Author's comments: This is a crossover-fic between four different series
and a movie called Starship Troopers. The first series is Ranma ½, then
KOF, Gatekeepers and the Final Fantasy series. So, if you don't like stuff
like this, then please leave. Otherwise enjoy the fic. Be gentle dear
readers and read this with an open mind.
Disclaimer: The characters to Final Fantasy, Gatekeepers, KOF and Ranma ½ do not belong to me or else I would be rich now. I'm only borrowing the characters. Please don't sue me.
This fanfiction is dedicated to Ryan, who has written a fanfic that has touched this author here.(places hand over heart). May he find the person just for him. And this is also dedicated to Heather of the Amazoness Duo, who inspired me to write. May she find the 'Sakura' in her life and know happiness.
Side note: If you don't know the characters from the series I'm using. I suggest you read up about them first.Now on with the story.please make sure you've read part 1 first.
Starship Troopers: Anime Style (Part 2)
Ranma was breathing hard, but he smiled. This was the type of thing that was good at. Iori ran along beside him. Ranma had to admit he was impressed with him. He didn't think that he would have kept up with him through the obstacle course.
"What makes you think you'll be squad leader, Ranma?" asked Iori, panting.
"It's something.I got," said Ranma, panting while running.
"Feh.guys like you.are all alike," said Iori.
Just as they were about to cross a pit fall, a voice interrupted their thoughts.
"Hey, you guys," called Tifa.
As the two turned around, Tifa crossed overhead on a pulley and smacked both Ranma and Iori over and into the pit full of mud. Tifa smiled as she finished the rest of the course.
* * *
Now the team is practicing accuracy, but with knife throwing.
"Next squad," ordered Seifer.
Iori stepped up and readied himself. He took a moment before threw the knife at the target. Unfortunately, it bounced off and scrapped him in the shoulder.
"Son of a." cursed Iori.
Seifer shook his head, smiling.
"Sir, I don't get it," said Iori. "I mean who needs a knife when I can do this?"
Iori just then put his hand through the wall behind the squad. Everyone stared.
"Sir?" asked Iori.
"Cease fire," ordered Seifer.
The cadets stopped throwing knives at targets and listened.
"Put your hand on that mangled wall," said Seifer, standing next to a target with a knife sticking in it.
Iori scowled.
"Put your hand on that wall," repeated Seifer.
Iori put his hand on that wall and smirked. Seifer pulled the knife out from the target behind him, flipped it and threw it. Iori moved his hand at the last second, the knife imbedding in the wall, between his fingers. Iori smirked as Seifer approached, thinking that he was wounded.
"A man can not push a button," said Seifer gesturing to Iori's hand. "If you disable his."
Seifer looked Iori, who was none the worse for wear, no bleeding or anything of the sort.
".hand," finished Seifer.
Seifer grumbled and let his students continue.
* * *
Later that day, all the cadets were in the showers. Ranma stepped and pulled on a handle and started the warm water. It felt good to work out again like this.
"Well, we were all dumb enough to sign up for Mobile Infantry," said Kyo. "What's your excuse Shingo?"
"You made me do this, Kusanagi-sempai," said Shingo. "Good for training."
"Oh, I forgot," said Kyo, turning. "Rinoa? You?"
"Well, my dad's a general," answered Rinoa, washing her hair. "And I want to try out for 'SeeD' and you need citizenship for that, so here I am."
"I see, let's keep it going," said Kyo, turning to Kuno. "You?"
"Well, I got into the best Kendo school, but I used too much money on girls," answered Kuno. "So, I serve and the Federation pays for me.Ha!"
Kyo then pointed at his sister, not really knowing her reasons.
"Want to be a mom," said Kodachi. "Easier to get a license if you serve."
"How about you Yagami?" asked Kyo.
"I knew you'd be here, so." Iori cracked his knuckles.
"Eep.hey, Ranma, what about you?" asked Kyo.
"Who asked you to be so nosy?" retorted Ranma.
"I AM nosy, that's who I am," said Kyo as Tifa entered the showers.
"Hey Ti.ti.gah.gah!" hooted Kyo as Tifa started to take off her top, flashing.
"What?"
"Hubba, flubba, wabba, zabba!" babbled Kyo incoherently.
Tifa tossed her clothes off not knowing what Kyo's problem was and entered the shower next to Ranma.
"You knew Ranma from Trabia," said Kyo, holding his nose because of a nosebleed. "What's his story?"
"Oh," said Tifa with a sly look. "He's here for a girl."
The instant that was said, the others started hooting.
"Whoa.oh boy!" called Shingo.
"Lover boy!" yelled Kyo.
Ranma rolled his eyes and left the showers. Kyo turned back to Tifa.
"Is it you?" asked Kyo.
Tifa didn't answer, just gave a shrug and a look that said it might be her.
"Well, what about you then?" asked Kyo. "What are you here for?"
Tifa threw Kyo a look and promptly left the showers. Kyo looked confused.
"Was it something I said?"
* * *
"This is where we live," said Ranma's voice, as the camera panned over the barracks with lots of rowdiness. "It's not much, but I've been through worse."
"Just think about it with my pops," said Ranma as he came back into view. "I've had it worse before."
Suddenly, all of Ranma's friends came into view, shouting stuff. Ranma moved the camera away.
"Cut it out guys," said Ranma.
"Anyways, it's tough out here, not tougher than what pops put me through," said Ranma to the camera. "But then I think of you and I just want to go for it."
Suddenly the barrack's lights go out.
"Oops, got to go soon," said Ranma.
Iori in the background finished playing the guitar and along with some of his other friends, they crowded around Ranma, hooting and making kissing sounds and ruffling Ranma's hair.
"I'll kill you," said Ranma as he tackled his friends.
After a minute of trashing his friends, Ranma came back into view.
"Got to go, write me," said Ranma.
* * *
Ruriko laughed and closed the letter. Ranma looked like he was having some fun while training. A girl whizzed by Ruriko with a gear bag on her shoulder.
"Hey, come on Ruriko," said the girl. "First one there gets to fly it."
"Hey, get back here Selphie," called Ruriko as she grabbed her gear bag and raced after her friend.
Racing for the stairs, Ruriko slid down the banister and beat her friend to the spot of flying. Selphie sat down next to Ruriko.
"Closing it up," said Ruriko, flipping some switches.
"Wait!"
Two more cadets ran in and sat down.
"Oh, no, not Rurippe again," said a cadet. "She's crazy."
That earned him a slap to the cheek.
"Humph! Nani o?" asked Ruriko as she pulled the mini ship out of the docking port.
The ship raced off down the corridor. And after some tight turns and such, they flew out into open space, leaving the Moon's surface.
"Hey, you seem pretty happy today," said Selphie. "What's up?"
"Today I get to fly that," said Ruriko, looking out of the view port.
Everyone looked to see a huge battle carrier sitting calmly in the orbit defense station around the Moon.
* * *
Soon Ruriko was aboard the Rodger Young battle cruiser. She walked smartly up to the captain and saluted.
"Pilot Trainee Ikusawa reporting for duty, ma'am," said Ruriko.
The captain was a nice young lady named Xu. She saluted back.
"Take the number two chair, Ikusawa," said Xu. "Follow the instructions of your supervisor."
"Yes, ma'am," said Ruriko, smiling.
Ruriko sat down, flipping on her station. Her instructor turned toward her handing her a clipboard. Ruriko looked up and was surprised.
"Ryouga, what are you doing here?" asked Ruriko.
"I'm going to teach you how to fly this thing," said Ryouga, grinning.
"Assistant instructor," said Ruriko. "Should I call you 'sir'?"
"Only when I give you an order," replied Ryouga.
They continued to make small talk as they check the final procedures.
"Take her out Ikusawa," said Xu.
Ruriko grabbed the control stick and eased the starship out. Releasing the final docking clamps, she eased it out.
"This isn't simulation any more cadet," said Ryouga. "Your teachers may not have been able to keep up with you, but."
"Or what?" asked Ruriko jokingly.
"They revoke your flight status and mine," said Ryouga. "Take it easy."
"Yes, sir," said Ruriko.
"Okay, initiate star drive for Jupiter," said Xu.
"Star drive in 5, 4, 3." said Ryouga.
Ruriko set the destination and the starship Rodger Young disappeared.
* * *
Ranma was dressed in combat gear, hiding behind a panel for protection. He rushed out and used his practice gun to take out the members of the opposite team as Tifa and other members of his team joined him.
"We're going in," called out Kyo.
As Kyo and three other team members advanced, Iori and the members of his team ambushed them. While the Kuno's provided cover, Iori aimed specifically at Kyo, shooting him over and over again, even though it was a one hit 'kill'.
"Ha, ha!" laughed Iori as he and his team ducked back.
"Man, they're defended," said Ranma to Tifa. "No way in."
"Flip six, three hole," whispered Tifa.
"What?" Ranma asked; he didn't hear her clearly.
"You run a flip six, three hole and you get score," said Tifa, smiling.
Smiling, Ranma took point.
"Cover me," he called.
Tifa nodded and provided cover fire as Ranma rolled out and took a new position.above Iori and his squad, who had Tifa pinned down.
"Now," called Tifa, who had hidden back behind protection again.
Ranma flipped down, took Iori and two of his members completely by surprise, disabling them.
"Thanks, buddy," said Ranma, taking Iori's gun.
"You b@$#@rd!" screamed Iori.
Ranma then, using two guns, proceeded to eliminate the others on Iori's team and made it to the flag. He grabbed it and waved it in triumph. Seifer stood quite a ways from the skirmish with Raijin. Nodding at Raijin, Seifer spoke.
"Guy's got some moves," commented Seifer. "Give him a squad, see how he does."
Raijin nodded and marked something down on his clipboard.
* * *
Later that night, Ranma stood proudly with a badge symbolizing his position as a new squad leader.
"Look at him," said Kyo. "It should have been me."
"Ha, like you could have done any better," said Iori. "Guess Seifer had to choose someone."
Ranma turned to Tifa, who was sitting at a desk. She looked up at Ranma.
"I couldn't have done without you Tifa," said Ranma softly. "Friends?"
"Mm.sure, friends," said Tifa, forcing a smile.
Suddenly Raijin comes in with mail. He passes it out.
"Yagami," said Raijin.
"Right here," said Iori, grabbing his disk.
"Kuno."
"Is it from the pigtailed girl?" asked Kuno, taking the disk.
Ranma silently fumed. He had been cured a long time ago.
"And Saotome."
Ranma eagerly took it and inserted it into his bunk TV. Ruriko image appeared on screen as Ranma's teammates gathered to take a look.
"Hi Ranma," said Ruriko, brightly. "I would have written sooner, but it's pretty busy up here."
Ranma's teammates started to hoot and catcall as they saw Ruriko.
"I'm sure you've made squad leader by now," said Ruriko, as if she were sure of it.
"Sure did," said Ranma showing the badge at the screen.
The view suddenly changed views, showing Ruriko looking out of a port window at the planet Jupiter.
"Isn't it beautiful?" asked Ruriko. "But I guess now, I want to see the universe."
Suddenly the room around Ranma got quiet.
"I want to command a ship of my own," said Ruriko. "I might go career, which doesn't leave a lot of time for us."
Ranma just stared at the screen, not believing what he just heard. His friends suddenly seemed to have stuff to do and left.
"I know that's not what you wanted to hear," said Ruriko. "But I've got to follow my heart. Write me okay?"
The screen went blank and Ranma sighed, taking the disk out. He spun it between his fingers and Iori looked down on him.
"It's funny how they want to stay friends after they rip your guts out," said Iori.
"Yeah," said Ranma.
Iori thumped Ranma on the back before turning back to his pool 'game' with Kyo and Shingo. Tifa walked by and sat down next to Ranma.
"You okay?" asked Tifa, softly.
"It's what I deserve," answered Ranma.
"Eh? What do you mean?" asked Tifa, unsure of what he meant.
"I joined up to be with her," said Ranma. "I wouldn't even be here if wasn't for her."
"Neither would I," whispered Tifa.
"Eh? What was that?" asked Ranma.
"Oh, nothing," replied Tifa, quickly. "But you made squad leader on your own Ranma."
Nodding Ranma stood up, broke the disk, and went to join Iori in 'beating' Kyo and Shingo at pool. Sighing, Tifa looked down.
* * *
The next day, Ranma and his group stood, lined up as Seifer gave instructions to them.
"Today you will be in a live-fire situation," barked Seifer. "You will exercise extreme caution on my obstacle course. Do you get me?!"
"Sir, we get you, sir!" shouted Ranma and the rest of the team.
"Ranma, you got command," said Seifer, stepping out of the line of fire.
"First wave, take your positions," ordered Ranma.
At his command, five other troopers stepped forward and cocked their rifles, ready for action.
"Highest score was 280," shouted Seifer. "I expect you to do better!"
The obstacle course began with drones popping up and shooting at them with fake rounds just like in the team exercise. Tifa was first to advance, ducking under the shots and blowing drones away with her pulse cannon. Kuno advanced.
"Taste the wrath of the Blue Thunder of Furikan High!" yelled Kuno as he ran forward to attack.
Unfortunately, Kuno got shot multiple times from a surprise attack from a drone that had popped out in front of him and he went down. Rinoa quickly advanced to take Kuno's place and just as she was about to fire, Shingo got in her way.
"Hey, watch the line of fire!" yelled Rinoa.
"Can't.there's something wrong with my helmet," said Shingo.
"Stop, you're going to blow the score!" shouted Tifa from up ahead.
"What's the problem, Shingo-san?" asked Ranma.
"It's my helmet," said Shingo.
"Let me see it," said Ranma, lifting it off.
"Try not to get killed," said Rinoa.
Unfortunately, Rinoa wasn't paying attention and a drone appeared behind Rinoa, firing. Rinoa got caught square in the back. Rinoa fell to the ground, but as she did so, her gun discharged blowing a hole through Shingo's head. Ranma stared, horrified at the turn of events. Iori turned around from his advanced position.
"Ha, ha! Nice job Rinoa," said Iori, complimenting her.
"Medic!!!!" yelled Ranma.
"Ranma, you are relieved of squad command," shouted Seifer.
* * *
"Saotome, did you give the recruit permission to remove his helmet?" asked a gruff man from behind his desk.
"Sir, yes sir," answered Ranma. "Commander Heidern, recruit reported a malfunction in his helmet, sir."
"Are rated to repair an M3 tactical helmet, Saotome?" asked Commander Heidern.
"Sir, no sir," responded Ranma.
"Then why did you order your man to remove his helmet during a live-fire exercise?"
"I wanted to win, sir," said Ranma.
Ranma then caught a glimpse of Rinoa, dressed in civilian clothes walking past the office. Rinoa exchanged a glance with Ranma before running off, not wanting Ranma to see the tears in her eyes.
"Sergeant, we've already lost 2 recruits due to this incident," said Heidern. "Do you think this man can be salvaged?"
"Yes, sir, I do," replied Seifer, who was off to the side.
"All right," said Heidern, nodding. "We'll try administrative punishment."
* * *
Ranma, stripped of shirt, walked forth to the square with Seifer right behind him as all the troopers watched.
"Prisoner, halt," called Seifer.
Ranma stopped next to a post and both his hands are strung up. Seifer held up a red rubber mouthpiece.
"Bite down on this, son," whispered Seifer to Ranma.
Ranma looked at it before looking back up at Seifer.
"It helps.I know," said Seifer.
Ranma took it and Seifer stepped away as Raijin took a position behind Ranma and Heidern spoke up.
"For incompetence of command, for failure to abide by safety regulations in a live-fire exercise, for negligence which contributed to the death of a teammate."
Iori looked on along with the Kuno's and Kyo.
".Recruit trainee Ranma Saotome is sentenced to administrative punishment. Ten lashes. May the sentence be carried out."
Raijin uncoiled the whip, an unemotional expression on his face. He suddenly lashed out and struck Ranma's back. Ranma gripped the mouthpiece as he tried to bear with it. Raijin struck out again.and again.
* * *
Out in the deep recesses of space, out near the bug quarantine zone, Ruriko sighed and continued to monitor the situation out in space. Suddenly someone handed her a cup of coffee. Ruriko, startled, looked up to see Ryouga.
"Oh, thank you, Ryouga-kun," said Ruriko, gratefully, taking the cup. "Third watch seems to take a long time."
"Depends on who you spend it with," said Ryouga. 'I said it.I said it.'
After arguing over some course corrections, Ryouga finally spoke up.
"I've been talking to Xu," said Ryouga, sitting down.
"You actually found her?" asked Ruriko, teasingly.
"Hey, I was talking with her on my console," said Ryouga. "Anyway, she wants us to be part of her team."
"Really?" asked Ruriko, excited.
"Really," replied Ryouga. "We're best on our team."
Ryouga suddenly looked at Ruriko's cup of coffee. Ruriko looked as well, found the coffee slanting to something out in space.
"There's a gravitational field out there," said Ruriko, turning serious.
"Where?" asked Ryouga, checking his station readings.
"Out there," said Ruriko.
"Report," said Xu, suddenly appearing on the Captain's screen.
"A gravitational field is out there," reported Ryouga.
"All readings indicate an asteroid," said Ruriko.
"Evasive maneuvers!" commanded Xu. "I'll be right there."
Xu closed communications. Ruriko grabbed the steering. Ryouga initiated emergency collision procedures. A panel popped up for the emergency thrusters and Ruriko broke the glass protecting it. On Ryouga's signal, Ruriko fired the rockets and evaded the asteroid.barely. The Rodger Young's top lookout station was torn from the ship and sent hurling into space. The hull was also scraped up. The bridge suddenly came alive as Xu and other officers rushed inside to see what happened.
"Where did it come from?" asked Xu.
"From our readings, trajectory indicates Bug Quarantine Zone," answered Ryouga.
"Number 4, contact Fleet," ordered Xu. "Tell them we've got a loose asteroid heading their way."
"Communications are down, ma'am," replied the officer.
Xu thought before turning to another department.
"Engineering," said Xu. "Damage assessment."
"Hull's been compromised," answered an officer. "We're lucky to be alive."
"Luck had nothing to do with it," said Xu, looking at Ryouga and Ruriko. "We have a hell of a flight team."
Ryouga smiled and pointed at Ruriko, who blushed and smiled.
* * *
Ranma, now wearing civilian clothes, packed his bags, stuffing his shirts and stuff into a duffel bag. Tifa looked sad as she watched him pack.
"You don't have to go," said Tifa.
"Well, the Mobile Infantry will just have to get along without me," said Ranma stuffing another shirt into his bag.
"I don't get it," said Tifa, sitting down on his bed. "I mean, you took the whipping and if they didn't want you, they would've kicked you out."
"Look, I joined up for the wrong reason," said Ranma, sighing. "I got a person killed, I think that qualifies my leaving."
Just then Raijin walked in.
"Ranma, your call's going through," said Raijin, pointing at a terminal. "Take it there."
Ranma nodded and walked up to the terminal and pressed a couple of buttons and a minute later, his mom's image showed up.
"Ranma?" asked Nodoka, surprised. "Oh, Ranma.pick up Genma. It's Ranma."
"Boy, you.where's your uniform?" asked Genma, confused.
"Genma," hissed Nodoka.
"Sorry, crouching tiger," said Genma, bowing. "It's good to see you boy."
"Well, things aren't turning out well here for me," said Ranma. "I was wondering if I could.you know, come home."
"Of course," answered Nodoka. "You should come back right away."
"Come back and take over the dojo, boy," said Genma. "And don't talk like that. I didn't raise a girl, you know?"
"Come back and we can talk it out," said Nodoka. "We love you son."
"Love you too, mom," said Ranma.
Suddenly, the sky seemed to darken around Nodoka and Genma's home. They looked up in surprise.
"Looks like rain," said Genma.
"At this time of year?" asked Nodoka.
Then the transmission abruptly terminated, giving Ranma the message to try his call again later. Ranma sighed and picked up his bag.
"Well, see you Tifa," said Ranma.
"Good luck," said Tifa, softly. "I'll miss you."
Ranma nodded and headed outside. Tifa sighed heavily and put her cap on. As Ranma was walking by the groups of trainees, all of a sudden, all the cadets started to rush toward the big TV screen set up for important news. Ranma, wondering what was going on, ran with them.
"Hey.hey! What's going on?" yelled Ranma.
Spotting Kyo, he called out.
"Hey, Kyo! What's going on?" called out Ranma.
"War! We're going to war!" yelled back Kyo.
Ranma, stunned, rushed along with Iori, Kyo and Tifa and others. The TV screen was on and tuned to the news.
".early estimates millions dead.a city in ruins," said the reporter's voice.
"Hey, is that Trabia?" asked Ranma, quietly.
"Godd@#n bugs whacked us, Ranma," said Kuno.
"Nothing lives what once was called Crazed Martial Artist Central," said the reporter. "The town of Nerima has been wiped off the map."
Ranma stared in silent horror. Tifa gasped and held a hand to her mouth.
"Oh, Ranma.that's home," said Tifa.
"The federal council met moments ago and voted unanimously for mobilization to destroy the bug threat."
Ranma expression went beyond demonic and he headed off as the news continued to report.
"The meteor was derived from the bug home planet, Klendathu," said the reporter.
In the C.O.'s office.
"I'm serious, sir. I'll go anywhere," insisted Seifer. "I want combat!"
"The only way you're getting combat is if you bust yourself down to private," raged Heidern. "Do you get me?!"
"Yes, sir, I get you," said Seifer.
"Sir," called out Ranma as he stomped inside.
"What do you want Saotome?" asked Heidern.
"I wish to reconsider my request to drop out," said Ranma.
"You've already signed your form, son," said Heidern. "It wouldn't be legal."
"Then make it legal! Sir, my whole entire family was in Nerima," said Ranma.
"Is this your signature, Saotome?" barked Seifer, showing the form.
"Yes, sir, it is," replied Ranma, gruffly.
Heidern exchanged a glance with Seifer, before turning away.
"Not anymore it isn't," said Seifer, ripping the document up. "Carry on private!"
"Yes, sir!" barked Ranma before leaving.
The TV report continued as Ranma and everyone else watched.
"Out of the ashes of Nerima comes sorrow."
Scenes showed terrible destruction, raging fires, infantry helping to find people buried inside the rubble.
".Then ANGER!"
The camera zoomed in to show a girl that Ranma instantly recognized. She looked haggard, dirty and very tired, but she still carried herself with pride.
"The only good bug is a dead bug!" shouted the girl.
Ranma sighed.
"What's up, Ranma?" asked Tifa.
"Uc-chan," said Ranma. "One of my childhood friends from Nerima. It's good to see her alive."
Tifa nodded and they continued to watch.
"Sky Marshall Caraway announces his plans," said the reporter.
"We will meet this threat with valor and distinction and with our very lives," said Caraway as he spoke to the council. "We will insure that human, not insect dominates this galaxy now and always!"
"Sky Marshall Caraway announces plans for an offensive against Klendathu," said the reporter. "We now break and go live to the Fleet Battle Station Ticonderoga."
The TV screen view changes to the inside of Ticonderoga as a reporter walks around with troopers running around and yelling.
"We're live inside Ticonderoga," said the reporter to the camera. "We don't know when the invasion is, but everyone's talking about it."
The reporter walked around 'til he sees a group of rowdy troopers and he makes for them.
"Here's a bunch of M.I. kids that look like they can eat bugs for lunch," said the reporter.
"Heh, yummy, yum, yum," said Tifa, sarcastically.
"So, you're not worried about fighting the bugs?" asked the reporter.
"Hey, shoot a Drunken Grail Gasher down a hole," said Iori, grinning evilly. "You got a lot of dead bugs."
"I just hope it's not over before we get some," said Kyo.
Turning away to address the world.
"Some say the bugs were provoked by humans intruding into their territory," said reporter to the camera. "That a live and let-live policy is preferable to war with the bugs at this rate."
"Hey!" yelled Ranma, coming into the camera.
The reporter turned, startled.
"I'm from Nerima and I say kill them all!" yelled Ranma.
With hoots and cheers of his teammates, Ranma stuck his cap on his head and walked off leaving the reporter stunned.
"Hey, we should all get cut together," said Iori.
"What do I need a tattoo for?" asked Ranma.
"What your skin too pretty?" asked Tifa, laughing, pushing him.
Kyo laughed and helped Tifa push Ranma until a voice Ranma had not heard in a long time talk out over the crowd's talk.
"Ranma?"
Ranma stopped and stepped up the stairs.
"Ruriko?" asked Ranma.
Ranma suddenly snapped to attention and saluted. Ruriko giggled lightly.
"At ease," said Ruriko.
Ranma lowered his hand and smiled as he and Ruriko took off their hats.
"I forgot to take it off when I'm off duty," said Ruriko, sheepishly.
"You.you look great," said Ranma.
"Thanks," replied Ruriko, before looking over his shoulder. "Hey Tifa."
"Hello Ruriko," said Tifa, nodding. "You seem to be doing well."
Nodding Ruriko turned back to Ranma.
"We're alive," said Ranma. "Aren't you happy about that?"
"You.you don't look happy to see me," said Ruriko.
"Should I be?" asked Ranma, unemotionally.
"Ranma," implored Ruriko. "I made what I thought was the right decision. Please understand Ranma."
"Something wrong, Ruriko-chan?" asked a voice that was VERY familiar.
Ranma looked up to see Ryouga approach. Ruriko seemed embarrassed as she introduced them again.
"You remember Ryouga-kun, right Ranma?" asked Ruriko.
"I guess this is the part that's best for both of us," said Ranma. "Don't do me any more favors."
Ranma turned away, sighing, as Ruriko pleaded with him.
"No, wait.Ranma." called Ruriko.
"Leave him alone," said Ryouga. "When you're trained to kill, you don't need manners."
At that statement, Ranma stopped and stiffened and turned back.
"You got something to say about the Mobile Infantry?" asked Ranma in a dangerous tone.
"You heard me," said Ryouga, baring his fang. "You want to make something of it, private?"
"No, sir," answered Ranma. "Not with an officer. M.I. doesn't mint stupid troopers."
A crowd is forming. Tifa, Iori and Kyo step up to back Ranma.
"Let's disregard rank," said Ryouga. Then for everyone to hear, "Everybody hear what I said? Rank is not an issue here!"
"Ryouga-kun," pleaded Ruriko. "Please.don't do this.you don't need to."
"What's he going to do?" asked Ryouga turning back around.
Ryouga turned back only to get a Shakunestu Amaguriken to the face. Ryouga collapsed backward on the floor and got up again after a bit. But before they could tear into each other, their own respective sides restrained the two.
"Stop it, Ranma," said Iori, grabbing his arms.
"He's not worth it," said Tifa, shoving Ranma back down the stairs. "Fleet and Infantry don't mix."
As they bore him away, Ryouga stood up and straightened himself out and together he and Ruriko left.
* * *
Now Ranma was in the tattoo parlor, getting a tattoo on his right arm.
"Ugh.god, this hurts," muttered Ranma.
"Well, I've got a little something that will make it hurt even more," said Iori, laughing.
Iori walked up to Ranma as Tifa and Kyo chugged down some drinks together and Iori poured the drink right onto Ranma's tattoo.
"Gah! What the hell, Iori.!" yelled Ranma, jumping up in pain.
"Hey, we're going to fight," said Kyo, happily. "And we're going to win!"
Cheering, all four of them flashed their tattoos on the their arms. Iori's tattoo said 'Burn in Hell'. Kyo's said 'Fire in the Hole'. Tifa's had a heart and said 'Love, Peace, Everyone'. Ranma's said 'Beat-down in Bug City'.
* * *
Ranma and his squad raced to the drop ships that were loaded up in the starship of the Rodger Young. They took their positions as an officer approached.
"Officer on deck!" yelled Iori.
Everyone snapped to attention as Officer Ralf spoke up.
"Listen up! We'll be one of the first waves in!" barked Ralf. "More bugs for us to kill."
Ranma and everyone else watched the officer as he walked up to his own position for safety.
"You smash out an area! You kill anything that has more than two legs!" shouted out Ralf. "Do you get me?!"
"We get you, sir!" chorused Ranma and the rest of the platoon.
The starships got into high orbit and got ready to dump the drop ships for the invasion. Battle was about to joined.
TO BE CONTINUED
Disclaimer: The characters to Final Fantasy, Gatekeepers, KOF and Ranma ½ do not belong to me or else I would be rich now. I'm only borrowing the characters. Please don't sue me.
This fanfiction is dedicated to Ryan, who has written a fanfic that has touched this author here.(places hand over heart). May he find the person just for him. And this is also dedicated to Heather of the Amazoness Duo, who inspired me to write. May she find the 'Sakura' in her life and know happiness.
Side note: If you don't know the characters from the series I'm using. I suggest you read up about them first.Now on with the story.please make sure you've read part 1 first.
Starship Troopers: Anime Style (Part 2)
Ranma was breathing hard, but he smiled. This was the type of thing that was good at. Iori ran along beside him. Ranma had to admit he was impressed with him. He didn't think that he would have kept up with him through the obstacle course.
"What makes you think you'll be squad leader, Ranma?" asked Iori, panting.
"It's something.I got," said Ranma, panting while running.
"Feh.guys like you.are all alike," said Iori.
Just as they were about to cross a pit fall, a voice interrupted their thoughts.
"Hey, you guys," called Tifa.
As the two turned around, Tifa crossed overhead on a pulley and smacked both Ranma and Iori over and into the pit full of mud. Tifa smiled as she finished the rest of the course.
* * *
Now the team is practicing accuracy, but with knife throwing.
"Next squad," ordered Seifer.
Iori stepped up and readied himself. He took a moment before threw the knife at the target. Unfortunately, it bounced off and scrapped him in the shoulder.
"Son of a." cursed Iori.
Seifer shook his head, smiling.
"Sir, I don't get it," said Iori. "I mean who needs a knife when I can do this?"
Iori just then put his hand through the wall behind the squad. Everyone stared.
"Sir?" asked Iori.
"Cease fire," ordered Seifer.
The cadets stopped throwing knives at targets and listened.
"Put your hand on that mangled wall," said Seifer, standing next to a target with a knife sticking in it.
Iori scowled.
"Put your hand on that wall," repeated Seifer.
Iori put his hand on that wall and smirked. Seifer pulled the knife out from the target behind him, flipped it and threw it. Iori moved his hand at the last second, the knife imbedding in the wall, between his fingers. Iori smirked as Seifer approached, thinking that he was wounded.
"A man can not push a button," said Seifer gesturing to Iori's hand. "If you disable his."
Seifer looked Iori, who was none the worse for wear, no bleeding or anything of the sort.
".hand," finished Seifer.
Seifer grumbled and let his students continue.
* * *
Later that day, all the cadets were in the showers. Ranma stepped and pulled on a handle and started the warm water. It felt good to work out again like this.
"Well, we were all dumb enough to sign up for Mobile Infantry," said Kyo. "What's your excuse Shingo?"
"You made me do this, Kusanagi-sempai," said Shingo. "Good for training."
"Oh, I forgot," said Kyo, turning. "Rinoa? You?"
"Well, my dad's a general," answered Rinoa, washing her hair. "And I want to try out for 'SeeD' and you need citizenship for that, so here I am."
"I see, let's keep it going," said Kyo, turning to Kuno. "You?"
"Well, I got into the best Kendo school, but I used too much money on girls," answered Kuno. "So, I serve and the Federation pays for me.Ha!"
Kyo then pointed at his sister, not really knowing her reasons.
"Want to be a mom," said Kodachi. "Easier to get a license if you serve."
"How about you Yagami?" asked Kyo.
"I knew you'd be here, so." Iori cracked his knuckles.
"Eep.hey, Ranma, what about you?" asked Kyo.
"Who asked you to be so nosy?" retorted Ranma.
"I AM nosy, that's who I am," said Kyo as Tifa entered the showers.
"Hey Ti.ti.gah.gah!" hooted Kyo as Tifa started to take off her top, flashing.
"What?"
"Hubba, flubba, wabba, zabba!" babbled Kyo incoherently.
Tifa tossed her clothes off not knowing what Kyo's problem was and entered the shower next to Ranma.
"You knew Ranma from Trabia," said Kyo, holding his nose because of a nosebleed. "What's his story?"
"Oh," said Tifa with a sly look. "He's here for a girl."
The instant that was said, the others started hooting.
"Whoa.oh boy!" called Shingo.
"Lover boy!" yelled Kyo.
Ranma rolled his eyes and left the showers. Kyo turned back to Tifa.
"Is it you?" asked Kyo.
Tifa didn't answer, just gave a shrug and a look that said it might be her.
"Well, what about you then?" asked Kyo. "What are you here for?"
Tifa threw Kyo a look and promptly left the showers. Kyo looked confused.
"Was it something I said?"
* * *
"This is where we live," said Ranma's voice, as the camera panned over the barracks with lots of rowdiness. "It's not much, but I've been through worse."
"Just think about it with my pops," said Ranma as he came back into view. "I've had it worse before."
Suddenly, all of Ranma's friends came into view, shouting stuff. Ranma moved the camera away.
"Cut it out guys," said Ranma.
"Anyways, it's tough out here, not tougher than what pops put me through," said Ranma to the camera. "But then I think of you and I just want to go for it."
Suddenly the barrack's lights go out.
"Oops, got to go soon," said Ranma.
Iori in the background finished playing the guitar and along with some of his other friends, they crowded around Ranma, hooting and making kissing sounds and ruffling Ranma's hair.
"I'll kill you," said Ranma as he tackled his friends.
After a minute of trashing his friends, Ranma came back into view.
"Got to go, write me," said Ranma.
* * *
Ruriko laughed and closed the letter. Ranma looked like he was having some fun while training. A girl whizzed by Ruriko with a gear bag on her shoulder.
"Hey, come on Ruriko," said the girl. "First one there gets to fly it."
"Hey, get back here Selphie," called Ruriko as she grabbed her gear bag and raced after her friend.
Racing for the stairs, Ruriko slid down the banister and beat her friend to the spot of flying. Selphie sat down next to Ruriko.
"Closing it up," said Ruriko, flipping some switches.
"Wait!"
Two more cadets ran in and sat down.
"Oh, no, not Rurippe again," said a cadet. "She's crazy."
That earned him a slap to the cheek.
"Humph! Nani o?" asked Ruriko as she pulled the mini ship out of the docking port.
The ship raced off down the corridor. And after some tight turns and such, they flew out into open space, leaving the Moon's surface.
"Hey, you seem pretty happy today," said Selphie. "What's up?"
"Today I get to fly that," said Ruriko, looking out of the view port.
Everyone looked to see a huge battle carrier sitting calmly in the orbit defense station around the Moon.
* * *
Soon Ruriko was aboard the Rodger Young battle cruiser. She walked smartly up to the captain and saluted.
"Pilot Trainee Ikusawa reporting for duty, ma'am," said Ruriko.
The captain was a nice young lady named Xu. She saluted back.
"Take the number two chair, Ikusawa," said Xu. "Follow the instructions of your supervisor."
"Yes, ma'am," said Ruriko, smiling.
Ruriko sat down, flipping on her station. Her instructor turned toward her handing her a clipboard. Ruriko looked up and was surprised.
"Ryouga, what are you doing here?" asked Ruriko.
"I'm going to teach you how to fly this thing," said Ryouga, grinning.
"Assistant instructor," said Ruriko. "Should I call you 'sir'?"
"Only when I give you an order," replied Ryouga.
They continued to make small talk as they check the final procedures.
"Take her out Ikusawa," said Xu.
Ruriko grabbed the control stick and eased the starship out. Releasing the final docking clamps, she eased it out.
"This isn't simulation any more cadet," said Ryouga. "Your teachers may not have been able to keep up with you, but."
"Or what?" asked Ruriko jokingly.
"They revoke your flight status and mine," said Ryouga. "Take it easy."
"Yes, sir," said Ruriko.
"Okay, initiate star drive for Jupiter," said Xu.
"Star drive in 5, 4, 3." said Ryouga.
Ruriko set the destination and the starship Rodger Young disappeared.
* * *
Ranma was dressed in combat gear, hiding behind a panel for protection. He rushed out and used his practice gun to take out the members of the opposite team as Tifa and other members of his team joined him.
"We're going in," called out Kyo.
As Kyo and three other team members advanced, Iori and the members of his team ambushed them. While the Kuno's provided cover, Iori aimed specifically at Kyo, shooting him over and over again, even though it was a one hit 'kill'.
"Ha, ha!" laughed Iori as he and his team ducked back.
"Man, they're defended," said Ranma to Tifa. "No way in."
"Flip six, three hole," whispered Tifa.
"What?" Ranma asked; he didn't hear her clearly.
"You run a flip six, three hole and you get score," said Tifa, smiling.
Smiling, Ranma took point.
"Cover me," he called.
Tifa nodded and provided cover fire as Ranma rolled out and took a new position.above Iori and his squad, who had Tifa pinned down.
"Now," called Tifa, who had hidden back behind protection again.
Ranma flipped down, took Iori and two of his members completely by surprise, disabling them.
"Thanks, buddy," said Ranma, taking Iori's gun.
"You b@$#@rd!" screamed Iori.
Ranma then, using two guns, proceeded to eliminate the others on Iori's team and made it to the flag. He grabbed it and waved it in triumph. Seifer stood quite a ways from the skirmish with Raijin. Nodding at Raijin, Seifer spoke.
"Guy's got some moves," commented Seifer. "Give him a squad, see how he does."
Raijin nodded and marked something down on his clipboard.
* * *
Later that night, Ranma stood proudly with a badge symbolizing his position as a new squad leader.
"Look at him," said Kyo. "It should have been me."
"Ha, like you could have done any better," said Iori. "Guess Seifer had to choose someone."
Ranma turned to Tifa, who was sitting at a desk. She looked up at Ranma.
"I couldn't have done without you Tifa," said Ranma softly. "Friends?"
"Mm.sure, friends," said Tifa, forcing a smile.
Suddenly Raijin comes in with mail. He passes it out.
"Yagami," said Raijin.
"Right here," said Iori, grabbing his disk.
"Kuno."
"Is it from the pigtailed girl?" asked Kuno, taking the disk.
Ranma silently fumed. He had been cured a long time ago.
"And Saotome."
Ranma eagerly took it and inserted it into his bunk TV. Ruriko image appeared on screen as Ranma's teammates gathered to take a look.
"Hi Ranma," said Ruriko, brightly. "I would have written sooner, but it's pretty busy up here."
Ranma's teammates started to hoot and catcall as they saw Ruriko.
"I'm sure you've made squad leader by now," said Ruriko, as if she were sure of it.
"Sure did," said Ranma showing the badge at the screen.
The view suddenly changed views, showing Ruriko looking out of a port window at the planet Jupiter.
"Isn't it beautiful?" asked Ruriko. "But I guess now, I want to see the universe."
Suddenly the room around Ranma got quiet.
"I want to command a ship of my own," said Ruriko. "I might go career, which doesn't leave a lot of time for us."
Ranma just stared at the screen, not believing what he just heard. His friends suddenly seemed to have stuff to do and left.
"I know that's not what you wanted to hear," said Ruriko. "But I've got to follow my heart. Write me okay?"
The screen went blank and Ranma sighed, taking the disk out. He spun it between his fingers and Iori looked down on him.
"It's funny how they want to stay friends after they rip your guts out," said Iori.
"Yeah," said Ranma.
Iori thumped Ranma on the back before turning back to his pool 'game' with Kyo and Shingo. Tifa walked by and sat down next to Ranma.
"You okay?" asked Tifa, softly.
"It's what I deserve," answered Ranma.
"Eh? What do you mean?" asked Tifa, unsure of what he meant.
"I joined up to be with her," said Ranma. "I wouldn't even be here if wasn't for her."
"Neither would I," whispered Tifa.
"Eh? What was that?" asked Ranma.
"Oh, nothing," replied Tifa, quickly. "But you made squad leader on your own Ranma."
Nodding Ranma stood up, broke the disk, and went to join Iori in 'beating' Kyo and Shingo at pool. Sighing, Tifa looked down.
* * *
The next day, Ranma and his group stood, lined up as Seifer gave instructions to them.
"Today you will be in a live-fire situation," barked Seifer. "You will exercise extreme caution on my obstacle course. Do you get me?!"
"Sir, we get you, sir!" shouted Ranma and the rest of the team.
"Ranma, you got command," said Seifer, stepping out of the line of fire.
"First wave, take your positions," ordered Ranma.
At his command, five other troopers stepped forward and cocked their rifles, ready for action.
"Highest score was 280," shouted Seifer. "I expect you to do better!"
The obstacle course began with drones popping up and shooting at them with fake rounds just like in the team exercise. Tifa was first to advance, ducking under the shots and blowing drones away with her pulse cannon. Kuno advanced.
"Taste the wrath of the Blue Thunder of Furikan High!" yelled Kuno as he ran forward to attack.
Unfortunately, Kuno got shot multiple times from a surprise attack from a drone that had popped out in front of him and he went down. Rinoa quickly advanced to take Kuno's place and just as she was about to fire, Shingo got in her way.
"Hey, watch the line of fire!" yelled Rinoa.
"Can't.there's something wrong with my helmet," said Shingo.
"Stop, you're going to blow the score!" shouted Tifa from up ahead.
"What's the problem, Shingo-san?" asked Ranma.
"It's my helmet," said Shingo.
"Let me see it," said Ranma, lifting it off.
"Try not to get killed," said Rinoa.
Unfortunately, Rinoa wasn't paying attention and a drone appeared behind Rinoa, firing. Rinoa got caught square in the back. Rinoa fell to the ground, but as she did so, her gun discharged blowing a hole through Shingo's head. Ranma stared, horrified at the turn of events. Iori turned around from his advanced position.
"Ha, ha! Nice job Rinoa," said Iori, complimenting her.
"Medic!!!!" yelled Ranma.
"Ranma, you are relieved of squad command," shouted Seifer.
* * *
"Saotome, did you give the recruit permission to remove his helmet?" asked a gruff man from behind his desk.
"Sir, yes sir," answered Ranma. "Commander Heidern, recruit reported a malfunction in his helmet, sir."
"Are rated to repair an M3 tactical helmet, Saotome?" asked Commander Heidern.
"Sir, no sir," responded Ranma.
"Then why did you order your man to remove his helmet during a live-fire exercise?"
"I wanted to win, sir," said Ranma.
Ranma then caught a glimpse of Rinoa, dressed in civilian clothes walking past the office. Rinoa exchanged a glance with Ranma before running off, not wanting Ranma to see the tears in her eyes.
"Sergeant, we've already lost 2 recruits due to this incident," said Heidern. "Do you think this man can be salvaged?"
"Yes, sir, I do," replied Seifer, who was off to the side.
"All right," said Heidern, nodding. "We'll try administrative punishment."
* * *
Ranma, stripped of shirt, walked forth to the square with Seifer right behind him as all the troopers watched.
"Prisoner, halt," called Seifer.
Ranma stopped next to a post and both his hands are strung up. Seifer held up a red rubber mouthpiece.
"Bite down on this, son," whispered Seifer to Ranma.
Ranma looked at it before looking back up at Seifer.
"It helps.I know," said Seifer.
Ranma took it and Seifer stepped away as Raijin took a position behind Ranma and Heidern spoke up.
"For incompetence of command, for failure to abide by safety regulations in a live-fire exercise, for negligence which contributed to the death of a teammate."
Iori looked on along with the Kuno's and Kyo.
".Recruit trainee Ranma Saotome is sentenced to administrative punishment. Ten lashes. May the sentence be carried out."
Raijin uncoiled the whip, an unemotional expression on his face. He suddenly lashed out and struck Ranma's back. Ranma gripped the mouthpiece as he tried to bear with it. Raijin struck out again.and again.
* * *
Out in the deep recesses of space, out near the bug quarantine zone, Ruriko sighed and continued to monitor the situation out in space. Suddenly someone handed her a cup of coffee. Ruriko, startled, looked up to see Ryouga.
"Oh, thank you, Ryouga-kun," said Ruriko, gratefully, taking the cup. "Third watch seems to take a long time."
"Depends on who you spend it with," said Ryouga. 'I said it.I said it.'
After arguing over some course corrections, Ryouga finally spoke up.
"I've been talking to Xu," said Ryouga, sitting down.
"You actually found her?" asked Ruriko, teasingly.
"Hey, I was talking with her on my console," said Ryouga. "Anyway, she wants us to be part of her team."
"Really?" asked Ruriko, excited.
"Really," replied Ryouga. "We're best on our team."
Ryouga suddenly looked at Ruriko's cup of coffee. Ruriko looked as well, found the coffee slanting to something out in space.
"There's a gravitational field out there," said Ruriko, turning serious.
"Where?" asked Ryouga, checking his station readings.
"Out there," said Ruriko.
"Report," said Xu, suddenly appearing on the Captain's screen.
"A gravitational field is out there," reported Ryouga.
"All readings indicate an asteroid," said Ruriko.
"Evasive maneuvers!" commanded Xu. "I'll be right there."
Xu closed communications. Ruriko grabbed the steering. Ryouga initiated emergency collision procedures. A panel popped up for the emergency thrusters and Ruriko broke the glass protecting it. On Ryouga's signal, Ruriko fired the rockets and evaded the asteroid.barely. The Rodger Young's top lookout station was torn from the ship and sent hurling into space. The hull was also scraped up. The bridge suddenly came alive as Xu and other officers rushed inside to see what happened.
"Where did it come from?" asked Xu.
"From our readings, trajectory indicates Bug Quarantine Zone," answered Ryouga.
"Number 4, contact Fleet," ordered Xu. "Tell them we've got a loose asteroid heading their way."
"Communications are down, ma'am," replied the officer.
Xu thought before turning to another department.
"Engineering," said Xu. "Damage assessment."
"Hull's been compromised," answered an officer. "We're lucky to be alive."
"Luck had nothing to do with it," said Xu, looking at Ryouga and Ruriko. "We have a hell of a flight team."
Ryouga smiled and pointed at Ruriko, who blushed and smiled.
* * *
Ranma, now wearing civilian clothes, packed his bags, stuffing his shirts and stuff into a duffel bag. Tifa looked sad as she watched him pack.
"You don't have to go," said Tifa.
"Well, the Mobile Infantry will just have to get along without me," said Ranma stuffing another shirt into his bag.
"I don't get it," said Tifa, sitting down on his bed. "I mean, you took the whipping and if they didn't want you, they would've kicked you out."
"Look, I joined up for the wrong reason," said Ranma, sighing. "I got a person killed, I think that qualifies my leaving."
Just then Raijin walked in.
"Ranma, your call's going through," said Raijin, pointing at a terminal. "Take it there."
Ranma nodded and walked up to the terminal and pressed a couple of buttons and a minute later, his mom's image showed up.
"Ranma?" asked Nodoka, surprised. "Oh, Ranma.pick up Genma. It's Ranma."
"Boy, you.where's your uniform?" asked Genma, confused.
"Genma," hissed Nodoka.
"Sorry, crouching tiger," said Genma, bowing. "It's good to see you boy."
"Well, things aren't turning out well here for me," said Ranma. "I was wondering if I could.you know, come home."
"Of course," answered Nodoka. "You should come back right away."
"Come back and take over the dojo, boy," said Genma. "And don't talk like that. I didn't raise a girl, you know?"
"Come back and we can talk it out," said Nodoka. "We love you son."
"Love you too, mom," said Ranma.
Suddenly, the sky seemed to darken around Nodoka and Genma's home. They looked up in surprise.
"Looks like rain," said Genma.
"At this time of year?" asked Nodoka.
Then the transmission abruptly terminated, giving Ranma the message to try his call again later. Ranma sighed and picked up his bag.
"Well, see you Tifa," said Ranma.
"Good luck," said Tifa, softly. "I'll miss you."
Ranma nodded and headed outside. Tifa sighed heavily and put her cap on. As Ranma was walking by the groups of trainees, all of a sudden, all the cadets started to rush toward the big TV screen set up for important news. Ranma, wondering what was going on, ran with them.
"Hey.hey! What's going on?" yelled Ranma.
Spotting Kyo, he called out.
"Hey, Kyo! What's going on?" called out Ranma.
"War! We're going to war!" yelled back Kyo.
Ranma, stunned, rushed along with Iori, Kyo and Tifa and others. The TV screen was on and tuned to the news.
".early estimates millions dead.a city in ruins," said the reporter's voice.
"Hey, is that Trabia?" asked Ranma, quietly.
"Godd@#n bugs whacked us, Ranma," said Kuno.
"Nothing lives what once was called Crazed Martial Artist Central," said the reporter. "The town of Nerima has been wiped off the map."
Ranma stared in silent horror. Tifa gasped and held a hand to her mouth.
"Oh, Ranma.that's home," said Tifa.
"The federal council met moments ago and voted unanimously for mobilization to destroy the bug threat."
Ranma expression went beyond demonic and he headed off as the news continued to report.
"The meteor was derived from the bug home planet, Klendathu," said the reporter.
In the C.O.'s office.
"I'm serious, sir. I'll go anywhere," insisted Seifer. "I want combat!"
"The only way you're getting combat is if you bust yourself down to private," raged Heidern. "Do you get me?!"
"Yes, sir, I get you," said Seifer.
"Sir," called out Ranma as he stomped inside.
"What do you want Saotome?" asked Heidern.
"I wish to reconsider my request to drop out," said Ranma.
"You've already signed your form, son," said Heidern. "It wouldn't be legal."
"Then make it legal! Sir, my whole entire family was in Nerima," said Ranma.
"Is this your signature, Saotome?" barked Seifer, showing the form.
"Yes, sir, it is," replied Ranma, gruffly.
Heidern exchanged a glance with Seifer, before turning away.
"Not anymore it isn't," said Seifer, ripping the document up. "Carry on private!"
"Yes, sir!" barked Ranma before leaving.
The TV report continued as Ranma and everyone else watched.
"Out of the ashes of Nerima comes sorrow."
Scenes showed terrible destruction, raging fires, infantry helping to find people buried inside the rubble.
".Then ANGER!"
The camera zoomed in to show a girl that Ranma instantly recognized. She looked haggard, dirty and very tired, but she still carried herself with pride.
"The only good bug is a dead bug!" shouted the girl.
Ranma sighed.
"What's up, Ranma?" asked Tifa.
"Uc-chan," said Ranma. "One of my childhood friends from Nerima. It's good to see her alive."
Tifa nodded and they continued to watch.
"Sky Marshall Caraway announces his plans," said the reporter.
"We will meet this threat with valor and distinction and with our very lives," said Caraway as he spoke to the council. "We will insure that human, not insect dominates this galaxy now and always!"
"Sky Marshall Caraway announces plans for an offensive against Klendathu," said the reporter. "We now break and go live to the Fleet Battle Station Ticonderoga."
The TV screen view changes to the inside of Ticonderoga as a reporter walks around with troopers running around and yelling.
"We're live inside Ticonderoga," said the reporter to the camera. "We don't know when the invasion is, but everyone's talking about it."
The reporter walked around 'til he sees a group of rowdy troopers and he makes for them.
"Here's a bunch of M.I. kids that look like they can eat bugs for lunch," said the reporter.
"Heh, yummy, yum, yum," said Tifa, sarcastically.
"So, you're not worried about fighting the bugs?" asked the reporter.
"Hey, shoot a Drunken Grail Gasher down a hole," said Iori, grinning evilly. "You got a lot of dead bugs."
"I just hope it's not over before we get some," said Kyo.
Turning away to address the world.
"Some say the bugs were provoked by humans intruding into their territory," said reporter to the camera. "That a live and let-live policy is preferable to war with the bugs at this rate."
"Hey!" yelled Ranma, coming into the camera.
The reporter turned, startled.
"I'm from Nerima and I say kill them all!" yelled Ranma.
With hoots and cheers of his teammates, Ranma stuck his cap on his head and walked off leaving the reporter stunned.
"Hey, we should all get cut together," said Iori.
"What do I need a tattoo for?" asked Ranma.
"What your skin too pretty?" asked Tifa, laughing, pushing him.
Kyo laughed and helped Tifa push Ranma until a voice Ranma had not heard in a long time talk out over the crowd's talk.
"Ranma?"
Ranma stopped and stepped up the stairs.
"Ruriko?" asked Ranma.
Ranma suddenly snapped to attention and saluted. Ruriko giggled lightly.
"At ease," said Ruriko.
Ranma lowered his hand and smiled as he and Ruriko took off their hats.
"I forgot to take it off when I'm off duty," said Ruriko, sheepishly.
"You.you look great," said Ranma.
"Thanks," replied Ruriko, before looking over his shoulder. "Hey Tifa."
"Hello Ruriko," said Tifa, nodding. "You seem to be doing well."
Nodding Ruriko turned back to Ranma.
"We're alive," said Ranma. "Aren't you happy about that?"
"You.you don't look happy to see me," said Ruriko.
"Should I be?" asked Ranma, unemotionally.
"Ranma," implored Ruriko. "I made what I thought was the right decision. Please understand Ranma."
"Something wrong, Ruriko-chan?" asked a voice that was VERY familiar.
Ranma looked up to see Ryouga approach. Ruriko seemed embarrassed as she introduced them again.
"You remember Ryouga-kun, right Ranma?" asked Ruriko.
"I guess this is the part that's best for both of us," said Ranma. "Don't do me any more favors."
Ranma turned away, sighing, as Ruriko pleaded with him.
"No, wait.Ranma." called Ruriko.
"Leave him alone," said Ryouga. "When you're trained to kill, you don't need manners."
At that statement, Ranma stopped and stiffened and turned back.
"You got something to say about the Mobile Infantry?" asked Ranma in a dangerous tone.
"You heard me," said Ryouga, baring his fang. "You want to make something of it, private?"
"No, sir," answered Ranma. "Not with an officer. M.I. doesn't mint stupid troopers."
A crowd is forming. Tifa, Iori and Kyo step up to back Ranma.
"Let's disregard rank," said Ryouga. Then for everyone to hear, "Everybody hear what I said? Rank is not an issue here!"
"Ryouga-kun," pleaded Ruriko. "Please.don't do this.you don't need to."
"What's he going to do?" asked Ryouga turning back around.
Ryouga turned back only to get a Shakunestu Amaguriken to the face. Ryouga collapsed backward on the floor and got up again after a bit. But before they could tear into each other, their own respective sides restrained the two.
"Stop it, Ranma," said Iori, grabbing his arms.
"He's not worth it," said Tifa, shoving Ranma back down the stairs. "Fleet and Infantry don't mix."
As they bore him away, Ryouga stood up and straightened himself out and together he and Ruriko left.
* * *
Now Ranma was in the tattoo parlor, getting a tattoo on his right arm.
"Ugh.god, this hurts," muttered Ranma.
"Well, I've got a little something that will make it hurt even more," said Iori, laughing.
Iori walked up to Ranma as Tifa and Kyo chugged down some drinks together and Iori poured the drink right onto Ranma's tattoo.
"Gah! What the hell, Iori.!" yelled Ranma, jumping up in pain.
"Hey, we're going to fight," said Kyo, happily. "And we're going to win!"
Cheering, all four of them flashed their tattoos on the their arms. Iori's tattoo said 'Burn in Hell'. Kyo's said 'Fire in the Hole'. Tifa's had a heart and said 'Love, Peace, Everyone'. Ranma's said 'Beat-down in Bug City'.
* * *
Ranma and his squad raced to the drop ships that were loaded up in the starship of the Rodger Young. They took their positions as an officer approached.
"Officer on deck!" yelled Iori.
Everyone snapped to attention as Officer Ralf spoke up.
"Listen up! We'll be one of the first waves in!" barked Ralf. "More bugs for us to kill."
Ranma and everyone else watched the officer as he walked up to his own position for safety.
"You smash out an area! You kill anything that has more than two legs!" shouted out Ralf. "Do you get me?!"
"We get you, sir!" chorused Ranma and the rest of the platoon.
The starships got into high orbit and got ready to dump the drop ships for the invasion. Battle was about to joined.
TO BE CONTINUED