RANKO ½ --------- Volume 3 "Mothers" Part 27: "Who is this woman?" Akane is walking down a shopping street in the town, window shopping. She is standing before a clothier's shop and admiring a beautiful, but expensive dress, when a reflection in the glass catches her eye. It looks like Ranko's face, seen among the many other pedestrians, that hurry down the street. Akane: [thinks] Oh, what's Ranko doing here? [turns, out loud] Hey, Ra... She stops in mid-word, when she realizes that the face she saw is not Ranko's. It belongs to a beautiful middle-aged woman, who is standing on the other side of the street, in conversation with a street vendor. She seems to be asking for directions or something like that. Akane looks more closely at her. Akane: [thinks] Well... She certainly *looks* a lot like Ranko, But she's older than her. Tsk. Good that I didn't call out. She looks at the stranger for a while, then turns back to the window and resumes her shopping. ~*~ Some time later, Akane arrives back at the Tendou home, with her shopping basket filled. Akane: Tadaima! Kasumi: [from the living room] Welcome home, Akane. Ranko: [coming downstairs] Hi, Akane! Akane: Hi, Ranko! [laughs] Ha, that reminds me. You'll never guess what happened to me today. Ranko: Somebody annoyed you and you *didn't* beat them halfway to death? Akane: [slaps her over the head] Baka, I'm serious. They walk into the living room together, where Genma is sitting in the corner, playing Shogi against himself - he appears to be losing, but it's hard to determine with both sides cheating so much. Akane: I was looking at a display in a shop window and suddenly I thought I saw your face reflected in the glass. Ranko: Nah, can't be. I was here all the time. Akane: I know, but I *thought* it was you and turned. I almost called out your name. [giggles] I was so embarrassed, when I saw in the last moment, that it wasn't you at all. It was a woman of... Father's age, perhaps. She just *looked* completely like you, only that her hair wasn't braided in a pigtail but at the back of her head. She was carrying a long bundle and asking someone for directions. Ranko: [pats her shoulder] Perhaps you should consider buying glasses, if you start to confuse me with older women. Akane: [punches Ranko playfully] Perhaps *you* should consider buying beauty cream, if you start to resemble older women. They continue their friendly bickering. Neither of them notice that Genma jumped up when he heard Akane's description of the woman. He is pressing himself against the wall, as if he fears someone storming in at any second. Quickly he runs back through the door, and to the guest room. Kasumi comes in with a tray of tea. Kasumi: Mr. Saotome, I've made you some tea... Oh, where is he? Akane: Hmm? Oh, I thought he was sitting there. I didn't see him leave. Ranko leans over to her, so that only Akane can hear her. Ranko: [whispering] Glasses! Akane punches her a little harder this time. Ranko: Ouch! [rubs her arm] Did I hit a nerve? Akane raises her fist threateningly. Akane: Funny that you should mention "hitting"... Ranko: [cowers in played fear] No, Akane! Help! Kasumi lightly embraces her little sister from behind in a motherly way. She knows this game by heart. Kasumi: Why can't you two be less rough on each other? Fiancées should be gentle. Ranko & Akane: [groan] We're not fiancées! Nabiki is coming in on her way into the kitchen and has heard their last sentence. She grins mischievously. Nabiki: [teasingly] Oooh, I wonder how much Kunou-chan will pay for that piece of information? He'll love to hear that you are both free. Ranko: [snorts] Not that our "engagement" ever hindered him from proposing to us. If the choice is either Kunou or Akane, I think I'll go with our fathers' plan. Akane may be a tomboy, but at least she doesn't think that affection is best shown by violence. Akane: [whacks her] Who's a tomboy?! Ranko: [rubs her head] Urrh... I think I'll take back that last sentence. Kasumi prepares to break up a brawl between the two, but it never happens. Before Ranma and Akane can begin exchanging blows, Genma comes barging in and splashes Ranko with a bucket of water. After she changes, Ranma turns towards him. Ranma: Oi, what're you up to? Genma: Take your bundle, son. We have to go on a trip. He is carrying two traveling sacks, one of which he is handing to Ranma. Ranma crosses his arms. Ranma: What's with the sudden hurry? Have you done something again? Genma: [presses the bundle to Ranma] We have to go! Nodoka is in town! Ranma: Oh. [reluctantly takes the sack] She found us again, eh? Akane is astonished. Akane: You're going with him?! Who is this "Nodoka" person that he is so afraid of? Genma: Nobody! Let's go. Genma tries to pull Ranma after him, but the boy just punches him in the head. His father flies out of the room into the garden, and Ranma turns to Akane. He scratches his head. Ranma: Um, well. On our travels and training trips, we've always been followed by this woman: Nodoka. She's after us for some reason. [leans nearer] I've never gotten much info out of Pop, but as far as I know it's a matter of family honor. [snorts] I guess that Pop is really the guilty party in that conflict, but he says that I am in as much danger as he is. And he's always been honest about *that* at least. Anyway, I wouldn't want to see him hurt, either. Akane: [looks at him curiously] And so you always ran with him. How long has this been going on? Ranma: [scratches his head again] I dunno. Hmm, the earliest time I can remember was ten years back. I remember it because I was just becoming friends with a local boy and suddenly Pop came and said we had to leave. I was just six and pretty upset, so he told me a little and we went off. I imagine that it has been going on for longer, though. Akane: And who is this woman? What does she look like? Ranma: I have no idea. Pop always hid me, when she found us out, and disguised himself. Flashback to Ranko's childhood. A scared-looking Genma is pushing a small two-wheeled cart with a large wicker basket on it. He is wearing a large, round straw hat and a cloak. He pulls the hat deep down over his face and keeps his eyes to the ground, as he passes a figure coming the other way. Inside the basket sits little Ranko, no more than seven or eight years old. She is peering out and can vaguely see a shadowy female figure that strides down the street, carrying something in her hand. Slowly the figure vanishes from Ranko's field of vision. Flashback ends Ranma: He's pretty scared, I can tell, so she must be very dangerous. Genma comes in, dripping wet and in panda form. He holds up a sign. Genma: [signs] You bet she is! Now take your bundle and scram! Ranma shoulders his bundle and gets ready. Ranma: Bye, Akane - I'll come back as soon as possible. Give Kunou a kick from me. [smiles] Akane: Wait! *Where* are you going? Just in that moment Souun enters the living room. He overhears Akane's question and sees Ranma and Genma in traveling gear. Souun: Going? You are leaving us, Saotome-kun? Akane: [pointing to Genma] He says they must run because some woman called Nodoka is looking for them! Souun: Ah, Nodoka. I remember... Genma: [energetically waving a sign] Shhhhhh!! Souun: [ignoring Genma's sign] Say, Genma my old friend... Genma is repeatedly whacking Souun on the head with a sign, desperately trying to stop him. Genma: [signs] Shut up! Shutupshutupshutup!! Souun: [continues unabashed] ... is your wife still as beautiful as she was, sixteen years ago? Genma freezes and anxiously looks over to Ranma, who is also frozen. Slowly - *very* slowly - Ranma turns to look at his father. Ranma: [emotionless] Your wife? [pause] For all these years we have been running... from my own *mother*? Genma: [sweating, thinks] Uh-oh! -- End of Part 27 Part 28: "A very special young man" The birds in the sky above Nerima are disturbed in their tranquil gliding by a strange flying object. It is Saotome Genma in his human form. The bruises all over his body and the expression on his equally bruised face indicate that his flight is not voluntary. He is battered and near unconscious. Voice: Hey, Old man! I'm not done with you, yet! Another person flies after the battered martial artist. It is Ranma, who has jumped to follow his arc. Ranma: Lyin' to me all these years! I'll show you! ~*~ In the garden behind the Tendou Dojo, Akane watches the two tiny specks arc back and forth across the Nerima skyline. She shakes her head and turns. She is on her way back into the house, when she sees a woman politely peering in through the gate, waiting to be noticed. Akane walks up to her. Akane: [thinks] Oh. It's the woman I saw in town today. [out loud] Yes? How can I help you? Woman: This is the Tendou Dojo? Akane: So it is. Woman: Well... I was told that I could find Saotome Genma and his child living here. I am Saotome Nodoka. Akane: [thinks] *She* is Nodoka?! [out loud] Uh, uh, err... Why... Why don't you come in? ~*~ The Tendou sisters, their father and Nodoka are sitting around the living room table, enjoying Kasumi's tea. Nodoka is still carrying the long bundle with her. Nodoka: So they *are* living here? Souun: They are. Unfortunately, though, they have just left on a training trip. Nodoka: A training trip? Akane: [looks at Souun, thinks] What is he talking about? Why is he protecting uncle Saotome? Souun: Yes, they do that sometimes. Often, even. The martial arts are a very demanding profession. Ha ha ha... Nodoka: I was a little confused, when I heard that my husband was living here. Some people were telling me he had a daughter, some were telling of a son. I wondered whether it was really my Genma. Souun is sweating. Nabiki, seeing his distress, jumps to his help. Nabiki: Oh, perhaps these people were thinking of our guest *Ranma*. The name is not so different from "Ranko", perhaps they confused that. Nodoka: Oh, there is another member of the household? Akane: Yes, but he is... [looks out of the window] Um, out. Nabiki: He might be back at any time, though. [grins] He is Akane's fiancé. Akane: [jumps up] He's not! Nodoka: [smiles at her] My, so young and already you are engaged. I'm sure he is a very special young man. Akane: [sits down again] "Special" doesn't even begin to describe it. And we're *not* engaged. Nodoka just smiles again at that, not at all unlike Kasumi does so often. She readjusts the long bundle that is lying across her legs. Akane sees her motherly charm and wonders. Akane: [thinks] What is uncle Saotome so afraid of? She is a very nice person - I wonder how she ever got stuck with a husband like him. [out loud] You haven't seen Ranko and your husband in a long time, Mrs. Saotome. What do you plan to do when you finally meet them. Nodoka: [sighs] I am a bit angry with my husband. He did not consult me, when he took Ranko on his "travels". Silence falls as the implications of this information sink in. Only the soft of the wind-chime can be heard. Akane: [thinks] He *kidnapped* Ranko from her own mother and kept running from her for 16 years?! Nodoka: [continues] So, when I meet them, I want to make sure first, that he has not been a bad influence on my little girl. Alas, I fear that he has. Nodoka looks down sadly. Akane, thinking of Ranko's normal behavior, sweats. Akane: A... and if it turns out that he *has* been a bad influence? Nodoka: Oh, for that eventuality I always carry this with me. [pats the bundle] Nabiki: So... What is it? Instead of telling, Nodoka loosens the cord around the bundle, unwraps it and reveals... Kasumi: Oh my! Akane: [gasps] A katana?! Nodoka unsheathes the sword and holds it up to gleam in the light. Then, in one fluid motion, she puts it back in it's sheath and rewraps it. Nodoka: [as if nothing happened] So, when do you think the two will be back? Nabiki, Akane and Souun go into shock position. ~*~ Later that day, Ranma returns, dragging an unconscious Genma in Panda form behind him. Before he can enter the house, he is stopped by Akane, who gestures at him to come into the practice hall instead. Ranma frowns, wondering, but approaches her. Akane: [whispering] Come on! Come in here. Ranma: What's up, Akane. Akane looks at him for a moment, considering how best to tell him, but then she just bursts out. Akane: Your mother is here. Ranma: [astonished, happy] She is? That's wonderful! Akane: Wait till you hear the whole story. Your father was not completely wrong to fear his wife. Apparently he just took you away from her and ran, when you were a baby, and she has been hunting him ever since. She says that her main concern is whether he had a bad influence on you - and she's carrying a katana with her, in case he did! Ranma gapes at her in shock, his mind reeling. Apparently this is all too much for him to comprehend at once. He steadies himself with one hand against the wall and shakes his head a few times. Ranma: You- you mean she'd- if I- Knowing that he isn't able to make a rational decision at the moment, he desperately looks at Akane for advice. Ranma: [wretchedly] What should I do? Akane: [takes a deep breath] Stay in your cursed form. Father said that you and your father were away on a training trip, and Nabiki said we had another houseguest named Ranma. That way we can talk to your mother and find out whether you can safely meet her. Ranma thankfully grasps her hand and squeezes it. Ranma: Thanks, Akane. I don't know what I'd do without you. Akane: Be engaged to Nabiki, for one thing. Ranma: Eeep. ~*~ Ranma and Akane walk into the house through the back entrance. Kasumi is tidying the living room; the others have left. Akane looks left and right, then asks Kasumi. Akane: Where is everybody? We're looking for Ran... Ran*ko*'s mother. Did she go already? Kasumi: No, she's still here. I think she is in the guest room, where Ranma and uncle Saotome sleep. Akane and Ranma look at each other. ~*~ In the guest room, They find Nodoka kneeling on Ranma's futon. A few of Ranma's clothes are spread before her, and she seems to be contemplating them. The children cautiously come in. Akane: Um. Mrs. Saotome? Nodoka looks up at them an motions them in with a smile. Nodoka: Ah, come in Akane-chan. This must be your fiancé Ranma. My, you really *are* a fine young man - What is your family name? But Ranma's mouth just opens and closes silently, as he gapes at Nodoka. Akane, realizing that he is out for the count, jumps in. Akane: Um... Kunou! Kunou Ranma. *That* snaps Ranma out of it. He turns to stare at Akane, who ignores him. Nodoka: That's nice; a nice old name. How are you getting along? Akane: [changes topics] Err, Mrs. Saotome, what are you doing here? [points at the clothes] Nodoka: Oh, I am just looking at the belongings of my husband and daughter. Does she really wear these things? She waves at the Chinese-style outfits that Ranko so loves to wear. She doesn't give the impression that she likes them very much. Ranma: Hey, what's wrong with them? Nodoka looks at Ranma, noticing that he wears a similar outfit. She smiles. Nodoka: Oh, there's nothing wrong with them for you, Ranma-kun. But you are a boy; don't you think that they would be a little... tomboyish on a girl? Akane: Now, Mrs. Saotome, that's a little too harsh. These look well on boys *and* girls. [thinks] That's why she wears them, after all. [out loud] I wouldn't call them tomboyish. Nodoka smiles bemused; Ranma looks at Akane, sweating. Ranma: [thinks] Coming from a tomboy like her, that's not very convincing. [out loud] I guess... err, I guess that Ranko took her prettier clothes with her on the training trip. Nodoka: Ah, yes. That makes sense. Akane: [thinks] It does? Nodoka seems relieved by the thought, and both Ranma and Akane are a bit nervous. Akane: So, Mrs. Saotome, where are you staying? Is it far from here? [thinks] It's getting late already. She will probably leave soon. Nodoka: When I heard that my husband had returned to Tokyo, I moved back into our old home. It has become a little dusty over the years, but it will soon be as good as new. Thank you for your concern, Akane-chan. But I won't return there before tomorrow - your father graciously allowed me to stay here for the night and use the guest room, where they sleep. Isn't that *nice* of him? Ranma pales and Akane sweats, but she manages to answer. Akane: Yes, that's nice. To have you in the house and all... Um, bye, Mrs. Saotome. Hastily, the two leave Ranma's mother behind. As soon as they're out of sight, Ranma grabs Akane's arm and pulls her into a corner. He glares at her. Ranma: "*Kunou* Ranma"?! Akane stifles a giggle. Akane: I'm sorry, Ranma, but the name just popped up. I mean, she was thinking we are a couple so it was kind of natural to think of Kunou, the way he is always after me. Ranma: But we're *not* a couple! Akane: I think you'd better not let your mother hear that - She might decide to *make* us one. She strikes me as someone who "helps" others like that. Ranma: Urk. ~*~ Souun: Yes, ha ha ha, I told her to stay for the night. Ranma and Akane have cornered her father in the hall. They do not look amused. Nabiki, sensing impending entertainment, has joined the group and watches gleefully. Ranma: And would you be so kind to tell me where *I* am going to sleep now? Souun: [surprised] Why, in Akane's room, of course. I told Nodoka that it would be no problem for you - you are fiancées, after all. Ha ha ha. Ranma and Akane go into shock position. Nabiki chortles - this is going to be good. Ranma & Akane: Nani?! Ranma: In Akane's... But I- I couldn't possibly... Akane: Father! What were you *thinking* of? Nabiki: [slightly derisive] What's your *problem*, sis? We all know "Ranma's"... [looks around conspiratively] *true* nature. So what are you so afraid of? It's not as if he's going to jump at you in the night. Ranma looks at Souun with death in his eyes. Ranma: I'm certainly thinking of jumping at *somebody*. But Nabiki has judged her sister correctly - Akane looks up at Nabiki defiantly. Akane: Afraid? Who says I'm afraid? I'm *not*! [grabs Ranma] Come on! She stomps off to her room, with Ranma in tow. Nabiki looks after them with a wide grin; Souun slumps against the wall, relieved. Souun: Nabiki, my daughter. You have just saved your father from certain doom. How can I ever repay you? Nabiki turns to him. Her eyes take on a calculating look. Nabiki: Well... ~*~ In Akane's room, Ranma and Akane get ready for the night in uncomfortable silence. Ranma is unrolling a spare futon mattress on the floor. Finally, he turns towards Akane. Ranma: Akane... You don't have to do this. I know that it's bothering for you, with me in my male form and all. I could just as well sleep in the Dojo, if you prefer. Akane: Well, it *is* bothering... Ranma turns to gather up his mattress again, but Akane stops him. She continues. Akane: ...but it's *okay*. For tonight. She smiles back, as Ranma breaks out in a relieved, happy smile. Akane: [silently to herself] Until tomorrow it's okay. ~*~ The room is dark, and the two teenagers are lying on their respective beds, still awake, but on their way to sleep. Suddenly a noise pulls them out of their rest. Silently they look at each other, trying to figure out what it was and where it came from. Another noise occurs, and both realize that it's coming from the wardrobe. Without a sound, Ranma stands up and sneaks over to the mirrored doors of the wardrobe. He puts one hand on the sliding door, while pulling the other hand back. Suddenly, within a split second he has shifted the door open and delivered a mighty punch to whoever lurks in the darkness behind it. His fist connects, and Ranma steps aside, as a body slowly falls forward out of the wardrobe. Akane turns on the light, and both she and Ranma go wide-eyed, when they recognize who it is that lies on the ground before them. Ranma: Pop?! What are you doing in Akane's wardrobe? ~*~ -- End of Part 28 Part 29: "One day..." Akane and Ranma stand before Genma, who is lying on the floor in Akane's room. He is just regaining consciousness after Ranma's killer punch. Akane is fuming; half because of his intrusion into her room, half because of what they found out about him today. Akane: [kicks him in the ribs] Kidnapper! Enemy of all women! Ranma reaches out and holds her back by the shoulder. Ranma: Excuse me, but he's *also* my father. Akane: Oh. [looks to the ground] Sorry Ranma. She takes a step back, and Ranma stands between her and Genma. Ranma: It should be *me*, doing this. [kicks Genma in the ribs] Kidnapper! Enemy of all women! Genma groans and raises his arm. He is able to block Ranma's next kick, and Ranma stops. Genma: Stop it, son. We're in this together. Ranma: Oh no! You're on your own, old man. Genma: [points at him] It is *your* fault that she found us - now *you* hide me. Akane: He can't hide you. He is hiding himself, already. Ranma: Wait a moment - *my* fault?! Genma: Of course. All these years we could evade her because she never thought to ask for a man and a *boy*. But since we've come here you've been spending more and more time in girl form - you even wear dresses! Ranma: Only when all my own stuff is in the laundry! Akane: Ranko... You don't have to explain yourself for acting like a girl. Ranma: [embarrassed] Um... Genma: [pushes himself up on his elbows] Listen to me, Ranma. You may think about me and my actions what you want, but believe me: You have every reason to fear your mother. Ranma and Akane look down at him with folded arms, sceptically. Genma: It's true! She was... *is* obsessed with her views of what a girl should be like. She wouldn't let you do anything that she thought of as "boyish" - and that's pretty much everything besides cooking and looking pretty. Your whole life would have been pre-planned by her, and I tried to save you in the only way I could think of. Ranma: [sarcastically] In other words: She wouldn't let *you* plan my life, and didn't like you teaching me martial arts, so you kidnapped me and lied to me for fifteen years. Thanks ever so much. [grins] I think we'll have a little family reunion, right now. He grabs Genma by the lapels and begins to drag him to the door, but amazingly the old man manages to take his arm and flip him on his back. Taken by surprise, Ranma is pinned by his father. Genma has a panicked look in his eyes. Obviously his sudden feat is fueled by mortal fear. Genma: Don't! She has a very radical sense of honor, and she will likely kill *both* of us, when she finds out about the life you lead and... your curse. Oh, she'll *call* it Seppuku - to restore our honor, but it will be *her* hand on the blade. *Please* don't do anything hasty. Angrily Ranma throws his father off. Ranma: [sarcastically] Oh sure, I'll believe you. I mean, I just found out that you've been lying to me all my life - why shouldn't I trust you? He prepares to grab Genma again, when suddenly Akane's hand clasps his shoulder and holds him back. Ranma wants to turn to her, but she holds him, facing his father. Softly she speaks. Akane: Look at his eyes, Ranma. He is certainly very, very afraid. I think he's telling the truth now... at least some of it. Battling with his anger, Ranma stares down at his father with fists clenched, while the latter looks up at Akane thankfully. Akane: We wanted to do this slowly anyway. This *is* a delicate matter, so we'd best not rush it. Slowly Ranma lets out his breath and agrees, to Genma's relief. Ranma: O-o-okay, Akane, maybe you're right. You're off the hook, Pop. For now. Genma: [eagerly] So you'll let me hide here? ~*~ Souun Tendou wakes in his room to the sound of wood splintering. Suddenly there is something heavy lying on him, but its shape is hidden by the dark. Then he hears a familiar voice. Genma: [moans] Well, it was worth a try. [slumps unconscious] Souun: Saotome-kun, is that you? Pinned by the other man's weight, he turns his head left and right. There is moonlight filtering in through a large ragged hole in the wall. Souun: There's a hole in my bedroom wall. [tries to sit up] Ooof. Say, Genma, my old friend, could you move a bit? You are kind of heavy, ha ha ha! Genma does not react. ~*~ The morning light is shining through the kitchen window, and Kasumi is humming her little song while preparing breakfast when she sees a rather ragged and gaunt-looking Souun stumble into the living room. She rushes to his side. Kasumi: Why, father, you don't look so well this morning. Souun steadies himself, holding her arms. Souun: Kasumi... Daughter, could you do me a favour? Please stop making extra large portions of your meals for my friend Saotome. Kasumi: Oh. But uncle Saotome so likes to eat. Souun: [winces] I know. Akane and Ranma enter the room. Ranma looks around cautiously. Akane: Good morning, Kasumi, Father. Kasumi: Good morning, Akane. Hello, Ranma. What are you looking for? Your mo... Akane: [interrupting] Uh, yes, we're looking for *Ranko's* mother. Is she still sleeping? Kasumi: Oh no, she has been up for quite some time. She even offered to help me in the kitchen. Akane: [to Ranma] Hmmm, she'll be back in the guest room, then. ~*~ In the guest room, Akane and Ranma are sitting, facing Nodoka. Ranma is a little nervous, but Akane and Nodoka smile. Nodoka: Thank you, children, for your kind offer. I really appreciate any information about Ranko you can give me. Akane: It's all our pleasure, Mrs. Saotome. [thinks] After all, we want to find out whether Ranma's father was right about you, or if Ranko can safely see you. [out loud] Is there anything specific you want to know? Nodoka: Well... You see, I have never really had a chance to spend any time with my daughter. My husband took her on his trip, when she was still a little toddler. I never got to talk with her about what it means to be a girl, as is a mother's duty. My husband did not quite agree with my views about how a girl should behave, you see. So, what I *really* want to know is what kind of person Ranko is. All these years spent with my husband alone... I have always feared what kind of influence he would have on her young mind. The glittering in her eyes does not escape Akane. Akane: [thinks] Tears...? But Nodoka blinks and continues. Nodoka: My daughter's honor is what is most important to me. When she was so little, my husband talked about how he was going to train her in martial arts - I abhorred the thought. Girls should not fight, brawling like men. How could a man ever want to marry a girl who is fighting all the time? No, I would never have allowed it. As she shakes her head, Akane pushes Ranma's side. When he looks at her, she speaks up. Akane: Well, Ranma, why don't you say something? How about if you tell Mrs. Saotome a bit about her daughter? [thinks] Come on, tell her something to reassure her. Nodoka looks at him expectantly. Nervously he clears his throat. Ranma: Uh, well. Ranko... She- She is the best martial artist I know. Um. I remember, when she arrived here, she sparred with Akane and won. Akane was pretty upset. Akane looks ready to interrupt, but swallows her protests in face of Nodoka's eager face. Ranma: Um, that's because Akane is a real good martial artist, too. She fought off dozens of pushy boys every morning until Ranko appeared. After that, they stopped attacking Akane, 'cause they knew they don't stand a chance against Ranko. He pauses self-consciously. This obviously isn't easy for him - it feels so much like bragging, and he doesn't think he has much to brag about in any case. Ranma: Still, even with all the guys afraid of her, there's hardly a day where she doesn't get into a kind of fight with all *kinds* of people. I mean, it's not as if it's m- her fault that she gets so many challenges. At least most of the fights are over pretty fast, when the opponent is weaker than her. [small voice] I guess she's not exactly what you wished for in a daughter. Ranma's head has slowly dropped, while he spoke, and he is looking to the ground. Therefore he does not notice that the tears in Nodoka's eyes are very much visible by now. Akane sees them and looks at him in disbelief. Akane: [sternly] Ranma. Ranma: [looks up] Akane? Completely flabbergasted, Ranma holds his cheek, where Akane's hand landed. The slap was more loud than hard, but Ranma is deeply shaken by it. Akane: [turns to Nodoka] Mrs. Saotome, don't listen to a word of this *stupid Baka*. Sometimes I have no idea why I put up with him. [shoots Ranma a look] He managed to get everything about Ranko completely wrong. Ranma, seeing his mother's tears, gulps heavily. He looks over at Akane, who has taken up the reins now. Akane: Yes, it's true, Ranko gets into fights a lot, but she never picks on the weak; she *protects* them. And she fights for honor, too: for example, there is this boy, Ku... um, Tatewaki, who has been harassing me for the longest time. She has taken it as her duty to drive him off, whenever he shows himself - I rarely ever have to deal with him anymore. Then there was a girl, who was after Ranma as her boyfriend, and wanted to, um, get me out of the way. She attacked me more than once, and if it wasn't for Ranko, she would have succeeded, too. Just a little time ago, I was chosen to represent our school in a martial arts match, and the other school's champion tried to disqualify me before the match, by dishonorable means. She succeeded, and I thought I had to give up, when Ranko jumped in. She had no training for that match, but she stood up to uphold the honor of our school, and avenge the other girl's dishonesty. And she managed to do it, too. When we are at school, she is constantly helping others in dozens of little ways; whenever somebody is bullied or mistreated, you can count on Ranko to intervene. I won't deny that her father was a bad influence in some ways, but I *know* that Ranko never took his strange values to heart. She is honorable, and I am honored to know her. Resolutely, Akane ends her speech. Nodoka's eyes are still tear-filled, but her expression is one of happiness. Ranma's face just shows astonishment. Blinking, and surreptitiously wiping her tears, Nodoka speaks up. Nodoka: Oh Akane, I am so happy to hear this. [takes Akane's hands] If Ranko has a friend like you, to argue for her in this way, she *must* be a good person. A look of sadness creeps into her eyes. Nodoka: Still... you two talk about conflicts and fighting. It is all well to fight for honor - but a girl should not be fighting at all! I fear that my husband's influence has indeed tainted my poor daughter in a way. Unconsciously, she touches the handle of her katana - a movement, that does not escape the two teenagers. But then she perks up. Nodoka: But that doesn't matter. After all, behavior isn't everything - it can always be corrected. At least he can't make her into a *real* boy. Nodoka smiles at them. Ranma gulps. Akane: A-heh. No, of course not. [sweats] It's been so *nice*, talking with you. I hope you don't mind us, if we're off? Nodoka: Oh no, dears, it was awfully nice of you to bear with me and tell me what you know of Ranko. I have kept you for long enough, now; I expect that two young fiancées have something better to do. She smiles at them, oblivious to the reaction that the word "fiancées" evokes. Akane takes Ranma's arm, pulls him up, and they walk out of the room; slowly at first, then breaking into a run, as soon as they're out of sight. ~*~ Inside the practice hall, Ranma stops and flattens himself against the wall, waiting for Akane to do the same. When she does, they begin to talk. Ranma: [hisses] Gad, did you see how her hand went to the sword?! Akane: How could I miss it? Ranma: I can't believe it! Pop was right. She would kill us - well, at least him - if she knew about the curse. How did such a woman end up with a husband like him? Akane: Perhaps they only got worse in later years. I know that father grew more... difficult, after- [stops herself] um, in recent years. Ranma slumps, despairing. He lets his head hang to his chest and sighs a sigh of utter defeat. Ranma: So that's it. I'm stuck with a pop who's a kidnapper and a mom whom I can't meet because she's trigger happy. Akane: [thinks of the unsheathed katana, gleaming in the light] Figuratively speaking. Ranma: And for a second there I thought I could be a normal kid with a normal family. Well, I'd better tell pop that he's won. I won't get to know my mother, after all. Despite his "What do I care" tone, Akane can feel that he's on the verge of collapsing with tears. She reaches out and turns him around to face her, even though he keeps his head down and his eyes to the ground. Akane: What kind of *nonsense* are you talking, baka? Of course you'll get to know your mother. Ranma looks up, and she can see that her guess was right. The sadness reflected on his face threatens to break her heart. With disbelief in his eyes, he begins to speak. Ranma: Wha- ? Akane: [shushes him] And she will get to know you - only more slowly and indirectly at first. Don't you see? We can do what we did today again, and get acquainted with your mother, while giving her an impression of who you really are. I'm sure we can get her to accept that you didn't grow up to be her perfect girl, and once she does, you'll be able to see her. I mean, see her as *you*. Ranma: [reluctantly] We'd have to lie to her... Akane: Only at first. I know it's not perfect, but would you rather give up on her completely? Ranma: No! His face is resolved, once more; his tears gone. He clenches his fists at his side. Ranma: All right, it is a good plan; we'll do it that way. But I'd still not tell pop about it - he'd probably try to prevent it. He takes Akane's hand, and they walk over to the main building ~*~ Genma, in panda form, is obviously happy to hear the news. He, Ranma and Akane, Souun, Nabiki and Kasumi are in the living room. Genma: [signs] Finally you see sense. [flips over sign] It would be too dangerous to tell her. Ranma: [cautiously] Um, yes, we can't know how she'd take it. In that moment, the door opens and Nodoka enters, looking right at Genma. Despite the fur, the Panda manages to go white, and backs against the wall, sweating in wide-eyed terror, as Nodoka looks at him curiously. Nodoka: Oh, a panda? I didn't know you had pets in this house. She comes closer, smiling, and touches the shivering animal on the shoulder. Nodoka: [friendly] Well, who are you then, my furry fellow? Souun looks at his terrified friend. Souun: [thinks] Your secret is safe, Saotome-kun. I will not betray you. Akane looks over at Ranma, whose face is shut tightly. He avoids looking at his mother. Seeing his resolve, she keeps silent, too, and looks over at Nabiki. Nabiki is grinning broadly, obviously thinking that silence is golden... or else! Kasumi: [sweetly] Oh, that's Mr. Saotome. Kasumi bustles off towards the kitchen, oblivious to the fact that everyone goes into shock position. Everyone, that is, except Genma, whose brain seems to have imploded, and Nodoka. She eyes the Panda closely and narrows one eye. Nodoka: So... She begins to giggle, then laugh. Nodoka: How fitting! "Mr. Saotome" - that's delightful. In fact, I think he really *does* resemble my husband in a way. How funny to have this animal bear his name. She pats the panda's shoulder again, and turns away. Nodoka: Well, then, I just wanted to say goodbye; I have got to leave now. I hope to see you all again, soon, when my husband and daughter return. Sighing a deep sigh of relief, Ranma and Akane accompany her to the door. She waves at them, as she walks down the path to the garden door, and they wave back. She vanishes around the corner, and immediately Ranma slumps back against the door post, with shut eyes. Akane stands besides him and holds his hand encouragingly. Ranma: [eyes still shut] That was the single hardest thing I ever did. Akane: I think you managed it pretty well. You kept your nerves more or less throughout the whole talk. I'm not sure if I could have done that. Ranma: That's not what I was talking about. He opens his eyes and there's a tear running from one of them. Ranma: I meant letting her go away again. Involuntarily Akane squeezes his hand at this. He smiles again, and returns the squeeze. Ranma: Thanks for your help. I know it's not forever, and I'll see her again. After the talk with her, I was pretty down, but now I've got some hope. Akane pulls Ranma forwards, away from the post. Akane: Come on, we'll get you a nice hot bath. Ranma: [sighs, closes his eyes] Oooh, *that's* something I need right now. As they enter the building again, they pass Souun and Nabiki, who are standing before Genma. He is still frozen in the very same position they saw him last. Nabiki: Say, shouldn't he have moved by now? ~*~ The evening light falls through the windows of the Tendou home. In one of the windows sits Ranko, now finally female again. She stares out towards the setting sun, wistfully. Ranko: [thinks] Mother... I cannot face you yet, but I *swear* that one day I'll meet you as myself and we'll be reunited. One day soon. -- End of Part 29 Part 30: "Expect the unexpected" Under the blue sky of Nerima, Tokyo, lies a large, oval building - the public skating rink. Inside, on the ice, many young and a few older people are enjoying themselves on their blades. The building contains not only the rink itself, but also a small restaurant, where the skaters can rest and eat. Ranko is sitting there, eating a bowl of Ramen, watching the people on the ice. Suddenly she hears someone call her name. Akane: Ranko! Ranko almost jumps up at the frantic, horrified tone in Akane's voice. Her head snaps over to the entrance where Akane's call came from. Akane is already running towards her, tears streaking down her face. *Now* Ranko jumps up. Ranko: [worried] Akane, what happened? Akane: [points back to the rink] It- It's P-chan. He's gone! Ranko takes Akane in her arms and pats her back soothingly, so she doesn't have to see Ranko's annoyed frown. Ranko: [thinks] Damn you, Ryouga, you directionless fool. Getting lost and upsetting Akane like this... Akane backs out of Ranko's arms and looks at her pleadingly. Akane: Please, Ranko, you must help me find him. The rink is too dangerous for a little piggie. I looked and looked, but I couldn't find him. Ranko is about to answer, when she sees something that lets her remain silent. She just turns Akane around and points. Akane wonders for a moment until she notices what Ranko has seen. There is a short, energetic brown-haired girl striding into the restaurant, carrying a small, unmoving piglet wearing a yellow and black bandanna. With a cry of rage Akane storms towards the girl. Akane: P-chan! What are you doing with P-chan? The girl turns to keep the pig from Akane, and looks at her indignantly. Girl: Charlotte belongs to Azusa-chan. Akane: [angry] This is *my* pet P-chan. What have you done to him? Why isn't he moving? Azusa: You're wrong. This is Charlotte. At that moment, the piglet begins to stir. As soon as it can see clear, it begins to "bwee" loudly and struggle towards Akane. Ranko, seeing this, gets an idea. Swiftly she steps between the two girls, who seem to be about to go into full fledged fighting mode. Ranko: [outstretched arms] Hey! How about if we let the pig decide? I take the pig, you two sit down opposite of each other, I set the pig free and then we'll see whom it wants to belong to. [thinks] This *might* work... provided that Ryouga *for once in his life* gets the directions right. The pig "bwee"s and nods furiously, but Azusa glomps on to him tightly, making his eyes bug out. Azusa: No! Charlotte belongs to Azusa and she will not let you take her away. Akane: [derisively] Her? P-chan is a *him*. You don't even know which sex he is, but claim that he's yours? Azusa looks at Akane defiantly, when suddenly a hand reaches over her shoulder and plucks the pig from her grasp. A young man stands behind Azusa and is holding the pig just out of her reach. At his entrance, a collective sigh goes through the female population of the room. Girl 1: [clasps her heart] Ohh, my dream comes true. Girl 2: [affects swooning] What a man. Ranko is the only girl not to react, apart from Akane and Azusa, who are otherwise engaged. She walks back to her seat and sits down, watching. Azusa is jumping and grabbing for the pig. Azusa: Give Azusa back her little Charlotte! Boy: [to Akane] I gather this is yours? Akane: [nods relieved] Yes. It's my pet P-chan. He hands the happy pig to Akane, who graciously accepts it. Azusa is furious. Boy: I must apologize for my partner. She has the aberrant habit of collecting thing that she finds cute. She names them and takes them home, paying no attention to whom they belong. Ranko: [mutters] But it's nothing that a few weeks of Electric Shock Therapy couldn't cure. Akane: As long as I've got back my P-chan. The pig squeals happily and nestles in Akane's arms, when suddenly Azusa yells and lunges forward. Before Akane can react she has clamped something around P-chan's neck and laughs triumphantly. Akane shoves her away and examines her pet: around his neck there is a small necklace with a heart. Akane tries to pull it off, but it won't move. Angrily she looks at Azusa. Akane: What are you doing? Get this off. Azusa: [smugly] I won't. I challenge you over the right to be Charlotte's mommy. Until the match is over, I'll keep the key to the lock. Akane: So you want to fight about him? Azusa: Fight? How primitive. [sneers] I challenge you to a skating match. Akane: [hotly] Oh yeah? I accept! We'll see who gets to be P-chan's mommy. The onlookers are surprised at Akane accepting the outrageous challenge. One girl questions her. Girl: What are you doing? You could have refused her without losing face - That challenge was ridiculous. There *are* such things as wire cutters, you know? Akane: And back down from a ditz like that? Girl: Don't you know who they are? Boy: Perhaps we should introduce ourselves. I am Sanzenin Mikado. Azusa: And I am Shiratori Azusa. Mikado: We are Koru Hosei Academy's champions of freestyle pair skating, also called "The Golden Pair". Mikado finishes with a bow. Although she is thrown off a little by this revelation, Akane sets her jaw. Akane: So what? P-chan is still mine and I will prove it. Mikado: I am so sorry that my partner has caused you such problems. Please let me give some restitution. Akane freezes, as he suddenly lays a hand to her cheek, but unfreezes again, frowning, as he leans forward to her with pointed lips. P-chan "bwee"s furiously and Akane clenches her fist, but Mikado never makes it. Before his lips connect, something lands on his face with a . He stops and reaches up to remove a sticky, star-shaped fish cake with a decorative swirl. He looks to where the projectile came from, and his eyes light up in recognition, as he spies Ranko sitting at her table, looking into the air as if not in the least concerned with what is going on. Mikado: Why, Saotome Ranko. Ranko: [turns to him] Hiya, sex-obsessed neurotic. Mikado walks over to her and holds up the sticky cake. Mikado: What a fortunate coincidence this is. This way we can settle our little... matter satisfactorily. Ranko: We settled it to *my* satisfaction back then, but if you *want* a beating - be my guest. Mikado sets one hand of the table and leans forwards, towering over Ranko, who is completely unimpressed by his theatrics. Mikado: So you agree to a double match? Me and my partner against you and the lovely owner of that pig? Ranko: Sure. Whatever you want. Mikado: [straightens up] The date is one week from now, and the site at the rink of our school, Koru Hosei Academy. I will expect you. Ranko: We'll be there. [leaves her seat] Come Akane, there is nothing more for us to be here. She grabs the astonished Akane and leaves Mikado behind to fight off Azusa, who has declared the fish cake to be cute and therefore rightfully hers. ~*~ Ranko and Akane are on their way home; Ranko walking on the fence, as usual, still frowning; Akane walking on the ground, absently petting P-chan. After a while, Akane speaks up. Akane: What the hell did you do that for? Ranko: [hotly] Hey! I was just trying to protect you. Akane: Next time, how about *asking* me if I want your protection? Ranko jerks, as she hears this. Ranko: [thinks] Oh no! What have I done? She didn't want me to stop him, and I... She jumps down from the fence to walk next to Akane. In a very small, apologetic voice she speaks. Ranko: Um, did.. did you want him to kiss you? Akane: [stops in her tracks] Nani?! I wanted to break his jaw! But you interfered. [starts walking again] Oh well, it doesn't matter anyway. What I want to know is, from where do you know that Sanzenin guy? Ranko: [reluctantly] That's a long story. ~*~ At home, Akane and Ranko are sitting in the guest room. Ranko looks to the ground, embarrassed, but finally begins to speak. Ranko: It was a while ago, after I arrived here... Flashback to a few months back. Ranko(voiceover): I was at the rink, skating. On the ice, among the many skaters, is Ranko. Her knees are bent; She is hunched over and is flailing around with her arms to keep her balance. She is obviously *very* bad at it. Ranko: Waaaaaaah! Ranko(voiceover): Well, *learning* to skate, anyway. Ranko makes a wrong move and suddenly she is gathering speed - sliding backwards. Her flailing becomes more frantic, but only adds to her predicament. Ranko: Helllp! Suddenly a figure es by and snatches the helpless girl up. It is Sanzenin Mikado. Thankfully, Ranko relaxes. Ranko: Phew. You saved me. Mikado: It is a pleasure for me to help such a beautiful girl in distress. Sanzenin Mikado is always ready to aid. He shifts his grip on her, so that he now holds her like a dancer holds his partner. Since he is larger than her, her feet do not touch the ice. Ranko: Well, thanks a lot, Sanzenin. My name Is Saotome Ranko. You can let go of me now. Mikado: Are you sure you want to go back onto the ice? I could hold you for as long as you like. Ranko: [getting annoyed] *Thank you*! Now let me down. Mikado: Ah, if you must. But allow me - as a parting gift... Ranko's eyes bug out, as he suddenly leans forward and kisses her on the lips. A few seconds afterwards, he disconnects and smiles at her, as if expecting thanks. Steam comes from Ranko's head and her teeth are clenched in fury. The light fixtures under the ceiling begin to sway with the force of the explosion down below. ~*~ Steaming with anger, Ranko stomps off, her blades leaving deep gashes in the ice. Behind her a bludgeoned Mikado with his clothes torn in many places feebly tries to extract his head from the hole in the ice that it is lodged in. Flashback ends. Ranko is looking to the ground, still slightly embarrassed; Akane snickers, making Ranko look up angrily. Akane: I must say... That you would leave yourself open so much, to be kissed so easily. She shakes her head, smiling. Her smile vanishes with a yelp, as Ranko suddenly reaches out and pushes her shoulder hard. Caught off-balance, Akane teeters over backwards, but before she hits the ground, Ranko is sitting behind her and catches Akane in her arms. Akane goes wide-eyed, as Ranko leans forward and... touches her nose to Akane's. Akane sweats nervously, as she looks into Ranko's eyes, smelling her warm breath. Ranko sits up again and releases her, smiling; Akane jumps back three feet. She clenches a fist over her furiously thumping heart. Akane: Wha- wha- What are you..? Ranko: [grins] I just wanted to show you that you shouldn't condemn me so lightly - seeing, how easily *you* could have been kissed. Akane: That- That's not fair! You only caught me off guard because I never expected you to do something like that! Ranko: That's my point. *I* never expected Sanzenin to do that. The lesson in this is "always expect the unexpected". Akane: Well. From now on I'll be ready, if you ever want to kiss me. Ranko: [sweats, hand behind her head] Err, heh heh heh heh heh... Akane: A-ha ha ha ha ha... Ranko: Um. Well, we'd better train from now on; practice some fighting moves on skates. Akane: What? You want to fight with them during the match? Ranko: [surprised] Sure. Sanzenin and Shiratori are champions of Martial Arts Skating; didn't you know? If this was just normal skating, I'd *never* have agreed - we would have lost before we even began. But since it's *Martial Arts* Skating, there's no problem. Akane: [incredulous] You think we can beat them at it? Ranko: [flatly] As long as it's got Martial Arts in the title, we can win in anything. The Saotome and Tendou schools of interdisciplinary fighting are *made* for this, after all. Akane: [sarcastically] Oh yeah, and we've got a *whole week* to master this new fighting technique. Ranko: [happily] There you go. *Now* you're beginning to see it positively. Akane sweats. -- End of Part 30 Part 31: "Akane is my best friend" Koru Hosei Academy is a collection of arches. Arched windows, arched doorways, reliefs of arches as decoration, topped by a dome, arching under the blue sky of this beautiful Nerima morning. Hordes of pupils stream through an arched gate into the building that contains the school's ice rink. There is a banner above the gate, proclaiming that the contest for the "Charlotte Cup" will be held here today. Everybody is excited to see their school's champions handle the challengers. ~*~ In a small changing Room, Ranko and Akane are putting on their outfits. Ranko has some trouble squeezing into the small number she is going to wear on the ice. She is annoyed. Ranko: This is *so* stupid. Why do we hafta dress up like that. Akane: [sighs] Because it's a public match. It's expected that the contestants are something to look at, too. Ranko: It's still stupid. Mikado and Azusa are professional showoffs - no matter what we put on, they're going to out-glamour us easily. So why should we play into their hands by trying to compete with them? The *important* thing is the match. Akane: I know. But I'd *still* like to look good for once. Ranko: [grins] So why are you putting on that leotard? I bet you'd turn some heads if you went out there without it. Akane: [swats at her, playfully] Baka. She pulls on her garment and then eyes Ranko, who has succeeded in putting on hers. Akane: I don't know what you complain about; this fits you perfectly. If I had let you have your way, you would only have worn some loose-fitting stuff that hides your figure. Why do you like those outfits so much? Ranko: It's got nothing to do with "like". What do you think would happen if I got splashed while wearing this? Akane: Oh. ~*~ The arena has filled up almost completely, mostly with pupils from either Koru Hosei or Fuurinkan who are treating this as if it were a school match, shouting their encouragements to their respective "home team". The speaker system squeals for a second, then a voice echoes through the stadium. Announcer: Welcome to this exciting battle on ice - the competition for the Charlotte Cup. The audience cheers. Somewhere in their ranks a boy turns to his neighbour. Boy: Why's it called "Charlotte Cup"? Boy2: Beats me. On a display near the announcer's desk stands a large prize cup - and chained to it a disgruntled little pig with a necklace. It "bwee"s furiously. Slowly the lights dim, and spotlights dance over the ice. Announcer: And now... The first contestants to enter are Koru Hosei's champions of martial arts freestyle skating - Shiratori Azusa and Sanzenin Mikadooo! Singled out by one of the shining spotlights, The two skaters make a magnificent entrance, displaying at once their confidence, their proficiency upon skates and above all their good looks. Sparkling with sequins they take their bows, while the screams and yells of their respective fanclubs wash over them. By the side of the rink, Ranko mutters to Akane. Ranko: What'd I tell you? Showoffs. By all rights we should now make an entrance to knock their socks off, just to show 'em. She grumbles darkly, knowing full well that they would never be able to do that. Akane: [smiles] I know something better we can do. Ranko: Yeah? What? Akane: We'll go in there, sock them one and knock them out of the rink! With that she steps onto the ice, Ranko following. Announcer: And on the other end we have the Challengers, Tendou Akane and Saotome Ranko, both of Fuurinkan High. As Akane and Ranko skate slowly, but steadily to the center, another spotlight follows their path, highlighting them. A few cheers erupt, from the Fuurinkan population on the ranks, but neither of them has an actual fanclub, like both of their opponents. Ranko radiates animosity, and the air of subdued power around her gives her a sparkle that is no smaller than Mikado's - if somewhat less inclined to make women swoon. Akane's form, flattered by her outfit, makes many a boy's heart beat faster, but none of them follows the Azusa-fans' example by hollering and whistling. Not since Ranma once forcibly disbanded a group of Akane's insistent would-be suitors. Nevertheless they cheer. Finally the two teams face each other and the lights are turned up again. The showing off is over - let the show begin. Azusa speaks up with a sneer. Azusa: You can still give up and go home. Charlotte will love it with Azusa-chan. Akane: P-chan belongs to me! I'll *never* back down. Azusa: Well, it's your funeral. Akane: [coldly] We'll decide that when the coffin lid is closed. Announcer: And the match begins! Without losing a second, Mikado and Azusa speed towards Akane and Ranko, Azusa suspended over Mikado's back by their joined hands. Showing no hesitation, their opponents approach them, likewise with joined hands. Akane: Take this, thief! With this cry, Akane leans over, swinging Ranko forward and up by her hands. Ranko uses the momentum to do a flying leap, aiming a kick at Azusa while keeping her hold on Akane's hands. Azusa evades the blow by pushing herself up and sailing over both, Ranko and Akane, landing behind them. Mikado ducks through, right under Ranko, and sticks his head between their outstretched, linked arms, so that he now faces Akane from mere inches away. Ranko: Hey! Akane: Ick! Mikado: My, you look even more lovely in a true skater's outfit. He leans in towards Akane, whose hands are not free to defend herself, because they are still holding Ranko's. She sets her jaw and prepares to bite his nose, if necessary. Mikado pouts his lips. Akane blinks, when suddenly she looks into Ranko's eyes. Where, fractions of a second ago, there were Mikado's puckered lips, she now sees Ranko's determined grin. Reflexively, she lets go of her hands. Ranko is standing with both feet on Mikado's head, pushing his face into the ice. Casually she hops off and motions for Akane. Akane gives her an angry stare. Akane: So much for *that* maneuver. Ranko: How was I to know that he'd do something like that? Akane: [sarcastically] "Always expect the unexpected", Ranko. Behind them, Mikado has pulled his face free of the ice he had unexpectedly been forced to kiss. Through blue and blistered lips he speaks. Mikado: Saotome Ranko! Your jealousy will not prevail. You had your chance and you refused - now let Tendou Akane enjoy my attention without interfering. Ranko grabs her head, shaking it in disbelief. Ranko: Oh man! He actually thinks I am *envious* of you for being kissed by him. Akane: Yecch! Mikado: Indeed, I shall steal her lips without fail. Ranko puts her hands on her hips. Ranko: Oh yeah? Let's see you try. Akane is my best friend - Try to lay a lip on her and you die! Mikado just smiles at such naive insolence. Mikado: Such strong words about such a fragile bond. We have shattered stronger links than that. Ranko: [thinks] What is he talking about? Mikado: Know that we, the Golden Pair of Martial Arts Skating, are also known as the Anti-Matchmakers. We have split up loving couples with ease - don't believe that something as a mere friendship can withstand our attacks. With those words, Mikado starts the offensive again. He grabs Azusa's hands and they fly towards Ranko and Akane in their attack formation. Ranko takes Akane's hands as well. Ranko: Let's try something similar again; That way I hope we can separate them. If Azusa jumps away from Mikado again to evade, let go of me and I'll land behind him. Then we can try to work on him simultaneously. Without his help Azusa will only be of limited danger. Akane: Sounds like it could work. Let's try. The two teams circle each other once, then Ranko and Akane shoot forwards. Again, Akane swings and pushes Ranko up, giving her the momentum for the flying kick. But Mikado and Azusa do not react as expected. Instead of separating, like the last time, Mikado just turns sideways, allowing Ranko to sail past, dragging Akane by her hands. He shifts his grip on Azusa, holding her by the legs now, so that her hands are free. Just as Ranko is passing her, Azusa leans over and grabs her ankles. Ranko: Huh, what...? Announcer: There! Already the golden pair is using their ultimate split-up technique. Mikado lifts Azusa up, letting her feet rest on his shoulders. Ranko is now dangling heads down from Azusa's grip, still clinging to Akane's hands. This proves to be a mistake, as Mikado suddenly begins spinning - faster and faster around his axis. Akane is carried outward and up by the centrifugal force. Announcer: It's the dreaded "Good-bye whirl"! Mikado: It's the first time that I use this move on two girls. Too bad - this way it will last even shorter. You might as well give up now. Release her, and I'll stop spinning. Announcer: That is the subtle cruelty of the Couple Cleaver. If the trapped male betrays his love, he alone will be spared - and if he doesn't, she will hurt even more, when he finally cannot hold her. How long can these two girls withstand a move designed to split even loving couples? Akane just snorts as she hears this. Akane: These idiots. Trying to manipulate you into feeling guilty as if you were a man. Now, let go. Ranko: No way! Akane's eyes widen at Ranko's sudden protest. Akane: What?! Are you crazy? The longer you wait, the faster they spin and the faster I'll fly. Let go *now*. I'll be safe. Ranko just shakes her head. She grits her teeth and grips Akane's wrists firmly. Sweat forms on her brow, as Mikado proceeds to spin them around faster and ever faster; She is determined not to give in to his dishonorable methods. But soon she realizes that she cannot keep this up; her fingers slowly slip, millimeter by millimeter. Ranko: [thinks] Damn, I can't hold her for long. If only I was in cursed form - then I could hold her forever. I could hold her until those freaks have to give up. Damn! [out loud] Akane. I'll have to let go. Akane: [angry] About time! What the hell took you so long? Akane prepares to fly off and waits for Ranko to let go of her wrists. Her eyes go wide, when Ranko does not release her grip, but suddenly twists about her lengthwise axis, forcing Azusa to let go of her legs if she doesn't want her neck broken. Both girls go sailing off. Akane: What..? But she cannot complete her question, as Ranko starts her next maneuver. She twists in mid-air, swinging Akane back and releasing her, thus sending her hurtling towards the still spinning Mikado. Mikado's eyes bug out as he sees two bladed feet shooting towards his head. But the sudden loss of weight at the top of their spinning column has thrown it too much off balance, and the two skaters have enough to do, just trying to keep from collapsing in a tangled heap. Unable to evade, Mikado takes a high-speed facefull of skating blades. The impact makes him let go of Azusa, who goes sailing across the rink. Meanwhile, Ranko has problems. Due to the laws of physics, the act of throwing back Akane has more than doubled her velocity - and now she is flying back-first. Frantically she tries to correct her position, but it is too late: With a sickening crunch she impacts on the wall fencing the rink and remains embedded in it, head down. She doesn't move. Akane, who is disentangling herself from an unconscious Mikado, looks around and sees Ranko. With a yelp she jumps up and skates over as fast as her blades allow. She stops before the wall, her blades digging deep furrows into the ice, and gingerly touches the unmoving, upside-down Ranko. This unlodges Ranko from her position and she falls down onto the ice, where she stays lying face down - still motionless. Akane: R... Rankooo! Akane falls to he knees beside her friend and cries. She buries her face in her arms and weeps on Ranko's back. Akane: Ranko, how *could* you? You idiot! What were you thinking, sacrificing yourself like that? She keeps crying until a rather pained voice speaks up. Ranko: Um, Akane? Could you stop that? It hurts like hell. Akane's head snaps up. She watches in astonishment, as Ranko pushes herself up from her prone position. As soon as Ranko is sitting upright, Akane lunges at her and hugs her tight. Akane: Ranko! I was so worried. Ranko: Gyeeeeaaargh! Ranko: [waves her arms] Stoppit stoppit stoppit! That hurts! Akane lets go of her guiltily. Ranko looks around the rink. She catches a glimpse of Mikado, who is being carried off the ice on a stretcher. The sides of his head are shaved free of hair, courtesy of Akane's skating blades, and there is a deep gash across his brow; he is obviously in no form to fight. Ranko: Fine. That leaves just Azusa. Akane: I don't think so. She points over to the side of the rink, where Azusa is pasted up against the wall in a very similar way to Ranko. While the girls watch, Azusa separates from the wall and goes from vertical to horizontal in a very final way. The next stretcher is already on its way to her. Ranko: OK. Great. That means we've won, right? Akane: [slowly] Yes, Ranko, it seems so. Ranko: Well, then we only have to show them that we're still standing and collect the price. Akane: *Are* you still standing? Ranko: [grins wryly] If you help me a bit, I am. With a hand from Akane, Ranko climbs to her feet. Akane takes Ranko's arm around her shoulder and supports her with her own arm around Ranko's back. This way, they slowly circle the rink, to the cheering of the audience. Akane: [quietly] But you've got to tell me Ranko: whatever gave you the idea to wait so long before letting go? If you had let go of me right at the beginning, none of this would have happened. Ranko: What? And let a total klutz like you sail off alo- Eeeeyoow! Akane's supporting arm around Ranko's back has changed positions, squeezing her bruised ribs. They come to a stop before the prize table, where the Cup stands. Announcer: And now the winners can rightfully claim their prize. Akane: [shouts] P-chan. He's gone! She holds up the broken end of the chain that had secured the pig to the prize cup. Ranko: Oh man. I knew that pig had a tendency to wander off, but this is ridiculous. She looks around and soon spies a movement in a corner of the arena, half hidden behind the seat rows. A kettle of water sits on a camping burner, and a small black pig is watching. Ranko: [grins, thinks] That Ryouga. I wonder how he got that set up in pig form. Suddenly a gleam of light reflects off of something on the pig and Ranko freezes. Ranko: [thinks] Oh damn! That idiot, doesn't he realize...? [out loud] Akane, look! I think I saw him. She points into the opposite direction from Ryouga. Akane: Where? She turns and skates over to search for her pet. As soon as she has her back turned, Ranko takes off at top speed, racing over to the place where the fallen Azusa is just being placed on a stretcher. ~*~ Ryouga's eyes are on the kettle. Soon the water will be hot enough to change back. For the first time in a week, he has been able to slip away unnoticed. Azusa's challenge had brought out the protective "mommy" in Akane and there had been virtually no time where she didn't make sure that P-chan was by her side. The first wisps of steam emerge from the kettle, heralding the correct temperature. Ryouga: [thinks] Now quick, before it gets too hot. Twisting a valve of the burner with its snout, the little black pig snuffs the flame and - breathing hard - begins to shove the kettle off its seat, trying not to burn itself. Ryouga: [huffs] Damn that Ranko and her jokes about my pig curse. I'd like to see *her* cope with a cursed form that has no *hands*! The water washes over his black hide, and Ryouga exults in the feeling of the change, rejoicing at the thought of soon being human again. With a smile on his face, he continues to fill out and grow - until he feels a tug at his throat. Ryouga's eyes bug out and his mouth gapes open, like a fish caught on dry land. He claws at the little metal collar that is digging deep into his neck and throat, but cannot seem to dislodge it. He grows desperate, threatening to pass out. Gasping, wheezing, sputtering, Ryouga welcomes the air back in his lungs. Deep breath after breath he sucks in. Finally he is able to look up. Before him stands Ranko, dangling the locket in front of his face. The little heart-shaped key is still sticking in the little heart-shaped lock. Ranko: Well, I heard that some guys complain that all those little tokens of affection don't leave them enough space to breathe, but you don't have to take everything so *literally*, Ryouga. Feebly he feigns a punch at her, but his gratefulness shows on his face. Ranko: [turns] Uh oh! I think Akane is heading over. Better put on some clothes - unless, of course, you figure this is the best way to convey your love for her... Blushing a deep crimson at the realization that he is sitting naked in front of a girl, Ryouga frantically scrambles for his clothes that lie in a heap near the kettle and burner. Ranko gets back onto the ice and skates towards Akane to buy Ryouga some time. Akane: Did you find him? Ranko: [shakes her head] No, sorry. I'm afraid he wandered off again. [sees Akane's worried expression] Don't worry. A pig that can break out of a solid chain like that can likely look out for himself. Akane: You think so? Ranko: Sure. Look, I found Ryouga over there. He saw the match and I'm sure he'd like to congratulate you personally. She guides Akane over to where Ryouga is leaning on the railing; Fully clothed now and only slightly flustered. Akane: Hello Ryouga-kun! She flashes him her special smile that always seems to unsettle him so much. Not that she ever noticed. Ryouga: A-Akane-san. Akane: Say, Ryouga-kun, did *you* see my P-chan? Ryouga: Me?! A-heh, I mean, no, I didn't see him. But I am sure he will find his way back to you. Ranko: Trust him, Akane - Ryouga knows how a pig thinks. Ooomph! A light punch to her stomach drives the wind out of Ranko's lungs. Akane: Stop picking on him, Ranko! Ranko: [thinks] Hmmm. She really seems to like him... Now if he only had the guts to confess. [out loud] Say, why don't we three meet at the Dojo for a little winning celebration, huh? See ya after we change costumes, Ryouga. As she and Akane skate back to the exit of the rink, to get to their changing room, Ranko thinks to herself. Ranko: [thinks] If I nudge him a little along, this could work out... ~*~ It is evening already, when Ryouga, wearing his backpack again and holding a bouquet of flowers in his hands, approaches a man on the street. Ryouga: Excuse me, sir. Could you perhaps tell me the way to the Tendou Dojo? Man: No, sorry, I only arrived here on Okinawa today, myself. ~*~ Ranko sits with Akane at the table in the Tendou living room. She stares out into the darkness, tired, her head resting on her palm. Ranko: [thinks] Then again... -- End of part 31 Part 32: "It's not fair" It is early afternoon, and the sky is blue. Only a few clouds, scattered on the endless azure canvas. Below, in Nerima, Tokyo, school has just ended and the students stream throught the streets, towards their homes. Ranma is running along on the fence, animatedly talking to Akane, who is walking on the sidewalk, keeping even with him. Ranma: And I say to him, 'Of course Kimiko likes you, ya dope. She would ask *you* out, if you gave her half a chance.' So he asked me, how did I know? Akane: A-heh. And you told him the truth, did you? [grins] Ranma: Well... *A* truth, anyway. I told him that I know because Kimiko told Ranko. Akane: I guess that's [Ranma joins in, together:] Close Enough. They laugh. Ranma: Say, Akane, it sure is a nice day - are you up to a little sparring, when we get home? I could use a little workout, after school. Akane looks ready to agree, when suddenly she catches herself and frowns. Akane: Err, no. Sorry, Ranma, today is... is just not good for me. With that she falls silent, but subconsciously runs a little faster. Ranma notices the change in her mood and falls a few feet behind, studying her back. Ranma: [thinks] That sounded strange. I wonder what she's thinking of, now. ~*~ Ranko is standing in the garden between the Tendou home and the practice hall, going through her Kata. She always moves so as to keep the koi pond in one corner of her eye - it has an annoying tendency to suddenly appear under her at the most inopportune times. From her vantage point she can see into the house through the open sliding door, where something catches her eye. Akane, wearing a quite beautiful dress, is getting ready to go out. Ranko continues her Kata, while watching her. Ranko: [thinks] Hmmm. That's why she didn't have time to spar; She's going out. But where is she going? Surely not shopping in that lovely dress... Ranko shakes off her distracting thoughts, just in time to avoid falling into the pond. She catches herself and heads over to the house. She arrives at the door in time to hear Kasumi's voice from the hall. Apparently she is speaking to Akane. Kasumi: It's good you remembered, Akane. Here, I prepared the basket for you. Stepping nearer, Ranko sees the two. Kasumi is handing Akane a little handbasket, that Akane opens, inspecting the contents. Neither of the Tendou Sisters has noticed Ranko, standing in the doorway. Akane: Of course I didn't forget, Kasumi-oneechan. I'm getting ready right now. Thanks for preparing everything for me. Akane turns, when someone clears their throat. It is Nabiki, holding a small but very beautiful bouquet. Nabiki: Here, take this with you. I bought it on the way home today. Ranko is a little puzzled by this. Nabiki spending money? Obviously she must spend money *sometimes*, otherwise earning it would make no sense - but flowers had never figured largely in what Ranko imagined Nabiki used her money for. Before she can get a good look at the older girl, Nabiki has hurried up the stairs. Ranko watches Akane put on her jacket and steps out of the shadows. Ranko: Where're you going, Akane? Akane: Oh, hi Ranko. Um. [hesitates, looks over into the living room] Perhaps it's best if you just come with me. She heads out, and Ranko shoots a glance into the living room, to see what she looked at. But there are only their two fathers, playing Shogi. She shrugs and follows Akane. ~*~ The graveyard lies peacefully under the blue Nerima sky, filled with markers in all shapes and sizes. Most are simple rectangular slabs on their pedestals, but there are also some rugged, natural stones here and there. Each stone bears a family name. Ranko: [thinks] So... She's paying respect to her ancestors? She helps Akane, putting Nabiki's bouqet on display before the stone that bears the Tendou name, while Akane pours the water, lights the incense and lays out a mat. Ranko steps back, when Akane kneels, and watches. Akane: [closed eyes] Hello, Mother... Hearing Ranko's gasp, she opens her eyes again and turns to her. Akane: Ranko? Ranko: I- I'm sorry Akane. I didn't know it was your Mother's Meinichi. Akane: [soothingly] Don't be! It's not your fault - We don't really talk about it at home. It's... [hesitates, but then continues] It's father. You know how he is when he gets upset. Ranko: Yeah, he seems a little, um, excitable sometimes. Akane: [nods] That's the problem. You see... I was very little when Mother died - just six years old - and it was a very hard time for me. But father took it even worse. He wouldn't *stop* crying for days on end; he was no help for us children at all. Ranko: [sympathetic] That must have been pretty bad for you, being the youngest child and all. Akane: [thoughtfully] Actually, I wasn't that sad. That came later. At the time I was more angry than anything else. Angry at all the world, for such a thing to happen, angry at my mother for dying like that, and I think most of all angry at myself for some reason. [shakes her head] Now, Nabiki, she took it *really* hard. She was almost as bad as father for a time. Ranko's eyes widen in surprise at this revelation. The picture of Nabiki crying - actually showing *any* emotion beyond her subtle amusement with other people - seems unreal. She crouches down next to Akane who is still kneeling on the mat, letting her gaze wander over the memorial stone. Akane: [lost in thought] She always had problems showing her emotions and relied on Mother as, well, her sounding board, I guess. When Mother died, Nabiki just closed in on herself and didn't let any of us near her. It took a long, long time for her to come out of her shell. Thinking of something else, she smiles a little wistfully. Akane: Kasumi, on the other hand took it all in stride, like she always does. She was sad and she mourned mother - but she never broke down like the rest of us. It is as if she was born with the knowledge that the world is a crazy and sometimes unjust place, and nothing that happens can throw her off balance. From the day mother was dead, she knew what took me years to realize... that, no matter what, Mother is still there for me, watching me. I can visit her here, but most importantly, she is still in my heart and my memories, so that I can turn to her there. Akane sniffles a little, but her face is happy. She shakes off her reminiscense and continues. Akane: Anyway. Father took it badly, and it didn't get better over the years; it grew worse. At the slightest reminder he would lapse back into his hysteric state. It was quite embarrassing. Flashback to some years before. Akane, a child of perhaps eight or nine years, and her father are at the graveyard. Souun clutches the memorial stone in both arms, bawling madly, two streams of tears running away from the memorial. Akane is frantically tugging at his robe. Akane: Father, please! Everyone is looking at you. She steps back, embarrassed, trying to avoid the glances of the passing people. Flashback ends. Akane: And having a marker, right across the Otonashi's didn't help either. So we decided that perhaps it's better for the ancestors and everyone else if *some* of the living remember - and some forget. We didn't put a photograph of mother on the family altar and tried our best not to remind father of her. We even removed all photos of her that we had. Ranko: Oh. What did you do with them? Akane: Nabiki has them. On the day of mother's Meinichi, we are especially careful not to say anything. I go to visit mother, Kasumi stays home to soothe father, in case he remembers, and Nabiki... [sighs] She locks herself in her room with the photographs. Akane takes a deep breath and brightens up. Akane: I like to come here. It's peaceful - [glances over at the memorial across the path] at least most of the time. That helps me to remember mother and keep her alive in my heart. She smiles and turns back to the stone, closing her eyes and beginning her prayer. Ranko stands up again and watches her, thoughts whirling in her head. ~*~ In the garden of the Tendou household a peaceful atmosphere lies above everything. The afternoon sun warms the rocks; the koi pond ripples and paints circles of light on the nearby walls and trees; the wind softly blows, making the trees whisper among themselves and letting the glass chime sing. But not all is tranquil here. A voice is coming from the open doorway of the practice hall, and in time with the words there are the sounds of dull impacts. Inside the hall, Ranko is punching a weathered training dummy. Her eyes are big and watery. If one didn't know her, one could be led to think she had cried. Ranko: It's not *fair*! Her fist smashes into the cloth and straw bag that is wrapped around the wooden plank of the training dummy. Ranko: It's *just* - - *not* - - *fair*! - Akane's mother is *dead* - - but even she can *visit* her. At least she has some memories of her to *remember* her by. My mom is alive - by all rights I should be *with* her. Ranko stands still for a moment. Then she whirls around faster than the eye can follow and delivers a straight-legged kick to the midriff of the dummy. Ranko: *THAT STUPID CURSE*! Ranko's last, anger-driven kick proved to be too much for the effigy to bear. Its wooden "spine" snapped, it falls to the ground at the other end of the hall. Ranko is startled. Ranko: Oh no! [thinks] Now I broke Akane's training dummy. She hurries over to the fallen straw puppet and crouches down next to it. It is lying "face" down and for the first time Ranko notices the little straw pigtail affixed to it. She can't help but laugh at the sight. Ranko: Heh. I guess I'm teasing Akane more than I realize. [tugs the pigtail of the puppet] You 'n' me, pal. She picks up the doll under the shoulders, like one would support a wounded human. Ranko: C'mon, let's get you fixed. That way at least one of us will be in order again. Suddenly a voice comes from behind. Akane: I wasn't using it anyway. Ranko turns, surprised. Akane is leaning in the doorway, watching her. She walks over and plays with the dummy's pigtail, blushing slightly. Akane: The last time I used this, was when you were under Shampoo's memory spell. Ranko winces as she remembers how bitchy and mean she had been to Akane during that time, but Akane just smiles. Akane: I guess we could still fix it - for the next time. Ranko: Ho! There'll be no next time. No Chinese amazons for me anymore. In future I'll know to avoid their village. Akane: [wondering] In future? Do you plan on returning to China? Ranko: Well... I don't exactly *plan* it. But I've got this feeling that someday I *will* return there. I got cursed there, and somehow I know that the cure will be in China, too. Akane: [laughs] you could jump into the Spring of the Drowned Girl. Ranko begins to laugh with her, but suddenly she stops. A groan that speaks of a thousand pains rings from her throat. She turns and slams her head into the wall. And again. And again. Akane stops her before she can do it a fourth time. She spins Ranko to face her. Akane: What the hell are you doing?! Ranko: [groans] Let me be! Somebody kill me! Akane: What's come over you, all of a sudden? Ranko: Don't you see? I *could* have jumped into the Nyanniichuan! It exists, I'm sure! She tries to bash her head again, but Akane won't let go of her. Akane: Stop that! Anyway, who says that it would have cured you? Ranko: Nobody says. It might not have cured me, but I could at least have *tried*. How could I have been so *stupid* not to think of it. Akane: [grins wryly] Well, you *were* a boy at the time. Anyway, you might be lucky that you didn't try. Magic is a treacherous thing - the curses might have mixed up and then you'd change into a hermaphrodite. Ranko: At least as a hermaphrodite I could still wear dresses and wouldn't have to fear that suddenly I'm a boy in girls' clothes. Akane: [laughs] But you would have to wear boys' shorts beneath them, just in case. Ranko: [grins sadly] A small price to pay. [sighs] This stupid curse must be the worst there is. I mean, if you change into an animal or something, at least people don't expect you to carry on as if nothing happened. A mental picture of Ryouga as P-chan in Akane's arms forms in her mind. Ranko: And I guess there are other... perks. But with a sex change, people act as though you are lucky to have gotten away so lightly. "Just wear sexless clothes and everything is okay." But it's not! Akane hugs Ranko and comforts her. Akane: I know. I know it's not that simple. Ranko: [into Akane's shoulder] Because of that stupid curse I can't even go and see my m- mothuhuhurhur... Quietly Akane holds Ranko, as she sobs on her shoulder. She pats her on the back, unsure of how to react. How is she supposed to cope, when Ranko, who always seems so unflappable, breaks down? Akane: Now now, Ranko, please. Cheer up, don't cry anymore. You'll see, when tomorrow comes, everything will be different. Ranko: [still sobbing] No it won't! Don't you see? Tomorrow never comes - it's always today over and over again. I'll never be cured and never see mother again as myself, instead of "Kunou Ranma"! Akane looks a bit taken aback by Ranko's fierce retort. But then she sets her jaw, grabs Ranko by the shoulders and holds her at arms length before herself, to look her into the eyes. Akane: Then *make* tomorrow come! I'm not going to sit around, watching you go to pieces, *because it's hurting me, too*! I want to see you smile again. Ranko looks at Akane in astonishment, her tears forgotten. Akane stares back defiantly, and Ranko's look gets more thoughtful. Finally, Akane's heart jumps, as a smile slowly appears on Ranko's face. It's a sad smile, but it's hopeful. Ranko: [slowly] You're right Akane. I said that one day I'd meet my mother again. And all this time I've been sitting, waiting for that day to come, when all it takes is my decision that it'll be today. Akane: Yes! That's what I want to hear of you. The two girls hug each other again, and softly, almost whispering into Akane's ear, Ranko speaks. Ranko: And thanks for kicking my ass, when I needed it. ~*~ Genma approaches the Training Hall, clad in his Gi. Lost in thought, he is humming a little song, when he hears voices coming from the hall. Genma: [thinks] Ah, seems like Ranma and Akane are already there. Perhaps we could have a little sparring round all together. But then he hears some words that stop him from calling out. Instead he approaches more carefully, now, listening in on the children. Ranko's Voice: You think we can get this to work. Akane's voice: We *have* to. ~*~ Ranko and Akane are kneeling in the middle of the hall, talking animatedly. Ranko: But what if mother... Akane: [interrupts] Will you *stop* that? Don't play games of "what if". Whatever happens, we have to *deal* with it. There and then. We should be prepared, not anxious. Are you ready to go through with it? Ranko, inspired by Akane's assertive manner, loses her hesitance. A look of decisiveness creeps into her eyes. Ranko: Yes, I *will*. I will go and see my mother, no matter what it costs me - nothing could be worse than the way it's now. Tomorrow I'll go to her house in girl form and talk to her. Without father to interrupt us or complicate the situation, I'm sure I can convince her that everything is all right. She's been visiting quite regularly anyway in the past weeks, so I think I can handle her and explain everything. Akane: [friendly] *We* can explain everything. Ranko smiles, reassured. ~*~ Outside the Dojo, Genma presses himself against the wall. He has heard everything and frowns intensely. Genma: [thinks] I cannot let that happen. You don't know what you are bringing upon yourself, Ranma - I have to save you from making this mistake for both our sakes. He strikes a dramatic pose, kneeling on one knee, one hand on his heart, one fist raised to heaven. Genma: [thinks] I swear I will avert this disaster! Akane: Oh, hello Mr. Saotome. Genma freezes on the spot. Akane has left the training hall and emerged from the door, right besides him. Akane: Is that a new Kata you're trying out? Genma sweats nervously. -- End of Part 32 Part 33: "These aren't accidents" Tendou Nabiki puts down her calculator on her desk and turns towards the door. Nabiki: Come in, Ranko. Ranko hesitantly complies. As she steps in, Nabiki takes the headphones of her stereo off and lets them dangle around her neck. She looks at the still hesitant Ranko. Ranko: Hi Nabiki. Uh, so... Watcha listening to? Nabiki smiles at the rather obvious evasion and nods towards the stereo. Nabiki: Oldies station. They're playing some Beatles stuff. She proffers the headset and Ranko puts it on to listen in. She pales as she hears the lyrics. ...long long time ago. Your mother should know. (Ahh-hah) Your Mother should know. Nabiki, misinterpreting Ranko's expression, reaches for the volume control. Nabiki: Sorry. Too loud? Ranko: [takes off the headphones] Too appropriate. Nabiki blinks, puzzled. Ranko: You see, I wanted to talk with you about something that Akane and I have planned. [sits down on the bed, pauses] I'm going to contact my mother. Nabiki: [thinks a second] I assume you are not talking about seeing her in boy form again. Otherwise you wouldn't bother to talk about it. Ranko: [nods] Yeah. I just got so *tired* of pretending and Akane helped me make up my mind. I'm going to her house today to talk to her. Just talk. Akane 'n' me planned how I should approach the matter and all that, and I really think this could work... Nabiki: But? Ranko: Well... I just get this feeling that it won't be that easy; that we overlooked something important. I mean, talking to her will be hard enough, but... She searches for words to express her foreboding. Nabiki: [folds her hands and cocks her head] So you wanted an outside opinion? Ranko: [sighs] Yeah. For a while Nabiki just sits and looks at Ranko, biting her lower lip thoughtfully. She seems to be judging Ranko's possible reaction to what she has to say, making Ranko even more nervous. Nabiki: Are you sure you know what you are up against? Ranko: [puzzled] Why? What do you mean? Nabiki: Well... Your father may be a good-for-nothing, lying, freeloading loafer - uh, no offense intended - Ranko: [snorts] None taken. You forgot "stealing" and "kidnapping". Nabiki: [continues] ... but he has got one thing right: Your mother is out for blood. Ranko's eyes widen at Nabiki's flat statement. Knowing that Nabiki would not say so without proof, Ranko eyes her questioningly, waiting for her explanation. Nabiki: [crosses her legs and leans forward] Aunt Nodoka has been coming over quite regularly in the past weeks, and I've talked to her often on those occasions. She is really a very sweet woman, if somewhat too traditional for my tastes [pauses] but she is also a woman who has been hunting down her husband for fifteen years. When she finds him, she wants only one thing: revenge. She points a finger at Ranko. Nabiki: She is always talking of having to make sure that you were not "tainted" by your father, and she is basing her plans for revenge on the assumption that you *were*. She *wants* that revenge. At this point in time, you could be a veritable saint - she would find you flawed; a reason to exact her much anticipated revenge. Nabiki smirks at Ranko. Nabiki: And you are *no* saint. Ranko: Hey! She pauses, contemplating Nabiki's advice. Ranko: So... you're saying it's a bad idea? Nabiki: [lifts a hand] I didn't mean that. I think it is a good idea, actually. *But*... I wanted you to be prepared when you reveal yourself - she won't be as happy as you probably expected. You'll likely have to talk her out of taking that katana of hers and hunting down your father right there and then. Ranko: [grinning] Provided I don't join her. Nabiki: [seriously] Ranko, this might sound like a slapstick movie, right now, but think about what you're saying - that katana of hers is more than real enough to kill; and if I'm right, she's got the inclination to use it. Also, here's something that you should consider: if she judges you so dishonored or "tainted" that it would justify going after your father - wouldn't she also require you to perform seppuku to restore your and the family's honour? Ranko stares at her in shock. ~*~ The door to Ranko's and Genma's room shifts open and Ranko enters. She is awaited by Akane, who eyes her expectantly. Akane: So. Ready to go? Ranko: Absolutely! [nods vigorously; to herself] Absolutely - no matter what. She seems particularly vehement - as if she had to convince herself most of all. Akane notices this. Akane: What did Nabiki say? Ranko: [looks to the ground thoughtfully] She warned me that mom might not react well. She may be right about that. [looks up] But I've still got to try. Akane: I understand. [lays a hand on her shoulder] Cheer up - I know it will all work out in the end. But before that can happen, we must get started. Ranko: [sighs] I wish I had your faith in the future. But you're right - any change can only be for the better. So... [smiles] let's get changed. ~*~ Akane and Ranko are leaving the Tendou home. Ranko is wearing a pretty dress with a floral print for the occasion - something her mother would approve of - while Akane is clad in her usual jogging gear sans the headband. Making their way through Nerima, they near the Saotome home. Finally they turn into the street that will lead them directly to Nodoka's house - and freeze. The whole street is flooded. At least two water mains are broken - children are playing in the puddles; adults are trying to stop the flow; water is splashing around everywhere, and the radio shop is playing Händel. Ranko: That's... Akane: Oh dear. Ranko: [thinks] There is no way I can make it through that without getting wet - and that's the last thing I want now. Ranko just stares down the street; Akane rubs her forehead. Akane: We... We can always take the next street and cut back through a side alley or something. She grabs Ranko's elbow and pulls her along to the next parallel street. Ranko's eyes remain fixed on the watery mess, as long as it is visible. Ranko: [thinks] I have a *bad* feeling about this. I wonder if that was an omen. When they turn the corner to the next street, Ranko immediately jumps back, while Akane almost facefaults. Dozens of kids are playing in the street - and each of them has a "supersoaker" squirt gun, trying to get everybody else as wet as possible. A street vendor with a cart is standing in the middle of it, handing out the toys to everybody who is still "unarmed". Vendor: Get them while there are still some left! Completely free! All paid for! Akane: [shaking off the shock] Hey! What are you doing there?! Vendor: Want one? They're free! I got paid for the whole lot to be given away. Take one! Akane: What kind of- Whoever would do such a thing? Vendor: Some kindly, wandering martial artist, or so. I don't care anyway, as long as the money's good. Akane stares at him angrily, while a look of surprise flashes on Ranko's face. Ranko: [thinks] Wha-a-at...? A suspicion begins to form at the back of her mind. Ranko: Come, Akane. Let's try the next street in the other direction They hurry in the opposite direction, passing the first street and its flood again. Cautiously they peer around the corner and give a simultaneous sigh of relief, when the street turns out to be clear. No water fights, no suspicious fountains, no tank trucks. They stroll along, more relaxedly now. Ranko: [thinks] I guess I was wrong. It must have been coincidence. Akane: Hey, Ranko, look at the fish. Akane has stopped before a store front that sells various kinds of ornamental fish. Several tanks with merchandise are displayed outside. Akane: "Teppou" fish? I wonder why they are called that? Ranko, who has leaned over the tank with Akane, jerks back. Ranko: Teppou...?! She throws herself down, ducking low. Akane is just about to ask her what she is doing, when she is hit in the face by several streams of water. Akane: [splutters] Wha- wha- wha- ! Right then an elderly man storms out of the store, sees the tank and clasps his face. Proprietor: Oh dear, who set the gunfish out front? They should be inside; only the koi and ranchu are supposed to be on display. Somebody could have been drenched. Akane: [dripping] "Could have been"? She shakes the water out of her hair and wrings out her clothes as best as she can, then looks around for Ranko. Ranko has picked herself up and is brushing off her dress, hoping that it isn't stained. She turns to Akane. Ranko: That was too close. Obviously we can't let our guard down. If we want to make it to mom's house with me in- The widening of Ranko's eyes is her only warning. This time, though, Akane is prepared and she dives to the side, just before a solid stream of water shoots down the street. Akane rolls, springs upright and turns. What she sees is the flaming red car of the Nerima Volunteer Firefighter Squad, pumping water that is ejected at a prodigious rate from the hose, held by a young firefighter who is looking around, puzzled. Akane: What the hell are you doing?! Firefighter: Excuse me, but do you know where the fire is? Akane: What fire? Firefighter: We got a call that half the street here was burning down. Ranko falls from the sky. Apparently she jumped to a roof, when the water started flowing. She lands besides and slightly behind the man with the hose, careful to stay out of his line of fire. Ranko: Say, don't you think that for a street on fire this place is somewhat lacking in subtle tell-tale signs? Like, for example, smoke or running people or, for that matter, *flames*? Voice: Turn off the hose! The man with the hose turns at the shout, swinging the stream of water around. Ranko: [jumps high] Dowa! Another man in uniform, apparently a superior to the hose-holder, appears. It is the captain of the Volunteer Firefighter brigade, and he is not amused. Captain: Turn off the hose, I say! Can't you see that there's no fire at all? Obviously the alert was a crank call. If you ever want to be professionals, you gotta learn to first find the fire, *then* pour the water - you don't just douse everything around, hoping to catch the fire by accident! We're heading back to the station, you sorry bunch. Let's just hope you perform better when there's a *real* fire. The stream from the hose dwindles and dies. It is rolled up, and the embarassed firefighters file back into their truck and drive off. With a tired moan, Akane sinks back against a wall. Akane: I can't believe this. How can so many thing like this happen one after another? Ranko is leaning against the wall besides her, her heart still pounding. Ranko: Why do I get the feeling that these aren't accidents? Her sixth sense cuts in, and she instinctively lunges forwards, turning a cartwheel. Where she was standing just a moment ago, there is now a large, overturned bowl of soup, the contents leaking all over the sidewalk. Voice: Ah, excuses moi, mademoiselles. Both girls turn to see who has spoken. Akane: [thinks] It's *him*?! Ranko: [thinks] I knew it! It is Genma with a ridiculously obvious, fake handlebar moustache glued under his nose, a toupee and an ill-fitting waiter's uniform. He is faking a french accent (badly). Genma: I am so véry sorry that I deedn't managé- Err, that I almost drénched you. Let me make réstitutión by présenting you thees compleméntary bowl of soup. He whips out another bowl, takes a step towards Ranko and trips. Genma: Oh dear! I seem to havé treeped. Ranko merely steps aside with a disgusted expression, letting the flying bowl pass. Akane catches it deftly out of mid-air. She quickly feels the fluid with a finger. Akane: Well, well. Better run back to your kitchen, Garçon - this soup is stone cold. Genma: [snootily] Gazpacho soup ees servéd cold. Anyone knows that. Ranko closes her eyes and pinches the bridge of her nose tiredly. Ranko: Pop... What the hell are you doing? I only want to see mom - is that so much to ask? Why do you keep interfering? Akane: Besides, I don't think Gazpacho soup is french food. Genma: [pretending innocence] "Pop"? Mais non, mademoiselle. You must be cónfusing me weeth someone elsé. Akane sets down a bucket, empty now. Before the two girls now stands a panda with a ridiculous moustache and a waiter's apron. Ranko: You were saying, pop? Genma: [signs] Merde! Ranko stomps towards him, cracking her knuckles. Ranko: [Shouts after Genma's dwindling form] And stay out of our way, you hear me?! She and Akane resume their walk down the street with renewed resolve. Akane: I can't believe it. Your own father! Ranko: Well, you haven't known him for as long as I have... I can believe it without problems. Ranko barely jumps back from the splash of water that hits the pavement before her. Falling into a ready stance, she looks up to where the water came from. Voice: Rankooo...! Somebody is sitting on the roof of the low building next to them, holding an empty, dripping bucket. Ranko: Aw, man, Ryouga! Not now! Ryouga: [growling] Oh yes, now, Ranko... Now you pay! -- End of Part 33 Part 34: "I finally made it." Ranko and Akane stare up at Ryouga, who is perched on the low roof before them. He is shaking with anger. Ryouga: Now you'll feel my revenge for what you did to me! Akane steps protectively between the two. Akane: [chastising] Ryouga-kun, stop it! I know that the two of you are always fighting about something or other, but this is not the time. Ryouga: [apologetic] Akane-san, I'm sorry. I have been on Ranko's trail for three weeks; I can't let her get away now. Ranko: Three weeks? Um, you're not still upset about- Wa! She has to jump back to evade another bucketful of water that Ryouga throws at her. Ryouga: *One* I could have handled. Two, or three, okay. But all thirty-five? You'll pay for that. Akane: What are the two of you talking about?! Thirty-five *what*? Slowly Ryouga turns to her. With closed eyes, he forces the words through his teeth. Ryouga: All thirty-five contestants of the Annual. Neriman. Pork. Chop. Cookoff. Akane: Huh? Ryouga: [turns back to Ranko, accusingly] With frilly piggie aprons! Ranko: [exasperated] It was supposed to be a joke! How was I to know they'd turn out to be lunatics with meat cleavers? Ryouga: Diiiieeeeeee! He jumps down at her, feet outstretched, shattering the pavement with his impact. Ranko reacts by jumping onto a wall, then further up onto a house on the other side of the street. Without a moment's hesitation, Ryouga follows. Akane: Hey, wait a moment! Ranko, Ryouga! But neither of the combatants seems to listen. They jump and bound across the roofs into the distance. Akane sighs and folds her arms. Akane: [thinks] I just hope Ranko finishes this quickly. ~*~ Ryouga is pouring all his fury into his fighting, throwing punch after kick after punch. Ranko is content dodging and evading for the moment without counterattacking. She gets dangerously near to getting clipped by Ryouga's flying fists, though. Ryouga: Because of you, I have seen hell! Ranko: [dodging] Come on, it could have been worse. Ryouga: [lunges at her] What could have been worse than that?! Ranko: Whoops. Well, you could have seen the inside of a pot. Ryouga roars. Ranko: Geez, I was just trying to point out the bright side - at least you're here to complain, as opposed to being listed as the main course on somebody's menu. Feinting a headbutt, Ryouga manages to get his real attack through and sweeps Ranko's legs out from under her, sending her falling off of the roof towards the ground. In falling, Ranko looks down and with horror realizes that she is headed right for a pool-like ornamental fountain. Frantically she arches her back, trying to alter her trajectory. Ranko: Dammit! Hrrrrrn... She manages to steer towards one of the ornamental boulders that break the surface of the fountain. She catches her fall, bracing herself with one hand on it. Ranko: Ooomph! She backflips, aligning on another boulder with one foot, then jumps clear of the fountain. Ryouga sets down besides the water, whips out his umbrella and beats it across the water, trying to splash Ranko. Ryouga: Now finally turn male, so I can beat you up! Ranko: Geez, *that's* why you're tryin' to splash me? Come on, *you* should know that I'm still myself, even in cursed form. Just fight and get it over with. Ryouga: But when you're in cursed form, it isn't so obvious to see! Ranko: Ah, so you are not actually worried 'bout hitting a girl - just about being *seen* doing it, eh? Ryouga: Aaaargh! Cold water just reveals the truth about you. Jusenkyou brought out your true nature with the curse. Ranko: [miffed] Is that soooo? What does that say about you, pig-boy? Ryouga: *Who is a pig*?! Grinning about having scored a hit, Ranko takes the fight up to the roofs again, where there is more space for her aerial manoeuvres, as well as fewer pedestrians. Ryouga follows her. Now that he has his umbrella out, he uses it as a weapon, slashing and stabbing at her with furious energy. As before, Ranko concentrates on evading Ryouga's attack, without responding, goading him even further. Thus Ryouga is caught by surprise, when Ranko follows up an umbrella jab to her abdomen by jumping upon the outstretched weapon. Daintily holding the hem of her dress, as if curtsying, she gracefully smashes her foot in Ryouga's face. She sets down on a rooftop on one foot, watching Ryouga fall into someone's backyard out of sight. Ranko: [thinks] There, that should put him of my trail for a while. Like, a month or so. Jumping from roof to roof, she makes her way back to the point where she left Akane. ~*~ Groaning, Ryouga rubs the footprint on his face and shakes his head to clear it. He stands up and looks around. Ryouga: [thinks] Damn, where is she? She left as soon as she was out of sight, the coward! Now I'll have to find her all over again. [slaps his fist in his palm] Where the hell am I now? Muffled voice: Who are you that dares interrupt the training of Kunou Tatewaki in this rude manner? Ryouga looks around, surprised, then looks down. He is currently standing on top of Kunou's head, keeping it firmly implanted in the ground. Ryouga: [thinks] Oh, I must have landed on him when I fell. [out loud] So I am at the Kunou household. That means I am not too far from the Tendou Dojo. If I can make my way over there, I could wait for her. Hmmm, No. I'd better try to find her while she's still away from home. But how...? Kunou: Will you finally get off my head, you peasant?! Ryouga: [stomps] Shut up, I'm thinking. Nevertheless, he steps off Kunou's head, allowing him to get up. Kunou: Ha, now feel the wrath of the Blue Thunder! He swings his bokken at Ryouga, who simply catches it in one hand and delivers a debilitating punch to Kunou's face with the other, making him crumple to the ground. Ryouga: [turns] I have no time for you. I just want to find that Ranko. Kunou: [jumps up again] Ah, the ever-elusive, pigtailed girl! I, too, would be interested in finding her. Ryouga stops, then turns back thoughtfully. Ryouga: Hmmm, I have a suggestion... ~*~ Ranko lightly lands next to Akane, who has been waiting for her at the spot they separated. Ranko: Yo, Akane. Let's get on with it. Akane: Where did you leave Ryouga-kun? Ranko: Lost him. It's not that hard; he does it himself all the time. Akane: [sighs] All right, let's get going. We want to meet your mother *today*, after all. They continue down the street. Ranko: [thinks] I just hope I really left Ryouga behind. I have a strange feeling I haven't seen the last of him. ~*~ Ryouga: It's just around the next corner. No, wait, it's two streets down, and then around the corner. No wait... Behind him, Kunou is buying an ornamental sword holder from a souvenir shop. It reads "A Souvenir From Osaka". ~*~ At the other end of the town, there is a loud splash, as something heavy lands in the middle of the little lake of the local park. The passers-by assume a safe distance, when a large, dripping panda wades out of the water, an angry aura swirling about it. Genma: [signs] Sooo... That is the way she wants it, eh? [new sign] Very well, if she won't respect her elders... [new sign] So be it! The onlookers back away even further, or take to flight, as the panda begins to laugh evilly. Genma: Gufu, gufu. [signs] A-hah! Ahahahahahahahahahaaaa... ~*~ Ryouga and Kunou are fighting their way through a dense underbrush, Kunou walking front, hacking at the thicket with his bokken. Unfortunately this does not keep him from talking. Kunou: Oh, Pigtail Girl, soon we will meet anew, that we may take up the battle again, as it should be. Ryouga: So, what did she do to *you*? Kunou clasps his hands to his chest dramatically. Kunou: Ah, she stole my heart away, like the gentlest of thieves, leaving only an ache in its place; an ache to be with her at all times. Ah, Pigtailed Girl - I would date you! Ryouga: [shrugs] Each to their own. I just want to beat her up. Kunou: [bops him with his bokken] You cur. Ryouga: Why, you...! Ryouga and Kunou grab each other's throats beginning to throttle each other, when suddenly they stop dead - a nearby voice taking all their attention. Akane: So, why are you so nervous? Is it what Nabiki said? Ranko: Yeah, among other things. Ranko and Akane are walking down the street. They don't notice the noises coming from the bushes that flank the way, so engrossed are they in their conversation. Ranko: Nabiki says Mom is kinda fixated on taking revenge on Pop. I can see that, the way that Pop ran off with me when I was little. But she also thinks that Mom won't go after Pop, unless he screwed me up in my upbringing or something. Akane nods. Nodoka always said things to that effect to both of them. Ranko: So... Nabiki thinks Mom will judge me dishonored, *no matter what*. Because she's so keen on taking revenge, you see? I think we'll have a hard time convincing her that my curse is not the end of the world. Akane reaches out and lays a hand on one of Ranko's slumped shoulders. Akane: But you're still going to see her? Ranko: I don't know what else I could do. This isn't something that will get better if we wait - better to get it over with. Akane opens her mouth to say something supportive, but she never gets that far. Voice: Pigtailed Girl! Tendou Akane! Do not be sad, for I, Kunou Tatewaki, have arrived to support you in your hour of need! The two girls turn to see Kunou with his arms stretched wide in anticipation of an embrace, and Ryouga, groaning and covering his face with a hand. Ryouga: You Dolt! Have you never heard of the element of surprise? Kunou: That is not the way of the Samurai. Ranko: Oh man, I never thought I'd be thankful for your delusions of grandeur, Kunou. [whispers to Akane] We can't risk a fight now. You run first, I'll try to delay them and then come after you. I hope we can lose them again, that way. Akane frowns a little, but nods a fraction. Satisfied, Ranko approaches Kunou. Ranko: So, "Sempai". Are the daily beatings at school not enough for you anymore, that you now hound me even on Sundays? Kunou: [striking a theatrical pose] Is there a place on the timetable for affection? No, love knows neither time nor season and will not obey- Ugh! Using his distraction, Ranko has delivered a crunching uppercut to his jaw, sending him flying down the street. Akane takes off running, as Ranko whirls towards Ryouga. Ryouga wastes no time and attacks, but Ranko ducks under his punch and works his stomach with a brutal left-right combination, taking the wind out of his lungs. Ranko: You never remember that in my natural form I'm faster'n you. [thinks] I hope this buys me a few seconds. She turns to run after Akane. Unfortunately, she underestimated the speed with which Kunou recovers from a rattled braincase. Kunou: Pigtail Girl! Ranko: Gyaah, leggo! She bashes Kunou again, taking off at a desperate pace after Akane, since Ryouga is already regaining his breath. But just before she can reach the mouth of the alley, something drops from above, blocking her way. As she comes to a skidding halt, Ranko recognizes the figure. It is Genma, holding full buckets of water in both hands and wearing several water containers on a string around his neck. Genma: Stop right there. Ranko slowly backs away from him. Only when she is several feet out of his range, she dares throw a quick glance over her shoulder, where she sees the love-stricken Kunou and a determined Ryouga. She is closed in, front and back; the houses on either side of the alley are too high to allow jumping up. She sidles towards one wall, allowing her opponents to meet up and face her, so that she has all of them in front of her. Genma: Give it up. We've got you surrounded. With her back to the wall, Ranko looks around, already knowing that her father is right. She looks at her opponents, left to right, beginning with Ryouga who is cracking his knuckles in anticipation. There doesn't seem to be any opening in their ranks. Ranko: [thinks] Ryouga's fast and strong; he can cover his ground without problems. Pop can't be trusted to play fair in this one; he probably has some evil tricks up his sleeve, so no escape there either. Kodachi has a far reach with her bloody ribbon, and the same goes for Kunou and his bokk- Wait a minute! Kunou turns his head to the girl next to him. Kunou: Pray tell, dear sister, what brings you here? Kodachi: Ohohohohoo, dear brother. Did you truly think I would pass up a chance to have at the wretched pigtail girl that would separate me from my dear Ranma-sama? Of course I followed you and your henchman- Ryouga: Who's his henchman?! Genma: [to Ranko] I told you - you might just as well give up. In the face of this opposing force, something hardens on Ranko's features; she has come to a decision. Ranko: [narrows eyes] All right, this is it. Enough is enough. The gloves are off. Ranko crouches down in a strangely hunched over position, keeping her eyes on Genma and Ryouga. Suddenly she lets out a blood- curdling scream and streaks past Kunou faster than he can see. Ranko: NYAAAAAAAA! Kunou doesn't even have time to react, before his pigtailed goddess is already gone. Slowly he turns to look after her. His hair is in wild disarray now, his vest ripped in many places, his hakama torn into strips and his bokken is but a tuft of paper- thin wood shavings. Kunou: Wha- wha- wha... He gathers himself again and looks around himself. Then he walks over to Kodachi who is lying on the ground, seemingly unconscious. He kneels beside her and lifts her upper body. Thin red lines, like scratches crisscross on her face. Her eyes flutter, then open fully. Kunou: Are you all right, younger sister? Kodachi: [looks around furiously] Where is that dreadful pigtailed wench?! At the mention of his love, Kunou jumps up, letting Kodachi fall back to the ground. Kodachi: Ooof! Kunou: [looking left and right] Pigtailed Girl! Genma: After her! She went that way. Kunou doesn't need telling twice and takes off after Ranko. Kodachi: [rolls over and pushes herself up] Ohohohohohohooo! The hunt is on! Kodachi: Umph! Just as Kodachi is getting up, she is trampled down by Ryouga who is following Kunou's lead. Kodachi: [steamed] Why, you... She lashes out with her ribbon, catching Ryouga by the ankle, making him stumble and fall right into a nearby rain water barrel. Kodachi: OOOOhohohoHOhohOHohoooo! Let that be a lesson to you, not to trifle with the Black Rose. Wait for me, elder brother! She bounces off after Kunou, ignoring the enraged black piglet that jumps out of the barrel and runs after her on its little piggie legs, trying to bite her calves. ~*~ Meanwhile Ranko is careering down the street at top speed, determined to lose her pursuers. She almost misses Akane waving at her from the door of a public restroom. Ranko zooms past her through the door, coming to a panting standstill in the anteroom before the stalls. Akane: What kept you? I thought you didn't want to fight them? Ranko: It just got worse. Pop appeared again and Kodachi too. They had me cornered and I had to- Uh, anyway, what do we do now? Akane: [scratches her head, then smiles] We split up again. ~*~ Following Kunou's lead, Kodachi, Genma and a re-humanized Ryouga hurry down the street. Ryouga: [to Genma] Why are we following this dolt? Genma: Trust me. This boy has the uncanny ability always to turn up where Ranko or Akane are. Ryouga: The term 'Idiot Savant' springs to mind. Suddenly there is a commotion. A few paces in front of Kunou, Ranko and Akane burst from the door of a public restroom. They take off in a flash, leaving the startled group of would-be pursuers standing. Finally the others animate and give chase. After a while something unexpected happens - Ranko and Akane split up, one running further down the street, while the other turns into a side street. Kunou stops dead, forcing the others to stop or evade; Ryouga crashes into Genma and both tumble to the ground. For a few seconds, Kunou stands confused, looking back and forth between the two girls. Finally he hitches. Kunou: Forgive me, Tendou Akane, but I have to follow the Pigtail Girl. I will make restitution to you. With that he takes off again, after the girl in the floral dress, her pigtail swaying in the wind. The others follow as well as they can. The wild chase goes on and on; all over the neighbourhood they run. Carts are overturned; chicken squawk and flutter around; humorous fruit and cream pies fly low. Finally, after a long time, Kunou begins to catch up. Foot by foot, inch by inch, he gains upon his quarry, until he is near enough. He reaches out and grabs her by the pigtail. Kunou: Haha, I caught you, O pigtailed one. Come let us be off to- The pigtail comes loose in his hands. Kunou: Gaaahhh! The no longer pigtailed girl looks over her shoulder. Akane: Fooled you! Without missing a beat, Kunou latches on to her. Kunou: Tendou Akane! I would date you! Akane: Gyaaaaah! [punches him into the sky] Get off me! She steadies herself against a wall, panting, one hand clenched over her beating heart. Akane: [thinks] I *knew* there was a catch to that plan. ~*~ Ranko, wearing Akane's jogging clothes, slows down to a swift walk and allows herself to look back. There is no trace of the others. She exuberantly punches the air, once. Ranko: [thinks] Yay! It worked! Thank you, Akane. Slowly she strolls the last hundred feet to her mother's house. When she finally stands before it and looks up at the building, she gives a sigh that speaks of a heavy burden being put off. She pushes the doorbell. Ranko: [thinks] I made it! I finally made it. ~*~ When Saotome Nodoka steps out of her home to answer the bell at the gate, she takes a second or two, having to open her umbrella first, to make it to the gate without being drenched. When she opens the gate she is surprised to find nobody before it. She is just about to return to the house, when she spies a figure sitting on the ground. It is leaning against the wall, hunched over and looks as miserable as can be. Nodoka: Oh dear, Ranma-kun. Now, crying like that isn't very manly, is it? With a jerk, Ranma looks up at her, obviously having missed her presence. Ranma: Uh- Uh... I'm not- It's- That's just the rain running down my cheeks. Nothing more. He puts on a smile for Nodoka, that she returns. Nodoka: How nice that I meet you here. I wanted to call Tendou-san today, but perhaps you can deliver my message? ~*~ When Ranma and Akane arrive back at the Tendou home, dripping wet, they are greeted by Nabiki and Kasumi. Nabiki: Well? Kasumi: Did you meet your mother in your natural form? Ranma: [tonelessly] No. Nabiki frowns at the bad news, and Kasumi's hopful expression turns sad. Kasumi: Oh. Ranma: But... she's coming over tomorrow. Akane softly lays a hand on Ranko's shoulder and squeezes it. Akane: [encouragingly] That's great, Ranko. It means you get another chance right away. Nabiki: [grabs her forehead] D'oh! Why make a thing simple when you can plan, deliberate, run around for... [looks at her watch] six hours straight and finally end up achieving nothing instead. In the background Souun's voice can be heard. Souun: Why, Saotome-kun! What happened to you? Were you run over by a 16-ton truck? Suddenly Ranma and Akane smile again. Ranma: I wouldn't say we achieved nothing... -- End of part 34 Part 35: "Mother!" The clatter and drone of a hundred students fills the cafeteria of Fuurinkan High. Tendou Nabiki looks up from her ledger that she has been reading while absent-mindedly eating her lunch, when she hears somebody calling her name. Ranma: Nabiki! Nabiki: [waves] Hi Ranma! The boy comes over and takes the place opposite from her. Unlike most of her classmates, Nabiki eats alone. Ranma looks at the ledger in Nabiki's hand. Ranma: Uh, are you busy right now? Nabiki: [smiles sweetly] Yes. She watches him flounder for a while, trying to come up with a suitable answer to that, before she ends his misery. Nabiki: Is there, perhaps, something you want from me? Ranma: Uh, yeah. It's about, um, what you said yesterday. About my mom. It's just that I thought about it and I think you're probably right. Nabiki: And? Ranma: And I don't know what to do now. I mean, I still want to meet her, but now I can't stop worrying. If she's already convinced that I am dishonored, how will she react to my curse and stuff? I'm just afraid that it's going to go horribly wrong and she'll hurt Pop and ask me- I don't *feel* dishonored by my curse and I don't really want to perform Seppuku, but if Mom feels differently, she just might require me to do that. She's so... Nabiki: Old-fashioned? Ranma: Traditional. Nabiki: Well, if it's all a matter of tradition - then to *heck* with tradition! You don't wanna, then don't do it. Kids today don't have to conform to everything their parents think. These aren't the middle ages anymore, you know? Ranma eyes her thoughtfully for a moment, then slowly, reluctantly shakes his head. Ranma: No, Nabiki. I can't just shrug off tradition like that, although I know Pop would like me to follow this advice. You're the smartest person I know, and you know all about the modern world and how to live in it and stuff - but where's the place for the martial arts in this modern world? What's their purpose if not serving as a way of keeping a tradition alive and honouring our heritage? He looks down to the ground, frowning. Ranma: Nah, as much as I'd like to somehow squirm my way outta this situation - and I'm sure you could help me there - I have to do this the straight way. Perhaps you can *still* help me with that? Ranma looks at Nabiki again, seeing her look back with her usual raised eyebrow. She seems impressed. Nabiki: I see you thought pretty hard about this. Ranma: [grins] Yeah, I do that *sometimes*. So... Do you think you can help me find a way to solve this mess? Nabiki looks very thoughtful for a moment before she reacts. Then, slowly, the corner of her mouth moves and soon a grin spreads over her face, making her eyes twinkle. Nabiki: Can't hurt to try, can it? Ranko smiles back at her, relieved. Nabiki rubs her hands, businesslike. Nabiki: Now. The key to the problem is that your mom *subconsciously* knows that she'll hurt you if she goes after your pop... ~*~ Akane: You seem very excited, Ranma. What gives? Akane is walking along the street by the canal, talking to Ranma, who is, as usual, atop the fence. He is looking rather exuberant. Ranma: Well? You know my mom's coming over today. This time I'm gonna see her for sure. Akane: Well, yes, but you weren't quite as happy yesterday. Today you seem a lot more optimistic. Ranma: I talked with Nabiki again, and she helped me figure out the best way to tackle this. She worked out some strategies for me, how to confront Mom, and what to expect and stuff. Akane: She *does* have a knack for negotiations. Ranma: [nods] It's still going to be hard and risky and everything, but this time I've got a really good feeling about it. It *just might* all work out. Akane: That's great. [thinks] I just hope you are right, Ranko. Let's hope you are right. When the two arrive at the Tendou Dojo, Ranma stops and makes no moves to enter the gate. Akane: What's up? Aren't you going to come in? Ranma: Err, no. My mom is probably already in, and... Well, I just don't wanna meet her as Ranma before she sees me as myself. I mean, what would I say? "Hi Mrs. Saotome, I can't stay, but I'm sure Ranko will stop by, later"? I just don't wanna begin this with a lie. Akane: So what are you going to do? Ranma: I'll try to sneak in unseen and change back. Then I'll meet Mom, hopefully keep her from turning Dad into panda steak and carefully approach the matter of the curse. Akane: Pretty ambitious plan. Ranma responds with a wild, but determined grin. Ranma: Hey, leave me my dreams. It's a tough job, but somebody's gotta do it. With that he leaps onto the surrounding wall and darts behind the cover of one of the trees. Akane watches for a second, as he spies out the yard, then hops off the wall inside. She opens the gate and enters the more orthodox way. ~*~ Akane's voice: I'm ho-ome! Kasumi pokes her head out of the kitchen entrance and waits for Akane to appear around the corner of the hall. When she does, Kasumi greets her brightly. Kasumi: Welcome back, Akane. Ranko's mother is already here. She is in the living room with Father and Mr. Saotome. Akane nods her thanks and heads down the hall, where the shifting doors are opened into the garden in front of the equally open doors of the living room. Nodoka is sitting at the table, watching a game of Go between Souun and Genma in his panda form. Akane: Hello, Father. Hello Mrs. Saotome. With an evil grin she moves over to Genma, puts her arms around his neck and "hugs" him. Akane: And hello, "Mr. Saotome"... Nodoka: Hello Akane-chan. Isn't it nice to have a pet like this in the house? Akane: Oh, yes, I could just cuddle him all day... Her next squeeze brings tears to the panda's eyes. He holds a small sign before Akane's face. Genma: [signs] M-mercy... With a final squeeze Akane lets go of him, and Genma gasps, welcoming the air back into his lungs. Nodoka: So, where's Ranma-kun? Akane: [waves her hand dismissively] Oh, he had to go. I just hope he'll *stay* gone for now. Nodoka: Now, now, Akane-chan, is that a way to talk of your fiancée? Akane sighs and hangs her head in desperation. Very patiently she begins to speak. Akane: Mrs. Saotome, let's put this right, once and for all: We. Are. Not. Fiancées. Ranma is a very... special person, and I value him highly, but there is *no way* I will marry him. *Please*, Mrs. Saotome, I appreciate your interest, but it doesn't help either of us. The older woman smiles indulgently at Akane. Nodoka: Of course, Akane-chan, if you say so. But you might change your mind someday, when you two have been together a bit longer. Akane: A-heh [smiles back strainedly; thinks] I just hope after today *you* change your mind... [out loud] It's not going to happen, Mrs. Saotome. Souun: [shouts] Ha! Everybody turns to him, surprised. He plunks a black stone onto the board. Souun: That group is finished, Saotome. You'll never get a second eye into it now. [looks up] Oh, hello Akane. You're back. Akane: [sighs] Yes, Daddy. ~*~ Ranma, in the most feminine clothes he dares put on, creeps down the hall towards the bath from the direction of the entrance, When he comes to the corner, he shoots a cautious look down the hall towards the living room, then rushes over to the door of the anteroom and enters quickly. He turns the hot water handle of the faucet and waits. A single drop comes from the foaucet and slides down into the drain. Ranma: [thinks] Wha-at? [out loud] Aw, geez, don't tell me the hot water is broken. He turns towards the bathroom. Ranma: [thinks] Wait, the water in the tub must still be hot. He cautiously opens the door, and slips through. He frowns at what he sees. Ranma: Drat! The Furo is not only not hot, but actually completely drained. Ranma clenches his fists in anger. Ranma: [grumbling] Of all the times to drain the furo... Still grumbling, he returns to the anteroom and turns towards the hall. He opens the door a crack and peeks out. Seeing the coast clear, he whizzes over to the kitchen, and hurries in, after quickly checking if his mother is in there. He is relieved to find just Kasumi at her usual place before the stove. Kasumi: Hello, Ranma. Dinner is not yet ready. Ranma: Uh, I was more interested in some hot water. Quickly for preference, before my mother sees me. Kasumi: Oh, of course. [reaches for a kettle and hands it to him] But why didn't you just use the bathroom? She turns back to the food and resumes stirring. Ranma: [sourly] Well, the furo's drained. Why else? Kasumi: My, who would drain the furo in the middle of the day? I only just let in fresh water for when you come back from school. Ranma: [almost snaps] How should I know who- Suddenly Ranma interrupts himself. His expression turns from annoyance to anger. Ranma: Of course! Pop did it, that sneaky, no good... He shakes his head, and focuses back on the present again. He lifts the kettle and pours it over his head, careful not to mess up his clothes. Ranko: Thanks Kasumi. You're a life-saver. Kasumi: So, are you going to see her now? Ranko: [slowly] No... I'll wait till I can catch her away from Pop. He's acting so crazy, there's no telling what he'd do. Except, of course, that he'd try to mess everything up. I'll go, hide in the spare room. Kasumi nods, smiling, and turns back to her cooking, putting the kettle back onto the stove. She hums a little tune to herself while she stirs, tastes and seasons the food. The occasional shouts and laughs from the living room do not disturb her peaceful little world here in the kitchen, nor does the splash and broken-off curse that sounds over from the spare room. She does not turn her head, but automatically proffers the kettle, when a dripping wet and muttering Ranma stomps back into the room. Ranma takes it and turns female yet again without a word. With a fluidity coming from long practice, Kasumi takes and refills the kettle, then sets it back on the stove to heat with one hand, without even taking her eyes from the food. Ranko: Kasumi... Have you ever made panda fillet? Kasumi lifts her head and looks at the ceiling, thinking. Kasumi: Oh dear, I don't think I have any recipies for that. Pandas are an endangered species, you know? Ranko: I know one in particular who's gonna be... Suddenly Souun's voice can be heard from the living room. Souun: Ha ha ha! Victory is mine, Saotome! A rematch? So eager for another defeat? No, we've been sitting for far too long. Let's go to the dojo and spar there. Various shuffling noises can be heard, and suddenly Akane pokes her head in. Akane: Here you are, Ranko! Quick, our fathers are going off, and your mother is alone in the living room. Ranko's eyes widen in anticipation with just a trace of nervous fear. This is the moment she waited for. ~*~ Nodoka smiles to herself, as she kneels beside the table, clearing the Go board away and sorting the stones back into their boxes. Nodoka: [thinks] No wonder they named him after my husband. He plays just like him. And they both cheat. She smiles and here eyes lose focus a bit. Nodoka: [thinks] Oh Genma... Suddenly she hears someone speak up behind her, and the box of black stones almost clatters to the ground. Voice: Mother! Hurriedly putting the box down, she turns excitedly. Nodoka: [thinks] Can it be...? There, in the hall before the wide open doors into the garden stands Ranko, silhouetted slightly by the afternoon sun. A soft breeze that comes in from the outside ruffles her clothes and her hair, making the glinting reflections on it dance. She is looking at her mother with adoration, her arms slightly spread and stretched towards her invitingly. Nodoka's heart beats loudly in her chest. Nodoka: Ranko... Coming down the hall, carrying a now empty bucket is Genma in his human form, clad in his gi. Genma: Stop that nonsense, child. You mother is in the house; she might see you. He hurries past the shocked Ranma, never noticing the frozen form of Nodoka in the living room. The tableau remains static for a long time, before - slowly - life flows back into Nodoka. Her hand covers her mouth in horror, and a pained expression forms on her face. Nodoka: Ranma? You... you are Ranma? She rises to her feet and approaches the frozen form of her newly discovered child. Ranma is still in the same position he was before the change, except that now his face is caught in an expression of pain and utter shock. When his mother stands before him, he turns his eyes to her in a pleading way. Ranma: Mother, I'm... sorry. Nodoka reaches out and gathers him in and embrace, just holding him for a few moments. Nodoka: My poor child... There are tears in the corners of her eyes, when she lets go of Ranma and takes a step back. For a few long seconds, their eyes meet; Ranma's still set in a pained, somewhat pleading expression; Nodoka's full of sadness. She reaches into her kimono, pulls out something and wordlessly presses it into Ranma's numbed hands. She then steps past him and calmly down the hall after Genma. Ranma turns to look after her, unable to act, until finally his lips move. Ranma: Mother... But she is already gone from sight. Only when the hot water hits his head, Ranma notices Akane standing behind him with a kettle. Akane: So you didn't get to see her again? Ranko: [tonelessly] Worse. Much, much worse. She turns around and Akane almost gasps at her expression. Ranko: Pop turned me male right in front of her. She knows now, and I didn't even have a chance to explain. She- she just went off after him. [pauses] But she *did* hug me. Oh, and she gave me... She looks down at her hands and then falls silent, not completing her sentence. Slowly she lifts her hand for Akane to see. Akane covers her lower face in horror. Akane: A tantou dagger?! For a moment they just stare at the blade, letting the terrible implication sink in. Before either of them can say a word, they are interrupted by a scream of terror coming from outside. Voice: Nodoka, no!! Ranko: Oh god, that was Pop! Both girls rush towards the doors, where the scream came from. As Ranko hastens out into the garden, she sees her mother and father halfway across to the Dojo. Genma is lying on his back, panic in his eyes, one of his arms raised defensively. Nodoka is standing over him, her unsheathed Katana raised high above, ready to descend. Ranko: Mother! -- End of part 35 Part 36: "I'm going to take you home" Ranko: Mother! No! Saotome Nodoka is standing in the Tendou garden. Her katana is raised high above her head, ready to descend upon her husband, who lies prone before her. She does not seem to hear her daughter's scream. The sword swoops down towards the terrified Genma. Genma: Noooo! Silver light flashes. A metallic noise is followed by a dull, wooden impact. Then silence. The tantou blade vibrates slightly, buried up to the hilt in the tree beside Nodoka, but her eyes are fixed in shock on her katana - or rather the half of it that is still in her hands. The other half is sticking upright in the ground between Genma's legs, where it fell. Ranko: Mom! Ranko rushes across the garden towards her parents, the sheath of the tantou dagger still in her hand. She stops next to her mother; not quite standing between her and her father, but near enough to do so at any time. With wide eyes Nodoka looks up from the sword handle to her daughter. Ranko: Mom? Nodoka has not moved, except for her turning head. Now she unfreezes and one of her hands leaves the grip of the sword, reaching out to her daughter without touching her, as if afraid she will disappear. Nodoka: Ranko... You are a girl again. Ranko: I always was a girl, Mom. I just sometimes... don't look like one. Nodoka: It's- It's your father's fault. Her words are more of a statement than a question, but her eyes seek confirmation on Ranko's face. Ranko: [slowly] Yes. It was Pop's doing. Nodoka: [whispers] How? Ranko: [takes a deep breath] In China there is a place called Jusenkyou, the ground of cursed pools. The curse is that when you fall in a pool, you change into whatever drowned there a long time ago. We went there to train and I fell in the Nanniichuan - the pool of the drowned boy. Now cold and hot water change me back and forth between a male and female version of my body. But it's always me, inside. On the porch, Nabiki and Souun have arrived to watch the events. Akane has walked a few paces from the house into the garden and looks on anxiously. Nabiki: [out of Nodoka's earshot] Except, of course when she's been brainwashed. Akane: [hisses] Nabiki! Ranko and Nodoka have noticed nothing. Nodoka shoots a look at Genma, who has been inching back very slowly. Nodoka: *He* did- Ranko: [firmly] I fell into the pool. Yes, he did it. But it's partially my own fault, 'cause I didn't pay attention to the guide and was too cocky with Pop. [frowns] It wouldn't have happened if I had only guarded myself better. Nodoka gesticulates with her half of the sword at Genma without even looking, making him flinch and inch back faster. Nodoka: But why did you stop me, then? After he dishonored you like that... Ranko: [with a hard voice] Because if I thought he should pay for it with his life, it would be me holding the sword, Mother. Nodoka gasps at the almost accusing tone in Ranko's voice. She opens her mouth to say something, but Ranko resumes talking. Ranko: [angrily] All it took was one look for you to decide my honour was compromised. No questions, no deliberation. Perhaps... you had already decided that my honour would not be enough to satisfy you? Nodoka: [blanches] No... In the background Akane starts biting her nails at the exchange, while Nabiki looks on with interest. Souun is unreadable. Ranko: [continues more angrily] Perhaps you had decided that you wanted to punish father above all things - even if you had to *make* a reason first? Nodoka closes her eyes and shakes her head, as if trying to block out Ranko's words. The knuckles of her hand are white, so hard is she gripping the handle of the katana. Nodoka: No. No. Ranko: [takes a deep breath; more calmly] Father has done his share of dishonourable things, that's true. But, he did nothing he should have to pay for with his life. Whether he should perform Seppuku to restore his honour is neither yours nor mine to decide. I won't end my life just because you want to end his. [leans forward] Don't use *me* as an excuse to exact a revenge that only *you* want. Ranko's last words prove too much for Nodoka. She flinches like someone being slapped and with a choked sob she falls to her knees and curls up, still clutching the end of the Katana. Nodoka: Nooo! I never wanted that. I didn't- I never wanted to hurt you. I love you! Please, you must believe me. I never wanted it. Tears are streaming from her clenched eyes, streaking down her face and dropping to the ground. Ranko softly kneels down beside her and gently pries the sword handle from her fingers. Nodoka: I didn't want to see you hurt. Ranko! Ranko, please don't hate me... She does not even seem to notice that the sword is gone, but continues sobbing and pleading. With a shaking hand, Ranko reaches out to her and gently lifts her head, to look into her eyes. There are tears in her eyes, as well as her voice, as she speaks. Ranko: Mother, I... I love you! But I also love Father, and for both your sakes, I can't let you do this. I don't want... Nodoka: [crying] It's not a question of wanting anything. I don't want to hurt you - but don't you see? I have to do what's right. For your honor I have to- Ranko: Mom. *I* can defend my honor. Nodoka: [blinking through her tears] But, I've always- What do- What else is left for me? What can I do? Kasumi: [brightly] Why don't you all come in and have some tea? I just made some. Everybody turns towards Kasumi who just turned up behind Souun and Nabiki from the depths of the house. Nodoka looks at her with uncertainty and a good portion of disbelief. Nodoka: Have some tea? Kasumi meets Nodoka's gaze straight on and smiles at her. A smile as unwavering and solid as an ancient rock at the seafront that countless millennia of waves could not erode and will endure until the sea is long gone. Ranko gets up. Ranko: That is a *great* idea, Kasumi. She reaches one hand out to her mother, beckoning her. Slowly Nodoka gets up, too. Ranko: We'll sit down, have tea and talk. Remember how you always told Akane and me that there is no relationship problem that can't be solved by a reasonable talk? Nodoka gasps. Ranko: [smiles] It didn't make a marriage between Akane and "Ranma" happen, but perhaps it's worth a try now? Nabiki frowns, worried, when Ranko mentions "Ranma" and his engagement to Akane. So does Nodoka, but her frown is one of renewed anger, not worry. She turns abruptly and glares at Genma, who has gotten up in the meantime and was sidling past her and Ranko. When he looks his wife in the face, he blanches and instinctively steps backwards. Ranko lays a hand on Nodoka's arm, trying to hold her back. Ranko: Mom. Mom! Nodoka takes another step towards Genma, a sound almost like a growl coming from her throat. She does not have her katana anymore, but somehow she does not look like she needs it to do serious harm. Gulping, not taking his eyes of Nodoka, Genma carefully backs up another step - and suddely goes wide-eyed as the ground beneath his feet vanishes. A smugly satisfied look creeps over Nodoka's features at her husband's mishap - only to turn into utter surprise, when she sees just what emerges from the pond. Nodoka: The Panda...? Mr.Sao- Genma?! That is you?! Ranko: Uh, Mom, you see... there were really a *lot* of pools at Jusenkyou and when I realized that Pop set me up- She stops short when a small, unarticulated sound escapes from her mother's throat. Then another. Finally Nodoka cannot hold herself back anymore and the subdued noises turn into unbridled laughter that makes her bend over, clutching her sides. Nodoka: [points at Genma] All- all this time that was *him*? [giggles almost madly] Even that weekend, when- when we... She doubles over in laughter again, unable to complete her sentence. Concerned, Ranko supports her. Ranko: When we what, Mom? Nodoka: [under giggles] When we cuh- cooked together. Akane: [blushing] Eeep. Akane clasps her hands over her mouth, remembering how her own attempts at cooking always resulted in "Panda Food". Still giggling, Nodoka sinks to a kneeling position next to Ranko who moves to kneel besides her. Slowly her chuckles subside and she clasps Ranko more strongly, burying her face in her daughter's shoulder. Nodoka: [almost sobbing] Oh god, Ranko, I love you. I'm so happy that we are together. So long... I've waited so *long*. I'll never let you out of my life again. Never! Tears are streaming down Souun's face and he lets them flow unchecked in silence for a change. Akane sniffles and dabs at her eyes. Kasumi smiles warmly, and so does Nabiki, uncharacteristically, although her smile also betrays a good amount of satisfaction. Even the panda's eyes fill with tears, as he looks on from his place in the pond. For a long time mother and daughter just hold each other in this embrace. Finally Ranko breaks it. She gets up and takes her mother's hands. Ranko: We were going to have tea. ~*~ The entire Saotome and Tendou families sit at the table in the living room that is opened out into the garden. Nodoka sits at one corner, Her daughter and her husband on either side. Souun sits at the opposite corner with Nabiki and Akane flanking him. The arm on Akane's side disappears behind his back in such a way that the attentive observer might be led to believe that it is twisted almost to the point of pain by someone who does not want to hear *one* *single* *word* about engagements in the upcoming discussion. Kasumi is busily serving tea to everyone. After a long silence that is only broken by the soft sounds of the windchime, Ranko finally speaks up. Ranko: I'm sorry, Mom. I'm sorry that I lied to you for so long. Nodoka: I understand, Ranko; you don't have to apologize. After all, I- I did my level best to make telling the truth too dangerous, di- didn't I? Tears start brimming in her eyes again. Ranko: Mom, I- Nodoka: No, Ranko, let's not talk about it anymore. It's in the past and should stay there. What counts is that we're together now. And I want us to *stay* together. She pauses and looks for comprehension on Ranko's face. Nodoka: What- What I'm trying to say is... grab your things, I'm going to take you home. Everybody takes a second to stomach this piece of news. Ranko and her mother smile at each other; Souun and Genma retain their silent pokerfaces that they have kept on since the beginning of this round; Nabiki frowns and Akane looks disturbed, as if the thought never ocurred to her. Akane: [thinks] Take Ranko...? Ranko: [hesitantly] I think I'd like that Mom, but... what about Pop? Nodoka shoots a look at Genma, who carefully avoids her gaze. Nodoka: What *about* your father? Ranko: I love both of you - you are my parents. But I- I couldn't stay with either of you, if that means I have to leave the other one alone. I want- I don't want a father here and a mother there - I want a family, just like we used to have. Surprisingly, Genma speaks for the first time since they sat down. Genma: [softly] Ranko, sometimes a family can break apart. People make... mistakes, and some things are too big or went on too long to be forgotten. Sometimes a relationship cannot be repaired. Ranko: Yeah. But *sometimes* "people" are just afraid to try. Both her parents suck in their breath at her accusing tone of voice. Souun: [softly] And sometimes, if people hurt, they need to be away from the reminders of that hurt until it begins to fade. The three Tendou girls gasp almost in unison. Kasumi nearly drops the tray she's holding; Akane looks at her father in astonishment; Nabiki does the same for a second, before she abruptly turns away, hiding her face from the others. Kasumi: Daddy... Ranko, too, gazes at Souun incredulously, then questioningly. Slowly she nods her head. Ranko: That... is true, I guess. She pauses and suddenly a look passes over he face that speaks of fear and inner torment. She turns back to her parents and opens her mouth, but no sound comes out. She shoots a look back at Souun, then lowers her gaze to her hands in her lap. Finally, hesitantly she speaks. Ranko: Mom. Pop. I think that, perhaps... that you two should move together... without me for a while. And try to live together like you did before- before I was born. Nodoka: But- But, Ranko! I don't want to lose you again! Ranko quickly clasps her mother's hand and holds it tightly. Ranko: Mom, you won't lose me. I promise! I'll always be there for you. It's just... I don't want to be something, some kind of *prize* that you and Pop fight over. I can't go with just one of you, but if we're all three together, I- [clenches a fist over her heart] I just *know* it will end that way. Tears start brimming in her eyes again. Ranko: Please! I want to go with you very much - but I can't. Not yet. Nodoka: But where will you stay? Ranko: I'll- Well, I'd like to stay, um, here. If the Tendous will have me. She casts a pleading look towards the Tendou half of the table. Akane: Of course you can stay! [turns to Souun] *Right*, Daddy? Souun straightens up like a man about to pronounce something important, which is not unlike, for example, somebody who is having his arm painfully twisted by his daughter. Souun: You are always welcome to stay in our home, Ranko. Nodoka is not quite convinced, though, and speaks to Ranko reasonably. Nodoka: Now, Ranko, are you sure you thought this through enough? You are putting hope into something that may never happen. Your- Your father and I had... strong disagreements, and I don't know if you can expect us to act as if nothing happened, just because we are left to ourselves without you to remind us of them. Now it is she who studiously avoids meeting Genma's eyes. Ranko looks at both her parents for a while, before she answers. Ranko: You two... you loved each other, didn't you? I mean before I was born and all that. Then Pop got into his head that I should have been born a boy and everything went wrong and we ended up here - but is that love really gone? I know Pop loved you, Mom, and loves you still. Nodoka looks at Genma in surprise and for the first time their eyes meet. Nodoka: Is- that true, Genma? Genma gapes at her for a second then looks to the ground in shame. Genma: I was afraid. I feared meeting you more than anything in the world. I feared your katana, but most of all I feared looking into your face and hearing you say you hate me; for- for what I am and what I've done. So I ran and kept on running. Now I can't run anymore. He looks up at her again, fear and pleading in his eyes. Nodoka bites her lower lip, meeting his gaze, unsure how to respond. Instead she turns towards Ranko again. Nodoka: After all he did- Ranko: [patiently] Mom. You went after us with that Katana for almost as long as we were gone, ready to kill pop for what he did and me for being influenced by him. Don't you think you can understand obsessive behavior just a little bit? The cup in Nodoka's hand clatters onto the table. Ranko: [hurriedly] I'm sorry! I'm sorry, Mom, I shouldn't have said that. Nodoka: [hoarsely] No, don't apologize, Ranko. Not for telling the truth. [pauses] I- I will try. Ranko: [happily] Mom! She hugs Nodoka, and both of them start to cry. Tears stream down Genma's face, too, as well as Souun's, although in his case this might be because Akane is sniffling and dabbing at her eyes, making her grip on his arm involuntarily tighten. Kasumi, who is standing in the doorway with a tray of biscuits, is smiling warmly over everyone. Nabiki grins broadly. ~*~ More tears flow down Ranko's face, as she watches the hesitant figures of her parents leave the Tendou home. Nodoka turns around every few steps and waves back at Ranko; Genma just looks at his daughter sadly. Even after they are gone from sight, Ranko sits down on the front steps and continues to stare after them, crying. Akane puts a comforting arm around her back and Ranko leans her head on her shoulder, her tears slowly subsiding. Akane: You wanted to go with her, didn't you? Ranko: [very quietly] Yes. Akane: But you didn't. Ranko: No. They stay silent for a moment. Ranko: Pop needed to go with her more than I did. And she needed to be with him, too. They've been alone so long - they need to be back in a family; need to *be* a family. [pauses] I know I did the right thing - I'm sure! - but why does it have to hurt so much, when doing the wrong thing would have been so easy? Akane: Because you couldn't have lived with yourself otherwise, let alone with her. It's not forever, Ranko. Remember the last time you had to let your mother go like this? It wasn't forever either, and today you two made a big step in the right direction. The next step will come easier and sooner. Ranko: [snorts] Easier than this? That doesn't say much, does it? The door creaks and Nabiki joins them on the front steps. Ranko wipes her eyes dry and straightens up. Nabiki grins broadly at her. Nabiki: Good thing we worked out that worst-case scenario, eh? Ranko: Yeah. And just about every bit of it happened in the end. Nabiki: Well, except for the alien attack and the earthquake splitting Tokyo in half. Ranko: If all this had hit me unexpectedly... [shudders] I couldn't have done it without you, Nabiki. Thanks. Nabiki: That's not quite true, Ranko. Getting your parents together like that was a pretty impressive bit of negotiation. And it was all yours. I wouldn't have bet my money on a continued relationship between those two. [pauses] Well, I *still* wouldn't bet on it, because I don't bet my money anyway - but I would offer pretty good odds to someone who'd want to. With a smile, Ranko looks up at Nabiki. Ranko: Nevertheless, I wouldn't have dared confronting Mother like I did without your help and coaching. Thanks, Nabiki. I mean it. Nabiki: You're welcome. Now about my fee... Akane: [rising angrily] Nabikiii...! Nabiki: [waves hands] OK, OK! Forget it, I'll waive that. [grins] After all, Ranko is almost family, right? Ranko: No, I am *not*! Akane: No, she is *not*! They look at each other, surprised, then have to laugh. Akane: All right, I guess she *is*, in a way. -- End of Part 36