Chapter 22 - So It Begins
Sakura's back stiffened and she stood up, completely ignoring Syaoran and the others as she met Vala's gaze. " Li, take Syaoran and the others back down to the lower chambers. Papa and Tori, you stay here with me. Any objections Vala? "
The Elvin queen shook her head.
People stood where they were whispering and looking from one woman to the other. Iza burred up and glowered. " C'mon people! You 'eard the princess! " she yelled, bustling, shooing people out of the way.
" Mom? " Syaoran asked timidly looking up at his mother.
" It's alright Syaoran. " Sakura confirmed still gazing at Vala. " Your father will take good care of you. " If she hadn't been too busy staring at Vala and dreading the news she brought, she would have heard how strange and unfamiliar those words had sounded.
Aiden and Tori and most of the encampment who had heard what she had said and seen the little prince go with Li, stared shocked. None had known that Li was the father of little Syaoran! Aiden looked from Syaoran back to Li and back again and knew what his heart was telling him was true. Tori was too dumbstruck to even manage a single word. His mind was reeling. His sister had - had - with that GAKI! He was absolutely mortified.
**
" Just tell me. " Sakura said softly after a few minutes of silence and Tori's furious death glare.
Vala opened her eyes and met the Princesses worried emerald eyes. " I heard it this morning. " she said softly.
Aiden stepped forward a little and met the Elvin queen's eyes, with his own fearing the worst.
" Rulf is on the move. " she said softly. Sakura sagged as did Aiden and Tori. " The mountains held their snow for as long as they could, but the sun's warmth couldn't be competed on the lower slopes. I thought they would hold off at least another week or so before marching, since the snow hasn't completely melted, but as soon as they realized spring was on its way, they started marching.
" I've tried putting everything against them that I can from the distance of the Mar Island, but so far nothing has prevented them. I'm truly sorry. " she said her eyes losing their glow and becoming normal, which unnerved then trio even more.
" How long will it be till their close? " Tori asked.
" At the pace that Rulf is moving them, I'd say a couple of weeks at least. Maybe less. "
" That quick? " Aiden asked looking older than normal.
Sakura closed her eyes, sighing. She opened them and looked at Vala trying to fight back the fear. " Do we stand a chance? " she asked.
Aiden and Tori froze and looked at Sakura and then at Vala awaiting her answer.
" My word of the Elvin world - No. " Vala replied sadly and Sakura felt her heart break in two.
" Surely we must have some chance? What if we just hide in here? " Tori demanded.
Vala's eyes softened as she looked up and met the prince's gaze. " Spring is here and you must hunt and gather to live. It would be only a matter of time, before you were found. "
' Vala. ' Sakura suddenly said in her mind and Vala's eyes turned to look at her, though she did not move her head. ' Do not worry them so. ' Sakura pleaded.
" Besides, " Vala continued though she was listening to Sakura at the same time. " You would not be able to be kept hidden. "
' Please make some excuse and let them think that is all to be said. I need to talk with you. ' Sakura's eyes begged her to understand.
Aiden sighed wearily ." What do you propose we do? " He asked running his hands through his hair.
Vala looked away from Sakura and met Aiden's. " I need time to think King of Kinomoto. " she said. " I need time to rest, we shall talk of this depressing matter later when we all have clear minds. " her eyes glowed suddenly and Tori yawned.
Aiden yawned and shook his head and nodded gingerly. " Very well your majesty. " he said and they walked away.
Vala's eyes stopped glowing and met Sakura's. " They will not be settled for long. We need to think this through - all of us. " she said.
" I know. " Sakura said looking away. " But I got everyone into this, and - "
" Don't be foolish mortal to think that you can be the one to finish it all. " Vala said angrily.
Sakura blanched and stared at her friend. It was moments like this that made Sakura realize exactly how different they all were.
The several others with Vala stared at Sakura with expressionless faces, staring at nothing, but they could hear and they felt sorry for the mortal that tried with all her heart to save them all.
" Then what do you suppose we do then? " Sakura demanded.
Vala's eyes narrow cat-like and stared at the mortal woman in front of her. She had never come across any other like this one that had come to her home looking for treasure. Her heart was fierce and determined like many of her own kind. But this emotion called lover made her act foolishly and that she would not tolerate.
" That is what we all should try to figure out. " Vala replied and started to walk past her.
Sakura sighed and stepped in front of her. " Vala. "
Vala stopped and pinned her with her beautiful and bizarre gaze.
" Thank you for bringing Syaoran and the others back. You are a very good friend and I don't deserve you. " Sakura said softly.
Vala's eyes lightened a little and the hard lines of her face softened with affections he was helpless to resist when it came to this little mortal. " Perhaps. But we are all in this together, for if we fail, then it will affect all. "
" But what can we do? "
" Come, we shall talk and see what we can come up with. " Vala glided out of the room her glow lighting the rock walls as she passed. Sakura buried the fear deep inside of her and hurried after her as Vala made her way down to the lower chambers.
They talked with many well into the night; all voicing their ideas and opinions. But as they talked they began to realize how hopeless their situation really was. Vala couldn't orb them all back to the Mar, and they couldn't run, for there was no where to go.
As the night passed and the sky lightened, Aiden, Tori, Madison, Sakura Li and the usual crowd sat around the dying fire.
" We can't just sit here. " Tori stated softly trying not to let his voice rise.
" Whatever you plan to do, it better be in the next few days before it's too late to get ahead. " Ahearn said gazing into the dying embers.
Li wrapped his arm around Sakura when she shivered and refused to acknowledge Tori's death glare.
" There is only one thing we can do at this stage. " Madison spoke up quietly and they all looked to her. " We can't just all stay here that's for sure. It's a death trap. Rulf will find us sooner or later. I think that small groups of us should leave. "
" But - " Sakura began but was cut off by Julian.
" I think it's wise to do so. There are too many young children to sacrifice. But who will go and who will stay? "
" I can call horses from across the land. " Ahearn stated looking up. " They will assist you, whoever decides to go. "
" How many can you call? " Eriol asked looking away from Madison.
Ahearn straightened and raised her chin a little insulted. " I can call many an amount. As long as they are in hearing distance. "
Eriol bowed his head in respect. " I think it's a good idea. "
" There are the mountains to the west. " Vala spoke up. " The snow is still rich, but there are places to hide. Vartahne knows of them. "
" I was born in those mountains. " the latter spoke up. " My mind may be old, but I still remember well. "
Tori and the others looked at the elf that looked no more than 20 and shook their heads.
" But who to send? Children are a major factor, but what about the elderly? "
" Wait a minute. " Aiden cut in and they all looked at him.
" Over the mountains and to the west, is the kingdom of Laxthorn. Our family has held an alliance with that family for generations. I have lost memory of who would be on the throne now, but I'm sure that they would gladly hold some of us. "
Vala nodded. " That is two places that your people can go. What about the rest? "
" I suggest, " came Iza's voice. " That you ask us that question when we are all present. "
" Iza! " Sakura chided. " You should be asleep. "
" Pah! " she spat. " When we have our future's to decide. I think not your highness. "
Sakura frowned and then placed a hand on her stomach when she felt it flutter, which instantly drew attention.
" Sakura? " Aiden asked eyeing her stomach.
Sakura let her hand fall. " It's ok papa. I'm just feeling a little sick. I must be over tired. "
Li got up and stared at her. " Come, you need sleep, we all do. Let's continue this when everyone is awake. "
" Very well. " Vala said. " But remember this. One day could make all the difference. "
Sakura shivered and was lead promptly away by Li and Madison. They didn't want to think about what tomorrow held for them.
Kartiako didn't spare the slave boy another glance as they rode through the slush that was the remains of the lower slopes winter snow. Her long black hair danced and swirled as they galloped through the mountain pass. He tried to get her attention, but she was too busy with trying to pick up on anything.
Her long slender legs were bared to the cold winds, and were getting many approving looks from the soldiers riding along side her. She looked to the side and saw the young captain looking at her with lust and desire and she smiled, looking away knowing who she was going to pay a special visit to later on. The slave boy saw her smile and growled low in his throat. She was his and no one else's.
" Get Kartiako in here now! " Rulf bellowed when he got frustrated with the men in front of him.
" She's being called for now m'lord. " he commander bowed.
Rulf stared down at the map that was in front of him. The 3 kingdoms stood out like a banner and he snarled. They were going to be his, but where were the retched royal family hiding?!!
" You called for me m'lord? " came Kartiako's voice. she was dressed in a very revealing black dress and her hair and skin shined and her deep yellow, amber eyes glowed with fire.
" Come here and help me where these idiots cannot! "
Kartiako glared at him and walked like a cat on the hunt towards him.
Rulf's men backed away from her. They knew how evil she really was. She smirked seeing their reaction and went to the side of Rulf's chair and looked down at the map.
" Where are they? " Rulf demanded watching her closely.
Kartiako laughed merrily, but it held no warmth. " You expect much of me! " she laughed coldly.
Rulf glared at her and seized her wrist. " Leave us! " he bellowed and his men left the tent hurriedly.
She glared down at him and he glared up at her.
He masked his expression and traced his fingered down her body. " How lovely you look tonight Kartiako. " he purred. " Who are we dressing up for tonight hmm? "
" No one. " she replied looking at the map.
" Oh really. " Rulf said. " It wouldn't have happened to be my captain that was making eyes with you all day hmm? "
Kartiako's eyes widened, but didn't look at him.
" Or perhaps it was my little slave that was glaring so? Maybe you were going to soothe him huh? "
Kartiako turned to look at him, trying to pull her wrist free. " Maybe I was dressing up for you m'lord. " she said quietly. Rulf sat back and watched her carefully." I've been so lonely these past few months. " Kartiako stated and crawled up gracefully onto his lap and ran her hand through his hair.
She straddled him and moved against him trying to get his mind off what he had been thinking. She placed kissed along his jaw and Rulf regarded her coldly. He clamped down harder on her wrist and she cringed.
Rulf parted her low neck line on her dress and took her breast into his mouth and suckled, making her moan. He smirked when she moved against him.
Kartiako was wriggling in absolute torture. " Rulf! " she yelled in sweet pain.
Rulf smirked coldly and pushed her down onto the cold ground and mounted on top of her, still keeping her wrist in a painful grip. He gently entered her, but pulled out when she went to rise to meet him. She cried out in frustration and glared at him. Rulf smirked down at her and continued to torture her. Kartiako reached down and grabbed his manhood, making Rulf suck in his breath.
" Take me now damn you! " Kartiako growled, her eyes flashing like fire.
Rulf paused and seemed to be thinking. He smirked shortly later and got up, leaving her wanton on the ground. " Maybe later. Now, you have work to do. Locate them. "
Kartiako stared up at him in complete shock. " You won't take me? "
Rulf stared down coldly at her. " When you have completed my task, then maybe. Come here. "
Kartiako sat up and got up slowly and looked down at the map.
" Find them or else. " Rulf threatened.
She glanced down at the map and looked. She pictured Berth Seren Banon in her mind. ' She had all those people with her, where would she go? '
' Where there would be a place big enough to hold them. ' came the insane voice within her.
' But where! " she demanded.
Her yellow eyes landed on a small dot on the map and she pointed to it automatically. Rulf looked down at it.
" What the hell is that?!! " he demanded.
" Where our little princess is hiding. Where else? " Kartiako replied coldly. She purred and pushed up against him. " I've done what you've said. " she purred, and capture his hand and made it trace her body and between her legs. " I'm ready for you m'lord. " she stated and rubbed against him.
Rulf pushed her away. " You may go now. " he stated and walked away from her.
Kartiako blinked. " M'lord? "
" You heard me. I'd rather sleep with a dog than a whore who prefers my men to me. You've pushed me long enough. I will not have you make a laughing stock of me! You were mine, but now I tire of you. When we near your village you will be sent back. "
Her evil scream rang through the clearing.
The sunlight streamed in rich and full, and the fresh air clung to the face and stuck in the lungs as one breathed. The barricade at the front of the entrance was removed and Sakura reveled in it and the freedom it brought with it.
The smell of horses was strong and Sakura watched as family after family rode off into the mountains following Vartahne. Her heart was sad to see them go, but she knew that they were going to be safe. . . they had to be.
Li came to stand next to her and put her hand on her shoulder in comfort. Sakura turned and looked up at him with so much love and adoration that she could summon from deep within her soul. Li half balked from such show of Love. He had never expected so much love from one person, but this was Sakura, and she had such a big heart that he knew it wasn't impossible. He smiled warmly at her and hugged her closer to him.
" I'm afraid. " she whispered and Li lost his smile and rested his chin on the top of her head.
" I know. " he whispered back. " I am too. "
Sakura pulled away from him frowning and searching his eyes. " But you've never been afraid before. "
Li would have laughed for the innocent she had sounded, had it not been for the things around them about to happen. " Well I've never had so much to lose before. " he said.
She frowned and he smiled. " I have Meilin, Eriol - though I am loath to admit it, Madison and all the others, Syaoran and - "
" Me? " Sakura asked timidly.
Li smiled and wrapped his arms around her and she rested her head on his chest. " You most of all Sakura. " he whispered lovingly. " You most of all. "
" I think they make the cutest couple. " Madison stated.
Tori's scowl darkened.
Madison shot Eriol a look beside her and he smiled. " Definitely. Imagine when this is all over the children they'll have. " Eriol said looking at Tori.
" I mean look at Syaoran - Tori are you feeling alright? " Eriol asked smirking.
" Tori you're extremely red. " Madison giggled. " You're not running a fever are you because you know I would hate to break those two love birds up over there so Sakura can check on you and - "
" You've made your point now bloody shut up! " Tori seethed, clenching his teeth and fists.
" Oh don't be such a stick in the mud Tori. " Madison chided. " I can see them just as clearly as you can, but for some reason you seem to be blind. You can see how much they love each other, and yet you refuse to admit it. "
" If you would still prefer to be consider as a friend Madison, then you're treading on very thin ice at the moment. " Tori grated.
Madison whacked him with the cloth she was holding. " Don't throw your empty threats at me your royal highness. " Madison shot back haughtily. " It's you whose skating on very thin ice and I suggest that it cracks and you dunk your head in the freezing water to make you open your eyes well and truly. "
Eriol's eyes glimmered and he watched her walk away, chin tilted proudly. Eriol meet Tori's gaze.
" Don't you just love my wife? " he smirked and dashed off after her.
" How many have gone now? " Sakura asked as she looked around.
" Two hundred have gone milady. " Iza said brushing her hands on her skirt.
" Why haven't you gone? " Sakura asked concerned.
Iza sniffed offended. " I'm too old to be gallivantin' across the countryside on some mare's back! It would break me in two. I'll stay were I please thank ye. "
Sakura smiled despite the cage she felt that was tightening around them. " I love ye too much for words Iza. "
Iza sniffed again pleased this time. " Yeah well ye've got chores to be doing what with looking out for us all. Go and take a little nap. Ye look tired your highness. "
Sakura's eyes opened in alarm. Were they starting to suspect that she was with child? Why then were so many people telling her to go and take a nap all the time? Did she really look that terrible? Mentally shoving her mounting fears into the back of her mind Sakura smiled.
" I'll be fine. " Sakura said before she turned from Iza and walked away.
Iza shook her head muttering. " Foolish girl. "
3 days later
Rulf pulled his great black rogue to a complete stop as he surveyed the country side. His men caught up to him and stood behind him waiting, their banners flapping in the wind. In front of them was a rocky pass; two high cliffs of solid rock.
Rulf urged his mount forward and no sooner had the rogue's hoof touched the dirt within the pass, a loud rumble swept through the ground and rocks began to fall. Rulf kicked his mount back and they watched as the pass filled with rocks and boulders. Rulf thought he caught sight of the faint shimmer of a lady and he cursed violently.
" That Elvin bitch is starting to get on my nerves. "
" My lord. Maybe we are just cursed? "
" Cursed may be! " Rulf roared. " But it will not stop me from getting my hands on that whelp and taking everything she owns! Mark my words! She'll be mine and no Elvin bitch is going to stop me! "
Down the end of the line Kartiako snorted and rolled her eyes. She obviously didn't believe him.
Sakura's stomach was rebelling and she retched on the bank of the river. She gulped for air and washed her face with the cold water. Thank the gods no one had seen. She sat back and held her stomach as the long green grass danced and swayed around her.
" You are starting to cause trouble little one. " Sakura murmured to her stomach.
As if in answer, she felt sick again and closed her eyes. " Please gods, mother if you can hear me, help me protect this little one and all the others that I love. "
" Mother? " Sakura jumped guiltily and smiled up at Syaoran. " Are you sick? "
Sakura frowned and then blushed when she realized what he meant and jumped up, brushing down her skirts. " Umm just a little, but no need to worry. " she smiled lovingly. " Come why don't you show me all the wonderful things you've found? "
Syaoran smiled brightly as he dragged her off into the woods to show her.
-------
" Come mother! " Syaoran laughed as he climbed up the tree.
" You do realize that your poor mother is wearing a dress? " Sakura shot up the branches of the tree.
" Girls are no fun! " Syaoran yelled back disappointed.
Sakura placed her hands on her hips and glared. " I'll have you know that we can do almost anything a man can do! " and started to hitch her skirts up and chucked them over her arm as she began to climb.
Sakura reached for the second branch and then the third and then stopped. Syaoran was up above her laughing and reached out his hand to her. Sakura's face went pale and then white and Syaoran stopped laughing and called her name as Sakura's limp figure fell out of the tree and did not move.
Li and the others looked up as Syaoran came running towards the cave bellowing with all his might. People fretted thinking that that racket would bring Rulf or his men down on top of them. Li was about to chasten his son when the words he was yelling burst into his mind with a cold clarity.
" Tou-san! Tou-san! It's Kaa-san! She's not moving! "
Blurred images came in and out of focus and Sakura groaned turning away from the bright light of the lantern above her. Whispered words spoke all around her and she struggled to see right. She blinked and her vision cleared to see Li, Madison, Meilin, Aiden, Tori and Julian standing all around her looking very concerned.
" W-What h-happened? " she asked groggily.
" You fell. " Li said softly caressing her face as she struggled to sit up.
" When? " Sakura asked perplexed.
" You were in the woods with Syaoran. " Madison put in.
Sakura's eyes flew wide. " Oh gods Syaoran! Is he alright? "
Li rested a calm hand on her shoulder. " He is fine. But he is very worried about you. You gave him quite a fright. You did with all of us. "
" How far did I fall? " Sakura asked looking at all the faces around her.
" Not very far thank god. " Li said. " That's why we were worried. We didn't understand why you were not waking when you had fallen so short. "
" How long have I been out of it. "
" It is now night. " Julian put in worriedly.
Sakura gasped. " Where is Syoaran. Will you bring him to me? "
Julian nodded and walked out of the room and Aiden sat down and hugged his daughter close to him. " I thought I had lost you once again. " he murmured into her hair.
" I'm sorry papa. I don't know why I blanked out. I just got so tired and then. . . well, here I am. "
Aiden pulled back and looked at her. " Sakura I'm beginning to think this is all too much for you. I think it best if tomorrow when the others leave for Laxthorn, you go with them. "
" I will do no such thing papa. " Sakura stated proudly. " My place is here. "
Aiden sighed. " I thought you'd say as much. "
" Then why ask? "
" Because I was hoping that you would see the wisdom in it and go. "
Sakura's eyes softened and she smiled softly. " Tou-san my place is here beside you and Tori. It's the way Kaa-san would have wanted it. "
Sadness flared in the old kings eyes for a moment and then he sighed and looked down at the ground. " You are too much like your mother Sakura. You have all her elegance and beauty, and you have her determined streak. "
Tori coughed politely. " If I may Tou-san. I think she gets that particular habit from me. "
Sakura giggled and stopped when she saw her son watching her from the door way to the healing cave. Sakura opened her arms and Syaoran ran into them and hugged her tight.
" Kaa-san I didn't know what was wrong! I couldn't help! I couldn't! "
" Shhh. " Sakura rocked him back and forth.
Madison and the others nodded at each other in understanding and left the mother and child in peace. Li smiled gently at her and walked out, giving them some time alone.
----------
" How is she? " Vala asked as she walked up to them.
Li sighed and ran his hand threw his hair and shot the healing cave behind him a look. " I don't know. She seems fine, but it's what she's hiding that's bothering me. "
Meilin and the others looked at him startled. " Hiding? Sakura's not hiding anything. " she said.
Li smiled sadly. " Yes she is. "
The group shared worried looks.
Sakura hid in the shadows and peered out into the main entrance. No one had noticed her and she casually walked out of the healing cave. She flew back in when a chorus of voices reprimanded her.
" Bunch of idiots. All of them. " Sakura spat when she sat back down on the makeshift bed.
" I'm the princess whose supposed to be giving out the orders - not the other way round. " she grumbled.
" I'm sure you'll live. " Sakura glared at Li as he walked in the room.
" Li I'm not staying in here. " she stated.
Li sat down and leant towards her. " What's so bad about staying in here? "
" It's boring and no one talks to me. "
Li leant a little closer. " Well that's because we're all busy sending the last of the people off to Laxthorn. "
" Exactly! " Sakura stated. " And I should be out there helping. "
Li chuckled and kissed her. " Like I said before. I'm sure you'll live. " he murmured smiling cheekily.
Sakura's eyes danced as she smiled at him, momentarily forgetting about being held prisoner.
" Only if you stay here. " she purred and deepened the kiss.
" Well with a welcome like that. " Li growled in return. " How can I resist. "
" This is some kind of a joke?!! " Rulf demanded spitting fire at Kartiako beside him. Kartiako's black horse shifted nervously and Kartiako's eyes danced back and forth examining the burnt remains of a hut in the centre of the forest. " I am yet to see how nearly 500 people could be hiding here! "
Kartiako raised her eyes and met his livid ones and shrugged. " Maybe they knew we were coming. " she stated haughtily, turning away. ' They would definitely smell you. ' she thought in disgust.
" Get back here Kartiako. " Rulf spat.
" I don't think so m'lord. " she drawled sweetly. " I refuse to help anyone that uses me and then when I don't propose a purpose you throw me back to the hole I came from. It's not in my interest to help you anymore. "
Some of his men chuckled and smirked. Rulf glared and nudged his horse in front of hers. " You take one more step and I'll slit your pitiful throat. " he threatened.
" Well that would be a waist. " Kartiako replied coldly. " Who would help you then? "
Rulf snarled and lashed out and grabbed her around her throat and squeezed tightly. Kartiako's eyes went wide. " You will help me you sadistic bitch and tell me where they are, or I'll let everyone of my men have you until their satisfied. "
Kartiako hissed and scratched his arm and drew blood. " Go ahead then! I'd certainly enjoy it if you weren't in the equation! "
Rulf slapped her and her eyes glowed evilly. " Perhaps m'lord. " she spat. " I don't know the where-abouts of them? "
Rulf's eyes narrowed. " If you lie - "
" If I lie, " Kartiako spat. " You would know. "
Sakura moaned as Li ran his hand slowly up her slender leg under her dress. Li smirked against her mouth and deepened the kiss and then moved slowly down her throat as he reached her upper thigh.
Sakura giggled and pushed him away. " What if someone see's us? "
Li pulled her against him. " Let them see. Well give them a good show. "
Sakura batted her lashes seductively. " And what should ye do if my brother were to come in here? "
" To hell with him, let him see too, then maybe he'll stop giving those filthy looks. "
Sakura laughed and ran her hands down his chest, feeling his warmth through his tunic. " It's no wonder I always get into trouble when you're around. " she chided and her hands slid lower.
" I would think of a retort for that, but I-ahh can't exactly think straight when you - "
Her hands slid lower and his eyes widened.
" When I what? "
Li groaned and threw his head back. " When you do that. "
Sakura smirked and her hands slid back up over his chest.
Li opened his eyes and looked down at her. " God I love you. " he breathed and kissed her.
" And I love you. " she replied smiling. " Li? "
" Hmm? "
Sakura pulled back and looked at him. " If you had the chance to be king would you take it? "
Li laughed. " You bring up the oddest topics of conversation at the worst times Sakura. "
" I'm serious. If you had the chance to be king would you take it? "
Li stared at her. " I don't really know. " he kissed her cheek. " Ask me another time. "
Sakura pushed him away and glared at him. " I'm serious. I want to know. "
" Sakura why? "
She looked away unable to meet his gaze." Because I want to know how far the two of us are going. "
Li frowned and masked his expression like he did every time he was assessing something. " How far do want us to go? "
Sakura looked up and met his gaze." Li we have a son. " she stated. " And I hoped that you would love me, us, both enough to marry me and become King of Berth Seren Banon. " she held her breath.
Li never dropped his mask, but inside a million emotions were raging." King? " he asked stunned.
Sakura looked down and played with his tunic. " Well . . I mean you were leader of the Li Clan and in our clan that makes you at least someone of noble blood and in other words - eligible to ascend the throne if married to one of the royal blood. "
" You want me to be king? " he asked stunned.
Guarded emerald eyes looked up into amber." Well I was hoping that you would be just my king, but that's impossible when I have to share you with the rest of Berth Seren Banon, but in other words yes. I would like you to become king, my husband and the father to Syaoran in all officially. "
" Do you know what you ask?" he asked dazed.
Sakura sighed annoyed. " Well I thought I was stating it pretty plainly, but maybe not clearly enough. "
Li shook his head. " But what about your family? What would they say? "
" Li do you really want to risk me having to go back and marry some pompous, stuck up knave? because that's what will happen should you refuse me. "
Li had gone very still.
" And I thought that you loved me enough not to let me go again. " Sakura said softly.
" Sakura. It's just that I never really thought about it before. Being leader of the Li clan was nothing compared to being a King. Surely you must know how shocked I am? "
Sakura sighed. " I want to marry you Li so much. " she murmured softly.
Li hugged her close. " And I want to marry you Sakura. " he sighed. " Even if it means I'll become bloody King. "
Sakura's smile made it all worth while.
The two were still sharing their moment of happiness when a flurry of movement came tearing down the rock halls and suddenly Madison appeared in the door way terrified.
" Sakura! Rulf! He's been spotted in the woods at Li's old hut! "
Li jumped up in an instant. " How long ago? " he demanded.
" I do not know. But he's here! "
" Madison calm down! " Li grated. " Get every one rounded up and take them below. Sakura you go with them. I'll get anyone that's left and that can fight from the barracks. "
Sakura watched him go and her heart fell. Madison tugged at her sleeve urgently. " Come Sakura we must hurry. " she pleaded.
Rulf thought he saw it again. He pulled his horse to a stop and watched the forest of trees. Once again he saw the flash of red. He kicked his horse forward and soon caught up to the young man running through the forest. Rulf's horse ran in front of him, reared up and the young man screamed terrified.
Rulf grabbed him and he struggled trying to get away. Rulf smirked coldly and then stopped.
" What are you wearing? " he asked.
The young man looked down startled at the red tunic and Rulf smirked looking at the symbol embroided on the tunic. " Now why would a simple peasant be running through the forest wearing one of the kings own tunics I wonder? "
" Let me go! " the young man commanded.
Rulf laughed coldly. " I think you have something to do before I let you go. " Rulf stated coldly.
" Forget it! " the young man seethed.
Rulf drew his dagger. " Tell me where you got that tunic and I'll consider letting you go. "
Li and the others stood waiting with their weapons drawn. It was possible that Rulf would leave the area and not find them, but he wasn't going to take any chances. A shadow moved in the forest in front of them and they all stiffened not daring to breathe.
A young man wearing their colours walked into the entrance of the cave network and they relaxed.
" Brendan what are ye doing?!! " yelled the boys father as he stepped out of the crowd.
The boy looked up and Li felt uneasy. " I'm so sorry papa. " the boy sniffed clearly distressed.
His father frowned and then everyone went white as Rulf stepped in the entrance behind him smirking like the blasted cat that had got the cream.
" What the - ?!! " Brendan's father roared.
Rulf patted the young man on his shoulder. " Thank you my boy. You did exactly what I asked of you and now I'll let you go. " and with that he grabbed him and slit the boys throat. Brendan's form fell to the floor, not moving.
Rulf smirked." What I meant to say was - let you go to the other side. "
Li gripped his sword and swore silently as several men had to restrain the boys father who was swearing curses for all the world.
Several of Rulf's soldiers appeared behind him and they gripped their swords tightly and glared at Li and Julian and the others.
" Well if this isn't a pleasant surprise. " Rulf said smirking and then his gaze landed on Li.
" Well men look who survived! " he stated loudly. " And here I thought I had lost me best man! "
Julian shot Li a quick look and then went back to glaring at Rulf.
" I survived Rulf, " Li grated. " but it was only so I could be the best man to kill you. "
Rulf laughed and then smirked. " Is that so? Well I've found you now, and now I can claim what is rightfully mine. "
" I don't think so. " said a voice from behind.
Everyone turned to look at Aiden as he stood firmly behind Li and Julian and glared at Rulf.
" Well if it isn't his majesty. " Rulf mocked bowed. " Long time no see. "
Aiden glared. " You have no place here Rulf. Leave before you regret it. " Aiden commanded and Tori came to stand beside him.
Rulf glared at Tori and then shot the king a glance. " Oh no your majesty. You once sentenced me to death and now it is my turn to sentence you to yours. "
Julian let out a battle cry and charged at Rulf, Li and the others following.
Sakura heard the battle cry and burst into tears. Madison rushed to her side and comforted her best friend the best she could but Sakura knew what must be done. Her father's words from when she was little rang through her mind.
' A queen must know what is right and what is wrong. Then when she knows the answer, she must do everything in her power to do what is right. A queen always put others before herself, saving them before she does herself. '
Vala walked up to her and stared at her. " You know what you must do? " she asked in her musical voice.
Sakura nodded and wiped away her tears. " I must save them. "
Vala nodded and her eyes glowed bright.
Li ducked and swung his sword, the blade cutting the air as it passed and brought it down on the soldier in front of him. He growled as sword met flesh and cut important sinew, coating his arms and tunic in blood. He twisted, pulling the blade out and turned to the next opponent, not sparring a second glance for the one he had just killed.
Carnage was all around them. Men lay sprawled where they fell dying in their own blood. Battle cries rang out around them as Tori and Julian fought fearlessly to keep Rulf's men out of the cave.
In the short time that they had been fighting them, Li and the others realized that their enemy may be evil and sadistic, but they were not invincible and they were defeat able.
Sakura looked down at her attire. She was wearing the silken dress of the Mar. It outlined her curves in all the right places and Sakura thanked the gods that it didn't show her small protruding tummy where she was starting to show.
Her hair was shiny and up in ringlets and her mother's tiara sat on top of the head, sparkling in the light. Madison was crying and was trying to stop her from doing what she was going to do and Sakura ignored her. The remaining people that were left behind, were starting to crowd nearby watching what was going on.
" I have an idea Sakura. You may not like it, but it may help you. "
Sakura turned to look at Vala. What is it? Any advice you would grant me would be treasured. "
Vala walked over to her and starred down into her eyes and whispered words into her mind.
Sakura gasped and stepped back. " We can't do that. I couldn't risk it. "
" Sakura if you go with Rulf you will left defenseless. Think about it. If you can use what I offer, then it might give you the opportunity to kill him. "
Sakura gulped. " But - "
Vala shook her head her skin glowing . " I've never done this either before Sakura, but it has to be done or all of us are going to be destroyed. "
Sakura sighed in defeat and nodded.
" Wait. " They turned to look at Madison as she came up beside them her face awash with tears. " I don't know what you're up to, but please be careful. " she hugged Sakura and burst into new a new set of tears.
Sakura suddenly looked up. " Where is Syaoran? "
" I took the children back to the Mar earlier when the signal went up. " Vala replied.
Sakura sighed in relief and sadness and nodded. " Then let's do this then. "
Vala sighed and closed her eyes and began chanting. Sakura closed her eyes and tears slid down her face. Vala became an entity of burning blue light and then she merged with Sakura and both became one.
Madison watched the transformation and gasped terrified. The light faded away and Sakura opened her eyes. She turned to look at Madison and Madison gaped.
" What's wrong? " Sakura asked her voice sounding like a trill of soft, musical bells.
" Your eyes! " Madison stated shaking. " They're an eerie green! "
Sakura frowned.
" They're more blue than green! Oh your lovely colour! " Madison sobbed.
" Please Madison. " Sakura begged. " Vala was right, we have no other choice. Rulf needs to be defeated and if I have to get help from the magic side, then so be it, but please don't worry and please don't tell anyone. "
Madison hiccupped and nodded.
Sakura turned and looked up at the passageway that led up to the entrance. She started to walk and swayed feeling sick.
' Your body is getting used to having me inside it. ' Vala whispered inside her mind.
Sakura nodded as she once again found her barings.
' And when were you going to say something? ' Vala asked.
' About what? ' Sakura asked in her mind.
' About you being with child! '
Sakura mentally kicked herself. ' I don't know. ' she replied and walked gracefully up the passage way.
Rulf went to swing his blade but stopped and stared panting heavily. Sweat coated his body, strands of hair sticking out in disarray. His men picked up that he was no longer fighting and looked around warily. Li, Tori, Julian and the rest of three kingdom's men backed away and looked at Rulf and his soldiers in distrust; then turned around themselves.
" I was beginning to think that you and I would never met again. " Sakura said quietly as she walked slowly - gracefully - towards the battle field.
" Sakura no! " Li called out, running up to her and trying to bar her from sight.
" Step aside Li. This has already gone too far. " Sakura said meeting his gaze.
Li's eyes widened when he saw the colour of her eyes. " What in the name of seven hells have you done? " he whispered fearfully.
Sakura blinked, her long lashes sweeping her cheek and then rising so she could look at him.
" Nothing that isn't necessary. " she said and walked past him.
She met Rulf's gaze. " A lot has happened since we last saw each other has it not Rulf? " Sakura asked.
" Indeed it has. And going by your attire, I'd say a lot has definitely happened. "
Sakura tilted her chin proudly. " Indeed. Do you not bow for a queen when you are confronted by one Rulf? Or have you lost all propriety? "
For a split second Rulf's eyes widened and then he smirked. " A queen now is it? " he asked and threw his head back and laughed.
Sakura's eyes narrowed and Rulf felt a sharp pain through his mind and he cringed. " You may laugh but it is true. " Sakura said and walked closer towards him. " But let's cut the formalities shall we Rulf? We know why you are here and I'm here to tell you that you can't have it. "
Rulf snarled.
A shadow caught their attention and everyone watched as Kartiako walked into the cave and stopped looking around her. Her gaze landed on Sakura and Sakura shivered at the frostiness in her glare.
" Your majesty allow me to introduce you to Kartiako. " Rulf sneered.
Sakura rose her eyebrow and stared at the black haired woman. Kartiako returned the treatment.
" This is the woman you are obsessed with? " Kartiako asked turning to Rulf. " Not much of anything is she? A little small if you ask me, but then again we are talking about your interests aren't we? Guess that explains it all doesn't it? "
Before Rulf could answer, Sakura did. " Well you've obviously held his favor for a short few moments, so I guess that explains a lot as well. Not much for taste are you Rulf? But then again you've obviously got high expectations if you expect to jump from something like her to something like me. "
Kartiako snarled and her hair swirled angrily.
' Careful Sakura. ' Vala warned in her mind. ' This one is evil. '
" Rulf I grow tired of this game. " Sakura said rubbing her temples. She wasn't use to sharing her mind and body with anyone. " So let me make you a proposition. "
" No Sakura. " Tori commanded.
Sakura held her hand up for silence. " Rulf. I will take you to Berth Seren Banon if you spare these people and leave them alone. "
Rulf simply stared at her.
" Or, you will have to kill all of us including me, because you will do this by my terms or none at all. If I die, then who will you conquer? "
" What's the catch? " Rulf demanded.
" You decide. " Sakura shot back, not breaking her gaze. " Keep your word, and Berth Seren Banon is yours. "
" Sakura! " Tori, Aiden, Li and Julian cried out in union.
" Deal? " she purred looking at him.
" Anything else you highness? " Rulf asked sarcastically.
" If you stick to the terms then, no. But if you have your men come after them, I will know and you'll pay. "
Rulf laughed. " I doubt that. But I agree, it's a deal. You for them. "
" Sakura no! " Li yelled and grabbed her arm and whipped her around. He balked at the colour of her eerie eyes.
" I have no choice. " she whispered.
" You have plenty of choices. " he hissed in terror.
Sakura smiled remembering a similar conversation once a long time ago. " Go Li. " she whispered. " Leave here and protect my family. Madison is a mess and she'll need you and Eriol to help her through. "
" No. " he said. It sounded strangled, like a tortured animal.
" I love you. " she whispered and pulled away and looked up at Tori and Aiden and they, for the first time, noticed her eyes.
" By the Gods. " Tori breathed freaked out. " Wh- "
Sakura shook her head. " Just get everyone out of here and find safety. I'm going to fix this I promise. "
" Sakura. " Aiden began and she shook her head.
" No papa. You once told me a queen is responsible for looking after everyone before herself. " Li and Tori shot the king deadly glares. " And that's what I'm going to do and that's what Kaa-san told me to do. "
Aiden and Tori blinked.
" Kaa-san told you this? " Tori asked.
" Coming your majesty? " Rulf asked and Sakura turned around.
" Yes. " She blew a kiss to her father and her brother over her shoulder as Rulf lifted her up onto his horse outside and kicked it into a steady trot towards Berth Seren Banon.
Li glared at the king and punched the rock wall crying out his frustration and anger. " I swear Rulf. . you will pay. " Li muttered.
TBC