NOTE: Due to problems (grumble) with the mailer, I cannot read this list because of it's traffic volume. If you wish to send comments, (preferably) praise, or (constructive) criticism, please use the address below. Begin original file. ----------------Cut here---------------------- 8/17/96 ASCCHA01.TXT Ascending Changes: part one Gary (Ridgewolfe) Quick E-mail relay jallen9@mail.alliance.net (Subject "Ridgewolfe") Based off of characters by the ever-lovable Rumiko Takahshi, which are her's, no copyright infringement is meant, and they are used without permission. Story idea based off the script- Ranma 1/2: the final solution, what a couple of dips! - written by Joe Rispoli and Mike Termena of the Dayton Anima club. Again, no copyright infringement is meant as to their storyline. Any other Non-Rumiko type characters have their own copyrights and are also used without permission, no infringement is meant any other characters are mine, and Are used with permission (Mine!) This story can be spread around, as long as the author is acknowledged, and it is not sold for profit, either in part or in whole. Ascending changes: part one by Gary (Ridgewolfe) Quick The Train pulled up to the Tomobiki-cho station, where it disgorged it's passengers into the sunlight of the early summer day. the platform was full of others who pressed forward, eager to board the new arrival and get on with their lives. Three of the arriving passengers however, were eager to arrive to witness the beginning of a new life. Soun Tendo, of the anything goes martial-arts Tendo training hall, gathered up his travel bag and walked off onto the platform. A tall man, he had no problem looking for his two companions, who were equally tall. All three of them received some stares, as they were dressed formally, two of them in tuxedo's, one in chinese robes, but soon they were fighting like everyone else to get through to the street. "Hey Pops! let's get a move-on, alright?" one of his companions snapped, hoisting another travel bag. "Yes, it would be most unfortunate if we missed the wedding," the second companion agreed. "Well, I'm not Against getting to the wedding," Soun grumbled as he was buffeted by onboarding passengers, "But trying to make headway in all this..." "Rooftops are nice," companion 1 said to companion 2. "Indeed, I say we should pursue that option," companion 2 agreed. "W-What are you doing?" Soun gasped as he was grabbed by both arms. "C'mon Mr. Tendo, just click your heels together and think happy thoughts," companion 1 said as they launched into the air over the crowds. Soon, they were bounding from rooftop to rooftop. The Mendo family chapel. Many cars had arrived here, and many others were gathering outside. A wedding was taking place. Well, a dual wedding. Okay! it's more than that! (leave me alone!) After much procrastination, Morobishi Ataru was finally to be united to Redet Lum, (her Father had thought to bring a blaster rifle to ensure the wedding, but had been convinced otherwise.) at long last. Many (all, actually) of their friends were in attendance (many of which had brought various weapons of destruction to ensure the wedding did NOT take place, but had been disarmed by Lum), and Ataru had asked his favorite cousin, friends since childhood, to be his Best Man. Saotome Ranma. Sadly, Ranma had had to refuse the honor. Understandably, as he no longer qualified as a best Man. Because of a sudden sickness due to his Jusenkyo curse, Ranma, Akane, and their families had gone back to the pools to find a cure. They had found one, by accidently dropping Ranma back into the pool of Nyanneechuan, where it was unforunately discovered that a second immersion in the same pool causes the curse to become irreversible, forever locking Ranma in the form of a girl. Akane, however, in order to prove that she loved him (er...her) and so that they could be together, had found the pool of Nannichuan and dove in twice. ain't love grand? The various wedding parties had taken over several of the bedrooms in the Mendo Household to prepare, especially the anxious brides. "I think I'm gonna throw up." "Now Ranma-chan, you're just nervous," Kasumi calmly said around a mouthful of pins, "please quit fidgeting or you'll--" "OW! that Hurt!" "--get stuck," Kasumi sighed and sat back as Ranma continued to fidget. "C'mon, Ranma," Nabiki scolded as she tried to work on Ranma's hair, "I don't see why your so nervous, you've been in worse situations before." "Name one." Ranma snapped. "Winning back the Dojo, facing off against the Seven lucky gods, eating Akane's cookies..." Nabiki trailed off. She tried again to set Ranma's hair, then gave up. "If you keep bouncing around you'll never be ready," Nabiki growled. Unlike Ranma, the two sisters were dressed in their Kimono's, Nabiki's was black with dark blue birds across it, while Kasumi's was sky blue with white floral patterns. Nabiki set the brush down and turned the nervous young girl around. Nabiki's eyes grew round. Ranma was almost as white as the wedding Kimono she wore, and almost looked frightened. "A little nervous, are we?" Nabiki asked as she took the bride's trembling hands, noting how cold they were. she started rubbing them to warm them up. "Oh Ranma, you're worried over nothing," Kasumi said from the floor in a soothing voice, "You'll make a beautiful bride." "That's just it!" Ranma whined, her voice rising, "Not only am I getting married to a violent uncute tomboy, I'm the one in the dress! This is not how I planned to get married." Nabiki looked at Kasumi, "The `I'm not ready ' stage?" "Definitely, soon to be followed by the `I can't go through with this', then the `calm before the storm' stages" Kasumi agreed. Nabiki looked Ranma in the eyes, "are you saying that you don't wish to marry Akane-kun?" Ranma's hands stopped shaking. A moment later a familiar light came back to her eyes. "No," She said defiantly, "I love her--HIM, and I want to marry him, and she's sacrificed so much to prove she loves me...I'd go through with this even if we were turned into cats." she looked away then, "I'm just nervous, that's all..." "We know you are, Oneechan," Kasumi said soothingly as she stood, "Everyone is before the wedding." "You didn't eat anything at breakfast, would a small snack help?" Nabiki asked, still holding Ranma's hands. Ranma's stomach flipped at the thought of food, "No, I wouldn't keep it down." "You sure? some tea maybe?" Nabiki asked sweetly. Ranma's eyes narrowed, "Alright, why are you being so nice?" Nabiki tried to look hurt, "I'm shocked Oneechan, can't I play the loving step-sister?" "Not unless a profit margin is involved." "Ranma! You make it sound like I'm some sort of cold hearted mercenary who's only interested in making money!" Before Ranma could answer there was a knock on the outside door. Nabiki left to answer it, and Kasumi was there to pick up Ranma's hands, giving them a warm squeeze. "Is part of it the fact that your a girl permanently now?" Kasumi asked gently. "I--yes, maybe, I think, kinda, that's part of it," Ranma sighed, "I've gotten used to turning into a girl, somewhat, over the last two years, but being one all the time? I still think of myself as a Guy, but..." "But...?" Kasumi prompted when she trailed off. Ranma looked down to the floor, she might feel better, she thought, if she talked about what she had noticed, "But lately, I find that I'm... acting or thinking... more and more... Like a girl." she shuffled her feet for a bit before looking up. "Am I losing myself?" Kasumi raised her hands to Ranma's shoulder's, "I don't think that's the problem, it sounds more like your simply adjusting to what's happened. Your still the same Ranma I've known for the last two years, that will never change." "I wonder if Akane-kun is going through this," Ranma asked. Kasumi was about to answer when Nabiki knocked on the doorframe, "Ranma, you have a visitor." Ranma and Kasumi walked out to the next room, where a beaming Tendo Soun stood. "Oh Father," Kasumi sighed, "you look very dashing in your tuxedo." Ranma smiled slightly and nervously allowed herself to be hugged, "I wasn't sure you'd make it back." "I'd never miss such an important event," Soun told her. He held her out then at armslength, "you look marvelous." "Yeah, well..." She ran her hand tentatively through her hair, which was still loose. "I still wish you'd let us trim that," Nabiki commented as she leaned against the bedroom doorframe. "Like Hell! I haven't cut this in five years!" "I can tell." "Now girls, no need to fight," Soun said gently. "I'm a --" was the automatic response, but Ranma stopped herself. Soun looked back down at his soon to be daughter-in-law, "Nabiki tells me your very nervous. Is there anything I can do?" "No, no, I think it's just pre-wedding jitters," Ranma smiled up at him, "it's just that..." "Yes..." Soun gently coaxed. "Well...you guys have all been great, and I don't think I've seen Pop happier, it's just that...well, I wish...more of my friends were here, too." "You know what they say, Ranma-honey," a new voice spoke up, "Be careful what you wish for." Ranma looked up and for the first time saw that they were being video-taped. Then with a smile and a flourish, the camcorder was set down on a table. "Ucchan!" Ukyou smiled at the shocked expression on Ranma's face, "What, you think I would miss something like this? "she asked cheerfully, then she looked at Soun. Soun took his cue, "Nabiki, Kasumi, let's let them have a moment's privacy, shall we?" they left the room, with Kasumi giving them a smile as she shut the door. There was silence between the two for a moment, Ukyou's smile faded, while Ranma kept looking down to the floor and back. Finally, unable to take the silence any longer, Ranma spoke. "You...umm...look fabulous, Ucchan..."she started. "You think so?" Ukyou raised her arms and spun around, showing off. She was dressed in a tuxedo, black, with a gray bowtie and cumberbun, and a white long-sleeved blouse with frills in the front and cuffs. The jacket was cut above the waist, with long tails, and a pair of black heels instead of shoes. Her hair was tied back with its usual bow. "Thanks, you look good yourself." Although it was a western ceremony that was being conducted, Ranma was clad in the traditional wedding Kimono. Around her waist was a blue sash, but it was evident by the fit of her dress and her loose hair that she wasn't done dressing. "heh heh, I wish I felt it," Ranma admitted, looking back down to the floor. "Let's see here," Ukyou crossed her arms and started circling Ranma, looking her over. A large tear-shaped sweat bead appeared on the back of Ranma's head, "According to tradition, a bride needs four things," Ukyou completed the circle and stood in front of Ranma, an eyebrow raised, "I see you have something blue, do you have something old?" "Uhh, yeah, the dress..." Ranma started weakly. "Something new?" "My earrings," she gestured to the two pearls clipped to her lobes, "they're wedding gifts from Kasumi--" "What about something borrowed?" "Well, sort of Everything is borrowed in a way--" "A-HA! get me a brush." Ranma drew back, "Your not gonna smack me, are ya?" "Get a brush, Idiot! I want to help." Confused, Ranma went back into the bedroom and came back with Nabiki's brush. Ukyou moved a footstool over and gestured for her to sit down, pulling up a stool for herself and sitting behind her. "Mr. Tendo says the curse is permanent now," Ukyou asked as she brushed Ranma's hair out in slow, even strokes. When free of the pigtail, her hair came down to mid-back. "Yeah, happens if you fall in twice," God, she's gonna blow up and smack me. "And Akane-chan jumped in after you, right sugar?" "She did it because she loves me," Ranma started to turn around, but Ukyou turned her back around. "Stay still, I can't do this otherwise," Ukyou finished and set the brush down, then started pulling Ranma's hair back. "What about you?" "What about me?" "Do you love her?" "It's him now, actually." Ukyou bopped her lightly on the head, "Answer the question!" Ranma took a moment to think how best to answer. "If I didn't, I wouldn't be here now." "That's not an answer, Ranma." "Alright, yes, I do love him." Ranma straightened as Ukyou paused, "It took awhile to admit it, but I've always loved Akane." Ranma felt Ukyou start to weave her hair, "Ranma...do you love me?" Ranma paused even longer, "Ucchan...I do love you, but I have to be honest..." As she was turned around, she didn't see the emotions that played across Ukyou's face, "I love you as a best friend, even a Sister. "I can't lead you on, you deserve the truth, and I have to be a, well, Man about this. You have my greatest Friendship, Akane has my Heart." Ukyou was silent for a moment as she worked the hair, then finished. "Okay, you can get up now." Ranma turned around and saw that Ukyou's hair was now loose around her shoulders. Reaching around, Ranma discovered that Ukyou's ribbon had been french-braided into the pigtail with the bow at the end. "Ucchan, Thank you! it's very nice," she saw that her friends eyes were misting "Ucchan...please, don't cry, I didn't mean to hurt you." "Hey," she grabbed Ranma's hand's, "That is enough, just let me speak for a moment. "I don't have long, but I want to say that what's important is your happiness right now. To be honest, yes, I wish that it was me that was walking the aisle with you, but it's not. If it's Akane-kun that you love, then you should do the best you can to make him happy. "There are others who won't like what your doing today, but you can't worry about that, you have to make the right choice for yourself, Ranchan. everything else will take care of itself." Biting her lower lip, Ranma drew her friend in and hugged her. "Thank you." "I love you, Ranchan, friends?" "Always, Ucchan, always." After a moment Ukyou broke free and stood up, "Don't worry, I'm not gonna make trouble for you," she went and picked up the camcorder, "In fact, I'm your family photographer." "You'll do a great job, Ucchan." "So will you, good luck." Ukyou turned and opened the door to leave, causing Soun, Kasumi, and Nabiki to tumble into the room. "I can't believe you jerks!" Ranma snapped as she jumped to her feet. "Oh my..." "Hello there, Ranma, we were just about to knock..." "Yeah, Right! Get up! we have to finish getting ready!" Ukyou stepped over them and went to the end of the hall, where she could still hear Ranma going off on the others. There, she'd done it, She had talked to Ranma, in a mature, reasoning manner, and had remained friends with her, just like she had promised herself she would. Ukyou leaned against the wall and released a ragged sigh, her emotions warring within her. They were her friends! I want to be happy for them! {He's your true love, and that uncute tomboy is taking him away!} No! he loves her! {He could love You like that!} "God, this is more painful than I thought," she muttered, trying to collect herself. By the time Soun walked up to her, Ukyou's mask was firmly back in place. "Come, child, let's see the other's," he said cheerfully as he led her by the elbow. "Right! I want to give my best to the Groom, too," she set the camcorder on her shoulder and they walked off. Soun and Ukyou knocked on the door to the groom's quarter's, and entered on Mr. Saotome's gruff, "Come in!" Ukyou hid behind the camcorder again, hoping for another surprised reaction. Akane-kun and Gemma Saotome were alone in the room. Akane-kun {she's the enemy! stop her!} was dressed in a gray tuxedo with blue cumberbun, and was currently sitting on the bed in a lotus position, coat off and collar open, watching Mr. Saotome, who was dressed in the traditional robes of the Brides Father, trying to figure out the bowtie. "is it over...no, under...wait..." "Well, Saotome, at last, the day is here!" Soun greeted. "Ah, Tendo, when did you get back?" Gemma turned and faced his friend, the bowtie convienetly forgotten, "Did you get what you needed at home?" "Sure did, Saotome," Soun turned and looked at his newly acquired son, who jumped off the bed and gave him a quick hug. "You got them?" Akane asked, stepping back "The ring?" Soun reached into his coat pocket and produced a small, three banded gold ring, "Yes, your Mother's wedding band," he said quietly, remembering his own wedding. "What about our friends?" Akane asked next. {See? your not important to them! She asked about you Last!} Ukyou cleared her throat and pasted a smile on her face, setting the camera down, "Right here, Kiddo." Akane ran over and unexpectedly swept Ukyou up in a hug, surprising her. He was as tall as she was! Nervously, Ukyou returned it. Akane drew back then and gave Ukyou one of the most dazzling smiles she had ever seen, "Ukyou! I'm so glad you made it!" He was? Of course he was! "Hey, I wouldn't miss this for the world..." Akane turned and looked at his father then, "If you two could excuse us please?" he asked, "I'd like to talk to her alone." "Ohh, if only you knew how proud you've made your Father today," Soun bawled as they walked out. "Yeah, yeah, that's only the fortieth time you've said that since China," Akane muttered, "And no eavesdropping!" Ukyou just stared at this stranger-friend who had greeted her so warmly, "Wow, Akane--" she finally said, "-- you came out -- Good looking..." "You like?" Akane spun around, showing off. "It's the latest in Jusenkyo fashions." If Ukyou hadn't known better, she would have sworn that this was Akane's brother. His built and height were almost identical to Male Ranma's, a bit wider in the shoulder's and hip's, maybe, and he had the same facial structure as before, although the face was male now, maybe a bit longer. The only thing that hadn't changed were her eyes. They were still the same expressive hazel ones that Ukyou remembered. "You're going to drive the girls wild back at home," she finally said after a long pause. Akane simply shrugged at this. He seemed the epitome of calm, although Ukyou did notice his hands shaking. "Daddy obviously found you, did anyone else come?" unlike Ranma, Akane knew exactly why his father had gone to Nerima. "Just Mousse and I," Ukyou said, "I didn't think we needed Shampoo or Ryoga disrupting the wedding." she shifted nervously as Akane walked past and sat back down on the bed, "Your certainly holding up better than the Bride is." "How's that?" "Nabiki called it the `I'm not ready stage' , but she just seemed nervous to me." "Ah, that," Akane smiled again, "Yeah, I went through that last night, now I'm just anxious to get this over with." {How Dare she be so calm!} Ukyou bit back that particular response, "Uh, why aren't you finished dressing?" Akane shrugged, "I don't know how to tie bowties, neither does Mr. Saotome." "Well, I think I can help there," Ukyou picked the bowtie up from the endtable {That's it, Help the Enemy!} and quickly set it right, "Here you go." "Thank you," Akane took the bowtie and walked over to the mirror, slipping it over his collar. Ukyou sat down on the edge of the bed and watched. "I want you to know I'm really glad you could come on such short notice," Akane said as he tried adjusting the tie, "We would have sent invitations but things have been moving so fast..." {I'm sure you would have!} "Hey, I'm here now, that's what matters..." Ukyou trailed off as her throat started to tighten up against her will. dammit, this was harder that she thought. "I'm sure Ranma appreciates it too, she was really upset that more of her friends couldn't be here, especially since her mother doesn't know..." {Do you hear that? Your only a Friend!} {Just a Friend!!} {A FRIEND!!!} With a shriek of rage Ukyou's fist smashed into the bedside lamp, almost of it's own violation, then in shame she bit into her palm to try and stop the tears that suddenly wouldn't stop. Akane relaxed from the defensive stance when it was apparent that he wasn't under attack, and slowly edged toward the bed. Tentatively, he reached out, but Ukyou curled away. "I'm sorry... I'm sorry..." Ukyou managed to force out. Akane slowly sat down, "About what, tell me." "I--I want to-- to be happy-- for you, or I-- I want to be a- angry with you-- but I Can't!" Ukyou tried to stop crying but couldn't. "That's all I am to-- to him is a Friend! I-- I never stood a chance! It's not fair! It's Not!" she whirled and started flailing away at Akane, but he easily caught her fists. With a sudden jerk Akane pulled Ukyou forward and held her. She tried to break free but Akane was stronger now. Eventually, Ukyou collapsed against him and sobbed into his chest. "It's alright, it's alright," Akane whispered as he rocked her back and forth, running his hand over her back and shoulders, "Let it out Ukyou, let it out..." They stayed that way for several minutes, the only sound being Ukyou slowly fading cries. Eventually, Ukyou quieted and slowly backed away. Akane reached for several tissues and started cleaning mascara from Ukyou's face. "I didn't think the tears would start before the wedding," he said. Ukyou sort of chuckled but wouldn't look up. "Can you imagine what it's like, Akane, to see the one that you love being married to someone else?" she took the tissues away and rubbed her eyes, sniffling like a small child, "And the worst part is, I want to hate you for it but I Can't" Akane laid a hand on her shoulder, "Why's that?" "You two always fight, you never seem to get along, But I know that you both are good people, and that you care for each other..." she looked up then, "It hurt's, Akane, it really hurts!" "I'm sorry, Ukyou, I really am. I wish I could say something to make it better." "I'm not even able to stand by Ranchan as part of the wedding party..." "We could ask one of my sisters to step aside," Akane started, "I'm sure they'd understand." "No, no, they're family, they deserve to be there," Ukyou interrupted, waving the suggestion aside, "I'm just a friend..." "HEY!" Ukyou jumped at the sharpness in his voice, "Let's get one thing straight: you are not `Just' anything! You are Ranma's best and closest friend, and she wants you to be here just as much as I, because we love you. We want you to be happy, and to share in our happiness, your very important to us. I'm sorry that we didn't consider that this would be painful to you, and if you want to leave for that reason, then we understand," Akane softened a bit then, "But I'd really like it if you stayed." Ukyou was quiet for a long time. Akane slid her right hand over her shoulders and pulled Ukyou against him in a partial hug. Gingerly, Ukyou rested her right hand on his shoulder. "Do you really mean that?" she asked quietly. "Yes, I do." Akane whispered, "I'd like to think of you as my friend as well, and to be honest, we're going to need all the friends we can get." "Really?" "It's not going to be easy for us or those around us, adjusting to the fact that we're of the opposite sex now," Akane told her, "We need people we can turn to for support, just like you are now." Ukyou sat back up, "I got your shirt dirty," she pointed to the mascara stains on the shoulder. "That's okay, the jacket will hide them." They sat in silence for several more moments, Ukyou rubbing away at the stains. She then stopped and sat back. "You've changed, your a lot calmer than you used to be," Ukyou observed. Akane shrugged, "I only seem calm, I worked a lot off last night," he raised one of his hands, which was still shaking, "I just decided that nothing was going to ruin this day for us." Akane stood and helped Ukyou up, "Feel any better?" "No, I feel miserable." Ukyou said. She reached up and adjusted Akane's tie, "But that's not going to stop me. C'mon, lets get you ready." Five minutes later, the groom was ready and being filmed by Ukyou. Mr. Tendo walked in then to tell Ukyou to take her place for the ceremony. With a quick good-bye for both of them, Ukyou ran from the room as fast as her heels would let her. Memories flashed through her mind as she hurried to the chapel; Her last memory of Ranma as a child sitting on top of a rapidly retreating okinomiyaki Yettai, training against the seas as a warrior to seek revenge, then finding Ranma again years later and bidding for his hand. The battles they had fought, both for and against each other, the friendships she had made in Nerima, The battles she had won. {But you lost the most important one, didn't you? And now Ranma's marrying someone Else!} Stop it! Ukyou told herself, he found someone he loves. They fought constantly, but even I can see now that it's because of their egos, not from hatred. Akane was a good person, basically, at heart. And I really am trying to be happy for you, Ranchan, she told herself, I love you too. Herself laughed back at her mockingly. Herself then found herself on the receiving end of a giant mental Spatula. Ukyou reached the entranceway to the Chapel where ushers were leading people in. Waiting for her was Mousse, dressed in the ceremonial robes of a wedding guest for his village. She walked up and tapped him on the shoulder. "Are we ready, Mr. Tendo?" he asked. With a sigh, Ukyou reached up and lowered Mousse's glasses down with her free hand. "Yes Mousse, I'm ready," she told him, shaking her head, "Thanks for waiting." Mousse bowed his head, his hands hidden in the depths of his volumeous sleeves, "It is an honor to serve." An usher walked forward and, after a brief discussion to find Ukyou the best spot to videotape the wedding, led them to the honored guest seating. After ten minutes, the Groomsmen started filing in to their positions. "That's my cue," Ukyou ran over and assumed a position by the front rows, one where she wouldn't be in the way of the wedding parties, yet still giving her a clear range in which to film. Ukyou quickly checked her equipment, feelings of anxiety and grief mixing with her excitement of the moment. Don't back down now, girl, she thought to herself, then started recording as the Priest signaled for the Wedding March and the wedding parties approached. First she did a pan across the Grooms and best men, ending on Akane and Mr. Tendo. Akane glanced over and smiled shyly at her, while Ukyou noticed that Mr. Tendo hadn't waited for the wedding to being, as the front of his coat was drenched. Ukyou then panned over to the approaching wedding parties, noticing that everybody had calmed down when the march started. Her view back was limited to the middle of the aisle, so she focused there, letting the other couples walk by, then centering on the Tendo's when they appeared. Nabiki and Kasumi were first, acting as Ring Bearer and Maid of Honor, both of them looking fabulous in her opinion. Then came the Father and Bride, Gemma clad in the ceremonial robes of the Father, joy and pride radiating off him. On his arm was-- oh my god... Ranma-chan looked Beautiful! Kasumi really outdid herself with the wedding dress. Through the veil Ukyou could see the expression of simple happiness that Ranma wore. Ukyou felt a stab of ugly depression, then strengthened her resolve. With a quick glance at Akane-kun, who was simply staring down the aisle, she followed her friends procession up the aisle. "Will you SHUT UP!!!" What? Ukyou looked up in time to see a fireball leaping off a frying pan from Lum's wedding party. Ukyou gasped and kept the camera targeted on her friend's, while watching what was going on. Suddenly one of the women from the front row pulled out what looked like a super-soaker and fired, dousing the fireball in mid-air, but the stream of water continued through, to splash Mr. Saotome squarely in the face. Everybody gasped as a giant panda suddenly appeared in their midst, clad in robes no less. The panda reached up and adjusted his glasses, then gave out a huff and patted Ranma's hand (who looked like she was trying to smother herself in her bouquet), walking past the offending parties with his nose up. The scene was so typical that Ukyou did something she hadn't done in days. She laughed. In spite of the people shushing her from the pew next to her, she couldn't stop. Covering her mouth only made her snicker, and even when the Priest called for silence, it still came as a muted giggle, but she snapped her attention forward when the Priest scowled at her, focusing on her job and aware of Akane and Ranma only. Everyone's attention focused forward as the Panda handed Ranma's hand to Akane, then stepped back. Nabiki handed something to Soun, who also stepped back behind the couple, and took a seat in the front pews. Ranma handed her bouquet to Kasumi, who also stepped behind them, then all the couples turned to face the Priest. As he started to speak, Ukyou scooted forward , not wanting to miss the words. "We are gathered here today, Family... Friends... Loved ones, young and old, to witness today the joining of these fine young couples within the bonds of holy Matrimony," the Priest started, "In today's uncertain times, they come forth to show to the world the depth's of their love and trust in each other as they proceed down this most uncertain path. "May I ask, who is ready to start down this road?" "I am, Holy one." Akane spoke clearly, stepping forward. "And who gives the Bride to this good man?" "Grrarfff." "Excuse me?" the Priest seemed startled. The panda held up a sign. `I do, Holy one' it read. Ukyou snickered again as the panda stepped back and took a seat by Nabiki. The Priest visibly had to regain his train of thought. "...ah ...yes ...Is there anyone here today who can show just cause as to why any of these couples should not be joined?" Ukyou tensed, expecting Kuno or Shampoo to come bursting in, but after a few moments, the hall remained quiet. "Very well," The priest addressed each couple singly, moving down the line. Soon he reached her friends. "...Do you, Saotome Ranma, take this man to be your lawfully wedded Husband, for better or for worst, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to have and to hold, from this day forth?" Ranma looked up into Akane's eyes and smiled, "I will." "Do you, Tendo Akane, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded Wife, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to have and to hold, from this day forth?" Akane had to clear his throat first, "I will." "Present the rings." Mr.Tendo stepped up and handed a ring to both of them. The Priest looked at Akane, "Repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed." Akane slowly slipped the ring onto Ranma's left hand, "With this ring, I thee wed." The Priest looked to Ranma, "Repeat after me: With this ring, I thee wed." Ranma slipped the ring onto Akane's left hand, then squeezed said hand softly, "With this ring, I thee wed." And now, by the power invested in me by the authority of the church and God, and in the presence of all those held dear, I know pronounce you Husbands, and Wives," The Priest looked at all the couples and smiled, "Now lets see some kissing." Ukyou sighed as Akane lifted the veil back and met Ranma halfway in a deep, passionate kiss. After a moment, the Priest tapped each couple and turned them around as he presented them, ending with-- "Ladies and Gentlemen, I now present to you Mr. and Mrs. Tendo Akane!" The entire audience by then were on their feet and showing their joy with thunderous applause. Kasumi seemed on the brink of tears, while Soun was well over the brink and falling fast. The Panda was trying his best to applaud and dab at his eyes at the same time. Kasumi and Nabiki reached into their pockets, and suddenly they were throwing confetti at the newlyweds. Ukyou stood up , still filming, and started waving her free hand in the air. But even in the midst of everyone's happiness, she couldn't ignore the darkness that seemed to close around her heart. * * * About half an hour later, everyone had adjourned to the Mendo reception hall, which was set up with a live band and was already playing soft jazz. After the Bride's dance, all of the Bride's had gone upstairs and changed out of their wedding Kimono's (except for Ranma, who only had her chinese clothes, and couldn't figure out how to remove all the pins to take the dress off.) while most the Grooms and Groomsmen had shucked their coats upstairs. Long tables were set up for all the party goers, with large round tables for the newlyweds and their immediate families. Akane walked into the room and over to the table where his new bride sat with the Fathers, having changed into a clean shirt and carrying his coat. Also at the table were Nabiki, Ukyou, and Dr. Foo, who had arrived from China to attend the wedding. Akane walked up behind Ranma and hugged her from behind as she sat, "I'm back love." Ranma looked up and met him with a soft kiss, which provoked a round of kissing sounds and table-thumping from the other occupants. Blushing, Akane pulled out a chair and sat, holding Ranma's hand. "So, how's it feel to finally be married, Son?" Gemma asked, back in his normal form. "Well, It's--" both of the newlyweds started to say, then broke into giggles, "This is going to take some getting used to," Akane finished. Ranma reached up to touch his face, "We have all the time it the world, Love, enjoy it," she drew Akane close and kissed him again, provoking another round of table-thumping from everyone except Ukyou, who looked down at her hands. They were cut short, however, as a voice from behind interrupted. "SAOTOME!" Ranma and Akane turned, then slowly stood as Mousse, arms still hidden in his sleeves, walked toward them. "H-hiya, Mousse, h-how's it goin'?" Ranma stuttered. Dammit, this was no place for a fight, and she sure couldn't kick in this kimono... "Mousse, this is not the time or place--"Akane started to say. "I have only one thing to say to you two," Mousse growled as he walked up to them. With blinding speed his hands shot out towards them. The two Newlyweds dropped to defensive stances, then just gaped at what they saw. Mousse stood there, a small smile starting to creep onto his face, as he held out two white roses for both of them, "Congratulations your new life together." Both of them visibly relaxed, "God, don't scare us like that!" they said in unison, then took the roses. Mousse then swept both of them up in a fierce hug. "I didn't know you were here too," Ranma said when let go, motioning for Mousse to sit with them, "Is anyone else here?" "Just one other," another voice from behind said. They looked up to see... "Dr. Tofu!" The good Doctor smiled down at them kindly, placing a hand on their shoulders, "It's nice to see that the two of you finally decided to get along. I'm glad to see that you've recovered too, Ranma-chan, Although I must say that the cure was a bit unusual." "Yes, most unpredictable are the Springs of Jusenkyo," Dr. Foo said as he stood and bowed, "Doctor, a pleasure to finally meet you, I am Dr. Foo." Dr. Tofu bowed back, "The pleasure is mine, Doctor Foo, I was hoping to be able to consult with you on their conditions, as I am the family's doctor." the soft jazz the band played ended, and a waltz started. "I am at your disposal, sir," Dr. Foo agreed, "In fact, if you have a moment..." "Why Doctor Tofu, how nice to see you," Kasumi said as she walked up to the table. Dr. Tofu turned around and a idiotic grin appeared as his glasses fogged, "K-Kasumi! Imagine meeting you here... heh heh... what a coincidence..." he continued to babble while twiddling his fingertips. Kasumi giggled demurely, "Dr. Tofu, your such a character, would you like to dance?" "Dance? why it's no trouble at all..." Tofu babbled as he was led away. Akane looked over at Ranma, then was suddenly pulling her out onto the dancefloor. "I find that I also would not be adverse to a bit of recreation," Mousse said, also rising. Bowing at the waist, he offered his hand to Ukyou, "Shall we?" Ukyou jumped in total shock, "uh, um, well... sorry Mousse, gotta play photojournalist," grabbing the camcorder, she ran off to tape the newlyweds. Mousse straightened, clearly disappointed, but smiled again when Nabiki rose. "I however, would never pass up the chance to dance with such a handsome gentleman," she offered her hand and was led out onto the dancefloor. "Ahh, Tendo, what a great day this is," Gemma spoke in his deep rumble of a voice, "Our families finally united--" "And the legacy of the School of Anything goes martial arts is secured," Soun Agreed, sipping from his sake glass. "I will admit to a bit of surprise, Ranma taking Akane's name like that..." Gemma said after a pause. "Eh? what's wrong with that?" Soun asked tersely. "Nothing! nothing at all, heh heh..." Gemma nervously laughed, "I simply meant that it seems the boy is accepting his transformation in rather good grace, don't you think?" The two fathers watched their children dance in silence. "Augghhh..." Gemma wailed suddenly, "If only his Mother could be here to see this day--" Gemma was suddenly interrupted as a water bucket was broken over his head, driving him to the floor, "And who's fault is That, Old Man!" Ranma screamed over him, Akane trying to pull her away, "If you didn't go and make that STUPID promise--!" Gemma-Panda stood up, rubbing the large bump on his head, and started growling at her. "Don't give me that!" Ranma bellowed back, "It's your fault that she's not here!" She hauled off and punched the panda in the stomach. "Ranma, you're causing a scene!" Akane hissed, trying again to move her by the arm. Ranma ignored him as she ducked a swing and smacked the panda again. "Aurruu, grafff braww--!" "Shut Up! I don't want to hear it Old Man!" Smack! Thump! Mousse returned Nabiki to the table, then calmly walked over and grabbed Ranma's free arm, helping to drag her out bodily from the room. "Hey! Leggo--! I'm not finished--!" Gemma-panda slumped back down and bawled into his paws. "Such a violent girl, that Ranma, wouldn't you agree, Darling?" Lum asked Ataru as they waltzed, having seen the whole thing. "Yes, not at all like her husband..." Ataru agreed. Akane and Mousse dragged Ranma down to the end of the hall, then blocked her in as she paced back and forth. "What was that about?" Mousse asked in a whisper. "Ranma hasn't seen her mother since she was six," Akane whispered back, "She doesn't know about the curse, and Mr. Saotome promised that they would commit seppaku if he failed to raise Ranma as a `Real Man'." After a moment, Ranma stopped pacing and walked up to them. "I'm... Calmer now," she muttered sullenly, not looking up. "That was totally uncalled for," Akane started to chastise. Ranma looked up to say something, and Akane saw a look of--was that regret? --in her eyes, but just then the panda walked out into the hall. He looked down at them, meeting eyes with his daughter, then Ranma spun around, her anger back. Dejected, the panda shuffled upstairs in search of hot water, his head low. "Mousse, thank you. Could you please go back? I'd like to talk to my wife in private," Akane asked. Mousse bowed and turned to leave, but then stopped. "I have no parents, Ranma" he said simply, "Consider yourself lucky that you have a mother who just doesn't know you, instead of no mother at all." he then returned to the reception hall. Akane looked after him for a moment, then turned back to Ranma, who still faced away and was now shaking with anger. "You should probably apologize to your father," he started, and was met with silence. Now Akane started getting mad, "Are you even listening to me, Ranma!" he turned her around by the shoulders and was shocked to see Ranma wasn't mad. She was crying. Akane stood dumbfounded as Ranma put her arms around his neck and cried into his shoulder. "Ah-- uh-- C'mon Ranma, it's not that bad..." Reflexively, Akane glanced around to see if anyone was watching, then started to stroke Ranma's hair. "You don't understand," Ranma looked up, seeming like a small child at that moment, "For once, I was actually Happy, then pop has to bring That up? If I couldn't see Mom before, how am I supposed to Now?" "I can't answer that, Love," Akane said as he held her closer, "We'll think of something, though." They stood and held each other for a few quiet moments. "I don't think beating your father up helps, though," Akane suggested. "No, I guess not..." Ranma quietly agreed, "But it makes me feel better." Akane thought back to all the times he had wanted to smack Mr. Saotome around as well and started laughing. Soon Ranma joined in. Mousse, Ukyou, Nabiki, and Soun all sighed in relief as they peered around the doorway, they wouldn't have to diffuse a fight scene today. Gemma returned in time to see Lum and Ataru cut the wedding cake, and quietly sat down as the other couples took turns serving each other from it. He caught Ranma and Akane glancing at him while eating there's from across the room, but they quickly turned away. Gemma felt low. He nodded perfuctually as Soun continued to talk to him and they sipped sake, but he really wasn't listening. He was overjoyed that Ranma and Akane were finally married, and he was proud of the son he had raised, the fact that he was now a daughter was totally irrelevant. But Gemma was afraid that these feelings were only one-way. Gemma sighed and sipped from his sake glass again. Yes, that was the crux of the matter. He knew that his child was angry with him, had every right to be, really, but did Ranma like him? Gemma was afraid that the answer was no. And if it was, he really couldn't fault him. After the cake cutting was done, the dancers started heading out to the floor again. Mousse offered his hand to Ranma, who took it in surprise, (the surprise being Akane shoving her forward) Soun swept Nabiki onto the floor, while Tofu asked Ukyou, who turned him down and busied herself with the camera again. Gemma almost jumped when a hand was placed on his shoulder. "Mr. Saotome, I don't believe you've danced yet," Kasumi asked pleasantly. "Why Kasumi, I'd be delighted," Gemma rose and led her to the dancefloor, leading her in a classic waltz. "Your a very good dancer," Kasumi complemented as they weaved around the other dancers. "It's been years, really," Gemma replied, starting to reminisce, "When I was younger, your Aunt and I used to dance every weekend, it was a delight simply to hold her..." "Have you contacted her yet?" Kasumi asked. Gemma started and stared down at her. "Mr. Saotome, I know about the conditions of your promise, but Auntie Saotome has a right to see her son, and Ranma has a right to meet his mother," she spun them in a way that Gemma was suddenly looking at Ranma, " His change is permanent now, there's no way around that, and she needs her mother." "There's more to this than you think--" Gemma started to say sullenly. Kasumi's face lost it's pleasant expression, scaring Gemma, "Ranma became my Sister-in-law today, Mr. Saotome. Today is one of the happiest in her young life, and rarely have I seen her or Akane so giddy. The one thing that takes away from that is that they cannot see Auntie Saotome, and it hurts both of them. I do not like to see my sisters hurt, and you know that I will protect them. This is a situation that has gone on far too long due to your short sightedness, and to be honest, I don't see you doing anything to remedy it. "Quite frankly, if Ranma hadn't struck you with that bucket, I would have." Kasumi softened somewhat as it seemed that Gemma was about to cry, "Mr. Saotome... Gemma... I say this out of concern for you too. If you and Ranma don't address your problems soon, they will continue to drive both of you further apart, until one day you find that you no longer have a child, just a stranger with no interest in knowing you, and I don't want that to happen. Make amends, while you still have the chance." Silently, Gemma nodded. Ranma was quite surprised, to say the least. Although the idea of dancing with any man besides Akane (Which didn't count in a way) made her nervous, Mousse was actually quite comfortable to dance with. He held her close enough to lead, but not enough to be intimate. His hand on her waist was firm but not offensive, and he was skilled enough to compensate for her lack of skill. Ranma also found that if she thought of this as being led through a Kata, she enjoyed it more. "Mousse, why are you being so nice?" Ranma asked as he spun her out in a twirl, drawing her back in. "Several reasons, which one do you want to hear?" he asked, keeping her from stumbling. "Is one of them because I married Akane and not Shampoo?" "That's one," Mousse agreed, "Although I do not think she'll be too happy when she finds out. Another is that I always thought that you and Akane should be together, and I'm glad you two finally realized it." Mousse paused for a moment, "It is also that I... Sympathize with you, I wouldn't want to spend the rest of my life as a duck." "It's hard," Ranma agreed, "I don't think I could do it if it wasn't for Akane," Ranma also seemed to pause for a moment, "Mousse, there's something I should tell you..." "What, you like tall men with glasses?" Mousse asked deadpan. Ranma's jaw dropped, then, she started laughing as Mousse smiled. "No no no, Mousse," she paused for a second, " I've brought back water from Jusenkyo, from the spring of Drowned Man." It was Mousse's turn to stumble, but he quickly recovered, "Are you serious?" Ranma nodded, "I brought it back for-- to stop one of the feuds. I'm sorry, but I hadn't even considered your curse, But I have enough for you as well." Mousse said nothing for a minute. "Mousse, I'd like to be friends, the reason for our feud is stupid--" "Keep it," Mousse interrupted. "Keep it?" Had she heard him right? "But I thought you said--" "I wouldn't want to Stay a duck, true," Mousse agreed, "But I have accepted my curse, it no longer has power over me. And I might one day have need of the power it gives me. Do you understand?" " I guess I can," Ranma agreed, "Are we friends then?" "I would not be adverse to that," Mousse also agreed, whirling her around again, "So, how do you plan on getting the water to Ryoga?" Ranma face-faulted, "You KNOW?" Mousse nodded, "Most of us do. I found out at the Christmas party," the music stopped then, and Mousse led Ranma back towards the table on his arm. "I really don't know," she sighed, "But I have to do it so that Akane doesn't find out, He'd kill us both if he does." Just then Ranma became aware of something, as if an icy finger had just touched the back of her skull. Ranma stopped, looking around. She had only felt this before when in the presence of danger, or something weird. "Something wrong, Ranma?' Mousse asked, pushing his glasses back and looking too. "I don't know... Something..." Her attention was drawn to the Host's table, where a Occidental couple had just approached and was talking to the still standing Lum and Ataru. The man was tall, dark-haired with a beard, and had laughing blue eyes. The woman was a voluptuous brunette, her hair a dark mane of tight ringlets down to her waist, and had exotically dark eyes. The man was dressed in a classic tuxedo, while the woman wore a forest green dress which clung to her curves. "Mousse... who are they?" Mousse adjusted his glasses again as he looked at them, "I think they are friends of your cousin, but other than that..." he shrugged. The woman looked up and around, then looked right at Ranma. After a moment, she turned back to her companion, made their apologies, then the two of them walked away. "That was weird," Ranma said, then was led back to the table. At the table, Doctor Foo and Tofu were talking quietly, while Nabiki sat next to them and looked bored. Gemma was listening to the conversation from across the table, while Akane was sitting next to Tofu, also listening. Kasumi and Soun were already back on the dancefloor. Mousse pulled a chair out for Ranma, but she evidently thought it was too close to her father, and sat down next to Akane. Before Mousse could sit down, Nabiki was pulling him off towards the dancers again. "Ah, Ranma, you and Akane might be interested in this," Dr. Tofu said to them. "I was just explaining to the good Doctor here some of the possible changes you might experience due to your transformations," Dr. Foo explained, suddenly the center of attention. "Changes? what sort of changes?" Akane asked. "Nothing drastic, I assure you," Foo said quickly, "Just that as your bodies are now different, you should be made aware of the fact that males and females have different chemical and hormonal processes than what you are used to." "And how would these... Processes affect us?" Ranma asked. "Without further study, it's hard to say," Dr. Foo shrugged. "I would say possibly at best case, some mild discomfort until you are used to your bodies new cycles. Possibly at worst case, your emotional makeups might alter to accommodate a more masculine-- or feminine-- outlook. But at this point, it is purely speculation." "Actually, any real changes you experience will probably be due to social pressures," Dr. Tofu added, "People will tend to treat you both differently now." "Is there anything that can be done about it?" Akane asked him, slightly worried. "I'll want to do a complete physical on the both of you when we get back to Nerima," Dr. Tofu answered, "But to be honest, any changes you do experience are probably just a natural effect of your bodies adjusting to the transformation, so that it doesn't harm you." "In my village, when someone falls under the curses, we advise them to talk about it when it bothers them," Dr. Foo added, "you would be surprised how well it helps. "But, in the meantime..." Both doctors pulled out small packages from under the table and handed one to each of them, "These should come in handy in answering some of your questions." The two of them opened their presents, revealing three books. "`Pools of Longing' the secret history of two pools," Akane said, reading off the title of his book. "`The Male / Female body; a user's guide'" Ranma read off, holding the two books up, "Cool! I knew there had to be a instruction manual out there someplace." Everyone started laughing or choking on what they just drank at this. Soun and Kasumi came back then, along with Ukyou, to cool off and catch their breath. The conversation turned casual, being joined shortly by Mousse and Nabiki, as they sat out the next few songs. Then a fast jazz song started, and all of them jumped to their feet. "C'mon Akane, I know this number!" Ranma said, dragging him off. "It's rather fast paced--" "Don't worry, you could use the exercise!" "What was that--! Would you care to repeat that!" Mousse again asked Ukyou to dance, who again declined. Mousse had expected this, however, and snagged Kasumi's hand before he was claimed by Nabiki again. "Kasumi, I need to talk to you about Ukyou," he softly told her as they walked onto the dancefloor. As the two danced, Mousse quickly explained his concerns and asked Kasumi's advice, which she was quite willing to give. After a moment, they intersected Akane and Ranma and cut in, quickly explaining their plans to their new partners. By the time Four o'clock came around, the buffet tables had been set up for an early dinner, and the band had gone to break, promising to be back within two hours. Kasumi sat at the table alone and quietly watching her family mingle with the other guest. Nabiki was headed off to one of the back rooms with several other couples, probably to start up one of her poker games, Father was off talking to the other parents, Ranma and Mr. Saotome (separately) were in the buffet line (Naturally), while Akane was nervously chatting with the other newlyweds. Mousse was off in the corner holding a one-sided conversation with a post, while Dr. Tofu... Where was he... Ah, there he was. Tofu and Ukyou were further down the buffet line. Kasumi looked at the Camcorder that she had relieved from Ukyou an hour ago, in spite of her protests, and sighed. Since then, Someone, either Herself, Tofu, Ranma, Akane, or Mousse, had been with Ukyou, trying to draw her into the circle of Friends, but as of yet she didn't seem to be enjoying herself. Hopefully though, that problem would get resolved, Kasumi thought as she watched Ranma walk over, balancing three plates of food while eating the rice cake in her mouth, now to hopefully cut short another. "Ranma, don't sit down yet," Kasumi asked, standing. Ranma set the plates down and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "Wabduya waab?" Ranma mumbled around the rice cake. "Walk with me please, I need to talk to you." they walked off to one of the back rooms. "What do you want to talk about?" Ranma asked as she shut the door behind them. "You were raised mainly by your Father, right Ranma?" Kasumi asked, turning around. "More or less." Kasumi folded her hands in front of her, "Have you ever had a girlfriend before?" "Uh... well, maybe... kinda... sorta... no," Ranma stuttered as she nervously scratched the back of her head, "W-why do y-you ask?" "Ranma..." Kasumi took her hand, "has anyone ever talked to you about the wedding night?" Half an hour later they walked back out. Ranma's eyes were glazed over, her face was red, and her right eyebrow had developed a nervous twitch. Ranma tried to walk back to the table and bumped into the doorframe. Kasumi walked her back to the table and sat her down. Everyone else was finishing up and had started bombarding Akane with questions. "Have you given any thought to College yet?" "Dad! I'd like to finish high school first," Akane shuffled his remaining food around on his plate, "We're probably the only Seniors attending the school to be married, right Ranma?" "Uhh... uh huh..." "We've yet to talk about it, but I think I'd like to pursue a career in theater arts." "What about your training as a martial artist?" Gemma asked. "I want to keep up with my training," Akane agreed, "But it's not the only thing I want to do." Akane laid his hand over Ranma's as he talked, then noticed something. "Ranma, are you feeling alright?" he asked, "Why aren't you eating?" Ranma seemed to come out of a daze, "I-I'm not v-very hungry right now... you go ahead." Akane looked over at Kasumi, his eyelids `Sqwuenking' as he did. Kasumi simply looked back in innocence. Kasumi then leaned aside and whispered something to Tofu, who nodded. "Akane, can I see you for a moment?" he asked as he rose. Everybody but Ranma watched them leave, then turned on Ranma. "What was that about?" "Where are they going?" "Do you know anything about it?" "I'd-- rather not talk about it right now, Okay?" Ranma finally answered, not looking up. About twenty minutes later, Tofu led Akane back to the table, who was visibly sweating. Akane was sat back down, and he started to giggle hysterically. "Yeah, that's what I thought," Ranma muttered, getting a glass of water for him. After a moment, Akane clutched the glass in both hands. "Ranma, we need to talk." Shortly though, the conversation returned to lighter things, covering friends, martial arts, TV shows, and what not. Around Five-thirty, the band came back, and the couples once again started moving to the floor, dancing the range from waltzes, soft jazz, to fast and slow dances, that they played. All too quickly, though, the night seemed to wind down. Mousse picked up the two glasses of punch and, with a sigh and a grim look, headed back to the table. This might be his last chance. Arriving at the table, he set one of the glasses down in front of Ukyou, who was resting her chin in her hands and watching the dancers with a small smile. The camcorder sat next to her again, and the only other person there was Gemma, who also watched the dancers. "Now that's nice to see," Mousse said as he sat down next to Ukyou. Ukyou looked up at him, "What is?" she asked. "Your smile, it looks nice on you," Mousse said as he sipped his punch. Had someone spiked it? "Even if it IS a bit unusual..." "What's that supposed to mean?" Ukyou turned her chair to face him. "Well it's just that you've been so moody lately that I thought you were enjoying not having any fun," Mousse kept his eyes on the dancers as he spoke. "What do you mean? I've been having lots of fun!" Ukyou's voice started to rise slightly. "Yep, not dancing once today, not talking to anyone, brooding by yourself, sounds like lots of fun," Mousse agreed, still watching the dancers. "Hey! just because I'm not out on the floor Prancing around--" Ukyou was getting madder now. "Of course not," Mousse agreed, "that would be too feminine." "What!!" Ukyou kicked Mousse's chair out from under him, sending it under the table and him to the floor, then stood over him threateningly as Mousse sat there, still sipping his punch, "You listen to me and you listen good! I'm just as Feminine as anyone else here!" "Like who, Akane?" Mousse stood up quickly and caught Ukyou's wrists before she could bring down the Spatula of Doom, "You know, you seem to be very angry for some reason." "Really? I wonder why!" Ukyou shouted, trying to free her wrists. While this went on, they heard the Band's announcement for the last dance. "I just have to wonder, are you mad because I'm teasing you, or is it because what I say is true?" Mousse asked simply. "What?" Ukyou looked surprised. By then most of the others had come over to break up the fight. "You came here today to stand by your friends," Mousse said softly as he lowered his hands back into his sleeves, "But you haven't done anything with them. You've stuck yourself behind a camera, you haven't danced, you haven't talked, you haven't laughed. do you really think we want you to be this unhappy?" After a moment, Ukyou tossed her spatula onto the table and turned away. "So what do you suggest I do?" she asked. "Well... as it's Tradition... " Mousse pulled another white rose out from his sleeve and held it out to her, "Have this dance with me?" "Please, Ucchan, dance with him?" Akane pleaded. "Try to be happy," Ranma added. "It is the Tradition to save the last dance for the one you came with," Gemma added, standing up. It is? Mousse thought, I was only making that up. "PLEEESSE??" all of them whined. "Well... I guess so..." Ukyou relented. All of them cheered as Mousse led her to the dancefloor. Akane and Ranma watched, happy that Ukyou was at least trying to enjoy herself. Then Akane turned and offered his hand to Ranma, "May I have this dance, Dear?" Ranma started to take it, but then seemed to think of something, "Sorry Love, but this dance is for someone else." Akane looked surprised, but then smiled as Ranma walked over to her Father. "Daddy, would you like this dance?" Gemma stood straighter, eyes glazed, as his daughter took him by the hand. Akane was then snatched up by Nabiki, and was soon joined by Tofu and Kasumi. Soun picked up the camcorder and taped them all, his sobs almost drowning out the band. "Tell me what your thinking, Ukyou," Mousse asked gently as they danced. "They seem so happy today," Ukyou sighed, watching Ranma, "I just wish that I was the one he'd chosen to marry." "Tell me, Ukyou," Mousse asked, "Does their happiness bring you joy, even though it hurts, too?" Ukyou looked up at him then, "Yes. Yes, it does, Mousse." "Then you are a true Friend to them, and they are lucky to know you." He whirled Ukyou around, then drew her back in, "Never underestimate your importance." "Y'know, it's odd to hear you say these things, considering your track record with Shampoo," Ukyou didn't miss the twinge that crossed Mousse's face. "That... is an entirely different matter," Mousse sighed, "And one that I must deal with soon." "How's that?" Mousse grinned, "Shampoo and the old Ghoul will not take kindly to the Marriage, or to the fact that I am friends with them." They danced in silence for a moment, then Ukyou spoke again, "I wonder if I'll ever be that happy?" she sighed wistfully. "Happiness is Where you find it, Ukyou, not who you find," Mousse finally said, "If you want to be happy, you have to discover it yourself." Ukyou smiled. "Ranma, I must tell you, I'm glad to see you so happy today," Gemma finally said as they danced slowly. "To be honest, I never thought I'd get through today," Ranma agreed, then a very nervous silence followed. "Ranma, I have to apologies, I haven't been much of a father to you--" Gemma started. "No, really? why would you say that?" Ranma interrupted sarcastically, then clamped her mouth shut at the expression of pain that crossed her Father's face, "I'm sorry, please go on." "I know you have many reasons to hate me," Genma continued, "And... I'll probably give you more, but I just want you to know... " "Yes?" Ranma asked when he faltered. "I want you to know... that I'm proud that your my child, and that I wish I could have done more for you." He looked down at his daughter then, but her expression was unreadable. Ashamed Gemma looked away. "Yes, you have given me alot of reasons Pop," Ranma finally agreed, "All the engagements, going to Jusenkyo, the Cat-fist training, butting in where your not wanted... "But, you have always been there for me, and for that... I-I L... Love you" Gemma pulled Ranma closer, hugging her as they danced. "So, what are your plans now, Little brother?" Nabiki asked. "For what, a Honeymoon?" Akane blanched at the thought, "God, I really don't know... we haven't given it much thought yet." "You are so unprepared, Akane," Nabiki shook her head, "At least there's One good business woman in the family." "What's that supposed to mean?" Nabiki only gave her an evil grin. * * * Akane and Ranma approached the main entrance of the Hotel hand in hand, having decided to walk instead of driving with the others. Outside the doors were four taxi's that the drivers were loading luggage into. As they walked into the main vestibule, they noticed a large pile of luggage in the middle of the floor. As they watched, Mousse entered dragging five large suitcases, followed by Nabiki, who carried a handbag. "I thought... women... were supposed to... travel light?" Mousse growled as he threw the heavy bags on the pile. "But I just Had to pick up some clothes while we were in China," Nabiki cooed, "I just Love the fashions..." Akane and Ranma stared after them as Nabiki dragged Mousse off again, "Nabiki--?" "Well, she has been hanging around him all day... " Ranma reasoned, still staring. ""And Mousse is rather handsome... " Akane agreed. "What's that supposed to mean?" "Why Ranma..." Akane looked down at her, "I think your jealous." "Jealous--! of that near-sighted--" any further comments were cut short by Akane's kiss. Ranma quickly melted into it. "Oh, it's such a joy to see them getting along," Soun bawled. The two jumped apart to see the whole family watching them as Soun bawled, Ukyou recording them again. "Ah jeez, we're always being interrupted," Ranma sighed, "What are we supposed to do for a little privacy?" "What do you think the Honeymoon's for, Boy?" Genma asked. Akane blushed as Ranma facefaulted. The others started moving the luggage again when Akane noticed that none of his or Ranma's bags were in the pile. "Did our stuff get loaded already?" he asked, stopping Nabiki. "Ah, on that note..." Nabiki pulled an envelope out of her handbag as the others moved around them, "Your stuff isn't loaded because your staying here." "What?" neither Akane or Ranma were sure they heard her right. "Yep. This is my wedding present to you," Nabiki handed the envelope to Akane, "This is a receipt for the Honeymoon suite for the next week, along with sixty thousand yen that I wonSaved... for you for spending money." Akane slowly took the envelope, "Nabiki... that's... very... Nice of you" Akane said, stunned. "Yeah, when are the rest of the pod people arriving?" Ranma asked, then collapsed as Nabiki's handbag found the top of her head. "Thank you Nabiki, that was very nice of you," Akane said before Ranma could say anything, hugging his sister. Ranma stood back up, but didn't say anything. The three of them walked out as the last of the luggage was loaded, "Now remember, you two are now on a Honeymoon, No Fighting!" Nabiki tried to look stern, but ended up smiling. Everyone walked up them then, except for Tofu and Ukyou, and admist tears and hugs, said their good-byes. "C'mon, people, the meters are running!" Nabiki shouted out. Reluctantly, the family climbed into the taxi's and drove off to the train station. A moment later, Tofu pulled up in front of them in his subaru, then he and Ukyou stepped out. Tofu walked up to Akane and Ranma and talked to them softly for several minutes, again expressing his congratulations, and asking them again to stop by his clinic when they returned. Ukyou, however, stood quietly by the front of the car, almost as if she was afraid to approach. "So why are you driving back, " Akane asked him. "Well, I drove here, so it made sense," Tofu smiled down at him, "I was going to ask Kasumi to ride back with me, but everybody seemed to think that Ukyou would be a better choice, as she doesn't have any luggage." Akane tried to ignore Ranma and continue the conversation over her snickering. "Well, I think that Ukyou also wants to talk to you, so... " Tofu said after a moment, "I wish you two luck." with a smile, Tofu bowed to them, then stepped back into the car. The couple turned to look at Ukyou, who still watched them silently. "Ucchan, it's time to say good-bye," Ranma said finally, breaking the silence. Suddenly, Ukyou was there, holding onto Ranma tightly, not making a sound. After a moment she stepped back, then reached for Akane and hugged him just as tightly. Again, after a moment, Ukyou stepped back, holding her hands in front of her and her face flushed. "Stop by the restaurant when you get back," she asked softly. "Are you going to be alright?" Ranma asked her, holding Akane's hand. "Don't worry about me, I'll be fine. Just take care of yourselves, alright?" Ukyou's voice wavered then, so she turned and stepped back into the car. With a wave, Tofu drove off, leaving the couple alone at last. "I hope Ucchan will be okay," Ranma muttered as they walked back inside. "I hope so too," Akane agreed, "She's going to have to work through alot of it on her own, all we can do is be there for her when she needs us." "I was Really surprised that Mousse showed," Ranma said, pointing toward the elevators. "Yeah, that's just One problem solved though," Akane sighed, moving along, "I can think of one called Shampoo, one called Cologne, Kuno, Kodachi, half the school population--" "Hey!" Ranma drew Akane short on his ramblings and pushed the button, "All day today we've been paraded around, shown off, video taped, asked questions about our future, I've danced with people I'm usually fighting with, saw a couple that gave me the willies but didn't attack, I've been in a dress all day that I can't take off, and I've more or less enjoyed myself. Not a typical day." "I guess so," Akane agreed bemused, "So what's your point?" "My point is that I'm tired of wondering about what others are going to do, and want to spend some time alone with my beloved." Ranma finished as the doors opened. "Then what would you like to talk about?" Akane asked as he was pulled into the elevator. "I wasn't thinking about talking..." The elevator doors closed. End part one Authors notes: Okay this is my first attempt at fan fic (but not at writing) and this looks like the spot to say a few things. First of all, Most of my knowledge of Ranma 1/2 comes from Viz video and a few translated comics, as well as many hours of reading textfiles. That's all. Unfortunately, I know almost Nothing of the `UY regulars' so I tried to use them as little as possible. As my knowledge is somewhat limited, please forgive any gross mis-characterization on my part. I realize some of the characters aren't acting themselves, (Ranma and Akane aren't punching each other) but hopefully the reasons will soon become clear. Besides, they'll be back to normal soon. The idea for this story came about after reading the script : the final solution, what a pair of dips! in which Ranma and Akane are both permanently cursed, then get married. I liked the script, but it occurred to me that it didn't even touch on the reactions of the other cast members. (and hence, many opportunities for some great chaos!) so, the story before you was done. If you like the story, please tell me why, if you hated it why, please tell me (but please! say more than "you suck!" I Crave constructive criticism! It's my ADDICTION!!)