Hello everyone! Ugh, I feel so sick. Tis' the season for germs I tell ya…grumble...

Anyways, thank you for your reviews and encouragements. Everyone is always so nice. I tell you, every time I get lazy and forget about this story, someone sends in just one new review and I feel so encouraged to write another chapter. That is how one chapter gets written ya know…someone writes something nice and I write a paragraph, then stop. (for a long time as you can tell) and then another review comes in at some odd interval and I write another paragraph. I'm telling you, you guys keep this story alive! They give us writers too much credit…(shakes head at own uselessness)

A Love Before Time

Sakura stood on the porch of Simon's house and took a deep breath.

Upon arriving to his house, Sakura could see that she had caught Simon just as he was leaving the house. Frankly, he was the last person she wanted to be with right now, but he was the only one who knew how to get Li back.

Now, he was rocking in a large porch swing as if to his knowledge, nothing had happened.

Sakura imagined her fist colliding with his jaw. "Tell me how to get him back." she didn't bother saying who she wanted back because a fiend like him would know.

"Tsk." he said. "So demanding."

"I don't have time for your stupid conversations Simon. I know you know how to get him back. Tell me." the back of her eyes felt hot.

"I do know." Simon looked at Sakura funny. "I never said I didn't. What surprises me is that you think I'll help you. Your ghost is gone. That would count as a bonus for me."

"But you tricked me!"

"And you believed me." Simon replied, relentlessly.

Sakura wanted to heave her shoulders in defeat. Talking to Simon was like talking to a brick wall. How was she supposed to win? She may have been the one who had exorcised Li, but it was Simon's intention that made it happen.

"What do you want?" her voice was barely a growl.

Simon looked at Sakura and raised an eyebrow. Even in the darkness of the night, Sakura could see that he was interested.

"What do you have to offer?" Simon's expression went eerily calm.

Sakura knew the answer right away. "I'll help you. Whatever you're planning, I'll help you without disobeying."

The darkness between them was silent for a while. Sakura waited for him to answer. If he hadn't been interested, he would have already given a firm no. She knew that much.

"Now, that's a mighty big offer little lady." Simon ran his long fingers through his hair. "You don't even know what I'm planning."

"Who else can you possibly hurt?"

"Oh, Sakura. You have no idea do you?" he continued to rock in his swing.

At that Sakura's head snapped up and she shot daggers at Simon. If he thought she would believe he could travel back in time like her, he was wrong. But, if she could travel back to see Li, what were the chances that Simon could too?

Sakura hesitated. "You're bluffing."

"About what?" he smirked though.

"You can't go back…you never could. If you did, you would become-" Sakura's mind whirled. "Simon." dread filled her heart then. "Wouldn't you?"

Simon stared at Sakura for a moment's time. The swing stopped moving in it's leisurely time and Sakura thought she had hit a chord in Simon. He hadn't believed she would be capable of getting this far into her thinking and now that she had, he was probably debating whether he should stick around for her to figure out the rest.

After a while he stood up, stretching his body. "Fine, we have ourselves a deal. I get back your Li and you help me." he eyed her under the moon's rays. "Without disobedience."

Sakura raised her chin. "Tell me what you're doing first."

"I can't." Simon began feeling around his jacket for something. "There may be a chance that-oh here it is." his hand pulled out a small picture of a person.

Sakura couldn't make out whether it was a man or woman this far away, but she saw that the picture was old. One of those grey pictures from times long ago.

"What's that for?" Sakura asked, suspiciously.

Simon rolled his eyes. "Save it princess. We're going back to the past."

"What!" Sakura felt cheated. "If you think I'm going to help you before you save Li-"

"And if you think," Simon interrupted. "that I really believe you're going to help me after I get you're ghost back then you don't know me that well." he sighed as he viewed Sakura's glare. "Look, obviously we both don't trust each other, so how about you help me half way through and then I get your ghost back."

"You can do that?"

"I can do a lot of things Sakura."

"How do I know when your plan's half way through? What if you drag me to the end?"

"Well you're just going to have to trust me. Here give me your hand."

"What for?" Sakura questioned. "You aren't very clear. Do I still help you after your help Li?"

Simon reached over and grabbed Sakura's hand, ignoring her protest. "That's up to you, I can always send you back if something goes wrong, so don't even try anything funny. Now c'mon time's a ticking." he pulled her with him as he made his way off his property.

"How can I trust you? What if you don't bring Li back?"

He sighed as he pulled harder on her arm to fasten her walking pace. "I told you to trust me. I can keep a promise you know."

Sakura almost laughed at that, but she realized this was as good as it was going to get. Simon said he would help her get Li back and she would have to accept that until it was time. She also knew she had the benefit of seeing what he was up to if she stayed close to him.

"Quit day dreaming and move faster!" she could tell he was growing restless with her lack of cooperation.

"Where are you going? Why are you hurrying?"

"Because it's better to get there at night. We won't be seen as easily."

"Fine." she growled. "Would you quit yanking my arm?"

Simon tilted his head to look at Sakura. "You sure became a lot more irritable."

Sakura didn't say anything. It was already disgusting enough that he was touching her. The man who had gotten rid of Li. She would stick around after he saved Li alright. Who else would make sure he was stopped? What bothered her was the fact that Simon should know she was planning to stop him after he got Li back. How could he possibly still remain so indifferent? She would have to be extra careful.

Minutes later, they arrived at the graveyard site. Simon appeared to know where he was going and pulled Sakura over to a familiar gravestone.

Emike's grave. Sakura watched as Simon, took the picture back out of his pocket. That must be Emike's picture!

"Here hold one end of the picture."

Sakura did, angry that she had to do exactly what he said at that moment. No one else but him knew how to go back…

Simon's arms went around Sakura's waist. This was not how she usually went back. How did he plan to-

"Sakura!"

Both individuals' heads snapped to the direction of the voice.

"Dad?" Sakura dropped her hand from the picture. "What's wrong?" she could tell by his expression that he was worried.

Fujitaka stopped as he saw who his daughter was with. If the situation had been any different, he would have frowned in disapproval. Instead, he forced himself to approach his daughter calmly. "Sakura, Touya says he needs to speak to you. He sent me saying you were about to do something drastic. I'm glad I was able to catch you. I found you as fast as I could."

"Touya?" she repeated. "Why does he think that?" Her guilt was knawing away at her. Touya had always known when she had secrets. "Where is he?"

Simon, nearby, was growing irritated by the conversation. He reached for her arm. "Sakura…" he insisted. She ignored him. He could wait for an eternity for all she cared. But, from the back of her head, she could hear herself say that she didn't have an eternity. She had to get Li back before it was too late.

Fujitaka smiled solemnly. "Sakura, Touya's feeling under the weather. Yukito arrived at the house just a few hours ago. He's with your brother right now, but he kept insisting that I stop you from leaving."

"What's wrong with him? What does he mean by leaving?" she asked, guiltily. Her mind went unclear. "When did Yukito come?" she didn't understand how Touya could have possibly known about her leaving with Simon. Then again, he might have just been referring to her leaving the mansion. Either way, she felt like she was hoarding secrets from her brother.

"Yukito just arrived." her father answered. He stopped to take a deep breath. "Touya will be fine with some rest, but I won't stop you Sakura."

She didn't say anything in return. A part of her wanted to return back to the mansion and make sure Touya was okay, but another part of her knew that if she did return, she would be met with the emptiness of her room. And until Li was safe again, she couldn't focus on anything else. "I-I'm sorry." she uttered quietly. "I have to go." she knew Touya probably had something important to tell her, but she pushed aside that thought for now.

Fujitaka didn't seem surprised by Sakura's answer. A fatherly smile still played on his lips. The look made Sakura want to hit herself.

There was another tug on her arm and this time she could hear the impatience in Simon's voice. "I can do this with or without your help princess."

Feeling slightly trapped, she turned back to glare at Simon. When he returned it with a wolfish glint in his eye, it was more than Sakura could have stand. She turned back to her father. "Please tell Touya I'll be alright okay? I know Yukito will take care of him and you don't have to worry. I'll come back as soon as possible. I-I have to do this." saying the words out loud to her father somehow made her purpose all the more meaningful and her foundation stronger. As she felt Simon's hand make contact with hers she found that her fingers were touching the photograph again. There was a flash of light that was being emitted from her hand and she could faintly hear Simon mumbling something beside her.

"Good luck, Sakura."

The soft encouragement made her look up one last time and she smiled into her father's eyes. A part of her knew her dad wasn't entirely lost at this point. He had claimed he was capable of traveling back into the past too. The idea comforted Sakura.

And then in the next few moments, she was pushed roughly into another dimension. Her vision went dark and subconsciously she realized her hands were no longer touching anything substantial. There was a moment where she felt like her body was floating in a place where she could feel the strong pull of something reeling her in, but everything was pitch dark and no sound she made was answered. By the time she landed on something hard, her body welcomed the feeling of touch.

Something wet was pressing against Sakura's face. She lifted a heavy hand to brush it away, but it persisted, this time even giving a soft whinny. Whinny! Sakura's eyes flew wide open. It was slightly cold and she couldn't stop a shiver. Her head was pounding and as she touched the top of her forehead, she felt a small bump. She was sitting on dirt, just beside a calm lake. It was dark and the air was filled with the quiet movement of the trees and the grasses swaying in time with the ripples of the water. The half moon crescent in the sky seemed to be teasing the soft blue waves as it danced, appearing to move, but never actually travelling anywhere. Unlike it however, Sakura had somewhere she had to be.

Pulling her eyes away from the beautiful night, she glanced around. She was in the Li forest. She recognized it, but she didn't know where she was, or how to get out. Grandma had forbidden her to travel this far into the forest. Plus, it hadn't helped that she had just been slightly grounded. Not that that ever kept her from going about anywhere she had to go. Still, she only hoped the powder white horse that had been nudging at her knew the way out. Inside, she was feeling like Simon had left her alone the moment they had landed.

"Simon?" she called in case he was around, lying in one of the bushes. She hoped it was that prickly looking one right across from her. "Simon?" she tried again, even as she was saying it, she was pushing herself to her feet and untying the horse's reins from the nearby tree. "Can't say I didn't try." she muttered, running her hand down the horse's neck. "Okay girl, I'm guessing you're Emike's horse huh?"

The well bred mare whinnied again at hearing her master's name, encouraging Sakura to take a deep breath. "Okay, let's see if I can do this. Please just let me get on and we'll be fine." placing her hands down on the saddle, Sakura tried pushing herself up. The horse unfortunately, unnerved by her master's awkwardness, moved away. Sakura fell flat on her back. Giving a good humoured laugh she glared back up at the horse. "Well at least you're not running away. C'mon, one more try, I'll get it this time." She stood up and calmed the horse down before trying again. This time, she brought her right foot up with her as she mounted and the horse sensing her determination, remained completely still for her as she got on.

"Whew…Now, let's see…which way to Simon's mansion?" she scanned over her choices. There was only one path she could take, but just across the lake there was another dirt road that made Sakura hesitate. Emike couldn't have waded the horse over to this side could she have? Looking down at her own riding pants and feeling the horse's mane, she decided they were both too dry for her to have. And common sense told her Emike wasn't the person to just dive into a lake. She urged the horse to take the original path. "It's probably a better idea to head to Li's house. That's where Simon will be." She was glad the horse seemed to know where she was going and reaching up to brush the bump on her head again, she was reminded of what she had to do here. She would definitely get Li back.

By the time Sakura was at the edge of the forest, she could easily make out the yells of different men and women.

"Miss. Kinomoto!"

Sakura blinked at the ruckus. They had all been looking for her? Not wanting to cause anymore worry, she murmured to her horse to keep going towards the voices. Suddenly, a large rock flew perfectly straight in front of the mare and before Sakura could react, the horse rose on her hind legs and reared Sakura off the saddle. Sakura yelped and released the reins as she fell. She was caught by a pair of arms. The horse however, ran out of the forest and drew the attention of all the attendants.

Looking up, Sakura saw a distinguished looking Simon debating his options as he watched the horse. Sakura opened her mouth to say something, but he pulled her closer to him as he pounced into the nearest bush. His hand immediately went across her mouth, signalling her to be quiet as they both peered from the shadows.

The men had located Emike's horse, so in their minds, that must have meant that Emike was around too. They came rushing towards the spot where Sakura had just been thrown off by the horse. Maybe it was the fact that she didn't know what Simon was planning, or maybe it was because he had left her alone just a second ago, only to appear out of nowhere and have her thrown off her horse, but she was extremely irritable and his hand over her mouth was too much. She bit down, wanting to tell her rescuers where she was.

He bit out a silent curse, and clamped down her mouth with his other hand. He didn't risk talking, but pulled Sakura closer to him in case her limbs would have enough freedom to hit him. He was almost waiting for her to bite his other hand and he breathed a sigh of relief when the crowd left them.

Sakura stayed immobile. She didn't like Simon holding her this close, but she had known that if she revealed herself, Simon would have left it at that. He had told her he didn't need her, and he wouldn't have risked his plans just because she had decided to let the attendants find her. She knew she had to stick close with him if she was going to figure out what he was up to. It's why she didn't bite him a second time. The first had satisfied her enough.

"I think they've left, I'm going to release you now, so shut up." he unclamped her mouth carefully as if he was ready to put his hand back down at any time. She thought she heard him sigh when she didn't call out. "Okay now, get off me. My body's starting to react."

"What are you talking-" she turned to face Simon and was scared at the emotion in them. Sakura tumbled off of him and his hand levelled her to keep her from shaking. It was then she knew what he was talking about and by then, she couldn't hide her blush. "Who told you to grab me like that you pervert?" she inched away from him, leaning against the nearest tree.

He too, leaned back on his arms. His hair was slightly slicked back on his head, but his movements had caused a few unruly ends to slip out from it's gel, especially his bangs which blew in the breeze. His eyes were dark in the night and his neck was left unadorned. Sakura had never seen any men with titles without a neck tie of some sort and it left her to wonder if he had just recently pulled it off. He wore a thin white dress shirt with a beige patterned vest. His pants were dark and I smirked upon viewing his shoes. They were black, lumpy and looked quite uncomfortable. Had he been running in those? She had to smother her laugh. She didn't manage to do so successfully.

"What are you laughing at? I didn't grab you, I saved you. There's a difference you know. You say it like I fondled you or something."

Sakura glared at him. "So what now?"

"Now, I'm going that way." Simon pointed to the Li mansion. "You follow and obey."

Sakura's face twitched. "You think I'm going to freely follow you into Li's mansion? Geez, how stupid do you think I am? Li hates you." She smiled, finally able to say her next words with something other than disgust. "Li's marrying me tomorrow."

Simon just smirked. "Tomorrow huh? That's pretty fast. I better move." He rose to his feet and dusted his pants off, slicking the back of his hair back, so he looked more presentable. He even, to Sakura's disbelief took a small pair of thin rimmed glasses out from his front pocket and rested them just on the tip of his nose. "So, you've seen me before. Do I look the part?"

"I don't know what you're talking about. I've never seen you in this time."

"Sure you haven't Sakura. And I haven't seen through your plans."

Sakura rose to her feet to, staring innocently at Simon. "What plans?"

He shook his head and laughed. "Cute. Real cute." he took two steps to her and grabbed her hand. "Let's go. You don't wanna tell me what you're doing and I don't wanna tell you what I'm doing. This is going to work fine." they emerged from the undergrowth of bushes.

Sakura snatched her hand from his grip. "I'm telling you, we shouldn't walk in together. Are you trying to sabotage the wedding? People are already suspicious!" Even as she said it, she knew Simon could have cared less about Li's marriage. She sighed as he examined his hands, bored by her words. "You go first, I'll catch up."

"I don't trust you."

"Well then, our feelings are mutual aren't they?" she grounded out between her teeth. "I know you need me for whatever it is you're planning to do. You proved that when you came back for me, so I know you won't tie me up for the dogs."

"Hey, you believe whatever it is you want to believe princess." his eyes began to look around, as if he was growing nervous of standing out in the open, especially with her pointing accusations at him. He wasn't exactly in his own territory and although he had an idea of what Li would do to him if he found him with Sakura, or rather, Emike, he also knew that Sakura had no choice but to make sure nothing would happen to him because of something did, her stupid ghost wouldn't be able to find his way back to reality. Plus, he had a little contract in his pocket he still hadn't burned. "It's dark, stop yelling. No one will notice us if we go in now."

Sakura finally relented. Simon had said that it would be night time by the time they arrived and of course he had been right. What she didn't understand was why it had to be dark. Wasn't he going to speak with Li? She didn't think there was anything worse he could possible do now. In the night or in daylight.

As they slipped past the sentry gates, who had all gone in search for Emike, Simon couldn't hold in a scowl. "You're disappearance is causing quite the worry. It better not be this restless in the house, or we're in trouble."

Sakura hesitated as they both stealthily approached the front door. "Simon, this isn't good."

Simon gave a quick glance back and his eyes flashed down to his hand tugging on hers. "I thought we were over this. I told you I don't have any thoughts of us in my head at this time." he sounded almost amused, but Sakura could make out the weary disbelief lingering in his tone. She flushed at the thought that he actually thought she was thinking about something so stupid.

"Shut up." she quipped. "I meant that it looks like we have something to hide right now. It's dark. Everyone's looking for Emike and I bet you everything I have that inside, Li has everyone in the house preparing for the wedding. You walk in there right now might cause problems, but you walk in there with me, and you'll cause an uproar. You go in first and I'll stay behind for a few minutes." even in the dark, she could feel the suspicion rising from him.

It was a while before he answered. "Fine. You better make up a good story there Sakura. I won't have your back if this is the way you're playing it."

Sakura was shocked by his words. She had immediately thought he was going to say no to her suggestion and pull her directly inside. Instead, he was telling her that he would play it her way. She was more confused than ever now. Wouldn't it be better for him if he just dragged her with him inside? Not only would chaos ensue, but Li would no doubt become enraged at the sight of the two of them together. Isn't that what Simon wanted? She asked Simon herself.

His voice was even and clipped as he answered. "As long as you have to keep guessing, I'm in a good position." he pulled away from her and stepped regally to the front steps. As he fixed his collar, he turned in the darkness towards Sakura. "Sakura?"

"What?" she half expected him to reveal a part of his plans to her there.

"Whatever happens, don't blame me too much okay?" he knocked on the door, a healthy sound that said he had nothing to hide.

"I'll never forgive you if you hurt Li again." Sakura whispered from the shadows.

"I know. You've always been stubborn that way. Makes me wonder sometimes…" The door opened and he was allowed in.

Makes you wonder? About what? Sakura's mind began to work. Simon was right. What was going to be her plan?

Li was in a bitter mood and he slumped further down in his chair. His attendants were all preparing for the wedding, but did they see that there was no bride! His irritation only grew the moment he glanced out the window. It was pitch dark. Earlier, Emike had gone for a ride, promising not to go too far and that she'd be back before nightfall. Li scoffed. So much for that promise. He was angry for having to grow so worried. His mind tended to have quite the imagination and for the past few hours, he had been trying to pry fearfully wrenching thoughts from his head. But every time he tried to help with the festivities he realized he was raising his voice at all the staff. He had decided it was better to leave everyone alone. He could tell they were all beginning to grow nervous from his temper.

He rose from the chair, in order to do another check with the sentries, who were currently keeping him informed on Emike's disappearance. And just then, a figure entered through the lobby door. Li's face fell as he turned to see who brought this person in. It was one of his trusted soldiers, Hiragizawa.

"He was insistent, milord."

After a brief time "I see." was all Li said. He was afraid if he said anymore, he would blow up at his friend. He waited until the blue haired individual left before acknowledging the Donovan. He would have to speak with his friend on what was respectable company later. Sighing, he turned to the unwanted guest. "If you still have that contract, we have nothing to converse on."

Simon had to suppress his urge of laughing.

Li lifted an eyebrow, looking at Simon as if he was an insect. "Is something amusing to you Donovan?"

Simon gave a cough, pretending to clear his throat. The Li in the present hadn't changed much from his old self. He found it amusing alright. Shrugging, he paced around the room. "My my Li. You sound slightly angry. Have you not slept?"

"Are you caring for my health?" It was Li's turn to be amused.

"Of course I am. We're family you know." he smiled as he saw Li's mouth twitch in anger. He decided to approach things a different way. "I see you're all busy with tomorrow's wedding. May I see the bride?"

Li didn't answer.

"Oh? Has the Great Li misplaced Emike? I noticed you had a few men outside searching. Such a day it is when a man fails to locate the whereabouts of his woman. A sad day indeed. I hope you do not feel at all worried. Heaven forbid she does not intend to marry you."

"Are you finished?"

"Hmm. Not exactly. Let me ask you a question Li. I know you do not love Emike, not in the way you and I speak of. How much of her past do you actually know? Can you actually tell yourself you know who she is? You may be carrying on the wedding to save what honour Emike has left, and frankly, I could care less, but I have a friend you see. She's stirred quite the trouble with you already. You may know her. I need to fix her mistakes before they become irreversible, so I have decided to stay for your wedding with Emike. I hope I am invited?"

"You want to be here for our marriage?" Li thought the Donovan had finally lost it. It unnerved him however, that he knew the man was planning something. What did he know himself about Emike's past? Perhaps Li indeed lacked sleep because his mind wasn't as sharp. This was proven by his answer, which was less than specific. He wanted to keep Donovan around, but only so he could counter whatever it was the man was planning. "I do not know what your are intending to do Donovan, but in regards to the wedding-"

At that point, a knock came against the door and Eriol reappeared. "Lord Li. Miss. Kinomoto has returned."

Li's words caught off immediately and he almost breathed a sigh of relief at hearing the news. He forgot all about answering Simon as he took a few steps to greet Emike.

"Damn it Sakura…you couldn't give me more time could you?" he muttered endlessly as Li signalled the soldier to bring her in.

Sakura could only glare at Simon as she came in. His face said it all. He was definitely angry at her for barging in and the only reason for that would be because he was up to something. She turned to face Li, swallowing. She couldn't meet his gaze, not after what she had done. Who knew where Li was in the present now?

"Emike? You are not hurt?" He viewed her from head to toe, completely ignoring Simon. "I could call for

aid if that is what you need."

"I'm fine." she knew she only had to look up for Li to recognize her. How was she going to explain Simon?

Li's sharp eyes caught the purple lump on Sakura's head and he tilted her head forward to inspect it. His eyes widened for the tiniest moment. The surprise dissipated in seconds. He gave almost a scoff. In a soft whisper he said "I was beginning to wonder whether it was you. Emike knows her way around the forest, but were you able to find your way back? They found Emike's-" he glanced at Simon pretending not to hear the conversation. "That is they located your horse, but not you. Was it difficult finding you way back?"

"No." Simon's voice called from the a few feet away. He walked towards Sakura. "I found her. I was more than happy to escort her back." he smiled into Sakura's glare which said that she wasn't about to lie to Li for his benefit. He rolled his eyes and shrugged. His eyes flashed with challenge as if saying 'I really don't care at this point. You tell him whatever you want princess.' he crossed his arms and smiled smugly.

Sakura scoffed. He had been able to fool Li then. It made her angry that she should feel inadequate as so many times, Li had been able to see through her acting. Frowning she turned to Li. "Whatever he's said to you, you shouldn't believe him. You should know he's planning something."

Li didn't say anything.

"Really Li. I think your bride's slight feverish. Tsk. This is not good news, just before the wedding."

"Sak-Emike. We'll talk about this later. If you're alright, I'll come see you later tonight. Go and rest."

Sakura couldn't believe her ears. Simon was becoming too amused by the scene, probably laughing at how she couldn't even convince the person she was trying to help that she wasn't crazy. She wanted to take that punch at Simon now. She never felt as helpless as she did at that moment. It made her heart hurt to see that Li was back to his rock self. He had stopped making sure she was alright and had even forgotten about the bump on her head since he had saw it was her. Defiantly, she took a step towards Simon.

"Emike?" he asked in fake worry. He was in complete control however. His eyes danced with mirth.

"You won't be able to keep this up Simon. Li isn't stupid, he'll figure it out." she pushed her finger against his vest in assault. "Tell him Simon."

Simon shook his head and took hold of Sakura's wrists. "I'm sorry Emike, I haven't the slightest idea what you are accusing me of. Would you like for me to escort you to your room?"

Sakura snatched her wrists away and looked at Li pleadingly one last time. "Li, this is Simon from the present like me. He's just pretending. Can't you see through him?"

Simon tossed Li a look as if asking him to confirm her insanity. Sakura knew she was just managing to dig herself into a larger hole, but a part of her believed Li would take her side. He however, didn't miss a beat.

"Emike, are you sure you are without fever?" he looked at her, indicating that she should stop accusing Simon and leave the room. Sakura couldn't tell whether he wanted her to leave just the room or his life entirely. She had been right. The last time had only been his way of saying goodbye. If he would show her compassion it would be when they were alone, not when anyone else was present in the room.

"I'm fine." she grinded through her teeth. "This is stupid. Simon, I'm calling it." She had had enough. It was halftime in her mind now and she wanted Li back. "Do it now. Bring him back."

"Bring who back?" Simon continued playing stupid.

Li was getting irritated, Sakura could easily see that. She ignored him. If he was going to be difficult and believe Simon over her than she would just let him do that.

She took in a deep breath and turned from Li good naturedly, signalling Simon to follow her out the room. "I need to talk to you."

Simon just stood there. He was smart enough to know that he should look appalled. No woman should order the presence of a man. So he stood there, not saying a word.

Sakura groaned, realizing what was happening. She snatched his hand in hers and pulled him out the room. "I'm going to strangle you." she muttered under her breath.

"Emike!" Li called out to her to stop, but the two of them slipped behind the lobby door and into the adjoining room where they could talk in private. Frustrated, he ran his hand through his hair. He knew that had been Sakura, but why had she been accusing Donovan? In the past, he had always wondered whether she also spent time with Simon during her visits, but the thought made him cringe and he had pushed it out of his mind. She would have told him about it. But as of now, he wasn't entirely sure. Sakura hadn't been completely truthful in the time they had spent together.

He sighed, waiting impatiently for the two individuals to return. The thought of the two alone was more than he could have beared.

Simon looked down at Sakura and grinned lop sided. "Emike?" he asked, knowing full well he was only adding to her rage. Laughing, he decided to drop the act. "Hey, Sakura are you okay? You look angry."

"It might be working out for you now, but Li will believe me." Sakura forced herself to stay calm and she crossed her arms, staring defiantly up at Simon.

He smirked at her stand of courage. "Really? He looks repulsed at the sight of you. What'd you do, tell him you hated him?"

Sakura just stared at him, unable to say anything upon hearing the accuracy of his accusation.

His eyes lit up at the discovery. "Whaa- oh Sakura…" he laughed. "You just don't know how this game works do you? What a little innocent." he reached out and ruffled her hair, still chuckling.

"What are you talking about?" she demanded.

He shrugged. "I meant that you could be the one outside right now getting your Li to believe you, but you go and tell him that you don't love him and now he's listening to his worst enemy. I guess I should say thanks."

Sakura's fist shook. "I know Li will believe me."

"Sure, sure. Whatever you say." he brushed past her to go back into the lobby room.

"Hold it." Sakura growled when he kept walking. She reached out and grabbed his arm.

He sighed and turned around. "I know you find me irresistible sweetheart, but I have to go in and deal with your old lover before we can play okay?"

"I told you, I want you to bring Li back now."

"Now." he said it more as a statement rather than a question. He thought about it for a while. "Hmm. Okay, now sure."

"And he'll come back as if nothing ever happened to him?"

"That was the deal wasn't it?"

"And what about me? Are you keeping me here or getting Emike back?"

"Probably Emike." He winked at her. "But then, the two of us won't be able to have conversations like these would we?" He smiled. "Nah, I'll keep you around princess. I like you too much."

Sakura frowned. At one time, she would have been ecstatic to hear him say that. Now, she released Simon's hand in disgust. She knew there was a reason why he was going to keep her around. Instead of asking why though, she just said "Bring him back."

"You need something of his." he was getting irritable again as if he was rushed for time. "C'mon, I don't have all day."

Sakura reached into pocket and easily pulled out an old photograph of Li. "Will this do?"

He seemed genuinely surprised. "Why do you have that with you? More importantly, where are you stealing pictures from?" he took the picture and glanced around the room.

"The museum gave me it when I asked."

He rummaged though an oak drawer, going through it like a madman. "The museum gave it to you?" he asked sceptically.

Sakura blushed. "Maybe I took it, it's not like they needed it anyways. They have bigger photos. What are you doing?"

"Well, as much as your story inspires me, we still can't do this without a few candles…here finally. They should label these drawers." he set them in a circle and stepped in the centre with the photo. He looked at Sakura and paused.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"Nothing." he said innocently. "I'm just thinking."

"Don't tell me you forgot what to say." Sakura said in disbelief. "C'mon call him back!"

He waited for a moment longer, then finally sighed. "Nope, can't do it." he gestured to Sakura. "Here, c'mere for a second."

Sakura came over carefully. "What do you want? Can you or can you not?"

"Oh I can, don't get me wrong, it'll probably even be faster with me going to get him, but in the end, it still means that I lose time in my own plans. You're going to have to go and get him yourself. Here, come in the circle and take the picture."

Sakura snatched the photo and all but pushed Simon out of the circle. "Of course, why would you risk your precious time trying to get back someone you exiled?" she shot daggers at him. "How do I get him back?" she demanded, testily.

Simon suddenly frowned. "Hey Sakura let's do this later."

"Huh? Why?" Sakura asked angrily. "I don't care, I can do it myself. I don't need your help Simon." she was growing more annoyed. Simon seemed to want to drag this process on.

"No, it's not that." Simon looked uneasily around. Outside, they could both hear the scattering of busy feet as they prepared for the wedding. "When you leave, only your spirit will be transported to Li. Your body will remain here. If you're the bride here, then all these people are going to be less than happy when they see you looking dead on the ground."

"Then bring Emike back." Sakura answered calmly. "I'll return back to our time."

"And you won't come back?" Simon cocked an eyebrow. Sakura couldn't tell whether he was disappointed or happy.

"I told you I wasn't going to let you get away with what you're planning. If you think otherwise-"

"Okay stop." Simon interrupted, running his hand in his hair. "There's only one day until the wedding. You won't get back in time. Plus, I don't particularly want Emike here, so I'm going to have to keep your body here for my conveniences."

"If it's going to help you, I'm leaving."

He rolled his eyes. 'It's not that big of a dent in my plans you know. Calm down. I told you, you won't have enough time to come back and stop me too if you leave. That is your intention right? To stop me from whatever it is I'm doing? Geez, look at this, I'm even considering your plans for you."

Sakura didn't say anything for a time. "You should have thought about all this before. There's not much time until the wedding. When do you plan to do it? You said yourself you're not going to bring him back and that's fine because I really don't trust you myself-"

He cut her off again. "Yeah, but Li just saw the two of us come into this room. Meaning I'm the last one who's going to see you before you just fall to the ground. Don't you think that's going to be a little suspicious?" he emphasized his meaning of 'little' by pressing his fingers together in front of her face.

"Well then you shouldn't have sent Li away in the first place stupid!" the back of her eyes felt hot. "Your own plans are backfiring Simon and your games won't last."

"Stop screaming!" he hissed. "Hold on and give me a minute to think will you?" he went to the nearest table and fumbled with the quill on the table before he scribbled something down in ink. "Fine. I got it. You're going to be on your own though Sakura."

"This isn't funny Simon. If he's hurt in any way…I'll never forgive you." she watched as he continued to write. What was he doing? She sighed. "Simon…" she started.

The room door went ajar then. "Emike-" the voice was cut off.

"I want Li back with me." Sakura said clearly at that moment. Both she and Simon froze as the door opened widely and Li walked into the room.

Simon rolled his eyes once again as he straightened and placed the quill back down. "More great timing on your part." he muttered.

Li, over his initial surprise looked at Simon. "I'd like to speak with Emike. Leave us will you? I'll speak with you later."

Simon gave a slight bow. "Of course. I'd never deny you time with your fiancée." He gave a warning look to Sakura, nudging to the paper on the table and walked out the room. That paper would keep her safe if she followed the instructions he had written down.

He shook his head while shutting the door behind him. It appeared as if he had more planning to do than he had originally thought. Sakura was beginning to be a thorn in his side, but she knew what was going on. If he got rid of her, Emike would return and that girl would be clueless. She might not even come near him, in fear. No, he had to keep Sakura around until the wedding. He'd just have to make sure she wouldn't find out what he was up to until the last minute.

Sakura stood in the centre of the candles and flushed, tucking her photograph in her riding coat pocket. Somehow she had known it would have been needed to retrieve Li and because of that, she had held onto it tightly so she wouldn't lose it.

"You want me back with you, do you?" his mouth quirked up in a dark smile when they were alone. "A little late is it not Sakura?"

"If you're going to make fun of me, I might as well spend my company with Simon." Sakura didn't allow herself to look at Li. She didn't want to soften because she felt guilty of what she did to him in the future.

"You mean the Simon from your time."

"I know you don't believe me, it's fine. I told you once that he was in my time. If you don't want to believe me, I won't force you to think otherwise."

"Is that so?" he asked, beginning to eye the candles in suspicion. "And the candles? What are they for?"

Sakura hesitated, not moving.

"Come now." he entreated to her as if she was a child. "I thought we could start new. No more lies."

Sakura finally left the safety of the candles, however, still averting her eyes from his face. "I never lied to you."

"I see. And are you capable of saying that when perhaps lifting your gaze to mine?"

Sakura swallowed. She wanted to clobber him. Instead she raised what she hoped was a level look to his. "I never purposefully lied to you." she wanted to cringe at her stupidity of changing her words. She couldn't lie anymore to him. The only lie she had ever uttered in his presence was that she didn't love him. That had been her only lie.

He smiled, as if amused that she had added the word purposefully. He was however, still unfazed by her simple declaration. "And the candles?"

"They're to retrieve your future form." she answered immediately.

"My ghost form." he stated. "Am I lost?"

Sakura's eyes were getting hot again. "I don't know." she said.

"You have done wonders for me, haven't you Miss. Kinomoto? You came into my life, toyed with me while you found it amusing and now you've lost the person you're helping in the future. Really, I commend you." He indicated to the candles. "Please, do not stop on my account. Continue."

Sakura bit her lip. "Are you done?" she needed to get out of the room, before her tears threatened to come pouring out. She had long ago decided that the future and past Li were two different people and that was how she was able to deal with her problems. Although she still loved both, there was nothing this Li could say to her now that would cause her to give up on the future Li. She would go and bring him back no matter what he did to her. "I need to speak to Simon."

Li's face twitched at the name. "He was helping with the candles was he?"

Sakura heaved her shoulders in defeat. In a quiet voice she said "If you're going to keep doing this, just stop. I have to go get Li back."

"I told you I wasn't stopping you." he seemed persistent in his pursuit to make her angry. What did he want with her?

Sakura made one last plead. She didn't want to ask for Li's help, but she would have to tell him what she was planning to do if she was to leave her body here in order to save Li. "When I leave, my body won't be able to leave that candle circle. Can you make it so no one will enter this room?"

Li put his hands into his pocket. "You will be gone long?"

"Nothing will happen to Emike, I promise you. The wedding will go on. It's just that I have to do it here or else I might not be able to come back here from my time."

"Because Donovan brought you here." He hated how she thought he was only worried about his wedding.

Sakura shook her head. She didn't know if anything she just said had done any good. "Li…why are you being so difficult. Do you actually believe Simon over me?"

Her defeated voice made Li's chest sting and he grew angry at the feeling. "I don't deny Donovan's in your time. I don't deny he's just beyond this door. What I do deny is that the both of you have good intentions for my clan."

Sakura's eyes clouded. "I see. You do not trust us. You do not trust me."

"You understand perfectly then."

Sakura nodded. "Yes, I understand. You've categorized me together with Simon." she walked over to the oak table and picked up the paper. Under any other circumstance, she would have laughed at Simon's handwriting with a quill, but she took the paper and approached the centre of the circle. With the picture in her hand, she scanned over the chant Simon had scribbled. A few feet from her, Li still looked sceptical. She felt numb from his coldness and she read the rest of the instructions, knowing perfectly well that when she opened her eyes again, she would not have the paper in her hand. Sighing, she murmured the chant.

Li stood there unconvinced. She had begun saying something intelligible, but he continued to watch. In her hand was a small photograph. He lifted his gaze to her face. He had wanted to make her feel miserable with the conversation, but she had kept herself in check, which only managed to make his angrier. He had thought she was bottling up her tears and in a last effort he had made an attempt to unleash them, but she didn't cry in his presence. The last they had met, he had treated Sakura with compassion, but only because he had wanted to properly say goodbye. She herself had seemed genuinely surprised by his kindness. He smirked at the thought that perhaps he had been to kind. It was hard for him to hurt Sakura. But he couldn't show any more compassion, else he wouldn't know where to stop. The fact that she had that effect on him made him bitter. He hadn't actually thought she would return, so he had ended their last meeting with consideration for her, giving her hope that if she did return, he would properly say goodbye. In reality, their last goodbye was the last one he would give. He didn't actually believe she would come back. His wedding was tomorrow. Why did she have to come back at all? Looking at her reading off the paper made him cringe. He wanted to approach her and check that bump on her head. Why couldn't he seem to fully separate himself from her?

Li's thoughts were abruptly broken when a flash of bright light bloomed from each candle. He heard Sakura finish what she was saying without falter, and saw the light begin to form a layer between him and her, so that her figure was vanishing from his sight. She didn't look up at him and for a moment, he thought she looked almost relieved.

"Sakura!" he called, moving his feet towards her. It was too late though. She was enveloped in a white light and by the time he had blinked, the room had flashed a deep shade of colour. Sakura's body had collapsed to the wood floor. Li couldn't believe his eyes and he jumped into the circle of lit candles, picking up her limp body. "Sakura." he called in the most normal tone he could produce. When she didn't answer he gave her a light shake. The movement caused the small photo from her hand to fall to the floor and out of her hands. Resting her head on his shoulder, he reached for the picture and turned it over. It was a picture of him. Familiar, yet he could see it was old.

He blinked as soon as he recognized it. He had taken it to be put in a locket for Emike as a gift for the wedding. It was being put together as he sat staring at the photo. This picture however appeared untouched…as if the locket had never been made. As if the gift to the bride had never been given.

As if the photo was already with its rightful owner.

Sakura was blinded by the white light and when she squinted to see where it was coming from, she realized in disbelief that it was radiating off from the walls. It was a while before she was able to adjust her eyesight. It was an empty room. Ahead of her, there was a short, plain set of stairs that led to a large white door. She scrambled to her feet and ran to it. She couldn't waste any time.

Upon a few feet away, an old man with thinning hair and a large cane stood beside the entrance. He smiled when she approached him.

"Excuse me, may I ask what's behind that door?"

He straightened his back and Sakura realized he was taller than she had thought. "More doors perhaps. Nothing of interest. You seem lost. You've just arrived then?"

Sakura blinked. She thought he was referring to the fact that she had just died and been turned into a spirit of some form, getting ready to cross over. "Does everybody come here when they…you know."

He chuckled, probably happy that he didn't have to explain to her she was dead. "No not everyone. There are some…well, specifications. However, once you're here, it'll be a while before you're back out."

Sakura hesitated. "Would you allow me to go through this door?"

He nodded. "I never stopped anyone before."

"And if I wanted to come back out. Would that be open to me?"

He looked at her for a moment. When he realized she wasn't joking, he stopped laughing. Instead, his face turned hard. "I'm sorry, once you enter you'll only come back out under special circumstances. Those who enter this door have no choice. It's impossible to return to where you came."

Sakura's mind raced. "You said, certain circumstances. I'm here to find someone and bring them back to my time."

His interest perked up at her words. "Ahh, you are a spectator here."

"I'm sorry, I don't understand." she was thinking of beating Simon up for lying to her.

He sighed and a soft smile went to his lips. He sat down on a white cushioned chair, resting his wrists on the knob of his cane. "You see us spirits. You are a spectator here. You are able to return to where you come from after all this. Do you know what it is you are doing?"

The seriousness of his tone made Sakura rethink her resolution. The thought of Li's face however, kept her head high. "I have to bring someone back. He is very special to me."

He smiled in surprise at her declaration. It was awhile before he chuckled. "I have no right to judge and I have never stopped anyone from entering, not even spectators, but I warn you, past this door, it'll be difficult for you to locate your friend. Not everything you see is substantial, especially to newcomers. It'll take some time for you to navigate." he paused. "The longer you stay inside, the harder it will be for you to leave. Do you understand? I can do nothing to help you, but wait to open the door for your return."

Sakura didn't say anything. He wasn't joking. "Has anyone ever done this before?"

"Tried to retrieve someone? No. Spirits are sent here for a reason. No one from the living comes here."

"But you said spectators have past through this door before."

He nodded patiently. "Not to retrieve someone, but to return items, else the spirit may be able to return to the living. Even then, the spectator finds the spirit as soon as possible. If a long time has passed since a spirit is sent to exile here, than the more difficult it is to locate who you are trying to find."

The way he kept repeating exile made Sakura's heart hurt. She was already wasting too much time and only managing to scare herself with the questions she was asking. She forced herself to ask however, "Is there anything I can do to help locate a spirit faster?"

He shook his head. "You have nothing substantial as a spectator." he gestured to her form and she viewed herself too. She was clear and like he said, insubstantial. "However, if you have spent much time with who it is you are searching for, it will help. Everything inside will feel different, but if you follow what feels familiar, it will help I suppose." he patted her shoulder for encouragement. "Do not worry child. I can sense you'll do fine. Once you find the spirit, the worst will be over. The spirits can navigate easier inside."

Sakura smiled at his kindness, only hoping that Li would be willing to return with her. "Okay. I'm ready."

He looked at Sakura for a time, as if he was surprised she was actually going through with her original plan. Nodding, he pushed himself up with the cane and opened the great door before her. It was almost a void inside and Sakura couldn't see the end of the darkness as she peered within. Awkwardly she took her first step.

The man chuckled behind her. "It's brighter there than it appears child. Go ahead."

Sakura took her final step inside and a bright light flooded her.

This was it. She would find Li here.

It was eerily quiet inside. The room was as bright as it had been earlier, but this time the walls seemed to have no end. Nothing felt substantial. Instead the room was just there in an airy mist surrounding her. The atmosphere felt thick and layered, slight pressure pushing against her as she took a step further into the environment. Every breath she took was suffocating her and it was only then did she realize she didn't need to breath. Old habits died hard. She almost chuckled as she remembered how in the past she had always watched Li when she thought he hadn't been looking and had seen his chest move up and down, the movement caused by his breathing. He hadn't needed to breath. The memory made Sakura's eyes grow hot all over again and she walked on in the light.

At first she had been hesitant to call out to Li, but she realized she was being childish. "Li! Li, it's me Sakura! Can you hear me? Say something back okay?" she cupped her hands around her mouth, so her voice would echo. The sound seemed to travel to the depths of the void. No one answered.

Sakura tripped with her next step and she gasped when she reopened her eyes. The scenery had changed without her realizing it. It turned dusk and it was getting darker by the second. Sakura could hardly see her own two hands in front of her. She couldn't tell if she was still stuck in an endless void, but her chest felt constricted every time she took in a breath. She pushed herself to her feet, freezing when she heard voices.

"Hello? Li is that you?" but the voices had turned into quiet murmurs. The conversations were intelligible to her and managed to make her shiver. It was getting cold and she wondered how she could feel anything as a spectator. She tried her best to ignore the voices and kept walking, making sure to take careful steps, else she trip and fall again. "Li? This isn't funny Li. Come out and we'll head back! Liiiii!" she held on to the last syllable and could hear it's echo even after she was finished. There was no answer. She felt like crying. Why couldn't he hear her? The man outside the door had said it would've been easier if she knew the spirit, but nothing in this terrain was familiar. She couldn't sense Li's presence. The murmurs grew louder and became at times deafening, then died back down into silence. It was only then in the quiet could she raise her voice and call for Li.

"Li! It's Sakura! Li, it's me, can you answer me back! Li!" her throat hurt from yelling. She knew she was lost, but she couldn't turn back to retrace her steps now. It would only confuse her more and she couldn't lose anymore time. So she decided the only way she could go was straight and hope Li would be near enough to hear her voice. It was however, dying and growing weaker with each call of his name. There was no doubt of it now, she was definitely growing cold. She rubbed her arms in an effort to gain heat.

"Li!" she sniffled. "It's me Sakura! Li!" She couldn't give up so easily. Even though Simon hadn't prepared her for what she was going through, he had told her to stay alert and she was beginning to see the logic in his advice. Her surroundings were making her weary and every time she hesitated, the scenery would change on her. She didn't even dare to think of anyone else but Li, as Simon had said there would be problems if her mind lost its clarity. No, she had to stay focused for Li's sake. "Li! Please come out. It's almost time for your wedding and we have to get back!" she pleaded in the dark and when she felt something brush past her, she spun around sharply. "Li!"

There was no answer. Sakura's heart raced as she reached out with her arms, in order to feel for what had brushed her. While she wasn't paying attention however, the surroundings took on a new light, this time returning to it's blinding colour. There was a long gold staircase going up and following it, you could see it entangle itself with another winding staircase. She glanced to her left, her right, behind her, and in front of her. There was a small door on each side. Her mind cluttered as she forced herself to remain calm. She knew if she took one path, it would be difficult for her to return to take another. Therefore, she would have to feel for Li's presence if she wanted to make the right decision.

She called out in vain one last time. "Li! Where are you! Please come out. It's me Sakura. Do you remember me?" she was alone. Why was she alone? Where were all the other spirit's the man was talking about? Sakura wrapped her arms around her waist, protecting herself from the cold. Her skin was turning blue and she sniffled. "Why aren't you answering Li? It's me Sakura." she felt defeated and confused.

It was difficult to stay strong when her heart felt like it was shattering with every step she took. Li wasn't answering her and she was beginning to see he never would. She had exorcised him, no matter who she put his disappearance's blame on. She had been stupid to listen to Simon and now Li wasn't going to return with her. He would rather live here in exile than have to deal with her again, she could see that. But…if she had to go back and face his cold gaze again, she didn't know what she would do. The thought of finding Li and bringing him back had given her purpose and strength. That strength now gone, there was only a hopelessness growing inside her. Her sense of direction was completely gone and she didn't know which path to take.

Shivering, Sakura turned to the left door. Maybe it would that one…she forced herself to move towards it and open it. A cold wind blasted through her when she did. More light she thought sullenly. Even with all this light, she found it darkly funny that she couldn't stop trembling with cold. Sighing, she stepped past the threshold. "Syaoran, I'm sorry. Please let me find you." she stumbled inside and looked up, half thinking she'd be met with emptiness.

She wasn't. There was a silver gate in the white room. Past it, there was sapphire ocean as far as the eye could see. Looking out to the sea was a tall, lean figure, resting against the old gate.

Sakura took in a sharp breath, catching his attention. When he looked up at her, she couldn't look away. Her heart shattered into pieces then.

"Syaoran." she managed to breath out, just before her bottled tears streamed down her face, the drops as pure as the sea across from her. Here he was, just a few running strides away from her. "Syaoran." she smiled through her tears, her vision blurring.

I found you.

Well, that's it for this chapter! Hope you enjoyed yourselves. I liked this one…for some odd reason I can't say why… . So I look forward to what everyone has to say, as always bows to everyone (did I mention all you people are great for the ego? hahaha well until next time, I'm going to go to bed and wear off this sickness of mine. I'm all snotty and disgusting at the moment. I hope you can't imagine me at my table typing away at the keyboard with tonnes and tonnes of Kleenex lying everywhere…heh. ARIGATO MINNA! Ja!

-silent wanderer