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THE CHAPTER 2 ***Back
in Nerima*** [It’s
early in the morning on the next day at Saotome’s house.] Kasumi
and Nodoka were busy in the kitchen preparing breakfast for the combine
clans. Nabiki and Akane came
downstairs just as the phone rang. Nodoka
picked up the phone and smiled when she heard the voice. “Hello,
Son. How are you doing?” //I’m
fine, Mom. I’ve met some friends
here.// “That’s
good. I’m glad you’re enjoying
yourself.” //Mom,
did you know about Jurai?// “Yes,
I did dear and you’re a Prince of Jurai.” Behind
the wall of the kitchen, Nabiki and Akane were listening to the
conversation. Their eyes widen when
they heard the last comment. <
Ranma’s a Prince? > //You
knew?// “Yes
I did, but I didn’t want you to worry about it.” //Yeah…it’s
nice to know. Grandpa’s going to start
training me today on how to use the…” “It’s
the Masa-ken. The sword have been
passed down for many generations. No
one have been able to use it.” //Well,
I can, Mom. I tried it yesterday and
the blade came to life…// <
I knew you could, son. The legend is true.
The child of the dragon and phoenix will destroy the evil. > “I’m
very proud of you, Ranma.” //Well
yeah…I’m the best after all…heheheh….anyway, I want to see what powers it has
in it.// “Ranma,
the Masa-ken do not have any power. It
channels your power and manifests into a sword for you. The stronger you are, the stronger your
sword.” //Oh…I
guess you’re right…I wanna to know how, um..,
did everything went?// “Everything
is fine. All is taken care of. You don’t have to worry about it. Now, tell me son, are there any Princess
there?” She asked in a teasing manner. //Mom! You’re not going to try anything are you?// She
giggled for a moment, “After all, you are a Prince.” //Er…well…Actually,
there are two of them.// “Two
of them… My, how manly of you.” //Mom!…it’s
nothing like that!…Its..// “I
know, dear.” //Anyway,
I also have a new sister.// “Really. What’s her name?” //Sasami. She’s a Princess. She and I had a little talk and somehow I
ended up with a little sister.// “Well,
that’s great. Take good care of her.” //Don’t
worry, Mom. I really like having a
little sister.// “I’m
glad.” With a grin, she continued.
“Maybe I should consider giving you one.” //Huh?….Oh!… Well, just don’t let pops take her on any
training trip.// “Don’t
worry. He wouldn’t dare try.” //I
better get going…Grandpa’s waiting for me.// “Of
course, dear. Enjoy your stay and call
home when you can.” //Thanks
mom…I will. I miss you.// “I
miss you, too. I’ll visit when I can.” //I
like that very much.// Nodoka
hung up the phone and returned to the kitchen to help Kasumi prepare
breakfast. On the other side of the
wall, Nabiki and Akane stood still, staring at each other. Nabiki grabbed Akane and hurried her off to
the backyard. Dr. Tofu noticed this,
but said nothing. He knew the legend
of the Masaki and how a great warrior name Yosho fought against a demon a
long time ago. < It’s no wonder
Ranma is a good as he is. > Outside
in the yard, Nabiki and Akane sat at the edge of the dojo. “Nabiki,
did you hear what Auntie said?” “Which
part? About Ranma being a Prince or
there are two Princesses with him or that he had great powers?” “Umm….All
of them. Do you think Ranma is really
a Prince? I mean, he doesn’t act like
it.” Nabiki
snorted, “Akane, wake up. You heard
what Auntie said; ‘Ranma is a Prince’.
He’s a Prince by birthright.” “Oh…I
didn’t think of that.” < What am I
going to do? He has two Princesses
there with him. That pervert. That Casanova! > Her aura flared again. “Akane,
you’re doing it again.” “What?”
she said hotly. “You’re
thinking about the Princesses and calling him a pervert. No wonder he left.” “But…but…” < Nabiki’s right. I’m dropping back to my habits
already. I’m blaming Ranma for
something I know nothing about. > “Look. I know it’s hard, but if you want him to
even be friend with him, you’re going to trust him.” “I
know…it’s just so hard,” she replied weakly. “Fine
Akane. That or you loose him,” she
said flatly. “Ok…I’ll
try.” “Don’t
just try, Akane. Do it. Trying are for losers who gives up too
easily.” “Ok. I’ll do it!” Akane shouted with more force
behind it. “Good,
now we need find him?” “Let’s
ask Auntie first,” she suggested. “I
don’t think it’s a good idea Akane.” “Why? I thought you agree yesterday.” “I
know, but I’m not sure anymore.” “Well,
I want to talk to Auntie first.” Shrugged,
“Ok. Your decision.” From
behind the dojo door, a voice rang out.
“Akane, Nabiki. Breakfast is
ready.” “Hai,
Auntie.” At
the breakfast table, Akane and Nabiki sat in silent. Neither knew how to approach Nodoka about
Ranma. “Nodoka-san. Have you heard from Ranma?” “Why
yes, Tofu-san. Ranma called this
morning,” she said cheerfully. “What
did he say?” asks Akane joyfully. “Well,
he’s making some new friends and having a good time.” “Really? Umm…Will he come back?” she asked, hope at
the edge of her voice. She
shook her head, “I’m afraid not, Akane-chan.”
“But….but
why?” “Well,
If I am correct, he will be having new responsibilities very soon.” <
Is it because he’s a Prince? > “Wh...What kind of responsibilities?” “I
can’t say much, Akane. Let’s just say
it’s his birthright.” <
No…it’s true. I’m going to loose him
forever. > She felt the tears
welled behind her eyes threatening to erupt. > “Auntie. Can we visits Ranma-kun?” asked Kasumi
gently. “I
don’t know, Kasumi-chan. It’s up to
Ranma. He left to start over. I don’t know if people from his past start
showing up will do to him.” Akane
couldn’t take it any more and ran up the stairs crying. “Oh
my” “Nodoka-san. I understand Ranma wishes to have a new
life, but can he at least say a final farewell to his friends?” After
a moment thought, “I’ll ask him, Tofu-san, but I can’t promise anything.” “I
understand. Nodoka-san, can you
elaborate on Ranma’s birthright responsibilities?” Looking
at Dr. Tofu, she decided that it’s best to let the family knows about
it. < Maybe it’s time to tell him
about my family history. > “Please
bring Akane down so she can hear this also.” “Of
course, Auntie.” Later,
a tearful Akane sat down at the table. “Many
centuries ago, a man by the name of Yosho came to Earth to fight a
Demon. Legend has it that he defeated
the demon and trapped it. A shrine was
built to ensure that the demon remained sealed. That shrine is the Masaki Shrine and I’m a
direct descendant as well as Ranma.
Yosho came from a Planet calls Jurai.
The Jurain Royal families are the most powerful family in the universe
and only members of the Royal family can have such powers. Ranma is one of them.” “What
does this make Ranma?” “Ranma
is the current Prince of Jurai. If he
chooses, he will become the next King of Jurai.” “Oh
my.” “So
Ranma is a descendant from another planet and the possibly future King. This can’t be serious.” “I’m
quite serious, Nabiki and I would suggest that such information remains
within this room,” she suggested to everyone in the room. “Of
course, Auntie.” She gulped under the
gazed of Nodoka. “Very
good.” “Why
didn’t you tell me of this dear?” “Because
Genma, you do not need to know such information since it did not concern
you.” “My
son-in-law is a Prince...” Sound
started wailing like a fountain. “I’m
afraid not, Soun. It is his choice as
to who he wishes to marry.” “But…but
the promise…” “Is
not longer valid. Ranma broke off all
engagements yesterday.” “but…but.” “He
did what he must. If he were to keep
one promise while breaking another, then he will stain his honor and those of
others. Genma made the promises. Ranma is now the head of the Clan and no
promises were made.” “Auntie…will…will
Ranma go back to Jurai.” “He
will one day. Whether to stay or
visit, I don’t know.” “Is
he allow to marry anyone?” “Yes. The law allows him to choose whoever he
wishes to be his wife.” “Has..he
chosen anyone?” “I
don’t know, Akane-chan.” “C-can
I…we see him before he leaves?” “Like
I told Tofu-san, it’s up to Ranma to decides.” “Please
Auntie…I..I just want to say I’m sorry to him.” “I’m
sorry, Akane-chan.” ***** After
breakfast, the Tendo left the house to return to their home. Akane was dragging her feet and stared at
the ground, sniffling. “Akane,
we’ll see him again.” “But
Auntie said we can’t unless Ranma said so.” Nodded,
“I was thinking more like taking a vacation.” “VACATION?” “Yes,
a vacation and if by coincidence, closed to where Ranma is.” “OH….but
we don’t know where he is.” “Don’t
worry. I have a few ideas.” Few
meters behind the group, a figure with dark brown hair was on the rooftop in
combat uniform with a spatula. <
Ranchan is mind. > ***Nekohanten*** [Morning] “Great
Granddaughter, where are you going?” “Find Husband”“Ranma
is no longer your husband.” “Ranma
is. Law say.” “Wrong
Child. Ranma is a Masaki.” “So?” “The
Masaki are consider honorary members of the Amazon. If you try to take Ranma, you’ll damage
that honor.” “Shampoo
not take. Husband come.” “He
will not come and you know that.” “Husband
will come! Shampoo make sure.” “ENOUGH!” Shampoo
flinched at the tone of her great grandmother. “You
are foolish child. The Amazon laws are
strict, but there are times when other laws override those. The honor of the Masaki overrides all
others.” “But…But
Shampoo wants Ranma.” “Yes,
you do. You and all the other girls as
well.” “Shampoo
is better.” “Oh? You might be better fighter, but you’re
still as stubborn and arrogant as they are.” “That
not matter…Amazon great fighter. Ranma
great warrior. Ranma perfect for
Shampoo.” “Foolish
Child. It is not your decision or the
Amazon on who Ranma marries. It is
his.” “Husband
choose Shampoo. Shampoo know.” “If
he want you Shampoo, he would have done it already. You should have realized that when he
return from China.” “NO. Ranma Shampoo husband.” Shampoo jumped out of the Nekohanten and
disappeared. “Foolish
child. Mousse. Follow her and keep her out of trouble.” Mousse
left without saying a word. <
If she tries to force Ranma, there will be no end to her punishment. Those of the Amazon and the Masaki. I hope you realize your folly before it’s
too late. > ***Ucchan*** “Konatsu.” “Yes,
Ukyou-sama?” “I
want you to find Ryouga and bring him here.” “But
Ukyou-sama. Who will take care of the
restaurant?” “The
restaurant will be close until I say so.” “Yes
Ukyou-sama.” Konatsu disappeared from
view. “Ranchan
is mine. My honor demands it. I know his mother force him to do
this. I just know it. Ranchan would never leave me. He loves me.” Ukyou
ran to her room and packed her belonging and headed downstairs. “Now I’ll just wait till the Tendo leads me
to him.” ***Masaki
Shrine*** “Ranma,
are you ready to start.” “Yeah..” “Attack
me.” With
a grin, he charged his Grandfather.
Using his knowledge of kendo and his own art, Ranma parry with his
Grandpa. No matter how hard he tried,
he could not get through. He followed
his Grandpa instructions about allowing the sword to be an extension of his
arms, but he could not get through the defense. < Why? > He swung again and again. < Guess I’ll have to try the Tenshin
Amaguriken. Here goes. > “Tenshin Amaguriken revise.” In an instance, his hand blurred and
hundreds of blows connected. The
audience was amazed at the skill Ranma showed. They were even more shock when Ranma hand
blurred right in front of them. “Incredible. Ranma hand made exactly 317 hits in two
seconds,” said a cheerful Washu. “317?!”
“TWO SECONDS!?” “Yep.” <
I don’t believe it. I can’t get through his defense. Even with the Amaguriken technique. How did he block all of them? > “Very
good Ranma. Now, let me show you a
technique very similar.” Ranma
saw his Grandpa hand disappeared and reacted on instinct. Using the Amaguriken again, Ranma tried to
block the blows, but felt several broke through. Not only that, he felt the air pressure was
building in front of him. Moments
later, he heard a “Kiya” and found himself thrown against the boulder behind
him. Ayeka,
Sasami, and Ry-oh-ki rushed towards Ranma whose was embedded in the boulder. Tenchi would have tried to help, but was
held back by Ryoko. “Ranma!” “Oniichan” “Meow” “Hey
Ryoko, let me go. I gotta check on
Ranchan.” “AH
Tenchi… Wouldn’t it be better to stay with me?” At
the boulder, Ranma blinked a few times to clear his head from the
impact. Ranma struggled and removed
himself from the rock as the three arrived.
They were asking all sort of questions and unfortunately, he couldn’t
hear them clearly enough to answers.
It was a good thing too because there were a few ‘meow’ in the
conversation. “I’m
ok. Just a little stun from the
impact,” Ranma assured. “Oniichan. Are you sure?” Sasami asked, concerned. “Yeah…I’m
ok, hime-chan,” Ranma said, smiled confidently. “Ranma,
are you positive?” “Yes,
Ayeka. I’ve been in worse situation
than this. I’m ok. Thanks.” He
felt Ry-oh-ki holding his hand and flinched at first, but turned and smiled
at her. “I’m ok, Ry-oh-ki. Thank you.”
He got up, lost his footing and was caught in an embrace by
Ayeka. Ranma was blushing at the
contact. Ayeka’s cheeks also flushed,
but no one saw it because she was facing the boulder. “Er…sorry bout that.” “It…it’s
nothing.” Both
Sasami and Ry-oh-ki did not notice anything and walked beside Ranma holding
his hands. Tenchi was too busy trying
to pry Ryoko off him to notice anything.
However, Washu and Grandpa did and showed a small smile. “Well,
Ranma-chan. How are you feeling?” “I’m
fine Washu…er.. Washu-chan.” “Hmm…Very
high stamina and endurance,” Washu said with great interest. “Well
Ranma, are you ready to continue?” “Of
course, Grandpa. It takes more that to
stop me.” Both
combatants took their stance and charged each other. During the match, Ranma tried to imitate
his Grandpa technique with no success.
He tried to make his Grandpa use the technique again but he refused
to. The spar lasts for almost two
hours before Ranma defense began to weaken.
Soon after that, Ranma received several bruises on his head and his
Grandpa called on end to the match. In
the bathhouse, the men soaked on side of the wall while the ladies on the
others. “Ah…this
feels good.” “That
was a good match, Ranchan.” “Yeah…it’s
the best workout I had in a long time.
Still, I can’t figure out the technique Grandpa used against me.” “Well
Ranma, it’s a special technique used by the Royal Guards long ago.” “Really?” “Yes. It’s quite powerful if you combine the
technique with your Masa-ken or the Tenchi-ken.” “How
does it work?” “Well,
you felt the air pressure. If it was
from your sword, an energy sphere would form instead.” “Does
it have to do with the pattern?” Grandpa
raised his brow and nodded. “Yes. There are several patterns you can
use. Depending on which one, you can
generates various level of energy.” “I
understand now. You were using a
spiral like movement…. no, it was more like a figure eight moving in a
circle, but the cross section stayed the same. That’s where you gather the energy.” “Very
impressive, Ranma.” “How
did you know that?” “Easy. I could see some of the movement when I was
trying to block it. I thought it was
moving in a circle and block in that pattern, but some came through.” “I
couldn’t see any of it. I mean, I saw
your hand blur and Grandpa almost disappeared.” “It’s
just training, Tenchan.” “I
don’t know.” “Look,
how about I start training you in martial art?” “I
guess.” “Good,
we’ll start tomorrow.” “Ok,”
Tenchi agreed, though a little uncertain of his decision. “Now
Ranma, tell me more about those fiancées of yours.” “Fiancées? Oh no.
I’m not going to go through that again, Grandpa.” “What’s
wrong with having fiancées?” “Everything. I’m just not interested. I don’t like being force into it, that’s
all.” “So
you wouldn’t mind if you were not force?” “Er…well…I
guess not.” “Good,
that’s all I wanted to hear.” “Grandpa,
what are you trying to do?” “Do? Nothing Tenchi. I’m just curious to know what Ranma
thinks.” “Er…right.” His
Grandpa left the bathhouse with Tenchi and Ranma giving him a suspicious
look. “Hey,
Tenchan. You don’t think he’s up to
something do ya?” “I
don’t know. Maybe.” “AH
MAN. This is the last thing I need
right now.” “Well,
maybe it’s nothing.” “Maybe….Hey,
why don’t you pick someone yourself?” “Me?” “Yeah…You
have several girls who would be glad to be your wife or is it future queen.” “What?!” “That’s
right. According to hime-chan, you
have Ayeka and Ryoko fighting over you all the time.” “Hey
don’t you turn this around on me. What
about you?” “Me? I don’t have any. All my engagements had been nullify.” “But…No…
I’m not interested.” “You’re
the Prince. And who knows, they might
be willing to do it.” Tenchi
blushed furiously and looked down at the water. “Well…yeah…I mean….” [saw Ranma
laughing] “Hey….!!!” Ranma
double over and laughed uncontrollably.
“Hahahaha…. You were really
thinking about ‘it’ weren’t you?” “NO,
of course not. You brought it up!?” “I
was referring to marriage,” Ranma said in between laughs. “What were you thinking about cousin?” “NOTHING!” “Heheh…
hahaha…. Sure you weren’t. I mean,
Ryouko was all over you today.” “I’m
leaving. I’m going to help Sasami with
lunch.” “Alright….i
was only kidding.” [On
the other side of the wall.] “Oniichan
was great today.” “Yes,
he is quite good.” “Haa… He couldn’t be as good as Tenchi.” “Tenchi-sama
is good, but I’ve never seen Tenchi-sama came near as close as Ranma did.” “What? Are you saying that cross dresser is better
than Tenchi?” Ryouko yelled. “Oniichan
is not a cross dress!” “My,
my. No need to get steam over this.” “Whatever
‘mom’. I could easy take on that cross
dresser.” “Hmmm… You wouldn’t say.” Ryouko
glared back at Washu. “What’s that
supposed to mean?” Washu
smiled at Ryouko. She walked over and
pat on Ryouko side and lifted her hand to her chin. “My, my.
It looks like you might need a little workout after all.” Ryouko
snarled at Washu. “I don’t need to
workout. My body is in perfect form
not like the ‘princess’ over there.” Ayeka
shouted back. “Your just scare of
loosing to Ranma.” “I’m
not scare of no cross dresser.” “Stop
calling oniichan a cross dress!” “I’ll
show you who’s better.” With that,
Ryouko disappeared from the room. Washu
smiled at the disappearing Ryouko.
< Daughter, you are too predictable. > “Washu-chan,
why did you make Ryouko challenge Oniichan?” “Don’t
worry, Sasami. Ranma-chan can take
care of himself.” “I
hope so, Washu-chan. I don’t want to
see oniichan get hurt.” Sasami got out
of the water and dressed herself. Once
she left, Ayeka turned to Washu. “Washu-chan,
I’m worry. Sasami thinks Ranma as her
brother. She never had one and cares
very much for Ranma. I just hope she
isn’t rushing into things too quickly.” “I
know, Ayeka.” The
scene changed to the kitchen of the Masaki house. In the kitchen, Sasami gathered the
vegetables and rinsed them in the sink.
She didn’t hear anyone walking up behind her and felt a hand tap her
shoulder. She immediately spun around
startled by the sudden presence of some else. “Hiya,
Hime-chan.” “Ack! Oniichan!
Don’t do that!” “What’s
wrong?” “You
scare me half to death sneaking up on me like that.” Ranma
giggled at the pouting of his little sister, he bent down. “I’m sorry, hime-chan. I’ll try not to scare you like that.” He took a finger in tap lightly on her
nose. Sasami
blushed and laughed a little at her own embarrassment. “It’s ok, niichan.” Standing
back up, he eyed Sasami. “Have you
seen, Tenchan?” “Hai,
oniichan. Tenhi-niichan was helping
me, but Ryouko dragged him outside.” “Heh… I guess Tenchan has his hand full
then.” Turning to Sasami. “Would you like me to help you cook lunch?” “I
like that, niichan. What do you want
to cook?” “Hmm…
lets see. We could try some of the
dishes I learned from my mom.” “Ok,”
Sasami happily agreed. The
two siblings quickly made preparation for lunch with Ranma directing Sasami
on how to make some of the dishes.
Usually, Ranma wouldn’t cook unless Kasumi was away and Akane
attempted to make something edible.
This time however, he was enjoying cooking with Sasami. It felt good doing something with his
little sister and ignored his male pride.
While they were busy cooking, Ry-oh-ki sat on the counter watching
over the pot of curry. Ranma smiled
and asked her to stir the pot for him while he and Sasami made other
meals. Ry-oh-ki happily replied with a
loud “Meow”. Though Ranma still
flinched at the sound, he wasn’t running away like he would before. Later,
Ryouko and Tenchi were sitting at the table.
Ryouko and Ayeka were fighting again because Ryouko was hugging
Tenchi. Mihoshi attempted to calm down
the two, but with little success.
Tenchi lowered his head and big sweat drop formed. Washu was typing on her computer while
completely ignoring the fight. “Ok
everyone, lunch is ready,” Ranma announced from the kitchen. Everyone
stopped whatever they were doing and went to wash up before lunch
started. Ranma and Sasami came out of
the kitchen carrying several dishes.
Tenchi gave Ranma a hand since he carried most of the dishes on
various part of his body. Once
everything was laid out, the gang quickly vacuumed the food to their bowl. “This
is very good, Sasami.” “Thank
you, oneechan, but Ranma cooked most of it.” A
surprise washed over the gang, but then quickly returned to their food. “Wow,
Ranchan. I didn’t know you can cook.” “Well
yah… being on the road, you kinda pick up a few things or so…” Once
lunch was over, Ranma and Tenchi continued with their practice in kendo. Though Ranma was uncomfortable with using
weapons, he could still easily learn all the techniques Tenchi was showing
him. The training was very different
from his martial arts and much safer too. In
the evening, he and grandpa would spend the time helping with some of the
activities around the shrine. Tenchi
had the morning activities before practice and he had the evening. Once he finished with the chores, he
approached his grandpa in the shrine. “Hey
grandpa, I just finished with the chores.” “Thank
you, Ranma. Why don’t you join me?” Ranma
merely shrugged and entered the shrine.
“Sure, Grandpa.” Ranma took a
seat across of his grandpa. “How
do you like it here so far?” “It’s
definitely different.” “How
so?” “Well,
I don’t have to worry about Akane hitting me for some unknown reasons. Shampoo doesn’t glomp on me or uses spices
on me. Ukyou doesn’t try to trick
me. Kodachi isn’t poisoning me. Kuno’s not around to annoy me. Nabiki isn’t here to scam money out of my
wallet. Pop and Mr. Tendo are not
trying to force me to marry. Ryouga
isn’t here to blame me for his problem.”
Thinking again at others possible event that could have happen in
one-week period, he decided that was the minimum excitement of his previous
life. “I think that’s all.” “You
certainly do have an interesting life, Grandson.” “Well,
yeah… but I rather have a normal life.” “Are
you saying that you wouldn’t miss any of those things?” “No
way. I’m tire of all those stuff
happening to me. I hate having no
control over my life.” “As
in martial arts correct?” “Exactly. When I fight, I know exactly what’s going
to happen. I can read most opponents
like a book.” “So
why don’t you have similar control in your life?” “How
can I? All these people want something
from me, but never asks. Everyone just
keep forcing me to do all sort of stuff I don’t want to. I hated it.
I couldn’t do anything.” “Have
you tried?” “Of
course. I tried correcting some of the
problems like the engagement, but then someone would show up and ruin it.” “I
see.” Then
he said in a low voice, “I just want to get away from all that
craziness. I just want a quiet life
for a change. A chance to rest.” “You
sound defeated.” “Hey. That’s not so. I’ve never been beaten.” “Calm
down, Ranma. I’m just referring to
your emotional side.” “Oh…sorry
grandpa.” “It’s
alright. Ranma, life is never
easy. Some lives are more challenging
than other.” “I’ll
say…” Ranma said sarcastically. “Still,
we have to live our own life.” “How
can I, Grandpa? Every time I tried to
do something on my own, something always interfere.” “You’re
doing quite well now wouldn’t you say so?” “Yeah,
I guess.” Ranma sighed and
continued. “I’m just not sure how long
it will last though.” “It
will last as long as you want it to.” “But
how? I know some of those people are
trying to find me right now. Once they
do, it’ll start all over again.” “Then
you must fight back.” “Fight
them? I can’t. Some of them I consider friends.” “There’s
more than one way to fight grandson.” “Yeah…I
know.” “I just don’t know how,
anymore. I mean…when I left, mom and I
worked on a plan to clear out some of the problems. If they do show up here….i just don’t know
what else to do.” “Then
it’s time you start on a new plan.” “New
plan? How? I’m completely out of ideas.” “Ranma,
you’re not alone here. My daughter
helped you before, others can help you again.” “Thanks,
Grandpa. I just hope one of the plan
works. I don’t want to keep doing this
over and over again.” “Just
have fate and trust people you love, Ranma.” “I
will….” Taking a deep breath to clear
his thought, he looked at his grandpa.
“Grandpa, what was Tenchi’s mom like?
I remember bits and pieces, but I don’t remember much.” Smiling,
he replied. “You have her eyes,
Ranma. The same eyes of your
grandmother.” “Really?”
Ranma asked in surprise. His
grandpa chuckled. “Where do you think
you got it from. Definitely not your
father.” “Heh…
I certainly hope not.” “Well,
she’s very kind and a good mother. She
also cares for you deeply, almost like her own son. Your mother and her were the best of
sisters when they were young. When
your mother left for college, Achika became quieter. She later found some friends and eventually
got marry. I sometime wonder what she
sees in that husband of hers.” “heheh…
I think of that all of the time with my old man.” “Before
you were born, your mother stayed here and the two of them couldn’t be
happier. Once you were born, Achika
took care of you while your mother recovered and vice versa when Techi was
born. The two became mothers to the
both of you for about a year until your father insisted on leaving.” “Damn….
Oyaji.” “Each
have our own path to follow Ranma.
Once chosen, we must live with it.
That’s why it’s very important to choose very carefully.” “Well….I’ll
try grandpa. Sometime I wonder if I
even have a choice.” “They’re
always a choice Ranma. Some better
than other. Some harder than other.” “Just
great…more stuff to worry about,” Ranma mumbled. His
grandpa smirked at his grandson. They
were so much alike. Both had duties to
the family and to themselves, but neither which they had asked for. “I wouldn’t worry too much, Ranma. When the time comes, you’ll know what to
do.” “Huh? Er… right, Grandpa.” Looking outside, he noticed the
lateness. “I better get back to the
house.” “Of
course.” Ranma
gave a slight bow and left. Grandpa
watched his grandson leave and gave him a smile full of pride. < You have done well, Ranma. More than anyone had expected from someone
so young and raised by such a cowardly man. > He thought back to the stories Ranma had
told him earlier and smiles again.
< To defeat against such odd without the full knowledge of your
origin, you certainly have proven yourself beyond anything I can imagine. I never expected you to fight Saffron and
be able to defeat him. Still, you have
much to learn. Both of you, my
grandsons. .> ***Tendo
Dojo*** The
house had been very quiet since they returned from the Saotome. Soun sat quietly on the porch staring
blankly into the yard. Kasumi was busy
house cleaning and cooking. Nabiki was
in her room talking on the phone.
Akane sat in the middle of the dojo clutching her knees to her chest. Looking
around the yard, she noticed the koi
as it splashed water from its leap in the air. She smiled slightly as she remembered the
face of the cute redhead that would emerge from the surface pouting. Her smile flipped when she recalled the
number of times she had thrown Ranma into the pond. Her frown deepens when she thought about
all the caused of her anger. Tears began
to flow down her cheeks with each memory.
Quickly wiping the tears away, she tried to think of something
else. Scanning the rest of the yard,
she saw human imprints on the wall surrounding their home. Again, tears flowed down her cheeks at the
reasons behind it. Adverting her gaze,
she looked at the dojo and found similar cracks and dents. Suddenly, the world moved around her. Increasing its speed with each passing
moment until everything became a blur.
She closed her eyes tightly and tried desperately to regain her
control, but only found images appearing before her. Images of all the incidents that she caused
to Ranma. All the fights that resulted
from her defending P-chan or Ryouga.
All the holes in the wall because of her jealous rage. All the times Ranma rescued her from some
stupid Prince looking for a wife. All
the times he had saved and protected her.
All the times she punted him hard enough to kill any normal
human. The images overwhelmed her and
she collapsed on the floor crying uncontrollably. She didn’t care any more. She’d been so blind that it hurts so much
to see the truth. The truths she had
refused to open her eyes to. The truth
she refused to accept. The truth she
locked away and buried deep in her heart.
She was blind, so very blind. Kasumi
was busy in the kitchen when she heard a soft thud emanated from the dojo.
She hurried toward the sound and slid open the door. The view before her shocked her
deeply. Before her was the youngest
sister on the floor in a tight fetal position crying her hearts out. She quickly walked over to her sister and
gently stroke her hair trying to calm her down. Even though she always showed her calm
exterior to her family, recent events have caused great turmoil. She knew many of the responsibilities
required from her as ‘mother’ of the house.
But at such times as this, she was at a complete lost. She could imagine some of the things going
through her sister’s head. She also
knew that her sister had been force to open her eyes and the truth had
consumed her. Now was a question on
how to help her deal with such truth.
She need help and knew of only one person who had helped her in the
past. She quickly left the dojo and to
made a phone call. She quickly
returned and waited for help to arrive.
Stroking the short blue hair, Kasumi hummed a tune she memorized in
her heart from long ago. Before long,
the dojo door slid open again and a man with glasses entered. He
quickly made his way over to the girl on the floor and hit a few pressure
points. Her body relaxed as she fell
asleep. Picking her up, he and Kasumi
carried the sleeping girl upstairs and into her room. “How
is Akane?” “She’ll
be fine. She’d been through a lot
lately, but she’ll be ok.” “Thank
you, Dr. Tofu. Is there anything we
can do for her?” “My
advice will be to comfort her when she wake up and assured her that
everything will work out.” “Thank
you again.” “It’s
m-my pleasure K-Kasumi-san.” The
two left the emotionally exhausted Akane and returned to the room below. In
the next room a few doors down; another sister was busy with other types of
problems. “Listen
here. I want those people tracked
down. I don’t care what you have to
do, but do it.” //Sure
thing, Boss// “I
also need all information regarding the Masaki clan. I want the entire histories.” //Er…right,
Boss. We’ll get right one it.// “Good. Any word on the where about of the Kunos?” //They’re
still in the mental institute Boss. I
don’t know why they weren’t there earlier though.// “That
doesn’t matter. Just make sure they
stay there. If anything changes, let
me know.” //Sure
Boss. Would you mind telling us what’s
going?// “Not
now. Let just say it’s family matter.” //Right.// “Keep
an eye on everyone, especially the Amazons and the chef.” //Sure. But earlier today, we saw Shampoo leaping
roofs away from the restaurant and Mousse was some distant behind her.// <
Damn. I can’t let them wonder around
the city like that. > “Ok. No
selling of information to anyone. This
is a close operation, understood?” //Of
course, Boss// “What
about the chef?” //She’s
still there, but the store is close. I
also heard rumors that her friend is out searching for Ryouga.// <
Great, things just get better and better.
If I’m right, and usually I am, Ukyou is recruiting Ryouga to look for
Ranma. And with Ryouga’s state of
mind, I just hope whatever power Ranma has will be enough to protect him.
> “Ok, when Ryouga returns, I want to know immediately. Remember, absolutely no passing of info to
anyone. I know Ukyou will be tempted
to buy info from one of us.” //Don’t
worry, Boss. There’s not way she’s
getting anything from us// “Good. Keep me inform.” //Sure
thing, Boss// Nabiki
hung up the phone and laid back on her bed.
She needed a plan and fast. All
plans were like formulas. Use the
correct formula, and the problem’s solved without a hitch. Use the wrong one and everything
crumbles. As in all formula, certain
variables must be obtain and apply correctly.
Timing is also involved. It
didn’t matter the size of the problem, they all require the same thing,
correct formula, correct variables, and good timing. Once you have all three, it’s a matter of
implement it. Even then, there are
certain risks. There are certain
elements that would appear unexpectantly.
The best formula would have to deal with as many of these elements as
possible. Coming up with a formula is
always difficult. She could easily
gather all the necessary variables, but the formula is much more
difficult. Placing her hands behind
her head, she made a quickly check of her resources and inventories. Before she could go any further, she heard
Kasumi calling her to diner. <
Diner already. Guess I’ve been thinking longer than expected. > “Coming.”
She shouted hoping Kasumi would hear. Stepping
outside, she noticed Akane leaving her room.
From the look on he face, she could easily tell Akane had been crying
and knew the reasons behind it as well.
It hurt her to see her sister like this, but hurt her more knowing
that she couldn’t comfort her like her elder sister. She would help Akane, however, in her own
ways. < Don’t worry sis, I’ll find him for you. > Down
stairs, the family and guest ate in silent.
Once done, Dr. Tofu helped cleared the table while Akane and Nabiki
returned to their rooms. Soun read the
paper as always. After Dr. Tofu left,
Kasumi and Nabiki knocked on Akane’s door. “Come
in.” said Akane in barely audible tone. Opening
the door open, the two elder sisters entered.
Nabiki took the seat by the desk while Kasumi sat next to Akane on the
bed. “How
are you feeling Akane?” “Horrible” “Care
to elaborate, little sister?” “Not
really.” “It
would help if you talk about it.” “I
guess it wouldn’t hurt.” Taking a deep
breath before she continued. “it’s…It’s about Ranma. I’ve been thinking
all the events that happened since he arrived. I was sitting in the dojo and when I looked
around, all I saw were images of me…of me hitting him.” Fighting back the tears, she told them
every event she remembers. By the time
she finished, she lost control and sobbed in Kasumi’s arms. Once
the sobbing died down, Kasumi asked, “Are you feeling better now?” “A
little. I’m just not sure what to do
any more. I mean, for what I did to
him, how can I face him again.” “You’ll
just have to face him.” “How?! What if he doesn’t want to be around
me? That’s why he left right? It’s because he hates me. I just know it.” “Akane,
you don’t know that.” “Yes,
I do. What else could it be?” “Sis,
have you forgotten what Auntie said?” Nabiki interjected before Kasumi could
comment. “What
do you mean, Nabiki?” “Ranma
wanted to start over.” “Yeah…and
he ended all engagements. That means
our as well.” “Yes
he did, but did he give a reason?” “Huh?” “Listen
Akane. Ranma broke the engagement with
Ukyou because he considered her as a best friend and nothing more.” “So?…”
Her mood lightens a little. “The
same thing can be said with the Amazons except he doesn’t even want them to
be in the country. Shampoo doesn’t
have a chance any more. Think about
what Cologne said about the Masaki Clan.” Akane
recalled the conversation again and her eyes widen. “Of course.
Ranma is head of the clan.” Nabiki
grinned at Akane. “Yes. He’s head of the Saotome clan and might be
head of the Masaki as well. I can’t be
certain of it, but that doesn’t matter.” “I
doesn’t?” “No,
Akane. All that’s important is that
he’s a member of the Masaki clan. As a
Masaki, he’s an honor member of the Amazon’s tribe and from certain sources,
neither the kiss of death or marriage can affect Ranma.” Akane’s
smiles widen at the news. “That means
that bimpo can’t marry him.” “Exactly.”
She said with a smirk. < Well, she
can’t force him to marry her, but I’ll keep that to myself for now. > “Akane,
you shouldn’t say such things about people.” Akane
said sheepishly. “Sorry, Kasumi.” Looking at Nabiki, she asked, “What about
me then? He didn’t say why he broke
our engagement.” “In
a way, I’m glad he broke the engagement with you sis.” “What?!?”
She asked unbelieving. “Calm
down Akane and think about it. If he
didn’t end the engagement, what would you mostly likely do to him by now.” Lowering
her head, she muttered, “I…I would have hit him.” “Exactly. You would have hit for some stupid reasons
and the fights would start all over again.
Because of what he did, you have gone through and thought about what
happened in the past and saw your mistakes.
You’re opening your eyes again and it hurts doesn’t?” Akane
nodded her head knowingly. “Yeah…It
hurts a lot.” “Now
you know how he feels. You’re going to
have to start over like he did. You
have to gain his trust again and you’ll have to work hard at it. If you revert back to your old habits, the
only thing you’ll be doing is working against yourself and pushes him away
even farther. Eventually, he’s so far
away that you can’t reach him.” “I’ll
do my best. It’s going to be hard, but
I’ll do it.” “Good
cause it’s a lot harder than before.” “W-What
do you mean?” “He’s
a Prince and there are two Princesses living with him right now.” “But…bbbuuuutttt…How
can I compete with them?” She asked in a pleading voice. “Akane,
you still have a slight advantage.” “R-Really? How??” “Yes. You know him better than the others. You’ll have to stop hiding your
feelings. If you do, then you won’t
get anywhere with Ranma. You have to
trust your heart and let him know how you feel.” “But…but
what if he doesn’t feel the same way?” “You’ll
just have to trust your heart and hope for the best. You can’t live in fear of what might
happen. You’ll have to make it
happen. Like Auntie said, Ranma made
his decision and it was his choice and no one else. You’ll have to make the same decision and
it will be your and no on else.” “Thanks,
Kasumi.” Akane gave her a hug. “I just
wish there’s someway of telling him I’m sorry. I just don’t want know how long I’ll have
to wait before seeing him again.” “You
can always write a letter to him.” “That’s
great.” She smiled but then
frowned. “How do I get it to him then?” Nabiki
grinned at Kasumi suggestion. “You can
give to Auntie and ask her to send it to Ranma. And if Ranma writes anything back, you can
pick it up from Auntie.” “That’s
a great idea. I’ll get started right
now.” Akane rushed over to her desk and
search for some paper and pencil.
Turning back to her sisters, she asked, “What should I write? What should I tell him?” “Just
tell him how you feels.” “Right. Just don’t start blaming him, Sis,” she
said with a smirk. “Of
course not. Thanks sis.” Nabiki
and Kasumi left the room. Akane
sat at the desk looking at the stars.
“What should I write?” ****Letter**** Dear
Ranma, I’m sorry. I’m sorry for everything. There’s so much I wanted to tell you, but I
just don’t know how. ****end
of letter (sorry, can’t tell you everything)**** ***Hospital*** The
scene shifted to the outside of a hospital.
The camera followed behind a doctor in white coat as he dodged through
the many halls of the building.
Eventually he arrived at a window where others greeted him with white
coat similar to his. Looking through
the window next to them, we see a male in samurai clothing on one side of the
wall. On the other side, a female in
gymnastic suite laughing to her heart contents. Each of the people in while coat held a
clipboard in one hand and a pen in the other. “Ah…
Dr. Ono Tofu, glad you could join us,” said an elder doctor in his late
fifty. “It’s
my pleasure, Sensei.” Tofu bowed his
head in respect. “Nonsense. You’ve earned my respect long ago. There’s no need to call me ‘Sensei’ any
longer,” Dr. Kasugi said with pride. “As
you wish.” “Hahaha…What
do you think of these two?” “They
certainly have a strange since of reality.
Both refused to accept the truth unless it fits their need. From my experience, they have continually
warped the world around them to fit their own. I still do not understands why their
parents have allow such behaviors to last so long.” “Very
good observation. It’s not entire
their fault that they are in this condition. Their father is not any better. After we saw the sanity of the children, we
tried to contact the father.
Unfortunately, he had disappeared before we could talk to him.” “I
believe he is the principle at Furinken High School.” “He
was the Principle,” the elder doctor corrected. “After I found out about his behavior from
the staffs and students, we immediately recommend the dismissal and
reevaluation of his behavior. From the
information that we were able to provide, the board had removed him. They are searching for him right now. There were hints that he might be in
Hawaii. I’m not too worry about him
though. I’m more worry about the children
here. It seems that both have a common
ground.” “A
boy martial artist name Saotome Ranma.” “That’s
correct. I believe he’s a patient of
your” “Yes. He’s quite a remarkable young man.” “I’m
sure he is. The goal is to have these
two accept the fact of their obsession.” “It
will be a challenge I can assure you.” “Heheh…It
certainly will.” He grinned. “But I love a good challenge.” “You
certainly do. With your help and
knowledge, the Kuno are in good hands.” “You
still know how to make an old man feels good.” “I
only say what is true. I, thank you
for all your help.” “Of
course…. Think nothing of it. I,
however, would like to meet this Saotome Ranma some day. If some of the information from your file
are as interesting as they sound, I would be honor to see him in action.” “Heheheh…. Ranma is gifted in many ways and have led
an eventful life so far. I can assure
you that it will only be more adventurous.
But, I’ll ask him to stop by sometime and introduce you to him.” “I
can’t wait. Until then Dr. Tofu.” “Until
then sensei.” Dr. Tofu bowed and
excused himself from the group. Once
Tofu was out of sight, he turned to the other doctor. “hmm… Any suggestion on how we should
proceed?” The
other looked at him and shook their head. <
Challenge huh? I’m just glad we were
able to get them in these sound proof room.
That laugh from her was a nightmare. > He shivered at the thought of the night a
few days ago when he heard the laugh echoing through the corridors and into
the hall. He recalled several
orderlies panicking and some of the patients even wanted to commit seppeku. He
glanced at the window again and sighed.
< What am I going to do? > In
the dark corner of the room, a small figure with a mask watches the event
before him. ***Somewhere
in the city of Nerima*** [In
the alley near the Tendo Dojo. **Shampoo**] Quiet
as a cat, literally, Shampoo made her approach to the training hall. It had been several days since she ran away
from the Nekohanten and only recently did she lost track of Mousse. < Stupid Mousse. > The
feline crept toward the dojo with the master of a ninja. ***end of Chapter 2*** |