Re: Chrono Trigger 1/2

Chapter 1 Prelude

It was just another "normal" day in the Tendo dojo, or at least as normal as things could be with Ranma and Akane around. As usual, Akane was chasing Ranma for calling her a kawaikunai tomboy. Ranma was just routinely running around the house to avoid Akane when he noticed something was odd. A distant noise, more felt than heard, was coming closer and closer...

BOOM! A flash of iridescent light erupted in the sky above the Tendo dojo. After the light dissipated, Ranma and Akane noticed that a strangely looking hovercraft simply appeared above the sky and was gracefully hovering above the Tendo dojo.

"What... what is that!" exclaimed Akane as she stopped chasing Ranma to gasp at the incredible sight.

"How should I know, Akane?" answered Ranma as the hovercraft prepared its descent.

The unknown craft gracefully completed its slow descent. Although it was still impossible to see the faces of the people inside, Ranma did see some people inside and figured that there were at least three people inside. The engines of the unknown craft died out as it completed its descent. The hatch of the craft slowly opened and a girl with thick glasses, roughly around Akane's age, jumped out of the craft.

"Hey, who are you and what the heck are you doing here?" demanded Ranma immediately.

The girl replied, "Oh, allow me to introduce myself. I'm Lucca the genius from Truce Village by the Guardia Kingdom in 1000 AD circa. Sorry for bothering you guys, we will be leaving shortly."

"1000 AD!" exclaimed Ranma, "Uhh... Akane, when is that?"

"Baka!" facefaulted Akane, "What have you been doing in school all this time, Ranma? Do you ever learn anything? One thousand AD is... let's say roughly 1000 years ago, Ranma."

"Oh, I knew that, I was just testing you," replied Ranma, embarrassed. Returning his attention to Lucca, he continued, "Uhh, would you mind telling us how you get here? I mean... you're from another time period, right? So... how did you get here?"

Lucca laughed, "Oh, the Epoch, of course," realizing that she didn't really clarified anything, Lucca continued, "That's the thing over there. It is kind of like a hovercraft and a time machine combined. I named it the Epoch. Using the Epoch, my friends and I can travel through all known time periods freely. Don't you agree the Epoch is truly a work of genius? Belthesar was truly a genius to make such a radical concept possible. However, the Epoch would never work without my genius. It was I who..."

Lucca continued to brag and blabber something about she was such a genius and how incredible technology was. Ranma tried to be polite but eventually got tired of this, not to mention he didn't know anything about technology. He tried as politely as he could and interrupted, "Look, this is very... um... interesting, but would you mind telling us who are these people in there? Why are you here, anyway? Do you just decide one day to drop by Nerima?"

Lucca replied, "Oh, these people are my friends. Let's see here. Crono is the one with the spiky hair and Marle's the girl that is next to him. We got some more friends, but the Epoch can only fit three people comfortably."

"Okay, so... again, why are you here? Do you just get here for the heck of it? Are you looking for something or what? Travelers from 1000 AD don't just come to our neighborhood everyday, you know?" asked Ranma.

"Oh, Marle wanted to go on a little vacation and I decided that we should visit the 20th century. We are just sight-seeing right now. After here, we will probably stop at China." replied Lucca, "Robo told us that since martial arts originated from China it is probably a good bet that we will find someone experienced in martial arts there. After we defeat Lavos our fighting skills seems to erode in such a peaceful world. So we decide to work out a little bit in order not to lose our fighting skills."

Ranma didn't understand one bit of what Lucca was talking about, but hearing the words 'martial-arts', Ranma become immediately excited and asked, "Wait! Are you guys martial artists?"

Lucca shrugged, "Not exactly. Our abilities far exceeds the so called 'martial artists', at least in certain areas, anyway. We are looking for martial artist simply because we feel that they might be the only people in this world who are good enough. I personally would have opted to going to future because I would assume that in the future there would be better combat technology. However, Robo told us that the destruction of Lavos had an immense effect on the space-time continuum. As a result of Lavos's destruction, the future was peaceful and therefore all forms of technology were devoted to peacekeeping, not war. So there. That's why we're here. To seek competition. Well, the travel brochure says that Japan is a nice place, so we decide to drop by here first. It is a purely a coincidence that we should land on top of your house, I assure you. After that, we shall go to China, presumably the best place to find decent martial artists."

Ranma still didn't understand completely, but he understood enough. He declared proudly, "Ha! You don't need to look for competition in China! I, Ranma Saotome of the Anything Goes Martial Arts School, will handle all of you by myself! Come on! Let's see what you got!"

"Why are you so enthusiastic, if I may ask?" puzzled Lucca, "Excuse me if I may seem rude, but we've just meet for less than 10 minutes and you're volunteering to do us a great service. I thought martial-artists don't just fight anyone they see. I heard martial artists consider themselves above the society and would refuse even formal challenges! Why are you so eager to fight?"

"Fighting is my life. I don't need a reason to fight someone," answered Ranma, "Heck, if I have money I'll pay you to fight me! Enough of this, let's go!"

Akane listened to this and could only sigh. <Fighting is his life, he says,> she thought, <What about me? Guess that's too much to expect from that baka, anyway. Of course, what else does he do besides fighting and making a fool of himself?>

"All right then, your gracious offer is accepted. I'll promise to go easy on you" replied Lucca. "Even though I rather use technology over fighting, one does need to workout once a while. You want to fight now? Hm... not that I would mind, but we're kind of short on time right now. We have dedicated this week to sight-seeing and we don't want to ruin our vacation. After all, Marle is busy all the time and she rarely have time to relax. So, how about next week? We've got seven members including me on my team, so that'll give you sometime to look for your friends. Hopefully that'll give you enough time to find someone remotely good enough."

"Hey look, just tell the girl to wait," interrupted Ranma, "Let's fight right now!"

"Why should I listen to you?" retorted Lucca, "Look, my friends are more important than you. At any rate, you might want to think about getting all the help you need. Normal human beings cannot expect to defeat the great Lucca. After saving the world from being destroyed there just isn't fun in fighting anymore. Good luck to you and your friends, you'll need it. For now I must leave."

"No, let's fight right now!" shouted Ranma as he got into a fighting stance.

"No, we really don't have time. As I told you earlier, I value my friends over anything else. We've had enough fighting for the moment, and we just want to take a break of it, okay? The fight can wait," replied Lucca as she began to walk back to the Epoch.

Ranma of course didn't bother to reason with Lucca. To him, that girl not only insulted his fighting ability but also ignored a challenge from him, Ranma Saotome! Ranma quickly decided that this pesky girl must be taught a lesson for ignoring him. "Look out, I'm going to attack you!" warned Ranma as he lunged toward Lucca. As much as Ranma hated fighting girls, he hated people who ignored him even more. thought Ranma, <Just so that she'll be scared enough to take me seriously.>

Lucca didn't even bother to dodge Ranma's attack. Ranma's fist landed square on her shoulder yet she showed no signs of pain whatsoever. Just as Ranma was pondering why his attack didn't work, Lucca sighed, "What brutes, resorting to hand-to-hand combat. If I had the time, I wouldn't mind teaching you a little lesson, but right now I don't have the time. I'll remember that Ranma, whoever you are."

"Don't mind him, he is always like this," explained Akane, "He forgot to add something. Fighting is not all he do in his life; he also knows how to make a fool of himself as well as he knows fighting. I've to put up with this baka since forever. He is actually in one of his nicer modes today. By the way, I'm Akane."

"Okay," continued Lucca, "I'll remember this. You've until next week to get ready. We shall meet again..." With that, Lucca walked back to her Epoch and jumped back in the pilot's seat.

In matter of seconds the Epoch was alive again. It hovered above the sky above the Tendo dojo and disappeared as suddenly as it had appeared.

Meanwhile, Ranma still could not understand why his attack failed. <Why didn't it hurt her?> thought Ranma, <I didn't really put too much in that punch, that's true. If I hit Ryouga or Happosai with that kind of power it probably wouldn't have affected them. However, she's a girl! That punch would have hurt Akane, or Ukyou, or even Shampoo!>

thought Akane, <It is not like Ranma to just let someone insult him and leave. I don't think Ranma will ever let anyone insult him and then just let that person leave. After all, Ranma is such a jerk and never knows when to quit. Why did he let her just leave like that? I thought Ranma would try to stop her and make her fight him! Humph, probably it is that I-don't-fight-girl stuff again! That's right, I forgot how much he was against fighting girls! He always refuses to fight me because I'm a girl! At any rate, what he did was rude and he should be taught a lesson.> Akane scolded Ranma, "Ranma, why are you always fighting? Don't you ever get tired off that?"

No response.

"Hello? Ranma, are you awake? What's wrong with you!" shouted Akane as she slapped Ranma lightly several times.

Akane's words and slaps snapped Ranma out of his thoughts, "Oh, Akane. Are you talking to me?"

"Of course! You think I'll just hit you for fun? I was worr..." Akane blushed immediately after she said that, "Never mind what I just said! I'm hitting you because you aren't listening. Now, that was very rude of you to punch a girl like that. She doesn't seem that bad to me. Of course she was a bit... conceited and self-centered, but that wasn't so bad compared to you! You didn't have to hit her like that. Tell me, Ranma. You were going easy on her, right? I mean, I first thought you were quite angry and was going to hurt her! Well, since she is all right, I guess that means you didn't hit her as hard as I thought you might have. Maybe you do have some sense in you after all. Or maybe it is just your Mr. I-don't-fight-girl personality again."

"Yeah..." replied Ranma absent-mindedly, without really listening to what Akane had said and completely missing Akane's blushing, "Of course I went easy on her. Yeah, you know that, don't you. I hate fighting girls. Yeah, that's right. That girl is all right because I went easy on her. Yep, that is what happened, Akane."

Akane sighed and mused over Ranma's reaction. <Good thing he didn't noticed. Well, it is not like Ranma ever notice my feelings, either. He isn't really listening to me. He usually doesn't listen, anyway. But this is still rather abnormal. Could it be...> she thought, <Nah, it couldn't be. Despite the fool and jerk Ranma is, he is incredible in martial arts. As much as I hate to admit this, I don't think Ranma will never lose to a girl. Of course he was just playing with her. I wish Ranma can just be a little bit nicer, but...> Akane silently went back to the house, leaving only Ranma to ponder why his punches were ineffective.

Chapter 2 Humiliation

Next week, as promised, Lucca and her friends arrived at the Tendo dojo. Ranma had put together a team that would fight Lucca's friend. They were Ranma, Ryouga, Mousse, Shampoo, Ukyou, Kunou. Putting the team together had been easy enough. Shampoo and Ukyou helped willingly. Ryouga wanted to fight to sharpen his martial arts skill, not to mention that this was another opportunity to be close to Akane. Mousse followed wherever Shampoo goes, and Kunou offered his "unconditional assistance to smite the enemies of the pigtailed goddess" when Ranma accidentally fell in the pond. Ranma knew everyone had their own motives, but he wasn't worried. There just wasn't that many ways for someone to ambush him in a one-on-one battle as opposed to a team brawl. Ranma knew they were short-handed but could care less. <Maybe I'll just surprise them by taking all of them myself,> thought Ranma, <That way that pesky brat Lucca will finally learn some respect! She'll learn not to fool with me, the world's best martial artist!>

Ranma had reluctantly asked Akane for help just so that Akane wouldn't think Ranma didn't respect her. <The last thing I need is to get hurt by that tomboy before the fighting even begin. These people look good enough,> he told himself. As Ranma expected, Akane promptly refused to take any part in Ranma's 'foolish fighting' but agreed to watch the fight. As Akane silently sat down in the dojo, she thought, <It is not like Ranma really needs me. This is just a friendly match, after all. It is not like we're fighting to the death or anything. Why should I care, then? If Ranma might die, maybe I'll be nice to him for once. Now, though, that can wait. Despite the fool and jerk he is, he should be able to handle these people by himself. When it comes to martial arts, Ranma never lose. I'm sure he'll win. At least he was thoughtful and asked. I don't ask for much. If only Ranma can be like how he is today, I will be very happy. However, he can't even do that! Why do we get into to fight all the time anyway? We can't even be neutral to each other! Well... well... it is all Ranma's fault! He is such a jerk!>

"We're ready whenever you are!" declared Ranma.

"Wait," interrupted Lucca as she pointed her finger to Akane, "Isn't she going to fight?"

"Ha!" stated Ranma, "We don't need Akane. She is too slow and only get in my way. We're better off without her..."

"Ranma, you jerk!" screamed Akane reflexively. It was a weird thing. It wasn't the insult, not at all. She didn't really hate Ranma for insulting her because she was quite accustomed to Ranma's insensitive remarks. After being insulted for almost everyday in her life with Ranma, Akane could really care less about what Ranma had to say. However, she felt that there was an urge to hit him. <It is almost as if something is wrong if I don't hit him,> thought Akane, <If I don't hit him, people will start making up stories about us. Then our relationship gets even worse. It is better that we just insult and hit each other. At least our fighting never turned out to be serious. It... it is the only way I can treat him sometimes.> Akane reached for her mallet to smack Ranma, only to find that she couldn't pull it free. It was as if some other force was restraining her. Try as she might, she could not pull her mallet free. Turning around, Akane quickly noticed the cause. A robot-looking creature was casually holding down Akane's hyperdimensional mallet with one finger. Akane was furious and continued to try to pull her mallet free. Eventually, Akane noticed that this wasn't going anywhere and had to give up on bashing Ranma.

Ranma, oblivious to what had happened, wondered, <What's wrong with Akane today? She usually hits me for saying things like that. I was fully expecting a hammering, but it didn't happen. It feels... kind of weird. It almost feels as if I need to get hit... Oh well, I can worry about that later. Maybe for once she isn't such a violent tomboy after all.>

Meanwhile, Lucca continued, "It wouldn't be fair for us to have a man advantage over you. Robo, why don't you just sit next to her and watch the fight."

"Surely, Lucca." answered the robot-creature that was holding Akane's mallet earlier.

<So that's his/its name,> thought Akane as she slumped back to her seat, <I'm not going to let that Robo get away with this that easily. How dare he/it humiliate me like that! He/it shouldn't have got in between my business with Ranma! Besides, it is not like I was actually going to hurt Ranma! We do this all the time. Why does he/it have to interfere!>

Just as Akane was brainstorming the possible ways she could revenge, Robo walked to her and apologized, "Miss Tendo? I'm terribly sorry for what I did a moment earlier. I know that was rude, but I can't see you hit Mr. Saotome like that. Resorting to force to solve problem is not the right way to do so. You can hit me or do whatever else you want do as long as it will make you happy."

That was not something Akane expected. She was used to living with the insensitive and rude likes of Ranma or Kunou. She had rarely met anyone who was remotely polite and well-mannered, save maybe Ryouga. Akane's flashfire temper quickly cooled off and she realized that she was at fault also. "Uh..., it was nothing, really. I guess I... I probably have my faults, too." apologized Akane.

"You are too kind, Miss Tendo. I thank you for your kindness." said Robo.

<He's awfully polite,> thought Akane, <If only Ranma was half as polite and gentle like him/it, instead of being that insensitive and rude jerk! I really wish Ranma can be a little bit more gentle sometimes. That Robo is strong too, being able to restrain me so easily. Even Ranma couldn't have done that so easily, not when I'm angry. He may be a lot stronger than I'm, but I can always beat him up when he get me mad. Wait a second, these people seem so confident that they didn't need Robo. If Robo reflected their average strength, then, what does this mean for Ranma? Would he be hurt? WAIT! WHAT AM I THINKING! Why should I care how his stupid fight go!>

While Akane was cursing herself for being concerned and worried about Ranma, Lucca continued, "Then it's all settled. Frog will fight for us first. Which one of you will fight him?"

A short little frog-like creature stepped forward and it was evident that he was the one called Frog. Before Ranma could answer, Kunou jumped in front and replied, "I, Tatewaki Kunou, accepts the challenge from this, um, frog!"

<He's just trying to show off to Akane by beating that Frog person,> thought
Ranma, <Or, maybe it is for the 'pigtail goddess'. Oh well, I suppose that even the likes of Kunou can defeat that mutated frog thing. Good choice, Kunou. This is going to be a piece of cake, even for you.>

"Ah, thou art indeed heedless. I was like thee once before," remarked Frog, "Alas, Crono, wilt thou lend me thy wooden sword. I have no desire to use the Masamune for such a fight like this."

The boy named Crono silently handed his wooden sword to Frog.

"Ah, while this may not be the Masamune," continued Frog as he held the wooden blade high, "Alas, I feel the spirit of Cyrus flows through me through even this wooden blade! Alas, let us fight!"

"I shall smite thee, evil creature!" declared Kunou, "The vengeance of the Heavens is slow but sure. I shall destroy a pest like you!"

<When is that Frog going to finish his speech?> wondered Ranma, <he talked just like Kunou! Well, neither of them is understandable, anyway. Although Kunou may be an idiot, he is actually pretty strong. He should have no problem defeating this mutant Frog.>

Kunou charged straight into Frog and attacked Frog with his bokken. There was a flurry of motion and then Frog emerged unscathed, while Kunou lay unconscious on the floor.

"He is in no danger," commented Frog, "A few day of rest and he should be okay again. Thou art quite formidable, but thou wilt need more training to defeat me. Thou hast good potential to be a good swordsman. I look forward to the day when we shall fight again. Until then, farewell."

thought Ranma, <Still, beating Kunou doesn't mean anything. I could have done that myself.>

Meanwhile, Akane was rather puzzled at Kunou's defeat and asked, "Robo, what happened?"

"Oh, Miss Tendo. Frog attacked Mr. Kunou and..." began Robo.

"Wait," interrupted Akane, "How did you know our names? I do not believe I was introduced to you yet. And can you please stop addressing me as "Miss Tendo", or Ranma as "Mr. Saotome"? This formality is... you know... rather uncomfortable. Hey, you call your friends by their names, don't you? You didn't call Frog Mr. so-and-so. Just don't be so formal, okay?"

"Sorry, I forgot that human don't like formality," apologized Robo, "You're really keen and observant, Akane. Now, to answer your question. I came from 2300 AD and my memory banks contained information about everything that happened prior to 2300 AD"

"Oh, I see," said Akane, not really too surprised. After living with Ranma so long, she figured that anything was possible as long as Ranma was around. <So this time it is time travel and people from the future. I've seen weirder things during my life with Ranma. I'm keen and observant? Make that when Ranma's not around! I can't believe how foolish and stupid I can be in front of that insensitive jerk! It's weird... as if I can't act normal in front of him. So, that Robo knows everything that has happened and almost everything that will happen, up to 2300 AD anyway.> she thought, Akane thought several moments to decide whether or not to ask her question. Then, summoning her courage, she timidly asked, "Uh... Robo, I would like to know.... that... who am I... uhh... married... to?"

"Searching the information right now," responded Robo, "Hm... it appears as if you didn't marry anyone."

"What?" asked Akane. She always thought she would marry someone and deep down inside she knew she would marry Ranma. "Okay, um... what about Ranma?" she added.

"Okay, Ranma Saotome... born in Japan... he is supposed to be the heir of the Anything-goes Martial Art School... died at the age of 16 on about 6 months from now..." paused Robo, "Reason of death... unknown... It appears that one day he went off with someone for a martial art combat. Location: unknown. He was never seen again after that fight and presumed to be dead. His body was never found even in 2300 AD Suggested reasons of death: He fought someone and probably was somehow vaporized in the process, therefore the body was never found."

"Mmmm..." Akane tried act calm, but she couldn't. <In six months, Ranma would die and get vaporized,> thought Akane, <Very possible... consider the kind of people Ranma had fought already. Ranma was going to die in a mere 6 months.> "Can I... um... change the future?" asked Akane, "I mean... Ranma is my fiancee, after all..."

"Yes, it is possible," agreed Robo, "As Frog would say: No one this young is supposed to die. If he shouldn't die, then he shouldn't."

"Oh, I see," answered Akane. she thought, <If it is going to be Ranma, then... I guess I'll live with it. It is not easy, but I think I can do it. But... if it isn't going to be Ranma, then I might as well break off our engagement right now! For one thing, I don't like to be around that senseless jerk! But now... he is going to die... I must stop it! Even if Ranma was only my friend I should do it. Our relationship... no matter what... I will not let him just die like this!>

"Anyway," continued Robo, "The future is not fixed, Akane. I wouldn't be worried about your marriage just yet nor Ranma's death. You are still young. There is plenty of time for changes to happen between now and your marriage. Just remember, the future is always changeable. The Day of Lavos was supposed to occur, and that was prevented. There was once a future where Marle died, and we changed that as well. If it is the right thing to do, then you can change the future."

"Day of Lavos?" asked Akane, "What is that?"

"An event in 1999 AD," answered Robo, "Let's just say Earth would have been destroyed had it not been prevented."

Akane thought, <So there still is time for change, he says. I guess he is right. If it is possible to change something that important it shouldn't be any problem to change this minor event. I shouldn't worry too much about this fiancee stuff. After all, future's changeable, isn't it? I better start looking out for Ranma and make sure he doesn't die. After that, there will be time to think about our future. Well, Ranma. Let's see how well you and I can do, and that'll determine our future, okay? First... you got to survive... and I'll make sure you do. No one else will write our future for us. Let you and me be the one that have the final say on this.>

Akane continued to dream happily about her future when she suddenly remembered that every time she tried to confide her true feelings for Ranma, someone else always managed to hear it and would spread the truth. In the end, it always caused her or Ranma to be embarrassed and end up saying things they didn't want to. It was almost as if they couldn't even summon enough courage to admit that they cared for each other and must do something incredibly foolish to prove their point. She knew that she would die from embarrassment if anyone ever found out that she was asking whether Ranma was going to be her future husband. <This time I'm not going to let people found this out! This is my decision, and I don't want anyone starting rumors again!> thought Akane. Turning around, she asked Robo, "Oh Robo, please promise me that you would tell NO ONE about this, okay? I absolutely positively do not want anyone to know about this. Just keep this between you and me, please?"

"That request has been stored in my memory banks and will be honored." replied Robo.

"Thank you, Robo. You don't know how much this means to me." Akane thanked Robo. She already had a vivid picture of what could have happen: someone heard about Akane asking about her future marriage and starts to spread rumors that she really loves Ranma after all. Then, either she or Ranma would deny this like crazy and end up hurting each other in the process. <This has happened too many times,> thought Akane, <It is not going to happen again! Whether I really love him or not, no one else needs to know.>

While Akane was asking these questions to Robo, the fighting continued. Lucca was the next person to fight for her group. Ranma, a bit unconfident and uneasy about his first encounter with Lucca, decided not to fight her himself. Instead, Mousse volunteered to fight.

Lucca pulled out a toy gun from her pocket and declared, "I shall use this weapon so that I won't risk killing any of you on accident."

Ranma was fuming. It was almost like his first encounter with Mousse when Mousse used toy ducks as weapons. Ranma considered to personally handle that annoying brat, but decided not to as the fight between Mousse and Lucca already started. Mousse launched his impressive arsenal of weapons. Lucca made no obvious attempts to dodge the weapons and she got hit from the whole gamut of weapons from Mousse ranging from swords to bombs to everyday objects. No... Ranma noticed that she was avoiding things like swords and knifes, and wasn't trying to dodge the impact weapons. Ranma realized that he would o the same as well, because he could block most of the weapons. A sword or a knife, however, would hurt him regardless of how well his defense was. Eventually, she used the toy gun as an impact weapon and whacked Mousse on the head several times with her toy gun and knocked Mousse unconscious. Ranma was surprised. Even Mousse shouldn't have lost this easily, especially from the damage of a toy gun.

"Thank you. Now you know the power of Lucca the great!" Lucca bowed as she stepped down.

The rest of the fights didn't go well, either. Ranma silently watched as the one called Ayla easily withstood all of Shampoo's attacks and then she tossed Shampoo into low earth orbit. For a while it looked like Ryouga might have a chance to defeat the one called Magus, or, at least, before Ryouga got lost. Magus dodged one of Ryouga's attacks by hovering in the air. Ranma wasn't even remotely surprised. He has seem far too many stranger things in his life. However, Ryouga deduced that Magus must have ran away from the battle and chased after him. Needless to say, Ryouga went the wrong the direction and got lost. Ranma hasn't seem Ryouga ever since then.

"Crono and I will take the final match together," announced Marle, "Hey you, Ranma, right? That girl over there, she's called Akane, right? Isn't she your girlfriend or something? Why don't you two fight Crono and me?"

"Well, there's no way I am going to pair up with that tomboy," replied Ranma, "She's not my girlfriend! I guess I'll just pair up with Ukyou..."

<Here we go again!> thought Akane. "Ranma, you jerk!" screamed Akane. Again, her action was more reflexive than actual anger. She hammered Ranma smack in the head with the mallet she conveniently drawn from hammerspace.

"Oh no! If you have already taken damage then the fight wouldn't be fair!" remarked Marle, "Here, let me help you, AURA!"

Just as Ranma was wondering what in the world that Marle girl was doing, he felt that he seemed to recover his health already. Feeling refreshed, Ranma replied, "Who needs your help? I'm fine and let's fight!"

"How ignorant," sighed Marle, "Are you really sure you don't want to pair up with her? I'm always pretty good at these kind of stuff, and I think you like her."

"Me? Never!" answered Ranma and Akane simultaneously.

"All right," conceded Marle, "I guess I might be wrong. By the way, Crono doesn't like to talk he doesn't need to, so I'll be doing all the talking. We promise to go easy on you, okay? Don't take that as an insult, mind you. If you're good enough we will of course use our full power."

Meanwhile, Akane had calmed down and can't help but to ask, "Robo, why didn't you stop me? I thought you don't like people solving problems with force?"

"Well, stopping you would be also using another form of force to prevent you from using force on someone else. Therefore, that doesn't really help the situation. In the end, I still have to use force to stop you, right?" shrugged Robo, "I figure that you might as well let your feeling out. I see that you feel much better now after you hit Ranma, Akane. Besides, I already analyzed your strength and figure it wouldn't do serious damage to Ranma. Also, not to offend you or your friend, but it really wouldn't have made any difference anyway. Finally, I'm not too sure about this as human emotions are always hard to tell, but I don't think you really hate him, don't you Akane? After all, you're his fiancee. You say that yourself."

"You got that one wrong, Robo!" replied Akane, "I really hate him. He is such a jerk. He never cares about me. All he do is insult me. Why shouldn't I hate him? You may be super-smart and know every single fact, but you don't have a clue about human emotions!"

"Whatever," agreed Robo, "Well, you know this a lot more than I do. I say just trust your true feelings. If this is the way you really feel, then go right ahead. I won't be stopping you."

Akane almost couldn't stop laughing when she realized that Robo really believed her. <Oh my gosh! I'm criticizing someone having no idea about human emotions! Who am I to say Robo doesn't know anything about human emotions? I sure don't know anything about it! Heck, even though he is a robot, he probably knows more about it than me! He's right, too. I don't really hate Ranma, that much I'm sure. But... how I really feel... my true feelings,> thought Akane, <I don't know. I hate him. No, that's a lie. Okay, so I don't hate him. I'm just his friend and his fiancee. No... that's a lie too. I guess I love Ranma. No, I do love Ranma, but it is so hard! Yes... Robo was right. I do love him. Still, sometimes I can't help but to wonder if it was just that fiancee vow that keep us together! I wish I can just let it all out, but it is so hard to say how I really feel to that jerk! Sorry, Ranma. It is your fault, too! You force me to treat you the way I always treat you.>

Akane then thought of something else, "Robo, about what you said earlier. Why wouldn't it make any difference."

"Marle and Crono will win no matter what," answered Robo, "First, my analysis shows that Marle and Crono clearly exceeds Ranma and Ukyou in any category. This, obviously, was because Marle and Crono trained very hard. Also, Ranma obviously didn't take Marle's advise and may even underestimate Marle and Crono. From what I've heard from Lucca I've deduced that Ranma is probably aggressive, reckless, and lacks the quality of patience. Factoring all this in, I really don't see anyway for your friend to win. Crono and Marle are better, simply put. Ranma's recklessness and lack of patience will cause them to lose even if they are at a same level as Marle and Crono. Remember that anger tends to cause people to make bad judgments. Even you, Akane. When you are insulted by Ranma you acted so immaturely. I know it is possible for human to overcome almost insurmountable odds, but not in this case. Nothing is really at stake here, and I'm sure Ranma will underestimate Marle and Crono."

Akane was simply amazed. It wasn't the part about how good Crono and Marle was surprised her. After all, she did heard Lucca mentioning something about saving the world and it does seem now that they're much better than any of the enemies Ranma had ever fought. However, it was that analysis of Ranma's personality and Akane's behavior that amazed her. Robo had only seem Ranma and her for a few minutes, and already he knew this much. <Who say machine can't understand human emotion?> she wondered, <Robo probably knows more about human emotions than Ranma and me combined! He's right, of course. I always act immaturely whenever Ranma insults me. Ranma is indeed aggressive, reckless, and does not have patience. And he says he doesn't know much about human feelings! Wonder how I should rank in my understanding of these things?>

While Akane was talking to Robo, Ranma had already started to attack Crono. To Ranma's surprise, Crono moved with an amazing agility and easily dodged his attack. thought Ranma, <But look at him. My fists can't even touch him!> Ranma continued to try to hit Crono in rage, but he knew it was probably futile. Taking a quick glance at the battlefield, Ranma noted that Marle was also passively dodging Ukyou's attacks. He also realized that both Marle and Crono had not fight back yet! Ranma was furious. <Those people hadn't even bother to fight back yet!> As the battle continued, Ranma realized that the girl named Marle was considerably slower than Crono. <She is fast, all right,> thought Ranma, <But not nearly as fast as the Crono person. I think she is probably as fast, or maybe a little bit faster, than me. As much as I hate attacking girls, it seems like I have no choice. Okay. This is a formal martial arts challenge. She is my opponent, so I must defeat her first. I must knock her out first and with a two-on-one advantage we'll be able to win!>

Ranma slowly moved closer and closer to Marle while pretending to continue to attack Crono, knowing that he probably won't hit him anyway. Finally, Ranma got close enough and he got his chance. Ranma suddenly shifted his attack from Crono and concentrated his attacks on Marle. Caught off guard, Marle didn't have enough time to dodge Ranma's attack. That was all the time Ranma needed as he delivered around 100 solid punches. The force of Ranma's punches slammed Marle back into the walls. After that, Ranma grabbed Ukyou and retreated to a safe distance to see what happened.

"I can't believe this!" exclaimed Akane, "Ranma attacked a girl? He must be really mad to use so much force on that girl. Is she going to be all right, Robo?"

"An interesting tactic, trying to take out Marle first... Oh, don't worry about it, Akane," smiled Robo, "It might have caught Marle off guard, but no serious damage was done. See, I told you he's angry."

"Really, but..." began Akane and then she stopped abruptly as she noticed that Robo was right. Marle was hurt, that's true. However, the seriousness of the damage was far below what Ranma and Akane thought. Marle quickly got up and wiped the dust of her face. She seemed just as healthy and energetic as before. "Wow... That hurts, you know!" remarked Marle, "You could have done my damage. Why did you hold back your power? I see... that's because I'm a girl! I'll teach you a lesson for thinking all girls are wimps! You just got lucky there, and now I will no longer be so careless again."

Ranma was partly relieved and partly disappointed. The punches did far less damage than he thought, but they did work. Marle was right, too. Ranma still had felt uneasy hitting a girl and didn't hit hard as hard as he could have. Ranma now knew that he wasn't fighting some kind of invincible superhuman. They were much better than Ranma, that much Ranma would confess. Still, Ranma knew he has beaten people much better than himself before such as Herb. Ranma hoped that Marle would be angry and lose control of herself, but she didn't. She was only temporary shocked by getting hit and hurt from someone she didn't expected. After she got up, the momentary shock was gone and a calm and confident look returned to her cheerful smiling face. Ranma noticed uneasily as a bluish aura seemed to gather around her. It reminded him of the times when Akane was REALLY angry. Unlike Akane, though, Marle seemed to be in perfect control of her power. When Akane get that bluish aura around her, she would be on the brink of going berserk. However, Marle was simply calmly and confidently building her power to a higher potential.

It only took matter of seconds for Marle to finish. With that familiar bluish aura still surrounding her, Marle announced, "Ah! That feels great! It's been such a long time since I've warmed up to battle-ready status. Ready? ICE!" With that, she sent a blast of ice storm toward Ranma. Ranma instinctively dived out of the ice blast's way. He took a quick glance at realized that the ice blast had completely eradicated a section of the wall. Marle, obviously displeased for missing Ranma, sent a few more ice blasts and eventually one of them scored a direct hit. The power of the ice blast sent Ranma crashing through the walls. "You have to do better than that to defeat me," taunted Ranma, "I take it that it is magic, right? Ha! After dealing with all these magic all these years magical attacks isn't anything too surprising. That was good, but not enough to defeat me! You'll never be able to defeat me with these pathetic attacks!"

"If you take a few more of these it'll be enough," retorted Marle confidently, "Don't even bother. You want me to just attack you blindly and hope you'll win? You think I'll lose my judgment in a frantic effort to win? I've plenty of patience, Ranma. We'll see who's going to win soon enough."

Meanwhile, Akane was watching and thinking, too. <It is almost like the fight he had against Ryouga,> she thought, <But how can that girl have the same stamina as Ryouga? She is only my age! She doesn't look like she is any more better built than I am. How can she have that kind of stamina to simply shrug off Ranma's attacks?>

Ranma cursed as his plans to insult the opponent obviously failed. His previous foes, no matter how strong, always shared a common flaw. They do not have patience and fall for his tricks easily. Even if his enemies were better, their judgments and abilities were hindered by their blind rage. Now, though, Marle was obviously not falling for that. If anything, Ranma was the one being blinded by rage. Marle shot some more ice blast through the air, but Ranma managed to dodge them. Then, Marle fired another blast of icy energy and it was a complete miss. Ranma couldn't resist this chance and taunted, "Look! You missed completely!"

"If only you'll watched more carefully, " smiled Marle, "I'll warn you on this. Be prepared for Crono and my special attack, the Icesword!"

"What?" puzzled Ranma as he turned around. He saw Crono drew his wooden sword and Ranma immediately felt energy and power pulsating from the blade. Crono leapt high in the air and prepared to attack.

Even as Crono was ascending in air, Ranma felt the heat and intensity of Crono's power. <What timing! How do they do it so well? Foolish girl, though. If she didn't warn me I would have been hit because her attack would have distracted me. Now, though, I'll let them know my true powers! He s going to try to attack me from the top,> thought Ranma, <I can already feel the heat of his attack. Feels more like energy than heat... but it will do. Hiryu Shoten Ha is not that effective against energy, but it will work. The energy caused by his attack should be enough for me to use my Hiryu Shoten Ha to knock that him out!>

Meanwhile, Crono had completed his ascent and was beginning to descent upon Ranma with his sword. Just as Ranma was preparing for his Hiryu Shoten Ha, he noticed something was very wrong. The icy blast was heading for Crono. It was meant to hit Crono, not as a distraction. Still, Ranma didn't have enough time to think about this and had to continue with his original plan. Just prior to Crono's descent, Crono caught the icy blast with his sword and dived down to attack Ranma. "I have you now," shouted Ranma, "HIRYU SHOTEN HA!"

To Ranma's surprise, his punch didn't create any tornado at all. Even as he wondered what went wrong with his attack, Crono had descended upon him. The last thing he saw was the ice blade Crono wielded and then everything turned black. Just before he lost his consciousness, he seemed to hear Marle commenting, "Sorry about that! Didn't really mean it! This is fun, though. Hope you'll be okay!"

Chapter 3 Rematch

(One week after the match)

"Ranma! You are awake!" exclaimed Akane, "For a while I thought you would never wake up! You should be ashamed of yourself for being defeated so easily!"

"Uh..., I feel terrible," replied Ranma, "Gosh... how long have I been unconscious?"

"For a week."

"What! They must have cheated! How in the world can my Hiryu Shoten Ha fail? It is impossible! Oh... Akane! What are you doing here? What do you mean 'for a while' anyway? Have you been... watching me?"

"Me? I... I was just... passing by and thought I would take a look," answered Akane nervously, "You don't think I would do anything stupid like... um... watch day and night over a jerk like you, right?"

"I guess even you're not that stupid," replied Ranma absent-mindedly, "I still don't understand how they did it! My attack... it is invincible! It never failed before!"

"Well, no matter how they won, they won," stated Akane, too tired to hit Ranma back for that insult. She hadn't been getting much sleep for the last week. Okay, so she didn't watch Ranma day and night non-stop, but it was close enough. The first few days she didn't worry, but eventually she became very nervous. What if Ranma doesn't wake up? Ever since the fourth day Akane checked on him every hour and hoped that he would wake up soon. The fatigue and the lack of sleep finally caught up to her now. Akane continued, rather sleepily, "Oh, that girl, Marle, says she's sorry. They'll be coming back tomorrow, so if you want a rematch they'll be there."

"Just you watch, Akane!" Ranma said determinedly, "I will defeat these people. They will not beat me again! Oh... by the way, I was thinking... could you be our 7th person for the fight tomorrow? Seems like those people are... you know... pretty good... I guess. I think they will not use all their people unless we have an equal number. Of course, it is not like I need your help, but, you know, got to fight fair, so..."

Akane, a bit angry and amused at Ranma's persistence, reluctantly agreed, "They're pretty good, Ranma? Oh well, I will come, but only so that your opponents will take you seriously." Despite the uncaring appearance Akane put on, she was really happy. <It was probably worth it, spending all that time watching Ranma. At least he shows that he cares! Now that he is all right again I can finally get some sleep! This feels so good! Ranma is actually... nice!> thought Akane. Just before drifting off to sleep, she added, "Just remember, Ranma, I'm not doing this because I like you or anything like that so don't be getting any funny ideas!"

Ranma watched as Akane drifted to sleep. <What's wrong with her today?> thought Ranma, <She agreed to my request so easily. She missed my insult completely. Finally, just why is she doing sleeping at NOON? Did something happened while I was unconscious?>

(Next day at Tendo Dojo)

"Okay everyone," ordered Ranma, "These people we fought last week were indeed strong, so this time we will have to work together as a team to beat them. Everyone understand?"

"Yes!" replied everyone.

Unbeknownst to Ranma, everyone had different thoughts toward the fight today...

Akane: <One thing I'll make sure I do is that I won't help Ranma! It is already enough that I spend all that time watching him. I don't want him to start thinking that I'm in love with him or anything. He needs to take care of himself! Besides, if I continue to act nice, people will start thinking I'm weird!>

Ryouga: <Akane, I will protect you in this fight. Oh, I won't ruin Ranma's plans, but I certainly wouldn't help him by fighting together with his lousy friends! I still haven't forgive what you done to me, Ranma Saotome!>

Kunou: <If Saotome was dispatched by those people, then I would be able to date the pig-tailed girl and Akane!>

Shampoo: <(She thinks in Chinese) I fought them first-hand, and I know they're much stronger than me. I will only pretend to fight them. When they attack Akane, I will help them and finish Akane. Then Ranma will finally be mine. Ranma will never suspect me because I'll just say they were too powerful and accidentally killed Akane.>

Ukyou: <Let's see now. Akane's the weakest out of all of us. She is most likely to get seriously injured in this fight. I'll make sure I don't help her. I won't go so low as to ambush her, but no reason to help her.>

Mousse: <The confusion of a group battle would give me a good chance to get rid of Saotome, and then Shampoo will be mine!>

(Meanwhile, aboard the Epoch, somewhere in time)

"Marle," called Lucca, "I just thought of something. You know that interesting technique we learned, the Poyozo Dance?"

"Yeah," replied Marle, "It was an interesting technique, but that was all. It has no practical use. By the time we learned it, the confusion-type technique no longer affect our enemies anymore."

"I know," remarked Lucca, "Well, I got a great idea. Why don't we try the Poyozo Dance on these people we will be fighting shortly. It would be interesting to see they hit themselves in confusion. Besides, that way we won't have to fight too hard and risk killing them."

"Always looking for fun, right? You really think it'll work?" sighed Marle, "All right, then. Let's try it. I suppose the worse can happen is just that it will fail. I've yet to see it backfired on us before. Actually, I don't see how it can backfire at us at all. The worse can happen is that it doesn't work, I suppose. So, I guess we might as well have some fun this time. After all, that's why we chose to fight them in the first place. Remember, though, don't be so mischievous and condescending. I'm your friend, so I know you don't mean all the things you say. However, for other people they can't understand that easily. I know you just want to have fun, but you got think about other people too. I know you're thinking for them by using this technique to avoid injury, but don't say something like 'we're doing this so you won't accidentally get killed' in front of their face. It's true, I know, but you don't say things like that to other people. It's too much for anyone's pride to swallow easily. I don't know, but I had a feeling that there is a reason why we're doing all this. I think it was more than a coincidence that we landed on the Tendo Dojo. I think these people need our help, even though I don't know what's wrong yet. So, don't be too obnoxious, okay? Remember that we're here to make friends, not enemies. Anyway, I'll go look for the white rock and you can ask Ayla to help us."

"I understand," answered Lucca, "Well, you can't blame me for telling the truth! Okay, I say they are pretty good, but still I doubt if they'll be able to stop Lavos from destroying the world like we did. I'm only trying to be helpful, that's all."

Marle gave up, "All right already! Just don't do anything stupid, okay? So you're the best, Lucca, is that okay?" Turning around, she sighed, <I suppose there are more people that still needs help in this world, starting with Lucca. Lucca is such a klutz sometimes, though. Always saying things she didn't mean to say. She can fix time machines and create wondrous invention, but she doesn't know much about other important aspects of life, like love! I wonder if anyone could be more clumsy at these kind of things than her?>

(About an hour later)

The Epoch arrived at the Tendo dojo on time. However, Ranma noticed that Magus and Frog weren't there.

"Hey, where's that Frog person and the person with the blue hair?" asked Ranma.

"Oh, Frog challenged Magus to a duel and they're in Magus's castle in 600 AD. Don't worry, though. Crono, Marle, and I will be enough for handle all of you. Do you know how well we fight together? Our teamwork more than enough compensates for the lack of manpower," replied Lucca, "Oh, we need Ayla for our first attack, but that'll be all. So get ready. Here we come!"

Ranma was still mad at the condescending attitude he was being treated with, but he ignored it. <There they go again, underestimating our strength,> thought Ranma, <So they say they're invincible. Well, better get ready for this fight. They probably have better teamwork then my friends and me, anyway. I'll be lucky if I'm only ambushed once in this battle! At any rate, we probably do need the extra man advantage to beat them. Well, they can laugh all they want right now, but they will be sorry when they are defeated!>

Marle sighed also. <At least she didn't say anything too offending or stupid,> she thought. Realizing it was time to begin, Marle pulled out a shining white rock and held it high and announced, "Special triple technique, POYOZO DANCE!" Ranma saw that Ayla, Lucca, and Marle circled around him and the others at great speed. He instinctually jumped out of their circular formation. After a few seconds, they stopped and Lucca flashed a mischievous smile, "Okay, now Crono, Marle, and I will take it over from here."

<What was the point of that first attack?> puzzled Ranma, <It sure didn't deal any damage. As far as he could tell, no one was hurt. They simply went around us in circles, without evening attempting to attack! Oh well, I can worry about that later.>

As the battle raged on, Ranma noticed that everyone was fighting together quite well, contrary to his belief. <That's odd,> thought Ranma, <There's no way we can work this well. After all, Ryouga and Mousse always wanted to kill me. Shampoo and Ukyou always wanted to kill Akane. Speaking of Akane, she hasn't got in my way yet. Could it be my speech on the importance of teamwork? No, it couldn't be. Don't kid yourself, Ranma. You know that people like Akane and Ryouga and Kunou will never listen to a word you said. Then... how can they work together so well? >

Akane was feeling rather strange. She had this buzzing on her head, but she ignored it. <Must be getting tired because I haven't been working out lately or maybe it is just the lack of sleep,> she thought, <Strange. I'm almost sure I was thinking of not helping Ranma just a moment ago, but now I want to everything I can for him. Strange... oh well.> Akane dismissed her thoughts and went back to concentrate on the battle. While Ranma was pondering the course of the events, Marle sent an ice blast toward Ranma's way. Ranma, lost in thought, was unable to dodge the blast. However, Akane grabbed him and dived to safety. Embarrassed by both being so close to Akane and being saved by her, Ranma instinctually yelled, "I don't need your help, Akane! You're just getting in the way!"

Realizing what a stupid mistake he just made, Ranma braced himself to the impending hammering. Somewhere in Akane's head a little voice told her that Ranma deserved to get slap for this rude and insensitive remark, but Akane ignored it. Instead, she simply smiled, "Why don't you ever appreciate my help? I know your proud... but, can't you be more gentle sometime, Ranma?" These words seemed so unreal and they startled even Akane herself. thought Akane,

<What's wrong with Akane?!> thought Ranma, <She took an insult from me without getting mad. Something is definitely wrong here!>

(Meanwhile, at Crono's side)

"That's weird. I'm sure that the Poyozo Dance worked on everyone. That Ranma person managed to get out of the way, but it should have worked on everyone else. I don't believe these normal human beings are capable of resisting our magical powers." remarked Lucca, "However, they don't seem to be suffering from the effect of confusion. They are fighting quite well as a team!"

"I told you the Poyozo Dance would never work," replied Marle while dodging another punch from Ranma, "It doesn't really take much to block out its effects, I suppose. I think you just have to concentrate and that's all. Anyway, that is besides the point. It really doesn't matter, we will beat them anyway. Better be careful, however, that guy with the pigtail actually hit me last time. It hurt, too. Remember that we're not that invincible, Lucca. Best not take chances. Let's proceed with our agreed plan. You and me will concentrate on one person at a time while Crono covers us. Let's get rid of Ranma first because he hurt me last time. Best not to take chances. Ready?"

"It is as good an idea as any," agreed Lucca, "Okay, here we go, ANTIPODE!"

Ranma saw that Marle and Lucca simultaneously fired an ice and fire blast, respectively, and they joined halfway and created a powerful blast of energy. Just then, he heard Ryouga yelling, "Get out of the way!" Ranma dived to the left and then Ryouga used his complete Shishi Hokodan attack and nullify the power of antipode. <Of course,> thought Ranma, <Let me see. For some reason unknown to me Akane saved me from an attack and was actually being nice to me. That is more than enough to get Ryouga to be depressed enough use his complete Shishi Hokodan.>

"That was impressive," remarked Marle.

"I believe that was done by focusing something known as chi," remarked Robo, who has been busy doing calculations, "That attack is quite formidable. You might want to attack him as he is preparing to use that technique again. He seems to be vulnerable to any attack while using this technique."

"Okay, let's make sure we finish that person in yellow cloth next time," answered Lucca, "Let's use antipode 2 and make sure we don't mess up."

"Getting serious a little bit, aren't we?" smiled Marle, "Robo, it'll be safe right?"

Robo nodded.

"Okay, then, let's do it!" commanded Marle.

Ryouga continued to use his complete version of Shishi Hokodan. <There is no meaning of life for me anymore,> he thought, <Akane is being nice to Ranma and she is ignoring me! It is all these people's fault! I'll take you to the netherworld with me!> Ryouga might have pulled it off but unfortunately Robo quickly pinpointed his weakness. There was only a very short opening while he was charging up for the Shishi Hokodan, and even Ranma didn't have a chance to attack it without taking the full blunt of the Shishi Hokodan. Somehow, Marle and Lucca weren't afraid of a direct head-on clash. Marle and Lucca followed Robo's advice and blast him with an antipode 2. They hit Ryouga, and Ryouga scored a direct hit with his Shishi Hokodan as well. The power of antipode 2 knocked Ryouga out for the fight, but Marle and Lucca suffered much from the complete Shishi Hokodan. <Akane-san. At least I...> thought Ryouga as he lost his consciousness.

Ranma was surprised to see Ryouga whom he knew to be quite formidable to be defeated so easily. However, he did noticed that Lucca and Marle are beginning to show signs of fatigue. "Girls are not supposed to fight, you know. That especially applies to you, Akane." remarked Ranma. Half-expecting to get hammered by Akane for this insult, Ranma again was surprise to see no visible outburst of rage from her. Akane knew she was supposed to hit Ranma for saying that, but somehow she couldn't act normal today. For the time being, she just wanted to be nice and help Ranma in anyway she can. Not even Akane herself understood her change, but she felt that this must be right. She didn't know why, but it seemed right. Even if she was being controlled by some arcane force, Akane still felt that this was the right way, that she should have been nice to Ranma all along.

"That was... more powerful than I thought," remarked Marle as she began to slow down, "The plan isn't exactly working too well."

"Marle and Lucca," pointed Robo, "You must never forget that you're human also, and you can only take so much damage. All that training must have helped, but without the proper equipment not even you two can take damage like this non-stop!"

Ranma was happy to hear that. At first Marle and the others appeared invincible, but now Ranma realized that they were just as human as he was. <Training?> thought Ranma, <These girls must have trained very hard... must be harder than my training. Wonder what they do for their life? Still... I can wear them down,>

Despite the reasonable cooperation among Ranma and his friends, Ranma realized that their teamwork and leadership were easily outclassed by their enemies. Crono, Marle, and Lucca obviously worked together in the past and knew how to cover each other's weaknesses. Crono hasn't even attack yet. Rather, he wields his wooden sword defensively, covering Lucca and Marle. Lucca and Marle in turn attacked whoever they considered to be the most dangerous. First it was Ranma, then they changed to attacking Ryouga when he seemed to be more of a threat. Ranma also couldn't help but to admit that this plan was working, too. Crono, obviously the best of the three, had no problem holding Ranma and everyone else back with his sword. Marle and Lucca's attacks were quite effective. They would have had a 100% success rate if Akane didn't save Ranma from their initial attack. Simply put, the battle wasn't looking good. "Everyone, stay together!" warned Ranma, "They're trying to pick us off one by one! Don't let them do that!"

Marle noticed the change in Ranma's strategy and couldn't help but to smile. She wanted them to stay close together. "Crono, they're regrouping into more tightly defensible positions, right? You're supposed to be the one planning this, not me! Anyway, let's end this right now. Lucca, Crono, on my mark cast Delta Force!" ordered Marle.

Ranma overheard Marle and thought, <They anticipated that? They want us to be close? Must be a trap of some sort!> He saw that Crono, Marle, and Lucca moved into a triangular formation and surrounded he and the others. Now it was clear. They're going to hit everyone simultaneously and try to end this in one swift blow. Not anxious to find out first hand what exactly Marle had in mind, he grabbed Akane and prepared to escape from their entrapment formation. Despite all his claims that he never cared for the kawaikunai tomboy, Ranma still wanted her to be safe.

"Someone noticed our plan," pointed Marle as Ranma was escaping from their entrapment formation, "Your friends aren't going anywhere, though. Ready Crono? Ready Lucca? DELTA FORCE!"

Ranma escaped just in time. He saw that Crono kid used some kind of lighting attack and it was joined by the fire and ice from Lucca and Marle. The triad of energy joined each other and became a tangible triangular prism . The triangular prism surrounding everyone else and it flashed from white to red to blue and to black. After that, with an iridescent flash, the prism was gone. All was left was the unconscious bodies of Kunou, Shampoo, Ukyou, and Mousse.

Ranma and Akane gasped at the incredible power of the Delta Force. "Ranma," said Akane, "Thanks for saving me. See, you do care about me after all."

"Oh... it was... uhh... nothing, Akane." replied Ranma. <Why is she so open today? > thought Ranma, <She is so... nice! That's not the tomboy I remember. I wonder why she is like that? Something must have happened. I just know it, but I don't know what. There is no way that Akane would just one day decide to be nice for no reason whatsoever. It isn't possible!>

"Good reaction there, Ranma." Marle spoke again, "So you realized our plan, too? Try to dodge this again! DELTA FORCE!"

<How can they cast these whatever-you-call-it so fast?> thought Ranma. Again, Crono, Marle, and Lucca simultaneously fired their respective magic toward Ranma and Akane. Ranma prepared to embrace himself for the impact. Just then, he noticed that Akane was no longer with him. Searching around the area, he noticed that Akane was running toward Crono.

"Akane! What do you think you are doing!" shouted Ranma and he immediately went to save her. But it was too late, Akane had been electrocuted by the lightning that Crono sent toward where Ranma used to be. Taking a quick glance, Ranma noticed that the ice and fire had canceled each other out and no triangular prism was formed this time. He quickly rushed to Akane's side and asked, "Why did you do that, Akane?"

"Ranma... let me protect you for once. It is always you... that protects me. Now it is my turn. I... I figured that without the lightning they cannot complete their attack. I didn't get in your way this time, right? See, I can be nice and thoughtful if I want to be. I did it for you, Ranma," muttered Akane, barely conscious, "I was right, see. The fire and the ice canceled each other out without the lightning. Just for once I'm the one saving you."

"Akane, you stupid girl, you didn't have to do that. I could have blocked by myself." replied Ranma.

"Oh... what a surprise." smiled Akane, "I should have known you would have said something like that. How do you expect our relationship to go anywhere if you're always such a jerk? I saved you twice today already, mind you. You would never... never say you love me, wouldn't you? Can't you... at least say a little thank you after what I done for you? Still... I know you love me. Why... why can't you be more gentle sometime, Ranma. Even though you are such a jerk sometimes, I... I still love you, Ranma," finished Akane as she slipped into unconscious.

Ranma just stood for a moment, stunned to hear these words. <No! It better not be...> he thought. He quickly checked her again. <She is all right, so those couldn't have been her last words,> thought Ranma, <But then.. Akane? Is that really you? Maybe... maybe she was hurt worse than I thought. Okay, Akane is not dying or anything, so this can't be her last words. Most likely the lightning half-shocked her brain and therefore she is talking such nonsense. Akane would never say these things, whether she actually feels that way or not. Still, I won't let them getting away for hurting Akane like that!>

"How did she know that we need all three elements to complete the Delta Force?" commented Marle, "Good thinking there. I should have thought of that too... Still, Crono's lighting attack must have fried her. Those lightning must have hurt. Oh, don't worry. She is still alive. We don't kill people, otherwise we would be just as evil as the evil we've vanquished before. Well, enough is enough. Ranma, let's end this right now!"

Turning around, Ranma noticed that Crono once again had leapt into the air with his wooden sword drawn. <Oh no, it is that what-you-call-it sword attack again!> thought Ranma, a sense of hopeless and failure in him. He remembered that attack too well. Just then, he heard Marle saying, "Hey Lucca, why don't you have the honor today?"

Just then, Ranma finally realized why his Hiryu Shoten Ha failed. Even though there was a lot of heat and energy from Crono's direct attack, when Crono caught the ice the heat was gone and replaced by coldness. He should known; it was called the Icesword. Of course Hiryu Shoten Ha wouldn't work on anything that was based on ice. <But, this time it seems like Lucca will add the finishing touch, that can only mean that it is going to be a... fire attack!> thought Ranma.

"Okay Crono, here we go. FIRESWORD!" as Lucca cast her flame spell and Crono caught the flame, similarly to the last battle.

The fact that the attack was called the firesword also confirmed Ranma's beliefs. "This time I won't fail," shouted Ranma, "Take this, HIRYU SHOTEN HA!"

Just as Ranma thought, the intense difference of heat between the firesword and his attack caused a great tornado and blew Crono away. "I did it!" rejoiced Ranma, "This is for Akane!"

"Wow!" remarked Robo, "Hmmm... wind elemental attack that hits everything within a certain radius. Appears to be a counterattack of some sort... probably 100 hit points plus of damage from the initial blast, I'll say. Watch out the fall... I suspect that is where the damage really comes in, Crono."

Crono drifted inside the tornado and he too was momentarily surprised. <I've never seen this kind of attack,> he thought, <Looks like some kind of counter-attack with tornado energy. Well, I can handle that.> Just as Ranma rejoiced for what appeared to be a victory, Crono slashed his wooden sword against the tornado. The sword wave created by the power of Crono's slash cut through the tornado like a knife through butter. With the tornado sliced in half, Crono easily escaped from the tornado. Meanwhile, the sword wave continued its path and was heading straight for Ranma. <It's a little trick call Slash,> thought Crono as he landed, <That's my counter to your tornado attack. Hmmm... countered my firesword... interesting... he is better than I thought...>

"Oh yeah, I almost forgot," remarked Marle, "While Crono's slash attack is one of his weakest attacks, it has a knock to neutralize tornado energy. That technique was very helpful when we fought Masa & Mune so long ago... I would watch out for the sword wave if I were you."

The sword wave was coming to Ranma at unbelievable speed. Ranma barely had time to even think when he felt that he someone had pushed him aside and took the sword wave for him. He turned around and saw that Akane was no longer at where she lied unconsciously just a few moments ago. <No, it couldn't be...> thought Ranma and then as he looked at where the sword wave struck his fear came true: Akane took the sword wave for him.

"Why did you do that, Akane? You're in no shape to block that attack! You were unconscious just 5 minutes ago. Why did you have to get in my way again!" exclaimed Ranma.

"Oh, Ranma... not again." smiled Akane, "Shouldn't I... get a... thank you... for this? After... all I... done for you... shouldn't you... at least... be nice? Well, it... doesn't... really... matter..." and then with a smile still on her radiant face, Akane shut her eyes.

"No! You stupid girl!" shouted Ranma, fearful that those words were Akane's last. He quickly checked her again. He felt her heartbeat and was slightly relieved. <Good, she is still alive,> thought Ranma, <But she is having such a hard time breathing. Akane is dying! It is all my fault! I got to get her to the hospital fast!>

"Sorry, I didn't know she was going to get hit," apologized Marle, "You're right, she is in no shape to take that attack. Well, it'll take an equivalent amount of force to neutralize the tornado. I don't really know how strong that tornado attack was, though. I suppose you would know how strong it is since you used it."

Ranma froze. That energy wave was at least the equivalent of his Hiryu Shoten Ha? No wonder Akane was hurt so bad. Ranma only hoped that he could save her before it was too late.

"Wait a second," panicked Marle, "She's dying, isn't she? Why? The slash can't be much more powerful than your attack, and you shouldn't be able to kill yourself with your own attack and I thought... Oh! Why did you let her fight if she is so far behind your level? Don't you even care about her? You should have let us know if she was that fragile! Better heal her wounds right away. Let me see her, I will take care of her. CURE 2!"

Ranma realized that she was right. Marle and the others must have assumed that Akane would be somewhere close to Ranma's level and planned their attack accordingly. It was not really her fault, too. Ranma knew that people often have the misconception that Akane was better than he. The only person at fault was himself. He shouldn't have dragged Akane into this fight. Not fully sure what Marle is going to do, Ranma watched in silence. "There, that should do it," smiled Marle, "Now, you take care of her, Ranma."

Marle handed Akane back to Ranma and Ranma noted with disbelief that Akane was much better. Even though she was still unconscious, Ranma noticed that Akane was breathing steadily and her life was no longer in danger.

"I'm amazed at that girl's determination and her love for you," commented Marle, "She blocked Crono's lightning and slash for you, Ranma. She is very determined, I'll tell you that. She should have been stunned for a couple of hours when she got zapped by the lightning. After all, lightning is supposed to stun its recipients. Somehow, she managed to get up and saved you from the sword wave. She must have really loved you... yes... this is love. Here, take this elixir and it will help her to recover. Just let her drink this and should be back to normal in no time. Her sacrifice for you reminded me the time when Crono sacrificed himself for save us from Lavos... such painful memories. At any rate, it looks like we won't be getting much fighting done tonight. I respect your strength but especially that girl, Akane, and her love for you. Oh, Robo, why don't you heal Ranma's other friends. We shall meet again."

Just then, Nabiki came out of the house and screamed, "You can't just leave! You wrecked the entire dojo. You must pay for your damage to our property!"

"Sorry about that, here, I hope this is enough," said Marle and she tossed a bag to Nabiki, "This is 10,000 GP. If it isn't enough, we will pay for the damage when we come back."

The Epoch took off again, and in seconds it vanished, leaving only the elixir and the bag of gold coins.

Nabiki opened the bag and screamed in disbelief, "This is solid GOLD! Don't tell me when she said 10,000 GP she meant ten thousand solid gold coins! Ranma, since when did you know such rich friends as these! Make sure you be nice to them next time!"

Nabiki began to brainstorm new ways to extort or get money from Ranma's new 'friends'. Ranma, however, wasn't listening. He took a sip of the elixir, just to make sure it wasn't poison or anything, and instantly he feel totally refreshed. "This elixir potion is really powerful stuff," Ranma muttered to himself. He quickly gave the rest of the elixir to Akane and watched her carefully.

Moments later, Akane began to stir. "Uhh... what happened, Ranma?" muttered Akane as she slowly got up, "Why do I feel so terrible, and why am I lying in your arms like that?!"

"You're all right, Akane!" exclaimed Ranma.

"Yeah, why shouldn't I be?" questioned Akane.

"I...I don't know what to say, Akane," said Ranma, "Uh..., I guess I ought to thank you for all you done for me. I never knew you cared about me that much."

Akane looked at Ranma in bewilderment, "What!? Are you all right Ranma? By the way, where did the people that you're supposed to fight go? I remember something about their first attack, but nothing after that. And what do you mean I helped you! We haven't attack them yet! Ah! I can't remember anything!"

Author's note: The elixir canceled out the confusion effect of the Poyozo Dance. I felt it was easier to continue the story if Akane couldn't remember what happened. Otherwise she would be too embarrassed. I also believe Akane should never have to know that she unconsciously say that she loved Ranma.

Ranma was amazed. "Oh, don't try to hide it. You saved me several times today and you even said that you loved me. I'm sorry for being rude. Please forgive me."

"I WHAT!" shouted Akane, "Ranma, are you making this up to make fun of me? How in the world would I love someone like you?! And what do you mean I saved you? Just exactly where are those people you're supposed to fight!"

"You can't remember what happened?" questioned a puzzled Ranma.

"WHAT HAPPENED?" replied an equally puzzled Akane.

"You got in my way, as always. So what else is new. You know, you should never jump in a fight between man and man like that. You could have got yourself killed. I could have handled them by myself without your help. Why do you have get in my way all the time? I don't need your help! You're too clumsy and will just get in my way..." answered Ranma.

Before Ranma can finish the last sentence, he heard the familiar "Ranma no baka!" and was hammered by Akane. <Well, she seems to be the Akane I knew again. Yes, and she is still uncute. Maybe she was just pretending to be nice all alone. I knew it was too good to be true. If only Akane was like that all the time, I would have told her I love her already...> thought Ranma as he slowly drifted into unconsciousness.

"That's what you get for making fun of me!" shouted Akane, "So what if I'm uncute, hentai! So what if I'm clumsy and always get in your way! And you think I'm going to say I love you! Dream on, Ranma!"

Chapter 4 The Future Fulfilled?

(Two days later)

"Okay, Ranma," said Akane, "Let me get this straight. You're telling me that I nearly got myself killed two days ago trying to save you and now I am supposed to have forgotten what happened?"

"For the millionth time, Akane, that's the truth," replied Ranma, "Like I said before, I... I really owe you an apology. Whether you were or just pretended to be nice, it doesn't matter. You know, you were actually kind of cute now that I realized it."

"Ranma, did you ever realize that you have a great sense of humor?" Akane was giggling uncontrollably, "Yeah right, I would nearly get myself killed to save you? Okay, I admit it, I might actually do something stupid like that. I guess I can be pretty stupid at time. But then I'm supposed to totally forget about it? What kind of idiot do you take me for, Ranma? Like I would really be nice to a jerk like you, anyway. Geez, Ranma, you should consider a new career as a comedian! Ranma... thanks...for the compliment... even if you just made it all up."

"I'm telling the truth!" retorted Ranma but Akane clearly wasn't listening, "Oh, what's the use. I give up. Okay, so you were uncute during the fight. You were clumsy and only got in my way. I didn't need you fighting those people two days ago!"

Ranma expected Akane to become angry, but he noticed that Akane was still laughing too hard that she completely missed the insult. "Hey Akane, I'm insulting you," yelled Ranma, "Are you deaf? Aren't you going to hit me back for that? What's wrong with you!"

"Ha... I wouldn't... be insulted... over something... that didn't happened!" replied Akane, out of breath from laughing too hard, "I'm not... too patient..., but you can't... make me mad... by things that... didn't happened! I'm... not that... impatient! You... got to... do better than... that! Ranma... this is... too funny!"

<Maybe none of this ever happened,> thought Ranma, <Akane is right. I wouldn't believe a word of what I said if I hadn't see it with my own eyes. Maybe this was just a crazy nightmare I dreamed up. After all, for Akane to be nice and patient and say that she loves me. Must be some kind of wild dream.>

(Meanwhile, in Crono's House.)

"Lucca, I've been thinking about that fight two days ago." said Marle, "I think I finally understand what happened."

"Of course," replied Lucca, "You mean that tornado-thing he used? It was pure science, I tell you. The Ranma person used the difference in temperature to create a mini-tornado. You need something like a spiral and when cold air goes against hot air it creates a..."

"That's not what I'm talking about!" shouted Marle, "During our first fight, the girl called Akane whacked Ranma with the mallet, right?"

"Right."

"So how come she changed so much that she would risk her life for Ranma?"

"I don't know. I don't suppose you have an answer."

"As a matter of fact, I do," declared Marle, "I figure that the Poyozo Dance must have worked. That's why she is acting that way."

"So..." suggested Lucca, "You're saying that Akane didn't like Ranma at all? Is it only because of the Poyozo Dance that she saved him?"

"Well, I don't think Poyozo Dance can be so powerful that it will change hate to love. It only confuses people, remember." answered Marle, "No, it is probably that she already likes him, but just doesn't show it. That's probably a better explanation. The Poyozo Dance just helped her to bring her true feelings out."

"Wow!" remarked Lucca, "How did you figure out all this!?"

"Oh, it is just a hunch I have," said Marle, "You know, I almost lost Crono once. After that, I vowed that I'll do everything in my power to prevent such a tragedy from happening again. I think they love each other... a lot. I don't want to see a relationship like this get broken up. I feel that we should try to help them to know each other better and to show their true feelings. Remember I told you that I thought there was a meaning for us to meet them? Now I know: it is to help Ranma and Akane!"

"I still don't think they're in love. After all, Akane seems rather hostile to me!" stated Lucca.

"And since when did you know anything about love, Lucca?" retorted Marle, "You may be a genius and you love machines, but you don't know anything about love between human!"

"How hard can that stuff be? Surely it can't be more complicated than making time machines work or saving the world, right?" countered Lucca, "Anyway, I know exactly what I'm going to do. I will go and fight them myself. Probably going to hurt that Ranma a little bit and see how Akane reacts to this. I'll use one of those model RX-9 miniaturized camera from the future on Akane. It was originally designed for scientific research, but it seems to fit this purpose rather well. You, I guess the 'love expert', can see her reaction and tell me whether or not they're in love."

"Great idea. But you're likely to mess up, Lucca," cautioned Marle, "Maybe I should go along too. That way I'll make sure you don't mess up."

"Come on, I can do this by myself," urged Lucca, "Trust me."

"No way." Marle was adamant.

"Yes, of course, Princess Nadia! How can I, Lucca, a common civilian, ever defy Your Highness's wish? Surely Your Highness may accompany me!" answered Lucca in annoyingly formal tone.

"Don't call me that!" replied Marle. Marle hated that title and refused her real name, Nadia. Her life as a princess was so boring that Marle didn't even want to think about it. Eventually she managed to settle her problems with her father, but she still doesn't like the confines of the castle. She loved adventure, and she loved Crono. The townspeople called her a tomboy because she was always out having fun, but Marle didn't care. As long as she was with Crono, nothing else mattered. Lucca knew this too well. She knew Marle didn't want to be reminded of her royal ancestry. "All right, Princess Nadia orders you, Lucca, to STOP CALLING ME THAT!" demanded Marle.

"On one condition, Princess Nadia," smiled Lucca, knowing she finally got Marle.

"Yeah... let me guess. You want to go by yourself? Consider that favor granted." sighed Marle.

"All right, Marle! Don't worry, I won't fail you! Princess..." answered Lucca.

"LUCCA!" shouted Marle.

"Just kidding, Marle. Later." Lucca quickly hopped into her Epoch.

"Wait," called Marle, "I just thought of something. What if you lose? All your plan would definitely fail should you lose."

"It is unlikely, Marle," retorted Lucca, "You're looking at Lucca the genius! How can I lose!"

"It's not likely, but still probable," continued Marle, "Remember that we're not that much better than that Ranma person. Remember what Robo said? We're all human beings... just because you and I have gone through incredible training in order to save this world doesn't mean we will beat him. Perhaps some precaution should be taken."

"All right." consented Lucca, "Best to be prepared. I don't really think that Ranma can beat me even though he has that counter-fire attack, but I guess one can't be too careful. Marle, let me borrow one of your PrismDress while I charge up the Wondershot."

"Now who's the one being careful?" taunted Marle. Lucca must have realized that her chance of losing was actually quite high. Marle trusted Lucca's judgment on Ranma's special technique. Lucca was never wrong on anything remotely related to science and technology. Then, it must meant that Ranma needed fire to complete his attack. Of course, Lucca happened to use 100% fire magic, so that would present a challenge. Lucca was only saying that because she needed to find some excuse to make sure she wouldn't lose. It has a been a very long time since Lucca had to use her standard weaponry and armor. Despite Lucca's apparent recklessness and obnoxious personality, her mind was very organized and planned well. Marle, being one of the few souls that knew Lucca very well, knew that she was really nice, thoughtful, and well-organized beneath that rash and rude exterior. Marle realized now how competitive Lucca really was, and that she would make all the necessary precaution to make sure she wouldn't lose. Marle sighed again. She still couldn't understand Lucca. Sometimes she seemed to be so immature and rash, yet she could be so well-planned and thoughtful as well. Maybe Lucca knew more than she appeared, maybe she didn't.

(Couple hours after the conversation)

With its characteristic entrance, the Epoch appeared in the Tendo dojo once again. As always, Lucca descended and greeted Ranma, "Hi again! I was just wondering that if you and Akane would like to fight me."

That was perfectly fine with Ranma. "I always accept a challenge anytime, but you're only by yourself! It won't be fair!" replied Ranma.

"Oh, don't you worry. I won't lose. By now you have got to figure out that we are better than you! Besides, the Great Lucca has deem you worthy and will actually use some of her true power on you! Don't worry about having an unfair match." she paused, "Wait the second, it will be unfair for me to beat you up like that. So I guess it would be an unfair match after all!"

Ranma was kind of used to the routine now and simply shrugged. After dealing with likes of Tatewaki Kunou for years, he was used to dealing with rude and senseless people. <Here we go again,> he thought, <As always, she insults my fighting ability. She'll learn when I beat her this time! Maybe this time I will finally knock some sense into that brat!> Therefore, Ranma replied, "I accept. However, I don't really need Akane to beat you. After all, she is so weak and really makes no significance anyway..."

"Ranma no baka!" Akane heard that and had to give Ranma his usual treatment. as she hammered Ranma for that insensitive remark. <Either they don't like each other,> thought Lucca, <Or they have some REALLY serious problem with expressing how they feel. Which one is it, though... I can't really tell. If only Marle is here, she'll be able to tell. Marle thinks I don't know anything about love, but I do. It's just I don't want to think about it too often. It is much better to love machines. They're pure and completely innocent. Unlike people, machines can't be evil. Guess I just hide my feelings amongst technology and machines, don't I? Oh well, Marle can decide whether they love each other or not. On with the plan.> Lucca decided that she should at least get them to fight her together, "Oh, come on. So you say she is of no help. Therefore, how should this affect our battle in anyway? Unless you think you'll slow yourself down defend for your so-called useless Akane."

<Since when did I say you can insult Akane?> thought Ranma, <It's my line to say these things, not you! It is okay for me to insult her because she insults me back and we more or less do this for fun. However, that doesn't mean you can insult her! Just for this I'll make you regret it, Lucca!>

"Fine, then," answered Ranma, "If it is okay with you, Akane, we'll fight you together!"

"Right," agreed Akane. She was also slightly angry. <Why did you insult me?> thought Akane, <I know Ranma does that all the time, but he doesn't count. For one thing, I insult him back, so that makes us even. Geez, Robo's friends should vary much in personality. I thought they would at least be somewhat close to that impeccable and polite Robo, but she, she is just an annoying, pompous, arrogant little brat! She is even worse than Ranma! Even though she is probably better than me, I'll still make her learn not to insult me!>

"Okay, then it is settled," said Lucca, "Oh, by the way, shouldn't we shake hands before the fight?" suggested Lucca.

Ranma and Akane looked at each other and nodded, "Well, I don't suppose there is a reason why we shouldn't shake hands." replied Ranma. Akane thought it was kind of odd that Lucca was all the sudden so polite. <Would she tried to do something sneaky?> thought Akane, <Nah, she's not that evil, I think.>

While shaking hands with Ranma and Akane, Lucca secretly planted the miniaturized camera she got from the future on Akane. "Okay, now let's fight!" announced Lucca as she yanked out a dangerous looking gun from her apparently nowhere.

Author's note: Don't ask me how a camera in the 20th century transmits image to 1000 AD It just does, okay?

<That's odd,> thought Ranma, <That gun she pulled was not the same one as the toy gun she used earlier. Humph. Maybe this is some really weak obsolete junk that does even less damage than a toy gun!>

Just as Ranma was pondering over Lucca's action, Lucca quickly charged the Wondershot and blasted Ranma. Ranma felt a wave of pure energy coming toward him and the power of the Wondershot sent Ranma crashing through the walls.

<How can that weapon be so powerful?> wondered Ranma as he struggled to move to no avail. <Is the reason why she always use that useless toy gun? It is really because her power is too great to be controlled? I can't believe this, but that shot almost knock me out! So is this the kind of power she possesses?> Still dazed from the effect of the Wondershot, Ranma turned and find that Lucca was now pointing the Wondershot at Akane.

<Akane!> thought Ranma, <Got to help her! How can she even THINK of using that on her! If that weapon almost knock me out in one hit, there is no way Akane can take a direct hit from that thing. It will be as if I try to Hiryu Shoten Ha Akane! All right. This time I will save her. Even though she still denies saving me, I owe her one. Heck, don't I always to this anyway?>

Ranma managed to overcome the stunning effects of the Wondershot and quickly ran to Akane's side. He shoved Akane out of the way just as Lucca fired a second blast from the Wondershot. Ranma saw the shock wave created by Wondershot coming again. He closed his eyes, fully knowing that another of those blast will easily knock him into unconsciousness. He would never give up, but he had no illusions about his strength against something so powerful. <Well, at least I saved her this time,> thought Ranma, <Now I won't feel guilty anymore. I saved her this time.>

The blast scored a direct hit on Ranma. Strangely, Ranma was still conscious. Ranma opened his eyes and saw Lucca laughing. "What did you do?" questioned Ranma, "How come that second blast was so weak?"

"Oh, I thought you wouldn't help your Akane," giggled Lucca, "Oh, the Wondershot is an amazing weapon. With some minor modification to my amazing creation, I can focus and decide how powerful each blast will be. See, I hit you with a strong blast. However, I used a very weak blast to Akane. Well, to tell the truth, it was suppose to be just a weak blast, but I still got some bugs in this weapon. It still cannot work right 100% of the time, you know? Hmmm... just you do care about her."

"No way!" replied Ranma, embarrassed, "I... I'm not doing this for Akane! I... I... I was just... Akane! I told you don't get in my way!"

Akane sighed. There goes Ranma again. Always denying and finding excuses whenever he did something for her. Come to think of it, wasn't she the same way too? Akane was about to retort when she remembered what Robo told her. Ranma was going to die... soon. Realizing how hurt Ranma was and that Ranma did do this for her after all, Akane decided to skip the usual hammering for such an insult. She decided that being a little bit nice wouldn't hurt, especially if Ranma won't be here for long, "If you weren't so hurt, I would have gladly smacked you, Ranma. I don't need your help either. Stop worrying about me and think about yourself. I can take care of myself perfectly well. But... um... thanks anyway," she replied.

<Still can't tell. Even if they do love each other,> determined Lucca, <They're not likely to confess anything in front of me. If they love each other, it must be the kind of love with mutual understanding. So, I should hurt Ranma seriously enough and then let Marle determine this.>

Ranma, still embarrassed for saving Akane, noticed that Lucca put her Wondershot back to her pocket. "Hey, you are not going use that weapon anymore?" questioned Ranma.

"Do you think that the great Lucca needs weapons to defeat you? I only used it for fun!" replied Lucca.

"Your fire attack can't hit me. It doesn't even do that much damage. It looks powerful, but it really isn't anything. The flames didn't hurt me that bad..." complained Ranma when he was engulfed by a fiery blast of fire and energy.

"Oh, but did you know that I was never using my magic to full potential? Feel the difference, Ranma?" retorted Lucca.

The flame burned around Ranma and sapped his strength. <It is almost like the time when I got burned by Toma,> thought Ranma, <Only that this time the flame is REAL! This is not illusion! Got to get out of here, but I have already lost a lot of strength especially from that first blast. Got to think of something, fast.>

Just then, Akane came and booted him out of the fiery circle.

"Ranma, you baka, you should watch out for yourself. I can't go around and save you all this time. You are always getting yourself to trouble. How did you get hit so easily?" Akane scolded Ranma for his ineptness.

Ranma barely had time to reply when he noticed that Lucca was preparing for another fire blast. <This is great!> thought Ranma, <My Hiryu Shoten Ha is most effective against her fire attacks! Her attacks meets all the conditions: powerful and high temperature. She can't be stronger than that Crono kid, so a blast from my Hiryu Shoten Ha should knock her out! Now all I have to do is channel her energy into a spiral pattern, and then it'll be all over. It hurt Crono, their leader, a lot. Should be easy to defeat her with a Hiryu Shoten Ha, especially if she is putting more power into that fire.>

Lucca cast her fire spell once again. Ranma swerved to one side and Lucca continued to fire her magic toward him. <Just a few more until the preparation is complete,> thought Ranma as he continued to dodge the fiery blasts. Just then, Lucca fired another blast of fiery power. This blast, however, intercepted Ranma's original spiral trajectory. Ranma noticed this and was forced to dive to another side. "Think I'll let you complete the pattern this easily?" taunted Lucca, "I don't know what it is, but I know you must focus my energy into a spiral motion. Nice try, though."

Ranma couldn't believe this. How did she figured it out so fast? "It is all a matter of science and technology. Oh, don't look so sad. I'll give you chance," taunted Lucca as she fired consecutive volleys of fiery power in a spiral motion, "Here's what you wanted, right? Spiral motion fire attack, isn't it? Give me your best shot!"

"You're asking for it!" replied Ranma. Whatever made her to decide to help Ranma, Ranma knew this was his chance. True to her words, the fire blasts followed a perfect spiral pattern. "Hiryu Shoten Ha!" Ranma launched his strongest attack, confident that this time it would work.

The tornado reached Lucca, yet Lucca quickly got into a defensive stance. Despite the tornado's impressive power, it couldn't sweep Lucca off the ground. The tornado eventually died away. Lucca sighed, "That was stronger than I thought! Good thing the PrismDress protected me. I see now, the strength of that attacks depends entirely on my attack, doesn't it? That's why it was more powerful than the one you hit Crono with."

Ranma couldn't believe it. Hiryu Shoten Ha failed again. How did she guard the destructive power of his special attack? "Very, very good," complemented Lucca, "Not good enough, though. Don't feel so shocked, PrismDress is the best form of armor known. Statistic shows that it absorbs 1/3 of all non-physical attack. Hmmm... you might have won if I wasn't so well-protected. Well, now that I know your attack, it's my turn. Fire 2!"

Ranma saw a fiery circle engulfing Akane and him from all sides. Lucca obviously learned from her mistake. There was no way Ranma could set up a Hiryu Shoten Ha from a circular motion of energy. The circle continued to become smaller and smaller. Using his remaining strength, Ranma picked up Akane and tossed her to safety. Then, the fiery power of fire incinerated Ranma.

"Guess that was too powerful," apologized Lucca as Ranma continued to get burned in the flame, "Well, my fire 2 is just about, say, 20 times the strength of my fire attack. If Marle was here, she would be able to heal him, but since she is not here... I would start worrying about poor Ranma's funeral. Sorry about that. Didn't really mean that, but... Later! I'm really sorry!"

Akane watched in silent stupor as Lucca hopped back to her Epoch and disappeared. <She is got to be kidding!> thought Akane. She felt hopeless. Ranma was still trapped in the fiery circle and there was nothing she could do except to watch. Finally, the fire dissipated and Akane quickly rushed to Ranma's side. "Answer me, Ranma. Come on, don't let such a thing as a little fire stop you! How stupid can you be, getting defeated this easily? Ranma, this is not even funny! I know we get into fights often, but I still care about you!" urged Akane.

"I know that already," said Ranma, struggling to keep his conscious, "I got to tell you something. If that brat was right about what she said, then I don't have much time to live. I got to tell you this, Akane, you're really cute, Akane, especially when you smile and..." Then unconscious took over him.

"NO! Ranma, answer me! Ranma! Ranma! RANMA!"

(Meanwhile, at Crono's House)

"Lucca, you're back!" yelled Marle angrily, "Why did you do that! It sure doesn't help anymore now that the guy's dead! I told you I should have come along."

"Oh, don't worry." answered Lucca, "It's all part of the strategy of the Lucca the genius. I lied to them. I melted an elixir in the fire. So, the fire and the heat damage probably knocked him into temporarily unconsciousness and he will appear 'dead' for around an hour. After that, though, the effect of elixir should restore him to perfect health. Besides, you know it was just a fire 2. It is not like I used flare or a mega bomb on him. At least he is still in one piece. If it was a flare or a mega bomb, then I doubt if that Ranma will even be in remotely recognizable human parts..."

"Lucca, you got to stop doing things like that!" scolded Marle, "You know these advance form of magic were restricted for that very reason! We can't control them as well as we would like, and we certainly don't want to kill anyone! You really had me worried. We're here to help, not to kill! Well, at any rate, I was right. See, they do care about each other, don't they."

"Yeah right," agreed Lucca, "Wow, she was sorry that Ranma died. Even inanimate machines could do that! I don't think that really counts. I probably would have said something nice if I knew he was going to die."

"Lucca, do you know anything besides your technology and machines?" sighed Marle, "Anyone should have been able to tell that Akane loves Ranma from that last moment. It is hard to explain what love is... it is like how I feel to Crono. It is like how you feel about Robo or Epoch. They're a part of yourself that you can't lose. Anyway, I'm convinced that they love each other. All we have to do is found some way for them to show their true feelings."

"That's assuming if they love each other," added Lucca. She knew Marle was right, but she couldn't hold down the urge to add that.

"Not again!" sighed Marle, "Look. They love each and that's that, okay?"

(Back at Tendo dojo)

It has been one hour after Ranma's "death". <Robo's right, the future is changeable,> thought Akane, <Ranma died before he was supposed to. Why does he have to die like that? To throw away his life on a senseless fight? Why? I thought I could have stopped this, but I didn't. I probably did change the future... changed it so that Ranma died earlier...> Akane was still holding Ranma in her hands. She could not stop crying and she could not stop muttering Ranma's name. "Ranma, you stupid boy. Why did you get killed so easily? I can't believe you can just die like that. I should have been nicer to you," muttered Akane to herself, "I shouldn't have been so stubborn and I promise to change only if you're alive. Oh, Ranma, I miss you. I will do anything only if you're alive..."

"I'm glad to hear that, Akane," interrupted Ranma, "So you finally learned to change. Okay, so from now on you will be nice, right? Oh, by the way, your cooking has got to improve or else I will die from food poisoning sooner or later."

"Ranma? You're alive!" gasped Akane, her face scarlet.

"Yeah, I feel great. Oh, could it be, the tomboy is blushing! Akane, what's wrong with you? I thought you don't care about whatever that would happen to me? I heard you crying and all those things you said about me. Glad to hear that you'll reform, though." teased Ranma.

"You... are you saying you've been pretending to be dead all this time!" yelled Akane, "Why... why you... you idiot! How dare you!" Akane smacked Ranma in the face, too embarrassed that Ranma had heard everything.

"You're so uncute! I was just teasing!" remarked Ranma. <Well, if she wants to be so cold, so can I!> thought Ranma. "You didn't even give me a chance to explain! By the way, I remember you said that 'I will do anything only you're alive.' I guess it would be impossible for a tomboy like you to reform after all, isn't it? Oh yeah, I forgot. To assume that you will reform means you care about me, but then that's to assume you have feelings, right? After all, aren't you just a dummy who has no feelings whatsoever?"

"Ranma, you ruined everything. How dare you make fun of my feelings like that! I was going to reform and apologize for hitting you, but not anymore! I HATE YOU I HATE YOU I HATE YOU I HATE YOU I HATE YOU!" yelled Akane as she stormed out of the Tendo dojo.

Ranma silently watched as Akane stormed out of the dojo crying. <Well, congratulation to you, Ranma Saotome. You've just ruined another opportunity for you to make up with Akane. Sometimes I amaze even myself.>

(At Crono's House)

"See, that just proves how much Akane really loves Ranma!" declared Marle.

"All that shows was she was sorry for his death," countered Lucca just to annoy Marle, "I would have say something like that too! That doesn't mean anything. Besides, didn't you see how angry Akane is at the end? I say she hates him!"

Marle almost face-faulted, "LUCCA! Sometime you're as inhuman as a machine! She hit him because he was a totally stupid jerk! Here's a girl who had just promised to do everything in her power and then she got made fun of by the one she loved. Of course she would be angry! That Ranma person has no common sense whatsoever! All he needed to do was saying something like 'Thanks Akane for caring about me'! That probably would have worked!"

"Machines are as human as human are human," countered Lucca, "Remember Epoch came looking for us? What about Robo?"

"In that case, Lucca. You're even worse than a machine on these things!" answered Marle, "At any rate, I'm not going to give up! After Lavos almost took Crono away from me, I'm not going to let anything brake any couple up again! Just you watch, Lucca. I'll make them fall in love with each other. After all, how hard can this be when compared to saving the world?"

Lucca giggled silently. That was exactly what she had said earlier. <There are a lot of things that is a lot harder than saving the world,> Lucca thought, <Love... humanity... all these things. Good luck, Marle! You'll need it!>