Chapter two: Furinkan Highschool
____________________
Ranko woke up to the sun hitting her eyes. She wondered where she was until the events of the previous day came back to her. After her father had left they had sat around the table and had dinner. Kimiko had admonished Ranko for her table manners or the lack thereof. Finally she had been led to the guest room and was given a spare set of Akane's pajamas. Even though they were a little snug around the chest it felt good to wear something to bed besides her old Chinese clothes.
She felt the futon she was lying on. It was so soft and comfortable. It had been so long since Ranko had been able to sleep in such luxury. Stretching, she got up and rummaged through her pack for a slightly less worn set of clothes. She finally picked out a silk shirt and pants she had bought without her father's permission while they were in China. It was a orange colored shirt with green pants. She put it on and looked in the mirror hanging on the door. It made her look like a pumpkin she decided. It really didn't go with her hair but at least they weren't threadbare like her other clothes.
Ranko descended the stairs and saw everyone gathered around the table eating breakfast. Akane looked up and smiled, scooting over to make room for Ranko. Akane was dressed in a school uniform and had her bookbag sitting nearby. Ranko sat down and Kimiko served her a bowl of rice and some okonomiyaki. Ranko looked at it and forced tears back as she was reminded of the last friend she really had.
"Akane?" Ranko said to get her attention.
"What is it Ranko?" Akane replied.
"My father already enrolled me in school here. Would it be ok if I walked with you?"
"Sure Ranko, if you're feeling up to it that is." Akane smiled reassuringly.
Ranko sighed, "It's been so long since I've been in a real school. I have so much to catch up on. The sooner I start the better. After all, I've always wanted to go to college so I have to get good grades now."
Nabiki looked at her watch, "Well we'd better get going then or we'll be late." She got up and ran out of the house.
Ranko quickly finished her breakfast and grabbed a cup of water off the table. Pouring it over her head she shuddered as she felt the change come over her.
"What did you do that for?" Akane asked.
Ranko shrugged sadly, "My father registered me as a boy."
"Well come on. We'll see what we can do to fix that later." Akane said pulling Ranko out the door.
* * * * * * * * * *
Akane watched as Ranko walked along the fence separating the road from the canal. She was amazed at how handsome Ranko was as a guy. Just as good looking as her girl side. Akane blushed wondering where that thought came from. Still, Ranko was her friend and even though she was just as good at the art as herself, Akane felt the need to protect Ranko after what she had seen yesterday. It wasn't physical threats that could harm Ranko but mental and emotional attacks. It would take a while to bring up Ranko's self confidence but Akane felt she was up to the challenge.
As they neared the school gates, Ranko noticed Akane tense up. Her own danger sense perked up and she wondered what was going on.
"Ranko, I want you to stay back and not get involved in what's about to happen. It's just something I have to deal with everyday. This is one of the reasons I really hate boys!"
Akane ran ahead as a huge mob of young men rushed forward wielding all sorts of weapons and sports equipment. Ranko hopped up on the boundary wall to get a better view. The various boys proclaimed their love and asked Akane out on dates as they attempted to beat the crap out of her. Akane however seemed to have no problem defeating them. She wove through the crowd like a dancer, effortlessly pummeling her opponents into the ground.
Ranko leapt down to stand next to Akane after she dispatched her last opponent. "Wow, and you have to deal with this everyday? I'm impressed. Why do they." he trailed off as something flashed towards him. He grabbed at it instinctively pricking his finger on a thorn of a red rose.
"Ow." Ranko said sucking on the wound.
A figure stepped out of the shadows. He was dressed in a kendo uniform and held a boken in one hand. He looked very bishounen and Ranko thought he was very handsome until he opened his mouth.
"That rose was meant for the beauteous Akane. Who are you cretin that would interfere in the morning ritual of combat?" The man said.
Ranko opened his mouth to answer but was interrupted, "Ah but is it not custom to give ones own name first? I am Tatewaki Kuno, Junior, and undefeated captain of the school's kendo club. The rising star of Furinkan High. Known by my friends and enemies alike as the Blue Thunder!"
From the second floor Nabiki and some other students were leaning out to watch the action. "Since when did Kuno have any friends?" one student asked. "Blue thunder? Wasn't he shooting star last week?" another said.
Nabiki was concerned. For some reason Ranko was male at the moment and that would not go over well with Kuno. If Ranko reacted similarly to yesterday then there was a strong possibility of him getting hurt. Ranko could probably beat Kuno easily if he wasn't so terrified of men.
"Umm, my name is.Ran." Ranko started hesitantly.
"His name is Ranma Saotome and he's currently a guest at our house." Akane said quickly.
"What?! Under the same roof as Akane? I shall not allow it!" Kuno launched himself at Ranko bringing his boken to strike at Ranko's unguarded chest. Ranko screamed and fell back. Kuno could have sworn this person was a martial artist from the way he caught the rose. This was a totally unexpected reaction and he was confused (More that normal that is). He hesitated, that was long enough for Akane to kick him in the side of the head and send him into a nearby tree.
Ranko was cowering on the ground, tears in his eyes as he tried to get control of himself. Akane held out her hand and helped Ranko to his feet. Putting her arm around him, she led the cursed boy into the school.
* * * * * * * * * *
Ranko and Akane were late for class and had been sent to the hall holding buckets of water. Akane was glad because she wouldn't have to answer questions from her classmates about Ranko or why she was so nice to him since she was supposed to hate boys.
She gave him a sidelong glance and thought back to yesterday when she had walked in on her and then seen her change into a guy. She sighed. It was almost perfect in a way, a guy who knew what a woman wanted because he was a woman himself. She blushed again at the direction her thoughts were taking again. She wondered why she was having such perverted thoughts since meeting Ranko. It could be because she had almost been engaged to him, not to mention seeing him and her naked. It was the first time she'd seen a naked man. 'I wonder how good he kisses?' she daydreamed. No! Ranko was a girl dammit! 'So I wonder how she kisses?' Akane squashed that thought. 'Kami! Now I'm thinking like a lesbian!' Well she did claim to hate boys didn't she? She always assumed it was because she hadn't met the right one yet. In a school where Kuno was the epitome of manhood there weren't a lot of options.
Ranko sighed. Late on his first day. Not the kind of impression he wanted to make. There was also his performance in front of the school. He knew deep down he was an excellent martial artist but whenever a male attempted to fight her, she just froze up. He always felt as if he'd done something wrong and deserved whatever punishment he was about to receive even though a small part of his mind knew better. 'It all started with that damn cat- fu training' he thought bitterly. He was startled out of his contemplation by Akane calling his name.
"Ranko? I just wanted to say I'm sorry for what happened this morning. Kuno can be a real jerk sometimes."
"It's ok. I think it will be a long time before I can deal with men normally again. I keep seeing my father." Ranko trailed off.
"Did.did he ever do anything more than hit you?" Akane hesitantly asked.
"NO! I mean no, never. I think he wanted me pure for when I was married. Of course now I don't think I'll ever have a normal relationship. I'll probably become a battered housewife if I ever get married." Ranko shook her head as if trying to forget something, "You know, I used to dream of getting married. I wanted to wear a beautiful white wedding dress and have a western style wedding. My mother would be there crying because she was so happy. And I'd have lots of friends to be bridesmaids and then I'd throw the bouquet as we drove away in a white limo. But who would ever marry a sex changing freak like me?" Ranko was desperately trying to hold back his tears. She slumped to the floor and put her head in her hands.
Akane set down her buckets and sat down next to Ranko. She wrapped her arms around him and placed his head on her shoulder. "It's ok Ranko. Every girl dreams of getting married. I'm sure you'll find the right person for you." 'Yeah, like me.' Akane ground that thought under her foot, 'Ranko is a friend who needs me right now!' she thought angrily.
A few minutes later Ranko seemed in control of herself and Akane realized how warm and comfortable Ranko seemed in her arms. Ranko seemed to sense Akane's discomfort and sat up so they were just sitting next to each other.
"Umm, Akane? I've been meaning to thank you for everything your family has done for me. I'm afraid my father will be back for me though. Damn, I'm such a weakling."
"You're not weak. You're just as good if not a better martial artist than I am. You just need self confidence and a loving family. As for your father, my mother makes good on her promises. If he shows up again she'll take care of him. She's a better martial artist than my dad. Better than me even."
Ranko gave a wane smile, "By the way, why did you tell everyone I was Ranma?"
Akane smiled sheepishly, "Well, I thought if everyone thought you were Ranma then when we got your registration changed to the right gender then everyone would assume you were siblings. That would be an easier explanation than your curse."
"So what do we say when 'Ranma' stops coming to school?"
"We'll just tell everyone that he went on a training trip."
Ranko's smile became genuine. Suddenly she felt her future getting brighter.
* * * * * * * * * *
Nabiki read the note Akane had slipped her at the beginning of lunch before she went off to sit under a tree to eat with Ranko.
She read the note twice to make sure she understood exactly what Akane was planning. She had to admit it was a good idea, Akane could be downright devious when she wanted to be. Too bad her morals were too high or she'd make a good partner.
Returning to her lunch she looked up when a shadow fell across her table.
"Tell me, who is this Ranma who defiles the house of Tendo?" Kuno said.
"His name is Ranma Saotome. He and his sister are guests at our house. We've taken them into our protection from their abusive father. Your attack this morning was uncalled for. He's suffered a pretty traumatic life so I would appreciate it if you left him and his sister alone."
Kuno's expression softened, "He has my sympathies then. For I too suffered under my father's ministrations. I shall go apologize for my rude behavior."
Kuno walked away. Nabiki sat there with her chopsticks hanging from her mouth. She was in shock. That was the last thing she expected to hear from the loud, arrogant, clueless Tatewaki Kuno.
Ranko looked up to see Kuno coming towards them. Akane didn't notice because she was trying to answer questions from her friends Yuka and Sayuri. Ranko gulped and moved back until his back was against the tree they'd been sitting under. Trying to control his fear he breathed deep searching for his center.
"Saotome Ranma, I would like to apologize for my earlier behavior. You are new here and are unaware of how things work at this school. My attack on your person was unwarranted and I regret causing you any fear or discomfort. Nabiki Tendo has informed me of your situation and if you or your sister ever have need of me you have but to ask." Kuno turned and walked away leaving three stunned girls and a confused Ranko behind.
* * * * * * * * * *
Akane and Ranko left Dr. Tofu's office on the way home from school. Ranko felt the need to change back as soon as she could. Nabiki had stayed behind to try and fix Ranko's records.
"I hate this curse. My whole life I've been raised as a man, this was just the final insult." Ranko swore angrily.
"It's not really all that bad. From what you told me there are pools worse than spring of drowned man. You could have accidentally fallen in the spring of drowned cat or something even worse." Akane said offhandedly.
Ranko cringed when Akane said cat but tried to hide it.
"So, do you have any plans other than homework tonight?" Akane continued on oblivious.
"I don't know. I've never had a home really before. What do people do when they aren't training?"
Akane was perplexed. What kind of life has this girl led? "Well, we could go see a movie or just watch TV at home. We could stop for some ice cream on the way. Heck, we could go shopping. Most of your clothes look pretty worn from traveling. Maybe we could get a couple of dresses."
Ranko seemed almost happy for a minute, "I'd love a dress but what would happen if I got wet? People would think I'm a pervert, a guy wearing a dress." Ranko sighed feeling depression come over her again.
"How about we just stay in tonight. We can watch a movie on TV. It'll be just us girls. We can't have you becoming too much of a tomboy now can we? First let's stop and get some ice cream ok?"
Ranko perked up a little as they headed for a small kisaten.
* * * * * * * * * *
Ranko was trying hard not to get depressed again as the two girls entered the Tendo house. They had been enjoying themselves immensely. Akane called it girl talk. They discussed what kind of clothes were cute, their ideal man (Akane left out how she'd been feeling all day). Ranko surprisingly had a pretty detailed plan of what she wanted out of life. She wasn't sure how to go about it now with her curse. After all, what kind of man would marry a freakish half girl? Ranko had problems with men anyway. How could she ever trust one after how she'd been raised. Ranko had joked that maybe she should find a woman to marry instead because she could be the man in the relationship. Akane was hard pressed not to blush brightly as she thought back to earlier that day.
That was when a waiter walked by and stumbled dumping a large soda all over Ranko. The waiter started to apologize to the young lady until he realized he was talking to a young man instead.
Ranko excused himself and went to the furo to take a bath to get the sticky soda off. He took his clothes off in the changing room and entered the washroom. He caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and stopped for a moment. He examined himself for a couple minutes. It was an extremely handsome body he had to admit. The kind of guy he'd like to date. Strong, handsome, charismatic. He suddenly felt anger rise. This was not his body. It was a stranger with his eyes. She suddenly realized he had an erection from staring at the naked reflection. Turning in disgust he went to the faucet and filled a bucket with hot water. She sighed in relief as her true body reasserted itself. She was still aroused but it felt natural now. Her nipples were hard and she felt a familiar heat between her legs.
She was soaping herself up trying to ignore her hormones when there was a knock on the furo door.
"Ranko? Can I come in?" Akane said.
"Uh, sure." Ranko said hesitantly.
The door slid open and Akane entered with her basket of bathing supplies. She sat down on a stool near Ranko and started to wash herself.
"Hey Ranko? What's it like?" Akane said after a moment.
"Hmm?" Ranko replied. Akane's question could have applied to many things in her life.
"You know, turning into a guy. What's it like from a woman's perspective?" Akane pressed.
"I've only had this curse for about two weeks so I haven't had enough time to get used to it. It was terrifying at first. Now I feel disgusted by things about the male side. It's almost perverse. I shouldn't talk about it." Ranko said uneasily.
"You can tell me. I won't judge you. I promise. Only by talking out your feelings can you come to terms with them. At least that's what Mom always says." Akane smiled.
Ranko wasn't sure. She'd only met this girl yesterday but her and her family had already done so much for her. Nodding her head she decided to press on.
"Well, I think I can appreciate why guys get so frustrated around women. It seems the slightest thing will set off an erection. You don't even have to be thinking about sex, just the cloth of your underwear rubbing the wrong way can do it. It's embarrasing. Or how about waking up in the morning with an erection because you went to bed as a guy. I look in a mirror and see a hunk of a guy then I realize it's me and I get so mad I want to break it. It's even worse because I think I hate men." Ranko had a look of hate and disgust as she talked.
Akane gave Ranko a sympathetic hug. She had no idea it was like that. The poor girl, having her womanhood ripped from her just as she was fully coming into it. Having to deal with alien urges her male side inflicted on her female mind.
Ranko felt Akane's arms wrap around her. Other than her callused hands, her skin was soft and remarkably smooth. She sank back into Akane's embrace relishing the feel of human contact long denied her. She couldn't remember being held since she last saw her mother. And now she'd been held twice in one day. She felt safe and secure in Akane's arms, like nothing could go wrong in the world. She turned her head to see Akane looking at her with an almost glazed look in her eyes as if she was also enjoying the contact between them.
Akane didn't know exactly what she was feeling as she held the slight girl in her arms. Rationally she knew the small girl could shatter stone with her bare hands but that didn't make her seem any less frail as she sat there. Then Ranko seemed to snuggle into Akane's embrace. She gave a sigh of satisfaction that surprised Akane. Akane felt the heat rise in her body. Here she was, naked in the bathroom holding a naked girl in her arms. It felt so right even as her mind told her it was wrong. Then Ranko turned her head and looked up at Akane with a smile of contentment.
They held each others gaze for a moment. Akane lowered her head. Ranko stretched hers up. Their lips met. For a brief second it felt like electricity arced between the two. Akane broke off the kiss with a gasp and almost dropped Ranko. Ranko backed away a bit as well.
"I'm sorry!" They both said.
"I didn't mean." They both tried again. Akane sighed.
"I shouldn't have done that. I don't know what came over me." Akane apologized.
"It's all right. It's my fault as much as yours, maybe more so. It just felt so good, you holding me that is." Ranko said shyly.
"I'm sure it's just the stress of these past two days. Nothing to worry about right?"
"Yeah, that must be it. You're a pretty good kisser though." Ranko said.
"You really think so?" Akane blushed. "Well, I think you're a beautiful woman. And not a bad looking guy too."
Ranko's smile faded a bit, "We'd better finish up or they're gonna wonder what happened to us."
"We can go soak in the furo for a bit. Mom won't call us until dinner, dad's teaching a class and Kasumi's has late classes today. Nabiki is the only one who might come in but she likes to bathe alone."
They both got in the furo and reclined on either side so they could face each other. They soaked for a few minutes.
"So do you like women?" Ranko winced as she realized what she just said.
Was there a trace of hope in her voice Akane wondered. "I don't think so. Not in that way I mean. I never felt like kissing any of my friends before. Maybe it was because of your curse."
"But I was a girl at the time. I really like you a lot Akane. You're the first person who's been nice to me in almost ten years. I'd hate to lose your friendship but." Ranko trailed off.
Akane shrugged mentally. Hadn't she just been having these thoughts all day? Ranko seemed almost ok with it. They'd only known each other two days. That wasn't enough time to develop a relationship let alone come to terms with your own sexuality. She needed time to think about it.
"Let's not rush anything. Whatever happens, happens." Akane said.
"I think I can live with that." Ranko smiled and kissed Akane on the cheek as she got out of the furo.
'Damn she's sexy.' Akane thought to herself as she admired Ranko's petite rear as she went to get a towel. This time she didn't squash the thought.
* * * * * * * * * *
Dinner was a fairly quiet affair Kimiko noted. Ranko and Akane seemed to be getting along well. Ranko even seemed to be enjoying herself. She smiled to herself. This was just what the girl needed, a loving family. Her and Soun had discussed it the previous night. They would take care of Ranko as long as necessary. After all she was a practitioner of the same school of martial arts regardless of her honorless father.
Soun was slightly disappointed. He had been looking forward to seeing Genma again after so long. It was obvious how much the man had changed however. Imagine, purposely cursing his daughter to turn into a man all for the sake of uniting the two schools. If need be, Soun had been prepared to just wait until the next generation. As much as he had wanted to see a marriage between the Tendo and Saotome clans he was willing to wait until his grand kids or even his great grand kids united the clans. If he had learned anything from his old master it was that death may not be cheated but it could be put off for a while. He looked up from his paper as Ranko laughed at something Akane said. He was glad of his decision. He reminded himself to ask Nabiki about tracking down Ranko's mother if she was still alive.
Nabiki noticed the difference in Ranko's attitude since coming home from school. She wondered how much of it was still an act. She had made it known around school today that Ranma and Ranko were to be unmolested or face the wrath of Nabiki. She didn't want another episode like this morning with Kuno or a mob attacking Ranko every morning like they did to Akane. She wondered briefly if there was a way to not only improve Ranko's self esteem but make a profit at the same time.
Akane and Ranko excused themselves and went into the TV room to watch a movie.
"What would you like to watch?" Akane asked.
"I dunno. I've never really seen a movie before." Ranko replied.
"What? You've never even gone to a theater before?" Akane asked disbelieving.
"Not unless you count father sneaking me into theaters to watch porno flicks." Ranko muttered.
Akane tried to remain calm. Her rage boiled under her mild exterior. It wouldn't be constructive to lose her temper without the one responsible here to bear the brunt of it.
"I'd hardly call that quality entertainment." Akane finally managed to say. She searched through her modest video collection before picking one. It somehow seemed appropriate even if the title wasn't.
"This is an American movie with subtitles. Can you read fast?" Akane asked.
"I guess so. I always tried to practice even while on the road. Mostly in secret. Father didn't think it was as important as the art. Besides, I know English pretty well. We traveled with an American hiker for about a year and I learned a lot from him. So what movie are we going to watch?"
"It's called 'Better off Dead.'" Akane smiled.
* * * * * * * * * *
Kimiko sighed as she brought in a third bowl of popcorn to the two girls. She's never seen anyone eat so much. Where was Ranko putting it all? It was possible that Ranko was finally able to get a decent meal and seemed to be trying to catch up for lost meals in the past. Kimiko decided to keep an eye on the girl's weight just in case she was eating too much for her metabolism.
Ranko was feeling pretty positive after the movie ended. While she didn't understand some of the jokes because of cultural barriers, she did identify with the overall story. The way the guy made a comeback from a horrible life to being a heroic figure all because of the support of a loving woman in his life struck home. She suspected Akane chose the movie for just that reason. Did that mean Akane was the loving supportive woman in her life?
They went upstairs to Akane's room and did their homework. Ranko had some trouble with the math but actually helped Akane with her English and her history. Ranko seemed puzzled as to why some of the animals and creatures mentioned were considered myths.
"C'mon Ranko. Dragons aren't real." Akane said thinking Ranko was teasing her.
Ranko raised an eyebrow, "Tell that to the one that almost had me for lunch." She said seriously.
Akane wasn't sure if Ranko was teasing her or not but let it drop. There was a lot about each other that they didn't know but they had plenty of time to discover it.
Akane figured they had time for one more movie before bed and let Ranko pick it. Ranko perused the titles a bit before picking 'Army of Darkness'. Akane remembered buying it because of the heroic pose of the man had on the box. It was badly dubbed and extremely silly in her opinion but conceded to Ranko's wish to see it.
Ranko apparently liked it because she spent most of the movie laughing her ass off and complaining how they got the story wrong. Again Akane decided it was better not to ask. At least not yet.
* * * * * * * * * *
The next morning started out as usual. Akane and Ranko walked to school together talking the whole way. When they reached the school grounds Akane dealt with the usual crowd of idiots who actually listened to Kuno's edict that anyone who wanted to date Akane must defeat her in combat.
When Kuno made his appearance this time however he looked at Ranko appraisingly. He stepped forward as Akane took a combat stance.
"Obviously Nabiki's description of Ranko Saotome did not do you justice." He said producing a bouquet of red roses. He approached Ranko and she backed away, hiding behind Akane. Kuno didn't seem to notice, "Miss Saotome, I would take you out on a date."
Ranko was gripping Akane's shirt, holding her tight as she cowered behind her.
Akane was furious at Kuno and feeling a little jealous as well, "Kuno, you have five seconds to back off or you'll experience severe pain. Ranko doesn't want to date you."
"I'm sorry Akane, I shall not neglect you. I will date with you as well." Kuno said undeterred.
Akane reached and disengaged Ranko's hands from her shirt. She leapt forward towards Kuno and there was the sounds of dislocations and bones snapping. Finally Kuno lay in a broken heap on the ground.
"Come on Ranko, we don't want to be late." Akane led the still shivering girl towards their class.
The surrounding boys who had regained consciousness looked stunned and vowed that Akane should be left alone if she could be that brutal.
* * * * * * * * * *
Kuno never showed up for class. After an Ambulance drove him to the hospital, Akane had been called down to answer some questions from a couple of police officers. After talking to her and a few other witnesses they decided not to press charges. One of the officers was heard to say, "I'm surprised she held off as long as she did. Sounds like he had it coming for months."
"I'm sorry you almost got arrested today." Ranko said at lunch.
Akane smiled, "It's ok. Hopefully this will finally get through his dense skull that I'm not interested in dating him. Besides there's someone else I'm kind of interested in."
"Is he cute?" Ranko asked hesitantly.
"I think so. He's very strong, he's an excellent martial artist, and a pretty good kisser." Akane continued.
"Oh." Ranko said disheartened.
"Although I think I like his girl side a little more." Akane finished with a teasing look in her eye.
"Oooh! You shouldn't tease like that!" Ranko playfully slugged Akane in the arm, "Did you mean that? About my guy side that is."
"Hai, I think I do. I like you a lot already Ranko. I don't know if there's a cure for your curse or not. I hate to say it but maybe we should help you come to terms with it. At least learn to live with it if not accept it. As curses go, it's not that bad. At least you turn into a hunk. You could have been cursed to turn into a nerdy geek with bad Acne."
Ranko let loose a small giggle even as she considered the implications of Akane's speech. "I guess I am pretty good looking as a guy. I still get embarrassed looking at my naked self in a mirror. Gawd, I can't believe my guy side turns me on!"
"Well, to tell the truth, it turns me on too." Akane blushed at her admission. "I almost gave in to the engagement after talking to my sisters. Then when I saw you turn into a guy in the bathroom and I saw how well endowed you were I was shocked for a second before I realized I was naked in the bathroom with a guy. I'm sorry for screaming like that by the way."
Both girls had a serious blush going on. Their faces could be seen for miles if someone had actually been looking.
"It's ok. I screamed like that when it happened to me the first time. You know, I never felt this way before you know. towards another girl."
"Same here. I guess that makes us both perverts. So what do we do about it?" Akane finally said.
"I don't know. You were my first kiss. I've never even been out on a date. Father wouldn't let me." Ranko sighed.
"Well how about we go shopping for some new clothes for you then go out. It'll be like a real date." Akane offered.
"I can go in guy form if you want." Ranko said sadly.
"It doesn't matter to me what for you are in. You are Ranko Saotome no matter what and I'm growing very fond of you."
Ranko smiled, "Thank you Akane, for everything."
* * * * * * * * * *
After school they went to the shopping district clothes hunting. They managed to find a few outfits that were fairly unisex although Ranko looked longingly at a few dresses and almost cried when she saw a wedding dress on display. They bought some boxer briefs, the elastic waist would keep them on when Ranko was female and stretch to fit her male form. No more panties to ride up when she was hit with cold water. They also got a few sports bras that kind of doubled as tight tank tops without seeming too perverted on a guy. Akane was shocked to see how much money Ranko had. She said she'd been saving up, hiding it from her father who would have spent it on alcohol or prostitutes.
They stopped at a jewelry store on the way home and got Ranko's left ear pierced. She would have gotten both pierced but it would have looked weird on 'Ranma'. She picked out a dangling silver chain piece that would look good no matter what sex she was.
Kimiko greeted them from the kitchen when they came home. "Nabiki told me what happened at school today. Why didn't you tell me things were so bad at school?" she admonished, coming out of the kitchen.
Akane shrugged, "I thought I could handle it. I'm a martial artist, I should be able to fight my own fights."
"That boy Kuno had to go to the hospital. Thankfully he only has a broken arm and some cracked ribs. If this had been stopped earlier, you wouldn't have had to resort to such extreme measures."
Akane hung her head, "I'm sorry mom."
"It's really my fault Tendo-san. Akane was only trying to protect me." Ranko leapt to Akane's defense.
"Please call me Kimiko, or auntie, either will do. I'm sure Akane only did what she thought she had to. Hopefully this will be the end of the matter."
Both girls nodded and let out a sigh of relief.
"Oh, mom? We won't be home for dinner. Ranko and I are going to go out for dinner and maybe catch a movie." Akane said.
Kimiko smiled, "A girls' night out? Just don't be too late coming home. Tomorrow's a school day."
"Yes mom." Both girls ran upstairs to Akane's room to change and get ready.
"So which outfit should I wear on our date?" Ranko asked.
"Definitely the blue one with the black pants. And the leather shoes." Akane suggested.
Ranko pulled out the silk shirt they had just bought. It was short sleeved with a rounded collar and white bone buttons. She quickly stripped bare and got her underwear out of her bag. Akane was pleased to see the bruises had already begun to fade. She blushed when she realized she was staring at Ranko's bare ass as she bent over to pull on her boxers. Red was definitely Ranko's natural hair color. She'd have to show Ranko how to clean up her bikini line and to shave her legs as well.
* * * * * * * * * *
Nabiki sat on her bed with her ear to the wall. A date? How had Akane and Ranko found anyone to date so quickly. She didn't think Ranko would be up to dating so soon. She wracked her brain trying to think of anyone in the two girls' class that they might be interested in. There was Hiroshi and Daisuke, nah, they were serious dweebs who didn't have a snowball's chance in hell of getting a date with a girl as popular as Akane. She resolved herself to follow the two and see for herself. Just to make sure Ranko was safe, she told herself.
* * * * * * * * * *
Ranko and Akane walked down the road close to each other, enjoying each other's presence. Ranko was smiling, a genuine smile. She didn't know what lay ahead in her relationship with Akane but felt optimistic. She had found someone who actually cared for her and didn't mind her curse at all. The fact that the person in question was a girl didn't bother Ranko nearly as much as she thought it would.
Akane was deep in thought herself. If her and Ranko really fell in love that would mean eventually they would. The thought went unfinished for a moment. Could she make love to another girl? She didn't think she'd have a problem with Ranko's guy side. Although how he would fit his. up her. She again tried another line of thought. She would burn that bridge after she crossed it she thought wryly.
They stopped at a local eatery. Nothing fancy or expensive but a place where they could sit and talk in semi privacy.
"So what would we tell your family if. you know." Ranko began after they'd ordered their food.
Akane hadn't even thought about that. She knew her father would freak. Maybe she could calm him down by telling him the Saotome/Tendo lines would finally be united. Her sisters were pretty open minded about such things. Akane was pretty sure about that. What bothered her most was thinking she would somehow disappoint her mother.
"I really don't know yet." Akane answered. "If I told Nabiki first she would be able to help us break it to the rest of the family."
"Do you believe in love at first sight?" Ranko said after a moment of silence.
"It would certainly explain a lot wouldn't it." Akane laughed. "Well it would certainly be an interesting relationship. If you want, I'll wear the tux and you can have the wedding dress."
"That wouldn't be fair. I'm a guy half the time. I really should be the one to wear the tux. Besides, it's too early to be making wedding plans. We haven't even finished our first date. Although I'm looking forward to the end of the date." Ranko smiled mischievously.
"Why's that?" Akane asked.
"Why the goodnight kiss of course." Ranko smirked.
Behind them in the next booth Nabiki sat with an unreadable expression on her face. She was too stunned to think for a moment. Finally awareness crept back with one thought at the forefront. Akane was gay. Well maybe not completely gay, there was the possibility she was attracted to Ranko's cursed form as well. Bisexual then. That would explain why she hated boys so much at school. Of course Nabiki had no use for any of them herself. They were either poor or total idiots like Kuno. She realized that they were expecting her to help break their relationship to the rest of the family. Well she smirked, daddy did say he would like to see the two clans united. She decided to let the two lovebirds finish their date in peace. She had plans to make. Akane was her sister and however she wanted to live her life Nabiki was determined to be supportive.
* * * * * * * * * *
It was dark and Ranko and Akane risked walking hand in hand on the way home. They had seen a movie called 'The One'. It was fast and action packed with just enough of a romantic touch to pull on the heartstrings.
"It was nice he got to be with her again but it wasn't really her, just another version of her." Ranko had a sad smile on her face.
"True but it would make the hurt less." Akane replied.
The couple reached the gates and faced each other.
"Well, here we are." Akane said.
"Yup, here we are." Ranko agreed.
They leaned in towards each other slowly, shyly. Ranko closed her eyes in anticipation. So did Akane. They closed the gap between them lips puckered.and missed. Ranko laughed as she felt Akane's lips on her nose.
"Maybe we should keep our eyes open until we touch." Ranko offered.
Akane nodded and tried again. As their lips touched they both felt the electric tingle through their bodies only it was more powerful than before. Their arms wrapped around each other as they fell fully into the kiss. Time seemed to stop for the two, it could have been minutes or years. They finally, reluctantly parted. Ranko was gasping for breath and Akane looked flushed.
"Wow, to think I've been missing that all these years on the road with father." Ranko was waving her hand at her face, trying to cool herself down.
"That was some kiss." A voice said from the nearby bushes, "You should really be more careful or somebody's going to catch you in the act."
Both girls jumped in surprise as Nabiki emerged from the shadows.
"N-N-Nabiki, you saw." Akane tried finding her voice.
"Everything, I saw everything. The question is what are we going to do about it?"
"Well, we were going to ask for your help if things became serious." Ranko said embarrassed.
"Looked pretty serious to me. All right, I'll help. I'll need time so you guys are going to have to keep the necking to a minimum until I work something out."
"Thanks sis." Akane said finally able to speak again.
"Just tell me, are you two sure about this? I want you to make sure this isn't just a spur of the moment emotional high. Especially you Ranko. Akane is one of the first people to care for you in a long time. Don't give me that look. I make money by paying attention to the details. I just want you to be sure of yourselves before you do something you'll both regret. Ok?"
Both girls nodded in agreement.
"Now get inside before someone sees you." Nabiki scolded.
* * * * * * * * * *
End Chapter two
Ranko woke up to the sun hitting her eyes. She wondered where she was until the events of the previous day came back to her. After her father had left they had sat around the table and had dinner. Kimiko had admonished Ranko for her table manners or the lack thereof. Finally she had been led to the guest room and was given a spare set of Akane's pajamas. Even though they were a little snug around the chest it felt good to wear something to bed besides her old Chinese clothes.
She felt the futon she was lying on. It was so soft and comfortable. It had been so long since Ranko had been able to sleep in such luxury. Stretching, she got up and rummaged through her pack for a slightly less worn set of clothes. She finally picked out a silk shirt and pants she had bought without her father's permission while they were in China. It was a orange colored shirt with green pants. She put it on and looked in the mirror hanging on the door. It made her look like a pumpkin she decided. It really didn't go with her hair but at least they weren't threadbare like her other clothes.
Ranko descended the stairs and saw everyone gathered around the table eating breakfast. Akane looked up and smiled, scooting over to make room for Ranko. Akane was dressed in a school uniform and had her bookbag sitting nearby. Ranko sat down and Kimiko served her a bowl of rice and some okonomiyaki. Ranko looked at it and forced tears back as she was reminded of the last friend she really had.
"Akane?" Ranko said to get her attention.
"What is it Ranko?" Akane replied.
"My father already enrolled me in school here. Would it be ok if I walked with you?"
"Sure Ranko, if you're feeling up to it that is." Akane smiled reassuringly.
Ranko sighed, "It's been so long since I've been in a real school. I have so much to catch up on. The sooner I start the better. After all, I've always wanted to go to college so I have to get good grades now."
Nabiki looked at her watch, "Well we'd better get going then or we'll be late." She got up and ran out of the house.
Ranko quickly finished her breakfast and grabbed a cup of water off the table. Pouring it over her head she shuddered as she felt the change come over her.
"What did you do that for?" Akane asked.
Ranko shrugged sadly, "My father registered me as a boy."
"Well come on. We'll see what we can do to fix that later." Akane said pulling Ranko out the door.
* * * * * * * * * *
Akane watched as Ranko walked along the fence separating the road from the canal. She was amazed at how handsome Ranko was as a guy. Just as good looking as her girl side. Akane blushed wondering where that thought came from. Still, Ranko was her friend and even though she was just as good at the art as herself, Akane felt the need to protect Ranko after what she had seen yesterday. It wasn't physical threats that could harm Ranko but mental and emotional attacks. It would take a while to bring up Ranko's self confidence but Akane felt she was up to the challenge.
As they neared the school gates, Ranko noticed Akane tense up. Her own danger sense perked up and she wondered what was going on.
"Ranko, I want you to stay back and not get involved in what's about to happen. It's just something I have to deal with everyday. This is one of the reasons I really hate boys!"
Akane ran ahead as a huge mob of young men rushed forward wielding all sorts of weapons and sports equipment. Ranko hopped up on the boundary wall to get a better view. The various boys proclaimed their love and asked Akane out on dates as they attempted to beat the crap out of her. Akane however seemed to have no problem defeating them. She wove through the crowd like a dancer, effortlessly pummeling her opponents into the ground.
Ranko leapt down to stand next to Akane after she dispatched her last opponent. "Wow, and you have to deal with this everyday? I'm impressed. Why do they." he trailed off as something flashed towards him. He grabbed at it instinctively pricking his finger on a thorn of a red rose.
"Ow." Ranko said sucking on the wound.
A figure stepped out of the shadows. He was dressed in a kendo uniform and held a boken in one hand. He looked very bishounen and Ranko thought he was very handsome until he opened his mouth.
"That rose was meant for the beauteous Akane. Who are you cretin that would interfere in the morning ritual of combat?" The man said.
Ranko opened his mouth to answer but was interrupted, "Ah but is it not custom to give ones own name first? I am Tatewaki Kuno, Junior, and undefeated captain of the school's kendo club. The rising star of Furinkan High. Known by my friends and enemies alike as the Blue Thunder!"
From the second floor Nabiki and some other students were leaning out to watch the action. "Since when did Kuno have any friends?" one student asked. "Blue thunder? Wasn't he shooting star last week?" another said.
Nabiki was concerned. For some reason Ranko was male at the moment and that would not go over well with Kuno. If Ranko reacted similarly to yesterday then there was a strong possibility of him getting hurt. Ranko could probably beat Kuno easily if he wasn't so terrified of men.
"Umm, my name is.Ran." Ranko started hesitantly.
"His name is Ranma Saotome and he's currently a guest at our house." Akane said quickly.
"What?! Under the same roof as Akane? I shall not allow it!" Kuno launched himself at Ranko bringing his boken to strike at Ranko's unguarded chest. Ranko screamed and fell back. Kuno could have sworn this person was a martial artist from the way he caught the rose. This was a totally unexpected reaction and he was confused (More that normal that is). He hesitated, that was long enough for Akane to kick him in the side of the head and send him into a nearby tree.
Ranko was cowering on the ground, tears in his eyes as he tried to get control of himself. Akane held out her hand and helped Ranko to his feet. Putting her arm around him, she led the cursed boy into the school.
* * * * * * * * * *
Ranko and Akane were late for class and had been sent to the hall holding buckets of water. Akane was glad because she wouldn't have to answer questions from her classmates about Ranko or why she was so nice to him since she was supposed to hate boys.
She gave him a sidelong glance and thought back to yesterday when she had walked in on her and then seen her change into a guy. She sighed. It was almost perfect in a way, a guy who knew what a woman wanted because he was a woman himself. She blushed again at the direction her thoughts were taking again. She wondered why she was having such perverted thoughts since meeting Ranko. It could be because she had almost been engaged to him, not to mention seeing him and her naked. It was the first time she'd seen a naked man. 'I wonder how good he kisses?' she daydreamed. No! Ranko was a girl dammit! 'So I wonder how she kisses?' Akane squashed that thought. 'Kami! Now I'm thinking like a lesbian!' Well she did claim to hate boys didn't she? She always assumed it was because she hadn't met the right one yet. In a school where Kuno was the epitome of manhood there weren't a lot of options.
Ranko sighed. Late on his first day. Not the kind of impression he wanted to make. There was also his performance in front of the school. He knew deep down he was an excellent martial artist but whenever a male attempted to fight her, she just froze up. He always felt as if he'd done something wrong and deserved whatever punishment he was about to receive even though a small part of his mind knew better. 'It all started with that damn cat- fu training' he thought bitterly. He was startled out of his contemplation by Akane calling his name.
"Ranko? I just wanted to say I'm sorry for what happened this morning. Kuno can be a real jerk sometimes."
"It's ok. I think it will be a long time before I can deal with men normally again. I keep seeing my father." Ranko trailed off.
"Did.did he ever do anything more than hit you?" Akane hesitantly asked.
"NO! I mean no, never. I think he wanted me pure for when I was married. Of course now I don't think I'll ever have a normal relationship. I'll probably become a battered housewife if I ever get married." Ranko shook her head as if trying to forget something, "You know, I used to dream of getting married. I wanted to wear a beautiful white wedding dress and have a western style wedding. My mother would be there crying because she was so happy. And I'd have lots of friends to be bridesmaids and then I'd throw the bouquet as we drove away in a white limo. But who would ever marry a sex changing freak like me?" Ranko was desperately trying to hold back his tears. She slumped to the floor and put her head in her hands.
Akane set down her buckets and sat down next to Ranko. She wrapped her arms around him and placed his head on her shoulder. "It's ok Ranko. Every girl dreams of getting married. I'm sure you'll find the right person for you." 'Yeah, like me.' Akane ground that thought under her foot, 'Ranko is a friend who needs me right now!' she thought angrily.
A few minutes later Ranko seemed in control of herself and Akane realized how warm and comfortable Ranko seemed in her arms. Ranko seemed to sense Akane's discomfort and sat up so they were just sitting next to each other.
"Umm, Akane? I've been meaning to thank you for everything your family has done for me. I'm afraid my father will be back for me though. Damn, I'm such a weakling."
"You're not weak. You're just as good if not a better martial artist than I am. You just need self confidence and a loving family. As for your father, my mother makes good on her promises. If he shows up again she'll take care of him. She's a better martial artist than my dad. Better than me even."
Ranko gave a wane smile, "By the way, why did you tell everyone I was Ranma?"
Akane smiled sheepishly, "Well, I thought if everyone thought you were Ranma then when we got your registration changed to the right gender then everyone would assume you were siblings. That would be an easier explanation than your curse."
"So what do we say when 'Ranma' stops coming to school?"
"We'll just tell everyone that he went on a training trip."
Ranko's smile became genuine. Suddenly she felt her future getting brighter.
* * * * * * * * * *
Nabiki read the note Akane had slipped her at the beginning of lunch before she went off to sit under a tree to eat with Ranko.
She read the note twice to make sure she understood exactly what Akane was planning. She had to admit it was a good idea, Akane could be downright devious when she wanted to be. Too bad her morals were too high or she'd make a good partner.
Returning to her lunch she looked up when a shadow fell across her table.
"Tell me, who is this Ranma who defiles the house of Tendo?" Kuno said.
"His name is Ranma Saotome. He and his sister are guests at our house. We've taken them into our protection from their abusive father. Your attack this morning was uncalled for. He's suffered a pretty traumatic life so I would appreciate it if you left him and his sister alone."
Kuno's expression softened, "He has my sympathies then. For I too suffered under my father's ministrations. I shall go apologize for my rude behavior."
Kuno walked away. Nabiki sat there with her chopsticks hanging from her mouth. She was in shock. That was the last thing she expected to hear from the loud, arrogant, clueless Tatewaki Kuno.
Ranko looked up to see Kuno coming towards them. Akane didn't notice because she was trying to answer questions from her friends Yuka and Sayuri. Ranko gulped and moved back until his back was against the tree they'd been sitting under. Trying to control his fear he breathed deep searching for his center.
"Saotome Ranma, I would like to apologize for my earlier behavior. You are new here and are unaware of how things work at this school. My attack on your person was unwarranted and I regret causing you any fear or discomfort. Nabiki Tendo has informed me of your situation and if you or your sister ever have need of me you have but to ask." Kuno turned and walked away leaving three stunned girls and a confused Ranko behind.
* * * * * * * * * *
Akane and Ranko left Dr. Tofu's office on the way home from school. Ranko felt the need to change back as soon as she could. Nabiki had stayed behind to try and fix Ranko's records.
"I hate this curse. My whole life I've been raised as a man, this was just the final insult." Ranko swore angrily.
"It's not really all that bad. From what you told me there are pools worse than spring of drowned man. You could have accidentally fallen in the spring of drowned cat or something even worse." Akane said offhandedly.
Ranko cringed when Akane said cat but tried to hide it.
"So, do you have any plans other than homework tonight?" Akane continued on oblivious.
"I don't know. I've never had a home really before. What do people do when they aren't training?"
Akane was perplexed. What kind of life has this girl led? "Well, we could go see a movie or just watch TV at home. We could stop for some ice cream on the way. Heck, we could go shopping. Most of your clothes look pretty worn from traveling. Maybe we could get a couple of dresses."
Ranko seemed almost happy for a minute, "I'd love a dress but what would happen if I got wet? People would think I'm a pervert, a guy wearing a dress." Ranko sighed feeling depression come over her again.
"How about we just stay in tonight. We can watch a movie on TV. It'll be just us girls. We can't have you becoming too much of a tomboy now can we? First let's stop and get some ice cream ok?"
Ranko perked up a little as they headed for a small kisaten.
* * * * * * * * * *
Ranko was trying hard not to get depressed again as the two girls entered the Tendo house. They had been enjoying themselves immensely. Akane called it girl talk. They discussed what kind of clothes were cute, their ideal man (Akane left out how she'd been feeling all day). Ranko surprisingly had a pretty detailed plan of what she wanted out of life. She wasn't sure how to go about it now with her curse. After all, what kind of man would marry a freakish half girl? Ranko had problems with men anyway. How could she ever trust one after how she'd been raised. Ranko had joked that maybe she should find a woman to marry instead because she could be the man in the relationship. Akane was hard pressed not to blush brightly as she thought back to earlier that day.
That was when a waiter walked by and stumbled dumping a large soda all over Ranko. The waiter started to apologize to the young lady until he realized he was talking to a young man instead.
Ranko excused himself and went to the furo to take a bath to get the sticky soda off. He took his clothes off in the changing room and entered the washroom. He caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and stopped for a moment. He examined himself for a couple minutes. It was an extremely handsome body he had to admit. The kind of guy he'd like to date. Strong, handsome, charismatic. He suddenly felt anger rise. This was not his body. It was a stranger with his eyes. She suddenly realized he had an erection from staring at the naked reflection. Turning in disgust he went to the faucet and filled a bucket with hot water. She sighed in relief as her true body reasserted itself. She was still aroused but it felt natural now. Her nipples were hard and she felt a familiar heat between her legs.
She was soaping herself up trying to ignore her hormones when there was a knock on the furo door.
"Ranko? Can I come in?" Akane said.
"Uh, sure." Ranko said hesitantly.
The door slid open and Akane entered with her basket of bathing supplies. She sat down on a stool near Ranko and started to wash herself.
"Hey Ranko? What's it like?" Akane said after a moment.
"Hmm?" Ranko replied. Akane's question could have applied to many things in her life.
"You know, turning into a guy. What's it like from a woman's perspective?" Akane pressed.
"I've only had this curse for about two weeks so I haven't had enough time to get used to it. It was terrifying at first. Now I feel disgusted by things about the male side. It's almost perverse. I shouldn't talk about it." Ranko said uneasily.
"You can tell me. I won't judge you. I promise. Only by talking out your feelings can you come to terms with them. At least that's what Mom always says." Akane smiled.
Ranko wasn't sure. She'd only met this girl yesterday but her and her family had already done so much for her. Nodding her head she decided to press on.
"Well, I think I can appreciate why guys get so frustrated around women. It seems the slightest thing will set off an erection. You don't even have to be thinking about sex, just the cloth of your underwear rubbing the wrong way can do it. It's embarrasing. Or how about waking up in the morning with an erection because you went to bed as a guy. I look in a mirror and see a hunk of a guy then I realize it's me and I get so mad I want to break it. It's even worse because I think I hate men." Ranko had a look of hate and disgust as she talked.
Akane gave Ranko a sympathetic hug. She had no idea it was like that. The poor girl, having her womanhood ripped from her just as she was fully coming into it. Having to deal with alien urges her male side inflicted on her female mind.
Ranko felt Akane's arms wrap around her. Other than her callused hands, her skin was soft and remarkably smooth. She sank back into Akane's embrace relishing the feel of human contact long denied her. She couldn't remember being held since she last saw her mother. And now she'd been held twice in one day. She felt safe and secure in Akane's arms, like nothing could go wrong in the world. She turned her head to see Akane looking at her with an almost glazed look in her eyes as if she was also enjoying the contact between them.
Akane didn't know exactly what she was feeling as she held the slight girl in her arms. Rationally she knew the small girl could shatter stone with her bare hands but that didn't make her seem any less frail as she sat there. Then Ranko seemed to snuggle into Akane's embrace. She gave a sigh of satisfaction that surprised Akane. Akane felt the heat rise in her body. Here she was, naked in the bathroom holding a naked girl in her arms. It felt so right even as her mind told her it was wrong. Then Ranko turned her head and looked up at Akane with a smile of contentment.
They held each others gaze for a moment. Akane lowered her head. Ranko stretched hers up. Their lips met. For a brief second it felt like electricity arced between the two. Akane broke off the kiss with a gasp and almost dropped Ranko. Ranko backed away a bit as well.
"I'm sorry!" They both said.
"I didn't mean." They both tried again. Akane sighed.
"I shouldn't have done that. I don't know what came over me." Akane apologized.
"It's all right. It's my fault as much as yours, maybe more so. It just felt so good, you holding me that is." Ranko said shyly.
"I'm sure it's just the stress of these past two days. Nothing to worry about right?"
"Yeah, that must be it. You're a pretty good kisser though." Ranko said.
"You really think so?" Akane blushed. "Well, I think you're a beautiful woman. And not a bad looking guy too."
Ranko's smile faded a bit, "We'd better finish up or they're gonna wonder what happened to us."
"We can go soak in the furo for a bit. Mom won't call us until dinner, dad's teaching a class and Kasumi's has late classes today. Nabiki is the only one who might come in but she likes to bathe alone."
They both got in the furo and reclined on either side so they could face each other. They soaked for a few minutes.
"So do you like women?" Ranko winced as she realized what she just said.
Was there a trace of hope in her voice Akane wondered. "I don't think so. Not in that way I mean. I never felt like kissing any of my friends before. Maybe it was because of your curse."
"But I was a girl at the time. I really like you a lot Akane. You're the first person who's been nice to me in almost ten years. I'd hate to lose your friendship but." Ranko trailed off.
Akane shrugged mentally. Hadn't she just been having these thoughts all day? Ranko seemed almost ok with it. They'd only known each other two days. That wasn't enough time to develop a relationship let alone come to terms with your own sexuality. She needed time to think about it.
"Let's not rush anything. Whatever happens, happens." Akane said.
"I think I can live with that." Ranko smiled and kissed Akane on the cheek as she got out of the furo.
'Damn she's sexy.' Akane thought to herself as she admired Ranko's petite rear as she went to get a towel. This time she didn't squash the thought.
* * * * * * * * * *
Dinner was a fairly quiet affair Kimiko noted. Ranko and Akane seemed to be getting along well. Ranko even seemed to be enjoying herself. She smiled to herself. This was just what the girl needed, a loving family. Her and Soun had discussed it the previous night. They would take care of Ranko as long as necessary. After all she was a practitioner of the same school of martial arts regardless of her honorless father.
Soun was slightly disappointed. He had been looking forward to seeing Genma again after so long. It was obvious how much the man had changed however. Imagine, purposely cursing his daughter to turn into a man all for the sake of uniting the two schools. If need be, Soun had been prepared to just wait until the next generation. As much as he had wanted to see a marriage between the Tendo and Saotome clans he was willing to wait until his grand kids or even his great grand kids united the clans. If he had learned anything from his old master it was that death may not be cheated but it could be put off for a while. He looked up from his paper as Ranko laughed at something Akane said. He was glad of his decision. He reminded himself to ask Nabiki about tracking down Ranko's mother if she was still alive.
Nabiki noticed the difference in Ranko's attitude since coming home from school. She wondered how much of it was still an act. She had made it known around school today that Ranma and Ranko were to be unmolested or face the wrath of Nabiki. She didn't want another episode like this morning with Kuno or a mob attacking Ranko every morning like they did to Akane. She wondered briefly if there was a way to not only improve Ranko's self esteem but make a profit at the same time.
Akane and Ranko excused themselves and went into the TV room to watch a movie.
"What would you like to watch?" Akane asked.
"I dunno. I've never really seen a movie before." Ranko replied.
"What? You've never even gone to a theater before?" Akane asked disbelieving.
"Not unless you count father sneaking me into theaters to watch porno flicks." Ranko muttered.
Akane tried to remain calm. Her rage boiled under her mild exterior. It wouldn't be constructive to lose her temper without the one responsible here to bear the brunt of it.
"I'd hardly call that quality entertainment." Akane finally managed to say. She searched through her modest video collection before picking one. It somehow seemed appropriate even if the title wasn't.
"This is an American movie with subtitles. Can you read fast?" Akane asked.
"I guess so. I always tried to practice even while on the road. Mostly in secret. Father didn't think it was as important as the art. Besides, I know English pretty well. We traveled with an American hiker for about a year and I learned a lot from him. So what movie are we going to watch?"
"It's called 'Better off Dead.'" Akane smiled.
* * * * * * * * * *
Kimiko sighed as she brought in a third bowl of popcorn to the two girls. She's never seen anyone eat so much. Where was Ranko putting it all? It was possible that Ranko was finally able to get a decent meal and seemed to be trying to catch up for lost meals in the past. Kimiko decided to keep an eye on the girl's weight just in case she was eating too much for her metabolism.
Ranko was feeling pretty positive after the movie ended. While she didn't understand some of the jokes because of cultural barriers, she did identify with the overall story. The way the guy made a comeback from a horrible life to being a heroic figure all because of the support of a loving woman in his life struck home. She suspected Akane chose the movie for just that reason. Did that mean Akane was the loving supportive woman in her life?
They went upstairs to Akane's room and did their homework. Ranko had some trouble with the math but actually helped Akane with her English and her history. Ranko seemed puzzled as to why some of the animals and creatures mentioned were considered myths.
"C'mon Ranko. Dragons aren't real." Akane said thinking Ranko was teasing her.
Ranko raised an eyebrow, "Tell that to the one that almost had me for lunch." She said seriously.
Akane wasn't sure if Ranko was teasing her or not but let it drop. There was a lot about each other that they didn't know but they had plenty of time to discover it.
Akane figured they had time for one more movie before bed and let Ranko pick it. Ranko perused the titles a bit before picking 'Army of Darkness'. Akane remembered buying it because of the heroic pose of the man had on the box. It was badly dubbed and extremely silly in her opinion but conceded to Ranko's wish to see it.
Ranko apparently liked it because she spent most of the movie laughing her ass off and complaining how they got the story wrong. Again Akane decided it was better not to ask. At least not yet.
* * * * * * * * * *
The next morning started out as usual. Akane and Ranko walked to school together talking the whole way. When they reached the school grounds Akane dealt with the usual crowd of idiots who actually listened to Kuno's edict that anyone who wanted to date Akane must defeat her in combat.
When Kuno made his appearance this time however he looked at Ranko appraisingly. He stepped forward as Akane took a combat stance.
"Obviously Nabiki's description of Ranko Saotome did not do you justice." He said producing a bouquet of red roses. He approached Ranko and she backed away, hiding behind Akane. Kuno didn't seem to notice, "Miss Saotome, I would take you out on a date."
Ranko was gripping Akane's shirt, holding her tight as she cowered behind her.
Akane was furious at Kuno and feeling a little jealous as well, "Kuno, you have five seconds to back off or you'll experience severe pain. Ranko doesn't want to date you."
"I'm sorry Akane, I shall not neglect you. I will date with you as well." Kuno said undeterred.
Akane reached and disengaged Ranko's hands from her shirt. She leapt forward towards Kuno and there was the sounds of dislocations and bones snapping. Finally Kuno lay in a broken heap on the ground.
"Come on Ranko, we don't want to be late." Akane led the still shivering girl towards their class.
The surrounding boys who had regained consciousness looked stunned and vowed that Akane should be left alone if she could be that brutal.
* * * * * * * * * *
Kuno never showed up for class. After an Ambulance drove him to the hospital, Akane had been called down to answer some questions from a couple of police officers. After talking to her and a few other witnesses they decided not to press charges. One of the officers was heard to say, "I'm surprised she held off as long as she did. Sounds like he had it coming for months."
"I'm sorry you almost got arrested today." Ranko said at lunch.
Akane smiled, "It's ok. Hopefully this will finally get through his dense skull that I'm not interested in dating him. Besides there's someone else I'm kind of interested in."
"Is he cute?" Ranko asked hesitantly.
"I think so. He's very strong, he's an excellent martial artist, and a pretty good kisser." Akane continued.
"Oh." Ranko said disheartened.
"Although I think I like his girl side a little more." Akane finished with a teasing look in her eye.
"Oooh! You shouldn't tease like that!" Ranko playfully slugged Akane in the arm, "Did you mean that? About my guy side that is."
"Hai, I think I do. I like you a lot already Ranko. I don't know if there's a cure for your curse or not. I hate to say it but maybe we should help you come to terms with it. At least learn to live with it if not accept it. As curses go, it's not that bad. At least you turn into a hunk. You could have been cursed to turn into a nerdy geek with bad Acne."
Ranko let loose a small giggle even as she considered the implications of Akane's speech. "I guess I am pretty good looking as a guy. I still get embarrassed looking at my naked self in a mirror. Gawd, I can't believe my guy side turns me on!"
"Well, to tell the truth, it turns me on too." Akane blushed at her admission. "I almost gave in to the engagement after talking to my sisters. Then when I saw you turn into a guy in the bathroom and I saw how well endowed you were I was shocked for a second before I realized I was naked in the bathroom with a guy. I'm sorry for screaming like that by the way."
Both girls had a serious blush going on. Their faces could be seen for miles if someone had actually been looking.
"It's ok. I screamed like that when it happened to me the first time. You know, I never felt this way before you know. towards another girl."
"Same here. I guess that makes us both perverts. So what do we do about it?" Akane finally said.
"I don't know. You were my first kiss. I've never even been out on a date. Father wouldn't let me." Ranko sighed.
"Well how about we go shopping for some new clothes for you then go out. It'll be like a real date." Akane offered.
"I can go in guy form if you want." Ranko said sadly.
"It doesn't matter to me what for you are in. You are Ranko Saotome no matter what and I'm growing very fond of you."
Ranko smiled, "Thank you Akane, for everything."
* * * * * * * * * *
After school they went to the shopping district clothes hunting. They managed to find a few outfits that were fairly unisex although Ranko looked longingly at a few dresses and almost cried when she saw a wedding dress on display. They bought some boxer briefs, the elastic waist would keep them on when Ranko was female and stretch to fit her male form. No more panties to ride up when she was hit with cold water. They also got a few sports bras that kind of doubled as tight tank tops without seeming too perverted on a guy. Akane was shocked to see how much money Ranko had. She said she'd been saving up, hiding it from her father who would have spent it on alcohol or prostitutes.
They stopped at a jewelry store on the way home and got Ranko's left ear pierced. She would have gotten both pierced but it would have looked weird on 'Ranma'. She picked out a dangling silver chain piece that would look good no matter what sex she was.
Kimiko greeted them from the kitchen when they came home. "Nabiki told me what happened at school today. Why didn't you tell me things were so bad at school?" she admonished, coming out of the kitchen.
Akane shrugged, "I thought I could handle it. I'm a martial artist, I should be able to fight my own fights."
"That boy Kuno had to go to the hospital. Thankfully he only has a broken arm and some cracked ribs. If this had been stopped earlier, you wouldn't have had to resort to such extreme measures."
Akane hung her head, "I'm sorry mom."
"It's really my fault Tendo-san. Akane was only trying to protect me." Ranko leapt to Akane's defense.
"Please call me Kimiko, or auntie, either will do. I'm sure Akane only did what she thought she had to. Hopefully this will be the end of the matter."
Both girls nodded and let out a sigh of relief.
"Oh, mom? We won't be home for dinner. Ranko and I are going to go out for dinner and maybe catch a movie." Akane said.
Kimiko smiled, "A girls' night out? Just don't be too late coming home. Tomorrow's a school day."
"Yes mom." Both girls ran upstairs to Akane's room to change and get ready.
"So which outfit should I wear on our date?" Ranko asked.
"Definitely the blue one with the black pants. And the leather shoes." Akane suggested.
Ranko pulled out the silk shirt they had just bought. It was short sleeved with a rounded collar and white bone buttons. She quickly stripped bare and got her underwear out of her bag. Akane was pleased to see the bruises had already begun to fade. She blushed when she realized she was staring at Ranko's bare ass as she bent over to pull on her boxers. Red was definitely Ranko's natural hair color. She'd have to show Ranko how to clean up her bikini line and to shave her legs as well.
* * * * * * * * * *
Nabiki sat on her bed with her ear to the wall. A date? How had Akane and Ranko found anyone to date so quickly. She didn't think Ranko would be up to dating so soon. She wracked her brain trying to think of anyone in the two girls' class that they might be interested in. There was Hiroshi and Daisuke, nah, they were serious dweebs who didn't have a snowball's chance in hell of getting a date with a girl as popular as Akane. She resolved herself to follow the two and see for herself. Just to make sure Ranko was safe, she told herself.
* * * * * * * * * *
Ranko and Akane walked down the road close to each other, enjoying each other's presence. Ranko was smiling, a genuine smile. She didn't know what lay ahead in her relationship with Akane but felt optimistic. She had found someone who actually cared for her and didn't mind her curse at all. The fact that the person in question was a girl didn't bother Ranko nearly as much as she thought it would.
Akane was deep in thought herself. If her and Ranko really fell in love that would mean eventually they would. The thought went unfinished for a moment. Could she make love to another girl? She didn't think she'd have a problem with Ranko's guy side. Although how he would fit his. up her. She again tried another line of thought. She would burn that bridge after she crossed it she thought wryly.
They stopped at a local eatery. Nothing fancy or expensive but a place where they could sit and talk in semi privacy.
"So what would we tell your family if. you know." Ranko began after they'd ordered their food.
Akane hadn't even thought about that. She knew her father would freak. Maybe she could calm him down by telling him the Saotome/Tendo lines would finally be united. Her sisters were pretty open minded about such things. Akane was pretty sure about that. What bothered her most was thinking she would somehow disappoint her mother.
"I really don't know yet." Akane answered. "If I told Nabiki first she would be able to help us break it to the rest of the family."
"Do you believe in love at first sight?" Ranko said after a moment of silence.
"It would certainly explain a lot wouldn't it." Akane laughed. "Well it would certainly be an interesting relationship. If you want, I'll wear the tux and you can have the wedding dress."
"That wouldn't be fair. I'm a guy half the time. I really should be the one to wear the tux. Besides, it's too early to be making wedding plans. We haven't even finished our first date. Although I'm looking forward to the end of the date." Ranko smiled mischievously.
"Why's that?" Akane asked.
"Why the goodnight kiss of course." Ranko smirked.
Behind them in the next booth Nabiki sat with an unreadable expression on her face. She was too stunned to think for a moment. Finally awareness crept back with one thought at the forefront. Akane was gay. Well maybe not completely gay, there was the possibility she was attracted to Ranko's cursed form as well. Bisexual then. That would explain why she hated boys so much at school. Of course Nabiki had no use for any of them herself. They were either poor or total idiots like Kuno. She realized that they were expecting her to help break their relationship to the rest of the family. Well she smirked, daddy did say he would like to see the two clans united. She decided to let the two lovebirds finish their date in peace. She had plans to make. Akane was her sister and however she wanted to live her life Nabiki was determined to be supportive.
* * * * * * * * * *
It was dark and Ranko and Akane risked walking hand in hand on the way home. They had seen a movie called 'The One'. It was fast and action packed with just enough of a romantic touch to pull on the heartstrings.
"It was nice he got to be with her again but it wasn't really her, just another version of her." Ranko had a sad smile on her face.
"True but it would make the hurt less." Akane replied.
The couple reached the gates and faced each other.
"Well, here we are." Akane said.
"Yup, here we are." Ranko agreed.
They leaned in towards each other slowly, shyly. Ranko closed her eyes in anticipation. So did Akane. They closed the gap between them lips puckered.and missed. Ranko laughed as she felt Akane's lips on her nose.
"Maybe we should keep our eyes open until we touch." Ranko offered.
Akane nodded and tried again. As their lips touched they both felt the electric tingle through their bodies only it was more powerful than before. Their arms wrapped around each other as they fell fully into the kiss. Time seemed to stop for the two, it could have been minutes or years. They finally, reluctantly parted. Ranko was gasping for breath and Akane looked flushed.
"Wow, to think I've been missing that all these years on the road with father." Ranko was waving her hand at her face, trying to cool herself down.
"That was some kiss." A voice said from the nearby bushes, "You should really be more careful or somebody's going to catch you in the act."
Both girls jumped in surprise as Nabiki emerged from the shadows.
"N-N-Nabiki, you saw." Akane tried finding her voice.
"Everything, I saw everything. The question is what are we going to do about it?"
"Well, we were going to ask for your help if things became serious." Ranko said embarrassed.
"Looked pretty serious to me. All right, I'll help. I'll need time so you guys are going to have to keep the necking to a minimum until I work something out."
"Thanks sis." Akane said finally able to speak again.
"Just tell me, are you two sure about this? I want you to make sure this isn't just a spur of the moment emotional high. Especially you Ranko. Akane is one of the first people to care for you in a long time. Don't give me that look. I make money by paying attention to the details. I just want you to be sure of yourselves before you do something you'll both regret. Ok?"
Both girls nodded in agreement.
"Now get inside before someone sees you." Nabiki scolded.
* * * * * * * * * *
End Chapter two