Hi yes, I'm back, I updated. I've been working on some OG stories I want to someday be published and my other works on AO3. My pen name is MangaBitch for anyone interested. I also work part time and have a life outside of my writing.
People have commented in the reviews that the plotlines never make sense or seem out of sync. TBH I write these chapters out of my mood and suggestions that people give me. So label it a crackfic compilation.
Hope you like the updates and let me know what you want to see.
This update is for XxXxLoveTheGameXxxX
Ranma shifted nervously, when Ryoga asked if she was doing anything she didn't expect him to ask her on a date. The times they saw each other were far and few between, often he was away travelling, had his own issues or was in pig form cuddling up to Akane. Ryoga always seemed mad at the world and saw the worst in everyone, believing Ranma to be his enemy and corrupt. For the longest time she believed he hated her, cursed form or male form, as well as his longterm obsession with his/her fiancé Akane. She had been arranged to marry Akane from birth, well the Tendo daughters for that matter but Akane was the chosen sister. But her relationship with Ryoga had softened, sometimes they could still get along and converse in a civil manner. Then out of nowhere he asked her out and here they were, walking around in public like normal people.
No Kodachi to stalk her or attempt to kill her, demanding she tell her where Ranma was, unaware that her cursed form and male form were the same person. No Shampoo to harass her or use some form of Amazon magic on her, demanding she marry her or join the Amazons. Using some form of manipulation to make them marry each other. No Ukyo to blackmail her into helping her, using their friendship or past mistakes to get what she wanted.
She could breathe easier, she felt like she could be a normal person and just enjoy herself. They could laugh and joke around, they could reminisce and remember the happier times before things went sour between them. I mean aside from their arguments and brief grudges, she and Ryoga had been friends since they were kids. They used to play in the lot behind her house, they used to chase each other in the street and got into trouble together. The only reason he was mad at her was for Jusenkyo but if not for that they wouldn't really argue. He tried desperately to hide his curse from others, embarrassed and ashamed of it. Ryoga didn't seem to be in a bad mood, he didn't seem angry nor had he yelled at her about something. He wasn't moody, he wasn't tense and he didn't appear to be hiding any ulterior motive. But she couldn't help but feel nervous, she wasn't used to this sort of normal calmness. It was usually followed by some form of drama, Kuno appearing out of nowhere or a new enemy starting a fight.
"You hungry?" Ryoga asked abruptly, they had been walking around for hours in silence, and he knew how moody Ranma got when they were moody. She would feel better if they ate something.
Ranma blinked, staring at him confused, this was unexpected, usually Ryoga loved poking her for being a leech. Saying she took advantage of her friends for getting free meals "Uh...what?" she stammered.
Ryoga shrugged, he'd managed to procure a job with Ukyo as a delivery boy, meaning she could stay at her business if needed. He could form a decent income and they had become friends in the process. He could pay for things on his own "Food, appetite, do you have any? Do you want something?" he repeated.
Ranma shifted, was he offering to pay or just making a suggestion? She was rather taken aback by how abrupt the question was and she tried to give him an answer. Debating on what sounded good to eat "Takoyaki? Maybe soba?" she suggested.
Ryoga hummed, street food did hit differently and the waiting time was never too long either. Ranma always knew the best places to eat too "Sounds good" he agreed
Ryoga sat beside Ranma on a bench, happily enjoying his noodles, carefully making sure not to spill. She had found a good soba place running as a small cart business, not too much for a serving for two people. They could sit outside in peace and enjoy a meal together. The business owners were friendly, shared good conversation before they went on their way. Ranma watched him cautiously while enjoying her own, he had offered to pay and didn't even get mad about it. She spent so much time at the Tendou's or with Ukyo she forgot how she used to get on with Ryoga. He was being friendly, hospitable, his demeanour was calm and welcoming, making sure they weren't swindled. She wondered what was going on, whether he had bumped his head or if he had been swapped with a clone. He was calm, content, he even seemed friendly, it was unnerving. She licked her lips nervously, fidgeting with her chopsticks, too nervous to be able to eat "Uh... Ryoga, are you feeling ok?" she stammered, hoping this wasn't a prank.
Ryoga stared back at her confused, of all the questions he expected from Ranma that wasn't one of them. He expected her to get excited, gloat, tease him and thank him for the hot meal. Now she seemed anxious about eating, avoiding eye contact and even slightly suspicious. But then with every new enemy she had these days he didn't blame her.
Ranma shifted, shit had she just started something? The last thing she wanted was to start an argument without intending to, she needed to explain herself before he assumed the worst. She raised her hands quickly, placing her meal on her lap, waving them in front of her. "I... I just... usually you're so obsessed with Akane, or you're tearing into me about something I didn't even know I did. Or you hate me, I don't get why you're being so friendly" she mumbled. When he wasn't daydreaming about her fiancé, ripping into Ranma that they didn't deserve Akane or how they were always the worst person. Ranma just believed he hated their guts.
Ryoga stared at her, before a weight of guilt hit him, realising she was right, upon reflection, he and Ranma had never seen eye to eye. Everything was a competition, he always threw some kind of accusation at Ranma and assumed the worst of him/her. He jumped to conclusions and projected anger out of nowhere, often blowing up a situation with misinformation making matters worse. The amount of times he had involved himself in Ranma's business due to his crush on Akane and never thought about it clearly. Whether Akane was in the wrong, whether he was misunderstanding or worse. He'd projected that onto Ranma and never tried to hear them out. His curse wasn't Ranma's fault, though she was involved, he was knocked into the cursed spring looking for her and didn't know where he was headed. He'd never actually asked about the location, never got information beforehand or even wondered what she was doing there. He was thrown into the spring and then changed into his cursed pig form, now forced to transform between pig and human form. He hated Ranma for trapping him and he had no way to revert back.
But now that he had time to think, Ranma never knew about Jusenkyo's curse, he too was also a victim. Ranma had blindly followed their father as a naive teenager and ended up thrown into a pond of water that changed their anatomy. Ranma had never meant to curse Ryoga, never meant to ruin their life and never knew that any of this happened to them. Both of them had been led to the same place by the same person, Genma was the actual blame for it all, his lack of knowledge on the cursed springs. Lack of knowledge on the local dialect; never knowing how to communicate with any of the locals. Stubbornly believing he knew best when it came to everything. His need for greed and his weak spirit. He had dragged them to Jusenkyo, never bothered to learn about the cursed springs and then ended up cursing them both. Ryoga had followed them without learning about the curse or even trying to understand. He believed Ranma had tricked him and thrown him into the spring as payback which she never did. "I.. I did hate you, but it was because I blamed you for my curse" he sighed. He was already an awkward teenager, he didn't know how to communicate with people his age, let alone girls. He was easily influenced and manipulated by others which he was trying to work on.
Ranma shifted, she knew Ryoga was mad at her and she didn't blame him for that, she felt the same about every mishap her dad ever dragged her into. But she owed Ryoga a sincere apology and explanation. "I told you, I'm sorry. I never knew that was you and my pops dragged me there" she protested. She wanted nothing more than to get rid of her own curse, the same way Ryoga, Shampoo and Mousse did. All of them wanted out of this so they could just be their normal self again.
"Yeah I know, I just needed someone to blame and I was frustrated that my curse is so... pathetic" he huffed. He wasn't as speedy as Ranma, his curse left him defenceless and trapped, he wasn't able to blend in public. He had to rely on others for help and often got kidnapped by other people in the process. When you reverted into a smaller animal, one that predators could easily harm, it wasn't fun. Ranma nodded, compared to her own, Shampoo, Mousse and Ryoga's curses left them all weakened. Akane had turned Ryoga into a pet, babied and demeaned him all the time and essentially treated him like a baby. Shampoo couldn't be around Ranma in her cursed form, due to their extreme phobia of cats, Shampoo now unable to get close to Ranma in either form. Mousse became a duck with poor eyesight and though fast he got himself in as much trouble as Ryoga did as a pig. "I... I wanted to apologise, for being a jackass, for making it your problem" he admitted. Ranma was never to blame, it was his own recklessness and ignorance, for going to an unfamiliar placed unprepared. Ranma was in the same position and couldn't do anything about it. He projected his insecurities onto her. Ranma had no idea of how to break her own curse let alone his, they both needed to find the spring of drowned man but none of them could. It was becoming hopeless. For the likes of Shampoo, she could just go home and find the spring of drowned woman.
Ranma softened, she never expected Ryoga to apologise to her, he'd always acted like she was the worst person in the world. "Wow that's... wow" she admitted. She understood how projecting your anger onto someone else could feel good, just to get it off your chest and ignore the consequences. But it wasn't healthy and it wasn't fair to the other person. She could imagine how stressful it was for Ryoga, his curse being so much smaller and helpless. How that would effect his masculinity and identity as a martial artist. The fact that he was mature enough to accept that he'd been an ass as much as she had took a lot to admit.
Ryoga laughed, he'd never thought he would see the day where he and Ranma would see eye to eye. They could move past their disagreements and try and be amicable with each other, even friends again "Yeah I know" he confessed.
Ranma blushed, seeing this sweeter side of Ryoga, the thoughtful generous type, it was no wonder he was so popular with girls. But then how easily he got flustered and shy was also endearing. "So... is this... apology or date?" she stammered. The only person she had ever had feelings for was Akane, whom returned the sentiment in both of their forms. Shampoo was too aggressive and while cute, her attachments and control issues weren't healthy. Shampoo demanded she have to act and behave a certain way to be their husband. Ukyo was the only person aside from Akane that Ranma could open up to and that was due to their childhood bond. But she had a childhood crush on Ryoga, one that still lingered at times, but she genuinely cared about him.
Ryoga blushed, how was he supposed to answer that? He'd never been on a date before with anyone, so this was nerve wracking for him too. He'd known Ranma since they were kids, the kid that stole his bread at lunch. Now that he was older he pitied Ranma, how much worse their life had become as they got older. Taken from his mother as a toddler by his incompetent father, blackmailed, sold, abused, traumatised. Never able to communicate or even visit his mother due to a promise his father made without his knowledge. Used as a bargaining chip when Genma didn't have money so he could get a free meal or a warm bed. Not caring about the harm he placed his child into. Ranma now had a severe phobia of cats, his Jusenkyo curse, his poor social skills and more. He couldn't help but feel bad for Ranma, to know that their father had caused this pain in him. He had to admit, he still had a bond with Ranma, one that wasn't so easily severed. He respected him as a martial artist and was jealous of his popularity with women, how easily he could talk to them. Ranma had a way of just drawing people to him, gaining their trust and interest. But he had to admit his attraction to men, more notably Ranma, one that had never faded as he got older. He was attracted to Tomboys and masculine men, someone rugged, messy and down to earth, while with girls he liked them spunky, sweet and passionate. But Ranma was the most masculine of all, so yes, this was an apology and a date. "How... how about both?" he asked, he was attracted to Ranma in either form so why not just admit that to himself and Ranma?
Ranma blushed, ok she was not expecting that, Ryoga treating her to food and actually being nice to her? Sharing a conversation without arguing, also nice. She too had an attraction to Ranma and she was engaged to be married to Akane but not until they were older. She wasn't cheating on Akane and they weren't officially together. So why not explore where this could go? "Y... Yeah I can take that" she mumbled.
'Y'know the whole reason we ended up in Jusenkyo was because pops never learned Chinese" Ranma scoffed. She still held a grudge against Genma for that, how his imbecilic tendencies dragged everyone down with him because he refused to think. If he knew how to speak languages so much mess could have been avoided.
"You're kidding, even I learned the basics" Ryoga scoffed, he went to a foreign country to train in martial arts and didn't even learn to speak Chinese? How the hell was anyone supposed to get around a country with no understanding of the native language? God knows how many misunderstandings that caused.
"Seriously, it's how we ended up in the Amazon village and my engagement to Shampoo, if not for that we never would have ended up meeting them" Ranma snorted. She had been dragged on the training trip by her father from birth, taken from her mother to become a competent martial artist. All of her life was ruined because of her fathers ideals. If they never ended up at the village, eaten the prize award, they never would have crossed paths with Shampoo and could have just gone about their lives.
"What about Ukyo?" he asked, surely there was a story behind them too, Ukyo's bitterness seemed to be personal. Her grudge against Genma and Ranma was more than just about her family business. Ukyo really seemed to know Ranma better than anyone and they always seemed comfortable around the other.
"Me and her were childhood friends, but my pops lied to her father about marriage to steal their family cart. I didn't know a thing about it and he left her behind" Ranma explained. Ranma had known nothing about this, thinking that Ukyo was just upset at being left behind and having to say goodbye. At the time she knew nothing about a promised engagement or how Genma ruined their family business. They had a strong bond since adolescence and it was easy to fall back into that pattern once they moved past things. But Ranma still felt guilty for the hurt they unknowingly inflicted upon Ukyo and broke her heart.
Ryoga growled, so Genma's manipulation hurt more people, branching out to the Amazons, to Ukyo and her family business to even the Tendou's. The man was a serial manipulator and cheapskate. It was a wonder his wife never divorced him and got sole custody of their child "What an ass" he huffed.
Ranma laughed, she had so many nightmares and worries of how much she had inherited from Genma. Whether she would end up just like her father and would end up hating herself for that. She wanted to be a better person, not only for Akane but for the people she had wronged. "I ain't perfect, I won't deny that, I got a lot to learn and Akane has really helped me. But I wonder how much I learned from pops and how much I could have learned from my mum" she sighed.
Ryoga softened, he couldn't imagine being forced to separate from your mother and resenting the father that caused that pain. Now it made sense why Ranma was so desperate to get back into contact with her and explain about the curse "Does she know?" he asked.
Ranma shook her head, god how many times had she wanted to tell Nodoka about the curse and what Genma had done. How much she wanted to run into her arms and cry, beg her to take her home with her. She felt so lonely and wished more than anything she could see her mother again "Nah she doesn't know about my curse or pops, whenever she visits I pretend to be someone else" she sighed. She hated lying to her mothers face, being so close and yet so out of reach. Ryoga's expression formed into guilt and sympathy, he at least could contact his parents whenever they wanted. He'd gotten his poor direction skills from his father which he was working on. He couldn't imagine how lonely it was for Ranma to know her mother was alive and well but to never be able to reach out. Ranma was an ass, but he couldn't deny how he had been curious how much was due to Genma's influence. "I know I hurt ya Ryoga, I won't deny that. I was a terrible friend and I've been a jerk to you. I blackmail you about your curse and I tease you all the time. That isn't fair" she pressed. She had amends to make, she needed to earn his trust and she needed to be a better friend to him. She couldn't lie about the damage she'd done and they needed to repair their bond.
Ryoga sighed "You've matured Ranma, yes I'll admit you can still be an ass and sometimes I get really frustrated by you. But Akane's been a good influence and you've grown up. The old you would have never apologised" he hummed. Ranma from their past and the Ranma sat beside him were two different people. Ranma was growing up and changing fort the better, but it took time to get to a good place.
Ranma softened, she couldn't help but poke a joke, she got nervous and she didn't know how to handle serious situations "Look at you being a softy, is it cos I'm a girl" she joked.
Ryoga blushed "Don't ruin the moment" he huffed, but he couldn't deny the smile itching to form.
Ranma and Ryoga walked down the street, sharing jokes, laughter and bonding like old times. Now that they had reached amicable terms and moved past their anger towards each other, a burden had been released. Without the tension, without the arguing and hostility it was nice, just being able to joke around and reminisce. Ranma could just be herself, acting like she would in her male form and forgot what people thought of her.
"Wow, that couple are so cute"
"Man I'm jealous, I love me a redhead"
"Man she's cute, that guy is so lucky"
"I mean he's cute, but he looks so moody"
"Does he have fangs? Are they real?"
Ranma blushed, groaning quietly as she huffed, she hadn't thought about how they would be perceived in public. She hated how invasive and nosy people could get. If she was out with Akane she faced the same thing, as a guy people would make comments about Akane and he'd get mad. Hating how demeaning and creepy people could be, but if she was in female form then they faced harassment non stop. She hated that ever since she moved to Nerima, she no longer had the anonymity she used to. Now she was with Ryoga and it was happening all over again. She wouldn't deny Ryoga was an attractive guy, the messy black hair, piercing reddish brown eyes and fangs, cute. When he wasn't being moody or stubborn he was actually a nice guy. To be honest she had a crush on him when they were kids before she was cursed, he was stubborn, annoying and he was very emotional and jumped to conclusions way too fast. But he was loyal, sincere, devoted and wore his heart on his sleeve, he was protective, strong willed and honest. He was always there for his friends and loved ones, supporting them come hell or high water. He wore his heart on his sleeve and could never accept anyone being mistreated or taken advantage of. She hated how well he knew her and hated how he made her realise how much of a jerk she'd been. But then she met Akane and realised what she wanted from a person, made her want to be better. She wanted to do right by Akane and they always came back stronger than ever after every argument. But the old feelings for Ryoga still remained.
Ryoga blushed, rolling his eyes and avoiding eye contact, why couldn't people just mind their own business and stop assuming things about their privacy? Ever since he moved to Nerima, he'd become scarily popular with women. He wasn't used to so much attention from people, it was the people around here fed on gossip and couldn't live without some topic of conversation. He hadn't dated anyone and for the longest time he had fixated on Akane due to her kindness for his cursed form. But he also couldn't deny his crush on Ranma, how the feeling he felt for them lingered always. Be it the silky black hair and dorky smile, or the flaming red hair, big blue eyes and cheeky wit, he liked them both.
Ranma was insensitive, poor at social cues and at times impulsive, acting without thinking. Never thinking about how their actions effected those around them until too late, didn't know how to interact with people their age etc. But Ranma was also highly emotional, awkward and loyal, he was cautious of who he trusted and cared deeply for his friends. Ranma wore their heart on their sleeve and often thought with their emotions instead of common sense. Sometimes speaking to the opposite gender was a struggle and coping with other people being romantically interested in them. Seeing Ranma grow because of Akane made him realise how much they had changed.
"First prize! Try and win a free trip for two! Hot spring resort for 3 nights! All paid expenses trip!" a voice called. Ranma and Ryoga halted, their attention deviated away from the whispers of strangers to whoever was making that offer. Free trip? All expenses paid? Three nights?
"Someone gotta do it, it can't be that hard right?" Ranma suggested, they could play rock paper scissors for who got the first go. For a prize that could win them a free trip why not? When did luck like this ever fall into their laps?
Ryoga shifted, it sounded fun and he would love to get such an opportunity, who knew when they would get a chance like this again. But what if he missed and they lost the prize? "I dunno I'm not that sporty" Ryoga sighed.
Ranma huffed, grabbing him by the shoulders to look him in the eye, trying to boost him up "It's a free trip Ryoga! Eyes on the prize" Ranma encouraged. If they won this they could easily use this for someone else. They needed to make the most of this before it slipped out of their grasp.
The host smiled, what a cute pair, she had to say they suited each other very well. The redhead was very confidant, supportive and extroverted compared to the introverted and passive male partner. They seemed such a perfect match for one another. "You get a room for two, a mountain resort, all you would pay for would be the ticket fairs to get there" she smiled.
Ryoga shifted, the trip was all expenses paid and they wouldn't have to worry about bills. He was under so much stress recently, trying to unburden some of his trauma's and rebuild his life. Moving past his grudge with Ranma at last and grow up. When was the last time he had a break and he lived nomadically? He never had a home, he never had a flat or even somewhere to return to before he started working for Ukyo. He could use s break for once. I mean it was Ranma so at least he would be with someone familiar. He sighed relenting "So what have we gotta do?" he asked.
"Spin the wheel, if you get the gold ball you win the paid expenses trip, if you get a red ball you win a free coupon for a date at a chosen establishment in Nerima" the woman smiled
Ranma beamed, both of them sounded like great options they couldn't afford to lose, so why not take a leap of faith? "What have we got to lose? It's either a Spa day or we win a trip" Ranma shrugged. They could at least say they tried instead of ignoring the chance and walking away. Ryoga shifted, he had to admit Ranma was right and he usually hated when Ranma talked him into anything. He hadn't been on a trip in ages and at least this way he didn't have to hide his curse from Akane. He could just soak in hot springs and have a breather, Ranma helping to hide his cursed form from anyone. It could be a laugh even if they never won. He gripped the wheel handle, spinning it rapidly as the wheel turned, the plastic balls inside rattling loudly. Praying for the luck to win this, he never won anything. "You got this Ryoga" Ranma cheered encouragingly. Ryoga swallowed, eventually stopping when a ball rolled out, frozen in place as panic hit him like a wall of bricks. The two held their breath nervously, waiting with anticipation, wondering what their prize would be. Listening to the rattle before a ball fell out, their eyes widened as a gold ball rolled out and landed in front of them.
The woman clapped loudly, it seemed they had luck on their side, to have won the first time around. Perhaps it was their faith in one another. "Congratulations, you just won an all paid expenses trip to a luxury hot spring spa" she cheered.
Ranma stared open mouthed and in awe, first try and Ryoga won? Was she dreaming? Was this a joke? Had she just heard the woman correctly? What the hell? Was he a good luck charm? Ryoga stared, was he dreaming? Had he done it? Ranma goated him into this and now they ended up winning the prize on the first go? The gold ball sitting in front of him, gleaming in the light. People around them staring in shock and disbelief. Ranma threw her arms around his neck, cheering at the top of her voice with excitement. She didn't know how this was possible but she wasn't going to argue. "Ryoga! You did it! You hit the jackpot" she cheered, kissing his cheek.
The woman smiled, handing them the envelope, smiling knowingly at Ranma "Your tickets to an all expenses paid mountain spa..." she trailed off. She hoped they had a lovely trip. She gazed at Ranma and winked playfully "Your girlfriend will appreciate it" she teased.
Ranma and Ryoga stared in confusion, they had been so caught up in the excitement they never considered how they would be perceived. "Girlfriend?" they asked in unison
Ranma packed a bag of her belongings, making sure she had enough, Nabiki lending her a woman's swimsuit in case. She couldn't remember the last time she had gone on a trip that the Tendou's hadn't paid for or that hadn't been a camping trip. It would be nice to get away, avoid studies, avoid drama and just have some headspace. Genma complained he was more deserving of such a prize, that Ranma should give them the tickets and let him use them. Ranma scoffed that all he would do was get drunk and flirt with the female hostesses, saying she never won the tickets so it wasn't her choice to make. Ryoga had asked her to join him, saying it would make sense. He didn't ask Akane, he didn't ask Ukyo, he never asked anyone else, he offered it to her. She wasn't going to say no to him and knew it would be fun for them both, making sure she had everything, swinging her bag over her shoulder.
"Bring back souvenirs if you can, and have fun" Kasumi smiled, she loved that Ryoga and Ranma were having a trip together, they had been old friends for years and had a lot of history. This would be good bonding for them both.
"Thanks Kasumi" Ranma smiled, she was going to miss her company and cooking, Kasumi had become a mother figure to her and the older sister she never had. She was very fond of her.
"Winning on the first try? Some people have all the luck" Nabiki reflected, she didn't know how Ryoga hacked the system but she was jealous.
"I never even planned on it" Ranma sighed, they had been joking around and heard the offer by chance, deciding to give it a go and see what happened. They just happened to win the prize by chance and never predicted it was going to happen. Kasumi had helped them pack, book the trains and make sure they had what they needed. Even packing them a lunch for the journey.
"I'll give you a thousand yen to sell me the tickets" Nabiki asked, she could take her friends, sell them to someone else for more money. The possibilities were endless. But Ranma was being cheap and keeping them to herself.
Ranma narrowed her eyes, she knew Nabiki's game and there was no way in hell she was selling her the tickets. Ryoga won these fair and square, she wasn't about to screw him over after being so generous to ask her to come with him. "Not on your life" Ranma scoffed.
Akane came forward, if someone had said that Ranma and Ryoga had made up and moved past their problems. She never would have believed it, but Ryoga confirmed it to be true. She was happy they were taking this trip together and trying to repair their bonds. They had been friends for a long time after all. "I can't believe you and Ryoga are going on a trip together" she hummed.
Ranma turned to Akane with a smile, they needed to do something as a couple soon, just the two of them away from invasive people. She was happy Akane was so calm about this. She often felt bad when Akane felt left out or lonely "We won't kill each other I promise" Ranma laughed.
"It's great that you guys are starting to make up" Akane smiled, she worried they would remain enemies. The two of them always bickering with one another over something trivial. When Ryoga explained they talked it out, having a heart to heart she was pleased. It was very mature of them both.
Ranma softened, she hated leaving Akane out and she would miss her, somehow she felt safer with Akane than anyone. On their own terms they were trying to be a better couple "I'll try and win another one so you can go next time" she smiled.
Akane blushed, smiling shyly, Ranma never made promises she couldn't keep. It was odd sometimes how much Ranma had grown up in the period of living with them "I'll hold you to that" she mumbled.
Kasumi led her to the front door, a worried expression on her face, they were on a schedule after all and they wouldn't get another chance like this. "Don't miss your train now" Kasumi ushered. Ranma grabbed her belongings and hurried out of the door, waving goodbye eagerly. Her first trip alone since she moved to Nerima.
Ranma stood patiently at the station, she was glad she packed a bag and borrowed some clothes from Kasumi to wear. A casual T shirt and some jeans, something she could get away with if she accidentally reverted into her male form. The weather had remained nice and getting to the station had been less stressful than she expected. Ryoga sat beside her holding his own bag, he took it everywhere and Ukyo had helped him pack. Wishing him luck on their trip and saying he should have fun. The two patiently waiting for their train.
"Did ya find a solution to your curse?" Ranma asked, she knew he couldn't fully enjoy baths without worrying about transforming. Going to a spa together meant this was high risk and something they needed to avoid. She didn't want to spend the trip babysitting Ryoga's cursed form or helping rescue him if he got lost. It was an unfortunate habit that tended to follow him.
Ryoga nodded, he'd visited the cat cafe to see Cologne and explained the situation. She was more than happy to help and let him keep it in case of emergencies. He couldn't be more grateful for her help "Yeah, she gave me some magic soap, temporary solution but it will stop me from turning into a pig" he hummed. So long as he didn't have to worry about his curse being activated for a period. Ranma hummed, she had to say Cologne was sneaky but this was a kind gesture from her. She knew Shampoo and other Amazons used it, but it wasn't a cure for the curse completely, just a temporary lock. But it would stop Ryoga from turning into a pig. "You wanna borrow some too?" he asked, he knew how awkward her curse got sometimes and at least this way she could stay as a girl or her male form without worry of transforming.
Ranma smiled, shaking her head "Nah, I think my curse can pass compared to you" she teased, she would rather turn into a girl than be in Ryoga's shoes. She didn't care about being embarrassed or being caught as a girl, she just cared about being able to turn back. Soon the train appeared, pulling into the station, the breaks squeaking against the tracks. Ranma smiled, the wind from the train blowing her hair, holding onto her belongings, grabbing her bag as she watched the train pull in. She turned to Ryoga with an excited expression, they were finally on their way "You coming?" she teased.
Ryoga smiled, he had a feeling this trip might even be fun "You kidding? When do I ever have this kind of luck" he chuckled
Ranma sat silently in her seat, chewing on snacks as she stared out of the window. She was so happy Kasumi had packed them a lunch each in case they got hungry. They never predicted how long the trip would actually take. She had lived in Nerima city for so long she forgot about the mountains. How long she had lived nomadically before they settled with the Tendou's. Camping, using a portable cooker, living off the land and sleeping in a tent, sometimes she kind of missed it. It wasn't all bad, her dad just made it unbearable. She met so many people on her travels but she lost them all thanks to Genma. Watching the tree's, the mountains and more felt like home to her. She didn't have her dad nagging her, being a pain in the ass, he wouldn't run a bill none of them could pay for. He wouldn't cause any trouble and he wouldn't harass anyone. Or Happosai leering over her and causing trouble, stealing women's belongings or being an absolute creep. It was nice, just to act like a normal teenager for once.
"You look like you're in your element" Ryoga smiled, he'd never seen Ranma so relaxed and content, making him wonder how much she kept her guard up around others. But then living with Genma had taught her that. She seemed excited, which he had to admit was rather adorable.
Ranma hummed, she'd been so lost in her own thoughts she forgot she wasn't alone. Memories just hitting her out of nowhere and catching her off guard "Just thinking, reminds me of when I used to train, travelling with pops. Camping and all that, was fun" she reminisced. As much as there were unpleasant memories in her past, she had some fond ones too.
Ryoga smirked, maybe sometime he and Ranma could go on a training trip together, do more bonding and catch up. They had a lot of time to make up for in that sense "Feels good to get away huh?" he smirked.
Ranma snorted, when she wasn't being stalked and harassed by the Kuno siblings, when Happosai wasn't being a creep. When Shampoo wasn't trying to use love spells on her. When her own father wasn't pulling her into another scheme of his. When life wasn't being chaotic or trying to traumatise her further "Like you wouldn't believe". Getting out of Nerima, being able to enjoy the mountain air and just be able to laugh. It was a feeling she had missed more than anything.
Ranma and Ryoga approached the hotel curiously, walking through an abundance of trees as they followed the stairs in. The various colours of leaves, the local wildlife, animals running around carefree and the friendly locals. It seemed to be renovated from where an old temple used to be, converted into a spa resort. As they approached the door, they had to admit the view was nice out here. Ranma opened it and entered, curiously awaiting to see what the interior looked like. The front desk was modern, wooden and bamboo, a bell on the desk and all sorts of itinerary. Posters and even a small table of tourist areas, things they could try on their trip. The scent of candles, incense and floral decor, she didn't expect it to be this fancy. "Uh... hello?' she asked.
A woman appeared from behind a bamboo curtain, she appeared to be in her mid twenties, dark hair bound into a braid with hazel eyes. Adorning a smart suit instead of a kimono as to match the decor. She smiled brightly at them and waited expectantly for them to speak "Kon'nichiwa, how may I help you?" she asked.
Ranma rummaged in her bag for the envelope the woman had given her at the raffle. She was glad they both came so prepared. "Hi, we won some tickets to an all paid expenses trip, my name is Ranma Saotome, this is my companion Ryoga Hibiki" she stated. She had placed it under her own name just in case, she had never booked anything before. Kasumi had been more than helpful through the steps and she couldn't be more grateful.
The woman smiled, tapping away at her computer before smiling "Hai, we have your reservation miss Saotome, please follow me". She collected some documents and the usual details, as well as the room key for the two of them. Patiently waiting for them to follow her, Ranma and Ryoga followed, long corridors of wooden walls, art pieces, floral arrangement and more. In awe of how nice the hotel actually was, nothing like how they had expected. "Breakfast and other meals are served from 8am-10pm, lunch is from 12pm to 3pm, and dinner is from 5pm to 10pm" the woman smiled. Ranma felt her mouth water, at least she had a set plan for meals and she and Ryoga could figure that out together. "We have an array of baths, from the outside hot spring spa, inside hot coal steam spa rooms, scented baths and more" she smiled.
Ranma smiled, she was glad the staff were so helpful, she needed to remember all of this to avoid mistakes. But she and Ryoga would need time to relax after their journey. But she was eager to see all of the offers the hotel had "Sounds amazing" she hummed.
The woman turned to her with a bright smile "We have massages, local tourist areas and lovely scenic walks" she encouraged. There was a lot to see out here.
Ryoga perked up at the sound of this, a massage sounded great, with the stress they had both been under lately. They could arrange one for the both of them. He'd love to check out the local area but Ranma would need to stay with him so they wouldn't get lost. He didn't want to ruin the trip with his poor directions. "Thanks" Ryoga smiled.
The woman led them to their room, the room was a traditional modern styled room with wooden walls, decor and other arrangements. There were tea selections, a mini fridge, a bathroom and other selections, the two couldn't wait to relax."Enjoy your stay, call the front desk if you need anything at all" she smiled, closing the door behind them.
The two stood alone awkwardly in the room briefly before starting to relax. Ranma stretched wearily, groaning softly and yawning, admiring the view from the balcony area. They were under no pressure, no familiar faces to be invasive or ruin the trip. She would need a nap soon to recover but she wanted to explore a little before then. She couldn't believe how nice everything was, far beyond what she expected. "Damn, I haven't been on a trip this nice in ages".
Ryoga placed his belongings next to the chosen side of the bed he'd sleep on, just because they were here together didn't mean they always had to be around each other. He could tell Ranma was as fatigued from the journey as he was. "You wanna hit the baths first or settle?" Ryoga asked.
Ranma hummed, they wouldn't be doing much without something to wear or more. They may as well get prepared to make life easier for them both "We might as well unpack first" Ranma suggested. They had all the time in the world, there was no rush.
Ranma scrubbed herself with the soap eagerly, they had been kind enough to ask Cologne for extra soap in case of emergencies which she happily gave. It really was about who you know, forever glad she had an alliance with the Amazons. Meaning Ranma could either lock herself in male or female form by choice depending on the situation. For the sake of their trip she was staying in female form to keep up guises, meaning there was less suspicion when she was walking around as a man. Placing it back in her wash bag so she didn't lose it. Splashing herself with cold water and shivering briefly before she headed to the baths. The bathing area was unisex which she hadn't expected, but she knew Ryoga wasn't a creep. But she was a little worried about being spotted by any other guests in the facility. Admiring the gardens as she did so, the entire bath had a rock wall around it, the baths a foggy, murky grey colour due to the natural minerals in the water. Trees, decor and other surroundings in the area.
She was glad she asked Nabiki for a swimsuit just in case, they just so happened to be around the same size. Ranma was by no means ashamed of her female cursed form, but she didn't want some random guy being a letch. She had enough bad experiences due to Happosai and other guys that attended Furinkan high. She wanted this trip to go as smoothly as it possibly could for the both of them, making good memories. She dipped her toes in the water, before slowly making her way into the bath and easing herself in, sighing in content "Aw yeah, that feels great" she sighed. Releasing her hair from the small braid and letting it flow free. She rested herself against some rocks and got comfortable, enjoying the steam of the hot water. She couldn't believe their luck and this trip had been exactly what they needed. She remembered her old school trips and how she would visit the local baths with Akane, but it was nothing like this. No Happosai leering from the shadows about to jump out, no disputes between herself and Akane, their parents being nosy and invasive. No Ukyo or Shampoo to argue and cause issues, just herself and Ryoga, old friends hanging out. She heard splashing, approaching footsteps and looked up, curious of who could be joining her.
Ryoga appeared, a towel wrapped around his waist, nervously approaching the bath. He wasn't used to being this exposed around anyone, let alone a girl of all people. He still had a reaction to a naked girl after all, he couldn't help it. Noticing Ranma submerged in the hot water, but with a busty chest rather than a male body "Seems the soap worked".
Ranma smiled, she appreciated how respectful Ryoga was but it was nothing to be ashamed of. She was still the same person she was just trapped in her girl form for the trip "The water's great" she teased. She splashed him playfully to encourage him to join her.
Ryoga hummed, dipping into the hot water to ease himself in and eventually lower himself. The water felt great and slowly his nerves began to ease, he just wasn't used to being alone with Ranma, let alone a girl. Feeling the minerals and hot water ease his muscles and skin, the cool mountain air flushing his exposed skin. He still couldn't believe their luck at winning this trip, how easily they both agreed to go together and how they weren't arguing. All of his problems just melted away as if they never existed "That's the spot" he hummed.
Ranma hummed, neither of them had to watch over their shoulder or feel pressured by anyone. They could just have fun and enjoy this trip together "Peaceful without pops or any unwanted guests huh?" she laughed. Without Genma to cause chaos and get into mischief, without Happosai harassing the staff or guests. Without anyone to drag them into trouble, there was less pressure.
"Not having to check for that creepy old hermit Happosai or your admirers arguing from the distance is nice" he agreed. Happosai was the worst thing to have ever invaded their lives and he made them all miserable, living in fear. Without Shampoo using some form of spell to manipulate Ranma, without Kuno being a creep towards her. They could just enjoy their stay and act like normal teenagers.
Ranma nodded, staring at the slowly darkening sky as the evening hit, the sky changing colours like magic. It was so peaceful and she hadn't a care in the world. She couldn't imagine being here with anyone else, except Akane. She was glad Ryoga asked her to come, she was glad they got to share this together. 'I'm glad we did this, it feels like we never hang out unless its some form of danger, a new enemy or we argue over something dumb" she hummed. They could find a state of balance and normality in their friendship.
Ryoga reflected, he hated to admit she was right, looking back he and Ranma were always in trouble and always dragged into something. He was the first to judge her for it and make a situation worse by blaming Ranma. He never realised how much they were at the others throat for no reason "We do argue a lot don't we?" he asked.
Ranma shifted, she was by no means blameless but neither was Ryoga "I mean I can be a jerk, but it would be nice if you would hear me out sometimes" she admitted. He never let her explain, he never tried to hear her side or even understand which made her feel worse. That nobody believed her, nobody trusted her and nobody cared. She hated knowing that she was always going to be blamed for something she never did.
Ryoga shifted, he had to admit he'd lashed out at Ranma so many times without thinking. When Genma arranged the marriages to multiple girls, Ranma knew nothing about that. When Soun and Genma made the marriage arrangements for their children, it was before Ranma or the Tendou sisters were even born. So many of Ranma's life events had been chosen or decided before they were old enough to think for themselves. "I'm sorry Ranma" he mumbled.
Ranma hesitated, her heart hammering in her chest and her hands shaking, they were alone, they were supposed to be a couple and nobody would know. She didn't have to hide anything and she wasn't ashamed, edging towards Ryoga before leaning against him. She was still human, she wanted human contact and she had feelings for Ryoga. Why not take this chance and it would remain their little secret? He was warmer than he looked and she could feel the outline of his muscles. Bonding with Ryoga, like how things used to be, it was a nice change, she didn't have that many friends, especially guys. Ryoga blushed, the feeling of Ranma's soft skin against his own, her breast pressed against his arm, her gaze fixated elsewhere as she edged towards him. It was taking all of his mental energy not to harden right now, I mean how else was he supposed to respond to being this close to a girl? I mean he rarely was in contact with women, especially this close. Ranma must have read his mind because she immediately spoke up "We're supposed to be a couple, don't make it weird. It doesn't have to mean anything" she lied.
Ryoga blushed, she sounded so stubborn and so shy, like she was trying to remind herself not just him. For all people had called Ranma a jerk, she could be awkward as well. People forgot they were only seventeen, still a kid. How was Ranma so natural at being cute? It came so easy to her, the influence she had on people. He swallowed nervously, he would treasure this trip for years to come, looking back on this moment when they got older "Yeah... right" he stammered.