[The Present]

Like every morning before and every one after, the sunrise over the horizon overlooking the city of Nerima. And with each morning, it brings warmth and light for those who wish to embrace it. As the beam of golden light walks through the street, forcing the shadow to hide again. It’s continuous cycles that have been repeated since the dawn of time and will forever be until the end of time. Light in darkness and darkness in light. For all its brightness and glory the star brings to people of Nerima, one soul could not feel that warmth. Not matter how hard it has tried, it could do nothing to bring fire to this person. It could feel the flame within slowly withering. No, that would be wrong. The fire is gone now, only the sparks are left shimmering in ashes. Like those buried in the ashes when the fire looses it life’s energy, eventually it becomes extinct. Slowly and surely, the spark will burn out and die and so will the lift that carries it. With all it’s power, the star could do nothing but watch the sparks flickers now and then, unable to help, unable to fuel it need. What is there to do, but watch and hope for the best. The day passes on still unchanged.

__________________________________________________________________

[The Tendo- breakfast time]

[In the kitchen, Kasumi is busy making breakfast for the family. Like clockwork, Kasumi would wake early to prepare food for the family day after day. One would think it’s a mundane way to live. But for the eldest sister, it’s the only way to live. Strange as it might be, Kasumi believes in the role and the importance of it. Like everything it life, we all have a part and this was her. She loves her family and would do anything for them. She likes her role because it gives her the chance to be with her family. But more importantly, to care for them.]

[Nabiki enters the kitchen to grab a snack.]

Kasumi [calm as always]: Nabiki, would you call Akane and tell her the bath is ready?

Nabiki: Sure sis.

[As Nabiki leaves the kitchen, Kasumi frowned at the thought of Akane. For the last few days, Akane was nothing more than an empty shell. She had become with drawn from the world. Kasumi knew the cause, but did not have a clue how to help her younger sister. With all her instinct and years of training, she did not know how. It hurts her dearly to see Akane like this, but she must remain calm for her family. She be strong for the family. She can only hope for a better tomorrow and pray to the Kami.]

[Nabiki walks up the stair and head toward Akane’s room and knocks a few time.]

Nabiki: Akane, bathe is ready. Kasumi should have diner ready in half an hour.

[No answer.]

Nabiki: Akane?

[Still no answer.]

[Worry, Nabiki open the door and enter.]

[The room is nice and tidy. The bed in the far corner looked untouch. It has sever animal figure at the head of the bed. Beside it sits the study desk in front of the window. An in the chair sits Akane. From the way it looks, Akane had not move from her position since she was last here, which was last night before dinner and the same in the previous night before that. Over the course of almost a week, Akane had moved less and less each day. As before, Akane sits and stares out the window, but sees nothing. Some of her friends had stopped by and tried to talk to her, but she neither acknowledge them or rejects them. She just sits and stares endlessly.]

[Being a well-manner business women had made Nabiki seem crude and unemotional. But will it comes the her family, she would do anything she can. She might not be the best at expressing her feeling, but she has her own method.]

[Walking towards the bed. Nabiki sits on the edge of the bed and face Akane.]

Nabiki: He’ll return Akane, he always does.

[Akane continues to stare out the window, but a tear flows down her cheek. Watching closely, the tear flowed down a predetermine track set by many before it.]

Nabiki: Akane, I know it’s hard for you, but you can’t do this to yourself. What will Ranma say when he sees you like this. He didn’t do so you can wallow in your misery. He did it because he loves you.

[The door slides open and Kasumi enters. She heads over and position herself next to Nabiki.]

Kasumi: Akane, you have to believe and hope for the best. He will be back like he always had in the past. You must believe that and believe in him.

Nabiki: That’s right sis. He didn’t say your life all those times for him to see you like this.

[More tears runs down the track and more followed suite. In moments late, a stream of tears streak the surface like waterfall. Akane turns to her sisters and grabbed them tightly. Almost too afraid to let go for fear of losing them.]

[Kasumi and Nabiki held the crying Akane the best they could and whispering soothing voice of encouragement.]

Kasumi: It’s going to ok Akane, you see. Everything would work out.

[After a long moment of sobbing, Akane lets go and wiped the last few tears from her face and sat back in the chair.]

Akane: [barely a whisper] I know….but…

Kasumi: I know you miss him very much but do you remember what he asked?

Akane: [nods slowly] [She was scare to speak, she did not want to loose control again. It was so hard not to cry. Even at the slight mention of his name.]

Nabiki: If I remember correctly, he told you that will would find a way back if possible right?

Akane: [nods again]

Nabiki: And did he not ask you to what for him?

Akane: [nods again]

Kasumi: [reach out and holds Akane’s hands firmly] Akane, I know you loves him very much and he loves you as well. He would do anything for you. And if he promise you that he would return, then you must trust him do that. It’s hard, but you must believe in him.

Akane: [lets out a wimpering reply] I know….I just…missed him so much. All those time he was here…I was always hitting him and insulting him….now…now that he’s not here…I’m scare…[sobbing] scare that he might not come back because of it.

Nabiki: Akane, you know that’s not true. Look at all those time he came after you when you were in trouble. Ranma is insensitive [Akane gave Nabiki a strange look] Ok, lots of time, but that’s who he is. He might not be able to say it, but his action speaks for themselves. He loves you, sis.

Akane: I know, but I can’t help but wonder when I will see him again. Will it be tomorrow, next week, a year, or never? I just don’t know. I want to be with him so much and now that he’s not here….it hurts.

Kasumi: I know it does, but are you willing to wait for him?

Akane: [without hestitation, nods several times] Yes. Yes, I’ll wait however long it takes.

Kasumi: See, you just need to have fate in him and that he will return to you.

Nabiki: And only you. [Added with a grin]

Akane: But…but what about the other fiance?

Nabiki: [broad smile] Don’t worry sis, I’ll take care of it.

Akane: Are you sure?

Nabiki: Positive. Consider it as wedding present. [winks at Akane]

[Akane immediately hug her sister tightly and saying a silently thank you.]

Kasumi: [smiles widely] Why don’t you wear you ring? He did give it to you didn’t he?

Akane: Yes he did, but I’ve been hiding it in my necklace. He didn’t want our father to know about it yet since we’re not sure if we’re ready to get marry.

Nabiki: What about now?

Akane: [smiles from ear to ear] Absolutely. I’ll marry him even if I have to knock him out and drag him to the priest myself.

Nabiki: Glad to see the tomboy back, little sister.

Akane: Hey, I might be a tomboy, but I’m Ranma’s tomboy. [she said with a mischievous smile.]

[The three sisters share the laugh. It’s good to hear them laugh again. Ever since Akane returned, everything had been solemn and sad.]

Akane: [sadly] I really want to wear the ring, but what about the other?

Nabiki: [raise an eyebrow] Oh, what about them?

Akane: Well, if they see the ring, they’ll more likely to be upset and… and with Ranma gone, I don’t know what they will do.

Nabike: [smiles] You don’t have a thing to worry about.

Akane: [confused] What do you mean?

Nabiki: Just trust me. I got everything taken care of.

Kasumi: Akane, why don’t you go take a shower and have some diner with us. And if you feel like going to school tomorrow, you can, but I won’t push you.

Akane: Thank you Kasumi-oneechan. I feel much better now and I think I’ll go to school tomorrow if only to show them the ring. [racing her hand to the window and watch it sparkles in the light of the setting sun.]

[Over the horizon, the Sun watch with pride. Tomorrow will be a wonderful new day and a new beginning.]

[The two older sisters left and head down stair while Akane takes the bath.]

[Inside the bath, Akane lowers herself into the furo and stare at the ceiling. After diner, Akane returned to her room and lay back.]

Akane: Ranma, please come back, please. I’ll wait for you, but please come back soon.

[Before succuming to the night, she gave a silent pray for Ranma safe return. Once asleep, she dreamed. No longer the nightmare of losing Ranma she had when she first came home, but of pleasant memories they shared and of their future. Akane smiled in her sleep.]

Akane: [ whisper] I love you, Ranma.

[Scene fades away.]

__________________________________________________________________

[The past.]

[Ranma's room. Night time]

[The scene pans closer to review the sleeping martial artist drench in body sweat. From the look of it, he's been constantly twisting and turning. Half of his body lies off the futon while his hands tighten on the edge of the futon.]

Ranma [mumbling] Noooo….Get away….Stay away….Don't touch hurt her….

[Ranma continues to toss and turns in bed.]

Ranma [Pleadingly] Please….let her go….No….Don't…. Please….No….Nooo….

[The scene changes to the hall way outside Ranma's room.]

Ranma [Screaming] NNNOOOOOO!

[He springs his body to a sitting position with a large bead on his for forehead. His breathing is quick and shallow. His eyes are wide open as he takes in the surrounding. Suddenly, the door bursts open and Akane appears before him. Soon, the other sisters in the house follow suite.]

[Akane quickly makes her way in front of him and watches with concern in her eyes. There was no doubt that what ever he dreamt about had terrified him. She could see it in his eyes and in his body. His body looks like it's been through a battle. Every muscle was tensed and ready. It's very unusual for Ranma to be in this state. He's always been relaxed when it comes to fighting.

[Behind Akane stands Kasumi with her apron as she was preparing breakfast. Next to her, Nabiki leans against the door frame yawning.]

Nabiki: [teased] Gee, Ranma. Could you scream any louder?

[Akane scowls at her sister while Ranma seems to be completely oblivious, which in all sense is quite unusual.]

[During the whole commotion, Ranma stares intently at Akane as if he was still dreaming. Part of him wants to reach out and touch the soft feature of her face while the othe part scares that it might disappears.]

[Akane notices Ranma intent stare at her and blushes slightly, but quickly his gaze. Turning to face her sistes, she spoke quietly.]

Akane: Umm…Could you I talk with Ranma for a bit?

Kasumi: [Smiles] Of course, Akane.

Nabiki: [snickers] Sure, Sis. Just keep the noise down, ok?

[Turning back to Ranma, she was surprise to find him still staring at her and her heart rate increased a notch.]

Akane: [softly, with great concern] R-Ranma?

[Waiting for a response, she quietly watches for some reaction, finding none, she asks again.]

Akane: Ranma? Are you ok?

[Still no answers.]

[Else where in Japan.]

[In a mysterious room sits two figures quietly exchanging comment between them. One figure is kneeling down before a larger figure. The surrounding looks like those of a dojo. Even in the dark, certain artifacts can be seen hung along the wall.]

Voice 1: Kyosuke, have you located all the people on the list?

Kyosuke: No, Master. I have not been able to track on person the on list. My apology, Master.

Voice 1: Oh, and who may is this particular person be, Kyosuke?

Kyosuke: It’s Happosai, Master.

Voice 1: I see. Interesting. [thinks] Just as expected. This will be interesting however.

Kyosuke: I’m sorry Master. I will double the effort Master. I know I can track him down if you will allow me again Master.

Voice 1: That’s quite all right Kyosuke. There’s no need.

Kyosuke: But Master… [interrupted]

Voice 1: Do not worry yourself on this one person.

Kyosuke: But Master, how will you locate him?

Voice 1: [A small laugh is heard in the room] I have my ways Kyosuke. For now, I need you to keep an eye on that student of mine and try to keep him from getting into trouble to much.

Kyosuke: Yes Master. I shall leave immediately and will report of any major chances.

Voice 1: Very well, until then.

Kyosuke: Farewell Master.

[Kyosuke quickly vanished from sight and is no where seen in the room. The figures left is talking to himself]

Voice 1: It’s been a long times my stupid student. It’s seem you have improve quite a great deal since I last trained you. I wonder though, are you ready for the future? With all that has happens, are you ready to face your destiny? [sigh] We shall see soon enough.

Voice 1: [shouts] Kintaro!

Kintaro: [kneels down before the person] Yes Master.

Voice 1: I need you to bring an ‘old acquaintance of mine.

Kintaro: Happosai I presume Master.

Voice 1: Yes it’s him.

Kintaro: It will be my pleasure Master. [prepare to leave]

Voice 1: One moment, Kintaro.

Kintaro: Yes Master?

Voice 1: I will need to talk to him, so please try to restrain from doing any unnecessary damage if possible.

Kintaro: [frowns] I shall try to refrain myself Master.

Voice 1: Very well then, be on your way.

Kintaro: [smiles] Yes Master. [vanishes]

Voice 1: I sure hope she keeps her tempers in control this time. [Smiles and shakes his head slowly]

[Scenes fades always]

__________________________________________________________________

[About two weeks after the fail wedding attempt. Next day. Nighttime.]

[Saturday]

[On the Tendo dojo rooftop, a lone figure with an unusual pigtail, lies on his back. Seems to be talking to himself since no other figures were in sight.]

Ranma: Ah man... I can't believe this. All day... The whole day has been a total mess. Since that stupid wedding fiasco, I've haven't been able to find any time to be by myself. Shampoo glomps onto me like me like nothing happens at all. Which of course brought me a lot of pain and sent me on another free flight to the river thanks to that ‘uncute’ fiancé of mine. Not to mention the word "RANMA NO BAKA" ringing in my ears all the way.

[It’s early in the morning. We see the usual couples running toward school. Ranma on the fences and Akane running on the sidewalk beside him.]

Ranma: [quickly glance down at Akane] [thinks] She doesn’t seem to be upset. I wonder what she’s think about the wedding fiasco? I wonder if I should apologize to her now about it. I still don’t know what’s the big deal about it though. I mean, she had always said she don’t want to get marry and yet, she agree to it. Not only that, she knew it about the cure too. I wonder if she only agree to it because of the cure? But still, she was pretty upset when I deny about what I said in china. I’m still not sure what I said back either. It was all crazy. The fight with Saffron was long and took most of my energy to defect him. I’m still not sure how I did it though. I guess it’s the thought of loosing her that made the difference. Still, but kill someone also has a price. Will I be able to do it again?

[Looking back down at Akane, still no change in her expression]

Ranma: [think] Maybe I should ask her about the wedding and apologize for any wrong doing.

Ranma: [jumps down next to Akane] Umm. Akane. [She stops and stares at Ranma questionably. Ranma is looking towards the ground, hands clasp, and playing with this thumb as if it was combat.] Akane, about… what happens at the wedding. [stuttering] I’m…very sorry.

[Akane is still staring at Ranma with eyes widening]

Akane: [thinks] I wonder if he really wanted the wedding to succeed. He didn’t seem to that day. Maybe I should forgive him.

Ranma: I… honestly didn’t know that the others were goin to show up liked that. I mean… I was tied up and all and by time I woke up, I was in a tux and everything.

[An uncomfortable silent in the air]

Ranma: Akane [pause] Umm… the wedding…I just wanna know why?

Akane: [confused] Why what?

Ranma: I mean…why did ya agree to marry me?

Akane: [a small smile appears] [thinks] Maybe I should give him some hints. [speaks] Ranma, why do you think I agree?

Ranma: Aye…I don’t know. I’m not really sure since you always didn’t want to in the past.

[Another pause]

Ranma: [quietly] Is it because of the…cure?

Akane: [softly] Part of it was, but…it’s not the main reason why.

Ranma: Then why…Ay mean, I always called you all sorta of names and insult and you then mallet me on the head or chest. [Looking up at the sky] I mean, I called you uncute, no sex, tomboy. [Not noticing the battle aura beginning to build around Akane, Ranma continues] can’t cook. Um… what else… Oh yeah, violent.

. [Suddenly, his senses kicked into action, he looks down at the now very angry looking fiance]

Ranma: [thinks] Oh man, I’m dead. [speaks] Akane…wait…I can explain…just hold on a sec…

[Something is heard in the background. Sounds like a bicycle bell]

[Crash]

Shampoo: Ai Ren. Ranma take Shampoo date. [Not seeing Ranma right away, looks at Akane] What violent girl do with husband.

Akane: [fuming] He’s not your husband!

Shampoo: Ranma Shampoo husband by Amazon law. Shampoo make Ranma happy.

[There’s a jerk under the bicycle and Shampoo looks down.]

Shampoo: Ranma silly. What Ranma do on street? [quickly remove her bicycle]

[Ranma slowly rises from the impact and shakes his head from the slight concussion.]

[Ranma glances around and see Akane fuming with rage and very near break point. Only then did he realized that Shampoo was showing her usual affection towards with or without his consent and to his annoyance.]

Ranma: [speak with fear in his voice] Akane…wait… it’s not what you think…I didn’t do anything…she just grabs me…[desperately trying to find some method to explain the situation, but failing miserably] now wait Akane…let me explain

Akane: [furious] Explain what Ranma? Explain that you rather go with that chinese hussy right?

Shampoo: [temporarily lets go of Ranma to speak to Akane] Hah…Ranma more happy with Shampoo than violent girl. Shampoo make husband happy.

Akane: [shouting] RANMA NO BAKA!!!!!

By the time I got out of the river, Kuno had to show up with his stupid poetry which no ones understand. Oh well, it did felt good to plummeting him through the air though. [smiles to himself]

Ranma: Ah man… Now I havta find some hot water before I get to class. Not to mention that I’m late already. Yeah… and Miss Hinako get the boost in chi when I get to class. Danm…and it’s only morning.

Kuno: Has thy eyes deceive me? It’s the beautitous pig tail goddess… etc. etc.

Ranma-chan: [grumpling] I don’t have time for this.

[Ranma turns around to face Kuno]

Ranma-chan: Kuno! I do not love you, I don’t even like you. So leave me alone!

Kuno: What lies has the vile sorcerer Satomma makes you speak. I, Tatekawaki Kuno, will free from the vile sorcerer and bring you to thy love. [Kuno spreads his arms and runs for Ranma-chan]

[Unfortunately, Kuno was sent air borne by Ranma-chan well placed kicked to the chest]

Ranma-chan: Man, I’m getting tire of this.

Then came Ucchan during lunch. She also acted like it was another normal day for her. I still can't believe she would do something like that. I mean, she's supposed to be my best friend.

[It’s lunch time at school. Ranma is rushing through the halls looking for Akane. Since this morning, she’s been ignoring her and he could guess the reason why. By the time he reach the yard outside, Ukyou ran up and grabs arm.]

[Ranma was startled to see Ukyou. Though, he was not in the mood to talk, he didn’t have much chose. Like most things in his life, things just happen around him and take his controls away. He is still searching for Akane while Ukyou was talking to him and he didn’t hear anything she was saying.]

Ranma: [thinks] Damm. I don’t have time for this. [speaks] Ucchan, I have to go. I really need to find Akane.

Ukyou: [irritated] Why would you need to find her?

Ranma: I need to apologize to her about this morning when Shampoo showed up.

Ukyou: [thinks] Perfect, Ranma is angry at Shampoo. [notices Akane looking in this direction from behind a tree.] All I have to do is keep him here with me and Akane will get upset. She’ll hit him and he’ll stay with me. [speaks] You don’t have to worry about Akane, she can takes care of herself.

Ranma: [on instinct] I’m Not Worry About that Tomboy!

[Ukyou sees Akane runs off and smiles.]

Ukyou: You’re right. You shouldn’t have to worry about a tomboy like Akane. You’re better off spending lunch with me.

[Ranma looks at Ukyou and for a strange reason felt irritated at her comment. He was even feeling angry. ]

Ranma: [thinks] I can’t believe she’s acting like that. She’s treating like some prize. Just like all others, except for Akane. She haven’t even apologized to either of us for her involvement. Here she is talking like nothing happened. She thinks she’s better than everyone else and knows what I want. How could she? I don’t even know what I want most of the time. And right now, the only thing I want is to find Akane.

Ranma: [speaks] Look Ucchan, I really need to find Akane. We can talk another time.

Ukyou: [angry] Why should you look for her? She doesn’t deserve you. Well, I do. I can do anything better than her.

Ranma: Like what you did at the wedding right?

Ukyou: Exactly!

Ranma: [angry] Exactly?!? How could you say that. You threw bombs at my wedding and could have hurt Akane or my Mom. How dare you stands there and tell me you’re better than Akane?!?

Ukyou: I’m sorry for getting your Mom hurt, but I was only did what you wanted.

Ranma: [very angry] What I wanted?!?

Ukyou: Yes, what you wanted. I knew you were bride to go along with it. I knew you didn’t what that wedding. I knew you didn’t want to marry Akane.

Ranma: [furious] Damn you Ukyou! You have no idea what I want. You don’t even know what I want now. You never even ask me what I want. It’s just always what you want. As for me wanting to get marry, no one bride me. If I want to get marry, I will and if I wanted it stopped, I would have done it on my own or ask for help. AND I DIDN’T ASK YOU FOR HELP!

Ukyou: [furious] How could you say that! You were going to marry Akane. The one who can’t cook, the one who can’t fight, and the one who insults you. How can you possibly think of marrying a uncute tomboy like her!

Ranma: [furious] Because it will be my decision. Not yours, not Shampoo, not Akane, not anyone else. MINE! Do you understand that? When I decide to marry someone, it will be MY decision.

Ukyou: [furious] Well guess what Ranma, you don’t have a chose. You old man toke the dowry and by honor, you have to marry me.

Ranma: [in a calm demonic voice] You don’t get it do you. You just said that you did what I wanted, and here you go to say I don’t have a chose. Well, guess what? I do. I’m making that chose right now. I’m going to look for Akane. I still haven’t forgotten what you did at the wedding or whom you were aiming at. Excuse me Ukyou, but I have to find someone.

[Ranma turns away and walks off leaving a distraught Ukyou fuming behind.]

Ukyou: [Shouting] This isn’t over yet Ranma!

Worst of all, I didn’t even find Akane afterward. When I tried to talked to her during class, she was furious. I didn’t know what made her even more angry than she was already. I spent the rest of the day under her glare, but said nothing. I thought it was best to let her calm down before talking to her.

If that wasn't enough, Ryouga had to stop by at the time also with his usual quotes "RANMA PREPARE TO DIE". Man, doesn't he ever learn. The fight with Ryouga did made me feel a lot better though. Hahah, I'll have to admit, fighting with Ryouga was always fun and it keeps me on the edge, although I'm better than he is. What still surprises me though, was how quickly he found me. I thought it would take him at least a week.

[After school, Ranma is walking on the fence like usual. Akane continues to ignore him. Ranma tried to think of some way to break the moment.]

Ranma: [stuttering] Akane.

Akane: [angry] Don’t bother Ranma. I don’t need you to worry about me. I can take care of myself. [She turns around and ran ahead.]

Ranma: [Shouts] Fine then!

[Just then Ryouga appears over the rooftop of the house. Apparently he heard the shouts between Ranma and Akane. Like always, he blames Ranma for everything. And after seeing Akane runs off, he was prepare to make Ranma pays.

Ryouga: PREPARE TO DIE!!!!

Ranma: [under his breath] Damn. [speaks to Ryouga] What’s up P-chan? [continues to dodge Ryouga attacks.]

Ryouga: [growling] Don’t call me that!

Ranma: [smirking] Why? That’s you’re name isn’t?

Ryouga [angry] Damn you Ranma. I’m going to make you pay for hurting Akane!

Ranma: Oh? What is it this time, pig boy?

Ryouga: [growls] For all your insults! For what you did to her! For hurting her! For forcing her to marry a jerk like you! For everything!

Ranma: [angry] I didn’t force her to do anything you pig!

[Ranma attacks Ryouga all out. Ryouga is force into a defense stance from the onslaught of Ranma.]

Ryouga: [thinks] Damn…I can’t do anything. If I don’t think of something fast, I’m going to get cream.

Ryouga: [speaks] Yeah right. You’re nothing but a jerk. Think of all the time she’s been hurt because of you. Probably the next time, you won’t be able to save her. You’re a danger to her.

[The words struck hard against Ranma. Even Ryouga best punch could not do as much damage. Lost in thought, his defense fail him.]

Ryouga: [thinks] Got you, Ranma.

[Ryouga seeing Ranma distracted, punch Ranma in the chess causing Ranma to fly against the wall. Ranma collapse on the floor panting.]

Ryouga: [speaks] You’re weak Ranma. Akane would never marry someone like you. She’s better off with me. Die Ranma! [Prepares to attack full force.]

[Ranma heard the comment about Akane being with Ryouga made him furious.]

Ranma: [thinks] Better than me?

[Before Ryouga could make contact against Ranma, he disappear.]

Ranma: [furious] Better than pig maybe. You’ll never get her you damn pig! [attacks Ryouga] You’ve used her and you say your better than me! Die Ryouga!!!!

[Ryouga could not believe it. He had Ranma right where he wanted. He was going to win. Damn him. He cheated.]

[Ranma was moving at incredible speed. He literally disappear from sight. By the time he reappear, he was right in front of Ryouga and sent him crashing into a wall. Ranma push his attack further. Sending series of kicks and punches, Ranma had Ryouga pinned.]

Ryouga: [thinks] Kami-sam, he’s really going to kill me!

[Suddenly, a broken pipe spray the two fighters. It seem that was the only thing that save Ryouga from the fatal blow. However, it didn’t deter Ranma from his purpose. Ranma walks forward and pick up the struggling pig and held him against the wall.]

Ranma: [pulls his free hand backs and prepare to strike] [speaks in a calm voice] Fair well Pigboy. Any last word?

Ryouga: Bweed [thinks] No, don’t do it Ranma. [closes his eye and prepare for his fate]

[Ranma was about to strike when he felt a mallet land hard on his chest. Moments later, he was flying over Nerima.]

Akane: [angry] Leave P-chan alone! [thinks] I can’t believe him. He was about to kill P-chan because he was jealous. I’ll show what happens if he hurts my P-chan.

[Akane sees Ranma shaking his heard from the impact. She pulls back the mallet and prepare at Ranma who was getting up.]

[Akane picks up P-chan who just snort at the flying Ranma.]

Akane: Don’t worry P-chan, I’m not going to let him hurt you anymore.

[Back to present with Ranma still lying on the rooftop of the dojo]

Ranma: [thinks] Damn Ryouga. I’m going have to do something about P-chan. There’s not way I’m going to let him sleep with her again. Just you wait Ryouga. Man, ay hope tomorrow is better cause ay ain’t gona have the control I had before. Since that battle in Jusendo, I can feel I’m slowly losing it. Maybe, ay should go on another train’in trip to clear my mine. Maybe…maybe I can talk to one of my old sensei I meet training with Pops. But who though, we meet so many in our travel. Hell, maybe I’ll even ask Pops about it.

[Ranma lets out a long breathe in relieve of the quiet night and serenity that surrounds it.]

[Ranma lies on the rooftop peacefully watching the heavens above and felt a calm and clarity in his chaotic life. Unfortunately, a shouts from Akane broke the peaceful silence.]

__________________________________________________________________

[Switch to inside the Dojo, more specifically, Akane’s room]

[Akane is leaning on the chair by her desk, while P-chan is on top of the desk watching her intently.]

[Akane stares outside with a slight frown across her face. One thought quickly came to mind, Ranma no Baka. Quickly the anger sprung as she recalled of the morning events, but faded out with another thought. The thought of what Ranma had said to her in Jusendo.]

Akane: [thinks] I just don’t get it. What made him so mad that we would kill P-chan? Well, it looked like he was about to. But why? Doesn’t he know I care about P-chan?

Akane: [thinks] Why can’t he just tell me? Why does he keeps insulting me all the time and making me mad? I don’t want to hit him, but he keeps making me angry. Why Ranma, why? Don’t you care about me? Don’t you love me?

[Slowly, tears began to falls from her face. Akane quickly wiped the tears dry]

Akane: [tearfully] Why P-chan, why?

[P-chan carefully watches the crying Akane. He can only thinks of one reason, Ranma]

P-chan: [angrily] Bweep!

[Akane’s not even paying attention to the response from P-chan and continues on with her chain of thoughts]

Akane: [thinks] I wish I knew how he felt. He can be so nice and gentle at time, and even caring. But then, just when things begin to look pleasant, he starts to push me away again. That insensitive, hentai, jerk. [shouts] Ranma no Baka.

__________________________________________________________________

[Somewhere over the city of Tokyo, a voice is heard yelling in great delight]

Voice: Ha, Ha, Sweeto. What a haul, what a haul!

[We see the figure, also known as Happosai, running through the street of Tokyo carrying a bag over his shoulder. We also hear numerous female voices creaming at Happosai. I doesn’t seem to bother the old man at all, rather, he enjoy taunting the angry female.]

Happosai: [see a female figure in the corner of the street in front of him] [gleefully] Sweeto! [charges to the female]

[As Happosai approaches the female figure, we see that the women could put any super model to shame. She’s wearing a light blue short mini skirt that if it was any shorter, would be too reviewing. A T-shirt wraps around the chest that only reaches slightly above the lowest rib cage. Not only that, she doesn’t appear to be wearing anything underneath the T-shirt. Her hair is dart blue, tied in a pony tail.]

[Just before Happosai could glomps onto the women, he is held in mid air by some unknown force. We can see that the women is not crossed in front of her chest.]

[We also see Happosai face expression mixed with either shocked or fear or maybe both]

Women: [with an evil grin] Well, we meet again old man.

Happosai: [stuttered] I.It’s g..good to see you too.

Women: [amusement] Is it really?

Happosai: [nervously speaks] O..of course, My Lady.

[Women just smiles as she drag the floating Happosai into the dark alley.]

[Moments after the couple disappear into the dart alley, a dreadful scream is heard echoing through the street of Tokyo]

[Back in the dark room where a single person sits quietly as he had in the past hours]

Voice 1: [sigh] Hmm…she couldn’t resist could she. [shakes his head slowly]

__________________________________________________________________

[Sunday]

[The scene opens with a view of the city of Nerinma from above. The camera then moves through the building zig zag between the busy street until it reaches a familiar since. The view pans out to show a park with a bridge over the river. The atmosphere is quiet and peaceful. The camera zooms in to see a male with long hair tied together in pigtailed fashion. He is sitting near the river’s edge and underneath the bridge. The young man seems to be deep in thought. Moving closer, we recognized him to be Saotoma Ranma, a very gifted martial artist of the school of Anything Goes. It appears that Ranma is in some kind of meditation and is completely oblivious to his surrounding. From the angle of the shadows, it looks like it’s about midday and Ranma have not moved from that position in sometime.]

[Switch to the Tendo’s house.]

[Kitchen. Kasumi is busy preparing for lunch]

Akane: Oneechan, have you seen Ranma today?

Kasumi: [soft voice] Oh, Akane, good morning. And yes I have. I saw Ranma-kun this morning. I was very surprise to see him up so early.

Akane: Did he tell you where he went? [Thinks] probably to one of this other cute fiancée. That baka.

Kasumi: I’m sorry Akane, but he didn’t say much at all. He just grabbed a few snacks from the cabinet and said that he will home late today. How very odd for Ranma-kun to miss breakfast?

Akane: [frustrated] That baka is probably over at Ukyou eating and having a good time. [Angrily] When I get me hands… [interrupted]

Nabiki: [calmly] Not likely little sister.

Akane: [anger died out in confusion] What do you mean by that, sis?

Nabiki: Well, from what I’ve heard, Ranma haven’t been around any of ‘his cute fiancees’ since the wedding fiasco. You’re not worry about him, are you sis?

Akane: [angrily shouting] Me? Why would I worry about that insensitive jerk?

Nabiki: [a small smile] Please Akane, I know you better than that. Haven’t you also notice that the two of you haven’t fought much lately?

Akane: [calm down some] Well…yes, but…[interrupted]

Nabiki: Or have you noticed that he has been keeping to himself more and more since the two of you got back from Jusendo.

Akane: [sheepishly] Kinda…[thinks] She’s right. Since we got back, Ranma seem more depress, not as much as Ryouga, but somewhat even scare. But why?

Nabiki: [lifts an eyebrow at her sister] I know that the story about Jusendo has some, if not a lot of details left out of it. All I know is that if this keeps up, you might lose him and I’m not talking about to the other fiancées.

Akane: [shocked, wide eye as she stare at Nabiki]……

Kasumi: She is correct Akane. I’m not sure how much I can help Ranma-kun, but I don’t think it’s my help he wants. It’s your decision and I know you’ll make the right one.

[Akane glances back and forth between her sisters and stare at the floor.]

Akane: [softly] How…how do I help him?

Kasumi: [smile] Just be patient and listen to him.

Nabiki: [slight grin] I would very much emphasize on those two points.

Akane: [felt a small rise in anger, but suppress it] I’ll try. Do you know…where he is?

Nabiki: [grin] Nope, but I can find out.

Akane: [looks up] Really?

Nabiki: For a small price that is.

Nabiki: [see Kasumi looking at her with the gentle smiles.] [thinks] Damn. [speaks] Sorry Akane, but you’re on own this time.

Kasumi: You might find Ranma-kun where he feel the safest or most comfortable.

Nabiki: Or where he would go to be alone.

Akane: [thinks] Safest? Where? Alone? Of course! [hugs Nabiki and then Kasumi] Thanks sis. [Runs out of the kitchen and quickly heads over to the park.]

[The scene is now switch back to the park when we last saw Ranma. Now we also see Akane approaching him from behind. As Akane comes closer to Ranma, she notice that he was staring across the water and knew that he was seeing anything. Akane came close and sat to the right of him.]

Akane: [quietly] Ranma.

[No response]

Akane: [concern] Ranma, are you ok?

[Still no response.]

Akane: [anger begin to rise] Ranma!

[When Ranma fails to answer, Akane quickly jumps to her feet and prepare to mallet him. Akane noticed that Ranma didn’t even bother to defend himself to even insult her.]

Akane: [recalls earlier conversation] [Nabiki] All I know is that if this keeps up, you might lose him and I’m not talking about to the other fiancée. [Kasumi] Just be patient and listen to him.

[Akane calms down and a sad express on her face. The mallet disappear and she sat down next to him.]

Akane: [speaks with great concern] Ranma, I don’t want to fight. I’m here to help you. I really want to help. So…I’m going to wait here…and listen to you when you’re ready. [whisper] I don’t want to hurt you…in anyway. [to herself] Please Ranma let me help.

__________________________________________________________________

[The scene changes to Ukyou’s restaurant.]

Ukyou: [sadly] Ran-chan hasn’t been around here lately. Is he mad about what I did at the wedding? [pause] No he can’t. He said it himself, he didn’t want to get marry. Not only that, Ran-chan and Akane were always fighting and insult each other. I know he doesn’t love her. He just can’t. I’m the cute fiance. I know he loves me more, he just have to.

[Silent pause.]

Ukyou: [determine] I know, I’ll go and ask him. I’ll tell him that I love him and then he tell me that he loves me also. [dream like] Oh, and then we can get marry and live happily ever after.

Ukyou: [evil grin] I’ll do just that. Then he’ll leave Akane and stay here with me. [looks at her grill] Now, all I have to do is see him tomorrow at lunch and give him a special okonomiyaki.

[Ukyou smiles gleefully as she makes plan for her encounter with Ranma tomorrow.]

__________________________________________________________________

[The scene changes to Nekohaten.]

Shampoo: [delightfull] Shampoo makes special ramen for husband. Then, Ranma marry Shampoo. Shampoo happy!

[Mousse looks on from behind the counter as Shampoo prepare her food for Ranma.]

Mousse: What are you doing Shampoo?

Shampoo: Stupid Mousse. Shampoo make ramen for husband. Husband be happy.

Mousse: Even after what you did to them?

Shampoo: Hai. Shampoo did what husband want. Husband no want marry violent girl.

Mousse: I think you’re wrong Shampoo.

Shampoo: Stupid Mousse. Shampoo not wrong. You see. Tomorrow, husband be Shampoo.

[Mousse shakes his head disapprovingly knowing that Shampoo will not like Ranma reaction. He has seen Ranma a few times since return from Jusendo and knows the fight against Saffron had changed him. He also hopes that Ranma rejection will make Shampoo realize it was useless.]

[Cologne is watching Shampoo and Mousse. She didn’t like what Shampoo did at the wedding, but thought that it might help Shampoo learns something from it. It seems that was not the case. She had been watching son-in-law carefully the last few days and notices something in his chi. She knew that son-in-law was powerful and wanted him to marry her great granddaughter in order to strengthen the Amazon. After hearing story from Mousse and Shampoo about Jusendo, she didn’t realize how power son-in-law is. She is beginning to worry. Even more when she watch son-in-law in the last few days. What she felt from son-in-law scares her and that’s something she had not felt for as long as she can remember. She could feel son-in-law power building and his chi changing and growing at an outstanding rate. Even though it was only momentarily, it was enough. She knew son-in-land had the talent to learn very quickly and would eventually harness that power. The question is who will be at the receiving end if he’s force to use it.]

[Looking back at Shampoo. Cologne knew that her great granddaughter had already. She knew that son-in-law will rejects her. The critical moment will be on how Shampoo plans to do afterward. Hopefully she will understand and accept her failure. I hope for your safety child.]

[Cologne needs to make her own plans and accept her own failure in this. It’s not going to be easy. She had not live this long to start taking unnecessary risks. She needs to contact the council and discuss matters with them. I don’t like to leave at a time like this, but I’ll have to trust that things will work for the best in this case.]

Cologne: Great granddaughter.

Shampoo: Yes great grandmother.

Cologne: I have some urgent matter to attend to. I will be gone for the next several days. If everything goes well, I shall returns in ten days. In the mean time, I need you to take care of the restaurant.

Shampoo: Yes, great grandmother.

Cologne: [she notice the sad expression on Shampoo face and knew that if she has to take care of the restaurant, she would not be able to care out her plan.] [thinks] Should I allow her to go one last time? [speaks] Great granddaughter. Be careful with son-in-law. You are still young and must learn that there are some battle that you can not win.

[Shampoo looks at Cologne with wide eyes.]

Cologne: As a warrior, you must learn to choose your fight carefully or you might die carelessly.

Shampoo: Shampoo understand great grandmother.

Cologne: Very good. I shall be leaving later today.

[Cologne hops always to her room. Shampoo stands there pondering what her great grandmother had just told her. This disturbed her very much. She could feel a shiver runs down her spine.]

[Mousse overheard the conversation and is even more worry about Shampoo. He knew Shampoo would not go against her great grandmother word, but Cologne did not command Shampoo to do anything. Is this a test? Maybe. Maybe Cologne knew what will happen already and allow Shampoo to find out on her own.]

Mousse: [thinks] I hope you know what you’re doing Shampoo. Looks like I’ll have to watch over you even more now to make sure you don’t do anything rash.

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

[Back to the park with Ranma and Akane.]

[Ranma has not move in the last few hours since we saw him. Akane is still by his side waiting for him to talk.]

Ranma: [inside his meditation] I’m slowly loosing control. I can feel it. Even since Saffron, I beginning to feel something inside emerging. Something powerful. I’m not sure what it is, but it’s not something I’ve felt before. No, that’s wrong. I felt something similar when I fought Saffron, yet a little different. When I thought I was too late and Akane was going to die, I felt this energy, this power building stronger every second as I fought against Saffron. At the time, I didn’t think much about and ignore it. Akane. I really thought I lost you then. I haven’t realized how much you mean to me. I just wish I could tell how I feel, how much I care for you, and how much I love you. The thought of losing you killed me. I don’t want to lose you. But it seems that the longer I’m around you, the more you’re endangered. In the past year alone, how many times have your life being endanger? How many times have you been attacked because of me? How many? Too many to avoid. What about the future? What about the next time? What if the next time is the last time? No! I can’t think like that. I won’t let anything hurt you, I promise. Even if I have to die or …kill. Kill? Can I do that again? Can I willing kill someone again? To keep you safe? Yes. Yes, I will. Then why do I feel so bad about killing Saffron? He was reborn. He’s alive, a child, but still alive.]

[Ranma recalls the battle against Saffron and what he had to do to reach Akane.]

[I wonder if that fight triggered something inside me? I could feel it growing everyday. Little by little, nonetheless, growing steadily. So far I have been able to keep it under control. But during that wedding day, I almost lost control. Maybe it was a good thing I loss conscience from all those explosions. Speaking of which, I will have to talk with some people regarding it. Naming Shampoo, Kuno, Kodochi, and even Ukyou.]

[She certainly was pretty in the wedding dress. I thought I would be happy that I’m not marry, but looking back, I wouldn’t mind it one bit. I bet she’s still angry at me. Probably thinks I’m with Ucchan. Heheh. I wish she would trust me more and listen to me before she decides to hit with that mallet of her. I still don’t know where she gets that mallet though. I wonder. Could it be? It’s possible. It’s the best explanation I could think of. Maybe I should ask her about it. She probably doesn’t know how. [laughs inwardly] She’s such a klutz. Still, she’s my klutz. [smiles]

[I wonder what time it is? It should be about lunchtime or maybe a little bit afterward.]

[Outside of Ranma’s head]

[Akane is still sitting and waiting patiently. Amazing. She glances at Ranma every so often to see if there are any changes.]

[Akane’s stomach growling]

Akane: [thinks] I forgot how long I’ve been out here. That baka. How can he just sit there for several hours and not notice me. Baka.]

[Ranma hears stomach growling.}

Ranma: [thinks] Was that my stomach? It didn’t feel like it. Oh well, I should get home anyway. The others might be worry. [hears stomach growl again.] [smiles] I felt that one. I better get something to eat.

[Akane hears Ranma growl and turns to look at him. She sees a small smiles and giggles.]

Akane: [thinks] Well, it’s about time. [turns and sit on her knees in front of Ranma waiting for him to recognize her.

[Ranma opens his eyes.]

blinks blinks

Ranma: [startled] Arghhhh… [falls down on his back.]

[Akane is giggling visibly which quickly turns into a laugh.]

Ranma: [stuttering] A…Akane!

[Akane is still laughing.]

Ranma: [mad] What ya do that for?!?! What ya laughing at?

Akane: [laughing more softly] You of course. You…you…[laughs] should have seen your face.

Ranma: [upset] Stop Laughing ‘re ready will ya!

[Ranma wasn’t happy to see Akane laughing at him like that.]

Ranma: [angry] Well…At least I’m not…[watches Akane happy expression and could help but thinks] kawii. [mutter quietly] tomboy.

[Ranma just watch Akane laughs for a little bit and start laughing when he heard Akane’s stomach growl very audibly.]

[Akane stops momentarily when she saw Ranma laughing along with her and couldn’t help feeling very happy to hear him laugh like that.]

Akane: [stops laughing and smile] Ranma, are you ok?

Ranma: [stops laughing] Yeah, Why do you ask?

Akane: [concern] Well, I don’t know…but you have been acting differently, strange even, since we got back from china. Is there something wrong?

Ranma: [gives her a weak smiles, not wanting her to worry about it] It’s nothing Akane, I’m fine.

Akane: [still not sure] Are you sure?

Ranma: Yeah. Don’t worry about it. There’s nothing a tomboy likes you to worry about. [thinks] Oopppsss.

Akane: [getting angry] What’s that suppose to mean, you pervert?

Ranma: [Defensively on reflect] Like I said, there’s nothing a stupid tomboy like you to worry about!

Akane: [hurt, near tears] Fine. Here I was worry about a stupid baka like you. [turns away] If that’s how you feel, I’ll just go somewhere else. Go to your other fiance for all I care. [small tears now flows down her face.]

[Akane begins to walk away. Ranma seeing the hurt in her eyes and curse himself.]

Ranma: [thinks] Damn…I promised not to hurt her and what’s the first thing I do, I insult her.

[Before Akane could like a step, she felt a strong hand on her shoulder. She stops and wait for Ranma to say something, but stay turn away from him.]

Ranma: [nervous, but determine] Akane…I’m…sorry. I didn’t mean what I said. I just reacted and said things I shouldn’t have. I’m really sorry.

[Hearing the sincerity in his voice, Akane turns around and looks into Ranma eyes. She could see that he meant it and was really sorry. She also saw a sadness in it.]

Akane: [softly] Ranma…I’m sorry too.

Ranma: [confused and stunned] For what? [He didn’t know why she was sorry, it was always his fault. This was strange for him to hear Akane apologize.]

Akane: For over reacting. [moves closer to him and put her head on his chest] Ranma, please…please let me help. I promise that I’ll listen and try not to get mad. I promise.

[Ranma was shocked when Akane lean against him, but recover quickly at her concern voice.]

Ranma: [nervously] Thank you…Akane. I like that. [Stomach growl]

Akane: [giggles] Do you want to get something to eat?

Ranma: Sure.

[Akane moves away from Ranma, both blushing a shade of red, and the two walks out of the park and head toward a restaurant near by. It’s a hamburger stand. They quickly brought burgers and fries and sat under a tree nearby.]

Akane: [eating] Ranma, do you want to tell me what wrong?

[Not knowing how to explain and not sure if Akane to could help him with the problem, he kept quiet.]

Ranma: [unsure of himself] It’s something I’ve been thinking about, but…but I’m just not sure how to explain it. I don’t quite sure I understand it myself.

[After a few minutes.]

Akane: [concern] Ranma, if you don’t want to talk about it, it’s ok. Just promise me that you’ll come talk to me when you feel like it.

[Ranma’s still silent.]

Akane: Ranma…. promise me please?

Ranma: [reluctantly] Sure Akane. I…promise.

Akane: [smiles] Good, you can buy to some ice cream next.

Ranma: [muttering under his voice] Heh? Stupid tomboy.

[Akane just smiles and giggles softly as she runs ahead and turns around waiting for Ranma to catch up.]

Ranma: [thinks] Not cute. [smiles back.] Beautiful.

[The scenes fades away.]

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