Yuujirou Hanma, disguised as Genma Saotome, a lazy and indulgent loafer who was in fact a skilled martial arts master, walked briskly through the bustling streets of Tokyo. He knew the importance of his mission, to protect the sacred teachings of the Anything Goes School of Martial Arts and shield the world from the unsavory nature of his immortal mentor, the diminutive lecherous elder Happosai.
The prospect of the ancient gnome resurfacing and wreaking havoc upon not only Asia, but the entire world, was an abhorrent tragedy that even a powerful, primoridal entity such as Yuujirou, who was regarded as the epitome of strength by intelligence agencies seeking his capture for his countless crimes and the catastrophic consequences he had caused in his relentless pursuit of a worthy opponent, found repulsive and incomprehensible.
In a rare moment, the towering figure with fiery locks felt a surge of gratitude for setting aside his differences with the delusional nobleman Soun and sealing away the depraved old man while he was blissfully unaware in slumber. Wow, who would've thought that stuck-up idiot would actually be worth something? And hey, didn't we make a promise to bring our families together through marriage after we got rid of that old geezer, so that Anything Goes can stay strong and be passed down to the next generation?
Well, I never really planned on keeping that promise in the first place because, I mean, why would I want to mix my blood with those weak humans? But hey, maybe I can turn that situation to my advantage.
As the formidable gentleman made his way through the bustling streets of Tokyo, his sharp and piercing amber eyes remained vigilant, searching for potential spies dispatched by foreign nations with the intention of either monitoring or apprehending him. Unbeknownst to the oblivious crowd, an inconspicuous bundle securely nestled upon Yuujiro's back concealed the peaceful slumber of an innocent, newborn male child. This child, with fiery hair and determination burning in his amber eyes akin to his infamous father, was Baki Hanma, the newborn son of Yuujirou as Genma and Nodoka Saotome, an elegant and graceful Japanese noble heiress who was currently Yuujirou's only spouse. For the moment anyways.
Yuujirou's discerning nature extended beyond conventional notions of fidelity and monogamy, as he did not discriminate in his choice of partners. This was one of the key factors that contributed to his notoriety, evident in the countless offspring, shattered hearts, and tarnished reputations that accumulated since his adolescence in Okinawa. However, there was something about Nodoka that captivated this confident and proud man, leading to their union in a discreet yet exquisite ceremony held in Nodoka's hometown of Kyoto. Hidden behind an alias, Yuujirou, embodying a primal force of nature with his unrivaled strength, speed, and athleticism, proved that he was far from being a mere athlete.
The redheaded beast couldn't help but feel a twinge of remorse as he recalled discreetly entering the maternity room and carefully carrying away the peacefully slumbering Baki, unaware of his father's machinations or the fact that he would never see nor be in the comfort of his mother's loving arms for a long time. The ominous SOG [1] death squad, cunningly dispatched by the Company [2] at Langley, was relentlessly tearing through the hospital in a desperate endeavor to eliminate Yuujiro in retribution for the incident in Vietnam [3] that occurred when Yuujirou was just a boy barely entering his mid-teens. Exposing himself to their relentless pursuit or the barrage of questions Nodoka would have for him when she eventually saw her beloved husband in his true state would undoubtedly be a fatal mistake.
Yuujirou had quickly eliminated the ground support dispatched to reinforce the initial team and effortlessly neutralized the guards stationed to prevent any potential escape by staff and patients as he silently made his way out of the building, making sure not to disturb Baki as the young boy slept peacefully on his father's back. However, it was of utmost importance that Nodoka remained blissfully ignorant of these distressing occurrences, at least for the present moment. Let her think her husband had died valiantly fighting against the terrorists while trying to stop them from taking their beloved child, but the terrorists had managed to get the baby anyway.
Additionally, it was crucial to shield his legitimate son and heir from any notions of love, compassion, loyalty, and honor that the Saotome heiress, with her striking purple tresses and captivating greyish-green eyes, would undoubtedly instill in her young child. These concepts would undoubtedly jeopardize the carefully laid plans of the formidable "Beast of Okinawa" for the newborn who would one day inherit his formidable bloodline and continue the esteemed lineage of the Anything Goes martial arts.[4]
Moreover, the genuine affection of a mother would hinder the realization of the ideals and desired character that Yuujirou sought in his infant son - a flawless successor to both the esteemed Hanma lineage and the dreaded and lethal Anything Goes fighting style, while lacking the autonomy and consciousness to resist Yuujirou's instructions both subtle and subliminal and open and overt. Which was where the first, and most damaging part of Yuujirou's clever but dangerous plan for his son came in.
Approaching Emi Akezawa, a refined young woman with striking lustrous brown hair and lumber-hued eyes who had once led a life as a high-class prostitute before her marriage to her now-deceased husband as she impatiently awaited him at their designated meeting spot, Yuujirou exuded an air of arrogance and superiority as he made his way towards her, traits he relished in displaying. Emi, dressed elegantly in a form-fitting black dress that accentuated her curves, regarded him with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension as she examined her current lover, currently in the disguise of a middle-aged dojo sensei.
Emi's keen mind was spinning as she tried to figure out what the imposing man wanted from her. Who does this man think he is, strutting around with such confidence? But there's no denying the power radiating from him. If he believes it's necessary for me to raise Baki as my own, then perhaps there's something more to this boy than meets the eye.
Their conversation, laced with Yuujirou's veiled threats and Emi's underlying desire for wealth and status beyond what she already enjoyed, came to a conclusion. The deal was struck, and Baki would be entrusted to Emi's care, ensuring his safety and shielding him from the perils that lurked within the martial arts world.
Yuujirou's cruel grin ironically hid his true feelings as his sharp eyes easily discerned Emi's true intentions. This woman is nothing more than a means to an end, a stepping stone to secure Baki's future. But let her bask in the illusion of power and privilege. She will soon realize her true place, beneath me, as all others do.
As they parted ways, the path ahead remained shrouded in uncertainty. But for Yuujirou Hanma, the strongest man in the world, challenges were merely stepping stones to his inevitable triumph.
Time ebbed and flowed as it subtly impacted young Baki's existence, which unfolded under the attentive yet unmaternal gaze of Emi. Having been separated from his biological mother in infancy, Baki remained unaware of his true father's identity and the fact that Emi, though nurturing him, was not his biological mother. Innocently convinced of Emi's maternal role, Baki devoted himself wholeheartedly to pleasing her, albeit without success. [5]
The power of belief, particularly when combined with a strong delusion, can be an influential force that deceives even the most vulnerable individuals. This rings particularly true for a young boy who yearns for approval and love from the woman he believes to be his mother. Therefore, it was not unexpected when Baki, in his immense mansion with Emi, rushed downstairs to find a mysterious man with striking features engaging in a passionate discussion with the woman. At the tender age of four, soon to be five, Baki wholeheartedly believed that this unexpected guest was indeed his absent father.
It turned out to be true that Yuujirou had made an unexpected visit to Emi in order to assess the progress and potential of his son, the future heir of the Hanma lineage. Aware that Baki may not possess the necessary stamina or mindset to fulfill Yuujirou's vision of a true Hanma and master the fundamentals of Anything Goes, this visit was crucial. However, to Yuujirou's immense relief, Baki's audacious approach and his impressive physical stature at such a tender age laid to rest any concerns, alleviating the worries of the cold and indifferent beast concealed within Yuujirou's human form.
Leveraging Emi's aloofness towards Baki and his lack of prior acquaintance with Yuujirou, the formidable figure from Okinawa skillfully persuaded his intelligent yet sheltered son to embark on a transformative "training journey" spanning the vast landscapes of Asia. Unbeknownst to Baki, this expedition served as a vessel for instilling in him the essential values and persona necessary to become a proficient and influential practitioner of the profound art of Anything Goes. Moreover, this meticulous plan ensured that the vulnerable young soul would be devoid of any resistance or independent thinking by the time the arduous training concluded. [6]
As they journeyed through the vast expanse of Asia, Yuujirou, in his disguise as Genma, trained young Baki relentlessly in the ways of the Anything Goes School of Martial Arts. Under Genma's cocky and arrogant exterior lay the secret identity of Yuujirou, the strongest man in the world. "Come on, boy! Show me what you've got! You want to be a true warrior, don't you?" Genma's booming voice echoed through the training ground.
Baki, going by the name "Ranma Saotome" during their travels, was determined to prove himself to his father. He sparred with Genma, his fiery red hair glistening with sweat as he executed each move with precision. I won't let him down. I'll show him I'm worthy of the Saotome name, Baki thought, pushing himself beyond his limits.
In their journey, they encountered various challenges. One day, they faced a group of ruthless rival martial artists, seeking to challenge the power of Anything Goes. "You must be lost, thinking you can take on us," one of the rivals sneered. These fools have no idea who they're dealing with, Genma's inner thoughts brimmed with arrogance as he eyed them boredly, not even bothering to get into a proper stance.
Baki stood by his father's side, his amber eyes gleaming with determination. "You want to fight? Then bring it on!" he retorted, ready to defend the legacy of the Anything Goes School.
Needless to say, the challengers dumb enough to take on the Saotomes, I mean Hanmas, although young Baki/'Ranma' was of course blissfully unaware of that, didn't survive that particular encounter. And the environment didn't get off unscathed either, but that was a story for a different time.
Their journey also led them to encounter alluring and dangerous women, daughters of fellow martial arts masters, and the various hosts the Saotomes depended on for lodging and food as the father and son trekked across the vast expanses of Asia.
Yuujirou, disguised as Genma, continued their nomadic journey, always on the move to protect his true identity. To throw off his pursuers, he orchestrated Baki's/"Ranma's" marriages to the daughters of fellow martial arts masters and those of their unsuspecting hosts, using them as pawns in his elaborate game of deception.
The unsuspecting "Ranma" played his part, genuinely trying to make the best of each situation and finding moments of happiness along the way while being cluelessly unaware of his father's manipulations and nefarious plans for his young life. I never thought my life would be like this, getting married to different girls all the time. But some of them are nice, and they teach me new things. I'll do my best to be a good husband, even though I don't really understand what that means yet.
But as time passed, it became evident that "Ranma" had inherited more from his father than just Yuujirou's remarkable martial arts skills and the infamous "Demon Back", which had even the most experienced covert operators and special forces units running in fear for their lives whenever Yuujirou got into a strongman pose either before or during combat.
Yuujirou scoffed during a fierce spar between Baki/"Ranma" and a local martial arts master in Cambodia, "Hah! The boy is indeed my son, exuding strength and power just like his old man. Let them see what true mastery of martial arts looks like. He's just a chip off the old block, following in the footsteps of greatness."
As "Ranma" inadvertently displayed his extraordinary abilities in various martial arts contests, whispers began to spread about the young prodigy. The attention he attracted threatened to expose the secret Yuujirou had worked so hard to conceal.
Ranma mused as he obediently followed his father on the journey across Asia, People keep saying I'm amazing, but I don't feel any different from other kids. I wish Dad would let me know why we keep running and hiding.
Yuujirou's thoughts on the other hand were quite different, as the primordial force in the guise of a slovenly and dastardly martial arts master's arrogance and pride extended to even his mental processes. Let them chase after us all they want. It only serves to prove my son's prowess and my own indomitable might. They will witness his true strength and bow down before us.
Their journey was far from over, and the secrets they carried only grew more dangerous. Each encounter was a test of strength and deception, as Yuujirou reveled in showcasing his dominance and humiliating his subdued opponents, while "Ranma" tried to navigate the complexities of his unusual life.
Baki, known as Ranma, possessed an exceptional intellect and a deep sense of morality that clashed with his father's deceitful ways. Despite his limited formal education, the young red-haired boy yearned to explore his own potential and break free from the clutches of his father's manipulation.
I can't keep living this lie. Dad's tricks and deceptions are wrong. I want to find my own path, discover who I truly am. It's time to escape his grasp and forge my own destiny. This cascading stream of consciousness flowed effortlessly through Baki/Ranma's astute intellect, akin to a cherished and reverent mantra. His razor-sharp mind methodically evaluated a plethora of potential scenarios to liberate himself from the clutches of his father. Uncertain of his next destination or course of action, one certainty prevailed in his discerning mind: an enduring presence in his father's company was no longer tenable.
While he held deep gratitude for his patriarch's unwavering commitment to molding him into a formidable individual throughout their enduring companionship, Baki recognized the limitations of relying solely on physical prowess and boundless might to triumph in every endeavor. The young boy, with his fiery red hair and mesmerizing amber eyes, realized that he had been neglecting the cultivation of his intellect alongside his physical strength. Despite the enjoyment and excitement he experienced during his time with his father, he couldn't help but feel a sense of regret for not dedicating more time to intellectual pursuits.
Although he cleverly manipulated his father into prolonging their training sessions, ensuring he received a full year of education with each relocation, Genma remained oblivious to this effort, as his focus lay solely on their training. While Baki/'Ranma' consistently achieved outstanding academic results, his heart yearned for the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities and forge genuine friendships.
Baki, known as "Ranma," was always compelled to maintain a certain distance from his classmates and fellow students, employing clever pretexts to avoid drawing the attention of both educators and law enforcement officials. It was an unfortunate consequence of his reputation as a formidable combatant, often engaging in intense confrontations with esteemed local martial arts masters and their students.
Moreover, Baki's familial ties to his father's involvement in numerous transgressions only heightened the urgency for him to remain elusive.
On one occasion, within the confines of his educational institution, an enigmatic contingent of armed individuals, donning peculiar ebony armor and concealing their identities with balaclavas, brazenly infiltrated the premises. Instilling fear and terror within the hearts of both faculty and students, they seized control, holding them captive. Their chilling ultimatum declared that, unless "the son of that man" - an unmistakable allusion to Baki's relation to his father, Genma - was surrendered by day's end, they would ruthlessly claim a life every passing hour.
In spite of his tender years and innocence, Baki/"Ranma," possessed a remarkable familiarity with combat and mortality. Drawing from an observation of his father's technique during a daring heist at a convenience store, he adeptly concealed himself. Fortuitously, the arrival of law enforcement resulted in the swift eradication of the terrorists.
However, this harrowing encounter inflicted indelible scars upon the young man's spirit, intensifying his resolve to emancipate himself from Genma's grasp and forge an independent path. Little did Baki/"Ranma anticipate that the opportune moment for liberation would arrive sooner than anticipated.
During a grueling training session in China, fate almost claimed Baki's life when he found himself on the brink of perishing in a magical pool after almost losing his footing on a clump of bamboo roots he had been standing on in preparation to launch a leaping strike. Ranma had been of course unharmed, but the harrowing experience served as a catalyst for his decision to break away from his father's web of lies.
Ranma's determination was resolute as he meticulously planned his escape. I won't let Dad control my life any longer. I'll use my martial arts prowess and physical abilities to escape. I have to find my own path, even if it means leaving everything behind.
Fueled by a burning desire to escape his father's clutches and find his own path, Baki, also known as Ranma, made a daring escape from China. With the moon as his only companion, he moved silently, relying on his martial arts prowess and heightened physical abilities to navigate through the darkened streets.
Yuujirou's arrogance had blinded him to the fact that his son was no ordinary child. Baki's determination to explore his true potential and seek his own destiny was a force to be reckoned with. He had witnessed his father's deceitful ways and recognized the immorality of the path he had been forced upon.
While Yuujirou reveled in his perceived dominance, little did he know that his own son, had slipped through his fingers like sand. As the boat carried Baki toward Japan, he reveled in his newfound freedom, ready to embrace the uncertainty that lay ahead.
Under the cover of darkness, Baki unleashed his newfound skills and navigated his way through China, stealthily evading his father's watchful eyes. He seized an opportunity and managed to sneak aboard a boat bound for Japan, leaving behind a world that had both shaped and confined him.
As the boat bound for Japan set sail, Baki hid in the shadows, his heart pounding with equal parts fear and excitement. He knew that his escape would be no easy feat, but he was determined to carve his own destiny.
"Finally, some time to breathe," Baki whispered to himself, feeling a mix of relief and trepidation. He had managed to elude his father's grasp, but he also knew that the journey ahead would be filled with challenges.
Yuujirou scoffed arrogantly when he realized his son had escaped from him the next morning, a cold smirk gracing his features at this unexpected burst of defiance from his normally submissive and compliant heir. Does the whelp dare to challenge my authority? Let him run, thinking he can escape from me. He will soon learn the futility of defying me. No one can escape the grasp of Yuujirou Hanma. He was honestly surprised and extremely enraged by his son's rebellious action, but it wasn't like the brat had anywhere to hide anyways.
Baki's determination burned bright as the boat he was hiding on set sail for Japan, his heart filled with a mix of trepidation and anticipation. The path ahead was uncertain, but he was ready to embrace his own journey, away from the shadow of his father's arrogance.
Baki, also known as Ranma, found himself standing alone on the streets of Kyoto after sneaking off the boat, surrounded by the bustling city and its labyrinthine alleys. His vibrant crimson locks and amber eyes caught the attention of passersby, but he paid them no mind. The weight of his journey rested heavily on his young shoulders, and he was determined to find Emi, the woman he believed to be his mother.
In the heart of Kyoto, Baki, still going by the name Ranma, lived as a street child, relying on his martial arts skills to evade authorities and survive the dangerous underworld of Triad and Yakuza groups. Life's tough on these streets, but I can't give up. I've come so far, escaped Dad's grip, but I need to find Mom. She must know the truth about Dad, about who I really am, and what Dad was hiding from me when we were travelling together.
As he roamed the bustling streets of Kyoto, Baki encountered a myriad of challenges, facing dangers that tested his physical abilities and his resolve. Yet, he refused to surrender to the darkness that threatened to consume him. I can't let fear hold me back. I'll face these challenges head-on and prove to myself that I'm capable of anything.
In his search for Emi, Baki sought information from various sources, often crossing paths with shady characters. He knew he had to be cautious, as his father's pursuers might still be on his trail. If I'm not careful, Dad's enemies could find me. I have to stay one step ahead, keep my true identity hidden.
Through his encounters, Baki learned about the complexity of human nature and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It was a journey of self-discovery, as he navigated the treacherous landscape of deception and trust. Not everyone is what they seem. I've learned to trust my instincts, to survive in this world. Emi, where are you? I need you now more than ever.
Dressed in tattered clothes that barely shielded him from the cold, Baki wandered through the city, his senses honed from years of training and survival. His keen eyes spotted the shady figures lurking in the shadows as he tried to find shelter one night, members of dangerous Triad and Yakuza groups that plagued the streets of Kyoto.
Baki's tense form was in stark contrast to his calm, steady mind. I won't let these scum intimidate me. I've faced greater threats. They'll regret crossing paths with me.
As the thugs approached, their intentions clear, Baki's body tensed, his muscles primed for action. With lightning speed, he unleashed a series of strikes and maneuvers, overwhelming his attackers with his innate martial prowess. Bones snapped, blood spattered, and the air filled with cries of pain.
Baki's sneer was a near-perfect match of his father's. "Is that all you've got? Pathetic."
Word of the mysterious crimson-haired warrior spread like wildfire throughout the criminal underworld in the days after that particular incident, Baki's exploits earned him both respect and fear, a reputation that drew the attention of those who sought power and challenged the strong. But for now, Baki's sole focus remained on finding Emi, his mother. Emi, wherever you are, I'll find you. I won't stop until I uncover the truth...about Dad, what he's hiding from me...from you...from all of us.
As the moon cast its pale glow upon the city, Baki continued his search, navigating the treacherous path of the underworld. The winding streets and dimly lit corners held both danger and potential allies, and he had yet to discern friend from foe.
His focus laser-sharp, his mind steady and determined, the son of the world's strongest man suppressed his fear and forced himself to move forward, motivated by the promise of reuniting with the woman whom he thought was his mother. One step at a time. I won't let myself be overwhelmed. I'll trust my instincts and make my way through this darkness.
And so, Baki/"Ranma" ventured forth, a beacon of determination in a world tainted by deceit and violence.
Fortunately, Baki's wandering days came to an end, just not in the way that he expected.
Baki, disguised as Ranma, spotted trouble brewing in a narrow alley one night. A group of thugs had cornered a middle aged couple in an alleyway, threatening their soon-to-be victims with violence if they didn't hand over their money and belongings.
The thugs, with their shifty eyes and menacing demeanor, thought they had an easy mark in the middle-aged couple. But they had no idea that they would soon meet their just end, by an unexpected source. I can't just stand by and watch innocent people suffer. I have to do something. Baki's eyes narrowed in determination as he approached the scene, the harsh teaching from his father kicking in.
The initial fear on the thugs' faces disappeared when they saw exactly who exactly had interrupted their latest attempts at sourcing income. "Hand over your valuables, kid. We ain't got all day." The thug's voice was raspy but the arrogance and disdain was clear as day. Little did they know that beneath the unassuming facade of an ordinary boy, lay the raw power of the son of Yuujirou Hanma, the strongest man in the world.
His buddies jumped in, their pride and cockiness causing them to underestimate this skinny and poorly dressed street urchin who was strangely lean and well-spoken for some odd reason. "Yeah, and don't think of trying anything funny."
Baki shook his head, his short crimson hair shaking from side to side as he cracked his knuckles and carefully examined the group of ruffians who had now turned their attention upon him, his amber eyes noting the anger on their faces at being denied a chance to prey upon the weak. Great, just what I needed. These goons can't leave people alone.
But as the thugs lunged forward, their hopes of an easy score were crushed by Baki's precise strikes and overwhelming strength. With a flick of his wrist, he sent them sprawling, defeated, and humiliated.
The husband, Gorou was amazed as he watched this mysterious boy with short red hair and amber eyes decimate the dastardly bandits that been assaulting them with flawless ease, his sharp eyes noticing how calm and natural Baki's movements seemed to be. "Wow, you're amazing, kid! Thank you for saving us." I can't believe how powerful he is. He's like a guardian angel. What a brave kid.
Gorou's wife Miki on the other hand was grateful but still somewhat suspicious of their youthful savior, her keen eyes on the lookout for any suspicious movements from Baki "Indeed, we owe you our gratitude. You must be tired. Why don't you come to our home?" Impressive, but I wonder what his story is. There's more to him than meets the eye. I'll have to keep an eye on this boy.
Baki, who had by now regained his bearings, simply replied, "I'm Ranma. Just happy to help." Can't let them know who I really am. Emi is still out there somewhere, and I won't put her in danger.
Gorou, ever the caring father, offered, "Ranma, you should come home with us. It's not safe out here." Miki added, "We'll make sure you're taken care of." There's something about him that piques my curiosity. Maybe we can help each other.
Baki hesitated for a moment, but seeing the genuine concern in Gorou and Miki's eyes, he agreed, "Thank you. I appreciate it."
The group walked together towards the location where the Hyoudous had parked their car, and once Baki had entered the car after the Hyoudous, Gorou then drove them to Gorou and Miki's home. The middle-aged couple spoke with genuine affection for their daughter Kunou [7]and each other as Gorou masterfully handled the steering wheel, and Baki found himself touched by their warmth. Maybe there's hope for family and love. I've missed that feeling. Baki's sharp mind was still somewhat distrustful, but he would wait and see for now where this all lead to.
The Hyoudou residence was a humble yet cozy place, filled with love and laughter. Baki felt a sense of belonging he hadn't experienced in a long time. This is nice. I wish things could have been like this with Emi.
And so, Baki/"Ranma" was adopted into the Hyoudou family as Issei, their oldest child and only son.
[1] Special Operations Group, the 'black ops' or covert operation division of the CIA.
[2] What the CIA refers to itself as.
[3] I'll give you a hint as to what happened in Vietnam: The Company failed in its mission to capture Yuujirou and bring him back to America for study by the American government, and Jack Hanma was conceived under less than desirable circumstances as a result of this. Jack himself, as well as his desire to avenge his mother and get justice for not just her, but for the many lives crushed and abused by Yuujirou as he wanders the earth looking for a truly strong opponent.
[4] This is essentially what Genma wanted to do to Ranma in canon Ranma 1/2, turn Ranma into an excellent martial artist and 'man amongst men' who would be able to learn and master the Anything Goes style and pass it on to his students or any children Ranma might have with all three of Soun Tendou's daughters [Genma might be a greedy, selfish bastard who is very good at deception and ruining people's lives to get what he wants, but he's not stupid. Why would he bother with a monogamous marriage contract that had the possibility of failing to produce grandchildren to carry on the Saotome and Tendo bloodlines after Ranma and his prospective spouse grow old, when he can just have Ranma marry all the girls and ensure the survival of their families], but would not have the capacity for independent thought or critical thinking or reasoning ability. Combine that with Yuujirou's razor-sharp mind and actual intellect and things wouldn't be too good for our protagonist if he had stayed with his father.
[5] Again, this is part of Yuujirou's plan for Baki. Since Emi's real child [the one who would become Baki in the canon Baki series] died in childbirth in this story and she is still mad at Yuujirou for not staying with her and giving her even more children [not that she'd care too much about them, as we see with canon Baki], she'd be somewhat resentful of Baki and do her best to act as a proper maternal guardian as per her informal contract with Yuujirou, but never have any maternal feelings for him. This would cause Baki to try and be as strong and smart as possible to get his 'mother' to notice him, which is what Yuujirou is counting on in his plan to mold his son into his desired image.
[6] Refer to [4] above while also noting Yuujirou, both in this story and in canon, is more experienced, cruel and psychotic than canon Genma, for all his faults will ever be. If you're wondering about all the other arranged marriages Genma made for Ranma in canon while they were traveling in Asia, don't worry, they'll come up soon.
And as for why Yuujirou, in his disguise as Genma, decided to still proceed with all those arranged marriages, it's for partially the same reason as Genma did in canon: to mooch off the generosity and kindness of their unsuspecting hosts and also for a more sinister purpose, to force his unsuspecting son to fulfill all those contracts when the time comes for them to be enacted, essentially turning poor Baki as Ranma into a legal polygamist due to the strong influence of the martial on the political and legal system of Asia and draining whatever resources the poor boy will have after his training with Yuujirou as he tries to deal with not only wedding expenses but legal and financial expenses.
And since Yuujirou as Genma ensured that each marriage would be made valid by physical consummation after the knot was tied, the arranged marriages would also help in the ensured continuation of the 'true' Hanma bloodline [starting from Baki as Ranma/Issei] while also fulfilling the previous goal of keeping Baki financially deprived and in constant amounts of debt due to the immense amount of expenses Baki would inevitably incur due to his multitude of responsibilities.
[7] If you were able to figure out what exactly that Easter Egg refers to, you're spot on. Yes, a certain immensely powerful kitsune yokai and de-facto leader of Japan's yokai...sorry, I mean fabled sun goddess that the Japanese imperial family claims to be descended from, is the true identity of Gorou's wife and you didn't guess wrong, Kunou is indeed the daughter of her and Gorou. As for why I made that particular change...Kunou and Issei have the same eye color. attitude and immense magical power, even though Kunou is of course younger and more openly prudish. Now, is Kunou aware of the fact that she is, in fact, a kitsune hanyou [fox half-monster] and her mother is actually a feared, revered nine-tailed fox like in DxD canon? You'll have to read on to find out, although I made a slight change in her personality that you might find intresting later on, tehe.