On Sat, 1 Feb 1997, Nicholas Leifker wrote:

I doubt Cologne's honor could be trusted in this case.  She tells the 
truth like an Aes Sedai (no offense, John and Jeremy).  

She tends to disregard honour in many cases.

However, you may have a point with the emphasis in which the passage is 
being placed, if not the severity of the situation.  The Joketsuzoku are 
a fiercely independent people, ones who would easily incur the wrath of 
the Communist government, should they actually do anything outside of 
their village.  Problem is, up until now, they haven't, and the 
Communists have viewed their existence as an annoyance, but not a 
threat.  But, if Joketsuzoku are terrorizing Japanese citizens...that 
constitutes an international incident.  What the Japanese would probably 
do first is try to apprehend the Amazons, a futile gesture given Cologne's 
abilities.  Next...they would ask that the Chinese step in and handle 
measures.  Remember Tienanmen Square?  In other words, the greatest 
threat lies not in the Japanese or Americans, but the Chinese 
government.   

This is very true, but remember also that China wants economic relations.
This would be threatened, especially given Nabiki's business relations.

Perhaps a bit of patience is in order.  After all, Shampoo and Cologne are 
still around, and are ready to wreck havoc if they can.  Moreover, Ryouga 
and Mousse have yet to make an appearance.  What will the lost boy think 
of Ranma's new lifestyle?  What does duck-boy think of Ranma giving his 
beloved the Kiss of Death?  And, let us not forget Happousai...the old 
master would probably have a ball trying to feel Ranma, and to get her to 
wear certain articles of clothing.  One other thing: Right now, everyone 
is viewing this as a temporary thing, including Ranma.  What happens when 
it goes on for a month or so?  What is everyone going to be like then?  
Are Akane and Ukyou going to be able to handle it for that long?  What of 
the adults in the situation, who want Ranma and Akane to marry, not be 
"girlfriends"?  Is Ranma going to even want to come back?  If so, what's 
he going to be like, given what she's experienced? 

All good questions.

In other words, while things may seem perfect now, it's not over yet...not 
by a longshot.

As I said earlier.

These four chapters only covered the first day.

And we are grateful for it.  Right now work is commencing on part 5, and 
these comments should be useful in the future direction of the work.

Yes, Thanks very much.

An author needs responses in order to truly judge the work.

I know I'm too conceited otherwise.

Hitomi

Ichinohei Hitomi
Hitomi@terminal.autobahn.mb.ca
http://204.112.189.3/~hitomi
"The beginings of wisdom is the ability to always ask questions."