Ranma ½
A Scary Thought:
What happen last time: Things took a bad turn as Herb's unfortunate curse was revealed to the leader of the Fox Clan of the Musk, and now finds himself the target.
Chapter 52
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The foursome of Ukyo, Herb, Kasumi and Ranma stood in shock before perhaps their worst case scenario: face to face with Peach, in all likelihood, the most powerful kitsune in the bunch save only Eyebright himself.
"How the hell-" Ranma started to ask but Kasumi cut in.
"Herb, just run, we'll try to hold her," Kasumi directed, and Ranma and Ukyo took the cue, moving between Herb and the kitsune.
Peach simply laughed in response. "By all means, run," she said with a smile that unsettled the group.
"Herb, go!" Kasumi directed once again, finally prompting the prince to flee. Much to their surprise though, Peach made no effort to pursue, and instead turned slightly and looked behind her.
Kasumi shared a confused look with the others, as Herb disappeared around a corner behind them. However, only moments later, Herb came running up the way Peach was now looking, coming quickly to stop in shock as she too took notice of the situation.
"Herb, welcome back," Peach greeted.
"What the... is he a copy?" Ukyo asked, but it was Ranma who groaned in response.
"I don't think so," he said and leapt to the roof of a nearby building. "Oh hell! We're in trouble."
"Oh dear," Kasumi echoed as he too joined Ranma on the rooftop and the cause of their confusion became instantly clear. All around them, separated by perhaps 2 blocks of buildings, were other copies of themselves, likewise standing on the roof tops, repeating off into infinity like a hall of mirrors. When Ukyo and Herb joined them, Kasumi explained. "It is just like that place they trapped us. The world itself is looped."
"So there is no escape?" Ukyo asked and got her response from Peach.
"None... well, one. You could try knocking me out," Peach said. "I would advise you to simply surrender Herb, but I know you heroic types. By all means, do your worst. Maybe it will make you feel better tomorrow," she taunted.
"Don't underestimate us!" Ukyo yelled in anger and with a blaze of energy dashed into attack before any of the others could react. Even Peach did not move to defend herself and took Ukyo's fully charged fist directly to her chin... and promptly shattered. Ukyo skidded to a halted several paces latter, briefly horrified by what she had done. However, whatever conclusions she drew were quickly discarded as the various shards began to rapidly grow into copies of Peach.
The first of the restored Peaches laughed. "Oh, did you think only you lot were capable of this little trick. I must warn you, though, my version is a bit superior."
"We are in serious trouble," Ranma muttered as he jumped down to join Ukyo, followed soon after by Kasumi and Herb.
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Elsewhere Rippa struggled with the full strength of his body to pull a glowing restraint holding Shampoo fast to a wall. "All... most... got... DAH!" he yelled as the restraint finally gave way, sending Rippa falling back with his effort.
As Rippa got back to his feet, the restraint dematerialized and Shampoo thanked him. "Think they made it?" Rippa asked.
"No know," Shampoo replied, looking off into the distance at their goal. "We should try catch up."
"Yeah," Rippa agreed, but before they could make more than two steps a skeletal bird came flying down. "That is... very wrong," he commented as it landed.
"Sorry kids," Devlin's voice came from the bird. "Bad news. They played us."
"What happened?" Rippa asked.
"Peach must have snuck in a very small portal, probably no bigger than a fly, to a pocket dimension when she came to check on Lemon. After she left, one of her cohorts snuck in using it, then must have in turn snuck it onto Herb. So in short, no matter where he went they had an easy way to catch up to him. And since our little scan was restricted to the outside, we didn't detect it."
"Wonderful," Rippa said with a groan.
"Worse, Peach is the one who went to get him. She fought me only long enough for Herb to get far enough away that we couldn't help anymore, then swapped places with one of the others. Was probably their plan all along. Afraid they were ahead of us. All the others that were chasing you guys are coming back now, and we're getting overwhelmed. No way, I'm afraid, we can help you guys now. Even getting this messenger to you guys was a real pain."
Shampoo looked to Rippa. "What we do?"
"Got me," Rippa replied with a shrug. "Peach is that really powerful one, right?"
"Full nine tails I think, yes," Devlin answered. "Even all together, you can't beat her."
"Maybe not us," Shampoo said thoughtfully.
"Right," Rippa replied with a nod. "She still can't hurt them, so we might still have time. Let's go."
Shampoo nodded in agreement and the two rushed off.
"Good luck," Devlin called after them before quietly adding, "you'll need all kinds of it."
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Kasumi broke off from the conflict to take breather and reassess the situation. All around him, various copies of Peach were laughing and mocking their opponents. And while each of them were engaged with three or four copies, dozens more waited to the side should the need arise.
We are so outmatched, Kasumi thought as he looked over the various conflicts. She's so much faster, stronger, and more skilled than us. She paused on Ranma. The only one of us she seems to be giving any care to is Ranma. It must be due to his particular form of attack, not that it seems to matter.
Yet despite all this, she still plays with us, why? She could easily take Herb at any time. Could this all be an illusion? If so, I don't see any cracks in it at all. Kasumi shook his head and looked to the waiting Peaches, many of whom were standing, arms crossed, smiling confidently at him, waiting. I suppose I might as well take advantage of the situation if I can, Kasumi thought, sat down cross legged and let out a long slow breath as he closed his eyes to concentrate.
One of the observing Peaches cocked her head to the side at seeing this, but did nothing more than observe. As the seconds passed her eyes narrowed as she began to feel a shift. "Ooo, what is this now? Your trump card?" Peach asked in a mocking tone.
In answer, Kasumi's eyes opened, briefly flashing pure white before returning to their normal color. It's not perfect, but it will have to do, Kasumi thought before rising to his feet. Opposite him, several waiting Peaches beckoned Kasumi on. In a rather satisfying surprise, Kasumi blurred across the ground to the first and struck with such force that the Peach dematerialized instantly.
"Hmh, not bad," a Peach commented before all around them, all the Peaches likewise dematerialized, bringing the battle to a temporary halt. However, this was not the end, as a single Peach rematerialized opposite the teenagers as they regrouped. "Re-internalizing external chi... a very potent technique if used to its limit, but your implementation is deeply flawed. It's going to mess you up tomorrow," Peach analyzed.
"You've left me little choice," Kasumi replied as the others gathered with him, Ukyo in particular eying him suspiciously.
"Since when can you do this?" Ukyo asked.
"Didn't I tell you about the whole incident in the Hotel?" Ranma asked.
"You didn't mention this," Ukyo replied before shaking her head and turning her full attention to Peach. "So now what?"
Kasumi briefly looked to the sky before returning to the opponent across from her. "Just give me an opening," Kasumi answered.
The others collectively nodded and rushed ahead to engage Peach. Kasumi followed a second behind. As with all their attempts previously, though, Peach easily dealt with even their combined attacks. Despite Ukyo's Burning Soul increased speed and strength, Peach proved that much faster and stronger, easily dodging the chef's initial attack and tripping her up, while simultaneously evading several energy bolts from Herb. Ranma's follow up was equally ineffective as, like Ukyo before him, he connected with nothing but air on his attacks, only to be driven off balance as Peach dashed behind him and pushed, sending him sprawling into the recovering Ukyo.
Herb pressed her attack, but it was no more effective than before, Peach effortlessly dodging between the blasts. Frustrated, Herb intensified the pattern of attack, filling the air with fine shards of energy, but even this was useless, as Peaches form blurred and she moved through the attack unscathed. Ukyo joined the attack, firing off her own intense assault of one thousand aerial chopsticks. Much to both fighters annoyance though even this combination was fruitless.
It was about this moment though that Peach frowned and looked about. Behind her, cloaked by the spray of attacks and debris, Kasumi reached out, but suddenly stopped and withdrew into the open. Exhausted, Ukyo and Herb ceased their attacks as Peach turned to Kasumi.
"Trying to hide in the confusion, clever, but why not complete the attack?" Peach said.
"I should be the one giving you credit, I nearly fell for it," Kasumi replied.
"Oh?" Peach asked with an upraised eyebrow.
"Where are you really?" Kasumi asked, looking around.
Peach smiled and, to the others shock, dispersed into a cloud of flower petals. A chuckling of another Peach soon could be heard as she shapeshifted back to human form on a nearby rooftop. "What gave me away?"
Kasumi regarded her. "Your defensive strategy was needlessly wasteful of energy. Your only counter was a slight push to Ranma which you probably delivered remotely, and you dodged everything else, but left yourself open to continued attack, having to push yourself to an inhuman level of speed that was unnecessary," Kasumi analyzed. "At any speed I doubt you could have dodged the attacks so perfectly."
Peach chuckled once more and dropped to the ground. "Yes, well realized. So now-" Peach began to ask before darting away as Rippa appeared suddenly behind her and attempted to connect with a kick but missed. Peach had little opportunity to assess the new threat as Shampoo dropped on her from above with an energized fist. Unfortunately, this Peach did not dodge, instead simply ceased Shampoo by the wrist casually and drove her fist into the ground, shattering it, before tossing the Amazon aside.
The two new combatants quickly regrouped with the others as Peach eyed them. "Now how is it... oh yes, Shan Pu there has a spirit sense apparently. That does complicate things."
"How did you get in?" Ranma asked.
"Like she just said," Rippa answered, "Shampoo's spirit sense. I don't really understand it myself, but she says this may look like it is repeating endlessly but it's really just a maze and she can sense the way."
"Then you can get us out?" Ukyo asked, to which Shampoo nodded.
"How troublesome," Peach said with a sigh.
"Come, I lead," Shampoo directed and began running. Herb followed, while the others lingered to face Peach. However, in only an instant, Peach was already behind them and ahead of Herb.
"Damn it!" Ukyo cursed and once more energized her aura with a scream and rushed in. This time Peach grabbed Ukyo's fist, holding her fast, the kitsune's face now serious.
"I tire of this," Peach said with a groan and her form began to change once again, turning into a crystal like structure. Ukyo reacted mid transformation, blazing her aura even hotter and kicking Peach in the head only to cry out in pain. "Pointless," the kitsune mocked and tossed Ukyo aside.
Ukyo tumbled to the ground, holding her leg and letting her aura calm, while Ranma moved to assist her. "It's alright," she grumbled as she slowly got to her feet. "Think she somehow reflected all my force back at me."
The crystalline Peach shook her head in disappointment. "Such pointless struggle. The only reason I'm am even entertaining this all is because I am compelled not to bring you to harm."
"So, you just mock us?" Ranma asked.
Peach smiled. "Demoralize you. After all, you have to realize just how outmatched you are and how hopeless this situation is." Peach raised the palm of her hand to the sky and lifted it. In response all the fighters likewise floated off the ground, immobilized. "Do you see the difference in our power?" Peach asked and still seeing defiance in them sharply swept her hand to the side. In response to the motion the group's clothes tore effortlessly and cleanly off their bodies and Peach laughed.
"What the hell?!" Ranma yelled in embarrassment as he tried to cover himself and look away from the naked girls now around him. Ukyo did much the same. Herb and Shampoo remained defiant, not even moving to cover themselves, while Rippa just sighed closed his eyes and crossed his arms. Only Kasumi remained unmoved by the act though, simply examining Peach.
Kasumi lack of response gave Peach pause, the kitsune looking at Kasumi intently. Just then a fully clothed Kasumi appeared behind her and grabbed her by the shoulder. "Heaven's Ascension!" Kasumi called out as he released all his stored energy through Peach.
Kasumi powered down as the effect took hold, creating a great pillar of light where Peach was. All those around were forced to shield their eyes, for the moment that it lasted.
"What the heck was that?!" Ukyo exclaimed but then noticed she was still suspended in the air.
"Quite ineffective is what it was," Peach mocked as she remained where she was only wincing slightly as she looked back at Kasumi. "An impressive technique. Flood your opponent with passive chi so as to purge them of all hostile intent. Might have worked if you had about ten times more energy to use."
"Can't blame me for trying," Kasumi responded as the naked and suspended version of himself faded out of existence.
"And a nearly solid illusion too. Nice combination. So was that it? That all the tricks you have?" Peach asked. "Will you give up this pointless resistance now?"
Kasumi looked to the sky for a moment then back to Peach and let out a weak laughed. "How about one more little trick?" Thrusting her hand in front of her and said, "dragon flash!" With the call the entire area was filled with an even more intense blast of light that gave little warning, blinding all around them, even Peach.
"This is pointless," Peach growled as she squinted before her eye went open in shock. She looked to the sky just in time to see Ranko dive down on her. Peach reacted instinctively, raising her hand at Ranko and sweeping it, but nothing happened to Peach's surprise. Before she could process the failure, Ranko was on her.
The instant Ranko touched the kitsune several things happened. First those suspended in the air dropped to the ground. Second a horrifying scream was let out that caused everyone to look to the kitsune and Ranko in shock. Even Ranko was unnerved by the reaction, immediately withdrawing as Peach's form went mad.
The kitsune's shapeshifting power appeared to go beserk, rapidly changing her form into dozens of different configurations but with no real pattern to it. Crystal was mixed with elephant. Insect was merged with flower. And all the while the kitsune wailed in twisted agony, her scream grossly distorted by her transformations.
It was perhaps only five seconds, but that was enough to stun everyone as Peach form finally solidified into a nine tailed fox's and collapsed to the ground, unmoving.
"I... I... " Ranko stammered as Kasumi rushed to the kitsune's side to check it. "I didn't kill her, did I?"
Kasumi checked the creature as the others rushed forward to join him. "No, she is breathing, but I don't know how bad of shape she is in. We should take her with us. She may need attention."
Ranko withdrew slightly as Kasumi took up the limp kitsune's form. "Come, we must go now before they realize what has happened."
The others collectively nodded and rushed off, the area around them now restored to normal.
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About the moment in the shadow world, a giant cyclops grabbed up Jasmine and moved to bite into her, only to have itself be blown up as this form was a decoy and exploded when in the cyclops' face. The giant groaned and collapsed to the ground before dissolving to nothing.
Sitting looking bored on a nearby building, Jasmine sighed. "How long you going to keep up this little game, Eyebright?"
Across from her on another building, Eyebright chuckled. "It's good to see you have been keeping up with your practice."
"Of course," Jasmine replied before pointing at Eyebright's building and causing it to explode. She sighed and scanned around till finding the kitsune on yet another building some distance away. "So have you. So again, I ask, how long?"
Eyebright smiled but then suddenly lost his composure. His expression changed to concern before without answering he vanished.
"How rude! Start a fight and don't even stick around to finish it," Jasmine muttered before standing up and conjuring several magical patterns around her.
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Just then, back in the real world, Kasumi's group was in eyesight of Siren's dome. They have cobbled together some basic garments to wear along the way from the remains of their clothes and bits of Kasumi's, although Ukyo was still beat red with embarrassment as she could barely manage a bikini like setup.
"We're almost there," Kasumi said as they approached. Just as hope was solidifying, though, there was a flash, and the familiar form of Eyebright stood before them and on seeing them his expression grew dark. "Oh dear," Kasumi exclaimed as she skidded to a halt.
The others also did not know how to take this situation and held up as Eyebright tensed at seeing Peach in Kasumi's arms. "You are going to regret that," Eyebright growled out as he approached and everyone felt a wave of energy come off of him.
Such was the force of the power that Kasumi found herself unable to even move. She could not even respond when Ranko looked around at the others, steeled herself and rushed forward. Nor could she react when Eyebright, in one effortless motion let out an energy blast to strike Ranko. However, unlike with Peach, Ranko's aura proved ineffective this time, and Ranko was sent flying into the building, crashing right through the concrete wall of the school.
This finally allowed Kasumi enough strength of will to react, although only slightly as he looked to where Ranko had been blasted. "Ranko!" he yelled out but got no response. His attention was quickly forced back to the advancing kitsune in front of him though as he considered whether he would be his next victim.
Eyebright managed another few steps before another flash appeared between him and Kasumi in which Jasmine appeared. This shocked Eyebright out of his dark intent, and likewise released the others. "Now, now, Eyebright, we were having a discussion," the Grand Magus said with a serious look.
"You!" Eyebright exclaimed in frustration, but Jasmine ignored him turning slightly to them.
"Go now!" Jasmine ordered, and shaken from their stupor the others complied save Kasumi. Kasumi lay Peach on the ground and quickly ran for where Ranko had disappeared. Jasmine made no effort to stop her though, instead placing herself between Eyebright and Herb the whole while as the prince ran to Siren's barrier. Eyebright glared at Herb and Jasmine, but then rushed to Peach.
Within the school, Kasumi found Ranko, badly bloodied among the rubble. As he neared though, Ranko groaned. "Ranko!" he exclaimed as he rushed to clear the rubble and inspect her.
"That... really... hurt," Ranko managed to get out through pained breaths.
"Stay still," Kasumi said as he inspected her. "You have numerous broken ribs, and I think you punctured a lung."
"Yeah, that... feels about... right," Ranko got out. "How..."
"I don't know. Whatever he used must not have been typical magic," Kasumi replied as he laid his hands on her and began pouring energy into her. "Just be still."
Ranko nodded and laid back with a groan.
Out in the yard, Eyebright made no attempt to stop the other's progress to the barrier, instead focusing his attentions on Peach. Once safe within the barrier, Jasmine joined him, calming asking, "Do you need assistance?"
"No," Eyebright replied, his calm somewhat restored. "She will be alright in time," he said as he rose to his feet, leaving Peach resting on the ground.
"You know you pushed this conflict. Don't escalate it any further," Jasmine advised him.
Eyebright eyed Jasmine for a long moment, then turned to look at Herb, now safely behind Siren's barrier. The Amazon magus stood near the barrier's edge, returning his look. "You're right, I forced this conflict... and I am committed now."
"Eyebright, don't take this path," Jasmine quietly cautioned, but the kitsune advanced on the barrier.
Siren moved to face him, but Eyebright shook his head. "I won't fight you, Amazon, but I also can't let this situation go."
"Then what is your intent?" Siren asked from behind her barrier.
About that moment, Kasumi emerged from the school and joined Jasmine. "Ranko is stabilized for now, but she needs further medical treatment. I haven't the energy to heal her further."
"My magics will be of little use too, I'm afraid," Jasmine replied, but gestured to Eyebright. "I'm more concerned about this right now."
Eyebright looked to Herb who stood defiant behind the barrier. "There is only two ways this ends. Either Herb surrenders to me, or he dies."
"Dies?!" Rippa exclaimed.
"What other choice do I have. I am committed now. If Herb returns to the Musk free, he will undoubtedly move to take revenge for this. I can't allow that. It won't be today, or even tomorrow, but he will never make it back to the Musk alive," Eyebright said coldly, giving Herb paused. "How long do you think you can hide behind these Amazons? Give yourself up."
Kasumi rushed over. "You can't!"
"I must," Eyebright replied, looking to Kasumi. "I will not risk my clan's safety for the sake of this prince."
Kasumi looked around at everyone gathered for some hint as to a response, but the others were just as struck by this as Kasumi was. That is when Kasumi caught sight of a new arrival, So Pu, who was walking up to the confrontation calmly, followed by the other Amazon elder's. Kasumi blinked as he recalled their discussion and looked to Shampoo. Shampoo took the hint and reluctantly closed her eyes and nodded.
"Then you leave me no choice either. As a member of the Amazon village, and... a male, I officially declare my intention to... take Herb as my wife."
"What?!" came several responses to varying degrees of shock. Even Herb was dumbstruck by this.
Eyebright, however, was perhaps the most confused by this. "What nonsense is this?!"
"Little used nonsense, but nonetheless a part of our law," So Pu approached and explained, gaining Eyebright's attention. "You are no doubt familiar with a defeat law regarding marriage for our females, yes? Well, that only applies to the women. There is, however, a much less used law for our men. They may take an outsider as their wife, with council approval."
"Kasumi is not a male though!" Eyebright insisted.
"In truth, Kasumi's status is undecided. She is in a legal limbo of being potentially both male or female according to our laws, maybe even both. The council never did decide firmly," So Pu explained to Eyebright's annoyance.
"This is... is none of your affair."
"Kasumi has made it our affair. Until the council approves or rejects Kasumi's proposition, Herb is essentially an Amazon. Any attack on Herb is thus an attack on us, something you so dearly want to avoid, yes?"
Eyebright growled, baring his teeth to the Amazon. "Why? This will force a conflict-"
"Not at all," So Pu interjected. "I see it as an opportunity."
"Opportunity?!" Eyebright replied.
"Yes, for an alliance."
At this point Kasumi blinked. So Pu's demeanor had changed to a serious one, and he felt something was amiss. As he pondered this Cologne came up next to him and quietly asked, "I take it So Pu is the one that informed you of this option?"
"Yes," Kasumi replied, causing Cologne to sigh. "What's going on?"
Cologne did not reply as So Pu continued. "What is the real reason you want Herb, anyway? I know about what you've been up to, you and your clan. You have moved to secure yourselves into every major clan in the Musk, in key positions. Now you make a play for the heir to the throne. First you tried to get your child married to him, but now the even better opportunity comes in the form of forcing a marriage with your clan member as the male. It is quite obvious you're looking to take over. No?"
Eyebright did not answer, simply eyeing So Pu. She took this positively and continued. "Herb would give you legitimacy, but that also shows you don't think you currently have enough support to accomplish your little coup. If I were to hazard a guess, the biggest stumbling block is Garnet himself, right? You don't think you have the power to take him down, especially if anyone moves to aid him."
"What are you proposing?" Eyebright asked at last.
"The Amazons have no particular love Garnet either," So Pu started before Cologne spoke up.
"So Pu!" she exclaimed.
"Yes, who are you to make such a proposal," Eyebright asked, looking to Cologne then back at So Pu.
"I am the soon to be Matriarch of the Amazons," So Pu replied.
This declaration came as quite the shock to many, save Cologne who simply sighed. Before any could question it, Cologne spoke. "It is true... I'll explain later," she added for Kasumi and the others sake.
Eyebright looked between the two elders, then the others gathered who could easily hear but made no argument. "Alright... you have me intrigued. Perhaps we can discuss this in more privacy."
"Of course," So Pu agreed. "But, shall we call all hostilities to an end for the day first?"
"Yes," Eyebright agreed, closed his eyes and spoke. "That is enough. The situation is... changed. Stand down for now and come to the school. Peach needs attention." A moment later Eyebright opened his eyes and nodded. "My clan is withdrawing and coming here."
"Good, then once your wife is attended to, we can move to further discussions," So Pu said, gesturing for the pair to head back towards Peach.
"Great grandmother-" Shampoo started to ask, but Cologne waved off the question.
"I will explain it all later. For now, stay here within the barrier. Siren keep them secure... and get them some clothing."
"Of course," Siren replied, and looked back to where Frost was still working, oblivious to the whole confrontation. "She's going to have lots of questions... we'll just keep her in the dark for now I think."
Kasumi looked around confused as Cologne departed. "What just happened?"
"I think you just got used is what," Herb replied. "No... not just you, all of us."
"Wonderful," Ranma muttered. "We should see to Ranko."
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Over the course of the next hour, Tofu arrived to treat Ranko along with Shampoo's mother. While they worked, Kasumi and the rest paced, waiting for some word. The kitsunes had gathered briefly, only to depart with the elders back to the restaurant, leaving everyone with many questions.
Finally Cologne returned, stopping briefly to check on Ranko before joining them, immediately quieting a barrage of questions.
"I suppose we should begin with the issue of the Matriarchy," Cologne started with a sigh. "I have told you before I was intending to return to the village as I anticipated something like this, but it seems the timetable I set for myself was far too optimistic. Last week, the council held a non confidence vote in my leadership and it passed."
"This is about me, isn't it?" Kasumi said sadly.
Cologne sighed. "Partly, but you were just the final straw I think. You must understand, I have held the position of matriarch far longer than any other matriarch in our history. I've been intending to pass it several times, but each time my candidate... well, for various reasons was ruled out. This has... strained my support with the council. I've only kept their support this long by giving over certain powers that are technically mine to them. Still, they are still technically powers of the Matriarch and I could take them back at any time. So naturally, there are many on the council who have been looking for new blood.
"It seems the situation with you and Shampoo pushed some buttons with some normally neutral members of the council. They have gotten it into their head that you have played a game to seize power in the village. I know that is not your intent, but they are quite unnerved by the current situation. That probably could have been smoothed over if I'd dragged back to the village as a male, but since I have since taken a more... nuanced approach they... well, lost confidence in me."
"I see," Kasumi said, hanging her head.
"Don't blame yourself, Kasumi. I believe my current approach is best, and even regret to an extent my early approach here. This has been a long time coming and if it wasn't this, it probably would have been something else.
"And don't get me wrong, if it had to be anyone, So Pu would be the one I would choose of all the council members. She thinks primarily of the village, not her own petty desires, and has a great deal of experience. Just, till now, she has shown no real interest in leadership. She was one of those neutrals I mentioned, and when she turned, the council turned with her."
Herb shook her head and asked, "Do you get no say in the matter?"
"I do, for all the good it will do. A vote for the new Matriarch is to be held next week. I get my say in that, and can vote as a member of the council, but given what I know, So Pu is sure to win. At this point, to be honest, I'm inclined to simply conceded to avoid further conflict. However, this all... this I did not expect."
"What exactly is she planning?" Ranma asked.
"As you heard, Eyebright is planning a coup to remove Garnet from power in the Musk. Garnet is Herb's father, I'm sure we've mentioned him before, but he is regarded by many to be unstable, possibly insane, but also incredibly powerful and dangerous."
"I can attest to that," Herb said turning away but continuing to listen.
"In any case, even Eyebright does not yet believe he has the power to complete his coup successfully. He was hoping to bring on several of the other clans to his side and use their combined power to defeat and kill Garnet. Herb, as heir to the throne, would help with this, giving not only a level of legitimacy to the new holder of the thrown, but also potentially as a bargaining chip."
Herb laughed. "So, not only would they force me into a marriage, they were planning to sell off the throne to another clan for their support. Wonderful."
"Yes," Cologne conceded. "But, on the bright side, those plans have changed. So Pu has offered the support of the Amazon council. That greatly increases Eyebright fighting strength to the point he may be able to make his move very soon."
"Won't the Musk people flip out if Amazons are involved?" Ukyo asked. "I thought you guys didn't like each other."
"Oh, that is certainly a concern and why this won't happen immediately. Eyebright has to put things in place in that regard. The plan, however, is that we will aid in the defeat of Garnet and withdraw. That will minimize our involvement, letting Eyebright either completely conceal it, or downplay it as necessary."
"And what do you get out of it?" Herb asked without turning back.
Cologne paused, but finally replied honestly. "Two things. One, Garnet dead. He is a great worry to us. Dragonkin only increase with power as they age and his power is already... unsettling to us. It may not be that long before even the combined Amazon council may not be enough to fight him."
Herb huffed, then asked, "And two?"
"Two... Kasumi on the throne of the Musk."
"What?!" Kasumi blurt out.
"That's part of the deal. Eyebright and the Amazons will acknowledge your marriage to Herb, but with Herb as the female. He will not be forced to keep this form, and can return to his male form, but must take the female role. This is so that the position of Dragon Lord falls to you, Kasumi."
"Why me?!"
"Because you're the only one available," Cologne answered. "So Pu wants influence in the Musk, even if it is minimal. That rules out any candidate Eyebright could choose. Your position as a quasi-outsider puts you in a unique position to fill the role, especially with your curse. Eyebright knows he can easily dethrone you if you go out of line, but he also knows you are connected to the Amazons so can't easily toss you, especially given the legitimacy you would give him."
"And Kasumi acts as So Pu's pawn," Herb concluded to which Cologne reluctantly nodded. Herb let out a sad laugh. "You know, the odd thing is I don't care one little bit that they wish to kill my father. I hardly know him, and what little I do know of him makes me hate him," Herb said, turning finally back to look at Cologne. "And there is also that other matter," she muttered.
"Other matter?" Cologne asked.
"Let's just say, I probably wouldn't be welcome back in the Musk anyway, and putting my father out of the way would solve that."
"I see," Cologne said with an upraised eyebrow then took notice of Shampoo's growing anger. "Shampoo?"
"Is... she tricked me," Shampoo said through clenched teeth.
"So Pu?" Cologne asked and Shampoo nodded. "It's true that she didn't tell you about the Matriarchy change, but that was my request. I was hoping to tell you all under... better circumstances."
Shampoo huffed.
"So... now what?" Kasumi asked.
"Now, you decide. So Pu and Eyebright are in agreement. The council members present are also in agreement, although there is some reluctance. There will be further discussions no doubt with the full council present, but I suspect the chance to rid ourselves of the risk of Garnet will win them over. No, I'm confident in that. Even I am quite uncertain of this strategy but must admit the opportunity to remove the threat he poses cannot be passed up. This could also lead to a great improvement in relations with the Musk in the future. It must be seriously considered."
"And if we refuse to cooperate?" Herb asked but answered her own question. "Don't bother, I can guess. So Pu will reject Kasumi's marriage to me, leaving me unprotected, and Eyebright or one of his clan will do me in at the first available opportunity."
"It wasn't formally discussed, but yes, that is the outcome you can likely expect," Cologne confirmed. "You have till morning to decide. Until then, you have the protection of the Amazons, and from my read of the situation Eyebright is not simply lulling us into a false sense of security. He appears to genuinely want this deal. So you should be safe, for the time being at least. Of course, don't take any unnecessary risks. I would stay either here within the barrier or within the restaurant's protect, which has been fully restored by the way."
Herb huffed, and without further word, walked off to be on her own.
Cologne sighed. "I regret that you have been put into this position, Kasumi."
"What becomes of me in this... coup?"
"You stay here until you're needed. Eyebright will do whatever prep is necessary, and when the time comes we all will deal with Garnet. Only afterword will you get involved."
"Does that mean I must move to the Musk?" Kasumi asked.
Cologne pondered a moment. "I can't say for sure. I'm certain some accommodations can be made."
Kasumi hung her head. "So Pu wanted this outcome, didn't she?"
"I suspect so," Cologne answered.
Kasumi sighed and looked up. "I suppose though, it was ultimately unavoidable."
"Perhaps," Cologne said before turning to look to Frost and sighed once more. "Regrettably this will also put quite the pale on what should be a very big moment for Frost." Cologne considered that for a moment then shrugged. "I should return to the restaurant. Frost will be finished soon, and it will be quite the little display. You should stay to watch. If nothing else, it will be a distraction for a short time."
Kasumi nodded and Cologne headed off.
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End Chapter 52
Next time in A Scary Thought: Kasumi and Co have to react to this newest development and Frost finally begins her spell.
For those a bit confused on the crossovers: Usagi, Rei, Minako, Makoto, Ami, Haruka, Michiru, Hotaru, Setsuna, Luna, and Artemis are all from Sailor Moon. Kitsune has her ties to the X-files, but only in that she's a fanatic of similar interests rather than appearing in said show. Saki and Sampei are from Sukeban Deka. You may also notice Frost borrowing a spell from here or there; in particular Gargoyles and Illusionaries are two prime targets. Speaking of Gargoyles, if you're a fan of the series you may have already figured this out, but La Bac is Cabal spelt backwards. Also Gen-U-Tech is also a business from Gargoyles. Does that mean this is a Gargoyles cross over? Haven't decided, could just be me stealing ideas ^_^. Anyway, besides that we have Chun Li, Rose, Shadow Lady, Shadow, Gill and the previously shown Karin and Sakura which come from Street Fighter series (Rose, Karin and Sakura from Street Fighter Alpha 3, Shadow and Shadow Lady from Marvel vs Capcom, Chun Li from much of the Street Fighter series, and now Gill from Street Fighter III). As for Ranko, well she's from my other major fanfic, Most Unlikely of Friends, although you can largely consider her standard Ranma trapped in female form for most purposes. And lastly comes dear old Siren who is from Dreiser's story 'Black Rose Blue Thunder'. I won't be using her much but she fits a temporary need. Be Dea comes from D B. Sommers fic Shampoo ½, and if you haven't read it, do so, now! I've also previously mentioned Perfume from same fic (although this story has two Perfumes being mentioned, the other being from my own Most Unlikely of Friends). As already mentioned, Miku, Neru and Haku are vocaloid character, but just cameo's for them.
On a side note for those crossovers, it recently came to my attention that some believe I am crossed with Negima. I'm actually not, but out of curiosity I checked out Negima and could certainly see the similarities (a lot of them in fact, and was quite surprised seeing as I never even heard of Negima until it was mentioned). That got the proverbial wheels in my head turning about potential crossovers so... maybe.
I'm so far behind on my websites that I don't even feel they're worth mentioning anymore. If you do head there, consider them seriously out of date, and essentially dead.
XXXXX
Hey folks, it is time for another Kitsune's Corner! So, Devlin, the skeleton himself... or I suppose I should be more technical and call you a Lich?
"Whatever floats your boat. I'm not picky."
So, I take it you are a necromancer.
"No actually... well, sorta. I know Necromancy to be sure, but my specialty is actually conjuring."
Really? That's surprising.
"Not really. Necromancy isn't very popular, as you can probably guess. So most mages specialize in other fields and just dabble in it."
Hmm, guess that makes sense. So, what made you... make yourself a Lich?
"Lost a bet."
Lost... a bet... Seriously?!
"Seriously."
Must have been one hell of a bet.
"Oh yeah. I still think I was robbed, but what you going to do. It has its perks, but damn do I miss some things."
What sort of things.
"All kinds, particularly the things that require certain... parts if you catch my drift."
Oh... yeah, guess that would be annoying. Okay, moving on before this gets weird, are you and Grenda Jasmine's only students.
"We're not students, but I know what you mean, and the answer is no, she has two others."
Of course. So, where are they?
"One is a demon and can't actually step foot on the Earthly plane. The other is George."
George? Just... George?
"Yeah, what is wrong with George?"
Well, I don't know... doesn't sound very... wizardly.
"Most aren't named for their wizardliness."
I suppose that is true. So where's he?
"Off on some expedition. Lucky schmuck."
So... what's George's thing?
"Thing? Nothing really. He's... pretty boring actually. Decent in a fight, but nothing really stand out about him."
Boring name, boring guy... how dull. Oh well, guess you all can't be interesting. You didn't mention the Demon's name.
"That's cause I can't pronounce it. Don't think any human can."
Oh, one of those. So guess Jasmine really does get all the weird ones.
"So she says. Can't speak to the truthfulness of that. She is quite old. I've only been under her for about a century, Grenda even less."
Just how old are you guys?
"Me, I'm 426. Grenda... is old, I don't know precisely how old, and I'm not at liberty to speculate on her exact age. As for Jasmine, I'd never hear the end of it if I let that out. Our Demon friend is... hmm, now that you ask I realize time doesn't have the same meaning for him, so probably not really a valid question in his case. And George, well he's practically a baby at 62."
62... damn.
"Yeah, well takes quite some time usually to make the rank of archmage, although Grenda is a fairly recent study from my understanding."
Frost is just 18 though.
"Yep. She's definitely unusual. Not the youngest surprisingly though."
Really?
"Yeah, apparently a 8 year old made the rank. Don't know the young man myself, but I hear it was rather special circumstance. And there are others too. So, definitely unusual but not unheard of."
Hmm, well, I think I may have to drag Jasmine in here.
"Good luck with that. She's not very talkative about private matters."
Yeah. I'll have to work on her, but in the meantime have plenty of other targets. Nice to have you.
"I'm always in for a friendly chat. Usually people freak out when they know I'm a Lich, so it's a good change of pace."