R.L wrote :

I'd also like to know what you thought of the ending.  I had intended to
write more, but when I typed the last line, it *felt* right to stop.  If
it's too abrupt, or if you think I should continue a little further, I
do have some ideas in my head.

        This takes the feeling of respect, which is more than considerable,
that I have for your writing skills and brings it to new heights. Very good
characterization of Ranma - bitter, angry, but frightened nonetheless.  She
is still willing to learn things she had never given a second thought to - a
holdover from her old personality as a guy.  I like how you imply that Ranma
is starting to like 'you' (the narrator)....with that scene where she comes
in with her books that aren't even related to 'your' courses.

        Ranma(chan) is my, shall we say, patron character in Ranma 1/2, so
my view on your fic is not exactly from an unbiased POV.

        Your fic is very realistic and while not waxing poetic on
descriptions, still conveys strong sensory images in my mind.  

        And I like how you refer to martial arts as "the Art" -
semi-mystical, if not mystical, and it can become a character's life.
Everything one does after he/she learns the Art is done with some element of
the Art in it.  Discipline, courage, self-motivation, respect.  For me, the
Art symbolizes those four tenets....

        "Discipline through self-motivation, self-motivation through
courage, courage through respect, respect through discipline."

1) Discipline through self-motivation : The drive to learn to control oneself.

2) Self-motivation through courage : The courage needed to break free from
your self-imposed placidness, from your old shell as it were, and motivate
yourself to reach further.

3) Courage through respect : The respect one has for the dangerous elements
of any situation, thereby granting an understanding of how to overcome that
obstacle - along with a measure of courage.

4) Respect through discipline : Control yourself when faced with an
obstacle, or a decision.  Gain respect for the problem through this control
of oneself, and overcome that obstacle.


        All these tenets apply to your fic.  

        Oh and leave it where you ended it....I'd sure like to see a sequel
BUT, as you know how the saying goes, "leave 'em hanging for more".