Ranma 1/2

Altered Destinies: A scary thought

Chapter 17

It was late at night, and as usual Makoto was up and about. Actually, she really wanted to be in bed, but Artemis needed someplace to stay, not to mention some food. Kaneda's one little flaw was that he was absolutely petrified of cats, so late at night when he was asleep was the only time the two could meet. It also served as a time to compare notes.

As was their custom, Makoto opened the outside window to allow him in then she set him out some food from the kitchen. After he had dug in and finished his meal they started discussing the day's events.

"So, how'd the match go?" Artemis asked to start things off.

"Kaneda won, but it was one heck of a mess. I think that Mikado jerk was out to really kill him, and you wouldn't believe the stuff they were pulling off. I mean, I thought Ms. Hinako was weird, but this guy was actually glowing."

"Glowing?"

"Yeah, no kidding. For a couple seconds there I thought he might be a youma."

"Are you sure he wasn't?"

Makoto shook her head. "To be honest, not really, but I'd say no, he wasn't. He was just a regular guy I think. I didn't get the same feeling I get when I'm near a youma. You know, I never realized just what kind of stuff normal humans are capable of. You should have seen what that Ukyo girl did. She smashed the entire rink with one punch. No joke."

"Yeah, I can bet. Being around here makes our lives seem almost normal."

"Well, it's not quite that weird." Mako replied with a joking smile then yawned. "So, how're things with C-chan?"

Artemis drooped his head until his forehead rested on the floor. "No where," he said in a dispirited voice. "I thought Luna was bad, C-chan is about as serious as they come. She never talks casual... Well, she still can't talk, but you know what I mean."

"Have you been able to get any info out of her, or found out why she's so smart?"

"All she ever says on the subject is 'it's a long story,' or 'it's not important.' She talked about that Jusenkyo place a few times, but other than that, nothing. I hope Ami comes up with something on that place." Artemis paused a moment then continued. "Maybe I'm just no good at this romantic stuff. Probably would be better just to wait the century or two until Luna comes around."

"Oh, don't give up so fast. Besides, didn't Setsuna say the future isn't set in stone, that it could very well change, and that we have to treat our lives just as if we knew nothing of the future? If you give up now, you might never get a chance, with C-chan, or Luna."

Artemis looked even more miserable. "Great, I have no hope."

"I didn't say that."

"Then what would you suggest?" Artemis asked, looking up at his companion.

Mako's expression immediately switched to a nervous one. "Well, ummm, you could tell her how you feel. You never know."

"Right, so, why don't you do that?" Artemis asked, gaining an even more nervous look from Makoto. "Oh come on. I'm not a total romantic illiterate, especially when it comes to you and your crushes."

"It's not a crush!" Makoto protested a little too loudly then dropped back to a lower tone. "I mean, he's really nice, and considerate, and smart, and-"

"And looks like your old boyfriend..." Artemis added for her, but Mako shook her head.

"Oh no, Kaneda's much more handsome than he was."

Artemis looked at Makoto in shock. God, she's got it bad, he thought, and turned his mind back to more important matters. If they didn't show some progress, Luna would start laying into him for slacking off on the job again. "All right, let's get back on topic shall we. Last thing I need is another lecture when I report in tomorrow. So, we still don't know what C-chan's story is. The periodic energy shifts are still unexplained. We still don't know where Kasumi is. And, we don't even know who this Shampoo girl is either."

"I think she must be a cousin or something."

"Maybe you should ask."

"Guess I should. Oh yeah, there's some new guy here too. I think his name is Moose."

"Moose?" Artemis repeated in disbelief.

"Yep, that's it. I think he's related to Shampoo some how."

"Then maybe his name is actually Mousse." Artemis suggested.

"That's what I said, Moose."

"Nono, like in mousse you put in your hair." Artemis corrected, and finally Makoto made the connection. "Anyway, try to come up with something, anything. You know what Luna's like when she thinks I'm slacking." Artemis gave a little shudder, "she might even go past sarcasm to ironic remarks. We better show some progress soon or we'll be hearing it from the others."

Makoto nodded. "Yeah right. I'll see what I can dig up. Anyway, I have got to get some sleep. Ms. Hinako hates it when I'm drowsy in class, and I don't particularly feel like being her next target." Makoto saw no reason to mention that Kaneda would give her a disappointed look if she dozed off in his class, or that she would much rather be punished by Hinako than see that look. "See you tomorrow."

XXXXX

The next morning Kaneda was up contemplating strategy. Catching a glimpse of that new technique Ukyo had used was enough to tell him that his chances weren't good the way things stood. Kaneda was fast, but not nearly fast enough to challenge that, particularly in his male form. Two days left little room to develop something... Actually it was effectively down to a single day now. So little time to come up with something.

He had already gone through an argument with the others about how to handle it. Akane was insisting they be allowed to help. She even suggested bringing in Ms. Hinako, who Kaneda had to admit would be handy right about now, but that couldn't be done. This was between him and Ukyo, and it would stay that way.

He had wronged Ukyo, accident or not, and if this was the resolution she sought then so be it. If Ukyo lost, she would leave and Kaneda would be Kasumi once more. If Ukyo won, then Kaneda would leave as promised, and Ukyo would have proved herself. Maybe then she could get on with her life. Either way their rivalry would end tomorrow.

Everyone had argued against that, all except Ranma that was. He seemed to be the one person who understood. Kaneda had to wonder how Ranma would feel if he knew exactly what was going on with Ukyo. It didn't matter though, the decision was made. Now he had to try his best to achieve victory. Question was, how exactly?

Makoto was busy in the kitchen with Shampoo, readying for the day's work. Shampoo was being unusually quiet, but he knew why. If he did succeed it meant he was one step further away from going back to China. That was unfortunate for her, but Kaneda couldn't just give in, not like this. Shampoo would just have to accept it. Besides, it was best for both of them. Even if he were to return to China, he had little doubt that such a life would never be happy for either of them.

That didn't solve his present dilemma. How was he to have a chance against Ukyo? There had to be something, anything he could use against her. Problem was, he only had one day! Kaneda wasn't prone to frustration, or needlessly repeating thoughts, but he couldn't stop dwelling on it, and he was getting frustrated. He couldn't be stuck this way for the rest of his life. He could never live that way.

It was Akane who finally came in, breaking Kaneda's chain of thought. "Good morning Akane."

"Good morning," Akane replied, and then joined Kaneda at the table he was presently sitting. "Are you still determined to do this on your own?"

"Yes. I told you Akane, I-"

"Yeah, yeah, I know. I just thought I'd try one last time. Never know..." Akane said, and looked down at the table top in thought. "I just don't want to see you lose."

"I have no plans of doing so." Kaneda responded.

"Yeah, well... Have you thought of anything that might work as a counter to that move she knows?"

Kaneda shook his head. "No, I'm afraid not. There is no chance at challenging that level of speed in a short time. I could try to out power her, but we're about equally matched in strength at the moment. There just seems to be-"

"Wait, what about the cat-fist. I could bring C-chan and-"

"NO! HEAVENS NO!" Kaneda blurted out at the thought of the cat's presence, but then rapidly calmed down. "No, I couldn't risk it. The technique is just too dangerous and unpredictable. Had Ranma not intervened last time I was using it Ukyo might not have faired nearly as well as she did. I don't want to seriously harm her."

Akane shook her head in disbelief. "Kasumi, she's effectively threatening to trap you this way forever, add that to the way she behaved at the rink, and I say she deserves it!"

"Akane, you don't know the whole story, and you don't understand her view point. If you did, I don't think you would consider her actions so malicious. In some ways I think Ukyo is behaving rather mercifully, considering what she thinks I did."

"And what is that?" Akane asked, then immediately dismissed her own question. "Never mind, I remember you saying you promised not to tell. Well, there has to be something you can do."

Kaneda shrugged, and then looked over as Shampoo came out from the kitchen to look at him. She had a look of complete indecision on her face, clearly twisted up about present matters. Sometime today, assuming he had the time...No! He'd put it off too long already. He'd make the time, he had to talk to her about what had transpired, particularly that stupid kiss. However, right now other matters…

Akane suddenly regained his attention with a shout. "I got it! Ranma told me about that move Shampoo nearly used on him. That's got to be powerful. If you knew that-"

"No!" Shampoo said sharply.

"No? What do you mean no?" Akane asked, her expression changing to a displeased frown. Kaneda sensed the impending confrontation, but could only watch as it came.

"No! Japanese girl not understand own language? Shampoo mean no. She will no give away secret of Dragon Fang Fist."

"Hey, you're the one responsible for the mess Kasumi is in! You should be helping her get out of it!"

Shampoo's expression turned angry at that. "Shampoo's fault? You is stupid girl if think that!"

Akane frown deepened. "Stupid? What else should I think? Ever since you've been here there has been nothing but trouble. If you'd just go back to China and leave Kasumi alone-"

"Is not Shampoo's choice!" Shampoo yelled back in anger. Akane was about to counter when Makoto came out from the kitchen.

"Hey! What's all the yelling about? And, who's this you're talking about? Kasumi?" Makoto asked, directing her question at Akane. Kaneda immediately tensed, knowing that with anger and probing questions, secrets had a nasty habit of getting revealed. However, before he could act, Shampoo responded.

"She being stupid!" Shampoo said, pointing an accusing finger at Akane.

"You're the one being stupid!" Akane shot back.

Makoto positioned herself between the two without thinking, and raised her hands to silence both of them. "Would you two stop yelling and tell me what this is all about!" She asked, then noticing their anger re-focusing on her, immediately regretted her actions.

"She want Shampoo give up husband!" Shampoo said, gaining a confused look from Makoto.

"Husband? You're married? To who?"

"Of course Shampoo married!" Shampoo yelled in frustration, just as Kaneda jumped to his feet, and began frantically waving his hands to gain Shampoo's attention. Unfortunately, she did not give him the correct form of attention, and instead pointed him out. "He Shampoo's husband!"

Kaneda covered his eyes in embarrassment, and Makoto looked stuck. "H... H... husband?" Mako stammered out, looking over at the person in question then Akane. With no argument from either, but clear signs they had heard and understood what was said, there was no avoiding the conclusion. "You're his... his... his... w... w... waaaahhhh..." Makoto tried to say, but instead suddenly broke into tears of both grief and severe embarrassment, and fled the building.

"Now look what you did!" Akane yelled at Shampoo, who was looking at Kaneda nervously. Shampoo turned her attention briefly to Akane, and rushed out of the room herself, her rapid footstep being heard going up the stairs in the back. Akane snorted her own displeasure, but then looked back over at Kaneda, only to withdraw a few inches at seeing his glare.

"Akane, she's right. She can't go back, even if she did want to, so don't blame her. She's as caught up in this as I am." Kaneda said, and looked at the door to the outside, and the door to the kitchen in contemplation. He made a quick decision, and reluctantly headed outside. "I guess I have some explaining to do."

XXXXX

Kuno sat in his room, silently meditating. He didn't know exactly what he was meditating on, but he knew something important was twinkling on the edge of his consciousness. It was as if a very important realization was about to hit him, which for him was so rare it could rightly be considered a miracle. He had to know what it was.

It had all started yesterday at that skating match with Akane's comment. Of course the conclusion was obvious. That fiend Kaneda Tendo had cast some vile magic on Kasumi linking their two lives. Oh the injustice of it all! Yet, there was that little twinkle saying that wasn't the whole story.

There was a knocking on the door that gained his attention. "Come," he called out, and suddenly the floor boards burst open to reveal Sasuke. Kuno immediately jumped to his feet, drawing his bokken and pointed it at his servant. "Through the door you idiot! How dare you disturb my meditations this way!"

"My apologies Master Kuno, but I have the information you required."

Kuno smiled, and then resumed his serious pose of meditation. "Excellent, speak."

"Yes Master. I went to the nice lady at the department of records and had her search for an individual going by the name Kaneda Tendo, who is Kasumi Tendo's cousin. She could find no record of such a person. Beyond that, Soun Tendo had only a younger sister, who is married to a Nishikawa, and has a daughter and son, neither of whom are named Kaneda."

Kuno thrust his fist into his palm. "So, it is now proven. This Kaneda Tendo is a fraud and most certainly since the others believe his tale they are truly under an enchantment."

"Yes Master. You are brilliant Master."

"But of course! But, where, oh where is the fair Kasumi Tendo? Where has this fiend spirited her off to?" Kuno agonized. "Kasumi Tendo must be found! I shall not rest until she is safe!"

"I've looked everywhere-"

"Then look again! Let not a stone go unturned in your search!"

"Yes Master. I shall leave immediately, Master," Sasuke said, bowing repeatedly as he backed out of the room then dashed off to his work.

Kuno nodded for a minute, and then returned to his meditation once again. What was he missing in all this? The little twinkle had not left his mind despite his new information. He had to determine what this meant. Kaneda Tendo didn't exist, so surely this man was in fact someone else posing as Kasumi's cousin. The fiend! He did not even have the spine to go by his true identity. Kuno would delight in sending this hell spawn back to his foul realm for good.

But, that twinkle, that blasted twinkle! Must concentrate, Kuno thought intensely, pressing his mind into rare use. He delved deep into his mind, and remembering some old philosopher's ideas, began to tear down all his assumptions. He spent sometime at this, how much exactly he couldn't be sure. Finally he came to his first encounter with the dread Kaneda Tendo.

He had been chasing after Kasumi, when she was suddenly gone, and this man was in her place, no doubt having used his foul magic to whisk her away. He had done this a number of times actually. As a matter of fact, Kuno couldn't remember a time when he had ever seen the two of them together. Every time Kasumi disappeared, there was Kaneda. The obvious conclusion was that Kaneda was responsible for Kasumi's disappearances.

The twinkle shone ever brighter at that. Kuno growled in frustration. Perhaps this was that demon Tendo's fault. No doubt he had tried to work his evil magic on him. Well, his attempts would fail. Kuno would reason his way through the demon's most powerful attempts to subvert his mind.

Frustrated, Kuno pulled out a picture of each of the parties in question. "Fair, innocent, and pure Kasumi Tendo..." Kuno mumbled as he stared at her likeness deep in her own set of meditation, then his eyes turned to Kaneda. Kuno was about to scoff, but the twinkle shone brighter yet again, and for the first time Kuno noticed something he had missed every time before. He double checked, and it was confirmed. The two were wearing the same clothes.

Kuno jumped to his feet. "Not only is he a sorcerer, he's a cross dresser!" He shouted out, but the twinkle remained. Damn that twinkle! What was it? He studied the pictures once again. Actually, there was a rather striking resemblance between the two. Not only did they have the same clothes, but the same hair style, color, same color of eyes, same facial features save for the respective sex... Actually, he could almost swear they were twin brother and sister.

Could that be... no. Surely that would have been mentioned somewhere along the line that Kasumi had a twin brother. Perhaps he was one of those long lost types, spiteful over his rejected life as a youth, and determined to seek out his sister and reap his vengeance upon her. Hah! That had to be it! It all made so much sense! All the pieces fit!

Well, almost all. Unfortunately, the twinkle was still there, yet he did feel he was getting closer to his goal. So, perhaps they were indeed related. It was the only way to explain their appearances being so similar. Kuno pressed himself deeper into meditation, trying to seek out his answer. It wouldn't come soon.

XXXXX

Makoto hadn't gone too far before her run turned into a misery filled walk. She didn't know what possessed her to lose it so badly. After all, it was not like this was her first time at being in love only to lose the man. However, this time it was different. All those other guys had some fault or another. More than one had ended up being a youma. They were nothing like Kaneda.

He was so nice, and considerate, and handsome, and... Well, she could go on into next week about his good qualities. The only bad quality he had was that fear of cats, and that was something she could definitely live with. Here she had spent a good part of her time here, trying to impress him, and get the courage to ask him out, and it was too late. Shampoo had beaten her to him.

Why do I have such bad luck with men? Makoto asked herself. Was it too much to ask to find one nice, cute guy that wasn't attached, and happened to be one hundred percent human? It was starting to look like the answer was yes. All the good ones were being snatched up.

Makoto wiped away a tear, and had to almost laugh at her outburst. She must have gotten her hopes up more than she had thought if this had reduced her to tears. Stopping by a shop window, she looked at her reflection, and cleaned away the evidence of her sadness, and prepared to return to the restaurant. However, she caught sight of Kaneda walking up, and blushed despite her best attempt to hide her feelings.

"I'm all right Mr. Tendo," Makoto said, before Kaneda could voice the question. "I was just a bit shocked is all."

Kaneda nodded his head sympathetically. "I should have told you, but it is kind of a complicated situation."

Makoto looked at Kaneda in puzzlement. "Complicated? What's complicated about being married?"

Kaneda hesitated for a moment, considering whether to answer the question honestly or evade it. Deciding deception of even the withholding information kind had got him into enough trouble, he explained. "Well, the story is kind of long, and very complicated, but the long and short of it is that Shampoo and I didn't exactly marry under the best of circumstances. Actually, we were both... a little confused at the time, for different reasons that I won't get into. Suffice to say, had we not been confused, we would not be married."

Makoto blinked as she tried to process just what Kaneda said, and then came to one glorious conclusion, Kaneda didn't want to be married to Shampoo! It was an accident or something that he was just coping with. That meant all of Makoto's efforts were not in vain. She might yet have her chance!

In a much improved mood, and with a happy smile, Makoto replied, "I understand Mr. Tendo."

"Oh good," Kaneda said in mild relief. "Then, you wouldn't mind if I ask you not to spread this around? I'd rather it be private until something can be worked out."

"Of course. I won't tell a soul," Makoto answered.

XXXXX

Back at the restaurant, Shampoo was sitting on the edge of her bed in her room, simply staring at the floor. Unfortunately, the floor, being an inanimate object made simply for the purpose of supporting all that was on it, was neither comforting, nor very supportive in the way she desired. Her life felt so out of control, with every option leading to some kind of disaster or another, and that had worn down all her optimism.

There was nothing to be optimistic about anymore. If Kaneda lost, sure she'd have her husband, but he would be miserable. If he won, then they'd be back to square one, and Shampoo was looking at the very real possibility of having all her hopes dashed completely. Worst still, this all reflected bad on her, and the last thing she really wanted was to lose so much trust that even Kaneda would turn against her, if he hadn't already.

Shampoo temporarily forestalled any further thought on the issue when Akane walked in through the partially open door. The young Tendo eyed Shampoo with a look of disdain. Shampoo returned the look in kind, but before it could turn into a full fledged staring match, Akane spoke.

"You know, Kasumi may be protecting you, but I don't buy into this garbage one little bit. You're fully willing to just stand by and let a person you supposedly have some feeling for have their life ruined, and not lift a finger to help them."

"You no know anything," Shampoo replied, and turned her back to Akane in hopes that she would simply go away. Unfortunately, she did not.

"I know plenty. I know that it is because of your stupid Amazon laws that Kasumi is in this fix. I also know you have the knowledge of something that just might get Kasumi her cure, and you're not willing to give it. I don't believe that it's such a precious and secret technique that you couldn't show Kasumi how to use it. She is supposed to be an Amazon now anyway. What I do believe is that you're being a self centered little... who only cares about herself, and doesn't give a damn how Kasumi feels, or how much this is hurting her!"

Shampoo shook in anger at being insulted so. She gauged how long it would take her to draw her Chui, turn, leap the distance in between them, and crush Akane's skull for saying such things, but they were just thoughts. Besides the obvious negative reaction Kaneda would have, it would serve only to confirm what Akane was accusing her of. That left only one avenue of rebuttal, and Shampoo was not really in the mood to argue with someone who had clearly already made up their mind.

However, that didn't really matter to her at the moment. She was seething inside with so much anger that if she didn't vent in some way, she might well find herself attacking. So, Shampoo turned back to face Akane, restraining the urge to jump into her face and throw her off balance.

"Then you do know nothing! You want Shampoo tie own noose so can hang with it. Shampoo never do that. All you talk is Kasumi, but you no think of Shampoo. All Shampoo work for in whole life depend on Kasumi be man. You want Shampoo throw away whole life. If just happen, then... Shampoo deal with it, but..." Shampoo paused to hold back some of her anger and concentrate on her words. "I... will not... be... the instrument of... my own destruction."

Akane seemed unimpressed by the words, but Shampoo continued anyway. "Shampoo sorry it this way, but that way it is. You Japanese always so... so... mmm... optimistic. Think of only ideal. This no ideal. This life. It real, and it no play fair. Sometime hard thing need be done. Shampoo's life as important as Kasumi's, so sometime Shampoo have to think about own good. If this no hurt Shampoo, then Shampoo would help, but this do hurt, so Shampoo will not."

Akane frowned and shook her head. "That's bull. You've decided to put your own risk of having problems against Kasumi's assured misery, and in my book Kasumi should win. You're just trying to justify yourself. What you're doing is wrong."

"Maybe you think so," Shampoo responded, again turning away.

"I know so," Akane shot back, but Shampoo didn't respond. With a dismissive wave of her hand, Akane gave up and left the room. She pulled to a sudden stop in the hall at seeing Kaneda leaning with his back against the wall just next to the door, head held low as he had clearly been listening in. They exchanged a brief look, where Kaneda only sadly shook his head, and then finally he gestured for Akane to continue on. Akane did so, stopping only long enough to watch Kaneda go into the room, then drooped her own head in thought.

Back inside the room, Shampoo's back was still turned, so she wrongly interpreted the noise Kaneda made on entering the room to be Akane returning. She sensed the approaching individual, suspecting Akane meant to take physical action herself, and tensed, readying for a fight. At the last second, she suddenly turned, ready to strike the first blow, but to her shock, her fist was intercepted by Kaneda's hand.

"I thought I told you not to do that," Kaneda said in disapproval, and Shampoo immediately turned her eyes to the ground, and withdrew her offending appendage. Kaneda stood for a moment, watching Shampoo, then sat down next to her. "I overheard what you said, and I want you to know I do understand how you feel. It is foolish to ask someone to hurt themselves, particularly for the sake of just a single other individual, even if that person happens to be myself. However, Akane does have point, even if she didn't say it so well. You're jumping to the conclusion that by being a woman I will toss you aside. That simply isn't true."

"Shampoo no know that. Is too much to take risk on," Shampoo said soberly.

Kaneda examined Shampoo intently for a moment longer, dearly wishing she'd look him in the eye instead of staring off at the floor. He wanted to understand what was going through her head, and not have to deal with her on such a limited level. Well, the time for playing around had ended. "Okay then, tell me what is at stake. Tell me exactly."

"Shampoo no-" Shampoo began to say in rejection of the request, but Kaneda pushed on.

"Shampoo, I can't work everything out if I don't have all the information I deserve to have. If something bad will happen to you, I want to know. It's more than just losing your status, isn't it, at least for you?"

Shampoo finally looked up at him, then after some hesitation nodded. "Is more complicated than that," she said, reviewing everything that had lead to this point in her mind and trying to come up with the proper words to convey that information. "When Shampoo let you go, there big trouble. Many of elder council think Shampoo did break law by let you go. Many angered that you fool them, think you make fun of whole village. They think you do this on purpose. They get more angry when Shampoo say she no come kill you. They going to give Shampoo big punishment."

Kaneda swallowed, suddenly unnerved about what he just heard. "I never knew that. I suspected something... How would they punish you?"

"No know. There many punishments. Cut hair, lose honor, family lose honor, be retrained at Jusenkyo, be banished, be killed or worse."

"Worse?" Kaneda asked in confusion, and some panic.

"Shampoo heard in old times Amazon who fail village made slave, or even have curse worse than Jusenkyo put on them. Death be better fate." This time Kaneda looked down at the floorboards, too shook up to speak, but Shampoo continued on after a moment. "Those be very serious punishments for other crime. But, it not come to that anyway. Great grandmother spend much time with other elders, call in many favor, and elders change mind. They rule that Shampoo still married, and you is now Amazon so no have to kill. No give punishment, but also say status not clear and depend on you. Great grandmother keep it secret to council for now that you really woman, but that no last long."

Kaneda nodded, in some relief at not having to worry about those punishments, but also understanding of the situation. "So, if I don't return, there is no doubt it will be revealed sooner or later, if it hasn't already, that I am a woman. If even one of these elders says anything the secret is out."

"Yes, then Shampoo have nothing. All Shampoo have is being best, and be Great grandmother's heir. Have nothing else. No friend. No husband. No nothing." Kaneda grimly nodded, but again Shampoo continued. "Is worse still. You is boy too. Men no have power in village. Even if you go back to village as girl, others may no like you have power if you turn boy. Could cause big problems. Be boy and girl at same time will make many angry. They think you cheat laws."

Kaneda nodded again, as if he half suspected as much. "It doesn't exactly sound... What did you mean by no friends? Are you telling me everyone would reject you simply because-"

Shampoo shook her head sadly. "No, it not that way. Shampoo have no friend now. This only make worse."

Kaneda scanned Shampoo's face for a moment in disbelief. Surely she had someone to call a friend. Even Kaneda, despite all his traveling, had made a friend here and there, even if he had long since lost contact with them. "What about Mousse?"

Shampoo snorted. "Mousse is stupid blind fool. Shampoo no know what he tell you, but he only Shampoo's friend from childhood, but no more. Shampoo say one thing once, and now he no leave her alone. He think he be my husband, but I no want him be Shampoo's husband."

"I see," Kaneda replied simply, making a mental note to double check any assumptions he had made based on anything Mousse had said. He did, however, feel Shampoo was overstating her dislike of the boy, which bared further investigation later. However, Shampoo seemingly having finished talking, Kaneda decided it was time to add in his part.

"I think I understand the trouble you're facing, but I want you to understand me. Even if I win, I'm not going to let what happened hurt you in anyway. That means your status, your future, and even your chances at marriage. Maybe that's too optimistic, but I'm determined for it to be that way. I assure you that I won't settle for achieving anything less than that. If it comes down to the fact that it is simply impossible, then... then I promise I'll be your wife... or husband, whatever it takes to at least minimize the damage."

Shampoo looked at Kaneda skeptically, yet with a glimmer of hope. "Shampoo not sure she can believe you. Why you do such thing? You be sad."

"Shampoo, when I said it was foolish to ask someone to hurt themselves, that doesn't mean you'd always get a no. Call me a fool, or maybe it is just that it would hurt me more to let another suffer for me, but in any case it is the truth."

Shampoo blinked, and then looked down in misery once more. "Then you think Shampoo be selfish."

Kaneda quickly shook his head. "No! That's not it at all. For some, maybe even most people, being willing to put others ahead of yourself is simply impractical. Maybe it is even foolish. I can't say thinking and considering your own good is bad. Beyond that, it's not a matter of black or white, good or bad. If your interests come into a conflict with mine, then it's a gray area. It has been for a long time, and I've read countless books that try to resolve it without much success. I'm not going to evaluate you on some silly binary scale of good or bad. Like you said, sometime hard choices need to be made, and no option can be considered all that good. I think this may be one of those times, and I don't think anyone can truly judge you, save maybe yourself."

Shampoo sniffled suddenly, causing Kaneda to notice she had stared crying. He gently turned her head so he could see her, then wiped away some of the tears. "Shampoo no want hurt you," she said after a few seconds. "Just..."

"Yes, I know. You're scared, aren't you?" Shampoo started to shake her head, but stopped in mid motion, then lightly nodded. "I won't blame you for being scared, and if you decide not to help me then that's the way it is. I'll have to get by, and I won't hold it against you. However, Shampoo, that said, I want to see us both safely clear of this mess, but that's far easier with you helping me. I won't let you get hurt by helping me if you choose to do so. I promise you that with every fiber of my being. I just hope you can believe me."

Shampoo looked extremely uncertain of herself at this point. "Why you do this? Shampoo cause nothing but trouble, even get kissed-"

"No, no, no. Don't think that. I certainly don't think you're the cause of my problems, and as for that kiss... I wanted to talk to you about that actually. I'm so sorry about that. I know how embarrassing that can be. I definitely do not think any less of you because that... boy kissed you. I've had my own experience with such things."

"What you mean?" Shampoo asked, as she sniffled back her tears.

"It was a while back in high school. I met this boy and... Well, I thought he loved me, and I even felt something for him..."

"He kiss you?"

"Yes, then he turned around and... Well, needless to say, I know what it feels like to be used in that way."

Shampoo nodded, and then looked down at her feet for a moment of thought. Finally she raised her head to look Kasumi directly in the eye. "Shampoo do believe you, and she teach you technique."

"Thank you Shampoo. You won't regret it, I promise," Kaneda responded with a wide smile, feeling like life was finally going to go his way.

Shampoo nodded once more, stood up, Kaneda quickly doing likewise, and the two headed out. As they reached the stairs, Shampoo stopped and looked back at Kaneda. "One thing. What boy's name?"

Kaneda scowled. He had a good idea why Shampoo wanted that information, and as much as he disliked him, he really didn't want him hurt. However, he was in the beginning of establishing a connection with Shampoo, and holding things back would not help that, although a first name only would be a sufficient compromise. "Haruka, but remember your promise."

"Shampoo remember," she replied, then replayed the name in her head a few times. It sounded familiar, but she couldn't place it. Pushing the thought aside for the moment, she continued on.

XXXXX

Ranma was sitting by himself, idly swirling some tea in a cup his mother had left on the table. His eyes were not focused on the cup however. They were focused far away, looking at something unseen to an outside viewer. Every now and then his forehead would furrow in concentration, as if he were striving to focus more closely on what ever was in his mind's eye. The faint clicking of claws on the wooden floor made him look up from the cup in his hand as Ryouko trotted into the room and over to his side.

Ryouko looked up at him with her big liquid eyes, pleading for a little attention. Ranma returned the look with rather more intensity then was normal for him. He stared at her for a minute or two. Then, he briefly glanced at the tea kettle, still containing hot liquid under its insulated cozy. Once again his forehead furrowed in thought, and his hand twitched as if he were considering pouring himself a cup, then it relaxed and fell, coming to rest on top of Ryouko's head. She pushed against it and softly whined in contentment.

Ranma gently kneaded the loose flesh on top of her head, running his hand down to stroke her soft pink ears.

Ukyo trembled under Ranma's fingers. She had been avoiding him ever since the incident at the rink. While she had tried hard to convince herself that he had not made the connection between her own pink streaked hair, and Ryouko's solid pink fur, grave doubts had lingered, causing her stomach to knot in anxiety. Finally, unable to bear the uncertainty, she had approached him while he was alone in the kitchen. Now, tension seemed to flow out of her at the touch of Ranma's hand, and the knowledge that her secret was still safe was a balm that settled her roiling stomach. She leaned forward slightly and laid her head in his lap, savoring the touch of his hands on her. Someday, after she had disposed of Kasumi, it would not be her cursed form his hands would touch and stroke. If Ukyo had been human, her face would have made a good match for her current coloration as these thoughts and others ran through her mind.

XXXXX

Out back of the restaurant, Kaneda, Akane, and Makoto were gathered to watch as Shampoo started up on what she called the Dragon Fang Fist. The Amazon stood, focused on the open air, a single hand held in front of her, while the other was held at her waist as a fist. It wasn't long before Makoto was watching in awe as Shampoo began to softly glow. The glow intensified further, until Shampoo seemed to be covered in flames which were in fact her own aura. Then, finally, with a sudden battle cry, Shampoo struck out with her fist, and with it, all the ki that she had built up flowed down into her fist in a single instant to explode in a blast of light.

"That's incredible," Makoto said softly in awe, as Shampoo relaxed, and leaned over to catch her breath. Everyone waited until Shampoo recovered, then Kaneda walked up to her for instructions.

"This just training technique, step in learning Dragon Fang Strike, but is powerful. Use stance to build up much chi, then release with punch. Is simple enough, Shampoo just never bother to learn rest of technique. Hope this do."

"I think it will," Kaneda replied, and Shampoo reset to demonstrate the move once again. Kaneda mirrored her as she began her build up.

"First, you pull on chi, and keep focus only on target. When ready, strike! Focus chi on point of strike," Shampoo instructed, as Kaneda listen and nodded in understanding.

Makoto took a few moments to watch, and then eased her way to Akane's side. Ever since Shampoo had come down to train Kaneda in this technique, Akane had seemed perplexed. Makoto had already learned one rather shocking thing today. She might as well see what else she could learn. Artemis would appreciate that.

"That's pretty... neat huh. How does she do that anyway?" Makoto said, gaining Akane's attention.

"It's not as special as you think. It's just a matter of calling on your ki in a specific way. I can do it to increase my speed, and strength. Matter of fact, a lot of martial artists around here can do it. Flashy tricks like that are just a bit rarer."

"Call on your ki? You mean that stuff is for real?"

Akane looked at Makoto as if she just asked if the sky was really blue. "Of course it is. It takes a trained person to wield it, and lots of time and practice, but it is possible."

Makoto nodded, remembering some of her martial arts lessons where they spoke of such things. She had always discounted them as just a bunch of silliness. Lately though, she had to reconsider that conclusion. I wonder if I could do that sort of stuff, Makoto thought. Heck, I wonder how that would measure up against my senshi powers. Just as she thought this, Kaneda struck out with the attack. The effect was rather unspectacular this time, the energy fizzling out, but Kaneda was undeterred, and quickly reset to try again. However, Shampoo seemed surprised despite the failure.

Akane shook her head in disbelief, regaining Makoto's attention. "Problem?" Makoto asked.

"No, not really. It's just that... I went up there and argued with her, and didn't get anything. Then Ka...neda goes and talks to her, and now she turns around and trains him. Guess my methods of persuasion aren't the greatest." Akane shook her head again, this time looking sad.

"What's this all about anyway? Why does he need to fight Ukyo anyway? What is it, some sort of honor duel to see who's the best?"

Akane gained a slightly nervous look. "Sort of. It's kind of hard to explain. I don't even understand some of it. It's just the way it has to be."

"Kind of a weird way of going about things if you ask me. What's beating each other up going to prove?" Makoto asked, but Akane could only shrug. Suddenly Kaneda executed the move once again, but this time it worked, and this time Shampoo looked completely overwhelmed.

"How you learn it so fast?" Shampoo exclaimed.

"I thought you said it was simple," Kaneda replied.

Shampoo frowned. "Simple yes, but not that simple! You learn on second try! It take Shampoo several week learn technique... Shampoo no much trying at time, but still..."

"Master Dhalsim did say I had a natural talent for wielding my ki. He said my natural state of calm-"

"Natural talent?" Shampoo burst out, then collected herself. "He was no kidding."

Kaneda smiled then set himself into the pose once more. "I do need practice though. It takes far too long to charge, and I'd like to get by the necessity of the stance. That would make it far more effective. Shampoo, do you know anything about the full version of this technique?"

"Other than is projected chi attack, no. Shampoo never get to lesson on how to do it."

Kaneda sighed in disappointment. "Oh well. It was a thought. I'll just concentrate on this then. You two better get back inside and run the restaurant. I'll be fine."

"Can I help?" Akane asked.

"Sure Akane. You do know how to cook, don't you?"

"Of course I do," Akane answered.

XXXXX

"Great Akane! That was really great!" Makoto said sarcastically as she and several others from the school gathered at the open lot.

"Stop rubbing it in. How was I supposed to know? I mean, the recipe said two eggs," Akane retorted, but Makoto just shook her head.

"They assume you realize that they mean without the shell, and they certainly meant fresh eggs! How the hell did you get spoiled eggs anyway?" Akane could only nervously shrug. "You're just lucky we caught it in time. We could have been in big trouble!"

"I'm sorry all right. I just need a little more practice."

No, what is needed is a health board advisory telling everyone to keep you clear of kitchens, Makoto thought, but kept the remark to herself. Shampoo still looked pale after her encounter with that thing Akane called her cooking, and Makoto still wasn't feeling one hundred percent. To think both had little more than a taste of that toxic waste. Good thing it didn't get out to the customers or they'd be out of business for sure.

They arrived at the lot moments later, and Ukyo, Ranma, Kaneda, Shampoo and a good segment of their class were already gathered. Ms. Hinako had agreed to stay clear of the fight, according to Kaneda, which was a bit of a disappointment to Akane who was hoping for some form of intervention. Kuno was also absent once again. Apparently he was immersed in his meditations and would not be disturbed. Even Nabiki had skipped out once again, claiming she had a lot of homework to attend to. Akane did not believe the excuse, particularly since this would be one hot fight for wagers.

Ukyo stood ready, her hair now sporting a uniform shade of pink instead of that atrocity she had at the skating match. She wore a very determined look, yet Akane noticed the conspicuous absence of the unwavering hatred she usually showed Kaneda. Maybe she was just concealing it, or maybe she was finally coming to her senses. Well, it did not really matter now. This was the deciding fight between them.

Kaneda also bore a look of grim determination. He seemed resigned to what was to come, and Akane knew better now than to argue the point with him. His whole life was riding on this battle, which to Akane was totally insane and unfair, but that was the way it was. Shampoo was right in that one regard; life certainly did not play fair.

It was Cologne's arrival that set the mood for the fight. She immediate took position between the two combatants, and smiled at each. "So, I see we have a large crowd. It will certainly be interesting."

"Cologne, unless you have something constructive to add, I suggest you step aside. This is between me and Ukyo," Kaneda said.

"Tut, tut, Kaneda. It would be so much simpler if you just agree to come back to China."

"I'm afraid not," Kaneda responded, and Cologne merely shrugged, then joined her Great granddaughter.

"China?" Makoto asked in confusion, but Akane just waved off the question as Kaneda and Ukyo stepped forward. Kaneda opened his mouth to speak, but Ukyo immediately cut him off.

"Don't waste your breath. Let's just get this over with," Ukyo said, then drew her battle spatula to the ready. Kaneda reluctantly dropped into his combat stance. With a yell, the fight was on.

Ukyo first closed in, and using the flat of her spatula, attempted to clonk Kaneda in the cheek. Kaneda blocked that attempt with his forearm then twisted around for a roundhouse kick. Ukyo managed to duck this, and spun around herself, bringing her spatula down low to sweep Kaneda's legs. Kaneda jumped over the attack, using Ukyo's shoulders as a platform to flip overtop and land behind her then quickly tagged her in the back with a reverse kick.

Ukyo stumbled a step from the impact, but quickly spun around and initiated a repeating series of high kicks. Each kick Kaneda managed to deflect and duck, until he at last got into position for a reliable counter. He spun into Ukyo last kick, and using the exposed leg as leverage, threw her face first into the ground. Unfortunately, Ukyo managed to bring her free leg to bear at this point, and firmly planted the soul of her foot in Kaneda's face, sending him flying backwards.

The two returned to their feet, and shook off the last hits. Ukyo prepared to charge in, but Kaneda spoke up first. "Ukyo, we both know we're fairly matched when it comes to traditional combat, and we both know that's not what will decide this fight."

Ukyo smiled and nodded, tossed aside her spatula, and rubbed her hands together. "Fine by me. If you want to get knocked into next week, I'll be glad to oblige." With that, she rushed forward, and at the last second called out her attack. "Kachuu Tenshin Amaguriken!"

Kaneda intercepted the attack, but as he expected was easily overwhelmed. He could at best block only 1/3 of blows coming his way. The rest easily made it through, and the combine effect sent him flying once again. He came rolling to a stop next to several shocked members of the class, including Kitsune, who immediately pulled out a pad and began sketching down notes.

"You going to give up now?" Ukyo asked, as she closed in, but Kaneda only shook his head, and climbed back to his feet.

She's every bit as fast as I thought she'd be, Kaneda thought as he recovered. "I'm afraid not. Shall we try again," he responded, drawing one fist back to his side, and had Ukyo been looking close enough she would have notice the soft glow covering him. However, she was a little too confident to take heed, and charged once more.

"Kachuu Tenshin Amaguriken!"

"Dragon Fang Fist!"

Over a hundred blows met one single ki changed fist. The result was rather devastating to both parties. This time both Kaneda and Ukyo were sent flying, both knocked clear over the audience to crash into nearby buildings. Ukyo was the first to get out of the hole she had made in the roof of a house, and her reaction was noticeably disturbed.

"Where the hell did you learn that?" Ukyo shouted out across to Kaneda, who was now recovered himself.

"Is it really that important?"

Ukyo shook her head, then leaped over the stunned crowd to come down on Kaneda, hands once more blurring. However, this time she was tossing her spatulas Kaneda's way. Kaneda flipped backwards to avoid the initial spread, then once more brought out his attack, this time directed at the roof top he was on. He really disliked destroying property, but under the circumstances he had little choice. The energy exploded the roof top, sending a wall of debris in the way of Ukyo's attack, blocking all her remaining projectiles. Ukyo landed, and immediately spun into a spinning jump kick, forcing Kaneda to retreat off the roof top, and into the street.

The members of the crowd gawked for a moment then looked at each other, realizing the battle had just left the local area. "Gees, can't those two keep a fight confined to one area," Ranma commented, then collectively everyone began running in pursuit of the two fighters.

Makoto ran with the rest of the crowd, but then became aware of a steady beeping sound coming from her communicator. For a second two intense desires warred in her: One, to follow the man of her dreams, and to be there for him if he needed her, and the other, the need to stand by the friends who she had literally walked into the valley of death with. The second passed, and she swerved out of the mob and into a nearby alley.

"If this is Usagi asking me how many eggs she needs to put in a cake she's baking for Mamoru, there is going to be one hairless bunny in Japan when I get done with her," she muttered to herself as she sought out solitude to find out what the situation was. Fortunately for the future of earth it was not Usagi with some banal request, but instead it was Ami, who looked worried.

"Mako, thank goodness. Are you all right?"

"I'm fine Ami. What's the matter?"

"A few minutes ago I checked my computer records, and it showed massive energy discharges coming from an area very near your position. I've called the other senshi, and we can be there quickly if you need us."

Mako sagged back against the alley wall, fighting back the urge to lay into Ami for calling her away from her man's side. However, looking into the concerned face of her friend, she calmed herself, and began to explain what it was Ami had detected.

XXXXX

"Where am I?" Ryoga asked himself as he scanned his surroundings. He had once more efficiently managed to get himself thoroughly lost. He proceeded to curse his lousy gene pool for the ten thousand, two hundred, and forty fifth time, then sighed, and set off down a random street. It was so much easier when he had Shirokuro around. At least she had a sense of direction. For him, he could almost swear devious little gremlins or something were going around, changing street signs, or moving whole buildings. Of course, he had long since learned that was a foolish notion, but he was still lost.

And here he thought coming to Furinkan would be a pleasant thing. At last he would get to see Kasumi again, or at least he was supposed to. Kasumi, the fairest, and nicest soul he had ever encountered, the one who showed him such patience and kindness for their brief time knowing each other. The woman he... Well, that was out of the question.

He could still remember the first day they met. It was much like this one in that he was totally lost. Now, was he going to school or coming... Knowing himself, if it was one, he was likely doing the other. Yeah, that's right, it was going. It wasn't that important anyway. What was important was the girl he ran into.

He had been walking down some road or another, looking for someone to give him directions when he spotted Kasumi. She was walking on her own, immersed in her own thoughts, and did not even seem to notice him. Ryoga could not help but notice how beautiful she was. Well, at the time his experience with women was very limited so he was not well qualified to judge, but even now he was sure she was the loveliest woman he had encountered before or since. Of course, despite his need for directions, he could not work up the nerve to ask for them. A pretty girl, three years his elder (at the time he thought it was more like five, but the effect was the same) would never be interested in his problems, so he just kept going on his way.

However, to his surprise she took notice of him, and gave him a passing greeting. Naturally he blubbered out something in reply that confused her, and she immediately asked if he was having trouble. It took several minutes of her questioning for him to finally overcome the sudden anxiety attack that hit him, and tell her he was lost. To his surprise she offered to take him to school with no complaints at all. Matter of fact, she seemed happy to have company.

They had talked the whole way there, and for once Ryoga actually found his tongue worked properly. After his initial uneasiness, Kasumi's natural calm seemed to pass into him, and by the end of the short trip he was freely conversing with her, something he thought he'd never manage to do with a girl, especially one like Kasumi. Then things only got better.

From that day on they traveled together to school, and Ryoga had his best attendance record ever. He also generated a distinct positive outlook for a brief period of his life, and all because of Kasumi. So often his life was full of nothing but the negative, but Kasumi pulled him out of that rut. He got back into his martial arts, improved his grades, and even managed a feeling of intense joy to enter his life.

He was greatly saddened when she told him she had to leave for China, so saddened in fact he missed their final planned meeting. He got lost of course, but that was not the whole story. He had gotten lost almost on purpose. He did not have the guts to face her that one last time, least he reveal the feelings he had for her. She was a good friend, too old for him and certainly did not view him in any... romantic light. He regretted it afterwards, hoping dearly Kasumi did not hold any ill feelings over his absence, and now he had hoped to at least get back together with her again, as it was before.

No such luck. He sighed away his troubles, and concentrated on finding something that would give him a bearing on his destination. However, the sudden shout of, "Kachuu Tenshin Amaguriken," brought him to attention just fast enough to brace as a large form crashed through the street wall and directly into him. Ryoga reacted a hair too slowly to avoid, and was knocked over, the form coming to rest on top of him. After pushing away the pain of his skull impacting with the pavement, he opened his eyes to look into Kaneda's eyes as he lay on top of Ryoga.

"Mr. Tendo?" Ryoga blurt out.

"Yes Ryoga?" He responded, then noticed his posture at the moment, and quickly pulled himself and Ryoga to their feet. "Sorry about that. It's just that-"

"Hey, we're not finished!" Ukyo shouted as she came flying through the hole in the street wall with a flying kick directed roughly at Kaneda. Without thinking, Kaneda snatched up the startled Ryoga in his arms, one supporting his back, the other his legs, and vaulted into the air to avoid the attack.

Ryoga naturally was a little shocked at being rescued in this manor, particularly since he always envisioned women being held and rescued this way. Now, Ryoga was not one to argue against women's equality. On the contrary, he was all for it. However, being treated like some damsel in distress was a little much, particularly given his last encounter with his teacher. "Ah, Mr. Tendo sir?"

"Yes, Ryoga?" Kaneda asked, as they landed on a nearby roof top.

"Could you please put me down?"

"Oh... Sorry," Kaneda said with a slight blush, and quickly put Ryoga down onto his own feet.

"Now you die!" Ukyo screamed out, diving in on him, fists first. Kaneda pivoted around, gently pushing Ryoga aside, and thrust his own ki covered fist forward to intercept the attack. Ryoga watched in amazement as Ukyo and Kaneda were engulfed in a ki explosion. Ukyo was sent spiraling back into the air, while Kaneda was thrown backwards into and through the roof, ending up in some unsuspecting woman's bedroom where naturally he ended up on top of her. He quickly excused himself, apologizing profusely then sprang back up through the hole to intercept Ukyo in the air.

Once the two met, a quick exchange ensued, finishing off with their respective techniques, and again both were sent flying in opposite directions. After crashing to a halt, each got up, and initiated other similar exchange, with similar results. After a few minutes of watching this, Ryoga got the distinct impression he was watching a video repeating itself. They'd get up, rush each other, fight for about 2 seconds, then BOOM, they were back where they started. The only thing that seemed to change was that it took a little longer for each to reach the other with every exchange.

Finally the crowd of spectators arrived, just in time to witness the explosion of ki, and two bodies flying through the air. They all came to a halt to watch two more such exchanges, until at last the two fighters tired out enough that neither could reach their feet for a few moments, but instead took a minute to rest.

"Ready to give up?" Ukyo asked through pants.

"I'm afraid not," Kaneda replied, and once more the two were back on their feet, and readying for another attack. Although, this is getting awfully repetitive, he thought to himself. Not only were they nearly equal in terms of traditional combat, apparently their two special techniques were as well. At this moment, it would probably end up a shear matter of luck who won the fight which was no good for either of them. Ukyo was no less aware of this and wouldn't concede a proper defeat under this circumstance, and obviously Kaneda could not either as his future depended on it. I guess there is nothing to be done about it, he told himself and prepared.

As the two finally started to approach each other, Ranma suddenly walked in between them. "Mind if I call a time out?" Ranma asked, gaining confused looks from both fighters. "I want to talk to Ukyo," he further explained, causing Ukyo an abrupt feeling of panic.

Kaneda blinked a few times then nodded. "I don't mind."

Ranma looked over at Ukyo, who gave him a nervous smile which he interpreted as her agreement, and he walked over to her. Ryoga took the break to jump down next to Kitsune and hopeful garner some information.

"So, what's going on anyway? What's this fight about?" Ryoga asked.

"I'm not all that certain. My guess is that our teacher isn't overly impressed with his treatment at the skating match and is attempting to correct Ukyo."

"What, no aliens?" Ryoga asked jokingly.

"No, how disappointing huh. Just your average, everyday, supernatural martial artist dispute. Say, speaking of aliens, have you ever considered that your sense of direction is actually some secret alien genetic experiment? I heard it runs in the family. Now, hear me out. The way I see it..." As Kitsune started into her theory, Ryoga covered his face, wondering why he even brought it up.

XXXXX

"Ranma, I-" Ukyo began to say as Ranma approached, but he cut her off with a wave of his hand. He was going to end this, and peacefully. If Ukyo would not listen to Kaneda, she would listen to him.

"Let me talk. I know you have this vendetta against Kasumi and all, and I know you have your reasons, but this is getting ridiculous. This fight is getting you no where. What are you trying to prove?"

Ukyo sparked up at that, gaining a serious look. "That I'm better."

"Can't you settle for just as good? Look at you two, you're totally evenly matched."

Ukyo shook her head. "You don't understand."

Ranma nodded then lowered his head in thought. After a moment, he looked back up at Ukyo. "Ukyo, I don't claim to know why you hate Kasumi so much, so maybe you're right. I can't judge. I can say though that what you're doing isn't right."

"But Ranma, she ruined my life!"

"So, you ruin hers. What's that make you?" Ranma asked. Ukyo started to respond in reflex, but then lowered her own head. "What about when you two fought Mikado and Azusa? Don't tell me you forgot that already."

Ukyo shook her head. The fight temporarily on hold, and her anger pushed aside for the moment in Ranma's presence, all the doubts suddenly came back. Her determination twisted with them. This may be my only chance, she thought, but it did not hold much force. What if I'm wrong, she asked herself in counter. She was not yet ready to accept that she was wrong though. She had seen Kasumi distinctly, and remembered her shoving Ukyo into that blasted spring that ruined her life. How could she be mistaken on that? How could she be mistaken about Kasumi leaving her in that cursed form, with no idea of what had happened to her, and without even so much as the knowledge of how to change back? How could she be mistaken about Kasumi stealing Ukyo's father's attentions? They were all things Ukyo firmly believed.

However, it all did not matter. Ukyo would never risk alienating Ranma. If he disapproved, then she could not go through with it. Whether she was right or wrong was secondary. Funny thing, though, she was almost relieved to have the choice taken away.

"All right Ranma. I'll... I'll stop the fight."

"Thank you Ukyo. You won't regret it. I promise," Ranma responded with a very pleased look, and motioned for Ukyo to approach Kaneda. Together they walked over to where Kaneda stood with a cautious, yet hopeful look on his face.

"Kaneda... I'm calling this off," Ukyo said, gaining a shocked look from him. "I'll show you where I hid the pill."

Kaneda stood for a moment, stunned, then allowed himself a smile of relief and joy. "Thank you Ukyo. I-"

"Save it," Ukyo cut him off, and started walking off. "Come on."

A general moan went through the crowd at hearing that the afternoon's entertainment was over, and they began to break up. Kitsune and Ryoga headed off together, the former handing a list of acquaintances that could run tests to the latter, who was by now getting rather disturbed at the possibilities. Akane, Shampoo and Ranma followed after Ukyo. Cologne took a moment to sigh, but then smiled and followed as well.

XXXXX

"Here," Ukyo said at last, handing over the amulet that had been taped on the inside of one of the school's gymnastic horses. Kaneda examined the amulet briefly then removed its contents to examine them. Inside was a square piece of what looked to Kaneda's eyes to be simply candy. There was nothing special about it at all.

"Are you sure this is it?" Kaneda asked, causing Ukyo to scowl angrily.

"That's what I got. I didn't open the thing, or touch the stupid pill."

"All right, all right. I believe you." Kaneda quickly said, then re-examined the so called pill. After a moment's hesitation, he plopped it into his mouth, and swallowed. He waited a minute for any sort of odd sensation. Feeling nothing, he looked back at Shampoo questioningly. "Should I feel anything?"

"Shampoo no know. Maybe try water now," Shampoo suggested, and Akane raced off to fetch some. In the interval, Cologne arrived, smiling.

"Well, that wasn't what I was expecting at all," the elder commented.

"I suppose you wanted me to lose," Kaneda retorted, and the elder nodded honestly.

"Of course. It would have made things far easier. You should just accept your position and come back to the village with us. You're making all this fuss over a simple little matter like gender."

"I don't appreciate being stuck in this form. It doesn't matter though."

"Oh, you think so?" Cologne asked, all too confidently for Kaneda's liking. Just then Akane returned with a kettle of hot water, and prepared to up end it on Kaneda. "I'd advise against that child. Perhaps just a finger. You wouldn't want to put him in the hospital now would you?"

"What do you mean?" Akane asked, but Cologne only smiled.

Kaneda sighed, already knowing the answer. "Just pour a little on my hand Akane. Just a little." Akane reluctantly complied, and the instant the water touched his skin, Kaneda withdrew it, yelping in pain. Akane tested the water herself, but found it only mildly warm. Kaneda rubbed the pain from his hand, and eyed Cologne. "Where's the real pill?"

"In China," Cologne answered simply. "You don't really think I would be foolish enough to bring the cure here to Japan, do you? There is no need for it. If by some odd chance you required a cure, I could temporarily reverse the cat tongue point, but why would I bring a permanent cure with me? My apologies for the deception Kaneda Tendo, but I had to try. Besides, it was very informative on your ability."

"That's not fair!" Akane shouted in outrage, but Cologne merely waved her off.

"Fairness has nothing to do with it. Kaneda Tendo, you will come back with us to China sooner or later. It is your only option. The sooner you accept that, the less trouble you'll have. See reason."

Kaneda shook his head slowly, then suddenly raised his hand to cover his eyes. "I won't give in to this. I won't," he said, and let out a puff of breath as if trying to hold something in.

Cologne sadly shook her head, and got up. "Very well. Determination is a valuable trait, if pointless in this circumstance. You'll come around. I'll leave you for now, but I will be watching as always. Good day." With that Cologne hopped out, leaving those gathered to watch as Kaneda slowly sank to the ground, shaking his head. It was clear to all those watching this that although Kaneda may not have lost the fight, he had lost something equally important.

XXXXX

A small fire illuminated a clearing deep in the woods. Its steady crackle was all that could be heard in the conspicuous absence of the usual insects. Suddenly something rustled a nearby bush.

"Oh, come on Lotion. Stop playing around."

"I thought you liked playing around, Perfume."

"Dah! Stop it! You know what happens when I... Ahh!"

Two Amazons crashed out from the woods. One, a girl with short blue hair held back in two buns, was holding the other, and rolled to take the impact of the ground herself. "You're such a wimp, Perfume," she teased.

"Oh yeah. I could beat you any day of the week," Perfume countered, breaking free of Lotion's hold and quickly pinning the other Amazon's hands to the ground. "See."

"Don't get smug. I just don't like fighting."

"Who ever said I did?" Perfume asked with a frown then smiled mischievously. "Of course it can come in handy. I've always wanted such a pretty girl completely in my power."

"You really are a pervert."

Perfume smiled even wider, and leaned right into Lotion's face. "You shouldn't say such things to people who have you at their mercy."

"You haven't got the guts," Lotion taunted with a smile of her own.

"Oh yeah? You think so huh. Well, we'll just see about that," Perfume moved in closer for a kiss as Lotion closed her eyes. Just as their lips were about to touch, a loud thud caught both girl's attention. Out of the corner of their eyes they could see a shaft of wood driven into the ground by their heads that had not been there a minute before. Following the shaft they looked up to see a dark cloaked figure carrying a sickle, the end of which was driven into the ground next to their heads. The fire flashed, revealing a white face and glowing reddish eyes hidden in the cloak.

Both girls screamed out in fright, and quickly put several feet between themselves and their uninvited guest. As they sat together, shaking in fear, the cloaked figure shook its head. It then raised a hand and pulled back the hood of the cloak. The long snow white hair braided to beyond the waist, the extremely pale skin, the noticeably short stature and the seemingly glowing pink eyes gave away her true identity.

"Frost!" Both girls yelled out in anger when they recognized the girl.

"What? Did I give you two a little fright?" Frost asked with a disapproving frown. "You two can be so pathetic sometimes."

"Bug off Frost! Who asked you anyway?" Perfume yelled back. "Why don't you go spook someone else? We've long since given up our warrior rights. You don't need to keep rubbing it in."

Frost frowned deeper for a moment then calmed and looked apologetic. "Sorry. You dropped this in the field," she said, and tossed the sickle to Lotion. "In the future I'd advise you to be more careful with your tools."

"Uh... Thanks. Where have you been anyway? Haven't seen you around much."

Frost eyed Lotion for a moment then turned away. "I was on a little expedition," she answered and walked off into the woods.

After a minute both Amazons began to relax. Lotion shuddered for a second then grabbed up a bag that was next to the fire. "Gees, for a second there I thought she was death," Lotion commented, as she spread some of the bag's contents, a mixture of various incenses to repel insects, onto the fire.

"No way. Frost isn't death. Death's much taller. Nope, she's a vampire. Got to admit, she does look it, and you never see her during the day. She could be lurking out there right now, planning to suck your blood any moment now," as Perfume said this she pressed into Lotion personal space, causing the other girl to withdraw in mock fright. Perfume was about to press the matter when she nearly jumped out of her shoes.

"Maybe," Frost said from just over Perfume's shoulder.

"Frost!" Both girls exclaimed again.

Frost ignored their complaints and stood up. "I meant to ask, where is elder Cologne?"

"She's gone off to Japan I think, right, Perfume?"

Perfume nodded in confirmation. "Yeah."

"Oh. I guess I'll have to talk to Shampoo about getting-" The white haired Amazon began to say as she turned to leave, but Lotion cut in.

"She's not here either."

Frost turned to look at the two Amazons. "Where did she go?"

"Didn't you hear? Her new husband ran off on her on the first night. She's off chasing him. I think elder Cologne is helping her."

As Lotion finished she noticed a very disturbing look beginning to form on Frost's face. "NEW HUSBAND? WHAT DO YOU MEAN NEW HUSBAND?" Frost roared out after a moment, grabbing Lotion by the collar.

Despite the pronounced size difference between Frost and Lotion, Lotion being probably a half foot taller, Lotion was still severely shaken. "Well... ah... this guy came to the village and... and he beat her-"

"WHAT?" Frost roared out in fury, scaring both girls. After taking a moment to calm herself Frost continued her questioning. "You mean to tell me that some... man defeated Shampoo and forced her to marry him?"

"Well, ah... sort of, I guess," Lotion responded meekly.

"And he had the unmitigated gall to... to... to... SLEEP with her, then RAN OFF like some... some... some..." Frost released her grip on Lotion and started running off. "I'LL KILL HIM! HE'S A DEAD MAN!"

Lotion and Perfume watched Frost leave, both confused and frightened by what just happened. "I think she's upset," Perfume finally said.

"Yeah, no kidding. And he struck me as such a nice boy too. Too bad. Where were we?"

End Chapter 17

Our two cameo Amazons here come originally from the fanfic's Purple Haired Destiny by Ryan Anderson (Lotion) and Most Unlikely of Friends by Me (aka Wade Tritschler) (Perfume), although both have appeared in many another fanfictions including A Very Scary Thought by Jim Bader (aka Nabiki 1/2). Perfume should not to be confused with another Perfume from Shampoo 1/2 by D.B. Sommer (although my Perfume does appear in that fic briefly under the name Ambergris). Frost, however is new to this fic.

Okay, this is the end, stop reading.