over in the hospital bed with a slight concussion. " Tori concluded.
They jury listened for the next hour as first Tori and then Luna got up and said their piece. No matter how it was going, everything they said darkened Moto's name even more. Murmurs were started to rise in volume and the judge had to bang his gavel to gain their attention once more. But not all was quiet. Who could not talk about the man that had so far forced two people to flee their homes and flee all around the world to escape one man's wrath, fake an identity to survive, live like a criminal and suffer the effects of fear, stress and constant worry, while the one in question enjoyed smuggling artifacts from the local University to the Black Market. It did seem somewhat farfetched.
The judge listened and then waited until silence followed again. He continued telling them that he was going to adjourn the case and told them that they would pick it up within two days time. Li was furious and the lawyer tried to settle and earlier date, the judge was remorseful, but he wouldn't budge. The case would go ahead in two days time.
Li vented his anger by turning the air blue around him. Mika watched him and waited.
" Argh! " Li ran his hand through hi hair. " The bloody fool. " he muttered.
" Well there's nothing that we can do. " Mika replied.
" We still have the reports from the hospital on Sakura's condition, the reports on the scene, the follow up from the night he was arrested, and Daidoji still has yet to take the stand. As far as I can see, we'll be still doing this six months from here. "
" Six months? " came a startled voice and Li whipped around to see that Sakura had heard him and her face was white.
" Oh honey no. Li was just being an ass like always. " Mika jumped in quickly. " Don't mind him. "
Sakura didn't take her eyes away from Li.
" Y-You're not serious are you? " she asked softly. Fear was choking her throat.
" No. " Li said turning away. He hated to see her hurt. " I was just being cynical. Forget it. "
" Hey how about a coffee?" Mika said stearing her away from Li. " I know a great place, Miss Daidoji and Mikazukigata can join us as well if you like. "
" Umm, sure I guess. " he heard her say as they walked away.
" Dammit. " Li said and whacked his fist against the wall. He walked off needing to clear his head.
It was the day before the second part of the trial and Sakura stretched as she finished weeding the garden. Her father was in Tokyo seeing their lawyer with Tori. She brushed the dirt off her hands and looked at her watch and sighed. She didn't feel like lunch today. She went inside and washed and got changed into a yellow sundress that tied up around her neck. She slipped on her shoes and slipped her wallet into the pocket that Tomoyo had cleverly sewed into the dress.
She closed up the house and started walking towards the bridge enjoying the sunlight on her skin. She stopped at the bridge and watched the way the water swirled and carried on down the stream without a care. She wished she could be that carefree, especially during the last year and a half of her life. She sighed and wondered about the case tomorrow. What would happen? Mika had said something about Madison having to get up on the stand and speak and some reports that the police had made on what they had found to missing from the university previously. In fact, it was the lead up to the big stuff.
She didn't even hear the van pull up or the footfalls behind her. She stiffened when she saw the reflection of someone throwing something over her head, and by then it was too late. She had the sack over her head, and she was carried and dumped into the back of the black van and then she had no idea where she was going even though she screamed and fought against the bonds that held her. And it was then and only then, that she realised what she had done; she had gone out alone.
She wiggled and the scratchy bag fell free and she could look around. The sunlight barely came through the black tinted windows and she felt her spirits fall. She'd get no help from the outside to indicate where she was. It was then that she remembered the device that Li had given her. It was in her wallet! She tried to move her hands but they had been bound shortly after she had been thrown in the back. She looked around but the person had obviously climbed in the front with the driver.
She pulled until she felt the rope cut into her skin and she cringed. She had to get the blasted rope off. She wiggled and tried everything she could think of, but to no effect. She fell back when the van suddenly stopped. Within moments, the door was thrown open and she peered into the face of a man she had never seen before.
" Well lookie, " he snarled. " She managed to get the bag of her face. Pretty and smart. " he grabbed her and hauled her out of the van and she saw that she was in front of a small ramshakle of a place and that it looked about ready to collapse at any moment. Bamboo grew in massive bushes around the place and made it look like some hidden relic from the old world. The peace and tranquillity of the place astounded her. Pity she'd have to find it in the middle of a kidnapping. How ironic.
They pushed her inside and she thought fast.
" I need a bathroom break! " she hollered. " All that boucing around in the back of that van has done me no good. "
She heard them snarl and they turned her around.
" I'm serious gentlemen, " she said truthfully. " We're going to have a big mess here in a minute if you don't let me go! "
They quickly untied her hands and then pushed her towards a small room and she looked around hopefully for a window, but there was none. She was trapped.
As if sensing her intetnion they laughed and told her that there was no escape, before closing the door and letting her do her thing in peace. She snarled at the door and then reached into her pocket and took out the small device that Li had given her and studied it. She pressed the small button and watched as a small red light blinked three times and then stopped. She guessed that Li would now know that she was in trouble or not. She just hoped she could save herself before then.
She made use of the small bathroom and then was promptly bound and led to a small room. They pushed her into a hard chair and she glarred at them as they went and took a seat at the window to keep an eye out.
" What exactly had Morimoto got in mind for me?" she asked and watched as the men stiffened and one of them turned to look at her.
" I know it was him. It has his stink all over it. " she said snidely.
" Yeah well you won't be smelling anything later on. " one laughed and she went cold.
" Why? " she tried to sound calm but she shook.
" What do you say? " he said to his friend. " Should I tell her? "
" Do whatever. " the other said and continued to watch outside.
The other man, dark in his features and around average height looked at her in enjoyment.
" Firstly, we're going to knock you a little senseless and then you're going to have the rest of enternity to get used to your new watery grave. " Sakura's gasped and her eyes went wide.
" Y-You're going to k-kill me? " she stammered in panic. " Moto is going to kill me? "
The sinister one laughed and left her to shake in fear.
" Perhaps, but there is something that you can do for us that may bargin your life. "
" What? " Sakura whispered.
" The tape. We know your brother had it. Where is it? "
" Tape? " Sakura asked. " What tape? "
" The tape that your brother managed to get away with. The one that shows - "
" Careful. " the other guy turned from the window. " She may not know about it, or what's on it. "
" Ok. " the one standing in front of her looked back at her. " Your brother has a tape and knowing how smart the little chit is, he wouldn't have it on him and he wouldn't die without someone else knowing about it. So that leaves you. Where is it? "
" I told you, I don't know where it is! " Sakura stated firmly. " He didn't tell me. I haven't seem him in over a year baka, how could I discuss it with him? "
" Watch your mouth missy. " he growled and she glarred back.
" Well take the hint! " she snapped. " I don't know what tape you are talking about. "
The guy snarled and muttered under his breath as he went to sit at the window. She closed her eyes and tried to remain calm.
Dear God, she hoped Li found her.
The Next Day
" . . . So you knew where Miss Avalon was the whole time? " Madison nodded and spoke clearly.
" Hai. I was keeping an eye on her with some of the technology that my mother had developed some years ago that she gave me full clearance to use. "
" And you were using this technology to trace Mr Avalon as well is that correct? "
" Hai. But he was very hard to find. It was a miricle that I located him in Sante Rosa when I did. Poor Sakura-chan was so distraught by her brother's disappearance, I wanted to help her in any way that I could. "
The lawyer nodded, pacing in front of her.
" And did you help Miss Avalon get into the University the night that Miss Avalon was injured? "
Tears came to Madison's eyes.
" No, I didn't. I was at a conference in New York hoping that she was ok. I was so busy with my new line launching that I had no clue as to what she was doing. I had no idea that Tori was being held hostage. I knew nothing of what had transpired until I arrived back a week after the event, and found that Sakura-chan had been hurt and was in the hospital recovering. " The lawyer nodded and turned towards the jury.
" Just to clarrify Miss Daidoji's statement, I have here several witnesses that can vouch for her. " he waved the small booklet around and he left it in the hands of the woman on the end of the jury.
Li looked around and met Luna's troubled gaze. Tori had left the courtroom for the fifth time to try and get in contact with Sakura, but everytime, her phone rang out and her voice mail kicked in. Mika didn't look too happy either. Without Sakura's appearance it looked bad. It looked like she was hiding something or was afraid to show. Li wanted to get up and leave, but his prescence was required. He didn't know why when he had half of the Shangahi Police Department sitting around him. Each had different reports to carry out and he really looked forward to hearing them he thought sarcastically.
Madison finished and she stepped down from the stand. Tori came back in and shook his head. Still no answer. Li made an excuse and exited before anyone could stop him. He shot passed startled barristers and lawyers and went outside into the street. He rounded the corner and unlocked his car and leant across his front seat as he switched on the moniter. He swore profusely when it beeped back at him. He jumped into his car and marked the location. He made a call out of the C.B.D and then paged his partner. Mika called back five minutes later when he was already out of Tokyo and heading through another suburb.
What the hell is up. I nearly got my head bitten off by the judge. Mika hissed when he answered the phone.
" Sakura has been taken. But that's ok, you just enjoy the nice courtcase and Ill meet up with you for tea after I track her down and hopefully save her, IF, she isn't already dead. " Li snapped. Mika swore.
The transmitter went off?
" I'm starring at it now. " Li replied and Mika swore again.
The brother is just going to love this. Mika groaned and sighed. How far away?
" Not sure. An hour or so, I think. I've called for backup. "
Good. I'll go and keep an eye on Moto. He might already suspect since you left and then me. It won't take a geninus to figure out that something is happening. I'll play it down as far as I can.
" Thanks. " and with that he hung up and slammed his foot down harder on the accelerator.
' If you've harmed her in anyway Moto and I know it's you, you better hope that they lock you up before I get my hands on you. ' he thought furiously as he sped through the traffic.
The tallest one looked at his watch. His boss should be done with his testimony by now. He placed his hand on her shoulder. " It's time to go. "
Sakura shrugged his hand off and stared off into space. She didn't want to think and most of all she didn't want to feel. They lead her to the front door and down the path toward the black van. She got in without complaint and didn't notice the tear falling down her cheek.
They drove for about half an hour and then they pulled to a stop. She was hauled out of the van and pushed toward the side of the road. Below was a small drop into the deep water below. They leaped over the railing on the side of the road and lifted her up and placed her beside them. They made sure that her binding was tight and then the second man kelt down and tied a weight to her left ankle. He tied it nice and tight and Sakura didn't even flinch. She continued starring out into the horizon and the bright sunlight.
" Maybe we should have some fun before we sink her. " the tallest smirked.
" Just get it over and done with. " the other snapped picking up the remaining rope.
" Whatever. " the other one replied and picked up the rock.
Sakura barely felt the sharp pain at the back of her head. All she knew was that she had the sensation of falling and that she couldn't breathe properly. She sunk like a rock and she starred up at the sunlight filtering through the water. Bubbles floated around her as she hit the bottom and swayed gently like she was a feather in a gentle breeze.
She felt a burning sensation coming from within and she wondered what it could be. Bubbles exploded from her mouth and she dimly remembered that she was stuck on the bottom of the river and that the bubbles were her life draining away from her. The sunlight was so pretty she thought as she watched it change with the currents on the surface. Her vision started to blur but she payed no attention to it. As long as she had the beauty shinning down on her she knew everything would be all right.
Suddenly she was jerked to the side and she became aware. She started to panic at the lack of oxygen in her system and she realised she didn't want to die, not this way. Suddenly she was jerked upwards and she looked around her and saw that there was a rope around her middle. How it had gotten there she had no idea. She jerked up again and more bubbles escaped her mouth. She felt herself grasped around the waist and she had the brief flash of strong arms and brown hair before she blacked out.
" PULL! " Jiang roared as he pulled back on the rope. Several others pulled back and watched as more and more rope piled up behind them.
The two men had been handcuffed after a brief struggle and were being watched carefully. The van was being searched for evidence and red and blue lights flashed around the clearing from the parked police cars.
Suddenly the surface of the water broke and Li came up gasping for air as he held onto the girl. Jiang locked his arms and continued hauling. That damn weight on her ankle kept threatening to take them all in. Two men ran forward and helped haul Li and the girl over the railing and laid her gently on the ground.
" Get out of the way. " Li growled and pushed his dripping bangs out of his face as he put his ear near her mouth and listened.
" Damn it. " he cursed and pinched her nose and breathed deeply into her mouth. He repeated it over and over for a moment then stopped. When he got no response he pushed down on he chest as the others watched on helplessly.
He repeated the process of CPR and then swore. He thumped his fist down on her chest.
" Come on! " he yelled. " Don't do this. You can't leave Avalon, you have to put him behind bars. " He thumped her chest again.
" WAKE UP! " he yelled.
She choked and he turned her head to the side as she coughed up water. She groaned and he he held her tight against him as she recovered.
" Thank kami Sakura. " he said cradling her in his lap. " You had me worried. "
" No - need- to -be - " she panted. " I - always - bounce - back . " she attempted to laugh and then groaned.
" Hey take it easy. " he said as paramedics came toward them. " We'll have you back to yourself in no time. "
" Thank you. " she said as the Meds knelt beside them and started doing their job.
" No need to thank me for what comes naturally. " he said.
" Yeah - saving my butt all the time. " she smiled weakly as she was lead away on the stretcher.
Jiang came to stand beside him.
" Are you going with her? "
" With your permission sir. " Li replied watching them go.
" You have it. " he said. " Find out if this was Moto. The other two aren't talking just yet. "
" Yes sir. I'll let you know. "
" Good. Hurry up before they leave without you. I'll have someone bring back your car. "
" Thanks. " and with that he ran to catch up with the Meds before they drove off.
To Li it seemed as if he had already done this before. Sakura was asleep in the hospital bed and he was waiting to interigate her as soon as she woke up. Poor kid, he thought. No, not a kid. He turned to study the young woman laying in the bed. There was no way in hell that she was a little kid. How the hell had he missed it? Under his nose for all that time and -
" Li? " came the tired voice.
" I'm here. " he came over and sat down beside the bed. " Are you feeling ok? "
" Better than can be expected. The Doctor said I was tough. I'll live. "
" Glad to hear it. " he replied and took her hand in his.
" I guess you know who it was. " she turned her face to him and he saw the tiredness and the strain.
" Yeah I do. Moto right? "
" Yes. " she sighed and closed her eyes. " It was him. "
" We thought we had lost you there for a moment Avalon. You had us all worried. "
" Gomen. " she murmured tiredly.
" You're brother was in hysterics along with Miss Daidoji and you had the judge in an aweful temper because we all left to come rescue you. " Her eyes opened and she starred at him. " Really? "
" Yes, really. Now you're going to have to get better so I can yell at you for your stupidity along with the rest of your family. "
A smiled tugged at her lips and she squeezed his hand weakly.
" Oh I adore you Xiao Lang, " she murmured sleepily. " You know how to make a girl feel cherished and loved. "
He continued to watch her as she fell asleep and then leant down at kissed her forehead.
" Sweet dreams. " he whispered and then left. He had a score to settle.
Two weeks later . .
Sakura stood once again at the bridge looking down into the water. Had so much time passed since she had nearly drowned? She let the flower that she was holding drop and watched the ripples as it hit the water and then drifted away. She sighed and rested her chin on her hand. How long would it continue for? They were to return to the court in a couple of days time. What more evidence was needed? The facts were there and the yet the judge continued to hesitate. Had her nearly dying not mean a thing? But then again, Moto had put in a good defense, claiming that he had nothing to do with what had happened. He had come up with some plausible stories, she had to give him that much, but could they not see through it like she could?
" How many times have I told you not to wonder out alone Avalon? "
She stiffened and her eyes widened. She turned and saw Li standing behind her.
" Huh? " He closed his eyes in agitation and then pinned her with his gaze.
" Are you trying to get captured again? Or do you just enjoy the thrill of the possibility? " She cringed.
" Gomen, I guess I just have a lot to think about. " she turned back to the water.
Li came to stand next to her and rested his hands on the side of the railing.
" I don't think you'll find the answers in there. " he said softly. She shrugged and continued to watch the water.
" Maybe not. But it helps. "
" Why don't we go have lunch? " it just popped out of his mouth.
Sakura blinked and turned to look at him.
" Are you trying to be nice to me again? " a smile twitched in the corner of her mouth.
" I'm nice to you all the time. " he replied and stuffed his hands in his pockets.
A small smile shone through and she turned away from the water.
" As long as you pay. " she started walking off and Li smiled.
" Naturally. " he replied. " Has there, ever since I met you, been a time that I haven't paid? "
She stopped and looked back at him.
" I'm sorry about all that. There seems I have so much to make up for. " her eyes were sad.
" Forget it. " he said and her head snapped up. " I mean look what I got out of it - A clean apartment, someone to talk to, a cat with a horrible name and heart palpatations every once and a while. "
" I really was a terror wasn't I? " she asked as she walked beside him.
" Umm, you really weren't that bad. " he said said trying not to smile. She hit his arm playfully.
" Tell the truth. " she chided. " I mean after all you did throw me out on more than one occassion. "
Li stopped and she turned.
" About that - " she shook her head and he shut up.
" No Li, " she said. " You had every right. I don't hold that against you. "
" But - " she shook her head again and took his hand and pulled him after her.
" No. It's over and it's done. We have here and now and it's what we do with it that counts. Let's just remember and be ok with it. " He ran his hand through his hair and met her gaze.
" Ok. " But I will never forget his heart whispered.
" . . Please state to the court who you are. "
" Xiao Lang Li, Private Investigator of the S.P.D. " amber eyes were intense and truthful. The lawyer nodded.
" Now you met Miss Avalon when . . ? " he let the sentence trail.
" I met Miss Avalon under the false pretenses of a young girl going by the name of Ying Fa several months ago last Summer, when my mother sent her here to Shanghai so she would be under my care. "
" And she stayed with you at your apartment? "
" Yes. " Li replied.
" I see, and did you know why Miss Avalon came to be staying in your apartment? "
" No. As far as I knew she was there because there were family problems or something. " he looked at Sakura. " My mother said I was just to take care of her for two months and believe me, you do not argue with Yelan Li. "
Some people smiled and let out a chuckle of two.
The lawyer nodded a faint smile lirking in the corner of his mouth.
" Understandable. " he said and looked down at the notes he was holding. " So Miss Avalon stayed with you for two months? "
" Three months. " Li replied.
" Three months. So that was a month more than what you had been told? "
Li hated this. Why did they repeat everything twice?
" Yes. "
" And what was Miss Avalon's behavior during that time? "
Sakura groaned and shrank down in her seat a little.
" She acted like a normal teenage girl in a strange new place. " Li replied.
" Could you elabortae on that statement Mr Li? " the lawyer asked.
" She was outgoing, outspoken, a little obnoxious and curious about her surroundings. "
There were some more smiles around the room.
" And did she act strangely? " the lawyer asked. " Did she act or say anything that made you think that maybe she was more than what she seemed? "
" I'm not sure what you mean by that, " Li replied. " But yes. There were the few things that made me question what she had run from. "
" Run from? " the lawyer asked pouncing.
" Yes. First there was the secretiveness about her family and I thought that odd, then there were the nightmares and the running away whenever she got frightened or something would spook her. She would come home after everything had settled down or when I had gone out and found her. "
" And she never told you what these nightmares were caused by? "
" No. Like I said, she wouldn't speak of it. I tried, but I gave up. She was stubborn as a mule when it came to telling me anything. So I stopped trying. "
" And tell me. What happened the day that Miss Avalon disappeared? "
" Both Mr Osakki and I were at work and we were going to have a celebratory dinner for the raises that we had just recieved, when Mr Osakki suggested that we invite Ying Fa out with us. I tried leaving a message on my answering machine because that's how I left messages for her, and the phone kept ringing and ringing and the answering machine didn't pick up. "
" And then what happened? "
" Well I was worried, so we went back to my apartment and we found that she was no where to be found. Her room was in shambles and most of her clothes were gone and there was no note, nothing. She had just disappeared. "
" So there wasn't anything else amiss? "
" Well, my apartment had also been trashed and the tape from the answering machine had taken out and erased. I thought that odd. " Li replied. " Since there was nothing missing. "
" And you never found out what was on it? "
" No. " Li replied.
The lawyer walked around the room. He looked at the jury.
" We know from Miss Avalon's statement that someone contacted her that day inquiring after a Miss Avalon, NOT Ying Fa. Who those men were we have yet to discover. " he turned back to Li.
" Let us jump forward four months from the time that Miss Avalon disappeared. How did Miss Avalon get in contact with you? "
" I woke up one morning and there was a note on my coffee table. I checked everywhere, but she was no where to be found. I was running late and I didn't have time to ponder on it. I put it away for later. "
" And did you get around to 'pondering about it'? "
" No. I had to pull a double shift and I fell asleep the moment I came home. " Li replied.
" So when did Miss Avalon get in contact with you? "
" A few days after that. " Li said. " I was asleep and I woke when a howl ripped through the night and scarred the sh - " he stopped and swallowed. " Err - surprised me. "
" A howl? " the lawyer asked frowning.
" Ying Fa trod on Dessie. " Li said simply.
" And could you clarify who - "
" My cat. " Li cut him off impatiently.
" I see. " the lawyer's eyes had narrowed.
" So you heard your cat 'howl' and then what? "
" I grabbed my gun and spotted the intruder at the foot of my bed. " He went on to explain what had happened that night and what had followed with the investiagtion with trying to find Touya.
" . . . so we move on to the night that Miss Avalon went to the university to try and rescue her brother. We know that she managed to free Mr Avalon and that they were seized supposedly by Mr Morimoto and his men and that Mr Avalon was knocked unconcious and taken to the loading bay. What we do not know is what happened from there. Miss Avalon wasknocked out and - " he shrugged looking around the room. " What happened? Can you fill us in Mr Li? "
" Yes. " Li replied and met Sakura's hopeful gaze.
Li left Sakura's bleeding form with Luna. He knew that she was in the best care at the moment and that he couldn't stay if he wanted to put a stop to this. He ran back up the hallway and up the stairs that they had only minutes ago come down. He took them two at a time, his breathing laboured. He thought fast. Where would they be? The Loading Bay.
He pushed himself to run faster and skidded around the corners as he headed the way that he hoped Moto had gone. He had no idea where the brother was, he'd have to worry about that later. He rounded another corner and descended another flight of stairs and forced himself to slow down and listen to the sounds around him. He calmed his breathing as he crept forward and made out the sounds of voices.
He looked around the corner in time to see them throwing a tall figure into the back of the truck. Tori he surmised. He clutched his gun and ducked down and crept forward behind two crates. He watched them and them made for another couple of crates two metres in front of him. He checked his gun and made sure that it was working. By now his breathing was back to normal and he could hear them more clearly.
He crept forward and made use of the darkness. They didn't notice him and he used it for his advantage. By the time he'd managed to get around behind them, Moto walked out and started barking out orders. Li's hand clenched on his gun and he crept forward assessing the situation calmly, banking down on his anger.
" Ok get this lot out of here before someone else decide to interfer! " Moto yelled.
A click sounded in the sudden quiet and Moto turned around slowly to see heated amber eyes starring at him with hatred.
" Put your hands up Moto. " Li said calmly. " Its over. The police are on there way and it will only take a few moments' surveillance to figure out what was happening here. "
" Well that may be, " Moto said smiling. " But until your little friends arrive, there's just you and me and all my men. Get rid of him! " he barked out and stepped to the side. Li fired and missed him by an inch and swore and ducked as bullets flew through the air.
He rolled and came up in his knees and fired round after round. He clicked in another couple of rounds and then managed to take out a couple of Moto's men. Moto tried to get into the truck, but Li fired and skimmed his arm and Moto turned around in fury.
" Cease fire! " he yelled and he walked towards Li, his expensive cane tapping on the cement as he came towards him.
" First that Avalon brat and then his sister and now you! You are nothing but thorns in my side! " he yelled.
" I hope we're digging in deeply. " Li shot back smirking and aimed his gun at him.
A sound behind him alerted him and he ducked and struck out at the man that came up behind him. He managed to kick the gun away and knock him out as another came at him. He brought the heel of his palm up and cracked it straight into the kusoyaro's nose; a crack, followed by a crunch breaking the silence as blood spurted out of the man's nose and he fell to his knees holding it in agony. Li brought the butt of his gun down and knocked him out.
The beeping of the truck reversing brought Li's attention from the men charging him to the truck. He aimed and took out the front and back tyres. The truck braked and Li stumbled back as he was punched in the jaw. He fell to the ground and kicked up and missed the man in front of him. He wrapped his ankles around his leg and rolled over, hearing the thump as the man fell to the ground.
He took out another two and then aimed and stopped as a young woman looked down at him. His eyes widened as she aimed her gun and pushed against the trigger. He rolled to the side and felt the heat as the bullet missed him - barely. He jumped to his feet breathing heavily and dodged her as she kicked out at him. He ducked under her attack and grabbed her arm and twisted her around and up, over his back. She flipped and landed with a thudd on the ground winded.
Li whipped around and aimed his gun at Moto and stopped at the sharp blade aimed at his throat from the end of his cane.
" A stalemate it would seem. " Moto smirked and Li snarled.
" So what would you suggest? " Li asked cuttingly. Moto's eyebrows lifted.
" Your asking me for an opinion? " he asked and then laughed. " That's a first. "
" Well we can cut each other up, but that won't suit either of us. I want to haul your ass down to the station and have the satisfaction of seeing you behind bars and you want me out of the way so you can get away with the looted booty. "
Moto nodded and they started to circle each other, neither lowering their aim or their weapons, their eyes steady.
" So what do you suggest we do? " Moto asked.
" Nothing. " Li replied and stepped back. Moto frowned at him suspicious.
" Nothing? " he asked.
" Nope, not a thing. " Li replied and looked behind Moto's shoulder. " I think you can take it from here Jiang. "
Moto whipped around and promptly found himself in cuffs and starring into the face of the police chief.
" I suggest you remain silent Mr Morimoto and allow me to read you your rights. " Jiang said and lead him off, several officers trailing after them.
Li wiped the sweat away from his eyes and sighed. He gave out orders to several remaining officers and they quickly discovered an unconcious Tori and the missing artifacts that had been taken from the university that night. Meds, he learned shortly after, had taken Ying Fa and Luna to the hospital and were being treated.
He was going to go down to the office and fill out his statement and his report and then he was hitting the shower, and maybe a quick visit to the hospital before he went home and caught a few z's.
Sakura's eyes were filled with a final understanding and she looked at Li greatfully and he nodded before looking back at the lawyer. The courtroom was silent and the lawyer was silent. It would seem that he needed some time to regroup. The judge cut in startling them all.
" We'll have a one hour lunch break and return here at one. " he banged his gavel and people started to move.
Sakura shot Li one more look over her shoulder as Tori steered her out of the room, followed by Aiden and Madison.
" So what are the chances of us winning? " Aiden asked as their lawyer came in after speaking with the judge.
" It's hard to say. " he said. " Without solid evidence, it might go in Mr Morimoto's favor. "
" WHAT! " both Tori and Sakura yelped. The lawyer cringed and swallowed.
" It may not, but you have to understand that without solid evidence - "
" Never mind that - " Tori waved his hand impatiently. " If there ws evidence, solid evidence - it would tip it for us wouldn't it? " he shot Sakura a quick look and she nodded.
" Well yes. I guess it would. " the lawyer replied. " Do you possess such evidence? " he asked curiously.
" Maybe. " Tori replied and then sat back thinking.
" You must understand, so far all the evidence has been based on eye witnesses and medical reports. In today's society, well you can understand why some people may be inclined to disagreed with the spoken word. "
Aiden nodded and Sakura sat in thought.
" Well, I better go. I don't doubt that Mr Morimoto is going to fight back. Just be aware. " he said and left.
Sakura flopped back in her chair and shook her head.
" Will it ever end? " she asked.
" Hopefully we can end it. "
Sakura got up and bowed to her brother and her father.
" I'll be back soon. I have something that I have to do. " she walked out and went in search of Madison.
Li was walking back from the coffee machine when he spotted Sakura and Madison knocking on the judges office and entering. He frowned. What would they be speaking to the judge for? Something must have come up.
" Now what would that be about I wonder? " Mika said as he came up beside him. He'd seen it too.
" I guess we'll find out later. " Li said and headed outside to enjoy the fresh air.
Meanwhile . .
" . . . and you believe that this evidence that Miss Daidoji can show us will help? "
" Hai. " Sakura nodded. " With your permission Your Honor, I would ask that we be allowed to show this evidence. "
He sat back in his chair and looked at them. They truly were to young to be caught up in this dreadful mess.
" I must be getting old. " he muttered and rubbed his eyes. " Very well Miss Avalon. I will allow Miss Daidoji to present us with the evidence that you say will end this trial. "
" Oh thank you! " her face lit up and he found himself smiling in return.
" Now return to your lunch ladies. I would like to enjoy mine before we get back to business. "
They bowed low and left and Sakura sighed with relief. She smiled as Tomoyo went to do what was required of her and then she walked down to the bathrooms.
She was looking at her reflection in the mirror. She looked pale and drawn. Not the usual vibrant person she usually was. Was it any wonder? She gasped when she saw him come through the door and she backed up against the wall. He walked towards her and his body was stiff with malice.
" You've caused me a lot of problem Miss Avalon. A lot more than your pest of a sibling. " Moto's eyes were dark with fury.
" You're not supposed to be near me Moto. " Sakura said backing up against the wall harder. " You'll be charged again and it will be another fine against your name and another year in your sentence. " It was the wrong thing to say.
His fist slammed into the wall near her head and she yelped as his other hand closed around her throat.
" You will not put me in jail Miss Avalon. I have too many contacts and even if by some miricle you end up placing me in hell, know that I will come after you, maybe not myself personally, but someone will. And you won't have your precious detective to protect you. " She grabbed at his hand trying to breathe.
" Let - me - go - " she choked. His eyes dark with hatred, starred down into hers.
" How easy it would be to end it right here, but then that would certainly seal my fate. Pity I didn't have more time, I could make it look like an accident. " he smirked and let her go and she collapsed on the bathroom floor gasping in huge lungfuls of air.
" Be careful Miss Avalon. You know I do not threaten lightly. Good day. " and with that he walked out.
" Where is she? " Tori asked looking around as people started walking back into the courtroom.
Luna's dark purple eyes looked around worriedly.
" Are you sure she didn't leave? "
" No. " Tori said and looked around him again. Luna looked up and saw Moto walking back from the direction of bathrooms. Acting on a hunch, she left Tori and headed towards the girls' bathroom.
She pushed open the door and gaped at the gasping Sakura. She ran forward and knelt down beside her.
" Sakura are you alright? What happened? " she asked and saw the marks appearing around the young girl's neck.
" Oh god. " she said and helped her up. " Can you stand? " Sakura nodded and together they walked out of the bathroom and headed towards the courtroom.
" Sakura! " Madison said as she saw them walking up. " What happened? "
" I - " she coughed and shook her head. " I need you to do what needs to be done. " she rasped and Madison looked at Luna.
" Moto. " Luna said and Madison's eyes widened.
" We have to tell the judge! " she said and Sakura stopped her.
" He will expect me to do that. " she rasped. " I will not give him the satisfaction. " she coughed again.
" But Sakura! "
" Later. " Sakura said and walked into the courtroom.
Everyone turned to look at the latecomers and Sakura raised her chin, pride stiffening her spine. She would not be weak. She refused to meet Li's or her family's eyes and starred straight ahead. The judge banged his gavel and everyone settled down.
" Something's happened. " Li muttered and Jiang leant in closer.
" What do you suspect? " Jiang whispered.
" Moto who else? " Li shot Moto a dark look and Jiang nodded.
Li tried to catch Sakura's eye again, but she refused and his anger simmered under boiling point. What the hell had happened?
" . . . now I know that we are coming to the end of this trial, but I have one last request that I would ask of the jury. " the judge said adressing the jury. The lady on the end stood up and bowed to the judge.
" What would you ask of us Your Honor? "
" I ask that you reserve judgement of the accused until after you have seen the video that Miss Daidoji is about to show us. " The lady bowed again, her eyes alight with curiousity.
" The jury will hold judgement. " she said and sat down again.
Li along with the rest of the police department present frowned. What evidence were they about to show? It was not possible that there was any evidence that they had not collected.
" What the hell - ? " Jiang muttered beside Li and Li looked toward Sakura and could see a glowing satisfaction in her eyes along with her brother's.
" She knows something. " Li said and Mika and Jiang looked toward them.
" The whole bloody lot of them know something. " Jiang grumbled.
Madison recieved the nodd from the judge and she walked out to the front of the room where a tv was located. She took a deep breath and addressed the court.
" Ladies and gentlemen of both the jury and the court, as we know, nearly over a year ago artifacts started mysteriously disappearing from the University of Tomoeda, and no one had any idea what was going on. No security had been breached, no fingerprints were left and there was nothing found on the security cameras. It seemed that it was impossible for anything to disappear, but it continued to happen.
" As the months went by and more artifacts went missing, people started to look for answers as one is inclined to do. But blame was placed on the head of a respected teacher and archaeologist that had been working at the university for more than twenty years. She nodded at Aiden and he smiled back ruefully Professor Avalon's lab was searched thoroughly, as well as his home and his study and nothing was ever found.
" At the same time a young man started to look for the truth. Her violet eyes swept the room And unfortunately for him, he found it. Unfortunate I hear you ask? Yes, unfortunate for the events that would soon follow. Mr Avlon, managed to secure a video tape of valuable footage that would exlain the mysteries circulating around the university, a tape that clearly shows the identity of the perpetrator that is and was responsible for the missing artifacts. What Mr Avalon uncovered was something more sinister, more - she searched or a word unforgivable. A breach of trust and respect.
" Because of the uncovering of truth, Mr Avalon was hunted. Tracked down and sought after like an animal. He was forced to flee his home, his family with not a word of why or when he would be back. The only legacy that he could leave his family - remember his future was uncertain -was the tape that he had managed to get past the people that hunted him. He risked his life to leave this possession in his sister's care, knowing that he was proberly risking her life as well as his own for doing so.
" If I may, I'd like to state that Miss Avalon had no idea what her brother had left in her care. To her, it was just an ordinary box that her brother had told her to guard. It was not in her nature to pry. If her brother trusted her enough to keep it safe, then she would, and she did.
" Now I ask you to turn your attention to the object that I hold in my hands. she held up the tape into the air for all to see Ladies and gentlemen, this is the very same tape that Mr Avalon managed to hide from those that sought after him. The very same tape that he left in Miss Avalon's care over a year ago. " their were gasps in the court.
" Holy slag. " Mika breathed in shock.
" Unbelievable. " Jiang muttered.
Li's gaze riveted to Sakura's face. She continued to watch Madison, her back straight.
Madison popped the tape into the player and within minutes they all watched the footage that had been captured. On the screen showed Moto and his men replacing the objects they were stealing and taking them down to the truck in the loading bay. The tape had obviously been edited because the on-screen colour was bright and clear and the sound quality was clear and came through perfectly.
They watched as Morimoto gave out orders and talked about the people on the black market they had to get the objects to. They listened as he told them to erase the security tapes and remove any proof of them being in the rooms that they had stolen from. They listened as one of the men asked a question and Moto snapped at him telling them to spread the rumour that it was Avalon's fault. Let him take the blame.
Then suddenly the Morimoto on screen whipped around and starred straight at the screen. The footage went funny as they listened as Tori bolted and managed to escape - barely.
Madison paused it and turned to address the court. " Now watch the footage that I managed to get from the security cameras at the university of the night that Miss Avalon and her brother were injured and Mr Morimoto was arrested. "
They watched the events fold out just like had been told in all the previous statements - Moto capturing Tori and Sakura, Sakura being knocked unconcious, and Tori dragged off, the fight in the loading bay and the MEDS pushing a stretcher down the hallway with an unconcious Sakura on it and Luna walking beside them.
When the tape was finished and the lights went back on, the room was quiet.
" You must be a very remarkable woman Miss Dadoji. " the judge said and Madison looked up surprised. The lawyers sat stunned. There was nothing left to say.
" And the same goes for the Avalon's. " the judge said aiming his gaze at them. The judge banged his gavel silencing the court and looked over at the jury.
" We will have a short break while the jury make their desision. " he banged his gavel and Sakura sagged in her seat.
She got up on weak knees and made her way over to Madison. They hugged and Sakura felt tears burn her throat and eyes, but she didn't let them fall. She had to be strong.
" Little ama! " Morimoto's furious voice rose and everyone turned around to stare as he snarled at Sakura.
" You had it the whole time! " he spat and leapt at her. Sakura cried out and jumped back, Madison wrapping her arms around her friend protectively.
A blur slammed into Moto before he reached Sakura and went down hard on the floor. " Li! " Sakura called out as the two fought it out on the floor. The judge, who had seen everything, slammed his gavel and the security guards leapt in to pull the two apart. Li managed to get in a punch to Moto jaw before he was yanked away by Jiang and Mika.
The jury shook their heads at the display and then walked into the room and closed the door behind them. Madison lead Sakura off to the other side of room where her family comforted her, her emerald eyes wide and glassy with shock.
Half and hour later . . .
" . . And what is your verdict? " the judge asked. The young woman looked up and met the judge's eyes.
" We find Mr Morimoto guilty for all charges. " she said and then sat down. The judge nodded and then looked at Moto.
" You have been found guilty of all charges Mr Morimoto. You have serious offenses against you and I have no other choice but to sentence you to twenty five years jail. You will be refused bail or any other amendments. Take the prisoner away. "
Sakura's gaze locked with Moto's before he was lead away. Her blood froze when she saw his mouth move.
' Remember . .' he smirked and then was dragged out.
Before she could think about that implication, she was swept up in a hug first by Madison then Tori. Her father followed after and thanked her in her ear when she hugged him back tighter. She hadn't realised she was crying until her father wiped them away from her cheek. She turned and found Li and Mika behind her. Mika smiled at her and she hugged Li tightly. She cried and he hugged her, rubbing her back in comfort. Aiden smiled and turned around to talk to their lawyer and his son.
She pulled away and apologised for making his shirt wet and then Li wiped away her tears just like her father had and then his gaze travelled down and he frowned noticing the dark marks on her skin around her neck. It looked like - his head snapped up but before he could say anything, Sakura was walking outside, her family all around her. Mika clapped him on the back and made his way out after Jiang.
Reporters lay in wait for them and Sakura gasped as her photo was taken. Their lawyer stepped in and answered all their questions while the family managed to escape. They made their way to the parking lot where their cars where kept and Sakura shivered when the thought of Morimoto't threat sprang back into her mind.
The Police Officers walked in after them, some talking others laughing and smiling. Jiang walked over and sharred a few words with Aiden and Sakura noticed that Li and Mika were waiting for Jiang. She waited until she could speak to Jiang herself and stepped forward and bowed when Aiden stepped back.
" Mr Fu. " she smiled. " I wanted to thank you and your department for all their help. " she smiled at Li and Mika. " Without them, I don't think any of this would have been possible. " she bowed lower this time and smiled.
" Arigato. " she reached up and placed a kiss on the older man's cheek and watched his turn a slight pink.
" Hey, how come he gets a kiss and we don't? " Mika asked stepping forward. " Come here gorgeous. " he smiled and gave her a tight hug.
" You take care ok? " he said and she smiled, tears coming to her eyes. " It's going to be lonely without you around to terrorise us. "
" I'll try and do burnouts just for you. " she smiled a tear slipping down her cheek. She gave him a kiss on the cheek.
" That's my girl. " he said and hugged her again.
Sakura looked behind Mika to Li. She sniffed and walked forward.
" I - ah - " she began akwardly.
" No need to say anything Avalon. " he said stuffiing his hands in his pockets. " You stay out of trouble. "
" I'll try. " she said and smiled. " Take care of Dessie for me please. "
" She'll miss you. Are you sure you don't want her? I mean, I'm not the pet type. " Sakura shook her head.
" No Li. She's yours and although I did live with you for nearly five months, I'm not about to asking our lawyer to divide everything fifty-fifty. I believe we don't need a settlement, I'm going to be nice and let you keep everything. Call it my farewell gift. " A small smile appeared in the corner of his mouth.
" Still sassy and smart-mouthed as ever. Good. "
She flashed him a watery smile and he couldn't help it. He reached forward and tugged her in a hug.
" I'm going to miss you Syaoran. " she said and kissed his cheek before backing away and getting into the car with her father, her brother and Luna.
She turned around a waved through the back window until they turned the corner and she couldn't see them anymore.
Mika sighed when they were out of sight.
" You know; I think I'm really going to miss her. A real heart breaker right Xiao Lang? "
Li turned away from looking at the street that they had gone down.
" Yeah. Tell me about it. . "
EPILOGUE
A Few Weeks Later . . .
Finally the news reports came to an end; the story being finalised after a long and drawn out process. Professor Avalon no longer needed to give interviews and returned back to work where his collegues welcomed him back warmly. Tori and Luna disappeared during the disturbance, but Sakura knew that it was only because Luna was extremely nervous about her history with Moto. It would seem that Tori didn't hold a grudge against the your woman after all. Sakura was just glad that she didn't have to wake up to seeing her face on tv and listening to the news coverage on the radio any more.
They could finally get back to living their lives safely and normally without being bombarded on all sides by people either wanting their autographs or their own personal telling of the story. After all the months living with uncertaintity and fear, it was strange to finally have peace and quiet.
Of Li and Mika, she heard nothing. She had heard from Yelan Li and had smiled hearing that Meilin had gone balistic when she had discovered that her clothes had been on loan to the sassy Japanese brat. It seemed that the young girl that she had been, was a memory. It seemed as if a thousand years had come and gone since that time. To look back and ponder, she was a little shocked and yet had expected, she had aged since that time running for her life. She had grown up a lot. She had learnt many lessons.
So it was a little surprising when she received an invitation to a party being held at Madison's huge family mansion. Surmising that it was only going to be family, she dressed casually - a small, pink jumper with three-quarter sleeves and jeans, her hair trailing over her shoulder in a braid similar to the braids her mother wore in some of her photos.
She stepped in after her father and was hugged by Madison. She smiled in return and was led to the huge garden outside. Fairy lights had been strung everywhere and glowed softly in the fading sunset. Sakura smiled seeing her brother and a shy Luna. She walked over and started talking with them and when the hairs on the back of her neck stood on end, she whipped around on instinct ready for the attack, and found Yelan Li and her family walking through the side gate.
First came the four sisters, followed by Wei and Meilin, then Mika and Li. Her eyes widened seeing the latter and she and the others watched as they came over and joined them. Madison greeted them warmly and Yelan smiled at Aiden and her smiled brightened when she greeted Sakura.
Soon they were sitting and talking while they ate dinner. Aiden discussed artifacts that he had found with Yelan and Wei, while Meilin, the four sisters and Luna discussed the latest fashions with Madison. Tori talked about woman's stupid obsessions with Mika which soon resulted in a heated argument when the young women heard their views and were insulted.
Sakura and Li sat in silence and watched the whole spectacle. Li drank some of his wine before he turned his attention to his silent companion.
" You've been very quiet. Something wrong? " he sat back and rested his ankle on his left knee.
Sakura looked up startled and managed a shy smile.
" Oh no. " she waved away his concern but he wasn't fooled.
" Sure? You just don't seem like your normal self. "
" Concern for me Xiao Lang? " she asked smiling a little. " And after all this time? I'm flattered. "
" I'm serious. " he stated and watched her eyes dull. " Something's wrong. "
" Just because I'm not talkative and not the life of the party doesn't mean that something is wrong. "
She saw that he didn't believe her and as she stood up and picked up empty glasses and plates, she looked back over at him.
" Put it down to that time of the month. " she lied and looked away, heading back up to the house.
" Oh Sakura put that down! " Madison chided as Sakura walked into the spacious kitchen with the armload of dishes.
" There's no need for you to do that. " Madison smiled.
" But then I would feel like a lousy house guest if I left you with all the mess. " Sakura smiled wanely.
" Nonsense! Go out enjoy the party. " Madison tried to shoo her friend out of the kitchen, but Sakura wouldn't budge.
" No, actually I want to help. Let me do this. " Sakura said and started loading the dishwasher ignoring her.
" O-k. " Madison said slowly frowning. " I'll be out the back if you need me. "
" Uh-huh. Sure. " Sakura said distractedly as she closed the lid of the dishwasher.
Madison walked out of the kitchen and nearly collided with Li and the plates he carried.
" You startled me. " she said her hand on her chest.
" Sorry. " Li said, smiling sheepishly. " You seemed distracted. "
" Oh, yes. I was . . " she trailed off, her eyes roaming back to the figure in the kitchen.
" How is she Daidoji? " Li asked softly. Violet eyes turned back to his.
" She hasn't been herself since everything happened, but that was to be expected. With everything that Sakura-chan went through, I didn't expect her to go back to being the way she was before, I mean she needs time that's all - but lately . . "
" Lately? " Li proded.
" Oh. Don't mind me! " Madison smiled brightly. " Over-anxious friend that's all. " she stepped aside and walked back outside.
Sakura hummed to herself, her hands deep in suds in the sink. She placed the plate on the rack and then her eyes caught movement outside and she froze. She jumped a foot in the air when Li came up behind her and she whirled spilling water on the floor.
" Oh! You startled me. " she breathed. She glanced back at the window and saw nothing.
" See something?" Li asked watching her.
" I'm sure it was nothing. " she turned back to the sink and started washing up again. " What's with all the questions? "
" I'm allowed to ask. " Li said evasively and placed his plates on the sink.
" More of that misplaced concern? " she asked.
" Is it? " Li asked leaning against the bench.
" Is it what? " Sakura asked distracted. Li realised she hadn't been paying attention. Since when did she have a short attention span?
Shooting another look out the window he couldn't see anything.
" Is it misplaced - my concern? " he repeated. She sighed and looked up at him.
" Mr Li, I know you feel it is your duty to inquire after me, but please I am no longer your concern. I - "
" Since when did we return to formality? " Li asked an edge to his voice.
" I mean no offense - "
" Then don't call me Mr Li. " Li snapped. " What is up with you? "
" Nothing. Mr Li please - " she swallowed as the dark look on his young face. " It's been a trying few weeks. I - "
" Then why are you in here scrubbing away instead of relaxing out there with your friends and family? "
She met his look and remained silent.
" The way I see it, you should be out there having fun and enjoying your new-found freedom, instead of acting demurely and hiding in here. "
" I am not hiding. " she retorted.
" That's not what it looks like from where I'm standing. " he replied.
" Then move down wind. " Sakura shot back fire coming to her eyes. " Just leave me alone. "
He watched as she slammed a plate into the drying rack and went back to scrubbing.
He pushed away from the bench and turned her chin around so she had to look at him.
" I'll be keeping an eye on you Miss Avalon, whether you like it or not. " he said and then left.
She waited until he had left and then sighed.
" That's what I was afraid of . . . " she trailed of looking out the dark window and her back stiffened and her eyes widened.
" Kami protect me . . . " she breathed in fear.
" Where's Sakura? " Mika asked as Li sat down.
" Scrubbing away at the dishes like a scullery maid. " Li retorted surpressing down his anger and Mika frowned.
" Why? "
" Beats me. She's acting weird. " he confided in a whisper.
" Got any ideas? " Mika asked softly and Li shook his head.
Both watched as Sakura joined them a few minutes later. She sat down and smiled at her father and started talking with him, but to both trained eyes, Mika and Li could both detect the fear she was trying so hard to hide from those around her and the desperation. She was nervous and unsettled.
" I'll talk to her. " Mika said and went to get up but Li stopped him.
" No, don't. It will upset her more. Leave it to me. I'll think of something. "
Mika nodded and as the night came to an end and everyone started to leave, Li made sure to get her on the side away from everyone else.
" I want to take you out to lunch. " Li said. " To catch up. "
" More delving and twenty questions detective? " she replied tiredly.
" Maybe. Consider it a family thing, and Kami help me, I still consider you family. " She watched him for a second and then nodded.
" All right. " she conceeded. " When? Where?"
" Two days from now. I'll pick you up. Besides, I heard from a very repectable source that all the malls will have their friday specials up and running. Perfect opportunity to shop. "
" Now would that fashion tip be coming from your sisters or Meilin? " she asked smiling.
" How do you know that it wasn't Miss Daidoji? " Li asked.
" Because Tomoyo would skin you alive if you mentioned buying store bought clothes when she can make them for you herself. She considers it an insult on her part. It's taboo. "
" Really? " Li asked eyebrows raised.
" Hai. " Sakura nodded. " I'll see you then detective. " she bowed and walked off and joined her family as they left.
" Till then. . " Li whispered watching her go. He would figure this out.
But he would never get the chance to . . .
The sky was blue with the passing of white fluffy clouds. The wind blew in cool from the north sweeping across the land.
Dear Mr Li
You and Mr Osakii have been most kind to me. You helped me out in my family's time of need and I owe both of you a debt that I don't think can never be repaid in this life time. Much is my respect for both of you.
Unfortunately I am unable to attend today's scheduled meeting. Please accept my apologies for such short notice. Perhaps it is for the best that we do not meet. Afterall, you are a highly respected detective and I think that perhaps that our relationship - however how strange - should remain that of an acquaintances on formal basis.
I hope that the both of you remain well and good luck to you.
Yours sincerely
Miss S. Avalon
THE END . . . . .
Or is it?
BW2 Well there you have it. The end of a what I hope was a good story.
jaws hitting the floor
ToriThat's it! Are you kidding me!
LunaI'm sorry, but I have to agree. That was a stupid ending!
BW2 HEY!
BothWell it is!
BW2 Duh! It's leading up to the sequel! Of course the ending has to be left as an opening.
Dead silence
LiThere's going to be a sequel?
BW2You bet'cha. Originally I wasn't going to, but as I got towards the end, I realised all the possibilities. Lets just say that I can sense a little romance in the air - in all directions- and a wedding.
MikaWhose gettin hitched?
BW2Like I'm going to reveal that! I am not dense.
Mika stage whisper At least not all the time . . .
BW2Oh shut up. Now what I wanted to discuss was the reason behind Sakura's strange behavior at the end. I know some of you may be thinking 'what the?' and some of you will be knowing what is happening. For those that do - shhh! Don't let on ok? It was necessary for Sakura to distance herself from Li although it did hurt him. I'm not going to go into a lot of detail because it will leave nothing for me to write in the next installment.
I'd like to thank all those that have reviewed and will in the future. It's for people like you that I share a part of me for. If any of you have any questions about this story; perhaps I have left something unsaid, please let me know and I will do my best to correct any mistakes. Please don't flame me if I have grammical or spelling errors, I am far from perfect and although my old english teachers would probably deck me for them, I did try my best to make it right.
Oh, and as an after thought, please don't ask me about Leiko and the gang at the club in Shanghai. I will be getting to that in the next installment. I do promise you that I will be getting around to it. I was going to do it at Madison's party in this chapter, but I thought it probably best to leave it and have it later on.
Now some of you are probably wondering why in some places I referred to Madison as Tomoyo and vice versa. That's all my fault I'm afraid. I'm so used to referring the CCS cast as their original titles in the japanese version that I sometimes forget what I am calling them. To me they are all the same whether you call Tori, Touya or Li, Xiao Lang.
Luna And what about my last name. Didn't you want to mention something about that?
BW2 Yeah I did. For all those that are wondering. Mikazukigata means 'Moon' in Japanese. So obviously Luna's full name is Luna Moon. I couldn't resist. And no she is not related to Julian in anyway or Yue. I also remember that in the japanese version Julian's last name also meant moon. However his last name used in the series is different to what is in my japanese dictionary. So please don't ask me about that cos I can't explain it.
Sakura And the title. Wasn't there something about that you wished to discuss?
BW2 Hai. As you have all seen now, 'Diamond Misconception' is the title of this fic. Why is it called that? Well because the real nasty business with Morimoto began after the Diamond that Professor Avalon discovered was stolen. That's when Sakura had to run and because it was in a way a whole big misunderstanding hence 'Misconception'. Professor Avalon was not responsible for the theft of the Diamond and as I mentioned it was the sole reason Sakura had to run and what lead her to Li.
SkuraThat's understandable. What about Seth and Takashii? They have no idea about me. Don't they have right to know about it all?
BW2That will come to pass.
ToriShe likes being secretive doesn't she?
BW2Have to be. Because if I let anything slip, you'd be running off to tell the whole bloody world before I had a chance to write the first sentence.
ToriI would not.
SakuraHe would. Believe me, it was embarassing growing up with him and being at the same schoool as him. Nothing was sacred. And just for the record, I never snored like a dinosaur!
ToriMaybe you didn't, but you certainly walk like one.
SakuraONII-CHAN!
BW2Fighting in the background Oh boy. I think I better wrap this up before someone gets hurt or goes deaf. Please remember to review. And goodbye to V Wan. I hope you like this story. I dedicate it to you and our friendship. I've never had a pen-pal from Cali before and you make it worth it. Ja!
Finished 10:24 PM 18/12/2005
