Disclaimer: All Ranma 1/2 characters copyright Rumiko Takahashi (Takahashi-sama) and are used without her permission. I am merely a fan, and after years of watching and reading, I want to take a hand at seeing what writing about these colorful characters would be like.
Enjoy!
Cupid Keys
Ranma ½ - Transition
Chapter 11
"The Tournament"
Plain Description / Narrator
Bold Ranma's thoughts
Italic Akane's thoughts
There was silence through the town of Nerima after a day of many sounds. Sounds of the roar of many students rushing into and out of class for the final time, to the sounds of arguments and battle. Sounds from the intake of breaths, the depth of exhaling, the grunt from a well landed strike, and the cheer for victory. But the last sound that ruptured through the air had just ended. The sound of Kodachi and Tatewaki Kuno screaming in unison as they had learned the secret that they had been blinded to for so long. Their scream had finally stopped, and the silence had returned to Nerima at last, but only long enough for them to silently return breath to their lungs.
Kuno: AHHH!
Kodachi: AHHHH!
Well so much for breaking it to them gently…
Ranma then notices Shampoo in her cat form and begins to hyperventilate as she points wildly.
Ranma: C… c… ca..Ca.. Cccat. Cat! Cat. CAT!
Ranma quickly jumps back onto the bed and covers his face with a pillow barely looking from underneath just to make sure Shampoo's cat form didn't come after him. Kuno and Kodachi had just finished their second scream and then had two different reactions. Kodachi fanted, and Kuno fell onto the floor pointing at Ranma with a shaking hand.
Kuno: No… No way… She's a guy… I wanted to have children with a man… Dear God… I wanted to do… the act that… leads to having children… with a… with a… with a man… Man!
Akane exhales deeply.
Akane: Oh great.
Rarely a dull moment in this town…
Akane walks to the cupboard and pulls out a paper cup and walks over to the pail of hot water.
Akane: I'll take care of the curses, Ukyou, can you get us some towels? Looks like we could all use them?
Slightly wet from water spilling on her as well, Ukyou walks back out.
Ukyou: Sure think Akane, just make sure you change Shampoo first. We don't want Ranma to do Cat Fu' in here. Dr. Tofu would kill us all. And with the way things have been going, he'll probably kill us anyway.
Akane: Don't worry. She was first on the list anyway.
Carefully scooping the cup into the pale she lifts it up and carefully grabs Shampoo and her clothes and carries her to the bathroom. Placing the cup on the toilet cover and Shampoo on the floor Akane heads to the door.
Akane: Knock the cup onto yourself and get dressed. We still have to get Mousse and Ryouga in here.
Shampoo: Meow.
Realizing that Akane doesn't speak cat, Shampoo nods her head. As the door closes there's the unmistakable sound of water spilling and a few minutes later Shampoo walks out of the bathroom drying her hair with a towel.
Shampoo: Shampoo hate wet scalp. Stupid water fall into ear too!
Mousse flaps his wings repeatedly.
Mousse: Quack!
Shampoo: Hold on Mousse, Shampoo help you.
Shampoo lovingly picks up Mousse and carries him and his robes to the bathroom. Ukyou quickly sprints back into the room with her arms full of towels. She quickly throws most of them on the stool she was sitting on and then begins wiping the water off the floor. Ryouga bites one of the towels free from the stack and drags it over the floor to help. Akane walks over to the mangled mass that is Ranma and speaks slowly.
Akane: Hey… it's ok. We've changed Shampoo back Ranma. You don't have to worry about the cat any more.
Ranma continues to shake, but gradually slows down.
Ranma: I'm Ok… I'm Ok. I just… I just need a minute to get myself together. Oh I hate cats.
Akane smirked.
Akane: Maybe five points on your list of things to change wasn't enough after all Ranma.
Ranma snapped his eyes dangerously at Akane, who burst into laughter as Ranma continued to snarl at her.
Shampoo: Shampoo forget water!
Akane quickly moves out of Ranma's reach and grabs a cup, filling it with the hot water, and then hands it to Shampoo.
Akane: Here Shampoo.
Shampoo: Thank you Akane.
Shampoo then splashed Mousse and quickly stepped out of bathroom.
Mousse: Thank you!
After a few seconds Mousse walks out the bathroom fully dressed and grabs a towel to dry his hair.
Mousse: I was thinking about washing my hair anyway. But this wasn't exactly how I thought it would go.
Ukyou sits up and scratches Ryouga's head.
Ukyou: Thanks for helping me clean that up.
Akane walks over and hands Ukyou a cup and a towel.
Akane: Here, you might want to change P… I mean Ryouga back before Kuno and Kodachi wake up and we have to go through this again.
Ranma: But then what will stop them from thinking it's a dream.
Akane: Because, you're still a girl, and we'll change you back. You're pretty much the only one they'll care about anyway. And you can talk in both forms so you don't have to worry about proving much.
Ranma huffed and puffed.
Ranma: You mean you're going to do the whole hot and cold thing again and again. Man I get so tired of that.
Ukyou laughs.
Ukyou: I don't, I always thought it was fun… and cute.
Ranma looks threateningly at Ukyou who laughs and grabs Ryouga's clothes as she runs into the bathroom.
Ranma: Nobody asked you.
Akane pulls Ranma into a hug to calm him.
Akane: Alright Idiot, let's clean this room up before Dr. Tofu comes back in here and we really have a mess on our hands.
Mousse: I'm surprised he didn't barge in here after Kuno and Kodachi screamed for dear life.
Ranma rolled his eyes.
Ranma: He's probably used to it. There've been plenty of times where I've gotten clobbered by Akane.
Akane nervously laughed.
Akane: In my defense you mostly did something that made clobbering you completely justified.
Ranma scoffed.
Ranma: More like you thought I did something, which I didn't, but if I had done it would have possibly justified it. It wasn't my fault I found myself in the most awkward situations and positions at times. I mean if you weren't so jealous, and judgmental than you would have seen the truth.
Akane crossed her arms.
Akane: Care to repeat that Ranma?
Ranma looked at Akane and noticed the look of impending doom and nervously smiled and laughed.
Ranma: I love you…
Akane uncrossed her arms.
Akane: I thought that's what you said.
The sound of a pig squealing and splashing water is heard behind the bathroom door and then there's a yelp from Ukyou, who quickly darts out the door and slams it shut behind her.
Ukyou: Oh my God.
Ryouga: I tried to warn you!
Ukyou: I don't speak pig!
Ryouga: When I'm a pig I don't speak human!
Ryouga walks out the bathroom fully dressed and looking none too happy. Seeing Ryouga angry, Ukyou puts on her "pity me" expression.
Ukyou: Well… we're even now… and look on the bright side… at least now I know you have a cute butt.
Shampoo smirked.
Shampoo: Shampoo could have told Ukyou that when he jump out of pot of boiling water when Great Grandmother try to boil him.
Ryouga blushed to a shade not too far from beet red. Ukyou quickly lost her composure and burst into laughter. Ranma and Mousse smacked their foreheads.
Ranma: More information than I needed.
Mousse: Same here.
They all laugh and begin cleaning the cluttered room.
The young ladies at St. Hebereke'sSchool for Girls burst through the doors of their one and only changing room screaming and swinging violently at Happosai, Lukosai and Chengensai who dodge attacks while laughing hysterically.
Happosai: What A Haul! WHAT A HAUL!
Chengensai ducks under a swing intended for his head.
Chengensai: Oh Happy! I haven't had this much fun in ages. And your execution on getting us in was more than flawless.
Lukosai jumps over a young lady's swing with a hokey stick.
Lukosai: Yes. Changing me into my younger form was an excellent idea thankfully we had hot water near by or I might have not been able to keep up.
Happosai moves from left to right to dodge the buckets that are thrown at him and pats his butt to tease as they miss.
Happosai: That's one of the few places that are pretty difficult for me to get in to. They just don't know how to properly appreciate an old man who properly appreciates the finer things in life.
Chengensai slows down briefly and flips up the skirt of a young lady that gets too close to him then quickly takes off running at full speed again.
Chengensai: Well, now that we're almost done here, do you think we should get the tournament on the way?
Happosai jumps up on to one of the girls blouses and squeezes his head between her breasts and jumps out of the way before she's able to land a hit on him.
Happosai: I feel vitalized enough, how about you Lucky?
Lukosai jumps high into the air and flips behind a young lady and quickly pats her butt before landing and springing back beside Happosai.
Lukosai: I think we should start as soon as we loose this crowd. How about Cheery?
Chengensai pulls out his pipe and blocks a cricket mallet that was being brought down on his head.
Chengensai: I would be more than ready to begin, but we are missing the final contestant.
Lukosai ducks back while running forward and is barely missed by the mop that was intended to connect with his head.
Lukosai: Oh that's right. I almost completely forgot about the young Ranma Saotome.
Happosai dives under a girls skirt and quickly pulls out a camera and takes a picture
Happosai: Well, let's loose this crowd and go get him.
Chengensai lifts the hair from over his eyes and winks back at the girls with a lecherous smile.
Chengensai: Sorry lovely ladies, but we have other things to take care of.
Happosai pulls down his lower eye lid and sticks his tongue out.
Happosai: Yeah so get lost!
Lukosai pulls out a bomb and ignites it as he waves.
Lukosai: But don't worry, we'll play with you later.
Lukosai throws down the bomb which explodes at the feet of the mob of girls following them. The smell is so atrocious that it causes them to turn the other way and run gasping for breath while the three old men quickly speed away laughing loudly.
Kuno sat up in his bed as Ranma, who was still in his girl form, and the others sat on the other side of the room playing Poker on the floor.
Ranma: Ah man!
Kuno gets up to and sees the Pig tailed girl throwing cards down and placing her chin in her hand and resting her elbow in her leg.
Ranma: I hate this game, I don't have the poker face needed to play, and I keep getting junk.
Akane lay's down her hand and giggles happily.
Akane: Yeah, but I won again!
Ryouga huffs and puffs as Akane rakes the chips into her well established pile.
Ryouga: Yeah, but look on the bright side, Akane's wining twice as much as you loose Ranma.
Kuno's eyes stare angrily at Ranma.
Kuno: So it is true then?
Ranma snaps her head up and sees Kuno.
Ranma: Oh! Kuno… Didn't know you were woke man.
Kuno continued to stare at Ranma.
Kuno: Change.
Ranma: Huh?
Kuno: Change back into a man.
Without question Ranma stood and walked over to the bucket and tested to see if the water was still hot enough to change him back into a man. Feeling the warmth he dipped a cup in and poured it's contents over his head and felt the transformation take place. Kuno stared on and took several deep breaths before he ran to Ranma and began choking him.
Kuno: You've deceived ME! I will never forgive you Ranma Saotome! I will not dwell in the stentch of your deception another day! I will kill you and never think of this again.
Ryouga jumped up from the floor along with Mousse but were both stopped when they noticed Ranma held up his hand to signal stop.
Ranma: Let… me…go… Kuno…
Kuno: NO! You will breathe your last breath now Saotome!
Ranma pulled back his fist and punched Kuno in his throat. Kuno released Ranma and immediately clenched his neck as he gasped for air.
Ranma: You can't say I didn't warn you.
Kuno continued to cough up his words as he crawled away from Ranma.
Kuno: Curse you… curse… you… Saotome.
The door opened to the small room they were in and in walked Nabiki.
Nabiki: Hey gang. Everything's been taken care off. Dr. Tofu just said you are all clear to go home but take it easy for…
Nabiki finally realized that Mousse and Ryouga were both in their fighting stances while Ranma stood over Kuno who looked like his was crawling away to protect his life.
Nabiki: Ranma? What did you do to him?
Ranma did a double take.
Ranma: I didn't do anything! We just told him about our curses.
Nabiki smirked.
Nabiki: OH! So he knows now huh?
Kuno looked stunned at Nabiki.
Kuno: You mean… you knew too?
Nabiki sat down and crossed her legs as she continued to smile.
Nabiki: Kuno please. I'm the informative here. There are few things happening that I don't have a clue on.
Nabiki looked at Ranma and winked.
Nabiki: Though I have to admit that Ranma has been hiding a lot of things pretty well.
Ranma and Akane blushed. In raged, Kuno fell to his knees and struck the floor with his right hand.
Kuno: But how could you keep something like this from me? Of all people I should have had privilege to this information!
Nabiki rolled her eyes and continued to speak in a nonchalant manner as the others sat still and watched quietly.
Nabiki: Oh get over yourself. I tried to tell you in the coffee shop, I tried to show you the second time you and Ranma fought and I poured hot water on him. Hell it wasn't even privileged the whole damn school knew, you just refused to open your damned eyes and see for yourself.
Kuno stood back up.
Kuno: Oh like I'm the only one who chooses to be blind here!
Nabiki sighed.
Nabiki: Oh shove it!
Kuno pointed to Ranma and the others.
Kuno: No! No Nabiki, since you want to put all my Damn cards on the table, so to speak maybe you need to know what it feels like. Maybe it's time you felt embarrassed!
Nabiki simply turned away.
Nabiki: Oh just try me.
Kuno turned and faced Ranma and the other and waved his hands to get their attention. It worked.
Kuno: Nabiki Tendo had a crush on me!
Everyone except Kuno and Nabiki face faulted.
Nabiki: Oh! Real mature Kuno. Just go on, maybe you'll get sat in the corner for time out, but this doesn't embarrass me at all. I out grew that crush a long time ago you freaking Idiot!
Kuno ignored Nabiki and continued talking.
Kuno: And I hurt her… I hurt her by asking about someone else and it caused her to close up. Then I hurt her by chasing after her sister.
Nabiki uncrossed her legs, stood up, and walked towards Kuno.
Nabiki: So when are you going to tell them that you had a crush on me you conceited Jack Ass?
Kuno looked down at Nabiki.
Kuno: I'm not going to.
Now in Kuno's personal space Nabiki continued to look up at him with pure anger in her eyes.
Nabiki: And why not huh? Too good to admit that you once cared about your informative?
Kuno's expression quickly softened as he spoke.
Kuno: Shut up Damn it! I'm not going to tell them that I HAD feelings for you because I still do!
Nabiki opened her mouth and breathe deeply as if she was about to laugh in Kuno's face, but then it suddenly realized what he had said.
Nabiki: What?
Kuno looked back at Ranma and the others.
Kuno: I hurt her, by chasing after Akane, when in truth, I only did it because I wanted her to notice me! I was hoping to make her jealous and maybe come after me, because I didn't know how to tell her.
Akane shook her head.
Akane: What?
You mean he was trying to use me to get to Nabiki?
Kuno: Every time Nabiki saw me going after you I would see this odd expression on her face and I thought it was because she liked me, but after she didn't bite the bait so to speak I just kept chasing. And then the pigtailed… Female Ranma showed up and that made the expression double.
Ranma sat up straighter.
Ranma: What?
I… I feel so cheep…
Kuno: Every time she sold me a picture I saw the expression. I acted like an idiot just to try to see further into those expressions. But she never showed me more, so I guess you're right. I am an Idiot, because I chased after two women trying to get the attention of one, and I got no one. I even found out one of those girls was really a guy Damn it.
Kuno walks over and picks up Kodachi and heads for the door.
Kuno: Yeah, I'm a damn idiot because I went about things all the wrong way. Guess I'll just live with my mistakes. But I'm not the only one who's made some. But I'll pay for them all. It's not like I haven't done so before.
Angrily Kuno kicks the door open and carries out the still unconscious Kodachi as the others silently watch him leave until the door closes. Silence fills the room until Ryouga sneezes.
Ukyou: Bless you Ryochan.
Nabiki turned and looked over her shoulder at Ukyou.
Nabiki: Ryochan? Would someone like to bring me up to speed?
Akane smiles a bit sinisterly.
Akane: Sure. How much is that information worth to you?
Happosai, Lukkosai, and Chengensai all stopped as they reached the door of the Tendo Dojo.
Happosai: Kasumi!
Kasumi quickly comes to the door and sees Happosai and the others.
Kasumi: Oh! Why hello Grandfather Happosai. Is there anything that I can help you with?
Lukkosai and Chengensai were both held back by Happosai's threatening gaze before he turned back around to address Kasumi.
Happosai: Ah Kasumi, you really know how to respect your elders. I was simply wondering if you've seen Ranma?
Kasumi continued to smile merrily.
Kasumi: Oh, he's at Dr. Tofu's clinic right now. He got in a fight earlier today and is still recovering last I heard.
Happosai bowed quickly to Kasumi.
Happosai: Why thank you Kasumi. Let's go boys, we've got ourselves a contestant to inform.
The three old men quickly and skillfully leap back out and head in the direction of Dr. Tofu's Clinic.
Kasumi: Oh My. Perhaps I should call and inform Ranma and Dr. Tofu-sama that they're coming.
Nabiki: Oh My Goodness…
Akane laughs merrily at Nabiki's unusual reaction.
Akane: Yeah, I guess we all are looking at some form of happiness. Isn't it great.
Nabiki: Hell no… This can't happen.
Ranma looked at Nabiki.
Ranma: And why not?
Nabiki: Because if you guys stop fighting I'll loose all of my long term customers… if anything should go wrong, I won't have anything to fall back on to catch myself.
Ranma: Oh that's just so like you Nabiki.
Nabiki: What can I say? I am what I am.
Dr. Tofu quickly enters the room breathing heavily.
Tofu: You guys. Terrible news… I just got off the phone with Kasumi and… Happosai's on his way here!
Oh No…
Ryouga: So? What's so bad about that? What's he doing coming to visit?
Tofu: I don't know, but I do know this, he's not alone and from what Kasumi says he's probably up to something, he was looking for Ranma.
Why am I not surprised?
Ranma: Why is it always me?
Happosai: its just destiny my boy.
Ranma quickly turns around to see the three Masters standing triumphantly behind him having just silently broken into a small window.
Ranma: Happosai, Lukkosai, and Chengensai. The three ancient perverts. I'd like to ask what do I owe the pleasure of this visit to, but it wouldn't be a pleasure.
Happosai: Ranma! How dare you talk to your master like that?
Ranma: I don't see a master here? So exactly who are you talking about?
Happosai: You ingrate! Why I have half a mind to make you pay for your insolence right here and now.
Lukkosai: Happy Don't! Cheery talk to the boy while I calm him down.
Lukkosai grabs Happosai and holds him back while Chengensai walks over and bows respectfully to Ranma.
Chengensai: I do apologize for Happy's rudeness but this was intended to be a formal invitation to a unique event. You were correct in saying that there was no master in this room, or better said not a true master of the Anything Goes School of Martial Arts. We aim to correct that, and seeing as either we have no students or no students that are worth participating you have been chosen as the fourth contestant. If you win, you will be pronounced as the champion and thus the undisputed Master of the Anything Goes School.
Ranma was speechless and bug-eyed.
Chengensai: I see that I have your attention.
Ranma: Where do I sign up?
Happosai: Oh no you don't you miserable little maggot. You have to prove yourself first. We need to create some form of a challenge to see if you're really worthy of such an honor.
Ranma: Name it you old bag. I don't care what it is, I'll do it.
Lukkosai: Be most careful what you wish for young one, for you may get just that.
Happosai: It's already too late. For your challenge, you have to steal the underwear of all the young ladies in this room, and bring them to us. A pair for each of us does sound nice.
Lukkosai: Indeed it does.
Chengensai points at Nabiki.
Chengensai: I want hers.
Lukkosai points at Shampoo.
Lukkosai: Here's would do nicely I think.
Happosai begins to point at Akane but Ranma steps in the way.
Ranma: Leave Akane out of this you friggin pervert. You said a pair for each of us so I choose Akane's.
Happosai: No! No fair! You cheated. I don't want Ukyou's panties… she might wear boys underwear.
Ukyou: Why you!
Ryouga: No! Stay out of this Ukyou. I'm sure Ranma knows what he's doing.
So much faith in me… I haven't even got a clue of what I'm going to do.
This is almost too easy.
Akane: I'll be right back.
Akane charges out of the room leaven Ranma to see her vanish through the swinging door.
What's that crazy girl up to now?
Ranma turns and looks back at Happosai and the others.
Ranma: When and where do I have to be?
Chengensai: First you must past the test.
Ranma: Screw the damn test, I'm going to pass it. Now just tell me what I want to know.
Chengensai looks at Ranma with an interested look.
Chengensai: Well, it will be three days from today. And we will have it on the field at Furinkan High. Pretty much an all out battle, where the last man standing will be the new Master of the Anything Goes School of Martial Arts. A prize to which none of us will back down too easily from. The rules are quite simple. Don't die, and Don't Loose. Interested?
Ranma: That's sounds right up my ally.
Happosai: HA! Fat chance you stupid Kid. Like these girls are just going to hand us their panties. Good luck getting that taken care of first. Doing so will make you just as perverted as the three of us.
Akane: I beg to differ.
Happosai: Huh?
Akane enters the clinic with a small bag. Which she reaches in and gives Ukyou a new pair of panties, which she repeats with Shampoo and Nabiki.
Akane: There's a pair for each of us, so there's no trouble on the challenge. I just hope Ranma doesn't come and steal them from us.
That's my Akane!
Ranma: Akane, I could Kiss you.
Akane: That, and you'll be paying me back for the money it cost. But we'll start with the kiss.
Oh! He looks so happy.
Happosai: No! No fair. You have to steal them. They can't give them to you. You can't do that!
Nabiki: But he is stealing. We haven't given him permission to take them.
Ranma quickly moves and takes the panties from the girls and hands then to their perspective pervert.
Ranma: There you go old boys. One for each of you.
Lukkosai rubs the pair from Shampoo against his face and nearly purrs.
Lukkosai: So soft, so delicate.
Chengensai pockets his pair while Happosai looks on angrily.
Happosai: What are you doing you stupid Idiot. They haven't been worn.
Lukkosai: I can dream can't I?
Happosai: What ever. I'm out of here.
Happosai and Lukkosai quickly bound out of the window. Chengensai walks over and hands the pair of unused panties over to Nabiki.
Chengensai: Sorry that you had to be caught in this my dear. I can tell by your aura you are unfamiliar to our antics as far as the survival by physical combat goes. I believe these are yours.
Nabiki: Uh… Thanks… I guess.
Ranma: Hey that's awfully nice of you.
Akane: Yeah. But what I don't understand is why you would give them back. I mean it's a kind jester and all, but that's not what we would expect from one of Happosai's friends.
Chengensai: Please don't misjudge me. I am quite perverted myself, but I do have a hint of decency in me as well. The two are rarely at war with each other, but today decency won.
Chengensai: Ranma. I don't know why, but fate tells me that you and I will battle in the tournament. I do not regret such an opportunity as I am unfamiliar with your fighting ability, but I do however look forward to it. But also please come with your best. I would like not to be offended, because I will not be pulling any punches whatsoever, so I'd like you to do the same.
Ranma smiles Chengensai and politely kneels.
Ranma: Master. I thank you for the honor you have bestowed upon me.
Oh my God, Ranma has never bowed to anyone. Not even his own Father.
Chengensai: You honor me Ranma. And upon our awaited encounter we will know for certain whom the master will be.
Shampoo: No understand, Ranma no bow to anyone before. Why now?
Ryouga: Yeah?
Ranma: I felt he deserved a reward for his kindness.
Nabiki: I have to admit I think so too.
Nabiki steps into the bathroom and soon steps back out.
Nabiki: Here.
Chengensai eyes widen with surprise as she places something in his tiny hands and quickly backs off.
Ukyou: Nabiki, you didn't do what I think you did… did you?
Nabiki: What can I say? The strange response vibe is contagious.
Chengensai: I must say. This is the first time that both the gentleman and the pervert within me has been satisfied. But before my cohorts return I should go. Starts to look suspicious and all.
Akane: Thank you again Sir.
Chengensai: Mention nothing of it. I mean seriously, don't let Happosai know what has happened here.
Ryouga: Oh believe me we wont.
Chengensai quickly bounds out of the window but returns.
Chengensai: Young man, I believe your name is Ryouga correct?
Ryouga: Huh? I mean yeah.
Chengensai: I will be speaking to you later as well. But for now would you be so kind as to hit me as though I've done something perverted to one of the ladies in here as not to look so suspicious for staying so long.
Ryouga: I don't know, I wouldn't feel right hitting someone for something they haven't done.
Chengensai: In that case. Sorry miss.
Chengensai quickly jumps towards Ukyou's chest but Ryouga intercepts him.
Chengensai: Is that enough motivation?
Ryouga: Oh yeah, that will do it.
Ryouga launches Chengensai out the window.
Ukyou: Man that little guy is fast.
Ranma: Yeah. I guess Nabiki's gift gave him a jolt of energy.
Mousse: Scarry. I'd hate to see what Shampoo's would do that other letcher.
Shampoo: Shampoo no want to know.
Cologne: Ha! HA! HA! And here I thought your best dish was your okinomiyaki with Pork!
Ukyou: That's not very funny.
Ryouga: You're the only person here that's tried to cook me.
Cologne: Yeah, but I guess that means you can always bring home the bacon! Ah Ha. Ha. HAA!
Telling Cologne the update to the situation has thus far led to a laugh fest. She made fun of Akane and me for taking so long to realize what we had. She laughed at Mousse because he basically abuse her and her family in order to win her over. And now she's making fun of Ukyou and Ryouga. I'm almost anxious to hear what she thinks about the tournament.
Shampoo: Great Grandmother. You are being rude.
Cologne: I'm sorry Shampoo I didn't intend to offend. Mousse quickly, hit her one more time to make her happy. HA HA HA HA Ha!
Mousse draws his hand back and Shampoo gives him a most evil look.
Mousse: I'm sorry, I'm so used to being ordered around here that I began to follow it without thinking.
Cologne: Oh this is rich.
Ranma: Well. What I really want to know is what do you think of this tournament. I mean do you think it's serious or is it just some half cooked plan of theirs to pull me down?
Cologne: Oh that. Well, it's more than likely serious. I mean their Master did die rather suddenly. I don't really remember much, because Happosai told me about that when we were both heavily drunk. It was my first experience with Sake, and the Sake was older than the both of us.
Ranma: Come on Cologne, stick to the subject.
Cologne: Well… I think it's actual. And that's actually what worries me. Happosai has been playing with you up until now. I mean, the Strength draining moxibotuin, the bathhouse battle, the water throwing, and the Happo fire burst has pretty much been for his own entertainment. But this tournament. This is for his mastery. I would be very cautious if I were you Son.
Ranma: I'm not your Son in law.
Cologne: I said Son. As in a phrase we old folks use on you young folks. Believe me, I'm fairly over the whole Son In Law thing. That title now belongs to Mousse. Speaking of which. Son In Law would you be so kind as to get me a bottle of Sake. I suddenly feel the need to indulge myself and become reacquainted with my memories of the stuff.
Mousse: Yes Elder.
Mousse quickly leaves to fetch a bottle of Sake.
Cologne: Ha. Ha. Ha! He fell for it. I wonder if he can actually bring back some.
Ranma: Well at least she's having a good time.
Akane: So what's the battle plan.
Ranma: I'm going to train myself as hard as I possibly can today and tomorrow, get a days rest and then kick ancient lecher ass. What did you think I would do?
Akane: Some how I knew you would say something along those lines.
Ryouga: So are we training here or are we going to take a trip?
Ukyou: A trip. I think that would be a great idea.
Ranma: Well, it's only so that I can train, it shouldn't be a love cove get away.
Cologne: I get the feeling it will be a bit of both.
Ranma: Anyway. I don't think it's a good idea for of you to come along.
Akane: Ranma, did you forget that you have seriously powerful martial artist friends? I mean every last one of us have learned something from you one way or the other. So why not let us help you this time?
Ranma: I… I mean.
Mousse: I think it sounds like a great idea.
Shampoo: Mousse? You find sake?
Mousse: Oh even more than that. I've found three bottles of it. And it's at least six years old.
Cologne: Well let's stop this talking, and get packing so that tonight we can get drunk!
Nabiki: Well, I'll be leaving you crazy kids to yourself.
Akane: You're not going Nabiki?
Nabiki: Where would I fit in? I don't do martial arts, I don't cook, and I'm certainly not needed to black mail anyone.
Akane: I guess I see your point.
I just don't think it's a good idea for you to be alone after that incident with Kuno.
Nabiki: I can see it in your eyes Akane. I'll be fine. I may not be able to beat up a school of boys single handedly, but I can do things before they want to hit me to make them never want to hit me. I have my own kind of strength, and that's no different when it comes down to my emotions.
Akane: OK Nabiki. But I'm going to see you home. I mean Ranma and I have to pack anyway.
Nabiki: Oh. That's Ok, I wasn't about to head home anyway. I've got an errand or two to run. I'll see you guys before you all take off.
Akane: Ok, sis. See you later.
Nabiki: Yeah. Later.
Nabiki walks out the door and out of everyone's sight.
Ukyou: I've never seen Nabiki like this before.
Akane: Yeah. I know. I wish there was something we could do for her.
Mousse: Maybe there is. I mean the lechers are going to be on the loose the entire time we're gone. Maybe we should appoint a town protector.
Ryouga: I hope you don't me Kuno. I mean he's not exactly in the mood to here from any of us right now.
Ranma: Well… I think I have an idea on how to make that happen…
Kodachi awakens in one of the guest rooms of the Kuno estate.
Kuno: Are you ok sister?
Kodachi: I had a horrible dream last night. I dreamt that the pigtailed girl and Ranma are one in the same. And that I lost to Akane Tendo in battle. And there was this man that I apparently had chosen over my darling Ranma. Oh… What rubbish can my mind come up with then I'm not properly rested in my own dwellings.
Kuno: Indeed sister. Indeed.
Kodachi: Well, enough with sleeping on this retched thing. I go to retire in my room. I bid you farewell borther.
Kuno: Rest well Kodachi.
Kodachi closes the door behind herself leaving Kuno to silently stare out the window. After a few heavy breaths Kuno turns around.
Kuno: I know that you are here Sasuke. There is no need to run, you Master welcomes your presence.
Sasuke released his hold on the ceiling and landed gracefully before bowing to his Master.
Sasuke: I most humbly beg for your apologies master. But I did notice that you neglected to mention to Kodachi that her dream was in fact reality.
Kuno: Yes I did Sasuke, and I did so because she will be better prepared for such news once she has had a good nights rest. Better that she be told after some time to recover than to be directly struck with it again. There has been enough confusion for one day.
Sasuke: Very well Master. Oh and by the way, a letter arrived for you just a few moments ago. I thought it better to bring it to you personally rather than putting it in with the mail to be viewed tomorrow.
Kuno: Very well Sasuke, But please leave me in peace, I will read over it, but I need some time to myself.
Sasuke bows as he leaves the letter on the table and exits the room.
Sasuke: As you wish Master. As you wish.
Kuno looks at the letter and notices that it doesn't have a return address but begins opening it nonetheless.
Kuno: I wonder who this is from.
Kuno opens the letter and it reads:
Dear Kuno. Sorry you found out our little secret today, I know it must have been more than a little awkward for you. There is so much that I won't be able to put in this letter to express my condolences, but be assured that you have them. I am writing this to inform you that we are about to go on a training mission. I do wish that you could attend, but I doubt that you would want to spend two to three days in the same area with me and the others so we will leave you with your space. However there is a little problem, there are three little lechers running around town causing all sorts of mayhem and mischief and we will not be there to stop them. I'm not too concerned for what they do, but more so that we will be leaving the Tendo household unprotected. Akane is with me, so there's only Kasumi and Nabiki to protect. I thought this would provide you with an excuse to speak to her. I believe you two could use some time. I'm no expert on the subject, but I think there was more that she wanted to say. I am, however, an expert on procrastination and unless you want the next few years, and possibly the rest of your life, resembling the chaos that my life has been I suggest you don't procrastinate. Ranma
Kuno: Ranma… You presume to know me. I will do no such thing.
Kuno crumbles up the letter and leaves it on the windowsill.
Kodachi finally reaches her bedroom door. Without thought of anything but her bed she opens the door and walks in, she then notices the camera, and the light fixtures as well as the ropes on the bed that once held Ryu… Once held.
Kodachi: Where did he go?
The door shuts and there's a loudly audible click. Kodachi turns to see Ryu looking at her sinisterly.
Ryu: Welcome home Love. Did you miss me?
Kodachi: Oh Dear.
Nabiki sits in her room looking over pictures she's taken of everyone over the past few years.
Nabiki: Well… I have to say it was fun while it lasted.
Kasumi: What was fun Nabiki?
Nabiki turns to see Kasumi standing just outside her door.
Nabiki: Oh Sis. Sorry I didn't notice you there.
Kasumi: May I come in.
Nabiki: Sure.
Kasumi enters and closes the door.
Nabiki: What's on your mind Sis?
Kasumi: Well, I was wondering if you would do a background check for me.
Nabiki sat up quickly in her chair and looks at Kasumi.
Nabiki: On who?
Kasumi: On Tofu, I'm afraid. I just… I just don't know why but I feel awkward talking to him recently. Like… like he's too perfect. I think he's done some kind of check up on me or something.
Nabiki: Why?
Kasumi: I mean we like the same things, we feel the same on so many subjects, and the things we don't feel the same on he doesn't seem bothered by it. It's like he was engineered for me. It's almost creepy.
Nabiki laughs.
Nabiki: Sounds to me like you're getting tired of the dating game already.
Kasumi: Excuse me?
Nabiki: You're just scared that's all. You're having the normal response that it just seems too perfect. You're so worried about when that one thing goes wrong that you won't be able to make it right. So you're making up excuses to give you some kind of problem that's not really there.
Kasumi: I don't know Nabiki. I mean have you ever done that?
Nabiki: Of course not.
Kasumi: Oh yes, I'm sorry. You've never been in love have you?
Nabiki looked on at Kasumi in silence, and then slowly began to cry.
Kasumi: Oh My! I'm… I'm sorry Nabiki. Did I say something wrong?
Nabiki: I have…
Kasumi: You have what? If it's a disease, I'm sure I can get something for it from Tofu.
Despite her tears Nabiki chuckled.
Nabiki: No Sis. I have been in love… at least I think I was.
Kasumi: Ok Nabiki, you're confusing me.
Nabiki: Remember when mom died.
Kasumi: Of course.
Nabiki: Well, I was going through a really tough time over it at school… and the only person that tried to help me was… was… Kuno.
Kasumi: Oh My.
Ranma, Ryouga, and Mousse all stand on the edge of the clearing laughing taking deep breaths.
Mousse: I can't believe we made it all the way here.
Ryouga: Yeah. And it's so beautiful.
Ranma: Ah! You gotta love the fresh air, the mountain scent, the breeze, the sky. Tell me one bad thing about training in the wild.
Not that far behind, Akane slaps herself on the neck and then looks at her hand.
Akane: The bugs.
Ukyou looks down at her foot.
Ukyou: Unnoticed animal shit.
Shampoo walks behind Ukyou with mud all over her outfit and snarls.
Shampoo: Having to follow stupid boys who don't let girls know where quick sand is.
Cologne opens up the small bag that she had on her shoulder and pulls out one of the sake bottles.
Cologne: Don't worry about all that. My dear friend Sake will make it all better tonight. Just you wait and see.
Ranma: I'm beginning to think she's going to build an alter for that Sake bottle and worship it.
Mousse: Wait until she starts drinking, it gets down right hysterical sometimes.
Ryouga: Sometimes?
Mousse: Well once, she decided that I was an enemy when she was drunk. I woke up three weeks later.
Ranma: Well, she was partially right. I mean you were getting in the way of her plans to get me and Shampoo together.
Mousse: No Ranma, I was nine.
Ranma: OH…
Ryouga: Ouch. That must have sucked.
Mousse: You don't even want to know the half of it.
Ranma: You're right. So let's change the subject. Tonight I think I'll be warming up.
Ryouga: I'll help with that.
Ranma: Cool. Let's stretch and then we'll start.
Mousse: I… Think I'll go help the ladies and set up a campsite.
Ukyou: That sounds like a great idea to me.
Akane: Thank you Mousse.
Cologne: Hurry up and get this site together.
Ukyou: What are you a slaver driver.
Cologne: Yes. For the time being I'm doing the most important job of all.
Akane: And what's that?
Cologne: Supervising. Ah! Ha. Ha ha ha.
Shampoo walks over and whispers in Mousse's ear. Mousse quickly takes all the camping gear off their shoulders and starts making camp with an insane smile.
Mousse: Ladies why don't you go have a rest in the nearby spring. I'll set up camp on my own.
Akane looked at Mousse curiously.
Akane: Are you sure Mousse?
Without so much as looking away from his work Mousse replied.
Mousse: Oh, most sure. In fact I should be done before you get back.
After they grab their bathing products and make their way down to the spring Shampoo begins to laugh aloud.
Ukyou: What's so funny?
Shampoo: Stupid Mousse, he so predictable.
Akane: I was wondering why he started to act like that. What did you do to him?
Shampoo: Shampoo do nothing.
Akane: Well then what did you say to him?
Shampoo: I told Mousse that if he take care of camp I take care of him tonight.
Akane: Shampoo!
Ukyou: What's so funny about that?
Shampoo: Shampoo no mean seduction, Shampoo mean after he put up camp Mousse will be sore and he not know it.
Akane: You are horrible.
Shampoo: Shampoo know. But no see you complaining.
Ukyou: Well you did make a deal so it only seems fair.
Cologne: She was taught by the best.
Akane: I still think you all are horrible.
The ladies laugh raises over the plain as they finally make it to the spring.
After talking for nearly two hours to bring Kasumi up to speed, Nabiki finally starts to calm down and breathe normally again.
Nabiki: … and that's the whole of it.
Kasumi: Kuno… I must say that that was shocking.
Nabiki: Yeah. I don't… I don't really know what I'm doing anymore. I mean he pretty much said that he still has a crush on me.
Kasumi: No… He clearly said that.
Nabiki: Right… I mean… what… what should I do?
Kasumi: Well, considering that I just came in here and asked you to do a background check on my fiancée, I don't think I'm the person you need to talk to for advice Nabiki.
Nabiki: Yeah… that was kind of funny… Well maybe you know someone I can talk to about this?
Kasumi: Well. Now that you mention it, I think I do have an idea of who you can talk to about it.
Nabiki looks up hopefully.
Nabiki: Who?
Kasumi: …Kuno.
Nabiki: Kasumi… I can't talk to him. He probably hates me right now.
Kasumi: So? If you don't know, obviously it would be better to have a definite answer. I don't know but that seems logical for me.
Nabiki: I guess. Well, I don't have anything to do so. I guess I'll go see him later tonight.
Kasumi: I think it's a good idea.
Soun: Kasumi! You're poor father is hungry.
Genma: Yes. Much in need of nourishment.
Kasumi smiled and looked at the door.
Kasumi: I almost forgot to put on dinner. I have to go Nabiki, but you should really think about it.
Nabiki: I will.
Kasumi: Good.
Kasumi leaves closing the door behind herself. As she gets into the kitchen she takes the phone off the kitchen wall and dials a number.
Tofu: Hello Dr. Tofu's, how may I help you.
Kasumi: Tofu dear.
Tofu: Kasumi. How did it go.
Kasumi: I don't know. I think she'll go, but I can't say for certain. She's still in her room right now.
Tofu: Well, from what Ranma said I think we did the right thing.
Kasumi: I just felt really uncomfortable acting like I didn't have all faith in you. But I couldn't think of any other way to get her to open up enough and talk to me. For a moment there I didn't think that it would work at all. But then she told me about everything.
Tofu: It's Ok Kasumi. I think we did the right thing.
Kasumi: I guess we'll find out later.
The sound of footsteps running down the steps can be heard in the kitchen.
Nabiki: Kasumi! Don't worry about me for dinner. I'll grab a bit while I'm out.
Kasumi: Ok Nabiki.
The sound of the front door closes and Kasumi laughs.
Kasumi: Nabiki just left dear.
Tofu: I guess that means we won't have too long to wait to see if we did the right thing then.
Kasumi: I guess not.
The sound of the Dr. Tofu's door bell sounds off in Kasumi's ear from the other end of the phone.
Tofu: Yes. Well I have to go, I've got a patient coming in now.
Kasumi: Should I come and lend a hand.
Tofu: Oh… No Dear that's alright. But if you want I can stop by and see you a little later.
Kasumi: Why yes. I think I'd like that. I'll make you something so you can get a good meal in.
Tofu: Great. I think I'm going to be starved by then.
Kasumi giggles.
Kasumi: You usually are.
Tofu: Well Kasumi, I'll see you then.
Kasumi: Bye Dear.
Tofu: Bye.
Kasumi hangs up the phone and takes a deep breath trying to remove the redness from her cheeks.
Ukyou: Ryo-chan! Ranma! Dinner is almost ready. You should come back now.
Ranma and Ryouga take a few final swings at each other before they pause and the sound of their empty stomachs echo breaks through the silence.
Ranma:Alright. What say you Ryouga? Do we stop for a meal or do we continue until one of us collapses?
Ryouga: That depends. Ukyou! What did you put on the Okinomiyaki?
Ukyou: Lamb!
Before Ranma could so much as blink Ryouga had already sprinted more than half the distance between their sparring area and the campsite.
Ryouga: Lamb! Lamb! I love Lamb!
Ryouga zooms past Ukyou snatching the plate she held out and not taking the time to so much as look at her or say his prayers.
Ukyou: Ryouga… don't I get a thank you or anything?
Ryouga looks up with his mouth stuffed with food.
Ryouga: Manf que.
Disappointed in Ryouga's table manners Ukyou merely shakes her head.
Ukyou: Men.
Ranma finally reaches the campsite.
Cologne: Come on Ranma, there's more than enough food for everyone.
Akane comes from behind a thin barrier and waves enthusiastically at Ranma.
Akane: Ranma! Come on let's eat.
Shampoo walks over to Ranma and speaks quietly to him.
Shampoo: Sorry Ranma, we try stopping Akane but she no listen.
Ukyou:Yeah. She said that she wanted to cook tonight since the rest of us were going at it as well. May the heavens have mercy on your soul, I don't think Akane will have any for your stomach.
Ha ha. They don't know yet.
Cologne: Would you like us to prepare a doggie bag for you. Or should we just call for life support now?
Ranma: No thanks, I think I'll be ok.
Cologne, Shampoo, and Ukyou all looked dumbstrucked as Ranma silently marched towards the barrier and was served food by Akane.
Ukyou: What a brave man.
Cologne: Bravery and foolishness are often mistake for on another.
Shampoo: This even more scary than when Mousse mad at Shampoo.
Ukyou: Well, no need in saying prayers for those already departed.
The three turn to walk away.
Ranma: Oh MY GOD! OH! OH ! OHHH!
Ukyou and Shampoo quickly dart to the other side of the barrier and see Ranma clutching his stomach with one hand and his mouth with the other.
Ranma: Oh! This is the best you've ever done. Ummmm! Even the Mitso Soup is rocking. You really were paying attention to Kasumi. I think you're close to getting it exactly right!
Akane smiled and bowed at Ranma's compliment and then noticed that they weren't alone.
Akane: Oh! Hey guys.
Ranma: Ukyou… You gotta try this Roasted Chicken.
Ukyou: What?
Akane: Sorry the rescipe was originally made for Roast Duck but I didn't want to offend Mousse.
Shampoo: Food actually good?
Ranma: Yes. You should try it!
Ukyou: Ranma are you feeling well?
This is almost the reaction I was expecting.
Akane: Feel free to have some if you want.
Ranma: If not I'll eat it all myself!
Shampoo leans over and whispers in Ukyou's ear.
Shampoo: She poison him so much he used to it.
Ranma stands up and quickly places a piece into Ukyou's mouth.
Ramna: Good aint it!
Surprised Ukyou swallowed the food without even realizing she had done so.
Ukyou: What the hell are you doing you Stupid Jackass!
Suddenly the taste of the food finally registered to Ukyou.
Ukyou: … Oh my God? Is there Honey in the sause.
Akane: Yep. Helps make it stick and it when cooked over an open flame the honey will spread around to cover more of the bird.
Shampoo looks quicically at Ukyou.
Shampoo: Spatula girl… I mean Ukyou Ok?
Ukyou: Either I'm insane or this stuff is good.
Shampoo: Shampoo already think you crazy.
Ukyou: Well then here.
Ukyou offers her the plate.
Shampoo: No thanks, Shampoo here very violent stories of results from Akane's cooking.
Ukyou:Well this was clearly left out of the story. The meet's a little tougher than I'd like but it's not burnt.
Akane: I'll keep that in mind for later.
I knew she could do it.
Nabiki sits down in the guest room at the Kuno estate after having been escorted in by Sasuke. As she waits for Kuno to make his grand entrance she looks at the multiple murals and statues that decorate the room. Standing in front of a life size statue of Kuno sculpted when he graduated from Fruinkan she looks at the features and remembers some of the details that weren't there when he was in elementary school. This Kuno had an arrogant lift in his chin, while Kuno back then seemed to have a low self opinion. His shoulders were always pulled back as though to show the power from the weight they carry, while in elementary his shoulders would normally slouch because he was so heavy burdened. This Kuno had a look in his eyes that stated, "I know you want me," where the Kuno from elementary school seldomly smiled with true happiness, but every time he did it would make you want to take a picture because it was so enchanting.
Nabiki: … Oh that Kuno's long since died.
Kuno: On the contrary Nabiki Tendo.
The sound of his voice startled Nabiki out of her thoughts and she quickly turned around to look at him face to face.
Kuno: I am quite far from dead if I have anything to say about it. Unless of course that is what you are here to execute.
Nabiki: Not exactly Kuno-baby. But pretty close.
Kuno: Oh… And what manner of weapon have you brought to administer the method of my doom.
Nabiki walked over to Kuno slowly and looked him directly in his eyes.
Nabiki: You're looking at it.
Kuno: Ah. The death of a thousand men. Quite possibly the most deadly adversary to the race of man… Woman.
Nabiki backed up and continued to smile cheerfully.
Nabiki: And you know it.
Kuno smirked.
Kuno: Indeed. Well, pardon me for saying so, but I'd like if at all possible to skip the formalities of our usual encounters and get straight to the purpose of your visit. Our earlier encounter has left me… with little want for a repeat of such an event anytime in the next millennium.
Nabiki: Hey, it's not my fault you didn't know the whole story.
Kuno: Oh no… I believe you stated it quite clearly in saying that I had blinded myself to the truth. Thank you for trying to show me so repetitively.
Nabiki: Look Kuno, believe it or not, I didn't come here to fight. I just wanted to talk.
Kuno: Talk… I could swear we were talking now? Whatever are we doing if we are not talking?
Nabiki: This isn't the form of conversation I was thinking of.
Kuno: Oh then shall we begin with the conversation of how stupid I am. Or maybe how much of a sucker I am. Quite sure you've had the topic of my wealth pop up a few times. I'm sure that's what made me such a valuable… I would normally say customer, but I somehow see myself as a victim!
Nabiki: I came to say I think I love you!
Kuno move towards Nabiki as though he were ready to yell back, but before he said anything here response had sunk in.
Kuno: You said you think you loath me right?
Nabiki laughed slightly.
Nabiki: No. Although sometimes I do feel like that. But I said I think I love you. I keep thinking about what we've talked about in the past. Some of our conversations. The things we've been through from elementary up until high school. I mean I just realized that you could have gone to any school you wanted to. Private schools would have paid you to attend just for your name sake. But you went to public school. Furinkan High of all places. I mean I know it's not that far from where you live, but is definitely not the best school around. Kolotz High would have killed to have you there. So why didn't you go?
Kuno smirked.
Kuno: Because Mikado and I would have killed each other.
Again miraculously charmed, Nabiki laughed.
Nabiki: I'm serious Kuno. You talked about me closing up… don't do the same. Not right now… not when I feel so… so vulnerable.
Kuno: For you. I went to Furinkan because of you. I wanted to be near you… just incase. In fact I went to that damned Middle school because of you too. The only place I went to that wasn't Nabiki influenced was Elementary School.
Nabiki: But you're in Tokyo University now. I don't have anything to do with that decision.
Kuno closed the distance between himself and Nabiki and held her by her arms.
Kuno: You have everything do to with that decision. I chose to go there to live up to your expectations. I was given a grant to study abroad and I even got into Yale in the US. But I said behind because of you. I wanted to be close enough that if you found out that you loved me you could tell me, but far enough away that if you didn't, I wouldn't have to face you everyday.
Nabiki: You're were that smitten with me?
Kuno looked down into Nabiki's deep brown eyes and placed his forehead on hers.
Kuno: No. I am that smitten by you.
Nabiki stuttered her next breath.
Nabiki: Kuno, you really know how to make the moment.
Kuno released Nabiki's arms and broke their gaze.
Kuno: I apologize Nabiki Tendo. But I notice so many things in this conversation. For example I noticed that when you began talking on this subject you said that you think you love me. So I already know not to get my hopes up. As frightful of a man as I may be I am still subjected to such emotional weakness.
Somewhat disappointed in the distance that now separates them Nabiki snarled while Kuno's back was turned to here.
Nabiki: I thought that was the markings of a great warrior.
Kuno places his hand on the window as he looks out over the pond.
Kuno: A true warrior can have no dents in his armor. Dents show where he laxed and needs improvement. Emotions are the greatest stain we wear.
Nabiki: Well, I'm no warrior but I see it a little differently.
Kuno turns around and looks at Nabiki again.
Kuno: And how exactly do you see it?
Nabiki: You say that emotions are signs of perfection on armor. But I've seen Ranma fight for Akane many times. I've seen Mousse fight for Shampoo, and when I see those two fighting for the person they love, even when they don't realize it, its breath taking.
Kuno: I wonder what that must look like.
Nabiki: I've seen you fighting for me even.
Kuno: What? When?
Nabiki: Wanton. You kept calling him Dog man.
Kuno rolled his eyes.
Kuno: Oh there's something I like to forget.
Nabiki: I can guess why. But the moment you were there and stood up for me… well stood up for your honor and kept getting up… I felt warm inside. Like I was proud of you.
Kuno began to smile again.
Kuno: Really?
Nabiki: Yeah. But then you had to go and get clobbered again and again so that kind of ruined it.
The smile instantly vanished.
Kuno: You had some sort of point you were trying to make here?
Nabiki: Well… emotions aren't meant to be stains on armor. I think that's what the armor is there to protect. I mean the warrior is out there protecting their friends, family, loved ones, and country or whatever. But if they don't make it back than someone is left behind to mourn them. That armor is meant to protect those who are fighting for us from hurting us by dying for us.
Kuno laughed.
Kuno: So many ways to view something so simple. But in a way, I believe you are correct.
Nabiki stood in front of Kuno and looked up into his gaze.
Nabiki: Not bad for a girl who's never fought in her life huh?
Kuno began to smile again as he looked down at her.
Kuno: No Nabiki. Not bad at all.
Nabiki: So what do I get for a prize?
Kuno slowly began to lower his face to Nabiki's intent on kissing her. Nabiki was aware of what was happening but couldn't find it in herself to break way, so she simply closed her eyes and let the feelings she had bottled up so long ago take over for the first time ever.
Kodachi: AAAAAHHHHHH!
Kuno quickly snapped out of the trance he was in and darted away from Nabiki who now lied in the chair clutching her heart.
Kuno: KODACHI!
Nabiki took several deep breaths and fanned herself before getting back to her feet and running behind Kuno.
Nabiki: What the Hell is going on?
Happosai, Lukkosai, and Chengensai sit in Happosai's room cackling their hearts out as they rummage through Happosai's panty collection.
Lukkosai: Happy you have the greatest collection I've ever seen. I envy you truly I do.
Chengensai: Yes. Nirima is definitely the best place to find such silky treasures.
Happosai: That's right boys. I know where all the hot spots are.
The three laugh even louder as the freshly thrown panties slowly fall to the ground like cherry blossom leaves.
Lukkosai: So tomorrow we do it again?
Chengensai: I don't see why not.
Happosai: No. We can't we have more important matters to attend to.
Chengensai and Lukkosai both look quizzically at Happosai.
Chengensai: Are you ok Happy?
Lukkosai: Yeah, you just said that there was something more important than panty collecting. That's not like you.
Happosai: We've only got three days to prepare for the tournament and I don't intend to waste it. Right now that snot nosed punk is off training for the tournament and I plan on making it difficult to win.
Lukkosai: If I didn't know better my old friend. I'd say you were threatened by him.
Happosaid looked at him with a most wicked glance.
Happosai: Thank goodness you know better then. The results could have been detrimental.
Lukkosai: Really.
Chengensai steps between the two of them.
Chengensai: Now now boys. We shouldn't be fighting yet. Happy what do you have in mind.
Happosai: He cheated on his test. We all ended up with underwear that's never been worn before and its down right disciple.
Chengensai smiled slightly thinking about the pair of Nabiki's panties that were in his pocket.
Happosai: … so as of tomorrow we make sure that he'll get the training he wants for the tournament. I say we find every woman his good for nothing father ever tied him to and let them know about his decision of one woman. According to Akane's father he can't get married until he tells every woman who fancies him that he's spoken for so there's no way he'll be able to make it to the fight, or fight with his head on straight. He'll be a complete handicap.
Lukkosai: I don't understand. He's just going to tell them he's spoken for and keep going.
Happosai: Not if we tell them about the goons that have kidnapped him and brain washed him. Oh I'm sure they probably know some good martial artists who are willing to help them recover their bridegroom.
Happosai laughs manically as Lukkosai and Chengensai simply looked discouraged.
Kuno: SISTER!
Kuno reaches Kodachi's room and burst through the door without a hint of hesitation.
Kodachi: Brother dear?
Kuno quickly stands up after falling in with the door and draws his boken as he looks around the room but then notices Kodachi wearing a leather leotard thigh high boots and a police cap with a deep black ribbon in hand. On the other end of the room Ryu stands in nothing but a pair of black leather underwear with a zipper on it.
Kuno: What the Hell?
Nabiki comes flying around the corner as fast as she could.
Nabiki: Kuno is everything…
Nabiki quickly notices the condition of the room and then sees Kodachi and Ryu.
Nabiki: Nope… this is too much for me I don't even want to know. You guys are pretty strange as is, I don't want to know anything about your strange, sick, and demented sex habits. Goodbye.
Kodachi: Brother… I guess it's not a good idea to say this isn't what it seems at all is it?
Kuno was dumbstruck.
Kuno: Just tell me… why were you screaming.
Kodachi: Ryu here kept tickling me and… I guess the shrillness of my laughter must have broken my window.
Kuno: I don't need to know anymore… good night.
Kuno picks the door up off the floor and closes it onto the frame as he walks back out. Nabiki is on the nearby stairwell with her head in her hands shaking as though she were exposed to an artic chill.
Nabiki: Oh god. I need a drink. I need a very very strong drink. Can't get the visual out of my head.
Kuno: You think that's bad. That's my sister in there. There's nothing you can visualize that could hurt me now.
Nabiki: Did you notice that they had matching zippers in the crotch area.
Kuno looked as though he were about to throw up.
Kuno: No. I failed to realize that. Thank you for sharing.
Nabiki: Misery and company…
Ranma and the others have all gathered together around a fire.
Ranma: Well, two more days of hard training. I think the best method would be for everyone to just attack me tomorrow. Don't hold anything back and then the tournament will seem easy compared to you guys.
Why do I get the feeling it's not going to be so simple?
To be Continued
Authors Notes:
Well Hello! Yes I am still alive! I have been caught up in the craziest things since I put up the last chapter. Everything from, separating from girlfriend of three years, to having to look for another job. Well I'm currently working contract again and things are looking good. So I was finally able to stop worrying long enough to put out an update. For those of you who had doubts to me finishing this story I'd like to say I'm sorry. I was wrong to give you such doubt and I hope this chapter makes it up. If there are any new readers… please leave your comments. I love them and they fuel me to press on through my writers block. I've been told that this chapter has more dialogue in it than was originally expected so if that's a problem for you guys I'm sorry. But rest assured that the final chapter will be longer than this one or for that matter longer than any of the previous chapters I've written. I plan on going all out on that one baby! And believe me when I say I have to do up on a few fights. Now note that this chapter was somewhat rushed because I wanted to catch the attention of certain before I was removed from favorite and update lists. So for those who never gave up hope on me I thank you. But to everyone who reads, I love you all. Sorry about any spelling incorrections or anything along that line, I had to do this all through Word Pad because the computer at work doesn't have word. I will still reply to ever review I get individually and with that said, Please LET THE REVIEWS FLOW!
Cupid
P.S. Sorry about the scene with Kodachi and Ryu. I had to throw in something that was absolutely rotten and made people want to pull away from the screen and laugh until it hurt. And sorry about the Chapter 1 reposting... it's kind of a long story but to sum it up... I'm an Idiot.