Chapter 15: The View

Ranma and Akane strolled toward the tailor's shop, their footsteps quiet against the cobblestone streets.

"Why did you want to come today instead of the official visit your dad planned for us tomorrow?" Akane asked, glancing at Ranma.

Ranma rubbed the back of his neck, his lips curving into an unabashed grin. "I thought it'd be nicer to browse without the pressure. You know how formal those visits can get."

Akane nodded, adjusting the hem of her sleeve. "Ah, I see. But, uh… we're not exactly dressed for something like this. You think they'll even let us in?"

Ranma chuckled, waving off her concern. "Don't worry. I've been here plenty of times over the years—they'll recognize me. You, though…" He grinned playfully. "You might be a bit of a mystery to them."

The shop was a quaint, vibrant building nestled between two larger storefronts. Its windows showcased intricate fabrics draped over mannequins and glimmering threads in every imaginable color. A small brass bell tinkled as they stepped inside.

Immediately, an explosion of activity greeted them. Bolts of fabric were stacked precariously high, some toppling as a wiry man darted between shelves. His hair was a riot of gray curls, and he wore a pair of oversized spectacles that magnified his wild, darting eyes.

"Welcome, welcome!" he called, not even glancing at the door as he busied himself with a piece of shimmering silk. "What can I do for—oh, Ranma!" He spun around, his face breaking into a toothy grin. "It's been ages, my boy!"

"Good to see you too, Master Chizu," Ranma said with a grin.

The tailor's gaze shifted to Akane, his expression quizzical. He squinted through his spectacles, then leaned forward, studying her closely. "And who's this strapping young lad you've brought with you? New sparring partner?"

Akane blinked in surprise, her mouth opening slightly before shutting again. "I—uh—"

Ranma burst out laughing. "She's not a boy, Master Chizu. This is Princess Akane."

Chizu froze mid-step, his head jerking back as though someone had yanked him by the collar. His magnified eyes blinked rapidly before widening. "Wait… not the Akane?" He gasped dramatically, clutching his chest. "The Princess of Shirya?! Oh, forgive me, Your Highness! I had no idea!"

Akane flushed, raising her hands awkwardly. "No, no, it's fine, really—"

Chizu didn't let her finish. He dashed across the room, knocking over a stack of fabric rolls in his haste. "How could I have mistaken royalty for anything less? My sincerest apologies!" He grabbed a tape measure, whirling back around with a gleam in his eye. "For a wedding, yes? Let me show you the finest we have! Something fitting for someone of your station!"

Before Akane could protest, Chizu was already pulling out dress designs, holding them up one by one. "This! No, no, too plain. Or this! Hmm, perhaps too bold? Ah, what about this—elegant but not overwhelming!"

The man's energy was infectious, though it left Akane bewildered. "I just wanted to look around…" she murmured, trying to sidestep him.

"Nonsense!" Chizu declared, thrusting a bundle of royal blue silk toward her. "You'll look like a vision in this! Try it on!"

Ranma leaned against a nearby wall, struggling to stifle his laughter as the eccentric tailor continued his whirlwind of suggestions. "Told you they'd let us in," he said with a smirk.

Akane shot him a glare but couldn't suppress a small smile. "You didn't mention I'd be mistaken for a boy first."

Chizu suddenly paused mid-motion, tilting his head thoughtfully. "Well, your disguise does have a certain… tomboyish charm."

Akane groaned, covering her face with her hands, while Ranma finally gave in and laughed outright.

"Come now, Your Highness," Chizu said, seemingly oblivious to her exasperation. "You mustn't take it personally! The real question is—shall we start with the royal silks or the imported velvets?"

Akane sighed, resigned to the tailor's relentless enthusiasm. "Fine. Show me what you've got."

And with that, the eccentric Master Chizu was off again, determined to dress the princess to perfection for the upcoming wedding.

Master Chizu clapped his hands together, his enthusiasm radiating through the room. "Ah, but what's a princess without a prince to complement her? Ranma, you're next! Stand here, and don't fidget!"

Ranma blinked. "Wait, what? I didn't—"

Before he could protest, the wiry tailor had already wrapped a measuring tape around his shoulders, pulling it taut. "Hmm. Broad, strong shoulders, good posture. Ah, but these arms—look at these muscles! An all grown-up Martial artist's build!"

Ranma sighed, standing stiffly as Chizu darted around him like a hummingbird. "Do I really need something fancy? I'm just here to—"

"Nonsense!" Chizu declared, cutting him off. "You're escorting a princess to a wedding! You must look the part! Now hold still."

Ranma gave Akane a helpless look, but she was busy suppressing a grin. "Welcome to my world," she whispered.

"Let's see… yes, yes, I have just the thing!" Chizu exclaimed, tossing the measuring tape aside and rushing to a rack of fabric bolts. He emerged with a rich amber silk and an intricate black brocade. "Warm and striking, with just a touch of mystery in the black trim. Perfect for you!"

Before Ranma could argue, Chizu held up the partially assembled jacket and vest. The suit was sleek and elegant, with an amber base that shimmered under the light. Black accents along the lapels and cuffs added a bold contrast. "Try this on! Quickly, now!"

Ranma reluctantly slipped into the jacket, buttoning it up as Chizu fussed over every detail.

"Yes, yes, perfect fit!" Chizu declared, stepping back to admire his handiwork. "Now for you, Princess Akane. I have just the dress to match!"

Akane wavered, but Chizu was already unfolding an exquisite gown. The bodice was a brilliant amber adorned with intricate black beading that shimmered like stars. The fabric flowed into an A-line skirt, where the amber color gradually faded into a deep black at the hem, creating a stunning ombré effect.

"Oh… wow," Akane murmured, running her fingers over the delicate beading.

"Try it on!" Chizu urged, practically bouncing with excitement.

Akane glanced nervously at Ranma, who gave her a reassuring nod. "Might as well see how it looks."

She disappeared behind a curtain, leaving Ranma to endure more of Chizu's fussing. After a few moments, the curtain rustled, and Akane stepped out.

He sure had been seen Akane trying on a lot of clothes recently. Hopefully he was getting used to seeing her constantly transforming before his eyes. But, he would be wrong.

Ranma froze seeing Akane exit the changing screen, his breath catching in his throat.

The gown fit her perfectly, the amber bodice hugging her figure before flaring into the dramatic black-ombré skirt. The intricate beading caught the light with every movement, giving her an almost ethereal glow. Her dark hair framed her face, going perfectly with the strong light and dark contrast of the dress.

'She's… beautiful,' Ranma thought, unable to tear his eyes away. The word didn't feel big enough to encompass how she looked. She wasn't just pretty or elegant—she was gothically radiant, like she belonged on a vampire's throne.

Akane shifted warily under his gaze. "What? Does it look weird?"

Ranma snapped out of his trance, coughing awkwardly. "No! I mean, uh, it looks beautiful, actually. It looks like it was made for you…" He tugged at his collar, suddenly feeling too warm. He was proud of himself for being honest.

Chizu clapped his hands, oblivious to Ranma's flustered state. "Marvelous! Absolutely marvelous! You two will steal the show!"

As Akane smoothed the fabric of the gown, Chizu's eyes lit up. "Oh, and Princess, did you know? This gown is based on a Shiryan design. The moment I heard you were coming, I decided to craft something inspired by your homeland! Shiryan fashion is bold yet elegant, and this amber and black combination draws from traditional hues your people favor for celebrations."

Akane's eyes widened in surprise. "You made this with Shirya in mind?"

"Of course!" Chizu said, beaming. "A Shiryan princess deserves to wear something that honors her roots. The amber reflects your warmth and strength, and the black adds depth and mystery to your features. A design by your people, for their brightest star."

Ranma was watching her every move with warmth in his chest. As she glanced at her reflection, her fingers brushed over the intricate beading. A small, shy smile crept onto her lips. "Thank you, Master Chizu. It's… beautiful."

'No, it's you who is beautiful', Ranma thought.

Then Akane tilted her head as she looked at Ranma. "What about him? Does the suit really match?"

Chizu waved a dramatic hand. "Of course, it matches! Amber for warmth, black for sophistication—a perfect pairing! See for yourself!" He dragged a mirror into place, forcing them to stand side by side.

Ranma glanced at their reflection, noting how well the colors complemented each other. Akane looked like royalty, and somehow, his amber suit didn't look half bad either.

"See? A perfect match!" Chizu exclaimed, beaming. "Now, off with you two. I'll make the final adjustments and have these ready before the wedding."

As they left the shop, Akane glanced at Ranma. "You don't think it's too much, do you?"

Ranma shook his head, his voice softer than usual. "No. It's perfect."

And in his mind, he couldn't stop thinking just how perfect she looked, not just in the dress, but standing beside him.

--

As they left Master Chizu's shop, the late afternoon sun hung low in the sky, casting golden hues over the bustling city streets. Ranma glanced at Akane out of the corner of his eye.

"Hey," he said, clearing his throat, "before we head back to the palace, I was thinkin'… Maybe we could stop by the docks for a bit?"

Akane looked at him curiously. "The docks? Why there?"

Ranma shrugged, trying to seem nonchalant. "There's a spot I like down by the water. It's quiet, and the sunset's pretty amazing. Thought you might like it."

She hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Okay. That sounds nice."

They walked in comfortable silence toward the docks, the din of the city fading as they approached the shoreline. The air grew cooler, carrying the faint scent of saltwater and seaweed. Boats bobbed gently in the harbor, their masts swaying with the rhythm of the tide.

Ranma led her to a secluded spot at the edge of the docks, where a small bench overlooked the water. The horizon was ablaze with color, streaks of fiery orange and soft pink bleeding into the deepening blue of the evening sky.

"Wow," Akane breathed, her voice barely above a whisper. "You were right. It's beautiful."

Ranma shoved his hands into his pockets, staring out at the water. "Yeah. I come here sometimes when I need to clear my head. I figured… you might like it too."

She turned to him, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Thanks for bringing me here. It's peaceful."

They stood in silence for a while, watching the sun dip lower and lower, its reflection shimmering on the waves. Ranma glanced at Akane, her face bathed in the golden light, and felt his heart stutter in his chest.

"Uh, Akane…" he started, his voice hesitant.

She looked at him, her expression soft and open. "Yeah?"

Ranma rubbed the back of his neck, suddenly feeling awkward. "I, uh… I just wanted to say that… I'm glad we're getting to know each other better. I mean, I know this whole marriage thing isn't exactly what either of us planned, but… I think it's nice, y'know? Spending time like this."

Akane tilted her head, her eyes searching his face. "I feel the same way," she said quietly.

His cheeks turned pink, and he looked away, his gaze falling on the horizon. "Good. That's… good."

The moment stretched between them, the air heavy with unspoken words. Ranma took a deep breath, summoning every ounce of courage he had.

"Akane," he said, turning back to her, "there's something else I—"

Before he could finish, a gust of wind blew her hair across her face. Without thinking, Ranma reached out, gently tucking the loose strands behind her ear. His hand lingered for a moment, and their eyes met, the space between them suddenly feeling much smaller.

Ranma's heart beat was roaring in his ears as he looked at Akane's innocent expression. He felt like they were just two normal young people on a date and she looked beautifully unguarded to his deep desires for her.

She didn't pull away, and Ranma's heart raced as he pushed himself to lean forward, his movements slow and awkward. Akane's breath hitched, her eyes widening in shock just as his lips bashed into hers.

The kiss was hard, tense, and quickly disentangled -- barely more than a whisper of touch against the backdrop of the setting sun. As Ranma pulled back, Ranma's face was scarlet, and he couldn't quite meet her gaze. He'd really bungled that up in his nervousness.

"I, uh…" he stammered, scratching the back of his head. "Sorry, I didn't—"

"Don't apologize," Akane interrupted, her voice filled with humor but her cheeks just as red. "It was… nice. I like your awkward side. It feels special…"

Ranma blinked, surprised by her response, and a small, bashful smile crept onto his lips. "Yeah…it is special…"

They turned back to the water, standing a little closer than before as the last rays of sunlight dipped below the horizon. For the first time since their engagement, the weight of expectation didn't feel quite so heavy.