Ranma 1/2
A Scary Thought:
Chapter 27
Two long days, that was the time Ukyo had spent on the road. Not long in the grand scheme of things, but to her, two whole lifetimes without seeing Ranma.
She had needed the time though. Time to think. Ten years of training, pushing herself to and beyond her body's limits and it was pointless. Kasumi had defeated her with minimal effort in their latest encounter. But, it was not just that one fight. It was every one they ever had. The best Ukyo had ever managed was to tie. All the time and effort to prove she was better had been rendered meaningless.
It had started that cursed day Kasumi had come to Ukyo's father's yatai. At the time she had been a rather pathetic sight, just staring at the food from across the street and looking hungry. When her father gave her a free sample, it seemed innocent enough to Ukyo. When Kasumi started helping out with the work Ukyo was actually modestly happy, after all it was an opportunity to play more. Kasumi was even something of a friend for a time, until Ukyo's father took more interest in Kasumi than her. It just got worse from then on, but Ukyo didn't blame Kasumi, at least at that time. She was too young then to have learned the depths of perfidiousness to which Kasumi was capable of delving.
Ukyo only began to realize the full extent of the issue when, during the local youth cooking tournament, her father withdrew her and replaced her with Kasumi during the final matches. Participating in that tournament had been a point of pride of Ukyo and being replaced had infuriated her. She finally saw just how much her father's attention had changed. Still, had it all ended at that, Ukyo probably could have gone on with her life, but it didn't.
Even when Kasumi finally departed, Ukyo could not get out from under the older girl's shadow. Her own father would sing Kasumi's praise at nearly every opportunity. If that was not bad enough, Kasumi was often held up as an example Ukyo should strive to emulate. Kasumi had not been perfect, but in Ukyo's father's eyes she was, and it was that image Ukyo had to compete with. So, of course, in the end she failed to live up to the paragon. Despite all her training, all her attempts to live up to perfection, she fell short. In the end, she was forced down the one avenue left to her, find Kasumi and defeat her, and that was when her whole current mess started.
So now Ukyo sat in a coffee shop, looking down at a piece of paper, rereading what she had written. It was the result of 3 straight hours of effort, and twenty-eight versions. It was a letter saying it all to Ranma. It detailed as best as was possible her feelings, and her curse. It was the last thing Ukyo had left to her. All that remained was to mail it, but that one action had now been delayed for over an hour. At last, however, the courage to do it had come to her.
She finished reading the last few words and, after confirming everything was fine, she sealed it in an envelope. The mailbox was just outside, probably less than twenty steps away. Each step she took felt insurmountable, but Ukyo managed to reach her destination. She stood in front of the mailbox for nearly a minute before swallowing, gathering herself, and putting the letter inside.
"There, I did it," Ukyo said as she continued to eye the mailbox. A minute more passed before Ukyo's resolve faded to nothingness and she began frantically shaking the mailbox while screaming, "Give me back my letter!" A throat cleared itself behind her, causing her to stop.
A mailman stood, arms crossed, and looking very displeased at Ukyo. "You know, it's a crime to mess with the mail. I could have you arrested."
"Oh please, I have to have my letter back."
"No can do. Once it's in there, it is the property of the mail service." The mailman walked past Ukyo and up to the mailbox.
"But-"
"No buts," he cut her off to say as he kneeled down to the open the box. Ukyo was tempted to knock him cold and just take the letter, but that was technically illegal and she was not quite ready to do it. However, she did notice his hand conspicuously held behind him, palm up. "Well?" he asked, beckoning to her with the outstretched hand.
"What?"
"Gees girl, do I have to spell it out to you. What will you give me for it?"
"Huh? Are you telling me to bribe you?" Ukyo asked in shock.
"No, I like holding my hand like this. Now, what do you have?"
Ukyo dug through her pocket, coming up with some money. "How's 154 yen?"
"What?" the man said in outrage, standing back up to look at her. "Is that all you have? Give me a break. I wouldn't give you the time of day for that much, let alone that letter, now scram!" For a second, the man's health hung in the balance. By asking for a bribe, he removed the protection his uniform offered him, at least in Ukyo's mind, but then she spied a policeman strolling down the opposite side of the street, and her shoulders slumped. Fate hated her.
Ukyo looked down at the cement sidewalk then turned and walked away. I'm doomed! I'm so doomed! Why did I have to write that stupid letter? Stupid, stupid, stupid... Ukyo thought as she began to knock her head against the wall.
"Is this what you wanted?" another voice asked, this one female.
Ukyo looked behind her to see a cloaked figure holding Ukyo's letter. Ukyo snatched it away in an instant then looked over at the mailman in confusion. He seemed mesmerized, staring off into the distance without a care in the world. "How... what happened to him?"
"Nothing," the girl replied as she too looked over at the mailman. "I just asked him for the letter nicely and he gave it to me."
"Gave it to you?" Ukyo repeated in disbelief.
"Yes. This is the one you wanted, right?"
Ukyo nodded then examined her new companion as best she could given the covering attire she was wearing. "Who are you?"
"My name is Lemon," she replied with a small bow. "I've come to ask for your help."
XXXXX
I can't take this anymore. I'm going nuts. I'll kill her, that's it. I'll get some rat poison and... and... damn it! Selene thought in anger as the homicidal thought ran into a block. She could formulate only the most basic plan of action. As soon as those basics turned into something more concrete it was as if she ran into a severe form of writer's block, but it was something far more insidious. Damn you Frost! Selene thought as she continued on her way.
It had only been a few short days, but it felt more like a lifetime of torment. Still, the initial period was over and Selene had at least gained the privilege to go out on her own. Actually, she was pretty sure it was more of a test to see what she would do, but she did not care. It was time to take action. Just what action she still did not know. However, her current destination was the girls' dorm. Artemis was there, and he just might know something of what had just happened to her. After all, he seemed to be a familiar as well.
When she arrived at the door, however, some of her resolve faded. The white cat was clearly interested in her, and not exactly in an innocent way. It had taken great patience to deal with that attention before. Now, when he learned she had become just like him, he might redouble his efforts. That was not something she believed she could take right now. Of course, if Frost was here she would probably say, "Now you know what it is like." It was a vast oversimplification of the two situations, but nonetheless, she really did not want the added annoyance of Artemis's attentions. She just thanked whatever gods were still looking out for her that Artemis at least seemed to have human sensibilities. She was fairly certain that he'd take no for an answer, at least as far as physically pressing his suit went. That was not something that could be said for the average tomcat. Not that it made Artemis's overtures any less disturbing.
Selene sighed and thought, It's not like I have many options right now. I'll just have to deal with it. Oh well, might as well get this over with.
XXXXX
"Come on, Ami, what's taking so long?"
"I'm doing the best I can," Ami replied. "She just isn't responding."
"What the heck is Rei up to?" Makoto asked no one in particular as Ami tried once against to establish a connection. "I mean, have any of you guys heard from her lately?"
"No," Minako responded from the bed she was sitting on with Usagi, both of whom were engrossed in some manga. "But I haven't tried either."
"Well, we really should contact her. I mean it must be lonely back there with all of us here. I wonder what she's up to."
Usagi put down her manga for a moment and looked thoughtful. "Oh, you know Rei and her temple stuff. Still, it is odd for her to go so long without talking to us."
"Yeah, you'd think she'd have called up at least once to yell at Usagi," Minako joked, gaining a sour look from the girl in question.
"Hey!" Usagi complained.
"Actually, Usagi has been doing quite well lately," Ami observed. "You said you got seventy-five on the last test, right?"
"Yep," Usagi answered brightly then put her finger to her mouth in thought. "Come to think of it, since I've been here I've probably done more studying than I did all of last year."
"Yes, that is good, but really, you should have been studying that much before," Ami replied.
Usagi hung her head. "But I can't. It's so utterly boring! The only reason I am right now is it keeps Kotori from clobbering me," Usagi said then looked up happily. "At least we get the whole week off. I need the rest. All those books, and reading, it can't be good for a person... except for you Ami."
"Whole week off?" said a familiar voice as at last a connection was established. "What are you doing over there anyway, goofing off? I should have known."
"Oh, Rei, can't you go five minutes without yelling at me?" Usagi replied as she and the others gathered around Ami's communicator.
"I will when you can go for five minutes without doing something stupid."
"Hey!"
"All right you two," Ami said, a tone of long suffering patience in her voice. "Actually, we're all getting the week off because the school has to be repaired."
"Repaired? What happened?"
Minako took over the view. "You wouldn't believe it Rei, the principal just came back and he's a total nut job."
"Yeah," Makoto continued, pushing Minako aside. "He was going to give us all bowl cuts unless we found some coconut with a rule exemption in it."
On the other end, Rei looked at her friends skeptically. "You sure you're not exaggerating a bit? They'd never put someone like that in charge of a school."
"No way, it's all true," Minako answered, pushing her way back in front. "He even blackmailed the teachers, and kidnapped Shampoo."
Rei scratched her head. "How did a weirdo like that ever get to be a principal?"
"Who knows," Minako replied, easing back and allowing the others access to the communicator.
"Yeah, well, about that. What are you up to? Since we had the week off we were thinking of coming back there for a while to visit," Makoto said.
Rei shrugged. "Not much is happening around her. To be honest, I'm bored stiff. I almost wish I could join you guys."
"Ah, you miss us," Usagi said with a smile.
"Get a grip, Usagi! I'd just like a little excitement, that's all. It's not as if I miss you droning on about this or that. I mean really..."
Usagi smiled on, undeterred. "Oh, come on, Rei. Admit it. You can't really mean you don't miss us in the least."
"Maybe a little, okay? But, don't go making a big deal out of it. I'm perfectly fine here, by myself. I do have a life, you know."
"Could have fooled me," Usagi muttered.
"What was that?" Rei yelled over the line, but Usagi just hid herself away, out of sight of the communicator. She quickly returned to her manga while the others continued talking to Rei. That being the case, she was the only one to notice the pink cat she knew as C-chan slip in the door.
"Hey, C-chan, you looking for Artemis?" Usagi said with a smile then noticed the new marking on C-chan's head and promptly dropped her manga. "Hey, you guys, look over here quick!"
"What?" they asked in surprise, as C-chan drooped her shoulders.
"C-chan, she has a lunar crest!"
"What?" the girls replied in shock and all looked to confirm Usagi's observation.
Selene sighed once again, looked up and spoke, "Hi."
The girls all fell over in shock at hearing the cat speak, with Ami being the first to recover. "C-chan, you can talk too? What happened?"
"It's kind of hard to explain. Where's Artemis?"
"He and Luna are taking a nap in Usagi's room," Minako replied then stood up. "I'll go get them."
"What happened?" Usagi asked again. "You weren't able to talk before, were you?"
"No, that's new," Selene replied, and noticed Ami had produced a small blue device and was typing at it rapidly. "What's that?"
"This is incredible," Ami remarked. "Her entire energy pattern has been altered."
"Altered?" Usagi repeated as Rei could be heard in the background asking what was happening.
"Yes," Ami continued. "It is now nearly identical to Luna's and Artemis's. Amazing. Hold on a moment." Ami continued to type for a moment before stopping in surprise. "Oh my, this is very interesting."
"What? What?" Rei cried out over the communicator. "What's going on over there? Would somebody talk to me? Hey! Hello!"
Ami picked up the communicator and continued. "Sorry, Rei. It seems C-chan has become a full luna-cat. Beyond that, I just found out her original energy has not exactly been changed, but rather augmented into the new pattern."
At that moment Minako returned, followed by Artemis and Luna. "You're not going to believe this you guys," Minako said to the two cats as she came in then looked over at C-chan. "Go on C-chan."
"Actually... it's Selene," the pink cat replied, dropping the two other cats.
"You can talk!" Artemis exclaimed as he recovered, gaining a nod from Selene.
"Yes, I can now."
Luna just stared at Selene in shock as Artemis rushed up to her. "How did this happen?" Artemis asked.
"Well, now that you're here I can explain." Selene paused a moment in thought, fighting with the various blocks Frost had put in place. Damn, she was thorough. I'm just going to have to tell them the cover story. Sighing Selene looked at everyone and started. "You see, my name is, as I said, Selene, and I'm actually Frost's familiar."
"Familiar?" Usagi asked in confusion.
"A type of animal helper that some magic users have, I believe," Ami explained.
"Yes," Selene said in confirmation.
"But, you were here long before Frost, and you couldn't talk," Makoto pointed out.
"I was sent on ahead to keep tabs on Kasumi, and, yes, then I couldn't talk. That's a recent improvement Frost made."
"Frost made you into a luna-cat?" Usagi asked then looked at the others. "What does that mean?"
"It could mean a variety of things," Ami replied. "Makoto said the Amazons had contact... well, ummm... with the same place Luna and Artemis came from. Perhaps they learned the magicks to make luna-cats that way, or possibly vice-versa," she continued to explain, carefully avoiding mentioning anything to do with their true identities. "That being the case, I think it is good reason to believe what Makoto said."
"What place is that?" Selene asked.
"I'm... we're not sure of the name," Minako replied, taking the same tack as Ami.
"Then, how did you two become luna-cats? I thought maybe you two were familiars as well, but there are no other sorcerers around here, are there?"
Artemis took over. "Um, no. We're... um, free familiars. In fact, I don't ever recall having a magus who made me like I am. Of course, my memory is a bit foggy past a certain point."
"Free familiars huh," Selene repeated, not sure whether it was the surprise that was making everyone a little nervous about the subject, or something else entirely. Perhaps they knew more but could not let it out just yet.
"Now, wait just a moment here," Luna finally spoke up. "Ami, I thought you said Selene had a Jusenkyo curse and that was why she was intelligent?"
Artemis looked back at Luna in surprise as Ami answered. "Yes, I did, and I still get the same energy readings that I get from other Jusenkyo curses."
Selene was suddenly happy. Thank God! Someone knows, she thought just as Artemis looked back at her questioningly. Selene thought for another moment, and thought up a reply. "Jusenkyo, yes, I know the place."
"You asked me about that place before," Artemis noted. "Do you really have a curse?"
"I don't remember. I just know the place," Selene lied, but it was a good lie. It fit with Frost's restrictions yet left the door open for them to look in further.
"Well, let's find out," Luna said. "All we need is some hot water."
"You won't find anything," Selene replied. "I've been in hot water before, and haven't changed." That much was the truth as she had tried just that morning. "But, go ahead and try anyway."
Minako left to get some water, while Ami puzzled over that. "That's very strange. The curse energy is definitely there. It is unmistakable. Hmm, I wonder..." Ami trailed off while she worked with her computer. Minako returned with some hot water and tested it on Selene having no effect other than to make her wet, which made her look rather miserable. "Ah, that may be it."
"What?" the others asked.
"Actually, Selene's pattern is closer to Herb's than the others. It could be the same type of magic that has trapped Herb as he is now has trapped Selene."
"Do you think Frost would have done that?" Makoto asked.
"I couldn't say, although it is a possibility," Ami answered, causing Selene even further jubilation.
Usagi suddenly got up. "Well, I'm going to go ask her."
Selene hung her head. No, no, no. She'll just make up some phony story to cover it up, she thought.
Usagi continued on, not noticing Selene's response. "I just can't believe it. I mean, she isn't perfect or anything, but that seems not at all like her, unless she had good reason."
"You've only talked to her once Usagi. How would you know?" Minako pointed out.
"Yeah, I was here when she went nuts on poor Kasumi. She nearly killed him," Makoto added.
"Don't you mean her?" Minako asked, causing Makoto to blush in embarrassment.
"She was a he at the time," Makoto mumbled in reply.
"Well, that's why I'm going to ask her myself," Usagi said.
"Okay, but be careful," Makoto warned. "She's dangerous. If she did do it, no telling how she'll act."
"I will," Usagi replied, and started to head out.
"I'll go with her," Minako said. "Just in case."
"Good thinking," Artemis noted then looked back at Selene who appeared not to know how to deal with the current turn in events. "Maybe you should stay here till we get this sorted out."
"I can't," Selene replied. "I still have to explain things to Akane, and besides, Frost is expecting me back." And, I have to keep an eye out to see what happens, Selene added in thought. "I really have to get going," Selene said as she excused herself.
"Wow!" Artemis said after a moment. "This is incredible."
"You're not in the least interested in the fact that she may be human?" Luna asked.
"Actually, I was getting that idea already," Artemis answered back. "But if I'm right... Ami, does that mean we also have Jusenkyo curses?"
"Oh my, yes, you're right. You have the same energy pattern, including the curses. I just never checked before."
"What?" Luna replied in surprise. "You mean, we're really humans too?"
"Possibly. You could be any living creature actually, but a human is the most likely possibility," Ami replied. "Just like Selene, you have the same energy field that stops the automatic transformation with water. You've been in human form before Luna, it shouldn't be that big of a surprise."
Luna stared back at Ami, then at the door through which Selene had departed. That means, in all the ways that count she really is a luna-cat, just as much as I am. Which means, she and Artemis can... Luna quickly purged that thought under a frown. I'm not jealous. I am not jealous.
"Speaking of changing, I wonder if that means there is another way to activate the transformation even with this added magic," Ami said, although this time mostly to herself as her thoughts turned to Herb. Makoto eyed her knowing just what she was pondering.
"Hey, you guys!" Rei called out over the communicator. "I'm still here you know! Hello?"
XXXXX
"Here you are," Lemon said as she handed Ukyo a hot drink and sat down opposite her in a booth at the coffee shop. Ukyo paid little heed to the drink, instead eyeing her letter.
"So, what's this all about?" Ukyo finally asked, still fingering the letter in her hand as she looked up at Lemon.
"I told you, I need your help."
Ukyo looked skeptical. "Help with what?"
"Why, Kasumi of course," Lemon replied plainly, then continued on to explain. "I was supposed to be Herb's wife, his first wife. I was selected at birth and trained since then for that one purpose. But now, that... that... Kasumi has stolen him from me," Lemon said, letting some anger show through.
Ukyo sighed and lowered her head to regard the letter again. "Sorry, I can't help."
"But you have to!"
"I didn't say I wouldn't, I said I can't. I'm just no match for her. I've tried and tried, but it's time to accept the truth, I'm outclassed. As much as I hate to admit it, my father was right all that time. Kasumi is better. She always was, and always will be," Ukyo replied with increasing depression at every word.
Lemon looked over at Ukyo in surprise. She had researched this girl as best she was able and everything said she was Kasumi's number one rival, and not one to give in. "No, you can't mean that."
"I do," Ukyo replied evenly. "I sympathize, believe me. There is someone... someone just as important to me, and Kasumi is standing right in my way, but I can't force her to move. I just don't have what it takes."
"No, you can't accept that!" Lemon exclaimed, banging her fist on the table for emphasis. "You can't! I'm not accepting defeat. I can't let my family down like this. I have to be Herb's wife, his first wife. It's absolutely imperative."
"Why's that?" Ukyo looked up to ask.
"Why?" Lemon repeated, considering how to respond. "Because... because... I'll be honest. My clan isn't well suited to life in the Musk. We're entirely female, and as you could guess, in a male dominated place like the Musk that's not a good thing."
"Entirely female?" Ukyo repeated in surprise. "Why would that be?"
"I'm not sure myself. I'm just... well I'm... I'm not in on all the doings of my clan. All I know is that is how it is. The only way we get by is by marrying into other clans, and..." Lemon trailed off, her voice showing the stress that her clothing otherwise hid, "...occasionally by using Jusenkyo to change some of our clan into men." Lemon gave a visible shudder, and the hidden depths of her cloak turned up toward Ukyo, letting her see just the very faintest outline of the girl's face as she said in an entreating voice, "You can see how important it is to me... us to get a marriage to the next ruler of the Musk."
"So, this is purely a political thing," Ukyo said, even though Lemon's behavior indicated it was anything but. She needed to draw the other girl out. Lemon quickly shook her head.
"No, not entirely. It's a matter of my survival. I'll be a failure if I can't marry Herb. If I don't, then they'll, they'll..." Lemon's voice faded away, before bouncing back as she said with great intensity. "I can't talk about it! But if I fail, I will suffer greatly."
Ukyo looked over at her companion, thinking. "Do you love him?"
"Do I... I umm... of course."
"Right," Ukyo replied, unconvinced.
"What do you want from me? I just met him."
Ukyo shook her head, and stood up. "Exactly."
"No, not exactly," Lemon replied, standing up as well. "Look, where you come from you have the luxury of choosing your husband, we don't. We make do to survive. Besides, I know many of my relatives have been very happy with who they married and they were just like me. Please..."
Ukyo sighed and stayed, but remained standing. "Fine, what do you want then?"
"I... I want you to beat Kasumi in a fight." Ukyo shook her head, but Lemon continued on quickly. "Hear me out. I'll help you train... well, I'm not much of a fighter, but I'm sure Sissy can help you train. He's a great fighter. I know you say you can't beat her, but I know that isn't true. No one is invincible, and that includes her."
"Okay, but what do you get out of this?"
"Herb will see Kasumi isn't so tough, and he'll lose interest."
"You sure about that?"
"Positive," Lemon replied with confidence. "Herb is a Musk warrior, and my mother taught me everything there is to know about them. He wants to marry Kasumi only because she beat him. He feels that's the best way to prove himself superior to her. If you beat her, she'll be lessened in his eyes. If that is not enough, maybe we could even arrange a fight later between you and him, where you lose, and that will just cinch it."
Ukyo thought for a moment, and sat down once again. "I don't know how much I trust your plan, but I really would like to beat her, just once. I'm sick of being the under... never mind. But, I don't see just a little training doing the job. Kasumi has that old woman, the Amazon, teaching her now. How am I supposed to overcome the things she is learning right now? In a week she could be twice as tough as she is now."
Lemon hung her head. "I don't really know. I'm not a fighter. I mean, don't you martial arts types have all these hidden and secret techniques?"
Ukyo laughed and shook her head. "I'm a grand master of my family's style. I know everything there..." Ukyo trailed off as a thought came to her. "Actually, that's not entirely true. There is something, but I was told by both my father and grandfather those were forbidden, and never to be used, especially on something like this."
Lemon perked up at that, seeing an opening. "Oh, come on now. You just said it; you're a grand master. Surely that counts for something. What do those old geezers know? They probably said that to make you feel inferior, like you are unworthy. Do you feel you're unworthy?"
"Of course not," Ukyo replied in defiance. "You're right. Those techniques were developed, and they ought to be used. I'm good enough. I'm far better than my father, even my grandfather. There's no reason I shouldn't have access to those techniques."
"Right," Lemon said in encouragement.
Ukyo smiled, and thought, Maybe this is it. Those are the most powerful skills my family has ever developed and learned. With those, and some more training from this Sissy guy maybe I can do it. "Alright Lemon, you have yourself a deal. It means I'll have to go home though." Ukyo paused, considering that, but quickly dismissed it as a necessity that would just have to be tolerated. "Okay then, I'll get the location of those techniques at home. They are supposed to be in some cave somewhere. Why don't you meet me back here, about this time tomorrow and we'll get started?"
"Great," Lemon said, smiling optimistically under her hood. Maybe if I'm extra lucky Kasumi won't live through the fight, she thought.
XXXXX
Roughly at that time, across the district, Michiru was regarding the wares of various shops as she passed. Haruka was supposed to give the girls a ride back home for the week, and Michiru was using the opportunity to try and talk to Kasumi once again. Of course, Haruka immediately made herself scarce when the subject came up, once more leaving it to Michiru to try and mend the bridges between the two.
Michiru was not precisely sure why she was doing this. Perhaps it was because the matter had opened up some old wounds in the macho girl. Michiru considered Haruka and herself inseparable, and in a sense Michiru shared some of Haruka's pain because of that. Or, perhaps it was because she felt some need to help Kasumi. After all, she was an interesting woman, and Michiru could easily understand what had sparked the relationship with Haruka. Then again, maybe she had some less noble goals of just checking out a former rival. However, when she considered that, it just brought a smile to Michiru's lips for in fact she did not feel that in the least.
All that was really only a secondary objective right now. She actually wanted to talk to Kasumi about a related but different matter she had just learned of from Makoto and the others.
Michiru stopped, her eyes finally locating her prey. Kasumi was sitting in an ice cream shop across the road, regarding a drink in front of her as if it was the most perplexing thing in the universe. Nodding to herself, Michiru headed over to join her.
XXXXX
The drink in front of her did in fact perplex Kasumi. It was just some soda pop, a common enough drink for most people her age. However, it was one that Kasumi had never had before. Water, tea, and various fruit juices, those Kasumi was very familiar with, but she had never had this before. She was not too sure why, she had just never tried it. Kasumi took a sip then continued regarding the drink just as Michiru sat down.
"There you are. Makoto said you went for a walk. Took me a while to find you." Michiru noticed Kasumi was not paying little heed to her. "That must be good," Michiru said in an attempt to gain Kasumi's attention.
"I suppose," Kasumi replied without looking at her visitor.
"Let me guess, you're contemplating the metaphor."
"Hmh?" Kasumi replied, finally looking over at the other girl.
"About you and Shampoo. I heard about what happened."
"Oh... ah, no, actually. I just realized I've never tried one and decided to... um, try it," she replied then frowned in thought. "Although, I suppose I do see it could be used somewhat as a metaphor, but I think it would be far too simplistic to do so. No one will criticize me for drinking a little soda pop. Fruit juice won't suddenly hate me for choosing not to drink it instead. And then... No, I think my situation is far more complicated than this."
Michiru smiled and leaned her chin on her interlaced figures. "You know, I half expected you to get all defensive on the issue."
Kasumi looked at Michiru then back at her glass. She continued looking at it for a moment then shook her head. "There was a time when I believed my feelings for her did not run that deep, that she was simply someone I wanted as a close friend. Then I thought my feelings were more like those I have for Akane, a sister, and to some extent someone to be cared for. I don't think that anymore."
"Have you told her that?"
"No," Kasumi replied simply.
Michiru waited a moment for Kasumi to say more, but the other girl simply continued examining her glass and its contents. "Well, why not?"
Kasumi frowned ever so slightly in thought then shrugged. "I'm not sure really. I guess..." Kasumi shook her head as the thought left her. "I don't know." Kasumi finally looked up seriously at Michiru and asked, "Why?"
"Curious," Michiru replied.
Kasumi paused a second then responded, "Most people would consider this a fairly personal topic to be talking about with someone they have only spoken with three or four times."
Michiru was a bit taken aback by Kasumi's sudden shift. "I'm sorry, if I-"
"No," Kasumi quickly cut Michiru off to say. "It's okay. Actually I would like to talk about this with someone. You seem... suitable, knowing about Haruka and me. I can't talk with anyone else I know. They are all involved in some way and I..." Kasumi trailed as she tried to find a suitable way to phrase her concerns.
"You don't want to be steered, is that it?"
"I suppose."
Michiru nodded. "Understandable. In that case, go ahead. I'll try to be a helpful ear."
Kasumi took a minute to think, returning her attention to her drink. "I'm not sure what to say actually. It is not like I'm... against the whole thing, two women being together I mean. It's the sort of thing I just did not get involved with, judging it that is. Now, I'm right in the middle of the situation, and I don't know how I should feel, whether my feelings are true, or some byproduct of this curse or something else."
"If they are, as you say, a byproduct, what difference does it make?"
"A great deal I think."
"How so?"
"I don't want to be consumed by this curse. I've lost enough to it. I don't want to lose my whole identity."
Michiru nodded. "I understand... not completely, but in concept how you feel. However, I must point out that curse is now a part of you. It is part of your identity."
"But, what if someday I find a cure, what then? If I accept this, I cannot in good conscience use a cure. That would not be fair to Shampoo. Oh, she might say it was alright, but I know she'd feel like she was losing her husband, even if she didn't admit it. No, I could never do that to her."
"Hmm," Michiru replied as she switched her chin onto one hand and began tapping the table with the other. "That is a tough one."
"But, if I keep the curse, I can never have a child of my own... Well, not as the mother anyway."
"Is that very important to you?"
"I don't know, but it may be. If not now, in the future it could be."
"Hmm," Michiru repeated, starting to fully grasp the complications Kasumi had been referring too.
"Then again, if I say no to this then I'm really lying to Shampoo about how I really feel. With this whole situation, and with what I have done, that would just frustrate her. I don't want to make her unhappy. It wouldn't be fair, especially after the promises I've made."
"Hmmmm." Michiru adjust the hand she was leaning on and continued to think. "You do have a problem there."
"I don't know," Kasumi said with a sigh. "Maybe... maybe I'm saying these things because I'm more scared of the consequences than the choice itself."
"Okay then, if we were to ignore the consequences, which choice would you make?"
Kasumi thought for a moment, then replied, "Stay with Shampoo." Michiru was almost ready to smile in victory, but Kasumi continued with a "But..."
"But?"
"Oh..." Kasumi said in frustration and hung her head. "There was a time not too long ago when I felt I had found myself. It was a time when I felt I truly knew who I was. After I received this curse I lost it, and I have never been able to get that feeling back. I've lost it so much so that even things I thought I had resolved with myself have come back to trouble me. Being a martial artist, going on that training trip... Haruka... It's all come back and I feel lost in it."
"You say the curse did this?"
"Yes."
"How? Part of the magic?"
Kasumi paused in thought. "Maybe, but more and more I think it is simply a matter of dealing with what I have become."
"A man?"
"Well, half the time, yes."
"Is it more being a man, or that you think you are losing your female side?"
Kasumi thought for a moment before answering, "I suppose I would have to say it is more about me losing my female side. I've had to make so many concessions for my male half. I realize I have to in most cases, but like Herb, I'm worried every time I make another concession that I'm letting the curse consume me. Being with Shampoo is the most obvious, and the largest, but there are many others, small things, like which bathroom I use, or what I wear. They all add up to a total I don't know I can resist."
Michiru closed her eyes for a moment and asked, "Do you think I am somehow a poor example of a woman?"
Kasumi blinked in surprise at the question then quickly shook her head and answered, "No, of course not."
"Oh no?" Michiru replied, leaving her eyes closed.
"Why would I think such a thing? I mean, to be honest, I wish I could be more like you."
"You might want to rethink that," Michiru said with a smile, finally opening her eyes. "After all, first impressions are not the best, but sometimes, just sometimes, they are right." Kasumi blinked once more, not understanding what Michiru was getting at. Seeing this, Michiru stood up. "Come, walk with me."
Kasumi quickly finished her drink and joined Michiru. Michiru lead the way onto the street and walked along quietly for several minutes with Kasumi following closely.
"What did you mean?" Kasumi finally asked.
Michiru took a moment to respond, waiting till they were relatively alone on the street. "I don't tell many people this. I suppose many people find it disturbing and I don't like to throw it in people's faces. It is a private matter and should remain that way. However, the fact is, you were right when you thought Haruka and I-"
"No!" Kasumi replied in shock.
"Yes," Michiru insisted gently. "By your thinking I should be less a woman. After all, I do not even have the excuse of being half male."
Kasumi slipped into deep thought as the two continued down the road. "I... I don't know..."
Michiru smiled once again. "Don't worry about it. You're not the only one who struggled with these ideas. I did not just simply jump into this, and I'm sure Haruka did not either. In fact, I believe it is the very same uncertainty you are feeling, magnified somewhat, that triggered her poor choice in actions. Just consider it."
"I will," Kasumi responded.
"In that case, I have someplace I want to take you."
"Huh?" Kasumi asked nervously, backing off a step.
Michiru laughed, grabbed Kasumi by the arm and continued to lead her on. "Oh, don't be so nervous. I'm a one woman lady, and I meant I wanted to take you to a tailor I know."
"A tailor?"
"Yes, a good one, excellent actually, if a bit eccentric. He has this fascination with France. However, he's always up for a challenge, and I think making some proper cloths for you just might be it. Let's see if we can start doing away with some of those little adjustments you have to deal with, and then maybe the largest one won't seem so very large after all."
XXXXX
Usagi was thinking as she, Minako and Selene approached Dr. Tofu's office. Minako was also thinking, but on exactly what they were going to say, when an important problem came to mind. "Uh oh."
"What?" Usagi asked.
"Um..." Minako said as she came to a stopped and looked back at Selene. "Ah, we need to talk... in private."
"What?" Usagi repeat as she was pulled to the side and out of Selene's earshot.
"How are we going to explain that we know Selene has a curse?" Minako asked in a whisper.
"We'll just... oh... ah... um..."
"Exactly. We can't let on that we are who we are," Minako noted as she and Usagi both went into thought.
"Selene already knows... well, some of it anyway," Usagi said, causing both girls to look her way.
"Yeah, but she's a luna-cat. We can't just go telling Frost, especially if she's trouble."
"Then what are we going to do?" Usagi asked.
Selene watched as the two girls whispered to each other for about a minute until they finally broke apart and approached her. "Now what?" she asked.
"Um... we've been thinking," Usagi started.
"Yeah, we have some friends back in our old district..."
"Good friends..."
"Anyway, we were thinking they would be better suited to this."
Selene looked at the two girls in confusion. "What sort of friends?"
"Um... well... ah..." Usagi said as she fumbled for an explanation.
"Actually... um..." Minako took over. Ah, hell with it, she thought. "They are sort of Luna and Artemis' real owners, sort of like how Frost is really yours even though you live with Akane."
"Oh, so they are magic users then?"
"Sort of..." Usagi replied, giving an uncertain look to Minako.
"But, they didn't create them or anything, and Luna and Artemis aren't really their familiars. They just sort of help out. Right?" Minako asked, looking back at Usagi.
"Right," Usagi responded confidently then added. "We're really supposed to keep this a secret."
"I see," Selene replied, not too sure what to think.
"Yeah, good, then when we get back we'll get them to investigate for us. That okay?"
Selene thought for a second, If they really are some sort of magic users I bet they won't fall for Frost's tricks as easy. "Alright, if you think they'd be better..."
"Great!" both girls said together.
"Um... Selene?" Usagi continued.
"Yes?"
"Umm... You know... ah could you keep it a secret too? I mean, they'll be mad at us if they find out we've been talking about them..."
"And we really aren't supposed to tell anyone about Luna and Artemis either," Minako added quickly.
"I suppose..." Selene replied.
"And don't mention anything about our talk either. People would get suspicious," Minako continued to say, gaining an agreeing nod from the cat. "Great, thanks, you're a lifesaver. We should get going then. Good luck."
"Right, thanks," Selene called after them as the two girls headed off then frowned. That was an interesting piece of bullshit. Question is, just what are they hiding? And does 'friends' mean what it usually means when people talk sideways like that? I wonder what those two are hiding? Shaking her head, Selene continued on her way to check in with Frost.
XXXXX
"So, I guess one of us will have to stay here then," Minako said as she looked back at the departing cat.
"I'll stay," Usagi offered.
"You? I was thinking of Mako. She's been here longer."
"Yeah, but she's also not very friendly with Frost," Usagi replied. "I think I'd do better."
"I guess," Minako conceded. "What if something goes wrong?"
"It won't," Usagi replied dismissively then smiled. "Besides, Sailor Moon is more than capable of taking care of herself."
XXXXX
Ah, life isn't so bad after all, Frost thought to herself, laying down on her bed and reading a book. All her work was done for the moment giving her a moment of peace, but more importantly, she had Mousse firmly under her proverbial thumb. You should feel lucky, Mousse. I was originally intending just to use that love pill without the magic lock. Oh, that would have been fun. Frost smiled at the thought, but it was just a thought. She'd give him his chance. Unlike him, she did have morals.
"Frost, dear," Kin called out from the other room. "Akane's here and she wants to know if you've seen her cat, the pink one?"
Frost frowned and put down her book. So much for that, she thought as she got up. "Hold on a minute." Frost stepped out into the waiting room to see Tofu's mother with Akane, the latter of which looked both nervous and worried. "Did you say a pink cat?" Frost asked as Kin left the two girls alone.
"Yes? Have you seen her?" Akane asked with hope.
"Well, yes, unless there are other pink cats around this district."
"No, she's very rare," Akane replied. "Where was she?"
"Actually, she was right here," Frost replied as she walked up. "But, there really is something you should know."
"What? Nothing happened to her?" Akane asked with even more worry.
Frost shook her head. "Nono, nothing serious anyway. The thing I was getting at was that she's actually mine."
"What?" Akane exclaimed in surprise then suddenly grew angry. "What kind of stupid joke is this? Are you angry because I'm supposed to marry Tofu?"
Frost looked back at Akane, un-amused and quite unprepared for that particular issue. "NO! Like I give a damn! If you want to marry him, be my guest. Besides, you're not marrying him, you're just a bridal candidate; third I may add."
Akane huffed, and turned to the side to look away from the Magus. "Yeah right."
"Accept it. She always has been mine."
"You weren't even here when I got her."
"Of course I wasn't. I sent her ahead of me. She is my familiar after all. That's one of the things familiars are for."
"What?" Akane exclaimed once again, this time in frustration and confusion. "What is that supposed to mean?"
"Oh, come on now. Haven't you noticed she's rather intelligent for a cat?"
"Well..."
"And I bet she even knew Shampoo too." Akane fell into thought, remembering way back to the time Shampoo was sleeping in her room and C-chan had indeed been acting strange. "There now," Frost said confidently, "It is just the truth of things. The last couple of days I was just fixing her up. Took her a while to remember me after that blow you gave her. Beyond that, she also had some sight problems. I decided to fix both of those."
"Hmh," Akane said as she turned back to Frost, not happy.
About that moment, the pink cat all the discussion was about entered. "Ah, there she is, ask her yourself," Frost motioned, causing Akane to spin around and happily scoop up Selene.
"C-chan, you're alright. I was... Hey, what's this?" Akane asked as she noticed the mark on Selene's head.
"I still haven't gotten a straight answer to that question," Selene responded without thinking, putting Akane into a state of shock.
"You... you can talk?" Akane exclaimed after a moment. "She can talk?" Akane repeated, this time to Frost.
"Yes, she can talk. That's one of the improvements I made... although, it was more a fortunate accident," Frost added with a frown. "Selene, why don't you introduce yourself properly?"
"Selene?" Akane asked in confusion.
"That's my name," Selene responded with a modestly dejected look.
"You never talked before," Akane said while she examined the cat. "And, she never had the mark on her head either," Akane noted in an accusing manner towards the Magus.
"Both side effects of the improvements I made to the familiar bond," Frost explained easily. "I didn't expect them, I must admit, but they're harmless enough."
"I... I still can't believe you can talk," Akane said, before asking, "Hey, is she telling the truth? Are you really her familiar... um, whatever that is?"
Selene paused a moment, trying to think of some way to clue Akane in, but every attempt was blocked. Giving up she responded, "Yes."
"But... how?"
"How's not all that important," Frost said dismissively.
"Yeah, right," Selene mumbled sarcastically as she eyed Frost, but Akane missed it.
"I suppose this means you'll be keeping her then," Akane said with a frown.
Frost thought for a moment then respond, "I guess I can."
"What do you mean you guess?"
"Well, I mean, she's never been one to be pleasant company. If you want her to stay with you, that is fine by me," Frost replied, surprising both Akane and Selene.
"You mean I can keep her?" Akane asked to confirm.
"I suppose it is up to her," Frost answered, giving Selene a look. "Well?"
Selene shook herself out of her daze and nodded quickly. "S...sure."
"Good. Of course, I'll need her now and then, you understand?"
"I understand," Akane said.
"Good," Frost repeated, stretched and turned to return to her room. "Now, if you'll excuse me."
"Hold on a minute," Selene called out suddenly. "Excuse me, Akane, but I'll be with you in a bit. I have to talk to Frost about something."
"Okay," Akane responded, not knowing what else to say.
Selene jumped down to the floor and ran over to the magus then whispered. "What are you up to now?"
"Nothing," Frost answered. "I never intended to take you away from Akane. I mean there is no need to unduly upset her." Frost kneeled down then said even quieter, "but if I find out you're taking liberties with your position, I'll tell her just who you are in reality." Selene frowned angrily, but kept her peace. Frost stood up once more and shrugged. "Like I said before, I'm not a monster. You cooperate and things will go smoothly. Besides, the last few days were annoying enough having you around all the time. Let her deal with you."
Selene pouted, but took the small reward, thinking, Yeah, like being with you was any less annoying.
Frost left the conversation there, returning to her room, leaving Selene with Akane. Selene turned back to her legal owner and walked over. "I guess it is okay then," she said as she instinctively jumped back into Akane's arms.
"I still can't believe... wait till I tell everybody!"
"No!" Selene said sharply, surprising Akane. Selene calmed and explained, "You can't. I mean if you start telling people you have a talking cat, they'll think you've gone a bit crazy. And, what would they do to me if they found out you are telling the truth."
"Oh, I guess you're right. Too bad," Akane said with a sigh then hugged Selene close. "I'd just love to tell that stupid Ranma off. Him and his stupid dog..."
XXXXX
"Bonjour Michelle! It's has been so long!"
"It's only been a week Pierre," Michiru replied to the tailor as she entered his shop with Kasumi in tow. "You miss me or something?"
"Ah, but your radiant glow fills my life with such joy," Pierre replied, and looked over at Kasumi. "Qu'est-ce que c'est que ceci? A new companion?"
"Haruka is busy with other things. This is Kasumi Tendo, Pierre. She's in need of your particular talent."
"Vraiment," Pierre replied, as he looked Kasumi over. "Needs work, but it is nothing overly challenging."
Kasumi looked over at Michiru, mildly embarrassed. Michiru smiled and continued. "Oh, you might want to hold back on that conclusion for a moment. You see Kasumi here doesn't have Haruka's tastes in clothing by choice. It's more an issue of practicality."
"Does Mademoiselle have some sort of... skin condition?" Pierre asked Kasumi, but Michiru answered.
"Not exactly. It's best we demonstrate. Could you get us some hot and cold water?"
"But of course, but why?"
"You'll see."
Shrugging, Pierre headed into the back to fetch the desired liquids, leaving Kasumi to look at Michiru in uncertainty. "Is it really okay to show him?"
"Oh, Pierre is fine. Don't worry about it."
Kasumi looked back the way the tailor went. "He looks Japanese to me."
"He is. I don't think he even knows French that well, but that's him. He's into the whole French attitude and appeal. That's why he calls me Michelle."
Kasumi nodded as the tailor returned carrying two cups of water. "Here you are, but I still don't see-"
"Watch," Michiru said, and taking the cold water, poured it over Kasumi's head.
"Mon Dieu!" Pierre exclaimed in shock and nearly fell over as Kasumi changed forms.
"As you can see, she has a slight problem," Michiru noted, pouring the hot water on Kasumi.
"I can see," Pierre noted as he regained his balance and began inspecting Kasumi more closely. "Need lots of measurements... some elastic... have to get Fifi in lingerie..." Pierre mumbled as he continued with the examination, his accent slipping as he did so. Finally he stood up straight and nodded. "It will be difficult, but not even this is beyond Pierre's abilities."
"Now, she needs it to look good in both forms remember," Michiru noted
"But of course. Nothing less will be allowed."
"I don't know if I can afford-" Kasumi began to say, but Pierre cut in.
"Nonsense. I consider it my duty to provide the best attire to anyone who is in need. Just remember Pierre for all your future clothing needs."
"I will," Kasumi replied.
"So, Madame, just what were you looking for? Something elegant? Casual?"
"Well, if you really think you can make something nice..."
"Madame, if I cannot make you something to fit your needs in style I will close my shop. Fear not, it shall be done."
"Come on, we'll discuss it while you start planning and taking those measurements," Michiru suggested, and the threesome headed into the back of the store.
XXXXX
An hour or so later Kasumi and Michiru left Pierre's shop, both looking quite pleased. "I do hope he doesn't put himself out too much," Kasumi said as she looked back.
"He lives for it. And don't worry; if he says he can do it, he can do it. By the end of the week I think you'll be pleasantly surprised."
"It would be nice to get some proper clothing," Kasumi noted as she looked down at herself. "It's been so long since I even considered it. I was beginning to wonder if I'd ever be able to dress like a woman again."
Michiru smiled at her companion and nodded. "Feeling just a little better?"
Kasumi looked up at Michiru then smiled. "Actually, I think I do. Thank you."
"My pleasure," Michiru replied and turned to look ahead of herself. "I guess Haruka should be done by now. I really should-"
"Actually, Michiru..."
"Hmh?" Michiru asked curiously.
"Do you know any good place... um, to spend an evening?"
"Evening? What sort of evening?"
Kasumi shrugged. "Someplace for dinner or something like that."
"Ah," Michiru said as she thought then nodded. "I know a few good places..."
XXXXX
The evening sun was beginning to set, but the sight of it was no comfort to one man. He cast it only a passing glance through the window then returned to cleaning his establishment. It was a small place, eight tables, and a dozen seats around the central grill. It was nice to look at, but lonely.
The man sighed as he wiped the grill for the third time. The work used to bring him some measure of joy, but no longer. It was simply work. He shook his head then wiped his forehead to remove a few beads of sweat. He looked down at the grill, and began a fourth cleaning just to pass the time. He was half way through when the bell for the door sounded.
"We're-" he began to say, but stopped cold when he saw the young lady at the door. "Ukyo?" She did not respond, instead heading directly for the door to the household attached to the restaurant. "Ukyo!" the man called out as he chased after her.
"I need something," Ukyo responded as she began searching through a desk.
"Where have you been? I've been worried sick!"
"I've been doing things," Ukyo answered, turning to a closest.
"What things? You just up and leave, I haven't seen you in months... What are you looking for?"
"That map of Grandpa's," Ukyo answered, finishing with the closest and moving into a bedroom.
"The one to the family shrine? What do you want that for?" Ukyo did not answer forcing the man to ask, "Are you going to talk to me?"
Ukyo stopped her searching long enough to look up at the man. "Look, Father, I don't really see why I should. All you ever talk about is Kasumi, and I am way past tired of that."
"What does Kasumi have to do with this?"
"Everything!" Ukyo yelled, and returned to her search. "Where's that stupid map?"
"It's in my bedroom closet," her father replied without thought. Ukyo nodded and headed over to the bedroom closet. "Ukyo, just what is going on?"
Ukyo shouted in triumph as she picked up the map then looked back at her father. "What's happening is I'm finally going to beat Kasumi."
"Beat Kasumi? Is that what this is all about?"
"Yes, that's exactly what it's about."
"Ukyo, when are you going to give up on that dumb feud you're having with her? She hasn't done anything to you."
"Hmph." Ukyo turned and headed for the door, leaving her father to frown at her back, until a thought hit him.
"That's why you want that map. You can't be serious. You can't use those techniques."
"And just why not, because everyone is afraid of them?"
"Precisely."
"Hah. I'm perfectly capable of handling myself. You know damned well I'm ten times the fighter you ever were, and probably far better than grandpa ever was too. You may be afraid of them, I'm not."
"Foolish girl!" he said angrily as he blocked her path. "You have no idea what you are trying to unleash."
"Why don't you just admit it? You're so darn proud of your all so perfect Kasumi that you can't stand the idea that your own daughter may be better than her. You can't admit you're wrong."
"That's not it at all."
"No, that's exactly it. Now, out of my way!" Ukyo warned. Her father held his ground for an instant, but finally moved aside. Ukyo gave him one last glare then left.
Ukyo, you don't have the faintest idea what you are doing, her father thought with a shake of his head. I have to warn Kasumi.
XXXXX
Some hours later, Nerima was gripped by the night, and most of its citizens were sleeping. Frost was not one of them. She was peering into a small jewel, which presented her with an image from the bedroom of Kasumi and Shampoo. It was not a habit for Frost to sneak peeks into bedrooms, but she had set up sensors that gave warning when Kasumi was together with Shampoo as a man. She was determined to prevent Kasumi from taking advantage of Shampoo's innocence, and if that took a bit of peeping then so be it.
Frost frowned as she watched the image. The two had been asleep for some hours, and as best as she could discern nothing physical had happened. Still, up to this night Kasumi had made it a point to maintain her female form at night. What had prompted this switch Frost did not know. What are you up to Kasumi Tendo? Frost thought and frowned as she noticed the broad smile on Shampoo's face. It is so unfair. She should have had the choice, but no. Although... I suppose this is better than it could have been.
Frost signed and covered the jewel with her hand, dowsing the image. She then turned her mind to Mousse, and what to do with her new familiar. Her thoughts did not last long before a ghost-like voice spoke to her. "What?" Frost asked aloud at hearing the muffled noise then quickly got up from her bed and headed to the door. She opened it to be greeted with a clear view of a young woman's ass end hanging in the air. "What the?..."
"Mmmrnrmrm!" The girl mumbled through a gag as Frost look over at her.
The girl was bound to the roof by various magical ropes and chains, and left effectively helpless. Thanks to her precarious position her mini skirt was hanging over her belly instead of her bottom in a rather embarrassing display. However Frost was more interested in the girl's general attire: a white fuku decorated with blue bows and jewelry. "A Sailor Senshi!" Frost exclaimed as she realized just who she had caught in her trap.
The magus quickly moved around the bound Senshi and removed the gag. "DAH!" Sailor Moon exclaimed at finally having her mouth free. "Could you let me loose please?"
"You're... you're Sailor Moon!" Frost exclaimed.
"Yes, that's me. Now, could you let me down?"
Frost smiled happily then frowned suddenly. "Wait a minute. What kind of a joke is this! No way I could catch a Sailor Senshi in these pitiful traps. Only a simpleton would be so easily caught."
"I'm not a simpleton!" Sailor Moon complained, but grew nervous when electricity sparked in Frost's hand.
"Alright imposter! Just who are you?"
"I'm Sailor Moon, honest!"
"Yeah right. We'll just see about that." Frost clicked her fingers and pointed to her open door. In response the chains and ropes seemed to come alive and carried the bound Sailor Moon inside.
"Hey! What's going on?" Sailor Moon exclaimed as she was moved inside followed by Frost.
"I'm just going to run a few little tests, and we'll just see who's telling the truth."
"I am!"
"You better hope you are," Frost replied as she closed the door and moved over to a bookshelf. "Because if you aren't... well, I'll think of something unpleasant to do with you."
"Huh?" Sailor Moon said with worry. I'm completely helpless! What is she going to do? Oh, I shouldn't have come alone! she thought in a panic.
Fortunately for Sailor Moon's state of mind, Frost began weaving a quick spell and got the truth. "I can see your energy field. You really are Sailor Moon."
"Of course I am! I told you that!"
"Okay, okay, I believe you," Frost replied, waved her hands, the ropes holding Sailor Moon released, and she fell uncontrolled to the floor with a loud 'OUCH!' "Sorry about that."
Sailor Moon rubbed her sore butt for a moment before getting up and asking, "You weren't really going to do anything, were you?"
"Ah... no, of course not. I was just trying to make you nervous," Frost answered with an anxious laugh. "Seriously though, how did you get caught? Everything I've heard about you Senshi says you're powerful. Those are basic traps."
This time it was Sailor Moon's turn to laugh nervously. "Well... umm... you see... it's like this... umm..."
Frost frowned and shook her head. "I should never have believed those exaggerated stories."
Sailor Moon looked down at the floor. "Sorry to disappoint you. I honestly did not even know you knew about us."
"Know about you?" Frost repeated in shock. "You're about the only good thing in this stupid country. But... what are you doing here?"
"Oh... ah, I almost forgot. I've come to talk about Selene."
"Selene?" Frost repeated in surprise. "How... What do you want to know about her?"
"Well... she's a... How much do you know about us?"
"The Sailor Senshi? Quite a bit actually. Why?"
"Do you know about, our... um... cats?"
"Cats?" Frost repeated in confusion then shook her head.
"Oh... I guess not. They barely get any publicity. Anyway, you see we have two special cats called Luna and Artemis. They help us, and like Selene they can talk."
Frost went wide-eyed as she realized what Sailor Moon was driving at. "You mean... Selene is just like one of your cats? That's... very strange."
"Yes... she is. Obviously we were wondering about that, and we've also found out she has a curse."
"A curse?" Frost repeated with a sudden nervousness.
"Yes, a Jusenkyo curse."
Frost turned away from the Sailor Moon. Damn, I never expected this. They have magical abilities and must have detected it. Blast, she thought as she struggled to come up with a quick cover.
"Frost?"
Frost turned around, her nervousness plain to the Senshi. "It's true."
"So you know? What happened?"
Frost bit her lower lip before answering. "Sailor Moon, try to understand. Selene... well, she's normally a real pest. She's been nothing but trouble for years."
Sailor Moon looked at Frost in shock. "So, you are responsible."
"I didn't curse her," Frost quickly retorted. "I just... I'm just keeping her under my supervision."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Well... look, you wouldn't let a criminal run loose, now would you?"
"Um... no."
"What about a demon?"
"Of course not, but-"
"This is just the same. She'd be causing nothing but trouble if I let her loose. She's... even tried to kill a few people," Frost argued.
"Oh come on."
"Honest. It's the truth. She has." Sailor Moon looked skeptical but at the same time she was not entirely disbelieving. "I mean, you wouldn't want me to let someone like that loose, would you?"
"Well... no," Sailor Moon replied.
"I didn't think so," Frost replied, picking up steam. "You don't need to worry about her. I mean, as soon as she's... better, I'll let her go. Besides, it's not like she didn't agree to this."
"She did?"
"Yes. Familiar spells are totally voluntary. I can't force it on someone. They have to be willing."
"Oh, I guess if she agreed..."
"Yeah. See, there is nothing to worry about," Frost assured her.
"But... why didn't you tell anybody then?" Sailor Moon asked.
"Because they wouldn't understand, and she's really good at conning people into thinking she's innocent. I figured this was the best way." Frost leaned over and added in a whisper. "Just look at the way she's been fooling Akane."
"I guess," Sailor Moon conceded.
"Of course. I knew you'd understand."
"Um... Sure, of course I do," Sailor Moon concluded.
"Great. Now, about what you were talking about before, Selene being just like this... Luna did you say?"
End Chapter 27
Well, that concludes things for this chapter. Special thanks as always go to T. H. Tiger for creative assistance in writing this thing, and all my other pre-readers. Later.