Circle Sky
By: Gie (phowah@cs.com)
A Ranma 1/2 and Gargoyles Crossover
Saotome Ranma, Tendo Akane and their familiars are not mine. They are Takahashi Rumiko-sama's. They've just come over to my place for a bit...for a sleepover, yeah, that's the ticket.
Goliath and his familiars are the Big Mouse's (not Mousse) grotesques. Although, they have decided to perch on my roof for awhile.
Aiden Ferguson is Christine Morgan's little gargess, and has asked for permission to attend the sleepover. She said yes, but to make sure she actually got some sleep.
Any unfamiliar characters, such as Shiun, are mine. Sit down and get to know them, you just might find a new friend.
Timeline: Well, I guess you could say
it is after the manga is over with (i.e.. Saffron and the wedding)
in Ranma, but time has passed and they just graduated from school.
It's several years after Hunter's Moon in the Gargoyles line.
(Although there were no Chronicles) I will end up diverging from
the timeline some, but since this is my story, I have the right to, ne?
Alright, on with the show.
Circle Sky
Chapter Five: Postcards From The
Edge
A Week or So After Ranma and Akane Left
Home
In Nerima, the sun shone over the neighborhood with a smile. Kasumi was tending the flower garden out in front of the house. The gate's bell rang, letting her know someone has come visiting. Kasumi got up, dusted the ground off herself and went to go greet the visitor. "Hello, how can I help you?"
A man in a brown uniform stood outside the gate with a brown envelope in his hand. "Hello, miss. I have a special delivery for the Tendo Dojo. Am I at the right place?"
Kasumi put a hand up to her cheek and nodded. "Why, yes, this is the Tendo Dojo! Who is it for?"
The uniformed man just shrugged his shoulders. "It just says, 'Tendo Dojo.' Can you sign for it?"
"I suppose. Father isn't here right now. Where do you need my signature?"
"Just sign at the 'X.' ma'am."
"There you go, sir. Do you need anything else?"
"No, ma'am. Thank you, and have a good day."
"You're welcome. Thank you for the letter." Kasumi closed the gate and went inside to get a closer look at the letter.
When she was inside, she went into
the kitchen to make herself a cup of tea. "I wonder who this is from?"
She peered closer at the envelope. It was a brown, standard 8 1/2"
x 11" letter envelope, with a few colorful stamps in the upper right hand
corner. In the upper left was a mailing address. "New,
York, New York, USA? This must be from Akane and Ranma!
Oh my, I better wait until everyone arrives back to open it." She
placed the letter on the table and went outside to finish her weeding.
******
Ukyou was walking aimlessly around Nerima. 'I sure miss Ranchan. Things just aren't the same anymore. I wonder how he and Akane are doing in America.' She saw that she came inadvertently stopped in front of the Tendo Dojo. 'I suppose I could go in and see if they have gotten any news from them.' She opened the gate and walked in. She spotted Kasumi tending some bushes in the front yard.
"Hello, Kasumi. How are you doing?"
Kasumi looked up, startled at the voice. "Why, hello, Ukyou! I haven't seen you since Ranma and Akane left. I am doing fine. How are you doing?"
Ukyou smiled a little. "I'm okay, I guess. Business is fine, although I am thinking of moving back home. I was only here for Ranma, but now that he's gone, there's not much reason to stay in town."
Kasumi took off her gardening gloves and motioned her to come inside. "Why don't you stay a bit and we can have a little chat over some tea. It's so quiet in the house with both Ranma and Akane gone. Plus, Uncle and Auntie Saotome moved back to their house, so it's only me and Father. Well, Nabiki is here, too. But she has classes during the day and comes home late at night. Please say you'll stay."
"Okay, I guess I have been a little lonesome for conversation."
Kasumi smiled and led Ukyou into the kitchen. She went over to the stove and poured some tea in two cups. She brought them over to the table and handed one to Ukyou. She gave Kasumi a smile and took a sip.
"Thank you, Kasumi. I was wandering around town, thinking about Ranma. Have you heard from them, yet? It's a little early, I know, but I haven't received any mail from him or Akane. I thought you might have heard any news."
Kasumi brightened and pointed to the envelope on the table. "Actually, a nice young man just dropped off a letter earlier today. I haven't read it yet. I was going to wait until Father was home and we could gather Uncle and Auntie Saotome over here. The envelope is pretty thick, so I think they have a lot to say. You're welcome to stay and hear what they all have to say, Ukyou."
"I would love to stay, Kasumi. In thanks, how about I help prepare dinner tonight? I have a new okonomyaki recipe that I want you to try."
"That's a wonderful idea, Ukyou! As I was gardening, I was thinking of what I was going to make for supper. We haven't had okonomyaki in a long time. That would be very much appreciated. Why don't we get started now? Father should be home from his meeting soon, and then he can call Uncle and Auntie Saotome and invite them over."
Ukyou laughed. "I guess I'd better make a big batch, then. If Genma is eating, then there better be plenty."
The two cooks chuckled and went to
get cleaned up and start the evening's dinner.
*****
As they prepared dinner, the two ladies talked and chatted about everyday topics: the weather, the government, Kasumi's gardening. Time was flying by and soon Soun announced his arrival back home. Kasumi greeted him in the living room.
"Welcome back, Father. How was your meeting?"
"Fine, just fine Kasumi. We discussed the fair that the Council puts on every year."
"That's right. When is the fair this year?"
"It will be in a month. Are you going to enter the cooking contest, Kasumi? We discussed the prizes they are offering this year. They sound really nice."
"I usually let Akane enter the contest. But since she's not here, I guess I can represent the Dojo at the fair."
Soun started to well up with tears at the mention of his wayward daughter. "Oh, Kasumi! I miss Akane so much!"
Kasumi comforted her father before he could get too out of hand. "There, there, Father. Both her and Ranma are just fine. I do have some good news."
"And what would that be?" Soun dried his eyes on his sleeve. Ukyou came out of the kitchen to see what all the noise was about. "Hello, Ukyou. It's nice to see you. What are you doing here?"
She smiled. "I'm helping prepare supper. Kasumi and I were talking earlier and I wanted to share in the good news that she mentioned. So I offered to help prepare supper."
"What is the news, Kasumi?"
"I signed for a letter today. The return address is from New York, New York, USA."
"That's nice, Kasumi. Who is it from?"
Kasumi took in a breath and continued. "Father, who do you know that lives in New York? Who just moved there two weeks ago?"
Soun brightened. "Why, Akane and Ranma moved there. Is the letter from them?"
"I believe so, Father. Why don't you call Uncle and Auntie Saotome and invite them over for dinner? Then we can read the letter all at once. How does that sound?"
"That's a wonderful idea, Kasumi!" Soun was jumping around, joyous tears spilled off his cheeks. "I'll give them a call right away. Oh happy day! My little girl has written home to her family!"
Both Ukyou and Kasumi shook their heads at the dancing Soun and giggled together. They returned to the kitchen and continued to prepare dinner.
****
An hour later Genma and Nodoka Saotome arrived. Kasumi greeted them at the door.
"Hello Auntie, Uncle! It's nice to see you again."
"Thank you, Kasumi. I brought a dessert to share after dinner."
Kasumi looked at the dish in Nodoka's hands. "You shouldn't have, Auntie. Let's go put it into the kitchen. Uncle Saotome, Father is in the living room, setting up the shoji board. Why don't you join him and I'll bring out some tea for you in a bit?"
Genma nodded and went to find Soun. Kasumi and Nodoka went to join Ukyou in the kitchen. "Hello, Mrs. Saotome. How are you doing tonight?"
Nodoka was surprised to see her in the Dojo kitchen. "I'm doing fine, Ukyou. Please, call me Auntie. How are you doing? I haven't seen much of you since Ranma left."
She gave her a small, sad, smile. "I've been keeping busy with my restaurant, Auntie. I have been preparing to sell it and return home. There's not much that holds me here in Nerima anymore." 'Even though business has picked up because the Nekohanten had closed up and the Amazons returned home. This place holds too many unpleasant memories.' She sighed a bit to herself. "My father has offered me a position in a restaurant back home as head chef. I am planning on taking him up on it. It'll be good to see my family again."
Nodoka nodded. "That's nice, dear. I know you cared for my son. His departure has left a hole in many hearts."
Nabiki walked in and poked a finger into the topping of the dessert Nodoka was holding. "Well, at least there isn't a hole in the dojo roof anymore. Or the walls. Or the floor..." They all gave a small chuckle and started to carry out dinner. Kasumi called the fathers to the table and everyone dug in.
After the very delicious dinner, everyone was gathered in the living room, waiting to hear the news from across the world. Kasumi held the letter in her hands. "Who will read the letter?"
Nabiki shrugged. "Why don't you read it, big sister? It's not addressed to anyone in particular, is it? So it should be safe for an open reading."
Everyone nodded in agreement to her reply. Kasumi put her hand to her chest and smiled. "Okay, I will then. I have been waiting to hear from Akane and Ranma for so long now. I hope everything is okay."
Nodoka assured her. "I'm sure they would have called if anything was wrong, dear. Just open up the envelope and read what's inside. We all are anxious to know what's going on."
She nodded and slit the letter open.
Kasumi pulled out a stack of paper with Akane's neat script and a few photos.
She began:
'Dear Kasumi, Nabiki, Daddy, and Uncle
and Auntie Saotome:
Well, it's been a week since we arrived
in New York. You all will have to come and visit us sometime soon.
New York is a huge place; it's almost the size of Tokyo. They have
neighborhoods that have become cities, just the Nerima. There are
tons of sights to see, foods to try--we even saw a Broadway show!
It was up in the rafters, but still, it was really cool. It was called
'The Phantom of the Opera.' We almost went and saw one called 'Cats,'
but for some reason, Ranma didn't want to go see that one (ha ha).
I thought it was really good, but Ranma had to be 'nudged' every once in
a while to pay attention.'
Nabiki rolled her eyes and drawled. "Yeah, I wonder why. Can you imagine Ranma being in the same place as thirty people dressed up as cats? I can see him going into the Neko-ken in the middle of a song where they all started yowling and howling. Oh boy, talk about not being in the right place at the right time."
Ukyou nodded. "Poor Ranchan.
I can definitely see that happening. Good thing they went to go see
the other one. Although, I don't picture Ranma at a Broadway show,
period. Akane must have roped him into going."
'How is everyone doing back home?
Kasumi, have you talked with Dr. Tofu yet? Daddy, have you taken
in any students? I hope so. I still remember, when I was little,
that you always seemed the most content and happy when you were teaching
the Art to some students or to me. I hope you still do so, today.'
Kasumi blushed and everyone turned to her. "Kasumi? *Have* you talked with Dr. Tofu recently?
She blushed some more and nodded. "We have a date next Saturday."
Ukyou squealed and Nabiki smirked. "I told you, big sister."
Soun started to cry. "Another one of my daughters is dating! Ooh, I am going to be left alone in this big old dojo by myself." Genma nodded solemnly and patted his friend on the shoulder.
Kasumi soothed him. "I am not going anywhere, yet, Father. It's just a date. Besides, Nabiki is still here."
Nabiki squirmed a bit. "Yeah, Daddy. Don't forget about me. Have you decided to take in any students yet, Daddy? I can make up some posters and flyers and distribute them. For a small fee, of course.
Soun nodded and turned to his middle daughter. "I think that would be a good idea, Nabiki. I have given it a bit of thought and I seem to have afternoons open. I could take in a class or two. I do miss teaching the Art."
"That's wonderful, Father."
"Good idea, Tendo." Genma nodded. "I'll even come over and help you out with the classes. I have the afternoons free, myself."
"Wonderful, Saotome. I will appreciate the input."
Nabiki smirked again. "Now that
that's settled, continue reading, Kasumi. I want to hear more." She
nodded and continued.
'The past week has been filled with many
activities. We gotten pretty used to our new gargoyle bodies.
Shiun and Lexington (he's one of the other gargoyles that live at the castle.
I'll tell you more about him and his mate, Aiden, later.) have been giving
us flying lessons; how to control the wind currents, jumping the thermals,
quick turns and maneuvers and the like. Ranma caught on quickly to
all the lessons, like normal, and I haven't been doing that bad, myself.
Ranma's been challenging Brooklyn and Lexington, who by the way, is the
fastest in speed of all the gargoyles, to gliding races, and keeps up really
well. He's won a few of them. He hasn't added any ki-boosts
to his gliding yet, so who knows how fast he'll end up once he's figured
out to do so.'
Genma gloated, "That's my boy, Tendo. Always coming up with new techniques. I wonder how fast he really is, now. Or how strong. That new body probably gives him a great advantage over his opponents. Plus, with the training he's already acquired from me, he should be unbeatable, now. Oh, how I long to be there..."
Nodoka elbowed him. "Dearest,
Ranma seems like he's doing fine without you. Haven't you heard of
the student outgrowing the teacher? Kasumi, please continue."
'First, let me tell you about the rest of the gargoyles. Goliath is the leader of the clan. He's a huge purple gargoyle. And I really mean huge. Tall, wide, strong, burly, whatever you want to call it; he was aptly named. Then there is a human police officer, Elisa Maza. She's been with the clan since the night they woke up in NY. She was their first real human friend. She seems really nice, from when I had talked to her. She had asked us about being human and if we chose to be gargoyles. I told her we really didn't have a choice to be this way, but we've accepted it and are learning to live with it. It's all we can do, really. She seemed to understand. Goliath and her are really close. Sometimes I wonder if there is something going on between them, but if there is, they are really discreet about it.
Angela is his daughter; you met her already. Brooklyn, the red male from earlier, is her mate, and the clan's Second, or basically the second-in-command. Ranma and I have gotten to know them really well. Brooklyn and Ranma get along real well. There always goofing around with each other. Ranma has trained with Brooklyn a little bit and Angela and I have had long 'girl talks.' We are the closest to these two.
Broadway and Shiun, the ones you also
met, are mated together as well. Shiun is originally from Ishimura,
Japan. We have talked about the differences in living in the country
and the city. She's really nice, and when I talk to her it makes
me a little homesick. But that's okay. She gets the same way
when she talks to me. Broadway, by the way, is an excellent cook.
He makes the clan's meals and desserts and such. He's really sweet
and gentle, especially when he's around Shiun. She can get him so
flustered sometimes. It's really funny to watch them together.
Kasumi, you and he should get together and swap recipes. Once I get
the chance, I am going to ask him if for a lesson or twelve. Even
though I know I am not the one that has to cook for Ranma anymore, I still
want to learn so I can surprise him with a treat or something.'
Ukyou smiled. "Good luck, Broadway.
You're going to need it." Everyone else smiled and nodded in agreement.
"I hope that castle has fire and random damage destruction insurance."
'Lexington and Aiden are mated together
as well. They were left behind so they could patrol the city while
the others were gone. Lex and Aiden look quite a bit different than
we do. They are shorter in height, and instead of wings that sprout
out of the back, they have a 'web' that connects from their arms to their
legs, with an arm strut in the middle of the span. They remind me
of flying squirrels. Don't get me wrong, even though they are smaller,
they are super fast. Like I mentioned earlier, Lex is the fastest
gargoyle, gliding. His wings cut through the air like a razor.
He also is very streamlined. His type of gargoyle was made for speed,
and he definitely has taken advantage of it. He is also big into
computers and technology. He can go on for hours about all that stuff.
I usually tune him out after awhile. I don't mean to, but oh well.
Aiden used to be a human like us, in fact, she was a sorceress. An
incident involving her mother before she was born made her receptive to
magicks and the like. She turned herself in a gargoyle through
magic to be with Lex as his mate. Not that she didn't like being
human, she did; it's just easier for everything and everyone involved,
I guess. It will also help with the hatchling aspect, too (ha ha).
She just got finished with school, so she is with Lex all the time now.
She could switch back to human form every once in awhile, but she made
herself so she can't switch anymore.'
Kasumi looked up from the letter. "They certainly are living with some characters, aren't they? I hope they are getting along well with everyone. I think I'd like to get together with that Broadway and talk with him for a bit. Maybe I can get some good American style recipes. "
"It seems like they are, Kasumi.
Maybe you can exchange with Broadway some of your own." She nodded
thoughtfully and continued reading.
'Hudson is the oldest of the gargoyles in Manhattan. He has a thick Scottish accent (where they're originally from, remember?) and one of his eyes was injured in a battle a long time ago, so now he's blind in it. That doesn't stop him from getting into the middle of the fights, though. It's probably even helped him; him and that sword of his. He's really a sweet old fellow; he makes me think of what a grandfather would do and say.
Then, there's Bronx. Bronx is a
gargoyle beast, or 'doggoyle' if you prefer. He looks very intimidating
when you first meet him; once he gets to know you, however, he's just a
puppy dog. A huge puppy dog, all muscle, claws and teeth, mind you, but
a sweet friend. He's very loyal to the clan, especially Hudson.
You definitely don't want to upset Bronx, though. He can get vicious
in a fight. He's that size for a reason. Ranma has played fetch
with him a few times and they've roughhoused all over the place.'
Ukyou exclaimed, "Talk about
a guard dog. He sounds huge! He would make a good jogging partner
at night. Scare away all of the bad guys you came across in the path.
I wonder where you could get one?"
'Xanatos also lives at the castle, with his family. His wife's name is Fox. I don't think she was born with that name; I didn't ask her. She used to be a huge TV star--a show called 'The Pack.' I think I saw a subtitled version of it once. They have a son, Alexander, who's about three years old. He looks just like his father, except with Fox's red hair. He's also good buddies with the other gargoyles, especially Lex. I think there's some history there, when Alex was a little baby. He adorable, though. And smart! Very smart. He says and does things that I don't think a normal three year old can, let alone a five year old. Although, if you think of it, he is living in a castle, with gargoyles. Talk about a weird home life. And from snatches I've heard from the other gargoyles' conversations, Alex has some unique abilities himself. I haven't seen any of them, but I guess he's got some special magic abilities. They always mention something about pucks, or a puck, when they tell stories of Alex's exploits. I still haven't met or seen him/that Puck. I've sat and played with Alex once or twice. He is certainly an interesting little boy.
Mr. Burnett, or Owen as we call him, lives
at the castle, as well. I have gotten to know him well, or at least
I think I have. It always seems like there is always a secret or
three under the surface. Owen, though, basically runs the castle
and Xanatos Enterprises, Mr. Xanatos' company. Everything runs like
a smooth, well-oiled ship. So far, I don't think I've seen him sleep,
even though we are up all night. Hey Nabiki, did you know Mr. Xanatos
is a billionaire, probably a trillionaire? Heh, you're probably hitting
yourself on the head now, seeing that gigantic fortune slip through your
fingers. Don't worry, Nabiki, I put in a good word or three for you
with Mr. Xanatos. He might be looking for someone with your 'abilities'
later on down the road. You'll have to talk with him more in length,
yourself. I'm not your agent.'
Nabiki looked surprised. "A trillionaire. Xanatos...Wait a minute! I know I knew I had heard that name before. I was going to buy some stock in a company that was owned by Xanatos Enterprises." She hit her knee. "And he's married? Geez, all the good ones are taken."
Nodoka smiled at her. "Akane did mention that she talked to him about you a little bit. Maybe he will be looking for someone with your 'talents' further down the line. Won't that be an interesting job?"
She laughed a bit. "Akane was right. I never saw it coming. I don't know why I didn't make the connection right away. And here he was, Mr. Opportunity, right in front of me."
Ukyou gave Nabiki a little smile. "I knew who he was in China."
She turned to the gloating chef.
"And you didn't tell me?" Everyone laughed at the frustrated girl.
Nabiki mumbled something under her breath about resumes and motioned for
Kasumi to continue. Kasumi composed herself and read on.
'Yes, Uncle Saotome, Ranma has been keeping
up with his training, and so have I. We've been sparring together
and working and learning on how to incorporate our new appendages and the
act of gliding into our workouts. Aerial combat has taken on a whole
new form. As Ranma said earlier, 'Just think of the hang time!'
I figured out a way, very early on, to incorporate my tail. You'll
have to ask Ranma about that one. I still get a kick out of it!
He's also been sparring with Mr. Xanatos. Mr. Xanatos is a pretty
good martial artist, nowhere near Ranma's caliber, though; he showed
him right away who the better student of the Art was. Ranma was pretty
confident throughout the entire first match. Xanatos was too, until
Ranma stepped up the pace and stopped dodging everything. He might
be closer to me in skill level, but I have not sparred with him yet to
find out.'
Genma and Soun patted each other on the back, chests puffed out, smiles shot out like sunbeams. "Yep, that's my boy, all right. He does his father proud!"
"My little girl is improvising! Oh, how I have longed for the day to see her become a true martial artist. This is a glorious day for the two schools!"
"Just like their fathers, right, Tendo?"
"Indeed, Saotome. Oh my baby makes me so proud! Waah!"
"Okay, you two puffballs, let's give Ranma and Akane some credit, too." Nodoka scolded the two males. "You may have been instrumental in the beginning, but they have their own lives, now. They need to shape themselves for who they will become, not copy the original mold. You want to see them reach their potential, don't you?"
The two men sobered up with Nodoka's speech and nodded. "But we can take pride in what they become, can't we?"
"Of course, dear. Now, let's
have Kasumi continue reading, okay?"
'Ranma has been sparring with me, like
I said earlier. He actually makes an attempt to hit me! I am
learning tons, and later on have the scrapes and bruises to show for it.
Good thing the stone sleep cures all the injuries. Even then, sometimes,
after a really hard workout, the next evening I have a few aching muscles.
Not that bad, but they let me know they exist. I am just happy that
he's finally acknowledged me as a martial artist. He still really
hasn't gone full board, like he did when he would fight with Ryouga, but
I don't think I am ready for a full-blown Ranma. I had a taste of
that on the first day. I am just glad that he is making an effort.
He has promised me that he will teach me the Chestnut Fist when I work
my speed up to the right level, and he'll help me learn to access my ki
abilities better. I am really happy about that part.'
"Wow, it seems like Ranchan and Akane are getting along really well, with everyone and themselves," Ukyou mused.
"And it seems like there are an awful lot of couples there," Kasumi noted. "I bet that helps set the atmosphere for them. At least there are no rogue females for Ranma to get engaged to." Everyone gave Genma a glance.
"Don't look at me. I didn't know gargoyles existed. How could I engage the boy to one?"
"You mean, husband, if you had a chance to, you would?" Nodoka put her hand on her katana.
Genma saw her hand move to the infamous weapon, turned pale and shook his head vehemently. "Of course not, dear. I was just stating a fact. You know me better than that."
She kept her hand on the hilt, but
relaxed her posture. "I know, dear. That's why I had asked
the question."
'We have also talked about some things
concerning our relationship, and our engagement. Well, to tell you
the truth, we had spoken before the trip to Jusenkyo. I had asked
him about the other fiancees, and what he thought of each of us.
He told me what he thought of each of them (truthfully) and he told me
he liked me best! I was real happy to hear that one. Things
have progressed rather rapidly from that point on, and someone be prepared
to calm Daddy down when he reads this: Ranma has asked me to marry
him. Isn't that exciting? I know we were engaged already, but
this way it means more to us. We decided on the engagement on our
own, rather than it being forced down our throats. Sorry, Daddy,
Uncle Saotome; I meant no disrespect to your arrangement. We are
both very happy together; we do love each other very much, and are
committed to one another.'
Everyone looked at each other, speechless. They all turned to Soun, who had his eyes closed and after a bit, opened them. He was very calm and only one small tear leaked down the side of his face.
"Daddy? Are you okay? Did you hear what Kasumi read?"
"Yes, Nabiki. I did." Soun shuddered once, and burst into the loudest wail that he had ever made. "MY BABY IS GETTING MARRIED! WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!" The dam literally broke and the Niagara Falls of tears flowed forth.
"Oh my! Father, are you all right? Do you need a Kleenex?"
Nabiki rolled her eyes. "Now, *that's* the reaction I thought Daddy would have right away. So Ranma finally popped the question, hmmm? I was wondering when he was going to get the guts to. I'll be right back, I have to go check who won the pool. I'll make today the date, since I don't know when he actually proposed. Don't continue without me." She left the room, sloshed through the puddles made by her father and went upstairs to her room.
Nodoka looked stunned at the letter. "Finally. I knew he loved her, and she loved him. They just needed to be left alone and let nature take its course." She turned to Genma. "Aren't you happy for Ranma and Akane, dear?"
Genma was looking at a piece of paper. "What, dear? Sure, I'm happy for him. Darn, I'm a month off."
"What are you a month off on?"
Genma laughed rather uneasily to himself. "Ah, well...I guessed that next month Ranma would propose to Akane. I didn't win the pool."
Nodoka looked at her husband sternly. "You bet on your own son? That's not very proper, Genma. I'm disappointed in you."
Ukyou looked up from the piece of paper she held in her hand. "Well, Auntie, we all picked a date. Mine is for next year...I didn't think they would move so fast."
Kasumi looked apologetically at Nodoka. "Mine was for next month. I'm afraid I lost, too. When did you guess, Father?"
"In two months, Kasumi." The tears were still flowing--he couldn't stop them.
Nabiki came back with a big smirk on her face. "I thought it'd would be in a few weeks. The winner is," she looked around the room and handed an envelope to one of the occupants, "is Auntie Saotome. She guessed a week after they left."
Everyone, sans Nabiki, gaped at the winner. Nodoka blushed and tucked the winning envelope into her kimono. "Well, at least I was right." The amazed family members facefaulted.
After recovering from the surprise, Soun and Genma got down to business. "Well, now the schools are assured the union. We can rest in peace knowing the School for Anything Goes will continue on for generations to come."
"Quite so, Saotome." Soun's tears had receded to a trickle. "We must plan for the wedding of the century. But how will we do so if our children are in New York?"
"That is rather a large obstacle, Tendo. We'll have to ponder that for a bit."
After she recovered from her shock,
Kasumi announced that it was dessert time. She went into the kitchen
and brought out the dessert. Nodoka served and Kasumi brought out
some tea to go with it. While they ate, Kasumi started to read the
wayward family members' letter.
'Now, before you all start spouting off
about getting married and joining the schools, we have talked and have
figured this one out already. One of the reasons the four gargoyles
were in Japan was to visit Shiun's old clan in Ishimura. (I had no
clue that there was a clan of gargoyles in Japan. Who would've thought?)
She was gathering some things and presenting Broadway to her original clan
as her intended mate. The reason for this was because the younger
members of the clan: Brooklyn, Angela, Lex, Aiden, Broadway and Shiun,
had decided on having a mating ceremony. Basically, that is a wedding
ceremony, but instead of becoming husband and wife, they become mates.
Angela and Shiun approached us with the idea of joining them in the ceremony.
We thought about it for a while, and we'd decided that we are going to
join in with the three other couples and perform the mating ceremony to
become mated, as well. It's marriage, gargoyle style! This
letter is your invitation of the mating ceremony of one Saotome Ranma and
one Tendo Akane (hee hee). You are all invited! We don't know
what date it will be exactly, but we'll let you know well in advance, unless
something comes up, but I don't think anything will happen. Let's
hope not.'
Nabiki smirked at the two scheming fathers. "Well, that stopped your plans, cold, didn't it, Daddy? You have to remember that they are not human anymore. They are gargoyles. They will be doing everything the gargoyle way, not the human way. Although we can still move Akane to the Saotome family register, and create a marriage license, they are not human anymore. Who knows if they will want that, either."
Nodoka nodded. "She's right. It seems like they want to do everything the way gargoyles do. We must honor their wishes. They will not be leaving us out of the ceremony. They did invite us to New York to see it. Although, they don't know when it will happen. At least we can rest easy knowing our children are happy, right everyone?"
Genma and Soun bowed their heads in defeat. "At least we have that, right, Saotome?"
Genma sighed. "Right, Tendo."
Nabiki and Kasumi nodded their heads. "Of course, Auntie."
Ukyou looked sad. "Right, Auntie. I just didn't expect it to happen so soon. They didn't give me a big grieving period, that's all."
Nodoka gave Ukyou a quick glance, to
see if the broken-hearted girl would be okay. 'She seems like she'll
be fine. I just hope she can get over my son fast enough to get on
with her life. She deserves someone the loves her, and only her.
Maybe her going home is a good idea.' She gave Ukyou a pat on the
knee and a smile. She looked back at Kasumi. "Why don't you
continue reading, dear?" She nodded and continued.
'Something also happened that first night
we arrived at the castle. After a breakfast with tons of food, an
orientation of the castle and the history of the gargoyles, courtesy of
Hudson, and sparring with Ranma, the clan had a little get-together party
to officially welcome us to New York. Toasts were made and Goliath
made an announcement. He said they (the clan) had talked it over
and would like to invite us to join their clan. Can you believe it?
After only knowing us for a couple hours, they wanted to adopt us into
their ranks. We didn't believe them of course. But they assured
us they were telling the truth, and would be honored to accept us as members
of the clan. Ranma and I still couldn't believe it. After a
few minutes, me bawling and Ranma trying to calm me down, we went over
to Goliath and accepted his and the clan's offer for us to become members.
Both Ranma and I pledged to protect the city, its humans and the clan and
that was it. We are now officially members of Clan Wyvern.'
"Oh my. They really have become gargoyles, haven't they?" Kasumi got a little misty. "I guess that was the last step they needed to become full-fledged gargoyles. They have abandoned their humanity and their family."
Nodoka comforted her. "No, not really, Kasumi dear. This is what they wanted, remember? They wanted to learn how to be gargoyles, and the best praise they could receive would be to be asked to join a clan. Don't be sad for them, Kasumi. Be happy they are accepted by their own kind."
"I guess so, Auntie. But it seems like they are leaving us behind."
Nodoka hesitated. "Well, they are, Kasumi. They need to create their own lives. And being gargoyles, their lives will be drastically different from what they used to be. They've accepted that, and now, we need to accept that, too."
Kasumi nodded and wiped her tears with a handkerchief. "I feel silly for getting so emotional over this. I feel like Father."
Everyone laughed at Kasumi's attempt to lighten the situation, even Soun. He joined his daughter in the clean-up process. "I knew my daughters inherited something from me."
Kasumi sighed and picked up Akane's letter. "I guess I should continue."
Nodoka gently took the letter from
her hands. "Why don't I finish, Kasumi. It's almost done and
you should rest your voice." She nodded and sat back, dabbing at
her eyes. Nodoka continued.
'That does mean, though, that we will
be living in New York, permanently. We can still come to visit and
such, and you all are more than welcome to come visit us, but we decided
that this is for the best. We will be around members of our own kind
(We consider ourselves now gargoyles who used to be human.), and we really
don't belong in Nerima anymore (How will the public react to us?
Not very favorably. We can see that in the faces and the reactions
of the people of this city here already.). I hope you all can see
it our way and aren't too upset. We do know that we won't be able
to teach in the dojo. Who will take lessons from a gargoyle?
I'm sorry, Daddy, Uncle Saotome. That dream has become null and void.
Although, you can make more dreams. Angela came up with a good idea
earlier in the week. We can teach the gargoyles here martial arts.
They know basic fighting skills; they were raised as warriors. We
can expand on their knowledge. How's that for a dream?'
Both fathers sighed in defeat. Soun started to cry softly.
"And so there it is." Nabiki said dryly. "You know, they're right. Who will take lessons from them as gargoyles? The Dojo won't survive that way."
Nodoka sighed as well. "I knew
this would be coming. I had known that they wouldn't be able to continue
to inherit the dojo. It just wasn't going to be." She turned
toward the two males. "I'm sorry, Soun, Dear. But I also know
that this has crossed your mind. You can't expect them to do something
so out of their character. Teaching in a dojo does not fit in a gargoyle's
way of life. Especially in this day and age where everyone is scared
of what they don't understand." She turned bck to the letter.
'Also, I haven't discussed this at all
with Ranma, but there is still the idea of children, or hatchlings.
I really want to have children and I think he knows that. Angela
hasn't explained it to me very well, but gargoyles breed very differently
that humans. They create the children the same way, yes, but a gargoyle
doesn't have the ability to procreate twenty-four hours a day, seven days
a week, like a human. Even though they can perform the act itself
at any time. A ceremony, (yes, another one,) is performed and things
happen to make the males and females fertile. I don't know the details
about that or anything, so don't ask me to go more in-depth. Even
so, once the ceremony is performed, the female carries the eggs for several
months and when they are laid, the eggs have to incubate for ten years
before they hatch, anyway. The eggs will be kept safe in the rookery,
which we were shown on the first day's tour. It is a rather large
room in the 'basement' of the castle. There are spots for torches
and there are little niches in the floor where the eggs of the past have
rested. Hudson said there are normally between three and four dozen
eggs in a clutch; it all depends on how many females are involved in the
season. Although, with only four females, (Angela, Aiden, Shiun and
myself), we will be lucky to get a dozen. But don't worry about that
for awhile, it's probably not going to happen for a long time. Angela
mentioned some conditions that need to happen first. Not too long,
I hope.'
Nodoka stopped reading and got a glassy, faraway look to her face. "Grandchildren. I have always wanted grandchildren. Lots and lots to pamper and spoil. Now, I may get the chance. Albeit, they will be gargoyles and not born for many years, but just the thought of the little ones running around..." She sighed.
Nabiki interrupted her thoughts. "Auntie, I wouldn't get my hopes up too soon. Akane seems to say that there are many things that need to happen first. And then, once the eggs are laid, it will be another ten years." Nabiki thought for a minute and crossed her legs tight. "Can you imagine laying an egg or three? Ugh. I hope they come out different than a normal human baby. Otherwise that would be extremely painful." The other three females in the room shuddered at the thought.
Ukyou chuckled at a thought. "Can you imagine Ranma in the delivery room? He'd probably be on the floor because Akane knocked him out from the pain of delivery."
Nabiki smirked. "Or even Akane. She'd be puffing on the delivery table, pushing the eggs out, bawling Ranma out for causing her such pain. The halls would echo with 'Ranma No Baka!!'" Everyone got a big laugh out of that picture.
"Even so, it's nice to dream,"
Nodoka stated wistfully. She shook her head and continued to read.
'Well, I suppose I better get going.
We are going to go out on patrol for the first time tonight and I want
to be all ready and limbered up before we head out. We both really
miss you guys and Nerima. The pictures are of the clan and us together.
I've also included a picture of Ranma's proposal. Don't tell him,
he'll get embarrassed. By the way, Nabiki. For the betting
pool, he proposed that night we left. I said the next day.
Did I win? I've included the address and the phone number of the
castle, so now, you have no excuse for staying in touch! Pass this
along to Dr. Tofu and Ukyou if she's still around. Hope to hear from
all of you soon.
Love to you all,
Akane and Ranma.'
"Well, Auntie. I guess you didn't win after all."
She smiled. "I guess not, Nabiki. I'll hold onto the winnings for them and send it along with my reply. Kasumi, could I write down the phone number and address? I'd like a copy of my own."
She nodded. "Of course, Auntie. I'll go get some paper."
"Could I get a copy for my own, too, Kasumi? I'd appreciate it. I'd like to write or call Ranchan up and congratulate him."
"Of course, Ukyou. I'll make a second copy right away."
"Thank you, Kasumi." Ukyou started to gather the dessert dishes and teacups to take into the kitchen. Nodoka got up to help her.
Kasumi came back with two slips of paper and handed one to Nodoka and Ukyou. They nodded and put them away. "Just leave the dishes in the sink. I'll get them later."
Ukyou shook her head. "That's okay, Kasumi. There aren't that many. I can do them in a jiffy. It's my thanks for letting me hear Akane and Ranchan's letter."
Ukyou finished the dishes and came into the living room. "I must be leaving now. Thank you for dinner and letting me stay and listen to the letter. I might stop by some other time to just talk, is that okay, Kasumi?"
"Of course, Ukyou. You are always welcome."
"Even so, I'll stop by before I leave permanently."
"Make sure that you do." With that, Ukyou waved good bye to everyone and left for her home.
Nodoka looked at her husband and motioned for him. "It's time that we leave as well, Kasumi. Thank you for inviting us over for dinner and the letter. It calms my heart knowing that Ranma and Akane are doing well. Thank you again."
"Why don't you both stay the night? It is really no trouble, and I think Father misses having Uncle here all the time. You can take the guest room, or Akane's old room. It still has her bed set up. That way you won't have to sleep on the floor."
Nodoka smiled and nodded. She looked over at her husband and noticed that he and Soun had already started on a shoji game. "I believe Genma has decided for me, Kasumi. We'd be delighted to stay."
"Let me put some fresh sheets on Akane's bed and it will be all ready for you."
"I'll come help, Kasumi. That's no problem." She gave her a wink. "Now, tell me about your date with Dr. Tofu."
Nabiki looked up. "Oh? I've got to hear this! Wait for me."
The three women went upstairs to prepare
for the night, talking about the recent developments brought to them through
the mail.
And so ends another chapter of Circle Sky. Let me know what you think!