Sensei Ranma and the Troubles of Magical Queens

by DarkWolfy

Having come clean to Earth and ascended the throne, Usagi and the Senshi now have to deal with a wider stage. Backed by Ranma and the growing family, how will they deal with a curious and worried Goddess champion who's looking to get ahead of a potential problem for once?

6. Chapter 6

-AN-

If there's one hobby I have that's been concrete since I was a teen, is that I love to horde media. I still have a growing DVD collection and now that I've got adult money, I've started to go back and collect older anime. Though finding out that Tenchi Universe was actually pretty cheap did hurt my brain. I should have bought the series a while ago. Whoops.

-Story Start-

While Ranma did not go for grand gestures or want to be idolized, in the end he had to acknowledge that he was a King, much as Usagi was a Queen. As such it was necessary, healthy even, to allow his people to show their gratitude towards them. That could come in many forms, some of which could be ignored. Like the thousands of young ladies who all wanted a shot at their King. More of which could be put off to people more dedicated to handle the situations, like the various trading and resource deals springing up now that supplies were shoring up. To things that had to take consideration, like the calls from Earth and political jockeying that had to be done.

Some though couldn't be completely ignored. Like when the Phoenix, Amazon and Crystal empire citizens had all come together demanding that Ranma and Usagi had their own residence on Venus. Yes Usagi had her palace and Ranma had his home with the Phoenix people, but Venus deserved to have a dedicated home of the King and Queen here, if only for visits. Like an embassy, only much more important.

So the Saotome home came to be. A massive complex that was shadowed only by the Moon Palace, boasting a main home, training grounds, a private shuttle bay and one of the few aquatic centers available on the planet so far. Though that was open to the public when the King and Queen were away the people still left it be. Privacy should be respected, at all costs.

Meaning in the end, when Ranma finally deemed himself needing to relax and slow down, Nodoka was a happy mother. Her son was home, which meant his many wives were able to come in and relax as well. Their home was full of laughter and love, and she was on cloud nine as several of her daughters were well into their pregnancy. She had finally worked off her antsy grandmother energy, no longer prone to breaking out into the grandbaby dance at the drop of a hat. But she was still all smiles as she walked into the main living room, surveying the recessed sitting areas as the groups all came together to relax and unwind. A tv droned on in the background, but everyone was into each other. Well as much as they could be. Ranma had apparently been feeling restless lately, and his father was always ready to test his son. To make sure his skills were sharp.

So as father and son bounced about the ceiling, Nodoka was all smiles as she brought a tray of snacks and drinks to the first sitting area. One couch hosting Usagi, Setsuna and Makoto, all three glowing while chatting about the new fueling station that had come online. Apparently with the harvesting of the rest of the old Silver Millennium ships the Ogino had enough spare supply lines now to be refueled. Refueling meant the rest of the empire's people on ice could be revived. Great news for them, and now the Ogino could be transported to Venus orbit, where the majority of their population resided. Jupiter station would be lonely once again, but Makoto didn't mind. More stations would come in the future and she would rebuild her domain in time much as the others would.

On the couch opposite of them, Ami, Rei and Minako chatted back and forth. Rei trying to get pointers from Minako as they discussed resurrecting her world while Minako downplayed how difficult it would be. Ami cautioned that because of how Mars was, things would not be the same as it originally was, but Minako wanted to take a more optimist approach. Rei was stuck in between, taking in what information that she could while holding out hope that everything would go well. She was to be the next to have a world of her own, it was a daunting task.

Though with that there was something Nodoka herself wanted to ask as she relaxed back into the two seater couch in between the two larger couches. "Ami. What about your world? Any chance of bringing it back online?"

Looking up at the question, Ami was quick to put it to rest as others were looking at her as well. It was something that had been asked of her plenty of times before. "No. It is much to close to the sun. Once the original biosphere was destroyed every facility on the surface would have been liquefied. And per Ranma's and Usagi's orders, we only want to bring worlds back online that could support themselves if something should happen to us. At the least, long enough to effect evacuations if the worst came to pass."

Sighing and crossing her arms, it was Makoto who nodded along with that. "Which also means I'm probably out as well. I'll have a few space stations maybe, but that's about it."

Usagi didn't like that prospect, but she supposed she wasn't the one well versed in the science behind it all, "What about some of Jupiter's moons? Don't you have a bunch? Aren't some of them capable of supporting life?"

Ami once more shook her head, "Radiation. Magical shielding could protect against most of it, but ultimately if we populated any of her moons full time they would have to rely on our magic. Until we can advance our technology to take over the task, it just isn't feasible."

Seeing Usagi beginning to pout, Makoto smiled and nudged her friend, "Oh it's no sweat Usagi. I'm still just happy that one of my stations was able to save so many people. I take pride in that."

"But you should be rewarded for that right? You should have your own world too. Everyone should."

Makoto leaned back, looking at a recessed seating area where Haruka, Michiru and Hotaru were watching Ranma and Genma bounce about the living room floor. Akane and Shampoo sat at the girls' feet, cheering the two men on. "Well, think about it. None of the Outers' worlds can support life no matter what we do. And the moon can't either without magic."

"Well I know, but we've made it clear that the moon will only have so many people that we can evacuate quickly. I just. I don't know. It kinda sucks and doesn't seem fair." Usagi wouldn't pout, but she wanted to make sure that all her friends felt included. Well. Maybe that wasn't the word she wanted to use. Appreciated? No. She wanted to make sure that they didn't feel like their only contribution to the empire was just resources or defense. She wanted them to feel like they were just as linked to their people as she was.

Reaching over, Nodoka pinched the fretting girl on the cheek, "You're thinking very loudly there dear. Perhaps don't worry so much. If there were problems, your friends would let you know. You are still building your empire. There is time to come to terms with what is possible and what isn't." Fate could only be thwarted so often. Even one world being rebuilt to support life was a miracle. A second? It was almost impossible to believe. If they could somehow bring more into the fold? Nodoka couldn't even begin to fathom it. "So. Let's not worry about such things. How are my grandchildren doing? Not giving you hard times are they?"

Usagi giggled and rubbed her stomach some, "Well, we have been craving spicy things lately."

Setsuna hummed at that, "Oh really? I'm not alone then, must be a trait of dear husband."

Sighing and shrugging, Makoto couldn't share in the feeling, "Not for lack of trying mother, but I'm just not there yet." But oh had she been trying. Vigorously and often.

It was Rei who huffed and made a cup of tea for herself, "Yes we know. Did you have to drag Ranma into the trainee changing room yesterday? We're getting complaints." This one-upmanship game between Makoto and the Outers was beginning to get out of hand. If they had a brig she'd probably toss both of them in it.

Overhearing the conversation, Haruka leaned back and made eye contact with Makoto, "Just you wait, we'll think up something new and interesting!" The elbow to the rib was worth it.

Seeing the byplay, Nodoka smiled and shook her head. So Makoto hadn't noticed then. Well she wasn't one to spoil a surprise, especially if her son hadn't done so. "Well I think you're doing just fine. Sometimes taking a break and resting is just what you need after all."

Shrugging and accepting a cup of tea from Usagi, Makoto took a sip and sighed, "I suppose. I just…I guess I went into overdrive thinking about having a family of my own. I grew up alone you know? I just. I guess I latched onto the dream of having my own happy family to make up for it."

Leaning into the younger woman, Setsuna was all smiles as she clinked cups with the girl, "Are we not your family? And we aren't going anywhere either. No need to rush to add more little feet to this chaos."

"Says the woman who nabbed my husband early. Don't think I've forgotten that." Usagi was pouting now, though it was in good fun. Her friends were all happy and healthy, what was a little shared love in between them?

Something Setsuna knew was in Usagi's mind. "I can always make it up to you. Say. An interesting trip to the future? Imagine, two Ranma's."

Blinking, Usagi thought about that. Two Ranma's?

"Ew gross meatball head, watch the drool!" Makoto tried to lean away from her Queen, but it was a failing mission.

Flipping midair and crushing his father into the floor, Ranma huffed and turned to his Queen as Akane and Shampoo clapped, "Oi, what nonsense are you planning for me now?"

Eyes trailing up to her son, Nodoka waved him away easily, "Never you mind. How are Kasumi and Nabiki? You visited them yesterday didn't you? Didn't you tell them to come over tonight?"

Nodding as he walked over to the group, Ranma leaned against the back of Usagi's couch, "I did, but Kasumi mentioned something about a late shift and Nabiki doesn't like Kasumi coming to an empty home. Soun should be there, but he knocks out early you know."

"Yes. I know it's a sensitive topic, but perhaps we should see about adjusting his focus a bit?" Cythera was a growing city with a healthy population. It had been a long time for Soun, and his late wife would not have wanted him to grieve this long. Maybe she could nudge him into, pursuing prospects?

Up and shaking his own head, Genma grunted as his son smacked his shoulder, leaving to go tease Haruka and the others, "That'll never happen No-chan. You know how devoted Soun was. He's found purpose here. Let him have that."

"There's purpose and there's living. Which of the two do you think he's doing."

"We can't keep having this talk No-chan."

"Well sooner or later you'll see my side of things. Silly men."

"No-chan."

"Don't you No-chan me."

Ignoring his parents beginning to bicker, Ranma came back to see Shampoo having her hair braided by a focused Hotaru. Akane was relaxing next to her on the floor, just happy to be able to sit and do nothing for a while. "So, I hear you wanna join in the training tomorrow?" Eye directed at Haruka, Ranma smirked as the tall woman returned his with one of her own.

"Yup. I hear you thrashed them pretty good today."

"I wouldn't say that."

Michiru giggled, "Like you would ever admit to that." She knew how he operated now. What he would call intensive training is what most people would call torture. Sure he had been able to tone himself down for civilians, but for military personnel? The gloves were off.

Shrugging and turning back to see Usagi and the others together, Ranma felt something pull on his mind. It was a new feeling, but something he recognized. "Huh."

"Huh? What's there to huh about? You sense something out there?" Haruka caught his tone change, and her inquisition had many eyes turn their way. Including a curious Usagi, eyes shining as magic cycled through her being.

Coming forward to sit opposite of his mother in the lone chair available, Ranma leaned forward to rest his elbows on his knees. "I think, maybe Sasami is trying to get a hold of me. Just a second." The feeling nudged him again, and he opened his magical link some, directing his thoughts back towards Earth. 'Sasami?'

'MR. PHOENIX KING.'It wasn't as loud this time, but still jarring. But at least he could manage this a bit better this time.

'Hey Sasami. Working on that volume control are we?'

'OH. SORRY, AM I STILL LOUD?' There was a change, the tug on his mind lessening some, or maybe the magic involved was scaled back a small degree.'Is this better?'

'Much.'Seeing curious eyes turned his way, Ranma nodded his head, "It is Sasami."

"Oooh, think something's changed?" Minako was quick to ask as she turned to look at a curious Usagi.

"If something has, I hope it's nothing bad. I wanna throw parties, not plan for war." Usagi was a lover, not a fighter.

Ignoring the others, Ranma tried to stay focused,'What's up Sasami? Everything alright?'

'Yes. Um. We have gotten approval to meet with you officially. To arrange a meeting between our King, my father, and yourselves. When would be a good time to come?'

Getting a mote of worry through the link, Ranma had to ask about it before continuing.'Sasami, is everything alright?'There was silence from the other end and he was beginning to worry that he had either offended her or the link had been forcefully severed.'Sasami?'

'Yes yes. Sorry. I'm speaking to my big sister as well as you. Um. Things are okay. Father just seemed…distracted when you informed us of the plan. That is usually not good news.'

'Well, at least he's willing to meet with us right? It's a step in the right direction, so lets stay positive.' Ranma turned to look at Usagi, smiling and nodding once. "Think we can meet up with the Juraian Princesses this weekend? To set up an official meeting with the Jurai Royal family?"

Looking up to the high ceiling, Usagi finally nodded her head, "Well, we don't having anything official going on and we don't have any major meetings with delegations from Earth until next week. So yeah, we can make that happen."

"Perfect." Turning his thoughts inward again, Ranma tried to exude happy satisfaction through the link.'We can do this weekend. Just give us warning when you are on your way, so we don't send our defense system into a meltdown.'

'This weekend. Okay. Saturday morning our time, we'll be there.'

'Alright, see you then.' Ranma felt the link break, and he turned to the others all watching him. "Saturday, we'll have our meeting with the Princesses."

Sighing heavily, Minako folded her arms behind her head as she relaxed back. "These better not be single Princesses, there's no more room on this ride thank you very much."

Ranma shook his head, "One of them is like Hotaru's age, and the other is apparently very in love with their Goddess's chosen champion." That Tenchi fellow didn't seem very strong at first glance, but appearances could be deceiving. He was a champion after all. There had to be a reason for that.

Usagi shrugged, happy to get something off their minds for the first time in a while. "I hope it goes well. If we can assuage their Juraian's worries about us, at least that will be one group we don't have to worry about."

Next to voice her thoughts, Rei pointed at Usagi, "You'd think Earth would be easy to calm down, but if anything they're more riled up than ever." Moon Palace staff had been monitoring transmissions from Earth every day. It seemed like no matter what they did, Earth's governments were dead set on seeing Usagi in the worst possible light. Japan was about the only place on Earth they were accepted easily but even that was mixed. If Rei didn't know any better, it was like something behind the scenes wanted the Earthlings to hate Usagi.

Setsuna however had a different thought, mind tracing patterns after watching humanity for as long as she had. "Perhaps what humanity is coming to terms with, is that not only are they not alone in the universe, but new life is right on their doorstep. There is a Queen who lives in orbit on their nearest satellite, with a happy populous and a growing empire. Earth's people may like Usagi and what her presence has to offer. But their governments will have a different belief. Their control is being called into question. Which system is ultimately correct? Usagi shows that her system leads to the stars, while Earth has until now shown they are only spinning their wheels. Wealth, power, greed. They can't look past that. Not yet."

Nodoka could see the conversation was beginning to bring down the group, and clapped her hands to gain attention. "Were we not here to have a night of peace and family? Work can come later. Politics can draw our attention tomorrow. But tonight is a time for family. For love. Let's not forget that."

Akane stood, dragging Shampoo along as they made for Ranma, "Mom's right. We can worry about all this heavy stuff another day. Earth isn't going anywhere, and sure as heck Jurai isn't either." Akane wouldn't be involved in politics. That just wasn't her thing. Instead she dragged herself and Shampoo into Ranma's chair, crashing into his lap with a groan from the man. "So instead we should talk plans. Because I have been thinking."

Usagi couldn't help but giggle as Ranma gave the squirming Akane and Shampoo an exasperated look. "Oh no, now you've done it."

Rolling her eyes, Akane looped her arms around Ranma's neck, "AS I was saying. I've been thinking. Maybe we all need an actual, long term vacation. Away from Earth, politics, and problems. There are enough people revived now that things can run smoothly without our daily involvement. Maybe we should take a back seat for a bit." Seeing Ranma gearing up to complain, Akane held up a hand to stall him. "Not super long, a couple weeks tops. Maybe some time after Usagi and the others give birth. We're certainly not going to want to work then anyway."

Usagi pumped a fist in the air in quick agreement, "Sister Akane is right. I for sure don't wanna work after giving birth. A vacation sounds perfect."

Setsuna shrugged, "Maternity leave does sounds grand. Though I think we can do better than a few weeks."

"I second that." Shampoo giggled as Ranma's fingers danced across her tummy. Her braided hair tumbled over her shoulder and tickled her bare skin.

Akane nodded and grinned at their love, "So. How about we explore the Venus countryside? It's unexplored! By the time we get around to it, our animal populations will surely have settled into new territories. Imagine the cool adventures we can have. In peace. Away from the crazy."

Rei didn't mind that idea. Plus there was the benefit that they were still on their world. If there was an emergency they could still be contacted. "That's not a bad idea. Good thinking Akane."

"See, Rei gets me!"

Rolling his eyes, Ranma leaned in and kissed Akane softly, "You'll get no complaints from me. It's a good plan."

"Score!"

Watching things devolve once more as planning began to pick up once more, Nodoka smiled and relaxed back, sipping her tea as Genma came around to kneel next to her. "Happy you turned yourself around?"

Nodding, Genma watched his son smiling so brightly, arms around women who loved him dearly. "Yes. You were right. I was wrong."

"Hmmm, I think I could live to hear that more often, dear husband."

"Hah. Perhaps you will my love."

-b-

Later that night and finding himself unable to sleep, Ranma once more found himself diving into his meditations as he settled into a comfortable spot at the foot of the bed. Lately sleeping through a night had become harder, sometimes impossible. Energy surged through him, begging him to do something. Anything. Sleep was a waste, he had no need for it.

So here he was, connecting with Venus and his people, before opening his eyes to the grand expanse that was the Astral Plane. Finding himself once more in the warm forest, there was no pull this time. Instead he looked up to spy the Great Tree in the distance. What was it Vel said? Travel and meet people? Why not. With his landmark found he started to walk, finding a trail that seemed to go in the direction he needed even if it wandered some. It was about the journey right? Getting there wasn't the only goal necessary. He did want to explore and meet new beings. Maybe make some new friends here. More than Vel and the Gardener at least. Two beings he was sure were much, much older than they let on.

So he walked, taking in the scenery underneath the canopy of light tree cover while occasionally he was joined by locals. Creatures of this forest had a feel to them he was learning. Denizens that lived here full time, and other Kami that either were visiting much like himself, or were here for longer stretches. He wondered what he felt like to them. Did he still feel mostly mortal, or was it a more even mix these days? Did it matter? He wasn't sure he wanted to know the answer to be honest. It was something he had been struggling with lately. Sure with the Senshi it didn't matter. They were likely to live as long as he did. But Akane and the others? Shampoo and Ukyo? He would outlive them. He knew that pain was going to most likely destroy him for a time. At least, that was how it felt right now.

"Hmmm, you're the sort to worry over things are you? A thinker. Wouldn't have expected that considering your beginnings."

Ranma tried not to jump at the voice that joined him, but he couldn't help it. Like Vel had warned him, there were still things he had to get used to here, subtleties that he had yet to figure out. He had every confidence that he would in time, but now? Well. People kept sneaking up on him! Above him a bird called out, as if mocking him. "Why does everyone keep sneaking up on me?"

Next to him, a slightly younger boy grinning and folding his arms behind his back as he danced ahead of Ranma. Clad in white and gold shorts and a t shirt, the dark skinned boy strode along on bare feet easily. "You're just so fun to tease brother. You should work on that."

Rolling his eyes, Ranma took in his new companion and sighed. Everything his senses fed back to him told him a story of fun and enjoyment, music and entertainment. And responsibility. But what, Ranma couldn't pinpoint. "And just who are you? I'm Ranma. Phoenix King."

"Oh I know all about you brother. Mostly cause Stella just can't keep her mouth shut, and also because you are just so fun to watch!" A lute appeared in his hands, fingers coaxing forth a light and jaunty tune as they both walked along the easy path. "If I didn't know the being, I'd say you were Chaos incarnate. Challengers coming for your head, women hunting for your bed! Trails and tribulations and at the peak!" Furious strumming as the boy nearly floated through the air in a spin that saw magical light dance around him. "Ascendance! A mortal becomes a God! Hercules should be jealous honestly. I think your story has a better outcome to be honest."

Chuckling and shaking his head, Ranma kept up a calm pace as he took in the boy strumming away and randomly breaking out into song, "And your name?"

"Ah ah ah. You know I can't tell you that. Buut I suppose I can give you something. Though I'm not terribly clever, not like that time mage of yours. Hmmm. You can call be Seb." Lute dissolved away, but a small harp now appeared in his hands and with it a new melody began. "So I hear you're looking to gain power, maybe even relearn your name. Big talk for a new God. Think you're up to it?"

Shrugging and following along, Ranma didn't miss a beat as they broke through the treeline, coming to a small clearing in the forest. The grass here was short, but the area was full of fairies. Their gossamer wings catching the light in enticing ways, Ranma would have to bring Usagi back here. "I hope I am. Ultimately I just, want to make sure I'm prepared for the future. Like I said to the Gardener, I'm not looking for power to subjugate anyone. Just to protect my loved ones."

"Hmmm. But how much power is enough? You already have your own power. And then the collective power of your people's faith. And then you have the power granted to you as a God and your domain. So what else do you need?"

Latching onto something that didn't sound right, Ranma paid a little more attention to Seb. "Wait, what do you mean, power granted to me by my people's faith?" He knew he was connected to the Phoenix sure, but that hadn't made him all that much stronger. He was a part of them, as much as they were a part of them.

Blinking as they paused in the middle of the clearing, Seb's fingers never stopped plucking away as the fairies danced around their heads. "Oh. OOOOHHHH. I get it. You're still thinking like a mortal. Thaaats why. By Horus's shorts, no wonder." Another bird call, and Seb shrugged his shoulders, "Right. Guess I can help ya out, one God to another."

Ranma sighed, getting the feeling that this was something he probably should have figured out on his own. "What do you mean, thinking like a mortal?"

Snapping his fingers, Seb tossed away his harp to dissolve into yellow light. Instead a hand came to his mouth, were a flute materialized. Soft airy music began to play, but Seb's eyes were full of mirth as he began to talk. "You're a God my man. You can do things mortals could only dream of."

Blinking as Seb both talked and played, Ranma tried and failed to wrap his head around it. Didn't he need to breath? Well, Ranma supposed he didn't. These weren't their real bodies, what use did breathing do for them?

"You're still thinking like a mortal. Breathing? You don't even need to do that back on the lower plane. You only do it out of habit. Trust me. Just stop one day. Toss yourself into a lake. You'll figure it out." Seb's face screwed up as he thought about that before shaking his head, "Well on second thought maybe don't toss yourself in a lake. Mixing domains gets a little, wonky, between us Gods." Laughter and music mingled, creating a new harmony as Seb once more began trekking towards the other side of the clearing towards a thicker portion of the forest. "But to address the bigger whale in the room, one way for us God's to attain power is through faith. People and higher beings alike. So long as someone believes in you, you will have power. To live, to spread your message, to love, to destroy. Whatever your goal and desire is."

Only Ranma had no clue how to access said power. So far as he knew, he had his chi and his magic. Using power granted to him from his faith? No clue. "If only I knew how to reach that."

"Oh, that's easy." The flute spun, pointing at Ranma's nose and forcing the taller man to pause in his walk. "You have to focus on your links."

"Links?" Ranma supposed Seb meant his links to his people. That wasn't such a difficult task. He had done that often when he had first become a Kami, spending that time soaking within the bathes of Phoenix mountain on Earth. As they continued to walk, now into a dark portion of the forest, Ranma did just that. Mentally he focused on his link to his people, thousands of threads, some stronger than others. But now that he was focused on them, he noticed more. Humans. Normal humans. He had so many tethers to them. Many minor sure but some? Some were just as strong as those from the Phoenix. More so, he had links to people within the Crystal Empire. Those were strong as well, perhaps because they had seen him in action. Though possible too because he was united with Usagi. But they all joined together, becoming great threads, cables all leading back to him. Suffusing a core of belief. Magic. All within him.

"Get it now? It's not a matter of power for most of us, so long as someone believes in us, we have power on tap. What you do with it, now that's all up to you." Seb paused, a fork in the road as Ranma came to join him. "I know, you're supposed to judge yourself based on the sins, right?"

"Yeah. To unmake and then remake myself as my soul demands. Or something like that."

Sniffing and putting his flute away, Seb turned to Ranma once more and slapped him playfully on the shoulder, "Well, if there's anything else I can tell you…stay true to yourself. Don't take the route that seems like the test wants you to take. Take the route that YOU would want to take. This is a matter of the soul we're talking about ya know? The only wrong answer, is the betrayal of the self."

Now that was something Ranma could understand. It was like, there was no wrong answer, so long as he didn't betray his morals, his values. Sure other Kami might call him terribly mortal for that, but they were what held him together. He was who he was because of them. "Yet still. There's more isn't there?"

"Oh of course. You think faith is all there is to power? No. You've touched on it once before, even if you didn't mean to yet. Forcing Reality to do your bidding. Unmaking and remaking it as you please. The list of Gods who can do that is actually terribly short." Seb looked Ranma up and down, sniffing again as he started to walk away, back the way they came. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised you can do it. Old man. Good luck!"

"I'm not old you…" Trailing off as Ranma looked back to the clearing, Seb was long gone. There was a six legged dear staring at him, munching away on grass, but that was about it. "Great. Guess Vel wasn't wrong. I'm certainly meeting some strange characters along this trip." Turning back and eyeing the fork in the road, Ranma considered his options. Neither path seemed to diverge from his main goal, both trailing off towards the Great Tree. Yet both gave off wildly different feelings.

On the left, it was calm. Peaceful. Like coming home or maybe laying his head to rest in Akane's lap when he was in cat mode. No, even more. Cuddled in bed with everyone after a rather intense love session. Skin to skin, intimate in a way only they could experience. After a life filled with chaos and battle, it would probably make sense to tread this way. Why continue to fight and bleed when peace was an option? If it was anyone else but him, that would probably make sense. It would be the logical choice. Rest.

The other to the right was glorious conflict. Like a fight to the death between himself, Ryoga and Mouse. Or one of his spars against Herb, two men at the peak of their ability. It was struggle, triumph, a brush with death. A promise to test yourself to your absolute limits and hammer free your flaws. A path towards the perfection of self. To become the best of the best at all costs and that included continuously putting his life on the line. It was action. Drive.

To anyone else, it was a straight forward question. Choose peace. In fact, Ranma had even been ready to consider it. His life before now had been full of conflict. Much of it out of his control, but he always came out of it in the end. He had been forged in the fires of battle, hammered and annealed into a weapon with no equal. He knew conflict, knew its promise. Why continue to choose that, when peace was now available? He could go home now. Choose comfort. Choose love and acceptance. He didn't have to fight for someone to understand him. Nor did he have to fight for someone to hear his side of the story. He could talk, come to terms with others. Show his love freely, without fear that someone would lose their life for it. Nor fear that some misunderstanding would take everything he had fought for away from him. More so, he had lives that depended on his own. If he fell, what would become of them? Was caution cowardice? Was action foolhardy? Only the hindsight of time had a true answer.

Yet too, as Ranma took the right path, he realized he was thinking too hard about this. Maybe something he had forgotten, time with the Senshi and Akane and the others, was that he was a man of action. He did not question or look back. He strode forward, took the burdens others could not shoulder onto himself. So he had to fight? Big whoop. He'd done that countless times. He would live, fight, take his lumps and ultimately he would come out on top. No matter how long it took. No matter if he lost a battle or two. But the war was his. He knew this game. What started it, was first a single step. Repositioning, understanding, a first strike. Threat of dismemberment and death? Hah. As if anyone could hope to match him enough to offer such a challenge. He was Ranma Saotome, and he did not lose.

The path dove down a small hill, darkening as the tree cover closed in overhead. No longer could he see the sky, nor could he see the Great Tree. That was fine, sometimes his path was his alone to make. But he was never alone, even in this shadowed forest there was life. There were companions. Where he tread, others would follow. So his feet carried him on as the path leveled out, winding around a tree easily as large as the old Tendo home, but was greeted him nearly got a gasp from him. The path continued on to circle around a crystal clear pond. A circle of sunlight beamed down on its surface to scatter reflections all along its bank. Many a creature came here to rest, to drink from its waters and enjoy a break from foraging. On the far bank Ranma could see those wolves once more, resting together in one great pile. Ranma admired it all for a short while, coming to a stop at the water's edge. A twitch, something changing in the air, and he felt someone approach his side. A first. Maybe he was getting better at this. "So what, I pass this one?"

"You would have passed regardless of your choice, though I suppose in your mind the other choice would have been a failure." Still as old and wrinkled as before, the Gardener held his cane tightly in front of himself. "I knew sloth would be a simple choice for you. You cannot help but keep moving, striding forward. It would take an act beyond us to ever make you stop."

"My wives could probably manage it."

The bark of laughter that left the Gardener shook the very forest for a moment, "The whelp has jokes. I'll remember that one. Perhaps I'll meet your wives one day. How about it?"

"I think they might be a bit much for you." Ranma smirked and shared a look with the older God, before the both shared a laugh as a fish jumped from the pond. "I'm guessing not all of the tests are going to be this easy?"

"Like I said, sloth is a simple one for you, thus the test seems no more difficult that choosing a path down the road. Same with a few others, they will be mundane, most likely not all of them will be here. The mortal world will serve for such tasks."

"But the others. Say…wrath."

"Oh I can't tell you that my boy. Suffice to say, that will be a…trying test. Remember my warning."

Not liking the sound of that, Ranma could feel a pull on his body. Was it morning already? "Time moves weird here."

"You move weird. Best get going. You have things to do don't you."

"Sure sure." Ranma felt something. Not a tug, but…something. Turning to look at the Gardener, Ranma tried looking beyond what he could just see with his eyes. There was a thread there, faint but present. What would happen if he grasped it?

Only to accept a flick to the forehead for his trouble. "You're about a thousand years to early for that my boy. But hah. You've got spirit. No one else here is as ballsy as you are, I can say that for certain!" Cackling at Ranma, the Gardener pressed his cane into the Phoenix's chest. "Off you go now. Enjoy your silky darlings."

"Now that sounds a little too much like-" Pressed once, Ranma was back in his body within a blink. Grunting at the jolt, Ranma sighed and took in the early morning light. "Happosai." Ranma refused to believe that old lecher was secretly an elder God. Nope. No way. Now did this guy have something in common with the letch? That Ranma could believe. But if Happosai was somehow an elder? Ranma would eat his shirt.

It took a moment to focus fully on his surroundings, reminding himself that he was in his Venus home. Having gone to bed with Akane, Usagi and Shampoo. The three had wanted cuddles and they had talked long into the night. Though their nightwear had certainly been enticing enough to rile him into more if they had wanted. Patience. He had to remind himself that he had patience. To think that he used to be so anti-pervert once upon a time. Pre-Saffron him would probably blow a gasket meeting the him of now.

Yet his lap was full. None of the three. No. Long silky brown hair and soft curves. He knew this body. Ukyo had snuck in, molding into his chest while wearing one of his old red shirts. Her snores were soft, barely audible, but her arms were latched around his middle and he wouldn't be dislodging her anytime soon. Not without a lot of effort he wasn't in the mood to put forth. Probably best to go back to sleep instead. Let future him deal with it.

"Mmmm, pump me full." Murmuring in her sleep, Ukyo nuzzled into his chest while squeezing him softly.

Naughty naughty Ukyo. He'd remember that. Sighing and laying back against the edge of the bed, Ranma leaned back to rest his head. At least he was comfortable. Taking a breath and feeling the world breath with him, Ranma wondered if Minako felt any of that?

-b-

The wind howled, louder than anything he had ever had to endure as such before, but Mamoru trekked on. It had been a long night, traveling the dunes as he made for this Great Tree. The sun may have let up, but the wind and sand? Never. Not once. At the least his mind allowed him to conjure his attire from so long ago. From when he believed he was an Arabian prince. Desert clothing was important here, less he find his flesh torn from his bones by the sand blaster that was this place. Thankful for being able to do this while he slept, though perhaps the lack of mental rest may catch up with him.

Still, with every step his soul sung. Something called to him, every moment the call louder, harder to ignore. Remaining focused on his goal was easy enough. His path to redemption, to Usagi and his throne. Their throne. Fatigue? Ignored. Thirst? Denied. It was a night of one foot in front of the other, a singular purpose that no amount of terrible weather would be denied. He would cross this lifeless place come hell or death.

'There has to be an…easier way…don't you think?' A voice, low and barely audible over the wind drew his attention. A first since he had arrived in this place. Since that woman had abandoned him. Veldora. Another potential foe to remember in the future.

No. A trick. Voices in the desert were never friends, he knew that. His memories told him such. He remained focused, that bright bridge to the sky that seemed no closer than when he started. That was his goal.

'That place? Why there, when what you need is deep…deep underground? Down where they can not see…'

"Who's there!" Turning and trying to peer through the wind, Mamoru spun in place just barely holding his balance at the top of this large dune. "Show yourself!"

'Oh? He demands. He commands! Truly a Kingly nature this one.'

Grunting and seeing nothing. Mamoru turned back to once more find his bearings. There, that bright tree. He continued to walk. "If you won't show yourself, I'll just ignore you."

'Ignore at your own peril, Scion of Elysium, ruler of Atlantis and all of Earth's domains…Endymion.'

Pausing once more, Mamoru tried once more to locate this voice. "Those places, how do you know them?"

'Do you forget where you are? Many a God know of the great Ruler of Earth. Many wept at your fall, at the hands of the great darkness. You are…loved here.'

Loved. Something he could say he needed, after all this time. "Loved? Some way to show love, hiding from me."

'Precaution, safety. You also have many enemies, wretches who would take what little you have left. You know of them, do you not?'

He did. Fists clenching at his sides as Ranma's face blazed hot in his mind. Was that bastard already here? Spreading his influence, maybe worse. Angling to take even more of what was his? That couldn't be allowed to come to pass. "You said there was a place, where others could not see?"

'Oh yes. But first, one must.' The voice was closer now, and Mamoru turned to his left and spied something large and black. A hole where something should be. Something his mind could not come to terms with. 'LEAP.'

A push sent Mamoru stumbling backwards. With no footholds and nothing to latch onto he was sent tumbling end over end down the dune. Limbs flailing and trying to gain purchase, Mamoru bore the brunt of his fall as best as he could. Sky and earth traded places in his vision enough to make him dizzy, until after what felt like an eternity he slid to a stop within a deep valley between the dunes. There was no wind here, the dust kicked up by his arrival taking its time to settle. Groaning and rolling to his knees, Mamoru struggled to rise and take in his new surroundings. The darkness was all encompassing, only a small amount of light from stars allowed sight.

Before him was what he could only think of as a grand temple. Obsidian columns rose to hold aloft a ceiling of black and gold. There was little light though, not enough so he could peer through the darkness within. Only enough to see steps. Not leading up, no, but a small entrance. Down. Far below the dunes most likely.

'You see. In this place, no one will find it. What is yours to claim. Yours that was hidden, for safe keeping less it be stolen away.'

There was something. A memory, hard to focus on. A warning? No. A promise perhaps. Mamoru rose to his feet, "What is mine you say?"

'Yes…'

A lie? A trick? No. Why would anything lie in this place. Magic steeped into everything they did, it was easy to parse each others true motivations here. Mamoru could feel things here he never could on Earth. The Intentions behind other's actions. There was no lie here. No. Everything he could feel was tinged with truth, trust, a kindness he knew. But lie? None he could feel. Yet. "Why should I trust you?"

'Why would I have brought you to a place of such power? Only to kill you? To feed on what little you have? No. You are barely a snack yet, no great meal for a God young King.' The voice shifted, coming close to his right ear. Less androgynous this time. The voice of a woman, deep and husky, "No Young King. I wish to see you thrive. I have seen your future, divined your great quest. I wish to show them all the folly of accepting a false God."

Something told him not to look, to remained focused on his goal. It was there, just before him in that great abyss. Down below the dune in the shadow of the tree. "You have seen my throne? Me, upon it?"

"Yes my Lord. And my request, is to be by your side."

No. There was, someone else there. His Queen, a brilliant radiance that warmed all who saw her. "By my side?"

A pause, a change, fleeting and quick. "As a, councilor of course, my King." Another shift, soft hands kneading his shoulders as warm breath teased his left ear. "A confidant, for secrets that you can whisper to no one else. For desires you cannot show in the light of day. To bear sins so great, they would break all others." The hands trailed down his back, to encircle his waist from behind. "Always and forever. I shall never betray you, my King. We shall strike down the betrayer and take all that we have earned. All that we are due."

Yes. That was correct. That was why he was here, to find his power, to seize it and show the world that he was their rightful ruler. To show the world that he was meant for this. The power that had been taken from him by that puny faker. "Then lead me, Council. Show me the way to reclaiming all that is mine."

In his vision, a glowing pale hand pointed the way ahead, nails carefully manicured and painted in gold. "There is only one path ahead of you my Lord. Only you can walk it."

Right. There had always been just the one way, hadn't there? Firming himself up, Mamoru strode down into the depths of the great temple, torches lighting as he passed them. "We shall see my Kingdom rise again, Councilor."

"We shall, My King."

-b-

Dancing around several blasts of magical energy, Ranma smirked at the sweat plastered face of one Rei Hino, a flame sniper already rebuilt and aimed for his heart. She let loose, an arrow of white hot fire and several more right behind it though none found their mark. Each planting themselves into the landscape to detonate and pepper the area with flaming shrapnel. None touched him, Ranma easily bouncing away and using the smoke to cover his retreat as several classes of trainees watched on from the stands.

"You're getting better Rei! But your timing could use some work!"

"Says you!" Rei smirked as a shadow fell upon Ranma from above.

Hah, they thought to use the sky against him? Had they learned nothing!? Spinning on a heel and releasing fire around him in a wide circle, he easily beat back the sea of ice that was meant to capture him courtesy of one Ami Mizuno. He ignored her curse as she retreated in a smoke screen, one hand coming to stop Haruka's sword from piercing him in the liver. A grin matched another, and Ranma easily tossed the short haired blonde away to smash into Minako who had been attempting to flank him.

"Close but oh so far!"

"Hyaaa!" A cry as a bolt of lightning chased him along the terrain. More furious evasion but his smirk never left his face as Ranma beheld Makoto in all her glory coming to face him. "Take this, Supreme Thunder!" Heavily improved with training, a massive dragon of lightning was born. Easily taller than he was at the head, it raced to capture him in a blink as sparks danced and bathed Makoto in ethereal light.

Only for a wall of fire to redirect it into the sky, thunder rumbling the area in its wake. Never sitting still, for pausing meant defeat, Ranma was already dashing forward, fingers infused with magic as he trailed them along the surprised Makoto's side with ease. "Ah ah. Where's your backup? You over extended." A minor link, magic brushing against magic, and Ranma smirked as the Senshi of Jupiter blushed heavily before collapsing to her knee in a full body shiver. Another bounce to avoid several balls of condensed water and ice, Ranma made eye contact with Michiru and winked at her. "Oh, ready to play then?"

"I'm ready for much more than that!" Mirror summoned, a torrent of water roiled forth to create a wall of destruction as the rest of the scouts retreated behind her, Minako and Ami carrying Makoto behind them. With a mental push the wall rushed forward to wash away their Sensei, though Ranma was already cackling.

"Such power! Good! You normally couldn't summon something like this so I'll applaud your hard work. If only it wasn't so slow!" Leaping for all that he was worth on physical abilities alone, Ranma twisted mid air to just barely allow the wall of water to slide by underneath him. Landing once more as the wave crashed against the arena walls, Ranma smirked and switched things up, becoming a woman and striking a pose for his trainees. "This is what you wanted anyway isn't it Michiru? I'm happy to oblige!"

Flushed and secretly happy for it, Haruka rushed forward with her blaster sword at the ready. She knew better than to lead with a thrust, her teacher would have her on her back in an instant, and not in the fun way. Instead she kept just in range, raining thrust after thrust on the smaller woman as she dodged each one with millimeter precision. Still Haruka pressed her attack, the others beginning to circle around to trap their trainer in a circle of death.

"Hmmm. If I hadn't sealed away my weapons this would be a good time to work on your sword work. Remind me to send you to mom once in a while. I think you could benefit." Fingers reaching out, Ranma stopped Haruka's next thrust cold, the ground under them breaking and cratering in a several meter circle around them. "Buuut as much as I like you all sweaty, you're wasting your time." Winking at the currently taller woman, Ranma made a show of eyeing her up and down.

"Or I'm wasting yours!" Abandoning her weapon, Haruka leapt into a backflip while trailing her fingers along the ground. "World Shaking!" Half as tall as her, the condensed ball of air and magic rocketed forward.

Rolling his eyes, Ranma flipped the sword in his hand, idly linking himself to it and ignoring the Senshi armor that appeared on his form. Forehead shining with the sigil of Uranus he drove the tip of Haruka's sword into the ground, he built his impromptu defense. "Scatter! Four heavenly winds!" A wall of wind surrounded him, eating Haruka's attack before dying down to nothingness. "I said I wouldn't use my weapons, but yours are fair game!"

Bursting from the smoke, it was a grinning Hotaru who finally joined in on the attack. "Silence Glaive Surprise!" Her weapon arced out while trailing purple light and magic. The resulting wave of energy carving a destructive swath towards an impressed red head.

Whistling and tapping the captured sword on her shoulder, Ranma tapped a bit more into his magic. "Well what should I do here?" In a blink the sword vanished from his hand, de-transforming him back into his normal clothes. Far away Haruka laughed and held her weapon high. "Huh. Forgot they could do that. Welp, the hard way it is!" Clapping his hands together, Ranma reached into himself. To that core of energy he could now feel but had yet to touch. From there he pulled, and his eyes shined with a new burning fire while his crown appeared to float above his head. "A Phoenix calls and the world answers!" Hand crashing to the ground, fire erupted and tore apart the landscape in front of him. Hotaru's attack was obliterated in an instant, and Ranma was already streaking forward and trailing fire and light. "Grit those teeth Hotaru!"

"Waaaah! Silence Wall! Silence Wall! Silence Wa-" Two full walls burst into being, but the third was interrupted as Ranma's dainty fist smashed into her defenses. All of her hastily made protections shattered instantly, bathing her in heat and fire before tossing her away in a wave of super heated wind that was just shy of scorching her. Regaining some semblance of control, Hotaru bounced and rolled once before regaining her feet and sliding to a stop. Focused still, she raised her weapon and began to gather her magic.

Unable to force his advantage, Ranma noted he was surrounded and under attack. Supercharged versions of Rei's Flame Sniper, Makoto's Supreme Thunder, and Haruka's World Shaking were all headed for him. Only way out was up he supposed.

"Oh no you don't! Deep Submerge!" Opening a portal with her mirror above Ranma, they all could see the massive torrent of water building to crash down into him.

"Well then. This has been fun but…" Having been gathering both hot chi and magical energy from the surroundings all this time, Ranma compressed it all into a tight ball just above his head. It solidified into a pure white ball that wailed and vibrated the very air enough to shake the stands and bring some of the weaker trainees to their knees. "Fall. Cascading Destruction!" Words nearly drowned out as the ball detonated in a wave of light and heat, the arena was witness to an explosion that hid all of the combatants in a wave of fire and debris. High above them a mushroom cloud rose high into the air while magical barriers did their best to hold up to the destruction. Many in the group, even one grinning Usagi flanked by Kiima and Shampoo while Setsuna stood behind her, had to admit it was impressive. She wondered if she could combine that with her Healing Escalation.

Coughing and rolling to her back where she had been tossed, Rei groaned as her entire body felt like one big bruise. Ranma was still that much stronger than them? What was he? "Gaaah I give."

Not far from her Minako had at least remained on her feet, though doubled over and trying to clear her lungs of smoke. "Seconded." Leaning against the arena wall, it was probably the only reason she was still standing. Next to her Ami groaned, face in the dirt and butt high in the air. "You alive there Ami-chan?"

"Aaaugh." Something like an agreement. Maybe. She was alive at least.

Having been cushioned by something and not allowed to be tossed in the wind, Makoto stumbled over rubble and uneven ground. Waving a hand in front of her face, she spied Ranma in the center of the arena and shook her fist at him, "You're a cheat! Hack powers! Fight me one on one! Hand to hand!"

"You're just making excuses Makoto!" Still a dainty redhead, Ranma bounced in place as he turned to spy the Outers grouped together in a tangle of limbs. Looked like Hotaru had tried to put up a wall to protect them and had been only partially successful. "Hey you three, ready to give yet?" Groans answered him and he chuckled, "I'll take that as a yes."

Haruka knew Hotaru wasn't looking, so she gave him the finger from where she lay, "Why don't you sit on it and spin."

"Naughty naughty! No cookies for you."

"Wa-wait, I take it back! I take it back!" Not her cookies!

Seeing the dust wasn't clearing fast enough for his liking, Ranma clapped his hands and built up a swell. Wind dispersed the rest of the dust, revealing the aftermath to the onlookers and trainees alike. "So. Admittedly the Senshi's attempt to take on a superior opponent was near perfect. They stalled for time, tried to take advantage of my weaknesses, and covered one another when at all possible." Shrugging and changing back into his male form, Ranma had his hands on his hips, "It just so happens that I am just that much stronger. Though, normally by now they would have received reinforcements, orbital bombardment would probably have been an option, and air support at the ready. Remember, if your opponent is someone like me, stalling is your best course of action. No heroics. Sacrificing you life right away does no one any good. We want you to live for the Empire, not die for it! Understand trainees!?"

"Sir yes sir!" Many voices called out as one, and Ranma grinned as Usagi gave him a very hungry look.

"Good! Now, let's get this arena cleaned up!" Looking down to his loves and friends, Ranma smirked, "Should I drag you all to the infirmary?"

Makoto and Minako were already dragging Ami along between them, Rei limping behind them towards the exit tunnel. "We'll get you yet. Next time. Next time for sure." Makoto was smiling as she shook a fist at him, though the effect was less impressive with the amount of dirt that was covering them all.

"Sure ya will Ma-chan."

Shambling along not far away towards the same exit, Haruka, Michiru and Hotaru all sighed and walked with slumped shoulders. "I need a bath and a massage, stat." Michiru rubbed her shoulders as Hotaru cast away her weapon to the ether, healing hands coming up to help out her mother figure. "Ah, you're the best Hotaru."

"I try."

Haruka pointed at Ranma who in turn comically pointed at himself, "I'll have you yet."

"I will devour you Haruka, don't press your luck."

Watching the flushed woman get dragged away, Ranma finally hopped up and into the stands, casually dusting himself off as he joined Usagi and the others. "Enjoy the show?"

Nodding quickly as military trainees and their commanders began filing out for their drills and work, Usagi grinned as her scepter appeared in her hands, "Me and you. One on one."

"No dice 'Sagi. I don't think Minako would enjoy a portion of her planet being destroyed."

"But that was soo hot!" Usagi was on fire and she loved it. Maybe this was how Setsuna felt when Ranma was like this. She understood it now. She'd never tease the older woman again. "I like manly you."

"I'm manly all the time."

"Exactly."

Rolling his eyes, Ranma did turn back to watch crews begin to clean up their mess. "It feels good to train again. To prepare."

Setsuna placed a gentle hand on Usagi, her mere presence calming the young Queen some. "As Usagi said, we are inviting the Juraians here for peace. Not war."

"Best to be prepared though. What's the saying? I don't want to get caught with my pants down." Ranma would not allow anyone to hurt their people. Nor would he allow any harm to come to his loved ones. Usagi was the silk this time. He would be the iron. "So. Who wants lunch?" But first, food. He had worked up an appetite.

-AN-

A little fluff and a little plot. I'm trying to find a good balance here, though more plot moving is probably called for in the next few chapters.

Going back, is my memory foggy or did Mamoru get tricked/corrupted like…every season? I guess I could go back and rewatch all of Sailor moon with my daughter. See if she could get into it. Welp. Corruption arc Mamoru, and now, the Masaki's join the stage.