My Life's Stranger Than Yours
A Hectic Vacation. Relax at the Onsen Resort
(A/N: This is a Ranma ½ story, so this was 100% necessary)
[Reuploaded after update glitch]
Days have passed since the nerve-wracking battle between the young quintet of friends and Baba's Five Warriors. With the Amazons leaving town to search for their 'Village Treasure' , much of the town of Nerima quieted down as its most popular hangout spot was closed down. Although, for those who just HAVE to eat out, Ucchan's Okonomiyaki shop was more than capable of picking up the slack. Onto the others involved in that scuffle, Ranma and Akane continued their day-to-day shenanigans, although with Shampoo gone, they surprisingly fought less frequently. Still, some things seldom change as the pigtailed boy was being pursued by the heated tomboy after one of her infamous cooking fiascos.
On the other side of the spectrum, life went on without so much as a hitch for the two young Z-Warriors. Despite the crazy encounter, school proceeded normally for Gohan and Videl. Attend classes, catch up with classmates, fight criminals, the works. Speaking of which…"
[In streets of Satan City]
The sound of gunfire filled the air as police and robbers alike were engaged in a fearsome firefight. The tides of battle would quickly change as the criminals were bombarded by concussive balls of light, halting their fire and drawing their attention upwards. The leader of the nameless thugs was met with a boot to the head as the city's familiar, female defender, dived in and knocked the creep out with a single kick.
"Shit…it's Mr. Satan's daughter! Take her out before Buckethead shows up!"
The remaining goons all turned their weapons at Videl who responded in kind by placing her hands aside her head. "Solar Flare!"
The blinding flash stunned the crooks enough for Videl to dash in and take out two more in swift succession. As she pivoted her hip, attempting to strike a third one with a roundhouse kick, she let out an anguished yell. "AGH…!"
Grabbing the side of her body before crumpling to the ground, Videl pressed her lips together cursing her horrible luck. 'Dammit…still hurts!'
Seeing his opportunity, the last remaining criminal charged at Videl, holding his rifle like a bat. Before he could swing it down however, his attack was halted by Satan Cit's Caped Crusader who blew his foe back with a swift, invisible burst of energy.
"That's enough out of you." Taunted Saiyaman.
[Moments later]
Once the police finished carting off the criminals, Videl and Gohan could be seen on a random rooftop, the former seated, rubbing at her sides. "Videl, are you alright?"
"I'll live."
"What happened out there?" he asked taking a seat beside her.
"Nothing major. Think I just pulled a muscle is all."
"But that's not all to it, is it?"
Sighing, Videl confirmed Gohan's suspicion. "Admittedly, that is all it was today, but to be completely honest, I'm still just a LITTLE sore from fighting at Baba's Palace."
"Oh…is that really all it is?" relieved Gohan.
"Pretty much. I know you said half a Senzu Bean wouldn't be as potent, but I kind of figured I'd be back up to 100% by now."
"Hmmm…" Gohan pondered. "If I had to guess, I think your body may not have enough energy to heal properly."
"What do you mean?"
Gohan proceeded to give a brief, intensely worded explanation on how the body normally heals and added a few extra tidbits in relation to ki. In laymen's terms, Videl overexerted herself during the fight, and the energy she'd reclaimed with half the senzu just wasn't enough to allow her body to heal at a normal rate. Still, the beans healing properties were potent enough to do most of the job for her, but that last bit she needed was just coming up slow.
"I'm not a doctor, but I think you may want to take it easy over the weekend. Maybe stay at home and try to relax," Gohan suggested.
"I'll keep that in mind…although…"
"What is it?"
"You wouldn't happen to know if there are any 'natural' remedies for muscle pain, would you?"
"Uhhhhmmm…a massage?"
THWUMP!
"I mean…you're technically not wrong, but I was thinking more like some kind of natural version of muscle cream, like how aloe can treat burns," Videl clarified as she picked herself up.
"Hmmm…I can't think of anything off the top of my head, but Mom might know something."
"Thanks. Think I'll head home and call her now. You can handle the rest of patrol on your own, right?"
"It's what I do. Catch you later!" Waving her off, Gohan reapplied his helmet before blasting back into the city.
[Later that afternoon]
A familiar woman in a yellow Eastern outfit and a bandana was outside stringing up sheets when suddenly, the phone began to wring. Quickly heading back in doors, Chi-Chi picked the phone up and answered, "Hello?"
"Hey Chi-Chi."
"OH Videl! This is a surprise."
"Hey Chi-Chi. I talked to Gohan about this, but I was actually wondering if you could help me out with something."
"With what exactly?"
"Well…" Videl proceeded to explain her various aches from her fight at Baba's a few days ago and how she was hoping Chi-Chi may have an effective home solution to ease them. Once Videl was finished explaining, Chi-Chi replied in the most unexpected manner by giving a rather impish giggle.
"What's so funny?" asked Videl.
"Oh not you dear, I'm just laughing at how perfectly timed your call was."
"Perfectly timed how?"
"Well, it just so happens that Bulma, 18, and I were all gearing up to take a trip this weekend, and the place we're going to may have just what you need to get yourself back into tip-top shape."
"REALLY!?"
"Mmmhmm. To be honest, I wanted to wait until you and Gohan finally tied the knot since I felt this would be a perfect honeymoon destination…"
"CHI-CHI! Would you PLEASE get serious!"
"I was serious! I've never visited the place myself, but Bulma says it's dazzling!"
"That's not what I meant!" Videl huffed.
"Don't deny it. We all know it's only a matter of time before Gohan pops the question."
"We're still in school." Deadpanned the young fighter.
"Okay, okay, all joking and hysterics aside, we truly DID plan to not tell you about these trips until you and Gohan at least got a bit more…intimate for lack of a better term since these trips are sort of…a 'Wives Only'' thing for us."
"Okay, I guess that makes…wait, what do you mean 'these trips'?"
"Well, every year, the three of us take a trip, just the three of us to sort of…unwind from all the craziness in our lives. You and Gohan have only been together for a year, so you have no idea what it's like living with a bunch of Saiyans."
"Eighteen's not married to a Saiyan, and believe me, a year is more than enough time to at least have an idea of how chaotic that must be."
"Yeah, I suppose so" Chi-Chi confirmed. "Still, after what you had to relive, I don't think they'd mind letting you in on this trend a bit early."
"Glad to hear it…or at least I will be once you tell me where we're supposed to be going," Videl noted.
"I think it's best to keep it a surprise for now…although I will say this, you REALLY might want to bring a swimsuit."
"A swimsuit? Are we going someplace tropical?"
"You'll see," the housewife grinned. "Although, I am willing to answer any other questions you might have."
Videl paused for a moment to think about the whole offer. On paper and out loud, it sounded like a good idea. The only downside that she could see was being the only girl amongst a group of married women, one of them being her boyfriend's mom. Talk about a recipe for awkward…unless….
"Actually, I do have one question."
"Yes?"
"Can I bring a friend?"
[Meanwhile, in Nerima]
"Oh girls~!"
"Akane, Nabiki, come quick!"
Nodoka, accompanied by Kasumi returned to the Tenod dojo, the latter quickly calling for her older and younger sister.
"Kasumi? Aunt Nodoka?"
"What's all the hectic about?"
[]
"Seriously!?" Nabiki exclaimed.
"Yup!"
[A few moments earlier]
Nodoka and Kasumi passed a lottery wheel while on their way home with groceries. On a whim, Nodoka decided to give it a spin and as luck would have it, she won the lottery by getting the gold ball. The Saotome matriarch received 4 tickets for a weekend at a luxurious Hot Spring resort.
[Present]
"That…is so cliché…" Akane stated.
"Who cares? Free vacation!" Nabiki beamed.
"Hmmm…I guess."
The two older sisters retreated up the stairs to pack their bags, leaving their youngest alone with Nodoka. "You don't seem as excited as I thought you'd be," stated Nodoka.
"Don't get me wrong, I am glad you got the trip, I just…have a bad feeling…"
"How come?"
"Because EVERY time there's a hot spring involved, something crazy happens. Usually it's us getting peeked on, something Jusenkyo related, or a whole host of other nonsense.
Before Nodoka could respond, the phone suddenly rang. "I got it!" called a female Ranma. "Hello?"
"Ranma, is that you?"
"Oh Videl. How you holdin' up since the other day with that Psychic Witch?"
"Fine I guess, but that's besides the point."
"I know, I know, you wanna talk to Akane, don't you? Gimme a sec. YO! AKANE!"
A few seconds passed and the youngest Tendo sister greeted her friend on the other side of the phone. "Hey Videl. I have to admit, I wasn't expecting to hear from you again so soon, especially since Cologne's still gone."
"Figured as much, but that's not why I'm calling."
"Oh?"
"You see, I'm going on a trip with Chi-Chi and a few of her family friends and she said I could bring a friend along so I wouldn't be the only girl my age."
"Really?"
"Mmhmm."
Akane sighed. "As much fun as that sounds, I can't come. I'm actually going on a trip with my sisters and Aunt Nodoka."
"Seriously!? Geeze, what are the odds we'd both be going on trips this weekend?"
"Who knows?" Akane shrugged. "Still, maybe there's someone else you could bring along?"
"Doubtful. You see Gohan's family and their closest friends are kind of inclusive to a degree. Because you're already well acquainted with Chi-Chi and Eighteen, you were my only real choice."
"If it's that important I could probably…wait, Ms. Eighteen's going too?"
"Yeah. Apparently, it's a thing they've done for years now. They're just letting me come along as a sort of reprieve from that fight at Baba's Palace."
"I see. Still, if you need someone to come along with you, I could probably…!"
Videl cut her off. "No, no, don't change your plans for my sake. You said it yourself, you're going with your sisters and Mrs. Saotome right? It's a family trip and family comes first, right?"
"…Yeah, I guess. Still hope you won't be the odd one out or anything."
"I'll be fine. This won't be the first time I've been together with the three of them…but this is the first time I've really been…invited to a thing like this before."
Akane's expression lit up. "Wait, three of them? There's Ms. Chi-Chi and Eighteen, but who's the third lady?"
Before Akane could answer, a loud crash, followed by barking could be heard through the phone. "BEE! BUU!" Videl yelped. "Sorry to cut this call short, but I've got a small situation here! Have fun on your trip!"
"You too."
Hanging up the phone, Akane turned to find Ranma who'd been listening in on the conversation. "So…what'd Videl want?"
"You ever hear of a thing called privacy?" Akane snapped.
"Hey, I'm the one who answered the phone in the first place," Ranma reminded her.
"Hmph…Videl wanted to invite me on a trip she's taking with Gohan's mother and a few others, but I had to turn her down since I'M going on a trip with your mother and my sisters."
"Huh…how's that for a weird coincidence?" Ranma shrugged.
"I know right?"
"Well, where's she goin'?"
Akane palmed her forehead in exasperation. "Dammit! I forgot to ask! …I guess it doesn't really matter," she sighed. "It's not like we're going to run into each other this weekend anyway."
"I guess…though now that I think about it…where are you girls goin' with my Mom?" Ranma added.
"She won tickets to a hot spring resort from a lottery."
"…Wow, that's cliché," Ranma deadpanned.
"I KNOW!"
"Huh, glad I ain't goin'. Given how things usually go at those kinda places, I ALWAYS get in trouble for crap that ain't my fault…or the old freak shows up and ruins everything for everybody."
"Maybe you'd get into trouble less often if you'd stop being a lecherous little deviant."
Ranma twinged in irritation before flashing her a flirtatious look and striking a rather provocative pose. "And maybe you'd be sexier if you weren't such a stocky little ball of violence."
"Jerk!"
"Sexless!"
"Tramp!"
"Flatty!"
Just outside the door, Nodoka giggled at the little exchange while Soun and Genma could only sweat drop. "Well…I guess we'll have to survive on leftovers for the next couple of days Saotome."
[The next day]
A Capsule Corp brand aircraft blasted towards an island with a heavy tuft of steam blasting near the peak of its tallest mountain.
"Take it all in girls. For the next three days, it's nothing but us and a host of steaming hot, au naturale baths!" proclaimed the blue-haired pilot.
A glimmer shone in the eyes of the youngest of the three passengers. "I can't believe we're going to an onsen resort!"
"I told you this would be a perfect remedy for your soreness," Chi-Chi proudly proclaimed.
"She's not the only one who desperately needs this trip," Eighteen interjected. "I swear, I just CAN NOT enjoy a bath or shower anymore with that old man creeping about everywhere."
"I can relate," said Bulma. "Never lived with him, but I did spend QUITE a lot of time at his place with the guys back in the day."
"Last time he tried that with me, Gohan was there to put a stop to it."
"Because I raised him right," Chi-Chi nodded.
Though the conversation died down, the mood remained in high spirits as the flight was quickly nearing its conclusion. "Here we are girls; Sir Veese Resort!"
The aircraft touched down before a large, five story building decorated with lights. Upon exiting the plane, the quartet were greeted by a row of maids and butlers. "Welcome honored guests."
"Ms. Bulma," called a male voice. Stepping forward, Bulma approached a middle-aged man with a black moustache in a white suit. "We're so glad to have you here with us."
"Why thank you. Sir Veese I presume?"
"Yes, I am the owner and manager of this resort. Please, you and your guests step this way and you'll be taken care of swiftly."
"Thank you." Motioning for them to follow, Bulma and the others entered only to be met with a glimmering, luxurious, hotel lobby.
"Fancy," commented Videl.
"Is that really all you have to say?" asked Bulma.
"I've been around the hotel scene a time or two with my Dad Bulma, so it'll take more than a decorated lobby to impress me."
"Right…I keep forgetting you're a wealthy gal too," she giggled. "What about you two?"
Bulma's question would fall on deaf ears as Eighteen held an unconscious, starry-eyed Chi-Chi in place. The sheer magnitude of the wealth being displayed here was just a bit too much for the mountain dwelling housewife to fully process, causing her to short circuit. Luckily, Eighteen was keeping her from falling, and with merely a finger too.
"Can one of you give me a hand with her please?"
[A few minutes later]
A fully conscious Chi-Chi was catching her breath in one of the lobby's, VERY comfortable waiting chairs. "Sorry about that girls. I was just a bit overwhelmed."
"Not going to lie, you're not the only one," added Eighteen. "I kind of want to see all of what this place has to offer."
"I'd advise advise to hold off until you've received your keycards," joked Sir Veese. After a few moments of punching keys on a computer, Sir Veese presented the quartet with their key cards and in his most pleasant voice said, "Here you are, Room 4396. Enjoy your stay."
"We will. Let's go girls." Bulma beamed.
The quartet disappeared into the corridors just as another group of guests strolled in. This group was similarly comprised of an all-female quartet, though with three teenage girls and one mature looking woman in a kimono.
"Oh, the Saotome party I presume?" Greeted Sir Veese.
"Yes that's us. It should be under the name 'Nodoka'."
"Ah yes, the winner of our famous raffle I presume," he chuckled.
"That's us."
"Follow me Mrs. Saotome."
Leading the quartet to the waiting area while he got everything prepared, Sir Veese called for one of his employees, before excusing himself as the family of four took in the sights. "Hold tight for a moment and my assistant will make sure you ladies are taken care of."
"Thank you," Nodoka bowed. As Sir Veese retreated, Nodoka turned back to the marveling sisters. "Well girls, what do you think?"
"This is by far, THE fanciest place I've ever visited!" Akane beamed.
"Must be a nice change of pace from that Picolet guy's place, eh little sister?" snarked Nabiki.
"That place was nice, but the price of admission was far from worth the scenery."
"Either way, I'm just glad we actually get to experience the pleasantries for once and not get sidelined like we usually do."
"She does have a point Akane," added Kasumi. "Whenever we take a trip, it's usually only you, Ranma and whoever you two happen to be fighting at the time who get to really 'experience' the place."
"Is that so? Do tell," Nodoka interjected.
Before the conversation could begin, the quartet was approached by a young-looking black-haired woman in a professional looking suit. "Mrs. Saotome, I presume. My name is Misty, and I'm the assistant manager. I'll be taking over for Sir Veese for the moment while he handles accommodations with another group. First things first, let's get you four your room keys.
[Meanwhile]
Bulma and her group had already made themselves comfortable in their room, Videl already buried in the softness of the bed.
"Wow…I don't think I even need the springs anymore. I could probably heal just from this bed."
"Now where's the fun in that?" giggled Chi-Chi. "We didn't invite you along so you could sleep on us the whole weekend. You're here to get rejuvenated, now come on. Let's go hit the sauna." Grabbing the younger girl by the collar, Chi-Chi rushed out of the room leaving their roommates in a stupor.
"Well, I don't know about you, but I think I'll check out the gift shop first," Eighteen proclaimed.
"Already fixing to bring something home for Krillin and Marron?" Bulma teased.
"Kind of. For now, I just want to see what they've got. If I happen to see something Krillin or Marron might like, I'd be willing to drop a few zeni."
Bulma snickered in understanding. "Fair enough. As for me, I think I'll take a page from the Saiyans' book and get some room service. That flight here left me pretty famished."
Flashing a light grin, Eighteen exited the room while Bulma grabbed for the phone.
[Meanwhile]
Nodoka and the Tendo Sisters strolled through the corridors until finally finding their room. "Here it is, 4396," Kasumi read aloud.
"Finally, I can put this case down and check this place out," Nabiki groaned in relief.
"Nabiki, we still have to unpack," noted Kasumi.
"Why don't you girls go on ahead. Leave the packing to me and I'll join you as soon as I can," Nodoka offered.
"Aunt Nodoka, this is supposed to be a vacation, you shouldn't have to trouble yourself like that."
"Nonsense. I'll only be a minute. You girls go enjoy yourselves."
"Well, if you insist, if you need me, I'll be at the gift shop!" Beamed Nabiki before darting off.
"Figures," said Akane.
The eldest sister giggled before the Saotome matriarch asked, "And where will you two be heading?"
"We could go straight to the springs but…"
"Oh! Ms. Misty did say they had a sauna here. Why don't we try that?" suggested Kasumi.
"…Alright."
"Oh! That sounds divine! I'll be with you girls as soon as I can!"
The sisters scampered off while Nodoka fumbled with her keycard. Upon finally entering the room, she was taken aback by the sight of some other luggage already being present. "What in…?"
"Oh! You're here already? That was fast!" came the voice of a woman. Glancing aside, Nodoka came face-to-face with a woman seemingly close to her age with short blue-hair in a tight, green dress. "Hey, where's my order!?" she exclaimed in annoyance.
"E-excuse me?" stammered a confused Nodoka.
"Oh I get it, you're out of ingredients for part of it and you're here to ask if I'd like a replacement. You could've just called, but I do admire the hustle."
"I'm not…"
"Well, if you'd be so kind as to tell me what ingredient your missing, I can…"
"What are you doing in my room!?" Nodoka finally snapped.
"…Huh?"
"My girls and I are staying here for the weekend and we were given the keys to this room!" she emphasized.
"Wait, what!? That can't be right, I booked this room in advance a month ago!" the blue-haired woman argued.
"Well I won this trip in a raffle!" Nodoka boasted.
A bead of sweat falling down the blue-haired woman's forehead, she sighed. "Look, let's not lose our minds here. Why don't we both just head to the front desk and see if Sir Veese can lend us a hand."
Though the grip on her sword bag tightened, Nodoka gave a calm affirmatory nod.
[Elsewhere]
The resort's gift shop was surprisingly large. About the size of the dining area in a bistro. Adorning the walls were various knickknacks, fancy curios, and other accessories one would expect to see. But the more high-end side of things contained the likes of capsules and a few pricey, high tech trinkets such as fancy cameras and phones.
The shop was surprisingly empty, though two customers could be seen zipping across the establishment, their eyes all but sparkling at the various goods. A young girl with shoulder length brown hair, and a blonde-haired woman, both of them giving off a similar air of sharpness.
"Hmmmm…I wonder if I can use that lens accessory?" thought the girl aloud.
"A two-tailed cat? Cute. I'm sure Marron will like it, but what to get for Krillin?"
Both shoppers would eventually wind up at the Capsule stand before hastily and simultaneously asking the worker on duty, "What's in this Capsule?"
The overwhelmed worker could only shrink beneath the sharp gazes of the materialistic women.
[Meanwhile]
Surrounded by a blanket of steam, Videl let out a loud moan as the hot air assaulted her weary figure.
"Feeling better?" asked Chi-Chi.
"I feel kind of sticky all over…" she paused pulling at her towel. "But I do feel a bit less sore."
"Just a bit? Well then, we should probably fix that." Chi-Chi quickly darted from the sauna leaving a confused Videl alone. Seconds later, Chi-Chi returned carrying a whole mass of towels. Quickly laying them down in layers on the benches, she motioned Videl over.
"What's this for?"
"Lay down already. This thing is hot and the towels are so you don't burn yourself," Chi-Chi ordered.
Slightly confused, Videl ultimately complied and lay on the towels, face first. "This is nice, but now what?"
"Now this." Positioning herself above the younger girl, Chi-Chi reached down before pressing her palms into the spunky fighter's spine. Her face flustered, Videl yelped in surprise before quickly easing down into a soft, pleasured moan. Chi-Chi would continue to rub her hands up and down Videl's back
"Now how does that feel?"
"Much better~!"
As Chi-Chi giggled, seemingly pleased with her response, Videl continued. "Thanks again for inviting me on this trip."
"It's no problem. Anyone could use a nice pick-me up after what you likely went through. I still can't believe you fought that burly guy again…let alone the fact that you won this time."
"Gee, thanks," Videl sarcastically droned.
"Sorry, that came out wrong. I really am glad for you, it's just that after how badly things turned out for you last time…."
"Yeah, I get it, but that's all in the past now. I'm not the same overly cocky girl chasing after her father's shadow I was a year ago. Now…"
"You're chasing after Gohan's shadow?" Chi-Chi snickered.
"Hey…!" Videl's spiel was prematurely quashed when Chi-Chi applied more force to her hands, hitting a sensitive spot across Videl's spine. "Mmmmph…!"
"You can thank us again later but save all the 'I'm getting stronger' talk for when you're with the guys. For now, just try to relax and let me finish up."
"Yes ma'am." Resting her head in her arms, Videl steadily fell calmer as Chi-Chi continued her massage. Though the solemn moment between the two would be abruptly halted when the door to the sauna opened.
"Oh! I didn't realize someone else was already here," came a soft-spoken female voice. While Chi-Chi turned to meet the figure directly, Videl on the other hand perked up, as the voice sounded somewhat familiar. Following Chi-Chi's gaze, the duo was met with a young girl, similar to Videl's age, though a bit older, with her hair covered by a towel.
"If you two want to be alone, then my sister and I…"
"Wait a sec…Kasumi!?"
"You know her?" asked Chi-Chi.
Peering through the steam, the eldest Tendo could finally make out the one who called out to her, gasping with a signature, "Oh my!"
"Hey sis, what's all the…!?" Darting into the sauna herself was yet another familiar girl with short, dark hair. "Videl!? Mrs. Chi-Chi!?"
"Akane!?" They exclaimed in unison.
Scrambling to her feet, Videl scurried to meet her old friend, the pair clasping hands together. "Of all places, I did NOT expect to run into you here!"
"I know! What are the odds, and even after I had to decline your invitation too."
"In the end, you two are together again," giggled Kasumi.
"Well…I must say, this isn't exactly the most expected place for us to meet again," Chi-Chi started. "But regardless, it is nice to see you again Akane."
"You too Mrs. Chi-Chi. This is my oldest sister Kasumi. Kasumi, this is Chi-Chi, Gohan's mother."
"It's nice to meet you," she greeted with a bow.
Chi-Chi approached the younger girls and returned Kasumi's greeting with glee in her eyes. "The pleasure's mine. You know, Videl has told me you're quite the sweetheart, and a good cook to boot. I didn't expect you to be this well-mannered."
"Oh…well…being the oldest gives a girl quite a bit of responsibility," she replied with a blush.
"I think I can relate, having two boys and a husband to watch over," Chi-Chi pulled Kasumi over to the bench, the pair continuing to chat while Akane and Videl just watched with intrigue.
"Well…looks like they're hitting it off."
"I'll say."
Taking their own seats away from the older pair, the two girls took the moment to catch up. "So, you call to invite me on a trip this weekend, I decline because I'm going on a trip this weekend, and we wind up at the same place."
"What are the odds!"
"Probably slimmer than the raffle Aunt Nodoka won to get this trip."
"Wait, you guys won this trip in a raffle?"
"Mmmhmm, and I'm guessing your father's paying for this trip?"
"No actually. The person paying for this little getaway was the third lady I told you about. I think she's still up in our room actually."
"That reminds me, what room are you guys in?"
"Four-three-nine-six I think. How about you girls?"
"I…can't remember actually, but it's on our cards. Hey Kasumi!" she called.
"Yes?"
"What was our room number again?"
"I believe it was 4396."
"Excuse me!?" Chi-Chi exclaimed.
Akane's expression sparked at the realization. "Wait, isn't that…!"
"The same number as…our room?" Videl finished.
Suddenly, the door to the sauna once again burst open, revealing Misty with a panicked look on her face. "Excellent, I found you all!"
"Ms. Misty? What's wrong?" asked Kasumi.
"Well…"
[Elsewhere, in the hotel lobby]
A tension filled standoff could be seen as Nodoka, her sword brandished stood before an annoyed looking Android 18, Bulma standing smugly behind her. Meanwhile, Nabiki had her camera fixated on the action unfolding, occasionally taking some EXTRA time pointing the lens at the blue-haired genius, a subtle twinkle in her eye.
'Best. Trip. Ever!'
[Back in the corridor]
Draped in robes, the group from the sauna dashed alongside Misty, rushing to the lobby. "How the heck do you guys accidently double-book two unrelated groups!?" snapped Videl.
"It was an honest mistake. When Ms. Bulma called to reserve your suite, she accidently picked the one that had already been reserved for the winners of a raffle our resort was involved in. Nobody bothered to dispute it because…"
"You didn't expect anyone to actually win it, is that it?" Misty's silence was all the confirmation Akane needed.
"You'd think a place as high-brow as this would be a bit more professional than this," Chi-Chi scolded.
"What's done is done. I promise we'll get the room situation straightened out, I just ask that you lot please break up the fight happening in the lobby!"
"How did the fight even start anyway?" asked Kasumi.
[Moments ago]
An irate Bulma and Nodoka both arrived at the front counter before a rather overwhelmed Sir Veese. "Ladies…is there a problem?"
"Why is she in my room!?" Bulma began.
"I think you'll find that that room was for us!" Nodoka argued back.
The pair began listing off grievances about their displeasure while Sir Veese tried desperately to calm them down.
"Look, I don't care much about how this happened, I just want her and whoever came with her out of our room!" Bulma demanded.
Her grip on her sword tightening, Nodoka rebutted, "I do believe that's…MY LINE! Ooop-!" In an effort to come off as more intimidating, Nodoka unsheathed her sword in a flash, though it ultimately slipped from her hands and went flying across the lobby.
Thankfully, it was halted from it's fatal flight by the firm hand of a sharp eyed blonde. "Now where the Hell did this come from?"
"Sorry, it slipped," Nodoka bowed apologetically.
Hardly acknowledging Nodoka's remorseful plea, an irritated looking Eighteen casually stated, "You know, it's not a good idea flash a sword at someone," before returning the blade to sender, the blade landing firmly in between a cautious but impressed Nodoka, and a shuddering Bulma. "Unless you know how to use it."
Eighteen approached the two feuding women, a menacing air surrounding her strut. Quickly taking up the her sword once again, Nodoka stood defiantly against the blonde cyborg as Bulma scurried behind her combative friend.
[Back in the lobby]
Neither party had budged an inch as they both seemed to be daring the other to make the first move. The one to break the stalemate was in fact Eighteen who taunted, "Well, are you going to actually use that thing or are you going to end this charade? Fair warning though, if you choose the former, the one who'll get hurt, is you."
There was visual irritation on Nodoka's face as she seemed less than convinced to step down. At least until Nabiki spoke up. "I don't quite get what's going on Aunt Nodoka, but I think you might wanna listen to her. I can't comment on whether blondie is bluffing or not, but I don't think you wanna take that chance since she's with…!"
"HOLD IT!"
All attention turned to the corridors where Videl and Akane, followed by the grown-ups, dashed into the lobby.
"Videl/Akane? Wait, you know her?"
"Ummmm…? Am I missing something?" asked a lost Bulma.
With the momentum briefly halted, Misty dashed to her boss and pulled him aside to explain the situation.
[A few moments later]
The large group of women were sprawled across the hotel lobby, all earlier confusion quelled. As everyone took the moment to fully collect themselves, Sir Veese apologized profusely for the massive error, but seemed rather relieved that most, if not everyone present seemed previously acquainted with each other. As a show of appeasement, he offered to upgrade them to a suite large enough to accommodate all 8 of them, which Bulma was more than willing to foot the bill for.
"Sincerest apologies for the mix-up, but everything has been taken care of. We hope you ladies enjoy your stay."
"Thank you," Bulma bowed. "Well, let's go girls."
[Moments later]
The girls finally arrived at their extra-large suite. Upon entering they were met with a large room easily double the size of the ones they had before. All the necessities were there as well as some extra flair such as a balcony: Perfect for the imminent sunset view. After finally getting all their stuff settled, Akane and Videl took the moment to properly introduce everyone who hadn't yet met each other.
"Okay, let's do this right this time. Chi-Chi and 18 have already met but, Bulma this is my friend Akane, her older sisters Nabiki and Kasumi, and her fiancé Ranma's mother Nodoka."
"The woman with the bun is Gohan's mother Chi-Chi and that's her friend 18 and…"
"Bulma," she introduced herself.
Taking the reigns, Nodoka stepped ahead of the sisters and bowed apologetically. "I'd like to apologize for earlier for earlier and thank you for help in resolving everything."
"Hey, don't worry about it, it wasn't even your fault," Bulma dismissed.
"Except for the part where you threw a sword at me," Eighteen interjected.
A blushing Nodoka shied away from Eighteen. "Sorry about that. I'm still working on my draw."
"Though…why do you have the sword anyway." Asked Chi-Chi.
'I've been wondering the same thing actually,' Videl internally added.
"Well…"
"Hey! Can we go to the springs now!?" Akane interjected.
'She doesn't want us to know, does she?' the Z-Women collectively thought.
"I'm with Akane. We've been darting around all day, and I think we all could use a nice soak," added Nabiki.
"Guess we're finishing intros in the water," Bulma shrugged. "Let's get going."
[]
"It may have taken a bit longer than expected but wouldn't you ladies say it was worth the wait?" asked a smarmy Bulma.
"Yeah~!" moaned a dazed Chi-Chi.
"Any bath I can take without fear of the old man is worth a little extra patience."
"Hmmm…I will say, it's been quite a while since I've taken an onsen trip with others," Nodoka added.
"Speaking of others, wonder what's taking the kids so long," said Chi-Chi.
"I'm sure they'll be out soon enough. In the meantime, I have a few questions I'd like to ask Nodoka."
"Yes?"
"Chi-Chi's told me about Akane a time or two, but what's Ranma like?"
[In the changing room]
Akane and the Tendo sisters could each be seen shedding themselves from their clothing. As they each got undressed, Kasumi spoke up. "Hey Videl?"
"Yeah?"
"The blue-haired woman is Bulma right? She wouldn't happen to be…?"
"The head of Capsule Corp, and the richest woman in the world!?" Interjected a star-eyed Nabiki.
"Yup, that's her."
SWACK!
"Ow!" Videl shrieked as Nabiki whapped her in the head. "What was that for!?"
"Not introducing us sooner!" Nabiki snapped. "I mean, I get that you're a wealthy gal too, but you're friends with THE richest, and most stylish woman on Earth and you DON'T let us get acquainted!? Damn you!"
"I take it you're a fan?"
"Real smooth there big sis," snarked Akane.
"Oh like you weren't the same way when we first met Videl."
"She's got you there Akane," the Z-Girl snickered. "Back to business, I sense you want something from her and want to use me as a go-between?"
"Nothing much, I just wanna chat with her alone for a bit. See what it's like to be a rich, gorgeous, heiress."
"And you couldn't ask me what that's like, why?"
"Bulma's richer and more beautiful than you."
Videl stood stone still, her fists trembling. "I'll give you that first part, but did you have to be so blunt about the second part?"
"Feeling a little inadequate?" Nabiki teasingly shifted.
"Of course not. I know Bulma's a pretty lady, but she's also way older than us…"
[]
TWINGE! 'What the hell was that!?'
"Are you okay Bulma?"
"Fine…just…a really irritating jolt in my spine."
[]
"…so why would I bother comparing myself to her?"
"Just saying, being the smallest cup size in the room would cause some girls to rage the hell out. Take Akane for example…" Nabiki clammed up as a dark threatening aura emanated from the two tomboys, causing a bead of sweat to drop from the middle sister's forehead.
"Too far?"
"Maybe just a little." Sighed Kasumi.
"Eheheh…"
Crashing filled the changing room as Akane and Videl darted after the smugly chuckling Nabiki. Leaving the younger girls to their own, Kasumi grabbed a towel before exiting to join the adults.
[Meanwhile]
"Hmph…the way you describe him, Ranma sounds like he's cut from the same cloth as our husbands," snarked Bulma.
"Oh really~?" grinned a beaming Nodoka
'He certainly has the disposition of a Saiyan,' Eighteen mentally added.
"Still, I feel that it might not have been such a good idea to let your husband take Ranma away for so long," chided Chi-Chi.
"I can agree that my husband has made quite a few unreasonable choices, but in the end, I think he's done a well enough job turning Ranma into the kind of son any woman could be proud of."
Eighteen snickered. "You talk about your son the same way Chi-Chi talks about Gohan."
The farming housewife blushed as Nodoka replied, "I can't say I blame her. Gohan seems like a really model young man. Studious, well mannered, and I hear he's also a martial artist. I'd love to see how he compares to Ranma one of these days."
The other women knowingly and collectively rolled their eyes, deciding not to rain on Nodoka's parade. Cutting off their conversation, the younger girls finally came from the dressing room.
"Sorry to keep you waiting," apologized Kasumi.
"Hope you weren't having too much fun without us," said Nabiki.
"Oh, just chatting about Mom stuff," Nodoka dismissed.
"What took you girls so long? Get in here already!" urged Bulma.
Following the buxom genius' orders, the girls each stepped in the water before sinking besides each other. "This really does feel amazing," commented Kasumi.
"I'll say~!" Moaned Videl. "I don't feel sore at all anymore."
"Sore? Wait, is it from your fight at the Fortuneteller's Place?"
"Oh yeah. Chi-Chi told me you had to fight that huge, burly guy from the Tournament again, and you actually won this time!" praised Bulma. "Though I'd like to know why you even had to fight him in the first place."
"It's…kind of a long story." Though some were already familiar with what happened, Akane and Videl told most everything that happened from when Videl first met Ryoga, to Videl's training with Cologne all the way up to the fight itself and the subsequent battle at Baba's palace. During the latter portion of the recap, Bulma couldn't help but get a bit nostalgic at the memory of watching Goku make child's play out of Baba's Warriors…except old Grandpa Gohan.
"Sounds like you girls have been through quite the journey together."
"I think it's mostly been Videl's journey though. I've pretty much just been a guide."
"Don't sell yourself short Akane. More than that, you've also been my ideal sparring partner, even more so than Gohan."
"Well…"
"Still, I think it was in poor taste for Baba to revive someone who put you through the wringer like that. Couldn't she have revived some lowly criminal that you're used to fighting!?" Chi-Chi groaned.
Videl shrugged. "Believe me, I was less than enthused to see that guy again, butI'm glad I got a chance to redeem myself. It was the perfect chance to see how much I improved from last time."
"Now that's the kind of spirit that'd fit right at home at the Anything-Goes School," Nodoka praised lovingly.
"This has been a fun round of story time, but can we not talk about fighting for five minutes?" droned Nabiki.
"Seconded." Added Eighteen.
The tomboy pair snickered. "They're right. I came here to recover from fighting." Videl laid against the rim of the bath and laid her head down. "And I intend to do just that."
"Sounds good to me," Akane similarly laid her head against the rim, seeming to drift in to a relaxed trance.
The others glanced at the pair, each of them sharing a similar thought. Said thought was vocalized by Bulma who whispered to the others, "I can see how those two are friends, they're so similar."
"It's almost uncanny," added Kasumi.
"I think it's nice Akane can have someone she truly gets along with. I hear she's none too fond of the other girls around town."
"Kinda hard to be civil when so many others are gunning for your man, wouldn't you say?" Nabiki whispered.
"I guess Videl feels a similar way. When we invited her on this trip, she asked if Akane could come along because she wanted a friend her own age with her."
"Really? Then we should probably leave them alone for now," suggested Kasumi.
"I guess, but I intend to finish that massage I started before we leave this tub. I want my future in-law to always be at her best."
"Hmmm~. A massage would be nice right now," groaned Bulma.
A sparkle shining in her eye, Nabiki exclaimed, "I can help with that!"
"Nabiki!?
Though a bit offput by the middle Tendo's enthusiasm, Bulma wasn't about to decline a relaxing rubdown. Turning herself over the rim of the spring, she lay her head down and let Nabiki place her hands on her shoulders, gently squeezing them before steadily applying more force. Though not as strong as her younger sister, the strength she used was just enough to satisfy the blue-haired heiress.
"You're pretty good at this."
"Thanks. I have steady hands since I work with cameras a lot."
"Think those steady hands could go a bit lower?"
"Of course."
Nodoka and Kasumi could only stare dumbfounded as Nabiki continued to run her hands along Bulma's spine. "Kasumi…"
"Well…Nabiki did admit to us she's quite the fan of Ms. Bulma, so why don't we just let her have this."
"Kyaa~!" Bulma squealed before snapping back to an apologetic Nabiki, her hands crossed over her chest. "Now just where do you think you're putting your hands missy?" she smirked.
"Never mind."
"Sorry…I couldn't help it. They're just so nice! You HAVE to tell me how you still look so amazing after so many years!"
Dropping her arms beneath her chest, Bulma flashed the young fangirl a wink before replying, "It's mostly au naturelle, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't take any effort at all."
"Please tell me your secret!"
"Why? You look pretty well built yourself…" Bulma waded around Nabiki, seemingly inspecting her. "…with plenty of time and room to grow." She added grasping onto her waist.
Nabiki let out a chuckle, as she and Bulma continued complimenting and examining each other. Deciding to follow the younger girl's example, Chi-Chi waded over to the relaxing Videl and gently but firmly pressed her hands onto her back. Startled by the sudden contact, Videl made no effort to deter her, surrendering to Chi-Chi's experienced touch. Opting to let the 'future in-laws' have their moment, Akane rejoined her 'potential' future in-law and oldest sister. Eighteen meanwhile had already dozed off, a comfortable grin on her face.
While a large group of eight sounds like it'd be quite the noisy bunch in stark contrast to the earlier fracas in the lobby, aside from the occasional splashing, only silence filled the air around the resort's famous hot springs.
[Elsewhere]
In a steamed outdoor bath, a trio of women could be heard moaning their satisfaction. "I say, it does these old bones good to rest in these warm waters."
"Shampoo hear spring help keep young girl energized."
"Reall, we can't thank you enough for getting us up this mountain," said the grateful elder.
Their companion, a cheerful woman with long flowing purple-hair (a darker shade than the younger Amazon's) giggled. "It's no trouble at all. It's the least I could do after you girls helped my food truck with your ramen. Today was a major profit, so I think it's only fair if you get to indulge in it a little."
A blush forming on her face, she shied away from the Amazon duo. "Besides, I owe it to you after that little…incident when we first met."
The trio was reminded of a scene where a similar looking woman with blonde hair held the young girl at gunpoint while Shampoo herself had her signature sword tip pressed right up against the blonde woman's neck.
"Quite alright. Though we aren't known for being fond of firearms, we Amazons do respect a gal who can hunker down and instill fear in one if she needs to." 'I'm still surprised that happened all from a simple sneeze. And I thought Jusenkyo curses were a headache.'
"This has been a nice night, but we must be going by morning."
"Sure thing. Thanks again for the ramen ingredients. I'm sure my regulars will love it."
The trio all giggled as the steam of the water concealed their forms beneath the moonlight.
[A/N: …I can explain…. Okay I can't, but I will say, I went into this chapter prepared to go degenerate mode (and I still might in the future) because, hot-springs chapter/episode, and 8…I'll shut up. Still, this ended up being a LOT more wholesome and genuine than I expected. Like I said at the top, since this is also a Ranma story, a Hot Springs trip was almost a requirement. Anyone with me on this? Yes? No? [hears guns cocking]. Right…but there was still some genuine progression here. Bulma makes her debut and gets introduced to the Ranma cast (though jury's out on whether or not she'll have a role later), the women of the Tendo household gets introduced to the Z-Ladies and…yeah that's about it, but don't tell me Videl didn't earn this trip! Next time, we dive straight into the REAL plot…but before that, I'm gonna shelve this AGAIN for a bit because HanVi Week 2021 is coming up, and I gotta get my stories out for that. I already have…most of my themes chosen (still debating a couple). If you want more info, checkout hanviweek2021 on Twitter. We have a new hostess, and a few new faces on the artist side. Also, check out my entries from last year. Also shelving because by the time the next Chapter comes out (unless I can write something in a week) I'll be another year older. Until next time. Also, cameos gonna cameo.]
P.S: I feel like I've been saying this a lot recently, but this is my longest chapter yet. Here's hoping I can keep outdoing myself.