Chapter 10: Almost There.

They had been traveling for almost a day and a half since leaving Taran and Shayla's temple. Sakura still wished for the wit of Taran and the comfort of Shayla as another close friend to lighten the poor mood but hoped that Shay had gotten the courage up to say what she was really feeling in her heart. Turning to other matters at hand that needed to be addressed; Sakura rode up beside Julian and told him that at the first sign of water, they were to stop. Julian was agreeing to the order when Eriol rode up to them on his black horse.

" There's water up ahead if you follow the curve of the trees up ahead. We need to fill up our canteens and send our hunters out for more food. Kero and Suppi both say that's there's no more drinkable water from here on. " Julian nodded taking in the information and together they all rode over in the direction that Kero and Suppi directed them.

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Next morning

Sakura woke early and lay in her blankets listening to the pre-dawn sounds. No one was stirring and for that she was grateful. She needed peace and quite every now and again. Behind her Julian didn't stir but she knew he would soon. The guy was like an alarm clock. He never missed a trick. Sakura rose and made her way out of the camp to the small pool that she had spotted yesterday. The water was frigid but she scrubbed away as much dirt and grime as she could without too many goose bumps on her flesh. While she was bathing, the wind picked up and she frowned when she smelt something that she had never smelt so much of before - salt.

Curiosity got the better of her and she shrugged back into her clothes and quietly fetched her horse, jumping up on its back and galloping to the top of the hill nearby. She came to an abrupt halt when she had reached the top of the hill. Her mouth fell open and her heart stopped at the sight.

In front of her was nothing but a world of water. She watched as waves crashed along the shoreline and then went back out again. Seagulls called to each other as they sailed high above in the pink and gold sky. To the left the sun was starting to rise out of the sea like a huge golden ball. Sakura's eyes widened as she took it all in. Never had she imagined a land of water that went for as far as the eye could see.

She nudged her mount forward and galloped down the hill and went right up to where the waves crashed onto the sand. She jumped down and picked up a handful of sand and watched curious as it fell like silk through her hands and felt the roughness of it. She looked ahead and saw a shape in the distance. She squinted but couldn't make out what it was.

Feeling excitement of a new discovery run through her, she jumped back up onto her horse and galloped along the beach. As she got closer the strange figure took shape and she realized with clarity that it was a huge sailing boat. She slowed the horse down and came to a stop and stared up at the huge vessel.

" I see you like what you see. " A man asked as he made his way over to her. Sakura turned and looked the stranger up and down. He was tall, well built and was probably in his early thirties. He had black hair and from where Sakura was, it looked like he had grey coloured eyes.

" Who are you? " he asked stopping near her.

" Shouldn't I be asking you that? " Sakura asked raising her brow haughtily.

The man laughed and tipped his head in greeting. " In that case allow me to introduce myself. I am Bryant Ardal. " he looked pointedly at Sakura.

Sakura tipped her head in greeting. " Sakura. "

" No last name I see. " Bryant stated smirking. " Got somethin' to hide lassie? "

Sakura remained expressionless. " None of your business I would think. " she replied coolly.

Bryant smirked again. " You're a smart one lassie that's for sure. "

" As are you for not pushing the point. " Sakura replied circling in her horse as it got restless.

" Now what can I do for you? " Bryant asked.

Sakura looked up at the boat. She felt like an ant. It was huge and proud in all its glory. She saw the tall masts and the ropes dangling, swaying back and forth gently in the breeze off the water.

" Where are you heading?" she asked.

Bryant laughed. " Isn't obvious? Across there. " he said pointing out to the ocean.

Sakura prayed for patience and the unhelpful information. " I am quite aware of that Mr. Ardal. But where are you heading. " she asked again.

" Sendai. " Bryant replied smiling broadly at her.

" Thank you. " Sakura looked down at him from atop the horse. " Do you happen to pass an island on your way? " she asked.

Bryant frowned as he stared up at her. " Yeah, but we don't go there lassie. "

" And why not? " Sakura asked wondering.

" Because it's dangerous and deadly. No ship can get near its shore. It's surrounded by jagged rocks that stick up out of the sea like teeth. No one goes there unless they want a death wish. "

" But are you able to get close enough? " Sakura asked.

" Yes, but you'd need row boats to even have a slim chance of getting there."

" Do you offer them? " Sakura asked starting to get excited.

" We could, but it would cost you. " Bryant replied.

" I doubt payment will be an issue. " Sakura replied.

Bryant eyes lit up. " How long does it take to get there? " she asked seeing a chance for a bargain. After all she wanted to do her homework before she reported back to Julian.

" About 3 weeks. Six if you wanted to go to Sendai. "

" So it would take you 9 weeks to get back to the island? " Sakura asked.

" If you're thinking of waiting for us to come back, forget it. You may get there, but your boats will be more than likely destroyed and if you did happen to make it there safely, how would you get back? The currents near those rocks are lethal. " Sakura frowned in thought.

" When do you set out? "

" In half an hour. "

" Wait for me I will be back. " Sakura said and galloped off.

" Whatever. " Bryant replied and walked back towards the ship watching as the figure disappeared over the sand dune.

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" Where the hell is Sakura? " Li demanded as he walked up to Julian fists clenched. He had been trying to find the elusive princess since dawn and she was no where in sight. Knowing that she was probably off adventuring he decided to ask her right-hand man. Julian was busy getting his gear tied onto the saddle of his horse and giving orders to those that passed.

" What do you mean? " Julian looked up obviously distracted.

" I mean where is she? I can't see her anywhere. " he stated angrily. " Isn't it your job to keep an eye on her? "

" Oh no. " Julian murmured looking around.

Suddenly a horse neighed in the distance. Swords and knives were unsheathed as everyone in the camp went into fighting positions, not sure who the intruder was. A "hooooeeeeee!' came from the other side of the bushes before they burst apart and Sakura crashed through them, reining to a complete stop and nearly crashing into several men. Her horse reared, hooves slashing at the air before calming down. Leaves were scattered over her head and the horse and she brushed them off quickly, her eyes scanning the camp for Julian. She saw the wary expressions of those closets to her and gulped.

" Sorry. " she said, rubbing the back of her head nervously. " I took a short cut. I was closer than I thought. "

" Where have you been? " Li and Julian said in union as they came up to her, making everyone look at them with small smiles. Sakura glared at Li but smiled at Julian.

" Doing some homework." She leant down in the saddle until her face was closer to Julian's, a mischievous smile curling her lips. " I've found us a ship that will take us to the island .…"

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Bryant and his men looked up as they heard the whinnies and snorts oh a small group of horses. They edged their way down the sand dunes, sand flying into the wind as the horses hooves dislodged the sand as they walked. In the lead was the same girl from before with a tall man with light hair beside her watching them.

Bryant looked startled by their number. True it was a small group, but he didn't expect to see so many at once out here in the middle of no where. Definitely not your usual traveling group.

The girl reined in near him and smiled. " Told you I'd be back. "

" I lassie ye did, but I didn't expect so many. "

" Your ship is big enough without a doubt. " she retorted arrogantly. Bryant could see she wasn't going to take no for an answer.

One of the men standing beside Bryant looked Sakura up and down and was obviously pleased with what he could see. He smiled brightly and winked when Sakura looked at him startled. She blinked, her cheeks going a slight pink. Seeing this, the man chuckled and moved a bit closer. Both Li and Eriol, who had seen the banter, shot him the death glare in her defense and didn't resist until the man had stepped back.

" Alright lassie, pay me and lets get going. " Bryant conceded. Such an unusual traveling group was bound to draw unwanted atterntion.

" And you'll supply us the boats needed to get to this island? " she arched her brow daring him to deceive her.

Bryant looked at them as if they were all mad. " Yes, but if you go getting yourselves killed, I had no part in it. " Bryant replied.

Sakura nodded. " You just worry about your ship and we'll worry about us deal? " she held out a small pouch of coin invitingly.

" And your horses? " he eyed the pouch hungrily. " What if ye go and die and I'm stuck with the beasts? I will not be holdin' 'em for ye. "

" If we do not return then you may do what you like with them. " she ignored the looks her men sent her. There was nothing they could do about it anyway.

Bryant snatched the extended pouch of money and checked it." Deal. Welcome aboard the Ruby Moon. " Bryant said sweeping low into a gallant bow. Sakura smiled and nudged her horse up the boarding plank.

Eriol spotted a helpful plant and went over to it and started dig huge hunks of it. Seeming satisfied with his discovery he stashed it in his saddle bag and then boarded the ship.

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Meilin sat down beside Eriol and watched as he cut up the strange looking plant into pieces.

" What's that? " she asked curiously.

" Ginger. " Eriol replied.

" Why do you have it? "

" Because it helps with sea sickness. "

" Really? " Meilin asked.

" Supposedly. We've only been sailing for what an hour? And already half of Sakura and Madison's men have been knocked about by it. " Eriol continued to cut the ginger up into little slices.

" Here. " he handed Meilin a handful. " Go and give 2-3 slices to the men that have sea sickness. Get them to chew it but not swallow. Tell them to chew it till all the flavor is gone and then spit out the pulp. "

" Gross. " Meilin wrinkled her nose in disgust.

" Ever witnessed sea sickness Meilin? " Eriol asked smirking.

" No. "

" Then reserve judgment of the term 'gross' until later ok? Something tells me that when you actually witness sea sickness you change your whole analogy of it. "

" Ha ha. " Meilin replied and snatched the offered ginger and walked off down the stairs towards the cabins. " Think your so smart don't you Mr Know-it-all. "

Eriol watched her disappear below decks and shook his head a small smile adorning his mouth.

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Sakura was leaning against the railing watching the land disappear into the distance. She looked down at the water and her stomach churned. As pretty as the ocean was, something just wasn't right about standing still on a rough, choppy surface. She stood up and waited for the sickness to pass. She closed her eyes and that only made it worse as she felt the movement of the boat upon the water. She heaved and went green. Eriol came up behind her.

" Not you too? " he asked in sympathy.

Sakura wilted against the railing. " What's wrong with me? " she wailed.

" You're sea sick. Here. " he handed her some ginger and told her what to do.

" Thanks. " Sakura replied weakly and popped the ginger into her mouth.

" I suggest you get the captain to show you to your cabin so you can lie down. You'll feel better eventually. "

Sakura smiled faintly and headed off towards the stairs. Eriol watched her go sympathetically. " Poor girl. " he mumbled.

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Sakura tossed and turned as she tried to sleep to be rid of the horrible feeling in her stomach. But it wasn't working. Sweat coated her skin and made her feel hot and cold all the time as the boat rocked to and fro. She eventually blocked everything out of her mind and as dusk came, she fell into a deep, troubled sleep.

Next Night

Li leant against the railing and looked up at the stars in the sky. His stomach churned again, but he forced himself to ignore it. He was not falling ill like the others. It was ridiculous to fall ill to such a thing as the water. The sea breeze lifted his bangs off his face and cool his sweat coated face.

" Can't you sleep? "

Li turned to look at Meilin as she materialized out of the shadows. " No. You? "

Meilin shook her head. " No. I'm keeping an eye out for that bastard of a cousin of ours. I have a little score to settle for yesterday. He thinks he is so great because he is a Know-It-All. " she replied bitterly.

Li looked at her and smirked. " What's he done this time? "

" Ah it's not that important." she dismissed the concept of hearing people heave their guts up into buckets and cringed. "Why can't you sleep? " she asked instead.

Li looked back out into the darkness. " Just thinking. I haven't been on the sea for a long time. "

Meilin was quiet. " Do you miss it? "

" Miss what? "

" Home. " Meilin stated.

" I don't know. I've never really thought about it much. But I guess sometimes. "

Sakura had woken and felt slightly better. Needing to smell fresh air she scrabbled with the blankets and got shakily to her feet. She had just come up the stairs and felt the cool sea breeze hit her in the face when she heard Meilin speak. She looked up and saw Li and Meilin together in front of her and ducked back a few steps and hid deep within the shadows and waited.

" Would you ever come back? " Meilin asked softly.

Li turned to look at her. " I don't know. No, probably not. "

Meilin was quiet for a minute and Sakura crept closer trying to see. Meilin eventually looked at Li. " Xiao Lang? "

" What Meilin? " Li asked expressionless.

Meilin linked her hand with his. " If we do make it out of this alive, will you promise me something? "

Li met her sad gaze. " What? " he asked watching her. The breeze lifted his bangs and tussled his hair and his clothes the same as Meilin. And saw the stairs reflected in her deep, sad ruby eyes.

" Will you come back with me - back home I mean? " she whispered tentatively reaching up to place her hand on his chest and step closer to him. Her head fell back and she searched deeply into his gaze.

Sakura's throat tightened and her heart squeezed tightly. Li couldn't leave! But what was she thinking? She hated him! But why did she find that she cared what Li's answer would be? And how dare Meilin of all people look up at him like that and touch him so familiarly!

" Li? " Meilin prompted when he didn't answer.

" Maybe Meilin. " Li replied placing his hands around her and looking back out to the sea.

Meilin tugged his shirt sleeve. " I need an answer Li. Not maybe. Yes or No? "

" Why is this important? " Li demanded snapping his head back to look down at her annoyed.

" Isn't what we once had important or at least a little special? " Meilin asked softly.

The wind blew gently, making Meilin's hair flow out behind her. Black strands danced around her face and down her back.

" A little. " Li finally admitted smiling ruefully.

Sakura's heart fell. She could hear the tinkling as it broke into a thousands shards to scattered across the boards of the deck. She could see the tiny sand like shards shifting against the wooden boards before the wind picked them up and scattered them across the star-filled water below. Pain and betrayal filled her chest hot and tight.

" Alright Meilin. It might just be good to go home. "

Meilin burst with happiness. " Oh thank you! " she cried and to Li's surprise and Sakura's horror - Meilin wrapped her arm around Li's neck and brought him to her as she kissed him deeply.

Hearing lost to the pounding of her blood in her ears and knowing what she was seeing was not for her to see, Sakura pulled her cloak tightly around her and dashed silently up the stairs and out of the shadows ducking to the left to head towards the bow of the ship.

Li eyes flew open and he saw dark shadow fleeing towards the bow of the ship. The slight figure made no noise as they fled and he guessed that they had seen them. It wasn't uncommon for people to use the darkness to their advantage so it wasn't unusual to see such things taking place. But the figure was fleeing as if the hounds of Hell were chasing them.

A gust of wind hit the deck and he watched as the hood of the cloak flew back and honey-brown hair flew out behind the fleeing figure and his nerves stuttered. Half of him felt proud that she had seen them kiss, but the other half felt like he had just hurt the most precious thing to him in the world. He pulled away from Meilin refusing to look at her.

" Meilin. " he murmured uncomfortably and she flinched.

" I'm sorry Li, I guess I just got carried away. "

Li nodded unsure what to do. " I'll see you later. " he said and started off after Sakura.

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Sakura fought tears and heartbreak as she searched around wildly for somewhere to hide. She wanted to curl up and fade away without having to face what she had seen. It was too cruel to even contemplate. Hearing footsteps heading towards her she looked around wildly. Seeing no where to hide she started to run, turning a corner and slammed into a solid brick wall. Both went 'oomph!' with the impact. She felt warm hands on her shoulders and looked up and met Julian's startled gaze.

" Oh Julian! " Sakura cried. " I'm sorry, I didn't see you. "

" I saw that. Do you always run when looking behind you or are you running from someone or something? " he asked concern lacing his voice at the prospect of someone chasing her. He knew what it was like to spend many months at sea without the sweet smile or feel of a beautiful woman. And he also knew how it could drive sailors to do unforgivable things in the dark if they caught a lone woman unguarded.

" I umm . . . " Sakura was too busy looking back the way she had come and sure enough she could see Li heading their way. He was a tall figure melting out of the darkness coming for her. Fear slammed into her throat.

" I thought you were sick? " she asked frowning, remembering and succeeding in throwing Julian off guard. The last thing she wanted was for him to recognize Li.

" I just thought I'd get some fresh air. You haven't seen Eriol have you? I'd like to thank him for giving me that ginger earlier. " Julian replied with a smile rubbing her shoulder in comfort. He could feel her shaking beneath her cloak and he wasn't about to pry especially when he could see Li striding towards them purposely.

Sakura could see Li striding closer now and she was desperate not to talk to him. She was hurt and confused and when a woman is hurt and confused she does crazy things. She needed a plan and all she had on hand was Julian. What to do? Could she order Julian to keep Li away from her? No that would cause serious questions on Julian's behalf and she didn't want to go through that.

" Ummm - Julian I am really glad that you're – ah -ok and all but I just want to say that- "

Li came up onto the Bridge Deck and stepped out of the shadows and was about to call out her name but stopped when he saw Sakura reach up on her toes and place her hands on Julian's chest and kiss him on his mouth. Julian's eyes flew wide and Li stepped back astonished.

Sakura squeezed her eyes tight banishing Li from her thoughts and deepened the kiss. Julian shocked placed his hands on her hips and tried to steady himself by drawing her closer. Li snarled, clenched his fists and saw red. He whipped around and stormed back the way he had come not caring if they heard him.

Sakura watched him go from under her eyelashes and broke the kiss, leaning her forehead on Julian's cheek, sighing with relief. It was then that she realized what she doing and jumped back startled and went bright red. Julian was staring at her totally lost for words.

" Umm I- " Sakura twittered nervously backing away. " I shouldn't have done that - actually I have no idea why I did that. " she laughed nervously, scratching the back of her head.

" Well I'm glad that you're better and I – ah - will see you later. " Sakura bumped into the railing and laughed nervously again. " Umm bye. " she said and fled down the stairs to the main deck, Julian watching her go totally speechless.

" Yeah bye. " he muttered.

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I can't believe you just kissed Julian! Her mind screamed and she went red again.

She leant against the wall and touched her lips, still feeling him there. She felt giddy.

Face it girl - Li was better her mind cut in. Sakura blinked as she listened to her inner voice. Admit it - you know it to be true. Sakura sighed her dreamy feeling ebbing away along with the lull and toll of the water lapping against the side of the boat. She stared at sea as the waves came and went. Not wanting to go back her room and dwell on what had happened she had fled to the front of the ship to contemplate what she had done.

" What? The entertainment finished early tonight? " Li's voice came out of the shadows and startled her as Li materialized out of them.

" Li. " Sakura said and backed away.

" Who else? " Li asked expressionlessly.

Sakura didn't like that look. She frowned when she remembered what he had first said.

" What entertainment? " she asked warily.

" Which one indeed? " Li asked coming to stand in front of her. " Are we talking about the little showing that you saw of Meilin and I or the one I got of you and Julian? "

Sakura's eyes gave away her shock. They met his full of shock and embarrassment. So he had seen her when he had kissed Meilin! Oh damn.

" Looks like we both got free viewings tonight. " Sakura replied coldly looking out into the ocean.

" Indeed. " Li said coldly moving closer to her.

" Well then if you'll excuse me I have better things to do then stand out here in the cold and talk to you. Good night. " she said curtly and went to walk past him, but Li placed his arm against the wall preventing her from going anywhere.

" I'm not finished talking to you yet. " Li said darkly and met her angry gaze.

" I believe you are Li. " Sakura said and tried to push his arm away but it wouldn't budge. She looked up at him furiously. " Let me go. " she commanded.

Li smirked evilly. " Not until I've talked to you. We need to discuss a few things. "

" Oh? Like what? " she asked haughtily. " I don't have anything to discuss with you. "

" Since when have you and Julian been together? " Li demanded suddenly leaning closer to her.

Sakura looked at him shocked and backed away. " That is what you want to 'discuss' with me? " she edged around him, his amber eyes were deep and dark in the faint light enough to make her skin crawl with the look inside them. He was dangerously angry. He followed her every movement like a powerful animal ready to attack.

" I must say you didn't waste anytime going from me to him did you? " he retorted haughtily.

Sakura's eyes widened before she stepped forward, her hand connecting with his face.

" You cold hearted bastard. " she seethed as Li rubbed his check. " How easily you forget Li Showron, " she spat quietly so no one else could hear them. " How easily you forget that you were the one that left me because you found out that I was what I am. " she looked around hastily. She didn't want to use the "P" word where someone might hear it and give them all away.

" And as for your information I am not 'with' Julian. He is my brother's friend and I love him dearly yes - I won't deny that - but not like you assumed. " Sakura spat glaring ice at him.

" Besides Xiao Lang, " her voice dripped with venom as she mocked his Chinese name that Meilin used. " As far as either of us is concerned, you are the only is playing the filed so quickly. " She stepped back and looked him up and down mockingly. " No you don't waste time do you? " Then she gasped mockingly. " Oh but that's right, " she glared angrily. " You don't have to 'get' with Meilin do you? No that's right you were already 'with' her before you were 'with' me weren't you? " Sakura yelled furiously.

Li stepped back unsure of where this was heading. Sakura's eyes flashed dangerously as she pushed forward and cornered him against the wall. She raised her head to look up at him and glared further.

" Don't you dare corner me out here like a rabbit caught in a trap Li Showron, and questioned me and give me your accusations. You have no right especially when you lied to me! How dare you lead me on and make me feel things for you when you were already promised to somebody else! Shayla told me all about it back at the temple! You infidel! Well you know what Li? I don't care! " she spat.

" That's right - I don't care! About you, about what we shared that day or what we could have shared if you had given me a chance. No I don't care and you know why? Because I hate you! " Li stepped backed stunned and seeing it, Sakura laughed coldly and pinned him with her dazzling eyes bathed in the weak moonlight.

" I hate you so much it hurts to breathe! " she spat. " And why I hear you ask? Because what kind of a person takes from a girl what she has a right to give and then dumps her afterwards because he gets scared! What kind of lowly snake are you Li? " Sakura demanded coldly advancing on him, making Li step back to avoid her angry and condemning eyes that held him captive.

" You Li Showron are nothing but a coward! " Sakura lashed out. " Nothing but a sneaky, cheating, sly coward! " Sakura poked him the chest. " And how could I ever learn to like someone that is as emotionless, cold-hearted, uncaring and unfeeling and, more to the point, afraid to like anyone or someone let alone love anyone! You don't know what it is to feel let alone care! You wouldn't know even if it came up and slapped you in the face! I pity you Li, I really do, but you know who I pity the most? "

She didn't give him time to answer.

" Meilin, yes that's right Meilin. And you know why? Because she obviously lost you once before and yet she's stupid enough to take you back again. "

" Don't you dare ever try to talk to me again do you hear me? " Sakura asked still advancing on Li angrily until Li bumped into one of the masts." Oh, and one more thing Li. " she said sweetly. " At least Julian has a heart unlike you. He knows me heart and soul because he took the time to get to know me - the real me. He didn't judge me like you did Li. He accepted me for me and for that, we are great friends and I would risk my life for him in an instant. That's what true friendship is about. What about you Li? When you find yourself backed against a wall and you have no where to turn, who's going to save your back? " she demanded.

Li just glared at her and Sakura's eyes filled with sympathy." You know what makes me sick? The fact that I actually feel sorry for you. " and with that Sakura turned around and hurried away back down the stairs towards her cabin.

Li watched her go before sliding to the deck and ran a hand through his hair. He sighed and thumped his head against the back of the mast and stared at the stars. He heard sniggering and his cold amber eyes locked onto the darkness to his right and saw the sailors resting against the railing smiling at him.

" Picked a fight with the wrong lassie tonight hey mate? " one of them called out.

Another laughed and drew on his cigarette, the red glowing in the darkness.

" She had you by your bollocks for sure. You gotta learn to fight back laddie. "

Easier said than done Li thought and sighed and turned back to look at the stars.

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Sakura threw herself on her bed and let her tears fall. That had been the biggest thing she had ever had to do. She was hurt and angry and most of all she was sick of her life going up and down. She didn't know what hurt the most - the fact that Li had lied to her and then dumped her because he was afraid of her being a princess, or the fact that she had just lied to Li and herself about hating him. If anything - she loved him more than life itself. She let her tears fall not bothering to wipe them away or be ashamed by them. Her heart hurt and so did her pride. If she thought that this journey couldn't get any harder, she was wrong.

Outside a huge storm was gathering. The sailors watched with caution as the lightning forked and streaked through the darkness. The waves started to churn and the boat started to rock from side to side. The sailors started climbing up the masts and ladders to tie the sails back. Orders were thrown back and forth as the wind started to pick up and whip at their faces.

Thunder roared and Sakura looked up from her pillow, a tear sliding down her cheek. That's when she realized that they were in the beginning of a storm. She wiped away her tears and slowly got up and made her way to the door. Thunder echoed through the ship and Sakura jumped frightened. Curiosity got the better of her and she opened the door and looked up towards the deck. Water washed down the stairs and swam around her feet as the boat lurched. She listened as the sailors barked their orders as another wave crashed over the side of the boat and flooded down the stairs and into the cabins below.

Sakura stepped out into the hallway and her hair blew back as the wind whipped against her. She climbed up the stairs and emerged into chaos. Sailors and soldiers ran back and forth trying to get the remaining sails tied down. The boat tipped and Sakura cried out startled as she slid to the left and hit the wall. Rain blew into her face and she had to shield her eyes so she could see. She watched as men jumped up the ladders and climbed up masts trying their hardest to get everything tied and secure.

She heard a snap and looked up horrified as one of the ropes broke and one of the sails broke free. The remaining bit of rope hung down and whipped around dangerously. Men ran from all directions to get it and attempt to get the sail tied back down.

Li had been in the middle of tying one of the sails down when he heard the rope snap. He shook his head, riding himself of the rain running into his eyes. He climbed over to the mast and slid down back down to the deck, leaving the others to finish the job. He called out to some of the soldiers and they ran over to the where the rope was whipping around like an enraged snake. Li wrapped his hands around the wet rope and started pulling it taught. The others lined up behind him and together they started to pull it. The rope pulled taught and the sail started to fold back down again.

Sakura watched in amazement as they worked together to get it tied back down. She shielded her face from the blinding rain and watched as they nearly had it completely secure, but then a huge gale wind blasted them and Sakura watched horrified again as they sail blew open and started flapping around franticly. Li and the others who had been holding onto the rope flew forward and nearly slammed into the mast, but Li braced himself and taking after his lead, the others managed to right themselves again. But it didn't solve the problem of trying to fight the free sail.

Li growled as he watched the sail flap above them as he tried to hold onto the rope. A pair of hands gripped his and he looked down and watched in amazement as Sakura braced herself in front of him to fight the tugging rope. She braced her feet on the slippery wet deck and looked up at the sail.

" On three! " Sakura yelled into the wind.

Li snapped back to reality and he glared at her. " Are you crazy?!! Get back below deck! This is no place for you! " Li yelled.

Sakura shot him the death glare over her shoulder." It's either me or the unknown. Now pull! " she called and the others started pulling along with her.

Li growled and started pulling along with the others. The sail fought them and they were pulled forward and Sakura braced her leg against the mast to stop them from completely being thrown off balance. Sakura clenched her teeth as the wet rope bit into her hand but they were starting to get the lose sail under control. They watched as the extra pair of hands helped hold down the sail.

" Hold it! " Li yelled and let go of the rope and started to climb the slippery mast.

" Now who's crazy?!! " Sakura called as she watched him go.

Li jumped up onto the sail and started strapping it down. He worked his way along the slippery beam. He finally got the last strap done and he made his way back to the mast and slid down. Rain made it almost impossible to see, but he managed to make out two new men taking his place and Sakura's with securing the rope. Thunder rumbled across the sky and a streak of lightning flashed above them. Seeing that he was safely back on deck and that the sail was now secure, they tied to free piece of rope around the mast.

" Where's Sakura? "' Li yelled squinting against the rain.

Thunder roared again and waves swept over the side of the boat.

" They were having trouble over there and she went to help! " someone yelled back.

Li shielded his eyes and looked around frantically.

Sakura glared at the sail as part of it came untied above them. She had rushed back to end of the ship as she had heard people shouting for assistance. There was no time left. She had to do something for there were still many other things that needed to be done. She braced herself and imagined how Li had done it and started climbing up the slippery mast. She cried out as she slipped and slid back down, splinters biting into her hands. She bit her lip and started climbing up again. She ignored the wind as it tried to knock her off, and fought the rain as it blinded her.

She stepped out onto the beam and fought the urge to look down. If she would have, she would have seen nothing but darkness - a void. She gulped and busily started work on the strap that was free. The strap whipped up and struck her hand. She cried out in pain, but grabbed it and started to tie it securely.

Li ran up to the others still looking for Sakura. He looked around franticly but couldn't see her. Someone called out and Li looked up as lightning streaked through the sky - lighting up a lonely figure high above them.

" Sakura! " Li called out in fright.

Others who had finished tying the other sails, looked up and watched as who ever it was fought the elements.

" Everyone get your life lines on! " Bryant yelled. Sailors and Soldiers alike started tying rope around their waists and them tying the end of the ropes to a mast that was close to them.

Sakura finished tying the sail down and edged toward the mast. A gust of wind knocked her and she slipped. She screamed and gripped onto the beam as it was now above her. Fighting fear she tried to swing her legs up so she could grip the beam. She managed to do so and managed to swing back up onto the top of the beam hugging it tightly. She breathed deeply trying not to be sick. Her leather top and pants clung to her body tightly and she wriggled over to the mast so she could get down.

A dark shadow emerged in front of her and she nearly lost her balance as Li fought the rain and held out his hand to her.

" Hurry up will you?!!! " Li yelled. Sakura's hair was plastered to her face but she reached out and grabbed Li's hand. He pulled her to him and together they slid down the mast down to the deck. " Of all the stupid, idiotic - " The rest was lost to the wind as Li tied a rope around both himself and Sakura and then tied it to the mast.

A wave crashed over the side of the boat, knocking Sakura to her knees. Li gripped her tightly and knelt down and used his body to shield her. Sakura gripped onto the mast coughing and spluttering and prayed for their lives. The last thing she remembered was the thunder crashing above them or was it the waves below them?

-----------------------------------------

Sakura groaned and opened her eyes to the blinding light. She closed her eyes as it stung. She felt something move and she fought the light and watched as Li moved away from her and groaned as he fought the bright light as well.

" Is it over? " Sakura groaned and looked around her.

Li looked at her and then around them. Everyone was waking up and groaning. Sakura looked around and saw everyone but Madison, Kero and Eriol.

" Madison? " Sakura cried out startling everyone. " Madison?!! " Sakura untied the rope around her and jumped up looking around her frantically. " Kero?!! " she called moving along the ship. Li untied his rope and started after her. " Answer me damn it!! " Sakura cried.

She ignored the pain in her cramped limbs and ran down the stairs to go below deck.

" Madison?!! " She flew open every door panic taking control. She started sobbing and her tears blinded her. Some one grabbed her shoulder and she whipped around panic stricken.

" Li! " she cried. She gripped his shirt in a death grip. " Li - Madison, Kero and - and Eriol! You've got to help me find them! " she hiccupped swept away by fear.

" Yeah ok. " Li replied. " But get a grip Kinomoto. "

" Just help me and save the lectures for later. " Sakura snapped through tears and threw open another row of doors.

Li stood in thought and headed towards Eriol's room. He opened the door and peered inside. The room was a mess. The bed was thrown up against the wall, bits and pieces were scattered everywhere, but then again it was the same in every room that Sakura searched in franticly.

He heard a mumbled voice and looked up as a little golden creature that looked sea sick crawled out from behind the bed.

" Some one get the F.A.F.K. " Kero groaned. " First Aide For Kero. " he moaned.

" Stop complaining. " Eriol growled and came out from behind the bed and sagged against the floor.

" Are you sure we're still alive? " Madison asked tiredly as she came out from hiding.

Li smirked. " Alive and well thankfully, and yes the storm is over. " Li said looking at Eriol.

Sakura had heard him and dashed back to where he was.

" Welcome back to the living. " Li taunted as he knelt down beside his cousin.

Eriol glared up at him and then flopped onto his back breathing heavily." If I wasn't in the state that I am in I'd punch you for that. " Eriol growled.

Sakura hugged Madison tightly and started to cry again in relief. " Oh thank god all of you are ok. " Sakura wept.

" It's ok Sakura, it's ok. " Madison soothed.

Eriol watched the two of them from where he was laying on his back. " That sure was a doozey wasn't it? " Eriol stated.

" Come on we have to get you above deck. They're counting to see if any are missing. " Li said watching Sakura.

" Lets hope not. " Madison said and got up and would have collapsed again if it hadn't have been for Sakura, who supported her.

" Next time I drive. " Kero hiccupped and flapped after them drunkenly.

-------------------------------------

" Sure you ok princess? " one of the soldiers whispered to Sakura as he handed her a hot drink.

" Shhh. " Sakura said looking around quickly then nodded. " I'm fine. " The soldier nodded. " And how are you? " Sakura asked startling the man.

" Ah, fine I think. A little shaken but apart from that. . . " Sakura nodded and took a sip of the drink.

" Is everyone alright?"

" Fine. " the man nodded.

" Good. I'm glad. " Sakura replied.

Li, who sat with Meilin and Eriol, watched Sakura. Despite all that had happened and the little fight the other night where she had told him off, Li couldn't help but admire her bravery and kindness. She was just like Cora Kino. Li froze and then shook his head. What was he on about? Sakura was Cora. Then he stopped completely. That was what she had been trying to make him see all along! Now he was completely confused.

Sakura looked over the rim of the cup and met his gaze. She returned it looking at him curiously and then looked away. Sakura was feeling tired. She tucked her legs up onto the wooden crate she was sitting on and placed the empty cup on the deck. She lent against the railing and closed her eyes. The salt breeze lifted her bangs off her face and toyed with them. Sakura reveled in the sunlight touching her face and before she knew it, she was fast asleep.

Madison watched Sakura and felt sorry or her. She pulled the blanket around her tightly and stood up shakily. She was about to make her way over to the sleeping princess but Eriol stopped her.

" Madison leave her she'll be ok. You need to look after yourself once and a while. "

Madison glared at Eriol for the first time ever.

" I will always be there for Sakura whether I'm tired, dying or sick. Sakura and I were practically born together, raised together and we will grow old and die together. We have stuck together through thick and thin and I'm never leaving her side. " Madison stated and walked past Eriol and went over to Sakura.

She draped her blanket over Sakura and knelt down beside her and laid her head in Sakura's lap and drifted off to a peaceful sleep. She felt bad about how she had spoken to him but after the storm and being tossed about she was tired and cranky and just wanted to be by her friends side.

Julian came over to stand near Li and Eriol. He watched the two sleeping. " You know it's funny, they're like sisters in a way. They're always side by side, you will never find one without the other. And - " he looked at Li and Eriol. " You'll never find any other like them in the land. " he smiled and then walked off seeing that his help was needed else where.

Li and Eriol turned back to watching the two sleep. Eriol sighed and walked off thinking, Li following after him.

----------------------------------------------------

Sakura wondered what on earth was on her lap. She opened her eyes sleepily and stared down at the top of Madison's head. She smiled and shook her head. She caught the attention of on of the guards and summoned him over. She placed her finger to her lips when the soldier went to speak.

" Can you please pick her up and we'll take her to her room. " Sakura whispered.

The soldier nodded and gently picked up Madison in his arms and carried her below deck to her room, Sakura closely following behind.

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Sakura walked up to Eriol's door and knocked and waited. She heard someone say enter and she opened the door expecting to see Eriol, but instead she got Li. She stopped abruptly, and Li looked up.

" Oh sorry. " Sakura said. " I was looking for Eriol. Did you change rooms with him or something? " she asked guardedly.

" No. " Li replied. " Eriol's up on deck talking to Bryant. He asked me to wait for him here. "

" Oh, ok then. " Sakura replied. " I'll come back later. " she said and was about to close the door but Li stopped her.

" What was it that you wanted to see him about? "

" Huh? " Sakura asked as she re-opened the door. " Oh nothing too important. "

Li came to the door and looked down at her. " Maybe I can help? " he asked.

Sakura shook her head. " I just wanted to know if he had a certain kind of berry in that magic pouch of his, but he probably doesn't. It was silly to think that he did. "

Li watched her curiously as she stared at the floor. " Umm Li. "

" What? "

" Thanks for what you did, during the storm I mean, saving me and all. " Sakura blushed and turned around and started to walk away.

" No problem. " Li replied softly.

Sakura stopped and turned around to look back at him, before walking away back to her room.

Sakura was nearly asleep when she heard a knock on her door. She blinked a few times and then got up and opened her door yawning. She stopped in the middle of her yawn when she saw that it was Li.

" Li. " she said surprised. " What are you doing here? It's the middle of the night. "

" I know. " Li replied. " But I need to talk to you. "

" About what? " Sakura asked guardedly.

" Can I come in? "

Sakura thought for a moment and then stepped back allowing him to come in. She re-lit the candle and its light shown into the room. She turned around to face Li rubbing her eyes tiredly.

" Sakura I'm confused. "

Sakura balked and blinked up at him." This is what you've come to tell me? " she asked incredulously.

" No you don't understand. " Li started. " I don't understand what is going on with us. "

Sakura blinked again and just stared at him.

" First you ignore me, then you totally blow my head off and want nothing more to do with me, telling me that you hate me, and now after that storm, you're all nice and warm towards me again like you use to be. " Li said daring to flick a glance down at her bewilded expression.

Sakura played with the end of her leather top, not looking at him as she thought.

" Perhaps maybe it's because I'm grateful that you saved my life. " she replied.

" I don't believe you mean that. "

Sakura looked up at him. " How would you know? " she asked agitated.

" Because you're a terrible liar. " Li replied watching her.

Sakura's eyes widened.

" And you're eyes are a dead give away. You let everyone see what you're thinking, by showing them through your eyes. "

" Whatever. " Sakura replied looking away feeling suddenly very hot. " Believe what you want. "

Li came to stand beside her losing his patience. " You still haven't answered my question Sakura. " Li stated.

" What question? " Sakura asked innocently.

Li growled in annoyance and then calmed himself. " The one where I want to know what the hell is going on between us? "

Sakura went to stand near the candle so she could watch the flame. " There is nothing going on between us Li. I was angry at you and hurt and I let you know about it. What happened between us is over and done with - a memory in the past. You said so yourself that you wanted nothing more to do with me because I was a princess. You have your life and I have mine. I only called on you again for this because we needed your skills; you knew that, otherwise you wouldn't have come right? " Li looked at her stunned.

" Besides when this is all over I'll be too busy with getting my kingdom sorted and you'll be too busy traveling and returning back to your home with Meilin to worry about where we stand with each other. But I hope you find happiness with Meilin Li. If I had known about your engagement to her earlier I would have got one of my father's priests to bless it. "

" What?!! " Li demanded and came up behind her and turned her around. " Where did you here that I was engaged to Meilin? " he demanded.

Sakura blinked confused. " Li you don't have to lie anymore I know ok? I mean I was upset when I found out, but -"

Li shook her, his amber eyes intense. " Who told you? " he demanded again.

Sakura frowned at him. " I told you before – up on the deck. " she replied and tried to pull away from him but he wouldn't let her. " Why does it matter? You can't seem to remember what I said anyway. " Sakura stated starting to lose her temper.

" I can't help it if I can't remember what you said back then; I was too busy being used as your verbal bashing post."

" You were the one who cornered me in the first place and stood over me and tried to intimidate me. You got everything you deserved! " Sakura's cheeks were tinged with red and he could tell she was getting angry again.

" Oh for the love of – you were the one cramming your tongue down your lieutenant's throat. " He stiffened with anger at the remembered memory. " I had every right to confront you and while I think of it I have yet to get you back for making me look like a fool in front of the other sailors. "

Sakura hmphed and pulled out of his grip. " I'm tired and I'm sick of this conversation. I've tried to be civil for everyone's sake where we are both concerned, but I just can't keep it up for much longer. You had no right to confront me about what I do with my lieutenant when you were doing the same with your cousin. "

Li growled. " Well if you'd just tell me who it was that told you about Meilin and I then I will remove myself from your presence your highness. "

" What the hell does it matter since you can't remember anyway? " Sakura seethed. " It doesn't change anything. You still took my innocence when you were engaged to be another's'. Do you know how humiliated I feel? " she demanded.

Li blinked and simply looked at her. His guard was up she knew, because he was hiding behind it. " That's why you resent me isn't it?" Li asked quietly some of the anger draining out of him.

" Damn right. " Sakura hissed and turned her back on him. " Now that we have that settled, you can leave. " Sakura threw over her shoulder.

Li came around and stood in front of her, the candlelight hiding half his face in shadow.

" I want you tell me who the hell told you Sakura. I won't ask again. "

" Good because I then I won't have to refuse you again will I? " Sakura replied angrily.

Li snarled at her and she glared molten fire at him. " Don't make me force it out of you. " Li threatened.

" Look she told me in good faith and I am not going to tell you. I shouldn't have even mentioned it to you before but I was angry and I let it slip. "

" She?" Li asked raising his eyebrows at her. Sakura gasped and placed her hands over her mouth blinking in shock.

" Now who could she be? " Li asked looking intently at Sakura. " Madison, no she doesn't know my past. Meilin? " He looked at Sakura but her eyes revealed nothing.

" So it's not her. " Li replied. " That only leaves one other that I know of. "

Sakura lowered her hands from her mouth and looked at him guardedly.

" Shayla? Ah so it was her. " Li stated when he saw her eyes widen.

Sakura glared at him." There you have your answer, now you can leave. " she snapped.

" Not quite. " Li stated. " There is still one more thing to say. "

" And what's that? "

Li closed the distance between then and leant down and kissed her briefly on the mouth, watching as her emerald eyes grew wide eyed. " Shayla was wrong. I am not engaged to Meilin. I ran away from home so I wouldn't be anymore. " Sakura stared at him completely speechless.

" Goodnight princess. " Li said bowing and walked out closing the door behind him.

Sakura snapped out of her paralysis and ran out her door after Li. She caught up to him in the hallway and placed her hand on his shoulder to stop him from going anywhere." Now wait a minute, now I'm the one who's confused. I mean you say you're not engaged but yet you and Meilin - You said you'd go back with - Shayla told me that you were still - Oh I don't get this!! " Sakura cried in a muddle shaking her head.

Li shook his head sadly and smiled at her. He placed his hands on both her shoulders and met her gaze. " Listen to me, " he said softly. " I was engaged to Meilin a long time ago. I didn't like it so I left because my family refused to listen to me. I've traveled all over the country and finally stopped at the forest where I live now. Then I met you and you know that part of the story. " Li smiled at her gently watching understanding form in her amazing emerald eyes.

" Then you nearly skewer my arm with your message stating that you needed my help and then I turn up and nearly die of shock when I see Meilin after all this time. Meilin said that my mother still considers us to be engaged, but I think she knows deep in her heart that it won't happen. Meilin wants me to go back because she thinks I've been away for far too long and that I need to return. They'll lecture me which I have no intention of listening to and then I'll be on my way again. Are you still confused? "

Sakura kept her head lowered for a moment before she raised her head to meet his gaze. She looked sad and he stopped smiling wondering what was wrong.

" What? " he asked rubbing her shoulder unconsciously.

" I don't understand you. " Sakura stated. " I mean you can be ever so sweet, caring and nice towards me - even risk your own life for my own, but yet you still back away from me as soon as the crown or the title gets mentioned. I will jump for joy the day you finally accept me for who I am and not what I am. " she stated miserably. " But I fear that when you do understand and see the difference between the two, when that day finally does arrive it'll be too late for I fear I will be too old and gray, laying on my death bed to enjoy you by my side. "

Li felt his hands slide off her shoulders but all he could do was gap at her in stunned silence as the truth was laid bare in front of him. It was painful and twisted his gut like a piece of rope. Could he live with that? Knowing that he couldn't distinguish between the two? Princess and Young Woman.

" When I ran away I had so much to learn and accept about our world. I was so used to the way things were at the palace and I guess a small part of me thought that that was how the world worked. But you and Eli showed me otherwise. I had to come to terms with how life really is and that wasn't easy. My mind struggled to understand the two worlds and accept them as a whole but I was willing to give it a go and look where we are today. Because of my acceptance of the world and knowing that I could change it for better, my people are happier; Rulf and his men are banished never to make anyone suffer again and now there is new lands to be discovered and settled. Li I'm no saint and I'm certainly not a God.

" I can only do so much and even that little bit is done with the help and cooperation of my friends and family. Why are you so afraid of the title 'Princess'? I'm not afraid of the 'Hunter'. I was at one stage, when I first met you because you wear that title so well but I saw passed all that.

" I don't know what else there is to say to make you see past your own ignorance. I can't keep trying anymore. I guess it comes down to whether or not you really want to see me for who I really am. Perhaps you're too afraid of getting to know the real me that you hide behind the fact that I am what I am. " she sighed heavily. " I guess all that's left to say is that I wish you success on whatever you have planned for when this grand adventure of ours is over. " Sakura looked away sadly.

" Good night Li. "

Author's Notes

Wow that was a big chapter. I'm sorry for the delay. I got lazy – the thought of drafting and editing this made me groan and push the thought aside. But I have finally finished it and am now starting on the next chapter that needs to be done.

Please review. It means a lot to any writer to have their work commented on. Who knows – the next story I review could be yours. And no, it's not a bribe. It's just fact. You never know what story you find yourself getting into.

Till next time x x x