Disclaimer: meh, don't own, don't really care...
AN- Ok guys, some quick things need to be brought up. First is the fact I am sorry for not releasing anything in so long. Hopefully I'll be back in the groove of things. Secondly, I really do like this story and look forward to releasing more chapters. As such, I am no longer waiting to read the Light novels and will more or less be depending on research and my own devious little game plans to see me through this. Thirdly, I apologize if this chapter isn't to everyone's liking. I especially do so because I'm not quite sure I did a good job utilizing the characters. Also, let me make a quick statement. This is not a lock fic, nor is Ranma gonna be running around as Ranko for most of it. So please be patient with me on this. Anyways, please enjoy!
Belldandy sat at the dinner table watching over her Familia and waiting for her sisters to arrive. Urd was running a bit later than usual. As for Skuld, she had last been seen running off in the midst of her chores by Chihiro. While it was good to hear her younger sister had such drive as to try and seize such an opportunity, she would have preferred her to put a little more thought into her actions. Especially since her younger sister's haste in the matter meant that the laundry had to be washed again. She was going to have to have a few words with her whenever she came back.
Amidst the chatter as the other waited for the goddesses to arrive with Otaki and Tamiya being the loudest with their discontent, Urd walked in flanked by two members of her own familia. It was Toshiyuki and Sayoko. They were Urds direct subordinates with the business minded Toshiyuki handling the business side of things at the potions shop and Sayoko leading the adventurers with her charm. It was rare for them to come here as, while Urd was welcome, their familia was known for being at odds with one another due to differing ideals. She was never told why that was exactly, but she had made it clear that all were welcome long ago. For whatever reason though, Urds familia stayed away. As expected, things quieted down a little at their arrival. Nor was this helped by Urd's annoyed expression.
"It is good to see you sister," Belldandy greeted warmly," What troubles you?"
"A wild goose hunt," She muttered before letting loose a sigh and speaking directly to her sister," We've been out for quite sometime trying to handle a mission. These two were with me when I realized what time it was."
"Well, they are certainly welcome to join us," The younger of the two goddesses present replied. At this the two quickly nodded and took seats at one of the tables," So why were you helping on a mission?"
Urd had also taken her usual spot next to her sister and settled in before answering," It's about that girl your main group saved today, she escaped from guild custody and a mission was put out. Normally we wouldn't bother with a case like this except this girl seemed very interesting from all reports. Still wouldn't have done anything if not for the fact she actually came into my shop for some hot water. I had Sayoko try to tail her when she left out of curiosity. Somehow the girl vanished after going down an alley. At that point, I think I got a little carried away," Urd finished explaining as she looked away from her sister and scratched side of her chin," So, where's the brat?"
"Sister please," Belldandy admonished," She is trying. As for where, she left to go chasing after that girl as well," She paused for a second before giving a light giggle," You know, it's times like this that I think you two are alike. After all, you both went out hunting her."
Urd scowled a bit before letting it soften and finally relented with a chuckle of her own," Well, we are sisters after all-"
She seemed to be about to say more when the door to the dining hall opened revealing the youngest of the three sisters in the company of a stranger.
Ranma followed the girl through the streets of the strange city he found himself in. As they made their way to her home they continued to talk.
"So Mr. Saotome, were you also searching for that girl?" Skuld questioned to which Ranma smirked and shook his head.
"Nah, I only just got here today," He replied. The girl paused for a moment bringing them to a stop for a few seconds as she looked to him to consider something.
"So I guess that means you're not in a familia yet?" She asked with a thoughtful look. This question had caught Ranma off guard as he now had a vacant expression.
"No, why would I be?" Ranma answered trying to figure out what a familia was. He remembered that jerk from before saying something about him being saved by one. This response seemed to confuse the girl as she tilted her head.
"Strange. When I first saw you, I had assumed you were an adventurer," she admitted as she looked to him as if measuring him.
"You mean those guys that go into that dungeon?" Ranma spoke out loud more to himself than to Skuld. He had learned a little about the place since he was told he was found there. It was likely a good idea to back there if he wanted to make his way back home," I guess I should start looking for one of those-"
"Then would you please consider joining my familia?" The girl asked almost pleadingly. That's when Ranma thought back to the fact she was out and about trying to recruit his female half when they met. Ranma considered the matter. The girl was apparently working for one of these familia groups. Unlike the others that had been sending out their own adventurers, her group had clearly sent out a serving girl of some kind as he doubted she was an adventurer. This meant her familia must be one of the better ones. A group like that could make his search easier. Not to mention the fact she had offered to help him even before she knew he was available. These thoughts took a matter of seconds to consider.
"Sure thing, I'll join your familia," Ranma said as he considered something," Though won't you be in trouble for coming back with me instead of that girl?"
"Huh? Why would I-, "that would be when she paled. However, the thoughts going through Skulds mind at the time were not what Ranma assumed. She remembered the events that led up to this moment. In particular, the fact that she had ruined the laundry in her rush to find Ranma. She let out a nervous laugh before shaking off the worry for now. After all, this was a happy moment. Someone actually agreed to join her. She was sure her dear sister would forgive her for this. Just as she was coming to this conclusion, Ranma cleared his throat to grab her attention.
"I think I can help you out if you can keep a secret," Ranma said as he looked about to make sure no one was around. It was getting a little late and most people seemed to have gone home. Those still out and about were adventures for one reason or another for the most part. Skuld considered his words for a moment before she recalled that he had mentioned the girl. She wondered how he could help her out with finding her. That was when something finally struck her recognition. This guy was wearing the same clothes the girl was described to have been wearing.
"I can keep a secret," She finally answered with a curious gaze. The boy smirked and held out his hand. She grasped it and they shook on the matter.
"Alright then, I'll need-"
The redhead was blushing a little at the girl's reaction. She glomped her and then practically dragged her away. Well that and the fact she had her in a gleeful hug again as they walked into the place. Just as she imagined, the place was actually fairly big. It even made her feel a little at home since the place kind of reminded her of a temple back home but on a bigger scale and with fairly large grounds. Now she stood at the entrance to the dining area. Whatever chatter was going on seemed to cease at that moment. At the head of the central table sat two women that caught Ranma's attention. One was the owner of that shop she got the hot water from. She had a strange mixture of conflicting emotions at the moment that made her face hard to read though her face seemed to darken. As for the other, she gave off a very familiar presence. It took a moment before Ranma realized that something about her reminded the pig tailed girl of Kasumi Tendo.
Skuld seemed to finally register what was going on around her and finally let go of Ranma and spoke," Oh umm, sorry we're late?"
At this seemingly innocent declaration, the room broke out into chaos. Much what was being thrown about was confirmation of some sort while others started to enthusiastically congratulate Skuld while giving praise and thanks to Ranma. Not everyone seemed to be so festive, but for the moment it really didn't matter. It soon died down when couple of people got and approached them. In the lead was a woman with short black hair whose maturity had Ranma mark her as being fairly older than herself. The other was a guy who was harder to judge age wise as he seemed to fall between Ranma's two heights.
"It's good to see you again, and you're not acting like a cat this time," the woman greeted with a mischievous smile," I'm Chihiro Fujimi and this guy- is Keiichi Morisato," She introduced the other by dragging him to the fore and clasping his shoulders. Ranma was not happy to hear that these people had in fact caught her in the nekoken and was frowning at the fact.
"Nice ta meetcha too, you can call me Ranko, but please don't bring that up," as she returned the greeting causing Skuld to look at her questioningly. She then put two and two together and realized this familia was in fact the one that found her," So I guess that means I'm joining the uh, verda- er Belldandy familia?"
At this Skuld squawked as if offended as the others in the room seemed a bit confused. The assumption had been that Skuld had finally gotten someone to agree. Sadly it looked there was some form of misunderstanding again. Skuld latched onto Ranma," What are you talking about, you said you'd join my familia!"
Ranma was caught off guard by this and looked at her in confusion," Uh- isn't this the familia you work for?"
Urd and her two subordinates saw a chance. While normally she might be more inclined in helping her youngest sister in the matter, she was invested in the girl in front of her. She had wasted a good part of her day trying to track this girl down, and now that she was here and there was still a chance, she was not letting it slip by. She stood and approached her quarry with a laugh that could be heard throughout the room," Seriously little squirt, did you fail to inform her that you currently have no members and are staying with our sister?"
Belldandy looked to her older sister in concern as she realized what was going to happen. Urd had that look in her eye when she was getting up that spoke of one simple fact. She had gotten tied up in the means and lost sight of the end yet again.
"Honestly dear, you should look into trying to explain things more clear," Sayoko spoke up as it turned out she and Toshiyuki were joining the gathering group at the entrance. As they walked forth, Sayoko continued now addressing Ranko," I'm sorry but it seems you were ill informed. The girl is in fact a goddess with no familia and as such has been staying here with her sister, the venerable Belldandy. As for Toshiyuki and I-" she explained with a small hand gesture to indicate her companion," We are here with our own Goddess, Mistress Urd."
Before anyone could edge in word wise, Toshiyuki upon getting close seized the opportunity to grab the exotic beauty's hand," We even hold greater resources than that of the Belldandy familia and would be honored if you would consider joining us," he spoke while trying to take advantage of the girl's confusion. He gave her his best lady killer smile and pulled her to him to give the finishing blow. The last thing he saw was her delicate hand that night.
"Nope, not letting a creep like that try and pull a fast one!" the redhead screeched angrily with obvious disgust for the man on her face. The room fell silent and Urd looked on intrigued. She had thought the girl might give in to that as so many had before. It would seem this girl was definitely something else. It only made her want this Ranko more. However, Sayoko seemed to not be phased and was even smirking at this latest development.
"Will you stop harassing a FELLOW guest," Chihiro demanded as she tried to reaffirm some measure of control over the situation as she was sure her goddess was not pleased with the current situation. However it would seem to be out of her hands. Not like there was much chance after a blow like that had been dealt no matter how deserved.
"I beg forgiveness in this matter, but I and my representatives only wish to ensure that the girl makes a well informed decision on the matter," Urd declared. This statement now took it out of Chihiro's hands to mitigate as only Belldandy could handle her sister in cases like these.
Sayoko then finally let out an amused chuckle bringing attention back to her as she offered her hand to the new girl," I have to grant you that he deserved. Oh how I've waited to see someone belt that cad a good one," she added warmly. She was really starting to warm up to the girl regardless of how unrefined she was.
Ranko took the hand and shook it acknowledging the friendly gesture much to Skuld's dismay. It looked like at this rate Ranko was going to be stolen from her. Belldandy was just about to enter the matter. It was then that another voice entered the fray," Uh um, if that's the case Urd. Shouldn't that mean Ranko should hear our side?" Keiichi spoke up as he looked on thoughtfully. Chihiro seemed a bit confused at this. She had thought the kid had a better head on his shoulders than that. Also while no one noticed it at the time, Otaki and Tamiya seemed to have a gleam in their eyes as if they had come up with a new hair-brained scheme.
"Oh, and whatever would you like to add to this," Urd asked in honest curiosity as she put Keiichi on the spot. The supporter looked thoughtful for a moment as if trying to sort out himself out.
"Well, way I see it. Neither of our familias really need another member. However, Miss Ranko has a right to know what she's getting into with Skuld," Keiichi began talking before turning back to face the main target of this matter," Fact is you'll be starting with no support or help at all. However, I would ask that you please think about Skuld. I'm sure most everyone here would be happy to know she's finally got someone."
There was a moment of silence as everyone considered the words. Well, almost everyone. Ranko was just waiting patiently so she could finally talk," Thanks for the pep talk and all," Ranko said before placing a hand on Skuld's head," Thing is, none of this matters. I gave her my word, and while there may have been a misunderstanding, I try to keep my promises unlike pops…"
Skuld actually managed to hug Ranma even more fiercely than before. Keiichi looked on with a smile clearly plastered on his face. Much the same could be said for Belldandy. Chihiro gave a sigh of relief and hoped this would be the end of the matter. Urd seemed a bit expressionless as she approached her two subordinates and whispered something to Sayoko. After a quick nod from her, they picked up Toshiyuki and left. It was clear the matter had been resolved for now.
Urd and Sayoko walked together outside while dragging their still unconscious comrade. While they walked, Urd thought for a bit with a neutral expression. As for Sayoko, she was brooding. The girl had taken her hand in friendship, but she had then turned her offer down in front of the Belldandy familia of all people. She was humiliated and quite livid. Her goddess's silence soon became unbearable," Are we really giving up on this matter? We were just humiliated before your sister's familia!"
Urd's expression finally darkened at this as she released a low chuckle," Oh no, this is far from over. One way or another we will get our hands on that girl. Mark my words Sayoko. She will be mine before this is through! I will not lose to that spore!"
Back at the Belldandy complex, Ranko found herself a seat next to Keiichi and Chihiro at the main table. Meanwhile, Skuld was helping Belldandy and the serving staff in the kitchen get the food ready to serve. Not that it was still being cooked. The staff had been overlooking and making sure the meal would be be hot while their head chef and goddess left to greet her guests if any and wait for her sisters. Now that everyone was here, it was time to get everything together and start serving. Belldandy had taken Skuld along so they could have a little bit of a talk.
"I am happy to see you finally got someone to help you sister," Belldandy started as they walked into the kitchen which signaled for everyone to finally get started," However, there are a few things we need to talk about now."
Skuld was beaming happily until she heard this last bit. The tone had been one she recognized. After a split second, Skuld replied," What could that be?"
"Well, it would seem now is a good a time as any to talk about responsibility. I know we've gone over this before, but you still seem to not quite grasp it if considering I had to wash the laundry again," Belldandy began to lecture. There was no anger in her voice. She only displayed concern," While I know the reason for it, that kind of behavior and thoughtlessness is only going to cause you trouble further down the road. In fact, the incident in the dining hall could have been avoided if you had taken your time to explain before hand. You are lucky she still felt obligated because she was in her full right to change her mind at that point," Belldandy paused while she and her sister carried more dishes to the staff to be filled with food and brought out. She wanted this point to sink in and when she saw her sister's downcast expression she knew it had and gave a sigh before moving on," With this in mind, I feel it is time for certain measures to be taken. It troubles me to do this, but it is for your own good. Starting tomorrow, you and Ranko will have one week to secure some basic living funds and a place to stay-"
"What!? I know I would have to leave eventually but…" Skuld began but quickly deflated. Her dear sister rarely made decisions like these unless she felt it was absolutely necessary. However much she wanted to protest at that moment, she knew Belldandy was going to be adamant. Belldandy waited a moment to ensure her little sister's outburst was over. All the while she smiled at her sadly.
"I know it seems a little harsh and sudden, but I am sure you'll manage. Especially since you have that girl at your side. Remember, Urd and I had to build our familias from scratch. I'm sure you'll do fine especially with all the studies you do to keep up with business and such to prepare for this day," She embraced her sister and rubbed her back to reassure her.
Back in the dining room, Ranko was having a little talk of her own. It was nothing really important, just her trying to glean some info. She finally had learned a little about the whole adventurer and goddess relation. She even learned what a Falna was. It was during this part of the conversation that two rather large and thuggish looking guys walked up to them. Normally people that looked like these guys would somehow make her weary. Not that they were a threat, she just preferred to be on the safe side when dealing with those that might bully others. However, these guys seemed to have a way about them that made her feel at ease in spite of what others might consider to be a fairly intimidating duo.
"Yo, boss, we's got a matter that needs ta be delt wit' among us higher ups!" the bigger and more muscular one with black hair and a mustache bellowed.
"Yeah, it be important and such and needs ta be brought up wit' da head," The lankier guy with crazy blonde hair added. Chihiro just sighed as she got up and waved goodbye to the others. After they were out of earshot, Ranko turned to Keiichi.
"So who were those guys and what was that all about?"
"Oh them? That was Tamiya and Otaki. They are put of the leadership and only answer to Chihiro and Belldandy. If they're calling for a meeting at this time, something must be up," Keiichi answered with a frown. Whenever it involved those two, Keiichi was usually on the receiving end of it. He was almost afraid to find out what it was this time. Hopefully with Chihiro involved it wouldn't be too bad.
Skuld and Belldandy were coming along with the rest of the staff to serve the food and finally begin having dinner. She had not said much since the talk from earlier. It wasn't so much that she was mad or overly sad. It hurt a little to know that she was going to have to leave this place soon. Even though she always knew that she would have to leave to make her dreams come true, she had only thought about the fact intellectually. This place had been her home for so long that it really hurt her to let go. However, this was not what was holding her words at bay. She had other things to consider. She was in thought on the task set before her. How much valis would they be able to make in a week's time with only one person down in the dungeon and what they were going to have to do for living arrangements? This also brought to mind Ranko's- er Ranma's secret. They were going to have to talk later on how to deal with the registration. It was a strange ability. However, it was not an entirely unheard of one. Though it did beg the question on which one was real.
As these thoughts and more swirled about in Skuld's mind, Chihiro, Tamiya, and Otaki came to drag Belldandy away for some unknown reason. As she left, she handed her tray over to the returning staff to be served with in their second trip. Most of the people here were members of the Belldandy familia. Some were visiting friends and the like, but the staff was entirely part of the familia. Everyone had their part, but ultimately they were something of a large family that very few ever had the heart to leave. The staff was mostly comprised of retirees and family who were not able to go into the dungeons for one reason or another or simply didn't wish to. Everyone had their part. The children had chores and education. The adventurers brought their income and ran errands. The staff made sure everyone had a good home and a meal. Not that the staff were maids and butlers. No, they were more like the stay at home parent in the family. Everyone had responsibilities of their own. They slept under the same roof, ate together, and went on large outings once a month.
Skuld stopped at this as she approached her place by Belldandy's usual spot. She really was going to miss being here and a part of the family. It really had been weighing down on her mind, but she furrowed her brow and hefted her shoulders in determination. This may be good bye for now but not forever. Someday she will come back. After all, Urd still comes here. Why couldn't she? With this in mind she decided to try and get an early start on some matters and changed direction to sit next to her soon to be familia. Ranko stopped in her conversation with Keiichi to look at Skuld questioningly.
"Hey they kid," Ranko greeted to which Skuld gave a half lidded glare evoking a sheepish expression as the redhead now scratched at the base of her pigtail," –er sorry 'bout that, just hard for me to think of you as a goddess-" Skuld's brow furrowed in anger," well… I mean…"
Skuld took a moment to realize the girl's nervous expression as Keiichi winced at the scene before him. Skuld sighed and shook her head. As powerful as she might be, words seemed to be a weakness for her," Just forget it. There's more important things to talk about."
Skuld went about explaining the current situation and very discreetly steered Ranko's half of the conversation away from anything that should wait until later when others weren't about. During this Keiichi listened in and offered help. In fact, he said he had something to give to them later that should help out with the upcoming week. When they tried to turn it down though he waved it off saying that what he had was Ranko's to begin with.
Ten minutes into their discussion, Belldandy and the others returned much to everyone's delight as it meant they could eat soon. Chihiro was a little taken back as it turned out that Skuld had taken her place, but she didn't bother trying to take it back and instead took Skuld's seat next to Belldandy. Speaking of Belldandy. She was looking a bit sorrowful about something. Skuld thought it might be due to the fact that she had chosen to sit with Ranko rather than spend more time with her sister especially since she kept glancing towards her with a distraught look. Chihiro kept trying to help Belldandy's mood throughout the meal it seemed. It wasn't long before Skuld realized she was allowing herself to get distracted from the reason she had chosen to sit here. With a final glance at her sister, Skuld resolved to focus and settle things with her sister after dinner.
So far, they had agreed on putting off any financial decisions until the day after tomorrow so they would have a better idea of what their income was. This had been pointed out by Keiichi when Ranma and Skuld were arguing about renting vs. camping. Moving on from that, Skuld agreed to spend the upcoming week seeking some form of employment. Regardless of how much they made, she needed to have every little bit of she was going to afford a workshop. They all had a bit of a disagreement on what to do with the drops. Ranko was in favor of just selling them. Skuld insisted that they should be stocked up for later use. Keiichi pointed out that it would likely be in Ranko's best interest to have someone forge better gear for her with it. This dragged on as Ranko insisted she didn't need armor or weapons, Keiichi trying to explain their importance, and Skuld's insistence that she would need them. The final compromise had been that it would be dealt with on a case by case basis. To put simply, they agreed to put it off until later. There had been a few questions Keiichi had brought up, but Skuld steered away from for Ranko's sake.
Soon the meal came to an end with everyone hanging around to socialize and because word spread an announcement was to be made. Everyone's attention was drawn by the booming voices of Otaki and Tamiya.
"Listen here guys!" yelled Otaki.
"We gots big news!" cried Tamiya.
Chihiro and a downcast Belldandy were soon next to them. Chihiro took charge," Ok, these two knuckleheads have brought a case to our attention that needs to be addressed tonight! As much as I hate to agree on the matter, we have come to a decision on the matter with our goddess's blessing!"
Skuld was brought short by this. She thought this was going to be about her leaving in one week's time.
"Keiichi Morisato, front and center!" The goonish duo bellowed. All attention was suddenly brought upon the poor guy as he sheepishly stood up and walked forth. He was quite pale. It was then that Skuld noticed Belldandy look to him with sorrow.
"Sorry to break it to you, but your actions tonight have illustrated to us that your presence in this FAMILY isn't good for it. As such we are kicking you out!" Chihiro declared with an attempt at a stern look that was belied by her eyes. They spoke of something else entirely.
"Wha-!?" Keiichi squawked in horror.
"You's been stepping out of line too much kid," Tamiya said with a frown.
"Yeah, ya went and threw chances of a new recruit away!" Otaki backed his friend up with a strange smile.
"You took another familia's side in a matter!" Tamiya picked up.
"You denied our family some income!" Otaki continued their double team.
"After you's convinced our boss to take an action that hurt today's income!" Tamiya seemed to finish.
"Bu- but-!" Keiichi tried to plea but wasn't given the chance by Chihiro.
"However, Belldandy has made an arrangement on your behalf," Chihiro spoke solemnly. Belldandy could no longer bring herself to look at Keiichi and had lowered her gaze to her feet," If Skuld is willing to take you on as an adventurer, you will be given a chance to prove your worth to this family in one year. I am sorry, but this is non-negotiable Keiichi… Skuld!"
Skuld jumped at the call. She had been completely shocked by this turn of events as she was sure everyone else was. She knew that Belldandy loved the mortal dearly and many in the familia had suspicions he felt much the same. After she collected her nerves, she answered the call," Yes?"
"Are you willing to give Morisato this chance?" Chihiro questioned. Skuld thought for a bit on the matter. Like many, she had not been happy about the developing relationship. In fact, a number of Belldandy's familia still weren't. However, she had to admit that she had come to like him as a friend. She also knew how much this meant to her sister. After a few seconds of thought on how this would change things, she nodded her assent. Then Chihiro focused her gaze on Keiichi," And are you willing to take this offer and transfer?"
Keiichi was silent for several minutes. He stared at his feet and then looked to Belldandy. He seemed unsure at first, but as he looked to her, their eyes met as she too looked to him. His expression changed to one of determination," I will comeback!"
Throughout all of this, Ranko stayed in her seat. She was about to step in, but she caught something off about the whole situation. The duo that seemed most bent on this course of action weren't angry. In fact, she could almost feel their fondness even now as they looked at the guy. Something was up, and it was none of her business. She had more important matters like trying to get home. As she thought of this, her eyes wondered to Keiichi. She saw something in him when he answered Chihiro's last question. Something that she had seen in others before but was unsure she had ever felt. At that moment she decided she take her time to help him out. There was no telling how long it would to take for this newest spot of crazy in her life to past after all. Who knows, maybe helping him might teach her something about herself…
Later that night, Skuld finally mustered the will to see her sister. She had been unsure of how to deal with everything. It all just happened so fast. In the span of one day, everything seemed to be changing. However, she stopped just outside of Belldandy's room when she heard Chihiro's voice.
"I know… I didn't much like the idea either but they had a point…"
"But Keiichi…"
"Will be just fine. This has to be done. You know the three of us have been trying to push him for some time. He needs to be strong if he's going to win over the others. This is his chance to-"
Skuld didn't hear the rest of it as she realized it wasn't her place. She would respect her sister's privacy and try to keep what she did hear a secret.