Ranma ½
A Scary Thought:
What happened last time: With the most recent crisis resolved, Herb managed to bargain a bit of a better deal out of the situation. The kitsunes and amazons have departed, including Cologne, and Frost is now on a one week timer to depart as well. Lastly, the senshi have agreed to reveal themselves at last.
Author Note: I think for my sanity, I'm going to change my writing style a bit from here on to better match my other stories. In particular thoughts will be marked in single quote like 'this'. Constantly switching styles is rather annoying and I keep forgetting which style to use so this should make it easier.
Chapter 55
XXXXX
Morning at the San Cheng Huang had Kasumi feeling relatively upbeat... relatively. There was still much of her proverbial plate that was weighing on her, but with the immediate threats dealt with and Herb's unexpected negotiation wins, Kasumi felt... not terrible, which right now was a win.
Of course, life went on, and in particular so did school which everyone was back to today, so Kasumi was quick to get downstairs to begin preparation. At the bottom of the main staircase, which led directly into the main kitchen, Kasumi found it bustling with activity: every station was manned with staff sorting, organizing, or even cooking. Kasumi paused at the sight before Crystal entered the kitchen, followed slowly by numerous others, and quickly came over.
"Ah, Kasumi, hope we didn't wake you," Crystal said.
"No, no, the sound proofing here is quite good," Kasumi said with a smile.
"EVERYONE!" Crystal called out with a clap of her hands, bringing the kitchen staff to a halt, and the newcomers from the other room lined up. The kitchen staff likewise turned to Kasumi and Crystal. "Good, this is Kasumi Tendo, the owner." Kasumi received universal bows in greetings and respect. "Now, she will be attending some functions, as I have explained, but all primary issues should be brought to me or your direct manager first unless otherwise not possible."
"Yes mam!" came the collective reply.
"Good," Crystal said before prompting Kasumi to speak with a look.
"Ah... it's nice to meet you all. I hope we'll all work well together," Kasumi said, gaining various nods and light bows in response.
"Alright everyone, let's get back to work. I want to be open by week's end. No excuses," Crystal instructed and as obedient as ever, the staff quickly returned to their original business. "They're all quite good, I can assure you."
"I'm sure they are. So we're all set for staff then?" Kasumi asked.
"Oh yes," Crystal replied. "There is one matter I wished to discuss with you. I know you have a number of free rooms upstairs. I'd prefer a place out of the way to handle bookkeeping and such if possible."
"Oh, of course, there is plenty of extra room, especially now," Kasumi said and led the way back upstairs. They went down the hall of the 2nd floor briefly before Kasumi opened one of the doors to a free bedroom. "Will this do?"
"Perfectly."
"You can move out the bed if you need-"
"Nono, I may have to pull an all nighter some days, and having a place to rest would be best," Crystal quickly said. "I'll be sure to keep it clean myself. Oh, you shouldn't need to worry about the downstairs at all in that regard either. The staff should handle all that. If they don't, just give me a nudge and I'll get them on it immediately."
Kasumi smiled appreciatively as Crystal closed the door to the room. The two shared a look for a moment as Crystal smiled. "You're still thinking about the whole 'demon' thing, right?"
"Uh... a little, maybe."
Crystal laughed. "It's alright. I understand. Not like my contemporaries haven't taken up a lot of particularly bad habits. First I should ask, do you know what the technical definition of a demon is?" Kasumi shook her head. "Okay, while a lot of things are called demons, in more official circles demons are in the category of species that came to be on another plane of existence. As such, while the term demon is often used, it would be more appropriate to refer to us as extraplanar beings, but that is a mouthful so I understand why most don't use it."
"I see."
"Yes. These other planes of existence vary dramatically, and generally speaking, the closer they are to Earth-like conditions, you get more human like demons. I've only been to my species' original plane once and yeah, if you didn't know, you'd probably think you were on Earth," Crystal explained.
"Right, and I'm guessing the truly dangerous demons come from very odd planes."
"Generally, yeah," Crystal confirmed. "It isn't exactly easy to jump between these planes either. Usually some pretty big magics are needed. Again, closer the easier it is to get to, but even mine home plane is something only fairly advanced mages would even try to reach, which coincidentally means we're mostly stranded here."
"Oh?"
"Yes, as I mentioned, we're not exactly a powerful bunch. In truth we're actually weaker than humans... well, sorta. I suppose it would be more correct to say at base we're stronger, but at peak we're not even remotely close. As such we lack the magical power to open portals ourselves under most circumstances."
"Oh," Kasumi said a bit sadly.
"Don't worry, I have no real connection to my home plane, and frankly, it isn't the greatest place anymore. It's pretty overrun by other more powerful demonic breeds, which is part of the reason we came to Earth originally."
Kasumi nodded in understanding. "Is there anything else I should know about you?"
"Not particularly. As you can see, I can pass for human quiet easily. This isn't an illusion or a shapeshift. It is my natural form. The only outward sign of my nature is some zebra-like markings which show up in certain lighting conditions, so I tend to avoid the beach as it gets me far too many questions about where I got the terrible tan job," Crystal said with a chuckle which Kasumi shared in. "About the only thing that would give me away would be a doctor doing an xray or the like. Organs aren't quite right for humans. Oh, I suppose if it comes up, we may look human, but we can't actually breed with humans. Odd that, as succubi, our relatives, which look less the part, can. Always wondered about that."
"Perhaps they modified themselves to be able to do so?" Kasumi suggested.
"It's as good a theory as any," Crystal said with a shrug before shifting topics slightly. "One thing I can provide for you, if you need, is a bit of insider knowledge of the local... supernatural activities. Nothing too hidden mind you, but if you're looking to know where all the local legit magic shops are, or any enclaves of non-humans, I can point you in the right direction."
"I didn't realize such enclaves existed so commonly," Kasumi said.
"They aren't that common. In all of Tokyo I only know of three, one of which is where I come from. In all of Japan I know of only about two dozen. And to be sure, these are types that can all pass for humans through various means."
Kasumi nodded in understanding. "That makes sense. Well, thank you."
"No problem. Whenever you do get an idea when you want to add yourself or anyone else to the schedule, just come to me and I'll work you in. Got some spots already open."
"Thanks. Is there anything I can help with?"
Crystal thought for a moment. "About my only concern at the moment is some name recognition in the kitchen. This is a big place, and you'd expect a famous chef, but no such luck. They're expensive and rare, so I haven't been able to get any. Not to mention our side of delivery turns many off. Oh well."
"Hmm," Kasumi responded in thought, catching Crystal's attention.
"Someone come to mind?"
"Sort of... it's Ukyo. Do you know her?"
"Cologne has told me of her. She did mention she was a bit of a cook."
"A very good one," Kasumi confirmed. "She has actually won awards for such."
Crystal's interest peaked at this. "Oh, that I didn't know."
"Yes... but I'm not sure it would be possible to get her. For one, she's never run a restaurant kitchen of this scale I'm sure, but probably even more importantly she seems to have gone away from her cooking lately. I'm afraid I'm a bit to blame for that," Kasumi explained.
"Hmm, I see," Crystal replied. "That's unfortunate. Her being inexperienced in kitchen management I could easily deal with, but if she's turned away from cooking altogether..."
Kasumi nodded sadly. "I actually requested the grill station with her in mind, not sure why exactly..."
"Her favored station I assume?"
"Yes. She is an Okonomiyaki chef first and foremost," Kasumi explained.
Crystal nodded and went into thought. "Well then, thanks for the info. Perhaps we can bring her around. It sounds like it may be good for her too, but I won't count on it."
Kasumi nodded before taking notice of footsteps coming up the main stairs. She turned to see Ranma followed soon after by Nabiki and Akane, all three carrying full loads. "Ranma?"
Ranma looked to Kasumi and sighed before Herb came down the opposite hall. Ranma immediately turned to the prince and glared. "This is all your fault!"
XXXXX
"So, yeah, everyone got it into their head that since Herb is staying here, I have to too," Ranma explained as he dropped off his luggage in a spare room.
"I'm sorry," Kasumi said, hanging her head, but Ranma merely shrugged.
"It's not your fault. Besides, on the bright side, we can all do our morning practice here in the weird castle place you got," Ranma said.
"I suppose that is more convenient. Is uncle Saotome aware-"
"He complained when I brought it up, but Mom overruled him," Ranma said with a smirk. Kasumi nodded before Ranma changed topics. "Ukyo is going to be trouble though. Me and you under the same roof without her... she won't like that."
"Yes. Perhaps it would be best to invite her to stay here too?"
Ranma considered this. "You sure? She still doesn't get along with you."
Kasumi cringed slightly. "She's a little better," Kasumi suggested but Ranma remained skeptical.
"If you say so, but let me do the inviting."
Kasumi nodded appreciatively. "Yes, that probably would be best."
XXXXX
In the castle, Herb, Shampoo, Akane and Nabiki were finishing dropping off Herb's things in his new room.
"Damn, so this is Kasumi's now?" Nabiki asked and Shampoo nodded in confirmation. "She could run her own hotel out of here."
"Think Kasumi has enough on her plate," Akane replied. "Besides, how are you going to explain this to the guests?"
"That would be half the attraction!" Nabiki countered.
"Akane right, Kasumi too busy for that," Shampoo said to Nabiki's disappointment.
"Whatever. I think it is a good idea. Right now this place is going to waste," Nabiki said but started to head out with Akane. "Now, which way is out again?"
"I'll lead you out," Herb said and followed the sisters, leaving Shampoo alone in the room. She set her load on a nearby desk and looked about the room in contemplation although her mind was elsewhere.
'This is so annoying,' she thought. 'It was so much easier with just Ukyo and Ranma. All I had to do was stick them together and everything would work out. Now this whole business with Herb messes everything up.'
Shampoo sighed, absently unloading some of Herb's things as she thought. 'Kitsui is right too. Kasumi still is a woman. What if she would prefer...' Shampoo thought sadly. Just then she took note of the next item in the box, a smaller open box containing several packets of instant nannichuan. She took it out, considering the contents, but after only a few moments had the lid closed on her.
Shampoo started, realizing she'd been so focused on the box that she completely missed Herb's return. "Don't even think about it," he cautioned her as he took the box away.
"What you talking about?" Shampoo asked evasively.
"We both know what you were thinking. Don't. You'd only upset Kasumi if you did that to yourself, even if it was temporary," Herb explained.
Shampoo huffed and headed out, saying, "You imagining things," as she left. However once in the hall she paused to hang her head before continuing on.
By the time she reached the San Cheng Huang, she had reset her composure and found Kasumi seeing Akane and Nabiki off. "Are you ready for school?" Kasumi asked.
"In minute," Shampoo said, moving to the stairs to return to her shared room with Kasumi to retrieve her school supplies. She made it one step up when Makato came up from the stairs below.
"Hey, you guys got a sec?" Makato asked the pair. Kasumi nodded and Shampoo paused her ascent which Makoto took as an okay to continue. "We, meaning me and my friends, have something important to talk with you about later. Are you busy?"
Kasumi looked to Shampoo who shrugged before answering. "No, we're free."
"Great! We're going to meet at Haruka and Michiru's place. I can show it to you," Makoto said.
"Is it just us?" Kasumi asked, a bit puzzled.
"No. You both, Herb, Ranko, Frost and Selene," Makoto explained although this only further puzzled Kasumi.
"Uh, okay."
"I stop at Doctor's on way to school. Want tell Ranko and Frost?" Shampoo asked.
"That would be great if you could," Makoto said. "Could you tell Selene too. I'll get Herb."
"Selene?" Shampoo repeated, confused, looking to Kasumi who could only shrug.
"Oh, just tell Frost. Selene is her familiar."
"Oh, okay," Shampoo said before continuing on her way upstairs. Kasumi followed, likewise intending to complete her school prep. Once in the room, another thought hit Kasumi.
"Oh, there is another thing," she said, gaining Shampoo's attention. Kasumi considered for a second then explained, "Ranma actually brought this up, and it is more true now. I should talk with Tatewaki and Ryoga and... end things."
Shampoo nodded. "Yes, is good idea," she replied before considering and adding, "but Shampoo talk Kuno. No know Ryoga though."
Kasumi smiled in some relief. "Thank you. That will make things much easier," she said.
XXXXX
A short time later, Shampoo was visiting Ranko. The dimensionally displaced girl was still recovering, although now able to sit on the side of her bed without issue.
"Tonight huh. I guess I can make it. Doc says I should be good to head out in the afternoon assuming I got an escort," Ranko said.
Shampoo nodded. "Good... hmm, Shampoo can come get."
"Nah, Akane said she'd do it. I'll just meet you at the restaurant. I have something to do beforehand though, but won't take long I think."
"Okay," Shampoo replied as she got up but Ranko stopped her with a question.
"Say, I heard from Kasumi you got a bunch of special shampoos."
"Yes," Shampoo confirmed.
Ranko looked away slightly before asking, "like one that can erase memory?"
"Yes," Shampoo confirmed again, tilting her head to the side in some confusion.
"But that stuff wouldn't affect me, right, being magic and all."
"Oh... hmm, actually, that shampoo no magic. Just herbal."
Ranko looked to Shampoo in mild surprise. "Oh."
Shampoo tilted her head to the other side, asking, "You think someone use on you?"
Ranko looked away. "Nono. More just curious. Like, could you use that sort of thing on yourself?"
Shampoo frowned, opened her mouth to respond, but rethought her answer. Ranko looked back at her curiously prompting her to speak. "Is not impossible, but would need much speed, much more than Shampoo have. Mixture paralyze after just one second so would need do whole technique in that time."
"One second huh? Yeah, that's pretty absurd," Ranko said with a laugh.
Shampoo continued to frown. "Should no think about do such thing. Dangerous, especially if get technique wrong. Could lose many memory more than one targeted."
Ranko smiled and waved Shampoo off. "Nono... I know it sounds kinda like that, but trust me, I have zero intention of doing that."
Shampoo looked skeptical, but dropped the issue after a moment with a shake of her head. "Okay. No know why would want do such thing anyway. Shampoo have go now. Still have school."
"Yeah, see ya," Ranko said prompting Shampoo to head out. 'Smooth Ranko. Way to be subtle,' she thought sarcastically with a sigh, before dropping into deep thought.
XXXXX
Shampoo returned to the first floor, stopping by Frost's room, relaying the invite from Makoto before rushing off.
"Wonder what this is about," Frost puzzled.
Selene watched Shampoo go before answering, "I can guess."
"Oh?" Frost asked but Selene did not answer. Whatever. I'll find out soon enough, I guess."
"Whatever! Now, you've been stalling long enough. Keep to your promise," Selene complained.
"Fine, fine, I was just waiting a bit to be sure Herb didn't have some weird reaction. If you're okay with risking it-" Frost said.
"Yes!"
Frost shrugged and brought out the kaifishu. A short few minutes later to fill and heat it, Selene was replaced with an overjoyed Mousse.
As the newly restored Amazon male looked himself over in a mirror, Frost frowned behind him. "Just remember, human or not, you're still my familiar."
Mousse frowned, parting his bangs to indeed see the crescent moon symbol still on his forehead. He turned sharply on the Amazon magus. "You are still going to keep this up?"
"Damned rights!" Frost shot back. "Crying about it won't change anything."
Mousse clenched his teeth before relaxing suddenly. "Fine, but you better remove that stupid love pill."
"Why should I? That wasn't part of the deal."
"No," Mousse conceded. "But seeing that I'm human and male now, if it activates, just who do you think I will target?"
Frost thought for a second before cringing. "Fine! I'll remove it. Guess I better hide that symbol while I'm at it."
A few spells later, Mousse vomited up the love pill perfectly intact which Frost quickly stowed away. "Satisfied? Just don't make a nuisance of yourself or I will find ways to make your life hell."
"Whatever," Mousse replied before starting to depart only to be brought up short by Frost noisily clearing her throat. "What?"
"As amusing as it would be, it would probably be troublesome too-"
"What?!" Mousse repeated in frustration, but Frost only responded by looking down. This puzzled Mousse, prompting him to mirror her action until it finally hit him and he blushed furiously. "Why didn't you say something earlier?" He exclaimed as he covered his privates, having realized he was naked. Frost smirked before gesturing to a nearby closet and magically extracting Mousse's clothes.
Mousse snatched them and quickly dressed before sneering and leaving without another word.
Frost returned the sneer at his departure before quickly resetting her appearance when Grenda came in. "Uh, Grenda... uh-"
"Don't bother trying to explain. I don't care. I have an entire garden of very lifelike statues, so I am not one to judge," the Gorgon explained before switching topics. "I'm just here to relay some extra instructions from Jasmine. She wants you to be sure to bring all your magical tomes and such, particularly any other designs you have, complete or not."
"I was probably going to bring those anyway, but sure," Frost replied. "Say, uh, what's this training like?"
"Pretty wide ranging. She wants you to be at least reasonably competent in every magical discipline," Grenda answered.
"That doesn't sound too bad."
"No. From what I have heard, that probably should not take you too long. It's the combat test that usually is the hold up."
Frost went wide eyed. "Combat test?"
"Yeah. You have to beat Jasmine in a one on one duel."
"WHAT?! How am I supposed to do that? She's a 12th circle Grand Magus."
Grenda smiled. "Yeah, it isn't easy by any stretch, but she does give you a handicap, namely she restricts herself to 7th circle or less magic."
"Well I guess that is something, but still, it isn't like I know any real 8th circle magic right now. I just finished my first one."
"Yep, hence why it is the hold up, but it is a requirement she has to let you loose. She says she doesn't want any of her charges dying pathetic deaths because they can't fight."
Frost scowled. "Great."
"Just concentrate on what you're good at. You're an Amazon, so I'm sure you have combat training."
"Yeah, but not a whole lot of dueling experience, especially against other mages."
"Don't worry, she'll teach you. Just remember to leverage your specialties. Jasmine is a trickster type. Best to go traditional against her."
"Trickster?" Frost repeated in confusion.
"Oh, sorry, dueling term. Mages general specialize in one of three approaches: Traditional, combat or trickster. Trickster, as you'd guess from the name, uses mostly trickery, traps and deception. Traditional is the standard heavy artillery type, calling down huge magics from a distance. Combat is pretty new, but they break tradition and fight on the front lines, using augmentation magic and such.
"In practice, you find they have a bit of a rock paper scissors relationship. It isn't a hard one, but Tricksters are at an advantage against combat who in turn have an advantage over traditionals-"
"And traditionals have the advantage over tricksters," Frost concluded gaining a nod from Grenda. "Okay, I do feel like I'm most comfortable with the traditional approach so I guess that's good, but like you said, it is just an advantage."
"Yeah, it definitely won't win you the battle unless you're pretty close," Grenda confirmed. "Still, every little bit counts."
"Yeah, guess I'll find out."
"Yep," Grenda said. "Anyway. You don't seem the type to run off... I'm at Kasumi's place if you need me."
"Of course I'm not going to run off... is that common?"
Grenda just smiled in reply before departing.
XXXXX
With the school day at an end, Ranma soon arrived at the San Cheng Huang together with Ukyo, both carrying the latter's luggage. Ukyo looked around the reception area with a frown. "Looks busy," she said.
"Prepping for opening," Ranma explained just as Crystal rounded the corner.
"Ah, Ranma, and you are Ukyo?" Crystal asked as she came up. Ukyo silently nodded. "Pleasure to meet you. Here, let me help you," Crystal said, taking one of Ukyo's bags, although immediately straining with the weight. After adjusting the load some, Crystal led the way into the dining area. "This way, the direct door to the kitchen is a bit clogged at the moment."
They rounded the corner and came to the dining room entrance to the kitchen where Crystal paused. "I hear you are quite the cook yourself."
Ukyo frowned. "Yeah," Ukyo answered.
"Tokyo Restaurant Clash, three times in a row, that's really impressive," Crystal continued. "Some pretty big names participate in that."
Ukyo huffed before taking note of the grill station. It was next to the kitchen entrance, with the kitchen window and holding station on the opposite side. At that moment a member of the staff was sorting various supplies under the counter. Seeing this, Ukyo eyed Crystal suspiciously.
"Yeah, but I'm not really doing that anymore."
Crystal's smile strained some and she decided to continue into the kitchen finally. "That's a shame," she said as she led the way to the main staircase and upstairs. After a minute they arrived at a free room where they dropped off the luggage. "If there is anything I can help with, don't be afraid to ask, and if you do want to refresh your skills, I'm sure we can arrange something."
Crystal departed with Ukyo continuing to eye her until she left sight. Finally Ukyo huffed and turned away.
"Sure she is just looking for some good talent," Ranma said. Ukyo huffed once again. "Maybe you should consider it," he suggested.
Ukyo paused without looking at Ranma before answering. "Maybe."
"Alright, well I should go organize my room. If you need anything just yell."
"Okay, I should be fine," Ukyo replied and Ranma left. Once alone, she stood in thought for a minute before clenching her fist and tossing a book she was unloading heavily into the bed.
XXXXX
About the same time, Ranko and Akane arrived at the river canal and they descended to the water's edge, under a bridge. "What are you looking for?"
"Just a bottle. Doubt we'll find it, honestly, but I figured I'd take a quick look," Ranko answered.
"You drop it off the bridge?" Akane asked as she started to look around.
"I was camped out here, actually," Ranko answered to Akane's surprise.
"Camped?" Akane echoed.
Ranko cringed. "Uh... yeah... I uh... kinda travel a bunch."
"Hmh, oh, didn't know that," Akane replied, resuming her search. Ranko glanced at Akane, but seeing her seemingly drop the matter, relaxed, but that did not last as Akane asked a new question. "How is it you know Kasumi, anyway?"
Ranko tensed a bit, but was prepared for this question. "I met her a few years back. Always admired how great she was at martial arts so kinda got me into it too."
"Ah," Akane replied, picking up a discarded toy that had been half buried. Seeing it wasn't the object in question, she put it aside and kept looking. "You and Ranma sure have been spending a bunch of time together."
"He just needed my help training."
"Oh? Well, I guess, I just thought you might kinda like him."
Ranko laughed. "Oh, not anything like that," she said and after a second of thought continued. "Honestly, I'm... not really into guys," she said, sneaking a peak at Akane to gauge her reaction.
"Oh... hmm, is that maybe why you were interested in Kasumi?" Akane asked.
Ranko considered the ease of Akane's reply before answering, "Maybe, but I know she's involved now so don't worry about that."
"Has Kitsui been pestering you?" Akane asked.
"She was for a bit," Ranko confirmed. "She dropped it though so I'm good."
"That's good. She can be a pain sometimes, I know." Akane said with a joking grin before noticing something in the water. Wading out she pulled a bottle out of the silt. "110?" She read aloud.
"You found something?" Ranko asked as Akane waded back to shore and showed the bottle to Ranko.
"That it?" Akane asked.
Ranko pondered the shampoo bottle for a moment before shaking her head. "Nah. Just some garbage."
Akane nodded and scanned the area. "Not seeing anything else."
"Yeah, me neither. Guess it's gone," Ranko agreed. "We should get going. Don't want to hold up everyone."
"Right," Akane agreed and the pair made their way back to the street, Ranko promptly tossing the shampoo bottle in a nearby trash can.
XXXXX
The evening, all the selected individuals were gathered together in the apartment of Michiru and Haruka. The reveals had already taken place and Frost was working with Ami to go over the records on the computer. For Kasumi the whole thing was a bit on the overwhelming side. She had not known what to expect when arriving for this meeting. In fact her guess was this was some kind of surprise party for some happening that she had forgotten about, but such was of course not the case. Finding out that Makoto was in fact really Sailor Jupiter, and her friends were the other Sailor Senshi all along was the last thing she had been expecting.
That reaction was perhaps surprisingly not shared by the others. Ranko just seemed to shrug off the reveal, having apparently already known to a degree. Frost was a bit embarrassed, but also very excited and had eagerly agreed to help them out with their armor issues. Herb had remained unreadable, apparently still contemplating the whole thing as he sat to one side, but appeared to continue to follow the discussions Frost was having. Even Shampoo, who apparently was as caught off guard by this all as Kasumi, appeared to be taking it better, standing to the side and contemplating. Then there was C-chan, or rather Selene, who Kasumi had just learned was Frost's familiar apparently, and could talk. While her reaction was little different than Ranko's, the various reveals around her identity and the fact she was a talking cat was enough to give Kasumi a serious bout of the jitters that she was still recovering from. Thankfully said cat, along with Artemis and Luna had decided to situate themselves at the opposite end of the room so as to keep Kasumi from panicking too much.
So it was the best Kasumi could do to take a seat and just try to grasp what had just been revealed to her. After about five minutes, acceptance was finally taking full hold and Makoto came over. Makoto sitting down next to Kasumi got her to shift back to the moment.
"Still having a hard time with it?" Makoto asked.
"Uh... well, yes and no," Kasumi admitted, getting a laugh from Makoto. "I... I'm... It must have been rather... awkward for you when I thought you were... cosplaying."
Makoto laughed once again, scratching her cheek with a single finger. "A bit, but nothing serious. We still really don't know why you in particular can see right through the magic. Ami guesses it is something to do with Jusenkyo since that is linked to the Moon Kingdom, but that's only a guess, and it seems limited to you, so there is obviously more to it."
Kasumi nodded in understanding. "I have undergone a number of mental training exercises. Perhaps one of them combined with Jusenkyo is the key."
"Maybe, but not all that important right now," Makoto replied before looking across the room to where Usagi was sitting quietly. "There is another matter... We actually had another ulterior motive, beyond enlisting Frost's help."
"Oh?"
"Yeah. I know maybe this isn't the best time for you, but Usagi... needs someone to talk to. She's been going through a bunch of stuff and she wants a... fresh perspective."
"I see," Kasumi replied. "She doesn't feel she can talk with you all?"
"Not on this matter... or matters. We're too invested."
Kasumi nodded once more. "Yes... actually, maybe it would be a good change to listen to someone else's problems. Tonight?"
"No, tomorrow would be better. Enough excitement for one night I think."
Kasumi smiled in agreement. "Yes, probably for the best. Tomorrow should be fine. Grenda told me a few of the controls for the pocket dimension. We can use it to ensure some privacy."
"Right, good idea," Makoto said with a nod before looking back to the others. "Hope Frost can do something with that. They said it could take years for Seiya to be able to use her power properly, and god only knows how long for Usagi. That's a long time to go without having any real means of defense."
"Yes," Kasumi agreed before noticing Shampoo approach Usagi and unexpectedly kneel down before her. Kasumi puzzled at this, and it seemed to surprise Usagi too. Curious, Kasumi stood up and walked over.
"...Nono, that's totally-" Kasumi caught Usagi saying as she came into range.
"No. Shampoo know this is true. Shampoo, and Kasumi too, only alive because of Usagi. Is debt that never be repaid," Shampoo argued back.
"That's... well, I mean... I was kinda the one who got you into the situation too so..." Usagi said, hanging her head, but Shampoo shook her head once more.
"You no control that, and they probably try take Shampoo again anyway," Shampoo replied.
"I... suppose," Usagi conceded. "But, you don't really need to do anything."
Before Shampoo could reply, Kasumi laid a hand on her shoulder and replied instead. "I think it sufficient that we simply say we will always be available should you need help." Shampoo looked up at Kasumi before rising and nodding in agreement.
"Uh... right! That's fine," Usagi said with a sigh of relief.
Kasumi smiled reassuringly at her. "Makoto spoke to me about your request. Would tomorrow be fine?"
"Uh... yeah, that's fine," Usagi said before looking down once more. "Sorry for troubling you."
"Not at all. We all need to talk things out now and then," Kasumi replied. "I'll see you tomorrow after school then?"
Usagi looked back up and replied, "Sure."
With a slight bow, Kasumi headed away, with Shampoo accompanying her. "What that about?" Shampoo asked.
"Usagi just needs someone to talk through all the latest happenings in her life," Kasumi explained to which Shampoo nodded in understanding. "This all is rather... surprising."
"Shampoo think Great grandmother already knew," Shampoo said unexpectedly.
"Oh?"
"Shampoo hear her often say Makoto have special potential, and what she say before leave..."
Kasumi nodded in remembrance. "Yes, you're probably right. Come to think of it, I should discuss that stone she gave to me with Frost before she has to leave."
"Stone?" Shampoo asked.
"Yes, it's back at the restaurant. I can show you when we get back," Kasumi replied as the pair rejoined Makoto. "I told Usagi and she has agreed. So it will be tomorrow after school."
"Great!" Makoto replied before noticing Shampoo looking at her intently. "What?"
"You been hold back in training," Shampoo replied.
"Uh... no, well, not really. I mean I didn't use my Senshi powers but didn't have much choice there," Makoto replied.
"No excuse!" Shampoo retorted. "Shampoo will see Makoto's full power."
Kasumi smiled with some strain. "Perhaps just a friendly demonstration."
"Of course, no mean to hurt," Shampoo replied.
"Uh... sure I guess. Honestly, I'm still unsure exactly how my full powers compare to you guys. Might be good to have to judge that," Makoto conceded. "We can try that out tomorrow while Usagi and Kasumi talk. What do you say?"
Shampoo nodded with determination, accepting the offer.
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Around that same time, Ukyo entered the pocket dimension to look around. She stood before the castle, arms crossed. "Some people get all the damned luck," she remarked quietly. Her attention was diverted as the pocket dimension door opened once more with Herb, Mint and Lime coming through, each carrying various bits of luggage, although Lime had certainly been tasked with the most by far.
The trio headed directly for the castle but on seeing Ukyo, Mint quickly offloaded his goods onto the already overloaded Lime and rushed over, ignoring the other boy's annoyed call after him. Ukyo sighed. 'What's with him,' she thought in annoyance as he joined her.
"Ukyo, are you staying here too?" he asked eagerly.
"I'm staying in the restaurant," she replied.
"Well, I'm staying here, so we can... uh-"
"Don't get excited," Ukyo harshly warned. "Or, have you forgotten I'm supposed to be married to your master?"
"Uh... no, of course I know that," Mint replied, suddenly looking away.
Ukyo sighed. 'He's been like this practically since I met him. It is definitely something to do with my cursed form. I have no time for this,' she thought.
"Mint!" Herb called out from the entrance to the castle.
"Uh... just a second!" he replied quickly. "If you need anything..." he started to suggest but a cold look from the chef quieted him. Defeated, he turned and ran off to the castle and soon headed inside, prompting Ukyo to sigh.
A moment later, Herb joined her. "What do you want?" Ukyo asked.
"Nothing particular," Herb replied. "I see my aid still has... complicated feels for you."
"What's that about, anyway? Some instinct thing?"
Herb shrugged. "Perhaps. However, you should know that unlike the Amazon propaganda would have you believe, we in the Musk do greatly respect strong women. Your curse and your strength together are likely the cause of his interest. I could order him to stop bothering if he is that much of a nuisance."
Ukyo considered but shook her head. "No. It's fine, for now at least. This whole bloody marriage arrangement is an utter mess."
Herb nodded in agreement. "We are unfortunately stuck with it," he replied before heading off.
"Yeah," Ukyo muttered, casting the departing Prince a glance before noticing another figure eyeing her from hiding. 'Right, she's here too,' Ukyo thought as Herb left sight, apparently giving the figure in question the courage to come out.
"Ukyo, I-"
"Save it!" Ukyo cut her off to say, approaching the kitsune girl with a harsh look. "I know all about what you pulled now."
Lemon cringed and withdrew slightly before looking down meekly. "I... I didn't go through with it."
"No, which is the only reason we're talking. You caused a royal mess of a situation," Ukyo said with crossed arms as she glared at the kitsune.
"I... didn't mean to. I thought... nevermind," Lemon replied but quickly gave up the defense.
Ukyo continued her harsh look for a long moment, waiting for anything further from the girl, but nothing came. Finally she huffed and turned back towards the exit to the space. "You really screwed up, Lemon."
Lemon lifted her head to watch Ukyo leave, tears threatening to fall down her cheeks, but the chef saw none of it and departed.
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At the corner of a dimly lit street, a solitary figure leaned against a wall and puffed on a cigarette while looking out at the street, waiting. After a short time he was finally joined by another who stopped next to him carrying a small bag, likewise leaning against the wall.
"A bunch of activity this last while," the newcomer commented.
"Yeah, all centered around Nerima," the other replied.
"Any idea what?"
"Word is there was an incident between the mages and a group of kitsunes. Everything else is a bit hush hush."
"Hmh," the newcomer said with a nod. "Boss don't like us messing with kitsunes."
"Screw him. If there are any stragglers, they could catch a real penny on the market."
"True... true," the newcomer agreed. "Need any backup?"
"I'll call if I need. You got my request?"
The newcomer handed over the bag. "Everything you wanted. Good luck on the hunt."
The man smirked, roughly dousing his cigarette against the wall.
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End Chapter 55
Next time in A Scary Thought: Kasumi and Usagi converse, and Lemon disappears setting in motion events.
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 crossover? At this point, probably not. I have tried to square the circle of Gargoyles time travel mechanics with my story and it just isn't working and unfortunately they are too key to Gargoyles continuity to just ignore so most likely Gargoyles will remain just a shout out kinda crossover but not official. 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). Garnet was first mentioned by Jim Bader in A Very Scary thought I believe, but whatever the case I don't believe he ever actually appeared in any of Jim's stories, although I could be wrong. 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 had never even heard of Negima until it was mentioned). That got the proverbial wheels in my head turning about potential crossovers so... maybe, but don't count on it. As Uq Holder, Negima's continuation, is still in progress and throwing in all kinds of new curve balls, I'll probably be forced to steer clear.
Speaking of things I'm not crossed with, two notable ones are Ah My Goddess and Tenchi! Jim liked to use the latter a great deal, and I believe he might have used the former too, although less sure on that, but either way I have decided both are ultimately incompatible with my vision of my story world.
Website... does my website even exist anymore? Well, I have it on my hard drive still, but that hardly counts. Needless to say, if you do stumble on it, it's hopelessly out of date.
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