Characters of Ranma 1/2 belong to Rumiko Takahashi and those of Robotech belong to Harmony Gold.
Chapter 21: Marriage
"…Ame noni oi tsumetai kaze fukigen na kumo
Madogiwa no chiisa na saboten
Konna hini demo kimi tokitara mizu o ageteru
Afureru kurai mizu o ageteru
"Koibito toiu kibikini subete yudanete
Kaerimiru kotomo nakute
Kimi ga sobani itekureru kotomo
Oshiminai ainimo nareteitaindane..."
Ranma walked down the street, singing without a care in a world, on the way to meet up with friends and family. The only times when Ranma was like this was when female, and she had been female for a couple of days now. It was a change from those first few months after the higher ups learned about the gender changing curse. When she finding out she was fully capable of having children, she didn't feel as comfortable with her body as before the last days in Nerima, as she was hesitant around other men. It was Nabiki that helped her regain that comfort by informing her that she could just consider herself a lesbian. After protesting, saying she wasn't gay, she realized technically that was her sexual preference.
It wasn't often that Ranma went about speaking, much less singing, in her native tongue. As for the song, she couldn't remember where she heard it, but it had somehow gotten popped into her head that morning. She was certain it had to be a pre-crash song since songs in Japan were more and more in English to appeal to the English-speaking crowd. The nationalistic side installed by Genma didn't like this fact, but then again, English has become the dominate language in the past decade.
"...Aitai karatte koujitsu ni sasotta eiga o
Hasha ideita hibi o
Doushite wasurete itandaru
Nare aino kankini unzari suru hazusa…"
Not far from Ranma. there someone who couldn't be as carefree as her. At the moment, he was being cornered in an alley by three burly men. Being meek for a Zentraedi, Karita knew he was in for another beating. He was beginning to wonder why he decided to follow Rico and the others onto the SDF-1. In the short time that the defectors had been onboard, he had been picked on constantly. Once it was known to the general public, certain Micronians felt the need to relieve their frustration on being stuck in space. However they never seem to target any of the other defectors, just Karita.
The three men took this as their opportunity to vent their frustrations. Where Karita thought they were just another group picking him, they didn't see it as such. He was just the first one to come along. Since the defectors were being sheltered near the RDF base, they had staked out this alley and plucked Karita when he passed, heading towards town.
"…Boku ga fureta yuubi sakini sotto
Yawarakai toge ga sasaru
Kimi ga miseta sasayakana sain
Miotoshite shimatteitayo
Ima goro... itai…"
Ranma quieted her singing upon hearing what sounded like flesh hitting flesh. Since street-fighting just didn't happen on the SDF-1, Ranma started following the sounds to see if a helping hand was needed. She hoped one was needed because she was eager to put her skill to the test. The last time she actually used martial arts in a fight was close to a year ago.
Her acute hearing led her to the mouth of an alley and quickly ascertained that it was a three on one situation, and the one wasn't even putting up a fight. Upon looking closer, she recognized one man as one of the defectors. As couldn't remember his name, but she had pegged him as not much of a fighter, which a couple of days ago seemed preposterous.
Not one to let this bullying to continue, Ranma announced her presence. She struck a sexy posed (helped by the fact she wore a skirt) and asked if she could help out. She knew that her mere presence would shock them into stopping. It had worked all the time at Furinken. And as predicted, it did. In fact they forgot about the Zentraedi, especially when another part of their anatomy started to do the thinking. It knew it was quite fortunate as it wasn't often a girl this extremely hot would place herself in a situation like this.
Thanks to knowledge passed down from mother to daughter, Ranma easily recognized this. It was like leading moths to a flame how they just natural gravitated to her. And like the saying goes, "Don't get too close to fire or you'll get burned," they got within Ranma's effective range, and she torn them to pieces. They didn't even know what hit them as they lay on the ground.
With her work done, she rushed over to the Zentraedi to see if he was okay because he looked like a mess after what those three did to him. Kneeling next to the Zentraedi, she checked him over while asking if he was okay. from the looks of it, he was fortunate to be alive. Though that didn't mean he was okay be any sort of the imagination. His breathing was very labored, and he was having a tough time keeping his eyes open.
"Hang in there. I'm gonna get ya to the hospital," Ranma announced.
Karita could barely understand English, so he hadn't a clue what was spoken. And since he was laboring to keep his eyes open, he was shocked when he finally caught a glimpse of who came to his aid. It was the most beautiful Micronian female he had ever seen. To admit to something like was sacrilege, considering Minmei was the end all in Micronian beauty. But there was something about the fiery haired "goddess" that had come to him. He could not help but to blush.
Ranma saw his cheeks turn red as she picked him up. She was surprised how light he was. The fact that she caught him blushing, she thought was really cute. Knowing what she knew about Zentraedi society and its segregated nature, she was probably the first woman that this guy had ever come into contact. And it was obvious that he found her attractive.
Claudia didn't know how she should feel today. It was her second day back from maternity leave, and she had to see her best friend off. She understood what Lisa was doing and wholeheartedly supported it. However she had this feeling that this would be the last time she would see the godmother of her child.
Lisa had that same feeling as she walked with Claudia to the shuttle deck of the Prometheus. But she knew she had to convince the council that this war was pointless. She had a plan on how she was going to do that. It hinged on convincing her father. For as long a she remembered, Admiral Donald Hayes was an influential member of the United Earth Defense Council. If he was convinced, the whole would be convinced. Nevertheless by doing this mission, she understood she risked never returning to her station on the SDF-1.
"Have you told Ranma about this?" Claudia asked out of the blue.
Lisa paused as they walked up the stairs leading to the shuttle hatch. She knew there was something had forgotten.
The pause was all Claudia needed. "You know, you could at least let him you're leaving for Earth."
Lisa knew that. She had meant to mention it when they had tea the other day. The topic was on her mind since she had been working on her report since talked to Captain Gloval. "I just give him a call before we take off."
"You should do that," commented Claudia. "You know he cares about you."
"How do you know that?" In a way she had a feeling about that. But she wasn't sure that it wasn't her feelings she was reading.
"Nodoka told me."
"Well I can see why he would. We are friends; at least I like to think we are."
"That's true, but I mean there might be something more to it." Before Lisa could speak to the comment, Claudia continued, "Nodoka said there's something about him that she hasn't seen since he found out that his fiancée had moved on with her life."
"And you think it might be because of me?"
"You or that Nabiki girl. You know she been getting awfully cozy to him lately. I think Nodoka said they've gone of three dates now."
Claudia said this to see if she could get a reaction out of Lisa. She would have like to see an ounce of jealousy in her. She couldn't have realized how close she was to the truth about Nabiki. The young girl from Japan had recently stepped up her efforts. In fact there had been more than three dates, most recently while Ranma was in the female (as Nabiki attempted to prove she didn't care about Ranma's gender-based curse).
However a reaction Claudia did not get. Instead, Lisa looked at her from the top of the platform and asked why they were on this subject. She had more important things on her mind that didn't pertain to some handsome guy who didn't need to be bothered dopey girl like her. Claudia just had to frown at realizing the all business/no nonsense had just appeared.
"I just wanted to get my mind off the fact my best friend is leaving for Earth with a great possibility of never returning," explained Claudia.
Ranma was late in meeting up with her mother and Nabiki, but they understood once she explained why. Once together, they went to the only ice parlor to spring up in Macross since they left Earth. Ranma treated herself to ice cream as it had become her favorite sweet. It was times like these that she jokingly remembered when it wasn't manly to be seen eating ice cream.
Every time she heard Ranma make a comment like that, Nodoka had a chuckle. It was clear Ranma's belief was due to his father's upbringing. It was just one of many things that made her wonder what it was that she saw in him that led to her losing her virginity, becoming pregnant, marriage, and the birth of her only child. Genma's such a walking contradiction, a "do as I preach, not as I live" man.
"That doesn't hold much weight, Ranma," commented Nabiki. "Not with the number of men that have walked in and out since we've been here."
"How do you know that they're here for ice cream and not to ogle at us?" Ranma asked in response. "They aren't being discrete by walking passed us on the way to the counter."
Nabiki was surprised how observant Ranma was. However she failed to remember it was in Ranma nature to be aware of her surroundings.
When Ranma finished, she expressed her satisfaction while explaining she needed to ice cream to help her get over seeing her gynecologist. She had never felt comfortable having another guy look at her down there. It almost made Nabiki laugh to think that was the reason she was there. However it reminded her that she had yet to see a gynecologist since arriving. How was it possible that she let that slip passed her?
"Oh, the evils we must go through for a healthy body and to produce healthy babies," Nodoka dramatized.
Ranma nodded in agreement.
"Ah, Ranma, I don't think you understand what your mother meant, if you're agreeing," stated Nabiki.
Nabiki knew of the times when Nodoka would mention off the cuff that she wasn't getting any younger and hoped for grandchildren. Unfortunately Ranma got the reference. To her, her mother was still too young for grandchildren. In fact, she wouldn't mind a sibling or two. That would bring to mind her mother dating and being sexually active, which was always a mistake because no child wanted to think of the parents having sex.
"Ranma, you have to understand your mother anxious for you to start a family," explained Nabiki. Sometimes she wished she didn't have to interpret for Ranma. She thought she was a genius, though she still found it had to believe that Ranma was a genius in something other than martial arts. It was hard to believe that Ranma had just qualified for a college degree in engineering, especially knowing how badly he was at Furinken High School.
"Well, of course I'm gonna start a family, just as soon as I find someone else special. Mom already knows that."
"Actually, what I'm saying is that maybe you should experience the joys of motherhood," Nodoka said. She was joking. Too bad Ranma didn't get the joke; evident by the classic spit-take Nabiki received from the water Ranma had been drink. That was enough to cause Nodoka to laugh at her own joke.
"I thought you said you wouldn't make any comments about me getting pregnant?" questioned Ranma.
"I'm sorry," Nodoka apologized while laughing, "but Nabiki set it up so nicely that I could not resist."
Now Nabiki was confused. She picked up on Nodoka wanting Ranma to have kids. After realizing she fell for the joke again, Ranma explained that it was her mother's way of saying that she should passed Akane and start dating. It had been a recent discussion thanks to Minmei surprising them by getting engaged to Rick.
Hearing that Ranma should start dating, Nabiki felt hurt because she thought that they were dating.
The conversation ended with the sound of Ranma's cell phone ringing. "Commander Saotome here."
"…"
"Oh, hi, Lisa. What's up?"
"…"
"Yeah, but hopefully it's only for a few days longer."
"…"
"Leaving! But why? Where?"
"…"
"That's nice and all, but why you?"
"…"
"What? Wait. At least let me…"
With that Ranma put her phone away. There was a noticeable change in her attitude. It didn't take a rocket scientist to explain to the other women what just happened. Even so they didn't have to speculate as Ranma soon told them that Lisa Hayes was leaving for Earth to convince the UEDC into peace talks with the Zentraedi to stop the war and get the people of the SDF-1. Then she passed the message that Lisa didn't believe she'd be coming back because her father was on the council and would most likely prevent her return.
The other two women came to two different conclusions after hearing that last statement. Nabiki saw it as an open opportunity. With her "chief rival" now out of the way, she had a clear path to Ranma's heart liked she had hoped when she made the decision to join him. For Nodoka, she could see how hurt her daughter was. Though she mostly knew of Lisa through Claudia, she knew the younger woman had grown into having a friendship with Ranma. She didn't know if she had achieved Akane-status or Ukyo-status, but she was friend nonetheless, and her child didn't take well to losing friends.
Lisa's flight to Earth went about quietly. In fact things were quite boring, allowing Lisa to review her report once again. Lisa would much prefer that this to be boring and quiet. It also meant the Zentraedi were leaving this transport shuttle along.
That's not to say she would have to worry. Surrounding the shuttle was a team from Skull Squadron, led by Max Sterling, flying his new, blue VF-1J. When Ranma received his promotion, he decided to give some promotions himself and promoted Max up to lieutenant. Along with that he gave all the senior pilots new VF-1Js, a reward for staying alive. With the promotion, Max was also given a couple of subordinates. It was the same thing Roy had done for Ranma not so long ago. Ranma was hesitant to give Max his own squadron at this time, but the writing was pretty much on the wall that Max would have to get his own command in the near future.
As quiet and boring as it was, there was no way it would last for long. Along the route, a flight of fighters from the Botoru Battalion was set to ambush anything coming to or going from the SDF-1. Khyron had sent them out regularly, not knowing if or when anything would take place. It was just pure luck that the soldiers he sent out would soon see some action. The flight unknowingly had luck on their side, as the shuttle heading towards them held someone that was a serious player in this war.
The fighters moved in swiftly, guns blazing. A Veritech was destroyed before anyone of them could take evasive maneuvers, sending a shockwave that rocked the shuttle. If Lisa didn't know that this was to be a dangerous mission, she knew now. Her next reminder was the pilot securing the ship. The first thing Lisa noticed was the armored shielding that descended over the windows. Then her seat was encased by armor, turning it into an escape pod in the event the shuttle was fatally damaged.
Had they known a Micronian ace was within this escort, there's a chance the Zentraedi would have considered this a suicide mission. However none of them knew that Maximilian Sterling had a new Veritech, sporting new colors. They soon found out as death sentences were doled out by the blue with white trim Veritech. But even Max understood the escort was seriously outnumbered.
"Sir, Lt. Sterling is requesting some backup," Claudia announced.
There was a gasp that went through the bridge. Max's abilities were well known to the girls on the bridge. IF things were bad enough for him to call for backup, what hope did Lisa have of surviving and making it to Earth?
"Get me Commander Saotome," Captain Gloval ordered immediately.
"I'm not sure that's possible, captain. Lieutenant Commander Saotome's experiencing one of those moments," stated Claudia.
Claudia was trying to be vague about the fact Ranma was currently female and didn't have flight status. The girls looked at her as if something was wrong. Thought the knowledge of Ranma's condition was known to the higher ups, it had been deemed need to know amongst the rest of the RDF. Thus the other girls were considered not needing to know, since there had never been a skirmish whenever Ranma was female.
She recommended Rick, who was clearly capable of doing the job. But Gloval wasn't going to have it. Gloval considered Lisa the daughter he would never have, ever since her father "hand delivered" her to his command. There was no way of talking him out of having his best pilot out there to save her.
Ranma put the ice cream spoon down, stood from the table and announced out of the blue, "C'mon. Let's go shopping!" This surprised Nodoka, who generally had to drag her daughter, kicking and screaming, at the mere mention of shopping. Ranma's irrational action caused her to wonder. Lisa must have meant something to her child. She didn't mind that for she thought of Lisa as a nice girl. Though Nodoka hoped this didn't signal a return to how Ranma acted after Akane's marriage.
Nabiki also thought Ranma's behavior seemed erratic. What guy in their right mind wanted to go shopping on their own free will?
Ranma was quick to gage the situation. "What's wrong with wanting to go clothes shopping?" she remarked. "So what if I want to do something because a friend is leaving, knowing that she may never be allowed to return? And why is it that I can't keep more than one friend who won't leave or think I'm the cause of their faults or simply see me as marrying material? Is there something wrong with me? I'm a nice guy. Sure I might do or say something idiotic, but don't we all?"
Nodoka and Nabiki were stunned, watching Ranma's outcry. They witnessed two tracks of moisture flowing down Ranma's face. It was rare to see her cry because Ranma wasn't the type of person to let her emotions control her. Though Nabiki did remember see her cry when she walked on the passenger deck of the Nerima train station on Akane's wedding day.
Seeing her child cry was too much for Nodoka. It was a reminder that even though she was a genius, she has made some stupid mistakes. It reminded her of the pain Ranma said he went through during his ten years apart from her. A pain a mother should have been there to comfort. She had always debated if those ten years were necessary for Ranma to be the martial artist that he was?
Ranma's face brightened when her mother said she was ready to go shopping. She smiled and wiped away the unexpected tears when Nabiki said she would be glad to join them. That small gesture meant a lot to Ranma. Ten minute later, Nabiki was rethinking her decision. She figuratively picked herself off the floor, having succumbed to the Hasegawa sense of humor. She believed that because she had never seen Mr. Saotome pull anything like the two women with her. They had already bought a couple of skirts and blouses in enough time for Nabiki to believe that Ms. Hasegawa might have thought this could happen one day.
Presently they were in the women's boutique. It was there that Ranma had held up a black teddy and asked her mother if it would help get a man into bed. Nodoka told her she was positive that it would. In fact she had presented herself to her date in something similar the other night, and that pretty much made the deal. The statement had stunned Nabiki. She had thought of Ranma's reaction to hearing her mother's sex life. Nabiki knew she would be squeamish knowing her father was sexually active.
It went downhill from that point. Nodoka had seen Nabiki with her mouth gaping open and asked if she was okay. No response allowed Ranma to astutely comment that Nabiki was shocked to hear that Nodoka had sex. Both Ranma and Nodoka laughed at that, and Nodoka promptly told her that she was joking. She wasn't dating any man on the ship. Instead she just used Ranma's sex toy. The thought of Ranma with a sex toy shut Nabiki's system down. Her system didn't restart until she heard the hard laughter from the Hasegawa woman.
"That wasn't funny, you know," commented Nabiki as she brushed herself off.
"Awe, you're just taking thing too serious," said Ranma. "I don't own or even know what one looks like."
The laughter ended when Ranma's duty cell phone rang. It seemed pretty odd since Ranma wasn't on duty for the time being.
"Commander Saotome here."
"Ranma, we have a situation."
"That's nice, Claudia, but Rick's in command."
"But, commander, this is concerning Commander Hayes. She's in trouble."
Ranma hesitated at that for a second. Then she started to explain that she wasn't on the flight roster. But that was interrupted by the sound of Captain Gloval's voice.
"Lieutenant Commander Saotome, I don't care about your situation. This is an order. You have five minutes to get to the Prometheus and quell the threat against Commander Hayes."
"Yes, sir. Will do, sir." And Ranma hung up the phone. She looked at her mother and Nabiki, and she had ordered rescue Lisa. The two women understood, thus bringing their outing to an end.
There weren't any women Veritech pilots. It wasn't that the Robotech Defense Force had something against female pilots. In fact, many of the Cat's Eye and shuttle pilots were women, and many of them wanted into the Veritech Corps. However there had been resistances from the politicians in the United Earth Government during the formation of the RDF whenever the topic of women in combat was broached. So very unofficial and unwritten, those politicians let it known to senior air officers that women were not only allowed to fly Veritechs. They were pretty lucky that many of the officers in command positions held those same thoughts.
Ranma made it to the Prometheus within five minutes, and at the moment, a full-fledge woman. She walked towards the pilot's locker room without any care. She stepped out of the locker room feeling rather uncomfortable. It wasn't because of any pilots ogling her as she changed. That Ranma could easily fix, in more ways than one, such as utilizing the locker in her office. She was uncomfortable because her flight suit was both too big and too tight in a certain place. It reminded her of the time she had to wear some of Akane's clothes those first days she arrived at the Tendo dojo. Add to that the fact she was shorter, one could imagine the effort it took for her to adjust the sleeves to make them look slightly normal. She felt lucky she could just tuck the pant legs into her boot, which were also slightly bigger. She definitely needed to requisition a female flight suit in case this wasn't a one-time occurrence.
Besides all that, she felt at ease making her way through the hanger, wearing her helmet to hide the red hair. Understanding the urgency of the situation, there was no way Skull One would make it into action before something serious happened, though she did know exactly what could get her where she needed as rapidly as possible. Dr. Lang and his Robotech scientists had been already working on the next generation of Veritechs. In the meantime, having recognized one of the things the current generation lacked was speed, they had developed a booster system that not only added speed, but also extra armament. The only thing wrong, it was still in the trial stage, still waiting some type of combat evaluation.
Dr. Lang was in luck because it was just what Ranma needed. She walked over to the modified VF-1J and got as far as climbing up the ladder before someone stopped. "Hey, what are you doing there?" asked one of the project technicians. That's all the tech was able to say before noticing the gold oak leaves of a lieutenant commander and the name Saotome. It was known on the hanger deck that Commander Saotome was being sent out on a rescue mission. The tech made the realization that he was going to take out the prototype.
Things were instantly set in motion before Ranma could offer up an explanation on her appearance. Once it didn't look like one was needed, she situated herself in the cockpit while a flight crew busied itself in arming the Veritech. Soon Ranma was on the deck, waiting for Sammie to pass along what sector of the combat. Sammie was confused to hear a female's voice coming out of Ranma's mouth but passed along the information. Ranma was quick to ask if she was correct because she had no clue of that location. Sammie didn't know how to response because that was exactly where the shuttle was. Claudia came to the rescue by asking if she had given Ranma the new codebook. Sammie panicked because she had indeed forgotten to give Ranma the new codebook. Although she had a valid excuse, since Ranma hadn't been scheduled for duty. She was planning on giving it to him once he returned for duty.
Hearing this over the tac-net, Ranma asked, "What did Claudia mean by new codebook?" But an answer to the question wasn't coming as Sammie quickly passed along the sector using the codes that she knew. With that information in hand, the experimental Veritech launched off the deck and proceeded towards Lisa's location at a higher rate of speed than previously thought possible.
Back on the bridge of the SDF-1, Claudia was admonishing Sammie for not passing along the codebooks to all the pilots, no matter what status the pilots were in. "You could have cost Lisa her life with that move."
Just the thought of that made Sammie feel down, since she looked at Lisa as a mentor, even with a year in age difference.
Out in the combat zone, Max was starting realize the advantages to flying and fighting with Ranma. This had been an escort flight of six. Now it was there were only two left. The Zentraedi numbers were too much for six to handle. Max had his share of kills, but much of his time was spent keeping the shuttle intact while watching the back of the other Veritech in this flight. He could imagine the reputation he would have if he returned by himself after a mission with him in command.
His hopes were raised when he received word that Ranma was on his way to assist. Though he couldn't get them too high, as it was just going to be him, and they were presently a great distance away from the SDF-1. So it came as a great surprise when a white object streaked through the Zentraedi attackers in no more than a minute and a half after receiving the communiqué. Destruction followed as several Zentraedi fighters exploded as if hit by missiles.
What the hell was that!? thought Max.
His question was answered when the white streak decelerated and produced the form of a Veritech in Guardian mode with boosters on its back and additional armor on its arms and legs. He instantly realized it was the new Veritech that the Robotech scientists were working on.
Inside said Veritech, Ranma didn't have time to adjust to the forces put on her body by such a quick deceleration. She didn't have time to notice the destruction she caused with her arrival. All she noticed was the peril of the situation, as there seemed to be too many Zentraedi for just one shuttle and its escort.
Max watched his commander work. He worked with deadly efficiency. Not a shot wasted. Not a missile missed the mark. This was the first time Max took the time to observe him and understood why Ranma was given all the praises. It was like he was meant to pilot a Veritech. Much of the same had been said about Ranma's uncle.
As Max watched, he started to understand some of the things Ranma said in their simulator sessions because they were translated in how he fought. Ranma's movements were quite unpredictable. Where it seemed logical to use the Battloid to take out a fighter, he would use the laser turret of the fighter to punch a hole through the engines. When it seemed best to be in Fighter mode, he would fight in Guardian.
This showed what was different between the fighting styles Max and Ranma took into combat. The majority of Max's kills were while in Battloid mode. He just watched Ranma take out fifteen in all three.
"Ah, Max, you know you could always help," came a voice that broke Max away from his observations. Max looked at the tac-net, saw Ranma, and understood what he was getting at. He needed to get back into action.
One thing stuck in the back of Max's head. Did Ranma sound like a woman?
With three Veritechs working and working off the confidence of having the CAG in action, it didn't take too long to finish off those who didn't retreat.
"Say, why don't you two head back," said Ranma. "I'll take over from here." Though it was said as a statement, it was understood as an order. So the remains of the escort detail banked away and made their returns to the SDF-1. With them gone, Ranma slotted herself onto the port side of the shuttle.
It was two minutes after the ending of hostilities before the shuttle secured itself from battle stations. As the shielding that surrounded her seat descended, Lisa breathed a sigh of relief that she made it out of that alive. She really had to the belief that leaving the SDF-1 was dangerous to her health. This was the fourth time, and three of those times, she was placed in a life threatening situation. She was grateful that Ranma had been there to rescue her two of those times and appreciated that one of his top subordinates was there this time.
As the shield over the windows came down, she noticed a different Veritech off to the side. Even before wondering who it was, she was informed that Commander Saotome was on the radio for her. It now seemed that he was three out of three in saving her. Which was exactly what she said when she got on the line.
"Well, I've had practice."
Lisa was surprised to hear the female voice. She never would have thought that they would allow Ranma on flight duty while he was a she. Ranma said the same thing but stated that Lisa was a special circumstance as this mission came down from Captain Gloval himself.
"Though don't be surprised of this is the first of many. And I'm gonna need another flight suit, for this one is rather constricting in some areas."
That got a laugh from Lisa, who thought that even her flight suit would be constrictive for the well endowed Ranma. Though the laughter ended the moment Ranma got serious.
"Did it have to be you that took this mission?"
"Huh!?"
"Couldn't anyone else return to Earth to do whatever it is you have to do?"
"There isn't anyone onboard that knows this information as well as I do," Lisa replied. "And if I succeed, this war will end, and we could return home."
"That would be nice. It's just that I hate to see you go," commented Ranma. "And there's a chance it will probably be a long time before I'll see you again. Your father won't let you return. It's just like all my friends. They seemingly always leave."
Lisa wanted to let out an "awe" on hearing Ranma's heart-felt remarks. "What about Minmei? It appears that she always there."
"Minmei's different. I'm always leaving her and got in trouble to visit her." Ranma let out a little chuckle for all the times he snuck away from Genma before they went off to China and returned to the Tendo Dojo. She stopped with the sound of an alarm letting her know of the approaching Earth atmosphere.
"Well, this is as far as I can go," stated Ranma.
"How about a cup of tea when I return?" asked Lisa.
"I'd like that. Take care. Remember I won't be there if you need some type of rescue down there."
"And you take care. I don't want you dying on me before I return."
"Then you're going to have to hope Sammie doesn't do something like she did today. Apparently there's a new book that I didn't get."
That was the last that either would say to the other, not knowing when the next time they meet. Though they both knew when that happened, the war would be over.
Donald Hayes stood next to a SUV, parked next to a runway located on the frozen tundra of Alaska above RDF Alaska Base, which was situated deep underground. Though there was a ton of paperwork on his deck, he wasn't concerned about it. He was too giddy to be there, as weird as it may be for a grown man.
Why was he this way? His only child was coming, returning from space and off that god-awful space fortress. He knew she was coming down to give the council some type briefing, but if it were up to him, Lisa Hayes wouldn't be leaving the Earth.
"Sir, word from the tower. The shuttle will arrive fifteen minutes late because of a skirmish," relayed his adjutant.
Admiral Hayes nodded his head, acknowledging what was said.
"Sir, would you like to come inside?"
Hayes didn't mind standing outside. It was early April-early spring in the portion of Alaska located within the Arctic Circle, but he didn't mind the cold or the receding snow. This was only because of his daughter. Less than fifteen minute later, he was rewarded with the sight of the approaching shuttle.
He was at the top of the ramp to greet Lisa. He was mildly shocked when she greeted him as a soldier would greet a superior officer. What he wanted was a father/daughter moment. However what he received stemmed from the last time they spoke, nearly a year ago.
Max walked out the door to his room. It had been a long day, starting off with escort duty, which led to him writing his first letters to the families of those who died performing said duty. He knew he wasn't obligated to do so. Ranma no doubt would do it later on today. But he felt the need since he led the escort.
As he walked down the hall, he came across a bored looking Rick Hunter. It was one of the few times that he'd seen him out of uniform as he watched TV in the day room. This didn't seem right to Max, especially since Rick was recently engaged. He should at least be out with his fiancée. At least that's what Max would do. Then again, Max had to remember who Rick's fiancée was.
"How's it goin'?" asked Max.
"Bored," was Rick simple reply. "There's absolutely nothing on. No interesting movies, no sporting event replays, no reruns. It's all speculations about Minmei's fiancé. Today they did reports from the different jewelers to find my identity."
"I guess they'll find out soon then."
"Not likely. Ring's a family heirloom."
That said, Max asked if Rick wanted to join him in town, which Rick did since it was better than what he was doing now. Taking one of the squadron jeeps, they drove into town.
"Why don't you just let it known?" asked Max.
"It's mostly because Minmei is tired of having her private life invaded," replied Rick.
"Ah! The price of being famous."
Rick said that was the problem. Minmei no longer wanted to pay that price. Max had to laugh at that. He knew that most everyone on the ship would love to be in Minmei's position. And here was Rick saying she no longer wanted it.
"It probably would be different if we were on Earth. She would be able to get away and take some time off. But here, the only time away she has is when she either in my room or her penthouse."
"However, would she be famous if we were on Earth?" inquired Max.
That was a question that was left unanswered, as Max pulled up next to the arcade. Rick gave him a look that asked why were they there. Max paid it no attention as he just hopped out of the jeep and made way into the building. Not wanting to look like an idiot while sitting in the vehicle, Rick soon joined him.
Rick entered to the sounds of an arcade - motor engines, jet engines, gun fire, flesh pounding, and the enthusiasm. Even though it had been years since the last time he was in an arcade, the sounds never changed. He looked at the games being played. Some of them were 3D based. Some were based on the motions of the gamer. Still some required a joystick to play.
Max was in his elements. Unlike Rick, whose life was about planes and flying, Max's life revolved around video games, especially the arcade. In fact it was in this arcade where he met one Ben Dixon on Macross Island.
"So what do you want play?" asked Max.
When Rick didn't give an immediate reply, he mentioned that there was a game that was similar to the Veritech simulator. That got a reply as Rick said if he wanted to play a simulator, he would go to the simulator. Max was taken aback by the reply.
"How about that football game over there?" suggested Rick, pointing to a machine to his far left.
Max hesitantly agreed. Though he was a gamer, he wasn't much into sports games. He proved that to Rick by quickly losing. After that he made his way over to the Veritech game. Rick, on the other hand, continued to play the football game before moving on to some of the other sports games.
Rick didn't catch up with Max until an hour later. By this time his mood was more enjoyable. It wasn't like spending time with his fiancée or flying his fanjet, but he could understand the enjoyment factor that the arcade provided. He found Max playing the Veritech game with trays and trays of coins by his side. With the number of games he played, Rick could probably have the same number of trays, but he didn't care. He couldn't see the use of having more money that he wouldn't be spending anyway. By the look of the number of trays, he speculated that the owner sometimes regretted providing this option for his games.
"Say, Max, wanna grab something to eat?" asked Rick.
Hearing Rick's voice was a slight distraction, but Max was able to continue without must problem. He ended his game and said yes to the question. But first he needed to turn his coins in. He no longer needed them since they were about leave.
They were walking down from the upper level of the arcade when Max came to a sudden stop. If Rick hadn't been paying attention, he would have bumped into him, most likely causing them to fall on the stairs. So naturally Rick wanted to know why they had stopped so abruptly.
"It's her," Max simply replied. He gestured out onto the floor to make Rick look out into the crowd. It wasn't hard for Rick to pick out who Max was talking about.
"Of all the women I've seen on this ship, she is one of two that I'd consider the most beautiful. But every time I try to make a move, she seemingly disappears."
Looking out to who Max was talking about, Rick had to agree with his fellow pilot. The woman in question had a cream colored skin, long green hair, and exotic looking red eyes. Just seeing her in a sitting posture, she could tell she had long legs, quite shapely thanks to the skintight pants she wore. He would have to concur with Max assessment that she was one of the most beautiful women on the SDF-1.
"Well, ya know, seize this opportunity," commented Rick.
It didn't look like she was going to be leaving anytime soon as she was playing the same Veritech game. However Max wasn't making any moves towards her. It was like he was frozen in place. The same thing happened whenever he saw the red-haired beauty. It was also the reason why this green haired beauty would get away. If it weren't for a nudge from Rick, she probably would have gotten away again.
Miriya was spending yet another day at this Micronian training center. She had only found it a Micronian month, and now she knew how they were able to produce the type of pilot she sought. If only they knew that these training machines were providing her with excellent knowledge of their Veritech fighters. This knowledge and information would be valuable to her squadron once she returned. And with this information, it would mark the end of the Micronian ace.
However the one interesting thing about these machines, they provided her with the thing the Micronians called money. Before she came on the battle fortress, Miriya had no concept of money. The Zentraedi had no need for it. But the Micronians lived by it. For months, she only had a couple of sets of clothes that she had to steal. But since finding this place, she no longer had to steal.
She was interrupted by the sound of yet another Micronian male. After all this time she spent on the battle fortress, it still annoyed her all the times when these foolish males came up to her. She wanted nothing to do with them.
"I-I c-couldn't help but notice that you appeared that you're quite good at this," the Micronian male said. "Would you mind if I join you in a game?"
This was typical nowadays, and she took pleasure in showing them who was the better warrior. Oftentimes, the Micronian males would offer their money to go against her. "Sure," she replied very nonchalantly.
Rick watched this and just shook his head. Couldn't Max ask her to do something else? Subsequently he had to remind himself that this was a guy who just spent the past hour playing a game based on something he did for a living. It was almost like Max didn't know how to approach this girl. And this was a thought about a guy who was rumored to have bagged Sammie Porter and Vanessa Leeds, two women that many pilots wished to bed.
Max smiled at his green haired beauty as he suggested they started at the second highest level. Looking at the amount of trays around her, he believed she was at the same level as him, which was quite remarkable considering he didn't know of many women who liked playing this game. She agreed, and after a mini-Minmei came out to "gong" a cymbal, the two began a game.
The game didn't last long as Max quickly dispatched the green haired woman. Rick shook his head as he couldn't believe that Max would make such a mistake. That clearly wasn't the best way to get the woman's attention, which Max quickly realized and asked if she would like to play again.
Agitate at how easily the Micronian beat her, Miriya agreed to the rematch. This time he wanted to go to the top level. She readily agreed to that. She had never allowed an opponent to last five seconds at the top level. In fact, she was able to perform better at that level than any other on the machine.
To show the difference between the two playing levels, at the start of the game, a three dimensional dome formed above the tabletop screen, adding a 3D feel to the game and allowing those nearby a better view to watch.
Unlike the previous game, this time it wasn't quick. The two went after it was great ferocity. Miriya felt she had the Micronian on the ropes various times before he seemed to slip out of trouble. Before either of them realized it, they unknowingly fell into the same pattern that was their only combat. Max didn't notice it as he played the game on instinct. However it took Miriya ten seconds to realize it. Since she was able to remember all of her battles, she quickly recognized things were progressing the same way.
Unlike that day, she wasn't given the opportunity of escape. So she couldn't do anything as her red colored Veritech disintegrated into nothingness. She gave an audible gasp when it was over. The gasp had a double meaning to it. First she was disgusted at the way she was finished. However she instantly believed that she was looking at the Micronian that was responsible for her being onboard this battle fortress. Because of that, she became angered over the fact she had been bested by this male for the third time. What made things worst, he didn't have the look of a great warrior, especially wearing glasses. She had learned that glasses were needed to help vision.
Just looking at him smiling as if he was innocent of his actions angered her so much that she just had to leave. So she collected her trays and prepared to leave.
Max watched her cash in her coins and realized that he had to do something quickly before she left. He didn't want her to get away. He wanted to know her name and everything about her. He got out of his chair and stopped her before she made it out of the door, grabbing on to her left shoulder.
"Hey, wait. Ah, I hope there are no hard feelings. I mean, it was just a friendly game."
Miriya didn't reply, mostly because she didn't know the concept of friendly game.
Max got nervous at the glare she gave him that he hurriedly asked her out. Hearing that this male was just the same as the other Micronian male angered her more. Then she realized that she could use this to her advantage, so she agreed. Max was overjoyed and asked when he should pick her up. When she was hesitant to provide an answer, he suggested that they met in the park around eight. Miriya agreed to that idea.
With the arrangements finalized, Max released his hold and let her leave. She was almost out when Max realized he hadn't gotten her name.
"By the way, my name's Maximillian Sterling. What's your?"
Miriya turned around to Max, a look of annoyance on her face, and said, "Miriya Parino. Is there anything else? No. Then good bye."
Max paid no attention to the tone in which the reply given. He was on Cloud 9. He had finally caught up with one his dream women, gotten a date, and knew her name.
Off to the side, Rick could do nothing but hide his face in his hands. It was way too embarrassing to watch his friend interact with this woman.
The elevator doors opened to reveal a tired looking Lynn Minmei. All the public appearances were starting to wear on her. Why was she still doing them? was a question that went through her mind on a daily basis. Also she began to wonder when they were going to hold another Miss Macross pageant. It was starting make one believe that the whole event was staged.
She would have really like to be with her fiancé at the moment, but currently Rick was out without his cell phone, so his location was unknown. That led to her going home to head into her bed. It wouldn't be like falling asleep in Rick's arms, but it would have to do.
The minute she opened the door to the penthouse, Minmei heard a female voice call out, "C'mon, Ranma. You're making this boring" The voice that Minmei recognized as Nabiki Tendo.
There was a time that that person was the most hated person in Minmei's life. That was until Ranma made her be friendly with the "mercenary." Now she was okay with Nabiki. Because of her, her first movie was a big hit. However that didn't mean she was friends with her.
"You gotta at least try."
"Maybe I don't feel like it," came another female voice. This voice Minmei recognized as her "brother," Ranma.
Minmei made her to the voices and found them in the living room playing video game. It appeared to be one of those fighting games that Ranma loved play yet criticized because of their unreal nature. "Hiya, guys," Minmei announced herself. Though she maybe tired, she didn't let it show. "How are things?"
Before anyone answered, Minmei got a look at Ranma. She wasn't the vibrant redhead that Minmei was use to. She was frowning and her body drooped. Her eyes looked like they were pointing to the floor rather than on the TV. This was not her friend.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
Nabiki answered that one of Ranma's friends had left the ship. With that info, Minmei briefly wondered if that's how Ranma reacted all those times they parted back on Earth. She also wondered if this was how Ranma acted to the news of Akane's wedding. She remembered that period of time because Ranma refused to be around her, always sticking Nabiki with her.
"How about we do something to cheer her up?" stated Minmei.
That's what Nabiki thought she was trying to do with the fighting game. It was something she believed the martial artist would like, since Ranma seemed to play it every time she stopped by the penthouse.
Minmei suggested that they go out. Nabiki mentioned that they had already been out shopping. However Minmei suggested miniature golf. That seemed to get Ranma's attention as she instantly perked up upon hearing that.
Nabiki had no clue that Ranma was into something like that. She wanted to join in since she had never done it before.
Minmei went to her room to change out of her dress. She came back out in a pair of short shorts and a skin tight tank top.
Ranma was shocked that Minmei owned something like that. "You're not leaving here in that," she spoke.
"Oh, there's nothing wrong with it," Nabiki said in Minmei's defense. "I think it looks go on her."
"I don't care how it makes her look. She's engage and doesn't need to be tempting guys with that."
Having Ranma react in such a way got the two girls laughing. But they laughed for different reasons. Nabiki laughed because she had never seen the overprotective brother routine. She also thought that maybe Minmei wore that for a reason.
Minmei, on the other hand, laughed because she knew something that Ranma didn't know. "Ranma, I won't be tempting any guys because we're just going up to the roof," Minmei explained. "I got them to build a putt-putt course since it became hard for me and Rick to just go out and play."
That being said, the three girls left for the elevator to go up to the roof. As they stood in the elevator, Nabiki caught a glimpse of the engagement ring due to twinkle of the diamond in the provided light. Having heard about the ring in the news, Nabiki was quite surprised that Rick could afford something like that.
She had hoped the decision would come soon because she had been waiting for over six hours. Fortunately Lisa's wait didn't last much longer. The doors opened and council members starting towards their offices. She waited for her father to exit, since he was the only one that she knew in the complex. After a minute, people stopped exiting the room, and her father didn't appear. She stepped up to the door to find that the room was empty; however there was another door on the other side of the room.
Clearly her father exited from the other side. She wondered if that side was closer to his office. It had been quite awhile since she had been to his office, and even then, most of Alaska base was still under construction. Also she couldn't be sure that he was still in that office. But she realized that was her next destination.
Lisa got lucky as she made her way down the hall. She was amongst the offices of the senior staff. Fortunate was on her side when her father, having realized that he had left his daughter, stepped out of his office to retrieve his daughter, only to notice she was just a few doors down.
Once Lisa joined her father, the admiral decided to give her the grand tour of the complex. He understood it had been awhile since Lisa had been inside Alaska Base, excluding last year's debriefing. So he showed her the things that had completed. Eventually they ended up in a control room, filled with monitors and consoles. It was there where the topic that interested Lisa was brought up.
"The council is giving serious considerations about peace talks," stated Admiral Hayes.
"That's great, father," replied Lisa, not realizing she had dropped the formality.
"Which is why I brought you to here," continued Hayes, a smile on his face. "Though it's empty now, this is the nerve center to the Grand Cannon."
Lisa wasn't an idiot, so she instantly knew where his father was headed. "Father, you can't possibly think that this can work?"
"We have to demonstrate that they aren't all powerful," Admiral Hayes expressed passionately. "We will not go to the bargaining table from a position of weakness."
"Does the council really believe that this will do anything to break the Zentraedi? They have more than hundreds of millions of warships besides what is out there now. This could only lead to the destruction of Earth."
Though not truly listening to Lisa, Admiral Hayes responded to her by saying wait and see. He, like many on the council, believed the Grand Cannon system was the ultimate in reflex weaponry. Unfortunately, of the four under construction, only the North American cannon had been completed. As unfortunate as it may seem, the council was positive that one cannon would put them in a position of strength.
That being said, he informed Lisa that until this was completed, she wouldn't be allowed to return to the SDF-1. Though upset, it was something Lisa had already expected. She was given the reason that it was for her protection due to the attack on the shuttle on her way down. However she felt she would be in less danger if she was on the SDF-1, especially if they used the Grand Cannon.
Max was quite nervous. It wasn't like he had ever been on dates before. But this time, he felt the girl was out of his league. She was beauty beyond beauty. It was times like these that he missed Ben. Stepping out of his room, he went down the hall to the room of Rick Hunter. When he opened the door, Max felt that he was fortunate to have caught him, believing that Rick might be having dinner with Minmei.
As for Rick, he was still bored. Minmei was still unavailable. This time he found out from Nodoka that she was out with Ranma and Nabiki. He had been set to turn in early when there was a knock on the door. What greeted him was Maximilian Sterling wearing a blue blazer, on top of a brown vest, over a white shirt with a red tie. That went along with the khaki pants and brown loafers. This was a quite a different look for Max, considering the only thing Rick had seen him in was his uniform. In his hand was a bouquet for flowers.
"Whassup?" Rick asked.
"I just wanted to know if my tie was straight."
"Sure, it's straight," replied Rick. He didn't realize the greater meaning of Max's statement. He glanced over to the clock on the wall and commented, "Nine o'clock is quickly approaching."
"Yeah, and I'm nervous had hell," replied Max. "I've never felt so nervous for a date before. Not even for Sammie and Vanessa."
"What about Kim?" Rick asked.
"Well, she's kinda off limits. The guys consider her your girl since even though you guys have broken up."
The two talked for a few more minutes. This relieved the nervousness that Max had been feeling. Once it was gone, he left for the park. He arrived about five minutes before nine and was surprised by how deserted the park was. Bouquet in hand, his nervousness started to creep back when nine o'clock arrived and Miriya hadn't appeared. He waited for fifteen minutes before he finally thought he had been stood up.
Little did he know, Miriya had been there the entire time. She hid behind a tree, brandishing a Bowie knife, waiting for the right time to strike out at him. She was going to make kill quick and sweet.
Max was set to give up and head back to the barracks when he heard the scream, "Maximilian Sterling, prepare for your end." He spun around to find Miriya coming at him with a big knife. Max had this nice greeting all prepared, but he never got the chance to use it, as he had to use his quick reflexes to save himself from Miriya's initial attack.
"Miriya, what's this all about?" he finally asked, constantly avoiding the blade.
"I am Quadrono Leader Miriya Parino. A Zentraedi Warrior," she announced as she drew out a second Bowie knife.
"There goes our first date," gulped Max.
Miriya pressed her attack. It should be over quickly as the Micronian was unarmed. But she was surprised by how well Max's reflexes translated outside the Veritech. Though Max wasn't at the level of Ranma when it came to hand to hand combat, he could clearly hold his own.
Miriya lunged at him with the right hand, only to find he was not there as he had leaped and flipped over her. Reacting to such a move, she performed a backhanded attack with the left that was sure to injure. Only it missed also, as Max landed in the splits, the knife barely missing his head. From that position, Max rolled away and performed a backhand spring to give him some distance away from her.
Miriya came at him once again. This time Max prepared to defend himself with a nearby rock. This caused added frustration in Miriya that she couldn't kill this Micronian. But along with this frustrated feeling, some other type of feeling was starting to form within her. It was a feeling that she couldn't explain.
That feeling was soon forgotten as the knife in her left hand struck the rock awkwardly and flew out of her hand, embedding itself in a nearby tree. Sensing the opportunity to attack, Max made way to the tree with Miriya close on his heels. Fortunate for him, Max was able to get there first.
It instantly turned into a knife fight. They stood no more than an arm length apart, knives constantly moving, constantly in contact. Yet neither could strike the other. Not that Max really wanted to strike the woman that lit a fire in his heart. He easily looked beyond the fact that she was his enemy; his eyes blinded by her beauty. His heart called out to him, telling that this was the woman for him. Now all he needed to do was prove that to her, first by disarming her.
For Miriya, that strange feeling was becoming recognizable. In fact she seemed to remember having this feeling before. But she didn't know how to comprehend this feeling. To her, what you did not know could kill you, as it provided distractions. And distracting her it did. Her grip on the handle mysteriously loosened, and seconds later, it was out of her hand. Right then and there, she finally believed Khyron. There was someone that she couldn't defeat.
Accepting that defeat, Miriya slumped to the ground, on her knees with her head down, and waited for the death strike. This was how it should end for the once-proud, unbeatable Quadrono Leader. In some strange way, she was happy. In all her years and all her battles, she never felt so alive as she did now. What was it about this Micronian that made this happen?
But the death blow didn't come. To her that meant one thing; she was to become a prisoner. She had much preferred to end things quickly, because if they were like Zentraedi interrogators, she was in for a painful ordeal.
"Why don't you end it now because I am not going to tell your kind anything!"
"Why would I want to do that?" asked Max.
"Because it would be much better than being tortured after you hand me over," replied Miriya.
"But I'm not going to turn you in," answered Max. He was on the ground next to her. He lifted her chin and became mesmerized by her red eyes. "You're too beautiful to hand over to the authorities. Enemy or not."
Looking into his eyes, Miriya's heart started to unexpectedly beat faster, and not in the way it did during battle. Hearing him was startling because it would be going against everything the Zentraedi believed about being captured. Feeling his touch gave her a sudden and indescribable warm feeling.
"What is this that I am feeling?" she asked. It was supposed to be for her inter-monologue; however it was said out loud.
Max saw the red hue to her cheeks and speculated out loud that it was love. Miriya quickly asked what was love. Max described his feelings for her and called it love. Since it was exactly what she was feeling, she believed that was what love was.
Then Max moved closer and surprised Miriya by putting his lips on hers. The contact with his lips caused that warm feeling to spread throughout her body. Though she was on her knees, kissing Maximilian Sterling made her feel like she was floating in space. For the length of the kiss, nothing existed except the other.
"Why don't we get married?" Max asked when he broke the kiss.
"Married?" Miriya didn't know the concept of marriage.
"Yes. And we can feel like this for the rest of our lives."
Liking this feeling, Miriya quickly agreed, not thinking about the consequences.
The following day, the three techs sat in the base lounge with their three guy friends. That's how it appeared to the casual observer. However, in actuality, it was Sammie and Vanessa with the three former Zentraedi spies, and Kim was a tag along. It seemed rather strange now compared to the first time they meet up with Rico, Bron, and Konda, since Kim was no longer dating Rick Hunter. But even if the girls wanted to "pass off" one of the guys to Kim, she would not have taken him because she was still hung up over Rick. And it seemed worst when it was announced that Minmei was engaged.
It was also strange when they found out that the guys they went dancing were Zentraedi spies.
"It has been really different," replied Rico to a Sammie question.
"How come?" asked Vanessa.
"Well do not have to worry about food anymore," answered Konda.
"Yeah, but all these tests are becoming tasking," added Bron.
"But it is worth it to be close to Minmei," the three said together, much to the disgust of the girls. However Sammie and Vanessa didn't mind. It was the same with all the men on the ship. They were all fascinated with the girl. They were just fortunate that they had them there now. Then later they could have some more sexual fun with Max Sterling. They must have been thinking of the same thing at the same time because a smile appeared on their faces thinking about that threesome just the other day.
"Hey, look over there. There is Minmei's friend," announced Bron.
"Where?" asked Rico and Konda.
They had momentarily forgotten about the three girls with them. It only helped prove they were uber-Minmei fans because most people didn't know about Minmei's friends. Rico and Konda looked over to where Bron was pointing and saw a redheaded lady at another table talking with a guy.
"Say, it is that the guy you were with the other time, Kim?" asked Konda.
She knew it was. She had noticed Rick quite a while ago. Vanessa and Sammie didn't bother to look, but they knew it would probably be best if they left. The Zentraedi didn't understand, but since they liked the company they were with, they followed.
Along the way out, they passed Max Sterling, who was still wearing the outfit from the previous night.
"Well, it's nice to hear you had a nice time with my fiancée," deadpanned Rick.
"Hey, we tried calling you, but you weren't there to answer," answered Ranma. "You should have seen Nabiki's expression when I bought her that camera. It feels nice to do things for friends."
Rick already knew about this. Minmei told him when they spoke in the phone this morning. It made him wonder if Ranma knew what Minmei knew about Nabiki's feelings.
"So what this about Max?" she asked. It was really the reason the two were having lunch, since the two haven't gotten together in recent days.
It seemed almost on cue that Max appeared in front of them. "Rick, there you are. Have you seen Commander Saotome?" Though Ranma had told him time after time not to call him that when off duty, Max couldn't stop from saying it.
"Max, isn't that the same thing you wore last night?" Rick asked.
Max looked down and started laughing because he had forgotten. Ranma and Rick were puzzled by this. They had never seen Max like this.
"Last night was such a wonderful night that I've seemed to forgot to change clothes," replied Max. "Always, have you seen Commander Saotome?"
He received the biggest shock in his life when the redhead, one of the most beautiful women on the ship, said that she was Commander Saotome. At first he didn't believe her until he received confirmation from Rick.
"No way!" he gasped.
"Sorry to burst your bubble, Max. So what cha want?" she asked. "Oh, and before you ask, I'm really a guy."
It was a real bummer to find out one of the girls he lusted for close to two years was really a guy and his boss. But that was no longer a concern to him. "I just want your permission for marriage."
Ranma just had to laugh at that. Max didn't need her permission to get married. But it was a classic spit take for her and Rick when Max mentioned the girl was Zentraedi.
"That was a Zentraedi? Danm! I wonder if they all look like that," responded Rick, only to receive an elbow in the ribs.
"I can introduce you to her if it helps." Max motioned to the door. Stepping out from the side was a beautiful woman dressed in a pink dress with a green ribbon tied into a bow in the back. Ranma simply had to agree with Rick. Of course her thoughts were more on the line, She's almost as beautiful as me.
When she was finally next to Max, Miriya was introduced to his commander. She surprised to see that the Micronians allowed females to mix with the male soldiers in such a way that they are their direct commanders.
Ranma couldn't make any type of decision by just meeting her. She was not about to say no either. But she was going to have to tell Captain Gloval about this because Miriya Parino was Zentraedi and not one of the one that came seeking for asylum.
"Ranma, stop your fussing," stated Nabiki.
"But why do I have to wear a dress?" complained Ranma.
"Young women do not wear blouses or pants to weddings," answered her mother.
"And you'll look nice for later on," added Minmei.
It really wasn't wearing a dress that Ranma was complaining about. It was wearing this particular dress that she hated. For one, she didn't pick it out. Another thing, it was pink, lacy, and it showed way too much cleavage.
"Now, sit while I finish your make up," said Nabiki.
"I can do that on my own," commented Ranma.
"Ranma dear, let Nabiki do this," said Nodoka, calmly. "Besides you're still learning to apply makeup."
"Yes, mom."
The marriage of Max Sterling and Miriya Parino became the biggest social event to take place on the SDF-1 since the opening of Chuugoku Nekonron Daikesson! When Ranma informed Captain Gloval of Max's intentions, he thought it was an excellent idea. He saw it as an opportunity to show the growing brotherhood between those Zentraedi already on board and the inhabitants of the SDF-1. And he wanted the wedding to happen quickly.
Once it was announced, the wedding became the social event of the season. It was given full military pageantry, however only those in high command plus friends and family could attend the ceremony. Thus high command allowed MBS to broadcast it to the masses.
Those on the SDF-1 weren't the only ones that watched the wedding. The telecast was picked up on the monitors of Alaska Base. One of the few interested in the festivities was Lisa Hayes, who watched it with her father in his office. Until they found something for her to do, she served as his adjutant.
Right in the middle of the vows, Admiral Hayes asked his daughter, "So is there someone special on that ship for you?"
Lisa was too embarrassed to answer. Her blushing was all the answer he needed. It should not have been her reaction, but there was something about being around her father that brought out the embarrassed girl in her.
"Well, I at least hope he's military."
Alaska Base wasn't the only place picking up the broadcast. As with everything transmitted from the SDF-1, it was picked up and watched by the Zentraedi, in particular, Breetai and Exedore (and Azonia and Khyron, on their respective ships). It took Exedore a while to learn what a wedding was. Once he had, Breetai wanted to know why the Quadrono Leader was getting into such a thing with this Micronian male. He also wanted to know why she was on the battle fortress in the first place.
What surprised them both was seeing her with that smile on her face. They both knew what it meant, as it was seen on many Zentraedi while imbibing fermented liquids after successful campaigns. What they wanted to know was how did this event cause Miriya Parino such joy.
Breetai, Exedore, Azonia, and Khyron went into shock the second Miriya willingly kissed the Micronian male.
"And now to sing a special song to the merry couple, Lynn Minmei."
There was a loud applause in the room holding the reception. There were more military allowed here than at the ceremony. But there were still no civilians allowed, thus MBS was broadcasting this, too. On one side of the room was the table where Max and Miriya sat, along with his parents and the parents of Ben Dixon, who Max considered part of his family. On another table was the wedding cake in the shape of the SDF-1.
There was a stage step up in front of the wedding party's table. At the present time, Minmei's backup band was on it. With the announcement, Minmei walked onto the stage. She wore a blue version of the dress Ranma wore.
"Actually, I'm not going to sing today," she announced, to many groans. "But there's a friend of mine that's going to sing instead."
With that, she walked off on stage and was replaced by Ranma with the guitar her uncle gave her. On Earth, Lisa Hayes thought she looked really beautiful but could not see herself pulling something off like that.
"You guys sure you know this song?" she asked the band. They assured her they knew the music. At that point, she proceeded up to the mic stand.
"Ah, hi. My name is Ranko Hasegawa. I'm going to sing a song as a gift from Max's commanding officer who couldn't be here today."
She wasn't sure if she could pull this off. Singing to friends and family was one thing. Singing to the general public on TV was something totally different.
With that in mind, she started strumming the guitar. At the right moment, the band kick in, and she starting singing.
"Help me
I think I'm falling
In love again
When I get that crazy feeling, I know
I'm in trouble again
I'm in trouble
'Cause you're a rambler and a gambler
And a sweet-taIking-ladies man
And you love your lovin'
But not like you love your freedom…
"…Help me
I think I'm falling
In love with you
Are you going to let me go there by myself
That's such a lonely thing to do
Both of us flirting around
Flirting and flirting
Hurting too
We love our lovin'
But not like we love our freedom "
Because of the ages of the people in the room, few recognized the song. But the rhythm of the music and Ranma's voice just gave them that dancing feeling. It wasn't long into Ranma's song that couples made their way to the dance floor, including "the" couple of the hour. There was also a couple that danced unseen from the crowd, as Minmei perpetuated the secrecy of her fiancé, Rick. Men and women who were just there alone paired up and joined the dance floor. When the song was over, the crowd applauded. Ranma was happy and left the stage, allowing the band to continue playing.
Max and Miriya went over to thank Ranma before returning to their seats. Ranma went over to seat with her mother and Nabiki. She took in the festivities and wondered if it would have been like this if she, instead of Alex Satori, had married Akane. She wondered if she would ever find someone and have something close to this.
Ranma was brought out of her thoughts by the announcing of Captain Henry Gloval. Gloval was dressed in his formal dress uniform with all his medal and decorations for the public to see. He opened his speech by congratulating the merry couple. He praised the wedding for being more than just the union of a man and a woman, but for being a union between human and Zentraedi.
That's where things went south. Gloval went on to remind everyone on the ship that it was because of the Zentraedi that they weren't allowed to return to Earth and to their loved ones. Max almost stood out of his seat in outrage. The same could be said of Ranma and Rick.
Gloval continued on with his speech. It seemed that he was trying to encourage hatred towards the Zentraedi, more than there already was. Then he swung the other way. He once again praised the marriage. He praised it as a sign of what could be. It showed that the two races could learn to live with each other, learn to love one another.
What people failed to realize but Gloval did, the viewing of this wedding and reception wasn't just contained to those on the SDF-1. He was sure the transmission was being picked up on Earth, and in particular, watched by the top brass in Alaska Base. So even though Lisa was sent to sue for peace with the Zentraedi, he was going to use this as his medium to convey his thoughts to the council, which the smart man that was Admiral Donald Hayes picked up.
Still watching with his daughter, he turned off the set. He could believe the audacity of Captain Henry Gloval. He couldn't believe that one of his former subordinate would say such a thing. However it was testament on how much the two men had changed over the years.
When Gloval was finally finished, he received a louder applause than Ranma. The idea of peace was spreading throughout the ship, having been started by Lynn Kyle. Now it was nice to find out that the top military officer wanted the same thing. But that was not to say everybody was pleased at the idea of looking at the Zentraedi as there brothers.
Breetai continued to watch the televised reception, though he missed his counterpart's speech as Azonia finally briefed him on the purpose of Miriya being on Zor's battle fortress. He watched as the Micronians were once again dancing to the music. This time there wasn't a red-haired female singing. He couldn't believe how intoxicating her voice was. He believed her to be better than the female they usually show singing.
Suddenly, the image was replaced by a soldier that he recognized as being a part of Lord Dolza's staff.
"Commander Breetai, you have an important message from Lord Dolza."
Breetai was on his feet immediately, expecting Dolza to appear any moment. But he never appeared as the order was given for an all out attack. Breetai and Exedore were left confused. They wondered about the change in strategy. It was their mission to capture the battle fortress. An all out attack meant Dolza no longer cared about it and the planet it protected.
The order was relayed throughout the entire fleet. Soldiers quickly prepared for what they thought was the end to this action. However there were many who didn't want to take place in this battle. There were many that knew some of their comrades on that ship.
Something started happening that never happened amongst the Zentraedi. Soldier started refusing to fight. Though many didn't know those onboard the battle fortress, they couldn't bring themselves to knowingly attack their own.
This was worst than those who defected to the Micronians or those who wished to seek out Minmei. Zentraedi society was based upon warfare, and refusing to enter battle was insubordination, tantamount to mutinous behavior. It also resulted in fights breaking out between those who loyal to given order and those loyal to their fellow Zentraedi.
Needless to say, the size of the attack force was less than it should.
Alarms went off onboard the SDF-1. At first people were startled because their first thoughts were there hadn't been any drills scheduled for the day. It wasn't until Gloval informed them that there was an attack that people realized the reality of the situation.
Guests started for the areas of responsibilities, as ordered by their captain. This brought up a dilemma for the newlyweds. The second Gloval ordered everyone to their battle station, Max was on his feet set to run off to the Prometheus, only to be stopped by Rick. He briefly told him that he could sit this one out and stay with Miriya. Max was rooted to the floor because he didn't want to leave his fellow pilots hanging, but he also didn't want to leave his beautiful bride in an unsafe environment.
Though she was new to the thought of having a life companion, Miriya could sense the turmoil in her husband. Maybe it was the warrior in her, but she knew his place was with his fellow pilots. Her warrior spirit also told her that she needed to be out there, fighting side by side with her husband.
"I'm going with you," she announced.
Max picked up on two messages in that statement. She had "given" him permission to join the fight. But she wanted to join him as well. Max was unsure about that.
Miriya took off her veil and explained that she understood where he needed to be. She had that same feeling. It wasn't in her nature to stand aside when there was combat to be had. It was something they had in common. She didn't even give a thought to the fact she would be going against her own people. Her husband and his people was her life now, and she would fight to keep them safe.
Max was still unsure if he should take his bride out into the void of space. He didn't want to risk losing her after just finding her. But Miriya convinced him that she would be okay. She understood Veritechs from simply utilizing the simulators.
Max snickered at Miriya thinking the game was a simulator. But it did convince him the she knew what to do because some of the things she did in the game were only possible in the actual simulators. Maybe he would have to ask Ranma if Miriya could become a Veritech pilot.
Speaking of Ranma, up until a few days ago, this situation might have been a problem for her. Given the fact that she had never flown as a female, she would have speculated if she should make her way to the Prometheus. However since saving Lisa's hide, she had acquisitioned a flight suit that fit her female form and moved her equipment to the CAG locker room.
Making sure her mother and Nabiki were headed where they needed to be, she took a jeep and headed for the Prometheus. She was in the middle of changing when she felt her equilibrium change, signifying a change in gender. Ironically the change came at a fortunate time. However there was a momentary trade off. He was still wearing a strapless bra and a pair of panties, which were rather constrictive.
It didn't take long for Veritechs to meet up with Battlepods and continue their never-ending death match. As it was during most of their battles, the death toll started to rise. The Veritech squadron started to prove themselves as superior fighters, thanks to the training plans developed by Lieutenant Commander Ranma Saotome. So the kill ratio was high, making up for the fact that they were severely outnumbered.
However the Zentraedi weren't responding how they normally would. This was a cause for worry for Breetai, especially since word had yet to be passed on to him as to the actions of those under his command.
Out in space, Max had finally lined a 'Pod into his sights and was set for the kill. Thanks to all the data collected from all the battles, certain points on the Battlepod had been discovered which would cause them to destruct. Thanks to Ranma's training plans, all the pilots knew these points. So Max was set for the kill when a gloved hand from the back distracted and stopped him. He turned around to Miriya, sitting in the back of the specially modified VF-1D.
"If Captain Gloval wants us to stop this fight, let's start here," said Miriya.
"Now!" Max said in a shocked tone. "We're in the middle of things, dear."
"But we can finish them without ending their lives."
Max was hesitant on what he should do. How was he to finish them without ending their lives, especially since they were trying to end his? He realized that this was Miriya's plea to save her people, so he understood. He asked how was he to do what she proposed, and she guided him into targeting the Battlepod in just the right spot that it would it out of commission.
Max attacked using only the laser turret. He was surprised that it didn't immediately explode. It just stopped moving as if its power supply had been severed. He tried this attack on another 'pod before he was convinced in Miriya's strategy.
It was Rick that appeared on his tac-net after a couple of successful attacks. He answered Rick's question by relaying what Miriya told him about other Battlepod weak points. Rick relayed that to Ranma. And Ranma relayed it to the remainder of the wing.
Though the kill rate remained the same, the rising death toll of the Zentraedi stopped. Ranma explained to Gloval this new course of action, who seemed to approve. Before long the Zentraedi seemed to receive a recall order. Partially it could have been due to the number of functional Battlepods. It could also be due to the word having finally gotten to Breetai of the widespread insubordination amongst his ranks. As he wasn't sure how widespread this was, he recalled them before something detrimental happened.
What a day, thought Rick, as he began to wind down from the day's events. First of all, he was the best man at Max's wedding. He was able to spend some time with his fiancée. He listened to his friend and superior officer sing. He witnessed the captain almost give a propaganda speech. And to top it all, he survived yet another battle.
A crash from the next room signified what had changed in his life. He had new neighbors, Max and Miriya Sterling. Once they were married, they were provided quarters meant for couples. It just happened that the only one available was next door to Rick.
The bad thing was they forgot to properly insulate it for sound. At least that's what Rick believed since it seemed he could hear almost everything going on in the room.
The next thing he heard was the sound of a fire extinguisher. That doesn't sound good, he thought.
Putting the extinguisher away, Max realized that for the near future, he was going to have to do all the cooking. Although it was something he kind of expected. He didn't believe that the Zentraedi knew how to cook, so it was going to be one of the things he was going to have to teach her. Or at least find someone to teach her, if Miriya was willing.
Back on Rick's side, he sensed that things had calmed down and began to relish the silence. He was just about to go to bed when a new noise began to emanate from the newlyweds' room. It was an all too common noise coming from newlyweds.
"I would have never thought Miriya to be a screamer," he said to himself. He was kind of embarrassed that the sound of their sex was making him aroused.
Author's note
The song used at the start of this chapter was Saboten by the Japanese group Porno Graffitti. The song used during the wedding is Help Me by Joni Mitchell.