AN: And the latest chapter has been posted. Got delayed a bit because of a computer crash which took this chapter and a chapter and half from my other story. A few days before the regular update too. Hope you like it.
Chapter 6 – Having lots and lots of friends on your side of a conflict is a good thing to have
"I don't think you understand, mom. Himura-san did a lot for me and I'm not about to repay that debt by ignoring someone I hold in high regard." Ranma stubbornly stated.
"To me, they are practically family, despite their quirks Himura-san was disappointed with my decision, but she accepted it. Family is important to her too." Ranma continued, shifting his backpack.
"Very well, son. A debt is a debt and it will not be said that a Saotome doesn't pay his debts. It is good that you remembered that we are your family." Nodoka responded.
"Tell that to that panda-baka." Ranma grumbled with a frown.
"Son, I expect you to be on your best behaviour while we are guests at the Tendo dojo." Nodoka cautioned.
"As long as they behave as proper hosts, I will." Ranma assured.
"I just hope Akane will listen to you when you explain that she must make an effort to make amends too." Ranma restated.
"Of course." Nodoka replied as they entered the street where the dojo was located.
"We might have moved too fast by revealing our origin." Hans mused as he worked behind his laptop.
"Ranma agreed to keep the secret." Samus simply replied.
"That does not change the facts." Hans pointed out.
"Indeed. Which makes me wonder, why the change of heart about our secrets?" Andre softly rumbled.
"As former members of the Nova Cat clan, you should be able to respect a vision." Samus replied, before placing the documents she was reading on the table.
"Go on." Hans encouraged as he exchanged a look with Andre.
"Ranma plays a role in saving our planet from some unknown force. How great or small a role must be his choice. All we can do is learn what we can from him and ask for his help. Wild horse indeed." Samus chuckled as she looked out the window.
"I might be able to keep an permanent portal between worlds" Hans tentatively suggested.
"That might be best. Should things take a turn for the worst." Samus agreed, leaving unspoken that no harmful effects would tolerated.
"You think he will accept?" Andre asked.
"The offer or the story?" Samus returned with a smirk.
"Given his life, he will come to accept the story, eventually. It will take some time for him to adjust to what he now knows." Samus continued.
"Aff. He hides it, but that does not change the fact that he is shaken." Andre agreed as they moved to discuss other business.
"Captain Tanaka, could you explain what your department was doing about these gangs?" Commissioner Honto asked.
"As far as I know the only trouble these gangs caused were some minor disturbances. Each time an officer saw a large group hanging around, they would be warned about causing trouble. This has been relatively effective." Captain Tanaka responded.
"Disturbances? Is that what you call robberies, assaults and sexual assaults? And that is just the tip of the iceberg as the Americans like to say." Commissioner Honto growled.
"No one reported any assaults or other criminal activity to us, sir. I had no idea that these events happened. If the civilians don't report the crime, then my hands are tied." Captain Tanaka said, apologetic.
"Are these two of your officers?" Commissioner Honto asked as he produced two pictures.
"Yes." Captain Tanaka replied as he looked at the pictures.
"Watch this video. It was taken during a robbery of a store in your district. Please pay close attention to the window outside the store." Commissioner Honto evenly said and started the video.
On screen a robbery was in progress and showed several people, whom were similarly dressed, stealing money and liquor. Commissioner Honto paused the video and pointed to the section of the screen with the window. Looking closer one could see two police officers looking into the store with disinterest.
"The rest of the video shows how your officers and these gang member exchange greetings. Finally it shows how your officers dismiss the shopkeeper as he tries to persuades your officers that he was robbed." Commissioner Honto stated with a frown.
"I had no idea. That those two officers would be corrupt. You have my assurances that I will cooperate with internal affairs in this case to bring these two to justice." Captain Tanaka declared.
"It isn't just these two, Tanaka." Commissioner Honto replied with a sigh as he rubbed the side of his head.
"There is more?" Captain Tanaka asked nervously.
"Your entire department is suspended, pending this investigation. The evidence brought to me and internal affairs suggest that the entire department is involved and aware of the problems the gangs caused. The mayor is breathing down my neck after last nights news broadcast about this mess." Commissioner Honto answered with mild disgust.
"The entire department? News broadcast?" Captain Tanaka questioned, paling.
"She was telling the truth?" Captain Tanaka mused perplexed, interrupting Commissioner Honto's response.
"She?" Commissioner Honto barked, startling Tanaka.
"A representative of a group called Guards of Nerima. We tried to arrest her for being part of a criminal organisation " Captain Tanaka answered with a sinking feeling.
"Her name was Aran-Himura-san. She filled an official protest through the Nerima ward council about your kidnapping attempt. That woman happens to be the CEO of Stardust Industries. A company that has grown into one of the biggest and most influential companies within a year. Revolutionary technology comes from that company, technology that has had a profound effect on the medical and computer industry. That woman is rubbing elbows with several ward counsels throughout Tokyo, including the mayor. She's on a first name basis with the minister of Health. That is who you tried to arrest." Commissioner Honto shouted directly into the face of Tanaka.
"She couldn't have set up a company that successful in that amount of time without some illegal backing." Captain Tanaka stated hopefully.
"Apparently she had a small fortune in gems with which she started her business. After she started her own clan, performing the proper traditional rituals, she was approached by the Himura clan. I'm talking about the clan that is descendant of the infamous Hitokiri Battoussai." Commissioner Honto explained condescendingly.
"Don't tell me that this gayjin is a descendant of a national treasure." Captain Tanaka fearfully asked, slightly shaking as he considered the implications.
"DNA shows she is part of that clan. Surprised her as much as it did them. A bigger surprise is that Aran-Himura is ranked a grandmistress of their secret martial arts school. Details are withheld, but she was officially added to the scrolls with that rank. The Himura clan introduced her to several people and things progressed from there." Commissioner Honto explained, adding a small wave indicating how he felt about that.
"A complained about police harassment was also filled by her lawyer. A Saotome Ranma is being singled out by the police and named as responsible for several violent incidents, even when he isn't present at the scene. According to the lawyer at least." Commissioner Honto said as he moved to the next item on the agenda.
"Saotome? He is known as a serious troublemaker. No regard for property or the law. He usually is involved in violent and destructive fights." Captain Tanaka explained.
"Involved does not mean responsible." Commissioner Honto reminded Tanaka.
"I'll talk to my men about the evidence they have." Captain Tanaka sighed dejected.
"Good, I'll expect a full report in tomorrow. Next on this list." Commissioner Honto replied as he picked up another document.
"Well, well. Look who's back from his little vacation. Did you have fun, Saotome?" Nabiki drawled.
"Hi Nabs. Good to see you too." Ranma evenly returned as he unpacked some of his clothes.
"Nabs? Oh, that's going to cost you, Saotome." Nabiki smirked.
"Try it and I'm filling a complained to the police. Not to mention that I'll be out of here quicker that you can think." Ranma shrugged.
"What is that supposed to mean, Saotome." Nabiki asked with narrowed eyes.
"You're supposed to be the smart one, figure it out." Ranma smirked and closed his door, shutting her out.
"Looks like he's grown a backbone. About time." Nabiki snorted as she walked to her room.
"Welcome to the Cat café. Take a seat, our waitress will join you shortly." Cologne shouted out the kitchen as another visitor entered.
"Late customer, great grandmother." Shampoo commented as she walked out of the kitchen.
"Nihao, what order?" Shampoo bubbled.
"A talk with your elder, child. If she is available, then a small pot of tea for two." Samus stated formally.
"I ask." Shampoo blinked and rushed back to the kitchen.
"Greetings. I am matriarch Khu Lon. What is it you wished to speak to me about?" Cologne asked, a few minutes later.
"Your people and your claim to a young boy named Saotome Ranma." Samus answered simply.
"More competitions?" Cologne inquired with a snort.
"Neg. He is my student and I wish to learn more about the different claims upon his honor." Samus returned firmly.
"Student? I suppose I could spare a few minutes to exchange information." Cologne said intriged and signalled Shampoo to bring the tea.
"If you do not wish to speak of something, then you should say so. Every answer must be truth and clear. No hidden innuendo." Samus explained the rules of the discussion.
"Agreed." Cologne replied as she poured the tea.
The walk back from the first day of school after his return was tense for Ranma as Akane kept glaring at him as he walked on top of the fence. The welcome from the other Tendo's was also cold. Soun had ignored him, while letting him know he was being ignored. Kasumi had served smaller helpings again at diner. Nabiki treated him the same as always.
Genma was less vocal then usual about the return of his son. Aldo a lucky blow during the welcome back spar that prevents him from opening his mouth to wide has helped. Only his mother seemed happy to his presence.
Ranma for the most part is politely ignored everyone, except his mother. He was minding his manners and on occasion tries to exchange pleasantries, only to receive a cold shoulder.
Entering the compound, Ranma moved to the kitchen to get a small pot of tea and two cups. Taking these to his room he placed the set on the floor and unpacked his schoolbag. Setting everything ready to work on his homework, Ranma walked to Akane's room and politely asked is she wanted to join him to work on their assignments. Receiving a rude answer, Ranma shrugged and returned to his room with the comment that he had tried to his mother.
"You could have insisted." Nodoka mildly stated.
"No means no. If I do not respect her wishes, then why should she respect mine?" Ranma asked as he poured himself some tea.
"Perhaps. Still it is good to see you make an effort." Nodoka stated.
"I have, she has not." Ranma returned evenly.
"Care to join me for some tea as I work on my homework, mom?" Ranma asked.
"No, son. I have to help Kasumi with some work." Nodoka politely declined.
Nodding his consent, Ranma sighed and went to work. Having learned how to study from Hans, Ranma quickly finished the easier assignments. Suppressing a shudder, Ranma took a deep breath and psyched himself up for the math problems. A knock on the door sounded, just as he picked up his pen.
"Ranma? A visitor." Kasumi called out through the door.
"I'm decent." Ranma returned with a smile at not having to face the math just yet.
"Opinions differ on that." Hayawaki Miyuki snorted in good humor.
"Hayawaki-san, always a pleasure. Would you like some tea?" Ranma greeted with a smile.
"That would be nice. This is my granddaughter Mizuki." Miyuki introduced.
Exchanging greeting, Ranma quickly fetched some more hot tea and an extra cup.
"To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?" Ranma asked as his guest drank some tea.
"Checking up on you. Doing some investigating." Miyuki replied cryptically.
"Hopefully not any matchmaking?" Ranma teased with a smirk.
"I hope not." Mizuki commented dryly, returning the smirk.
"Relax. I know about your crush, Mizuki. I also remember what you told me, Ranma." Miyuki assured the two with a chuckle.
The group exchanged some gossip and stories as they drank tea. Noting the time, Miyuki decided it was time to leave. Gathering the cups and tea pot, Ranma walked with them.
"Who is this? Another one of your fiancées? Don't you have enough, pervert?" Akane growled as the group got downstairs.
"Excuse me?" Mizuki asked, blinking her eyes.
"I don't know what that pervert has told you, but you better watch him and his wondering hands when he's near." Akane warned, glaring at Ranma.
"This is Tendo Akane. She was chosen to fulfil the Tendo-Saotome agreement." Ranma introduced politely.
"What's you name? And what was promised to you?" Akane rudely asked.
"Hayawaki Miyuki and this is my granddaughter Mizuki. I must say that the hospitality and manners of the Tendo clan leave something to be desired." Miyuki stated with a glare at Soun.
"Ah, Hayawaki-san. Please forgive my daughter, it has been a trying time for her lately." Soun asked, swallowing nervously.
"I have heard of the antics of your daughter." Miyuki evenly returned as she turned away.
As Ranma returned with a fresh pot of tea, after seeing the Hayawaki's out, he was stopped by Soun.
"How do you know the Hayawaki's and why were they here?" Soun questioned.
"They are regular visitors to the Himura household. Hayawaki-san wanted to see how I was doing." Ranma curtly replied.
"What lies did you tell them about Akane?" Soun asked with narrowed eyes.
"I can't lie to save my life." Ranma returned evenly and walked to his room to return to his homework.
"Subtle dad, subtle." Nabiki smirked from her place in front of the tv.
Breakfast the next day was odd. Instead of sparring with her father, Ranma had gotten up early and was cleaning her room. Which amounted to cleaning out the dojo as that was where her futon was. Humming the tune from Snowwhite, Ranma closed her fathers mouth and dusted his gi and head. Sputtering indignantly, Genma attacked.
Soun looked puzzled as he tried to figure out a move for a shogi game with a pen pal. Looking up, he noted his good friend Genma flying through the garden. Yelling obscenities, Genma charged back to the dojo. Shrugging, Soun returned to his problem and raised an eyebrow as he noted Genma sailing by again through the air from the corner of his eye.
Looking up, he noted the second charge of Genma into the dojo. Listening the brief sounds of a scuffle, he watch as Genma exited the dojo for a third time under a force not his own. The sixth time landed Genma in the pond and a muddy, wet panda stubbornly continued to charge into the dojo. A slightly longer scuffle went on that turn. And as Genma exited the dojo yet again, Soun's eyes bugged out at the sight of Genma.
Landing on his back paws, Genma angry growled his frustration of not being able to persuade his unruly child to spar properly. Genma did not notice that he was neither muddy or wet. He did notice Soun's expression as Soun cleared his throat. Following the motion to his body, Genma looked down and joined Soun with a bugged eyed look. His fur look like it had been groomed and styled. His nails had received a manicure. Looking into a mirror, Soun was holding up his eye began to twitch. Reaching up slowly, Genma removed the ribbon and collar from his neck and head.
Handing the items to Soun, Genma turned and charged growling at his giggling child clutching a camera. Soun took a moment to look at the collar and noted the tag, as he ignored Genma sailing passed. "My name is Mr Panda, any damages or debt can be paid for by my entertainment show. Please contact my manager Tendo Soun at the Tendo dojo for details and outstanding bills." Soun read out loud and adopted a thinking pose. Which was interrupted by Genma crashing into him.
This scene was followed by Ranma making his own breakfast in the garden. A small fire was going and Ranma was diligently mixing the ingredients for his meal.
"Mind telling us what you're doing?" Nabiki drawled out.
"Making breakfast." Ranma replied.
"What, my sister cooking not good enough for you, pervert?" Akane demanded.
"Your sister has made it quite clear that I am not welcome to her table or food." Ranma replied as she continued to stir.
"Lets not start the day with bickering. My son, what are you making for breakfast." Nodoka asked as she signalled Akane to stay quiet.
"Pancakes, I developed a taste for them during my stay at Himura-san's home." Ranma answered.
"Akane did ask a valid question. Why do you refuse to eat the food made by my eldest daughter. After all she does have to make much larger portions to feed your appetite." Soun inquired.
"Which have been decreasing for some time now." Ranma countered as she added the mix to the pan.
"Decreased, but not ceased." Nodoka stated, encouraging Ranma to explain her actions.
"As large as my portions are, fathers portions are even bigger. Yet his share has not diminished. So one must ask why the portions are lessened. Only thing that comes to my mind are the arguments between Tendo-san and myself. For each argument less food was given." Ranma explained.
"Regardless of the fact that I was to blame or not for this argument, which showed me that I was not welcome at Tendo-san's table. Lunch was prepared by Akane more often then not. I need not tell you that the impression that Tendo-san's food was being denied to me has been growing stronger with each passing lunch." Ranma concluded and flipped the pancake.
"I think Akane just wanted to do something for you by making lunch. Why do you dismiss such a kind gesture as some form of personal affront?" Nodoka asked, forestalling any response from Akane.
"Have you ever tried to eat something she made, mother? Has she ever sampled what she makes? Sometimes I can not help but wonder if she uses a cookbook or a book for summoning creatures." Ranma stated as she continued to work on increasing her supply of pancakes.
"And I wonder when you learned to speak like that, Soatome." Nabiki interjected.
"Lets just say I was motivated to improve my speech after it was explained to me that words can be powerful weapons." Ranma answered.
"Aaahh, is the little boy finally growing up." Nabiki teased.
"Considering the amount of drool you had when you 'accidentally' walked in on me in the bathroom, I would say that you find me something else then a 'little' boy." Ranma smirked back.
"What did you do to my sister, you pervert?" Akane yelled.
"I gave a free show. Really must remember to charge admission." Ranma deadpanned, leaving Akane sputtering.
"Good to see you being manly, my son." Nodoka proudly stated.
"Found a backbone and determined to keep it. Perhaps a bet to how long that last?" Nabiki said as she finished her meal and got up for school.
"Damn it, baka. You're going to make us be late again. Come on." Akane shouted as she moved to the front door, giving her unfinished meal a look.
"Go ahead, I'm finishing breakfast." Ranma answered with a wave as she started eating.
"Really son, it is appropriate that you walk your fiancée to school. We don't want you to be late." Nodoka admonished.
"I can get there with time to spare roof hopping. Besides I think Tendo-san might need some time alone to cool off." Ranma replied as she continued to eat relaxed.
"Still can't believe you blame me for something Sayuri did." Ranma grumbled as he walked the fence.
"Because it is your fault, baka. You caused the break up and made Sayuri cry. She hasn't stopped crying since Hiroshi said those lies." Akane shot back heatedly.
"Funny, the way I recall it Sayuri tried to choose whom Hiroshi's friends are for him. Sayuri gave an ultimatum, her or his friends and Hiroshi chose his friends. And now you pretend like it is his fault that Sayuri made one of the biggest mistakes one can make in a relationship?" Ranma stated indignantly.
"She's better off without that pervert." Akane sniffed.
"Then why complain?" Ranma said, rolling his eyes.
"He made Sayuri cry." Akane growled in a d'oh tone of voice.
"And she broke his heart." Ranma returned evenly as they entered the dojo.
Huffing, Akane disappeared into the house as Ranma made his way to the back garden. Stretching a bit, Ranma flowed into a kata as he prepared his usual workout.
"Ranma, you have visitors." Kasumi called out.
"Uncle Ranma." The voices shouted.
"He kids, how are you two." Ranma asked as he hugged them.
"Fine, uncle Ranma." The children chorded.
"Hans, always a pleasure." Ranma politely greeted.
"Aff. I wish this was a social visit for me, but I came to ask if you would mind looking after the kittens. Something came up and the others are unavailable." Hans returned.
"Sure, I'm happy to watch them for a short time." Ranma enthusiastically responded.
"My thanks." Hans said and told the children to behave.
"Can we practice, uncle Ranma?" Kitsune asked.
"Yeah, can we practice?" Natasha seconded.
"Of course. But first you need to warm-up." Ranma gently corrected.
Helping the children stretch and loosen their muscles, Ranma showed a kata and told the kids to follow his moves. Continuing the lesson Ranma had them sparring each other, switching defence and offence between them. Ranma decided to end the lesson by having them attack him to develop team tactics.
"Picking on kids now, pervert? And I didn't think you could sink any lower." Akane said with a frown from the back door.
"If you have any complaints about how I teach Martial Arts, please hold them until the lesson is over." Ranma politely responded as he deflected a twin attack from the kids.
"Teaching? You? Don't make me laugh. Now stop picking on these children or I'll show you why I'm the best martial artist in Nerima." Akane threatened.
"Best Martial Artist? Is that not mother?" Kitsune asked as he took a short break.
"Aff, uncle Ranma comes close, but mother is the best." Natasha agreed.
"We only had one match." Ranma grumbled good naturedly.
"She still beat you." Natasha smiled in a singsong voice.
"Details, details." Ranma returned with a smirk.
"How come you think you are better then uncle Ranma? I am capable of judging the skill level of an opponent and you are about my skill level." Kitsune questioned, ignoring the banter.
"I don't know what lies your instructor has been telling you, but I'm far better then a kid like you. And I can't allow a pervert like him to pick on a weak kid." Akane proclaimed proudly.
"Bad move Akane." Ranma stated with a frown.
"Shut up, pervert. Or I'll beat you again." Akane returned with a hiss.
"She beat you, uncle Ranma?" Natasha asked with an eyebrow raised.
"Tradition says as fiancées we cannot harm each other. I honor that tradition and she does not." Ranma evenly returned.
"For the slights against my honor and that of my sensei, I challenge you to a circle of Equals." Kitsune formally intoned.
"Get real, I'm not going to fight a kid like you." Akane laughed.
"Are you refusing to answer a Martial Artist challenge to the Tendo school of Anything Goes Martial Arts?" Ranma inquired in a icy tone.
"A challenge to the Anything Goes school? What's this about?" Happosai asked curious as he jumped over the wall.
"Master, you have returned safely to us." Soun wailed as he grovelled at Happosai's feet.
"Yes, yes, the convention was wonderful. Now about this challenge." Happosai said as he directed the discussion to his interest again.
"No worries, master. My ungrateful son will handle it with no problems at all." Genma boosted.
"One problem." Ranma interjected with a smirk.
"Akane was challenged, not me." Ranma continued at the raised eyebrow of Happosai.
"Then you'll have to take her place." Soun insisted.
"I am not going to get involved with a 'personal' challenge to Akane. She was challenge to answer for several slight against the honor of a Martial Artist." Ranma responded with finality.
"Personal challenge, you say? The boy is right, Akane must answer this challenge." Happosai agreed after taking a puff from his pipe.
"I'm not fighting this kid. I'm a real martial artist and I don't pick on the weak." Akane heatedly replied.
"A challenge is a challenge. As a 'real' Martial Artist you have to accept it. Or would you prefer to be denied the right to practice my school?" Happosai asked with a frown.
"I'll get ready." Akane grumbled as she went to her room to change.
"I'll be referee." Soun stated.
"No, Ranma will take the responsibility." Happosai countered firmly.
Ignoring the whining of his student, Happosai studied the two children as they moved to the dojo for the match. Noting the interaction between the children and Ranma, Happosai narrowed his eyes as he considered a few things. Shrugging, he decided to make a few inquiries to the events that happened during his convention.
"This is a duel of Restitution for the slights against the honor of Himura Kitsune. Should Himura Kitsune win, Tendo Akane will formally apologies for her insults. Should Tendo Akane win, Himura Kitsune will acknowledge her as a superior fighter. No maiming, crippling or killing blows will be allowed and outside interference will count as a disqualification. First to yield, step outside the circle or unconscious losses. Fighters, ready? Begin." Ranma intoned.
Sniffing arrogantly, Akane charged at Kitsune for a swift throw out the circle. Sliding to the side, Kitsune performed a sweep as Akane rushed past. Tumbling to the ground, Akane barely stopped herself at the edge of the circle. Blinking, Akane started to frown at the close call. Getting up, Akane murmered about a lucky shot and charged again. Her charge was met with an unexpected jump kick to the face. Dazed, Akane shook her head as she block several punches and kicks from Kitsune. Growling, Akane grabbed an arm and moved to march Kitsune over the circle line. Stumbling, as a foot hit the inside of her knee, Akane was forced to release Kitsune.
Acting before Akane could regain her balance, Kitsune let loose with a reverse kick, catching Akane in her stomage. Following the kick with a punch to the head, Kitsune pressed his advantage with several offensive combo's. Backflipping to avoid a counter, Kitsune took stock of his opponent. Battered, but not beaten, Akane started on the offensive again. Forcing Kitsune to give ground again as he dodged and blocked her attacks. Reversing a hold, Kitsune used the provided leverage to deliver an ax kick to the neck of Akane in an acrobatic display of flexibility. Recovering, Kitsune jumped on Akane's back as she tried to shake the effect of the hit. Performing a sleeper hold, Kitsune stubbornly ignored the elbow beating in his stomage and side.
Instructing Kitsune to release Akane, Ranma checked her pulse and loudly asked if she could continued. Not receiving an answer, Ranma declared Kitsune the victor. He also spend the next few minutes deflecting accusations from Soun and Genma.
"My compliments for a good match." Happosai interjected into a brief lull between insults.
"Just remember that not all opponents will make the mistake of underestimating you for you age." Happosai continued.
"I shall." Kitsune replied with a short bow, before rubbing his sore side.
"Uhm, master?" Soun hesitantly started.
"Your heir has some serious flaws, Soun. The two are of a similar level, yet he bested Akane without much difficulty. Can you tell me why?" Happosai sniffed.
"He cheated." Akane accused as she struggled to regain her bearings.
"A good clean fight. He used skill to win." Ranma countered with a frown.
"He cheated." Akane stubbornly repeated.
"No, he did not." Happosai stated, adding his glare to those of the children.
"And I believe you were just about set a date for a formal apology." Happosai continued, cutting of the response of Akane.
"Fine." Akane grounded out in frustration.
"Hello?" A voice called out.
"Mother! We are in the dojo." Natasha shouted.
"Greeting all. I trust the little ones behaved themselves." Samus greeted politely.
"Cheaters." Akane sniffed.
"Tendo-san is annoyed at her performance in the Circle of Equals. I believe she was just about to suggest a date for the formal apology owed." Ranma stated in explanation at the raised eyebrow of Samus.
"We shall contact you during the next week about an appropriate time." Kasumi smoothly interjected.
"I shall expect it." Samus responded formally with a frown.
"Greetings, I am Happosai. Grandmaster of the Anything Goes School of Martial Arts." Happosai greeted.
"I am Aran-Himura Samus. Grandmistress of the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu School." Samus returned.
"I suspected as much when I saw your pupil here." Happosai said, indicating Kitsune.
"It has been some time since I met a member of that school. I'm glad it still lives on." Happosai said with a fond smile.
"Indeed. If you would excuse me, I have to get these kittens back home." Samus replied with a short bow.
"Of course." Happosai said with an equal bow in return.
"Bye uncle Ranma." The children shouted as the departed.
"I still can't believe you are covering for that cheating weasel." Akane grumbled as they enjoyed some tea after dinner.
"In case you forgot, Happosai declared it a fair match." Ranma ground out, trying to control his temper.
"Shows I'm right. You perverts can't be trusted." Akane stated with a righteous nod.
"As I stated before, prove that I am a pervert." Ranma returned evenly with a frown.
"I don't have to prove it. I know you are a pervert." Akane shouted.
"Is it that difficult to discuss this as two civilised persons? Without shouting into the others ears." Ranma replied, barely holding onto his calm.
"Ha, as if a pervert like you is civilised." Akane snorted.
"I am not the one shouting. Or making baseless accusation." Ranma returned.
"Watch your mouth or I'll pound you." Akane yelled.
"Funny, you can't win the argument and resort to violence to hid it." Ramna spit back.
"Enough, both of you. Son, we walked about this and you agreed to make an effort to work this out." Nodoka interjected with a frown.
"I agreed to make an effort if she makes an effort. So far I have not seen even a hint of effort from her." Ranma returned, crossing his arms in front of his chest.
"I also recall that it was agreed that you would speak to Akane about her behaviour." Ranma continued.
"Very well. I had expected you would be manly enough to handle this on your own." Nodoka replied, gesturing Akane to follow her.
Frowning, Ranma waited a few moments before going up the stairs to the guest room. Making sure no one saw him, he slipped out the window and sneaked towards the dojo. Checking to make sure no one was around, Ranma opened the door slightly to hear what his mother was saying.
"I don't know why I'm the one getting a lecture. It's all that perverts fault." Akane grumbled.
"Hush, Akane. As I have stated, repeatedly before today, I will not tolerate any behaviour that drives my son away. I understand that my son has to apologies for his behaviour, but that will come in time." Nodoka admonished with a stern frown.
"Honestly child. I had hoped you would have learned this by know." Nodoka sighed.
"But auntie." Akane whined.
"But nothing. Your control over my son is marginal at best. You must learn subtlety, my dear. Sometimes that is the best method to handle things. While your disciplinary actions are to be applauded, they can't be used for every situation." Nodoka lectured.
"I don't believe this. When you said you would talk to Akane about her behaviour, I didn't think it would be about this." Ranma seethed as he entered the dojo.
"Son, we're doing what is best for you. I'm disappointed that you pried into a private conversation." Nodoka admonished with a frown.
"What's best for me?! How about asking me that." Ranma shouted.
"Don't you dare shout at your mother." Nodoka returned heatedly, fingering her katana.
"I did not shout at my mother." Ranma flatly stated after a moment of silence as he turned away.
"You just did." Akane accused as Ranma walked away.
"No, I did not." Ranma reiterated as he paused a moment at the exit of the dojo.
Disturbed, Nodoka absentmindedly returned to teaching Akane about controlling her future husband. An explosion interrupted the lesson, followed by a loud wail. Frowning, the pair noticed that the wail was begging someone to stay. Moving outside, they noticed Genma floating in the pond with a small fire burning on his stomage and smoke rising from his charred fur. Soun was grovelling at Ranma's feet, tears flowing from his face.
"Tendo-san, thank you for your hospitality. I shall darken your home no longer." Ranma politely reiterated with a short bow. He picked up his backpack and started moving to the front gate.
"Son? Where do you think you are going?" Nodoka sternly asked.
"Saotome-san. I am leaving for my home." Ranma answered politely.
"Baka, your place is here." Akane snorted.
"Son, now is not the time for a training trip or a visit to one of your girlsfriends to be manly. Return your things to your room and wait there for me. It is time we talked." Nodoka ordered.
"Apologies, Saotome-san. But I cannot do that. I bid you a good day." Ranma politely responded with a blank face and walked out of the Tendo home ignoring the summonings and shouts of those therein.
Samus set the cup of tea in front of Ranma. Allowing him to take his time to take a sip and gather his thoughts, she patiently took a small sip from her own cup.
"She expects me to be little more than a slave." Rama stated with a blank face.
"She doesn't care about my wishes, my dreams or my feelings. Just hers." Ranma continued.
"Complete strangers were more kind to me then her. You're more of a mother then she ever was." Ranma said with a tear running down.
"Practice helps, but such things depend on the heart." Samus softly interjected.
"Exactly" Ranma noted before falling in a dejected silence.
"What paths do you see?" Samus asked after refilling the cups.
"To walk on? I could try to enforce my dreams. Yielding to their dreams goes against every cell in my body. Running away has little appeal. Striking out on my own or with a new family is possible." Ranma mused aloud.
"I would like to have a family." Ranma finally decided.
"Then the question is where you should look for a family. Past, present or future." Samus advised.
"Great, a riddle." Ranma grumbled good heartedly as his spirit was lifted a bit from the banter.
"I wonder why you're not trying to persuad me to join your family." Ranma questioned.
"Are you ready to join my family? Besides this is your choice. Should I decided your future, then I would be no better than your parents." Samus answered with a small smile as she took the cups into the kitchen.
"I suppose." Ranma said noncommittingly.
"Thank you, Ranma. For allowing me the chance to talk with your doctor. I do not often get the chance to discus the more obscure medical topics." Hans said.
"No problem." Ranma shrugged as he lead the way to Doctor Tofu's practice.
"You need not worry. I will not discuss your ability without permission." Hans assured Ranma.
"It's just that I'm still not comfortable with it. Despite the support and help form the others." Ranma grumbled.
"Take the time you need." Hans advised with a pat on the shoulder.
"Ranma?" A voice interjected.
"Yes, Saotome-san?" Ranma politely responded.
"My son, I'm displeased with your behaviour. We will talk about this at the dojo." Nodoka stated.
"If you have a problem with me, then you can say what you want right here, Saotome-san" Ranma replied.
"We will discuss this in private, son." Nodoka stressed as she motioned in the direction of the Tendo dojo.
"We will not." Ranma restated evenly.
"I am your mother and you will do as I say." Nodoka ordered.
"Saotome-san, I see no reason to agree to your request." Ranma replied with a frown.
"I'm your mother and you will address me as such." Nodoka said after taking a few calming breaths.
"That would be inappropriate as you are not my mother, Saotome-san" Ranma responded in a loud voice.
"What?! What is this nonsense?" Nodoka questioned heatedly.
"Would a mother abandon her child? Would a mother allow her child to be abused. Would a mother ask her child to kill itself?" Ranma answered.
"You needed to learn our families martial arts, so you had to be taken on a trainings trip. Training can not be considered abuse. And it is a matter of honor that demands you commit sepukku should you fail your obligation towards me." Nodoka returned firmly.
"A matter of honor? It is a matter of honor that I kill myself should I live up to your expectations? And what are these expectations?" Ranma scornfully asked.
"That you be a man among men." Nodoka declared.
"A man among men. Do you know what she means by that?" Ranma asked the crowd that was watching.
"That I marry Tendo Akane and take as many girls as a mistress as possible. That I get every girl I run into pregnant. That it doesn't matter if the girls are practically made outcast by having a child outside marriage. That if a girl resist my charms, I am to rape her again and again until she is pregnant. That is what she demands of me." Ranma orated to the crowd, pointing at Nodoka.
"That is enough. You will obey your mother." Nodoka interjected, glancing around.
"And do what? Give you as much grandchildren as possible?" Ranma retorted.
"That is your duty as is obeying me." Nodoka heatedly returned.
"She admits that her only interest in me is as a breeder and slave." Ranma stated for the benifit of the crowd.
"Honor demands you stop talking and come with me." Nodoka hissed angry.
"Why?" Ranma asked in a even voice.
"Because I say so." Nodoka answered
"What has your word to do with the demands of honor?" Ranma pressed.
"Because as bearer of the honor sword I watch over the family honor and I take action to prevent dishonor to occur to the family." Nodoka returned.
"So basically, honor is what you say it is." Ranma concluded.
"Enough." Nodoka shouted as she unwrapped her katana.
"Draw that sword and I will charge you with attempted murder." Hans interjected, causing Nodoka to freeze in her motions.
"This is a family affair, do not get involved." Nodoka spat.
"Then I will be the one pressing the murder charges." Ranma said pointing at Nodoka.
"You would do that to your own mother." Nodoka shrieked.
"My mother? No. A stranger like yourself? Without hesitation." Ranma proclaimed.
"Son, I'm giving you one last chance to obey or so help me." Nodoka ground out.
"Then for the last time, no." Ranma answered.
"You are here by banned from practicing and using the Saotome anything goes school op martial arts. When you have come to your senses you will be reinstated in the school." Nodoka declared and marched off, trying to ignore the frowns of the crowd.
"This is not good. We just lost one of our best defenders." A man grumbled to his neighbour.
"No mother would put her child through that. You hang in there Saotome, we're with you on this." A woman shouted, getting agreement from the crowd.
"Thanks. I can ask permission to use the school of Himura-san, so I can still be part of the Guards of Nerima." Ranma responded.
"Which will be given, if I have any say in it." Hans added.
Thanking his supporters, Ranma assured them he would not abandon his duty as a Martial Artist. Accepting the sceptisism in regards to his girl trouble, Ranma only asked that he be allowed the opportunity and time to prove his innocence as today showed that some of the accusations were not true. Introducing Hans to doctor Tofu, Ranma excused himself to inform Samus about this new development.
"I'm glad I found the two of you. It will save some time." the unexpected greeting sounded from the wall.
"Grandmaster Happosai." Samus returned.
"Hello old freak. Come to gloat about my expulsion from the school?" Ranma grumbled.
"No, to inform you that you still are a part of the Anything Goes School as my heir." Happosai evenly returned.
"What are you blabbering about?" Ranma demanded.
"That as my heir, only I have the right to dismiss you from the school." Happosai answered.
"You're joking." Ranma deadpanned.
"No, my boy. I'm not about to let a progeny and the future hope of my school slip through my fingers." Happosai stated seriously.
"I suspect we have a few things to talk about?" Samus interjected.
"That we do. That we do. I trust we can continue this inside?" Happosai inquired.
"The boy is my heir." Happosai stressed as the group seated themselves around the table.
"And as his sensei you have taken his training seriously, of course. Showing kata's, small assignments to increase his growth." Samus sarcastically returned.
"I haven't had the opportunity to teach the boy properly yet." Happosai hedged.
"More like you didn't want to lose much time 'liberating' silken darlings." Ranma scoffed.
"I depend on that energy to live, boy. Two days without a recharge and I'm dead" Happosai heatedly returned.
""What are you babbling about?" Ranma asked with a frown.
"Like you, I found a way to use emotions to quickly summon ki. I always had a healthy interest in girls and foolishly used lust as my focus. When I realized my mistake, I was already dependant on my lust." Happosai explained.
"How did you survive the cave?" Ranma questioned.
"Emergency supplies. Combined with little activity and a meditative trance." Happosai answered.
"As interesting as this sounds, can we return to the topic." Samus dryly asked.
"If Khu Lon knew I was taking his training serious, she would stop at nothing, absolutely nothing to get her claws in him. All the possible places suitable for training are watched." Happosai grumbled.
"I am willing to give you a chance, one chance. Mind if we use the training hall?" Ranma asked.
"Of course. I will make certain no one disturbs you." Samus answered and left to check the premises.
"Remarkable lady." Happosai commented as they moved to the training hall.