Wild Stallion and The Mist

A Ranma 1/2 Fanfiction

By Layabout Thomas

Based on the works of Rumiko Takahashi


Author's Notes

Well, that didn't take long! Anyway, big thanks go to Rewind Gone Nuts for helping me with this chapter and a big thank you to those who followed and favorited this story. Praise and criticisms are welcome.

Anyway, this is part 2 of what was originally a longer chapter.


Chapter 4: Meet the Kunos


Time passes...the day before the match...


"Looking good, Ranma baby," Nabiki chuckled as she sat at her desk, looking over the photos of Ranma in his girl form.

It had been almost a week since Nabiki had been tasked by Kuno to get some photos of his mysterious pigtailed girl. It was no easy task since Ranma had been really careful not to let his secret out if he could help it, not wanting what happened during the first fight with Kuno to him happen again. She had followed Ranma at school when she could and could tell that Ranma was trying really hard to avoid places that had cold water. He even avoided the water fountains and freaked out whenever the school's water system activated to water the playing fields. It was almost funny to watch Ranma be on the lookout for every little thing that could splash him. Still, Nabiki had a job to do and she was going to get her money's worth.

Nabiki had, however, had some luck when getting photos of Ranma at home, though she had to be sneaky about it, lest she want to arouse any suspicion from young house guest or worse yet, Kasumi. Nabiki took her photos any chance she could since the young martial artist was a little less on his guard at home. Two of those photos on Nabiki's desk where a little on the revealing side, with one photo having Ranma taking off his shirt after a workout that showed off his girl's sides assets (though the photo was shot with Ranma's back was turned) and another with him just lying on a on his futon in the guest room in his chinese shirt, showing off a bit of cleavage. The other photos were pretty tame, like one of Ranma fanning himself, another of him dressed in only his tank top and boxers taking a nap and finally, one where he got splashed with a hose by Kasumi by accident. There were other photos of Ranma in action in cursed form and Nabiki seemed almost satisfied with the set.

'With these photos and the usual set of Akane photos, I'll earn a mint from Kuno baby no problem,' thought Nabiki as the thought of money made her tingle. 'I could use a new stereo or maybe a high end portable video camera for my business. Hell, maybe I can sell a few copies to the other boys on campus. What an opportunity!'

Putting away the photos inside her desk, Nabiki got up and went to her window. By coincidence she spotted Ranma in his natural form, sweating as he talked amicably with Kasumi. Nabiki had to admit that as she saw them converse, she did find it a bit adorable. It had been a bit over a week and Ranma and Kasumi were hitting it off. This also meant that her big sister had been protective of the young house guest, which is why any business having to do with Ranma had to remain a secret. She didn't want to lose any more money just because big sister Kasumi was taking a liking to the boy.

Nabiki then saw that Kasumi and Ranma had parted ways, with her big sister heading the dining room and the boy heading to what she assumed was the bathroom. With an idea in mind, Nabiki smirked as she grabbed her camera. Now she had to make sure that Kasumi was otherwise busy to notice anything.


Not much later...


'I wonder what else we will need,' Kasumi wondered, sitting next to the dining table as she was writing a list on her notepad.

Kasumi went over the shopping list and began adding a few more things the family needed for the week. She had looked over the kitchen earlier and while there was just enough food for her family and guests, she had to get some more spices. Plus, there were soaps, shampoo and other supplies to consider. From food supplies to hygienic supplies, she didn't want to miss a single thing.

'With so many things to get, I wonder if…,' Kasumi trailed off and smiled, mentally slapping her head. 'Of course, Ranma would like to accompany me.'

Putting her list down on the table, Kasumi thought back to the past few days. She had found that she liked having Ranma around the home and looked forward to anytime the young man had some free time to spare, whether it was to talk about his earlier travels to whatever was happening at school, especially the daily lunchtime brawls that had become a thing, which worried her. Ranma had assured her that it helps with his training and has learned to take out anybody from any aquatic clubs as quickly as possible. The evenings were also something special as Kasumi requested Ranma to take her up on the roof just to look at the stars. Kasumi would often find herself relaxing in Ranma's arms and enjoying his company. In fact, she had relaxed so much a few times that when she closed her eyes, she had found herself in bed the next morning. She had found herself apologizing to Ranma, which he responded as being no big deal.

Thinking of Ranma had also reminded Kasumi that Kuno would be arriving tomorrow for his rematch. She still felt dread over the stakes where Ranma was concerned. If he lost, then Ranma would have to leave. While Kasumi found Ranma's confidence admirable about the whole thing, just thinking of losing a friend over a fight was something she didn't want to think about.

Tabling these thoughts for later, Kasumi got up and headed for the bathroom. She didn't want to waste any time asking Ranma if he wanted to accompany her to the market today, plus she had wanted to check if any clothes she placed in the dryer earlier had finished drying. Upon arriving at the bathroom, her eyes widened when she found Nabiki kneeling down at the entrance leading to the bathroom area with the sliding door ajar. Kasumi heard Nabiki chuckling as she heard clicking noises and noticed that she had a camera in her hands. Kasumi's body shook as a deep frown adorned her face, her hands balling up into fists. The only thought that was running through her mind was how Nabiki was violating Ranma's privacy and it broke her heart that her little sister would be so...so...she didn't have the courage to think of any words of what she was seeing. She calmed down, narrowed her eyes and cleared her throat.

Nabiki stiffened, almost dropping her camera. She slowly turned around and almost jumped when she saw Kasumi looking down on her with narrowed eyes and a frown. She could tell that her normally passive big sister was trying to hold her anger in check. Seeing Kasumi's lips quiver made Nabiki think frantically about what she was going to say. She'd been caught taking pictures of Ranma's girls side in the bathroom….naked. Nabiki could already feel any profit she was about to make fade away. She stood with her back to the bathroom door, took on a calm demeanor and hid the camera behind her back.

"Listen, Kasumi," Nabiki began with a hushed tone. "I already got Kuno baby hooked on one picture of Ranma in his girl form. Think of how much a whole set will bring me...I mean us! I can charge him so much that we don't have to worry about next month's bills and the rest will go to you and Ranma. Hell, you two can even go on a date if you are very serious about-"

Kasumi's response was to extend her arm towards Nabiki, hand open. The intense glare was enough for Nabiki to give her the camera up. Once the camera was in her hand, Kasumi opened it and took out the film roll, ripped the film out and threw it in the garbage. There was no sense of satisfaction felt by Kasumi as she saw Nabiki cringe. There was only anger and disappointment as she handed the filmless camera back to Nabiki.

"Am I the only one in this house who is not trying to pressure, kill or exploit Ranma?" Kasumi asked as she tried not to crack emotionally.

"Well, you have made it difficult for him not to say no to you," Nabiki pointed out jokingly.

"Get out," Kasumi demanded. "And destroy any photos you have of Ranma."

"You really have it bad for him," Nabiki said with a smirk.

"I said-"

"I can take a hint, Kasumi."

As soon as Nabiki left, Kasumi tried to calm down by breathing in and out. She found it difficult to do as she found Nabiki's actions inexcusable. It also made her shudder at the thought of what Kuno boy had in mind for those pictures, given how obsessive he already was about Akane alone. After a few moments, Kasumi had managed to calm herself. She felt a bit of satisfaction that Ranma was safe from Nabiki's scheme, but felt she needed to have a long talk with her sister.

Noticing the bathroom door was still ajar, Kasumi went over to close it. As soon as she was near, the door suddenly slid open, revealing Ranma in his natural form...a towel slung over his shoulder and not tied to his waist. Kasumi's eyes widened but didn't dare say a word as she tried keeping them focused on Ranma's face and not on that well toned bare chest that came from years of training on the road. This, unfortunately, resulted in Ranma looking at her rather awkwardly with wide eyes of his own. A few seconds later, Ranma shut the door and Kasumi turned away and covered her face, blushing beet red.

"Oh, my!" exclaimed Kasumi in embarrassment.

"Sorry!" Ranma apologized from behind the door.

There came a silence between Ranma and Kasumi. The elder Tendo sister still had her hands on her face, hiding her embarrassment while the Saotome heir was frantically tying a towel around his waist, blushing and mentaly scolding himself for flashing his fiancee. The awkward silence was almost unbearable and they didn't say anything for what seemed like forever. They were both afraid in saying the wrong thing, but both knew one of them had to break the silence. Finally, Kasumi removed her hands from her face and faced the door that divided her and Ranma. She breathed in and out to calm her nerves.

"Ranma…," Kasumi spoke tentatively.

"Yeah?" Ranma responded nervously.

"I was wondering if you...would like to accompany me to the market," Kasumi offered.

"Sure, uh...just let me get dressed," Ranma said, still nervous. "You mind?"

"No, no at all," Kasumi said as she left the washroom as quickly as she could.


Sometime later at the market...


That afternoon at the marketplace would be a first for Kasumi. While she was no stranger to the vendors and people that frequented there, it was the first time she was there with company and the people took notice. Ranma felt a bit on the spot by the scrutiny while Kasumi greeted the vendors and passer-bys. Of course, whenever they stopped for something that was on the shopping list, the vendors quickly asked Kasumi who the strapping young man was with her. All Kasumi responded with was that Ranma was a friend that was staying at the Tendo home for a while , which only fueled their curiosity. Some of the vendors even offered discounts as congratulations to Kasumi's luck. As time went by, Kasumi was getting a little bit flustered and Ranma was getting a little put off by all the attention he's getting.

"Geez, it's like they've never seen two friends shopping before," Ranma said in an annoyed tone.

"And here I wanted to introduce you to a friendly atmosphere," Kasumi sighed.

"Nosy is more like it," Ranma muttered.

Kasumi got out her list and tore it in half. She handed one piece to Ranma plus a little money.

"Just get what's on the list," Kasumi instructed.

"Yeah, the sooner we're done here, the better," Ranma said as he was on his way.

"Oh hello, Kasumi," a voice greeted.

Kasumi turned around and found that it was two older women, each with beaming smiles and one with a baby stroller. The one with the stroller had long flowing black hair and was wearing a simple blouse and trousers while the woman beside her had short brown hair and wore a long dress and had a necklace with a crucifix around her neck. Kasumi smiled and waved to the women, recognizing who they were.

"Well, hello there Mrs. Godai...Mrs. Hatanaka," Kasumi greeted.

"Likewise," Mrs. Hatanaka greeted. "I see you are off on your usual rounds."

"Just getting a few things for the family," Kasumi shrugged. "I have to shop extra this time since we have guests staying over."

"Oh, I hope this hasn't caused you too much trouble," said Mrs. Hatanaka with a concerned tone.

"Oh, not much," Kasumi assured. "Mr. Saotome can be quite the character but his son has been...nice to be with."

"Really?" Mrs. Godai said with piqued interest. "He wouldn't be the same young man you went clothes shopping with the other day?"

"Wait, how did you know that?" asked Kasumi, surprised.

"My husband spotted you and the boy on his way home from work," Mrs. Godai responded. "He said that the young man was carrying everything with ease. He must be pretty strong."

"Well, he has trained in the martial arts since he could walk," Kasumi explained.

"A martial artist, you say," Mrs. Hatanaka said with interest. "Perhaps he and my husband could spar some time. He's always looking for a good challenge...when he's not sneaking around to stuff his face."

"I don't know…," Kasumi said doubtfully. "Ranma has a lot on his plate with school and training…,"

"Whenever he has the time," Mrs. Hatanaka said. "Besides, I don't want to burden you two. From what I hear, you and that young man get along quite well."

"Well, we are friends," Kasumi chuckled.

"Friends…," Mrs. Hatanaka said with a curious look, head tilted to the side. "You and this Ranma must be pretty close if you're letting him carry you like a bride while walking on the fence on the way to Furinkan High."

Kasumi could only respond with a nervous chuckle, a bead of sweat rolling down the back of her head.

"My husband's old manager spotted you two one day," Mrs. Hatanaka said.

"Really, Ms. Tendo?" inquired Mrs. Godai with a smirk. "I'd say congratulations are an order. He sounds like a fine young man. Glad you found a life outside of your usual domestic world."

"Mrs. Godai, you got it all wrong," Kasumi said, mortified. "We're just friends and besides, he's three years younger than I am. Ranma could find other girls to his liking."

"Kasumi...take it from me when I say that age doesn't matter," Mrs. Godai said bluntly. "My husband is only two years younger than me. We had our struggles, but we found love along the way. I'm sure you and Ranma will find a way."

"Mrs. Godai," Kasumi said bashfully. Her eyes brightened as she turned her head and saw that Ranma was having a heated argument with one of the vendors. "We'll talk about this later. Ranma needs rescuing."

As Kasumi headed towards where Ranma was, Mrs. Godai and Mrs. Hatanaka looked on with a smile.

"Sure hope Kasumi doesn't let him go," Mrs. Godai said with a hopeful tone.

"May their road not be riddled in thorns," Mrs. Hatanaka prayed.


"Your prices are bullshit, old man!" Ranma argued heatedly with the vendor.

"I sell the finest produce in this town, kid!" the middle aged vendor fired back angrily. "I say what I'm offering is more than fair!"

"It's highway robbery!" Ranma yelled.

"I'd like to call it price equals quality," the vendor said smugly. "You can try to haggle all you want, but it won't change my mind. I got what you want and I have my price. Take it or leave it."

Ranma could only growl at the vendor. In the back of his mind, he could have just left things as they were and told the old man in front of him to piss off, but he had a list to complete. Plus Ranma didn't want to give the vendor the satisfaction that he at least didn't try to get him to lower the price. Ranma also didn't want to embarrass Kasumi in front of these people and be barred from ever coming again. Unfortunately, the old vendor was making it difficult to hold back.

"Mr. Kandagawa!" Kasumi shouted as she approached Ranma and the vendor. "Just what is going on here!?"

"Just telling the kid here that my prices are fair and just, Ms. Tendo," Mr. Kandagawa said with a shrug.

"Even after all these years, you still want to play the haggling game with the customers," Kasumi sighed with disappointment.

"Well, I have to have my fun somewhere," Mr. Kandagawa laughed, which didn't amuse either Kasumi or Ranma. After a few seconds, Mr. Kandagawa stopped laughing and sighed. "Oh, alright, Ms. Tendo. Regular price, but you're denying this old man his fun and his income. I have to eat, too, you know."

"Doesn't your wife provide most of the income?" Kasumi asked.

"Oh, kick a man when he's down, why don't you," Mr. Kandagawa grumbled as he began packing vegetables in a paper bag. After Ranma paid him, Mr. Kandagawa gave him the bag and turned away, nose up and said, "Here you go kid. Be grateful that I'm very easygoing and charitable."

"Gee, thanks," Ranma deadpanned with narrowed eyes.

"Thank you, Mr. Kandagawa," Kasumi said pleasantly. She then turned to Ranma and said, "I still have some things I need to get. We'll meet at the entrance when we're done."

"Got it," Ranma said, smiling as he gave Kasumi the thumbs up as she left.

Mr. Kandagawa looked at Ranma rather curiously before he smirked and teased, "Quite the looker, that Ms. Tendo. I can tell you like her."

"None...none of your business, old man!" Ranma stammered.

"Hey, I can tell when a man sees who he wants, kid," Mr. Kandagawa said rather gruffly. "I can also tell that she enjoys your company with what I saw when you came in. Caused a lot of fuss with everybody else here. I just had to see for myself."

"We're just friends," Ranma insisted.

"That's how it starts sometimes, kid," Mr. Kandagawa said with a sigh. "Word of advice. Don't do anything that will fracture that bond you have with Ms. Tendo. After all these years of tending to her two sisters and that crybaby of a father, she deserves all the happiness in the world. Just make sure you can offer more than just good looks and a smile."

Ranma kept silent and thought of what lay ahead for him the next day. He had a fight with Kuno and his stay at the Tendo's was at stake. While he had all the confidence in the world that he could beat him, Ranma could see that Kasumi still worried that he might lose and therefore, would have to leave the Tendo home. He didn't want to lose either because he knew he didn't want to lose the only friend he's made in quite a while. He loved hanging out with her, talking to her and he couldn't imagine waking up and not finding her. In the back of his mind, he knew how foolish it was to put his stay at the Tendo home on the line. But it was too late to back out of that. He was a man of his word and he had to fight for his right to stay.

"She's something, alright," Ranma said, his smile returning.

"Just remember that you're lucky to have someone like her by your side, kid," Mr. Kandagawa reminded Ranma.


The next afternoon...the Tendo home...


Wringing her hands nervously as she walked up to the entrance to the dojo, Kasumi wanted to see how Ranma was faring, considering that his fight with Kuno was coming up very soon. What she found was that her fiance was kneeling down in the middle of the dojo, relaxed as he had his hands on his lap and with his back to her. Kasumi had imagined that when Ranma came home from school he would have wanted to get some final training in but seeing him now, it would seemed that he is trying to keep his focus on the upcoming fight through meditation. She had intended to talk to him, but didn't want to bother him with her own worries. Ranma had enough on his mind and he needed to be ready both mentally and physically.

Kasumi had woken up that morning, a bit later than usual, realizing that the day had come and she couldn't help but feel anxious. That Kuno boy was coming here to challenge Ranma with so much at stake. Either the morning ambushes on Akane would stop or Ranma would leave the Tendo dojo. Kasumi still couldn't believe that Ranma agreed to that last part as she didn't want him to risk his stay at the Tendo home. It was all Kasumi had thought about throughout the day and even being carried by Ranma to school did little to dissuade her worries. She didn't want to lose her fiance and there was little she could do except give Ranma her support.

Ranma let out a frustrated growl, which got Kasumi's attention. Her fiance then started scratching his head and she couldn't help but giggle. This caught Ranma's attention as he turned his head around. He stood up and smiled sheepishly as he approached her.

"I guess relaxing before a fight is not one of your strongest suits," Kasumi said.

"Yeah, I just want to be done with this," Ranma sighed, moving his head side to side with a crack. "The sooner I beat that jerk, the better. Hope he actually keeps his end of the deal or else I'm sticking that stick of his where the sun doesn't shine."

"Are you sure you're ready?" asked Kasumi, concerned.

"Aw, no sweat," Ranma replied confidently with a thumbs up. Looking at Kasumi's worried face, Ranma's expression softened and placed his hand on her shoulder and said, "Kasumi...listen, I'm sorry for making you worry these past few days. These past few days have been awesome and you're awesome to be with. I don't want that to stop and...yeah, it was stupid to put that all on line and-"

"Ranma," Kasumi interrupted. "It doesn't matter now. Just concentrate on winning and put this all behind us."

"Sure...and maybe we can go out later to celebrate," Ranma suggested. "I know I don't have much when it comes to money, so we can't go anywhere fancy, so-"

"Ranma...I'd love to," Kasumi responded, smiling.

Kasumi and Ranma's moment was interrupted when Nabiki came up to them and cleared her throat. They were a bit put off by this, but didn't say anything and waited for what Nabiki had to say.

"Hate to interrupt this, but I just saw a fancy limo parking outside," Nabiki said, pointing to the direction of the gate.


Not too much later, Ranma, with Genma and the Tendo family behind him, had gathered outside the Tendo house, the main gate of the compound already opened. Just outside, a black vintage 1950's Rolls Royce limo was parked. Ranma and the rest didn't have time to be impressed by this as a small man, dressed as a ninja, exited the driver's seat, shut the door and went to the cargo hold in the back. Seconds later, the small man came back with a red carpet and rolled it out, the carpet stopping near Ranma's feet. The small man then opened the passenger door and out came Tatewaki Kuno, looking stoic and serious, dressed in his kendo garb. The kendoist was also carrying a dozen red roses and a blond doll in a pink dress and white apron. Just behind him was a girl who looked to be Ranma's age, carrying a closed paper fan in her hand, dressed in a white blouse with a red ribbon tied around the collar and a black dress. Her dark hair was also done up in a ponytail and her face had a bit of a cold expression. All three walked up, only to stop a few feet from Ranma, his father and the Tendos.

Kasumi could feel the tension as Ranma and Kuno stared at each other unflinchingly. She could see that Ranma was trying to match the stoic expression Kuno had, to which the kendoist responded with a confident smirk. Kasumi could see that they just wanted to go at it and they were daring each other to throw the first blow.

Finally, after a bit of silence, Kuno broke it by referring to the small man, "Sasuke...announce us."

"With pleasure, master," Sasuke said with a bow. "Residents of the Tendo Training Hall, I hereby introduce the heir to the Kuno dynasty and the Blue Thunder of Furinkan High, Master Tatewaki Kuno and his sister, Lady Kodachi, the Black Rose of St. Hebereke School for Girls."

"Nice of you to bring the pomp to this fight, Kuno," Ranma said sarcastically. He then looked at what Kuno had in his hands and asked, "Those for Akane?"

"The roses are for my thorny rose, yes," Kuno confirmed. "The pretty dolly is...for the elusive pigtailed girl."

Ranma and Kasumi could only look at Kuno curiously, though Ranma himself began to twitch.

"I bear this cute little dolly as a peace offering," Kuno said. "I mean the pigtailed girl no harm as I only want to speak with her."

"And what makes you think she will be here?" Ranma asked.

"I have it on good authority that she was spotted here not too long ago," Kuno responded. "She will be here."

'Not if I can help it,' Ranma thought with a frown.

"But now, we have business to attend to," Kuno began to declare. "Your time here at the Tendo home is at an end, Ranma Saotome. All your lies and deceit...the truth of your intentions will be made clear and this farce of an engagement will…"

Kuno went silent as she saw Kodachi approach Ranma. He saw her give his opponent inspection and noted that she was giving him an appreciative eye. She even used her fan to inspect Ranma's face. When Kodachi started to use her hand to feel Ranma's chest, Kuno was starting to get concerned but mostly put off at his sister's antics.

"Sister, what are you doing?" Kuno asked with a frown.

"I think you left out a few things about this Ranma Saotome, brother dear," Kodachi said as she batted her eyes at Ranma. "You never did say how devilishly handsome and well put together he is. Truly he was bred well to be a champion in the combat field...and hopefully for much more."

Seeing how this Kodachi was being so forward with Ranma, Kasumi frowned. In her mind, this young lady was overstepping her bounds as a guest. She could also tell that Ranma was feeling a bit awkward from Kodachi's attention and the martial artist needed to be rescued. Kasumi approached the two and got in between Ranma and Kodachi with a disapproving look on her face.

"Ms. Kuno, I don't think Ranma appreciates it when you look at him like a side of beef," Kasumi said with a bit of an edge.

"And you must be Kasumi Tendo, Ranma's intended," Kodachi said with narrowed eyes and an unimpressed tone. "I think my brother left out a few things when comparing you to Akane Tendo...not there is much to compare to and I can see why my brother thinks your engagement with Ranma is a farce."

"Now see here, young lady!" Sound protested angrily.

"Where do you get off insulting my sister!?" Akane yelled, getting into Kodachi's face. "I'll have you know that Kasumi is ten times the woman you are and far classier than the upper class twit that you are!"

"How dare you!?" shouted Kodachi, raising her hand up to slap. "I'll show you what happens when-"

Kodachi was cut off when she felt a hand grip her wrist. She looked up and saw that Ranma was the one that stopped her. She was left speechless as she looked at the boy's expression and could tell how angry he was. Kodachi could also tell by Ranma's grip on how strong he was and while she was denied teaching Akane a lesson, she also couldn't deny that she didn't start feeling a bit light headed while looking at the Saotome heir.

"Apologize...now," Ranma spoke dangerously.

'Such ferocity…,' Kodachi thought, blushing. She then closed her eyes, composing herself and said, "Very well, then. If Ranma so wishes, then I do apologize, Ms. Tendo."

"That's quite alright, Ms. Kuno," Kasumi said diplomatically. "You're still young and have quite a bit of ways before you can become a true lady befitting of your station. I'm sure you'll get there someday."

"Why you…," Kodachi growled.

"Can we just get on with this?" Kuno said impatiently. "The sooner I'm victorious, the better."

"Couldn't agree more," Ranma said as he let go of Kodachi's wrist.

"Now then, do we adjourn to the training hall and settle things there or do you have something else in mind?" Kuno inquired.

"I spoke with Mr. Tendo about this," Ranma started. "Considering our last fight, I don't think our rematch can be contained to the training hall alone. Instead, the entire Tendo compound will be our ring. The rules are simple: The fight ends when one of us is knocked out or knocked outside the Tendo property. The fight must remain outside the Tendo house and any damage suffered to the property must be paid by the losing party. Other than that, it's anything goes. Sounds fair?"

"Fair enough, Saotome," Kuno agreed, but then pointed his dozen roses at him. "But know this, my enemy. Home field advantage will do you no good. I will be victorious, you will be gone from this place and I will reclaim my throne as Furinkan High's premier fighter."

"Well, that settles that," Soun spoke up as he walked towards the yard. "The fight will begin near the pond. If you will follow me."

With that, everyone began to follow Soun to the indicated spot. Ranma was about to follow the rest before he was stopped by Kasumi. He was about to say something before his fiancee kissed him lightly on the cheek. Ranma was shocked by this, not knowing what to say but couldn't help but smile at Kasumi.

"For luck, young man," Kasumi said.

"I won't let you down, ma'am," Ranma assured.


It wasn't too long later that everything was set for the fight. Ranma and Kuno were only a few feet apart, stretching and loosening up to work out all the kinks. Ranma himself was casting a wary eye on the koi pond, remembering that he had to avoid it at all costs. All the while, the Tendos, Genma and Kuno's witnesses sat in front of the dining room hall, which was closed behind them. Soun and Genma sat in the middle with Akane, Nabiki and Sasuke on Genma's side while Kasumi and Kodachi sat on Soun's side. With the front and back gates closed, this fight would be a more private affair with only a few witnesses.

"I do hope you've made preparations for after this duel, Saotome," Kuno said with a smirk.

"I sure did," Ranma said as he looked toward Kasumi with a smile and a wink.

Ranma's little gesture earned a bit of a blush from Kasumi, which Kodachi noticed as she just stuck her nose up with a scoff.

With the pre-fight exercises out of the way, Ranma and Kuno took up their fighting stances. Ranma assumed a defensive position while Kuno gripped his bokken and aimed it towards his opponent. Nothing was said as they looked at each warily. There was also tension with the witnesses as the suspense was getting to them.

Soun was the one who finally broke the silence as he raised his hand and said, "You both know the rules and stakes. This is a duel of honor and cheating will not be tolerated in this compound. Am I clear?"

Ranma and Kuno nodded, never taking their eyes off each other.

"Begin!" Soun shouted as he brought his hand down quickly.

With a shout, Kuno went on the offensive, using his bokken to deal out thrusts and slashes. To his frustration, he kept missing as Ranma kept dodging them without much effort. Kuno growled as he increased the speed of his attacks. He smirked as his attacks were just narrowly missing him, giving him hope that at least one strike would connect.

Ranma backed off and flipped backwards before he dashed back towards Kuno. When he saw that his opponent was going for a horizontal strike, Ranma went to his knees and slid towards Kuno and struck him with a punch, sending the kendoist backwards towards the wall. He didn't let up as he kept up the offensive, attacking Kuno with quick punches and kicks. Ranma was a bit surprised that Kuno was dodging attacks, albeit barely. Unfortunately for him, Kuno almost got him with a quick upward slash, which got him on the defensive again as his opponent continued to use his bokken to slash and thrust.

"Yield, Saotome!" growled Kuno. "Your end is nigh and your only option is surrender!"

"Not going to happen!" Ranma shouted as he jumped over Kuno and struck the back of his head with a spin kick.

Kuno staggered but was back on the attack, going on a furious offensive as he turned around. This time, the attacks were a lot faster as every strike managed to nick Ranma clothes. Again, Ranma backed off, but Kuno charged with an overhead strike. Unfortunately, he left himself open to a strong chin kick that sent him flying in an arc and over the wall.

"He's flying out of the compound!" Kasumi shouted.

"Could this be it!?" Soun wondered out loud.

Aware that he was flying out of the compound, Kuno managed to grab the edge of the and stop himself from hitting the pavement. With one arm, he managed to lift himself up and managed to stand on the wall. Kuno then pointed his bokken towards Ranma with a smirk.

"You think you could know the great Tatewaki Kuno so easily!?" Kuno laughed. "I say nay to you, Saotome! Justice will be served with your head as a side dish!"

'Guess I should have put a bit more force on that kick,' Ranma thought, frowning. He then ran towards the wall and leapt up. He landed on the wall and was ready to fight. "I'm just getting started, Kuno!"

As Ranma and Kuno continued to fight, Kasumi could only look in awe at how Ranma was handling himself against Kuno. She already knew firsthand how well Ranma was when walking on wells and fences with ease, but seeing him keeping his balance while in combat was something else entirely. It was all so new and breathtaking that Kasumi tried to keep up with the action taking place. She also noted that Kuno was no slouch either as he attacked and occasionally blocked Ranma's attacks with his bokken, though his movements were a bit stiff because he was trying to keep his balance.

Meanwhile, Kodachi's eyes were firmly on Ranma. Throughout the whole fight, she couldn't help but feel impressed by him as he battled her brother. In mere moments, Kodachi began looking at Ranma in a more sensual fashion, admiring every move he made while also looking at his body more thoroughly. She blushed, fanning herself as she tried to keep herself from fainting. Kodachi thought back to how she felt Ranma's strength on her wrist and couldn't help but think how that strength could have other uses...especially if she were the one experiencing those uses.

Shivering with pleasure, Kodachi was also curious as to how the other witnesses thought of the fight. Seeing Sasuke from the distance, she could see that the ninja was very fascinated by the fight, even taking notes for what she assumed would be for future reference. Her brother's supposed intended, Akane, looked on enviously and Kodachi couldn't help but smile in satisfaction, as she felt that the Tendo heiress wasn't special in her eyes. Nabiki, who had a reputation for fleecing her older brother, was also following the action with an analytical eye. The Tendo patriarch just watched with pride and the one she could asume was Ranma's father had a look of having pride for himself, as if he was the sole reason for the young man's rise as a martial artist.

This left Kodachi observing Kasumi Tendo. She could see that this woman, who had clasped her hands together nervously, was very attentive to how the fight was going. Kodachi could only look at her with disgust and the fact that this was the woman that was attached to Ranma was something she felt she couldn't fathom. From Kasumi's plain clothes, simple looks and to an angelic air that just seemed too good to be true, Kodachi could only look at her with contempt. She frowned even deeper as she recalled Kasumi comparing her behavior to someone who is still young. Kodachi felt insulted that someone such as Kasumi would speak to her in that manner.

'I will teach you a very hard lesson, Ms. Tendo,' thought Kodachi angrily. 'I will show you how much of an insignificant peasant girl you truly are. There will be no glass slippers for you and the handsome prince will be mine.'

Back at the fight, Kuno's constant barrage of slashes and strikes had managed to corner Ranma to the edge of the wall. A manic laugh escaped his lips as he didn't let up on the offensive. He felt close to victory as he was about to make an overhead slash. This left him wide open as Ranma kicked him in the chest, sending him sliding almost to the other edge. Kuno gripped his chest and glared at Ranma. He found himself admitting that the young man in front him was proving to be a problem.

'I will not be humiliated again,' Kuno thought as he growled, dashing towards Ranma. 'I am the Blue Thunder of Furinkan High. I am the institute's strongest fighter. No one compares to me...especially a coward who could not face defeat the first time!'

Ranma saw Kuno approach him at a high speed and waited for his opportunity. As soon as his opponent got close, he jumped with the intention of landing behind him and delivering a blow that would send Kuno over and outside the compound. Instead, Ranma saw that Kuno had stopped short. Realizing that his opponent faked him out, Ranma cursed as Kuno delivered an upward gale force attack that sent Ranma flying upward. The force of the attack disorientated him for a second before he landed on the wall again, but Kuno continued his attacks, unleashing a barrage of gale force attacks that almost sent Ranma tumbling down outside the compound. Being forced to retreat, Ranma jumped towards the roof of the training hall and avoided more attacks coming his way.

With the fight moving at such a pace, Kasumi was the first one to get up from where she was sitting and followed the two fighters with everyone else following suit. She and others could see that Ranma was on the roof of the training hall and making his way towards the roof of the Tendo home. Kasumi's heart started to race as panic was setting in. She saw that Kuno was catching up to Ranma and delivered another gale force attack, sending Ranma upwards and crashing on the side of the roof, making her gasp in fear. From what she could see Ranma looked dizzy and trying to get his bearings when Kuno ran toward Ranma and as soon as he got close enough he delivered a jumping upwards slash to his chest that ripped the front of his shirt. This attack sent Ranma upwards to the peak of the house but it didn't stop there as Kuno made a downward slash that came as quick as lightning. It was this attack that sent Ranma downwards into the koi pond.

"Ranma!" Kasumi screamed as she saw her fiance finally come down, impacting on the pond.

Kasumi ran to the pond and as soon as she was close, looked down to see if Ranma was alright. Her heart settled when she saw that Ranma was still conscious, holding his breath...and in his female form with a panicked expression. Kasumi knew what this meant as she looked back and saw that everyone had caught up. She wordlessly told everyone to stay back. Genma grimly grunted with a nod while the rest of the Tendos were speechless.

Kodachi herself was confused and looked between Kasumi and the rest. She looked to Sasuke for answers but all she got was a shrug.

"Oh, Ranma…," Kasumi whispered sadly.

An uproarious laughter got Kasumi's and everybody's else's attention. They looked up and saw that Kuno had his bokken raised in victory. The laugh then became more unsettling as Kuno pointed his bokken towards the pond where Ranma was.

"Finally, Ranma Saotome!" Kuno boasted loudly. "Finally...definitive proof of my victory that even you can't deny! I am the superior champion and Furinkan High's true pinnacle of strength!"

"Ranma is still conscious, Mr. Kuno!" Kasumi protested. "You haven't won this fight yet! He hasn't surrendered!"

"Then why has he not emerged, Ms. Tendo!?" Kuno laughed mockingly. "Face it! He is too paralyzed with fear and he cannot go on with this duel! Ranma Saotome is as fraudulent a fighter as your engagement to him!"

Kasumi looked back at the pond and saw that Ranma was still underwater, holding his breath. She could understand why Ranma had vehemently wanted to keep his curse a secret and now she was in danger of revealing it to three complete strangers with one of them being his opponent. Kasumi knew that Ranma risked humiliation if he came out of the pond, but she realized that it was a moot issue now. If Ranma didn't emerge from the pond, Kuno would take that as a sign of surrender and Ranma had to honor his word and leave the Tendo home. Kasumi looked back at Kuno's mocking expression and looked back again to Ranma pleadingly.

Inside the pond, Ranma was in a panic. Once again, his secret was in danger of being exposed and he did not want to expose himself to Kuno or the witnesses he brought. The last time he fought Kuno, he was lucky to get away with the secret intact, but now all eyes were him to either get up or stay down. Ranma debated whether it was worth it or not to stay in the water and hopefully emerge with Kuno and his witnesses' eyes averted so he can change back into a boy. Unfortunately, he knew he couldn't hold his breath much longer and had to emerge from the water at some point, regardless if he wanted to keep his curse a secret or not.

Through the water, Ranma could make out Kasumi and she looked to pleading to him. Just seeing her sad face made him look guilty. He had worried her this past few days and he was letting his curse beat him. Ranma knew what was on the line and he did not want to let Kasumi down. Remembering his promise, Ranma grew more determined and emerged from the water, breathing in the fresh air.

"Ranma!" Kasumi cried as she leapt into Ranma's arms and gave him a hug.

"I'm sorry, Kasumi...I'm so sorry I worried you," Ranma spoke softly, hugging Kasumi back.

"What sorcery is this!?" bellowed Kuno, seeing the pigtailed girl below him. "Wither Ranma Saotome!? All I see is the pigtailed girl!"

"I myself would like an explanation!" Kodachi demanded the Tendos and Genma. "I saw Ranma plummet into the pond as did you all! Now this redheaded pigtailed girl rises in his stead! What is going on!?"

"Ms. Kodachi...that IS Ranma Saotome," Nabiki clarified to the dumbfounded Kodachi.

"Bu...but how is such a thing possible!?" Kodachi stammered.

"Such an amazing development," Sasuke said as he jotted down more information on his notes.

"We'll explain later," Akane groaned, placing a hand on her face.

Though he could barely overhear what was being said, Kuno's face was still filled with shock. While he detested Nabiki because of her money hungry ways, he admitted that he couldn't deny what she said in regards to Ranma. He did try because he had become enamored with the mysterious pigtailed girl but he couldn't deny what had happened in front of him. Ranma had fallen into the pond and the pigtailed girl emerged in his place. Ranma had transformed before his very eyes. Kuno then felt like he was going to wretch as he felt his stomach turning.

All the while, Ranma and Kasumi let go of each other. Ranma then looked up at Kuno with a grim determination and was about to leap up after him. Kasumi stopped him and pointed out that his shirt was ripped and it barely covered his now womanly chest. Ranma's expression was sheepish as he tied his shirt into a knot to cover them, though it still showed a bit of cleavage.

What happened next was almost a blur. Ranma made a few leaps until he reached the roof and saw a still shocked Kuno waiting for him, barely holding his bokken. He didn't hesitate as he gave the kendoist a chin kick that sent him straight up and executed a spin kick that sent Kuno plummeting to the surface. Not a second later, Kuno impacted on the ground with a loud thud and Ranma landed a few feet from him. Ranma grinned in satisfaction, knowing that his opponent wasn't going to get up any time soon.

Soun dashed over to where Kuno had landed and inspected Kuno's downed form. He then waved his arms and shouted, "He's out! Ranma wins by knock-out!"

"I did it!" Ranma shouted as he leapt up in victory.

"Ranma, you won!" Kasumi cheered as she dashed towards Ranma and gave him a fierce hug.

"Like I give up staying in a place like this," Ranma smiled. "What can I say? I love the company."

"Ranma…,"Kasumi said softly.

Ranma and Kasumi's moment was interrupted when they heard a pair of throats clearing. They turned their heads and saw that Kodachi and Sasuke were there. Kodachi had a demanding look on her face, her hands on her hips and Sasuke had his arms folded.

"I do believe that you owe us an explanation," Kodachi said in a barely calm manner.

All Ranma could do was laugh awkwardly, knowing that he did have a whopper of a story to tell.


It wasn't long after that everyone had gathered in the dining room, though Kuno himself, after waking up, had decided to make his way to the bathroom. Genma and Soun had decided to break out a bottle of liquor to celebrate Ranma's victory and they had begun drinking and singing, which caused Akane and Nabiki to roll their eyes at their antics. Ranma, still in his girl form, sat as he waited patiently for Kasumi to return from the kitchen with smile, hearing her hum a happy time. Ranma's happy thoughts were interrupted when he felt somebody poke his chest, which caused him to frown and looked to see that Kodachi was the culprit. It didn't help that Sasuke was observing the whole while writing notes.

"Would you stop that?" asked an annoyed Ranma.

"I still can't believe that something like this is even possible," Kodachi said, astonished. "Ranma...you are the envy of every woman alive to have a body like this. Even someone with my looks would sacrifice anything to have it."

"Yeah, well I would if I could let you have it," Ranma muttered, scooting away from Kodachi.

"Fascinating," Sasuke said as he continued to observe Ranma. "No wonder Master Kuno was enamoured with you."

"Yuck, don't mention that," Ranma gagged.

It was then that Ranma felt warm water being poured over his head, changing him back to a boy. As soon as it was over, he looked up and saw a beaming Kasumi with a tea kettle in hand. Ranma smiled warmly as Kasumi sat right next him.

"Thanks, Kasumi," Ranma said.

"Yes, thank you, Ms. Tendo," Kodachi purred as she ran her hand on Ranma's now male chest. "Ranma's manly form is more delectable."

"Would you back off?" Ranma asked in an annoyed tone as he grabbed Kodachi's wrist, removing her hand from his chest.

"But Ranma darling," Kodachi spoke more huskily as she got really close to his face. "How can you be so resistant to a woman of my breeding and sophistication?"

'Lay it on thick, why don't you!?' Ranma thought nervously, freaked out as his eyes widened as he looked into Kodachi's alluring eyes.

"Kodachi...you're making Ranma uncomfortable," Kasumi said, frowning as she got between Ranma and Kodachi.

"I'm just reminding him that there are better options than a loveless marriage," Kodachi smirked.

"What Ranma needs is a friend and not someone who tries to manipulate him!" Kasumi argued.

"My intentions are crystal clear, Ms. Tendo!"

"Yes...they do seem to be very clear."

"Of all the nerve, Ms. Tendo! How dare you speak to me that way!?"

"Well, somebody's living the fantasy life," Nabiki said as she observed the scene with a smug.

"Two timing pervert!" Akane shouted angrily.

"Would you both lay off!?" Ranma shouted back.

The shouting came to a halt when a loud retching sound came from the bathroom. It went on for a few seconds before there was a flushing sound coming from the toilet. Moments later, Kuno came into the dining room with an air of dignity, though there was a notable twitch in his eye. He then proceeded to kneel in front of Kasumi and prostrate himself.

"Ms. Tendo...please accept my most humblest apologies," Kuno said genuinely. "It would seem that I have erred and I acknowledge your claim to Ranma Saotome."

"Thank you, Mr. Kuno," Kasumi responded, nodding. "And I think you owe Ranma an apology, too."

"I'll...get to that," Kuno said hesitantly. He then faced Akane and said, "Akane Tendo, as per the agreement reached by your elder sister and Ranma Saotome...the morning fights will stop. I will make sure that the others get the message."

"I guess I can get live with that," Akane responded.

"Nabiki Tendo...I will not buy those sets of photos of the pigtailed girl from you after all," Kuno continued with a shudder.

Everyone stared daggers in Nabiki's direction, which only got a groan in response. Kodachi giggled at her brother's expense and Sasuke only sighed.

"As for you, Ranma Saotome…," Kuno growled. "I will keep your secret and I won't exploit it for my own gain. I will acknowledge that you bested me not once, but twice. But don't think it is over between us. I will not rest, I will train and toil until I am Furinkan High's champion again. Cherish this moment of greatness for it will be fleeting for you. Remember that."

"Anytime you feel up to it, Kuno," Ranma smirked.

"Very well, then," Kuno nodded and stood up. He then bellowed, "Sasuke! Prepare the limo!"

"Yes, master!" Sasuke saluted as he ran from the dining room.

Without another, Kuno got up and made his way out of the dining and headed for the Limo. Kodachi herself got up and regarded Ranma with a smile.

"I'm afraid I must be off as well," Kodachi sighed. "I have a previous engagement and it would be terrible if I wasn't there. Perhaps I can interest you in coming along, Ranma darling."

"I have homework," Ranma countered.

"Such a shame," Kodachi pouted. "To tell you the truth, I had mixed feelings about today's result of the match. While I relished in you putting my brother in his place, I would have welcomed you to the Kuno mansion with open arms if you lost. The accommodations are well above standard, you would have had your own room with a bed and the meals...quite exquisite and fit for a king."

"Would those accomodations extend to loving fathers?" Genma asked, which earned him a blow to the head by Ranma via tea kettle and a death glare by Soun.

"I like where I am, Ms. Kuno," Ranma responded curtly.

"Please...call me Dachi," Kodachi purred. She then faced Kasumi and declared, "As for you, Ms. Tendo...the day will come when Ranma grows tired of you. This sham of a marriage agreement won't last and I will be waiting for Ranma darling to jump into my arms. That way, he will know true comfort."

As Kodachi left, she let out a piercing laugh that freaked out Ranma and those left in the dining area. As the laughter faded and hearing the sound of the limo leaving the compound, everyone sighed in relief, knowing that for the time being, things were settled.

"I'm never going to be done with that family, am I," Ranma lamented.

"Things will work out, Ranma," Kasumi assured, placing a hand on top of Ranma's. "Now...about where we can go out to celebrate...I was thinking that we can go to the Iris-Paulownia Karaoke Club. I haven't been there since I graduated and I can convince the manager to give us a discount."

"Karaoke?" Ranma complained. "Come on, Kasumi. I'd look like a geek if I go to a place like that. Plus, I can't sing."

"Oh, you'll be alright, Ranma. It can't be any worse then how I sing. You'll be in great company."

"Bet you can sing like an angel, ma'am."

"Why thank you, young man. I try my best."

"Don't they make a cute couple?" Nabiki admitted.

"Yeah, just adorable," Akane muttered sarcastically as she looked to the side.

"Hmm, it seems that they don't need much help from us," Soun observed as Ranma and Kasumi discussed things.

"Yeah, seems that way," Genma agreed as he got up and tried to ease the lump on his head.