Ranma: The Tenth Hakkeshu or Ranma's Cousin Iori
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Disclaimer: I do not own Ranma 1/2. That is property of Rumiko Takahashi. I do not own The King of Fighters, that is property of SNK. I do however suggest you look up information on these two properties. You won't be disappointed.
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Note: This takes place well after the Ranma 1/2 manga and during the King of Fighters '98.
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Ranma: The Tenth Hakkeshu Chapter 27: Flying on Phoenix Wings
The fights have made it to China now. And, interestingly, A LOT of the fighters have left once the Black Noah docked. The Musk Dynasty Team left because Herb is still in pain from when Ranma went into the "Neko-Riot", so he's going back to Musk territory to be treated properly by the doctors of the Musk. (One of Dragon Blood is not easily healed by human medicines). The Three of the Seven Lucky Gods Martial Artists Team take their leave, having lost to the Fatal Fury Team; they now feel no more need to be there. But before leaving, Prince Kirin makes a vow to take down the one that defeated him, the fighter known to all as the "Lonely Wolf". And the Old Pervert Team, with Athena and Kensou's master Chin leading the way, bound off into areas of China to... Enjoy the 'finer' things in life... Basically sake and women's under garments...
Rugal has prepared for the tournament to be held in a part of China that Ranma had suggested to Chizuru. Mount Phoenix. It will be the first time that the outside world will see the fortress of Mount Phoenix. But to get there, they have to go through 'The Springs of Sorrow'; Jusenkyo.
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As most of the fighters make their way down the trail that goes through Jusenkyo, most appreciate the sight of all the springs and bamboo poles sticking out, while others stare in awe at the energies they feel radiating from the valley of cursed springs. Of course, a lot of the original springs are gone, having dried out from the incident that happened at the main spring in Jusendo. Ranma leaps forward into the valley springs, anxious to find out something.
Ranma (Calls out): Hello? Anyone here?
Leona: Ranma! Who are you looking for?
As soon as Leona asks that, a little Chinese girl appears from out of a shack. She is no more than 6-years old. She has her hair done in two buns on the top left and right sides of her head, and she wears violet peasant clothes.
Kasumi: Oh my. What a cute little girl.
Joe (Eyes sparkle, glomps onto Kasumi): KASUMI!!!
!
Mary (Her fist implanted in Joe's face): STOP HARASSING HER!
Ryoga (In arm casts and neck brace, thanks to the beating he got from Ranma awhile ago): AT LAST! I CAN BE CURED OF THE PIG!!!
Girl: You're pretty funny people.
Mai (Eyes sparkle upon seeing the little girl): SHE IS SO ADORABLE! (Mai bounds over to her). Hello little girl. My name is Mai Shiranui. What's yours?
Girl: My name is Plum. My daddy is the tour guide here.
Ranma (Walks up to Plum): Do you know where your father is?
Plum: My daddy went out to check on something. Probably because there are a lot of Amazons gathering around here recently
Cologne lets off a grin. Apparently her letter to the other elders of the Chinese Amazons had made it through to them.
Ranma: Okay. Do you know when he'll be back?
Plum (Shakes her head): Not exactly. Daddy said he'd try to be back before nightfall.
Ranma: Okay. Then I'm going to wait here for him.
Chizuru than rushes up to Ranma and starts throttling his throat.
Chizuru: WHAT DO YOU MEAN!?!? WE DON'T HAVE TIME TO WASTE HERE! SO GET UP AND CONTINUE MOVING!
Rugal (Sitting on a portable throne that Vice and Mature have to carry): Ease up on him Chizzy Baby. It's not like the fights haven't been going on track as they should have. We've been delayed numerous times.
Chizuru: ... "Chizzy Baby"? WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU IMPLYING!?!?
Rugal: Well, it seems to fit you.
Vice (Sweats as she hoists up Rugal on his throne): Can we put this down now?
Mature (Sweats as she hoists up Rugal on his throne as well): Yeah... THIS IS PRETTY DAMN HEAVY!
Rugal: Quiet you two. I will not tolerate any complaining from either of you.
Mature: BUT OUR ARMS ARE BREAKING!
Vice: YEAH FAT ASS! YOU'RE DAMN HEAVY!
Rugal (Surprised): Fat ass? HEY! I AM NOT FAT! I keep myself trimmed, muscular, and...
Vice and Mature throw off the throne they have on their shoulders, and Rugal falls on his face.
Rugal (Lying on ground): ... Ow...
Ranma (To Chizuru): Please Ms. Kagura. Can we stay here for a bit? I REALLY NEED to do something while I'm here.
Chizuru: ... FINE! We'll stay for a bit. But right after, we are getting back on the road. The tournament has been delayed by at least two weeks already!
Ranma: Thank you!
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Ranma sits by the springs, looking into one of them. He considers how it's amazing most of the springs came back. But... Has the one he needs come back as well? Leona walks over to Ranma and sits down next to him.
Leona (Sits next to Ranma): Hi Ranma.
Ranma: Hey Lechan.
Leona: Ranma, why are you having us wait here?
Ranma: Simple. Remember how I told you how I got my curse? (Leona nods her head). Well this is where I got cursed, and a possible cure may be here as well. I'm not going to lose that chance.
Leona (Looks into one of the springs): I don't like this place. I can hear them...
Ranma (Confused): Here what?
Leona (Points to the springs): Their cries. I hear those that drowned here crying, moaning out in pain. This place truly is sad. I can honestly say that I don't like being here.
Ranma: Sorry Lechan.
Leona (Puts her hand on Ranma's shoulder): I know you are. I understand that this is your chance to get a cure, but... Brr... This place gives me the creeps.
Ranma (Smiles slightly): We won't be here long. I hope you can handle waiting here in the meantime.
Leona: I'll try.
Ranma smiles and puts his arm around Leona. Leona smiles back at him and tilts her head back onto his shoulder. As this happens, a certain person watches with jealous eyes.
Akane (Fumes with anger while she thinks): That... That... ARGH!!! HOW DARE SHE STEAL MY FIANCEE!? When she's alone, I'll kick her ass, and take Ranma back. After all, once she's out of the picture, Ranma is sure to come back to me.
Shingo walks up to his brightly glowing girlfriend to talk to her.
Shingo (Apprehensive): Um... Akane-chan?
Akane (Angry, aura rises around her even higher than before): WHAT DO YOU WANT!?!?!
Shingo: AIIIIEEEEEE!!! THAT'S SCARY!!!
Akane is about to mallet Shingo, but she stops. She then smiles evilly to herself. She thought of a way to use her 'boyfriend' to her advantage.
Akane: Hey Shingo!
Shingo: Um... Yes?
Akane: You're trying to learn Magatama from my cousin Kyo, correct? I know how to get him to teach you the secret, and prove your worth to all the other fighters at the same time.
Shingo (Eyes sparkle): YOU DO!? HOW!?!? PLEASE TELL ME!
Akane (Smiles): Kyo said that he'll teach you the secrets, but he doesn't want you involved in the Blood Feud. If you can beat Ranma's cousin Iori Yagami, I'm sure he'll teach you.
Shingo (Confused): Um... Why would he want me to beat Iori? I don't want too face Iori in battle. HE'S SCARY!!!
Akane (Angry): Because... (Calms herself, smiles evilly). Because if he sees you can beat the one that keeps the Blood Feud alive, he won't have to worry about your safety, knowing you are one of the greatest fighters on earth, and he'll gladly teach you the secret of Magatama.
Shingo (Makes a pose): FOR YOU AKANE, I SHALL DEFEAT IORI!
Shingo marches off to find Iori while Akane thinks to himself.
Akane (Thinks): That idiot. Well Ranma, I'll get you back yet! Once Shingo beats your cousin, you'll be down one teammate and have to drop out of the tournament, unless you want to replace Shingo on MY team. After all, Shingo will also get beaten Iori and he won't be able to continue either. And that whore won't have anyone left for her team, and she'll drop out of the tournament. THIS IS SO PERFECT!!! I'LL HAVE YOU BACK YET RANMA! And when I do... I'LL MAKE YOU PAY FOR LEAVING ME IN THE FIRST PLACE YOU JERK!!!
How Akane can love and hate Ranma at the same time, we may never truly know...
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Shingo marches through the gathering of fighters at the springs and walks up directly behind Iori.
Shingo: IORI YAGAMI!
Iori turns away from the springs to look at an angry looking Shingo Yabuki.
Iori (Curious): This is a first... You're actually looking for me. Well, what do you want little boy?
Shingo: I CHALLENEGE YOU! IF I WIN, YOU LEAVE KUSANAGI-SEMPAI ALONE!!!
Iori (Lifts an eyebrow): You... Challenge me?
Iori stares at the seriousness Shingo treats the situation with. Iori covers his mouth with his right hand and hunches over a bit while looks down, trying to quiet a light chuckle that tries to escape from him. He than lifts his head a bit and the light chuckle turns to a small laugh as his hand moves to cover his eyes. He then stands up fully and his head held back, his right hand holding onto the right side of his head as roaring laughter springs forth from him.
Iori: Hm hm hm hm, heh heh heh heh, HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAA!!! OH GOD! THAT IS FUNNY!
Shingo (Furious): HEY! DON'T LAUGH AT ME! I AM SICK AND TIRED OF EVERYONE NOT TAKING ME SERIOUSLY, AND ALWAYS PICKING ON ME! AND I AM ESPECIALLY TIRED OF YOU MAKING FUN OF ME!!!
Iori (Looks directly at Shingo): ... Boo...
Shingo doesn't faint for once. He just stares at Iori with a look of determination.
Iori (Smiles lightly): I AM impressed. So... You ARE serious. What put you up to this? This isn't like you.
Shingo: DAMN YOU IORI! IORI, BECAUSE OF YOU, I'VE SEEN HELL! IORI PREPARE TO DIE!!!
Ryoga: HEY! THAT'S MY LINE!
Iori just stares the longest time at Shingo. A lot of other fighters gather around to see what's going on.
Andy: Is he...
Terry: I think he is...
Kim: The poor lad... He'll be killed.
Heavy D: I knew the boy was delusional, but I didn't think he was THIS BAD!
Chizuru: POOR, DELUSIONAL, LOVEABLE SHINGO! HE'S GOING TO DIE!
Chang (Scratches his beard): Heh... This should be fun to watch.
Choi: Shingo's gonna get a beat down!
Rugal: Not even I'm THAT STUPID!
Vice & Mature: WE'LL BE THE JUDGE OF THAT!!!
Rugal (Stares at Mature and Vice): I HATE YOU TWO!
Vice: Like I give a damn about what you think.
Mature: Really. Once this tournament is over, we are never going hear you again without a 200 ft. pole.
Shingo (Angry): WHAT IS IT WITH YOU PEOPLE!?!? DON'T ANY OF YOU HAVE FAITH IN MY ABILITIES!?
The whole valley of Jusenkyo goes quiet. Shingo face-faults.
Shingo (As he gets up): Anyone?
The wind picks up. A tumbleweed appears out of nowhere and passes by him.
Ranma (Stares at the tumbleweed): ... Where did THAT come from?
Leona: I didn't think the tumbleweed was indigenous to this region.
Shingo (Poses): Anyway... I SHALL BEAT IORI YAGAMI, PROVE MY WORTH, AND END THE KUSANAGI, AND YAGAMI CLAN BLOOD FEUD ALL AT ONCE!!!
Iori: ... Hm hm hm hm, heh heh heh heh, HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAA!!! THERE'S NO WAY IN HELL A PATHETIC DISCIPLE OF THAT PATHETIC KYO KUSANAGI CAN DEFEAT ME!
Kyo: WHAT!? SHINGO! I COMMAND YOU! DEFEAT IORI!
Shingo (Eyes sparkle): YES KUSANAGI-SEMPAI!!!
Iori (Stares at them): ... You're all idiots, aren't you?
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The Jusenkyo Tour Guide makes his way down the path. Dealing with those Amazons is a tiresome ordeal. They got word from one of the elders that an impertinent outsider male challenged them and their culture. And now they're all pissed, and ready to ransack the countryside. He's been going back and forth trying to calm them down. He knows that they won't be able to stay peaceful for long. But he feels it is his part to try to maintain peace in the area. As the Guide makes it to the bottom of the valley, his daughter comes running up to him.
Plum: DADDY!
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: What is it Plum?
Plum: There are a bunch of visitors here, and some of them are gonna start fighting.
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Face pales): WHAT!?
The Guide runs to the area where a bunch of fighters are watching Shingo staring at Iori, while Iori smirks.
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (While running towards them): AIYAH!!! NO FIGHT HERE! VERY BAD YOU FALL IN SPRING!!!
Ranma (Surprised): It's you! HEY! OVER HERE!
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Notices, and remembers Ranma): OH! Is you young sir? Sir, you know all these people?
Ranma: Uh... Yeah. Anyway, do you know if the Spring of Drowned Man happened to reappear?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: Hmm... Let me think...
Shingo (Interrupts): ANYWAY! I SHALL PROVE MY WORTH TO ALL OF YOU!!!
Iori: ... Are you brain dead Shingo? You can't beat me, and...
!
Shingo does his Unfinished Wicked Chew, and smashes Iori in the face with a right hook. Iori stands there, his anger rising.
Iori (Angry, aura starts to rise): You... Little... Arrogant...
Shingo (Surprised): Um... Shouldn't you have fallen down?
Iori: No... I don't fall with weak attacks like that... DEADLY FLOWER!!!
Iori moves forward and hits Shingo with an upward punch, than another upward punch with his other fist, which sends Shingo flying, but Iori jumps into the air, clasping his hands together and smashing them down into Shingo. Shingo barely avoids landing into one of the springs.
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Cries, screams in horror): PLEASE SIRS! DON'T FIGHT! YOU FALL IN SPRING HERE AND YOU BE CURSED! THERE ARE NOW BARELY EIGHTY SPRINGS, AND THE MAJORITY HAVE CURSE! YOU FALL IN, YOU BE CURSED!!!
Iori (Stops pummeling Shingo): What?
Ranma: BELIEVE WHAT HE SAYS IORI! THIS IS WHERE I GOT MY CURSE!
Iori stop. He remembers Ranma's female side when he said "curse". Iori looks around at all the springs. He feels extremely lucky he hadn't touched any of their waters. Iori grabs Shingo by his collar and carries him out of the general area with all the springs.
Iori (Throws Shingo to ground): You're lucky Shingo. If I had thrown you the wrong way, you'd have been cursed.
Shingo: Cursed?
Ryoga (Angry with Shingo's stupidity): YEAH IDIOT! LIKE ME! ....
Ryoga then freezes when he realizes what he just said. He looks around. All the other fighters are staring at him, wondering what he meant. Ryoga wishes he kept his mouth shut.
Ranma: Yes Shingo. A curse that turns you into something else with a splash of cold water, and back to your real form with hot water... But only until the next time you're hit by cold water.
Shingo (Eyes widen): Really? Does that happen to Ryoga?
Ryoga: NO! I was mistaken... (All fighters continue to stare at him). ARGH!!! IT'S ALL RANMA'S FAULT!!!
Ranma: ... There he goes blaming me again... Leona, if you would do the honors.
Leona (Smiles, winks, and gives Ranma a thumbs up): With pleasure!
Leona concentrates her energies around Ryoga. The moisture in the air around him turns cold, and he turns into a familiar black pig. The fighters stare at the black pig and Akane's jaw drops.
Akane (Horrified): P... P... P... P-CHAN!?!?!?
P-Chan: Bwee?
Akane looks at P-Chan and scenes flash through her mind. All the times she'd see Ryoga show up around the same time P-Chan came back home and visa versa. And how the only time she's seen Ryoga use water was when he had that water-proof soap Ranma wanted. AND THE SIMPLE FACT THEY BOTH WEAR THE SAME DAMN BANDANA! Finally, after so long... It sinks into Akane's mind that Ryoga and P-Chan are one and the same.
Akane (Furious, battle aura rises): You... YOU STUPID PIG!!! YOU SLEPT WITH ME AS A PIG YOU LECH!!!
Everyone just stares at Akane when she says that. All feel like throwing up.
Mai: Slept with a pig?
Ryo: Oh Jesus...
Yamazaki: EH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEEEEEEHHHH!!!
Yuri: This is DISGUSTING! I'M GONNA THROW UP!
Takuma: The boy has no honor.
Soun: WAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!! MY DAUGHTER'S BEEN SLEEPING WITH A PIG!!! WWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
Saishu (Rubs his eyes): Kami-sama...
Kasumi: Well, it was OBVIOUS 'sister'! (Says that title for Akane with a hint of venom to her voice). I am truly surprised you didn't figure it out sooner.
Akane can't take this anymore. All these people staring at her, thinking she's a pervert. She does the first thing to come to mind. Punish those that did this to her
Akane (Pulls out her mallet): RYOGA YOU PERVERT!!!
Akane smashes P-Chan with her mallet as if he were a golf ball, sending the little pig far into the East.
Akane: THAT'LL TEACH HIM! (Looks at Shingo) AND YOU!!!
Shingo: Me?
Akane (Angrier than before): YEAH! YOU! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU LOST TO THAT WEAKLING YAGAMI! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'RE SO DAMN WEAK!!! IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT THIS HAPPENED!!! SHINGO YOU IDIOT!!!
Akane mallets poor Shingo with an upward strike. Shingo flies off to the west, and smashes right into the Black Noah, making a huge indentation in its side.
Rugal (Chill goes up his spine): Brr... I get the feeling I'm gonna be paying for more damages to the Black Noah again...
But Akane still isn't satisfied. She hasn't caused enough pain to others yet. Her mind desperately searches for a target for her anger. An evil smile appears on her face as she chooses her victim. She charges her ki into the mallet to produce a stronger blow than ever before.
Akane (Swings her mallet like a baseball bat): IORI YOU JERK!!!
Iori is shocked that Akane has the gall to even blame him. But that shock is easily replaced by pain as the ki-enhanced swig connects with Iori. Iori isn't as lucky as Shingo and Ryoga. He goes flying directly towards the cursed springs, as everyone screams and stares at the sight in wide-eyed horror. Time slows down. Iori knows only one thing for sure. He's screwed. Iori closes his eyes and waits for the inevitable as he feels the touch of water.
!
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Iori feels he's underwater. He feels his body contort slightly, but the structure doesn't seem to really change to him. If anything he feels stronger. He opens his eyes while underwater. He looks at his hands. Still human. He feels lucky that he probably was thrown into the 'Spring of Drowned Man'. Iori makes his way to the surface of the spring, prepared to kick Akane's ass for doing this to him.
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On the surface, Akane watches with a satisfied grin. She knocked the jerk into one of the springs. Now he'll be cursed for the rest of his life.
Akane: THAT'LL TEACH HIM TO MESS WITH ME!
The waters in the spring bubble as a figure rises to the surface. The water's surface breaks and out jumps Iori Yagami... A VERY PISSED OFF Iori Yagami.
Iori (Screams in all out rage): YOU LITTLE BITCH!!!
Iori charges at Akane. Everyone stares at Iori in wide-eyed awe and shock. Iori grabs Akane by her face, smashing her into the ground over and over again.
Iori: LITTLE BITCH! YOU ARE OF KUSANAGI BLOOD, AND I AM OF YAGAMI! THERE IS THE BLOOD FEUD! ANY ACT OF COWARDICE SHALL BE DEALT WITH IN KIND! Or, as I like to put it... WHAT'S GOOD FOR ME IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU!
Iori finishes smashing Akane's head into the ground. He then holds Akane high, and throws her towards the cursed springs. She lands in one of them with a very loud splash. Iori feels VERY satisfied. He looks around, and everyone stares at him in shock.
Vice (Wide-eyed): Iori-sama...
Iori: What? What are you all staring at? I GAVE THE BITCH WHAT SHE DESERVED!
Ranma (Apprehensive): Iori... Your back... Look at it.
Iori looks at his back. What he sees actually scares him. The back of his shirt and jacket are torn open and he has wings. Violet tinted white bird wings.
Iori (Eyes are wide): What the f*ck?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: Tsk tsk... Too bad... You thrown into the 'Spring of Drowned Male Phoenix Warrior'.
Iori: I was thrown into what?
Ranma: Spring of Drowned What?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: You thrown into 'Spring of Drowned Male Phoenix Warrior'. There very tragic legend of a soldier of the Phoenix tribe of Mount Phoenix that drown in that spring 186 years ago. Now, whoever fall into that spring, take the body of one of the Phoenix bloodline.
Iori collapses to his knees and mutters to himself.
Iori: Phoenix... I'm a Phoenix... (A cruel smile appears on his lips). Hm hm hm hm... I'm a Phoenix... Heh heh heh heh... I'M A GOD DAMN PHOENIX! HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAA!!!
Iori's laughter of angst echoes throughout the entire valley, sending chills up the spine of everyone. Even the strongest and most bold of warriors tremble in fear from this laughter. Iori then gets up and walks to the Jusenkyo tour guide.
Iori: You have any hot water?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: YES SIR!
The Guide runs into his hut to get a teakettle. Iori turns to Leona.
Iori: Leona, of you would be so kind.
Leona: I thought that's why you're getting the hot water from...
Iori (Interrupts): Just do it.
Leona complies with Iori's request/demand and she heats up the moisture in the air around him. His wings shrink into his back, leaving the torn taters of his shirt and jacket in that area.
Iori: ... DAMN... That was my favorite jacket too...
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (With tea kettle): Here Sir! I got hot water for... Hey... You back to normal... How you do that?
Iori: Hot water. Now tell me. Is there a 'Spring of Drowned Man'?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Shakes head): Sorry Sir. That spring hasn't reappeared.
Ranma curses silently to himself. Not for his own sake of finding a cure, but for his cousin's.
Iori: So... I'm stuck with this curse until a new spring reappears?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: No Sir. 'Spring of Drowned Man' no work. Curses just mix.
Iori (Scoffs): Figures... Well... (Smiles evilly). Let's see how Akane is faring...
The fighter's eyes widen when they remember Iori did throw her into a spring in retaliation to what she did to him. They look over to the spring and see... A mangy looking black furred female dog drags itself out.
Dog: Rorwf...
Iori (Smiles): 'Spring of Drowned Dog'?
Jusenkyo Guide: Yes... That 'Spring of Drowned Dog'.
Iori: So she can now turn into a female dog now... It's real fitting for the 'bitch'.
Soun: WAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!! MY BABY GIRL IS A MONGREL NOW!!! WAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
The Guide takes the teakettle over to the dog and pours hot water on it. The dog indeed transforms back into Akane. She is humiliated beyond belief now.
Akane (Grits her teeth while she thinks): That... That... BASTARD! I'LL GET HIM FOR THIS!!!
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Night falls. Most of them set up camp around the Jusenkyo Valley. Most are in pup tents trying to sleep. Iori just sits outside in a lotus position, staring at the cursed waters.
Iori: Jusenkyo... You've given me your 'blessing'... Is this bad or good?
Iori stares at the springs waiting for an answer. Getting none, he goes to get up. He sees a figure walk towards him. It's Ranma.
Ranma: Hey Iori.
Iori: Hi Ranma.
Ranma: How're you holding up? I know having a curse is no fun.
Iori (Smirks): Indeed... 'Sis'...
Ranma (Frowns): Well... At least you're still a guy.
Iori (Stares at Ranma for a bit): Interesting... You aren't upset with the 'sibling' remark.
Ranma: I figure you don't need any more harassment today.
Iori (Nods his head): Thanks.
The two stare out at the waters. Thinking of how the waters changed their lives.
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Akane sits in her tent alone. She is so frustrated. She is sad, angry, and fearful at the same time. She is a mess of emotions basically. With Ranma she loves and hates him. With Iori she hates, yet fears him. There's only one person she's sure how she feels about.
Akane (Grits her teeth): Leona... You stole my Ranma, and this is your entire fault got cursed too. You had to make a fool of me by revealing that damn Ryoga's curse. Now, I'll carry this curse Iori gave me for the rest of my life. I SWEAR I SHALL HAVE VENGEANCE!!!
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In another part of the world, Goenitz sits in the throne room of Rugal's old base in the middle of the Sahara Desert. He smiles a malicious grin as he clutches a set of beads in his left hand.
Goenitz: The Yasakani Beads... The first 'Sacred Treasure of the Shingi Trioca' is mine. The first nail in the coffin of humanity has been pounded in now. Once I get all three treasures, and the Tenth Hakkeshu, the human race shall be dead and buried. And I have Nabiki Tendo to thank for this. She got me the locations...
Goenitz looks at the paper with the locations of the other two treasures. When Nabiki is motivated, she is a very diligent worker, and she found him the locations rather quickly.
Goenitz: The Yata Mirror... Is in the Yata Shrine... Heh... Figures... The Kaguras are still confident no one can take it from them... The Kusanagi Katana... (Eyes widen). It's with Nodoka Yagami!? (Smiles). Hmm... This is getting interesting indeed... Eh heh heh...
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End Chapter 27
Next Time: The fighters make it to Mount Phoenix. Only to get the surprise of their lives, and to find out a bit more of the truth of Ranma's powers.
Send your questions and comments to either RedPriest17@aol.com or Ryutsurugi@yahoo.com
This is RedPriest17, signing off.
Note: Flames will be read and than used to fuel the Orochi fire.
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Disclaimer: I do not own Ranma 1/2. That is property of Rumiko Takahashi. I do not own The King of Fighters, that is property of SNK. I do however suggest you look up information on these two properties. You won't be disappointed.
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Note: This takes place well after the Ranma 1/2 manga and during the King of Fighters '98.
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Ranma: The Tenth Hakkeshu Chapter 27: Flying on Phoenix Wings
The fights have made it to China now. And, interestingly, A LOT of the fighters have left once the Black Noah docked. The Musk Dynasty Team left because Herb is still in pain from when Ranma went into the "Neko-Riot", so he's going back to Musk territory to be treated properly by the doctors of the Musk. (One of Dragon Blood is not easily healed by human medicines). The Three of the Seven Lucky Gods Martial Artists Team take their leave, having lost to the Fatal Fury Team; they now feel no more need to be there. But before leaving, Prince Kirin makes a vow to take down the one that defeated him, the fighter known to all as the "Lonely Wolf". And the Old Pervert Team, with Athena and Kensou's master Chin leading the way, bound off into areas of China to... Enjoy the 'finer' things in life... Basically sake and women's under garments...
Rugal has prepared for the tournament to be held in a part of China that Ranma had suggested to Chizuru. Mount Phoenix. It will be the first time that the outside world will see the fortress of Mount Phoenix. But to get there, they have to go through 'The Springs of Sorrow'; Jusenkyo.
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As most of the fighters make their way down the trail that goes through Jusenkyo, most appreciate the sight of all the springs and bamboo poles sticking out, while others stare in awe at the energies they feel radiating from the valley of cursed springs. Of course, a lot of the original springs are gone, having dried out from the incident that happened at the main spring in Jusendo. Ranma leaps forward into the valley springs, anxious to find out something.
Ranma (Calls out): Hello? Anyone here?
Leona: Ranma! Who are you looking for?
As soon as Leona asks that, a little Chinese girl appears from out of a shack. She is no more than 6-years old. She has her hair done in two buns on the top left and right sides of her head, and she wears violet peasant clothes.
Kasumi: Oh my. What a cute little girl.
Joe (Eyes sparkle, glomps onto Kasumi): KASUMI!!!
!
Mary (Her fist implanted in Joe's face): STOP HARASSING HER!
Ryoga (In arm casts and neck brace, thanks to the beating he got from Ranma awhile ago): AT LAST! I CAN BE CURED OF THE PIG!!!
Girl: You're pretty funny people.
Mai (Eyes sparkle upon seeing the little girl): SHE IS SO ADORABLE! (Mai bounds over to her). Hello little girl. My name is Mai Shiranui. What's yours?
Girl: My name is Plum. My daddy is the tour guide here.
Ranma (Walks up to Plum): Do you know where your father is?
Plum: My daddy went out to check on something. Probably because there are a lot of Amazons gathering around here recently
Cologne lets off a grin. Apparently her letter to the other elders of the Chinese Amazons had made it through to them.
Ranma: Okay. Do you know when he'll be back?
Plum (Shakes her head): Not exactly. Daddy said he'd try to be back before nightfall.
Ranma: Okay. Then I'm going to wait here for him.
Chizuru than rushes up to Ranma and starts throttling his throat.
Chizuru: WHAT DO YOU MEAN!?!? WE DON'T HAVE TIME TO WASTE HERE! SO GET UP AND CONTINUE MOVING!
Rugal (Sitting on a portable throne that Vice and Mature have to carry): Ease up on him Chizzy Baby. It's not like the fights haven't been going on track as they should have. We've been delayed numerous times.
Chizuru: ... "Chizzy Baby"? WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU IMPLYING!?!?
Rugal: Well, it seems to fit you.
Vice (Sweats as she hoists up Rugal on his throne): Can we put this down now?
Mature (Sweats as she hoists up Rugal on his throne as well): Yeah... THIS IS PRETTY DAMN HEAVY!
Rugal: Quiet you two. I will not tolerate any complaining from either of you.
Mature: BUT OUR ARMS ARE BREAKING!
Vice: YEAH FAT ASS! YOU'RE DAMN HEAVY!
Rugal (Surprised): Fat ass? HEY! I AM NOT FAT! I keep myself trimmed, muscular, and...
Vice and Mature throw off the throne they have on their shoulders, and Rugal falls on his face.
Rugal (Lying on ground): ... Ow...
Ranma (To Chizuru): Please Ms. Kagura. Can we stay here for a bit? I REALLY NEED to do something while I'm here.
Chizuru: ... FINE! We'll stay for a bit. But right after, we are getting back on the road. The tournament has been delayed by at least two weeks already!
Ranma: Thank you!
(------)
Ranma sits by the springs, looking into one of them. He considers how it's amazing most of the springs came back. But... Has the one he needs come back as well? Leona walks over to Ranma and sits down next to him.
Leona (Sits next to Ranma): Hi Ranma.
Ranma: Hey Lechan.
Leona: Ranma, why are you having us wait here?
Ranma: Simple. Remember how I told you how I got my curse? (Leona nods her head). Well this is where I got cursed, and a possible cure may be here as well. I'm not going to lose that chance.
Leona (Looks into one of the springs): I don't like this place. I can hear them...
Ranma (Confused): Here what?
Leona (Points to the springs): Their cries. I hear those that drowned here crying, moaning out in pain. This place truly is sad. I can honestly say that I don't like being here.
Ranma: Sorry Lechan.
Leona (Puts her hand on Ranma's shoulder): I know you are. I understand that this is your chance to get a cure, but... Brr... This place gives me the creeps.
Ranma (Smiles slightly): We won't be here long. I hope you can handle waiting here in the meantime.
Leona: I'll try.
Ranma smiles and puts his arm around Leona. Leona smiles back at him and tilts her head back onto his shoulder. As this happens, a certain person watches with jealous eyes.
Akane (Fumes with anger while she thinks): That... That... ARGH!!! HOW DARE SHE STEAL MY FIANCEE!? When she's alone, I'll kick her ass, and take Ranma back. After all, once she's out of the picture, Ranma is sure to come back to me.
Shingo walks up to his brightly glowing girlfriend to talk to her.
Shingo (Apprehensive): Um... Akane-chan?
Akane (Angry, aura rises around her even higher than before): WHAT DO YOU WANT!?!?!
Shingo: AIIIIEEEEEE!!! THAT'S SCARY!!!
Akane is about to mallet Shingo, but she stops. She then smiles evilly to herself. She thought of a way to use her 'boyfriend' to her advantage.
Akane: Hey Shingo!
Shingo: Um... Yes?
Akane: You're trying to learn Magatama from my cousin Kyo, correct? I know how to get him to teach you the secret, and prove your worth to all the other fighters at the same time.
Shingo (Eyes sparkle): YOU DO!? HOW!?!? PLEASE TELL ME!
Akane (Smiles): Kyo said that he'll teach you the secrets, but he doesn't want you involved in the Blood Feud. If you can beat Ranma's cousin Iori Yagami, I'm sure he'll teach you.
Shingo (Confused): Um... Why would he want me to beat Iori? I don't want too face Iori in battle. HE'S SCARY!!!
Akane (Angry): Because... (Calms herself, smiles evilly). Because if he sees you can beat the one that keeps the Blood Feud alive, he won't have to worry about your safety, knowing you are one of the greatest fighters on earth, and he'll gladly teach you the secret of Magatama.
Shingo (Makes a pose): FOR YOU AKANE, I SHALL DEFEAT IORI!
Shingo marches off to find Iori while Akane thinks to himself.
Akane (Thinks): That idiot. Well Ranma, I'll get you back yet! Once Shingo beats your cousin, you'll be down one teammate and have to drop out of the tournament, unless you want to replace Shingo on MY team. After all, Shingo will also get beaten Iori and he won't be able to continue either. And that whore won't have anyone left for her team, and she'll drop out of the tournament. THIS IS SO PERFECT!!! I'LL HAVE YOU BACK YET RANMA! And when I do... I'LL MAKE YOU PAY FOR LEAVING ME IN THE FIRST PLACE YOU JERK!!!
How Akane can love and hate Ranma at the same time, we may never truly know...
(------)
Shingo marches through the gathering of fighters at the springs and walks up directly behind Iori.
Shingo: IORI YAGAMI!
Iori turns away from the springs to look at an angry looking Shingo Yabuki.
Iori (Curious): This is a first... You're actually looking for me. Well, what do you want little boy?
Shingo: I CHALLENEGE YOU! IF I WIN, YOU LEAVE KUSANAGI-SEMPAI ALONE!!!
Iori (Lifts an eyebrow): You... Challenge me?
Iori stares at the seriousness Shingo treats the situation with. Iori covers his mouth with his right hand and hunches over a bit while looks down, trying to quiet a light chuckle that tries to escape from him. He than lifts his head a bit and the light chuckle turns to a small laugh as his hand moves to cover his eyes. He then stands up fully and his head held back, his right hand holding onto the right side of his head as roaring laughter springs forth from him.
Iori: Hm hm hm hm, heh heh heh heh, HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAA!!! OH GOD! THAT IS FUNNY!
Shingo (Furious): HEY! DON'T LAUGH AT ME! I AM SICK AND TIRED OF EVERYONE NOT TAKING ME SERIOUSLY, AND ALWAYS PICKING ON ME! AND I AM ESPECIALLY TIRED OF YOU MAKING FUN OF ME!!!
Iori (Looks directly at Shingo): ... Boo...
Shingo doesn't faint for once. He just stares at Iori with a look of determination.
Iori (Smiles lightly): I AM impressed. So... You ARE serious. What put you up to this? This isn't like you.
Shingo: DAMN YOU IORI! IORI, BECAUSE OF YOU, I'VE SEEN HELL! IORI PREPARE TO DIE!!!
Ryoga: HEY! THAT'S MY LINE!
Iori just stares the longest time at Shingo. A lot of other fighters gather around to see what's going on.
Andy: Is he...
Terry: I think he is...
Kim: The poor lad... He'll be killed.
Heavy D: I knew the boy was delusional, but I didn't think he was THIS BAD!
Chizuru: POOR, DELUSIONAL, LOVEABLE SHINGO! HE'S GOING TO DIE!
Chang (Scratches his beard): Heh... This should be fun to watch.
Choi: Shingo's gonna get a beat down!
Rugal: Not even I'm THAT STUPID!
Vice & Mature: WE'LL BE THE JUDGE OF THAT!!!
Rugal (Stares at Mature and Vice): I HATE YOU TWO!
Vice: Like I give a damn about what you think.
Mature: Really. Once this tournament is over, we are never going hear you again without a 200 ft. pole.
Shingo (Angry): WHAT IS IT WITH YOU PEOPLE!?!? DON'T ANY OF YOU HAVE FAITH IN MY ABILITIES!?
The whole valley of Jusenkyo goes quiet. Shingo face-faults.
Shingo (As he gets up): Anyone?
The wind picks up. A tumbleweed appears out of nowhere and passes by him.
Ranma (Stares at the tumbleweed): ... Where did THAT come from?
Leona: I didn't think the tumbleweed was indigenous to this region.
Shingo (Poses): Anyway... I SHALL BEAT IORI YAGAMI, PROVE MY WORTH, AND END THE KUSANAGI, AND YAGAMI CLAN BLOOD FEUD ALL AT ONCE!!!
Iori: ... Hm hm hm hm, heh heh heh heh, HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAA!!! THERE'S NO WAY IN HELL A PATHETIC DISCIPLE OF THAT PATHETIC KYO KUSANAGI CAN DEFEAT ME!
Kyo: WHAT!? SHINGO! I COMMAND YOU! DEFEAT IORI!
Shingo (Eyes sparkle): YES KUSANAGI-SEMPAI!!!
Iori (Stares at them): ... You're all idiots, aren't you?
(------)
The Jusenkyo Tour Guide makes his way down the path. Dealing with those Amazons is a tiresome ordeal. They got word from one of the elders that an impertinent outsider male challenged them and their culture. And now they're all pissed, and ready to ransack the countryside. He's been going back and forth trying to calm them down. He knows that they won't be able to stay peaceful for long. But he feels it is his part to try to maintain peace in the area. As the Guide makes it to the bottom of the valley, his daughter comes running up to him.
Plum: DADDY!
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: What is it Plum?
Plum: There are a bunch of visitors here, and some of them are gonna start fighting.
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Face pales): WHAT!?
The Guide runs to the area where a bunch of fighters are watching Shingo staring at Iori, while Iori smirks.
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (While running towards them): AIYAH!!! NO FIGHT HERE! VERY BAD YOU FALL IN SPRING!!!
Ranma (Surprised): It's you! HEY! OVER HERE!
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Notices, and remembers Ranma): OH! Is you young sir? Sir, you know all these people?
Ranma: Uh... Yeah. Anyway, do you know if the Spring of Drowned Man happened to reappear?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: Hmm... Let me think...
Shingo (Interrupts): ANYWAY! I SHALL PROVE MY WORTH TO ALL OF YOU!!!
Iori: ... Are you brain dead Shingo? You can't beat me, and...
!
Shingo does his Unfinished Wicked Chew, and smashes Iori in the face with a right hook. Iori stands there, his anger rising.
Iori (Angry, aura starts to rise): You... Little... Arrogant...
Shingo (Surprised): Um... Shouldn't you have fallen down?
Iori: No... I don't fall with weak attacks like that... DEADLY FLOWER!!!
Iori moves forward and hits Shingo with an upward punch, than another upward punch with his other fist, which sends Shingo flying, but Iori jumps into the air, clasping his hands together and smashing them down into Shingo. Shingo barely avoids landing into one of the springs.
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Cries, screams in horror): PLEASE SIRS! DON'T FIGHT! YOU FALL IN SPRING HERE AND YOU BE CURSED! THERE ARE NOW BARELY EIGHTY SPRINGS, AND THE MAJORITY HAVE CURSE! YOU FALL IN, YOU BE CURSED!!!
Iori (Stops pummeling Shingo): What?
Ranma: BELIEVE WHAT HE SAYS IORI! THIS IS WHERE I GOT MY CURSE!
Iori stop. He remembers Ranma's female side when he said "curse". Iori looks around at all the springs. He feels extremely lucky he hadn't touched any of their waters. Iori grabs Shingo by his collar and carries him out of the general area with all the springs.
Iori (Throws Shingo to ground): You're lucky Shingo. If I had thrown you the wrong way, you'd have been cursed.
Shingo: Cursed?
Ryoga (Angry with Shingo's stupidity): YEAH IDIOT! LIKE ME! ....
Ryoga then freezes when he realizes what he just said. He looks around. All the other fighters are staring at him, wondering what he meant. Ryoga wishes he kept his mouth shut.
Ranma: Yes Shingo. A curse that turns you into something else with a splash of cold water, and back to your real form with hot water... But only until the next time you're hit by cold water.
Shingo (Eyes widen): Really? Does that happen to Ryoga?
Ryoga: NO! I was mistaken... (All fighters continue to stare at him). ARGH!!! IT'S ALL RANMA'S FAULT!!!
Ranma: ... There he goes blaming me again... Leona, if you would do the honors.
Leona (Smiles, winks, and gives Ranma a thumbs up): With pleasure!
Leona concentrates her energies around Ryoga. The moisture in the air around him turns cold, and he turns into a familiar black pig. The fighters stare at the black pig and Akane's jaw drops.
Akane (Horrified): P... P... P... P-CHAN!?!?!?
P-Chan: Bwee?
Akane looks at P-Chan and scenes flash through her mind. All the times she'd see Ryoga show up around the same time P-Chan came back home and visa versa. And how the only time she's seen Ryoga use water was when he had that water-proof soap Ranma wanted. AND THE SIMPLE FACT THEY BOTH WEAR THE SAME DAMN BANDANA! Finally, after so long... It sinks into Akane's mind that Ryoga and P-Chan are one and the same.
Akane (Furious, battle aura rises): You... YOU STUPID PIG!!! YOU SLEPT WITH ME AS A PIG YOU LECH!!!
Everyone just stares at Akane when she says that. All feel like throwing up.
Mai: Slept with a pig?
Ryo: Oh Jesus...
Yamazaki: EH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEH HEEEEEEHHHH!!!
Yuri: This is DISGUSTING! I'M GONNA THROW UP!
Takuma: The boy has no honor.
Soun: WAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!! MY DAUGHTER'S BEEN SLEEPING WITH A PIG!!! WWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
Saishu (Rubs his eyes): Kami-sama...
Kasumi: Well, it was OBVIOUS 'sister'! (Says that title for Akane with a hint of venom to her voice). I am truly surprised you didn't figure it out sooner.
Akane can't take this anymore. All these people staring at her, thinking she's a pervert. She does the first thing to come to mind. Punish those that did this to her
Akane (Pulls out her mallet): RYOGA YOU PERVERT!!!
Akane smashes P-Chan with her mallet as if he were a golf ball, sending the little pig far into the East.
Akane: THAT'LL TEACH HIM! (Looks at Shingo) AND YOU!!!
Shingo: Me?
Akane (Angrier than before): YEAH! YOU! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU LOST TO THAT WEAKLING YAGAMI! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'RE SO DAMN WEAK!!! IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT THIS HAPPENED!!! SHINGO YOU IDIOT!!!
Akane mallets poor Shingo with an upward strike. Shingo flies off to the west, and smashes right into the Black Noah, making a huge indentation in its side.
Rugal (Chill goes up his spine): Brr... I get the feeling I'm gonna be paying for more damages to the Black Noah again...
But Akane still isn't satisfied. She hasn't caused enough pain to others yet. Her mind desperately searches for a target for her anger. An evil smile appears on her face as she chooses her victim. She charges her ki into the mallet to produce a stronger blow than ever before.
Akane (Swings her mallet like a baseball bat): IORI YOU JERK!!!
Iori is shocked that Akane has the gall to even blame him. But that shock is easily replaced by pain as the ki-enhanced swig connects with Iori. Iori isn't as lucky as Shingo and Ryoga. He goes flying directly towards the cursed springs, as everyone screams and stares at the sight in wide-eyed horror. Time slows down. Iori knows only one thing for sure. He's screwed. Iori closes his eyes and waits for the inevitable as he feels the touch of water.
!
(------)
Iori feels he's underwater. He feels his body contort slightly, but the structure doesn't seem to really change to him. If anything he feels stronger. He opens his eyes while underwater. He looks at his hands. Still human. He feels lucky that he probably was thrown into the 'Spring of Drowned Man'. Iori makes his way to the surface of the spring, prepared to kick Akane's ass for doing this to him.
(------)
On the surface, Akane watches with a satisfied grin. She knocked the jerk into one of the springs. Now he'll be cursed for the rest of his life.
Akane: THAT'LL TEACH HIM TO MESS WITH ME!
The waters in the spring bubble as a figure rises to the surface. The water's surface breaks and out jumps Iori Yagami... A VERY PISSED OFF Iori Yagami.
Iori (Screams in all out rage): YOU LITTLE BITCH!!!
Iori charges at Akane. Everyone stares at Iori in wide-eyed awe and shock. Iori grabs Akane by her face, smashing her into the ground over and over again.
Iori: LITTLE BITCH! YOU ARE OF KUSANAGI BLOOD, AND I AM OF YAGAMI! THERE IS THE BLOOD FEUD! ANY ACT OF COWARDICE SHALL BE DEALT WITH IN KIND! Or, as I like to put it... WHAT'S GOOD FOR ME IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU!
Iori finishes smashing Akane's head into the ground. He then holds Akane high, and throws her towards the cursed springs. She lands in one of them with a very loud splash. Iori feels VERY satisfied. He looks around, and everyone stares at him in shock.
Vice (Wide-eyed): Iori-sama...
Iori: What? What are you all staring at? I GAVE THE BITCH WHAT SHE DESERVED!
Ranma (Apprehensive): Iori... Your back... Look at it.
Iori looks at his back. What he sees actually scares him. The back of his shirt and jacket are torn open and he has wings. Violet tinted white bird wings.
Iori (Eyes are wide): What the f*ck?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: Tsk tsk... Too bad... You thrown into the 'Spring of Drowned Male Phoenix Warrior'.
Iori: I was thrown into what?
Ranma: Spring of Drowned What?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: You thrown into 'Spring of Drowned Male Phoenix Warrior'. There very tragic legend of a soldier of the Phoenix tribe of Mount Phoenix that drown in that spring 186 years ago. Now, whoever fall into that spring, take the body of one of the Phoenix bloodline.
Iori collapses to his knees and mutters to himself.
Iori: Phoenix... I'm a Phoenix... (A cruel smile appears on his lips). Hm hm hm hm... I'm a Phoenix... Heh heh heh heh... I'M A GOD DAMN PHOENIX! HA HA HA HA HA HAAAAA!!!
Iori's laughter of angst echoes throughout the entire valley, sending chills up the spine of everyone. Even the strongest and most bold of warriors tremble in fear from this laughter. Iori then gets up and walks to the Jusenkyo tour guide.
Iori: You have any hot water?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: YES SIR!
The Guide runs into his hut to get a teakettle. Iori turns to Leona.
Iori: Leona, of you would be so kind.
Leona: I thought that's why you're getting the hot water from...
Iori (Interrupts): Just do it.
Leona complies with Iori's request/demand and she heats up the moisture in the air around him. His wings shrink into his back, leaving the torn taters of his shirt and jacket in that area.
Iori: ... DAMN... That was my favorite jacket too...
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (With tea kettle): Here Sir! I got hot water for... Hey... You back to normal... How you do that?
Iori: Hot water. Now tell me. Is there a 'Spring of Drowned Man'?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide (Shakes head): Sorry Sir. That spring hasn't reappeared.
Ranma curses silently to himself. Not for his own sake of finding a cure, but for his cousin's.
Iori: So... I'm stuck with this curse until a new spring reappears?
Jusenkyo Tour Guide: No Sir. 'Spring of Drowned Man' no work. Curses just mix.
Iori (Scoffs): Figures... Well... (Smiles evilly). Let's see how Akane is faring...
The fighter's eyes widen when they remember Iori did throw her into a spring in retaliation to what she did to him. They look over to the spring and see... A mangy looking black furred female dog drags itself out.
Dog: Rorwf...
Iori (Smiles): 'Spring of Drowned Dog'?
Jusenkyo Guide: Yes... That 'Spring of Drowned Dog'.
Iori: So she can now turn into a female dog now... It's real fitting for the 'bitch'.
Soun: WAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!! MY BABY GIRL IS A MONGREL NOW!!! WAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
The Guide takes the teakettle over to the dog and pours hot water on it. The dog indeed transforms back into Akane. She is humiliated beyond belief now.
Akane (Grits her teeth while she thinks): That... That... BASTARD! I'LL GET HIM FOR THIS!!!
(------)
Night falls. Most of them set up camp around the Jusenkyo Valley. Most are in pup tents trying to sleep. Iori just sits outside in a lotus position, staring at the cursed waters.
Iori: Jusenkyo... You've given me your 'blessing'... Is this bad or good?
Iori stares at the springs waiting for an answer. Getting none, he goes to get up. He sees a figure walk towards him. It's Ranma.
Ranma: Hey Iori.
Iori: Hi Ranma.
Ranma: How're you holding up? I know having a curse is no fun.
Iori (Smirks): Indeed... 'Sis'...
Ranma (Frowns): Well... At least you're still a guy.
Iori (Stares at Ranma for a bit): Interesting... You aren't upset with the 'sibling' remark.
Ranma: I figure you don't need any more harassment today.
Iori (Nods his head): Thanks.
The two stare out at the waters. Thinking of how the waters changed their lives.
(------)
Akane sits in her tent alone. She is so frustrated. She is sad, angry, and fearful at the same time. She is a mess of emotions basically. With Ranma she loves and hates him. With Iori she hates, yet fears him. There's only one person she's sure how she feels about.
Akane (Grits her teeth): Leona... You stole my Ranma, and this is your entire fault got cursed too. You had to make a fool of me by revealing that damn Ryoga's curse. Now, I'll carry this curse Iori gave me for the rest of my life. I SWEAR I SHALL HAVE VENGEANCE!!!
(------)
In another part of the world, Goenitz sits in the throne room of Rugal's old base in the middle of the Sahara Desert. He smiles a malicious grin as he clutches a set of beads in his left hand.
Goenitz: The Yasakani Beads... The first 'Sacred Treasure of the Shingi Trioca' is mine. The first nail in the coffin of humanity has been pounded in now. Once I get all three treasures, and the Tenth Hakkeshu, the human race shall be dead and buried. And I have Nabiki Tendo to thank for this. She got me the locations...
Goenitz looks at the paper with the locations of the other two treasures. When Nabiki is motivated, she is a very diligent worker, and she found him the locations rather quickly.
Goenitz: The Yata Mirror... Is in the Yata Shrine... Heh... Figures... The Kaguras are still confident no one can take it from them... The Kusanagi Katana... (Eyes widen). It's with Nodoka Yagami!? (Smiles). Hmm... This is getting interesting indeed... Eh heh heh...
(------)
End Chapter 27
Next Time: The fighters make it to Mount Phoenix. Only to get the surprise of their lives, and to find out a bit more of the truth of Ranma's powers.
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