Switching Heirs:
An Altered Destiny

By: Dreiser

-Twelve-

"Finish him!"
Gazing at the screen before him Ukyo wore a sheepish grin as Liu Kang defeated his opponent Raiden. Rolling blue eyes Ranma groaned. It had been his idea that the two of them go to the arcade together. In their younger days it had been one of their favorite activities and Ranma figured that Ukyo must have missed it on the road.
Unfortunately for Ranma, he forgot that in their younger days Ukyo consistently beat him in every arcade game they would play. This fact had proved consistent throughout the passage of time. They had just finished their sixteenth game of Mortal Kombat 4 and Ukyo had won every single match.
"What I want to know is," Ranma said comically. "Is how exactly can a thunder god die? I thought I'd win for sure by playing Raiden."
Pushing through the crowd that had formed around them to observe his winning streak Ukyo shrugged. "Must be my lucky day."
"Lucky day?" Snorted Ranma. "I dunno about that Ucchan. I think the god of arcade games has blessed you."
At this Ukyo looked extremely uncomfortable. Stepping in front of his iinazuke he began, "I'm really sorry if I've embarrassed you Ranchan. I didn't know this would happen. I mean, I haven't played any games since I was a little kid and I never wanted-"
"Ucchan!" Exclaimed Ranma surprised. Clasping the taller boy's shoulders he smiled warmly. "Don't apologize for winning a stupid arcade game. The only reason I brought you here was because I'd thought you'd like it and have fun."
"Oh," Ukyo broke into pleased grin. "Good! I did have fun. That last game was the best.."
"Glad you enjoyed it," chuckled Ranma. "Because you broke all the record scores for it."
"Really?" Pondered Ukyo. Suddenly a lingering thought returned to him. "Ranchan?" He began slowly.
"Yeah?" Returned Ranma as they wound their way through the teeming crowd of gamers and the maze of games inside the arcade.
"Why did you want me to be in my boy type?" Ukyo questioned with definite curiosity.
Stopping in his path Ranma turned to face his companion. Wearing a lopsided grin he scratched his cheek looking quite uncomfortable.
Ukyo took this in with some surprise. He'd never seen Ranma this shy about a simple question. "Well?" Ukyo asked. "Are you going to tell me why?"
"It's like this Ucchan," Ranma said slowly. "There are a lot of guys around here. right?"
Glancing around the arcade Ukyo acknowledged that the crowd was indeed filled with nothing but male forms. Locking eyes with his iinazuke he shrugged. "Yeah. So?"
Sighing deeply Ranma continued, "The thing of it is most of these guys are. well... jerks. I didn't want them to harass you while you were in here so I figured."
"It would be better if I was a guy," finished Ukyo. Gazing at Ranma with wonderment Ukyo smiled softly. "That was really sweet of you Ranchan but I think I can handle a few come on's."
"Yeah," said Ranma dryly. "You can but I'm not sure that I can. These guys aren't my friend like Kuno is. I might not be as understanding."
Chuckling at this Ukyo shook his head. "So you're a tough guy, eh? Defending your woman's honor and all?"
Smirking Ranma replied, "You bet. Me Tarzan, you Jane. The whole law of the jungle bit."
"Ugh," groaned Ukyo. They were now heading out of the arcade again. "Don't mention jungles. I've had some weird experiences in them."
"Like what?" Prodded Ranma. He was always eager to hear about his iinazuke's past.
Suddenly a loud burst of noise met their ears and they whirled around to see a gaping hole in the far wall of the arcade. Standing inside the hole surrounded by a cloud of dust was an exotic lavender haired girl holding a pair of sphere like weapons. Her scarlet eyes narrowed decisively, scanning the arcade for their target. Resting on the surprised figure of a male Ukyo the girl pointed one of her weapons at the okonomiyaki chef.
"Ukyo!" She shouted in a charming sing-song voice.
"Shampoo?" Blinked Ukyo with confusion. "What're you doing in Japan?"
"Ukyo," repeated Shampoo. "Die!"
In a flash of movement the lavender haired girl flew at Ukyo who barely evaded her harsh attack. Grabbing Ranma's hand in his own he leapt backwards to put some distance between them and Shampoo.
"Another spurned old friend holding a grudge against you?" Asked Ranma dryly in reference to when Ryoga and Sakura first made their appearance.
"Not really," replied Ukyo while releasing his hold on Ranma. "I met her in China. We fought briefly."
"Maybe she doesn't think the fight is over?" Ranma offered helpfully.
Sighing at his iinazuke's attempt at humor Ukyo gripped the oncoming attack from Shampoo. Holding the spherical weapon in the palm of his wide hands he locked eyes with the lavender haired girl.
"Shampoo," Ukyo said gravely. "Why are you doing this? I thought we settled our problems in the village."
"We settle nothing!" Proclaimed Shampoo. "You run off, nothing settled! Only thing settled is Shampoo's disgrace in tribe! Now you pay!"
Launching her attack again Shampoo swung her spherical weapons at Ukyo with great efficiency. Not wanting to fight Shampoo and beginning to feel helpless due to this impulse Ukyo hastily worked out a plan of escape. Pushing back his toes the okonomiyaki chef leapt into the air and effectively disappeared without a trace.
Turning in circles a seething Shampoo searched the premises with narrowed scarlet eyes. Stopping on the form of Ranma she approached him slowly.
Before Shampoo could get any closer the pigtailed boy pointed towards the large hole she made upon entering the arcade. "She went that way!" Ranma cried hurriedly.
Following where Ranma pointed Shampoo leapt stealthily out of the arcade. "Running again?!" She glowered angrily. "Ukyo! You no escape Shampoo!"
A moment passed before Ukyo fell gracefully from his hiding place in the high rafters of the arcade and landed beside Ranma.
"So," Ranma smirked. "You fought with her?"
Staring out the large hole in the arcade wall that Shampoo had made Ukyo sighed. "I would change that to the present tense Ranchan. It looks like I'm back to fighting with Shampoo again. Too bad I have no idea why."
"Hey!" Shouted the rampaging figure of the arcade owner. "Do you know that crazy girl?! She wrecked my arcade because of you two! That makes you and your crazy friend responsible for paying the damages!"
Ukyo groaned at the approaching arcade owner and turned his back to the man. The last thing he wanted to deal with was some angry business man when someone was trying to kill him again.
Seeing this reaction in his iinazuke Ranma faced the arcade owner. "Look," pronounced Ranma slowly while poking the man in his huge belly. "We aren't paying for anything! That crazy girl isn't our friend! Any idiot could see that she was attacking us for no reason!"
Whirling around Ranma marched out of the arcade followed closely by Ukyo. Halting at the exit Ukyo gave a wan smile and a solemn bow. "Sorry," he said warily before heading after Ranma.
"Who were those guys?" Questioned the arcade owner in a combination of distraught disbelief.

"Much better," sighed Ukyo as she corked the flask of hot water she always carried.
Shampoo had never seen Ukyo as a girl and knew nothing of her curse, so by Ukyo being in her natural form it guaranteed them protection from Shampoo's rampage.
Gazing at his iinazuke Ranma incited, "So you met her in China and you fought. Then what?"
Smiling fondly at his curiosity about her former life Ukyo recalled the memory. "It was just after Pops and I left Jusenkyo. Only a few days had passed since we were cursed and we decided to try to adjust to our cursed forms by living in them day in day out for a week. The Jusenkyo Guide even supported our decision. He thought it would be wise for us to get used to our curses as soon as possible since there is no known cure available."
Ranma nodded his understanding, encouraging Ukyo to continue. So far the story was nothing spectacular but he was learning more about Ukyo and his Father's past. That was one of his biggest missions in life. The two of them hardly discussed their past and Ranma got the feeling they were ashamed of many of the experiences they shared.
"Anyway," Ukyo lamented. "We were getting tired so the Guide suggested we stop at the small Amazon village called Joketsuzoku. They were having an annual fighting tournament and he thought we'd enjoy watching it."
"Amazons?" Ranma blinked in surprise. "That Shampoo girl is an Amazon?"
"Just one of several hundred in her village," Ukyo said with small smile. "At first it was a lot of fun. Especially watching Shampoo fight. she's a real dynamo. One after another of her opponents fell after a few minutes. I'd have to say she's one of the better fighters I've ever seen..."
Ukyo trailed off thinking of the lavender haired girl's recent attack. It had lacked the usual skill, it was almost like Shampoo was reluctant to fight her. Like her heart wasn't in it. It didn't make any sense... like a lot of things.
"Ucchan?" Questioned Ranma concerned.
Snapping out of her reverie Ukyo focused on her iinazuke. "I'm fine Ranchan," she assured. "Where was I? Oh yeah... it was fun until Pops and I discovered that what we thought was a free buffet was really the first prize for the tournament winner."
"And the tournament winner was Shampoo," supplied Ranma easily.
Meeting deep blue eyes Ukyo smiled. "Bingo. When the Guide finally noticed what we were eating Shampoo had defeated her last challenger and was the official Champion of her tribe. We did her a great dishonor by eating her prize and she had to be compensated somehow."
Diverting her gaze Ukyo noted they were almost at the dojo and felt a degree of comfort. It would be good to be surrounded by the warm safety the dojo inspired inside her. In her short life it was the only place she could truly call home.
Seeing Ukyo was dealing with some inward demons Ranma waited patiently until she felt able to resume her explanations. Smiling as she focused kind sandalwood eyes on him Ranma anticipated the rest of the story.
"The problem is," Ukyo began warily. "I couldn't come up with a good solution so I resorted to using my fists. I figured she wouldn't have a problem with our eating the prize if I beat her. Then I would be the Champion and we'd be eating our own prize, right? No harm in that."
"Makes sense," Ranma supported, thinking privately that it was a good solution on her part.
"Now you have add one definitive factor when I tell you about the result of our fight. This factor totally affected the fight and I don't know how things would've gone had it not been involved," Ukyo said solemnly. She paused and was boring her gaze steadily into Ranma.
A bit stunned at her mood change Ranma wore a smile of solace, urging Ukyo to go on. Relaxing at this reaction on the part of Ranma the okonomiyaki chef went back to her steady pace next to him.
"Shampoo had been fighting all day," Ukyo stated seriously. Her eyes were unrelenting, staring ahead. "She had to be exhausted by the time I challenged her over that stupid food. I mean, she must have fought hundreds of girls nonstop since that morning, and now she had to fight me in my male form." Looking at Ranma, Ukyo was sheepish. "I know I'm not the biggest guy in the world, with the most strength, but as a boy I can take more damage. I'm more lethal in some ways. The point is... it's safe to say that Shampoo wasn't expecting an opponent of my caliber."
Focusing ahead again Ukyo continued. "So in my male form I challenged Shampoo and won. It barely took five seconds for me to defeat her. I pulled out my battle spatula and with one easy blow I sent her flying. In my whole history of fighting that match had to be one of my easiest."
Ranma considered this a moment before replying. "And now she's back. Do you think that she wants to regain her title as tribal Champion by challenging you?"
"I honestly don't know Ranchan," Ukyo sighed deeply. "But there is one other important part of the story."
"Oh?" Asked Ranma inquisitively. They had reached the dojo and were strolling up the front walk. "What's that?"
"After I defeated Shampoo she kissed me," Ukyo said carefully. Stopping she gazed into Ranma's eyes. "And I don't mean peck on the cheek kiss. I mean a whooping serious French kiss that most guys would love to receive from a gorgeous girl like Shampoo."
Noticing the cautious wording his iinazuke used Ranma smiled. "Most guys... but not you. Especially not when you were just starting to get used to being in your male form and are in reality a girl."
"Exactly," nodded Ukyo relaxing at his easy understanding of the situation. "I hadn't felt..." She paused trying to think of how to word it. "Male urges in that form yet and it scared me when they appeared because of Shampoo's kiss. It scared me a lot."
"So what did you do?" Asked Ranma as they slipped off their shoes in the front entrance to the dojo.
Meeting blue eyes with sandalwood ones Ukyo released another deep sigh. "I ran away."

Walking down the hall towards the sitting room Ranma offered varied reasons why Shampoo was angry at Ukyo. "Maybe she's a scorned woman," he grinned.
"Scorned woman?" Ukyo asked skeptically.
"Yeah, you know. the guy I liked ran off on me as soon as I kissed him and now I want revenge schtick. She could be a scorned woman. You are a cute guy," Ranma wiggled his black eyebrows humorously.
"Very funny Ranchan," Ukyo groaned. "But I definitely don't think Shampoo is a scorned woman."
Walking into the sitting room sandalwood eyes scanned the room and widened in shock upon seeing a mane of long lavender hair. Gazing at other room occupants, first Kasumi who was pouring Shampoo tea, and then Genma panda who was hiding underneath the table Ukyo growled.
Looking up Kasumi smiled at Ukyo and Ranma who remained frozen in the doorway. "Hello Ukyo! Ojisama Saotome brought home a friend of yours from China. Wasn't that a nice thing for him to do?"
Ignoring this question Ukyo scurried on the floor. Crawling next to Genma panda she demanded, "Have you lost your mind?!" As a response Genma panda released a low sound of desperation then buried his face in his arms. "Hey, old man!" Ukyo hissed. "Tell me what you were thinking by bringing her here!"
"Ukyo?" Shampoo asked softly in her high pitched tone of voice. Tilting her head to one side the Amazon set down her cup of tea and gazed inquiringly at Ukyo.
Turning her head slowly Ukyo locked gazes with Shampoo who had moved from her seat. Scooting closer to Ukyo with an unreadable expression on her beautiful features Shampoo gazed calmly into sandalwood eyes. After what seemed to be had eternity passed she finally said, "Nihao."
At this response Ukyo released a burst of relieved laughter. "Nihao," she mimicked easily.
Moving her head down Shampoo stared hard at Ukyo. The person before her looked amazingly similar to her prey and it was hard for Shampoo to believe it wasn't the same person. But proof lay right in front of her. The one she sought didn't have the notable swell in their chest that this one did. Reaching a hand out tentatively Shampoo poked Ukyo in her ample chest. Cupping both breasts in her hands perplexed scarlet eyes looked upwards.
"Is woman!" Shampoo declared with certain shock to everyone in the room.
"Uh, yeah," Ukyo said slowly while removing the Amazon's grip on her chest. "I'm a girl. Sorry about that."
"She's never seen your girl type?" Asked Ranma curiously from where he stood in the entry way. He wore a lopsided grin and was finding Shampoo groping Ukyo almost strangely enjoyable to watch.
Gazing at her iinazuke Ukyo replied, "Nope. This is probably the first time she has ever seen the real me."
While this was going on Shampoo moved her attention from Ukyo to Ranma. Scarlet eyes narrowed as she recognized the companion of her prey. The entire reason why she was in this strange country so far from her home.
"You!" Proclaimed Shampoo angrily. Rising to her feet she pulled out her spherical weapons, that Ukyo had since recognized to be bonbori, one of the traditional fighting weapons of China.
The bonbori shot forward in a blur of motion that a surprised Ranma found difficult to evade. As this went on Shampoo continued her halted speech in scattered Japanese.
"Ukyo! Where he?" Shampoo demanded while taking another wide swing at Ranma's head.
Ducking Ranma focused blue eyes helplessly up into scarlet ones. "Uhm..." He began slowly, unsure of what to say as to not reveal his iinazuke. "I dunno what you're talking about. I haven't seen the guy."
Scarlet eyes narrowed by another notch. "You hide boy Ukyo!" Stated Shampoo angrily. "You too must die!"
The Amazon began another frenzied attack against Ranma who was tiring of this game. Blue eyes studied the rushed approach of the lavender haired girl. Spotting a small opening he shot his leg outward in a high sweep and knocked a bonbori out of her right hand. The spherical weapon went flying high into the air and time seemed to freeze as it landed with a resounding thud on Shampoo's head.
Shampoo remained still for a long moment before collapsing face forward on the floor.
"Oh my," Kasumi exclaimed softly, the first to break the silence. Everyone in the tiny sitting room had their eyes focused on the fallen figure of Shampoo.
Rising to her feet Ukyo locked eyes with Ranma. "You defeated her Ranchan," she said simply.
Moving from his place underneath the table Genma panda held up a sign. Does this mean she'll be trying to kill Ranma too?
Ukyo pondered this. "I don't know Pops. I learned to speak pretty fluent Mandarin after we first met Shampoo but I still don't have a very good understanding of Amazon law. She might react differently in this situation."
"She's going to try to kill me?!" Cried Ranma as he interrupted their conversation. "But I didn't do anything!"
A muffled sigh filled the room and everyone focused on the waking figure of Shampoo. Raising her lavender head slowly Shampoo focused on Ranma who was backing away nervously while waving his hands frantically. Shampoo rose to approach him with determination, ignoring his strange antics. Stopping her forward approach and leaving a few inches between them Shampoo's face shifted into a bright smile. Ranma blinked blue eyes at this transformation and it was then that she slipped her hands around his neck.
Ranma was still in shock at the sweet expression on the normally enraged face of the Amazon and could only meet her deep gaze. Entwining nimble fingers in thick black hair Shampoo breathed softly, "Wo ai ni." In a smooth movement she pulled Ranma into a passionate embrace that for Ukyo was like looking in a mirror of the past.
"It's you I love," Ukyo interpreted while staring at the kissing pair.
"Love?" Kasumi questioned softly.
Disentangling himself from Shampoo's embrace Ranma swiftly crossed the room to stand in front of Ukyo Blue eyes nervously met sandalwood ones. "Ucchan," he began anxiously. "I didn't-it wasn't-I only-"
Holding up a hand to cease this stammering line of speech Ukyo smiled softly. "Calm down Ranchan," she said gently. "This happened to me too, remember? I'm not angry at you. I'm more curious than anything. I really have no idea what this is all about."
Sighing with relief Ranma reached down to hold Ukyo's hand in his own. Across the room Shampoo observed this action with certain anger. It was becoming clear to her who exactly were her enemies in this strange land.
"See here!" Called Soun as he slid open the doors to the sitting room. "What is this all about? What's all the fuss?"
Looking up at her father Kasumi explained in tones that could be called the closest thing to her version of panic. "Oh Father!" She exclaimed softly. "I don't know all of the details but it seems a friend of Ukyo's followed her all the way from China and now she seems to like Ranma!"
"Ranma?!" Cried Soun loudly as he focused in on Ranma who was once again being smothered by Shampoo.
"I didn't do anything!" Responded Ranma desperately as he gave up on trying to get loose of Shampoo's embrace.
"It looks like you're doing something to me," accused Soun in solemn tones. Shampoo was now rubbing the side of her face affectionately against Ranma's strong chest.
Sighing deeply Ukyo sat at the table across from Kasumi. "Stop picking on him Ojisama Tendo," Ukyo said firmly. "It isn't Ranma's fault."
Smiling widely at this support Ranma separated himself from Shampoo again to sit beside Ukyo. Seething inwardly at this slight rejection Shampoo quietly followed Ranma to sit on his other side. Following suit Soun sat next to Kasumi and lit a cigarette. He was staring at Ranma who, once more, had Shampoo clutching to him.
"Okay son," Soun said calmly. "Explain how you got yourself into this one."
Scratching his cheek Ranma gazed at Ukyo for support before answering. "Actually," he said hesitantly. "It all sort of started because of Ucchan."
Turning his eyes to Ukyo who looked quite sheepish Soun said dryly, "What a shock." Glancing around the table he continued. "Does anyone have any idea about what's going on and why?"
Sensing the confusion in the air Shampoo proudly held up her copy of the Amazon tribal law handbook. All eyes focused on the book and Soun reached for it first. Scanning the pages quickly his face turned to one of utter horror.
"What?" Ranma asked anxiously. "What does it say?"
Raising his eyes Soun stared hard at Ranma. Tossing the book aside he stated, "Really. You know I can't read a word of Mandarin."
Before Ukyo could reach for the handbook the long tapering hands of Nabiki beat her to it. Taking a seat next to Ukyo she began reading. "The rules of the Amazon tribe in dealing with outside warriors are as follows. If an Amazon warrior is defeated by an outsider, be it male or female, they must determine what fate the outsider is to face by their own accord. To regain face the warrior has two options. The first is to deliver the kiss of death, in which case they must swiftly hunt down the outsider and kill them. The second is to deliver the kiss of life, in which case they must marry the outsider and bring added strength to the tribe through their union."
When Nabiki had finished reading Shampoo nodded her head in vigorous agreement while Ranma sat in complete shock upon finding he was engaged to another girl.
Meanwhile, Ukyo was pondering Shampoo's reaction to her. Why was Ranma fit to marry while she, in her male form at least, had apparently received the kiss of death? It doesn't make any sense, thought Ukyo with some confusion. Staring at the Amazon law handbook that Nabiki still held Ukyo considered that the odds lay with that the answer being inside its pages. Leaping to her feet Ukyo snatched the handbook from Nabiki and bounded out of the room.
"Ucchan," murmured Ranma with concern at the hurried nature of her exit. Rising to his feet Ranma pursued his iinazuke leaving Shampoo alone to desperately shout in her native language for her husband.

Sitting on the roof top of the dojo Ukyo flipped through the pages of the Amazon law handbook. "I don't understand," she muttered. "I've read this thing backwards and forwards in both Japanese and Mandarin but it doesn't offer any explanation as to why Shampoo gave me the kiss of death and you the kiss of life."
Lying on his back Ranma gazed up at the darkening night sky above them. "I still stand by my scorned woman theory," he said resolutely. "When you first defeated her in the village she thought, `Hey... he'll make good husband material.' Then you ran off on her after one lousy kiss so she's disgraced. I mean, no one likes it when their future husband runs off on them. Especially not a proud top notch warrior like Shampoo, right?"
"Right..." Ukyo said slowly. She was studying her companion with gaining admiration.
Sitting up now Ranma continued to explain his theory with some excitement. "So the law states clearly Shampoo has two options. One, to marry you. Two, to kill you. By running off after one kiss you obviously didn't leave the marriage option open so."
"Now she has to kill me," finished Ukyo. "You figured it out Ranchan." Giving him the handbook Ukyo sighed. "I don't know whether to be happy or sad."
"I say be happy," Ranma said confidently. "Now you know the problem. All you have to do is to get her to not want to kill you anymore. If Shampoo goes back to wanting to marry you then we're on equal ground at least."
Rubbing her temples Ukyo muttered, "But I don't want to marry her Ranchan. I want to marry you!"
Taken aback by the forceful tone in which Ukyo said the last statement Ranma smiled. "I know Ucchan," he said gently. "But isn't it better that Shampoo wants to marry you then kill you? At least with marriage you'll be alive to think of a way to get out of it. Besides," Ranma grinned slyly. "Shampoo is kinda cute."
Ukyo chuckled at this. "I guess..."
Bumping shoulders with her Ranma prodded, "You guess what? You guess it's better to marry her or you guess she's cute?" Shaking her head Ukyo refused to answer this and Ranma poked her in the ribs. "C'mon Ucchan..." He said wearing a goofy grin. "Tell me or I'm going to start tickling you..." Nimble hands shot outwards and Ranma began a fierce tickling attack against Ukyo who burst into laughter.
"C-cute!" Ukyo sputtered while trying to knock away his questing hands. "I guess she's cute!"
Smiling triumphantly at this Ranma pulled away. Gazing at his iinazuke, who was regaining her breath, a loophole occurred to him.
"Hey..." Ranma began slowly. "Shampoo can't marry the both of us. It would be bigamy..." Smiling happily he continued. "That has to be the answer Ucchan!"
Stretching her back muscles Ukyo replied, "Afraid not Ranchan. She's a Chinese Amazon remember? Their laws are different than ours and their law clearly states the higher rank a warrior is the more mates they can take on. And it isn't like that matters much since right now it seems that Shampoo would rather kill me than marry me."
"Shampoo was the village Champion, the highest warrior rank, meaning she can pretty much do whatever she wants.." Ranma lingered on this. "Out of curiosity, who's second in the warrior power ranks?"
"The tribal Enforcer," Ukyo said easily. "They basically carry out missions for the Elders of the tribe."
Tilting her head Ukyo gazed at the subject of their discussion. Shampoo was looking around the yard to the dojo with some frustration and Ukyo figured she was searching for the absent Ranma. Following her gaze Ranma stared at the Shampoo before meeting Ukyo's sandalwood eyes.
"Go talk to her," advised Ukyo. "Try to explain how you feel. Who knows? Maybe she'll understand."
"Are you sure?" Asked Ranma uncertainly, not wanting to leave Ukyo alone if she didn't want to be.
"Positive," Ukyo smiled fondly. Giving him a tiny shove for motivation she continued. "Go on. You know you want to try to work your magic on Shampoo like you do with everyone else. Why don't you try to find out if she really is a scorned woman?"
Rising slowly Ranma gazed at Ukyo lovingly before bending down for a quick kiss. Ranma leapt off the roof and Ukyo watched as he called out to Shampoo who immediately had him in a tight hug.
Observing the scene below her Ukyo felt no animosity towards the other girl. She found it almost impossible to be jealous of Shampoo. The Amazon seemed to be followed by an unbreakable chain of bad luck and circumstance that made Ukyo sympathize for her. After all, how many horrendous situations had Ukyo been in for no real fault of her own? It was an infuriating experience to have your life seemingly beyond your own control. Unfortunately for Ukyo, it seemed to her that it was her destiny to live that way.
Poor girl, thought Ukyo as she watched Ranma lead Shampoo away for their discussion. Her first husband runs out on her and her second husband is engaged to her first husband who is really a girl. Pulling her legs under her chin Ukyo murmured, "I don't look forward to having to explain how things really are to her."
The sound of soft footsteps met Ukyo's ears and tipping her head she gazed at Nabiki as she carefully walked on the dojo roof. Smiling at her friend as she sat next to her Ukyo commented, "First time on the roof, huh?"
"Under normal conditions I would have no need to be up here," drawled Nabiki as she tried to get comfortable. "But it's safe to say normal conditions don't really apply to our household do they?"
Chuckling Ukyo returned her gaze to the yard and found that Ranma had lead Shampoo to somewhere private. Oh well, she dismissed. It isn't like I need to worry about him. He could barely handle a single kiss. Ukyo smirked thinking of her own reaction to Shampoo's kiss. Not like I'm any better. I ran away screaming.
"Okay Nabchan," Ukyo said looking at the middle Tendo sister. "What brings you up to my roof top domain?"
"Free of charge I offer my listening services about the recent events involving certain high strung foreigners," said Nabiki smirking.
Looking at her friend she saw the sincerity that shone in hazel eyes and appreciated the gesture. Ukyo found a strange affinity with Nabiki who, like herself, often had a tendency to distance herself for emotional protection. While Ukyo did it with an outward appearance of a casual and carefree nature Nabiki used her impressive intelligence to put a block between herself and others.
"I appreciate it Nabchan but there isn't much to discuss," Ukyo sighed. "Unless you can help me think of a way to get out of this situation with Shampoo."
The brunette formed a thoughtful expression. "Didn't you say that you speak Mandarin?" Nabiki queried.
"Yeah," acknowledged Ukyo. "So? I learned how to speak it after the incident at Joketsuzoku. Figured it would help me avoid that sort of thing again."
"So why don't you explain things to Shampoo? If you speak her native language then you should be able to clear things up easily," theorized Nabiki simply. "In my opinion what Ranma said about getting on her good side is a brilliant idea." Smirking Nabiki drawled, "Almost makes me wonder why I didn't think of it first."
Ukyo sighed wearily at this suggestion. "You just said what I've been thinking since I first saw Shampoo."
"Then why haven't you talked to her?" Asked Nabiki.
"I'm not really sure of what to say," confessed Ukyo. "Talking about feelings really isn't my strong suit."
"Right," Nabiki snorted. "Beating the stuffing out of people is. You should at least give it a try Ucchan. You can't possibly do any worse than Ranma is right now."
Blinking at this Ukyo moved to the edge of the roof and observed her iinazuke who was perched on a birdhouse talking to Shampoo. Looking backwards at Nabiki she questioned, "I can barely hear them from this vantage point. How could you possibly.?"
Nabiki wore a secretive smile. "Listen for the smallest details. That which is most subtle pay the keenest attention to. Like I keep saying... the school of martial arts I took over for my Mother is something worth looking into."
"Must be," respect shone in sandalwood eyes. "I think I'm going to ask for a lesson one of these days."
"I'd recommend it," Nabiki smiled. Hazel eyes moved back towards the edge of the roof. "Poor Ranma. Things really aren't going well."
Oak brown eyebrows shot upwards in surprise and Ukyo returned to her place on the edge of roof. Leaning slightly over the edge she listened to the conversation.

"Now do you understand, Shampoo?" Questioned Ranma gingerly. "Your Amazon laws may work in China but in Japan things don't work that way. I can't marry you just because I accidentally beat you in battle. It isn't right."
Staring deeply into Ranma's blue eyes Shampoo nodded her head in agreement with whatever her husband had just said. Hopping onto the bird house in easy movement she gazed at Ranma with utter adoration.
"Woda Airen," said Shampoo in low husky tones. Agile fingers gracefully traced the lines of Ranma's strong jaw while moving closer.

Hearing a low rustle Ukyo averted her eyes to look back at Nabiki. The brunette was busy scanning a Mandarin to Japanese language translation book.
"It means my beloved husband Nabchan," Ukyo informed smiling at her friend's curiosity.
Nabiki looked almost embarrassed as she met the gaze of her companion. "I thought it might be useful to speak Mandarin in case our lavender haired friend decides to stick around like everyone else does."
Turning back to the edge of the roof and the continuing conversation below Ukyo murmured. "Oh, it'll be useful. Believe me."

Graceful fingers gently traced a path up Ranma's muscular chest until they wound into the soft black hair at the nape of his neck. Falling forward smoothly Shampoo rested her face only inches from his.
Smiling angelically she whispered, "Wo ai ni."
Blue eyes blinked in confusion and Ranma swallowed nervously. He had no idea what Shampoo was saying but the tone of voice she spoke in was driving him insane. It was the same low throaty tone that Ukyo would take on when she felt romantic. Ukyo! An image of his iinazuke appeared in his mind and Ranma moved backwards in an attempt to separate himself from Shampoo's affectionate embrace.
For her part, Shampoo didn't understand her new Airen's erratic behavior and clung obstinately to him. She had already lost one suitor. she wasn't about to lose another. Yes, thought Shampoo emphatically, nothing would come between her and her Airen. Nothing.

"I love you," supplied Ukyo dryly. Raising an oak brown eyebrow she chuckled. "Isn't learning a new language oodles of fun?"
"If you're jealous why don't you go down there and break things up?" Inquired Nabiki.
Pushing herself into a sitting position Ukyo continued to observe the pair below. "That's just it Nabchan. I'm not jealous. Shampoo wouldn't even be after Ranma if I hadn't run off when we first fought. It's me she's after... not him. Ranchan is just a replacement for me, her lost Airen."
"Well," snorted Nabiki humorously. "Someone is getting a big head."
Sandalwood eyes met hazel ones. "Very funny. But it's the truth. Shampoo came to Japan looking for me. the husband that ran out on her." Ukyo turned to gaze at the Amazon once again. "I think she must be a very lonely person to journey so far in pursuit of a complete stranger. And now this thing with Ranchan. it only proves how much she wants to belong. To be loved. No," Ukyo sighed. "I'm not jealous of Shampoo. I actually sympathize for her."
"It's hard to be at the top," Nabiki philosophized.
"You got that right," replied Ukyo easily.

"Now do you get it?" Questioned Ranma. He was now lying on his back anxiously stammering to Shampoo the reasons he couldn't marry her. "I l-loo. I like Ucchan. So I can't possibly marry you."
Tilting her head inquiringly to one side Shampoo could only understand and recognize a single word out his entire barrage of explanations. "Marry?" She whispered. Breaking into smile she clung to Ranma once again. "Ranma want marry Shampoo? Wo ai ni, Airen!"
"Uh..." Began Ranma helplessly as she snuggled against him. "NO! I mean... no. I can't marry you. Do you understand me Shampoo? Can't marry!"
Raising her lavender head Shampoo smiled sweetly and nodded her head in agreement. The chattering complexity of the Japanese language was proving difficult to master but Shampoo was sure she'd learn it eventually. In the meantime she would settle for mimicking her Airen's speech and study his inflections as to aid in speaking the language.
"You don't understand me," groaned Ranma as Shampoo glommed him again. Blue eyes moved upwards and he gazed at the understanding face of his iinazuke peering over the dojo roof.

"I guess you trying to talk things out with Shampoo wasn't one of my best ideas..." Said Ukyo sheepishly.
The couple had returned to their usual place on the dojo rooftop to discuss the recent events. Shampoo had been safely removed from their presence by Nabiki who wanted to test her skills at speaking Mandarin along with learning more about Amazon tribal law.
Genma and Soun had retired to their nightly game of shogi while Kasumi worked in the kitchen with Nodoka on supper. Akane was still out with Ryoga on their double date with Sakura and Kodachi. Which was an attempt of Akane's to help Ryoga get over his anger at the Kodachi for having chained him, in his cursed form, to Ukyo.
"It's okay Ucchan," Ranma assured. Scratching his cheek he smiled warily. "It isn't like I did a bang up job talking to her. All in all it was pretty disastrous. I don't think she understood a thing I said."
"You're probably right," agreed Ukyo.
"I mean, she just sat there and nodded-" Halting his speech Ranma gazed at Ukyo with surprise. "Wait a minute. I'm right?" Ranma inquired.
Chuckling Ukyo leaned into Ranma and he wrapped a strong arm around her shoulders. "Don't sound so shocked Ranchan. I'd bet the reason she looked so clueless was because she was." Sandalwood eyes gazed into shining blue depths. "Shampoo only just arrived in Japan. She probably only understands a few scattered words of our language."
"Then it's hopeless," sighed Ranma. "If she can't understand what we're saying how are we supposed to make things right? She'll just keep glomming onto me while trying to kill your boy type."
Slipping out from under his embrace Ukyo rose to her feet smoothly. "Not necessarily," she smirked. "I can always try talking to her."
Blinking in surprise Ranma questioned, "Ucchan? What are you up to?"
Pausing in her walk to the edge of the roof Ukyo turned her head back. "You'll see," Ukyo wore a secretive smile. In a quick leap Ukyo jumped off the roof to land with a huge splash in the koi pond below.
Ranma stared at the now male Ukyo who gazed up at him before turning his attention to the house. "Shampoo!" He shouted loudly. "Come on Shampoo! I thought you were looking for me!"
The lavender haired Amazon appeared in a flash on the porch outside the sitting room. Scarlet eyes narrowed in speculation as she took in the form of a male Ukyo.
"Boy type Ukyo." She hissed in recognition. Swiftly she retrieved her bonbori and moved into action. "I kill!"
Calmly gripping the bonbori in the palms of his hands Ukyo bore his steady gaze into Shampoo's. "Are you sure you want to do that Shan-pu?"
On hearing her native language Shampoo froze and Ukyo jumped at this advantage. Nimble hands moved quickly and Ukyo tossed the Amazon over his shoulder hoping to move the confrontation to a better location.
Watching as his iinazuke leapt away with a screaming Shampoo over his shoulder Ranma smiled proudly. "I almost forgot," he chuckled. "Ucchan speaks Mandarin."

"Put me down you barbarian!" Demanded Shampoo. She was still slung over Ukyo's shoulder as he leapt on the rooftops of Nerima. "Haven't you already brought enough embarrassment to me for one lifetime?!"
Deciding that they were a safe enough distance from the dojo Ukyo paused in his trek. Leaving them on the rooftop to one of the tallest buildings in downtown Nerima. Upon stopping the furious Amazon immediately escaped from his grip to stand across from him.
"I apologize Shan-pu," Ukyo said solemnly. "But it wouldn't do any good for us to fight. Especially not at my home. It has already gone through enough damage due to the mistakes of my past."
"There are many I'm sure," said Shampoo smugly. "No doubt I am not the only one you have run out on. Your upbringing must have been poor indeed to produce a fighter that is totally lacking honor. Perhaps it's better that you ran from me. The one called Ranma will make a much better addition to my tribe than you. I would much rather kill than marry such an obvious scoundrel."
Studying Shampoo carefully Ukyo moved closer to remove the distance between them. Recalling Nabiki's advise to notice that what is most subtle Ukyo gazed at the tapering neck of his companion. On increasing his proximity to her the beat of Shampoo's pulse increased greatly. It was now going at an incredible rate. Raising sandalwood eyes Ukyo peered at Shampoo. Under careful inspection it seemed to him that his presence was effecting the girl physically if not mentally. To Ukyo that signaled one clear thing. Shampoo liked him. She didn't want to kill him, in fact, she had been avoiding the event by not using her full abilities against him in battle.
"Very well," he said finally. Confidently Ukyo threw the bonbori back to Shampoo. The Amazon watched Ukyo with confusion as he removed his bandoleer and tossed his weapons aside. "If the only way you can regain your honor is by killing me then do it. I won't stop you. Look, I'll even make it easier!"
Unbuttoning his sleeveless silk shirt Ukyo tossed it to one side to leave his muscular chest bare. "Now all my vital points are in clear sight. I won't stop you from attacking me if that's what you really want."
Stunned by this turn of events Shampoo gazed at the boy before her. She hadn't expected him to give into her will. She had expected pleas, begging, and wild excuses for his treacherous behavior but never in her wildest dreams did she think he would admit his own fault. By doing this Ukyo opposed all of Shampoo's assumptions about his lack of honor. By turning himself over to her judgment it proved he did possess honor. Honor along with incredible bravery. Not many would voluntarily leave themselves defenseless before a clear enemy. But if Ukyo possessed honor then why did he run away from her and his duty in the first place?
"First," Shampoo began slowly. "Tell me why you ran from me in the village after I gave you the kiss of life. I want to know the cause behind all my recent suffering."
Sighing with relief Ukyo scratched the back of his head. "It's kind of hard to explain but basically I'd never been kissed by a girl before. I sort of..." Ukyo turned red and Shampoo observed this curiously. "Got scared of how it made me feel so I ran away. I didn't know what it meant. I just thought you were kissing me..."
"You were scared?" Shampoo asked in disbelief.
Staring at the lanky figure of masculinity she took in this explanation with wonderment. The boy before her had to be one of the best fighters Shampoo had ever encountered. In her pursuit of him across China and Japan she had been privy to observing the aftermath of his many battles. All of which, she had been told, were handled with a level of such calm ease that it reflected on a fighter of high skill. He was all this and now he would claim to be scared of how a simple kiss from her made him feel? That was why he ran?
Studying Ukyo carefully Shampoo noted the flush of embarrassment. All her instincts told her that he was telling the truth. Considering this Shampoo recalled the day of the tournament. When she pulled away after giving Ukyo the kiss of life there was a moment where pure happiness shone on his handsome features but then...
Her thoughts trailing off Shampoo gazed into warm sandalwood eyes. Then he ran away, she thought. He ran away looking just as he looks now. Red with embarrassment.
"You're telling the truth... aren't you?" Shampoo questioned incredulously. "You were truly scared. That was why you ran from me. Not because you were disgusted at my touch. Not because you didn't want to face the duties put before you from my defeat. You were just scared of how my kiss made you feel."
"Exactly!" Exclaimed Ukyo happily. He didn't know how but he managed to get through to Shampoo. "I didn't know anything about your laws or tradition. If I knew what the kiss meant I never would have run."
Stepping forward Ukyo tentatively rested a hand on Shampoo's shoulder. Bending down he locked scarlet eyes with his earnest sandalwood gaze. "I didn't mean to bring you dishonor Shan-pu. Please believe me."
Looking up into shining eyes Shampoo saw the truth that lay there and smiled. The boy before her had put himself at her mercy without any sign of fear. He was indeed worthy her, and her tribe's, attention.
"Then," Shampoo said while watching Ukyo carefully. "You would be willing to make retribution for your crimes against me?"
Bowing his head respectfully Ukyo replied, "Of course. I'm willing to do whatever you ask. It was never my intention to hurt your standing in the tribe." Lifting his eyes Ukyo bore his steady gaze into her. "I have great respect for your skills as a fighter Shan-pu. It didn't escape my attention that you had been fighting all day when I challenged you. I was confident in my victory because of this. If you had not been exhausted by the other battles our fight would have had much different results I'm sure."
Scarlet eyes glinted dangerously. Ukyo had admitted to both her skill as a fighter as well as his motivations behind the challenge. Reaching a graceful hand outward she tipped up his strong chin.
"Rise." Shampoo commanded. "I have decided what I must do."
Following her order Ukyo straightened to his full height to tower over Shampoo. Meeting her scarlet eyes Ukyo was surprised to see affection shining in their depths. Moving with a speed that defied time Shampoo pulled him into a passionate embrace.
Feeling the familiar surge of panic that had filled him the first time this happened Ukyo started to move away but Shampoo held him firmly in place. After several moments Ukyo finally resigned himself to the embrace and began to enjoy the soft feel of Shampoo's lips on his own. As the kiss developed Ukyo became involved and tentatively explored the recesses of Shampoo's mouth with his tongue. Shampoo encouraged this action and pressed against him eagerly.
This heated exchange went on for several moments before they finally broke apart for air. Ukyo studied the petite frame of Shampoo who was resting against his chest. His mouth quirking upwards in a small smile Ukyo gave into an impulse and ran his fingers through the silken softness of her lavender hair.
"So that was what you must do?" Ukyo asked playfully. "You must kiss me?"
Lifting her head Shampoo revealed happiness gracing her beautiful features. "I had to test a theory of mine." She explained while running gentle fingers across his cheek. "I wanted to know if you were telling the truth about being scared of how my kiss made you feel. By your initial reaction just now I know you weren't lying." Forming a wicked smile Shampoo giggled. "In fact, it seemed like you were almost ready to run again. Good thing I held you in place."
"Yeah, well," Ukyo said meekly. "You're a very beautiful girl Shan-pu. It is kind of disconcerting when you show me that sort of attention. Makes me wonder what I ever did to deserve it."
"Everyone deserves devotion from another person at one point or another," Shampoo declared. Moving away from Ukyo she turned to gaze at the Nerima skyline. "Back home in Joketsuzoku I hold a great deal of respect as tribal Champion but I pay a price."
Tipping her head backwards Shampoo wore a wan smile. "Everyone fears me. I have no real friends besides my cousin Per-fum the Enforcer. The two of us have a kinship from being the strongest in the village."
Sighing Shampoo formed a thoughtful expression. "Those who fear us also hate us for our superior skills. On the day of the tournament I singly defeated all the warriors of my generation. When you challenged me, they gave their support to you, wishing for your victory and my loss. My defeat was a great thing for their jealous hearts and they rejoiced in my ultimate failure to win."
"What about you?" Asked Ukyo gently. "How did you feel? Did you hate me for beating you?"
"Hate you?" Shampoo puzzled. "No. I didn't hate you. I was actually somewhat relieved. Being the best warrior in a tribe brings isolation. None wanted to associate with me and I was beginning to despair from my loneliness. then you came. When I lost to you I was happy. Of course, I couldn't let anyone see that, but inside I was rejoicing. Finally there was a fighter that was stronger than me. Someone worth being with. I wouldn't be alone anymore! I thought that giving you the kiss of life would guarantee my happiness. It was pathetic to think so, wouldn't you say?"
"Pathetic?" Ukyo looked surprised. "No. I don't think it was pathetic. In fact, I understand perfectly. I spent most of my youth on the road traveling with Pops. I didn't have a lot of friends either..." Taking a step forward Ukyo caressed Shampoo's cheek tenderly. "It's horrible to be alone, isn't it?"
Losing herself to the shining depths of sandalwood eyes Shampoo reached up to hold Ukyo's face in her soft hands. "But I'm not alone anymore," Shampoo smiled. "I have you and Ranma. When we three return to the tribe my honor will be vindicated." Studying the towering form of Ukyo carefully Shampoo looked mischievous. "No doubt I will also be a figure of great envy for having two such virile and handsome husbands."
"Husbands? But-" Ukyo started to protest. His words were muffled by another passionate embrace on the part of Shampoo. Losing himself to the sweetness of her kiss Ukyo was helpless against the emotion it incited.
Ending the kiss Shampoo gazed at Ukyo with utter adoration before sprinting towards the edge of the roof. Turning on her heel she smiled brightly. "But nothing my beloved husband. The law clearly states my choices. I may either kill or marry you. I have chosen to return to my original decision of marriage." Leaping off the roof with her lavender mane flying upwards Shampoo's voice trailed off with her descent. "We will speak more on the matter later my husband. Now I must deal with the developing problem of the girl who shares your name. She is entirely too friendly towards my second husband, Ranma."
Left alone Ukyo stood frozen for several moments before the meaning of her words hit him. "Wait a minute," he said slowly. "The girl who shares my name?" Groaning loudly Ukyo muttered, "Why didn't I tell her about my curse?" He paused to dwell on this error for a moment. "Oh well," Ukyo lamented. Bending down he retrieved his blue silk shirt and bandoleer. "It can wait."
Slinging his battle spatula over his shoulder Ukyo smirked. "Second husband Ranma?" Chuckling a bit Ukyo shook his head. "Ranchan will love that." Pushing back on his heels to shift into an easy jog Ukyo sighed. "I think I enjoyed Shampoo's kisses a little too much. We're going to have to talk about that too I suppose."
Dashing back towards the dojo Ukyo resolved to try and clear everything up. But, he thought tiredly, it would have to wait until tomorrow. Because he was entirely too exhausted to deal with the constant complications of his life right now. It would be easier to deal with after a good nights sleep. At least, he hoped so.

Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes Ukyo slowly made her way downstairs and into the sitting room. Genma had allowed her to sleep in for once, probably due to the sexy negligee Nodoka purchased, and the event was disconcerting. In her short lifetime Ukyo had only slept in possibly ten times, this being one of them. Yawning again Ukyo heard the sound of soft murmurs and found that other members of the always expanding Tendo household were awake as well.
From the top of the stairs Ukyo could hear their conversation dimly. Not surprisingly, it was focused around Shampoo and the recent complications arisen due to her traditional Amazon laws. Sliding open the door to the sitting room Ukyo was met with the stares of Sakura, Soun, and all three Tendo sisters who were eating breakfast.
Sakura was the first to speak as she sported a teasing smirk. "Okay," she drawled. "What's this I hear about you and Ranma sharing an Amazon bride named after a hair care product? What?" Sakura pouted with exaggeration. "You can't have me and still be faithful to Ranma but you'll share him with this Chinese broad? I'm insulted."
"C'mon Sakura," Ukyo moaned leaning against the doorway. "It isn't like that. Shampoo has all these funky Amazon laws she has to obey. Anyway, it isn't like I've done anything with her. She isn't even staying at the dojo."
"She isn't?" Nabiki asked while finishing her soup. Setting down the bowl she gazed at Ukyo. "I could have sworn I saw her lavender head poking into Ranma and Ryoga's room last night."
"She what?!" Demanded Akane, slamming her fist down on the table. "What was she doing in Ryochan's room?! Why didn't you stop her Nabiki?"
"Calm down Akane," drawled Nabiki smoothly. "I don't think it was Ryoga she was interested in." Turning back to Ukyo she continued. "Don't worry Ucchan. I'm sure Ranma's chastity is still in tact. I didn't hear any moans coming from the room."
Rolling sandalwood eyes Ukyo muttered, "I still better go check on him. At this rate we'll at the very least be late for school."
"Hey!" Called Sakura to the departing Ukyo. "Aren't you at least going to tell me exactly how you two managed to get engaged to an Amazon in the first place? Or is this sort of thing common place news around here?"
Ukyo responded playfully, "Why don't you ask Nabchan? She seems to be up on all current events of the dojo." Bounding up the stairs Ukyo grinned as she heard Sakura start her interrogation of Nabiki.

Quietly opening the door to her iinazuke's room Ukyo took in the sleeping figures of Ranma and Ryoga. The former was being clung to by a contented Shampoo who was snuggled under the covers with him.
Ranma unconsciously adjusted his sleeping position and Shampoo moved along with him. Rubbing against his chest the Amazon sighed softly, "Oh... Airen."
Gazing at the tender scene before her Ukyo couldn't help smiling. They really did look cute lying together. Almost like little kids. Ukyo had the utmost faith in Ranma, despite Nabiki's teasing, she knew full well nothing had or would happen between him and Shampoo. Ranma was far too loyal to even consider such a thing.
Watching them a moment longer Ukyo considered her feelings towards both of them. Though she had trouble with verbalizing it Ukyo loved Ranma deeply and they shared a natural rapport. They had the same carefree love of life and saw the world in hopeful terms. Their personalities were incredibly similar and a high sense of honor had been bred into them both. Although, on Ukyo's part, it was sometimes lacking due to her unusual upbringing. Being raised by Genma and the Master resulted in many things but the pursuit of honor wasn't one of them. The bond she shared with Ranma was so that Ukyo didn't even need to speak for him to understand how she was feeling. This event was useful since neither she nor Ranma were exactly comfortable in trying to voice their feelings. Ukyo didn't really know how to describe the nature of their relationship. Soulmates, as corny as it sounded, would be the best choice.
Then there was Shampoo. Gazing at the lavender haired Amazon as she pressed closer to Ranma she felt a twinge of envy. Shampoo was able to express her emotions so purely without any fear of rejection. Ukyo would die to have her self-
doubt taken away and be like Shampoo. It pained Ukyo to see the Amazon being affectionate with Ranma so easily. Things that took all of Ukyo's built up courage, like instigating their first few kisses, were nothing to Shampoo. She felt horrible for her part in bringing Shampoo to Japan and wanted to make it up to her. Ukyo couldn't imagine the embarrassment she had brought on the Amazon when she had run from her. Unfortunately Shampoo seemed to deeply cling to the traditional laws of her tribe. This could only lead to imminent heartbreak because even though Ukyo and Ranma weren't immune to her exotic beauty they had no desire to include a third party in their upcoming marriage. Harsh as it sounded, there was simply no room for Shampoo in either of their hearts.
This left heavy question of how to resolve the growing problem of their current situation of being engaged to Shampoo hanging in the air. And neither of the chosen husbands had the slightest clue of how to do that.
Sighing deeply Ukyo shook her head. I've got to stop brooding about this, she thought. Things will work out in the end. They always do. Bending down Ukyo rested her face some inches above Ranma's and studied him closely. Forming a mischievous smile Ukyo pinched her iinazuke's nose.
Several moments passed when Ranma finally shot forward his blue eyes wide with panic. He glanced around the room wildly while clutching to his mattress. Locking on the smiling figure of his iinazuke he breathed a sigh of relief.
"Ucchan?" Ranma was baffled. "What-?"
"Shhh," hushed Ukyo. Giving him a charming smile she gently brushed his lips with her own. "In case you haven't noticed we have company."
Blinking in confusion Ranma followed Ukyo's gaze to stare at the sleeping Shampoo who was now sprawled across the bed squeezing his pillow tightly. On spotting the Amazon Ranma vaulted out of the bed to stand beside Ukyo.
"I swear I didn't let her in here Ucchan," Ranma hissed. "She must have-"
"Shhh," Ukyo repeated as she gave him another kiss. "Calm down Ranchan. She probably would've done the same thing to me if she could've found my boy type. C'mon, we better get out of here before we wake her up."
Breathing a sigh of relief Ranma nodded his assent and quickly grabbed his school uniform before exiting the room. Sliding the door to a close carefully Ranma turned to face Ukyo who looked quite sympathetic.
"We've got to do something about Shampoo," Ukyo began sadly. "We can't let her live in this fantasy world of hers where she gets to marry us both then take us back home to China with her. It isn't right... to her or us."
"Wait a minute," Ranma pronounced slowly. "Take us back to China? Marry us both?"
Flushing with embarrassment Ukyo amended, "I haven't told you about that yet have I?"
"Nope," Ranma's blue eyes twinkled. "You two must have had one hell of a talk last night. How'd it go?"
"Well, she wants to marry my you and my boy type and is apparently jealous of my girl type," Ukyo chagrined. "I worked things out with her as a boy and Shampoo is back to liking me again... in my boy form at least." Scratching the back of her head Ukyo mused, "I haven't gotten around to telling Shampoo about my curse. I figure that will hold."
Clasping her shoulders gently Ranma's face brightened with a smile. "Sounds like it went pretty good to me. Now that she doesn't want to kill you, we can work on how to get around these crazy laws of hers."
"Yeah." Ukyo trailed off in low agreement.
Peering into his iinazuke's face Ranma pondered her sudden change in attitude. It wasn't like Ukyo to be this subdued. "What's wrong?"
Reluctantly meeting deep blue eyes Ukyo blushed and stammered, "It's just. uhm. Shampoo. Last night she kissed me. twice. Kissed me like before... in the village."
Absorbing this information Ranma stared thoughtfully at the ceiling then focused on Ukyo. "Did you like it?" He asked finally. Instantly her posture slackened and Ranma knew the answer to his question. "I guess you didn't run away this time?" Ranma's lips quirked into a smile.
"No... I didn't," Ukyo sighed. Stepping closer she held his hands in her own. "But I..." Diverting her gaze Ukyo built up her courage. Raising sandalwood eyes Ukyo looked deeply into her eyes. "I love you Ranchan." Smiling widely now Ukyo felt a sense of relief filling her system. She finally said it. She finally told Ranma how she felt about him. Ukyo's face shone with happiness as she continued, "I'm in love with you Ranchan. I don't love Shampoo... I like her but returning her kiss was a terrible mistake because you're the only one I love. You. It's always been you."
Staring at Ukyo with a sense of wonderment Ranma reflected on what was just said. Ukyo loved him. she loved him just as much as he loved her. "Ucchan," Ranma breathed. Tenderly tracing the planes of her face with his fingertips he continued. "I love you too. So very much."
Leaning down he captured her lips with his own for a heartfelt kiss that lasted several moments before they broke apart on hearing a loud cough. Tipping their heads together the couple stared at an amused Sakura.
"Y'know," Sakura snickered. "Watching you two is something out of a soap opera." Focusing on Ranma, who was clad in a pair of boxer shorts and tanktop, Sakura raised an eyebrow. "Nice ensemble."
Smiling at the usual teasing Ukyo said, "Out with it Sakura. You must want something."
"Ouch. Pain. I'm hurting," mocked Sakura as she gripped her chest. Straightening up she gestured downstairs. "Just wanted to tell you we're about to leave for school so you better get your butts in gear." Smiling lasciviously at Ranma she said, "And you better put some clothes on. Unless you want to cause a riot by exposing that body."
"I know, I know," Ranma called playfully as he walked towards the furo to get dressed. "I'm a supermodel."
The two girls let loose wolf whistles as he shut the door to the furo. Meeting each others eyes Ukyo and Sakura burst into a fit of giggles. Wrapping arms around their waists they walked downstairs together.
Pausing at the top of the stairs Sakura turned back to shout, "Make sure you wake up Ryochan!"
Hearing the muffled concession on the part of Ranma the girls continued their departure downstairs. Sakura turned her glittering green eyes to Ukyo. "So," she said coyly. "Are you going tell me about your Amazon bride or not?"
Groaning loudly Ukyo rested her head on Sakura's shoulder. "I'd rather not... it's a complicated story."
"Everything is a complicated story when it comes to you," Sakura observed sardonically.

Stretching her muscles in a gesture of contentment Shampoo reached for her Airen to find nothing. Scarlet eyes opened in speculation and Shampoo found herself alone in the comfortable bed she had snuck into last night.
"Airen? Ranma?" Shampoo questioned in slight panic as she looked around the room.
Where could Ranma have gone off to? Wearing a small frown Shampoo pondered the behavior of her two husbands. They shared an irritating habit of disappearing at the most inconvenient times.
Shampoo had searched for nearly two hours for her first husband Ukyo before giving up. As she thought of the tall boy that had brought her to this strange country Shampoo smiled. There was an easy charm about him that she couldn't resist. He was certainly good looking and just thinking of him sent shivers down Shampoo's spine. While she appreciated the aesthetic qualities of Ranma there was something special about Ukyo. The Amazon felt an indescribable link to the lanky fighter. Almost like her future was tied to his.
She pondered this a moment when a sudden sleepy mumbling caught her attention. Shifting her gaze Shampoo peered over the edge of her Airen's bed to look at a dozing Ryoga asleep on his low futon.
Narrowing scarlet eyes Shampoo bounced off the bed to crouch next to the futon. Studying Ryoga in minute detail Shampoo finally resolved how to find her lost Airen. Cupping her hands over her mouth Shampoo shouted at the top of her lungs, "Wake up! Where Ranma?! Shampoo want Airen!"
This being yelled in his ear Ryoga leapt high into the air in fright, all his limbs extended. Landing with a bounce back on his futon he screamed upon seeing an angry Shampoo glaring at him. Pulling a bonbori out of nowhere she pointed it at his head.
"Where Ranma?" Shampoo demanded, a dangerous glint surfacing in scarlet eyes.
"W-what?" Stammered an anxious Ryoga. Rising to his feet he nervously moved backwards. He had no idea who this strange girl asking for Ranma was but if Akane found her in their room... well. It wouldn't be pretty.
Distracted by the mere thought of this Ryoga was hardly able to evade Shampoo's powerful swing of her bonbori. Ducking his head Ryoga glanced towards the open window and considered his options. As another bonbori came heading for his head it took Ryoga a second to decide. In a desperate maneuver he leapt out the window to escape the wrath of the mystery girl. He didn't like running away but the last thing Ryoga wanted to face was an angry Akane in the morning.

"Then she followed me here to Japan to fulfill the laws of her tribe and ended up being defeated by Ranchan. I managed to work things out so she no longer wants to kill my boy type but now Shampoo wants to marry us both. She also doesn't know about my curse," finished Ukyo with a sigh.
Akane and Sakura wore thoughtful expressions as the situation involving Shampoo was finally explained to them. Nabiki had already departed for school to conduct her usual business dealings and Soun was helping Kasumi clean up in the kitchen leaving them alone to hear the story.
Sakura was the first to comment on the situation. Folding her arms across her chest she said in disbelief, "I can't believe you actually went to an Amazon village during their Champion tournament. Ryochan and I avoided all the provinces they have tribes in. Didn't you know anything about how their culture works? Those women thrive on marriage by means of entrapment."
Ukyo sighed deeply, "I guess you could say that. And no, I didn't know anything about the Amazons. I traveled around with Pops remember? We didn't speak the language or know the slightest thing about Chinese society. Hell, we didn't even own language translation books!"
Akane was about to comment when she caught sight of Ryoga flying out of his window to land in the koi pond with a gigantic splash. "Ryochan?" She breathed as his piglet form surfaced. Dashing to the pond Akane lifted him out of the water and clutched him to her chest. "Why did you jump out the window?"
Wide brown eyes gazed up into Akane's and Ryoga piglet let loose a series of distressed squeals. Akane was absorbing this as Shampoo descended gracefully from the window to stand beside her in the yard. Scarlet eyes studied the figures of the dojo residents before they locked on the person for their search.
"Airen!" Cried Shampoo happily as Ranma entered the sitting room. Bouncing past Ukyo and Sakura she pounced on Ranma who lost his balance at the sudden gesture of affection. Falling on his butt with a loud thud he groaned from the floor.
"Shampoo," Ranma began wearily. "Try to calm down with the hugs, huh?" Rising to his feet Ranma stretched his back as Shampoo clung to his side.
"Shampoo is calm Airen," she replied cheerfully.
Studying the lavender haired Amazon curiously Sakura smirked at Ranma. "So this is the lovely lady you're throwing Ucchan over for. Nice choice Ranma."
Rolling blue eyes Ranma snorted. "Very funny Sakura but you know I'm not throwing Ucchan over for anyone."
"Who Ucchan?" Questioned Shampoo as she gazed at Sakura suspiciously. She didn't like the affectionate tone her husband took on when referring to this person.
"She Ucchan," responded Sakura sardonically pointing at Ukyo who waved and wore a tiny smile.
Narrowing scarlet eyes Shampoo stared at the girl who seemed to occupy so much of her husband Ranma's time. She had told first husband Ukyo that she would take care of this obstacle and Shampoo vowed to keep that promise. Her future happiness was at stake and she couldn't let anyone stand between she and her husbands.
It didn't escape her attention that the girl, Ucchan, as she was called looked incredibly similar to her Airen. She had thought earlier that they shared the same name. More likely Shampoo made a mistake in attempting to translate the warblings of the Japanese language. Staring at Ucchan she pondered her standing in the lives of her Airens. Perhaps the girl was her husband Ukyo's sister. They seemed to share the same taste in clothing. Ucchan was wearing a sleeveless white Chinese style silk shirt and black gi pants. While the style was alike Shampoo knew her beloved Ukyo preferred the color blue. It didn't matter to Shampoo who the girl was. If this Ucchan was planning to stand between Shampoo and Ranma she would pay the price. Amazon law and Shampoo's unyielding sense of honor demanded it.
Sniffing with disinterest Shampoo turned her adoring gaze back to Ranma who looked thoroughly uncomfortable.
"Ranma," she said tenderly. Running nimble fingers down his chest Shampoo purred, "Where boy type Ukyo? Shampoo want see first Airen."
"Uhm." Ranma looked desperately at Ukyo who shrugged helplessly. Ukyo had no idea as what to say about Shampoo's question on her boy type's location.
Fortunately for the pigtailed boy Akane was getting increasingly angry as she replayed the scene of Ryoga landing in the koi pond to avoid Shampoo. Akane knew how much Ryoga hated being in his cursed form and she must have done something awful to make him voluntarily transform.
Stomping into the sitting room while still holding Ryoga piglet against her chest Akane growled, "Look you! I really don't care how many stupid laws your tribe has! You shouldn't attack people just because your looking for your `Airen'! Next time just ask where he is instead of scaring poor Ryoga half to death!" Sniffing loudly Akane whirled around to exit the sitting room. "C'mon Ryochan," she murmured gently as she left. "I'll boil you some hot water."
The group stared wide-eyed as the dark haired girl exited. Wearing a lopsided grin Ukyo commented, "I guess Ryoga has himself an official protector."
"Lucky him," Sakura added. Bending down she picked up she and Ukyo's backpacks. "Akane isn't someone I'd like to meet in a dark alley." Sakura imitated shivers. "She sure can be scary at times."
Taking her backpack from Sakura the okonomiyaki chef rolled her eyes. "It's Akane's temper, not her, that can be scary." Turning her gaze to Ranma she continued. "We better get going Ranchan or we'll be late for school. Akane and Ryoga can catch up to us later."
"Sounds good," conceded Ranma. Extricating himself from Shampoo's embrace he said seriously, "Stay here Shampoo. I have to go to school but I'll be back later. Look around the dojo if you want. train with Father or Ojisama Tendo but stay put, all right? I'll return soon and then we'll talk." Blue eyes gazed at Ukyo humorously. "All three of us. Me, you, and boy type Ukyo. Okay?"
Shampoo processed this information for a moment before smiling brightly. "Shampoo understand. Airen Ranma want Shampoo stay put. Will try."
Looking relieved Ranma grabbed his backpack and put it on. Turning Shampoo he pondered her a moment then gave her a quick hug. Rewarding her with a fond smile Ranma declared, "Be good!"
Trooping through the kitchen together Sakura admonished. "Was the hug really necessary?"
"What?" Ranma blinked naively. "She's here all alone and she thinks I'm her husband. I can't give her a simple hug for reassurance?"
Sakura snorted. "Lousy excuse Saotome. I think you might actually be hot for this Amazon."
Shaking her head Ukyo chuckled. "Leave him alone Sakura. I've kissed Shampoo so it doesn't matter much if Ranchan gives her a few hugs. Besides," she looked at Ranma lovingly. "We both know where our hearts lie."
"Wait a minute," pronounced Sakura drawing to a halt. Staring at Ukyo incredulously she questioned, "You kissed her?" Hands on her hips Sakura demanded. "Why in the hell did you kiss her Ucchan?"
Opening her mouth to reply Ukyo was interrupted by Akane storming into the kitchen. She stared at all three friends then focused her glare on Sakura. Pointing a finger in the street fighter's face she announced. "We're buying him some sort of tracking device! Don't ask me how, but Ryoga managed to wander off while I was boiling him some hot water." Sighing morosely she whispered, "I hope he's all right. Where ever he is this time."
Slinging an arm around Akane's shoulder Sakura offered wisely, "Like I always say Akane. That's the way it goes. Ryochan will find his way back to us. He always does. It's a talent he has." Tilting her head back she smirked at Ukyo and Ranma. "In the meantime we better get going or we'll have to pay Nabiki to sneak us into school again."
Ukyo groaned at this as the group moved into an fast paced dash out of the dojo. "Don't remind me. I still owe her for last week when she turned off the school's electricity to help me escape those hordes of girls." Ukyo unconsciously shuddered at the thought.
Recently she had been spending more time in her male form, on a suggestion from Genma for training purposes, and in doing so she discovered something. Apparently Ukyo in her boy type caused some hormonal reaction in the opposite sex. Every time Ukyo was a boy hundreds of girls came out of the woodwork to chase him down in an attempt to glom onto him or ask for a date. In a way it was more annoying than Kuno's continuous launching of attacks on his arch nemesis the `ponytailed boy'.
Remembering the fiasco in the gym Akane giggled softly. "Your poor shirt," she now giggled nonstop. "Those girls tore it to pieces. It looked like shredded newspaper."
Recalling the event as well Ranma chuckled. "I wonder how those girls would take it if they knew they were trying to molest my iinazuke not some mystery man that wanders around Nerima."
Considering this the four companions formed fearful expressions as they continued their race towards Furinkan.

He was lost again. Studying his surrounding morosely Ryoga piglet cursed his horrendous sense of direction. Why was it he couldn't find his way in the simplest of locations? And even more perplexing, why was it that he couldn't stay in one place? While he was waiting for Akane to get the tea kettle ready to boil some water Ryoga felt this instinctual call to wander. He didn't know where it came from but it existed deep within him and it was strong. Before Ryoga knew what he was doing he was already outside the dojo and lost again.
The change in his life only made having the combined curse of Jusenkyo along with his directional ineptness worse. Now he had a place he belonged, a place with people who cared and worried about him. Because of this it made it even worse for Ryoga when the helplessness of being completely lost, as usual, overtook him. That and the thoughts of how Akane, who hadn't adjusted to his direction problem as Sakura, would fret at his absence.
Sharp black ears shot up at the soft sound of footsteps. Tipping his head upwards Ryoga piglet looked at the hovering form of the mystery woman who caused him to be in his present form. Shampoo, Ukyo and Ranma had called her. She was an Amazon that apparently thought she was engaged to the both of them. Narrowing his eyes in cautious speculation he studied her carefully. Shampoo was standing on the high wall surrounding a building that looked.
Wait a minute, Ryoga thought happily. Glancing around hurriedly he recognized the neighborhood. He was back home! Smiling widely Ryoga piglet did a happy dance as he stared at the sign for the Tendo dojo. Shampoo had been staying at the dojo. She might be here to help him find his way inside! At this prospect Ryoga's formerly dark mood lightened considerably.
Meanwhile, Shampoo was gazing at the miniature black piglet curiously. Such creatures were often found in the woods outlining her village back home. Thinking back to Joketsuzoku traditions Shampoo recalled the celebration feasts accompanying a betrothal. Jumping down from the wall Shampoo crouched in front of the tiny piglet.
Cooing softly she clucked the piglet under his chin who turned crimson at this attention. Gathering the piglet in her arms Shampoo smiled in wide pleasure. It was perfect. Surely her husbands would appreciate a gesture of such tender care from their wife. After all, Shampoo hadn't promised Ranma that she would remain at the dojo. She had merely agreed that it was his will she stay there. Amazons don't take orders from outsiders, even from their Airens, and having laws that consisted of many minute details they shared a talent for cleverly evading fixed concepts.
It is the Amazon way to shift and change for varied situations. The supple reed survives against the wind while the brittle one breaks. So it is in life. And knowing this well Shampoo held Ryoga piglet to her chest while planning a great surprise for her Airens.

Handing Ranma his share of the okonomiyaki that she made for their usual lunch Ukyo grimaced. "Okay," she said looking at him with sandalwood eyes. "What are we going to do about Shampoo?"
Chewing on the okonomiyaki thoughtfully Ranma mumbled. "I dunno Ucchan. But we better tell her about your curse and our engagement soon. I don't think she likes your female half too much."
Ukyo snorted at this. "She wants to kill me. Shampoo told me herself that she considers my natural girl type an obstacle to her engagement to you."
"That's not good," Ranma stated the obvious.
"Uh-huh..." Trailed off Ukyo as she tilted her head to one side. Forming a face of concentration she focused her acute hearing on far off crashing sounds. It was almost like a wrecking ball was heading their way.
Noticing the strange look on his iinazuke's face Ranma followed suit and focused on the noise. Steadily it was increasing in volume and the school building began to shake from the impact from whatever was causing the disturbance.
The students gathered about in study hall began to scatter as the roar of destruction neared their class room. Leaving only Ukyo and Ranma still sitting calmly. A sudden burst of rubble filled the room as a cloud of dust settled in the air. When it cleared the smiling form of Shampoo holding a silver platter was seen.
Simultaneously Ukyo and Ranma groaned on seeing the lavender haired Amazon. Rising to his feet Ranma found Shampoo immediately at his side.
"Shampoo," sighed Ranma wearily. "I thought you were going to wait for me at the dojo."
Smiling sweetly Shampoo gently tapped Ranma on the bridge of his nose. "Silly Airen. Amazon no have to follow order from Airen. Shampoo is higher rank in tribe. Can do what want."
"I guess that includes busting through walls, huh?" Asked Ukyo while peering at the large hole Shampoo had produced in their class room wall.
Rubbing his forehead Ranma muttered under his breath, "But I wasn't giving orders.. I was asking nicely. Why doesn't that ever seem to work with girls?"
Directing scarlet eyes at Ukyo the Amazon sniffed haughtily. "No care what you say. Here to see Airens."
"Okay Shampoo!" Ranma interrupted nervously. The last thing he wanted was Ukyo getting into more trouble with Shampoo. "What is it you want?"
Beaming happily Shampoo held up the silver platter for Ranma's inspection. "Dutiful wife make Airens delicious lunch." Glancing around the classroom Shampoo searched for the object of her primary affection. Unable to find his tall and gorgeous form Shampoo looked back to Ranma. "Where boy type Ukyo? Shampoo made lunch for both Airens."
Ranma stared blankly at Shampoo for several moments when Ukyo saved him by saying, "He isn't here. He just sort of comes and goes with the rain." Raising an oak brown eyebrow she moved closer to her iinazuke. Ukyo had no idea what Shampoo was up to but she wanted a close view of whatever was going to happen.
At this reply Ranma fought to hold back a need for laughter. He was instantly cured of this impulse as Shampoo moved seductively closer to him. Running a finger down the side of his face she purred, "No matter to Shampoo. Have Ranma here. Is good fighter. Handsome too. Make Shampoo proud to have as Airen. He deserve delicious lunch."
Coughing loudly Ranma pulled away from Shampoo's machinations and questioned tightly. "So lets see this lunch, huh?" Offering Shampoo a falsely bright smile he continued. "I bet you're a great cook."
Smiling widely at the compliment Shampoo lifted the lid to the silver platter. "Shampoo make canton style pork with hibiscus sauce for Airen. Look good, yes?" Asked the Amazon pleasantly as she thrust the platter towards Ranma.
Blazing blue eyes widened in shock and Ranma released a scream of terror as he stared at the form of Ryoga piglet covered with sauce and vegetables. Rushing forward to see what had her iinazuke in such a fright Ukyo too released a startled shriek upon seeing Ryoga piglet. Snatching him off the silver tray she whirled around. Slapping the side of Ryoga piglet's face Ukyo inwardly thanked the Kami that Akane didn't share their study hall period. Upon seeing Ryoga like this she probably would've unwittingly challenged Shampoo and ended up getting the kiss of death.
After several quick slaps Ryoga piglet groggily opened brown eyes to gaze up at Ukyo. "Ryoga!" Ukyo exclaimed tearfully. "Are you okay buddy?"
Ryoga piglet nodded his head while releasing a series of outraged squeals and that left Ukyo with no doubt on how he felt about Shampoo. Ukyo was about to question Ryoga more on his condition when she felt a soft touch behind her ear at the edge of her chin. Tilting her gaze to the side she observed Shampoo out of the corner of her eye as she gave Ukyo a gentle kiss behind her ear.
Turning around Ukyo touched the still burning skin where Shampoo had kissed her and looked at the Amazon with questioning eyes.
Wearing a harsh smile Shampoo informed, "Womans what interfere is for killing. Is Amazon rule."
"Great," muttered Ukyo lowly. "This is just what I don't need right now. Look Shampoo, you don't want to fight me. I can explain ev-"
"No explain nothing!" Declared Shampoo as she pulled out her bonbori and slung it at Ukyo's head. "You obstacle for Shampoo marry Ranma. I kill obstacle!"
Letting loose a startled yelp Ukyo ducked under the attacking bonbori. Holding a squirming Ryoga piglet against her chest, who probably wanted to attack Shampoo himself no matter what his form, Ukyo dashed towards the open windows of the class room.
"Hold on tight Ryoga," said Ukyo through clenched teeth. Bracing herself the okonomiyaki chef leapt out the window in hopes of avoiding a fight that she did not want to have with Shampoo.
"Running?!" Shampoo cried in disbelief as she chased after the departing Ukyo. "Girl called Ucchan is coward so Shampoo surely defeat her. Ranma is Shampoo's Airen!" In stealthy movement the Amazon bounded out the window to pursue Ukyo and leave Ranma in stunned shock.
Gritting his teeth together Ranma snapped out of his mental stupor and pushed himself into action. Vaulting out the window he shouted at the top of his lungs, "Shampoo! Don't do it! She's Ukyo!"
When the pigtailed boy exited the class room via the window, as had the two girls, the wary Furinkan students stared at each other unsure of how to react. They were beginning to get used to this sort of thing since the arrival of the Anything Goes heir but this was still unusual by their standards. The room was still deathly silent when Akane and Sakura stuck their heads through the door, being sent by their teacher to discover what was causing so much noise.
Taking in the chaos the classroom was in the two girls stared at the large hole in the wall. Sakura was still inspecting the damage when Akane turned to the other students and asked, "What happened?"
Meeting each others gazes the students were silent for a moment before they all simultaneously burst into hurried tales of the latest fight revolving around Ukyo.

Running at top speed Ranma rushed through the soccer field to bound up the high wire fence surrounding the baseball field. If something happened to Ukyo because of him Ranma would never forgive himself. He should have stopped Shampoo from giving the kiss of death when he had the chance. Now Ukyo was back to where she started with the Amazon wanting to kill her. Ranma knew the fight would be of no good consequence since his iinazuke didn't want to fight Shampoo. She wouldn't put her full effort into battling the Amazon it could only lead to trouble for Ukyo.
Falling gracefully to the soft earth blue eyes zeroed in on the fallen form of his iinazuke lying one of the many hills of sidelines to the baseball field. Rushing to her side Ranma immediately pulled Ukyo into his embrace causing Ryoga piglet, who had been standing on her shoulder trying to revive her, to slide to the ground. Cupping Ukyo's face tenderly Ranma held back tears on seeing her face so peaceful. It looked as if her face held an empty shell behind it.
"Ucchan?" Ranma questioned desperately. Shaking her a bit he demanded. "Ucchan! C'mon Ucchan! Wake up. I know you better than this. No way you get out of the game this easy!" No response came from his iinazuke and Ranma released a choked sob while clinging tightly to her. Burying his face in her sweet smelling hair Ranma began to cry softly.
It was then that a low moan met his sharp ears and Ranma moved back to gaze into confused sandalwood eyes. Straightening up into a sitting position Ukyo rubbed the back of her head. Running her fingers through long brown hair which was, strangely, removed of its normal ponytailed hold to fall loosely around Ukyo's shoulders. Glancing around the baseball field Ukyo finally focused on the form of Ryoga piglet who was staring at her with teary eyes. Picking him up smoothly Ukyo rose to her feet. Fingering her hair again she gave her surroundings one last inquisitive glance before heading towards the school building. Leaving Ranma alone without ever speaking a word to him.
Puzzled by this treatment on the part of his iinazuke and best friend Ranma wiped his wet eyes before dashing after Ukyo. Matching her steady walking pace he questioned anxiously, "Ucchan? What is it? Are you mad at me for what happened with Shampoo?"
Inclining her head Ukyo looked back at Ranma and blinked. Wearing perplexed face she studied his handsome features carefully. "Do I know you?" Ukyo asked in tones of clear bewilderment.
"Huh?" Mumbled Ranma in shock. "Do you know me? Ucchan! It's me, Ranma, your iinazuke!"
"Ranma.? Iinazuke.?" Ukyo repeated slowly. She paused to consider this when she felt herself become dizzy from trying to recall his name. Pressing her hand against her forehead Ukyo attempted to steady herself.
Distressed Ranma stepped forward to hold Ukyo softly to keep her from falling over. Looking deeply into sandalwood eyes he cried, "Ucchan! Are you all right?"
Meeting his gaze Ukyo immediately jumped away when she noticed his hold on her. "Ucchan, Ucchan," she said in annoyance. "Who the hell are you anyway? And why do you keep calling me by my childhood nickname?"
"But Ucchan..." Ranma whispered as he tentatively reached out his hand. "I gave you that nickname. I'm Ranma. Don't you remember me?"
Slapping away his advancing hand Ukyo formed a peeved expression. "Look `wild horse', I don't know you. So back off!" Whirling around Ukyo stalked off the baseball field muttering something about pushy guys to Ryoga piglet.
Blinking as his iinazuke walked away Ranma tried to ignore the pain clenching at his chest. It was literally as if he couldn't breathe. What had Shampoo done to his Ucchan to make her forget him? Wearing a face of determination Ranma followed after Ukyo swearing not to let her out of his sights. No matter how Ukyo treated him, he knew deep inside that she loved him, and he had to protect her from any more harm. Ranma felt he had already failed once in this area and he wasn't about to do so again.
Currently Ukyo was surrounded by several students from their study hall class along with Akane, Sakura, and Nabiki. The latter of which was quizzing Ukyo about the details of her fight with Shampoo.
"She gave you the kiss of death?" Questioned Nabiki incredulously as she eyed Ukyo for any injuries.
Nodding yes Ukyo gently handed Ryoga piglet over to Akane who immediately clung to his tiny frame. Sakura released an exasperated groan at the okonomiyaki chef's response to Nabiki's question.
"Ucchan." Sakura began slowly as she tried to calm herself. "Why didn't you just tell Shampoo about your curse? Then you never would've had to fight her."
"Pfff," Ukyo dismissed waving her hand. "The fight was nothing. I don't have a scratch on me." Forming an charming grin she slid closer to Sakura. Tipping her head forward to gaze deeply into green eyes Ukyo purred, "I think you're actually worried about me Sakura sugar."
Green eyes widened at the usage of the former nickname Ukyo had given her when they dated. "Of course I was worried about you Ucchan..." Sakura said slowly as she studied Ukyo cautiously. "Are you all right?"
"All right?" Ukyo repeated, now wearing a flirtatious smile. "I've never felt better in my life... now that you're here." Ukyo was approaching the street fighter for what seemed to be a romantic moment when suddenly a muscular male figure stepped between them. Looking up she was met with a pair of blue eyes burning with jealousy.
"Who are you?" Questioned Ukyo irately.
"I'm Ranma," stated her iinazuke plainly. Studying sandalwood eyes carefully he saw a flash of recognition before the all too familiar look of ignorance flooded their beautiful presence.
"Ranma?" Ukyo puzzled. Squinting her eyes she thought on this for a moment. Turning her attention to the handsome boy she exclaimed, "Oh! You mean, you're like that company that sells ginsu knives!"
"That's Ranko!" Bellowed Ranma in frustration.
Ukyo directed her attention back to Sakura. "Is he a transfer student sugar?"
"No." Said Sakura slowly, still mystified at Ukyo's sudden return to her fondness of old. "He's your iinazuke. You've been engaged for a couple of months now."
"Iinazuke?" Ukyo breathed, confusion showing on her beautiful features. Moving her gaze quickly from Ranma then back to Sakura she formed a wide smile. "I get it!" Exclaimed Ukyo cheerfully. "This is all a big practical joke set up by you and Pops. That's a good one Sakura sugar." Ukyo chuckled as she shook her head. "Me. engaged? To a guy?" Crinkling up sandalwood eyes Ukyo gracefully wrapped her hands around Sakura's shoulders and behind her neck. "It's a very funny joke. Especially since you know very well that I'm in love with you Sakura sugar."
On Ukyo stating this the reactions were immediate. All the surrounding Furinkan students gaped at Ukyo before studying Ranma closely for his reaction.
"You're in love with me?" Squeaked Sakura.
"And so the tables turn," drawled Nabiki.
"What's going on?" Demanded Akane.
Clenching his hands into tightly balled fists Ranma stared at Ukyo embracing Sakura before whirling around. Pushing back powerful legs the pigtailed boy leapt high into the air. Pausing as he landed on the roof top to a locker room building Ranma stated coolly, "I'm going to find Shampoo and get to the bottom of this. Watch Ucchan closely Sakura. I think you can tell that she isn't acting normally."
Everyone watched Ranma's hurried departure for a moment when Ukyo broke the silence. Giving Sakura a puzzled look she questioned, "Who was that?"
Meeting their gazes the gathered students released a loud groan of frustration.

"I can't believe you forgot Ranma," Akane murmured while staring at Ukyo who was holding hands with Sakura.
School had ended and the group of friends was walking back to the dojo with the exception of Ranma who was still searching for Shampoo.
"Look Akane," sighed Ukyo irritably. "I never met this Ramen guy so I can't see how I could forget him."
"His name is Ranma not Ramen," informed Sakura as she tried to slip her hand away from Ukyo's. When she finally accomplished this the okonomiyaki chef ignored her original efforts and grabbed her hand again.
Sakura sighed inwardly at this. Whatever Shampoo had done to Ukyo it apparently removed all her memory of Ranma and her relationship with him. Which meant, for some reason, Ukyo believed she was still dating and in love with Sakura. While the street fighter secretly enjoyed the return of Ukyo's feelings of old she did not appreciate the instance behind it. She wanted it to be of Ukyo's free will. Not due to some crazy trick pulled by a Chinese Amazon. There was also the point of Ranma. He was obviously tormented by the sudden change in his iinazuke's feelings towards him. Having once felt the change herself Sakura knew his anguish all too well and she vowed to do anything she need to help him. It was her duty as a warrior of high honor. Ryu himself would do no less to help a fellow fighter.
"Ryoga," Nabiki said slowly. "What did you see when you were with Ucchan? Maybe you can give us some idea of what Shampoo did to her," speculated Nabiki.
Scratching the back of his head Ryoga formed a thoughtful expression. "I wish I could tell you Nabchan," he said sadly. "But I lost my balance and fell to the ground. Last thing I remember is Shampoo's feet kicking me in the face. I have no idea what that scum did to Ucchan," Ryoga hissed his eyes now slits.
"Obviously she didn't to much to me," declared Ukyo smirking. "Because I'm in perfect health."
"Yeah. Except you can't remember Ranma," Sakura added, rolling expressive green eyes.
"Who?" Blinked Ukyo baffled.
"Me. I'm Ranma," stated a weary voice above them.
Looking up they were met with the tired figure of Ranma who was crouching on the high wall next to the street they were walking on. His blue eyes were staring sadly at Ukyo, as if looking for a glimmer of the girl who loved him. Seeing nothing Ranma sighed then leapt off the wall to stand in front of Ukyo. Pulling her hand away from Sakura he held it gently in his grip. Kissing the top of her hand softly Ranma lifted his gaze to bore it deeply into sandalwood eyes.
"Ucchan," he pleaded desperately. "Please try to remember me. Try with all your heart. I'm Ranma. your iinazuke. We were engaged to preserve the continuation of the Anything Goes school of martial arts but we fell in love by the will of our own hearts. Don't you remember?" Blue eyes stared beseechingly at her. "I'm Ranma."
Sandalwood eyes glazed over and Ukyo shifted her gaze elsewhere. Looking up at the sky above she felt herself become dizzy at attempting to recall the sad boy before her. Putting her hand to her forehead, as if to hold back the abrupt flood of memories coming, Ukyo whispered, "Ranchan...?"
As her body went limp Ranma caught the fainting Ukyo and held her tenderly in his arms. Hefting her up into his arms quickly Ranma met the gazes of his friends.
"I'm going to take her to Dr. Tofu," Ranma said with conviction. "Maybe he can explain all this."
Observing as Ranma bounded away holding Ukyo in his arms the companions winced as they heard Ukyo waking up and the sound a large battle spatula hitting Ranma on the head. Listening a moment longer to the sounds loud shouting the group released a mutual sigh before moving back into their steady pace towards the dojo.

Wandering through the market Kasumi pondered if she needed anything else for tonight's supper. Since the arrival of Ryoga and Sakura to their already crowded house hold the need for food had doubled. Studying a batch of vegetables Kasumi sighed. Sometimes it seemed she might never get the chance to return to school. Ever since she was a little girl Kasumi had wanted to be a doctor and help people.
But when her mother died the domestic duties of the dojo were placed on her shoulders. And I've yet to escape them, thought Kasumi wearily. It wasn't that she didn't love her family. It wasn't even that she hated doing the house work. It was more that she was forced to abandon her dream while everyone else got to pursue theirs openly.
Of course, now that Ukyo has returned with Ojisama Saotome, things are improving in the dojo. Kasumi smiled at the thought of the rambunctious heir to the Anything Goes school of martial arts. Ukyo's arrival had tripled the number of students attending dojo classes. She along with the other younger members of their house hold were beginning to aid in teaching the increasing student numbers and were doing quite well with the task.
Who knows? Thought Kasumi with a soft smile as she paid for the vegetables. Maybe this is the time to talk to Father about attending college. Yes, she affirmed mentally. I'll tell him immediately. The sooner, the better.
Adjusting her tote bag the eldest Tendo sister moved to return to her shopping when the raucous yells of Ukyo and Ranma met her ears.
"Oh my," breathed Kasumi. Ukyo was running from Ranma at top speed as he chased her tenaciously.
Ukyo dashed past Kasumi with such speed that it caused her long brown hair to fly in the wind. Throwing several miniature spatulas back at Ranma in hopes of deterring his pursuit of her.
"Who are you anyway?!" Ukyo shouted in desperate annoyance. This is getting ridiculous, she thought to herself. I have no idea who this guy is and he won't lay off.
"Ucchan! Wait up!" Screamed Ranma as he dodged the miniature spatulas. "You're not feeling yourself!"
Blinking at their disappearing figures Kasumi smiled softly. "Those two," she giggled. "Always playing games." Cupping her hands over her mouth Kasumi called, "Don't be late! I'm starting supper soon!"

Gasping for breath Ukyo leaned over and rested the palms of her hands on her knees. "Whoever that guy is he sure is persistent," muttered Ukyo darkly.
Standing up to her full height she glanced around her surroundings. She was standing right outside Dr. Tofu's clinic. Shrugging Ukyo adjusted her back pack. "Might as well see the Doc as long as I'm here," she sighed.
"Good idea," called a voice above her. "Maybe he can help you remember me."
Wary sandalwood eyes took in the figure of the pigtailed boy who had been chasing her. Unsheathing her battle spatula Ukyo thrust it into his face.
"Look you," Ukyo hissed warningly. "I don't know you, so stop following me around or I'll have to use this!"
Staring at the slender figure of his iinazuke as she stalked into Dr. Tofu's clinic Ranma sighed for what must have been the fiftieth time that day. This day was slowly becoming a nightmare for him. Ranma just prayed that Tofu would be able to offer a solution. Because if he couldn't Ranma was afraid he'd go out of his mind.

"You don't seem to be injured," said Dr. Tofu thoughtfully as he scooted backwards on his stool. He had just been examining Ukyo's head. "How did you feel after the fight was over?"
"It's weird but. I felt refreshed," Ukyo said with some confusion as she fingered her long oak brown hair that was still running loose around her shoulders.
Rising to his feet Tofu crossed the room appearing to be deep in thought. Suddenly he leapt slightly into the air and whirled around with an excited look on his features.
"That's it!" He cried, snapping his fingers. Turning around he stared at the form of Betty, his skeleton. "That has to be it! There's no other explanation."
"What's it?" Asked Ranma anxiously following after Tofu. "Do you know what's wrong with Ucchan, doctor? Please tell me!"
Pausing Tofu looked deeply into Ranma's eyes and said seriously, "The Xi Fa Xiang Gao Shiatsu attack. One of the most dreaded techniques from the land of China."
"So what exactly does this dreaded technique do to a person?" Questioned Ukyo teasingly. She didn't hold much stock in whatever Tofu was saying. Ukyo felt perfectly fine and had no problems. other than the strange boy who kept following her everywhere she went.
Sliding open the door to the clinic with a loud slam Genma panda appeared before them all holding a large sign with writing already on it. I saw the whole thing! It read with a touch of certain panic in the message.
"Father!" Exclaimed Ranma rushing forward. "Tell me! What happened to Ucchan?"
It was horrible. Genma panda's sign read in dramatic prose. Never with these two eyes have I ever experienced a battle of such-
"Jeezus Pops!" Ukyo shouted testily. "Change back to a guy already! You and your stupid signs..." She muttered.
Sitting on a stool, now in his male form, Genma said solemnly. "I saw the entire thing. For the rest of my days I will carry with me the memory of the horrid event."
Pausing to take a sip of tea Genma bore his eyes into Ranma. "She attacked Ukyo from the rear. The speed of her hands was inhuman." Turning to focus on Tofu, Genma cried incredulously, "It was over in five to six seconds! She washed and rinsed Ukyo's hair. Then the girl collapsed." On the latter statement he stared at Ukyo with disdain.
"Shut up Pops," snorted Ukyo at this. "I bet you couldn't even last one second against an Amazon."
Ranma gave his father a disbelieving stare. "She washed Ucchan's hair? What's the point in that?"
"It's quite simple Ranma," said Tofu pushing his wire rim glasses up the bridge of his nose. "The Xi Fa Xiang Gao Shiatsu attack, by applying rare Chinese herbs and extracts combined with finger pressure in strategic locations, can selectively erase memory."
"That's why you've forgotten all about me!" Ranma cried excitedly, resting his hands on Ukyo's shoulders.
"Do I know you?" Questioned Ukyo with aggravation pushing his hands away from her.
Ignoring this Ranma rushed to Tofu's side. Shaking the calm doctor slightly he cried, "Doctor! I'm begging you, isn't there anything you can do for her?"
Rubbing the top of Betty's head Tofu murmured thoughtfully, "If you could find the herbal solution that was originally used on Ukyo I could study it and determine if there is anything available to reverse the effects."
"I can do that!" Ranma said vehemently. Grabbing Ukyo's hand in his own he dragged the puzzled girl after him as he dashed out of the clinic. "C'mon Ucchan!"
Genma and Tofu watched this sudden departure for a moment before shrugging and sipping their tea.

Whistling to herself as she walked towards the dojo Kasumi's light brown eyes widened at the sight of Ranma running towards her dragging a screaming Ukyo behind him.
"Oh my," she breathed quietly as they ran past her causing her hair to fly in the wind. Turning to face their exiting figures Kasumi called, "It's almost time for supper you two! Don't be late!"
Smiling with satisfaction Kasumi continued on her way back to the dojo and mentally ran through the speech about her attending college one more time.

Focusing on the far wall to the examination room in Dr. Tofu's clinic Genma's eyes widened. Now back in his panda form he backed up anxiously as the wall erupted in a burst of rubble and a cloud of dust filled the air.
When it cleared away the form of a smiling Shampoo could be seen. On seeing her Genma panda released a gruff sound of fear and clung to the back wall.
Not noticing this reaction on his part Shampoo turned her attention to Tofu. "I home Dr. Tofu!" She said cheerily.
"Shampoo," Tofu smiled. Glancing back at Genma panda he gestured towards Shampoo who was now standing in the middle of the room. "Mr. Saotome this is my new nurse Shampoo. She'll be staying at the clinic with me for awhile. You two will be working together."
Genma panda reluctantly met Shampoo's eyes and she shot a hand up in the air while saying brightly, "Nihao!"
Instinctively Genma panda released a gruff wail and clung to the wall again. This definitely wasn't a positive development in the trends of his life.

Ranma had given up on holding Ukyo's hand as his iinazuke became increasingly irritated with his grip. He now had the screaming okonomiyaki chef slung over his shoulder as he vaulted on the roof tops of Nerima searching for Shampoo. The Amazon was his only hope for getting Ukyo's memory back and he was desperate to find her.
It was almost ironic. Ever since he met Shampoo he wanted to avoid her but she would constantly appear and now that he wanted to find her she was nowhere to be found. Ranma would laugh if he wasn't so miserable due to the situation. Ukyo was his best friend. His only real friend. She listened to him when no one else would and he loved her with all his heart. And she loved him too. but now.
But now she couldn't remember him and it was tearing Ranma apart. Steeling his blue eyes with resolve Ranma adjusted his hold on Ukyo while vaulting onto another rooftop in his search.
"Shampoo!" Ranma shouted with all his strength. "Shampoo!" He screamed frantically. "Shampoo! Where are you Shampoo?!"
Slung over his shoulder Ukyo gave Ranma's backside a hard punch with her fist. "Who are you?!" Ukyo demanded with anger. "Why are you doing this?!"
As night descended upon Nerima the harried screams of Ranma were heard as he continued his quest for Shampoo while Ukyo shouted at her iinazuke turned a stranger.

To be continued.

This was inspired by the works of Rumiko Takahashi, Wade Tritschler, Jim Robert Bader, and many other cool folks.

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Next up: Ranma continues on his quest to have Ukyo remember him and Shampoo wonders where her first Airen boy type Ukyo has gone.