Chapter 3: When The Saints Go Marching In

GENMA: Ranma! Where have you been? We've been waiting for you. Don't tell me you slacked off some- [Nodoka slaps Genma's head] Ow! What did you do that for?

NODOKA: [angrily] Don't be so harsh on him! I can't believe that even today, this is how you treat your only son.

RANMA: [heavily breathing] Sorry I'm late. I went somewhere to take care of. some business.

Ranma ran as fast as he can when he remembered that his parents are going to talk about his "future". Ranma didn't understand why they want to discuss that particular topic. His future was already planned with mostly bad results. Being engaged to different girls just for free food is one thing. When he came home, he was tired from running. His chat with Noah left him disturbed and confused. He also has to talk to Akane about the breakup. Right now, he's carrying the weight of the world. Along with other worlds as well.

NODOKA: Ranma, seat down.

RANMA: Okaaayyy. So, what up?

GENMA: Ranma, my boy, we all know that you are currently the heir of the dojo. Your wedding with Akane is, well, a mess [Genma doesn't know the perfect description to describe the failed wedding]. After that things haven't reached normality.

RANMA: [rolls eyes] Things aren't normal when you live in Nerima, dad.

GENMA: Oh. Anyway, we kind of noticed that lately you've been depressed.

RANMA: What are you talking about? I'm still your normal, happy-go-lucky son. [Ranma doesn't realize the irony on this.]

NODOKA: Is hitting Akane normal enough for you?

RANMA: Is this what is about? Weeks later and you guys still haven't forgotten about that? I've said "sorry" so many times. Look, let's cut to the chase and tell me what this is all about. [to Genma] Honestly, I'm tired of all your "holier than thou" honor speeches.

GENMA: [angry] How dare you mock my words, boy! Those words are about honor and the key to the survival of life. [Ranma and Nodoka don't see the connection]

NODOKA: Calm down. There's no need to get rowdy. [to Genma, whispering] Why don't I do talking? You can't even keep up a straight face! And I definitely agree with him. Most of your speeches don't make any sense.

Genma nods at his wife's request. Then they faced Ranma.

NODOKA: Son, the point is, after what happened. Your father and I have decided that we will allow you to live your own life.

RANMA: [angrily shocked] WHAT?! HOW DARE THE BOTH OF YOU! YOU CAN'T JUST DECIDE WHAT MY LIFE WILL BE! I- [regains his senses] What did you just say?

NODOKA: [giggles] I said you can live your own life, silly! No more pre- arranged marriages, no training trips to nowhere. After the wedding, I realized that you're not your usual self. [glares at Genma, who is nervously sweating like hell] Then again, your life hasn't been a normal one.

Ranma looked at them incredulously. Today has been one of the weirdest days of his life. Scratch that. Today has been the weirdest day of his life. First, Akane breaks up with him. Second, he learns he's some sort of a hero chosen to save the universe. And now, this. He is waiting for the Kunos to realize that "darling Ranma" and "the pig-tailed girl" are one. No such luck. He then presses on.

RANMA: [curiously] Are you guys okay? From the look of things, I would be expecting my curse to be healed right now? [faces Nodoka] Mom, what's going on? Why is dad sweating?

NODOKA: We're alright Ranma. Although your father has contrasting view compared to mine, he agrees with my decision. Besides, I found out his "adventures" in the past. Am I right dear?

GENMA: [nervously] Y-yes d-dear [gulps down].

Ranma has got to hand it to his mom. She's probably the only one who can be the big boss over his dad. He's imagining his mom whipping his dad like the master to the slaves in the ancient times.

RANMA: I don't know what to say.

NODOKA: [smiles] How about a big thank you? It's the least I can do for you.

Nodoka knew she made the right decision to remove the whole engagement thing. But, she also knew that Ranma and Akane loved each other. Thus, she has decided to let them live a normal life and in that way, they may get to know better than before. If both of them decided to get married, she will support them. She didn't see her only son most of his life and for that that was her only way to get to know him better.

RANMA: Wait, what about Uncle Soun, Nabiki, Kasumi and, heck, Akane?

NODOKA: Don't worry. I already talked to them and they took it very well (although Soun cried like a baby when I first told him about this).

RANMA: Um dad, are you-

GENMA: I'm fine my son. Never been better [nervously laughs].

Ranma knows Genma's lying. Then again, why ruin the fun?

RANMA: Well, then. This could be a bright new day. Mom, can I talk to you outside, alone?

NODOKA: Sure dear.

Ranma and Nodoka went outside the dojo, leaving behind a very relieved Genma. He knew it's not wise to mess his wife. It's that or his neck meeting her sharp sword.

NODOKA: Well, we're out. Is there anything to talk about?

RANMA: You said the Tendos know about this. What was Akane's reaction?

NODOKA: Akane seemed happy, though there may be more than meets the eye. Why?

RANMA: (She breaks up with me because of this? I can't believe it. Alright, that's it. I'm going to talk to her once and for all. I love her dammit! But does she love me?) [to Nodoka] Oh, nothing.

NODOKA: Speaking of which, [points at Akane] here she comes.

Ranma looked at where his mother was pointing. He saw Akane carrying a lot of shopping bags. Akane sees them.

AKANE: [cheerfully] Hi Aunt Nodoka! Hi Ranma!

NODOKA: Why hello Akane. How are you? [looks at the bags she's carrying] You must have bought a lot of stuff.

AKANE: There's a sale at the mall and my friends and I decided to buy some stuff. Yuka and Sayuri are going to leave tomorrow for their vacations. What better way to spent time with your friends than to go shopping?

NODOKA: That's nice dear. Ranma, can you help carry her bags?

AKANE: Oh, no. Aunt Nodoka, I'll be fine. I'm a big girl. I can do it on my own.

NODOKA: [concerned] But dear, you might get hurt carrying that.

AKANE: (For God's sake, why can't everyone just get off my back?) [smiles] I'll be fine. I promise.

RANMA: [deadpans] Don't worry mom, she's a big girl. She can handle this herself.

Nodoka was surprised by Ranma's reaction.

NODOKA: Ranma that's not very nice! Now, either you help her or I'm going to decrease your allowance!

RANMA: Ah, mom!

NODOKA: Don't "ah mom" me! Same thing goes to you too, Akane. Please let him help you.

AKANE: [sighs] Okay. [smirks] Besides, it's fun to watch mama's boy pout like hell.

RANMA: [blushes] Shut up! Fine. Like I have a choice than to help She-Hulk here.

NODOKA: Glad to hear it.

Ranma carried most of Akane's stuff and entered the dojo. While going to her room, Akane knows what Ranma is going to ask so she mentally prepared herself for the interrogation. On the other hand, Ranma couldn't believe the stuff she bought. Jeans, shirts, tank tops and skirts, he thinks that she might run away with style.

AKANE: [in a commanding tone] Okay, slave. Put them beside my bed.

RANMA: [sarcastic] As you wish, Hitler. [Ranma puts her stuff beside her bed]

AKANE: Wow, I must have bought a lot of stuff. If dad sees the bill, he'll definitely have a heart attack [giggles].

RANMA: (Pfft. He's not the only one.) Listen Akane, let's cut the crap here. You have a lot of explaining to do. Mom told you about her plan, right?

AKANE: Yeah so?

RANMA: Why are you acting like this? I thought that despite the failed wedding, you still love me as I love you. I'm sorry I almost hit you. [sincerely] C'mon Akane, please tell me.

AKANE: Ranma, I already told you this morning.

RANMA: You're wrong! That was the lamest excuse I've ever heard!

AKANE: [angry] You know what, Ranma? You're even more dense than Kuno! Fine, listen up. What I said earlier is true. I do love you. But breaking up, I think it's for the best. I don't know who I am anymore. When your mom told me that we're free of the engagement, I thought that we can be together as a normal, modern couple. But at the same time, I thought that I can be free. I can do the things that I want without anyone interfering. Am I getting the point here?

RANMA: The truth? Yeah, a bit. So, why the break-up?

AKANE: It's all about whom you really are Ranma. It's about finding yourself. What happened was more of a sign. A sign of having a new life.

RANMA: Since when the hell did you become a member of the Oprah movement?

AKANE: Baka, this is serious! I'm tired of getting kidnapped, being fooled by others, being helpless. I want to be strong like you. I want to do the rescuing. I want to find myself, to know myself as Akane Tendo, not just "Ranma's fiancée". Do you get it?

RANMA: Yeah. What's your point?

AKANE: [frustrated] Grrrrrrrrrr! [her face lightens up] How about this: I'm a cookie dough.

RANMA: [confused] You're a what?

AKANE: A cookie dough. I'm not done baking. I'm not finished becoming... whoever the hell it is I'm gonna turn out to be. I make it through this and the next thing and the next thing, and maybe one day I turn around and realize I'm ready, I'm cookies. And then, y'know, if I want someone to eat m- or, enjoy warm delicious cookie-me, then that's fine. That'll be then. When I'm done.

Ranma is speechless for the moment. Then he regains his composure.

RANMA: Akane, I hope that you realize that cookie analogy is a bit. weird. [pauses] But let me get this straight: you broke up with me because you want to grow up on your own. You don't need me protecting you. You want to face the demons yourself. And when you're done, you'll be a complete person.

AKANE: Convinced?

RANMA: Yeah I get it. But Akane, sometimes life can be harsh. You need someone to be around with you. Yet, that doesn't mean that he is going to mess up your life. Besides, you're not the only one who has to do some soul searching. Like cookies, you'll be over baked if-

AKANE: I know. We all do Ranma. We all do.

RANMA: Just promise me one thing: call my name when you need me okay?

AKANE: That's cheesy. But thanks for your concern. Maybe one day, who knows?

RANMA: I think it's best that we don't tell this to anyone for now. Chaos is sure to follow.

AKANE: I agree. Are you going to be okay?

RANMA: Yeah. (I may not be here for long, Akane. I might never see you again after tomorrow night) There something I need to do first.

AKANE: What's that?

Ranma leans in closer to Akane. He placed his hands on her shoulders and kisses her on the lips. Akane was surprised. Unfortunately, she breaks the kiss and staggers back. Ranma was sad when she did that. But as he looked into her eyes, he knows that now's not the time. He decided to leave Akane in her room.

RANMA: [heartbroken] Well then. See ya.

As Ranma closed her door, Akane began breathe heavily as she lies down on her bed. Life CAN be cruel. But, Akane knows that this is for the best. This is the time when she can be her own person. But breaking Ranma's heart is one of her hardest decisions to make.

Akane remained in that position and after a while, she began to fix her newly bought clothes. She then suddenly remembered her chat with Shampoo. The latter revealed that Mousse is leaving the day after tomorrow. Akane expected her to be happy now that her object of annoyance has left. But the Amazon continued by saying that she and Cologne will leave at the end of the week. Akane can tell she's not happy at the sudden turn of the events. Then again, there wasn't a slight hint of joy on her when she talked about Mousse. Akane felt sorry for the visually-impaired warrior. After all this time he has finally come to his senses. So why should she care about Shampoo?

AKANE: (I'm tired. Am I going to regret my decision? Will things ever be back to normal?)

****************

Ranma sat down quietly in his room. As of the moment, he is bitterly sad. Akane had rejected him because she's still a "cookie dough". He didn't understand why she had to use that. He only has one day left and he still doesn't know what to do. He then decided to hang out with his parents, help Kasumi with the chores, go see Dr. Tofu and give Hiroshi and Daisuke a call. But what about Akane? Will he go see Ukyo one last time? Probably not in Ukyo's case.

RANMA: (No use in thinking while doing nothing Saotome. It only gets things worst.)

As night time approaches, the occupants of the Tendo-Saotome household have resorted to their normal routine. Genma and Soun concentrated on the shogi game, Nabiki and Akane watched TV while Nodoka helped Kasumi in finishing cleaning the kitchen. Ranma on the other hand practiced some moves in the dojo. After Ranma got out of his room, he avoided Akane at all costs. Many thought they had an argument but decided to let this pass since it has been one of the factors of their relationship. For Akane, she knew he would take this break-up in a bad way. As everyone went into their rooms for a good night's rest, Ranma thinks about what if he still has the dream. Would it make any difference? As he enters his room, he sees his parents sleeping. He nearly cried at the thought of being separated from his mother again but he promised himself that he will see everybody again as soon as he finishes his quest. Soon, sleep conquers him.

****************

RANMA: It's weird. You think you know everything yet there's always a possibility that it might change.

???: That's fact. You want know what you want but in end you need to know what you need.

RANMA: That's weird.

???: No, what's weird is that you took this journey without thinking the consequences.

RANMA: Hey! I already know that. Don't you think this is hard for me?

???: I think the question you should be asking is WHY you want to go on this journey? Don't give me that "I-have-to-save-the-world" crap. I have had it the macho bullshit propaganda. What you don't know is that there more into this.

RANMA: Really? Indulge me then.

???: Not now. Maybe sooner.

RANMA: [decides to change the topic] Will I succeed in this fight?

???: That's your decision.

RANMA: [sarcastic] Thanks for the moral support.

???: One who speaks the truth, one who speaks the lie, one who speaks the end, one who doesn't speak. I fear for you. It will come to you. Open your eyes.

RANMA: Great, riddles. Can you at least say something that actually makes sense?

???: [pauses] Oh, I have. [Without warning, Ranma is stabbed in the heart. Instead of pain, he feels something. powerful] In the end, this isn't about good or evil. It's about power. Open your heart.

****************

Ranma suddenly wakes up and realizes that he's been sweating a lot. He finds his parents' empty bed. He looks at the clock indicating it's 10 in the morning. Ranma is confused. He didn't have the dream but he had a short chat with an unknown person. This is different from the speaker from the other dream. Right now, Ranma doesn't have time to think about this. But, there was one question that disturbed him the most: why does he want to go?

As soon as he finishes dressing up, he goes down into the kitchen and sees Kasumi fixing the table.

KASUMI: Ranma! You missed breakfast.

RANMA: I know. [stomach begins to growl] Is there-

KASUMI: [smiles] I'm way ahead of you. Luckily I saved you some eggs.

RANMA: [smiles] I owe ya big time! [he remembers something else] How 'bout I'll help you with the dishes? I know it may not be that much, but that's least I can do.

Kasumi is stunned by Ranma's words. Normally, he would leave after a meal and not bother with helping the chores. But, this is different. Very Twilight Zone.

KASUMI: [concerned] Ranma, are you okay?

RANMA: Ya. I'm okay. Why?

KASUMI: I-it's nothing. It's just that-

RANMA: Can't I do something nice for once? You've been burdened by housework that I feel sorry for you. You don't do the things that you enjoy for your sake.

KASUMI: It's okay. Sometimes you have to sacrifice other things.

RANMA: Do you enjoy this? This kind of life?

KASUMI: Ranma, what kind of a question is that? Are you sure you're okay?

RANMA: Sometimes I want to escape from everything. You know, just disappear without anyone else knowing it. I've been thinking about this a lot.

KASUMI: I know the feeling. But, in the end, I chose to be this way. Why? I care for my family. I made my own choices, not from someone else's.

RANMA: I envy you. To tell you the truth, you're stronger. Stronger than Akane, Shampoo, Ukyo, Kodachi, the old ghoul, Ryoga, Mousse. heck you're way stronger than me.

KASUMI: Don't worry Ranma. You can be stronger too. It doesn't rely on the punches you throw or the techniques you've learned. It's all about your heart, which is stronger if you let yourself love who you really are and accept everything. Now, here are some eggs.

RANMA: Thank you Kasumi.

Ranma quietly eat his breakfast. Afterwards, he helped the older Tendo sibling with the dishes. Then, he visited Dr. Tofu, who is currently treating the patient. Soon after, he called Hiroshi and Daisuke to ask how things are doing. All that's left is hanging out with his parents.

****************

If you see Shampoo and Mousse seating in a food court in the mall, you would think that they are friends or a couple discussing something else. In truth, they are hardly friends or way far from being a couple. Cologne forced the both of them to bond for the last time before they went into their separate ways. Shampoo to China, Mousse to. wherever the hell he's going. Both reluctantly agree. If this happened in the past, Mousse would be on cloud nine while Shampoo would brood and plan to get away from him and see Ranma. But now, Mousse feels as if his love for the purple haired Amazon is gone, yet not completely. Shampoo, on the other hand, felt the weight on her shoulders has been removed. No more annoying suitor following her and she can have Ranma. Despite all this, she feels a little guilty about Mousse leaving.

MOUSSE: Shampoo what's the matter? You're not eating your food. [smiles] Can I have your beef noodles if don't want it?

SHAMPOO: Huh? No you dumb duck! Shampoo eat that! [She grabs her food and proceeds to devour it as if she was a hungry wild animal]

MOUSSE: [sweat drops] Geez, relax! I was just kidding. You don't have to shout you know. So, are excited to go home?

SHAMPOO: [stops eating] What? Of course not! Shampoo will never see husband again! [pauses] So where are you going? [begins to drink]

MOUSSE: I don't know. Maybe I might go to the Playboy mansion, hook up some chicks and lose my virginity.

SHAMPOO: [spits out water away from Mousse as soon as she hears this and has a horrifying face] WHAT? ARE YOU NUTS?

MOUSSE: [laughs] HAHAHAHA! Ohmigod Shampoo! I would pay to see that face of yours.

SHAMPOO: [angry] Shut up! How dare you embarrass Shampoo!

MOUSSE: I was just kidding! I'm just trying to relive the tension here!

SHAMPOO: One more time and Shampoo will kick your ass! [At this time, many people are watching them]

MOUSSE: [embarrassed] Um, Shampoo, people are watching us. So I suggest we keep quiet.

SHAMPOO: Fine. So, where EXACTLY are you going?

MOUSSE: I don't know. Maybe somewhere nice and peaceful.

SHAMPOO: Will you come back to the village?

MOUSSE: I've been thinking about that. I might visit but not stay there.

SHAMPOO: [emotionless] Okay.

The two proceed to finish their meals. Neither said any word afterwards but both understood that they have moved on. They will miss each other's company, for better or for worse.

****************

When Ukyo arrived home, she was surprised that her restaurant is closed. Konatsu is in charge while she was gone. As she opens the door, she finds an envelope and opened it. Inside were the cash for her restaurant and a letter. She begins to read it.

Dearest Ukyo,

By the time you've read this, I'll be long gone. I know I don't have a place to stay but I decided to move somewhere else. Why? Ukyo Kuonji, I love you so much and I would do anything for you. But at the same time, I know that you won't love me because deep down you still love Ranma. But, why did you do try to hurt Ranma and Akane at their wedding? What possessed you to do that? As a result, he broke his friendship with yours because of your doing. He's a nice person if you ask me. I pity the both of them because all of you wouldn't give them a chance.

After you left to visit your father, I've been thinking about our friendship. Sure we both count on each other but I don't know, maybe this friendship didn't work out because I love you. But I do know this; I always find a way to make you happy. I couldn't stand around the person who wouldn't love me back. I hope we can still be friends. You might find a nice guy and I might find a nice girl. Oh by the way, I am happy to report that I have discarded my feminine look. I hope we can see each other again soon. Take care.

Konatsu

Ukyo stared at the letter. She wants to cry but her tears wouldn't let out. Konatsu is her only friend after the wedding fiasco but she blames herself for not giving her time with him.

UKYO: (Great, first Ranma disowns me as a friend, then dad disowns me as a daughter. Now Konatsu leaves me because I wouldn't love him back. This may be my lucky day. All that's left is to find a knife, stab myself or slash my wrists and sing "The Yellow Submarine" as my requiem. Yep, it's my lucky day.)

Feeling in no mood in opening the restaurant, she decided that she will do it in the afternoon. In the meantime, she decides to watch TV.

******************

RYOGA: ARRGGHHH! WHERE AM I?

OLD MAN: [angry] WILL YOU SHUT UP?! SOME OF US ARE TRYING TO TAKE A NAP!

RYOGA: [embarrassed] S-sorry. Uh, could you tell me where am I?

OLD MAN: Kid, you're in Nerima. Now get lost before I grab my gun and chase you.

RYOGA: [gulps] Okay.

Nerima is the last place Ryoga wanted to be. He wanted to be away from the place that caused him some problems. Damn lack of directions, he thought. Ryoga then decided that he would stay someplace where he and Ranma wouldn't bump into each other. What is he going to do next may be a challenge for him. He suddenly recalled Akari putting the cake against his face and kicked him in the one place one should never bring harm to. He didn't know why he remembered that. Probably it has something to do with rejection, which has no connection with his problem. But, he could resort into three things: camp out, ask Mousse or Ukyo for a place to stay. Then again, he hasn't spoke to the two of them since the wedding disaster and everyone weren't in good terms since. As he sits down on one of the benches, he realized that maybe this soul-searching thing isn't a good idea. It got him more confused.

What got him more confused is why he is afraid of Ranma. Almost everyone knows that he's Ranma's equivalent. In fact, if trained properly, Ryoga can defeat him. He is probably Ranma's only honorable opponent. When he was weakened by Happosai's Moxibustion, Ryoga was the only one who didn't took advantage of Ranma's state at that time. He's not the type of person who fights weak people. So why is he afraid of his rival? Is it because he killed a god? Or is it he can command the "Faster, Akane. Kill! Kill!" on him when and if she finds out he's P-Chan all along. Then, he knows why: Ranma treats him like a friend and he treats him like shit. He's afraid that it will haunt him for the rest of his life. He's afraid that after what happened, he will never become Ranma's friend.

*****************

AKANE: Ranma!

RANMA: Akane? What do you want?

AKANE: Listen, about yesterday-

RANMA: No need for an explanation. I already understand.

AKANE: No it's not that. Um, I should tell you that. I'm sorry for what I said to you.

RANMA: N-no it's okay. You need to find yourself and I, on the other hand, will probably be sucked into darkness.

AKANE: [confused] What are you talking about?

RANMA: Er, nothing.

Ranma and Akane stood there silently. Things are awkward for them at the moment; the pig-tailed martial artist decides to decrease some tension.

RANMA: Hey, where are you going?

AKANE: Oh, I'm going to a cooking class. You know, it's "time".

RANMA: W-wait. You, in a cooking class? [giggles] This is going to be interesting.

AKANE: [offended] What does that suppose to mean?

RANMA: Nothing. Although I pity the poor teacher who is forced to eat your cooking. I can see the-

AKANE: Shut up, Ranma!

RANMA: [smiles] Hush, woman. Do not ruin the moment. Anyway, I can see the headlines: "Young woman charged with mass genocide by food poisoning" or "Locals flee with terror as Tendo's food magically becomes real and starts devouring people". [laughs hysterically] Oh God, I needed that! [looks at Akane] C'mon, lighten up. I was just kidding. Uh, Akane? Are you-

Ranma noticed Akane's raging fury. With sharp glares, she would probably kill Ranma in a heartbeat. For that, Ranma smirked since he brought back the same old Akane: bitchy, hot tempered and violent. It wouldn't be the same without that.

RANMA: Um, Akane, tomboy. Calm down. Heh, heh. I was just kidding. Plea-

AKANE: [angry] OH YEAH? EAT THIS!

Akane sends Ranma up in the skies courtesy of the hyperdimensional mallet. Afterwards, she cooled down.

AKANE: (That moron! He makes fun of me after everything we've been through! I can't believe this! The funny part is, though, I felt relieved. Like I've been cured. Hitting Ranma must be the cause of this. Hmmm, beating up Ranma as a stress reliever? I like the idea.)

Akane smiles as she goes on her way to cooking class.

*****************

As the sun sets, Ranma knew his time is up. After hanging out with his parents which resulted with Genma and Nodoka fighting over which song would they sing next at the karaoke, he then decided to pack some things. He first packed some clothes and then some food. He might encounter some dishes which are worse than Akane's. He then got a picture of his mom, Kasumi and Tofu which took place when they went to a picnic last spring and a picture of him, Daisuke and Hiroshi. As he rummaged the remaining pictures, he saw some of the Nerima Wrecking Crew. He didn't know why he still kept it. Out of the blue, he destroyed the pictures with them. He felt that he needed to remove the disease that has been plaguing him for so long. Lastly, he kept a picture of him, his parents and the Tendos, along with the others he got.

Ranma also wrote a letter to everyone stating that he might go away for a while for he will do some business. As he ate his dinner, he noticed that everyone's still in their normal mood. Unknown to him, Akane noticed that he was wearing a sad look. Normally, he and his dad would fight for a remaining piece of a delicious meal. But, he was just quiet. Silently eating his meal without a care for the world. Genma also noticed this but remained indifferent as he tries to grab the last tempura shrimp, only to be taken away by Nodoka. Akane tried to figure out what's eating him, but has no clue of what.

When everyone goes upstairs, Ranma is the only one left in the living room as he watches TV. He looked at the clock: it's 9:30 p.m. Thinking that everyone is asleep, Ranma turns off the set, looked around and grabbed his backpack which was hidden in the bushes near the pond. He looks at the Tendo Dojo one last time and tries to restrain himself from crying. Ranma opens the front door and breathes heavily.

RANMA: (I can still drop this. What if he said was false? Am I doing the right thing? Anyhow, good-bye everyone. Hope I can see you guys soon.)

With that, he closes the door and went to his destination while humming "It's A Wonderful World".

During at that time, Akane spied on Ranma at her window. She couldn't understand why he would leave without telling anyone. Then again, this wasn't the first time he had done this. Akane decided to follow him. She changed her pj's and wore a black tank top, flare jeans and sneakers, all that she bought this afternoon.

****************

Ranma walked all the way to the shrine where he would meet Noah. He noticed that Ucchan's is still open despite fewer costumers. He continued walking.

****************

As of this time, Akane lost Ranma and tries to figure out where he was going. Despite the big problem, she continues trying to find him. In Ryoga's case, he camped out in the park. Thankfully, no one has caught him yet. Ryoga tries to get some sleep but couldn't since he was watching the stars above the sky. Tomorrow, he will go to Jusenkyo to find a cure for his curse. Meanwhile, Ukyo decides to close the store since there are fewer customers visiting it. She was earning less income than before because of some gossip saying that she was a mean homewrecker. Many people wouldn't eat at her place afterwards. Ukyo decides that she would move somewhere else to live a new life.

Mousse and Shampoo are at their respective rooms. Shampoo is listening to Faye Wong and Hikaru Utada on her discman and is thinking about tomorrow. Mousse would be gone by then but things would be different without him, in her case. On the other hand, Mousse tries to get some sleep for he would leave early tomorrow but couldn't since he is thinking about Shampoo and his journey. He tried to count sheep but instead of the said animal, it was Shampoo in her cursed form.

****************

It was 9:59 when Ranma runs to the temple. He's not far but not near the place. He is in a hurry. Hopefully, Noah is patient. As he runs, he felt something. Something bad. The ground started to shake. Ranma goes to the nearest tree for holding support. He thinks that it's an earthquake. Suddenly he hears a sound of a thunder roaring above the skies. He looks up and sees dark clouds covering the once starry night. Earthquake plus storm equals catastrophic disaster. Ranma continues to run even if the lightning began to strike below. He avoided its blasts though at one point it nearly got him.

As he is near the meeting point, Ranma notices the ground covered with black shadows few feet away from him. Creatures came out from the shadows and facing the person in front of them. This is different from the Heartless of his dreams. They are bigger for one thing, but not as tall as Genma's panda form. They had bigger muscles, their eyes are glowing with yellow light and they don't look friendly. The Heartless in front of Ranma is about to hit him when he dodged the attack. The Heartless' punch smashed the ground. Ranma counterattacks it with a jump kick and knocks out the creature. But, as he lands on the ground, another Heartless tackles him to the ground. Ranma immediately hits it with his knee, which connects to the stomach and pushes him away. Three more Heartless surround him while the other two get up. Ranma closed his eyes as the Heartless go near him when he decides to destroy them.

RANMA: [shouts] HIRYU SHOTEN HA!

It manages to blow them away. Ranma looked at the unconscious creatures. They aren't destroyed but the attack seemed to knock them out. Ranma immediately runs to the temple.

The Heartless began to scour the city with full intention of destroying it. It began to rip out trees, cars and other stuff that they see. With all that noise, Ryoga woke up in very bad mood. He then sees dark, big creatures destroying stuff. Ryoga hides behind a tree to see what is going on. To his horror, the Heartless threw some fireballs at the buildings in front of them. He decides to kill them but unknown to him, a Heartless emerges beneath the ground and prepares a sneak attack behind the Lost Boy. Ryoga suddenly senses the creature's presence and dodged as the Heartless destroyed a tree, causing it to fall. He immediately hits him with a right uppercut followed by a left hook. Despite how much Ryoga puts enough power in his fists, the Heartless didn't knocked down, though it feel its pain. Ryoga continued to destroy it by front kick when it grabs his leg and throws him aside. At this point, Ryoga is furious and out for blood.

RYOGA: (furious) All right, you asked for it!

He then uses the Shishi Houkou Dan and it connects on the Heartless. Ryoga smirked as he finally defeated the enemy.

RYOGA: Ha! What a wussy. (Better grab my stuff and get out of here)

He then immediately packed his stuff. To his surprise, the Heartless began to get up and eyed on its target. It was enough to kill it but somehow it failed. Ryoga is about to use the Bakusai Tenketsu when another Heartless grabbed his neck and threw him out, hitting a bench. As he regains consciousness, he finds himself in a horrifying situation as a group of Heartless surrounds him like a lion surrounding its prey.

Ukyo wakes up when she hears loud noises outside her home. She dressed up in her usual chef uniform, grabbed her large spatula and some mini- spatulas. As she is about to leave her room, her wall was destroyed as she sees two Heartless. She screams and runs out of her store. There, she sees the Heartless destroying stuff. She throws her mini-spatulas at them but they blocked it. She then throws some bombs at them. She runs into a safe corner and it explodes. After a while, Ukyo checked out the damage. She's shocked when more Heartless approaches at her.

UKYO: (What the hell are they?)

She charges at them with her large spatula. She swipes at her first target, cutting the arm. She then stabs the other one but at the same time, it punches at her face. Ukyo goes down as the Heartless remove the spatula from it and is about to destroy it when she throws two mini-spatulas at it, causing it to drop her weapon. Ukyo immediately grabs her weapon and starts to run away as the Heartless began to chase her.

Akane hid in the alley when she saw the Heartless. She pinches herself to see if it's a dream. No such luck. When the creatures began to destroy a house, Akane hears a family screaming for mercy. She quickly grabs an empty garbage can and throws it at the monstrous being.

AKANE: Hey beautiful! Face me!

It got her attention and began to throw a backfist at her. Akane immediately ducked and counters it with an uppercut. She next throws a left backfist but the creature blocks it. She hits it with a right jab followed by a left roundhouse connecting it to the face. But the Heartless proved to be a dangerous opponent as it hits her using a right uppercut on her stomach. This caused her some pain as she kneels down. The Heartless is about to finish her with an elbow strike when Akane grabs its arm. Though in pain, she was strong enough to block the attack. She screams in fury as she pushes it away and kicks the stomach, causing it to stagger. Another Heartless crashed through the wall and immediately knocks Akane. Akane gets up and starts to run for her dear life.

Even with listening to her discman, Shampoo heard a large crash and immediately goes outside of her room and sees what the commotion is about. To her horror, she sees a group of Heartless destroying public property and is about to destroy the café. She knocks on Mousse's door and after a few impatient tries, she kicks it open to sees a drooling Mousse mumbling something.

SHAMPOO: [shouts at his ear] MOUSSE WAKE UP! WE GOT TROUBLE!

MOUSSE: [immediately gets up] Wha-what? [looks at her] Hey! What the hell's your problem?

SHAMPOO: Dumb duck! We got trouble outside café. Look at window.

Mousse does what Shampoo requested him to do. There he sees more than ten Heartless destroying some stuff.

MOUSSE: [shocked] What the hell is that?

COLOGNE: No time to ask! [Both teens turned around to see Cologne, now fully awake] Get dressed and grab your weapons! Whatever it is, we must destroy it before they destroy the entire city.

After dressing up in a light blue Chinese shirt and pants, Shampoo grabbed her bonbories and a sword. Mousse now in his battle uniform, goes down stairs as Cologne waits for them.

COLOGNE: All right, Mousse you take those creatures on the right while you Shampoo on the left. I'll deal with the rest.

The three Amazons went out and faced their opponents using their battle strategies. Shampoo rushed at them and jump kicks at one of them at the front. She uses her sword to slash the monsters. As one of the Heartless rushes at her with an incoming punch, she side steps away from it and cuts of its arm followed by decapitating its head. She continues to slash them when one of them manages to disarm her. She uses a flip kick at it, which cause it to stagger. She continues her attack with a forward kick which pushes it away, dragging some of the creatures down. As she continues her onslaught, one of the Heartless, whom she knocked out, began to throw a fireball at her. She uses her sword to block the attack and is knocked down by the impact. As Shampoo gets up, she sees her sword melted by the attack. She drops the sword and equips herself with her bonbories.

Mousse begins his attack by throwing eggs at them and explodes in front of the Heartless. He then unleashed two sets of swords from his sleeves and stabbed one of his foes, followed by running another sword through another Heartless' head. Mousse is about to finish the fallen Heartless when he sees another one about to tackle him from above. Wasting no time, Mousse fired an arrow at it and the Heartless dropped immediately. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to kill it. He continued by throwing one of his swords at the Heartless point blank. Suddenly, he hears a scream. It was Shampoo, now being strangled by the Heartless. Mousse immediately charged the attacker by using the Hawk Talons and it connected deeper through the creature's back. As a result, it released Shampoo. Unlike Ryoga, Akane and Ukyo, the Amazons were faring much better. But this didn't last long as more Heartless are coming on their way. Already tired, Cologne, Shampoo and Mousse continue to fight.

****************

Ranma runs to the temple as he fights the Heartless. As he arrives at the meeting place, there was no one there. Within a second, he sees Noah standing there with his back facing Ranma. He seemed quiet and calm but this nerves the boy.

RANMA: NOAH!

NOAH: The door has opened.

RANMA: What are you talking about?

NOAH: The door has opened! Now we can go to the outside world!

RANMA: W-wait a sec! What the hell is going on here? Why are the Heartless invading my world? Why now?

NOAH: You asked so many questions, boy. There's no turning back! This world will be soon devoured by darkness.

RANMA: NO! You're lying! You said that this world will be safe! Dammit, why won't you answer me?

NOAH: I've come to see the door of this world. This world has been connected, tied to the darkness. soon to be eclipsed.

RANMA: [pissed off] I knew it! You're up to something! You lying son of a-

NOAH: You do not know yet what lies beyond the door.

RANMA: [cracks his knuckles] And you're going to tell me everything, sweetheart.

NOAH: You understand so little. There is so much to learn. Think about it, this may be your only chance to escape from this wretched world.

RANMA: Who. are you?

NOAH: You'll know everything in time. Now join me.

RANMA: Sorry, man. I don't receive offers from you. I'm not interested in joining the big bads-r-us movement.

NOAH: You don't understand, Ranma Saotome. As of this point, you are chosen to save the world. But there are evil forces that will try to lure you into the darkness or if all else fails, they'll kill you. Just like the potential keybearers. If you are asking me if I'm siding good or evil, I won't answer it for you.

RANMA: Fine! So be it. I would rather give up my life to save this world than watch it slowly crumble! If you think you're so wise, fight me!

NOAH: Next time. If you happen to land on a place called Traverse Town, look for man named Cloud Strife. He may help you. Provided he's still alive.

RANMA: How can I trust you? Is he one of your bitches who'll try to kill me?

NOAH: You don't. I'm looking for someone. Look on the bright side though, you won't be alone on this wild trip.

Just as Ranma approaches Noah, black shadow-like circles surround the latter. It engulfs him just as Ranma lends out his hand to save him. Just then, the darkness engulfs him also. He managed to get himself out. A black sphere suddenly emerges out of nowhere above the dark skies. The ground is shaking again as another black sphere appears on the ground. This time, a large figure emerges from the shadow. It was the same the creature from his dreams. Only, it was bigger than ever. Ranma stepped back in fear as he contemplates on what to do. Then, a light appears on his right hand and a weapon emerges from it. It's the keyblade. Only it's a bit heavier than he expected but manages to fix it.

He charges the large Heartless, which is called Darkside. He slashes its legs repeatedly. Darkside shoves his hand on the ground and black circular shadow appears. A group of small creatures emerges from the shadow and charges at Ranma. He hacked some of the Heartless but there are many more. If that wasn't bad enough, Darkside then begins to throw energy blasts which aimed directly at him. He dodges the attacks continuously and jumps at his arm for support as he begins to aim for the head. He managed to hit once but missed the second time. As he lands on the ground, Darkside throws a giant sphere of darkness into the air, causing it to rain little blobs of energy. Ranma runs around the large Heartless as he tries to avoid the attack. Wasting no time, he initiates his own manslaughter as he uses his Kachü Tenshin Amaguriken like a madman stabbing his victim with a knife. This time, he targeted the legs and the arms in a blinding speed. Darkside planned to use its energy blasts again but is interrupted by Ranma's final blow. As a result, Darkside begins to collapse and destroys the ground courtesy of the impact of the fall. It is engulfed with darkness and soon it is melted away into the shadows.

Ranma celebrates his victory by collapsing into the ground. He's tired as hell. He felt a tingling sense in his right arm. It's the Keyblade and it's glowing. He soon realized that the world will be destroyed if he doesn't do something. Without thinking, he raised the Keyblade above him, praying for a miracle. It's either God listened to his prayer or it's pure luck as the Keyblade began to take a life of its own temporarily as it releases itself from Ranma's grasp and begins to shoot a laser beam towards the temple. To his surprise, the beam hits the temple and reveals a giant invincible keyhole. Ranma grabs the blade and aims it at the hole. Within a minute, the blade fires another beam into the keyhole. The hole emitted light which managed to release its energy against the Heartless. It dissolves all the creatures and the darkness above the sky, which comes to a surprise for Akane, Ryoga, Ukyo, Shampoo, Mousse and Cologne. Ranma is also relieved, thinking that this is over. Fate has other plans as the keyhole shoots a beam above the sky and then falls back into the ground which opens a portal which caused an energy disturbance. Ranma felt as if he was sucked by the portal. He holds on into the nearest tree as the portal began to swallow almost everything.

**************

Cologne felt a disturbance by the portal's energy. She, Mousse and Shampoo saw the energy spread out to various areas.

COLOGNE: (I have a bad feeling about this) Shampoo, Mousse go to the source of the energy. I believe it's anything but good news.

MOUSSE: Where could that be?

COLOGNE: If I remember correctly, the place is a Shinto temple. (But what is the connection between this and the creatures we fought?)

SHAMPOO: It's not far from here. It's near the playground. What about you, great-grandmother?

COLOGNE: I'll catch up on you. I have to make sure the creatures won't appear again. Now go!

MOUSSE: Shampoo, let's cross the rooftops. It'll be much faster.

Shampoo nods and the two begin to jump from one rooftop to another. Cologne silently prays that both of them will be all right. Then, she scouts the area for more possible attacks. Meanwhile, Ryoga sees the light at the temple.

RYOGA: [stunned] What the hell?

Ryoga runs toward the temple. Surprisingly, he didn't manage to get himself lost. Akane and Ukyo have also seen the light and from the separate locations, they decided to check it out.

***************

As the portal begins to suck everything, Ranma continues to hold the tree branch as if he depending on it for dear life. The branch began to break and Ranma has succumbed into the portal. Minutes later, Shampoo and Mousse arrived at the temple and without warning, they too were sucked by the portal. Next is Ryoga, although he showed resistance by holding a nearby tree which was useless since it was broken. As Ukyo arrived, she sees the portal and begins to run away but the portal pulled her into it and she too unwillingly entered the portal. Lastly, Akane knew she made a big mistake going to the temple and, like the two Amazons, she was sucked into the portal. The portal has claimed six victims and closed it on its own.

Cologne went to the scene immediately but arrived there way too late. There were no signs of life. She couldn't find Shampoo and Mousse anywhere. From there on, she feared the worst case scenario.

***************

???: Funny.

???: What?

???: I could've sworn myself I saw star blinking rapidly. Do you think-

???: It's impossible. Then again there are signs indicating that the cycle is starting again.

???: I'm getting too old for this. What do we expect now?

???: I don't know but I got a feeling we're going for a long ride.

***************

NEXT: Welcome to Traverse Town. We show you very interesting people and creatures out for blood and gore.

***************

Author's Note:

As I stated earlier, this is my first attempt at fanfiction writing. Some of the scenes are a bit messy but I will have room to improve. Same thing goes to the action scenes. Overall, this sucks. Before you guys ask me, here's what I like to point out:

Akane and "the cookie speech"

Akane is not one of my favorite characters but I feel pity for her. I
never liked her role as the damsel in distress and at the same time
being moody. In this fic, I have decided to let Akane grow as a
person. Ergo, the break-up and the cookie speech. Majority of Buffy
The Vampire Slayer fans will recognize the speech from the final
episode "Chosen". It deals with finding one's self until he/she
becomes a full person. I felt that this speech complements very well
to Akane because she, in my opinion, needs enough room to grow
mentally and spiritually. So what does that mean? In this story, Akane
will find her true self. The speech also complements well to everyone.
Maturity is one of the issues they will face.

Who's Noah?

All I can say is this: he's not Ansem or Riku. He may or may not be
Sora. That's all I can say for now.

Kasumi

In my opinion, Kasumi is probably the strongest character in the Ranma
history not in terms of physical strength but with spiritual strength.
Where else can you find a very patient person in a place crazier like
Nerima?

Cloud Strife again?

Many of you by now are sick of the spike blonde warrior. Let's put it
this way: He, Cid and Aerith (a big spoiler) will return but no sign
of Yuffie or Leon. A certain blue skinned creature will make a
comeback (clue: he's carrying a spear). So why Cloud? One of the main
topics of the story is change. He'll be in charge in the next chapter
helping. I'll reveal it to you later on.

Buffy/Angel influences

Yes, I'm a big fan of Buffy and Angel. You may notice their influences
through the dialogue, which I sucked.

Where do we go from here?

Right now, I've got everything planned from beginning to end. I also
planned to make this a trilogy (after anticipating the Matrix Trilogy
and The Lord of The Rings Trilogy, it somehow influenced me) but as of
the moment, it's vague.

You may also notice the obvious pairings among the six warriors (if
you don't, Ranma/Akane, Ryoga/Ukyo, Mousse/Shampoo). Not so fast, I
won't make this a WAFF-y fic (probably very few chapters). They won't
fall in love immediately nor reconcile with each other. Trust has to
be build first. Forgiveness will fall somewhere. Love and friendship?
We'll see .

To LigerZero_Panser: I'm sorry but I will start at Traverse Town.

I can't tell you yet which anime will appear (except the characters
who made cameos in the prologue) but I can tell you this: Doraemon and
Astro Boy will appear. WHEN, will be the big question.

Before I forgot, how do you write a review?

Please read and review properly. Inform me if I made a mistake. Also give suggestions. Thanks!