Alternatives - Chapter 6 Ranma 1/2 and all of its' characters are the property of Rumiko Takahashi and all of the companies who have licensed it. I don't own any of it. I do not have permission to use her characters or ideas. I am writing solely for pleasure. Don't sue. All comments, flames, MST’s or other responses are welcome. Let me know what you think. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello everyone, I know that this is a new draft of a chapter I previously sent. It has been considerably re-written and many new scenes added to it. Please send me comments, I’d like to know what you think. Thanks in advance for the C&C, Mike ------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next morning, Sunday, Nodoka woke both Ranma and Akane up early. "Come on sleepy-heads, we have a busy day ahead of us!" As they walked toward the breakfast area, Ranma asked Akane, "Do you have any idea what's up?" "Hai," Akane giggled in the affirmative. I wonder what they’re planning, Ranma thought to himself. If Mom is excited and Akane is giggling, this has got to be pretty good. However, all of Ranma ’s thoughts were banished by the sights and smells of the breakfast that Nodoka had made for them. After his fifth helping, Ranma ventured, "Mom, why did you wake us up so early?" Nodoka looked at Akane and they both started smiling. "We're going to have a fun day today! We're going shopping. As a girl, I’ve noticed that you don’t have anything to wear! You need underclothes, school uniforms, everyday outfits, shoes, accessories, everything! When you are a girl, you will need to start wearing proper clothing. It's just not right for a girl to wear boxer shorts instead of panties, for example." Ranma gagged on his food as Nodoka finished her remarks. He looked at the excitement he saw in both his mother's and Akane's eyes. Oh, no! He big-sweated. "Mom, I’m still a guy. Guys wear boxers. Can't this wait until we get back?" He asked in a hopeful tone. "No, dear, it can't. Once you have jumped into the springs, I absolutely refuse to have my daughter running around the Chinese countryside in improper clothing. What if something happened to you? How would I show my face in the hospital? I'd be so embarrassed for you,” Nodoka steamrolled his objection. "I'm sure you'll enjoy it." Famous last words, he said to himself. "Why now? I've done OK up till now." "Ranma, I know that you are very manly and don't like doing things that are girlish. However, in two weeks, you will be split into permanently male and female versions of yourself. I think you need some training in being a girl, before part of you is one full-time," Nodoka sighed. Nodoka then looked at Ranma and smiled, "And, yes, you have done well up till now. You’ve been able to act as a girl when you needed to. Think a moment, could you talk and act like one all of the time? Ranma, once I got to know you better, I started seeing through your Ranko personae. You acted too much like a man would." Akane started laughing, "Yeah, YOU don't want to be a sexless tomboy, do you?" "Hey! That's not what she said!" Ranma protested, "Anyway, anyone looking at me would never call ME sexless." "So you agree that you're a tomboy when you're a girl?" Akane teased him. Ranma started to answer, but stopped with his mouth hung open. He knew when he was trapped. Sheepishly, he said, "I guess you're right. A few girl lessons wouldn't hurt me. It's not like I haven't ever done this stuff before. Mom, let me change and then we can go." "No, we can't. You aren't dressed for shopping. The clothes you're wearing are much too difficult to get into and out of,” Nodoka stated firmly, "Akane, did Nabiki pack you a jumper that Ranma could borrow?" "Yes, she did,” Akane said. "What's a jumper?" Ranma asked, not really wanting to know. "You'll know soon enough. Once you get dressed, I want you and Akane to come to my room. It's time you learned how to apply makeup." "Mom, please! Can't this wait until we come back?" Ranma began pleading. Nodoka’s look told Ranma that her answer was no. "OK, I'm going. Akane, will you bring the jumper to my room?" Ranma knew when he was defeated. Forty minutes later, all three were ready to go shopping. Ranma hated to admit it, but the little makeup that Nodoka had helped her to put on did make her look better. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ranma was not going to enjoy the shopping trip. She knew she wasn't. When she saw the first store Nodoka had picked out to shop at, she tried to bolt. "NO WAY! Mom, I can't go in there! What if someone sees me in there?" Ranma said in a panic. She had turned red in embarrassment and looked as petrified as when Happosai had first used his giant chi attack against Ranma. "Ranma, really, what would be seen? Three women in a lingerie store. What's so bad about that?" Nodoka asked calmly. "Everybody knows that I turn into a guy when splashed with hot water. They'll think I'm a pervert or something," Ranma said as she tried to back away. Nodoka and Akane grabbed both of her arms to keep her from running. "That would be big news at Furinkan, all right," Akane teased her. She then pretended to be Nabiki, "Hey everyone, Ranma likes to wear lingerie when he's a girl! Want to buy some pictures?" "See, Mom? Akane's right! I'd become a laughingstock,” Ranma thought Akane had been serious. "Ranma, one of the things you need more than anything else are proper undergarments. This store sells them. A girl wearing proper clothing will never be thought perverted. A girl wearing boys under-shorts, would be thought the pervert,” Nodoka coaxed him. "No way! I'm not going in there," Ranma stood and shook her head no. “Yes, you will, Ranma,” Nodoka sternly said. Twenty minutes later, Ranma was huddled in a changing room in the store. She was red as a beet from her face to her belly button. Under Nodoka's watchful eye, she tried on several styles of lingerie. At one point when Akane brought another style of bra to try, Akane looked at Ranma and started giggling. Ranma thought to herself, I can't believe that I'm trying on panties, bras and other stuff. My mother is even watching! Looking away from her mother, she saw Akane chuckling. "What are you laughing at?" Ranma asked angrily. "I was just thinking about all of the times Happosai has tried to get you into a bra. I was wondering how much he would be enjoying this,” Akane started laughing out loud. "Funny. Ha Ha," Ranma grumbled. "Why don't you take some pictures and sell them to him?" After sizing Ranma and finding her a relatively comfortably fitting bra, Nodoka purchased several bras and panties. She also purchased several other items of lingerie. “Ranma, would you please put on this bra and panties?” Nodoka then asked Ranma. “We’ve already bought them, why should I try them on?” Ranma asked her. "Dear, when you are out in public, you must wear them," she explained. "Why?" Ranma asked. "Well, dear, ... Other women will notice and think badly of you. Men will notice and think that you are a loose woman,” Nodoka whispered to Ranma and Akane. Akane overheard and nodded affirmatively and added, “Ranma, it’s especially important not to put off other women. They are going to be your friends. You never want to disappoint your friends.” While the notion of “other” women thinking badly of her didn’t bother Ranma at all, the thought of men noticing and hitting on her stopped Ranma's objections. She wore them. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- As they began going from store to store, she grumbled every time Akane or Nodoka brought her something to try on. The cuter or more feminine the outfit, the more she complained about it. Fed up with the incessant complaints, Akane finally said, "Ranma, this is just like at the carnival where you finally learned the Chestnut Fist. Remember?" "Yeah, so what?" Ranma answered. "You had a good time despite yourself then, too. Just loosen up and enjoy this,” Akane said firmly. Continuing a little sadly, she said, "I envy you this. I wish my mother could take me shopping." Ranma was surprised. She hadn't considered how Akane might be feeling. Akane had lost her mother a long time ago. Truth to tell, it wasn't so bad having two people picking clothes out for you. She could stay in the changing room while they found outfits for her to try on. Ranma thought about what it would have been like if she had tried to shop on her own. It would have been a disaster! She would have had to select clothes to try on and then go into a changing room. A lot more people could spot you that way. Shopping for clothes was a lot easier and less embarrassing this way. She could hide in the dressing rooms and nobody would ever see her. "Geez, you win. I'll try to have a good time,” Ranma smiled at Akane. It's very hard to be grouchy when two people are busy pampering you. Nodoka and Akane enjoyed themselves immensely. One always stayed with Ranma as the other would go and find new clothes for her to try. Their happiness was infectious. Slowly, as Ranma realized just how much fun they were having, she began taking a more active interest. In several different stores, Ranma noticed that they had her try on the same outfits. "Didn't I try this on earlier?" Ranma asked. "No, dear, you tried on one very similar a little while ago," Nodoka answered. "How come we didn't buy it there?" Ranma asked completely puzzled. "Dear, you have a lot to learn about shopping. Shopping is like a contest. You want to get the best items at the best prices. First, you go through all of the stores and look at what they have and what their prices are. You also look for any sales that might be going on. As you shop, you must remember where all of the items are that you want and how much they'll cost. After you've looked everywhere, you then know what you want and where to buy it. M en just don't have a clue. They just go to any store and buy what they think they need. How would they know they got a good price?" Nodoka instructed Ranma. Looking at Akane, Ranma said, "This is supposed to be fun?" "Yes, baka. It's even more fun when you're shopping for a friend," Akane said with a smile. Having another thought, Ranma asked, "How come we didn't shop for lingerie?" Nodoka explained, "Lingerie is something that must be very comfortable on you or must help flatter your figure. You try to find a brand that does that for you. I took you to the store that sells the brand that I use." Ranma was embarrassed all over again. She was wearing the same brand of underwear her mother wore! I’m still a guy! She emphatically said to herself as she adjusted her bra strap. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- They ate lunch at a ramen stand in the mall. While they were there, Sayuri and Yuka came walking by. “Hi, Akane! What are you doing?” Sayuri asked as soon as they were close enough to talk. Ranma slowly began trying to hide beneath the table. “Hi, Guys! What are you doing here?” Akane answered. “It was boring at home and I asked Yuka if she wanted to go and do some window shopping,” Yuka said. Seeing a female Ranma, Nodoka and a lot of shopping bags, she asked, “What are you guys doing?” “Ranma, is it OK to tell?” Akane looked at Ranma. All that could be seen of Ranma was her red hair. “Ranma, sit up so they can see you.” Ranma quickly straightened up, “Go ahead and tell them, Akane. Everyone at school will know soon enough.” “Sit down, guys, this is a good story,” Akane motioned them to sit down. She quickly told them about the previous night. As she told them, Nodoka beamed proudly at Ranma. Ranma tried to act nonchalant. Sayuri and Yuka both thought that what Ranma was doing was very cool and romantic. When Akane started explaining that they were on a shopping trip for Ranma’s girl side, Sayuri and Yuka became very excited. “Wow! That’s so cool! You’re getting a whole wardrobe in one day!” Yuka enthused. “Yeah! What have you gotten so far?” Sayuri asked. Akane quickly went through all of the things that they had purchased. Ranma tried to stop her when she started to show them her underwear. “Don’t be so touchy, Ranma, it’s not like they haven’t seen this stuff before,” Akane said dismissing her objections. Ranma was flushed red with mortification and stopped the fashion show right there. “Akane, it’s OK for them to see the outfits. I’m not ready for anyone to see the other stuff.” “That’s OK, Ranma. We’ve seen what we really wanted to see, right, Yuka?” Sayuri said supportively. After they all finished lunch, Sayuri and Yuka asked to join the shopping trip. “It’s really up to Ranma,” Nodoka said. “Well, can we help? Please, Ranma?” They both pleaded. Ranma looked at them. She then said, “Guys, this is pretty hard for me. Do you mind if it’s just Mom and Akane with me?” A little crestfallen, Sayuri and Yuka both nodded. “I guess it is tough on you, Ranma. You’re still just a splash away from being a boy,” Yuka said. “I’m still a guy,” Ranma retorted, “I haven’t been back to Jusenkyo yet.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- They shopped until all of the stores closed. When they arrived home that night, Ranma had a full wardrobe. They had bought everything Ranma would need as a girl. Nodoka had overheard Akane earlier and had purchased her a new outfit. Ranma enjoyed that part of the shopping trip the most. She got to pick out what Akane would try on and didn't have to get stuck in a changing booth. The best part of it was the revenge she got on Akane by picking out some truly awful outfits for her to try on. "I didn't know shopping could be so tiring," Ranma said surprised. She couldn't wait to take a bath and be a guy again. "That's one of the things you have to learn, dear," Nodoka answered, "Now we get to have some more fun. It's show and tell time! We get to look at everything we bought and try it all on again!" "You mean I can't take this bra off yet?" ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nabiki had not been idle on Sunday, either. She had rung up the Kuno residence. Ring … Ring … Click “Hello, Kuno residence, Sasuke speaking,” Sasuke answered the phone. “Hello, Sasuke, I’d like to speak to Tatewaki,” Nabiki said. “Yes, Mistress Nabiki, if you’ll give me a few moments,” he said as he laid the receiver down. A few minutes later, Nabiki heard the receiver being picked back up. “Hello, Nabiki, what is it that you must disturb my morning meditations with?” Tatewaki asked sounding irritated. “Why, Kuno, I’m calling offering you my help in dating your pig-tailed girl, once Ranma has taken his trip,” Nabiki said, “But … If I’m bothering you, I ’ll talk with you tomorrow.” She held the receiver against her ear. 3 … 2 … 1 … “Wait, Nabiki! I would hear the plan one such as you have devised,” Kuno said while trying to conceal his eagerness. With a predatory smile, Nabiki began explaining her plan, “The first part of the plan is to pay me 100,000 Yen. That will cover my costs in this. The second thing is to …” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ranma was glad it was Monday. He wouldn't have to go shopping again. Though, truth to tell, it was hard staying grumpy when your mother and fiancee/best friend are making a huge fuss over you, even when it's only to play dress-up. As he and Akane were leaving, Nodoka said, "Ranma, we will be continuing your lessons until we leave for China. Tonight, we will work some more on makeup and on how to take care of your hair." Akane couldn't help but tease him, "We'll play with your hair and find a style that's just right for you. I know! How about letting it hang down in a long pony tail. You could flip it over your shoulder like Kasumi does. Don't you think that would just be too cute?" She laughed. "Argh," Ranma moaned. Turning to Akane with a gleam in his eye, he said, "We are going to spar on the way to school today,” Posing as if he was preening, he continued with a smile, "Be careful, if I knock you off, I won't catch you today. I don't want to mess up my clothes or hair." Ranma reached over to Akane and tagged her with a finger. He then jumped onto the fence and ran off, "One point for me, catch me slowpoke!" "Ranma, that wasn't fair. I wasn't ready," Akane ran after him. Running backwards on the fence, he turned and said in his most pompous manner, “To quote my Pop, A true martial artist is always ready.” He smiled and stuck his tongue out at her. Akane waited until Ranma faced forwards again. She threw her book bag at his legs and knocked him off of the fence. Running by him, she laughed, "One point all! Oh, don't forget to bring my book bag with you!" They continued trading places on the fence until they got to school. The score was 21 - 20 in Ranma's favor. As they jumped off the fence, Ranma told her, “You did great this morning, Akane! Though, you know, if we’re going to spar like this every morning, you might want to wear your gym shorts to school. Those panties don’t match your uniform.” He then ran away laughing before she could hit him. “Ranma, you PERVERT!” Akane chased Ranma to the school gates. “OW!” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Arriving at school together, Ranma rubbed a bump rising on his head. They found Kuno awaiting them in the courtyard as usual. "I hope he hasn't forgotten about Saturday night," Ranma said to Akane as they walked up to him. "Ah, it is Ranma Saotome and his beauteous fiancee Akane Tendo. Greetings! I wish to let you know that I am awaiting Cologne's instructions. My sister and I have already packed for the journey to China. I, myself, cannot wait for the pig-tailed girl to be freed from the curse that afflicts both of you,” Kuno said in his usual overly dramatic fashion. "Akane, I pray your forgiveness. In my love for you, I have caused you embarrassments and pain. My zeal for you overwhelmed me," Kuno said as he handed her a bouquet of pink carnations. "Roses of love are what I wish to give you; carnations of friendship are what I offer. Will you accept these as but an initial installment on the apology I owe you?" Akane was stunned. Kuno apologize? Kuno offer friendship and not an obsessive love? "S, Sure, Kuno, I accept them," she stammered out in surprise. Kuno bowed to her as she accepted his flowers. Turning to Ranma, he said, "I wish to apologize to you also. I have called you a sorcerer and worse. In error, I thought that you had enslaved the pig-tailed girl. I didn't know that you were blessed to be her. Will you accept these roses as a token of my affection for her, your soon to be sister?" Ranma was caught in a dilemma. If he didn't accept the flowers, he'd look like a real jerk. On the other hand, if he accepted the flowers, Kuno would continue to chase his girl side. He looked at Akane, she nodded that he should take the flowers. With a sigh, he did. "Er, thanks, Kuno. I want you to know, this doesn't mean that you'll get to date her or nothing," Ranma accepted the flowers with his usual grace. Realizing that classes were almost ready to start. Ranma grabbed Akane’s hand and said, "We've got to get to class. Come on, Akane!" Nabiki walked up to Kuno as Ranma and Akane entered the school. "I told you that they would accept your apologies. Now if you continue to do what I tell you to, you'll get that date," Nabiki encouraged Kuno. "Thank you, Nabiki Tendo. I would not have thought of offering flowers to Saotome. He seemed quite ... discomfited by it,” Kuno answered her. "He did, didn't he," Nabiki smiled. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- By lunch period, most of the school had heard about Kuno's apologies and the mention of a trip to China. Nabiki made a killing explaining what was going to happen. At the thought of a fully male and unattached Ranma at school, most of the girls at Furinkan started making secret plans to woo him. The boys were far less subtle. Ranma had been approached for dates with "Ranko" by every boy in his class by the end of the day. A few of the more persistent ones ended the day having visited the nurse. When Ranma complained to Akane about it, she laughed and replied, "At least you're not going to have to fight all of the boys every morning." Ranma responded with exasperation, "I think I’d prefer that! Don't you think they should wait for me to be a girl before asking me out?" "Face it, Ranma, you're just a popular girl!" Akane laughed at his discomfort. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- That night at dinner, Nodoka had Ranma serve dinner to Akane and herself. Nodoka sat in the seat of honor. Akane sat to her right, with P-Chan in her lap. "Presentation is everything, Ranma. Not only must the food be delicious, the way you bring it in and the way it is placed in front of the guests must serve to enhance its reception. A meal, properly served and presented, can often make a guest overlook minor flaws in their hostess or their dinner," Nodoka was sternly lecturing with Ranma. "Mother, how often will I ever have to do this?" Ranma asked. "Akane, you should know the answer to this,” Nodoka looked at Akane. "It is the duty of the wife to always serve as hostess to anyone your husband invites into your home,” Akane answered. "Quite correct,” Nodoka smiled at her. "Mom, I may end up with a me that's permanently a girl, but there's NO WAY I'd ever marry a man,” Ranma shuddered at the thought. "You still will need to know how to be a proper woman,” Nodoka calmly answered. "More tea, Akane?" "No, thank you." "Can I eat now?" Ranma looked at the food hungrily. Ranma decided to accept her training. She looked at Akane and asked, "Akane, may I take P-Chan with me into the bath tonight? I'd like to give him a bath." P-Chan looked at her suspiciously. Akane glanced down at her pet, "Ranma, he's never seemed to like you much in the past. Don't pick on him, okay?" "I promise that I won't pick on him, Akane,” Ranma leant over and put her hand on P-Chan's head. "P-Chan and I will have a nice time being boys together, won't we P-Chan." "Bwee?" P-Chan snorted in confusion. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Later in the bathroom, Ranma held P-Chan. She looked at him and said, "Ryoga, I want to talk with you. I don't want to fight. You heard what the Jusenkyo Guide wrote my mother. I am going to use the Drowned Twins water. I ’d like to know what you’re planning. Will you let me put you into the tub, after a good scrub?" P-Chan looked up at the Ranma and shook his head yes. Ranma quickly scrubbed and rinsed P-Chan down. She then set him down next to her, but facing away. Disrobing, Ranma cleansed herself. She then picked P-Chan up and moved to the tub. Settling into it, Ranma placed P-Chan across from him. "Hello, Ryoga,” Ranma began warily. "Hello, Ranma,” Ryoga answered carefully. He was unsure just what Ranma wanted and didn’t want to give anything away. "Uh, Ryoga, you've been with Akane as P-Chan for the last week. You've heard all of our plans. I want to know what you're thinking,” Ranma asked. "I don't know, Ranma. I really don't. I can't believe that the Spring of Drowned Boy won't cure us. You don't know how much I hate being a pig. The Spring of Drowned Twins would split me so that one of me would be human and the other a pig. That's not a solution I can use. I'm not happy about the idea of having the curse for the length of an average pig's life either." Ryoga thought out loud. "I was hurt when I found out that you and Akane finally admitted your love for each other. I still don't think you're good enough for her. But ... she loves you and not me. I've listened to enough to know this now." Ryoga paused and some fire came into his eyes, "Ranma, if you ever do anything to hurt Akane, I swear that I will hunt you down and kill you." "You won't have to hunt me, Ryoga. If I do anything to hurt her, I'll stand and take your punishment," Ranma then shifted the subject, "What about Akari?" "I love her. I was undecided between Akane and Akari. I wasn’t able to tell Akane my feelings. Akane has made her choice, it’s you. I will abide by it." "I'm surprised, Ryoga. I thought you'd take it harder than this." "Well, I've had a week as P-Chan to think it through," Ryoga then began smiling, "At least, I'm not having to take girl lessons." Ranma looked at Ryoga. He didn’t want to fight Ryoga, especially in his mother’s home. He tried to decide how to answer Ryoga. With a start, he started smiling. He got up out of the tub and walked to the shower. With an even bigger grin, he turned it on and became a girl. She kept her back to Ryoga while grabbing a towel and wrapping it around herself. She turned toward Ryoga and said coyly, "You know, Ryoga, you might want to consider splitting yourself. You're pretty cute and I might let you take me out." Ryoga couldn’t believe his ears and big-sweated. As Ranma started walking towards him, Ryoga crawled backwards away from Ranma until he was against the wall. Ranma came all the way up to him until they were close enough to touch. She stopped and looked at Ryoga. She slowly brought up her right hand and cradled his left cheek in it. As he felt Ranma’s touch, he thought she was actually going to kiss him. His nose started to bleed and he passed out. With a laugh, Ranma stepped back and looked at him. She then said, "I guess the lessons are paying off, huh?" ------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next morning, Ukyo approached Ranma before class started. “Ran-chan, could you come over to Ucchan’s after school today? I’d like a chance to talk with you,” she asked. Hey, free food and no “girl” training! “Sure, Ukyo! I’ll be there,” Ranma said quickly, “Akane, you’ll tell my mother where I’ll be, won’t you?” Akane started to get angry. She stopped when she realized that she had won. She wasn’t in competition with anyone anymore. Ranma had picked her. If Ukyo wanted to talk to him, it was OK. Ukyo was going to get a copy of Ranma, not the real one. “Sure, Ranma. I’ll be happy to tell her for you.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ranma and Ukyo left school together. Neither said much during the walk to Ucchan’s. Ukyo wanted to ask Ranma what his feelings were and why he had made the decisions he had. She was afraid of the answers and didn’t want to hear them in public. Ranma tried to enjoy the walk. He didn’t want to start talking to Ukyo. He knew that once they started to talk, he would have to tell her some things that would upset her. It was best to let her decide what they would talk about. Once inside Ucchan’s, Ukyo moved behind the grill and Ranma sat in his accustomed seat. They couldn’t put it off any longer. “So, you picked Akane. I’m happy for her,” Ukyo said with a smile. Inside, she was feeling hope, love, fear, jealousy, anger and pain. Her stomach felt as if she had a dozen full grown phoenixes flying inside it. Looking into Ranma’s eyes, she asked with only a quiver in her voice betraying her emotional fragility, “Why are you doing this for me, Ranma? Is it just to fulfill the pledge made between our fathers?” “Ucchan, I, Uh …” Ranma couldn’t get the words past the lump in his throat. He knew he had to do this now. He swallowed the lump and firmed his resolve. “Ucchan, Yes, I love Akane,” he said just loud enough for her to hear. Ukyo began to cry as he said this. He doesn’t love me. He’s doing this for honor’s sake, not for us. She started to slowly fold into herself. She wrapped her arms around herself, as she sat down on the floor. “Wait a minute, Ucchan, I love you, too. I just don’t love you as much as I do Akane,” He paused. “Do you think I want to hurt you? You were my first friend when I was on the road with Pop.” He jumped over the counter and kneeled beside her. He gently reached out and took her chin in his hand. “Look at me, Ucchan,” he said. She had no choice but to look at him. She saw tears in his eyes. “Ucchan, I’m doing this because I want you to be happy. I want you to have your family and your honor back. I don’t want you to pretend to be something you’re not for the rest of your life, because of something my father and I did,” he said with a little anger. “Yes, it is true that I am going to make copies of myself for all four of my fiancees,” his anger started to dissipate and some sadness started to show on his face, “Ucchan, there are going to be four or five male Ranma Saotomes in two weeks. Akane will get one. You will get one. So will Shampoo and Kodachi. I don’t know what I’m going to get.” “Ranma, you really do love me?” she asked with some trepidation, “This isn’ t to settle family honor?” “Yes, Ucchan. I do love you. I am not doing this for you, just to settle questions of family honor,” Ranma said as gently as he could. “But, you love Akane more,” she persisted. “Yes,” Ranma said. Ukyo’s tears began to dry up, she reached out to him and grabbed him in a light hug, “I just want you to know that I love you Ran-chan. I don’t want you to be hurt or do something for me, that would end up hurting you.” Ukyo had never known that you could feel happy and sad at the same time. She pulled out of the hug and looked searchingly at Ranma. “Ran-chan, are you going to be OK?” “Yeah, sure, what’s there to worry about, Ucchan?” Ranma said with a quick smile. “Do you love either Shampoo or Kodachi? Do you really want to have a part of you become a girl permanently?” she asked. Ranma’s smile faltered. “I like Shampoo. I don’t love her. She and the old ghoul have helped me more than they have tried to hurt me. Whenever I’ ve needed help, they’ve been there. I guess I can be there for Shampoo. She deserves to be able to go home,” he then whispered more to himself than to Ukyo, “I know what it’s like not to be able to go home.” “I don’t love Kodachi. I don’t know if I even like her yet. I have only agreed to give her a chance,” he said in a firmer voice. Pasting his smile back on his face, Ranma continued with false bravado, “I can handle being a girl full time. I know a lot of girls and they don’t seem to mind it. I’m looking at it as a challenge.” Ukyo sensed the front Ranma had just put on. Oh gods, I can’t believe that I’m offering this, Ukyo said to herself. “Ranma, would it help you if I jumped into the Nannichuan? Then Ranko could marry me. It, It’s not like I don’t know what it’s like to live like a guy,” she offered, “I’ve lived as a guy …” Ranma interrupted her at this point. He was surprised that she would make the offer. Knowing what it was she was offering, he was angry at his father for the curse all over again. With tightly controlled anger, he said, “Ucchan, thank you, but I don’t want to subject anyone to what I’ve been living through, especially someone I care for.” Ukyo started crying again. “Thank you, Ran-chan. I appreciate what you are doing more than you will ever know.” “Just promise me one thing, Ucchan,” Ranma looked at her seriously. “Yes, what is it, Ran-Chan?” she asked. “When we get married, you won’t wear a tuxedo!” Ranma cracked a smile and laughed. “That’s not funny, Ran-chan!” Ukyo laughed with him, “I’ve already been sized and paid a deposit for it!” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Having mysteriously heard about Ranma’s time with Ukyo, Kodachi showed up Friday afternoon wanting her time with her Ranma-sama. She was waiting on top of the gates of Furinkan High School. Upon seeing Ranma’s exit from the front of the school, she jumped down and glomped onto him. “Ranma-sama, you’ve been spending all together too much time with Akane Tendo and Ukyo Kuonji. You should be spending some time with me,” Kodachi said as she rubbed her head on Ranma’s shoulder. “Erg,” Ranma was surprised to say the least. “Kodachi, what are you doing here?” “Why to see you, my darling. Let me take you away from that drear Akane tonight. I’ll cook you a dinner you’ll never forget,” she cooed to him. Akane came up and said, “Ranma, your mother would be upset if you skipped another training session. Let’s get home.” Ranma tried to pull Kodachi off of him. It was like trying to pull molasses out of a jar. Whenever he would get one limb untangled, she would just grab at whatever was near. Finally, Ranma grabbed both of her arms and said, “Kodachi, get off of me.” “Dear, dear, Ranma, why?” Kodachi asked puzzled. She let go of him and stood demurely in front of him and Akane. Ranma, with a sigh, turned to Akane and said, “Akane, I think that Kodachi and I need to have a little talk. I’ll catch up with you at Mom’s. Let her know that I’ll be a little late for her training session. OK?” “I’m not sure about this, Ranma,” Akane said. Seeing how he looked sad for Kodachi, she then said, “but, OK I will. Bye.” “Let’s go sit in the grass overlooking the soccer field, Kodachi,” Ranma started walking there. “You can call me Ko-chan, if you like, Ranma dear,” Kodachi entreated as she followed him. Ranma said nothing further until they were both seated. For a long time, he sat and looked at the field. Kodachi sat next to him and snuggled up to him. He looked at her, but let her stay there. Finally, he said, “Kodachi, why do you always try to either use paralysis powder on me or incapacitate me?” Of all the questions she expected, this was the one she hadn’t prepared for, “I, I don’t know, Ranma-sama.” “Kodachi, I want you to give me a straight answer,” he said not looking at her. “I, I didn’t want to lose you,” she finally managed to whisper. “That’s what I thought. Kodachi, after we visit Jusenkyo, there will be a Ranma for you. I promise I’ll give you a chance,” he paused and looked at her, “I’d like to get to know you. However, I want to warn you, don’t try any potions, powders or traps on me or that will be the end of the relationship. Do you understand?” “Yes, my Ranma-sama, I do,” Kodachi said. “Wait a little longer, Kodachi,” Ranma said as he stood up, “I’ve got to get home.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Akane, instead of going straight to Nodoka’s house went to the Nekohanten, instead. She was curious as to why Shampoo hadn’t tried to get time with Ranma. As she entered the cafe, she was greeted by Shampoo. “Hello, Akane Tendo,” Shampoo smiled in greeting. Huh? She didn’t call me pervert girl or insult me. “Hello, Shampoo. I was wondering if we could talk,” Akane smiled back at her. “Aiyah, Shampoo busy now, can talk later?” Shampoo asked. Before Akane could answer, Cologne’s voice came from the kitchen, “Shampoo take a break. I can handle the crowd.” “Thank you, great grandmother,” Shampoo led Akane to a small corner table. “Would tea you like, Akane?” she asked. “Ah, no. Shampoo, I’d like to know something. Can I ask you a question?” Akane asked feeling a little nervous. “Ask, no problem. Answer, problem may be,” Shampoo laughed in response. “Why haven’t you glomped onto Ranma or asked him for a date this week?” Akane blurted out. “Shampoo know Ranma love Akane. Shampoo also know Ranma make double to marry for Shampoo’s honor. Shampoo love Ranma. Shampoo want Ranma be happy. Shampoo letting Ranma say goodbye,” she said with surprising candor and compassion. Shampoo then reached out and held Akane’s hand. “Akane no enemy any more. Shampoo, Akane both get what want. Akane get more is all,” she smiled sadly and asked, “Will Shampoo friend be?” “Yes, Shampoo, I will,” Akane was almost struck dumb with amazement. She had always assumed that Shampoo wasn’t very bright because she couldn’t speak Japanese very well. After she left, Cologne spoke to Shampoo. “Shampoo, I’m very proud of you. It takes a strong warrior to make a friend of an enemy.” “Thank you, Great Grandmother.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- The days leading up to leaving for China went by in a blur. Nodoka had taken her duties seriously. She and Ranma spent all of their free time in girlhood training. By the end of the two weeks, Ranma was unable to apply makeup by herself, but was able to pick out an outfit that matched and explain why. Akane had fun watching Ranma squirm. Nodoka finally tired of that and drafted Akane into the training school, too. Ranma didn't feel quite so bad after that. Not much else was heard from Shampoo, Ukyo and Kodachi. They had each decided to leave Ranma and Akane alone. Kuno gave Ranma and Akane daily updates on the status of the upcoming trip. He also gave Ranma either a bouquet of roses or a large box of chocolates every morning. When Ranma asked Akane what he should do with the candy, she told him to share them with the girls in their class. The two biggest betting pools in the history of Furinkan had been started by Nabiki. One was for who would date the free male Ranma first. The second was for who would date the female Ranma first. Nabiki made sure that neither Ranma nor any of his fiancees were aware of the pool. Finally, the entire group was assembled in the Narita Airport. Tatewaki, Kodachi, Nabiki, Cologne, Nodoka, Ranma and Akane all had been given first class tickets. Everyone else had been given tourist class tickets. P-Chan flew in a pet carrier, much to his disgust. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- It took two more days before the travelers reached the Joketsuzuku Village. Everyone was sent to a different home. They were told that it was Amazon law that outsiders must be separated at night. Ranma found that he and his mother were staying in Cologne and Shampoo's home. Akane was not pleased. "What do you mean that you've been assigned to sleep at Shampoo's home?" Akane ranted. "Akane, if you're going to get mad at anyone get mad at Cologne. It's not like I said I wanted to sleep with Shampoo,” Ranma inserted his foot into his mouth. "Ranma, you JERK. You are MY fiance and you will sleep with no one but me got it?" Akane asked as she grabbed a nearby table and hit him with it for emphasis. "..." Several of the Amazons of the village watched the scene. They were impressed with the spirit of the girl and how she had already put her husband into his place. Many argued that she must have Amazon blood in her. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- That night, Cologne approached Ranma and Nodoka. "Ranma, have you considered all of the ramifications of being split and having a permanently female version of you?" "Yeah, I think so, Why?" Ranma asked. "According to Amazon laws, when an outsider woman defeats an Amazon girl. The outsider woman must be hunted down and killed. By law, Shampoo could be required to hunt down the female Ranma," Cologne stopped and watched Ranma. As the import of her words sunk in, Ranma's eyes got bigger and bigger, "What do you mean, you old hag? I'm going to marry Shampoo! She's still going to try and kill me?" "Son-in-law, I said could. This is a unique situation. One that the council will have to make a decision on. I will support releasing Shampoo and you from her Kiss of Death. However, I am not the only one on the council. Remember Shampoo has already been punished for her failure once,” She paused. Ranma shivered at the thought of Shampoo-neko. Cologne then continued, "There is a way to bypass all of this. Would you allow your female self to be adopted into the tribe? If I adopted you, the law would be moot. You wouldn't have to run and Shampoo wouldn't have to track you." Nodoka said coldly, "Ranma has a mother. There is no need for another." "I'm not looking to replace you, Nodoka. I'm trying to save two lives." "What's the catch? Would I have to stay here forever?" Ranma looked at her. "No catch. The only things required of you would be to continue training wherever you are, learn Chinese and to come to the yearly tournament for testing," Cologne continued. "As an Amazon, you would be able to learn all of our techniques." "What about Mom? I finally got her back. I don't want to lose her again." "Ranma, you wouldn't be losing your old family. You would be gaining a new family with a three thousand year old tradition." "Why, Cologne?" "I'm tired, Son-in-law. I want to see Shampoo safe at home. Whether that's here or back in Nerima. I also think that it would be a waste to see both of you killed. Shampoo would eventually kill you, you know. Once that happened, one of your male sides would kill her. I know that, too,” Cologne finished. Also, your children will be Amazon children. They will greatly strengthen the tribe. "Mom, what do you think?" Ranma asked his mother. "Cologne, I don't want to see Shampoo or Ranma killed. I also don't want to lose him as my son or daughter. If you adopt me, will that fulfill the law's requirements?" Nodoka asked. "Yes, it would Nodoka,” Cologne smiled. This is all that I hoped. Now all of them will be members of the tribe. They will greatly strengthen the tribe. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next morning, they all trekked to Jusenkyo. Cologne talked to the Guide and asked him to show them the Spring of Drowned Twins. The day dawned into a beautiful morning. There were white cumulous clouds floating lazily in the sky. There was no wind. The water in the pools was motionless and reflected the mountains in the background. Ranma wore his red silk shirt and black silk pants. He looked at all of those around him. His mother stood in her most formal kimono. Looking at her son proudly, she had never seen anyone look so manly. To put honor and the needs of others above his own, he was truly a man amongst men. Standing tall in his gi, his father returned Ranma's gaze. Genma knew that if he were in the same position as his son, he would not be able to do this. He silently wished his son the best of luck. His glance then fell upon Soun, Kasumi and Nabiki. Suited in his impressive samurai armor, Soun threatened to wash away Jusenkyo with his tears. How Ranma could sacrifice so much of himself for the happiness of Akane, he would never know. He knew that he would never be able to repay him. Kasumi and Nabiki also stood wearing formal kimonos. Kasumi seemed a little nervous, but she smiled at him encouragingly. Hoping with all of her heart that this turned out okay, she knew being calm would help Ranma. Nabiki wasn't smiling. She thought to herself, Ranma, you have no head for money, but you have the biggest heart I know of. Akane was standing just a little apart from her family. She wore her formal attire, also. She looked at him with love in her eyes. She mouthed at him, "It's still not too late, I can jump into the Spring of Drowned Man!" He shook his head no and smiled at her. Ranma's gaze next fell upon Ukyo, Shampoo and Kodachi. They each had chosen to wear their fighting outfits. Ukyo looked at Ranma with a mixture of sadness and love. She knew that she wasn't his first choice. She took comfort from the thought that he loved her enough to do this for her. Shampoo stood tall and proud, her eyes never wavering from Ranma. Her honor and place in the tribe were about to be restored. She would have Ranma for a husband. She knew he didn’t love her. She believed with all her heart that she would win his love by being a better wife than any of the others. As Kodachi's and Ranma's gaze crossed, the loneliness and longing for love that were in her soul could be seen. Ranma looked more deeply into her eyes and saw a small spark of hope begin to come to life. Kuno stood stoically and watched Ranma. As Ranma looked his way, he said, "Ranma Saotome, you do something today that I would not be able to do. I salute you." With that, he pulled his bokken out of its scabbard. Bowing forward, he held the bokken in both hands in front of himself. The last person there was Cologne. She stood there on her stick with an unreadable expression. She looked back wishing her Son-in-law all the luck that he could possibly muster. He would need every shred of it. Ranma was surprised not to see P-Chan there. He must have wandered off again. He turned and gazed at the pool. Its' surface was unruffled by any motion. He saw his reflection looking back at him. Realizing that for a part of him, this would be the last time he would see a male reflection, he paused and said goodbye. Taking a big breath, Ranma yelled, "Banzai!", and jumped in. It had begun. -------------------------------------------------------------------------