Those of you from a while ago should remember this one. C&C welcome.
-------------------------------------
#7: Doco in the Battle of the Bands
(a.k.a. Ranma 1/2 the Musical)
The Wheel of Fire, Part 3: Doco-- Turning Point
Written by Razorclaw X (spiceoflife@hotmail.com)
http://www.crosswinds.net/anaheim/~slythe/ranma/ranff.html
Disclaimer: Ranma 1/2 and characters belong to Rumiko Takahashi. And
all that other good stuff. Proper licenses belong to respective
properties and characters. The manga has precedence over material in
the anime.
This file can be freely distributed so long as it appears in its
complete form and proper credit. No part may be reproduced for
monetary gain without permission from the author. (to which the answer
is probably "no")
As of yet, this is the Ranma fic I'm most proud of writing. It only
got this long because of that. :)
Fanart inspired by this story can be found at:
http://www.crosswinds.net/anaheim/~slythe/ranma/ranfa1.html
Author's note: This series takes place after the final manga story,
Vol.38, following after my previous fics, "Moments of Transition,"
"Team Ranma vs. the Orochi Assassins," "End of the Beginning,"
"Descending Spiral," "Specters," and "The Law of Amazons." Knowledge
of the previous stories helps in understanding the minor details of
the story (see "Plot Points" below). This is the first story of Part
3: Turning Point, where the gang takes a turn for the better.
I recommend listening to Ranma CDs while you read this, particularly
when certain songs come up in the story. Especially the Fighting Song
Karuta. I neither recommend nor endorse Son May (bootleg) CDs.
Personal bias says that this story has almost nothing to do with
Ranma or Akane, but instead the people around them. Story basis mainly
follows the manga, with anime details on the side. Ling-ling and Lung-
lung exist solely because the author likes the characters :)
Simple but important facts you have to know: If you were wondering
why Kodachi and Ukyo don't sing, well, here's the answer in short:
Ukyo wasn't around when the group formed, and Kodachi (at the time)
was considered a minor character. (Of course some people interpret as
this: the seiyu for Kodachi wasn't 'good' enough for the group; I hope
my own interpretation is right, otherwise this was a glaring insult.)
Both are actually quite good singers.
BTW: onna-Ranma = Girl-type Ranma (I'm being lazy)
Plot Points (from previous stories)
==================================
1. Ranma and Akane are married. Only Shampoo contests this now.
2. Ryoga is looking for his mother to get permission to marry Akari.
Akari already found Mr. Hibiki for him, and it's okay with him.
3. Mousse and Ukyo have been dating, but recently broke up when
Shampoo returned from China. Mousse still wants Shampoo, but this
leaves Ukyo in the dust. Both feel guilty over a sham relationship
(it was based on desperation/need for attachment), but Ukyo's punishing
herself too much, convinced that she knew she shouldn't have gotten
started in the first place.
4. The 'Kiss of Death' law has been forcibly-repealed by Cologne.
5. Mousse is now an outsider of his tribe (banished by Cologne). He's
now living at and works at Ucchan's, since Cologne's still mad at him
for defying tradition and authority.
6. After being possessed by a malevolent spirit, Ukyo discovers she
has 'untapped potential' to manipulate chi to heights greater than
Ranma. As of yet she's reluctant to use it as she's afraid she might
hurt someone (she also doesn't know how to 'summon' it, either).
7. Ling-ling and Lung-lung work as draw girls at Nekohatten. That is,
they stand just outside the door to attract men inside :) They're now
disillusioned with their tribe's ways, but keep it to themselves.
8. Kodachi and Tatewaki have reached an understanding. Both know that
Ranma is the pig-tailed girl (but not that he's cursed). As a result,
Kuno's hatred of Ranma was intensified, since he believes Ranma toyed
with his fragile heart. Kodachi sees the curse as an 'added incentive'
to give up on Ranma and look for 'more perfect' guys.
10. Kuno is currently honing his techniques with zeal, intending to
use his new library of attacks against Ranma. This includes, but is
not limited to, the Chinese Phoenix Sword, the ultimate swordsman
technique. He's even realized a practical use for the Watermelon
Cyclone Slash in battle-- quick destruction of large objects.
------------------------------------------------
Opening: Don't Cry Anymore
(a.k.a. Ukyo's song; read lyrics to find why)
On a street corner, shining down is
The lonely silhouette which is me
I just heard the line "good-bye" from you
Without quite believing it
My heart beats as though they're drums
Against my chest
Which brings forth tears,
A lullaby
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Once tomorrow's here, it'll all be different
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Set yourself against a new wind, and
Smile again!
I had felt like
I was totally cool.
In the car that's driving away,
I can see a lovely kiss scene.
You and your girlfriend--
It's no mistake!
Cheer up, don't cry anymore
Only bad things won't continue
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
I look up and embrace the sky.
Smile again!
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Once tomorrow's here, it'll all be different
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Set yourself against a new wind, and
Smile again!
* * * * *
If it has the words 'martial arts' in it, Ranma could do it easily.
And wipe the floor with the opponent at it, too. Well, most of the
time, if you counted combat with Pantyhose Taro, Cologne, Happosai,
and sometimes Ryoga got lucky.... But when it really mattered, Ranma
came out on top.
Of course, that didn't apply to activities that didn't involve
physical activity of some form. Playing musical instruments was one of
them.
And playing card games, Ranma reminded himself dryly, strumming his
guitar without care.
The microphone screeched as Mousse sang off-key, with Ranma, Ryoga,
and Kuno trying to play instruments in which they had no skill in
using. Well, actually, Kuno looked like he knew what he was doing,
Ranma thought. DUCK, as Mousse liked to call his 'band,' never left
the walls of the Tendo dojo.
"...don't you knoooow-oh it's luuuuu-uhhhve...." sang Mousse
pathetically.
Ranma threw down the electric guitar. "I've had it, Mousse! Not only
can't we play these things, you can't sing either!"
Kuno waved his drumsticks menacingly at Mousse. Fortunately for
Mousse, the drumsticks were nowhere near as long as a bokken. "Had you
recruited better talent than what I see before me, we wouldn't sound
so terrible!"
Ryoga set his guitar down as well. "If you're done wasting my time,
I still have some traveling to do."
All four men bickered while Akane and Nabiki entered the room.
"What's it about this time?" asked Akane, planting her arms at her
sides.
"Looks like they're discovering music," muttered Nabiki.
Ranma pointed at Mousse accusingly. "It's HIS idea."
"Enough of your prattle, Saotome!" shouted Kuno, the last word
seemingly dripping with venom. "Our last battle has yet to reach a
conclusion-- I will destroy you!" He raised his bokken overhead, ready
to strike.
"Get lost!" Ranma spat back, planting a fist into Kuno's face.
"Umm, Mousse?" Akane started, staring at the equipment in the room,
"What are you doing?"
Mousse produced a flyer from his sleeves, handing it to Akane. "It's
a battle of the bands. Sponsored by the Tokuyama Agency, who are
looking for talented bands. Grand prize is an all-expenses paid trip
to Hawaii for two weeks and a possible recording contract."
Akane read the flyer over. "Hawaii, huh."
All-expenses paid wringed in Nabiki. "Mousse, Mousse, Mousse... I
can help you get to Hawaii, if for some small favors."
"Name them!" replied Mousse, excited.
"One: don't sing. Two: when you win, I'm going along. Say 'hello' to
your new manager."
"Nabiki," Akane said, "the flyer says the entire band gets to go."
Nabiki smiled slyly, then wrapped her arm around Akane's waist. "Now
let's talk business, Akane. How would you like to go to Hawaii for
summer vacation?"
"Well, yeah, it would be nice."
"I've got an idea."
The two sisters walked out of the training room and to the kitchen,
where Kasumi was washing dishes.
"Hey, Kasumi," greeted Nabiki.
"Hi Nabiki!" answered Kasumi cheerily, as usual.
"Tell me, when was the last time you went on vacation?"
"Oh my, I don't know. I've been working so hard that I've never
thought about it. Why?"
"How would you like to take a vacation to Hawaii?"
"If this involves hurting someone, then the answer is 'no.'"
"Nothing of the sort, dear Sister," Nabiki replied coolly. "Do you
truly always think the worst of me?"
"Oh, I'm sorry," apologized Kasumi. "I didn't mean it that way."
Akane handed the flyer over to Nabiki, who in turn showed it to
Kasumi. "It's a battle of the bands," explained Nabiki, "grand prize
winners get an all-expenses paid trip to Hawaii. Interested?"
Kasumi nodded, understanding the meaning. "Wonderful! It'll be like
old times again...."
"No way, I'm not going to do it!" Ranma said fiercely.
Ranma stood defiantly in the middle of the Tendo dojo, his back to
Akane and Nabiki. Try as they might, the Tendo sisters couldn't
convince Ranma to cooperate with them. Yet.
"Oh come on, Ranma," Nabiki persisted, "even Shampoo agreed. Why
don't you? We can't do this without you."
"Singing is not a guy thing," returned Ranma. Especially considering
how well Mousse was doing only hours before....
"I can fix that!" shouted Akane, throwing a bucket of water on
Ranma.
"Hey!" yelled onna-Ranma.
"Problem solved," concluded Nabiki. "Really, Ranma, you don't have a
choice anymore. We want to go to Hawaii."
"Well, thanks a lot," replied onna-Ranma sarcastically. My dignity
for Hawaii. What else could go wrong?
All at once, several figures broke their way through to the Tendo
training hall: Mousse, Kuno, Kodachi, Ukyo, and Ryoga.
Of course, how Ryoga found his way there was a mystery....
"Hey!" they shouted in unison, "We want to go to Hawaii too!"
Ranma sank to the floor in frustration. NOW what?
Kuno waved his bokken menacingly. "To think that the vile scourge,
Nabiki Tendo would conspire with the cretinous sorcerer, Ranma
Saotome, in order to spirit off to Hawaii with the flower of rare
beauty that is Akane Tendo, without my approval or chaperone...."
"Oh, shut up," Kodachi snapped at her brother. "The commoner Nabiki
Tendo fails to understand her proper station in respect to us Kunos."
Whipping out a ribbon, she cried to Nabiki, "And soon you'll learn
your place! I'll make you wish you studied your father's martial
arts!"
"If it weren't for me, you wouldn't have known about the contest in
the first place!" complained Mousse, digging through his robes for
blades. Any would do.
"Yeah!" agreed Ryoga, waving his umbrella. "Mousse was generous
enough to let me hook up with his band, but you...."
"Not fair playing favorites," argued Ukyo. "Mark my words, Tendo:
this will be the last time I'll be looked over by your little
'gentleman's club' you call a singing group you've got running here."
She unstrapped her combat spatula, twirling it in the air and catching
it. "I'll make sure that you're 'full of memories,' full of memories
of me hurting you! Any last words before you die?"
Ranma looked at Nabiki nervously. "Nabiki... I can't take all FIVE
of them at once...." Well, Kuno wasn't too much of a problem, but then
there was both Ryoga and Mousse, unless you got rid of Mousse's
glasses... then there was Kodachi and Ukyo... wait a minute, could I
hurt my old friend?
"Oh, come now," Nabiki started, addressing the five aggressive
teens, "don't you think I have everything planned out already?"
All five shouted at Nabiki angrily. All at once, trying to yell over
the others to make themselves heard. Nabiki calmly ignored them, as if
her life wasn't in jeopardy. "Well, if you guys would settle down and
listen, you'd know that the entire band gets to go."
They stopped. All attention was on Nabiki.
Kodachi narrowed her eyes in suspicion, barely restraining herself.
"We're listening," Ukyo hissed, gripping her spatula harder.
"I've taken into account what we have here," she said. "Without a
shadow of a doubt, Akane, Kasumi, Ranma, Shampoo, and I will sing,
after all, people like us. We've enough singers, but nobody to play
instruments. So what do you say?"
Ranma slapped herself in the face. What in the world was Nabiki
doing?
"The Kuno tradition dictates a proficiency in all manner of
instruments," commented Kuno. "Particularly those of the reeds and
winds, as they yield the most pleasant tunes. Of course, a set of
bongos I wouldn't mind at all."
"Well," Ukyo started, "I learned how to play a piano when I was
younger. Sort of." Then, strapping her spatula, she added, "I can sing
too, you know."
"Well, I have something to say to you about that: no," answered
Nabiki coldly. She glared at Kodachi, who looked just about ready to
protest herself. "I don't know how well any of you can sing, but I'm
not willing to put Hawaii on the line to find out." Nabiki kept her
other reason in the back of her mind; it wouldn't do any good to make
them mad again.
"Just give me something," Kodachi said. "All I want is Hawaii."
"I'll help if Akari can come along," Ryoga said.
"And what am I supposed to do?" Mousse said. "I mean it, I WANT to
do something important this time. If I have to do lights again, which
is NOT important, I swear someone is going to...."
"You'll all see," Nabiki answered.
All questions were answered, and a few more were raised when Nabiki
gathered all band members to the rented auditorium: onna-Ranma, Akane,
Kasumi, Shampoo, and Nabiki were singers. In percussion were Kuno,
Ryoga, and Kodachi; Kuno having a set of drums, Kodachi an xylophone
set, and Ryoga got cymbals and a gong, along with the rest of the
percussion instruments (as not every song had each instrument included
within the scores, so, Nabiki reasoned, better to keep the boy busy).
Ukyo was given a set of keyboards, and a spare flute for good measure.
Wind instruments were given to Ling-ling and Lung-lung (they would've
gotten mad otherwise if Shampoo were in and they weren't, but Nabiki
wouldn't let them sing either). Konatsu (who wanted to stay with Ukyo)
got a guitar, Akari (who joined at Ryoga's insistence) got a violin,
and Mousse got a bass. Well, fourteen people wasn't so bad, the more
the merrier, Nabiki thought. Now if only she could get them to work
together.
Soun, Genma, Nodoka, and Cologne sat in the midst of empty seating
in the auditorium, watching the teens practice. Soun couldn't help but
cry, spouting words about his daughters growing up, words to which
Genma paid no attention.
Nodoka smiled warmly at Cologne. "So you're Shampoo's great-
grandmother? She's such a sweet girl!"
Cologne nodded. "Most men covet her beauty," she said, careful not
to bring up anything related to Son-in-law. After all, this was his
mother. Some things you just can't talk about with certain people; a
hundred years of hard lessons reinforced this suggestion.
Mousse and Ryoga were among the first to complain, but Nabiki gave
them a stern look, and reminded them of Hawaii. Kuno wanted to turn
Ranma into paste, despite the fact that he was in female form at the
moment-- that is, until Nabiki intervened on Ranma's behalf. She
sighed, realizing that the trip was the only thing keeping all the
variables (as she referred the 'new recruits' to the band as) in
check. It wouldn't look pretty if the group they called 'Doco' didn't
win first place.
In times before Doco was primarily a singing group, grown to
popularity beyond what any of its members imagined. A back-up band
was hired to play the background music, very professional they were.
After a few concerts the five singers thought it best to disband,
much to the disappointment to the fans. The biggest reason was
exhaustion, among other things. The last time the five sang together
was at the last Christmas party.
From what Nabiki could remember, that was the last time any of them
worked on the same side. Referring to the generally uncooperative
Kuno, Mousse, Ryoga, Kodachi, Ukyo, and Shampoo, that is.
And now today, the beginning of summer, nearing summer vacation, the
group was back together, with others along for the ride. Vacation in
Hawaii never sounded so good in Nabiki's life. All-expenses paid trip
hit the spot.
The preliminaries wouldn't be for another three weeks, not a lot of
time for the band to shape up, admittantly, but not impossible. At
least they knew the basics of music, now all they had to do was play
it together. Then again, Konatsu looked like he'd never seen an
instrument in his life.
Evening had barely started that day after school. The afternoon
was spent just gathering everybody together for the trip to the
auditorium. Not one of them had dinner yet.
"Okay, everybody, listen up," Nabiki said, raising her voice as to
catch everybody's attention. "We've only three weeks to practice.
Revel in the fact that the other bands only have that long as well.
But we're going to work at this, both day and night, school time
permitting, for the next three weeks, until we get our routine down
perfectly. Your trip to Hawaii depends on it. Understand?"
The others nodded.
"Okay, you all read over the notes, so lets get started."
About five seconds later the band played to their own hearts'
content, which bothered Nabiki. The racket they made was unbearable
to the audiences' ears, as one-by-one the adults ran for the doors.
Nabiki shook her head. This was going to take a while.
It was late in the evening when the group agreed to quit for the day
(good thing, as Nabiki had reached the limit of her patience. It
was fact that Konatsu had NEVER seen a musical instrument in his life).
Weary, the Nerima gang filed into a nearby sushi restaurant, as they
were too tired and exhausted to cook their own dinners. Even Kasumi,
with her usual optimistic, energetic, cheery attitude, was exhausted.
Being out of practice didn't help any of them one bit. Not to mention
some of them never read music in their life.
"I wonder how the other bands are doing," wondered Akane.
"Probably not as bad as we're doing," replied onna-Ranma sourly.
"I still plan on going to Hawaii," announced Mousse, with a
slightly-renewed determination.
Strangely enough, Shampoo and Ukyo sat at the same table, Ranma
noticed. And not a word passed between them, as if neither existed.
Unable to help himself, Ranma got up and sat at their table.
"Heya, Ranchan," Ukyo greeted.
"Nihao, Ranma," Shampoo greeted.
"I couldn't help but notice you two stopped fighting," Ranma began.
"I mean, thinking back over the past year, I can't think of one
instance where the two of you weren't at each other's throats."
Both girls giggled. "Things have changed, Ranchan," Ukyo said.
"We decide on truce," explained Shampoo. "There no reason to fight
one another." Not to mention Spatula-girl no challenge for Shampoo,
she thought. "Only pervert girl in Shampoo's way to marry Ranma now."
"Fat chance," Ranma replied.
"Shampoo," Ukyo began, "why don't you get together with Mousse?"
"Shampoo no like Mousse!" Shampoo replied, a bit too quickly.
"Uh-huh," Ukyo said. She thought about Mousse-- what a guy he was.
Ukyo found it in her heart to love such a man, but his heart was
still set on Shampoo, no matter what. It was a shame, her lot in life,
really. Mousse did care about Ukyo, but not the same way as Shampoo,
whom he truly loved. Nope, no denying it Ukyo, Mousse can't be yours.
Then there was Konatsu. Ukyo couldn't bring herself to think of the
male kunoichi the same way she saw a man like in Ranma. Only time
would tell.
Ukyo produced a pocket calendar, and flipped through several pages,
and sighed. "If this is how the next three weeks are going to be, my
business will suffer. I can only keep the shop open at very limited
hours now."
"Great-grandmother's restaurant have no such problem," Shampoo said.
Nabiki threw a wad of yen on the table before her. Until then nobody
at the table noticed the middle Tendo sister's approach. "Should be
enough to cover rent and profit loss for a month."
Ukyo counted the money, then looked up at Nabiki suspiciously. "Just
where did you get this from?" No way could she have this much money.
"Oh, I have my sources," Nabiki replied coolly, sparing a glance at
Kuno.
Ranma couldn't imagine how Nabiki conned Kuno out of his money this
time, especially since he stopped buying photos of the 'pig-tailed
girl.' Oh, how those lost days were yearned for, as Kuno redoubled his
efforts to hurt Ranma after 'discovering' that his 'pig-tailed girl'
was in fact Ranma. In their last battle Kuno had left Ranma with quite
a few sores and bruises; there was nothing Ranma could do to distract
him from the fight then, not even Akane's presence seemed to work. No
doubt a broken heart fueled his anger and augmented his fighting
focus.
Ukyo got up. "Nabiki, may I have a word with you?"
Shrugging, Nabiki followed Ukyo to the opposite end of the dining
room. "What's on your mind?"
"Why are you helping me?" asked Ukyo. "You don't help anyone for
free."
"Because I know you'll pay me back," answered Nabiki, then added,
"with an all-expenses paid trip to Hawaii."
Somehow Ukyo could tell that wasn't the real answer. "I know you
don't need me, and I know you know you don't need me, so why are you
helping me?" Ukyo persisted.
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you," Nabiki replied.
The okonomiyaki chef stared back with a 'try me' look.
"Okay, it goes like this," explained Nabiki, feeling that her show
was over. "If you weren't going to Hawaii, what would you do?"
Ukyo thought for a moment. "Tag along?"
"That, or try to stop us from going," Nabiki finished. "I'd rather
keep everyone in one place where I can see them. I mean to go to
Hawaii for my summer vacation, after all." Especially before the
dreaded Exam Hell, the exams that determined a student's course in
life. Nabiki intended to have some real fun in her life before
college.
Ukyo wasn't satisfied. "There's something else, but you
won't tell me."
"Nope. Not even your money can unzip these lips."
The next day at the Nekohatten Ling-ling and Lung-lung were hard at
work. Doing nothing. They were bored.
It was morning. For the Chinese restaurant there was no such thing
as the 'morning rush.' It was the twins' job to attract young men
inside for a bite to eat; they were beautiful young girls, after all.
This morning was unusually quiet; then again, it was summer. Most of
the business was either attending classes or working.
Ling-ling grabbed some empty bowls from a nearby table, tossing
some to her sister.
* * * * *
Ouen-teki SHANPUU-anego (Helpful older sister Shampoo)
(Fighting Song Karuta, track 40)
(Ling) Ling-ling, (Lung) Lung-lung
(Both) The rescuing Nekohatten
(Ling) Ling-ling, (Lung) Lung-lung
(Both) Helpful older sister Shampoo!
(Ling) Superb cooking,
(Lung) Speedy delivery,
(Ling) Low prices,
(Lung) Beautiful draw girls!
(Note: btw, they mean themselves)
(Ling) Satiated Ranma,
(Lung) Annoying Mousse,
(Ling) Comforting o-baba (Cologne),
(Lung) Delightful older sister Shampoo! [Yaa!]
(Both) We two sisters working together as one,
Splendidly spinning porcelain bowls in the air!
[Aiyaa!] *CRASH!*
[(Ling) Customer, catch it, please!]
[(Lung) Please!]
* * * * *
Cologne and Shampoo stepped into the dining room, wondering at all
the commotion. Ling-ling and Lung-lung cowered, trying for a cute
look. The two elder Amazons surveyed the shattered porcelain bowls
across the floor.
"This is why you don't play when you work," Cologne said. Her cold
gaze was enough to get the Chinese twins rushing off for brooms.
Shampoo merely smiled, standing behind Cologne where the old
matriarch couldn't see her. Those girls had potential, now if only
they could do two things at once. Their style and personality relied
on a focus to get by, and that was why they were such excellent
fighters, if a bit unorthodox. Take away the focus, or disturb it,
and they fell apart.
Which was one reason why they weren't singing.
Two days later at the auditorium, while the others were setting-up
the instruments on-stage, Nabiki thumbed through a plastic file-box,
which was merely a plastic container that could serve as a portable
file cabinet drawer. She thumbed through the folders until she hit
the one she was looking for: lyrics to the song the Doco girls would
sing: 'Complex Two Thoughts.'
This one was a hit, Nabiki thought to herself. Perhaps one of the
best songs the group had written.
The middle Tendo sister jumped when someone tapped her on the
shoulder.
"Uh, Nabiki," she heard Ryoga say, "I need to talk to you."
Regaining her composure, Nabiki turned to face Ryoga. Standing
beside him was Akari. The Tendo girl couldn't help but notice that
Ryoga was wearing his heavy backpack-- why?
"Speak fast, because I've got places to go," Nabiki said.
"As do I," nodded Ryoga. "I need to go on a journey to find my
mother."
Nabiki stared at the Eternally Lost Boy in surprise. "You can't
leave, not now!"
Ryoga glanced at Akari, his mind seemingly set. "I must ask her
permission before I can marry Akari. This desire, I realize, is far
more greater than a chance to go to Hawaii."
"We've had a talk," Akari added. "We're both leaving."
Nabiki's head started to swim. Carefully-laid plans started to
crumble before her eyes. Not for long, she vowed. "So, you two are
both thinking about leaving the group, hmmm? What if either one of
you change your minds? You're no good to us unless you're with us,
NOW. Later doesn't cut it; we'd have to change all our plans just to
accommodate you two again."
"Well, we didn't think it through that far...." admitted Akari.
Ryoga dug his toes into the floor. "I thought being together in
Hawaii would've been nice, but I really want to marry Akari, too."
"You have to decide one over the other; you can't do both," Nabiki
pointed out. "You can't go to Hawaii unless you're part of this band,
after all, and you can't remain part of this band if you search for
your mother. Besides, the band needs you!" Not to mention it helped
to keep the variables all in one basket, Nabiki reminded herself.
The faces of Ryoga and Akari showed plain guilt. Obligation kicked
in.
"Look," Nabiki argued, "you'd get just as lost as your mother, so
how much better a chance do you have of finding her if you're both
lost?"
Both Akari and Ryoga nodded thoughtfully.
"Ryoga, do you still want to go to Hawaii?" asked Akari.
"Only if you come along," answered Ryoga as he grasped Akari's
hands.
"We can always find your mother another time, but Hawaii is a
one-time chance," Akari pointed out. "I do want to go there."
"Then it's settled," concluded Nabiki. Wrapping her arms around
both Ryoga and Akari, she lead them back to the stage, saying, "Now,
my friends, we have some work cut out for us."
The next day, during school, Tatewaki Kuno walked through the quiet
halls of Furinkan High, alone, his bokken resting on his right
shoulder. While the bokken was held in Kuno's right hand, his left
hand was occupied by a thin book-- a travel brochure for Hawaii, in
fact.
"Well, greetings, Tacchi," someone called, breaking Kuno's
concentration.
Father. Kuno closed the brochure and tucked it into his shirt
pocket. "It definitely is not a pleasure, as always, FATHER," Kuno
said, almost spitting out the last word. Of course, such actions were
beneath Tatewaki Kuno, especially in a facility of learning such as
this. His fingers wrapped around the handle of his bokken. "I thought
I told you to stay away from me."
"What was that you were reading?" asked Principal Kuno, ignoring
his son.
"Why do you take a sudden interest in my reading material?" asked
Kuno defensively. The grip on his bokken tightened.
"And when have you ever read anything besides thick textural
literature, son?" the principal pointed out. "By now I would've
thought you'd be sweating, studying for the college entrance
examinations!" And I'm not going to make it any easier.
"Go away," replied Kuno, ready to walk past his father.
With surprising speed, before Tatewaki could react, the elder Kuno
reached into his son's pocket and produced the brochure. "Well,
what's this?"
Kuno grabbed the brochure out of his father's hands violently. "That
is my business, not yours."
Waving his index finger, the principal said, "I see... my son's
following my footsteps! That's my boy!" Laying one unwanted hand on
Kuno's left shoulder, he continued, "Now if only I can drill it into
your thick skull that making others' lives miserable is the greatest
joy life has to offer! Next I'll show you how to get students to bow
at your own statue...."
"I need not the forcefully-coerced praising of a cold and unfeeling
statue to satisfy my everyday needs!" Kuno placed a hard kick into
the principal's gut, sending him reeling to the floor. "Stay away from
me, and my sister, DAD, and I mean it this time. You're unfit to be
head of the House of Kuno; as I am effectively the head of household,
you are no longer welcome to our ancestral home. Be aware that our
next encounter shall be our last. I don't want to see you again."
The principal watched his son stalk away. He called, "Mark my words,
Tacchi! If you go to Hawaii, you'll never come back the same!
Ahahahahaha!"
That evening's session, before practice, Nabiki was approached by
Tatewaki Kuno himself. No grand entrances, no speeches; direct, and to
the point. How unusual.
"Nabiki Tendo," greeted Kuno, seemingly detached.
"Kuno-chan," returned Nabiki, with the usual coolness.
"After much consideration," started Kuno, "I have decided that
traveling to Hawaii may not be the best course of action at this
time."
"And why not?" asked Nabiki, groaning to herself.
"This morning I've had a run-in with my... father," explained Kuno.
"Since he had spent three years of his life in Hawaii, and, reflecting
upon the results, I have no desire to become as he."
Nabiki laughed, the tension within released. "You're kidding!"
Kuno peered at the middle Tendo sister sternly. "I assure you, I am
not."
Nabiki put one hand on Kuno's shoulder, almost in the same manner
as the principal hours before. "You know what your problem is,
Kuno-chan? You think, since your daddy came back from Hawaii a wreck,
that you might come back a wreck as well. Don't be silly!" Putting on
a serious tone, she added, "I'll bet you're 'brilliant' and 'wise'
enough to resist the temptation of falling to Hawaiimania, Kuno-chan."
Kuno resumed a haughty air, failing to catch the trace of sarcasm in
Nabiki's voice. "That I am."
"Don't you think you deserve a break before the exams?"
"Perhaps, but time spent with this band and in Hawaii would take
away from study time."
"A risk that's well worth it," assured Nabiki. "I'm in the same
boat, remember? And, thirdly, don't you think you should do your
little sister a favor by helping her get to Hawaii?"
For a moment, Kuno remained silent, tapping his bokken
instinctively. Finally, he said, "I have considered your truthful
words, Nabiki Tendo, and I have decided to remain with your band. To
this end, effective immediately, each and every member of our band
will have available to them a personal crash tutor in their particular
instrument."
He smiled widely at Nabiki. Raising a fist into the air, Kuno
announced, "Nothing shall stop us now!"
I'm the glue that keeps this group together and in focus, Nabiki
thought to herself smugly. Especially with the all-expenses paid trip
to Hawaii as an incentive.
That Saturday night Nabiki lay in her futon, staring at the ceiling
of her room. She thought over the past week, over the band's progress,
over her own behavior toward the band members, and one particular
confrontation with a suspicious Akane.
It was earlier that evening when Akane confronted Nabiki. The
younger Tendo had asked, "Why are you helping everybody?"
To which Nabiki replied, "You know me, Akane. Hawaii is all I want."
Akane couldn't help but push the matter further. "Nabiki, you could
just as easily have hired a backup band instead. It would be just us,
Kasumi, Ranma, and Shampoo." Then realization dawned upon her. "You've
got a soft spot under that cold exterior."
Nabiki turned to her sister in shock. "Perish the thought! It
wouldn't do if it were known that Nabiki Tendo helped others for
free. Everybody knows that whatever Nabiki Tendo wants, she gets. I
want Hawaii."
At that point the discussion was dropped.
Nabiki sighed as she lay under her covers in her room. Summer often
gave the middle Tendo sister a lot of time to think.
Am I getting soft? she wondered. Or was I always this way?
Nabiki Tendo was known for her cold, mercenary attitude about
matters, especially when it came to money, which was most prominently
displayed in the wedding fiasco. She didn't mean for it to turn out
the way it did; after all, Nabiki wanted to see her sister happily
married. And getting some extra cash on the side wouldn't have hurt,
Nabiki reasoned, so she sent out extra invitations, hoping to turn an
easy profit. Unfortunately, the extra invitations attracted some
unwanted attention, and an unwanted result in the end. Of course that
didn't stop Nabiki from taking the guests' yen.
Nabiki was glad that everyone was okay, especially Ranma, who'd
been pounded, nearly sliced in half, and blown-up during the wedding.
Why did she care about Ranma? Of course, he did turn quite a profit
for her, but Nabiki knew there was the other reason too: she really
did care what happened to him. Not in the same way as Akane, but as a
person, someone you know, someone who you don't want to see harm to.
Ranma always bought her cold exterior feelings, what a dense man he
was!
Of course Kasumi never bought it; she always insisted that Nabiki
were kinder and humane than she let on. Kasumi was very perceptive,
if a bit 'out of it' sometimes. Or was that a clever facade as well?
And Akane, heh, she didn't catch on until... just a few hours ago? Or
did Akane know all along? Well, Nabiki never could keep anything from
her sisters for long.
Bah! she thought, better to remain cold and ruthless than display
such weakness as kindness and emotion. Better to keep your distance
in case they left for good... like Mother. Reflecting, Nabiki thought,
perhaps that's why I turned out the way I did. What would Mother say?
Unlike her father, Soun, Nabiki kept her emotions in check.
Privately she still mourned her mother, lost so suddenly. Oh, how
that day affected them all! Strong emotional attachment was excess
baggage. At least Kasumi and Akane could deal with it. Well, MAYBE
Kasumi can deal with it, considering her attitude nowadays compared
to years before. Yuck, the thought of it! How can she stand being so
bright and cheery all the time?!
Yet....
I hate summer, Nabiki thought. Definitely too much time to think.
It was the start of the second week since the band formed, a Sunday.
The 'crash tutors' Kuno hired were in fact the best in all Japan;
those band members unfamiliar with their instruments began to
understand the basics. Of course, to Nabiki's amusement, some, like
Akari and Konatsu, barely played well-enough, as they were the ones
with the least musical experience.
The evening after the day's practice, Nabiki was stopped from her
trip to her file box by Kodachi Kuno.
Kodachi bowed. "A fair evening, Nabiki Tendo."
"That it is," returned Nabiki, seemingly uncaring. "What do you
want?"
"Ahahahahahaha," laughed Kodachi. "Does this mean, that whenever
someone approaches you, they must desire something?"
"Yes."
"Hohohohoho, you got me there," admitted Kodachi. "Very well,
direct and to the point. If I can't sing in this group, I want out."
How did I know this was coming? Nabiki asked herself, shaking her
head in mild disgust. For that matter, it was a wonder that Ukyo
didn't profess the same desire. "Why would you, as cultured as you
are, want to back-out like a whining baby?"
Kodachi's face reddened. "Why you...."
"Do you have to be so selfish, when you should be thinking about
your brother's well-being?" Nabiki continued. "Especially since he's
spending much of his time cramming for the exams?"
For a moment, Kodachi looked as if she were thinking to herself.
"The so- called 'Exam Hell' certainly is affecting poor Brother
Dearest," admitted Kodachi reflectively, thinking to Kuno's
preparations during his final year at Furinkan. Dear Brother feared
becoming a 'ronin,' a student who takes multiple years to pass the
exams. "He has been rather... tense, lately. Perhaps there's wisdom
in your words, Nabiki Tendo, it's time I got my brother back!"
Good thing she forgot about the singing, Nabiki thought smugly. Not
a snowball's chance in hell; Doco's singers were a fivesome, and a
fivesome it would continue to be. Not to mention that Nabiki Tendo
NEVER gives in to demands.
It was well-after midnight that same evening before Kodachi
remembered that Nabiki hadn't given in to her demand to sing. Curse
you, Tendo!
Two days later, after practice had finished for the evening, Ukyo
was stopped on the way to the exit by Nodoka.
"Hi, Mrs. Saotome," greeted Ukyo.
"Hello, Ukyo," greeted Nodoka. "May I have a word with you?"
"Sure," answered the okonomiyaki chef. What could she possibly
want?
Nodoka lead Ukyo to a set of seats near the back of the amphitheater
seating, away from the others. She offered a seat to Ukyo, and, after
the girl seated herself, Nodoka did the same, sitting next to her.
"So, what did you want to talk to me about?" asked Ukyo.
"I have been watching you for the past few weeks, ever since my son
married Akane," started Nodoka. "You in particular; unlike Ranma's two
other friends, you have been betrothed to my son. You do not seem to
be taking the situation very lightly, as I have noticed a startling
change in your behavior. Is there something you want to tell me
about?"
Ukyo stuttered, "W...what do you mean?"
"Do you not care that your betrothed was taken away from you?"
"That doesn't matter, so long as Ranchan's happy," Ukyo replied
hastily. Perhaps a bit too quickly.
Nodoka nodded. "I see. What about your honor?"
"My... honor?"
"Your father and my husband made an arrangement that you and my son
were honor-bound to follow, but since my son had been betrothed to
Akane first, your arrangement was overlooked by precedence." Nodoka
straightened herself. "Your behavior suggests that you do not wish to
correct your dishonor."
"That arrangement was made in error!" argued Ukyo hotly, almost
raising a fist in anger. "It was all a mistake; no honor lost."
Nodoka nodded. "Think it over, Ukyo. Are you saying this because
you wish to protect my son's honor? Or your own?"
Ukyo couldn't think of a response.
At that point the female Saotome stood from her seat. "As I have
said before, I have been watching you, Ukyo. Before, you would not
hesitate to fulfill your obligations-- commendable in itself. Your
current behavior suggests that you are trying to avoid issues of honor
entirely, especially the betrothal. I believe you do not behave as
you do by design, but I still want you to think about it. Honor is
important."
"Sure," answered Ukyo, unsettled by Nodoka's words. Am I running?
Why is she mothering me? For that matter, how do I know what
mothering is?
Nodoka placed a sympathetic hand on Ukyo's shoulder. As if she were
reading Ukyo's thoughts, she said, "Believe me when I say that I care
about your well-being, Ukyo. My husband made you my responsibility;
therefore, it is my duty to look after you until this matter is
resolved." She turned away. But, before she made her first step, she
turned around once more to face Ukyo. Nodoka asked, "Do you still
love my son?"
"Huh?" Ukyo said in surprise.
"I believe it was a simple enough question," pressed Nodoka.
Ukyo thought for a moment. Finally, she answered, "More than the
world."
"And you would do anything for him?" continued Nodoka.
"Yes!" answered Ukyo, without hesitation.
Nodoka nodded once more. She added, "Think about my words, Ukyo."
Then, without another word, the female Saotome left Ukyo alone,
marching off to rejoin her husband.
The very next evening Nabiki called together the band members for a
group meeting. The middle Tendo sister ran her finger down a sheet of
paper as the others found seats in the auditorium seating. To Nabiki,
it appeared as if the band separated in their own little groups--
Ranma, Akane, Shampoo, and Kasumi sat together, Ukyo, Konatsu, and
Mousse sat together, Ryoga and Akari sat together, the Kunos sat
together, the twins sat together.
United we stand, divided we fall, Nabiki thought darkly. I hope not.
"Okay, everybody," announced Nabiki, "thanks for coming."
"As if we had a choice," someone snorted.
Nabiki chose to ignore Ranma's comment. "Okay, with a week and a
half left to go, I must say the music's coming along just fine.
However, that's not what I wanted to talk about."
"Get to the point, so we can practice," shouted Mousse.
"I admire that enthusiasm, Mousse, but if you want me to finish,
stop interrupting me," replied Nabiki coldly. "Well, any of you know
that each and every band has a logo of some kind, right? I was
thinking that we could use a new one."
"What?" voiced Akane. "What's wrong with our old one?"
"It's too plain and simple," Nabiki pointed out. "It looks like
someone took a stencil set and traced letters."
"So you want something a bit more... fancier?" asked Ukyo.
"Exactly."
"Hey, Ukyo can draw it!" Ranma shouted.
"Ranchan! Don't do that to me!" cried Ukyo, semi-embarrassed, her
hands reaching for her combat spatula.
"Actually, I think Ranma's got the right idea," voiced Akane. "I
didn't think you were too bad, either. Besides, I don't know anyone
else that can draw as well as you can." She thought back to one
festival, where the owner of a booth needed someone to draw a horse
to lift a curse. Ukyo showed-off her artistic talent then, but
refused to admit it.
"But that was just a stupid animal!" protested the okonomiyaki chef,
throwing up her arms. "Anyone can draw animals! We're talking about
something much more important, and...."
Nabiki scanned the others. "If there's no other suggestions either
way, then I guess Ukyo's our man."
Ukyo stared at Nabiki, surprised. "I.. I can't do it!"
"Sure you can," winked Nabiki. "Really, I don't understand why you
artists are so self-conscientious about their work."
"B..but...."
"I'm sure you'll come up with something."
It was three days before the preliminary rounds of the contest, a
Friday, on the third week since the band formed under Nabiki's
direction. It was then the band became intimately familiar with their
instruments, some going so far as to sleep night and day with them,
in Konatsu's case.
To Nabiki's surprise, they could actually play TOGETHER!
Heck, it was a wonder that any of the band members were still in
one piece, considering the violent chemistry amongst its members.
Kuno (and perhaps Kodachi as well, Nabiki suspected) wished to...
damage Ranma in numerous instances, but Nabiki's brother-in-law
managed to keep in shape. Sometimes Shampoo would deck Mousse for
being a jerk, but there was no permanent damage. Yet.
Of course, there have been noticeable changes for the better as
well. Ukyo, Shampoo, and Kodachi seem to have calmed-down around each
other lately-- Nabiki remembered all-too-well how they used to react
when together, and when Ranma was foremost in their minds. Nabiki also
noted that Shampoo seemed to spend less time with Ranma as well,
almost as if she accepted his marriage to Akane (of course, if one
pressed the point, Shampoo would deny it). Ukyo seems to be 'getting-
over' Mousse just fine; at least, she stopped verbally-abusing herself
about getting involved in a relationship she knew that wouldn't work.
Such was the price for emotional attachment, Nabiki reminded herself
coldly.
It was only now that Ukyo finished designing a new logo for the
band, as it now decorated the largest of Kuno's drums. In large,
stylized lettering, were the letters of 'Doco,' with stars serving as
the inner circle for the 'o's.' Not bad, for someone who obviously
doesn't value her artistic talent. Of course, her only pride was her
okonomiyaki.
Nabiki thought back to the previous weeks and days; they'd all
pulled through many days and nights to get the notes down right. The
five singers practiced away from the band, but this time they would
sing and play together. Well, no time like now to get it down.
"Okay, everybody," shouted Nabiki, catching the attention of all in
the auditorium. In that moment chatter ceased immediately. Wow, it
felt so good to be in control. "I think it's time we get our routine
down flat. You all know the notes. Just remember, we got to knock the
socks off the judges during the preliminaries, or we won't get a shot
at the finals."
All nodded. Kuno tapped his drumsticks together in beats. "One, two,
three, go!"
* * * * *
FUKUZATSUna Ryouomoi (Complex Two Thoughts)
(Shampoo, +All) Carrying one side of romance is a burden, isn't it?
(Shampoo, +All) Isn't there even a special connection to God?
(Shampoo) On purpose, you had unkind behavior, but
In my chest's heart, gentleness was being reached.
(Akane, +All) Also repelling your pushy way of doing things,
(Akane, +All) I must reflect that it is not good even if it's not you.
(Akane) Also after that quarrel that I was not disgusted with,
Wasn't it a gloomy street at night, I regret relying upon you?
(Kasumi) Entwined by a red thread,
We are connected here and there, aren't we?
(Nabiki) Drawing strongly together with each other
(Kasumi & Nabiki) Like a puppet that is being held.
(All) Complex two thoughts not docile, both of us
(Ranma) The letters "sorry" are vanishing from the dictionary.
(All) Complex two thoughts one plus one equals one half
Worrying about wanting to cry in the dark.
(Ranma, +All) For example, take me even if I'm a boy.
(Ranma, +All) For example, take you even if you're a girl.
(Ranma) In this way, it's not personalities that are similar.
And still, we can't associate with each other, right?
(Nabiki) I'll try to find a good bed.
I'll find one for you for about 100.
(Kasumi) Your show of courage is love inside-out
(Nabiki & Kasumi) The truth was let out long ago.
(All) Simple love is good. Digital formula two thoughts
(Shampoo) I want to make love and hate clear to you.
(All) Simple love is good. I want to meet your kiss to a degree.
I want to become that sort of adult.
(Akane) Complex two thoughts not docile, both of us
(Ranma) The letters "sorry" are vanishing from the dictionary.
(All) Simple love is good. I want to meet your kiss to a degree
I can say "sorry." I want to possess gentleness.
Complex two thoughts one plus one equals one half
Worrying about wanting to cry in the dark.
* * * * *
The audience, consisting of Cologne, Soun, Genma, and Nodoka,
clapped in unison. The band bowed.
"My daughters are all grown up!" Soun proclaimed as he cried in joy.
"Their mother would be so proud!!" Nodoka couldn't help but smile an
infectious grin, and patted Soun on the back.
Ukyo stepped down from her keyboard. "Um, I hope some of you don't
mind, but...."
"Well?" the others said, beaming at the okonomiyaki chef.
"Well, I...." Ukyo stuttered. "Well, it didn't sound right to me.
Can we do this again?"
In unison, all groaned.
Nabiki said, "Well, I guess we should practice more. After a ten
minute break."
The band separated their own ways, some seeking refreshment, or
relaxation after practice. Nabiki's eyes followed Ukyo in particular
as the okonomiyaki chef descended from the stage, and walked up the
auditorium isle to the exit. What was her problem?
It was then Nabiki noticed a flash coming from a dark corner of the
seating. Without hesitating Nabiki leaped from the stage to the place
where she last saw the flash. As she approached she noticed a dark
figure trying to creep away. Near the exit Nabiki leaped into the air
and tackled the dark-clad man.
She peered at the man in disgust. "Hikaru Gosunkugi, we meet again."
Gosunkugi dressed in dark clothes, was unmistakable, as he had
black bags hanging under his eyes. He failed to conceal a camera in
his hands. "Uh, hi."
Nabiki reached for the camera, and studied it closely. "You wouldn't
happen to be taking pictures of Akane now, hmmm?" She got up, leaving
Gosunkugi on the floor. Nabiki opened the camera and ripped out the
film. Tossing the camera back to Gosunkugi, Nabiki warned, "Don't let
me catch you invading my sister's privacy again, little man, or you'll
wish you've never heard of Nabiki Tendo. Understand?"
Gosunkugi nodded quickly, wanting to escape the middle Tendo
sister's disturbing glare. As he scrambled away, Gosunkugi reminded
himself not to get caught next time.
Nabiki's eyes followed Gosunkugi as he exited the auditorium. Akane
would thank me if she knew about this, Nabiki thought. Only if I told
her, that is. No, it may be best to keep up the cold exterior; what
would people think if it were known that Nabiki Tendo stuck up for
her younger sister?
Rain seemed a bit unusual in the summer season, yet it rained over
Nerima. This little burg was known for strange weather patterns. Ukyo
stood alone near the door, sheltered from the rain by a concrete
overhang, playing a pleasant tune with her flute.
"Hey."
Ukyo glanced over her shoulder, interrupting her reverie, watching
Nabiki exit the building. The two stood together, watching the rain.
"You really do know how to use that, don't you?" Nabiki said,
pointing to the flute.
"Sometimes I get lost in the music," explained Ukyo. "It helps me
think."
Thinking back to when Kuno-chan would play the flute to himself
every once in a while (especially after the wedding fiasco, when
sales of pictures of the pig-tailed girl dropped significantly-- that
is, to nothing at all), Nabiki shuddered. Kuno-chan... thinking?!
Rather cruel, girl. For a moment, Nabiki wondered what Kuno could
possibly think about that absorbed him so.
"It's been a strange three weeks, hasn't it?" Ukyo said.
"Sure has," Nabiki agreed. "I don't think I've ever worked so hard
for anything in my life." It must be the stress of working with this
group of people....
"You've changed," observed Ukyo.
"How so?"
"Well, for one thing, I haven't lost my money to you." Jackass! Did
you REALLY say that Ukyo?!
"I've noticed it too," Nabiki replied. Geez, Nabiki, are you
becoming THAT obvious? This simply won't do!
Ukyo said nothing, still dwelling on what she'd said. Lately, she
noticed that she'd been more loose-lipped, and thus spoke her mind
needlessly. Was Ranchan rubbing off on me? Gotta be more careful.
Nabiki looked over at Ukyo, studying her movements (or lack
thereof). The girl possessed rare beauty, Nabiki thought, too bad she
hides it in guy's clothing. I'll bet she could get any guy she wanted.
Well, almost, considering how the guy she wanted was Ranma. Rather
poetic, really, that Ukyo offered complete and unconditional love;
tragic, that Ranma couldn't return that love (was he even aware of
it?).
For a moment Nabiki wished guys would try to pick her up. But the
thought left her mind as soon as it entered. Not THIS Nabiki Tendo.
"I hear Hawaii is a nice place," Ukyo said finally.
"Well, if you get pass the tourist trap part of it, yeah," agreed
Nabiki. "It's one big money pit if you're not careful." Money, Nabiki,
did it always have to come back to money?
"So," Ukyo started, changing the subject, "ever meet any cute guys?
Is there someone in the world that finds Nabiki Tendo attractive?"
"Not a chance," Nabiki chuckled, although, deep in her heart, she
wished there was someone. "The only guy that's remotely attracted to
me is 'ol Kuno-chan, and he's attracted to any girl. He's a real jerk,
you know? What foolish girl would...."
"Well, you never know...." interrupted Ukyo.
"Are you trying to suggest something?" Nabiki said, beaming.
"No!" the okonomiyaki chef returned hastily.
"And how about things between you and Mousse, hmmm? What do you
know about guys, anyway?"
Ukyo looked around nervously, twiddling her fingers. "Um, I think
I'll go get some water...." She retreated back inside quickly,
obviously embarrassed, leaving Nabiki alone.
Well, at least she didn't hit me, Nabiki thought. Probably couldn't
say the same thing for Ranma, though....
Kuno-chan, of all people! Indeed!
The group practiced hard that weekend, consisting of all Saturday
and Sunday morning, being days off school. Now it was Sunday evening,
the night before the preliminaries. It was also the day before summer
vacation for the students of Furinkan High officially began; in light
of the extra free time, Nabiki announced that practices would be held
in the morning as well as the evening, provided they passed the
preliminaries, a result in which Nabiki had no doubts of occurring.
At the Tendo dojo, the entire band lounged around as Nabiki looked
over the documents concerning their entry. Although she'd looked over
them when they arrived a week earlier, Nabiki wanted to make no
mistakes during the preliminary rounds. This was when the 'amateurs'
were weeded out from the 'professionals', so to speak, even though no
real 'professional' bands entered (as they were forbidden by contest
rules, for the contest was strictly for up-and-coming bands).
The contestants were to play in downtown Tokyo (well, the
amphitheater wasn't quite in downtown), the nearest contest location
to the dojo. Of course there were other locations around Japan where
the preliminaries were held, by region. Only the top three contestants
from each region would be allowed to compete in the next stage.
Nabiki intended to be number one.
"Okay, a brief reminder of the rules," Nabiki said, catching the
attention of the others. "During the entire contest you will not use
illegal substances or drink alcoholic substances. So say the sponsor.
Second, no foul play, and that goes for you especially, Kodachi."
Kodachi stared in mock surprise. "Me?"
"None of you will throw fits of violent acts while performing, or
against other contestants or the audience." Nabiki glared at Ranma
accusingly.
"What'd I do?!" complained Ranma.
"You will not attempt to curry favor from the judges or the audience
except through your music...." The list went on, Nabiki taking deep
breaths in between each warning. "And finally, the judges reserve the
right to withhold judgment or prizes on a whim without explanation."
All gathered groaned. Ryoga stood up and declared, "If we win and
are denied our rightful prize, I'll...."
"Calm down, Ryoga," Akari said, reaching for Ryoga's arm. "I'm sure
they won't resort to such extreme measures...." They'd better not.
"Okay," Nabiki started, "in conclusion, I want all of you to get a
good night's rest, and get up early in the morning." She spared a
glance at Ukyo, whom would have no trouble at that, for she woke up
at five in the morning each day. "We'll meet back here tomorrow
morning for breakfast, then travel to the amphitheater."
Kuno volunteered, "With the vast resources of the Kuno estate, I,
Tatewaki Kuno, shall provide ourselves with worthy transportation,
for our persons and our equipment, as is proper, since the
amphitheater is such a strenuous distance from our burg of Nerima."
Nabiki nodded. "Just make sure you don't skimp on that
transportation, Kuno-chan."
Ranma, Mousse, Shampoo, and Ryoga couldn't help but think about the
tiny rowboat Kuno provided when the Seven Lucky Gods Martial Artists
kidnapped Akane. In their minds each harbored a hidden threat toward
Kuno.
"Mousse, I think its time to get the ball rolling," Ukyo said.
Ukyo volunteered to help cook dinner, along with Shampoo. As the
grill warmed up in the kitchen, Ukyo joined Mousse at the couch in
the next room.
"How?" asked Mousse.
"Give a girl flowers," Ukyo suggested.
"That won't get Shampoo to like me," Mousse pointed out.
"That's not the point! Don't you know? She already LIKES you!"
Mousse's face shifted to surprise. "Shampoo?!"
"Sure she does," Ukyo assured him. "She's too shy to admit it. Trust
me, I know the signs."
Mousse became elated. "Shampoo! I'm coming my darling!" he shouted,
leaping from the couch to the kitchen.
Ukyo sighed. It only made her feel somewhat better that Mousse was
happy again. Of course, her own happiness didn't quite fit into the
equation. Well, as in Ranma's case, the best thing you can do is be a
very supportive friend. It still hurts to think about the love that
never was, Ukyo thought, as it's thrown at you every day since the
wedding. Perhaps love wasn't destined for me. It hurt to be alone,
but Ukyo wasn't truly alone.
Ukyo thought back to Ranma and Akane's second wedding. It was that
day that decided the fate of Mousse: he'd stepped in the way of
Shampoo and Cologne's plot to ruin the wedding. For that, Mousse was
kicked out of his tribe, and left behind in Japan when the rest of
the China gang returned home. At the time Ukyo couldn't help but pity
Mousse, and let him stay at her restaurant as a waiter and part-time
chef. But, after a few weeks passed she'd let her guard down; she'd
let herself believe that Mousse could love another woman. In the wake
of losing Ranma forever, Ukyo succumbed to the temptation of a
relationship with Mousse. It worked out just fine until the China gang
returned to Japan, when Mousse's heart ran over to Shampoo's side,
leaving Ukyo behind.
Dammit, I knew it was a sham all along, Ukyo thought to herself,
and yet, I still allowed myself to fall into it! Same thing about
Ranchan; I knew he and Akane would marry, but I didn't allow myself
to accept it. Damn love, who needs it? All it ever got me was more
torment and trouble. Just look at Nabiki Tendo-- she's perfectly fine
without love in her life.
Soon Ukyo could hear the sounds of a duck quacking.
Later that evening Ukyo, Mousse, and Konatsu traveled the empty,
dark but lit streets of Nerima back to Ucchan's for the night. It was
when Ukyo was unlocking the front door disaster struck.
"Ukyo-sama!" cried a nearby mailbox.
All three looked around in surprise. Ukyo watched as the mailbox
bounded her way. "Tsubasa!" she yelled in fury.
Tsubasa's head popped out of the mail slot. "Ukyo-sama! I've missed
you so!" The mailbox bounced cheerily before Ukyo.
Ukyo kicked the mailbox in fury. "I thought you gave up on me!"
"Hehehehehehehe...." chuckled the guy in the mailbox. "You're easier
to hang around with!"
"What kind of an answer is that?!" spat Ukyo. "Get away from me,
you little creep!"
Unnoticed by Tsubasa, Konatsu unsheathed his blade. "I suggest you
leave Ukyo-sama alone, vile fiend, or taste my blade."
Tsubasa turned to Konatsu in surprise. "And who the hell are you?"
he shouted, reverting from his cutesy-voice to his haggard, repulsive
masculine voice.
"I am but a humble servant for the mistress," Konatsu said, bowing
low to the floor, but maintaining his gaze on the mailbox-clad boy.
"Stay away from Ukyo," Mousse warned Tsubasa, "or I'll have to come
after you."
"Oooohh, Ukyo-sama has bodyguards!" taunted Tsubasa. "I've been away
too long! It was only for summer break I've been able to steal myself
away to Nerima, but look at the greetings I get!" Tsubasa leaped out
of the mailbox, throwing the skirts of his pink dress about,
momentarily confusing Mousse and Konatsu.
"Heh, wasn't expecting that?" cried Tsubasa. "You win for now,
losers, but in time Ukyo-sama will be mine!" With that, Tsubasa
bounded down the street and vanished into the night.
"Who was that?" asked Mousse.
"That THING is Tsubasa Kuranei," replied Ukyo, opening the front
door. The three stepped inside as Ukyo continued, "He followed me to
Nerima not long after I transferred to Furinkan. Ranma got rid of him
for me, and he's been back home ever since." She sighed. "I guess now
that the summer season is upon us Tsubasa has some free time." Too
much free time, if he's after me again. Bah, I'm EASIER to be around?!
"And it seems time doesn't destroy old habits; I wish he'd stop
dressing as a girl. Its so embarrassing when he does that to me!"
"A stalker," concluded Konatsu. "Do not worry, Ukyo-sama, I will
protect you wherever we go, so long as that abomination roams your
surroundings."
"Thanks, Konatsu," Ukyo said in relief. Perhaps having bodyguards
wasn't such a bad idea after all. Although Konatsu preferred to dress
as a girl, Ukyo hardly felt embarrassed by his actions anymore.
Especially hugging.
"Ukyo," Mousse said, "we should get some rest."
"Sure, sugar," agreed Ukyo, "but after we all secure the doors and
windows, no telling what Tsubasa's going to do."
As Ukyo walked across the dining room, she felt a terrible pain in
her stomach. Without warning, the spasm passed.
"Ukyo," Mousse asked, "is something wrong?"
"No, nothing," she said, waving him away. Quietly Ukyo made her way
to her room and laid out her futon. The spasm came from her old knife
wound, she decided, the one given to her the night before a challenge
weeks ago. Surely it was nothing.
Ukyo stepped to her mirror, checking her stomach. No, the wound
hadn't surfaced again, in fact it was long healed, as if such a
purchase was never made in her body. Just had to make sure.
Doco was to be one of the last of the entrants to perform that day.
Nabiki stayed calm, unlike some OTHER band members who twitched
nervously at the thought of performing on stage in front of the
greater part of the teenage population in Tokyo. At that thought,
Nabiki couldn't help but feel a pang in her stomach, then dismissed
it, thinking back to her breakfast of 'morning okonomiyaki--' what
was called a 'pancake' in America, served. She hoped that was it....
The bands before them played pitifully, Nabiki thought. No way this
group would fail, not with a half-years semi-professional work behind
it. Well, for some of them, at least. Ah well, at least none of the
five girls lost their voices during the past weeks.
Soon the preceding band was booed off stage by the audience,
throwing plastic drinking cups in anger. Ten minutes was allowed
between each performance, not a lot of time considering, but there
was a schedule to keep, as the judges said. Ten minutes to shuffle
the instruments on stage and get into position.
Nabiki was glad that morning when Kuno arrived with a couple of
vans, driven by Kuno servants, to transport the band and the
instruments. So far everything was going smoothly.
She peeked out of the dressing room door and watched the band carry
their equipment on stage. Nabiki turned to the four girls, onna-Ranma,
Akane, Kasumi, and Shampoo. "Well, its almost time."
Onna-Ranma shuffled uncomfortably in her outfit. "Well, the sooner
this is all over, the better."
Nabiki couldn't help but note that Shampoo kept her distance from
Ranma. After all, Shampoo only loved Ranma's boy form, and it wouldn't
do for a girl to marry another girl. She wanted the guy, and strangely
treated Ranma's two forms as separate people.
The five girls left the dressing room and watched the others set up
their instruments. To the audience the band was all but invisible,
and it didn't help that the lights were to be on the girls instead of
them. Still, Nabiki couldn't help but smile at the thought. Well,
sometimes there has to be the unsung heroes.
At the end of the stage stood Soun, Genma, Nodoka, and Cologne. All
four were granted the privileges of back-stage passes. Soun was
already crying with joy, even though the song hadn't started yet.
Genma held a sign reading 'Tear them apart!' Nodoka merely smiled, as
usual. Cologne's face remained expressionless.
And before long, the curtains were drawn.
* * * * *
FUKUZATSUna Ryouomoi (Live Version) [Complex Two Thoughts]
(Note: It helps to see the actual music video of this song)
(Shampoo, +All) Carrying one side of romance is a burden, isn't it?
(Shampoo, +All) Isn't there even a special connection to God?
(Shampoo) On purpose, you had unkind behavior, but
In my chest's heart, gentleness was being reached.
(Akane, +All) Also repelling your pushy way of doing things,
(Akane, +All) I must reflect that it is not good even if it's not you.
(Akane) Also after that quarrel that I was not disgusted with,
Wasn't it a gloomy street at night, I regret relying upon you?
(Kasumi) Entwined by a red thread,
We are connected here and there, aren't we?
(Nabiki) Drawing strongly together with each other
(Kasumi & Nabiki) Like a puppet that is being held.
(All) Complex two thoughts not docile, both of us
(Ranma) The letters "sorry" are vanishing from the dictionary.
(All) Complex two thoughts one plus one equals one half
Worrying about wanting to cry in the dark.
(Ranma, +All) For example, take me even if I'm a boy.
(Ranma, +All) For example, take you even if you're a girl.
(Ranma) In this way, it's not personalities that are similar.
And still, we can't associate with each other, right?
(Nabiki) I'll try to find a good bed.
I'll find one for you for about 100.
(Kasumi) Your show of courage is love inside-out
(Nabiki & Kasumi) The truth was let out long ago.
(All) Simple love is good. Digital formula two thoughts
(Shampoo) I want to make love and hate clear to you.
(All) Simple love is good. I want to meet your kiss to a degree.
I want to become that sort of adult.
(Akane) Complex two thoughts not docile, both of us
(Ranma) The letters "sorry" are vanishing from the dictionary.
(All) Simple love is good. I want to meet your kiss to a degree
I can say "sorry." I want to possess gentleness.
Complex two thoughts one plus one equals one half
Worrying about wanting to cry in the dark.
* * * * *
It was not long after the song was over the crowd shouted for an
encore. To which the judges unanimously awarded Doco a place in the
next level of competition, also to be held in Tokyo in another week.
It was then the judges asked for a stage call. To which Tatewaki
Kuno told the band, "This is the chance for all the world to see the
great Tatewaki Kuno in all his glory, displaying his musical talents
in full view of the rest of the city! Someone must properly introduce
me."
To which Nabiki answered with this as she stepped on stage:
* * * * *
Kunou-chan ga Yatte-kuru [Kuno-chan is coming around]
(Fighting Song Karuta, track 7?)
(Nabiki) Everyone in the neighborhood,
Kuno-chan is coming around
Spreading his perversion,
Kuno-chan is coming around
Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, you there!
You mustn't cross this line.
He won't bite you! It's all right.
If you wanted a good seat, you should've come earlier.
Kuno-chan, Kuno-chan,
I don't hate you! Ah-ha!
(Kuno yells): Nabiki Tendo, I won't come on stage like that!
* * * * *
Each member of the band congratulated each other for a fine night's
work at the Tendo dojo later that evening, placing first among the
Tokyo district entrants. Soun cried a knee-deep puddle of tears where
he stood when the judges announced the band, and the trickle
continued all the way home, and on. He was so happy!
"I was thinking," Nabiki shouted, catching everybody's attention,
"that we should mix up our entry a bit."
"How so?" asked Kasumi.
"The contest allows for multiple songs. I think we should do
something different this next time around."
"That's not a bad idea," voiced Akane.
Nabiki raised her voice again. "Okay, people, we have one week to
get a second song down. I expect to see you again tomorrow morning at
the auditorium."
The others couldn't help but groan simultaneously.
A couple days later Nabiki found herself alone with Tatewaki Kuno.
Why? She just had to know the answer to a burning question.
"Kuno-chan," Nabiki started, "I've never seen you be so selfless
before. Why?"
Kuno smiled, then said, "For several reasons, my dear Nabiki Tendo.
One, if it makes my dear sister happy, then I'll do anything for her.
Two, if it makes Akane Tendo happy, then that is an added bonus.
Three, I'm sure I'll find a good chance to destroy that vile Ranma
Saotome when he's out of his grounds."
"You're kidding," Nabiki hoped.
"No, I am not. It is the will of Heaven."
That's all I wanted to know, Nabiki thought. But she couldn't resist
asking, "Kuno-chan, is there any girl out there you truly want?"
Kuno pondered for a moment. "The pig-tailed goddess was a simulacrum
created by Ranma Saotome to toy with my affections and my loving
heart. As I cannot have either the pig-tailed girl or Akane Tendo, I
find I am very much alone. I find that there isn't a woman waiting to
jump into these caring arms, to make myself complete! One day, Nabiki
Tendo, the pig-tailed girl of my dreams, in whatever shape or form,
will jump into these arms. I've only to find that special person."
"Sorry I asked," Nabiki said. Nabiki thought, there's nobody in the
world for Kuno. Pity, just as there wasn't a person for Nabiki Tendo
as well. Stop that thought right there, Nabiki! Where did that one
come from?
"Are you trying to suggest we go out on a date?" Kuno asked.
"Oh come now, Kuno-chan," Nabiki countered, "why would a girl like
me ask a guy like you out on a date?"
"Point taken," Kuno said. "Humph, to think, one such as I, Tatewaki
Kuno, on a date with you, Nabiki Tendo? Preposterous!"
"Same here," agreed Nabiki. We're strictly-business, that's all.
For quite some time neither Nabiki nor Kuno spoke. Finally, Kuno
said, "I assume the first leg of our summer vacation will be spent
perfecting our performance, so that we may spend our second leg in
Hawaii?"
"You got it," Nabiki replied. Then, throwing a new question into
the fray, she asked, "What do you suppose the principal's going to do
over summer vacation?"
Kuno growled to himself. "I care not what he does; his school is
his life. Without it, who can say? Whatever his activities, he'd
remain in best health if he were to remain far away from me and my
sister."
"You've sure been protective of your sister lately," noted Nabiki.
"Why?"
The elder Kuno sibling waved the middle Tendo sister away. "That is
none of your business. You have sisters of your own, therefore you
should understand our relationship well enough."
He's got a point, Nabiki thought. How scary; Kuno was making sense
for a change!
Thursday evening after practice Ukyo and Shampoo were playing darts
at Ucchan's. The dartboard hung on the dining room wall. The
restaurant was empty, as it was well after the dinner rush.
As Shampoo threw her first dart, Ukyo asked, "So how are things
going between you and Mousse?"
The first dart missed its mark. "Shampoo no like Mousse!"
"Don't lie to me, I saw the look in your eyes," Ukyo persisted.
The second dart missed as well. "Shampoo belong to Ranma!"
"But you know he can't love you, just as he can't love me or
Kodachi. And just the same he can't be your husband. Akane has him."
The third and final dart missed. Shampoo turned to Ukyo, saying,
"So what if Shampoo like Mousse? What is it to Spatula-girl?"
Ukyo picked up three darts of her own. "Mousse is a sweet guy. I
can't stand to see him down all the time. Being with you makes him
happy."
"Then why you not marry Mousse?" asked Shampoo.
"Don't you see?" started Ukyo, raising the first dart, "for some
reason beyond our comprehension, he loves YOU." Letting the dart go,
Ukyo added, "Even when we were dating, he couldn't stop thinking
about you."
The first dart hit bull's-eye. "Shampoo never marry Mousse."
"Then why did you miss all three of your throws?" Ukyo countered.
"Your problem is," throwing another bull's-eye, "you don't want to
admit it, to yourself or to anyone. That old tradition of yours was
just a convenient excuse to stay away from him. Well, I have one thing
to point out to you: the law's been repealed, and there's nothing to
hide behind anymore."
"Perhaps," admitted Shampoo. "Sometimes Mousse shower Shampoo with
too much attention, so Mousse become annoying. Silly goose not a bad
person."
"So why not ask him out? Or let him take you out?"
"Shampoo must marry Ranma. Shampoo belong to Ranma alone."
"He's already married, and there's nothing you or I can do about
it."
Ukyo threw her last dart, another bull's-eye. Turning to Shampoo
she said, "Take it from someone who knows, it's no fun being alone.
If not Mousse, then who? It's a fate I can't wish on my worst enemy."
"Shampoo still hate you, Spatula-girl."
"Same to you, Chinese bimbo."
It was then Kodachi joined the two girls, having finished her meal.
"Oh, a simple game of darts. One in which I, the Black Rose, have
proficiency in." Reaching for her ribbon, Kodachi snatched Ukyo's
darts from the dartboard in one swing.
Her back to the dartboard, Kodachi produced a mirror. "So here we
are," she began, "three boyfriend-less brides. Funny, we chase after
the same man, one only one can have, and yet none of us got him."
Ukyo sighed. "You too, huh? At least Shampoo here has another one."
"Shampoo no like Mousse!" Shampoo protested again, with even more
heat.
"I thought so," Kodachi said, throwing her first dart. It barely
missed the bull's-eye. "You DO have another boyfriend. Probably lucky,
too, since there isn't another man in Kodachi's life."
"Same here," Ukyo said.
"Don't you have that sissy-man, your 'waitress?'" Kodachi asked,
throwing her second dart. Bull's-eye.
"Konatsu doesn't count," Ukyo replied. "I don't love him, he loves
me."
"Are you sure about that, darling?" Kodachi taunted, throwing her
third dart. Barely missed bull's-eye.
"I want a man, jackass," Ukyo countered. "Getting with Konatsu is
like-- getting with another girl. Bleach!"
"Shampoo no see problem for tomboy Spatula-girl," Shampoo giggled.
"Stop it," warned Ukyo, hand reaching for a pair of spatula-darts.
"All right, that's enough, girls," Kodachi said, stepping between
the two girls. "If I didn't know any better you two behave like
sisters."
All three girls shuddered at the thought, then sat at a nearby
table.
Ukyo picked up a glass of water, and the other two girls did the
same. "So, here we are, dumped by the same man at the same time." She
raised her glass. "Well, to us boyfriend-less girls."
Kodachi raised her own glass. Shampoo hesitated for a moment.
"Shampoo have boyfriend!"
"Ah yes, Mousse...." Kodachi commented. Shampoo glared at her. "To
us, then."
"To us," they agreed, then drank their glasses.
Silence followed for a few minutes, as each girl felt the cool
water travel down their throats. Soon all three glasses were set on
the table, the three lying back in relaxation.
"Well," started Kodachi, breaking the silence, "so what's with that
Tendo girl's ire against us, Ukyo?"
"About what?" asked Ukyo.
"Singing. That peasant doesn't appreciate my melodious voice!"
Shampoo said, "Perhaps voice not be problem."
"What do you mean?" asked Kodachi defensively. "Is she not jealous?"
"Perhaps it be you!" Shampoo accused, jabbing a finger in Kodachi's
direction.
"Hey!" Ukyo complained. "How can I be just as hated as Kodachi? What
about YOU?!"
"She's right," agreed Kodachi. "What makes you think she likes you
any more than us?!" To Ukyo, she cried, "What do you mean, I'm more
hated?!"
"Shampoo can sing!" the Amazon proclaimed.
It was then when Kodachi and Ukyo jumped Shampoo. Konatsu watched
from the next room, holding his little white cat, Snowball, in his
arms, stroking her head. And it was looking so good for them, too.
Elsewhere that same night, a lone figure walked the dark streets of
Nerima. It had been a long time since he'd been back to this little
burg, he thought. Much too long, for what he was going to do. He wore
a blue shirt, designed in a scale pattern (if they weren't truly
scales at all), with arm-braces to match. His pants were plain baggy,
white Chinese pants.
He was here on business. For several long, silent moments, the man
walked, orchestrating his latest plan in his mind over and over again.
He remembered the last time he encountered Ranma Saotome, his hated
enemy; that hermaphrodite-boy showed him Ashura's 'source of power,'
and, having secured it, tried to use it to his own ends. Once he
discovered the nature and purpose of the 'source of power,' however,
he'd met humiliation, as the 'source of power' was of no use to him.
Now it was time for payback against Ranma Saotome. Of course, this
plan called for such subtleness that the hermaphrodite won't know he'd
been humiliated until it was too late. The man laughed to himself at
the thought. Revenge truly was a dish best served cold.
All of the man's attention was on his plans until something caught
his eye. Something moved in the shadows.
"Come on out!" the man cried. When no one answered, he continued,
"I am specialized in several forms of certain death, so why don't we
make this easier on YOU?"
"You're an enemy of Ranma Saotome?" asked the one in the shadows.
The tone suggested a bit of surprise.
"Perhaps," the man replied diplomatically. "What are you getting
at?"
"I know who you are," the shadows claimed.
"Big deal." Of course, knowledge did confer power over others,
especially names, but the man wasn't willing to throw in his hand yet.
"If you don't cooperate, I'll have to inform the rest of the city
who you are," continued the shadows. "A rather unfortunate result,
don't you think?"
"How'd you find out?!" demanded the man. Rage burned within his
heart. "No one should know!"
"I have my sources," replied the shadows coolly. "You're but the
first I've approached for this project. There are others who'd be
interested in getting back at the Saotome kid."
The man ran into the shadows, and grabbed the man hiding therein. He
raised the shadow man out of the darkness and into the light. The
second man wore a heavy trenchcoat and dark glasses, hiding his
features. "I don't know you, or your motives, but you have something
against that whining hermaphrodite, right?"
"Yes," answered the trenchcoat man. "Would you be interested in
taking part in his humiliation?"
And soon another week had gone by, and the band learned to play yet
another song, this one, Nabiki believed, was far better than the
previous.
Other qualified bands gathered at the Tokyo amphitheater that day,
from all over Japan. Largely the bands kept to themselves, however, a
few became rather friendly. And such was the case for Doco and fellow
bands.
Nabiki, Ukyo, and Kodachi couldn't help but meet one band in
particular from Osaka, called 'Psycho Soldier.' A small-time off-and-
on band made up of three members, Athena Asamiya (the psycho soldier),
Sie Kensou (pronounced "Ken-su," he's known to eat nikuman in one
gulp), and Chin Gentsai (no relation to that friend of Happosai's,
Chingensai), their martial-arts master, known throughout Japan despite
mediocre recognition from the global music world. All three girls
wanted to meet the 18-year-old lead singer, Athena Asamiya, for whom
the band was named for.
A teenage girl dressed in a simple sailor-suit school uniform,
Athena was remarkably beautiful (as was her Greek goddess namesake),
and idolized by her fans. She greeted the three from Doco warmly.
"Even among my competitors I have fans!" exclaimed Athena. "Nice to
meet you all! You probably know I'm Athena Asamiya, may I have your
names?"
"I'm Nabiki Tendo," Nabiki said. Pointing to Kodachi, she said,
"This one is Kodachi Kuno, rhythmic gymnast, and this," pointing to
Ukyo, "is Ukyo Kuonji, the world's greatest okonomiyaki chef."
Ukyo elbowed Nabiki. "Why'd you say that?!"
"Kuonji...." Athena peered at Ukyo, as if trying to remember a face.
She said, "You're that kid they called 'Okonomiyaki Ukyo,' right? I
remember you! You and your father had that okonomiyaki food cart. I
loved your father's okonomiyaki; the best I've ever tasted."
"Hey, it's nice to be memorable," Ukyo replied. Ukyo barely
remembered that time, almost twelve years ago, when she and her
father served to a strange young girl. Athena was her name, very
memorable, as other children often claimed she had special powers. To
think this was the same girl! "I can cook just as well, if not
better."
"Modesty!" Kodachi accused Ukyo.
"Hey," Nabiki started, "I wanted to attend your concert when it was
in Tokyo for your '94 performance, but my brother-in-law burned my
ticket." Of course, Nabiki thought, I did get revenge....
"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Athena said sympathetically. "Well, at least
you'll be able to watch my last performance of the year, because after
this I'm taking a break."
"Why?" asked Nabiki.
"After a lot of thought, I've decided I want to pursue my studies,
not just school, but my Wu Shu martial arts training as well. Really,
it's time-budgeting. Anyway, next year I'm thinking of another tour,
this time a world tour, but only if we can get enough money to go. To
this end I'm thinking about entering the King of Fighters '96, which
will be televised and sponsored by commercial companies. Publicity
helps."
"Hey, we study martial arts as well," Ukyo said. "And we're just
fine. In our school work and music, that is." Maybe.
Kodachi asked, "What's this King of Fighters?"
Athena explained, "It's a world-wide fighting tournament that's only
just getting recognition. It involves teams of three fighting against
each other to win the prize money. At first I entered because I wanted
to destroy the evil I felt in then-chairman, Rugal, but now it looks
like an opportunity of a lifetime. Next year's tournament, I mean."
"Wonder if Ranma would be interested," Nabiki commented.
"I have noticed two of you possess martial prowess," indicating
Ukyo and Kodachi, "but you in particular are of interest to me,"
Athena said in amazement, pointing at Ukyo.
"Me?" asked Ukyo in amazement.
"My art is based off 'psycho power,'" Athena explained, "the power
of the mind, whose applications involve the manipulation of raw chi.
I detect a similar power within you."
"Yeah, I know about it," Ukyo said, briefly thinking back to past
events. The thought of wielding psychokinetic abilities frightened
Ukyo, as an evil possessing spirit tried to use her skills to kill
Ranma. The evil spirit said she had vast untapped potential, enough
to rival even Ranma. To Ukyo power came with responsibility, and vowed
never to use chi-manipulating powers, if she could ever figure out how
to use it in the first place. "It's a new thing for me, really."
"Perhaps if there's time, I can introduce you to my master, and he
can show you how to tap your power," Athena offered.
"I'd like that." Ukyo extended a hand.
Athena took the hand graciously, but upon contact with the hand
Athena's face visibly drained of blood for a moment. Then, shaking
her head, she shook Ukyo's hand. "No, you have used your power before,
all your life."
"How so?" asked Ukyo.
"I can tell from these hands that you've used your talents many
times before, but never realized it until recently," explained Athena.
"You've channeled your chi into a single focus, a dominant part of
your heritage, I think."
"That would have to be my cooking, I suppose," guessed Ukyo.
"That's not at all uncommon," explained Athena. "My master channels
his chi through his sake jug. His entire fighting style is based off
this." Athena laughed, images of her drunken master in battle racing
through her mind. More than once did this catch opponents off guard.
"Still, my offer stands."
Ukyo stared at her hands in wonder-- was the love she put in making
okonomiyaki more than a chef's touch? Perhaps this was one reason why
the Kuonji okonomiyaki chefs were renowned. Ukyo remembered the old
monk that visited her on a training trip, just after a crepe chef
defeated her in battle. He'd said her fighting spirit manifested
itself in her okonomiyaki; perhaps he was right after all.
Kodachi produced a small book and a pen, then held them before
Athena. "If you wouldn't mind... an autograph, please?"
Athena took the pen and book, and as she opened to a blank page, she
asked Kodachi, "So, Kodachi, what do you do in your spare time?"
"I'm practicing to become the next rising star in rhythmic
gymnastics," Kodachi replied proudly. "My peers call me 'the Black
Rose.' Those who are wise fear and respect my name!"
"I see," Athena said, finishing her autograph. "Well, I'd better
get back to my group, or Kensou will get worried and call security.
He thinks I'm his girlfriend." With that Athena pointed a finger in
her mouth, signaling the 'gagging' signal.
Athena left, leaving the girls behind. Kodachi read the words Athena
had written in the book, yet remained silent.
"What'd she write?" asked Ukyo, interested.
"It doesn't matter," decided Kodachi, putting the book and pen away.
"All that matters is what I do from now on." She laughed. Kodachi
threw a storm of black rose petals and rushed off.
Nabiki watched in confusion as Kodachi pranced off, laughing all the
way. "Whatever it was, it sure made her happy."
After the performance of the Psycho Soldier band, it was Doco's turn
on stage. As usual, everything was in place and ready to go.
* * * * *
Omoide ga Ippai [Full of Memories]
(Doco music CD; Note: Viz translation)
(All) Dreading the school bell, we can't help but worry
Classmates behind me, we can't help but hurry
They'll catch their breath, and then, they'll say:
(Akane) "Good * mor * ning!"
(All) Sweet summer grass that grows wild by the roadside
Starting each day with a smile that I can't hide
It's what I know, but may not always be so
(Ranma) Casual moments like these mean the most to me
(Shampoo) Treasured times that don't need a key
In the album of my heart I keep, old times stay like new
(Kasumi) I won't forget [how this sky is blue] (R S N)
I won't forget [how this dream came true]
(Akane) They're the gentle times we'll share forever
Long past all those times are thru
(Nabiki) Even when I'm sad [days I just don't know], (R A S K)
Even when I'm glad [days the tears just flow],
(All) Memories of days I'll never, ever let go
(All) In a covered passage under the sun,
I confided my thoughts in a friend
Such a wonderful person, but:
"It's a secret..."
(All) Lamenting the hair I cut too short,
there were nights I couldn't sleep.
I wonder if I can ever laugh about it.
(Nabiki) As if washed away by crashing ocean waves,
Love disappeared quickly.
(Kasumi) Even if the pain becomes past tense,
(Ranma) I won't forget [that rainbow in the sky] (A S N)
I won't forget [that love gone by]
(Kasumi) Even after I have grown up
I don't want to lose them.
(Shampoo) Even when I'm high-spirited [days at any time] (R A N K)
Even when I'm distressed [days like now]
(All) The dazzling brightness never ends.
(Akane) I won't forget [how this sky is blue] (R N K)
I won't forget [how this dream came true]
(Shampoo) They're the gentle times we'll share forever
Long past all those times are thru
(Kasumi) Even when I'm sad [days I just don't know], (R A S N)
Even when I'm glad [days the tears just flow],
(All) Memories of days I'll never, ever let go
* * * * *
At the end of the day the winners of this round were announced, Doco
among them. Nabiki couldn't help but note that the Psycho Soldier band
was also among the finalists; not bad for a three-person group. Of all
the bands, only twelve remain to contest for the grand prize; the
other ten being Samurai Blood (who played a type of soft, flute-
filled, wordless music characteristic of old samurai movies, Nabiki
thought), West Wind, Ivory-Jade Studs, Old Cabbage, Cold Steel,
Seventh Stone, the Yawning Dragon, Will of Heaven, the Fuji Group,
and Red Pepper. In one week the finest of the bands would emerge.
Backstage the band members packed their instruments into the Kuno
van. As Ukyo reached for her bag, a nearby vending machine bounded
her direction.
"Tsubasa...." muttered Ukyo, wishing she had her combat spatula on
her.
"Ukyo-sama!" cried Tsubasa from his hiding place in the vending
machine. The door opened, spilling out foodstuffs and the transvestite
at once on the floor before Ukyo.
Tsubasa grabbed Ukyo's leg and squeezed hard. "I missed you!"
Blood boiling, Ukyo snarled, "Too bad, I won't miss you." Lifting
her bag, Ukyo swung it in a wide arc, smashing it into Tsubasa. The
strange little man flew threw the walls.
Wow, I didn't know I had THAT much in me, Ukyo thought, shrugging
it off as due to momentum of the bag.
Around the corner in the shadows, a single lone figure watched Ukyo
and Tsubasa's exchange with interest. This may possibly be useful for
my plans.
It was well after dark, and Tsubasa walked alone in the empty
streets. One of these days, I will make Ukyo mine!
It was over a year since Ukyo answered Tsubasa's first love letter,
sending a picture of that kid that turned into a boy and girl, Ranma.
For a while Tsubasa had his sights on Ranma, thinking he was a girl,
but when the truth was sorted out (and in which case Ranma figured
out I was a guy), well... yuck. Real men is where I draw the line!
Well, it's perfectly understandable that Ukyo-sama sent me the
picture of Ranma as a girl, as she thought I thought she was a guy,
and that I was a girl. And Ukyo-sama loves Ranma, who's really a guy.
It did make sense, after a while, and in the end I decided I couldn't
compete with someone as powerful as Ranma. So I returned home,
defeated.
Of course, the year passed by, without meeting any more nice girls.
It was then that Tsubasa remembered Ukyo-sama, and yearned to be with
her.... That Akane girl was Ranma's bride, after all, leaving
Ukyo-sama by herself. Therefore, as soon as summer vacation began,
Tsubasa hopped aboard the first train to Nerima to see Ukyo-sama. And
for the first time since they last parted, Tsubasa brought his skirts.
After all, I only cross-dress for Ukyo-sama's sake. She dresses as
a guy, she acts like a guy, so why not dress and act like a girl? I
thought it made things easier....
Lost in thought, Tsubasa bumped into another man, knocking himself
down. He looked up, starting from black polished boots, to the bottom
of a dark trenchcoat, up to the face. Opaque, dark glasses covered
the man's face, concealing his identity.
"You're Tsubasa Kuranei?" the man asked.
"Yeah?" confirmed Tsubasa. "Who wants to know?"
The other man waved the question away. "How would you like to have
the girl of your dreams, all for your own?" the man said, getting
directly to the point. "I can get you what you want."
"I'm listening," Tsubasa replied slyly.
"You know of the Battle of the Bands?"
"How can I not!"
"Good. I have a desire to... 'bump off' certain bands from the
final rounds."
"Ooohhh, rigging the finale, eh? Sounds like fun. Still, I don't
see how doing that gets me what I want."
Another man stepped out of the shadows, surprising Tsubasa. This
one was covered in shadow, but he could tell this one wore baggy
pants. "Are you sure we can trust this crossdressing weasel? He's
just as bad as the hermaphrodite!"
Ranma Saotome? Tsubasa wondered. This is beginning to sound more
interesting....
"Of course. He'll cooperate so long as he gets what he wants, just
as you get what you want. Now, here's what I want you to do...."
Later that night the band felt like celebrating, and congregated at
a nearby karaoke bar. To which Tatewaki and Kodachi Kuno were so
happy that they couldn't resist the temptation, and stepped up to the
mike for a folk song....
* * * * *
Mori no Kuma-san [Mr. Bear of the Forest]
(Fighting Song Karuta, track 30)
(Kodachi) Hahaha, hahahahaha, (Both) ah-hahahahahahahaha!
[(Kuno) Hello everybody, Tacchi and Kocchi!!!]
(Kodachi +Kuno echo) One day, in the woods, I met Mr. Bear.
On a forest road with blooming flowers, I met Mr. Bear.
(Kodachi +Kuno echo) The things that Mr. Bear said, Little girl, run
away!
(Both) SUTAKORA SASSASSA NO SA SUTAKORA SASSASSA NO SA
(sound for running away)
(Kodachi +Kuno echo) However, Mr. Bear follows behind!
(Both) DOKODOKO DOKKOKO NO KO DOKODOKO DOKKOKO NO KO
(sound for bear following)
* * * * *
Immediately afterward, the others couldn't help but wonder if the
Kuno siblings were drunk. The Kuno siblings bowed, narrowly dodging
the wads of paper that flew where their heads used to be.
The next day Nabiki received a note from the contest chairmen at the
Tokuyama Agency, sending word to all the finalists that one of the
bands, Cold Steel, has been dropped from the competition, no
explanation given. The first thing that came to her mind was an
increased chance to win the grand prize.
Little thought was given to the note, and the band practiced that
day as usual. Before lunch break Nabiki approached Kuno with another
word.
"I must say how much your help has been the past weeks," Nabiki
said. "Just about everything-- money, transportation, instruments...
where do I start? I would've run out long ago if it wasn't for you."
Admittantly, getting Kuno to spend his money out of his own free-will
was a lot easier than coercing.
"A grand investment such as this, Nabiki Tendo, is worth sharing
among those who would reap its rewards," Kuno replied, seemingly
unconcerned in his chivalrous air. "It is I who should be thanking
you, Nabiki Tendo."
"How so, Kuno-chan?"
"Not since becoming captain of the Kendo Team have I felt such
camaraderie among people. It is as a band of warriors, ready and
willing to march into the sun together, if necessary, for a common
cause, a common goal. Truly, it is exciting to be a part of events
that shape the future, such as this. Perhaps it is the mark of a new
beginning for us all. Even for that thief of the heart, Saotome;
perhaps there is a future for the cretin yet." But certainly not
enough for him to atone for his past misdeeds, Kuno reminded himself
darkly.
"Nah, that new beginning started a while ago," Nabiki corrected.
"Back at Ranma and Akane's wedding, that is. Ever since then, things
around here became little different."
"Perhaps. Perhaps that is the only good will I can grant toward
Ranma Saotome, beyond saving my dear sister's life." Suddenly, the
airs about Kuno seemed to disappear, replaced by one of sheer joy.
"This feeling I have now... it feels good." He raised his arms in the
air in emphasis, letting his bokken fall from his grip. "Perhaps a
date, Nabiki Tendo?" Wait a minute, what are you saying? You, and
THAT mercenary?! Shut up, you! This feeling was too good to dismiss
lightly! Truly, this feeling was... joy. It felt... wonderful.
"I don't think so, Kuno-chan." What in the world was he thinking?
What was it that was nagging in his mind and her own that kept coming
back to this subject? Am I subconsciously-wishing that even someone
as dense as Kuno-chan would take me out on a date?
"May I ask a favor?" Kuno said, regaining his usual arrogant
composure. He eased one foot under his bokken. With a quick motion,
the bokken was thrown into the air, then descended into Kuno's waiting
hand.
"What this time?" asked Nabiki. Back to business, eh?
"My dear sister has a desire to sing as part of the group," Kuno
answered. "Her vocal talents are to be commended, praised by all but
the finest in the field. I am willing to pay whatever price it may be
to make my dear sister happy."
Nabiki shook her head. "Tell her this: 'Nabiki Tendo never gives in
to demands.' Doco was formed from five girls, and that it shall stay.
Do you understand?"
Kuno nodded. "I see. Then I must delegate the unenviable task of
informing little Kocchi to someone willing to put up with her
tantrums." Names of servants currently out of his favor ran through
Kuno's head.
You do that, Nabiki thought defiantly as the title for the final
song of the contest popped up in her head.
The next evening Shampoo, Kodachi, and Ukyo met again at Ucchan's
for dinner. All three sat at the same table, savoring cold glasses of
water and empty plates which used to contain okonomiyaki, and
something Kodachi whipped-up on the fly (surprisingly, it tasted
good). Konatsu was busy in the back, cleaning utensils. Mousse was out
for the evening on a walk, very unwilling to face Shampoo in this
manner, at least, for now. The dartboard was filled with three sets
of darts, where only one set had all three in the bull's-eye.
Obviously Ukyo's work; sometimes the ten years training in
okonomiyaki-style martial arts paid off.
"So here we are again," observed Ukyo. "It's kinda strange, really,
sitting here in my restaurant, sharing a meal. Playing darts. Talking
our troubles away. Especially considering what happened last time...."
"Loneliness does attract company, after all," Kodachi said.
"Shampoo not lonely!" Shampoo protested.
"Yeah, so when are you going to ask him out?" asked Kodachi.
"Shampoo not ask Mousse out!"
"I didn't mean Mousse, half-wit, but thanks the same for admitting
it!" Kodachi laughed. "Oh, I just love digging for information!"
Shampoo flared in anger, but Ukyo grabbed her shoulder, and calmed
her down.
"You should drop the charade and swallow your pride," Ukyo said,
taking a sip from her glass with her other arm, "we both know you
like him." Snowball chose that moment to jump into Ukyo's lap. The
white cat purred in contentment.
"Shampoo belong to Ranma," Shampoo said.
"Let's not get into that again," Ukyo complained, stroking the cat.
The new house rule was 'no Ranma' discussions amongst the three.
"We won't stop pestering you until you date him," Kodachi said. "We
don't have boyfriends of our own to make fun of." Or was it gossip
about?
"And no wonder if crazy girl insane," taunted Shampoo.
"I'm not crazy, I'm eccentric!" Kodachi corrected. "It is such airs
I put that assures me that I find a man who can truly love me for
what I am!" Too bad Ranma, the one man who'd made it far enough into
Kodachi's heart, didn't share feelings with her. "Who started that
rumor, anyway?"
"I think you did," observed Ukyo. "Your behavior says it all."
"Does not!" Kodachi replied hotly, slamming her fist on the table.
"I simply have a flair for the dramatic, a larger scope of living,
than most people. Do you see anyone else appreciate living so? Don't
you know it's best to seize the day, as it won't come tomorrow?"
"Sounds like fine words to live by," commented Ukyo. "But that's
hardly the way I'd assert it."
"Commoners!" snorted Kodachi. "Only those of the upper classes
understand the true meaning of living. People like you grope and
complain about your lots in life when you've got everything that can
make you happy staring at you in the face!"
Perhaps, Ukyo thought. Then again, Kodachi did come from a wealthy
family. Money sure did help things along.
"Shampoo hate it when crazy girl make sense."
"And I thought I was the rational one," teased Ukyo.
"Stop that! Didn't you learn anything from what I've said? Be happy
with what you have, and if you aren't then DO something about it! It's
a shame I can't have darling Ranma anymore... I tried so hard to win
over his heart."
"Again, let's not get into that," Ukyo warned, putting the cat down.
"So why do crazy girl and Spatula-girl want Ranma?" Shampoo asked.
She knew the other two girls knew why she pursued Ranma, but what of
themselves?
Kodachi answered, "Put simply, he saved my life. Now I feel I owe
him a debt which cannot be repaid. Serving him for the rest of his
life as his wife would've helped a lot." Not to mention it would help
carry on the great Kuno name; you kill two birds with one stone. "He's
the only man I've met that could truly become my future husband."
Ukyo said, "Ranchan and I were childhood friends, and at that time
I wanted to marry him."
"Hah, childhood romances. How rich!" Kodachi laughed. "When I was
that young I just wanted a boyfriend!"
Shampoo giggled, but thought about Mousse, then stopped.
"Yeah, well, Father asked Mr. Saotome to marry me to him. He didn't
want to see me alone, I suppose. Haven't seen him for a long time."
"Well, take it from me, darling, and stay away from your father,
they're more trouble than they're worth," Kodachi suggested. She
couldn't stand watching dear Brother and Father fight so much. It got
so bad one day that Kodachi was forced to choose between her brother
and father-- 'it was me or him,' Tatewaki had said. Torn between the
father she barely knew, and the brother she 'hated' so, who took care
of her for many years like a father himself, Kodachi chose Tatewaki.
Of course the choice did nothing to hurt Father; he simply didn't
care about her enough. It was weeks before Kodachi could get over it.
"Speaking of fathers, what about mothers?" asked Ukyo, taking
another sip from her glass. "I've heard nothing about either of
yours."
"Well," Kodachi started, raising her own glass, "Mother left after
a fight with Father many years ago." Or so 'ol Tacchi said, as Father
never spoke of her, and Kodachi barely remembered her at all. "There
wasn't a divorce-- simply a separation, I guess. She never visits or
calls. Who knows what she's doing?"
"Shampoo's mother have responsibilities in home village," Shampoo
said. "How about Spatula-girl?"
Ukyo cleared her throat. "Where should I begin? Well, for one, I've
never really met my mother, as she died when I was very young."
Thoughts of fault entered Ukyo's mind. It can't be your fault.
"Please, let's just leave it at that?"
The three remained silent, the only noises being Konatsu in the
back room. Snowball trotted to the noise, leaving the dining room
behind.
"You should ask Mousse out," Ukyo insisted Shampoo, getting back
on-topic. Conversation did tend to take side-trips during its course.
"You won't find a better man, trust me," Kodachi said encouragingly.
"Why you two try to help Shampoo?" asked Shampoo, confused.
"Speaking for both of us, it isn't right to be alone," answered
Kodachi. "I intend to raise a family, a family to carry on the proud
name of Kuno. Don't you want to raise a family, for the glory of your
name and family?"
Shampoo nodded. She was of blood to the matriarch, after all.
"Strange, isn't it," observed Ukyo, "how in the past we were bitter
enemies, and now we're here, sharing a meal, as if we were old
friends."
"I wouldn't go that far, girl," Kodachi warned, eyes turning into
slits. "I must admit, though, your cooking is excellent."
"Yeah, well, you're not so bad yourself, when I can figure out what
it is you cook," Ukyo said. "That last one was French, wasn't it?"
Kodachi nodded. "My high-classed upbringing has exposed me to many
other cultures across the world. It's crepe. Perhaps I can teach the
'world's greatest chef of okonomiyaki' a few recipes?"
"I'd like that," answered Ukyo, although the mention of 'crepe'
brought back sour memories of the crepe chef, Joe, who tried to take
away Ucchan's customers last year.
"Shampoo want to learn too. Only ramen dishes Shampoo's specialty."
And it shows, both Kodachi and Ukyo thought. Instant ramen, just add
water....
"As much as I hate to admit it," Kodachi started, "we might share
more things in common than we realize. Cooking may be just one of
them."
"Yeah, and Ranchan another," Ukyo said, laughing.
"Either we owe Ranma for introducing us, or we should kill him,"
Kodachi replied jokingly. Both Shampoo and Ukyo stared at her. "All
right, we won't go into that again."
Shampoo sipped from her glass. "Shampoo have idea. Perhaps song
contest?"
Kodachi peered at Shampoo suspiciously. "I thought you said you
didn't want to hear us sing?"
"Lay off, sugar," Ukyo said. "I'm game. How's this going to work?"
"All sing one song. We judge each other impartially. Losers walk
barefoot home; winner keep shoes."
"I hardly call that a decent wager," Kodachi said. "Why not the
losers eat Akane's cooking?"
"Sounds good to me," agreed Ukyo, if the losing wager was a bit
harsh. She called over her shoulder, "Konatsu! We want you here."
Konatsu entered the dining room and bowed. "What service shall your
humble servant perform, Ukyo-sama?"
"Judge our singing," Kodachi said. "Tell us which sounds the best!"
"Shampoo want to start first," offered Shampoo.
* * * * *
Ja Ja Uma ni Sasenaide (Don't Make Me Wild Like You)
(Short TV broadcast version. Fighting song Karuta CD, track 36.
Viz's translation, btw, makes a lot more sense than the internet copy)
(Shampoo) Yappa pa, yappa pa / Don't know what to do
My heart is not a game
It's mah-hongg to you
Yappa pa, yappa pa / Feel like such a shrew
Who needs boys? Don't you dare
Make me wild like you
Before you, boys got on their knees
Ranma, Ranma, you
Make me feel dizzy
Since the day I ran into you
Ranma, Ranma you...
...stole my heart, and you...
...don't you dare go and...
Make me wild like you
Somebody tell me why it's so hard
To say those three words: "I love you?"
If I let myself give in to you
I'll become just as wil as you!
Before you come in like a breeze
Won't you stop and ring the bell, please?
Before you make my heart your home
Why not let me love you on my own...?
I'd be better off without you...
But just tonight, it's all right
Until tomorrow, all right
Every time your eyes turn to me
Ranma, Ranma, you
Make me feel dizzy
Someday we may be more than 'friends...'
Ranma, Ranma, you've
Gone and done it true
Can't you see that you've
Made me wild like you
* * * * *
Shampoo finished her song, Kodachi, Ukyo, and Konatsu clapping in
respect.
"So, how that?" Shampoo asked Konatsu.
"I don't know, my lady, I have yet to listen to the others," Konatsu
replied diplomatically.
"I could've guessed that Shampoo would sing a Ranma song," Ukyo
whispered to Kodachi. How typical.
"Stupid sisters play song practicing one of their stupid
techniques!" explained Shampoo hotly, remembering the utter
ridiculousness the purpose of the song served in the 'ultimate fire
dragon technique'-- the victim was forced to dance to the music,
allowing the Chinese twins to attack with a mechanical dragon costume
without fear of retaliation. A really stupid trick. "Song stuck in
Shampoo's head; this Sisters' fault!"
Kodachi shrugged, and stood up. She announced, "I'm next!" With
images of Ranma firmly in her mind, a bag of black rose petals in
hand, Kodachi began....
* * * * *
PURATONIKKU tsuranuite (Let's be Platonic)
(Fighting Song Karuta, track 8)
(Kodachi) Nobody else at the seashore, together with you,
we reveled at the time but we settled down.
Your reticent eyes somehow scare me.
The sky, the sea, and the waves all recede in the distance.
Ah, even at the touch of your little finger, my thoughts race!
Till love grows, wait a little while.
Softly brushing away a grain of sand on your lip,
I see myself in your eyes..... ahahahahahahahaha!!!
[Follow Me]
[Me & You] Let's be Platonic--
it's a promise! Ahahahahaahaaa!!
[Follow Me]
[Me & You] Let's stay Platonic--
I love you.....oooohoohooohooooo!!
Suddenly rain falls, and in a hurry, we
run for the car on the road.
Ah, when you roughly pull me by the arm,
it feels like it's broken. Be gentle.
What my heart must decide, the answer
may be known only by the endless waves?
[Follow Me]
[Me & You] Let's still be Platonic
for now....ohohohohohoho!!
[Follow Me]
[Me & You] Let's stay Platonic--
as painful as that may be....hehehehehehehe!
To tell the truth, when we almost kiss,
I've felt like saying you're allowed.
[Follow Me]
[Me & You] Let's be Platonic--
it's a promise! Whaaahaaaahhaaaaa....
[Follow Me]
[Me & You] Let's stay Platonic--
I love you.....ooohooohooohoooooo!!!
* * * * *
Kodachi bowed after completing her song, the others clapping. Black
rose petals adorned the floor of the restaurant. The energy the song
bestowed within her was one of the main reasons why Kodachi loved to
sing this one. For the seconds that followed the end of the song, the
Kuno girl felt like exploding; damn, it felt good!
"I take it you added the laughing yourself?" commented Ukyo, eyeing
Kodachi with a strange look.
Shampoo observed, "If Shampoo not mistaken that song dedicated to
Ranma. You still fantasize Ranma. Why?"
"Well, you did it too," Kodachi replied, almost yelling. A girl can
dream, after all.
"Well, I guess it's my turn," Ukyo said. Taking a deep breath, Ukyo
stood up. "I'm not all that good, really." A rather modest comment,
since she did win a prize at an amateur singing contest a while ago.
Ukyo was glad none present saw the complementary video she bought
afterward; she was embarrassed already because Ranma and Akane saw it.
"Don't worry, I won't mind if you skip out on our wager," Kodachi
taunted.
"No way!" Ukyo replied. This one's for you, Ranchan.
* * * * *
Mou Nakanaide (Don't Cry Anymore)
(Ranma 1/2 Opening Theme Song Collection, track 6)
(Ukyo) On a street corner, shining down is
The lonely silhouette which is me
I just heard the line "good-bye" from you
Without quite believing it
My heart beats as though they're drums
Against my chest
Which brings forth tears,
A lullaby
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Once tomorrow's here, it'll all be different
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Set yourself against a new wind, and
Smile again!
I had felt like
I was totally cool.
In the car that's driving away,
I can see a lovely kiss scene.
You and your girlfriend--
It's no mistake!
Cheer up, don't cry anymore
Only bad things won't continue
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
I look up and embrace the sky.
Smile again!
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Once tomorrow's here, it'll all be different
Cheer up, don't cry anymore.
Set yourself against a new wind, and
Smile again!
* * * * *
Ukyo bowed, then said, "How's that?" It was one of Ukyo's favorites.
Part of it may be the relevance the lyrics have to her own life.
"Obviously not as dramatic as it could've been," observed Kodachi,
glancing at the carpet of black rose petals she made earlier.
All eyes turned to Konatsu. Konatsu sat unmoving, seemingly moved by
Ukyo's song. "I loved Ukyo-sama's the most."
"That's not fair!" protested Kodachi. "He's biased toward your
song!"
"Well, he was the only one around, sugar," Ukyo pointed out.
Shampoo pondered for a moment, then said, "Perhaps this not good
idea. Shampoo like all songs, to be truthful."
"Same here," agreed Ukyo and Kodachi.
"Then it's settled," Konatsu said. "It's a draw." With that, Konatsu
lumbered out of the dining room to resume his cleaning.
"Nabiki Tendo doesn't know what she missed," laughed Kodachi. Images
of shoving it up her rear passed through the Kuno girl's thoughts,
and she laughed even harder.
Later that evening, after Shampoo and Kodachi left, Mousse returned
from a long walk. And the first thing that left his lips were, "So
how was Shampoo?"
Ukyo tried to bury her feelings. Somehow it still hurt to hear
Mousse ask about Shampoo instead of her... love's such a complicated
matter! Slowly, Ukyo answered, "We tried to coax her to ask you out
on a date. Who knows what's going through her head now."
Mousse nodded. "I'm sorry I had to put you through this mess,
really. You have to understand, I realize now I don't love you."
"Hey, you've said your apologies already," Ukyo replied. "I don't
love you either. We're just friends." Well, Ukyo, if you knew that
before you allowed yourself to believe you were in love with Mousse,
then you wouldn't be in this predicament! Forget it, I did know that
before; my heart blinded my eyes. The heart truly was useless.
"What I truly want," Mousse explained, "is for Shampoo to admit
that she likes me. That is what I think is most important, laws be
damned. Nothing should get in the way of true love."
How true. Ukyo was almost ready to break down as she replied,
"Mousse... you should stop worrying about me. I mean, if being with
Shampoo makes you happy, then I'm all for it. I mean, I...." She
stopped herself, trying to hold back the tears in her eyes. Wailing
softly, Ukyo ran to her room, leaving a confounded Mousse behind,
alone in the dining room.
Konatsu chose that moment to enter. "I'm worried about Ukyo-sama.
She displays a mirror that does not reflect her true feelings. She
may say she's happy, but she is not. I suspect there is something
terrible fermenting within her, and I can't do a thing to help her."
Mousse replied, "It's my fault, I shouldn't have dragged her into
this mess. She was there for emotional support when I needed it, and
I took advantage of it. Things are just too complicated now. Why is
it when I profess my love I hurt my friends?"
"Love is no simple matter," Konatsu said. "I've expressed my love
to Ukyo-sama, but she cannot return that love. But I will remain
happy so long as I can take care of her."
"Maybe," thought Mousse. "Ukyo and I are alike, you know?"
"How so?"
"Ukyo loves Ranma, but knows she can't have him. I love Shampoo,
but the difference here is that I have a chance. I still want Shampoo,
but I can't help but feel responsible for Ukyo. I can't shake the
feeling that I've used her." Wrong, Mousse, you HAVE used her,
Mousse's conscience chided, just as she used you, only Ukyo got the
bad end of the stick. She was just getting over Ranma when you came
along and sucked her love dry like a vampire would do to blood.
Mousse wondered if Ukyo knew it was a sham relationship from the
beginning.
Konatsu nodded. In a way, he too shared some things in common with
Mousse. Oh, Ukyo-sama.... Misery attracts company, I suppose.
Mousse sighed. "If only Shampoo would admit her love...."
Shampoo secured the door to her room in the Nekohatten, then threw
herself on her pillow. What was it that was bothering her? She knew
she loved Ranma, that's for sure, but Mousse?
Were those two girls, once her enemies, right?
Shampoo sat up, and picked up a framed picture she'd brought from
home. It was a picture of the whole gang, taken quite a while ago.
There was Ranma, and Akane, and Ukyo, Kodachi, Kuno, Happosai,
Great-grandmother, herself... and Mousse, among others, standing right
behind her, face covered by Shampoo's own fist. Vividly, Shampoo
remembered how the photo shoot didn't turn out the way it was planned,
because, as soon as the flash went off, half the gang was already at
each others' throats.
Ah, Mousse, how long have you endured my presence? Shampoo wondered.
Since they were both three years old, Mousse continued to harass
Shampoo, professing his love and desire to marry her. At first Shampoo
was angry, especially when Mousse proposed to an animal instead of
Shampoo, but as time went on it became sort of a game between the two.
Fondly Shampoo recalled one of Mousse's ill-fated schemes to make
Shampoo jealous by having another girl pretend to love him. Of course
Shampoo saw through it right away. She hated the obsessive,
love-blinded Mousse.
She'd thought it was a joke when Mousse decided, one day, that he'd
train himself in martial arts to defend himself, his village, and
Shampoo. It wasn't a man's place to fight in a village of strong
warrior women, according to tradition, so it was a complete surprise
to Shampoo and the others when they discovered he was serious.
Something happened to him, but he wouldn't say what, not even to
Shampoo. They were about five years old then.
Mousse's training paid off in the long run, to Shampoo's amazement
and comfort. How many times had the village's warriors been
challenged, and how many times had it been Mousse who stood foremost
among the challengers. How many times had Mousse defended Shampoo
from harm, even when she didn't ask, most notably from the strange
birdman on Prince Toma's island. It was those times Shampoo admired
Mousse the most.
Perhaps it should be a wonder that Mousse remained faithful to
Shampoo after all she'd had done to him. Every attack she threw at
him, Mousse wouldn't defend, purposefully leaving his guard down, and
refuse to retaliate. For the longest time Shampoo thought this was a
weakness, but now, she thought, it's the same Mousse that swore to
protect her from harm. Was this why she still cared about him?
Why wasn't she happy with Mousse? Was it because Ranma beat her in
battle, or simply pride? How, after all these years, could Shampoo
yield compassion toward Mousse, after what she'd done to him?
Shampoo threw herself back on her pillow, burying her head in it to
hide her tears. It was hard to tell which way was up, and which way
was down.
Early Wednesday, the next morning, in the auditorium, Shampoo
approached Nabiki. Obviously business about the final competition,
Nabiki thought.
"Ah, Shampoo," greeted Nabiki.
"Nihao," greeted Shampoo. "I have word with you about final song."
Nabiki found herself a seat and sat down, reclining. "Okay, shoot."
Shampoo thought for a moment, letting the words form in her mind.
"Last night Shampoo think about song and singing at Spatula-girl's
restaurant." Among other things, that is. "Shampoo hold singing
contest to see who sing better, Shampoo, Spatula-girl, or crazy-girl."
"And...?" Nabiki asked, leaning forward in her seat, obviously
interested. "Shampoo conclude that they not bad in song," Shampoo
answered. "Shampoo not know why she do it, but now Shampoo ask Nabiki
for favor."
"Let me guess," Nabiki started, "you're asking me to allow them to
sing the final song?"
"Yes!" Shampoo confirmed, visibly smiling.
Nabiki pondered for a moment. "If I let Kodachi and Ukyo sing, then
what will the others say?" She stood up from her seat. "Let's go."
The two singing girls made their way down to the dressing room,
where Akane, Ranma, and Kasumi were waiting.
"So there you are!" exclaimed Akane. "What took you two so long?"
"Shampoo thinks we should let Kodachi and Ukyo sing," Nabiki
announced, shutting the door behind her.
"You know, I had that same thought," Akane said, "for quite some
time, actually." She thought back to when she and Ranma found a video
in Ukyo's room, from an amateur singing contest. Both agreed that
Ukyo wasn't bad. In fact, Akane offered to let her sing with the
group then, if they'd ever gotten together again. Of course, knowing
Nabiki, Akane knew it wouldn't happen. Nabiki believed that Doco was
a fivesome, and it should stay one. The group was her brainchild,
after all.
"Hey, I can vouch for Ukyo," Ranma said, beating Akane to the punch.
She shrugged. "I can't say anything about Kodachi, though."
"Crazy-girl not bad herself," added Shampoo.
"What about the others?" asked Kasumi. "What would they say?"
"We can't play favorites," Nabiki pointed out. "And we can't let
every single band member who wants to sing have their way, you know.
It's better the way it is. No problems, no headaches in the morning."
Shampoo offered, "Younger sisters, though can't do two things at
once, need not play all the time during song. Especially this song,"
she said, producing a copy of the song lyrics for emphasis, "which
not require their instrumental talent. So when time comes they either
play or sing, no problem. Pig-girl have no problem, but Shampoo don't
know how well she sing."
"I think she's okay, considering the song and dance she makes around
Ryoga," vouched Ranma. Vividly Ranma remembered what Akari did after
Ryoga returned her love for the first time; she was definitely happy,
practically bouncing off the walls. Yup, no doubt about that.
"For song not allow men to sing," suggested Shampoo. "Voices too
deep for song," she added, waving her copy of the lyrics.
"As if that part mattered," Nabiki said. "None of them voiced a
desire to sing anyway. Hmmm...."
"I think it'll work out," Akane said.
"It would be nice," agreed Kasumi.
"Perhaps you're right," Nabiki said, giving in to the votes of her
four fellows. Stone-cold Nabiki Tendo, giving-in to demands? Not if I
can help it, Nabiki thought. This wasn't giving-in, it was conceding
to valuable suggestions! "I guess there's no time like now to make a
change in plans." To Shampoo, she said, "You go tell the others, and
pass them the lyrics, okay?"
Shampoo grabbed more copies of the song lyrics, then bounded out of
the dressing room.
Kodachi and Ukyo finished setting up the instruments, a task in
which they received after drawing lots (which was done ceremonially
at the beginning and end of each day). The others were in another room
away from the stage, finishing breakfast, when Shampoo entered,
seemingly almost out of breath.
"Good morning, sugar!" Ukyo greeted cheerily.
"Nihao!" greeted Shampoo with greater enthusiasm.
"So how has a good night's sleep worked wonders for the Chinese
delivery girl?" Kodachi asked, noticing Shampoo's heightened mood.
"Shampoo talk to Nabiki. Ask for favor. She let you sing in next
song." She let the words sink in, waiting for a reaction from her
new-old friends. Perhaps 'former rivals' was a better description?
To say that Kodachi and Ukyo were ecstatic was an understatement.
Both yelled in triumph, the auditorium echoing their voices. So happy
they were that they hugged Shampoo in joy.
"Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou!!!" Ukyo babbled off.
Kodachi just laughed, happier than ever. Black rose petals descended
from the sky, seemingly appearing out of nowhere.
"Shampoo happy for you," she started, "but Shampoo no like being
hugged by other girls...."
Right after Shampoo left Nabiki received yet another note from the
judging committee. What she read disturbed her a great deal.
Now, in the course of two days since the first band was dropped,
four more bands were dropped from the finals, and that was when Nabiki
became suspicious. It was still early morning when Nabiki stole
herself away from the auditorium and from practice to travel to the
contest headquarters in downtown Tokyo.
A few good words put Nabiki before the chairmen in no time. The
doorman admitted Nabiki into a large conference room, where several
men and women occupied seats around a rectangular table. At the
opposite end of the table from Nabiki sat the Chairman himself.
"Mr. Tokuyama," greeted Nabiki, "Nabiki Tendo."
"Yes, yes, I've heard of you," Tokuyama said. "Reputation precedes
you, even in downtown Tokyo. You're not only the manager of the local
group, Doco, but you are also a shrewd entrepreneur. Not just anybody
can receive my audience, but be quick about it, as I've an important
meeting in a half an hour."
Nabiki produced the notices received earlier in the week. "Five
finalists have been dropped from the contest in the past two days,
why?"
"Ah, six now," corrected Tokuyama. "We've investigated each and
every band, and those six don't meet my expectations and guidelines I
provided in the rules. They're there to prevent legal complications,
you understand?"
"May I ask what?"
"The first band was dropped after being found in possession of
illegal drugs. The government intervened on that one, unfortunately.
The second and third got in a fight, incapacitating several band
members. The fourth withdrew voluntarily, no explanations given, none
asked. The fifth was arrested for disturbing the peace, and the
sixth, well, one of their band members has been found with several
jugs of alcohol."
Tokuyama leaned forward in his seat. "You do understand, Ms. Tendo,
that these rules are in place to ensure that the prize winners don't
encounter certain legal issues when we ask for recording contracts."
"Of course," Nabiki said cautiously. Not to mention to distance
yourself from legal complications; perfectly-understandable, but
cruel. It was the way of business, actually. "So, may I ask how the
investigations are progressing?"
"By all means," invited Tokuyama. "The investigations themselves
are completed, leaving six qualified for the final rounds. Only the
top three will be awarded prizes, number one getting grand prize."
"Yes, I know. Thanks anyway."
Tokuyama said, "On the way out, Mr. Kozaya will give you two free
vouchers to be used in the next concert I sponsor."
"Yeah, thanks," Nabiki replied.
When Nabiki returned to the auditorium, she stepped inside and
discovered some commotion among the band. Quickly Nabiki dashed down
to the stage, and discovered Athena Asamiya in the midst of the group.
She was crying.
"What happened?" Nabiki asked no one in particular.
Ukyo answered, "Athena's band got dropped from the contest."
"Why?" asked Nabiki in surprise. "They're the next best thing to a
professional band!"
"Her master, Chin, was found with several jugs of sake," explained
Ukyo. "Of all the idiotic...." Especially since Chin always drank; in
fact his martial arts style depended on his sake jug! "It shouldn't
have mattered! He's well-beyond the legal drinking age."
Kodachi cut her off, saying, "Even such talent as Athena possesses
in her music, this shouldn't have happened." Kodachi produced several
folders stuffed with paper. "I've checked through the events
surrounding the drops of bands, and I've come to the conclusion that
it's all a set up."
Leave it to a rat to ferret a rat, Nabiki thought, taking the
folders. "Someone is obviously trying to rig the outcome of the
contest."
"But who?" asked Akane. "Who could be desperate enough to eliminate
the competition like that? One of the other bands?"
"Perhaps," Kodachi said. "Or someone who stands to lose if certain
bands win. Or both."
"In any case," started Nabiki, "we should be prepared for anything.
I've got a feeling whoever is doing this isn't done yet. We may be
next."
"Well, whatever they're going to do, it's obviously something that
could get us into legal or public trouble," voiced Ukyo. "Therefore,
we should be very careful about what we do for the rest of the week."
"I don't think that'll be possible," Akane pointed out. "Especially
with people like us, who tend to attract trouble like a magnet."
"Wait," Ranma said, "I have an idea."
Nabiki groaned. "Oh, and what would that be?"
"We should let the trouble come to us," explained Ranma.
It was then Nabiki caught on. "Ahhh... I see." Scary, that Ranma,
of all people, thought of it first! Taking charge, she explained,
"We'll just have to be prepared for our 'trouble,' but this time, the
circumstances will be of our own design...."
Later that evening word got to the group that yet another band was
kicked out of competition, leaving it down to five bands: Doco, Red
Pepper, the Yawning Dragon, Old Cabbage, and Samurai Blood.
The shadow figure dressed all in black, waiting, concealed in the
bushes just within the walls of the Tendo dojo. He watched, waiting,
listening carefully, watching as Ranma and Shampoo entered one of the
second-story rooms together, and shut the lights off.
Perfect.
It was then the figure bounded up to the dojo, climbing to the
second floor where the lights were on in the window only moments
before. The 'Sir,' who wished for his name to remain anonymous,
suggested this idea; the leader insisted that I, not the 'Sir,'
perform this task, the shadow man thought to himself proudly. It felt
good being needed; it was better than being subject to the 'Sir's'
wrath, who insisted on performing this task himself, as he knew what
to do, it was his plan, and he wanted it done right. The only way the
'Sir' was kept in line was the threat by the leader to publicly
announce his name to the populace.
He gently pushed the window open, and slid inside. Walking
stealthily, the shadow man produced an object from his pocket, ready
to attack....
*CLICK!*
The shadow man dropped his camera in alarm as the lights to the
room went on. A female Ranma lay in bed with Shampoo, both very much
awake. At the door the others piled into the room.
"I'll wager you wanted to take a scandalous picture?" guessed
Nabiki as she reached for the man's hood. "There are very few people
in the world who would've been dumb enough to fall for this little
trick. Now let's see which idiot you must be, hmmm?"
The man tried to get away, but others blocked the open window. With
a sudden, violent jerk, Nabiki ripped off the hood. All stared in
surprise.
In unison all shouted, "GOSUNKUGI!!"
There was no mistaking the pathetic man's face, dark bags hanging
under his eyes, the stare of a maniac in his eyes.
Onna-Ranma grabbed Gosunkugi by the neck and held him in the air.
"Why?"
Choking somewhat, Gosunkugi answered, "Akane should be mine!"
"You!" Akane spat. "I'm married, you little twit!"
"There's no way you could've acted alone," Nabiki concluded.
"You're right, I wasn't alone!" Gosunkugi proclaimed without shame.
"Who else?!" demanded onna-Ranma.
"All those who stood to lose," Gosunkugi answered. "The other bands
were sold out by their 'friends' and acquaintances, you know, for
they were quite angry that they themselves stood no chance of
traveling to Hawaii."
Kodachi threw up her arms. "Well! I'm glad I'm not on your side.
Loose lips and all."
"I made sure that wouldn't be a problem!" Nabiki shouted, visibly
losing her temper. Who could I have missed?
"Nabiki...." Kasumi tried to calm Nabiki down, but moved away.
She knocked onna-Ranma away, who dropped Gosunkugi. Gosunkugi
sighed in relief until Nabiki grabbed his shirt, lifting him back
into the air. "I want a straight answer, little man, and I want it
now. And what I want now are names. Nobody, NOBODY, crosses Nabiki
Tendo and gets away with it!!"
Gosunkugi became more terrified, as he'd never seen Nabiki lose her
temper before. "Aaaahhh, aaaahhh, I'll talk! There was Tsubasa...."
"Tsubasa!" spat Ukyo in anger. That little wretch....
"...myself, the Gambling King, the 'Sir,' whose name I don't know,
Mikado Sanzenin, and some others I don't know. And the man who
organized us, the leader."
Nabiki threw Gosunkugi at the wall. "You spineless bastard, who is
he?!"
"I... I don't know!! He'll have my head if I tell you!"
Nabiki grabbed Gosunkugi's shoulders and shook him violently. "Wrong
choice of words! Spill before something inside you does!"
"Okay, okay! It was the principal! Principal Kuno!"
"What?!" shouted Kodachi and Tatewaki in unison. Both Kunos knew
their father was a terrible person, but to sink so low....
Nabiki shook him again, hard. "Then tell me this: who WEREN'T you
supposed to ruin?!"
On the verge of fainting, Gosunkugi said, "Old Cabbage!! That's all
I know!! Spare me!!"
Nabiki let the pathetic man go, then walked to the door. To Kuno
she said, "Bring the van around." To Shampoo she said, "Bring along
Gosunkugi, he's our proof."
Nabiki stalked out of the room, the eyes of Kasumi and Akane
following her. Both looked at each other in surprise.
"I've never seen Nabiki so angry before...." commented Kasumi.
"Well, maybe it runs in the family," Akane said. It certainly ran
in herself and Father, so why not Nabiki. Or Kasumi, Akane thought
with a shudder.
It was then when they heard a scream coming from downstairs. All
gathered ran down the stairs, finding Nabiki staring out the front
door. Eyes looked beyond the doorway to what lay beyond: a giant hulk,
with two large horns jutting from the sides of its head, bird-like
wings spread, and multiple tentacles springing from its back.
"Pantyhose!" onna-Ranma shouted in recognition.
Gosunkugi, in Shampoo's grasp, let out a weak laugh. "You're all
going to get it now...."
Pantyhose Taro, in cursed form, snorted loudly, almost beckoning
for a challenge. The creature towered over the teens, appearing as a
great bull-giant, like a minotaur, with wings and octopus tentacles
springing from his back. His eel-tail lashed behind him menacingly.
Had Taro the voice box in his cursed form for which to reply to Ranma,
his response would've been "Stop calling me that!" Instead, it was
"Gwaaaa, ha, ha."
Standing behind Taro were three more figures: Principal Kuno, the
Gambling King, and Mikado Sanzenin of the Golden Pair.
Ranma dashed to the kitchen and retrieved a kettle of hot water,
then poured it on herself.
Ranma turned to Shampoo. "Don't let that creep out of your sight!"
With that, he lead the charge. Following were Kuno, Kodachi, Ukyo,
Konatsu, Mousse, Ryoga, and Ling-ling and Lung-lung.
All attacked Taro at once. Fortunately for Taro, he had enough
limbs to deal with multiple attackers, and the strength to back it up.
Tentacles swatted at the combatants dwarfed by his size. Taro snorted
in amusement, discharging ink at every other target, blinding them.
"Bwwwwaaaaaaahhhh!" cried Taro, concentrating his attacks on the
hated Femme-boy, Ranma Saotome. The others could wait; this was the
one he wanted.
The Principal of Furinkan produced gardening shears, snapping it
open and closed in anticipation. "The Saotome kid's mine! I've waited
a long time to get that pig-tail of his!"
Mikado protested, "No way, I'll make him pay for my past
humiliation!"
"Time to make that kid lose!" voiced the Gambling King. "I've a
score to settle with him." No fair cheating the king of cheating.
"How about this," the principal offered, "I'll cut his hair, and
you get the rest of him?"
"Sounds good for me!" they agreed, Mikado producing shearing blades
on his rollerblades, and the Gambling King reaching for steel cards
in his coat. Love isn't the only thing that's going to vanish tonight.
But as they entered the fray, both Kunos, Ukyo, and Ryoga broke off
from Taro and engaged them.
Ryoga confronted Mikado, itching to defeat the male half of the
Golden Pair.
The principal confronted his son and daughter. "Stand away,
children! You can't get in the way of my business! I'll deal with
Saotome!"
"Has your life become so dependent on your students that you can't
bear to live another day without tormenting them?!" Kuno brandished
his bokken menacingly. "Now its time to repay you for my past
humiliations! Let's see if you can cut the Kuno's mighty blade!"
Kodachi laughed. "Abandoning us while you enjoy life alone! You were
never there for me!" Silently, she added, you left me with only my
stupid brother to take care of me. "Now it's payback time!"
Ukyo waved her combat spatula at the Gambling King menacingly. "Your
tricks end here, King of Cheating! I've been waiting a long time to
get back at you for what you pulled on me ten years ago!"
"Ahahahahaha," laughed the Gambling King, "So the little one has
grown up? Cards aren't the only game I play...!" With that, the King
threw three steel cards at Ukyo.
In return Ukyo threw three of her own spatula-darts, deflecting the
trajectory of the steel cards.
"What the...?!" shouted the Gambling King in surprise.
"Perhaps you should stick to real card-playing, for all the good you
are at it!" Ukyo said.
"I've still an ace up my sleeve!" Snarling in anger, the Gambling
King threw several poker chips about the ground, using them as
caltrops with their sharp edges. Ukyo leaped away, then produced a
flour-bomb, and heaved it. The resulting cloud of flour obscured the
King's vision, causing him to miss his target.
Seizing initiative, Ukyo brought her combat spatula down upon the
Gambling King's head, running him to the ground.
Ukyo stood over the fallen King. "Now who loses?" she taunted.
Back inside the dojo, Shampoo still held Gosunkugi in a harsh grip.
Akane stared the man in the face and said, "If they hurt Ranma, I'll
hurt you!"
"Akane...." Kasumi said, concerned for her sister. Perhaps this
anger streak was inherited.
Ling-ling and Lung-lung fought as one, hitting away tentacles that
went after the other, bashing with their polearms. Then, both planted
their weapons into the ground, and stood on top of the other end. In
unison they shouted, "Dual technique: falling star!" With that, they
somersaulted in the air, uprooting their polearms from the ground,
and in a wide vertical arc, brought them down on Taro's shoulders.
Taro merely flinched, then swatted the two girls away.
Shampoo couldn't stand it anymore. Shoving Gosunkugi into Kasumi's
arms, she said, "You can't hurt sisters like that!" The Amazon leaped
into the fray, flying forth with a deep kick into Taro's exposed gut.
Taro snorted in amusement. He grabbed Shampoo by the hair, and
tossed her into the air. The arc of Shampoo's descent landed her
right in the middle of the pond on the opposite side of the Tendo
house.
The Kuno siblings danced around their father, taunting him. The
principal held his shears tightly, not knowing which one of his
offspring he should deal with first.
"Come now, Father!" Kuno taunted, spitting out the last word in
anger. "You're so arrogant in your own turf, but now that you're here
your power is meaningless!"
"What kind of a son are you?!" the principal bellowed. How ironic,
that Tacchi would spit out now. The son he knew seemed almost
nonexistent.
"What kind of a FATHER are you?!" Kodachi shouted, throwing two
clubs at the principal. Both stung him in the legs, causing the
principal to fall to his knees. "How could you leave us behind like
you did?!"
"Now, cretin, you will taste the wrath of the Blue Thunder of
Furinkan High, for I have waited long for the moment in which I would
smite you!" Kuno raised his bokken, and charged. "Kokuzan!!" In swift
motion Kuno thrust his bokken in an upward arc, creating a powerful
force of wind that slammed into the principal, throwing him back.
"I'm not beaten yet!" cried the principal, throwing a couple of
pineapples at his son.
Kuno watched the pineapples arc in his direction-- surely they must
be explosive! Bokken held out in one arm, Kuno spun around in a quick
circle as the pineapples approached ground zero. The quick attack on
the pineapples split them cleanly in two, spilling gunpowder about.
"You've improved," noted Principal Kuno. "Never before had my son
bested my techniques!"
"Now, behold!" yelled Kuno, "The vengeance of Heaven and Earth
crashes down upon the enemies of the name Kuno! Passed from generation
to generation of the Kuno swordsmen alone was a secret technique of
such fury and power that only one possessing such virtue as I,
Tatewaki Kuno, could ever hope to master it! From the forgotten tomes
of honorable Great-grandfather Kuno Heaven and Earth meet in one
terrible blow! You are wise to tremble in fear as you feel the awesome
might of the Blue Thunder final attack!" His bokken raised overhead
steadily.
"Spare me the speeches," spat the principal, unsure of what to
expect.
Kuno rushed his father, leaping in the air and bringing his bokken
down in a harsh downward arc. For a brief moment the bokken seemed to
crackle with lightning as Kuno cried, "Tenchi raimei kiri! Feel the
fury of Heaven and Earth!" Chi-created blue lightning seemed to follow
the descending arc of the bokken as it made its way to impact with
the principal's person. Upon impact the blue lightning bathed
Principal Kuno in its eerie light.
Blue chi-lightning raced about the principal as he screamed into
the night, the pain washing over him. Kuno backed away from his
handiwork to Kodachi's side. Both brother and sister watched their
father fall to his knees, clutching his head in pain.
Soon, the principal was out like a log, the blue energy dissipating.
Ukyo watched as one of Taro's tentacles pulled her combat spatula
from her grip. Now disarmed, Ukyo didn't know what to do.
"Ukyo!" shouted Mousse. "Catch!" He threw a halberd at her feet.
Ukyo picked up the halberd nervously. "I don't know how to use
this!" And just how did he get a polearm like this in his sleeves?!
Flying through the air, in one smooth motion, Mousse produced an
impossibly-large number of darts, waving them as they were fans. And
in one swing, all of them were thrown, biting into Taro's hide before
Mousse touched down.
Mousse threw several chained spears at Taro, but Taro caught them
in one hand. Swinging them around, Taro sent Mousse into orbit.
Konatsu jumped in Mousse's place, tossing several darts from the
folds of his costume. The darts hardly seemed to faze Taro, so Konatsu
drew his blade, and descended for a debilitating strike on Taro's arm.
Ukyo watched as Taro swatted Konatsu away. He fell against the
ground, hard, and lay unmoving.
"Konatsu!" Ukyo shouted, feeling the concern and anger within her.
That monster will pay if he's hurt.... "Monster, whoever you are!
I'll make you pay for harming MY friends!!"
Raising halberd high, eyes glowing a brilliant red flame, Ukyo
hacked at Taro, letting anger consume her. Taro snorted, feeling the
blow as another would feel a scratch. Ukyo could almost hear the
monster laughing, taunting her, as if telling her, 'What a worthless
gesture,' and that made her hack at him with more fury. Hacking
continuously, she cried, "Why... don't... you... die!!!!???"
Taro peered at the halberd-girl curiously. She barely made scratches
to his own tough hide, but continued to.
In the meantime, Ranma leaped on Taro's back, pummeling him on the
back of the head. Taro's eel-tail snapped at Ranma wildly, trying to
get rid of the annoying pest. Shampoo, having just returned from a
hot water bath, picked up Konatsu's sword and joined Ukyo in hacking
at Taro's tough hide.
Ling-ling and Lung-lung gathered their wits about them, raising
their polearms. With Taro distracted, the two made their way to his
flanks, one on each side. Raising their weapons, they shouted, "Dual
technique: twin dragon nails!" With that, the twins ran their weapons
into Taro's hide, biting deep. Taro howled in pain.
From far up in the sky, Mousse descended, feet-first, shouting
"Raking hawk talons!" The nails attached to Mousse's sandals purchased
into Taro's skin, and ripped several long scars as Mousse completed
his descent.
Taro snorted in anger, then, throwing off Ranma, ascended into the
air, and disappeared into the night. I've had quite enough of this
gang-banging, he thought. Had the battle consisted of less, Taro
would've wiped the floor with him, but to have six opponents at once,
and being wounded in multiple areas.... Had the foolish principal
listened to him, Femme-boy and his cronies would've come to him
instead-- it wasn't strategically sound to take the battle to
unprepared grounds. Even the plans Taro made earlier were of no use
anymore, as they'd already been implemented in this little incident.
Oh well, good riddance to that little group of rabble, especially that
crossdressing weasel that reminded Taro of Femme-boy too much. This
battle wasn't over yet, hermaphrodite-boy. I'll be back for you later.
Ukyo raised her halberd high into the air, and shouted, "Come back
here so I can kill you!!!"
"Ukyo...." Ranma said, concerned. Placing a hand on her shoulder,
control seemed to return to her. The fires in her eyes dimmed.
She looked around, a bit confused. "Ranchan?"
"He's gone, it's over," Ranma answered. He held Ukyo by the
shoulders firmly. "Are you okay?"
"I... I don't know what got into me," explained Ukyo.
Ranma released his friend, then walked back to the entrance. There
were only two other times Ranma remembered when Ukyo did this: when
she first came to Nerima, and when she appeared at the first wedding.
Then there was the possessing spirit, but that wasn't really Ukyo, or
was it? Did he really know his best friend that well, or was there
something inside her just waiting for blood?
Quite frankly, the bloodthirsty, merciless killer in Ukyo scared
him.
"Ranma!" Akane called from the doorsteps. She ran out to her
husband, and the two embraced, to Ranma's surprise. Rather, it was
Akane who hugged Ranma.
She looked into Ranma's eyes. "What's wrong? Are you hurt?"
"No, it's not me," assured Ranma. He looked over his shoulder,
checking to make sure nobody was listening. "Akane, something's wrong
with Ukyo."
"Ranma, it all comes down to one thing," Akane said. "Do you really
know Ukyo as well as you think you do?"
"What kind of a question is that?" asked Ranma.
"Everybody has something to hide." Akane looked over Ranma's
shoulder to Ukyo, who'd collapsed to the ground in exhaustion near
Konatsu. Whatever it was, she hoped it wasn't something terrible.
Ryoga finished with Mikado, destroying his shoes with the 'breaking
point' technique. Principal Kuno lay bound in Kodachi's ribbon, shears
just out of reach.
Nabiki walked amidst the battle scene. "Now, if we're all through
here, we've got somewhere to go."
"This is highly unusual, Ms. Tendo," Mr. Tokuyama said. "But I am
willing to listen to whatever you have to say." Silently, Tokuyama
reclined in his large padded chair, crossing his legs, waiting for a
response.
Thursday was dawning in the office of Tokuyama, with Nabiki and the
rest crowded inside, Shampoo still holding Gosunkugi.
"I'd like to present to you one of the conspirators," Nabiki
announced, "one who's made a full confession and implicated foul play
on part of the band Old Cabbage."
"Rubbish!" someone shouted, bursting into the office unannounced.
It was the leader of Old Cabbage. "We've done nothing wrong, and I've
never seen him in my life!"
Gosunkugi looked elated. "Did you come to save me?"
The Cabbage leader returned a dirty look.
"I see you accepted my invitation," Nabiki commented to the Cabbage.
To Gosunkugi she said, "Spill it."
"I won't talk," Gosunkugi said defiantly.
"Oh too bad," Nabiki said, "I guess I'll have to go for plan 'B.'"
>From a pocket Nabiki produced a tape recorder, the meaning of which
Gosunkugi knew. "Be prepared, I say."
After listening to the tape, Tokuyama concluded, "Perhaps my desire
to find true talent has lead some on the road of corruption." To the
Cabbage he said, "You're out."
"I'll get you for this!" vowed the Cabbage as he left.
"In any case," continued Tokuyama, "I'll allow the previously-
dropped bands to return. So if you don't mind spread the word. The
game's still on."
It was not long, later that morning, before the authorities found
and detained the rest of the conspirators, except for Pantyhose Taro
and Tsubasa, who somehow eluded capture. To the Doco band it was no
surprise. The entire Cabbage band, Mikado Sanzenin, Gosunkugi, the
Gambling King, and Principal Kuno were being escorted to a waiting
van just outside the Tokuyama building.
The band stood by as Mikado was carted by. When asked why, this was
his reply: "I've vowed vengeance against Ranma; what more do I need?"
The Gambling King complained, "I've not played my cards right!
Someone deal me another hand or I'll fold!" To his escort he said,
"So, how about five card stud, nothing wild, hmmm? Winner goes
free...."
Ukyo smashed his head in with her combat spatula.
The principal said, "None of my students should enjoy their summer
vacation! I WILL make it a living hell for you all, especially for
you, Saotome! Ahahahahahahaha!"
Kuno stuffed a wad of yen into the van driver's hands. "Make sure
THAT one is taken far, far away. I hear Abu Dhabi is good this time
of year, my good man."
Then Kodachi added, "The cargo plane need not land."
The van driver nodded, accepting the money.
Nabiki stood backstage in her costume, waiting as the band set up
their instruments on stage for the final competition. It was Saturday
afternoon. The past two days were spent in frantic practice as
adjustments were made in the song arrangements, despite being
exhausted on Thursday. It was all for the better, Nabiki thought. She
was glad Shampoo convinced her the other morning.
"Nabiki Tendo?"
Nabiki turned, and saw Athena Asamiya. "Heya, pal."
"I wanted to thank you, for helping me out," Athena said.
"Don't mention it," Nabiki said, "Just don't tell the others I do
favors for free. I did it for myself."
"You're a strange one," Athena concluded. "Why do you like to hide
your real self?"
"Nabiki Tendo is a businesswoman," Nabiki said. "It wouldn't help
any of my work if I had such a reputation. Everybody in Nerima knows,
if you want something done, and done right, you come to Nabiki Tendo.
With plenty of cash, of course." The sound of yen, lots and lots of
yen, might have something to do with it....
Athena checked her watch, and said, "You'd better get on stage.
Best band wins."
"Thanks," Nabiki said as she stepped on stage. She surveyed the
band in the back, looking from one person to another, and back to
when it all started a month ago.
Kuno, in center, sat behind his drum set, beating drumsticks
together in anticipation.
Kodachi, with xylophones, and Ryoga, with gong, cymbals, and
shakers, stood to Kuno's left, with Ling-ling and Lung-lung to his
right. The twins were given some of the remaining percussion
instruments, since this song didn't have wind instruments at all.
Funny, after a whole month of practice, those Chinese twins still
couldn't do two things at once. Ah well, such is the nature of the
beast, Nabiki thought. It'll have to do.
Ukyo stood to the far right, alone with her keyboard, dressed in
plain clothes, her flute resting across the top of the keyboard. She
wore her good-luck pair of jade dragon earrings, passed through
generations of the Kuonji family. One couldn't help but notice her
bandoleer and combat spatula on her, which then drew attention to her
face, and then the hearts of men melted... everything about her was
so perfect, she could get any guy she wanted....
Dammit, Nabiki, stop thinking like that! You'll get jealous this
way!
Then there was Mousse, Akari, and Konatsu, down one tier below the
others, with their respective string instruments, the bass, violin,
and guitar. All three of them had come far, considering how Akari and
Konatsu never touched string instruments before, and Mousse in that
he learned to play something different.
Beside Nabiki, on the left and right, were onna-Ranma, Akane,
Kasumi, and Shampoo, all dressed and ready to go. Kasumi took a sip
of water from a paper cup, then set it down on a nearby stool.
All gathered were ready. Nabiki looked over off-stage, where her
father, her in-laws, and Cologne waited and watched, proudly.
"Okay everybody," Nabiki started, "no matter what happens, just
remember that you've all come very far in the past month. From a
barely-stable band to a tightly-knit group, I must say watching the
transformation and being a part of it was fun. And it's a pleasure to
save the best for last."
Kuno voiced, "I must admit, since day one I've had my doubts of your
ability to pull such a feat off, Nabiki Tendo. Remind me, when we
make it to Hawaii, to thank you properly." And it won't be a date, he
reminded himself.
"I just want to say how we've all changed," Ukyo called from her
position on the stage. "For the better, I suppose." She stole a
glance at Nabiki, who raised an eyebrow suspiciously.
"Hah, there's potential in some of you commoners yet!" Kodachi
exclaimed, followed by her trademark, wicked laugh.
"If any of you still have any doubts," Nabiki said in conclusion,
"just remember one thing: no matter what, we're number one!"
"We're number one!" all shouted in unison. The curtains were drawn.
The crowd went wild with anticipation as the song began....
* * * * *
Equal ROMANSU (Equal Romance)
(Fighting Song Karuta, track 19; Note: think X-mas OAV)
[(Akane) With just empty kindness,
(All) my heart is in pain.
Love is always loneliness
into your arms, ah.....]
(All) Darlin'
Just For Me I'll be waiting.
(Shampoo) I want to make your heart thrill. (glance at Ranma, Mousse)
(All) Your fingertips lead to romance.
Our destiny is surely Fallin' Love
(Kasumi) Tonight, it's strange
in a stopped car at the coast,
(Nabiki) the two of us, even being this close,
(Akane) why do unseen barriers get in the way? (glance at Ranma)
(All) Tears are about to overflow.
[Fallin' Love]
Darlin'
Just For You I won't stray.
(Ranma) Please make my heart throb strongly.
(All) From your eyes, romance begins.
More than anyone, I love you.
Catch my love
(Ling-ling and Lung-lung) Tonight, look at the
lipstick I put on for the first time,
(Ukyo) but you, your love quietly turns away. (glance at Ranma)
(Kodachi) Now if you care for me, [eh-hee...] (fall black rose petals)
(All) I want you to hold me.
[Catch My Love]
Darlin'
Just For Me I'll be waiting.
I want to make your heart thrill.
Your fingertips lead to romance.
Our destiny is surely Fallin' Love
(Mousse and Konatsu kick in for about 20 seconds)
(Akari) With just empty kindness,
my heart is in pain.
(All) Love is always loneliness
into your arms, ah.
Darlin'
Just For Me I'll be waiting.
I want to make your heart thrill.
Your fingertips lead to romance.
Our destiny is surely Fallin' Love
(Mousse throws confetti and firecrackers into the air. Crowd cheers)
* * * * *
After moving their instruments off-stage, the band gathered in the
back room.
"Everybody," Nabiki started, "you all did great."
Mousse said, "After the other bands finish we'll finally know the
truth."
"And Hawaii will be ours!" proclaimed onna-Ranma.
"Don't count your eggs before they hatch, Ranchan," warned Ukyo.
"Take it from me, it's never over until its over."
"Ever the pessimist," Kodachi noted dryly.
"Hey, I'm NOT a pessimist!" protested Ukyo.
Shampoo walked to Mousse, then dragged him away from the others.
"Shampoo need to talk to Mousse... alone."
For a brief instant, Mousse's glasses fogged up with steam. "Yes, my
darling Shampoo?"
"Shampoo had long talk with crazy-girl and Spatula-girl other
night," she began. "They try to tell me I refuse to admit I like you.
They were right."
"Shampoo...." Mousse said, waiting in anticipation for the answer.
"Shampoo know she can't have Ranma. But Shampoo's heart is still
with Ranma. Perhaps small part of Shampoo like Mousse, but not in same
way as for Ranma."
Mousse's heart sank. "Don't you love me?"
"As friend, that I grant you," Shampoo said. "You always there for
Shampoo and others, even though you were male. You always defend
Shampoo even when she don't need to be defended. Selfless, brave, and
silly. That is Mousse I love, not Mousse that shower Shampoo with
attention."
"If it's your space you want, then... I'll give it to you," Mousse
said, starting to walk away.
Shampoo grabbed his arm. "Don't go, Mousse. Shampoo miss Mousse if
he leave again. Stay with Shampoo for now, won't you?"
Mousse turned around, and met Shampoo's eyes. "I'd like that." Well,
it's a start, he thought. He wished he could repay the favor back to
Ukyo, but knew it wouldn't be possible. Love is a complicated thing.
Mr. Tokuyama appeared on stage fifteen minutes after all the bands
had finished their songs. "The judges have convened and have selected
three finalists for your voting pleasure. In no particular order is:
Samurai Blood, Psycho Soldier, and Doco."
The members of the respective bands shouted with joy. Tokuyama
continued, "Now, audience, please submit your votes for the winner in
the Battle of the Bands."
Backstage Ukyo congratulated Athena.
"Ukyo... my offer still stands," Athena said.
"Well," Ukyo started, "I guess that all depends on which one of us
gets what prize, you know. But afterward, maybe. I need to continue
my own martial arts training too, you know. I am the master of my own
art."
"I see," Athena said. "Still, I'm interested in the way which you
use your chi, it must be evident in your fighting style. May I ask for
a demonstration?" Without waiting for an answer, Athena spread her
arms apart, then threw them together, yelling "Psycho ball!" The
projectile slammed into a nearby vending machine, causing it to spill
its contents.
Tsubasa was among them.
"Tsubasa!" Ukyo cried. Producing an okonomiyaki out of nowhere,
Ukyo threw it at Tsubasa. The Japanese dish landed with a loud *PLOP*
on the downed Tsubasa.
Athena turned to Ukyo. "That's hardly what I'd call an art...."
"You haven't seen anything yet," assured Ukyo, unstrapping her
combat spatula. Ominously, slowly, Ukyo walked to and stood over
Tsubasa.
"Ukyo-sama!" cried Tsubasa, trying to reach for a leg, but the
sauce on the okonomiyaki prevented him from moving. "What is this?!"
"A family secret," explained Ukyo, "to eliminate the enemies of the
Kuonji family!" She brought her spatula down on Tsubasa's head, hard.
"It's called 'super glue!'" she cried, punting the little man like a
golf ball, sending him flying through the wall.
Athena walked beside Ukyo, who was breathing heavily. Faintly,
Athena could detect a hint of darkness in Ukyo's battle aura,
something she'd never encountered before in her for the short time
they've known each other. A thin layer of purple crept from the skin.
She shook her head. Perhaps I'm imagining things, reasoned Athena.
Ukyo turned back to Athena. "That was only half of it. Just wait
until you sample my specialty okonomiyaki...."
"Now the results of the votes from our glorious audience," announced
Mr. Tokuyama. "Third place goes to Samurai Blood!"
"And finally, for the grand prize winner is... Doco."
Each and every one of the fourteen band members shouted in triumph,
some jumping into each others' arms, some patting each other on the
back. Black rose petals rained on the audience from above, courtesy
of Kodachi's work.
Mr. Tokuyama approached Nabiki, applauding, a file folder held
under his left arm. "Congratulations, Ms. Tendo! I knew you'd be the
one since I first met you."
"Is that so?" Nabiki replied. Perhaps her reputation was well-known
to the man after all. She pointed to the file folder. "May I assume
that's for me?"
"Why, yes," Tokuyama confirmed. He opened the folder in his hands,
and sifted through the contents, stopping at one in particular. With
his free hand, Tokuyama handed it to Nabiki. "I'm proud to offer you
a recording contract for three years."
Nabiki accepted the contract. Carefully, she scanned the lines of
text on the form, weighing the benefits and problems that could spring
from signing such a deal. Hmm... definitely a high profit margin, but
do I have the time for this, considering the examinations? And
college?
"Wow, this is rather generous," admitted Nabiki, finishing her
examination of the contract. "But then, I'd still like to go to
school, and I'll bet the others would want to as well."
Tokuyama took the contract back from Nabiki as he produced a pen
from his coat pocket. Leaning the contract against a nearby wall,
Nabiki watched the head of the Agency scribble out several lines on
the contract, then pen in new words in their place. Handing the
edited contract back to Nabiki, he said, smiling, "I think you'll
find these terms agreeable."
Nabiki's eyes bulged, her jaw dropped. Those words Tokuyama hastily
scribbled-in basically gave the band free-reign over their time.
"I... don't know what to say. I mean, this is rather unexpected!"
"Your people are too good to let go," explained Tokuyama. "I love
you guys too much!"
"Well, then, on behalf of the others, and as manager, I accept,"
Nabiki said, holding out her free hand. Tokuyama clasped it readily,
shaking the Tendo girl violently in the process. Obviously, this guy
was very happy, Nabiki thought.
Tokuyama released Nabiki's hand. "If you don't mind, then, perhaps
another number? Your songs are wonderful."
"Sure, why not?" answered Nabiki.
The band retreated back to their positions with their instruments
as the others retreated from the stage. The twins had to help Kuno
carry the drum set again before the heavy load of the entire set he
carried toppled. In a quick five minutes, everything was ready. Nabiki
waved the adults on-stage as well.
And this time, there was no practice, no set of lyrics to go by;
just a sheet of notes to play, but each and every member of Doco knew
what to do.
Kuno tapped his drumsticks together in rhythm. "One, two, three,
go!"
* * * * *
Lambada Ranma (NEW '97 stage-call--lyrics modified by me)
(Fighting Song Karuta, track 45, etc.)
[Akane:] In our Tendo dojo,
[chorus:] our tenant
[Akane:] Ranma had harsh training at,
[chorus:] Jusenkyo.
[Genma:] Quite a tragedy!
[Ranma:] When I pour water on myself,
[Ranma-chan:] I turn female,
with my idiotic constitution.
[chorus:] Akane's fiancee!
Ranma: Hello, everybody!
Akane: Hey! Wait for me!
Shampoo: I wish to marry you, my love.
Shampoo, why won't you go out with me? Mousse
O-baba: You're quite talented, future Son-in-law.
Nabiki: Send your commends and suggestions to Nabiki Tendo....
Kasumi: Oh my. Are we out of time?
Hi. Konatsu
Genma: Hmmm... how should I explain this?
Kuno: I am called Blue Thunder of Furinkan High.
Soun: Care to explain yourself, boy?
Oooooh-hohohohohohohoho! Kodachi
Ukyo: I'm Ranma's cute fiancee.
Ryoga: Ranma, how dare you hurt Akane like that!
Akari: I love pigs!
Ehehehe... oops! Ling-ling, Lung-lung
[Akane:] In our Tendo dojo,
[chorus:] our tenant
[Akane:] Ranma had harsh training at,
[chorus:] Jusenkyo.
[Genma:] Quite a tragedy!
[Ranma:] When I pour water on myself,
[Ranma-chan:] I turn female,
with my idiotic constitution.
[chorus:] Akane's fiancee!
* * * * *
"Flight 2332, now boarding. Nonstop flight to Hawaii."
"Well, that's our flight," Akane said. She hugged her father, along
with Kasumi and Nabiki.
"Take care my daughters," Soun said, on the verge of tears.
"I'm sorry you can't come Father," Kasumi said. "If Mrs. Saotome
wasn't around, I wouldn't dare leave you alone."
"Nonsense!" Nabiki said. She grabbed her older sister's arm. "Now
lets get going, before something goes wrong."
Kasumi handed her father a tissue. "We'll be back in two weeks."
"Take care, my little girls!" Soun cried, unable to contain his
tears any longer. It took a good deal of coercing and force for the
Tendo sisters to leave his arms.
Ranma hugged his mother, both saying their good-byes. As Ranma
passed Genma, all he could say was, "Catch you later, Pop."
Akane asked her husband, "So, Ranma, when we get to Hawaii, what
first?"
Ranma looked over his shoulder, checking to make sure nobody else
was listening in. "Hopefully we can spend time by ourselves.
Especially away from Shampoo."
After Ranma came the Kunos.
Tatewaki said, "Perhaps it was about time to spend a long vacation."
Kodachi said, "Just so long as you don't come back like Father. I
don't wish to deal with two of him, you know! Hahahahahahaha...."
He shuddered at the thought. I'll never be like HIM, Kuno vowed.
I'm a far-greater father than he'll ever be.
Both boarded the plane, Kodachi laughing the entire way.
Next came Ukyo, Mousse, and Konatsu. The crowd parted before all
three members of the band, for each one of them carried a weapon
visible on their persons. Unlike Kuno, whose wooden bokken hardly
raised eyebrows, a giant spatula, a sword, and sleeves-full of darts
caused the cautious to step-away. Security, likewise, had failed to
relieve the three of their weapons, harboring the same fears as the
crowd.
"You know, I really hope my business survives all the time I've
spent away from it," Ukyo said.
"Don't worry, Nabiki has it covered," Mousse assured her. "She says
its in gratitude for winning the contest."
"Ukyo-sama need not worry about a thing," agreed Konatsu. For a
moment his thoughts wandered to his little white cat, Snowball, left
in care of the Tendos and Saotomes for the duration of the trip. Right
now the little rascal must be lonely, being at the Tendo home all
alone.
"Yeah, I suppose," Ukyo agreed. "She does know about business,
after all." To Mousse she asked, "So what was it that Shampoo talked
to you about?"
Mousse sighed. "A beginning. Something which, I hope, will grow over
time." Oh, how I'm sorry I brought you into this, Ukyo....
Ukyo nodded. So this was how it was going to be, eh? Dammit, Ukyo,
what was with you? You'd be better off without such crutches as
emotion! Look at where it got you! You devoted yourself to Mousse,
and he rejects you. You devoted yourself to Ranma, twice, to boot!
and both times he rejected you. You try to be cheery and friendly,
even helpful to your old enemies! and look at where it got you:
nowhere.
Silently, kept all to herself, Ukyo fermented the anger within
herself. So far she'd kept her dark feelings in check, at least to
the best of her abilities, considering how she blew up at that big
monster and Tsubasa. It wasn't fair, her lot in life. Ukyo debated to
herself the choices that lay ahead... should she go on as if nothing
happen, or go back to the old days before she became reacquainted
with Ranma. Stop thinking like that! Ukyo thought. How can you bear
to hurt Ranchan, and by extension, Akane, your friends? Were they
REALLY her friends?
She shot a glance at Nodoka, who merely smiled. In her mind Ukyo
could almost hear her say, "Think about what I have said." Shaking
her head, Ukyo boarded the plane.
Next Akari lead Ryoga through the crowd to the loading ramp. If it
were any other way Ryoga wouldn't even have made it to the airport in
time.
"Ryoga, hurry!" Akari said.
"Just so long as you know which way to go...." Ryoga replied as the
couple boarded.
Ling-ling and Lung-lung rushed ahead of Shampoo, who walked slowly
with her great-grandmother.
"Take care, Child," Cologne said.
"Yes Great-grandmother!" Shampoo started to turn, but stopped, and
faced her matriarch again. "Great-grandmother...."
"Yes, Child?"
"Shampoo don't know about Mousse. Don't know about Ranma."
Cologne nodded. "Since the law of marriage was broken, use your
best judgment, Child. I'm sure you'll make the right choice." For
the tribe, that is.
Cologne watched Shampoo leave. Soon all the teens boarded the plane.
It wasn't long before the sound of engines could be heard.
A woman passed in front of the Saotomes, Mr. Tendo, and Cologne,
running frantically. She stopped before the now-blocked boarding door,
out of breath, and shouting, "Ryoga!"
Soun got her attention, "Take it easy! He's on the plane leaving for
Hawaii with his fiancee and friends for summer vacation."
"That's my son!" the woman cried. "I recognize him anywhere!" She
fumbled through her pockets, and produced a faded picture. The boy in
the photo appeared rather young, but it was definitely Ryoga Hibiki.
Who could mistake the bandanna and rather confused-looking face? (not
to mention the fangs)
Soun and Genma looked at each other, worried looks on their faces.
Swell.
Nodoka said, "You can stay with us until he gets back in two weeks."
"That'll be nice!" Mrs. Hibiki said. Especially since her own home
was empty a good deal of the time (not to mention she didn't know
where it was). She only wished she didn't get lost in the terminal,
otherwise she wouldn't have missed her son-- again.
Suddenly, previously-spoken words finally caught up with Hibiki.
"FIANCEE?!" Mrs. Hibiki fainted, Genma catching her in his arms.
The airplane flew high above the clouds that evening toward the
rising sun in the east. After a short fight over who got window seat
and who got isle seat, the fourteen were set in.
Nabiki and Kasumi sat in the same row, Kasumi in the window seat.
>From what they could tell, Ranma and Akane, in the seats before them,
were asleep. Behind them Akari and Ryoga kept quiet; neither sister
bothered to look in on the couple. Immediately across the isle were
the two Kunos, listening to whatever they were listening to in their
headphones. In front of the Kunos were Konatsu and Ukyo, playing cards
and making idle conversation. Behind the Kunos were Mousse and
Shampoo, neither speaking to one another. Behind them were the twin
sisters, Ling-ling and Lung-lung, fast asleep from exhaustion.
Certainly wasn't quite first-class, but the next best thing,
considering how many of them there were.
Nabiki couldn't help but listen in on Ukyo and Konatsu; after all,
they were the only ones in the cabin making any sort of noise. From
what she could tell Ukyo won just about every hand.
"Nabiki?" Kasumi said, breaking all silence.
"Hmmm?" Nabiki said, broken from her half-sleep state.
"It was very nice of you to organize our friends into the band. I
don't know how to thank you, it's one of the most selfless things
I've seen you do in years."
"Yeah, well, don't get used to it," countered Nabiki coldly.
Kasumi smiled. "I knew it, you really do care."
"I really wish people would stop bugging me about it."
"Come on, Nabiki, you know that's the side people like in you."
"If I did act that way, then people would wish for the cold-hearted
old Nabiki back."
"I understand. Perhaps it would be the same if I were to behave
other than the way I do now."
Nabiki leaned over to her elder sister. "And I wouldn't have it any
other way, Kasumi. Neither would you. Let's just leave it at that,
okay?"
For a long while neither sister spoke. Then Nabiki said, "I still
miss Mother."
"So do I," agreed Kasumi. "Father's right, she would be proud of us,
wouldn't she?"
"Hey, if you are, then I'd say 'yes.'"
"Nabiki, I'm not Mother."
"No, but the next best thing. I mean it."
"Thank you." Kasumi smiled again. Nabiki couldn't help but smile,
too.
For the first time in a long while, it was as if the two sisters
came to know each other again. True understanding is a rare thing
indeed.
In another set of seats, Ukyo and Konatsu continued playing cards.
And for the umpteenth time, Ukyo won.
"Ukyo-sama is very skilled in many areas," praised Konatsu.
"Naw, it's just you don't have the face for cards, sweetie," Ukyo
said. "I'm glad you're okay. Back in the fight against the monster, I
was so worried. I went so far as to swear revenge if something
happened to you."
"Thank you for thinking of your humble servant," Konatsu bowed, but
was stopped fast by the seat's tray table. "Perhaps there is hope for
my forbidden love after all."
"Don't push it, kiddo," Ukyo said. Well, what was the world coming
to? Here I am, no hope for love, and here's Konatsu, hoping for love.
Well, tough luck, kid, it's not going to happen. Konatsu, you're such
a sweet guy, but I can't stop seeing your girl-side.
Ukyo spared a glance at Ranma and Akane. That same nagging thought
held her thoughts: were they REALLY your friends? Did friends leave
you hanging on a thread of a relationship for months before throwing
the book at you, as Ranma did? You should've said it out straight,
Ukyo thought, and spared me the trouble and humiliation.... If you
had, maybe things would've been different. Ukyo couldn't admit it to
herself it was over before it started, but had Ranma said something
before it might've been a lot easier....
She shook the thoughts from her head. Who cares, you're a member of
the band; that should make up for everything.
Silently, as Ukyo shuffled the cards, she hummed, "On a street
corner...."
Had someone peered out the window, a distance behind the plane a
massive shape followed the plane in the shadow of the night, crane
wings flapping with hard labor to keep up. Had there been daylight the
monster would've been visible in the open sky. But there was no
daylight, there was no window that would allow one to view the flying
monster that was Pantyhose Taro, octopus tentacles and eel tail
trailing behind in the night wind.
No, Femme-boy, this wasn't over, not by a long shot.
* * * * *
Closing: Equal Romance (Doco)
[(Akane) With just empty kindness,
(All) my heart is in pain.
Love is always loneliness
into your arms, ah.]
(All) Darlin'
Just For Me I'll be waiting.
(Shampoo) I want to make your heart thrill.
(All) Your fingertips lead to romance.
Our destiny is surely Fallin' Love
(Kasumi) Tonight, it's strange
in a stopped car at the coast,
(Nabiki) the two of us, even being this close,
(Akane) why do unseen barriers get in the way?
(All) Tears are about to overflow.
[Fallin' Love]
Darlin'
Just For You I won't stray.
(Ranma) Please make my heart throb strongly.
(All) From your eyes, romance begins.
More than anyone, I love you.
Catch my love
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Author's Rant
Version notes: Latest rewrite adds new scenes during the initial
practice phase, and more on the decision to allow Kodachi and Ukyo to
sing with the group. A major reworking of who got what instrument,
after finding a picture with the Ranma gang with instruments (you'd
know the picture when you see it, it's a manga scan from the memorial
book), although this had no impact on the story whatsoever (cosmetic
change). Added more scenes with the 'bad guys' working in the
background, and motives for Taro and Tsubasa's presence in Nerima.
General expansion of certain non-key, character-building scenes.
Major change: the song Ukyo sings in the singing contest was changed
accordingly to 'Don't Cry Anymore.' Don't ask, it was on a whim. I
happen to like this song more than 'Full of Memories.'
I don't think I'll ever figure out what those string instruments
are :(
Implementation of Taro's original plan: humiliating Ranma in any
means possible. If you think about it, it's even worse than killing
Ranma. Taking pictures was just part of the idea, considering the
hermaphrodite's lifestyle....
I think summer vacation is a month and a half? A month, at least.
Oh well.
Yes, I think the translated lyrics suck too. Purists would rather
go for the Japanese lyrics, but then, I'd be alienating my audience.
Best results if you have samples of the songs or the CDs themselves
(I neither recommend nor endorse Son May CDs (illegal bootlegs)-- go
out and find the REAL copies, it's not that hard).
Story notes: I couldn't help but write something about... this.
Man, you HAVE to go and buy the Doco CDs. :) To the various guys and
gals who translated the lyrics, a big and hearty thank-you, otherwise
I'd have no idea what I'd been listening to ;) The Karuta CD is pretty
good for a few laughs too, go get that! (I'm feelin' like an
advertisement right now....)
Quite a bit of this was written listening to the Ranma songs,
particularly 'Mo Nakanaide' on piano (from the Sega Game Music CD).
This song in particular was what made me put Ukyo on a keyboard, as
I've come to associate the vocal song with Ukyo (if you've read the
lyrics, that's another reason why).
Heh, Ranma and Akane are already married, yet I don't know how to
handle the name thing.... Kuno in any case would continue to call
Akane 'Tendo' no matter what, however, so that's the only case when
I'll deal with it. I believe Akane would take Ranma's name, however,
but I hesitate to call her 'Akane Saotome.' It just doesn't sound
right, despite using traditional marriage conventions.
Well, this story turned out WAY longer than I expected; I just
couldn't resist telling the tales of the band members throughout the
story. Of course some tales might be better off untold, but what the
hey.... I wanted to write about the three rejected fiancees, for one
thing, as well as the lingering darkness in Ukyo (must've been at
least three rewrites of those instances, just to get it right). As
for what she'll do, we'll just have to see. The seeds have been
planted in more than one place... see if you can find them all.
This in no way means I think Ukyo's a demoness; this is an exterior
problem.
As a side note, Ukyo STILL has yet to MEET Pantyhose Taro. :)
To those of you concerned about Nabiki's portrayal in the story:
no, she doesn't have the money or the power to do whatever she wants,
but she certainly is persuasive enough to get her way (such as
getting money from Kuno; use your imagination). After all, it is an
all-expenses-paid trip to Hawaii.... Final lesson: don't make Nabiki
Tendo angry. She's Soun Tendo's daughter, remember? >:)
Secondly, was Nabiki too nice than from the manga? Only so far as
to include the others in the band; she recognized the fact that the
others would... 'take interest,' in the band's well-being.... THAT is
the primary reason why she let them join at all. Go back to her first
conversation with Ukyo and look.
I, personally, don't believe in the Kuno-Nabiki relationship.
However, if you think as I do, and notice a general similarity in the
'get something you want yourself' attitude in Kodachi and Nabiki, and
how Kuno treats either of them, there IS something, but not much.
Depends whether or not you think Kuno likes his sister; I think their
relationship is rather typical of brother-sister: neither would like
to admit liking each other consciously to one another, but would be
willing to defend each other/stick together.
I also don't believe in the Shampoo-Mousse couple, either. Shampoo
could care less if Mousse died. Sure, some part of her might like him,
but that isn't enough to get a foot in the door. The only way I think
Shampoo could remotely like him was as a fighter, and even then Mousse
doesn't present himself to Shampoo like that. The most what happen is
that Ukyo and Kodachi got Shampoo confused.
Continuity notes: I've decided to place the time in 1995, so all
the characters should be about one year older now (Kuno and Nabiki 18,
Kasumi 20, the others are pretty much 17). I base this off 1994-5 as
the series as a whole, then extend time to accommodate for the wedding
fiasco at the end of Ranma and Akane's first year in high school. And
I thought it would've been silly if Ranma were 16 in 1989 (when the
series started) and put them in the early 1990's; I don't feel like
going back that far. Same goes for basis in 1998; no smelting way.
'Unfreezing' time bites.
Therefore, Nabiki and Kuno are in their final year in high school,
thus the tidbits of 'Exam Hell,' the examinations that determine the
rest of a student's life. Yes, they do exist, and that's what cram
(juku) school is for. Remember, high school is only three years,
begins in April, ends in March, with a summer break in July. Btw, it
IS year-round.
I hope you noted the cameo appearance of Athena Asamiya (Psycho
Soldier, King of Fighters). Chronologically this appearance would be
after the defeat of Omega Rugal in KOF'95, for continuity buffs.
Stuff that didn't make the cut: I had an idea where, during the
first Psycho Soldier performance, Kyo and Iori would meet each other
in the audience, and start a brawl. Thought about it. Threw it out as
unpractical and useless to the story. Besides, I don't have lyrics to
the song.
As a bonus: the lyrics to the songs appearing in this story,
gathered. I loved Equal Romance so much I wanted to include it here
(it's sung by Coco, btw, the name in which Doco was derived from; how
appropriate. Not to mention they did sing that song in the X-mas OAV,
too. The vocal track is also available on the Karuta CD).
A copy of the translated lyrics to 'Psycho Soldier' would be much
appreciated. If available, please send it to me!
(spiceoflife@hotmail.com)
Razorclaw X
http://www.crosswinds.net/anaheim/~slythe/ranma/ranff.html
________________________________________________________
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"That's my story and I'm sticking to it."--JMS, creator of Babylon 5.
"If you go to Z'ha'dum, you will die."--Kosh, Babylon 5.
"Understanding is a three-edged sword."--Kosh, Babylon 5.
"Never show your hand until the end."--me, being profound.
--Razorclaw X