A Jack of many Trades
By Metaverse
Disclaimer: I don't own these characters nor am I making any money from this. Please do not sue me.
"Evil only succeeds when good men do nothing."
******************
A forest 16 years ago.
A sudden piercing scream sent most of the animal life in the area running away as fast as their legs, or wings could carry them and caused one man to run to its source at speeds he'd never thought possible. When he arrived he was beholden to a most unexpected scene. There was a women with an angular child like face, amethyst eyes, and pointed ears. He sighed with relief as he realized she was okay, though a tad flustered. The reason for which was the human child currently purring in her lap.
"Aerie, are you all right?" He asked quietly slowly approaching the two. The boy looked no older than 7 in human years. A few bruises and a lot of cuts were evident, the source of which he could not discern at present.
Aerie managed to find her voice as her gently stroking calmed the child. "Yes, Haer'Dalis, I'm fine. He just surprised me charging out of the bushes as he did." A sad looked crossed over her face as she looked at the now sleeping child. "I don't think he's fine though. There's a serious imbalance in his aura, as well as sadness."
He sighed deeply, seeing the look of concern on her face. He knew where this was going. "Aerie, I don't know if it'd be wise to..."
She shot him a hurt yet hopeful look. The silver haired Tiefling winced, years as a doom guard had not prepared him to deal with this. "Aerie his parents might..."
She looked again at the child then back to him. A tear began to run down her cheek as her lower lip quivered. He caved.
"I shall let miss Raelis know we have one more for the trip back to Faerun."
In an instant her face changed, becoming the bright smile that'd first attracted him to her. Why, Janus had chosen Jaheria over his dove he'd never know, but was forever thanking the Gods for.
**********
9 Years later
Ranma played a light tune on his guitar. This was the third song he'd played so far for the small group gathered around him. Normally, he charged for such performances, but saying no to a girl was something he had trouble doing. His surrogate father had a similar problem when it came to his life mate.
The tune flitted through the trees, seeming to weave a spell amongst all who could hear. Soon, even a few of nature's creatures could be seen at the edge of the group. Listening as intently as his human audience.
*Lunch!* The small pseudo dragon perched on his shoulder sang. Smacking its jaw as a juicy gopher strayed a little to far from cover.
*Not now Ucchan, I'll feed you later*
The small dragon sighed mentally and settled itself on his shoulder. His familiar had been with him for two years now. The spell that'd brought him forth was one of the first he'd learned to use when Haer'Dalis and Aerie began to teach him magic. He'd named him after the, now dim, memory of a friend long since gone.
His voice rose lightly as he sang. Soon he would know though. While registering to cast spells in Amn he'd run into a planar wizard. One who could send him to his home plane and give him a means to come back. He loved his family and friends dearly but questions about his past continually bothered him. Soon, hopefully, he'd have the answers.
His song rose with his mood and even more people found themselves enspelled by the light balled drifting through the afternoon breeze at Umar hills
****
With Ucchan feed and sleeping in his pack, Ranma made a stealthy approach to a small cabin set back from the village proper. Ahead of him he spotted Jaheria laying in the grass and enjoying the day's sun light. In her lap were two small children a boy and a girl. As he watched she tickled the children's tummies. They giggled merrily, a light sound that brought joy to the druids face.
His first memories of Faerun involved his mother Aerie and Jaheria helping to break him of his fear of Cats. The two had argued a bit about how to do it, but eventually they settled on a plan. For months he was immersed in nature. Living in this very cabin. Under Jaheria and her husbands care he'd slowly come to terms with his fear. Finally overcoming it on the 8th month of his arrival.
The party they'd had was still mentioned sometimes in the small town. Never had so many Heroes gathered in such a mundane place. Minsc, Nalia, Valygar, Mazzy, Jan Jansen, Imoen, Viconia, Cernd and even the two famous paladins Keldorn and Anomen had been there to celebrate the child's victory over his past. Some said that even the legendary Drizzt Do'Urden had made a brief appearance but his memory was not clear enough to confirm this.
Still all those people had been a major part of his life from that day forward. Nalia would always take him out to help the poor. Valygar, Minsc and Janus taught him how to fight and survive in the forest. Cernd and his son along with Jaheria taught him about the balance and how to maintain it. Imoen had been like a big sister. While Keldorn and Anomen tried to teach him manners, humbleness, and responsibility, with mixed results.
Jan used to pop into his home at the Five Flagons inn all the time to give him little toys or other gadgets he'd made. Vicionia stopped by fairly often as well. She'd been fairly fond of him in her own way. One time a mage, made the mistake of being a bit careless with a fire ball. Ranma'd spent three days laid up afterwards. They later found the mage stripped naked and strapped to a post in Waukeens promenade. They didn't know what else she did but they later received reparations well in excess of what was needed.
As for Mazzy...well that he didn't want to think about. Not so soon after it all.
Ranma stood, deciding to forgo a sudden entrance. When a voice behind him caused him to nearly leap into a tree.
"Good choice, it's not wise to disturb her when she's playing with the twins."
Ranma whirled and glared at his father's friend. "How do you continually manage to sneak up on me?!"
He smiled lightly and shrugged "I taught you everything you know about stealth and fighting, not everything I know."
Ranma shook his head. No matter how hard he'd tried, he'd never managed to sneak up on him or best him in combat. Part of him was annoyed at this, part of him was impressed. Janus was the half-elf hero of Baluder's gate, the savior of Suldanesselar, The man who'd rescued Trademeet, the protector of Umar hills, the former Bhaalspawn who'd with managed to beat back the darkness and halt the resurrection of the lord of Murder. In truth the only title that he truly enjoyed was of being the Husband to his wife Jaheria. The fact that he, a simple Bard, even if he was a skilled fencer could hold his own (Mostly) against a hero of his caliber was also a point of pride for the young man.
"Jaheria, it seems we have company!" Janus put an arm around him a lead him towards his Home.
She turned and gave the young bard a wry smile "I know, the trees spoke of his presence."
Ranma sighed as the Ranger chuckled.
****
A little later they were seated at the table. Jaheria was feeding the twins while the two males talked
"So you've decided to go back to your home plane?"
Ranma nodded "Only for a little while. The mage gave me a way to come and go mostly as I please."
Janus arched an eyebrow "Mostly?"
"Once I make a trip I cannot go anywhere for a month. I figure it'll take longer than that to find the answers to who I am and why I had that fear of cats. All I've got to go on is mine and my birth father's name."
Jaheria looked up "Your parents are okay with this. I mean you are a tad young to go adventuring. Especially by yourself."
He smiled reassuringly "My dad gave me his melodic chain mail armor as well as the Blade of Roses he bought from Bernard. Besides, Solaufein's coming with me. He had a vision that told him to come with me, and you know how seriously he takes those."
Solaufein was a Drow, Janus had met while in the Underdark. Most of their friends were of the opinion that he was a decent sort. A tad rough at times but defiantly a valued friend. He and Ranma had gotten pretty close after that adventure with all the trolls and umberhulks. What a week that was!
Jaheria glanced at her husband who was considering the young bard before him. "Well, armor and swords won't save you if you forget what we've all taught you." He leaned forward, "If you remember that than you will be okay magical weapons or no."
Ranma nodded, "I won't." He stood "We'll I best be on my way, it's a long walk back.
Jaheria halted him with a gaze "Won't you stay for dinner?"
Before Ranma could open his mouth his stomach rumbled. "I'd call that a yes." Janus said dryly."
Soon afterwards the sound of merriment could be heard from the small cabin.
****
A day later and after one planar hop Ranma found himself and his Drow companion standing in front of a large amount of springs. Ranma looked around, while Solaufein pulled his hood further over his eyes.
"Oh Sirs where you come from?!" The guide gave the two a good look. They didn't seem threatening thought the armor they were wearing was a bit unnerving
Ranma turned to find a slightly portly man staring at him and his friend. "Unimportant." He responded quickly "We would like to know where we are however." Out of the corner of his eye he saw the Drow slowly backing away from the pools of water.
"This is cursed spring of Jusenkyo. Very tragic stories sirs"
Ranma looked over to see his companion, who was making warding signs at the spring "What?"
"If I didn't know better, I'd swear this was the work of a Drow. High black magic was used in its construction. I'd suggest we leave...now!"
The guided nodded vigorously "Yes, sirs it be very good if leave. There small village nearby, they may let spend night."
Ranma gave one last look at the springs before turning "Lead on, the sooner we're away from here the better."
****
"Ah! Today is tournament, sirs! Very exciting to watch!!"
Ranma nodded as he sat down to observe. Idly taking note of the styles of fighting on display. Solaufein's eyes on the other hand swept the crowd seeming to search for something.
After several moments of whirling combat the smaller, purple haired girl stood triumphant over her larger foe. The crowd erupted in cheers, the young bard idly considered making a song about the girl, but quickly dismissed that thought. It was at that moment he realized the crowd had suddenly gone silent and that his bag felt lighter.
Dreading the worst he turned to see Ucchan happily munching away at the feast on a nearby table.
*UCCHAN! STOP!!*
*Just one more bite? Please?!*
*NO!!*
The pseudo-dragon dejectedly flew to rest on its master's shoulder. As he looked around, his gaze met the stares of shocked audience.
"So much for a keeping a low profile." Solaufein whispered.
Finally, the purple haired girl gathered her wits and strode forward.
-You there! Your...dragon...ate my prize!-
Ranma winced and shot glare at Ucchan who managed to look sheepish. -Look, I'm real sorry. I can pay you back, and I promise to sing and tell stories in your honor tonight.-
Shampoo blinked. It'd been ages since a story teller had passed through, having one could make up for what was eaten.
-Here, I'll even make a balled telling of your victory this day. How's that sound.-
A small day dream of her victory being sung throughout the evening came quickly to her mind, prompting a small smile.
Cologne studied the situation with ancient eyes. First the hooded one had seemed to sense her presence now this one had a familiar and was obviously using a spell to translate for him. This bore looking into.
Mousse seethed, first this outsider had insulted his love by having his beast devour her prize. Now, from the smile on her face, it was obvious he was enchanting her as well!
He dies.
-Take this fiend!!- A dagger flew from his hands straight for the heart of his target.
It never reached as his companion's arm lazily shot out, grabbed the blade and flung it back at its originator. All without looking in his direction.
Mousse screamed and collapsed as the blade sunk hilt deep in his shin. The hooded figure turned to look directly at him. -Never, never, NEVER announce an attack.- He watched as the youth writhed on the ground -It makes you vulnerable.-
A fair amount of Amazons nodded at the wisdom of the outsiders words.
Mousse clutched at the blade till a healer reached his side and began to ease his pain.
Shampoo blinked at the warrior in front of her. Strong, fairly intelligent, she could do worse. -I want to fight him.- She pointed to the cloaked Drow. -If he wins you do not have to worry about the prize. If he loses then you will do what you already promised.- She smiled, if he won she had a capable husband, if she won she could at least get the storyteller to go through with his earlier offer. Grandma always said to make the best of any situation.
Ranma looked to his friend who shrugged -It's fine with me Saotome. I could use a little warm up actually.-
-As you wish.- Ranma turned back to Shampoo -Deal.-
To be fair Solaufein dismissed his Bladesinger chain mail. Then the two warriors leaped onto the challenge log. The Drow stretched a bit and took a lose fighting stance. Shampoo did likewise.
The bard noticed the tension in the air and began to feel as if he'd made a mistake. Many of the women, especially the younger ones looked as if they'd wanted to fight his friend. Almost as disturbing were the speculative glances he was receiving from some of them as well.
*Ucchan, get in my pack.*
*Why?* he asked
*I gotta bad feeling about this. I may need to caste dimension door and I don't want to accidentally leave you behind.*
Ucchan blinked as he slipped into his master pack *You can caste that spell?*
*We'll soon know*
On the log, the two warriors moved closer to one another finally Shampoo darted in with her bonbori leading. Like water, Solaufein flowed around the blow, grabbing her and flinging her to the ground below.
The crowd gasped as one. He landed lightly next to her and held out a hand, she took it and smiled. Then before he could react glomped him "Wo ai ni, Airen!!" She said before her lips connected with his.
Mousse would've stood up in righteous fury if he wasn't currently under sedation.
After a short lip lock he managed to shove the young girl away. Instead of being angry she gave him a coy smile. Then froze as she got a good look at him. While distracted by her kiss he hadn't noticed that she'd pulled his hood off. A quick glance around told him she wasn't alone in her surprise.
Cologne was genuinely flabbergasted, something she hadn't felt in a hundred years. Here standing triumphant over her daughter was an actual elf. A person literally born to magic, with a lifespan measured in centuries. This was an opportunity she could not miss!
The young Amazon blinked and took a step back, unsure of herself. -What are you?-
Seeing an opening Ranma stepped to his friends side and began to chant. Still getting over what they'd seen, no one moved to stop him.
Cologne blinked as the two most interesting males to come by in quite some time simply disappeared in a wave of magic. Soon other elders began to move the crowd along. At the Center Shampoo sat and stared at the space the elf had stood in, unsure of what to do. The old matriarch sighed. There were was a way to track elves and magic users she'd find them, then it'd be up to Shampoo.
****
One rocky dimensional door later, Ranma found himself on a busy street corner of some city.
The Drow stood and dusted his pants. Then glanced around. A few people noticed his unhooded face, and kept their distance. A couple of others openly scowled or scoffed but kept their distance too. Ah well, at least no one was shouting "Die Drow die!" or some such variant.
A quick look at his companion confirmed he was okay. "Any clue where we are?"
The young bard stood, glanced at his surroundings and shrugged. "I only meant to take us outside the village. I'd say we went a little farther than that."
Ranma glanced about trying to find some clue as to their surroundings. Solaufein took a more direct approach "'scuse me. We're a little lost, can you tell us where we are?"
Realizing the wisdom of his companions plan, Ranma joined him. "Please?"
The two girls first looked at them in shock, then something else stole over their feature.
Solaufein was a bit confused. He'd merely asked a question and this tall one with brown hair seemed to be getting a little flushed. Her face was awfully red and, were those hearts in her eyes?
Ranma, being a bard and used to unintentionally wooing the fair sex quickly picked up on what the meaning of the looks were he was getting from the shorter blond one. "Um..."
The two nearly fell over themselves giving them an answer. Even with elven hearing Solaufein had trouble making out what they'd said. One word did stick in Ranma's mind though.
"Wait!" he said, holding up a hand "Did you say 'Nerima'?"
The blond one nodded enthusiastically "Yes, your in Nerima Japan! If you need a guide."
Solaufein was slowly backing away from the taller girl as sakura petals began fall.
Ranma smiled winningly at the other girl, a technique his father taught him. Perfect for silencing young love struck maidens. It worked, as usual.
Continuing to smile Ranma bowed deeply. "Thank you both for your time. We'll be going now." Grabbing his friend's sleeve he started to pull him away. This lasted only a moment as he became the pulled, as the Drow left at a rapid and mostly dignified pace.
Minako Aino, just getting over the beautiful smile of the man she'd just met sighed deeply.
"You know..." Makoto began "He looks..."
Minako tuned her out, she'd heard this before after all. At least she wasn't after her man this time.
****
After putting a fair amount of distance between himself and the oddly disturbing girl. Solaufein came to a stop.
"The big bad warrior afraid of a girl. I can't WAIT to tell the guys back home about this!" Ranma grinned wickedly
The Elf growled "You do and they'll never find your remains." He shot him a withering glare. The Bard smiled in return.
Deciding a subject change was in Order the elf made one. "So what's the deal with Nerima. That name obviously caught your attention?"
"Before we left, I spoke to an oracle. She told me that Nerima contained two things important to my quest, the school Furinkan and the Family Tendo. I don't know how they'll help. But they are important."
The elf leaned against a wall in thought. "So what next?"
The old cocky grin made an appearance "I have a plan."
------------
Several days later
**********
Nabiki watched as the crowd of Akane's admirers gathered for another wonderful morning of declaring their love and being sent to the hospital. She shook her head. It was really pathetic how all these boys followed Kuno's lead. Still it made her a fair amount of cash.
The normal routine was interrupted as a fairly slim, dark skinned man, though graced with a powerful presence strode out on to the field. The shinai he was holding rested lightly against his shoulder
The assembled horde looked on as the Gaijin stood at their head and swept them with his gaze. "My name is Solaufein Devir. I have been recently hired as the schools disciplinarian and Phys Ed teacher. I have the full authority to meat out punishment to any who disrupt the orderly flow of this school." He aimed the weapon at the crowd "You are doing so right now." His gaze caused a few of the horde to quietly slip away while the rest stood, unsure of what to do.
"Filthy Gaijin! You dare dictate how a flower of Japan is to be courted!"
Nabiki didn't have to look to know who that came from. Apparently the new teacher was aware of this student as well.
"Upperclassmen Kuno, Step forward."
The crowd quickly parted to revel said incensed kendoist. "The wondrous Akane is a treasure of our noble Nation! No outsider may tell us how we may and may not express our love."
"When your on school grounds I can." He locked eyes with young would-be Samurai "There will be no more of these assaults on school property. Off school property, you can do what you like. I don't care, but this place WILL not tolerate such disturbances."
Kuno blinked, then charged "I will not be told what I can do by the likes of you!"
The man looked almost amused as Kuno struck forward. He parried with his shinai then sent his fist into Kuno's face, who dropped to the ground like a marionette with its strings suddenly cut. Mass blinking ensued.
The elf quickly checked Kuno's pulse, then waved two students over. "Take him to the nurse. He'll be fine after a few hours of rest." He straightened and addressed those who were left. "Remember disruption to our school will NOT be tolerated."
A murmur of ascent passed through the crowd. Solaufein nodded and strode towards the athletics building while the group dispersed.
Nabiki watched the man intently, but she was not alone in her observance.
"Oh wow! Did you see that! He laid him out with a single punch!!"
"Think he has a girlfriend?"
"About time someone stopped all this madness!"
"I'll say!"
"Wonder where he's from?"
"A foreign warrior! How dreamy!!"
Nabiki tuned the students out. She'd not heard anything about this guy before his sudden entrance. Nabiki was the undisputed mistress of information at Furinkan. It was said if she didn't know, then it wasn't worth being known. She had no clue who this was or how he'd slipped under her radar. And she didn't like that.
Shelving it for later she returned to her seat.
A moment later Akane arrived under a full head of steam, ready to smash the horde. Only finding there wasn't one to smash.
****
"Class we have a new student today."
"Ranma Saotome." He bowed deeply
"Why don't you tell us a little about yourself."
"Okay," he began "I was originally born in Japan but I've spent most of my life in other lands so any help readjusting would be appreciated. Um...I'm a bit of a musician and available for parties and school productions."
Most of the girls perked up at hearing the word musician. There were any number of romantic fantasies surrounding musicians. Thoughts of being serenaded on moonlight evening or being whisked away to a far away land like Paris flitted through their minds.
Ranma caught the wistful gazes and sighed internally. He wasn't surprised. Not that he had an inflated opinion of his charms or anything, perish the thought. But he'd seen most of the school's male population had been embroiled in a battle for this Akane's hand. Thus, the females had been deprived of romantic opportunities. He really didn't want to get involved with any one since he wouldn't be staying, still...
A few of the girls in the front row swooned as he smiled like his father had taught him to.
"Please take the seat next to Akane, Mr. Saotome.
The young man nodded and strode towards his desk ' Ah well, may be a little song at lunch wouldn't be to much.' He thought.
****
Akane was deep in thought when lunch came around. Her friends at first tried to talk with her but it was obvious she wasn't in the mood. The horde, were no longer to attack her on school property. This was good, but the fact that someone else had to step in was bad. After all she was a martial artist and couldn't rely on anyone else but herself. The fact that a male had helped her didn't make it any easier. Still, she could finally get to class on time. Hmmmmm.
So deep in thought was she that she didn't' register the music that began to waft through the air. Nor did she notice as her friends stood and moved off to find the source. In fact it wasn't until well into the second song she realized that things had changed
After a moment of glancing around she saw one of her friends amongst a crowd of girls centered around a tree. As she approached she heard a light guitar playing while Tenor male voice sang. As she got closer she saw Yuka at the center sitting next to the new student who was singing something about 'doing everything for her. Yuka was blushing furiously at the attention she was receiving, while all around her the other girls looked on with mixture of envy and jealousy.
Akane listened for a minute and had to admit, he was good. Still, he was a boy and obviously had designs on her naïve friend. She'd just made up her mind to intervene when someone else beat her to it.
"Fiend! First you enslave these other girls to your will. Now you attempt to take the Noble Akane Tendo!" he gestured to said maiden while he spoke.
Ranma's song abruptly ended much to the annoyance of the girls present, Yuka not least among them. Ranma himself blinked before looking at the enraged Kendoist.
"Did you say the name Tendo?"
"Peasant!" Kuno lowered his bokken "Stand and face the Justice of the Noble..." His word were cut off as a small green blur swooped down and snatched the weapon from his hands.
*Thanks Ucchan.*
*Master give me a treat later?*
He chuckled a bit *Of course* Ucchan quickly sent him an image of the kind of pie he wanted as a reward.
Kuno blinked then glared "What have you done to my blade?!"
"I didn't do anything to it. But since you no longer have one. Perhaps we could discuss this in a more civilized manner?"
The mad-Kendoist glared "I shall not be forced into a negotiation with one below my station!" He pulled another bokken from the folds of his cloths.
Ranma sighed dramatically "Is that how you'll have it? Regrettable, I had no desire to hurt you." Ranma raised his opened hand and a bokken fell into it. He followed it with a fancy sword display ending in it being leveled at his opponent "Your move."
With out further ado Kuno darted in and swung intending to take his head off. Ranma waited a second then muttered something. A moment later Kuno literally halted all movement. The crowd blinked as one. Ranma strode over and muttered something in his ear. Kuno collapsed to the ground Snoring. For a long time the crowd stared, trying to come up with a logical reason for what they'd seen
"Guess he's still feeling the effects of this morning." Someone near the back said. The rational part of the mind (you know the one that swears magic and monsters don't exist, HA!) seized on this explanation. Most of the people began to comment on the strength of the new Gaijin teacher as two of Kuno's cronies carried him away. After all a foreign warrior using some kind of delayed shiatsu strike was easier to believe than magic.
Ranma merely looked bemused as the explanation was circulated and quickly accepted. Then he noticed Yuka staring up into the tree in shock.
"What?"
Slowly a shaking finger pointed into the depths of the leafy branches, to where a green pseudo-dragon sat.
"Oh him." Ranma held out his arm "Come her Ucchan!" The small dragon lifted off the branch to settle on his outstretched arm. "This is my buddy Ucchan. He's not a real dragon, just a familiar."
Several of the girls had either large sweat drops, or their hair was currently trying to flee their head.
Akane's eye's widened then narrowed. Only witches and warlocks had such things as familiars. She'd have to be careful, but she was a martial artist, it was her duty to protect her friends from such beings.
Ucchan gazed out at the assembled girls before taking off the land on Yuka's shoulder. "I like her!" He declared after giving her a good sniff. "She smells like candy!"
The young girl turned beat red from embracement.
Ranma chuckled at his friend. "She does look sweet doesn't she."
Akane saw the seemingly impossibly deepening blush on her friends face and stepped forward "All right you! Leave her alone." The youngest Tendo pointed a finger in his face as his familiar retook his perch on his shoulder.
"Your last name is Tendo right?" He asked
"Yeah, so?"
"Excellent! I need to speak with your parents, can you arrange that?"
"Parent, my mother's dead."
Ranma winced "Sorry, I didn't know. But I really must speak with your father. He may have answers I seek."
Akane didn't know what this guy was trying to pull, but she knew she didn't want him anywhere near her father. She was about to say such when the choice was forever taken from her.
"I'll get you a talk with daddy, if you promise to do me a few favors."
Ranma turned to the new voice. A girl, older than Akane with short hair and a slight mischievous grin stood before him.
Ranma stared back albeit a bit more warily "What kind of favors?"
"A concert this Saturday. Profits split 20 - 80 me getting the 80, you getting the 20 and a chance speak with my father."
Ranma winced. 20 - 80 was absolutely absurd...
"40 - 60" he countered.
"30 - 70, final offer."
"Done!" he nodded as he took her hand and shook it.
Nabiki smiled in triumph "I'll get you the details tomorrow."
------
Ranma had gone home over an hour ago and the Kuno family retainer, Sasuke had just picked up his unconscious master and taken him home. The throng of young teachers that'd been streaming by his door for most of the day had finally subsided. Now was the time to leave. Solaufein, deciding that he wanted to avoid any chance of running into a woman opened the window and leaped out, being sure to close it behind him. It wouldn't do to make life easy for a thief.
As he made his way to the gate he realized his earlier fear had been well founded after all. Several of the younger teachers were waiting by the main exit of the building. He quickly left the grounds before he was spotted.
Once safely out of sight he sighed. After Ranma had made him a paper trail legitimizing him as a foreign worker, and getting him a job at Furinkan he'd thought things would settle in. Then he'd found out about the morning mobs. After which he'd managed to be come the tall dark handsome stranger in several women and a disturbing number of schoolgirls fantasies.
Not good.
The average Drow relationship has very few instances of cuddling or light kissing. It's mostly, heavy physical activity. Usually involving the torture of the male to some degree. He'd had a relationship that promised more, but Phaere's mother quickly put a stop to that. So to say he was wary of relationships was like saying Mousse had slight vision problems.
Another sigh escaped his lips. Ten minutes of walking and he could take a nice soak in the Onsen near their apartment, wonderful things those.
His musings were interrupted as an explosion rocked the street up ahead. A body came flying down the street to slam against his chest, staggering him. He managed to catch the person, a blue haired girl, in some weird costume. There were no visible bruises but it was obvious she was stunned. Looking back down the street he saw several more of these girls currently engaged in battle against several werewolves and shade creators. At the back of the attacking horde stood a man in a gray/black uniform with two Skeleton warriors on either side of him. It was obvious he was directing the confrontation as his face was contorted in extreme concentration.
The young girl came around and looked at her savior, and froze as her visor began to give her all sorts of disturbing data on the man who held her.
Said man set her down on the ground an indicated she was to remain here. From there he moved into a nearby alley. Ami was beginning to worry. She had no clue who or what this new guy was. Plus her friends were barely holding their own against attacking monsters. As she watched Jupiter threw a thunderbolt that passed through a werewolf, doing no damage. Ami shook her head in wonder, then something clicked. Scanning through her visor she nearly cursed her self for not seeing it sooner. Most
of the creatures they were fighting were illusions. Enough were real so they'd have to keep moving about but it was obvious that only a few more of those remained. She'd been targeted first, not because of power but because she might be able to see through their plan. With her out of the way, Malachite could tire her friends out before he launched his real assault, probably involving those two large, nasty looking skeletons standing next to him. She was about to rely the information to her friends through the communicator when it became a moot point.
Darkness enshrouded the Malachite, obscuring his view of the battle. The new creatures and spells the master provided had so far proven successful if a little draining to use. He'd been just about to order the Skeletons forward when this happened.
The General immediately began to caste a dispelling spell. He never finished as a Long sword burst free of his chest. Then with a massive amount of strength drove up to exit out of his skull. The Dark General died without every knowing what hit him.
With the General dead the creatures either faded or crumbled away. The Senshi, surprised at the sudden turn in events looked to where a sphere of the darkest night had appeared over the general. From it strode forth their white haired savior.
"You!" Makoto began.
The warrior gave her a funny look before ducking into a nearby alley.
"You know him?" Rei asked
"Well...me and Venus ran into him a few days ago..."
Usagi, in a rare show of foresight held her hand up for silence. "Not here." She pointed to the camera crew "Later at home." The assembled Senshi nodded and left in a flash of legs and pant...Eh hum...and took to the roofs.
****
The door to his apartment swung open. It was a nice two bedroom apartment with a kitchen and front area with that Evil box Ranma called a Television. Solaufein was sure it was some kind of soul drinking device.
At the moment the Bard was plopped down in front of it. When he realized he wasn't alone he turned and saluted "Hail Hero."
The Drow sat down heavily in the easy chair. One of the few things he liked about this plane and sighed. "What's with the Hero bit. "
Ranma indicated the images on the idiot box. "Seems your exploits were caught on film."
The Drow sat up, looked and frowned heavily. There he was exiting the Globe of darkness. Wiping the blood off his blade, The Equalizer. The announcer was asking if this was a new alley of the Senshi or a sign of evil at war with itself. He blew an annoyed breath out of his mouth and sat back in his chair. "I'm beginning to believe that phrase 'No good deed goes unpunished.' "
"It's not that bad Solaufein. The camera didn't get a clear shot of your features."
The elf sat up "What do you mean, the dark skin and white hair are probably going to be a dead give away."
Ranma arched an eyebrow. "Those Senshi don't wear mask and no one knows who they are. Think of it this way, most people around here figure a hero looks totally different outside battle. They probable figure you did some kind of transformation to hide your true features so you walking around like that probably won't draw too much attention outside being a Gaijin." He shrugged "But if you want I can caste a spell..."
He made several warding gestures as he tried to back into the chair "Oh no. I remember what happened the last time you caste a glamour. I did NOT enjoy having males hitting on me for a week."
The young musician and caster looked sheepish. "Hey, it was my first time casting it. Besides, after you threw the sixth one through a window, they got the hint."
The Drow grumbled slightly but remained silent, having his rear pinched by a guy had precipitated him sending the sixth through that window. He wasn't sure he'd ever fully for give Ranma for that week of Hell.
"so what do you know about these 'Senshi'?'
Ranma shrugged "Not much. Seems there's some kind of fight between good and evil and they are at the center of it. Aside from that I don't know." He turned to the TV, To see other various film captures of the sefiku clad heroines. "I could try a divination..."
"Probably, not necessary. Just keep your eyes open. I have a feeling I knew one of them."
"A student a Furinkan?"
"Maybe, I'll look into it later."
"As you wish."
As he sat mulling over how to go about this, he remembered something he'd been meaning to ask the young human "So, how do you plan to romance this one?"
Ranma blinked and looked up "What?"
He gave the young man a flat stare "I saw you at lunch. Have you no Shame Saotome?! Really, it's only been...what...a week since Mazzy."
Ranma winced "Hey, I didn't mean for it to go that far today. I was just doing a little song and it kind of got out of hand."
The Elvin warrior sighed and shook his head. "Ever the showman eh Saotome."
Ranma seemed to be mulling over something before a sigh escaped his lips. "Your right thought. I'll tell her tomorrow." He shook his head sadly. Then looked up to his friend pain evident in his features "I never meant to hurt her you know. I mean I never figured she was...that she was."
Solaufein frowned "Ranma, you knew, don't deny it. You just didn't want to deal with it."
He looked down at his hands "Maybe." He took a calming breath "Look, Mazzy's nice and all but she's older than me and deserves someone better. I mean, I'm just a humble Bard and she is a Paladin. She's always off doing good and helping others. What can I do to be worthy of her love."
Solaufein arched an eyebrow. "You could return it and stay by her side."
Ranma reacted as if slapped, afterwards he fell into silent. "I don't know."
"Ranma, " He began "Are you bothered by the fact she's a halfling?"
A light laugh escaped his lips "No, If I had to I'd find a wizard to Polymorph me." He sighed "We've just been friends for so long that I don't know if I'm ready for it to change or if I can change it."
"Hmm, well don't let a good thing go due to your fear of change." He studied the young man, seeming to search for something
"I'll think on it."
He shrugged "You do that. I'll be in the Onsen." Laboriously he stood up and shambled off to the bathroom.
Ranma gave a slight nod as his friend left. Already his mind was on someone else. Specifically a beautiful if small brown eyed paladin.
Author's Notes
Well, here it is, a fanfic mixing one of my favorite games and my favorite anime to mess with. This all came about form me wanting to make a Ranma who was not necessarily more powerful than those around him. As if sheer power could solve his problems. Still, I'm open to suggestions and ideas. I'd love to know how many would wish me to continue the Mazzy romance (Something I felt should have been in BG2 but I digress). I might even consider bringing back Irenicus, he was a darn good villain and It could be interesting to see him and Beryl going at it for supremacy. If Bohdi came back expect an exceptionally brutal death (Call me a 'mousie mousie' will she.) Last time she meet her end at the hands of 5 hasted bears, with my Celestial Fury delivering the final blow. God bless the Stun on that thing. Ah well send me C&C please.
Equipment Data:
Blade of Roses
Equipped abilities:
Charisma + 2
Combat Abilities
2D4 + 3
The Equalizer
Equipped abilities: Immune to Charm and Confusion
Combat Abilities:
always +3 to hit
vs True Neutral +0 to hit +0 to damage
vs Chaotic, Lawful Neutral +1 to hit +2 to damage
vs Neutral good, Evil +2 to hit +4 to damage
vs other alignments +3 to hit + 6 to damage
Base damage: 2D4 + 3
Author Opinions: This blade is difficult to acquire but well worth it since most of the creatures I fight tend towards Chaotic evil. Duel Wielding this with Celestial fury (Which can stun your opponent) makes for a nasty combination
Melodic chain mail:
Ability: Bards can caste spells even with this armor on.
armor class 2
Author Opinions: In 2nd Edition AD&D this was essential for a bard. Allowing you to hold your own in a straight fight and still cast spells to make the enemies life heck.
Bladesinger Chain male:
Pinnacle of Elvin craftsmanship and acquired legally. (After killing a shadow dragon and saving their beloved Suldanesselar, the elves were not about to ask for it back. Though they'd probably be mortified to know a Drow even a good one has it. Heh, call me a soulless abomination will they. Just cause I'm a half-elf...)
armor class 1
By Metaverse
Disclaimer: I don't own these characters nor am I making any money from this. Please do not sue me.
"Evil only succeeds when good men do nothing."
******************
A forest 16 years ago.
A sudden piercing scream sent most of the animal life in the area running away as fast as their legs, or wings could carry them and caused one man to run to its source at speeds he'd never thought possible. When he arrived he was beholden to a most unexpected scene. There was a women with an angular child like face, amethyst eyes, and pointed ears. He sighed with relief as he realized she was okay, though a tad flustered. The reason for which was the human child currently purring in her lap.
"Aerie, are you all right?" He asked quietly slowly approaching the two. The boy looked no older than 7 in human years. A few bruises and a lot of cuts were evident, the source of which he could not discern at present.
Aerie managed to find her voice as her gently stroking calmed the child. "Yes, Haer'Dalis, I'm fine. He just surprised me charging out of the bushes as he did." A sad looked crossed over her face as she looked at the now sleeping child. "I don't think he's fine though. There's a serious imbalance in his aura, as well as sadness."
He sighed deeply, seeing the look of concern on her face. He knew where this was going. "Aerie, I don't know if it'd be wise to..."
She shot him a hurt yet hopeful look. The silver haired Tiefling winced, years as a doom guard had not prepared him to deal with this. "Aerie his parents might..."
She looked again at the child then back to him. A tear began to run down her cheek as her lower lip quivered. He caved.
"I shall let miss Raelis know we have one more for the trip back to Faerun."
In an instant her face changed, becoming the bright smile that'd first attracted him to her. Why, Janus had chosen Jaheria over his dove he'd never know, but was forever thanking the Gods for.
**********
9 Years later
Ranma played a light tune on his guitar. This was the third song he'd played so far for the small group gathered around him. Normally, he charged for such performances, but saying no to a girl was something he had trouble doing. His surrogate father had a similar problem when it came to his life mate.
The tune flitted through the trees, seeming to weave a spell amongst all who could hear. Soon, even a few of nature's creatures could be seen at the edge of the group. Listening as intently as his human audience.
*Lunch!* The small pseudo dragon perched on his shoulder sang. Smacking its jaw as a juicy gopher strayed a little to far from cover.
*Not now Ucchan, I'll feed you later*
The small dragon sighed mentally and settled itself on his shoulder. His familiar had been with him for two years now. The spell that'd brought him forth was one of the first he'd learned to use when Haer'Dalis and Aerie began to teach him magic. He'd named him after the, now dim, memory of a friend long since gone.
His voice rose lightly as he sang. Soon he would know though. While registering to cast spells in Amn he'd run into a planar wizard. One who could send him to his home plane and give him a means to come back. He loved his family and friends dearly but questions about his past continually bothered him. Soon, hopefully, he'd have the answers.
His song rose with his mood and even more people found themselves enspelled by the light balled drifting through the afternoon breeze at Umar hills
****
With Ucchan feed and sleeping in his pack, Ranma made a stealthy approach to a small cabin set back from the village proper. Ahead of him he spotted Jaheria laying in the grass and enjoying the day's sun light. In her lap were two small children a boy and a girl. As he watched she tickled the children's tummies. They giggled merrily, a light sound that brought joy to the druids face.
His first memories of Faerun involved his mother Aerie and Jaheria helping to break him of his fear of Cats. The two had argued a bit about how to do it, but eventually they settled on a plan. For months he was immersed in nature. Living in this very cabin. Under Jaheria and her husbands care he'd slowly come to terms with his fear. Finally overcoming it on the 8th month of his arrival.
The party they'd had was still mentioned sometimes in the small town. Never had so many Heroes gathered in such a mundane place. Minsc, Nalia, Valygar, Mazzy, Jan Jansen, Imoen, Viconia, Cernd and even the two famous paladins Keldorn and Anomen had been there to celebrate the child's victory over his past. Some said that even the legendary Drizzt Do'Urden had made a brief appearance but his memory was not clear enough to confirm this.
Still all those people had been a major part of his life from that day forward. Nalia would always take him out to help the poor. Valygar, Minsc and Janus taught him how to fight and survive in the forest. Cernd and his son along with Jaheria taught him about the balance and how to maintain it. Imoen had been like a big sister. While Keldorn and Anomen tried to teach him manners, humbleness, and responsibility, with mixed results.
Jan used to pop into his home at the Five Flagons inn all the time to give him little toys or other gadgets he'd made. Vicionia stopped by fairly often as well. She'd been fairly fond of him in her own way. One time a mage, made the mistake of being a bit careless with a fire ball. Ranma'd spent three days laid up afterwards. They later found the mage stripped naked and strapped to a post in Waukeens promenade. They didn't know what else she did but they later received reparations well in excess of what was needed.
As for Mazzy...well that he didn't want to think about. Not so soon after it all.
Ranma stood, deciding to forgo a sudden entrance. When a voice behind him caused him to nearly leap into a tree.
"Good choice, it's not wise to disturb her when she's playing with the twins."
Ranma whirled and glared at his father's friend. "How do you continually manage to sneak up on me?!"
He smiled lightly and shrugged "I taught you everything you know about stealth and fighting, not everything I know."
Ranma shook his head. No matter how hard he'd tried, he'd never managed to sneak up on him or best him in combat. Part of him was annoyed at this, part of him was impressed. Janus was the half-elf hero of Baluder's gate, the savior of Suldanesselar, The man who'd rescued Trademeet, the protector of Umar hills, the former Bhaalspawn who'd with managed to beat back the darkness and halt the resurrection of the lord of Murder. In truth the only title that he truly enjoyed was of being the Husband to his wife Jaheria. The fact that he, a simple Bard, even if he was a skilled fencer could hold his own (Mostly) against a hero of his caliber was also a point of pride for the young man.
"Jaheria, it seems we have company!" Janus put an arm around him a lead him towards his Home.
She turned and gave the young bard a wry smile "I know, the trees spoke of his presence."
Ranma sighed as the Ranger chuckled.
****
A little later they were seated at the table. Jaheria was feeding the twins while the two males talked
"So you've decided to go back to your home plane?"
Ranma nodded "Only for a little while. The mage gave me a way to come and go mostly as I please."
Janus arched an eyebrow "Mostly?"
"Once I make a trip I cannot go anywhere for a month. I figure it'll take longer than that to find the answers to who I am and why I had that fear of cats. All I've got to go on is mine and my birth father's name."
Jaheria looked up "Your parents are okay with this. I mean you are a tad young to go adventuring. Especially by yourself."
He smiled reassuringly "My dad gave me his melodic chain mail armor as well as the Blade of Roses he bought from Bernard. Besides, Solaufein's coming with me. He had a vision that told him to come with me, and you know how seriously he takes those."
Solaufein was a Drow, Janus had met while in the Underdark. Most of their friends were of the opinion that he was a decent sort. A tad rough at times but defiantly a valued friend. He and Ranma had gotten pretty close after that adventure with all the trolls and umberhulks. What a week that was!
Jaheria glanced at her husband who was considering the young bard before him. "Well, armor and swords won't save you if you forget what we've all taught you." He leaned forward, "If you remember that than you will be okay magical weapons or no."
Ranma nodded, "I won't." He stood "We'll I best be on my way, it's a long walk back.
Jaheria halted him with a gaze "Won't you stay for dinner?"
Before Ranma could open his mouth his stomach rumbled. "I'd call that a yes." Janus said dryly."
Soon afterwards the sound of merriment could be heard from the small cabin.
****
A day later and after one planar hop Ranma found himself and his Drow companion standing in front of a large amount of springs. Ranma looked around, while Solaufein pulled his hood further over his eyes.
"Oh Sirs where you come from?!" The guide gave the two a good look. They didn't seem threatening thought the armor they were wearing was a bit unnerving
Ranma turned to find a slightly portly man staring at him and his friend. "Unimportant." He responded quickly "We would like to know where we are however." Out of the corner of his eye he saw the Drow slowly backing away from the pools of water.
"This is cursed spring of Jusenkyo. Very tragic stories sirs"
Ranma looked over to see his companion, who was making warding signs at the spring "What?"
"If I didn't know better, I'd swear this was the work of a Drow. High black magic was used in its construction. I'd suggest we leave...now!"
The guided nodded vigorously "Yes, sirs it be very good if leave. There small village nearby, they may let spend night."
Ranma gave one last look at the springs before turning "Lead on, the sooner we're away from here the better."
****
"Ah! Today is tournament, sirs! Very exciting to watch!!"
Ranma nodded as he sat down to observe. Idly taking note of the styles of fighting on display. Solaufein's eyes on the other hand swept the crowd seeming to search for something.
After several moments of whirling combat the smaller, purple haired girl stood triumphant over her larger foe. The crowd erupted in cheers, the young bard idly considered making a song about the girl, but quickly dismissed that thought. It was at that moment he realized the crowd had suddenly gone silent and that his bag felt lighter.
Dreading the worst he turned to see Ucchan happily munching away at the feast on a nearby table.
*UCCHAN! STOP!!*
*Just one more bite? Please?!*
*NO!!*
The pseudo-dragon dejectedly flew to rest on its master's shoulder. As he looked around, his gaze met the stares of shocked audience.
"So much for a keeping a low profile." Solaufein whispered.
Finally, the purple haired girl gathered her wits and strode forward.
-You there! Your...dragon...ate my prize!-
Ranma winced and shot glare at Ucchan who managed to look sheepish. -Look, I'm real sorry. I can pay you back, and I promise to sing and tell stories in your honor tonight.-
Shampoo blinked. It'd been ages since a story teller had passed through, having one could make up for what was eaten.
-Here, I'll even make a balled telling of your victory this day. How's that sound.-
A small day dream of her victory being sung throughout the evening came quickly to her mind, prompting a small smile.
Cologne studied the situation with ancient eyes. First the hooded one had seemed to sense her presence now this one had a familiar and was obviously using a spell to translate for him. This bore looking into.
Mousse seethed, first this outsider had insulted his love by having his beast devour her prize. Now, from the smile on her face, it was obvious he was enchanting her as well!
He dies.
-Take this fiend!!- A dagger flew from his hands straight for the heart of his target.
It never reached as his companion's arm lazily shot out, grabbed the blade and flung it back at its originator. All without looking in his direction.
Mousse screamed and collapsed as the blade sunk hilt deep in his shin. The hooded figure turned to look directly at him. -Never, never, NEVER announce an attack.- He watched as the youth writhed on the ground -It makes you vulnerable.-
A fair amount of Amazons nodded at the wisdom of the outsiders words.
Mousse clutched at the blade till a healer reached his side and began to ease his pain.
Shampoo blinked at the warrior in front of her. Strong, fairly intelligent, she could do worse. -I want to fight him.- She pointed to the cloaked Drow. -If he wins you do not have to worry about the prize. If he loses then you will do what you already promised.- She smiled, if he won she had a capable husband, if she won she could at least get the storyteller to go through with his earlier offer. Grandma always said to make the best of any situation.
Ranma looked to his friend who shrugged -It's fine with me Saotome. I could use a little warm up actually.-
-As you wish.- Ranma turned back to Shampoo -Deal.-
To be fair Solaufein dismissed his Bladesinger chain mail. Then the two warriors leaped onto the challenge log. The Drow stretched a bit and took a lose fighting stance. Shampoo did likewise.
The bard noticed the tension in the air and began to feel as if he'd made a mistake. Many of the women, especially the younger ones looked as if they'd wanted to fight his friend. Almost as disturbing were the speculative glances he was receiving from some of them as well.
*Ucchan, get in my pack.*
*Why?* he asked
*I gotta bad feeling about this. I may need to caste dimension door and I don't want to accidentally leave you behind.*
Ucchan blinked as he slipped into his master pack *You can caste that spell?*
*We'll soon know*
On the log, the two warriors moved closer to one another finally Shampoo darted in with her bonbori leading. Like water, Solaufein flowed around the blow, grabbing her and flinging her to the ground below.
The crowd gasped as one. He landed lightly next to her and held out a hand, she took it and smiled. Then before he could react glomped him "Wo ai ni, Airen!!" She said before her lips connected with his.
Mousse would've stood up in righteous fury if he wasn't currently under sedation.
After a short lip lock he managed to shove the young girl away. Instead of being angry she gave him a coy smile. Then froze as she got a good look at him. While distracted by her kiss he hadn't noticed that she'd pulled his hood off. A quick glance around told him she wasn't alone in her surprise.
Cologne was genuinely flabbergasted, something she hadn't felt in a hundred years. Here standing triumphant over her daughter was an actual elf. A person literally born to magic, with a lifespan measured in centuries. This was an opportunity she could not miss!
The young Amazon blinked and took a step back, unsure of herself. -What are you?-
Seeing an opening Ranma stepped to his friends side and began to chant. Still getting over what they'd seen, no one moved to stop him.
Cologne blinked as the two most interesting males to come by in quite some time simply disappeared in a wave of magic. Soon other elders began to move the crowd along. At the Center Shampoo sat and stared at the space the elf had stood in, unsure of what to do. The old matriarch sighed. There were was a way to track elves and magic users she'd find them, then it'd be up to Shampoo.
****
One rocky dimensional door later, Ranma found himself on a busy street corner of some city.
The Drow stood and dusted his pants. Then glanced around. A few people noticed his unhooded face, and kept their distance. A couple of others openly scowled or scoffed but kept their distance too. Ah well, at least no one was shouting "Die Drow die!" or some such variant.
A quick look at his companion confirmed he was okay. "Any clue where we are?"
The young bard stood, glanced at his surroundings and shrugged. "I only meant to take us outside the village. I'd say we went a little farther than that."
Ranma glanced about trying to find some clue as to their surroundings. Solaufein took a more direct approach "'scuse me. We're a little lost, can you tell us where we are?"
Realizing the wisdom of his companions plan, Ranma joined him. "Please?"
The two girls first looked at them in shock, then something else stole over their feature.
Solaufein was a bit confused. He'd merely asked a question and this tall one with brown hair seemed to be getting a little flushed. Her face was awfully red and, were those hearts in her eyes?
Ranma, being a bard and used to unintentionally wooing the fair sex quickly picked up on what the meaning of the looks were he was getting from the shorter blond one. "Um..."
The two nearly fell over themselves giving them an answer. Even with elven hearing Solaufein had trouble making out what they'd said. One word did stick in Ranma's mind though.
"Wait!" he said, holding up a hand "Did you say 'Nerima'?"
The blond one nodded enthusiastically "Yes, your in Nerima Japan! If you need a guide."
Solaufein was slowly backing away from the taller girl as sakura petals began fall.
Ranma smiled winningly at the other girl, a technique his father taught him. Perfect for silencing young love struck maidens. It worked, as usual.
Continuing to smile Ranma bowed deeply. "Thank you both for your time. We'll be going now." Grabbing his friend's sleeve he started to pull him away. This lasted only a moment as he became the pulled, as the Drow left at a rapid and mostly dignified pace.
Minako Aino, just getting over the beautiful smile of the man she'd just met sighed deeply.
"You know..." Makoto began "He looks..."
Minako tuned her out, she'd heard this before after all. At least she wasn't after her man this time.
****
After putting a fair amount of distance between himself and the oddly disturbing girl. Solaufein came to a stop.
"The big bad warrior afraid of a girl. I can't WAIT to tell the guys back home about this!" Ranma grinned wickedly
The Elf growled "You do and they'll never find your remains." He shot him a withering glare. The Bard smiled in return.
Deciding a subject change was in Order the elf made one. "So what's the deal with Nerima. That name obviously caught your attention?"
"Before we left, I spoke to an oracle. She told me that Nerima contained two things important to my quest, the school Furinkan and the Family Tendo. I don't know how they'll help. But they are important."
The elf leaned against a wall in thought. "So what next?"
The old cocky grin made an appearance "I have a plan."
------------
Several days later
**********
Nabiki watched as the crowd of Akane's admirers gathered for another wonderful morning of declaring their love and being sent to the hospital. She shook her head. It was really pathetic how all these boys followed Kuno's lead. Still it made her a fair amount of cash.
The normal routine was interrupted as a fairly slim, dark skinned man, though graced with a powerful presence strode out on to the field. The shinai he was holding rested lightly against his shoulder
The assembled horde looked on as the Gaijin stood at their head and swept them with his gaze. "My name is Solaufein Devir. I have been recently hired as the schools disciplinarian and Phys Ed teacher. I have the full authority to meat out punishment to any who disrupt the orderly flow of this school." He aimed the weapon at the crowd "You are doing so right now." His gaze caused a few of the horde to quietly slip away while the rest stood, unsure of what to do.
"Filthy Gaijin! You dare dictate how a flower of Japan is to be courted!"
Nabiki didn't have to look to know who that came from. Apparently the new teacher was aware of this student as well.
"Upperclassmen Kuno, Step forward."
The crowd quickly parted to revel said incensed kendoist. "The wondrous Akane is a treasure of our noble Nation! No outsider may tell us how we may and may not express our love."
"When your on school grounds I can." He locked eyes with young would-be Samurai "There will be no more of these assaults on school property. Off school property, you can do what you like. I don't care, but this place WILL not tolerate such disturbances."
Kuno blinked, then charged "I will not be told what I can do by the likes of you!"
The man looked almost amused as Kuno struck forward. He parried with his shinai then sent his fist into Kuno's face, who dropped to the ground like a marionette with its strings suddenly cut. Mass blinking ensued.
The elf quickly checked Kuno's pulse, then waved two students over. "Take him to the nurse. He'll be fine after a few hours of rest." He straightened and addressed those who were left. "Remember disruption to our school will NOT be tolerated."
A murmur of ascent passed through the crowd. Solaufein nodded and strode towards the athletics building while the group dispersed.
Nabiki watched the man intently, but she was not alone in her observance.
"Oh wow! Did you see that! He laid him out with a single punch!!"
"Think he has a girlfriend?"
"About time someone stopped all this madness!"
"I'll say!"
"Wonder where he's from?"
"A foreign warrior! How dreamy!!"
Nabiki tuned the students out. She'd not heard anything about this guy before his sudden entrance. Nabiki was the undisputed mistress of information at Furinkan. It was said if she didn't know, then it wasn't worth being known. She had no clue who this was or how he'd slipped under her radar. And she didn't like that.
Shelving it for later she returned to her seat.
A moment later Akane arrived under a full head of steam, ready to smash the horde. Only finding there wasn't one to smash.
****
"Class we have a new student today."
"Ranma Saotome." He bowed deeply
"Why don't you tell us a little about yourself."
"Okay," he began "I was originally born in Japan but I've spent most of my life in other lands so any help readjusting would be appreciated. Um...I'm a bit of a musician and available for parties and school productions."
Most of the girls perked up at hearing the word musician. There were any number of romantic fantasies surrounding musicians. Thoughts of being serenaded on moonlight evening or being whisked away to a far away land like Paris flitted through their minds.
Ranma caught the wistful gazes and sighed internally. He wasn't surprised. Not that he had an inflated opinion of his charms or anything, perish the thought. But he'd seen most of the school's male population had been embroiled in a battle for this Akane's hand. Thus, the females had been deprived of romantic opportunities. He really didn't want to get involved with any one since he wouldn't be staying, still...
A few of the girls in the front row swooned as he smiled like his father had taught him to.
"Please take the seat next to Akane, Mr. Saotome.
The young man nodded and strode towards his desk ' Ah well, may be a little song at lunch wouldn't be to much.' He thought.
****
Akane was deep in thought when lunch came around. Her friends at first tried to talk with her but it was obvious she wasn't in the mood. The horde, were no longer to attack her on school property. This was good, but the fact that someone else had to step in was bad. After all she was a martial artist and couldn't rely on anyone else but herself. The fact that a male had helped her didn't make it any easier. Still, she could finally get to class on time. Hmmmmm.
So deep in thought was she that she didn't' register the music that began to waft through the air. Nor did she notice as her friends stood and moved off to find the source. In fact it wasn't until well into the second song she realized that things had changed
After a moment of glancing around she saw one of her friends amongst a crowd of girls centered around a tree. As she approached she heard a light guitar playing while Tenor male voice sang. As she got closer she saw Yuka at the center sitting next to the new student who was singing something about 'doing everything for her. Yuka was blushing furiously at the attention she was receiving, while all around her the other girls looked on with mixture of envy and jealousy.
Akane listened for a minute and had to admit, he was good. Still, he was a boy and obviously had designs on her naïve friend. She'd just made up her mind to intervene when someone else beat her to it.
"Fiend! First you enslave these other girls to your will. Now you attempt to take the Noble Akane Tendo!" he gestured to said maiden while he spoke.
Ranma's song abruptly ended much to the annoyance of the girls present, Yuka not least among them. Ranma himself blinked before looking at the enraged Kendoist.
"Did you say the name Tendo?"
"Peasant!" Kuno lowered his bokken "Stand and face the Justice of the Noble..." His word were cut off as a small green blur swooped down and snatched the weapon from his hands.
*Thanks Ucchan.*
*Master give me a treat later?*
He chuckled a bit *Of course* Ucchan quickly sent him an image of the kind of pie he wanted as a reward.
Kuno blinked then glared "What have you done to my blade?!"
"I didn't do anything to it. But since you no longer have one. Perhaps we could discuss this in a more civilized manner?"
The mad-Kendoist glared "I shall not be forced into a negotiation with one below my station!" He pulled another bokken from the folds of his cloths.
Ranma sighed dramatically "Is that how you'll have it? Regrettable, I had no desire to hurt you." Ranma raised his opened hand and a bokken fell into it. He followed it with a fancy sword display ending in it being leveled at his opponent "Your move."
With out further ado Kuno darted in and swung intending to take his head off. Ranma waited a second then muttered something. A moment later Kuno literally halted all movement. The crowd blinked as one. Ranma strode over and muttered something in his ear. Kuno collapsed to the ground Snoring. For a long time the crowd stared, trying to come up with a logical reason for what they'd seen
"Guess he's still feeling the effects of this morning." Someone near the back said. The rational part of the mind (you know the one that swears magic and monsters don't exist, HA!) seized on this explanation. Most of the people began to comment on the strength of the new Gaijin teacher as two of Kuno's cronies carried him away. After all a foreign warrior using some kind of delayed shiatsu strike was easier to believe than magic.
Ranma merely looked bemused as the explanation was circulated and quickly accepted. Then he noticed Yuka staring up into the tree in shock.
"What?"
Slowly a shaking finger pointed into the depths of the leafy branches, to where a green pseudo-dragon sat.
"Oh him." Ranma held out his arm "Come her Ucchan!" The small dragon lifted off the branch to settle on his outstretched arm. "This is my buddy Ucchan. He's not a real dragon, just a familiar."
Several of the girls had either large sweat drops, or their hair was currently trying to flee their head.
Akane's eye's widened then narrowed. Only witches and warlocks had such things as familiars. She'd have to be careful, but she was a martial artist, it was her duty to protect her friends from such beings.
Ucchan gazed out at the assembled girls before taking off the land on Yuka's shoulder. "I like her!" He declared after giving her a good sniff. "She smells like candy!"
The young girl turned beat red from embracement.
Ranma chuckled at his friend. "She does look sweet doesn't she."
Akane saw the seemingly impossibly deepening blush on her friends face and stepped forward "All right you! Leave her alone." The youngest Tendo pointed a finger in his face as his familiar retook his perch on his shoulder.
"Your last name is Tendo right?" He asked
"Yeah, so?"
"Excellent! I need to speak with your parents, can you arrange that?"
"Parent, my mother's dead."
Ranma winced "Sorry, I didn't know. But I really must speak with your father. He may have answers I seek."
Akane didn't know what this guy was trying to pull, but she knew she didn't want him anywhere near her father. She was about to say such when the choice was forever taken from her.
"I'll get you a talk with daddy, if you promise to do me a few favors."
Ranma turned to the new voice. A girl, older than Akane with short hair and a slight mischievous grin stood before him.
Ranma stared back albeit a bit more warily "What kind of favors?"
"A concert this Saturday. Profits split 20 - 80 me getting the 80, you getting the 20 and a chance speak with my father."
Ranma winced. 20 - 80 was absolutely absurd...
"40 - 60" he countered.
"30 - 70, final offer."
"Done!" he nodded as he took her hand and shook it.
Nabiki smiled in triumph "I'll get you the details tomorrow."
------
Ranma had gone home over an hour ago and the Kuno family retainer, Sasuke had just picked up his unconscious master and taken him home. The throng of young teachers that'd been streaming by his door for most of the day had finally subsided. Now was the time to leave. Solaufein, deciding that he wanted to avoid any chance of running into a woman opened the window and leaped out, being sure to close it behind him. It wouldn't do to make life easy for a thief.
As he made his way to the gate he realized his earlier fear had been well founded after all. Several of the younger teachers were waiting by the main exit of the building. He quickly left the grounds before he was spotted.
Once safely out of sight he sighed. After Ranma had made him a paper trail legitimizing him as a foreign worker, and getting him a job at Furinkan he'd thought things would settle in. Then he'd found out about the morning mobs. After which he'd managed to be come the tall dark handsome stranger in several women and a disturbing number of schoolgirls fantasies.
Not good.
The average Drow relationship has very few instances of cuddling or light kissing. It's mostly, heavy physical activity. Usually involving the torture of the male to some degree. He'd had a relationship that promised more, but Phaere's mother quickly put a stop to that. So to say he was wary of relationships was like saying Mousse had slight vision problems.
Another sigh escaped his lips. Ten minutes of walking and he could take a nice soak in the Onsen near their apartment, wonderful things those.
His musings were interrupted as an explosion rocked the street up ahead. A body came flying down the street to slam against his chest, staggering him. He managed to catch the person, a blue haired girl, in some weird costume. There were no visible bruises but it was obvious she was stunned. Looking back down the street he saw several more of these girls currently engaged in battle against several werewolves and shade creators. At the back of the attacking horde stood a man in a gray/black uniform with two Skeleton warriors on either side of him. It was obvious he was directing the confrontation as his face was contorted in extreme concentration.
The young girl came around and looked at her savior, and froze as her visor began to give her all sorts of disturbing data on the man who held her.
Said man set her down on the ground an indicated she was to remain here. From there he moved into a nearby alley. Ami was beginning to worry. She had no clue who or what this new guy was. Plus her friends were barely holding their own against attacking monsters. As she watched Jupiter threw a thunderbolt that passed through a werewolf, doing no damage. Ami shook her head in wonder, then something clicked. Scanning through her visor she nearly cursed her self for not seeing it sooner. Most
of the creatures they were fighting were illusions. Enough were real so they'd have to keep moving about but it was obvious that only a few more of those remained. She'd been targeted first, not because of power but because she might be able to see through their plan. With her out of the way, Malachite could tire her friends out before he launched his real assault, probably involving those two large, nasty looking skeletons standing next to him. She was about to rely the information to her friends through the communicator when it became a moot point.
Darkness enshrouded the Malachite, obscuring his view of the battle. The new creatures and spells the master provided had so far proven successful if a little draining to use. He'd been just about to order the Skeletons forward when this happened.
The General immediately began to caste a dispelling spell. He never finished as a Long sword burst free of his chest. Then with a massive amount of strength drove up to exit out of his skull. The Dark General died without every knowing what hit him.
With the General dead the creatures either faded or crumbled away. The Senshi, surprised at the sudden turn in events looked to where a sphere of the darkest night had appeared over the general. From it strode forth their white haired savior.
"You!" Makoto began.
The warrior gave her a funny look before ducking into a nearby alley.
"You know him?" Rei asked
"Well...me and Venus ran into him a few days ago..."
Usagi, in a rare show of foresight held her hand up for silence. "Not here." She pointed to the camera crew "Later at home." The assembled Senshi nodded and left in a flash of legs and pant...Eh hum...and took to the roofs.
****
The door to his apartment swung open. It was a nice two bedroom apartment with a kitchen and front area with that Evil box Ranma called a Television. Solaufein was sure it was some kind of soul drinking device.
At the moment the Bard was plopped down in front of it. When he realized he wasn't alone he turned and saluted "Hail Hero."
The Drow sat down heavily in the easy chair. One of the few things he liked about this plane and sighed. "What's with the Hero bit. "
Ranma indicated the images on the idiot box. "Seems your exploits were caught on film."
The Drow sat up, looked and frowned heavily. There he was exiting the Globe of darkness. Wiping the blood off his blade, The Equalizer. The announcer was asking if this was a new alley of the Senshi or a sign of evil at war with itself. He blew an annoyed breath out of his mouth and sat back in his chair. "I'm beginning to believe that phrase 'No good deed goes unpunished.' "
"It's not that bad Solaufein. The camera didn't get a clear shot of your features."
The elf sat up "What do you mean, the dark skin and white hair are probably going to be a dead give away."
Ranma arched an eyebrow. "Those Senshi don't wear mask and no one knows who they are. Think of it this way, most people around here figure a hero looks totally different outside battle. They probable figure you did some kind of transformation to hide your true features so you walking around like that probably won't draw too much attention outside being a Gaijin." He shrugged "But if you want I can caste a spell..."
He made several warding gestures as he tried to back into the chair "Oh no. I remember what happened the last time you caste a glamour. I did NOT enjoy having males hitting on me for a week."
The young musician and caster looked sheepish. "Hey, it was my first time casting it. Besides, after you threw the sixth one through a window, they got the hint."
The Drow grumbled slightly but remained silent, having his rear pinched by a guy had precipitated him sending the sixth through that window. He wasn't sure he'd ever fully for give Ranma for that week of Hell.
"so what do you know about these 'Senshi'?'
Ranma shrugged "Not much. Seems there's some kind of fight between good and evil and they are at the center of it. Aside from that I don't know." He turned to the TV, To see other various film captures of the sefiku clad heroines. "I could try a divination..."
"Probably, not necessary. Just keep your eyes open. I have a feeling I knew one of them."
"A student a Furinkan?"
"Maybe, I'll look into it later."
"As you wish."
As he sat mulling over how to go about this, he remembered something he'd been meaning to ask the young human "So, how do you plan to romance this one?"
Ranma blinked and looked up "What?"
He gave the young man a flat stare "I saw you at lunch. Have you no Shame Saotome?! Really, it's only been...what...a week since Mazzy."
Ranma winced "Hey, I didn't mean for it to go that far today. I was just doing a little song and it kind of got out of hand."
The Elvin warrior sighed and shook his head. "Ever the showman eh Saotome."
Ranma seemed to be mulling over something before a sigh escaped his lips. "Your right thought. I'll tell her tomorrow." He shook his head sadly. Then looked up to his friend pain evident in his features "I never meant to hurt her you know. I mean I never figured she was...that she was."
Solaufein frowned "Ranma, you knew, don't deny it. You just didn't want to deal with it."
He looked down at his hands "Maybe." He took a calming breath "Look, Mazzy's nice and all but she's older than me and deserves someone better. I mean, I'm just a humble Bard and she is a Paladin. She's always off doing good and helping others. What can I do to be worthy of her love."
Solaufein arched an eyebrow. "You could return it and stay by her side."
Ranma reacted as if slapped, afterwards he fell into silent. "I don't know."
"Ranma, " He began "Are you bothered by the fact she's a halfling?"
A light laugh escaped his lips "No, If I had to I'd find a wizard to Polymorph me." He sighed "We've just been friends for so long that I don't know if I'm ready for it to change or if I can change it."
"Hmm, well don't let a good thing go due to your fear of change." He studied the young man, seeming to search for something
"I'll think on it."
He shrugged "You do that. I'll be in the Onsen." Laboriously he stood up and shambled off to the bathroom.
Ranma gave a slight nod as his friend left. Already his mind was on someone else. Specifically a beautiful if small brown eyed paladin.
Author's Notes
Well, here it is, a fanfic mixing one of my favorite games and my favorite anime to mess with. This all came about form me wanting to make a Ranma who was not necessarily more powerful than those around him. As if sheer power could solve his problems. Still, I'm open to suggestions and ideas. I'd love to know how many would wish me to continue the Mazzy romance (Something I felt should have been in BG2 but I digress). I might even consider bringing back Irenicus, he was a darn good villain and It could be interesting to see him and Beryl going at it for supremacy. If Bohdi came back expect an exceptionally brutal death (Call me a 'mousie mousie' will she.) Last time she meet her end at the hands of 5 hasted bears, with my Celestial Fury delivering the final blow. God bless the Stun on that thing. Ah well send me C&C please.
Equipment Data:
Blade of Roses
Equipped abilities:
Charisma + 2
Combat Abilities
2D4 + 3
The Equalizer
Equipped abilities: Immune to Charm and Confusion
Combat Abilities:
always +3 to hit
vs True Neutral +0 to hit +0 to damage
vs Chaotic, Lawful Neutral +1 to hit +2 to damage
vs Neutral good, Evil +2 to hit +4 to damage
vs other alignments +3 to hit + 6 to damage
Base damage: 2D4 + 3
Author Opinions: This blade is difficult to acquire but well worth it since most of the creatures I fight tend towards Chaotic evil. Duel Wielding this with Celestial fury (Which can stun your opponent) makes for a nasty combination
Melodic chain mail:
Ability: Bards can caste spells even with this armor on.
armor class 2
Author Opinions: In 2nd Edition AD&D this was essential for a bard. Allowing you to hold your own in a straight fight and still cast spells to make the enemies life heck.
Bladesinger Chain male:
Pinnacle of Elvin craftsmanship and acquired legally. (After killing a shadow dragon and saving their beloved Suldanesselar, the elves were not about to ask for it back. Though they'd probably be mortified to know a Drow even a good one has it. Heh, call me a soulless abomination will they. Just cause I'm a half-elf...)
armor class 1