Christopher Angel wrote:

My strongest reaction to Nabiki's death is that Ranma now cannot
ever, ever be redeemed.

Interesting reaction there, Thomas.  I originally agreed with you...then I
thought about it.

See Nabiki from Ranma's POV.  She's a threat, one that wants to kill him.
She's proved to be one of the biggest threats to him as a person, and to his
relationship with Akane.  He was recently nearly killed, and Nabiki's flight
to him was probably an admission of guilt.  Ranma's choice is clear - kill
or be killed.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not on Ranma's side.  The guy is a sick, twisted,
animal that should be shot.  But he can be redeemed, I think, but I'm just
not sure how.

Actually I feel the reverse.  I'm very sympathetic to him.  He's 
suffering terribly.  But I don't think he can be redeemed, and
I'm inclined to think Ms. Hibiki is correct as to how he should
be handled.  Ordinarily I'd say he should be confined, but that's
quite impractical given the individual in question.  

One other thing, I get the feeling that Akane's reaction to
that last sparring session will be pivotal.

I continue to believe that, if the "good guys" win at all, they will
do so through Akane's actions.  If she doesn't turn against him, I
don't think Ranma will ever be stopped.

I think Akane's changing attitudes is what to watch for.  Her reaction to
the last sparring session was a symptom of that, and if I believe anyone is
the real protagonist of this story, it's Akane.  She's becoming much less
innocent, and I think that may be what is needed to save or doom Ranma.